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TO THE

R E A D E R.

THE two only things thatpould induce any one ta give his Teftimony and Recommendation unlo Difconrfes that are publifhed for fublick ufe, are the importance of the Argument treated on> and the nfeful judicious handling ofit^ in thofe Difconrfes. Whatever elje may be 7 or ufually is jpoken unto, on fitch occasions , is a diversion from what ought to be intended\ and what is expeffed by all them who give fuch Prefaces the perufal. But both thefe in the enfuing 'Difconrfes feem to be fitch> and fo ftated , as to render any Recommendation of mine in this way needlefs and fuperfluous. For the Argument treated of bei*g the Covenants of God with Chriji the Mediator, and with the Church in bim> there are none who have any acquaintance with Chriftian Religion 3 or care of their own Souls , but muji 9 and will, acknowledge to be of the great-eft weight in it felf and highefi concernment unto

A 2 them

To the Reader.

them. For the DoCtrine hereof, or the truth herein, is the very -Center wherein* all the lines concerning. the Grace of God and our own duty, do meet } where--in the whole of Religion doth confift. Hence unto the unaerjlaxding, Notions, and Conceptions, that men have ofthefe Covenants of God, and according as the Dcdrine of them is Jiated in their minds , their Conceptions of all other facred Truths, or Doftrines, are conformed. And therefore as they who have right apprehenftons,a;sd a true underfiami-ing of thefe things, cannot in th\ ufe of- diligence', and the means appointed thtrtkfU, fipjstly milia^e the Truth in any other point of weight in the whole compafs of Religion'•> fo thofe who unhappily fall under mifapprehen r yt zbout them, do generally either fuSuaU in thei**own minds about all other Evangelical Truths, or do corrupt aficl pervert the whole Doffrine concerning them And i reon alp depends the regulation of all our intire Chrijiian pratf/fe or Obedience, as all will Ack&owledg who have an) fytowledg of thefe things. It feems therefore altogether need-left, that there J/jould be any new Recommendation of the fubjeft-matter of the enfuing Difcourfes^ unto thofe who ferioufly mind their own Spiritual and Eternal concerns 5 and as unto others , it is to no purpofe to declare the worth and nature offuch Pearls unto item. As for the manner of the Declaration or handling of thefe facred Truths in the enfuing Dif-courfes , the known Abilities, Piety , Learning, and Judgment of this Author, with that leafure he had to add his laji thoughts and confldtrations unt othem, are fufficient to give the Sober Reader an expeffa-Hon of as muchfatisfa&ion as he ts like to meet withal

m

To The Reacfer.

in endeavours of this nature. I cannot therefore but judg that there is little need oftbkAttejia* Hon which I ant defred to give unto this excellent and ufeful Treatife. Howbeit^ that I may not feent wholly to condemn my felf in what I do, Imufi ac hpowkdg that therewere fome reafons which induced me to comply with the defire of the worthy Fublijher of it. My long Chrijlian acquaintance^ and friend-flnp with the Author , made me not unwilling to tefiifie my Refpetfs unto him and his Labours in the Church of God \ now he k at Rejt^ for whom I had fo great an efteem whilfi he was alive. And whereas the whole ' Dejign and end of my felf as unto others, is to promote the kpowledg of the truths of the Gospel of our Lord tfefus Chrifti and the pra&ifeofthem $ J knew* not, but that with fo me at leaji, this occajional word might one way or other conduce unto that end. Ijhall therefore briefly and plainly give an account of my thoughts concerning this Dijcourfe^ which I have with fome diligence and great fatisfaStion perufed, Very many learned and godly perfons have laboured in the fame fubjeft unto the edification of the church : I intend them only who agreeing in the truth as to the fubllance of it, may yet differ in fome conceptions about it^ or the way of Explanation of it* For it is not unufejul that the fame truths efpecially that which is offo great importance as is what concerneth' the Covenant,be varioufly handled by many, according unto the meajure of the gift of Chrifi which they have received? fo whereas we know all hut in part,if we have^ as we ought to have, a continual fenfe of the imperfeUionof our kpcwledg, none ought to be of fended if they meet with, fame difference in Conceptions

To the Reader.'

ens and Expeditions about things oflejfer moment ;, among^ofe whp agree in the fubfiance of what they dopropofe ;.Jerfe& Harmony, and Vniverfal Agree-ment in all things, is the priviledg only ofthefacred Writers who were Divinely infpired. But from the firft day that the management of Religion was in the Providence of Godentrujied with them who had not an infallible Guidance , there is an apparent evidence of fuch differences as thofe we fpeal^of amongji them all ••> even the befi and wifeji of them. We may therefore allow them all their jufi Commendation who have laboured diligently in the invejiigation of the Truth 0 although fome of them have not efcaped various mijiai^es about it* Nor is it fpoken with any reflection on the endeavours of others who have written on this fubjeCf, when I do freely declare my judgment^ That for Order , Method , Perfpicuity in treating p andfolidity of Argument y the enfuing Dif courfe exceedeth whatfoever fwgle Treatife I have feen written with the fame dtfigns ** it alfo is entirely compliant with the ,Doffrine of the Gofpel, in what is afferted in it. Three things may be expeSed in difcourfu of this nature D or however the fubjeS requires that they may be attended unto. I

!• A diligent declaration of the Truths in and from its proper principles) with afohd confirmation there-of

2. A praciical improvement of the Truth fo declared and demon/irated.

3. A vindication of it from dire& oppofition againjl it, or the corruption of it by a Mixture of fa Ife notions and apprehenftons about it, efpecially fuch as wherein C-hrifuan PracJif is nearly concerned.

Each

To the Reader.'

Eachofthefe the Reverend and Leaned Author of the enfuing Difconrfe had A* efpecial regard unto h and how he hath (Uncharged himfelf in them all, will quickly appear unto every judicious and attentive Reader. I am fur e Ijfjall not-offend in wjjhingthat others may find the fame fatisfaBion in their perufal, as 1 have done. Wijl)^ J heartily do alfo , that as many of thofe as can with convenience D who dejire a good and fafe Guide in thefe important truths, in m the declaration whereof fo'inanf have run into ex tr earns, even unto the hazard of the Souls of Men, and would have their hearts excited unto their praUife, would furnijh themfelves with what is here tendered unto them. For I find that in what is DoStinal in the whole Difcourfe , wherein a great and excellent part of the Myfiery of the Gjfpel is unfolded, the Reverend Author hath fully weighed, not only what can be faid in the confirmation of what he offerts, hut alfo what can be faid againfi it, or befe* up in competition with it, carrying on the truth with fuccefsful Evidence, and clear Demonjiration. And as unto what is fraUi-col, as he had the experience of it in his own Soul, fo there is nothing wanting that might give the feverals infijied on, a due imprejjion on the Minds and AffeCtions of others. Soundnefs in DoSrine , Gravity in Speech, ConviSion in Argument , Power in Exhortation, Clearnefs and Perfpicttity in Order, with a nervous Untwtexture of Scripture-7ef?i monies and Redfok, throughout the whole , all evidencing their fpring in this work^ to have been, Zeal fo* the Glory of God, Love of the Truth, and Companion towards the Souls of Men, do in my judgment .

T° ^ e Reader.

mint animate and fill up thefe difcourfes from the Beginning unto the End. that they may be blefed unto the benefit and advantage of them who defire t» be edified in the truth that it after Codlinefs , is , the earnefi Prayer efr

READER,

Thy Servant in the

Work of the Gofpel,

CHAP. I.

Of the Foundation of the Covenant of Grace , or of the Covenant of Redemption. Where , i. 'Tis proved that there is fucb a Covenant vrith Chriji. 2. That this is the foundation of the Covenant made with us.

AS the Covenant of Grace hath its rife from God only, and from Grace *, fo 'tis founded and bottomed upon nothing in us, but upon God's Covenant with Chrift, whom he gave for a Covenant of the peofle, Ha. 49.8 j whom he layed in Zion for a foundation , a fure foundation^ Ifa. 28. 16. The Covenant made with us, did fpring out of the Covenant made with Chrifl; and as 'tis commonly diftinguifhed, the Covenant of reconciliation , whereby we are actually recovered and reconciled unto God, is bottomed upon the Covenant of Redemption ; or as others fpeak, the Covenant offuretijhip , whereby the recovery, redemption and reftitution of fallen man, was tranfa&ed betwixt God and Chrift. I fhall therefore fpeak a little of the Covenant of Redemption, to make way for the better underftanding of the whole Treatiie of the Covenant of Graces and particularly what relates to Chrift the Mediator. And, I', That there is a Covenant betwixt God and Chrift} though the name of this myfterious tranfattion, which we call the Covenant of Redemption and Suretifhip, be not found in the Scripture, in fo many words (which may be among the reaibns why moft Writers have been filent about the thing) *, yet the thing it felf being fo evidently held forth in the Scripture, that the Socinians who F ' Soclni ^ <*e Ser-enervate and ftudy to make void the Suretilhip vac * * 2 ' ca ?' l6 ' ©f Chrift, yet do not deny a Govenant wherein he is Surety

Sakmarfh of free- or -Mediator-, as they underftand his Sureti-Gract. obf, 6. & fhip. And the Antinomians, who upon the i 8 * a *r matter do own no Covenant of Grace pro-

Serm.t '" P erI Y fo calIed i made with us » Y et the Y

» J. ' , do acknowledg a Covenant betwixt God

5acerd? Chrift? and ^ nr ^- The Armenians alio acknowledg p. 16, 17. the fame, though in a fenfe different from

Mr. Rntkerf. Treat, ours. The Scriptures (I lay) being fo very oj thtcovinint.y.2. p re gnant in this proof, I fhall the more brief-E. Bud Gofp. Co ly diipatch it, and refer the Reader to what venanr, p. 29' k written of it by others, every way more fit

to open this myfterie, than I am. The fir ft proof I take from I fa. 59. 20, 21, And the Redeemer

fiall come to Zion, and, unto them that turn from &£a££ trtnfctfwninJacobJaitktheLordrAsforme, c# this is my Covenant with them faith the Lord ,&c.

Where we read of a Covenant betwixt the Lord and the Redeemer, that was to come unto Zion, which can be no other but the Covenant of Redemption. For clearing of this, Confider 1. That he to whom the Lord fpeaks there, muft be Chrift and no other•, For 1. Tis he only, whofe feed have the Spirit and Word enfured unto them f, for the feed of no Church-Society upon earth hath the Spirit and the Ordinances appropriated and enfured unto them, only Chrift's feed have the promife of the Spirit and the Word appropriated and enfured unto them for ever, Gal. 3.29, And if ye be Chrifis, then are ye Abrahams feed , and heirs according to the fremife. And the Churches feed have this Promife and Covenant only in fo far as they are Chrift's feed , I fa. 44. 3, I will four my fpirit upon thy feed, and my bleffing upon thy off-fpring. 2. Becauie'tis Chrift only, who hath in ftore the Spirit which is given to all his feed '-, though all Chrift's feed receive of the fame Spirit of the Lord, yet it cannot be faid of any of them, nor of the Church in general, that their feed receive the Spirit that is upon them, or in them * 7 to wit, by communication of any part of the meafure and proportion given to them *, but of Chrift's only, who received not the fpirit by meafure, Joh>$. $4. Nor can it be faid, My fpirit that is upon thee fnall not de-fart from thy feed, Gal* 4. 6. And becaufe ye are Sons, God hxth

fait

Chap. L Of the Covenant of Redemption. %

fent forth the fair it of his Son into your hearts, crying Abba, father, 2. Let it be confidered, that this is not only a Covenant made with Chrift; but it muft needs be the Covenant of Redemption: For although, i. There be mention here made of his feed, which are not Parties in the Covenant of Redemption } yet nothing is iboken to them, but only to Chrift, and of them, as a party not treated with, but about whom there was treaty and Covenant 'twixt God and Chrift; for ftiil the ipeech is to Chrift in the fecond peribn, upon thee, thy feed, and thy month, ckc* 2. Although there be here mention of a Covenant with them that turn from ungodlineis in Jacob , and of Promifes concerning the feed of Chrift*, yet that amounts to no more, than that they are the fubjeft matter of the Covenant tranfacled betwixt God and Chrift ; and that the Covenant with them fpringsout of the Covenant with him , and is therefult and execution thereof. So that I take the meaning of the words, This is my Covenant with them, my fair it that is upon thee, &c to be, This is my Covenant that I have made with, thee upon their account, and for their behoof, or the Covenant that I have made with them, to wit, virtually, when I covenanted with thee, and made promifes to thee for their behoof :, the refult whereof, fhould amount unto a Covenant with them actually* And I fay, it can be no other upon the matter but the Covenant of Redemption : i. Becaufe 'tis made with the Redeemer that fhould come out of Zion, or with Chrift as defigned Mediator and Redeemer in the counfel of God, long before he came in theFlefh. 2. Becaufe 'tis a Covenant about the Redemption and recovery of theEleft people of God, who are the only fubjeft matter treated about in this Covenant*, as appears from the Text, v. 20, 21.

2. Proof, I take from PfaL 8y, where the Covenant made with Chrift is held forth as the Original, Foundation and Eftablifhment of the Covenant made with his feed ♦, and Chrift is fpoke of under the name of David, with whom he changes Barnes in the Scripture, and who was a type of Chrift in many things, but eminently in the Covenant that God made with him, and that he was a publick p&rfon , and a King by Covenant, v. 1, I have made a Covenant with my chofen. God havingchofe Chrift, for performing the work of Redemption,

did make a Covenant with him. Two things being cleared in that Pfalm, it will amount to a full proof of the point in hand: i. That the Covenant fpoken of there, is made with Chrift. 2. That it is the Covenant of Redemption that is here intended. For the firft, that the perlbn fpoken of under the name of David, and with whom the Covenant was made, is Chrift and no other, is evident from leveral expreflions which are peculiar to Chrift's Perlbn and Kingdom, and cannot be applyed to David, further than he was a type of Chrift; This David is the mighty one upon whom God laid the help of his people, v. 19. Tis he upon whom the enemy fiallnotexaft,v. 22. Tis he who is higher then the Kings of the earthy v. 27.. whole feed endures for ever-, and his throne at the days of heaven, and to all generations; v. 4, 29, 36, 37. 'Tis he who is diftinguifhed from his feed by this difference, that they may fin and be chaftifed, v. go*, which cafe is not put of himfelf, but only of his leed*, 'tis he, by the force and vertue of whole Covenant, his finful feed are not caft out from Covenant-kindnels, *« lb 44> 35- an d this could be no other but Chrift: And to put the matter out of queftion, the Covenant and Promifes made here, v. 27, and in the parallel-Scripture, 2 Sam, 7. 14, are applyed unto Chrift, Heb- 1. 5.

2. That this was the Covenant of Redemption, which God faith he made with his chofen David, i. e. Chrift, may be gathered alio from the Text, u It is the Covenant by which Chrift is conftituted a Servant, and engaged in the Service of the Lord about our Redemption, v. 4, / have made a Cove-nam with my chofen, — David my fervant. 2. 'Tis the Covenant by which the help of the People of God is laid on Chrift, as a mighty, potent, refponfal perlbn, able for the work, v. 19, I have laid help upon one that is mighty. 3. Tis the Covenant by which Chrift is a King and a Prieft, and is defigned and deftinated, called and feparated unto Offices for the work of Redemption, v. 19,20, 26,27, / have exalted one chofen out of * the people,mth my oyl have lannointed him, &c. 4. 'Tis the Covenant by which Chrift received commands to fulfil his offices, and to depend upon God in the doing of the work, ^.27. He gallery unto me, my Father, and my God, thou art the rock^ of my Salvation. 5. 'Tis the Covenant by which Chrift had peculiar promifes made

unto

Unto him, of affiftance for the work of Redemption, and help t<r the people of God, v. 21, Adine arm aljo flail flrengthen him, &c. of glorious victory, v. 23,/ will beat down his foes, eke. and exaltation, ^.27, I will make him my firflborn, higher than the Kings of the earth. Of a feed and ofr-fpring to endure for ever, v. 29, His feed alfo will I make to endure, &c. Now this could be no other but the Covenant of Redemption *, for by no Covenant is Chrift engaged in this Service, called unto thefe Offices, undertaker of the Peoples help, receiver of fuch commands and promifes,c£r. but by this Covenant of Suretifhip.

Objett. If it be faid, That here are many things ipoken which relate to Chrift's feed, and which do belong to the Covenant of reconciliation ; fuch as the keeping Covenant-kind-nefs and mercy with Chrift's feed, &c.

AnfSNz are not to conceive of the Covenant of Redemption in fuch an abftravtcd confideration and notion, as if the things tran-fatted in that Covenant made with Chrift,had no relation to, nor connexion with the Covenant made with us^but upon the contrary , we are ftill to keep in mind the great affinity and connexion that is between thefe two Covenants, and as the Apoftle reaibns from the one to the other , 2 Cor. 6. 2, For he faith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of falvation have 1 fnccouredthee. Where he looks upon what God laid to Chrift " concerning us, and the hearing of him for us, as ipoken for our encouragement, to apply to him in the improvement of the day of Grace. Yet I fay of this Scripture * 9 1. Here is nothing ipoken of Chrift's feed and people, as parties, with whom God deals in this Covenant, and upon whom he layeth any commands, nor to whom directly he maketh anypromiies, (except what may be gathered confequenter & in obliquo) which things muft needs be in the Covenant of reconciliation. 2. Whatfoever is fpoken here concerning Chrift's feed and people, 'tis only of the force of the Covenant made and fworn with Chrift, hav* ing influence towards the eftabliffiment of friendfhip with them, and toward their perfeverance in a Covenant-ftate :, becaufe of God's tranfac"t ions with Chrift', wherein they were comprehended, and by which they and their interefts were difpofed of.

The third Proof, I take from thefe Scriptures which hold forth all the effentials and rcquifites for making up a formal

Cove-*

Covenant, to be betwixt God and Chrift:, which Texts though they ipeak not explicitly of the name of a Covenant \ yet they do explicitly hold forth the thing.

TheArgumentinform is this : Where all things neceflarily required unto the efTence and being of a Covenant for matter and form, are to be found \ there muft needs be a Covenant. But betwixt God and Chrift in the matter of our Redemption, all things neceflary unto the efTence of a Covenant are to be found : Therefore there muft needs be a Covenant betwixt God and Chrift about the work of Redemption, which we call the Covenant of Suretiflup or Redemption. The major is manifeft and undeniable: -I come therefore to confirm the minor. Concerning which, I fhall firft tell you what are the necefTary requi. fites unto the efTence of a Covenant, and then give plain Scripture-proof that thefe were betwixt God and Chrift.

i. It is generally acknowledged by the Doctors of the Law,

that the agreement or confent of two or more Parties upon the

lame thing, maketh a Paction •, and that Pro-

tllpian deP»Ukit. pofals upon the one part, and a confent upon

L.Vatliim &L.i. the other, makes a formal Covenant, though

r"L **v" :,>„„. there were no condition or reftipulation. Cic. 2. at nieit, T> -11 i i r ii

Panomit. 21. parte But more particularly and above all que-fupsr. Primotit.de ftion, where there are Propofals, Commands, Pacf. Cap. Ami- or Promifesupon the one part, with condi-gomis. t ons required upon the other, and a confent

Ait** infiit. Moral. unt0 5 or acceptation ot thele Propoials, with p.^.bi. dePoIlicic. the conditions required upon the other part,. C 1. & 1. 6. c. 3. or where there is a reftipulation of conditions upon the other part, there muft needs be a Contractor Covenant, not only materially and virtually , be-caufe there is all the effentials of a Covenant *, but formally and explicitly , becaufe there are all the formalities of explicite Covenanting.

2. It is manifeft, that all thefe things are to be found betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, concerning the work of Redemption. 1. There is a confent and agreement betwixt God and Chrift about this very thing, which amounteth to a Paction, Zech.6. 1 g. The Lord 1 peaking of that ineffable myfterious Oeconomy and difpenlktion of thebufin-els of man's Redemption and Salvation,

as

fte

Chap. I. Of the Covenant of Redemption. y

as the lame is tranfa&ed in thecounfelof God's Will *, biddeth him tell us , that the counfel of peace fh all be between them both- to wit, between the Lord Sec Pemble on r tt n if i r • ./ Zech. 6. 12. & Jo.

of Hop, and the man whoje name is the cocc.di<fvML<i Branch, v. 12 *, betwixt them was the bufineis seft. 88.' plotted, confulted and concluded j to the fame purpoie are thefe Scriptures that tell us of the agreement of the Lord's Will, and Chrift's Will in this affair :, it was his Father's Will to fend him, Joh. 6. 40, And this is the mil of him that fent me, bxAAtt. $. 26, Vnto you firfl, God having raifed up his Son Jefus, fent him, &c. and it was Chrift's Will to be fent, Heb. 10. 9, Then [aid he, Lo,lcome to do thy will, Joh.6.38, For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that fent me ', it was his Father's will that he fhouid lay down his life, and it was his will alio, Rom.%. 32, He that fpared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us alL Joh. 1 o. 18, No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my felf: I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This Commandment have I received of my father ; it pleafed the Lord to bruife him, Ifai. 5$. 10. and it pleafed him to be bruifed, Jfai. 50.6, I gave my back, to the fmiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair : / hid not my face from pame and fpit-ting. Still there was an agreement.

2. We find clear^yeftiges in the Scripture of Propofals made by Jehovah unto Chrift, concerning his Will about the work of our Redemption*, and of a confent and agreement upon Chrift's part unto thefe Propofals; whereby he declares his will to be commenting to his Father's Will. The firft, to wit, Propofals made by God to Chrift, we readPp/. 110. 1, The Lord [aid unto my Lord, fit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footftool', and Pfal. 2. 7,8, / will declare the decree, the Lord hath [aid unto me, thou art my Son, this, day have I begotten thee. Asl^of me and I will give thee , the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermoft parts of the earth for thy pojfeffwn. That thefe Scriptures contain Propolals, ismanifeft'-, and that they are Propofals made by Jehovah to Chrift, appears by the Holy Ghofts afferting it, Aft. 1$. 33, Cod hath confirmed the fame unto us their children, in that he hath raifed up Jefus again, as it is alfo written in the fee on d Ejalm, Thou

trt

art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. Heb. i. 5, For unto xvhxh of the Angels , [aid he at any time , Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. But all the difficulty is, to make it appear, that thefe Propoials belong to the eternal tranfa&ion and Covenant of Redemption. To this end 'tis to be obfer-ved, 1. Th.it whatsoever is revealed in thefe Scriptures concerning the things that were between God and Chrift, God laid and propounded it unto Chrift long before his coming in the flefh , and therefore it muft needs relate to iiich tranfa-clions as were betwixt God sfii Chrift in the couniel of his Will from all eternity. 2, Though the accomplishment of thefe things be applved by the Holy Ghoft, unto the refurre-<ftion of Chrift, All. 15. 33, and to the exaltation of him in his humane nature, Heh. 1. 5-, that doth not make againftthe transacting of them by an eternal Covenant, where firft thefe Propoials were made*, but on the contrary, it doth ftreng-then whit is here afferted *, becaufe the accomplifhment of thefe things is declared to be that which God had revealed in the old Teftament to have been faid long before by him to Chrift. Therefore alio the lame Scripture is brought as an evidence of Chrift's being confecrated by his Father unto the offices which he did bear for the work of our Redemption, Heh. 5. 5, So alfo Chrifl glorified not himfelf to be made an high Priefl ; but he that faid unto him, thou art my Son, to dcy have I begotten thee,&c. So that the declaration of the Sonfhip of Chrift, this day I have begotten thee , is not to be underftood of an hodie Atem'uatis , a day of eternity, and of the eternal generation of the Son of God (as many of the Ancients, and of the Schoolmen 'under (land it) and indeed, if it fhould be yielded to be ipoken of an eternal Sonfhip, I fhould uncierftand it of that eternal adoption and defignation of Chrift by his own content in the counfel of God's Will, to a new Sonfhip for the work of Redemption, whereby he voluntarily became the Hi ft born of many brethren, and an obe 'ient Son even unto death, Phil. 2. 8 r, and whereby he confented to take a new Covenant-light unto God, as his Father, and his God by Covenant, Heb. 1. jyr*-/ W// be to him a father, and he flail be to me a fon. And we know it is not unufual in Scripture , to ftiie adoption unto a iucceflion in office, by a Sonfhip and a

begetting*

Chap. I. Of the Covenant of Redemption. f

begetting; therefore Salathiel is laid to be begotten by Jetho-niah, Mat. i. 12, becaufe he fucceeded him in the Kingdom. But fince the Holy Ghoft applies it diftin&ly to Chrift's refurreftion, All. 13. 33, and to the exaltation of him in bis humane Nature, when he had humbled himfelf as .an obedient Son unto the death of the Crofs, and having by hirnfelf purged, our fins , fate down on the right hand of the Majefty on high-. Neb. 1. 3, 4, 5. 'tis lafeft for us to hold clofe to that meaning of the words, 77?^ day have I begotten thee, which was the accomplifhment of that which God had faid to Chrift long before, in the tranfatlion of the Covenant of Redemption, when Chrift was fet up from everlafting , before his works of old) &c. Prov. 8. 22, 23. and when the Decree was patted , which was not declared till long after, Pf z. 7. Now this day of Chrift's exaltation in his humane Nature at his reiiirrettion, which was the fulfilling of what God faid to him , when he was by eternal deftination and decree, called and fet a part unto the work of Redemption, and unto the offices, which as Lord Mediator, he did bear, is fitly called the day wherein he was begotten; upon feveral accounts : 1. Becauie in this day he was declared to be the Son of God, Rom. 1.4, And declared to be the Son of God , with power , according to the fpirit of holinefs, by the refurrettion from the dead, t« opt$ivT& J/« .06*. The Syriack^ reads it, Qui cognitm eft *, the word fignifies, demonftrated, Chryfoft. Mam. manifefted, or definej to bz the Son of God; as moft Learned f oc f^l*£ men render it. Though Bellarmineh rendering of the word with & & c . the vulgar Latine y for which he contends, would alio fit our purpofe, who was predefttnated to be the Son of God', which rauft be meant, of iuch a Sonfhip as he took upon him in time, or rather of the execution of God's Decree, containing his being manifefted in the flefh by the terms of the Covenant of Suretiihip (if we read it predeftinated) and not of his eternal generation; becauie as Efthins fays upon the place, Predeftination does not relate unto that which was from eternity, but to future things only. 2. Becaufe on this day of his reiurreaion, there was in refpefi: of Chrift's humane nature, a fecpnd entrance into life, the Grave being afecond womb,See Dr. ft*»i from which he came forth unto life (as his Mothers womb was m *d Anaot.' the firft, from which he came forth unto life, inrefpe&of his on */■ 2 *

C humane

TO Of the Covenant of Redemption. Chap. T.

humane nature^ i'o he was begotten, or brought forth in this day, by a new birth out of the womb of the grave *, hence the refurreftion is called Tra.\tyyiviifi&) renafcentia , a new or See GtrJWfecond binh,Matth, 19.28. 3. Becaufe the day of ChrirVs mm. h locum* refurre&ion, was the day of veiling, inaugurating and inflalling him in his Regal Office and Authority in our nature s this is the day whereof it's laid, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee 5 becaufe this was a Coronation-day, a day of exaltation oi him in his humane nature, and of constituting him, and fetling him in his offices in a moft glorious manner, againft all oppositions as the context of that Pfalm bears, v. 6, 7, Yet have I fet my King Hpon my holy hill of Ston. I will declare

the decree* And Heb. 1. 3,4, 5, When he had by him/elf

purged our fins, fate down on the right hand of the Majefly on high. Being made fo much better than the Angels , as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they: For nnto which of the Angels faid he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. It was a cuftom among the Romans, that the Emperors had two Nat ales, or birth-days, kept j the one was Natalis Imperatoris, the birth-day of the Emperor, to commemorate his coming into the world. The other was Natalis Imperii, the birth-day of the Empire, to commemorate his advancement to the Imperial Dignity. The feaft of commemorating the building of Rome, was called Palilia *, and this title was by decree given of Cains the Em-fueton mCalig. peror, his advancement to the Empire, Decretum eft ut dies S ■& quo cepiffet imperium Palilia vocaretur. There is alfb mention

. made of anothers, Natalis adoptionis, the day of his adoption, JdTnT **i* his civil birth-day, Kid. Aug. and then of Natalis Imperii, the birth-day of his Empire, ///. id. Aug. And of Vefpa-TmtusBiik Jlan his recorded, that Primta principatus dies in pofterumcele-Kb. 2. 'bratus, the firft day of his Empire was celebrated after-

wards.

3. Tis to be obferved concerning the Propofals before-mentioned, which I laid are made by Jehovah to Chrift, that the Scriptures cited, do diftinguift betwixt the propounding of thefe things which God faid to Chrift, and the publishing or promulgation thereof, Pfal. 2. 7, I will declare the Br. Ftemtnoud decree ) or as as a late learned Annotator reads it, Iwilltellof* decree or Covenant ', that is, I will f>ubli(h and manifeft that

which

which was fometime a great fecret, kept betwixt God and Chrift; but now is declared and opened up, Pfal.x^. 14, The fecret of the Lord is with them that fear him, and he will foew them his Covenant. Col. 1.26, Even the myflerie which hath been hidden from- ages andgenerations 3 but now is made manifeft to his Saints. And what is the fecret that is now declared plainly ? even that which follows : The Lord faid unto me, thou art my Son — aik^ofme,&tc. i.e. God laid to Chrift, or made this Propoial to him, thou art the only fit petfon for undertaking this work of Man's Redemption, and I deftinate and appoint thee for it: Now therefore ask, and have the nobleft rewards that can be devifed, only do the work. I fay then, here is but a declaration of that which was laid and done, concluded and traniacled by Propofals 'twrxt God and Chrift in his Decrees, and the Couniel of his Will.

4. 'Tis obfervable that the Hebrew word here ufed and tran- vid. Tap fa flated Decree, pn Chokj, comcth from a root that fignifies Vhcjfarum fa originally, fcribere, defcribere, ftatuere, to write, engrave, ira-? 4 ^PjPH c "*-dain, anoint, &c. and ib proportionably is the Noun fignifyingforcher 0 "^" many things^ not only a Law, Statute, and Ordinance ; but^. in voce alio a Patt or Covenant ; a writing fubferibed with the parties pn cbo\. hands, &c. And in this place it's rendered a Covenant by the Vid. Bibl.Poly-ChaldeeParaphraft. Recitabo Patt urn, the LXX here render it^ /flf ' in locm * irtQrctyjjuL, an Order and Agreement; and (b moft of the ancient Interpreters following the Targnm, render it God's Statute, Buxtorf.imV. his Patt or Covenant-, and 'tis obferved by a great Hebrean,^- ¥lalmH ^ m that this word among the Talmudifls is often put for the qua-P* 8l8a lity, condition, or nature of any thing ; and if lb, here 'tis the nature, quality and condition of God's decretal Covenant with Chrift. But further, befides the affinity that is among thefe notions 0$Statute, Decree, Agreement, Patt, Covenantee, the word pn that is here ufed, is in the Scripture fometimes promifcuoufly or fynonimoufly ufed with the word n H3—that is uiually rendered Covenant. Compare Jer . \ 1. 35, 36. wither. \\. 20, &c In both which places God's Ordinance and Covenant with the day and night isfpoken of, to illuftrate the liability of his Covenant with his people in Chrift, and there you will find the words pn and nH3 Statute or Ordinance and Covenant, promiicuoufly ui'ed', and the fame thing which is called God's Ordinance of the day and

C 2 night,

nighr, or of the Sun and Moon, Jer. 31. 35, 36. is called his Covenant with the day, and his Covenant with the night, Jer. 33. 20 ; the meaning of both we are to gather from tvLBibU ?oly-6*»- 1. 16. &S.22. &y. 11, 12, 13. the Chaldee Paraph, in :/§*.-*! (mm*, both theie places renders the different Hebrew words Pattum & Prffikr, Paction or Covenant-, and the Syriack^ renders both the words adminifir at tones, a word comprehenfive of both theie notions of God's Oeconomy and difpenfations.

Befides the Scriptures before-mentioned,we read alfo of God's Propofalsto Chrift, concerning the work of man's Redemption, If a. 42. 6, 7, I the Lord have called thee in Righteon]nefs , and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a Covenant of the people for a light of the Gentiles. To open the eyes oj the blind, to bring out the prifoners from the prifon , and them that fit in darknefs out of the prifon-honfe. And 49. 5, 6, And now faith the Lord that formed me from the womb to be his fervant, to bring Jacob again to him j though Ifrael be not gathered, yet Jhall I be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and my God jhall be myftrength. And he faid, it is a light thing that thou Jhouldfl be my fervant, to raife up the tribes of Jacob, and to reftore the preferved of Ifrael. I will alfo give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou may ft be my falvation to the ends of the earth, &c. which things no man can reaibnably doubt to be fpoken by Jehovah to Chrift, and to contain Propofals concerning the Redemption and Salvation of his ele& people.

2. Let us in the next place confrder, where we find Scripture proof for Chrift's conlent unto thefe Propofals, made by Jehovah to him, which amounteth to a Covenant ? We find Chrift's conlent and agreement, and that before the beginning of the world) unto the Propofals made to him by Jehovah-con* cerning this work of Redemption, and the office which he was called unto for that erred!:, clearly infinuated, Prov.S* 22, 23, 24, The Lord poffeffed me in the beginning of his way 9 before his works of old. I was fet up from ever la fling from the beginning, before ever the earth was. When there were no depths I was brought forth, when there were no fountains abounding with

water. 30. 31, Then I was by him as one brought up with him,

and I was daily his delight, rejoycing always before him. Re* joycing in the habitable part of his earth , and my. delights were

with

withthe Sonsof men. Where we find the fubftantial, eternal wifdom of God, Jefus Chrift declaring fiich a plenary voluntary chearlul conient to undertake the work of our Redemption, that when he was in the Counfel of God let up and defigned unto the office and glory of the Lord Mediator and Redeemer*, he took pleaiure and iatisfa&ion before-hand, not only in his people not yet created, above all the works of his hand, who were to be the fatisfying fight that fhould be given him for the travel of his Soul fas the Lord faith, I fa. 53. li .)\ but he took pleaiure alio in theie parts which they were to inhabit, in every bit of ground that was to be the bounds of their hakitation'm the times appointed, AEb. 17. 26.

But yet more explicitely, read his conient to the Propofals made by Jehovah to his Son Chrift, Pfal.^o. 6,7,8, Sacrifice and offering thou didft not defire, mine ears haft thou opened \ burnt offering and fin offering haft thou not required. Then faid I, Lo J come ; in the volume of the book^ it is written of me, I delight to do thy will O my God *, yea-, thy law is within my heart. With Heb. 10. 5, 6, 7, Wherefore when he cometh into the world , he faith ^ facrifce and offering thou wouldft not., but a body haft thou prepared me. In burnt offerings and facrifices for'fin', thou haft had no pleafure. Then faid I, lo I come •, in the volume of the boook^it is written of me, to do thy will-) O God. Concerning theie Scriptures, let us obferve ibme things for clearing the point in hand *, to wit, Chrift's confent and agreement unto Propofals made to him by Jehovah. And 1. It is manifeft that the words are ChrilVs words*, for the Apoftle makes Chrift, not David to be thefpeaker here, Heb. 10. 5, Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he faith, i.e. Chrift faith; for it is of Chrift's facrifice, and his offering himfelf that the Apoftle hath been fpeaking. 2. Tis as manifeft that Chrift fpeaketh theie words to God, to Jehovah • therefore he faith, Pfal. 40.8, and Heb. 10. 7. 9, 0 6W,and O-my God. 3. The words prefiippofe fomething fpoken and propounded by God to Chrift, unto which theie words are ananiwer : there are four words in the Text which carry this plainly, that there was fomething that he, *'. e. Jehovah defired and required as a pleafing fatisia&ion to him, above all typical Sacrifices, fomething which Chrift calls his fathers will and his command,^ will,0 God ; thy law, O God, to which he gave an aniwer, then I faid, &c. 4. That the

thing;

thing concerning which he makes anfwer to God here, was upon the matter, i. Some Propofal, for the performance whereof, God had prepared and fitted him, by his Incarnation and afiurning our nature :, A body thou haft prepared me or fitted me ; and by his taking on a will that might bow to the will of God, Mine ears thou haft opened. 2. 'Tis an anfwer to the Propofal of a bufinefs unto which Chriit was called, which was the fathers will and command to him, to do thy will and thy law, O God. $ . 'Tis an anfwer and return to God concerning fomething that was concluded and agreed betwixt God and Chriit before-hand ; and therefore is faid to be written m the volume of thy book. 4. 'Tis fomething, which however it was contracted and recorded before 7 yet was not to be fulfilled until the due time, when he cometh into the world , not till the time of his Incarnation. 5. 'Tis fomething that divine Juftice required for a iatisfattion, and which no Sacrifices could a-mount unto •, which is held forth in the oppofition of this command to the negation of all iatisfa&ion by other Sacrifices. Sacrifice thou haft not required, but, &c. and this was no other but the obedience of his own Son, and the giving his Soul an offering and Sacrifice for fin to iatisfie the Juftice of God , If*. 5 1. 10, Tet it pleafed the Lord to bruife him, he hath put him to griefs when thou fialt make his foul an offering for fin, he fhall fee his feed, he Jhall prolong his days, xmd the pleafure of the Lord jhall profper in his hands.

5. Confider the aniwer that Chriit gives here,how it amounts unto a plenary confent and agreement unto the will and propofal of his father unto him, which is a Covenant of Redemption or Suretifhip, i. e. that he will undertake and do the work of our Redemption, according to his fathers will.

1. I fay Chrift's anfwer bears a confent, a willing confent, Lo I come ; Chrift fids himfelf before God in readinefs to do his-»Father'swill, to be our Surety and Saviour, 'tis an expref-fion not unlike thefeof Ifaiah and Samuel, whereby they ex-prefTed their free confent and readinefs to obey the call of God, Jfa. 6.8, Then faid I, here am I, fend me ; in the Original it is behold me, or lo me-, whichisequivolentto Lo I come; orlfift my felf ready to obey thy command, to do thy will, to run thy errand, j Sam. 3. 10, SpeakLord, for thy fervant heareth, * e. doth fill himfelf ready to obey.

2. Chrift's

2. Chrift's anfwer bears a fubmiflive humble content, Mine ear haft thou opened, or bored: there feemsto be an allufionto a Ceremony that was ufed toward the Servant that would not have his liberty, but loved his Matter lb, that he would not go out free from his Service, when he might according to Law, in the feventhyear: whereof fee Dent. 15. 12, to 17. & Exod. 21.6. So the opening or boring of the ear is, not only a fign of hearkening and obedience, as thePhrafe is ufed concerning Chrift, Ifa. 50. 5, The Lord God hath opened mine ear, and I was not rebellion neither turned away back^ But it notes alio his taking on the form of a Servant, fuch as had their ears bored, in token of their fubmiffion to ferve when they % might have been free. In place of this Phrale, the Apoftle fays, A body thou haft prepared me: giving a perlpicuous interpretation of the opening of the ear, that it related to Ghrift's Incarnation, and the principal end thereof, which was that he might be found in the form of a Servant, to obey and do the will of his father, as one who by his own confent was nailed and pinned to his Service in the work of Redemption, ThiL 2. 7,8, But made himfelf of no reputation, and todk^upon him the form of a fervant, and was made in the likenefs of men. And being found in fafhion as a man, he humbled himfelf and became obedient unto death , even the death of the Crofs.

3. Chrift's aniwer bears a content given in contemplation of a fatisfa&ion to divine Juftice -, and therefore he mentions the Law of God, and the things that God required, and offers himfelf to undergo thefe •, for this he did propofe to himfelf, that offended divine Juftice might have an honourable fatisfa-ftion , and that the Law might have obedience in him, Gal. 4.4, 5, But when the fulnefs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law : To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the Adoption of fons. Zech. 13. 7, Awake, O fword,againftmy jhepherd, and again ft the man that is my fellow, faith the Lord of hofts, fmite the flupherd. Gal. $. 13, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the Law, being made a curfe for w-

4, Chrift's aniwer bears a compleat and plenary corifent,. which is every way apted unto the Propofals made to him: for he offers himfelf to fulfil the Z^w (to which he voluntarily fubje&ed himfelf) in the exact rigour thereof 7 in every thing

that

that is written in the booh^of the law y Gal. .$. 10. he offers him-f elf to perform the utmoft degree of obedience to the Will of God, to do thy,willy O God; yea, to do not only according to what -is written in the book of the Law, but according to the indenture and contract betwixt God and him, to which Iunderftand the vohtme of the bookjieve mentioned, chiefly to relate ^ ibppofing the agreement betwixt God and Chrift about the work of man's Redemption, and all his undertakings to be written as it were in a Book or Roll, in thatienfe that the Scripture fpeaks of a book of life, and the Lambs book of life, and the writings therein, Rev. 13.8. & 15.8. & 21.27.

5. Chrift's anfwerbearsa chearful conient to the Propofals made by God to him, / delight to do thy willy 0 God, and thy law is within my heart, becauie his heart was to the bufineis, and a defign ol love acted him all along his undertaking and performing the work of our Redemption, Joh. 13. i, having loved his own \ therefore he took plealiire in the work *, therefore it was his delight, Prov.S. 51, Re joy ring in the habitable part of his earth, and my delights were with the fons of men. Luk.22. 15, And he Jaid unto them, with defire I have defired to eat this pajfeover with yon before I fnffer. I conclude then, that this conient upon Chrift's part to his Father's Propofals, makes a Covenant betwixt Jehovah and Chrift.

$. Befide the former two, which according to the opinion of Jarifls amount to a Fattion , and a Contrail, or virtual Covenant, and I think .alio to a formal explicite Covenant; there is alfo veftiges to be found betwixt God and Chrift of all things required unto explicite formal Covenanting.

Let us therefore enquire a little, 1. What are the requifites of formal explicite Covenanting. 2. What veftiges of thefe are to be found betwixt Jehovah and Chrift.

1. The peculiar propriety of formal explicite Covenanting, ftands in ftipulation and reftipulation, in Conditional Propofals, commands, tenders, orpromifes upon the one part*, and the accepting, contenting, or performing of conditions required, upon the other part : When the Propofals of whatsoever quality and kind they be, are exprefly conditional, and the conditions propounded and required, are exprefly accepted and agreed unto, there is a formal explicite Covenant, even in the molt ftricl: and rigorous acceptation of the word Covenant.

nant. Hence the Jurifts confine mutual contra&s and explicate Siil0 ^ jkJtitU Covenant?, within the cornpafs of thefe few words, Dontdes,& Jure lib. 6.

r • r > j r • r ■ Uj Qufft.2. Art. I.

facto Ht facias, do nt facias-, facto nt aes. > Q ^ ^ j Hm

2. That there be clear footfteps of iiich dealing and Tranfa-..^; ^ voc e^ ttions betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, may appear from theie^. inflances •, all which evince ftipulation and jreftipulation •, Conditions upon the one part and upon the other; Conditions given and taken.

1. Betwixt Jehovah and Chrift there are Commands with Pro-mifes, holding forth what was the Will of God to Chrift, in the matter of man's Redemption; and what he (hould expecl: from his Father for doing that work, and obeying his WiH, J oh. 6, 39,40, This is the fathers willy — and this is the will of him that fern me. Zech. 6. 12, 13, — Behold the man whofe name is the Branched he fhall grow up out of his place, and he fhall build the temple of the Lord — and the counfel of peace fhall be between them both. Mich. 5.4,5, And he fhall ft and and feed in the ftrength of the Lord> in the majefty of the name of the Lord his God , and they fhall abide, for now fliall he be great unto the ends of the earth. And this man fhall be the peace when the Affyrian fljall come into our land. Ifa.42, 1,2, $,4.— He flmll bring forth Judgment to the Gentiles. He fliall not cry, nor lift up, nor caufe his voice to be heard in the ftreet. A bruifed reed f hall he not breaks and the fmoakjng flax fliall he not quench; he flja 11 bring forth Judgment unto truth. And if a command with a threat-ning annexed, which had a promife in it implicitely, did a-mountto a Covenant in God's dealing with man in his integrity, by a Covenant of works (as is acknowledged by all Divines)*, Gen. 2. 17, But of the tree of the knowledg of good and evil, thou fl)alt not eat of it : for in the day that thou e ate ft thereof, thou fljalt furely die : Sure, commands with explicite promiies, fuchas are betwixt God and Chrift, do amount to a Covenant.

2. Betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, there are Promifes with Conditions ', I fay Promiies with Conditions (not abfolute promiies) read I fa. 53. 10, 11, 12,— When -thou fhalt make his foul an offering for fin, he fhall fee his feed, he fhall prolong his days, and the pleafure cf the Lord fhall prof per in his hand: He fliall fee of the travel of his foul, and fliall be feitisfitd. By his know-

D ledg

ledg flail my righteous fervant juftipe many, for he jhall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he flail divide the fpoil with the flrong , becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death , and he was numbred with the tranfgreffors, and he bare the fin of many <> and made inter-teffwnfor the tranfgreffors- Now Promifes with Conditions,are promifes with re-promiflions, or conditions upon the one part, and upon the other ; this is a declaration of what God will do , and what he doth require,, which is a formal Covenant, and is plainly reducible to that which the Jurifts call Do ut facias, facio utdeSy&c.

3. There is betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, not only Commands with Promifes annexed,and Promifes with Conditions annexed ^ but which is yet more, Conditions with confent, a formal consent and voluntary yielding unto the Propofals which were made unto him by Jehovah ; and this is without queftion, a formal explicite Covenant, confiding of ftipulation and refti-pulation, propounding and ani we ring, or accepting, demanding, and yielding or confenting: he receives a command from his Father to lay down his life, and he willingly confents, Joh. IO. 18, No mantakethit from me, but I lay it down of my felf'j I have power to lay it down , and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my father. His Father propounds his Will to him, and makes offer of fair conditions, and he accepts, lfa.*\. \o,—-When thou flait make his foul an offering for (in , he flail fee his feed, he flail prolong his days, and the pleafure of the Lord flail profper in his hand. Heb. 10.5,7, Wherefore when he comethinto the world, he faith, facrifice and offering thou wouldefl not, but a body haft thou prepared me. Then J aid J, Lo I come, in the volume of the book, it is written of me y to do thy will, 0 God. Here is a formal explicite Covenant.

4. There is betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, Confenting with Performing *, not only a mutual agreement upon the things to be done by Chrift, and to be done to Chrift ; but a real performance of the mutual conditions agreed upon betwixt them: and this is more than a confummate Covenant, this is the fulfilling of an explicite Covenant, and the acknowledgment of both parties, that it was mutually covenanted, and that the conditions were obferved, and were performed on both fides:

Joh.

Joh. 17.4, / have finijhed the work^whichthou gave ft me to do> faith Chrift : and his Father iaith , I fa. 42. I, Behold my fervant whom I uphold, mine eleft in whom my foul delight eth, I have put my fpirit upon him, and he jhall bring forth Judg* ment to the Gennlss, Phil. 2.8, y, And being found in fajhion as a man, he humbled himfelf, and became obedient unto death, tven the death of the Crofs. Wherefore God alfo hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name. There is a reciprocation of Covenant-performances.

5. There is betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, asking and giving: the Father asketh a fatisfatlion to his Juftice for the fins of all the Elect, If a. 5$. 10, It pleafed the Lord to bruife him, he hath put him to grief: and the fatisfaction which his Father asked, was, that he fhould make his foul an offering for fin : and Chrift yieldeth and giveth the fatisfac~tion which was asked, Pfal. 4.0. 6, Lolcome, faith he, to do thy will. Iia. 5 3-S* But he was wounded for our tranfgrejfions, and he was bruifed for our iniquities: the chafiifement ofour peacewas upon him^ and with his ft ripe s we are healed.

Again, Chrift asketh of his Father a reward and fatisfaclion for the travel of his Soul in that great work of our Redemption and Salvation : And his Father gives it him according to the encouraging : Propofals , whereby he had invited him to the undertaking fo great a work, Pfal, 2.8, Ask^ofme, a?id I Jhall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the utter-mo ft parts of the earth for thy pojfejfion. Iia. 55.11, He jhall fee of the travel of his foul, andfljall be fatisped. Joh. 17.4, 5, / have glorified thee on earth, I have finijhed the workjwhich thou gaveftmeto do : And now^O father, glorifie thou me with thine own felf, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. This kind of asking and giving on both fides, amounteth to a formal explicite Covenant: here is emptio & venditio, which is a Covenant ftrictly fo called.

6. There is betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, wo rJ^ and wages : there is working propounded upon the one part, and under' taken upon the other:, and a reward promifed upon the one part, and expected upon the other ; craved upon the one part, and payed upon the other ^ and this is a formal Covenant itri«flly fo taken, Ad fimilitudinem contractu inter operarium & locato-rem operis~—inter her urn & fervum, not unlike the manner of

D 2 Cove-

Covenants betwixt the work-man and work-mafter, betwixt the Servant and his Lord. Here is indeed, do ut faoias, facio Mt des y I give this upon condition you do that, and I do this upon condition you give that.

I lay, there was working and rewarding 'twixt God and Chrift, and that by no neceflity of nature, but by a voluntary compaft', his work and reward are both propounded to him, Ifa. 53. 11,12, He fljall fee of the travel of his foul, and Jhall be fatisfied: by his knowledg jhall my righteous fervant jaslifie many •, for he Jhall bear their iniquity. 'Therefore will J divide him a prt ion with the great , and he jliall divide the jf oil with the ftrong, becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death, and he was numbred with the tranfgrejfours, and he bare the fin of many, and made intercejfionfor the tranfgrejfours. And 49.3,6, And faid unto me. Thou art my fervant , O Ifrael, in whom I will be glorified. And he faid, it is a light thing that thou ftiouldft be my fervant to raife up the tribes of Jacob , and to reftore the preferved of Ifrael: I will alfo give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thoumaift be my falvation unto the end of the earth. And agreed unto by him, Joh. 10. 17, Therefore doth my father love me, becaufe I lay down my life, that I might take it again. Heb. 10.7, Then faid I, lol come, in the volume of the booh^ it is written of me, to do thy will, O God. Therefore we find upon the one part and the other, God promifing a reward, and Chrift expefting it: Ifa.<$$. 12, Therefore I wilt divide him a portion with the great, with Ifa. 49.4, Surely my judgment is with the Lord, and my work^with my God. Again, we find God propofing the reward for Chrift's encouragement in fo hard a work, and Chrift eying the reward under alf difcouragements, Pfal. no. 7, He jliall drinks of the brooks in the way, therefore jhall he lift up the head; with Heb. 12.2, Looking unto Jefui the Author and finijher of our faith , who for the \oy that was fet before him, endured the Crofs, defpifng the jhame, and is fet down at the right hand of the throne of God. We find alio Chrift craving his reward, and challenge ing it as due to him, Joh* 1^.4) / have glorified thee on earth, I have pmjhedthe work^ which thou gave ft me to do. And his Father paving the promife^ reward, Phil. 2. 8, y, Wherefore God Alfo hath highly exalted hi*n, &c.

The fourth Proof of a Covenant betwixt Jehovah and Chrift;

V

I take from trie Offices, Jmployments, Trufts, Powers , Authorities, and Relations, which Chrift did bear, and wherewith he was vefted for doing the work of his peoples Redemption: All and every of thele prove ftrongly an eternal Covenant and Compart betwixt Jehovah and Chrift: I put thefe together, that the proofs may be more ponderous than numerous *, I fhall therefore, i. Reckon up fome particulars that fall under this head, each whereof might afford a particular proof, and then draw an argument from them.

i. His Offices and Employments; Chrift is Lord Mediator of the New Covenant, Heb. 8. 6, & o. 15. He is Lord Ambaffa-dor and Meffenger of the Covenant, Mai. 5.1. He is the Lord's Shepherd and his Servant in the work of Redemption,-^/?. 13.7. Ifa.4.2. 1. Not by nature, but by condefcenfion and agreement, to be in thefe employments. Chrift Mediator is a King, not by nature but by Covenant and Agreement, he receives a difpen-fatory Kingdom, Pfal. 2. 6, Yet have J fet my king upon my holy hillZion. Aft. 2. l<$, God hath made the fame Jefpu both Lord and Chrift. Heb. 1. 2,— whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom alfo he made the worlds. Pfal. 8p. 27, Alfo I will make him my ftrft born, higher than the kings of the earth. Chrift is a Prophet and a Teacher of his people, not by nature but by appointment, Act. $.22, ForMofes truly faid unto the Fathers, a Prophet JIm 11 the Lord your God raife up unto you of your brethren like unto me, him flail ye hear in all things what-fbever he fhall fay unto you. If a. 55.4*7 Behold, I have given him for a witneft to the people. Chrift is a Prieftnot by nature, but by divine appointment, and that in the way of agreement and content, Heb. 5.4, 5, 6, And no man taketh this honour unto himfelf, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. So. alfo Chrift glorified not himfelf to be made an high prieft * 9 but he that faid unto, him, IhonartmySon, today have I begotten thee. As he faith 1 alfo in another place^ 'Thou a? t a prieft for ever after the or den of Meuhifedec. And 7. 21,— The Lord (ware and will not repent, thou art a Prieft for ever, after the order of Mel-chifedec.

2. The like I fay of the Trufts, Powers, and Authorities, that Chrift Mediator had, concerning the work of his peoples Redemption \ how came his name to be in our bond, and he to take upon him to perform the condition of the Covenantor

worKs?.

-works ? how came he to be under the Law, and to fulfil the Law ? Sure it was not by nature ,nor by any neceflity of nature 7 but by divine appointment, and by his own voluntary yielding to it, which is Compact '■, fo Jefm was made fur ety,Heb. 7. 22 ' v and made under the law, Gal. 4.4 *, how came he to have the dif-pofing of the eternal interefts of all men ? Sure he had this truft and authority by agreement with his Father, who laid it upon him, and he freely received it, Job. 5. 22, for the Father judgeth no man fait hath committed all \udgment to the Son: ck 17.2, As thou haft given him power over all fiejh, that he frould give eternal life to as many as thou haft given him. How came the keys of the houle of David, to lye upon his fhoulder ? the great truft and management of all affairs relating to his Church and People ? undoubtedly this was by Compact with Jehovah, who laid this truft upon him, I fa. 22.2 1, 24, And the key of the houfe of David will I lay upon his froulder, fo he frail open and none frail frut, and he frail frut and none frail open. And I will faften him. as a nail in a fur e place, and he frail be for a glorious throne to his fathers houfe. And they frail hang Upon him all the glory of his houfe, the offspring and the iff He, all veffels of fmall quantity, from the veffels of cups, even to all the veffels of flagons. Rev. 1 . 7.— He that hath the key of David, he that openeth and no man frutteth, andfrutteth and no man openeth.

$. I affirm the lame alio of Chrift's Covenant-relations to God and to his people: Though God the Father was the Father of our Lord JefusChrift by eternal generation, and he is the natural Son of God *, yet who can declare how God is the God and Father of our Lord Jefns Chrift, but by Covenant? 1 Pet. 1. 5, God foretold this Covenant-Intereft of Chrift's, Pial.89.26, He frail cry unto me, thou art my Father, my God? andtherock^of my Salvation ? with Hcb. 1. 5, For unto which of the Angels faid he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. And again, I will be to him a Father, and he flmltbe to me a Son. And Chrift frequently owns that Covenant-compellation , Mat. 27.46, My God, my God, why haft thou forfakjn me. Rev. 3.12, Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he frail go no more out, and 1 will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the City of my God, which is new Jerufalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God , and I will write upon him my new name.

Joh.

Joh. 20. 17, fifta faith unto her, touch me not, for J am not yet afcended to my Father *, but go to my brethren and fay to them y J afcend unto my Father and your Father, and to my God and your God,

From all which I draw but this one Argument *, Chrift who did bear all thefe offices, employments, trufts and relations, for the work of our Redemption,, he had all thefe things (I fay^) either by fome neceflity that could not ftand with his own free confent ^ or elfe he did bear thefe offices, employments,, trufts and relations by his own willing confent, and they were of his own voluntary taking up. Now 'tis fure he was not Mediator, nor Surety, nor MeiTenger of the Covenant, norafervant in that affair, by any neceflity that was repugnant to his own free confent. I fay no neceflity that was repugnant to his own free confent; becaufe there was, 1. Some kind of neceflity that Chrift fhould travel in this work, in regard of the Decree of God, and Divine Predetermination, that a fatisfa&ion fhould be made unto his Juftice, and that man ftiould not be laved without this fatisfa&ion interveening ^ which-decree is in order of nature, and in that kind of priority, that is in our way of conceiving of God's eternal decrees, antecedaneous to God's Covenant with Chrift: Therefore the Scripture giveth us ground to fay, that God flrft chofe Chrift to this work of Redemption, and then made a Covenant with him, PfaLSg. $, I have made a Covenant with my chofen. 2. We find that Chrift having taken upon him thefe offices, trufts, employments, &c before-mentioned, was under a blefled , holy neceflity, to fulfil the things belonging to his offices and trufts *, and therefore the Scripture faith, it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, Heb. 2. 17. and it behovedChrifl to fuffer, Luk. 24. 46. and he mufl needs go thorow Samaria, joh. 4. 4. J mufi workjhe workl of him that fent me, Joh. 9- 4. But neither of thefe neceflities was any ways repugnant to hi sown free confent and willingnefs to bear thefe offices and trufts: For the firft neceflity in regard of the decree of God, that decree being the couniel of his own will, as well as his Fathers 5 there was not thereby any neceflity upon him, repugnant to his own free content. And the fecond neceflity of doing the.works of him that, lent him, being a neceflity which he voluntarily took upon him by his willing undertaking the truft of being Lord Mediator, there was not there-

by anvimpofing upon his free confent, Joh. 10. 17,18, Therefore doth my Father love me, becaufe I lay down my life that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my felf. 1 have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. Phil. 2. 8, And being found in fafrion as a man, he humbled him felf unto death, even the death of the Crofi.

Yet I 1 ay, there was not upon Chrift afoy neceflity repugnant to his free and willing afting, in the taking upon him theie offices, trufts, relations, &c* 1 .becauie there was no compelling-neceffity, fuch as is upon a man bound hand and foot; there was no fuch neceflity upon the Lord to fend Chrift, and to lay thele offices upon him \ for he is a mod free foveraign Agent, above counfel, and much more above compulfion, Ifa.4.0. 1$, Who hath directed the fpirit of the Lord, or being his Counfellour hath taughthim f Pfal. 1^5.6, Whatfoever the Lord pieafed, that did he in heaven and in earth, in the feas, and all deep place. And he was not bound to change the Law-dilpeniation into a new one of Grace *, Therefore is the thing that was laid upon Chrift, fo often called the will of him that fent him, Joh. 6. $9,40. Neither was there any fuch neceflity upon Chrift to take thefe offices and employments, he could not be compelled to lay down his life, Joh. 10. 18, No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my felf: I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again ; this Commandment received I of my Father. Phil. 2. 6. 8, Who being in the form of Cod, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. And being found in faflnon as a man, he humbled him-fclfy and became obedient unto death, even the death of the Crofi.

2. There was no natural ueceffity, fuch as that of the Sun to give light, and the fire heat*, fure there was no fuch neceflity of God's fending of Chrift*, God did not by any natural neceflity lend forth Chrift; nor was the Son of God under any natural neceflity to undertake the work of our Redemption, for God might have done other wife, he might in juftice have profecuted the Covenant of works', yea, there was no kind of neceflity upon God to fend, or upon Chrift to go this errand, abftra&ing from his own Decrees, andthepurpofe of his Wi\\,Eph. 1.5,6, Having yredefiinated m unto the adoption of Children by Jefus Chrift to him felf, according to the good pie a fure of his will : to the praife of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Rom. 9,20,21, Nay, but 0 man, who

art

artthou , that replyeftagainft God 1 Jhallthe thing formed fay ts him that form edit j why haft thou formed me thus ? Hath not the potter power over the clay-, of the fame lump to make one vejfel unto honour y and another unto difhonour f 3, There was no moral neceffity, not lb much as any command, motive or inducement without himfelf, either upon God to lay this employment upon Chrift, or upon Chrift to take it upon him, and to undergo the work •, for God might have lent his Son or not fent him, as plea -led him*, there was not fo much as a moral caule inducing him to it, Joh. 3. 16, For God fo loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son , that whofoever believeth on him ftould not perijli, but have everlafting life. Rom. 5. 6,8, For when we were yet without ftrcngth, in due time Chrift died for the ungodly . But God commendeth hi* love towards us-, in that while we were yet fmners y Chrift died for us. And Chrift might have refilled to undertake the work, or he might have agreed as pleafed him •, for who could have laid a command upon him, if the defign of love that was in his heart had not a&ed him to a confent ? Phil. 2. 6,8, Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. Jlnd being found in fajhion as a man, he humbled hw-felf unto deaths even the death of the Crof. .It refts therefore that all thefe offices, employments, trulls, authorities, and Covenant-relations, that Chrift did bear, were undertaken and undergone by his own free confent *, and if they were by his free confent, this confent was either his own motion without the con-lent and agreement of Jehovah concurring in councel with him, for the carrying oh the work of our Redemption 7 or tHTs was tranfkcled and done in the counfel of God, by the knowledg> will, confent and agreement of God with Chrift. Now the Scripture is plain and expreis, that all the offices, trufts, authorities, employments and Covenant-relations which Chrift did bear, were notufurped, were not taken upon him without divine ordination and appointment, without his Father's confent and command v but that he was defigned , chofen and called thereunto. See Prov. 8.2$, / was Jet up from everlafting 9 from the beginnings or ever the earth was. Joh. 5. 22, For the Father judgethnoman, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son. Ifa.42. 1,6, Behold my fervant whom I uphold'-, I the Lord have called thee in righteoufnep. And 40. I, $ 9 — The Lord hath called me from the womby from the bowels of my mother hath

E he

he made mention of my name. — Thou art my fervant, O Jfrael, in whom I will be glorified. Hcb. 5. 5, 6 , So alfo Chrifl glorified not himfelf to be made an high priefl * ? but he that faid unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. As he faith alfo in another place, Thouart apriefi for ever, after the order of Mel-chifedec. A&. 3. 26, Vnto yen fir ft, God having raifed up his Son Jefus, fent him to blefi yon, in turning away every one from his iniquities. Pfal. 40. 6, Sacrifice and offering thou didfi not de-fire, mine ears haft thou opened :, burnt offering and fin offering hafi thou, not required, &c. I conclude therefore, that all theie offices, trufts, powers, and Covenant-relations which Chrift did bear, being upon him by mutual agreement and conient betwixt Jehovah and Chrift:,all and every one of them doth prove a Compact and Covenant betwixt Jehovah and Chrifl.

He who defireth more proofs of this Covenant, and to have further light therein * 7 let him read Jo. Cocc. Summa doclrina de foedere, ch. 5. ariciNir.Rutherf. Treat, of the Covenant, Part 2. ch. 6. And Fr. Robert's, Cods Covenants with Man, Book 2. ch.2. Seel:. 3.

Now that this Covenant betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, was the foundation of the Covenant made with us, may be evinced by thefe particulars. 1. If this Covenant of Suretifhip had not been concluded betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, there could never have been anyCovenant-dealing with us upon terms of Grace^for fuppole this Covenant had not been, the Lord fhould then have prolecuted the Covenant of works, and followed a courf e of Ju-ftice aflfinft all Mankind,the dore fhould have been fhut for ever againft all condefcenfions, and all Gofpel ways of Grace. Therefore we find theApofHe reckons the change of Law-difpenfation, and life by the tenor of the Covenant of works, into a new way of Grace,to have its foundation^riginal and rile from Gods gracious eternal tranf action with Chrift. 2 Tim. 1.9, Who hathfaved us and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works\ but according to his own purpofe and grace, which was given us in Chrift Jefm before the world began.

2. God's Covenant-dealing with us upon the terms of Grace, is nothing elfe but the execution of that which was from eternity decreed, tranfc&ed and concluded by God's Compact with Chrift •, and therefore the Covenant of Suretifhip muft needs be che foundation of the Covenant with us, even as all Decrees

and;

Chap. I. Of the Covenant of Redemption.

and Laws are the foundation of the execution following thereupon : this will appear more fully and clearly when we come to fpeak of the tenor of the Covenant of Redemption, and the things therein tranfafted : at prefentthis may fuffice, i. That whatloever Covenant-favour and Grace is tendered tc us by the Golpel-Covenant, and effectually applyed unto us by the Spirit of the Lord, that waspromifed to Chrift,and to us in him_i yea, and plighted in him for our accountby the Covenant made betwixt Jehovah and him 0 as appears from the Scripture before-mentioned, 2 Tim. 1.9, According to his own purpofe and

grace, which was given us in Chrifi before theworld began ', with Tit. 1.2, In hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lye, promised before the world began. 2. Whatfoever Covenant-Conditions of one kind or another •, whether Faith, the eminent Gof-pel-condition, or other Gofpel-obedience required of us, or to be performed upon our part; all thefe were undertaken by Chrift's aft of Suretifhip in the Covenant betwixt God and him, and were eniured to him by Jehovah, to befuccefsfully performed. SetEph. 2. 10, For we are his workmanfiip created in Chrifi Jefus unto good works, which God hath before ordained, that we Jhouldwalkjn them. 2 ThefT. 2. 13, But we are bound to

five thanks alway to God, for you brethren, beloved of the Lord ; ecaufe God hath from the beginning chofen you to Salvation, through fanllif cation of the fpirit , and belief of the truth.

Ifa. 53.1 1, And the pleafure of the Lord fliall pro/per in his

hand. He ft all fee of the travel of his foul, and ft all be fat is fed *, by his knowledg fliall my righteous fervant jufiifie many, for he ft all bear their iniquities.

3. In peribnal Covenanting with God, and the engaging of particular Souls to him, in the way of the Covenant of Grace; Chriil's Suretifhip is the ground of all proceeding : til! this be eyed, and in fome meafure believed, there is no poll' Dility of advancing one ftep toward a new Covenant-ftate : for how can fallen broken man (who underftands his condition to beiiich) think of dealing with God, unlefs he bring a Cautioner with him } or how (hall he bring to God Chrifi, afurety of the better tefiament, who hath not heard of and beloved his eternal aft of Suretifhip, Rom. 10. 14, How then (hall they call on him in whom they have not, believed ? and how ft all they believe in him of whom they have not heard ? and how ft all they hear without a preacher ?

' E 2 This

This Covenant of Surtifhip therefore mud needs be the foundation of the Covenant of Grace and reconciliation;, hence'tis that David and HezekUh flee to this a& of Suretifhip, and lay the weight of their dealing with God on it, Pfal.119. \2i,Be

furety for thy fervant for good. Ilk. 38. 14, 0 Lord, I aw op-

frejfed, undertake for me.

4. The Covenant made with us, hath its (lability from the Covenant of Suretifhip made with Chrift, and therefore this muft be the foundation of that; I fay, upon the ftability of the Covenant made with Chrift, doth depend the ftability of the~ Covenant with us j becaufe that (lands firm and fore, therefore cloth this (land faft alio-, therefore the mercies of the Covenant with us, are fure mercies, and the promifes of the Covenant are yea, and amen ', becaufe they are the fare mercies of David, which were firft promifed to Chrift, Ifa. 55. $. and becaufe the promifes were madetous*'tffc, 2 Cor. 1.20, For all the promifes of God in him are yea, an din him are amen. Therefore the Covenant made with us is an everlafting Covenant, becaufe of the Covenant by which he was given to his people, J fa. 53. 1, 4, / make with you an everlafting Covenant, even the fur e mercies-of David. Behold I have given him for a witneft of the people, a leader andcommander of the people: therefore our faith, and per-feverance, and falvation are lure, asfure as Heaven and Earth can make them, becaufe of the ac"l of Chrift's Suretifhip, and his undertaking for them *, becaufe they hang upon Chrift's fulfilling his Covenant of Suretifhip with God, and upon condition of his doing the werkthat his Father gave him to do, Joh. 17. 4, 8. 15. 24, / have glorified thee on earth, I have finifoed the worl^which thou gavefl me to do .'-—For I have given unto them the words which thou gave ft me, and they have received them..

1 pray not that than jhouldft taks r ^ em mt °f f ^ e world * r

bht that thou jhouldft ktep them from the evil — Father I will, that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where I am. Mat. 16. 18,— And upon this roc\zjwill /build my Church, and

■ the gates of hell foallnot prevail again ft it.

5. The Holy Ghoft's leading us lb frequently in the Scriptures, from the Covenant made with us, in all the force, efficacy, ftability, eternity, (landing, and perfeverance thereof, to look up to the Covenant of Suretifhip made with Chrift*, k a clear demonftration that this Covenant made with us

depends

depends upon the Covenant mack with him ; and that the Covenant made with .Chrift, is the foundation and ground of the Covenant made with us. Read-Ez^. 16. 60,61, Never-, the left I will remember my Covenant with thee in the days of thy youth, and I mil efiablijh unto jhee an everlafting Covenant. Then thou jhal'r remeynber thy ways, and be afliamedy when thon jlialt receive thy Sifters, thine elder, and thy younger ', and I will give them unto thee for daughters \ but not by thy Covenant. Where the efficacy of the Covenant made with us, is hanged, not upon that fame Covenant, but another; to wit, that made with Chrift: And Ifa. 22. 22, 2 $, And the key of the houfe of David will I lay upon his Jboulder , for he jhall open, and none foall JJjut, and he (liall fiwt and none fiall open j and I will faflen him as a nail in a fure place, and he Jhall be for a glorious throne to his fathers houfe, ckc Where under a type of Eliakimh truft, the fixing of Chrift in the Covenant isftated, as the ground of all the gracious efficiency thereof; and PfaL 89. $ $, $4, Neverthelefs my loving kjndnejs* will I not utterly take from him , nor fuffer my faithfulnef to fail My Covenant will I not breaks nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips. Once have 1 fworn by my holinef, that I will not lye unto David. The eftablifhment of the Covenant with s Chrid's fmful feed (there fpokeofby the name of David and his feed^J, is reduced to the Covenant, the fworn Covenant with Chrift, as the ground and foundation thereof, whom' God laid in Zion for a fure foundation ^ to the intent that he who believeth may not make hafle, nor be fuddenly removed from his Faith and fteadfaftnefs ;* J fa. 28. 16.

chap;

gfi Chap, II.

CHAP. 11.

Qf the necejptyofthe Covenant of Redemption, And \. What kind ofnecejpty for the being of this Covenant, i. In what KefpeStf 5 or to what Intents it is ne-eejjary.

w

Hen we i'peak $f the neceflity of the Covenant of Redemption or Suretifhip, we are cautioufly to under-Aquin.Sjww. i.ft an ^ that necefTity. The School-men diftinguifh a threefold Part. g. ip. neceflity. i. A moft perfect and abfohite necejfity^ or a fimylc An. 3 necejfity, when a thing is lb, that it cannot not be, nor be other-

^ U j S in , 5w *wife, and that by the power of any Agent whatfoever. Seft i. ^^B^-Xhisneceff^ybei^ge^ not t0 tne Covenant of Redemption, nor to any other the free afts of the will of God*, for if fo it had pleaied God, he might have not entered that Covenant with his Son} for it was not abfolutely neceflary that man fhould be redeemed : God might have patted by man as he did the Apoftate Angels:, which choice of objects, to be redeemed by Chrift, is mentioned for aggravating God's love to man, Heb. 2. 16, For verily he took^not on him the nature of Angels \ but he took^ on him the feed of Abraham.

This neceflity belongs only to the divine Nature, which is moft perfect, and cannot by any Agent whatfoever, be brought not to be*, or to be other, orotherwife than he is, Jam. i. 17, — with whom is no variablenefiy neither foadow of turning. 2. A natural necejfity, when any thing floweth neeejfarily and meerly from the principles of nature *, and thus the fire burneth, and theftone defcendeth. Now the Covenant of Redemption is not neceflary by this natural neceflity •, for God did not enter in Covenant with Chrift as the fire burns, neceflarily, and natu-- rally •, for, 1. Then it had been impoflible for God not to have fhewed mercy upon fallen man, and that in this very way of Redemption by Chrift; for natural Agents cannot but aft according to their natural properties", but it is manifeft from

God's

God's pafling by the fallen Angels, that he might have faffed by man alio in his fulfill ftate. 2. If Gc either purpo-

sed in himfelf, or exercifed juftice or mercy, or both (which is inconfiftent, implicant,and impoflible) by this natural neceflity, then (his juftice and mercy being infinite) he iliould have ihewed mercy upon all, or exercifed juftice upon all \ he fhould either have punifhed all that finned to theutmoft, as foon as they had finned, or he fhould have (hewed mercy upon all, as foon as there were qualified objects for mercy : the reafon is obvious, becaufe all natural Agents work to the utmoft they can. 3. Then there fhould have been no Compact nor Covenant betwixt Jehovah and Chrift; for fuppofing fucha natural necefii-ty, wedeftroy freeconfent and agreement, which is effential to this Covenant, and is proved in the foregoing Chapter.

3. There is an hypothetical neceflity which arifeth from God'? ordination and appointment •, or as others call it, a neceflity of confeqnence *, when any thing is neceflary upon fuppofition of fome other thing j and this is not an abiblute neceflity in the things themfelves, and their immutability; but a limited refpe-tlive neceflity, upon connexion of one thing with another. Again, this limited refpedive neceflity fas Mr. Anth. Bargef^-porti-mot well obierves) is fometimes from the efficient caufe , becaufe Juftif. Part 2. he is thus and thus difpofed; as when 'tis faid, there mutt beSerm. u. herefies, 1 Cor. 11, 29. That is, partly in regard of the efficient caufe (although the Text mentioneth there only the final caufe), becaufe there will be Ignorance and Pride always in men. 2. From the material caufe: Thus death is neceflary and inevitable, becaufe we have principles of corruptibility within us.

$. From the formal caufe, becaufe that is immutable and urn changeable. 4. From the final caufe fuppofing fuch an end.

When we fpeak of the neceflity of the Covenant of Sureti-fhip or Redemption, it is this third and laft kind of neceflity we mean; it was hypothetically and refpe&ively neceflary only that God fhould enter in Covenant with Chrift:, to wit, upon fuppofition of fome other thing that God had decreed and pur-pofed in hirafelf. And here let us a little enquire,

Quefl. 1. What were thefe things which God's entering irr Covenant with Chrift doth fuppofe ? 2. What was the necef-fity of a Covenant betwixt God and Chrift, luppoiifcp-Tnefe things ? 3. Whether this hypothetical and refpecTive njceflity

of

of a Covenant with Chrift, flowed only from the final caufe, from the ends which God had purpofed inhinfelf, or from the efficient caufe alio, that is, from God's natural propenfion to Juftice or Mercy ?

Anfw. i. The Covenant of Redemption wherein God en« tered with Chrift, did proceed upon fuppofition of thefe things mainly ( I do not fay only , nor do I determine the order of the things fuppofed ). i. This Covenant fuppofeth that God had purpofed in himielf, and decreed eminently to glorifie him-felf in the way of juftice and mercy , Rom. 9. 22,23, What if God willing to fliew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-fujfering the vejfels of wrath fitted to deftruttion ? And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vejfels of mercy which he had afore prepared, unto glory I 2. This Covenant fuppofeth that God had purpofed and decreed, that there fhould be objects qualified, and fit for the glorifying of both thefe Attributes; and this was abfo-lutely neceffary to that purpofe, both quoad exercitium & quoad Jpecific-ationem atlpa, inrefpeftof the exercife of the aft and the lpecification and manner of it. For to fome properties in God there is required no objeft, and to others no qualification of the objeft. To God's Omnipotency there is required no objeft, becaufe it makes its objects *, and to God's Wifdom there is required no qualification in the objeft', for he can order every thing to a glorious end. Yet to God's mercy and juftice, ad extra, there are not only required objefts, but objefts fo qualified, either with Grace or Sin, as Mr. Burgefi obferves. Therefore the Covenant of Redemption doth iiippoie the purpofe and decree of God about the creation of man, in a bleffedj Votf. •/ Juftif. but mutable ftate, and his fall from his Primitive blefTednefs and p. 1. p. 10$. firft Cove nant-ftate, into Sin; that there might be objefts and &p.2.p. ^'qualified objefts for glorifying the Attributes of mercy and juftice, upon which the Apoftle in the place before-mentioned, Rom. 9.22, 2$. calls vejfels of mercy , and vejfels of wrath. 5. The Covenant of Redemption fuppofeth God's purpofe and free decree, ib far to follow his Covenant-truth and juftice upon man, as not to acquit him without a fatisfaftion to Juftice in his own perfon, or by a liirety of the fame kind that finned, Heb. 9. 15, And for this caufe he is the Mediator of the New Teflamenty that by means of death for the redemption of the

tranf-

Chap. II. the Covenant of Redemption. S3

tranfgrejfions that were under thefirft teftament , they which art called might receive the promife of the eternal Inheritance. 4. The Covenant of Redemption iiippof eth that God had purpoled to have in Mankind the»objec1:s for glorifying both thefe Attributes of mercy and juftice, that he would not punifh all fin with eternal death ; nor yet let all go unpunifhed*, but would manifeft his juftice in ibme objects, and the riches of his Grace in others, Rom.?. 22,25. 5- The Covenant of Redemption fuppofeth that God had choien Chrift firft to do the work of Redemption, by fatisfying juftice, and entreating mercy, Pf#l> 89. $, / have made a Covenant with my chofen. And Heb. 2. 17, Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren , that he might be a merciful and faithful high prieflin things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the fins of the people. And that he had choien the veflejs of mercy in him, unto grace and glory, Eph. i.4>$> According as he bath chofen us in him before the foundation of the world , that we Jhould be holy and without blame before him in love. Having predeftinated us unto, the Adoption of children, by Jefit* Chrift. uuto himfelf, according to the good pleafure of his will* I fay thenihls fuppofitis,thtfc and fuch like things being fuppofed, God enters in a Covenant with Chrift.

Queft.2. But iuppofing that it is decreed, that divine juftice (hall be iatisfied \ and that the truth of the threatning of the Covenant of works, fhould be verified upon man offending, or upon a iiifficient fiirety: iiippofing alfo that Chrift is defignedinthe counfel of God unto this work of redeeming loft man, by performing a fatisfa&ion to the juftice of God ; It is yet a queftion, What needed the Covenant of Redemption or Suretifhip betwixt God and Chrift ? Might not the work have been done without any Compact, Covenant or Agreement betwixt the Father and the Son ?

Anfw, I (hall only here give a fhort anfwer ; , referring tlr more fall and particular iatisfattion of this queftion unto the' latter part of this Chapter, wherein I have purpoled the handling of the particular ends and iritents for which the Covenant of Redemption is neceflary y For pf efent I fay, 1. It might iuffice that God decreed, and plainly revealed that the iutisfa&ion which his juftice will have for fm, and which Chrift has given, was agreed betwixt them by a Covenaat: and fo in

F refpeft

refpett of infinite wifdom, which worketh by deep counfel, and doth nothing without a reafon, it was necefTary ? becaufe God thought fit that it fhould be fo, he pitched upon this way. But befide this, 2. Whatfoever n£ ceflity was in regard of infinite wifdom , that loft man fhould be redeemed, fin fhould not be pardoned without a fatisfaclion, that Chrift. ihould be our Redeemer, and fhould come and give thatfatis' faction: the lame neceffity alfo requires a Covenant betwixt God and Chrift, foe carrying on that work in the way of Agreement; ib thai if a Mediator, a Saviour and Redeemer > a Surety, a ranfomwere neceflary , in regard of infinite wif dom, which found out this Goipel-diipeniation and new way of life, then was a Covenant of Suretifhip and Redemption neceflary alfo in the fame refpccT. 3. The work of Redemption performed by Chrift, was iuch as could not be.undertaken and performed without a Covenant^ for it required commanding and obeying, fending and going, asking and receiving, working and rewarding,all which imported fuppofe fuperiority and inferiority, or fubordination, which could not be betwixt the Father and the Son, who is equal vpith Cod? Phn\2.6, unleis that by Agreement, Compact, Confent and Covenant ? the Son of God had humbled himfelf ^ and became obedient unto death? even the death of the Cro$, Phil. 2. 8. The work of Redemption unto which Chrift was defigned in the counfel of God, required feveral offices, employments, trufts, and relations to be iiiflained by him (whereof I hinted fomething in the foregoing Chapter) which not being efTential to the Son of God , nor belonging to him by any natural , abfolute, or immutable ne-ceffity *, upon fuppofal of the decree of God, that the -Son fhould do the work of Redemption , there was a neceflity of Confluence, that there fhould be a Covenant of Redemption and Suretifhip *, that by the Father's calling and command , and by the Sons confent and agreement, making up a voluntary Compact, the Son of God might bear thefe offices, and trufts, and relations, which otherwife he fhould not have born, //i.42. 1.6, Behold my fervant whom J uphold? mine eltttin whom my foul delighteth^ — J the Lord have called thee in right e-optfnsfs? and will hold thine hand. Pfal. 2. 7, / will declare the decree, the Lord hath [aid unto me? thou art my Son? this day havt I begotten thee* Heb. 5. 5,6, So alfo Chrifl glorified not

h'mfetf

himfclf tobemade anhighpriefl, bm he that Jaid unto him. Thou-art my Son , to day have I begotten thee. As he faith alfo in another 'place, Thou art a priefi for ever after the order of Melchifedec.

jQueft> y Whether did this Hypothetical neceflity of God's ■cnteringin Covenant with Chrift to pay a raiiibm $ or as others ipeak, this neceflity of coniequence, flow only from a finall. caufe*, to wit, God's ends which he purpofed in himfclf •, or from the efficient caufe alfo•, to wit, from juftice in God that could not remit fin without fatisfa&ion ?

Anfvo- i. Concerning the neceflity of God's covenanting -with Chrift, in refpeft of the ends which he purpofed in him-felfj thereisnoqueftion : Which were, i. The fupream end, to glorifie his mercy and juftice } I mean his declarative glory, that (hints ad extra j not the efTentiai glory of God, whereby he was infinitely glorious from eternity, and fhould eternally be eflentially glorious, though neither Man nor Angel, nor any other ohjeft of his glory had been created. This is the glory fpokcn of in thefe Scriptures, Prov. 16.4, The Lord hath made all things for himfelf, yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. Eph. 1.6, To the praife of the glory of his grace wherein he hath made m accepted in the beloved. 2. The iubordinate end (which alio is a medium or means for advancing the fupream end) the Redemption and Salvation of his ele& people,, to be "brought about in fuch manner as might manifeft and declare the glory of juftice and mercy both, in faving fome, not all, andpafling by others, upon whom he had purpofed to declare ■hi-juftice ; and in laving thefe whom he purpofed to redeem, in fuch a way as juftice might be iatisfied, and mercy alio entreated, Rom, $.24, Being jaftified freely by his grace, through the Redemption that is in Jefm Chrift. Eph. 1. 7, In whom we have Redemption through his blood, the forgivenefs of fins seconding to the riches of his grace. It is manifeft, I fay, that in regard of thefe great ends, the Covenant of Redemption made with Chrift was necefiary^ God having purpofed in procuring ouu 5alvation,to glorifie his mercy and juftice,a Mediator and Surety behoved to be engaged ; and there being (In regard of infinite wifdom which determined it ) none fp fit as the Son of God ; he muft needs be engaged by his own content, and by a Covenant -agreement with Jehovah.

F 2 j^ But

j^ But here is the queftion about the neceflity of the Covenant of Suretifhip in regard of the efficient caufe •, to wit, wheeler or not there was any neceflity of nature or natural efTential juftice in God, which required this way of Suretifhip and Redemption neceffarily, in regard that he could not pardon fin Without a fatisfa&ion ?

X Concerning this queftion, two reafbns mainly prevail fife. iMiu col. *tfth me to be fparing in the agitation of it. I. The great diife-tmtmjt, z,^-renccof Judgment that is among the Orthodox in this point; birt.w. Error Several Learned men holding God's Juftice in punifhing and y °a,' P £' ^ correcting fin to be fo natural, that he cannot but punifhit, or xm^dHb 9 \2J tQ ^ lxt ^ l% ^^ l<>:[ ^ otherwise he fhould deny himfelf, and his Broth, animad. own nature.

in Vorh. Mar* Again, there are others that hold, if God be confidered ab-fi ;\ ** Fer '' folutely in regard of his power, and not upon a fuppofition of tbotin p <ol X ^ IS ^cree, which is cU fatto, to let no fin go unpunifhed} but 507. • t0 punifh it either in the Peribn, or in his Surety: In this ablb-

lutefenfe they fay God might freely have remitted fin without Aug. Strm. 3. any iatisfaOion.-

& S "ib*' D "de 0thersa E ain ^ ave followed a middle way, and by fome di-7rin!i\?' cap. ftin&ions have ftudied to reconcile the difference j which whe-10; Calv. in ther they reach the end or not* yet have (hewed a good ipirit Toh. 15. -15. in the endeavours.

T ™ ilT * vln f' 2. Becaufe it leems the lefs ufeful to difpute about the poffi-^• x f V g ^;bility of another way of taking away fin, and latisfying the kard. cm & °f tne Law, f 1Ilce whatfoever God might have done, yet

he hath plainly revealed that he hath decreed and pitched upon 4tr. Burg. Trut this only way, that he will not pardon fin without a price and ma. W/.f at isfaaion.

p.2*p.io4, c. ^ or m y own .p 00r apprehenfions of this point \ 1. I look upon the Socinian opinion in this matter as extream, and of dangerous confequence:, for they deny Juftice and Mercy to be Properties or Attributes of God,, making Juftice (or as they call it, Anger) no property in God:, but the meer voluntary effe& of his Will*, denying any fuch Juftice in God,. whereby hepropends to punifh fin, and making it wholly arbitrary,,to punifh, or not to punifh. Upon this foundation they build , that Chrtft did not die by way of latisfaftion * 7 at leaft there ibid. U ? . lt was no neceflity of it: The arguments ufed by Mr. Burge$'\x\ 8^107, &c! ' confutation of the Sotinian opinion, are thu6 far cogent, that

they

they conclude juftice to be a natural property in God (under-ftanding the word natural for that which floweth from nature *, yet by the help of free will)*, and that God's punifhing of fin, is not meerly from his Will. And indeed the Scriptures which hold forth fin, as not only contrary to God's holy Law, but. alfo contrary to his holy Nature: I mean morally contrary to him, though not phyfically, Heb. 1.13, Thou art of furer eyes than to behold evil , andcanfl not laok^on iniquity : and which attribute the punifhing of fin, not only to the juftice of his Law, but to the righteouiheis and juftice of his Nature, Ffal 11. 7, For the righteous Lord loveth righteoufnef , bis countenance doth behold the upright. Rev. 16. 5, And 1 heard the Angel of the waters fay , Thou art righteous , O Lord. Thele alfo which reckon punitive juftice among his attributes, when

his name was proclaimed , Exod. $4.7, and that will, by no

means clear the guilty. Thefe Scriptures and the like (1 lay) have weight with me to reckon juftice among the properties of God, and to believe that his punifhing fin is not meerly from his will.

2. It is another extream, to infer hence, thatbecaufe juftice is in fomefenfe a natural property in God, and his punifhing of fin is not meerly from his will; therefore God punifheth fin by neceflity of nature, and cannot but punifh it, or require flitis-faclion, more than he can deny his own Nature, or ceaie to be God. Againft this affertion,the Reaibns brought by Mr.Ruther-Tnat - °fl hs Co " ford (to which I refer the Reader) do ftrongty conclude. ^cK™

3. I conceive that thefe extreams may admit of abatement* without prejudice to the Lord's Soveraignty, and the abfolute freenefs of his grace, or without derogation from the fatis-fattionofChrift, and the refpeftive neceffity thereof. For, 1. Suppofing that God doth not punifh fin by any natural neceflity, and that he doth not punifh fin, nor require any fatisfa-&ion by any neceflity of juftice *, yet this can be no advantage to the Socinian fuperftru&ion, who conclude that then there was no neceflity of Ghrift's dying by way of iatisfaclion, fince God hath plainly revealed that he will not pardon fin, without a fatisfaftion andanattonementmade •, and this decree of his doth infer an hypothetical neceflity of Ghrift's dying by way of iatisfaclion. 2- Suppofing that juftice, punitk'e juftice, be natural to God, and among his properties, .it will not necefia-

rily

rily follow (upon fuppofition of the being of fin) that God punifheth fin by neceflity of Nature and Juftice , more than it will follow , that becaufe Ptfe natural to man" to fpeak, to laugh, &c. Therefore he fpeaks, he laughs from neceflity of nature j for he doth thefe things moft freely; and notwithftand-ing it is natural to him to laugh or ipeak, he might notwith-ftanding never laugh nor fpeak, as pleafeth him. For if io, i. Then his juftice fhould carry him to punifh fin without any moderation:, that is, to punifh fin as foon as ever it is committed, to punifh fin to the utmoft degree of punifhment, to pu-niih fin in every Soul that finneth, without mercy fliewed to any, and in the fame Soul that finneth, not in a Surety:, becaufe natural Agents work to the utmoft they can. 2. Becaufe the natural properties of God, as they are efTential to him, do not ib much as require any objects ad extra (though the manifeftation of thefe do require objects), for God fhould have been infinitely and eternally wife, holy, good, juft, &c. though there had never been any creation of Men or Angels ^ and if thefe do not neceflarily require objects, then far lefs exercife of acts*, fo that it will not follow, if Juftice be natural to God, then he muft punifh fin by neceflity of Nature. 3. If we (hall place juftice among thefe properties in God , the objects whereof may be laid to be neceflar v (which muft be underftood in refpett of the exercife of acts about thefe objects *, otherwife nO natural property in God neceflarily requires any object adextra); yet the objects fuppofed, the acts are not, even then neceffary by any abfolute neceflity of nature^ but only by a hypothetical necef-fity, fuppofingthe decree of God that gave thefe objects a being, and ordered their being, qualified objects for exercifing juftice or mercy upon, according to his plcafure, which work-eth all things according to the counfel of his will ^ and if lb, her* is no punifhing of fin by neceflity of nature. 4. Suppo-1. M04. ** m § J uftice to be natural to God in that fenfe that Mr. Burgefi ' ' aflerts it, and fuppofmg the objects thereof to have a being *,

yet lure he doth not punifh fin by neceflity of nature, as the fire burns-, fince the exercife of Juftice, yea, the choice of objects upon which he will exercife it, are liibjected to his free will and foveraignty ; as is manifeft from Rom. 9. 18, Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy; and whom he will ', he har~ deneth. Rev. 4. 11, Thou art worthy, 0 Lord, to receive honour

and

and glory y and power ; for thou hafl created all things , and for thy pleafure they are and were created. Whereas natural neceffity excludes freedom both in the principle of aftion, and the a& itfelf.

Having now fhewed what kind of neceflity there was for the being of the Covenant of Redemption betwixt God and Chrift:, and that the neceflity does mainly refpecl: the final caufe and ends which God had purpofed in himfelf : Let us in the next place confider particularly to what intents and pur-poles it was neceffary that God fhouid enter into a Covenant of Suretifhip and Redemption with his own Son Chrift.

Thefe intents and purpofes may be reduced to two chief heads j fuppofmg that God had purpofed in himfelf to glorifie his mercy and Juftice in procuring our Salvation * 7 the Covenant; of Suretifhip and Redemption was neceffary for both thefe ends andpurpoies : i. For the honour of God. 2. For the falvation and good of his choien people *, both which were attained through the Covenant made betwixt God and Chrift.

1. For the honour and glory of God.:, I mean, the declarative glory of God, that fhines ad extra y or the manifestation of his glory, as the fame is fhewed forth and manifefted in his dealings with the Creatures , whereof fcz.PfaL i$>. i, Thehea-vens declare the glory of God. Exod. 15. 11, Who is likf unto thee y O Lordy amongji the Gods ! who is like thee, glorious in holinefs 7 fearful in pratJeSy doing wonders ! Not his effential glory that fhines ad intra y whereby he was infinitely and eternally glorious, before any the works of Creation and Providence •, and fhouid have been glorious eternally, though thefe had never been, Prov.%. 22.~-$Oy The Lord poffefed me in the beginning of his way y before his worlds of old.—SThen J was by him as on* brought Hp with him , and I was daily his delight , rejoycing always before him.

1 fay, the being of this Covenant of Redemption, was necef-fery for the declarative glory of God \ whether we cofifider God effemially or perfonally.

1. For the glory of God confidered effentially , or in regard ©F his glorious nature and effence, or his natural eilential, attri* tut***, I mean, hiswiidom, goodnefe, juftice, mescy, fiuth-

fulnefs.

fu!nef>,'on\ And that, i. For glorifying thefe unkerfally, even all and every one of his attributes, all which received a new and glorious luftre, through the Covenant of Redemption, and God's fending of Chrift to do that work which fliould never have been known nor manifefted on Earth, nor in Heaven, but in the face of Jefus Chrift, and by virtue of God's Covenant-dealings with him about our Redemption; therefore faith the Apoftle, 2 Cor. 4. 6, For God who commanded light to firine out of darknef, hath finned in our hearts , to give the light of the kgowledg of the glory of God in the face of Jefus Chrift. Therefore alio Chrift is called the brightneft of his glory, Heb. 1. j. Chrift Mediator is thebrightnefs of the glory of God , in and through whom , his glorious attributes and nature was made conipicuous, and the declarative glory thereof had a more glorious luftre, than by all the works cf Creation and Providence befide: upon the fame account alfo Chrift is called the Image of the invifible God, Col. 1. 15, becaufe the glorious excellencies of God (otherwife invifible) are glorioufly revealed by him, and to be feen in him. I pais this here in a word, referring a more particular confideration thereof to that part of this fubjecYmatter that concerns the Mediator's perfon and office. 2. For the glorifying of thefe harmonioufly, that the harmony of attributes in God might be manifefted in this tranfa£Hon;to wit,how fweetly mercy & juftice did meet, when peace and righteoufnefs, Law-demands and Gofpel-condeicen-tions, LaW'feverity and Gofpei-lenity did meet together, and were made friends by this Covenant, PfaL 85. 10. 11, Mercy and truth are met together , righteoufnef and pace have tiffed each other, &c. For by this means God brought forth to heaven and earth, and all the Creatures, the glorious harmony of Juftice, Truth, Mercy, Power, Wilcrom, Grace, Rev. 5. 12,' 1$, Saying with a loud voice, worthy is the Lamb that was flain> to receive power, andwifdom, and riches, andftrength, and honour , and glory, and bleffing. And every creature which is in heaven and on the earth, and under the earth, and fuch as are in the fea, and all that are in them , heard /, faying, Bleffing , honour, glory, and power be unto him that fittethupon the throne , and unto the lamb for ever and ever .

2. This Covenant of Redemption was neceflary for the glory of God considered perfonatty; and that, 1. I11 regard of the

diftincl:

diftinftfubfiftencesand glorious peribns of thetdefTed Trinity. 2. In regard of the diftjrwfr offices of the three peribns, all which were glorioufly manifefted in God's Covenant-dealings with Chrift. I lay, the greateft declarative glory and clearefi-manifeftation of the diftintt lubfiftences and Peribns of the Godhead, and of the diftinft offices of thefe Perfons in the ever-glorious and bleffed Trinity, that ever the world law or heard of, was in God's Covenant-dealings with Chrift about the work of our Redemption \ for where are there any fuch clear difco-veries of thefe great myfteries to be found, as in God's federal dealings with Chrift^ and the Scriptures which reveal the fame ? God was but darkly known in the diftincl fubfiftences and offices of the Perlons of the Trinity, till this light-of his Covenant with Chrift did break forth \ but in God'siending his Son, and the Son's undertaking and offering himfelf willingly to his Father, to do this work*, and the Holy Ghoft's exercifmg the power of the Godhead, fitting and enabling him, the man Chrift Jefus,to do the work \ there was a glorious manifeftation of the diftin&ion ofPerfons in the Godhead, and of the offices of thefe Peribns, (whei^of alio more particularly afterward^). See 7/^.42. 1, Behold my fervant whom I uphold , mine elect in whom my foul delighteth ; 1 have put my jpirit upon him, he Jhallbring forth judgment to the Gentiles. Heb. 9. 14, Hove much more Jhall the blood of Chrift, who through the eternal Jpirit, offered himfelf without Jpot to God, purge your confcience from dead works to ferve the living God? And 10. 7, Then faid I, Lo, 1 come, in the volume of the bookjt is written of me, to do thy will, OGod. Pfoi. 2. 7,8, I will declare the decree, the Lord hath faid unto me, Thou art my Son , this day have I begotten thee, Ask^of me, and J jhall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, an dthejatermoft parts of the earth for thy pojfejfion. Joh.14. 26, But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghoft, whom the Father, will fend in my name, he flail teach, ym all things, and bring aH . things to your remembrance, whatfoever I have faid unto you.

Mai. 3. 16, 17, And he faW the [pirit of God descending like

a dove r and lighting upon him : And lo, a voice from heaven faying, This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleafedy and fuch like Scriptures.. Yea, fo much was the Covenant betwixt God and Chrift aboufour Redemption for the glory of God, even confidered perfonally j that thereby (Wide the glory

G that

that was common to all the three Perfons) there did accrue a peeuliar glory ts> the diftinft Perfons of the Godhead, in regard of their diftintt offices and working in this bufmefs of Redemp* tion^ a peculiar glory to the Father, who gave Chrift, and who fent him upon this bufinefs, and bleffed us in hira, even a peculiar honour to the Father from the Lord Mediator and Redeemer, Joh. 8.49, But I honour my Father , faith Chrift ; and a peculiar honour to the Father from the ranfomed and redeemed People , 1 Pet. 1. $, BteJfedbetheGod and Father of unr Lord Jefus Chrifl, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten hs again into a lively hope by the refurretlion of Jefus Chrift from the dead. A peculiar honour to the Son, to Chrift the Lord Mediator, and that both upon earth and in heaven, a peculiar glory to the Lamb that wrought the Redemption, unto which his Father appointed him, Joh. 5.22,2-3, For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment to the Son: That all menjhould honour the Son, even as they honour the Father; which the Son claimeth, Joh. 17. 1,4, Thefe words fpoke Jefvu, and lift up his eyes to heaven-) and faid. Father the hour is come, glorifie thy Son, that thy Son alfo may glorifie thee ; I have glorified thee on the earth, Ihavejinijhed the workjwhich thou gave ft me to do. And which is payed to him in heaven, Rev. 7. 10, Saying, Salvation to our God which fitteth upon the throne, and to the Lamb. And 5.9, And they fing a new fong, faying, thou art worthy to take the bool^, and to open the feals thereof\ for thou waft flain, and haft redeemed us to God by thy blood, out of every kindred, and tongue , and people, and nation. A peculiar glory unto the eternal Spirit, by whom the Son of God offered himfelf without Jpot to Gody Heb. 9. 14 ; and to whom the effectual application of the purchafed Redemption by peculiar office belongs, 1 Cor. 6.11, Andfuch were feme *>f you; but ye are wajhed, but ye are fantlified, but ye are juftified in the name of the Lord Jefus, and by the fpirit of our God. Joh. 6.61, It is the fpirit that quickeneth. Gal. 4. 6, And becaufe ye are Sons, God hath fent forth the fpirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, father.

2. The good of the ranfomed and redeemed people, required ♦hat their Redemption fhould be tranfa&ed in a Covenant betwixt God and Chrift; and to this intent, and for this end it was neceffary, 1. To introduce andufher in the new way of

life

life thoroW the Gofpel-difpenfation, which could never have come to light, nor have appeared upon the ftage to ac*i any thing, if God had not by his eternal trarife&ions with Chrift, in whom he found a ranfome, made way for the taking down the tranfient-time-difpenfation of Law and Works, which was only to continue and ftand a Court of righteoufnefs for a (horr fpace •, andfo opened a door for free Grace to take the Theatre,' and to ad its part more nobly than; 'the Law-diipeniatioh that was firft upon the ftage. And this, Hay, wasufhered inland it was neceflary that way fhould be made for it, by God's Covenant-dealings with Chrift, in whorn his Juftice had a fatis-feaion-, elfethe Law-difpeffition of ^Mfks and Nature had kept the Stage for ever, and there had been no Court wherein <Jrace fits upon the throne, and'wherein Sinners might plead iFighteotiiheis and life on Gofpel-tefms. Chnft's faying from eternity, L6^ home to M thy will, OGod, Pfal. 40. 6. And deliver him fr6m going down to the pit ^ I have found a ranfom %

Cocc. t>i

for tte<^&&i$t$itik dFatio\ena1it'o|rrVe^laceI; Thrice**-it is that the Apoftle ftates the rife'of fife and immortality that isbrought to light by the Gofpel, upon the eternal' fcede-

nbw'wade mdnifeft by'the appearing of our Saviour'Jefm Chrift,

his dwnSoninthel^neJicffafktfBJh: attttI forfin condemned ft wthefiejh'.. } J ■ J

2. The Covenant of Redemption Wtfjft God and Chriii r our good, that the Covenant of life ancj s in the way of this Gofpel-diftenfgtion,«ni£ht

the farer is the Covenant. Buthereallis of the' Lord; and of

G 2 his

44 Of the Neceffitj of Chap. II.

his gracious will, all is trania&ed betwixt God and Ghrift, and man is not lb much as prefent at the firft trania&ion of the Covenant, as he was at the Covenant of works 7 here he is neither at the beginning, nor end of it • I mean, that end which it had in God*s federal dealings with Chrift, where the Redemption and Salvation of the elect was a concluded bufmefs, and the condufion tarried not, nor was fufpended for man r s confent ; fure this was pure Grace, this was all Grace, eminent Grace, when there was nothing of the Creature $ no, not fo much as acting in a vital formal manner, as now we a& under the application of this Covenant, by thefe gracious a£ts which are efficiently from God *, but there, all was the gracious free will of God, without any thing of the Creatures will •, furely that was eminent fignal Grace, and the better for us, 2 Tim. 1 .p; Who hath faved us, and called us with an holy, calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpofe and grace, which was given us in.Chrift Jefusjbefore the world began Eph. 2.10, For we are his workgianftrip, created in Chrift Jefm unto good Works, which.God hath before, ordained, that we ftouldwalk^irt: them. Eph. 1.4, 5, According as he hath chofentu in him, before the foundation of the world, tlrat we jbculd be holy and without blame, before him in love: Having predeftinated us unto the Adoption of djildren, by Jefus Chrift to hlmfelf, according to the good pleafure of his will.

' 3. A Covenant betwixt God and Chrift- about our Salvation and Redemption was necelTary , that the bufinefs of our Salvation might be far advanced ^ ere it come to our working at it With fear and trembling: and if our working out that which is left to be done by us, for our own Salvation, be with fear and trembling, when by this Covenant of Suretifnip we are fet beyond the poflible rea,ch of aclualperifhing*, O what fhouldour working for Salvation have been without this Covenant of Suretifhip, but endlefs, frurdefs toiling, with defparation! but by the Covenant of Redemption, our Salvation is far. advanced, before our little finger be at the work; nay,, it is in fome reip^^nifh.^d, all the hard labour is over, Juftice is fatif-fied, the (tren^th of oppofition. is broken , and we have only ftroVen forces', ah-d a Ixaten adveriary to deal with y we have. UttL -nore to do but to ftand and fee him work Salvation for w£'i and apply his furchated Redemption •, and yet we have wprk.

enough

enough to keep us in continual exercife, about the duties of holi-nefsand faith,//*/. 2. 12. 2CV.7. 1. iPet. 1. 5, 10. 3W7.17.4, / have fnijhed the work^which thou gave ft me to do. And 16. 11, — +of judgment } becaufe the Prince of this world is ytdged. Heb. 12. 2, Looking nnto Jefus the Author and finijher of #*r faith.

4. A Covenant betwixt God and Chrift about our Salvation, was neceffary, that the ipring and fountain of the life of Salvation to us, might He out of our felves:, by the Covenant of works, the fpring of life and blefTedncfs to man, lay in him-felf •, all his tfeafure and ftore was in his ftock of habitual Grace ^ but now by this Covenant of Suretifhip, the water-cock is indeed within our own hearts: I mean, Faith, by which we draw life and vertue out of Chrift, and through which he conveys it unto us •, but the fountain and well-head lyes on high: for by the Covenant of Redemption, God was carrying on a defign of love to his ele& people*, and this was part of the contrivance, that our Covenant-ftate through Chrift's Suretifhip might be Fountain-Love and Grace :, a ftate of favour fetled and bottomed in the fountain of life and grace, Chrift: Whereas Adam's firft Covenant-ftate was but Ciftern-Graee, that did not run continually with a fpring of living waters, to afford frefh fupplies", the ftock of habitual Grace was to him like water in the Pitcher or Ciftenr, but by Chrift's Covenant of Suretifhip,- Grace is to us, as water in the Fountain, that can-never run dry: J oh. 1. 16, And of his fulneft have all we received, and grace for grace. And 4. 14, But the water that I

{hall give him y fhall be in him a well of water ff ringing up into

everlaftin? life. And 14.-19, becanfe I live, ye fialllive alfb.

2 Cor .9.0, And God is able to make all grace abound towards you, that ye always having alfujficiency in allthings\pnay abound to every good work^

5. This Covenant of Suretifhip was neceflary for our efta-blilhment. un4er this new difpeniation * that our Rights might be in a lurer hand than our own : Man is a mutable thing, and free-will is a tottering uncertain thing, as experience hath taught*, but Chrift is a'fure foundation *, and holding of him, or rather in him, is a lure tenure; the Rights and Charters that are under his cuftody, are well kept: And therefore God who inftituted this difpeniation, did for the better fecuring of the

believers

believers interefts, enter into Covenant with.a mighty refponfat peribn,even Chrift^and coniblidates ourCovenant-right inChtift our head, anddidtruft to his keeping and aniwering ail the intents of the Magna Chart a, the great Charterof the Gofpel-■ covenantj hence it is that the Covenant of peace made with us, is a fure Covenant, becaufe'tis thus ordered} Chrift acled that bufineis in the Covenant of Redemption} there were mu-tuaf- affurances given between the Father and the Son, which makes all Covenant-dealing with us lure, and holds all faft, Pfal. $p. $4, 35, My Covenant will I not breaks nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lip. Once have 1 /worn by my holme ft, that I mil not lye unto David. Hence 'tis, that the bleflings and mercies of the Gofpel^covenant, are iiire mercies; becaufe there was concluded-Articles about them in this Covenant of Suretifhip, when Chrift treated for his heirs and children not yet born nor created, Ifa. 55. Sj4,-r-And I will make an ever lafting Covenant with yon, even the Jure mercies of David. Behold, I have given him for a witneft to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Heb. 2. iy, — Behold f y and the children which God,hath given me. Joh. 6. $.0,40, And this is the fathers will which bath fern me*.that-of all which he hath given me+ I jhould lofe nothings but fiould raife, it urp at the lafi-day. And this is the will of him that fent me, that every one which feeth the Son, and believeth on him > may have everlafting l{fe } and 1 will raife him up at the lafl day. , O what ftrong and everlafting coniblation hath God allowed upon his people fromtheie immutable and everlafting grounds! Heb* 6. 17,18, }fherein God, willing more abundantly to fiiew unto the heirs of promife the immutability of his counfely confirmed it by an oath.* That by two immutable things, in which it wasimpoJftblefprGod to lye, we might have a ftrong confolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope Jet before us. 2 Theff. 2. 16, Now our'Lord Jefus Chrift himfelf,and God, even our father which hath loved us, and hath given us everlafting confolation^ and good hope, through grace, &c

C\ This Covenant with Chrift,was neceflary? not only for the eniuring our bleffednefs by this new Gofpel-diipeniation • but for the bettering of tba.t blefledneis and glonous ftate unto which we are advancec) by this Covenant. I fay, the blefTednefs, the glory, thjp heaven of the redeemed people , of the

mam

many Sons, who are by the force of this Covenant brought t$ glory, Heb.2. 10 , is better than the reward and crown of blefTedneis which man fhould have enjoyed by the tenor of the Covenant of works; and this bettering, it hath from Chrift's Covenant of Suretifhip withGod,which was the chief caufe why this Gofpel-difpenfation is a better Covenant than that of the Law of works •, and the promifes thereof are better promifes, and the crown and heaven thereof a better crown •, even becauie Chrift is in this Covenant, and the foundation of it was laid in his Suretifhip •, by this means the blefTedneis and heaven of this Covenant is bettered : For, 1. It is the glory of new heavens, created of purpofe for the refidence of the, redeemed, in the company of him that redeemed them by his own blood, Z Pet. 3. 1$, Neverthelef, we according to his promife, lool^for new heavens , and a new, earth, wherein dwelleth righteoptfnejt. Rev. 2*1. 1, 5, And If aw a new heaven and a new earth, for the fir ft heaven and the fir ft earth were pajfedaway, and there was no more fea* And he that fate upon the throne, faid , Behold, I makg all things new. Joh. 14. 2,5, In my Father's honfe are many manpons, &c. And if I go and prepare a place for yen, I will come again and receive yon unto my felf\ that where I am, there ye may be alfo. Whereas the bleflednefs and glory of man by Mr. Ball rruu the Law-Covenant (if it was any thing beyond an immortality of the Covenant. of blefTedneis and enjoyment or God in an earthly Paradiie-,£ 2 * ^/l\t which is queftionedby Tome) fhould yet have been in this old U^Tbif^! " or firft heavens, not in thefe new ones. 2. It is the glory ofAfr.Baxt.^J&a-a Paradife wherein is the tree of life, and the river of the water ^/^ P« $• of life, which were not Ingredients of the Law-glory j neither were placed in the firft Paradife. Rev. 2.7, To him that over-cometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midft of the Paradife of God. And 7. l j y -~~and Jhall lead them unto living fountains of waters. And 22. \,2, And he Jhewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as criftal, proceeding out of the throne of God, and of the Lamb. In the midft oftheftreet of-it, and of either fide of the river was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fr nits, and yielded her fruit every month', and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the Nations, 3. Itfra heaven and glory where the new Song is Tung, and wheretheMufitiansareall redeemed, and where the meeting of thefe redeemed ones to fing together, is the Tweeter, that

they

they once were ail loft, and that they came ont of tribulation and a Land of fighing, I fa. $5. 10, And the ran famed of the Lord Jhall return and come to-Zion with fongs and everlafting joy upon their heads *, they jhall obtain \oy andgladnef, andforrcw and fighing flail fee away. Rev. 5. 9, And they fung a new fong,faying^ Thou art worthy to takg the book^ and to of en the feats thereof^ for thou wafl Jlain, and haft redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred , and tongue , and people , and nation. But there fhould not have been any new Song> nor redeemed Muficians in the glory and heaven of Law-dilpenfk-tion. 4. It is a heaven and glory wherein all the Inhabitants wear crowns ; for Chrift hath made them kings unto God, and to

hi* Father, Rev. 1. 6. And 2. 1 o, Be thou faithful unto death f

and I will give thee a crown oflife\ but there fhould have been

no crowns worn in thefirftParadife; nor fhould the hapjpinefs

thereof have amounted fo highasa crown and a throne.; there

being no occafion for it, nor any promiie to that effeit. 5. It

is a heaven and glory, where the Inhabitants are all conquerors,

each hath a palm in his hand, in fign of his victory, Rev. 7. 9,—

cloathedwith white robes, and palms in their hands ; this Garland

fhould not have been in the firft Covenant-glory ; where there

was no fighting, there could be" no victory, at lead over the

world, and fin and death. 6. It is a heaven and glory, where

all the Inhabitants are cloathed with long white robes, and with

fine linnen clean and white, Rev. 7. 13,— What are thefe which

Are arrayed in white robes, and whence came they I And 19. 8,

jindto her was granted, that fl)e Jlmdd be arrayed in fine linnen^

clean and white : for the linnen is the righteoufnefi of Saints }

but there fhould have been no fuch robes in the Law-heaven :

whatfoever fhining-beauty and whitenefs fhould have been on

Adam's skin, yet there Thould have been there no garments of

glory, no righteoufnefs fhould have been worn there, but that

which fhould have been of our own working. 7. It is a heaven

wherein there is a throne for the Lamb, where the man Chrift

in our nature is upon the throne, where the greateft beauty of

all the Kingdom, and the moft highly exalted perfon, is the man

Chrift^ where the Lord Mediator is the glorious light of all the

Land, Rev. 3. 7, he that openeth and no man flsutteth+and

Jhutteth and no man openeth . And 21.22,23, And I faw no temple therein j for the Lord God almighty and the lamb, are the

temple

temple of it. And the City had no need of the Sun, neither of the ■Moon to jhine in it *, for the glory of God did lighten it) and the Lmb is the light thereof And -f. 12, Worthy is the lamb that Was fain, to receive power, and riches, andwifdom, and ftrength,and glory, and honour, and ble fling; there was no ilich glory in the rirft Covenantor in the heaven thereof:, which no doubt fhould have made it lefs glorious, and fpeaks forth the greater glory of this latter Covenant-happineis. 8. It is a heaven that was pur-chafed at a dear rate, that was the price of blood \ for which Chrift payed a condign price, i Pet. i. 18, 19, For as much at ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, but With the preciom blood of Chrift as of a lamb without blemifti, and without Jpot -, but the Law-heaven and glory? fhould have been obtained at an eafier rate*, working,without the price of blood, fhould have done that bufinels-, the different price fhews the different value, y. It is a heaven wherein is a lovely and numerous afTembty, a fair myilical body, whereof Chrift is the head, and whereof each redeemed Soul is a member. O fo lovely a Company with the Captain of their Salvation! lb glorious a body with their glorious head 1 fo beautiful a bride with lb fair a husband ! fuch a lovely couple, iiich a body corporate, fuch a compleat fociety, when Chrift myftical is perfected, and all the members compared together, and joyned unto their glorious and blefTed head ! Eph. 4.1 1, Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledg of the Son of God, unto a perfeft man^ unto the me afar e of the ft at ure of the fulnefs of Chrift.. And 5. 27, 7 hat he might prefent it to him]elf a glorious Church, not having jpot or wrinkle, or any fuch thing *, but that it fhould be holy and without blemifh. Heb. 12. 2$, To the general affembly and church of the firft born, which are written in heaven, and to Godthejudg of all, and to thefpirits of ytft men made per feci * 7 And to Jefus the Mediator of the new Covenant. Rev. 19. 7, Let us be glad and rejoyce , and give honour to him *, for the marriage of the Jiamb is come, and his wife hath made her felf ready. But there fhould have been no fuch body-corporate in the Law-heaven, no iuch myftical body of Chrift, no marriage of the Lamb, nor any melodious re joycing at thatfolemnity. I conclude therefore, that the glory,and crown,and heaven of theCovenantofiledemption, is b.etter,and v fitrmore glorious, than fhould have been the lot of man* by Law-righteoufhefs and works, without ChrhTsSure-tifrip. H 7. This

7. This Covenant was necefTary, for having in readinefs a Phyfitian, before we fhould be tick *, God forefaw and had decreed man's fall, and his rifing again *, and he well knew that it would be a wretched hopeleis condition, for man to provide a Phyfitian to himielf, and to have him to feek when his* fickneii fhould be defparate *, he therefore by a forefight and providence of pure, foveraign, free, tranfeendent Grace, did provide one ; and indeed it was neceilary for our good, that it fhould be fo \ for had man fallen fick of fin, before this Covenant for fending a healer to him, he had died ere the core could come.

8. This Covenant was necefTary for cutting off all matter and occafion of felf-gloriation from man in his own Redemptioa and Salvation', for if the bufinefs of our Redemption and Sal' vation was tranfa&ed , concluded, done and ended betwixt Jehovah 2sA Chrift, without our knowledg or confent, before we had a Being *, what have we to boaft of ? If the agreement ahout the price to be payed and accepted, tarried not for man ; wherein can we glory that we have contributed to our own happinefs ? zTim.i. 9, Who hathfavedus, and called hs with an holy calling , not according to owe works , but according tQ his own purpofe and grace which was given us in Chrifl Jefm before tfre world began .Eph.2. io^For we are his workpanfoip created in Chrifi Jefus unto good work*-, which God hath before ordain-fdjhat we fiould walkjn them. 1 Joh. 4. 10, 19, Herein is love? not that we loved God ; but that he loved us, and fern his So# to k* the propitiation for qht fins.—*W6 love him , bscatife be firfi Uvedns.

' ' . . " ' ! ■ "*» ■

chap;

CHAP. III.

Of the Nature , Properties, and Parties of the Covenant of Redemption.

THE general Nature of this Covenant is common to it, with ail other Covenants \ whatibever different peculiarity they have, this is effential and common to all Covenants , they are Agreements : and this is an eternal tranfa&ioh and agreement betwixt Jehovah and the Mediator Chrifl, about the work of our Redemption.

The peculiar propriety of its nature, will appear by enquiring a^Kttle into* I. The various eternal a&s of the will of God that concurred to make up this agreement. 2. The diftinttion and order of thefe eternal a£s of his will, and the right manner of our conceiving of them.

i. Suppofing, as we have faid before, that God purpofedm hifflfelf not to lave man without a fatisfa&ion to his Jufticet Thefe eternal ails of the will of God, or rather the things which we conceive under thefe various acts, and their denominations among menffor we need not mul tiply a&s in this matter,but fp$ the helping our own underftanding) did concur and meet together in this agreement. I. The defignation of a Perfon to do this work; there muft needs have been a Perfon fet apart and defigned from eternity unto the doing of the work of Redemption, and this Perfon was the Son only •, not the Father, nor the Spirit, iJVr. 1.20, Who verily was fore-ordained before the foundation of the world \ but was manifefled in thefe laft times for you. 2. The preparation and fitting of the Perfon fct ap?rtto take our Law-place, and room, that Juftice might finite him in our ftead •, which alio was by an eternal a£t of the will of God decreed, that the Son of God fhould be Immamel y Cod with us, or God made manifeft in theflefh,\fa .7.14. 1 Tim .3.16, and unto this incarnation o* the Son of God, his own words have reference, as unto the grand qualification whereby he was defti-nated before-hand, that he might be in a capacity to do this, Vior^Jtifeb. 10. $ y A body baft thou prepared me* 3. The calling

H 2 of

of the Perfon defigncd : calling is an a£l different from defoliation, 'tis fomething further. Chriftwas by : n eternal act of God's will called to this work, and that long before he came into the world, Pfal. 89. 19, Then thou fpakefl in vifion to thy holy One, and faid ft, I have laid help upon one that is mighty, I have exalted one chofen out of the people . And I fa . 42. 6, / the Lord have called thee in righteoufnef, and will hold thine hand, And will keep thee, and give thee for a Covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles, Heb- 5. 5, So alfo Chrifiglorified not him-(elf to be made an highpriefi ; but he thatfaid unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have J begotten thee. 4. The inverting of the Perfon defigned, with offices, powers and authorities, for the doing of this work, fuch as his Mediatory-office, and the powers and authorities thereunto belonging, which was notfufpended until the time of his actual diichargeof the offices of King,Priert, and Prophet *, but by an eternal acl of the will of God, he was fet up and verted with thefe offices and powers from everlafting, and had the glory of thedefrgned, called, inverted Mediator; as he plainly infinuates, Prov. 8. 23, I was fet up from evcrlafi-ing, faith Wifdom; feveral Expoiltors render it, / was called, or I was annointed. Joh. 17. 5, And now, O Father , ghorifiethou me with thine own felf, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. 5,. The million of the Son, Chriftdefigned, fitted, called,, inverted for this work, was alio by an eternal actiathe counfel of God,fent to do this work j he had a folema eternal, authoritative miflion, a command to go, and was bidden go *, he had the will of God by an eternal act or commiffion given out to him concerning all this work, long before he was actually made under the Law; to which he hath refpeel:, when he faith, Lo, J come to do thy will, 0 God, Heb-io. 7. even that will of God that was in the book of his eternal decrees, Joh. 6. 39, And this is the Fathers will which hath fent me. And 10. 18, This Commandment ha& I received of my Father: But in all thefe, we do notfo much multiply the diitinclion of acts, as we take notice of the diftin&ion and difference of Phrafe uted by the Holy Ghoft, fpeaking of this myrterie in the Scriptures. Upon the other part, there concurred unto this agreement , an eternal perianal confent and compliance upon Christ's part, unto all thefe eternal acts of the will of God} for Chrifi God) equal with the Father, does not begin to con-

tent.

fent and agree unto any thing in time , nor can the eternal Son ©f God will any thing in time, which he did not will and confent unto from eternity. But Chrift wasprefent with the Father, and did from eternity confent and agree to thefe eternal acls. 1. To the defignation of himlelf to be the perlbn that fhould fatibfie the Juftice of God, he heartily acquiefced and offered himfeif , he faid, Lo, I come to do thy will, Heb. 10. 5,7. He poured out his SohI unto death. Ha. 5$. 12. 2. He contented unto the putting himfeif in that low capacity that the working of this work required, Heb. 2. 7^ Thou madeft him a little lower than the Angels ; to leave the throne of glory , and come down to his footftool, there to be in difgrace ; the Lord of the Law, to be made under the Law-, Gal. 4.4. the holy one that knew no fin, to be madeintheHkenefi of ftnful flejij, Rom. 8. 5. Phil. 2. 6, 7, 8, Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. And being found in fajhion as, a. man, he humbled himfeif, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the Crofs. 3. He consented and agreed unto the eternal aft of his calling to this work ^ no iboner was it his Fathers will thai he fhould travel in the bufinefs, but it was his aJfo.. He was as a ready Servant, whole ear was bored in token * of his love and willingnels to'ferve his Matter, when he might have been free, Pfal. 40. 6, Mine ears haft thou opened or bored. Ifa. 50. 5,6, The Lord hath opened mine ears, and I was not rebellious, neither turned away back: 4- He contented to the taking on thefe offices and trufts that the work of our Redemp--tion required *,there was no force nor conftraint upon, no necefTi-ty of nature that he fhould ftep in betwixt the difagreeing parties, that he fhould ftep into the fire that we had kindled, that. he .fhould make himfeif a Sacrifice for our fins, that he fhould receive a difpenfatory Kingdom ; but frankly and freely he contented to do all thefe th^gs, Job. \o. 18, No man takcth my life from me *, but I lay it down of my felf. Joh. 17. 2, As thou j haft given him power over all fiefl), that he fhould give eternal life t9 as many as thou haft given him. Pr ov *. 8.. 2 $, / < was fet up from ■ everlafting,from the beginning, or ever the earth was. 5. He con- • tented unto his mfTion, his Father's fending of him , and was-well content to go that errand *, yea, to hearty was his content, that he took delight in it, Pfal. 40. 8,./ dtlight to do thy will, . Qmy God; yea r thy Law is- within my heart. Joh. 4. $4 ; J*fas*\

faith

^u>£ unto them , my meat is to do the mil of him that fent me, and tofimjh his wo>\. And to all thefe things he gives a perfonal con-fent from eternity, and with fo much delight, that he folaced himfelf, and took pleaiiire in the future accomplishment of thefc eternal afts of the will of God concerning the Sons of men, Prov. 8. 23, 50, 31, / was fet up from everlafting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. Then I was by him as one brought up with him y and J was daily his de tight, rejoycing always before him: Rejoycing in the habitable part of his earthy and my delights were with the Sons of men. This is the nature of this eternal tranfaclion, which will appear alfo more clearly afterward from the tenor of this Covenant, with the reciprocal engagements of the parties.

2. Concerning the diftinclioft and order of thefe eternal acts of the will of God, and for preventing grots and unbecoming thoughts of them *, I give thefe cautions. 1. All the a&sof God's will, his decrees, and eternal tranfa&ion with Chrifl:, are in regard of God, one moft firnple and pure a& of his will '■) but in legard of our conceptions of them, who cart-not take up many particular a&s together in one^ they are di-ftinguifhed and exprefled fo in the word, that we may take them up diftineT:!y: The Lord in his way of exprefling thefc great myfteries of the counfel of his will, accommodating himfelf to our way of conceiving things: we are therefore accordingly to take heed how we conceive of the diftinttion of a&s in the eternal counfel of God's will. 2. When we fpeak of the order of thefe eternal ael:s, we mean only the order of Nature, and which of thefe a&s are to be conceived by us antecedaneous to the reft in that refpecV, for there is no order of time, no priority nor pofteriority of that kind among the decrees of God, and ads of his will, which are all eternal.

$. We are to conceive of this order (which only agreeth to the decrees of God) according to thefe rules:

1. According to the futurition of things*, that is, thefe decrees and eternal a&s of the will of God about things ad extra without, which do luppofe the futurition of things about which thefe decrees are pad; thefe decrees (I fay) do necefTarily fiip-pole lbme other a&s of the will of God antecedent to thefe in order of nature, whence the things fuppofed in that decree^ had their futurition *, for 'tis to me above queftion,, thai things

which

Chap. III. the Covenant of Redemption* $ $

which did not exift from eternity,had their/uturition no where, but from the decrees of God's will, which made them future things before they exifted ; neither is it poflible that God could foreiee any thing as future, before his decree, and ibme act of his will gave it futurition *, whatioever the device of Scientia media, tell us to the contrary. And according to this rule, we fay, the decree of God's entering in Covenant with man, whether by Law or Grace, does iuppofe ibme antecedaneous aft of the will of God (in order of nature ) concerning the Creation of man, fome decree whence man had a futurition, and exifted in the prefcience of God as a future thing.

2. We may conceive of the order of the decrees of God, according as he orders things in execution, by that rule fo much madeufe of by the Learned Dr. Twifi } Qnodpriw eftininten-'Xmft. VhL tione yofterm eft in executione & contra: that which is rlrft in the£ r * f/ * & P* intention of God, is laft in the execution } and that which is laft r# * DiVin ' in the intent, is firft in the execution. Underftand this rule, a* that Author doth , without lubordination of the co-ordinate means whereby God intended to make himfelf glorious in the way of mercy and juftice; and according to this rule, we fay that Gcd firft decreed the glorifying of his mercy and juftice upon all mankind, before he decreed any thing concerning his creation,.or his fall: for the creation and fall of man, were firft in execution, before juftice and mercy was glorified in him.

}. Another rule (which-alfoisacpalificationoftheformer) is, that thefe eternal acls of the will of God which rejpicinnt finem, relate to the end, are in this • ind of order before •, thefe a&s of his will which rejpicimt media relate unto the means which lead unto thefe ends, Et iilud cfuodbabet rati cm em finis eft prim , tjHod vero hafoe ifrationem medU'left pofterws *, And that which hath the place of tbc enct, istheifirft ? and that which hath the place of the mean, is laft in order among the eternal afts of God's will. And this rule holds not only with refpeft to the fupream and chief end i, to wit, God's glorifying of himfelf h the way of manifefting his mercy and ju^ice , which is firi 1 in order among the eternal'afts'of the will of God relating to man*, and all fhe other arts of his will, concerning the creation, fall, fending of Chrift, &c± (which are co ordinate

means

meanstn refpect of this fupream end, to which they are fubor-omate): Thefe, I lay, are porter ior in this kind of order, amono the decrees of God, and eternal acts- of his will j but this rule holds alio hi refpect of that iubordination that may be conceived among thefe acts of the will of God, about the creation and kill of man, and the fending of Chrift (which are co-ordinate means in re.ipccl.of thi iupream end before-mentioned)7 yetbecaufe one of thefe may have, the place of an end, with refpect to another of thefc fame co-ordinate means, which may be alfo a means for carrying on fome next immediate end,as well as the Iupream ultimate end *, as the .Salvation of the elect is a mean fublervient to the great end of glorifying Grace, and yet maybe, and is alfo, an end of God's lending Chrift*, [b that the lending of Chrift, bbothameanlubordinate to the glory of Grace, and the Salvation of God's elect people. Now, I . fay, which way foever we look .upon thi acts of God's wili about the glorifying of his juftice and mercy on Mankind , we are dill to conceive of the eternal acts of his will, that reipect ihe ends which he has propofed to himfelf, .both Iupream and fubordinate, as firft in order", and thefe acts of his will that relate to the means, as laft: for God firft purpofed the end, then * the means that lead to it.

By this time it may appear that there is no great caufe to contend for the order and diftinction of thefe eternal acts of the will of God-, that concurred to the making up this eternal tran-faction betwixt Jehovah and the Mediator, fince they are all co-ordinareactsof the counfcislJiiiMvill, and means for the carrying on the glory of his marry!-and juftice in laving man. This much ismanifeft, i. That the Covenant of Redemption made with Chrift, doth iuppofe other eternal acts of the will of God, about the laving of man uv t^ie w^ of fatisfaction to. juftice, &c. whereof .Ivhavefpokenbefore, Cha.p+2. 2. That i rhe designation, calling, and eternal tfiiflion of the Son of Grid todo this work, muftin order be before the; perfon defigned and called, gave his actual confent, and clofed the bargain from eternity. And if any will contend about the. order of theie eternal acts before-mentioned, I do not fee why we may not fitly conceive of them in this order, defignipg,. fallings fir'ting y \ tnvefting, fending of Chrift j thefe were't,he eternalatitspfthe will ofGod,. which were entertained-by the Son of God.

mth confent and delegation. The

% m -

The Properties of the Covenant of Redemption, are,SeeMr.iwfcp/.-Freedom, Graciouihefs, Eternity, Equality, Order, ^^t ' 2 Stability. \ c . ia .' V

1. The Covenant that was tranfafted betwixt Jehovah and. Chrift, was a moft free Covenant: it was an aft of meer liberty and foveraign freedom. There was eminent freedom upon both (ides, in both the parties Covenanting. 1. Upon the Father's fide fabftrafting from his own decrees and purpofes), it was free to Jehovah to have followed a drift Law-courfe according to the rigour of the Covenant of works; or to follow a Goip.el-way of mitigation and condefcenfion as pleaied. him •, it was free to him to fend, or not to fend a Saviour to f uffex for man ? to take a fatisfaftion by a Surety, or only in the Soul that finned, as pleaied him. 2. Upon Chrift's part, it was as free to him to be a luffering Redeemer and Surety, or nor,, as pleafed him y to undertake the work of our Redemption, or not to undertake it i to humble himfelf unto this feryice, or not *, to go this errand, or not, as pleafed him. Hence 'tis oblerved,that it was Jo, Cocc. Sum-o therwife with the fccond-jidam, than with the firft; foritwas™ DUf - jj*;' not free to Jdamto withdraw from, or to deny iubjeftion to^/ c 5 ' Sc "*' the firft Covenant '•> neither could he withdraw; himfelf from the Law of Nature, nor flight the promife thereof, without the violation of that Law: "but the Son of God was free, and tyed by no Law antecedent to his own confent.,.

This Property of the Covenant of Redemption, is eftablifhed and confirmed, i.Fromthefe Scriptures which attribute this traniaftionto the free pleafure and foveraign freedom 7 of bath parties, the father and Chrift :, therefore the Scripture fpeak-ing of God's eternal traniaftions with Chrift about our Redemption, doth fo frequently call them, deeds and afts of will, and of the Father's pleafure •, and that the whole procedure was according to his good flea/are./, and the pleafure of his mll y Eph. I. 5. 9. And Col. 1. 19, It pleafed the Father that in him fjonld all fdnefs dwell. 2 Tim. 1.9, according to his pnrpofe and grace, &o And upon the other part, Chrift's conceflions in this matter, are attributed to his meer will and liberty, ThiL 2. 6,-7,8j Who being in the form of God, having the very fame divine effence which the father hath, thought it not robbery to be equal with God •, counted it no uiurpation to carry himfelf as God, equal with the Father \ made himfelf of no refutation \

1 t** frcd y

freely, and of his own accord, be humbledhmfelfc not ufing nor manifefting the glory that wascompetent to him, anJtook^ nyon him the form of a fervant\ he took upon him a real fer-vice in the uiTumption of the humane nature, for the ends he ailumed i^andwasmadeinthelikenefofmen ; andinthisfervice he did behave himielf, as other men, and futably to that employment, and not as equal with God, which was his natural condition; and while he was in that habit and condition, he obeyed urno the death of the Crop. All this he afted with emi-nentfreedom En time \ and confented to with like freedom from eternity, where he freely took upon him whatfoever he a&ecl within time.

2. If it was free with God, whether he would give to man a Being, and whether he would conclude this in the counfel of his will from eternity", or not, as pleafed him 0 fure it was alfo free to God whether he would fend a Saviour to him when he fhould be loll, or not, as pleafed him : Now 'tis manifeit. that it was free with God, whether he would ib much as give toman a being->for he was under no neceflity to create the World, or Men, or Angels, all which are for his pleasure*, and therefore are whatfoever they are, by his pleafure, Rev. 4.. ii, Thou haft created all things , and for thy pleafure they are and were created.

I. If it was free to God from eternity, whether he would chufe objects in Mankind, to magnifie his Grace and Mercy upon, when he had purpoied to create Angels and men •, or whether he would let them all perifh, and not take^ny of their natures upon him; then the Covenant of Suretnhip hath this property of freedom*, but it is manifeft that it was free with God from eternity, whether he would recover any of the race of fallen man, or not, as pleafed him -, fincehe wasnomoretyed to Men than to Angels, to whom he fent no Saviour when they fell, nor hath defigned any of the fallen Angels unto Redemption, 2 Pet. i. 4, For if God fpared not the Angels that firmed? but cafl them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of dark^ nefs, to be refervedunto the day of Judgment. Heb. 2. 16, For verily he took^ not on him the nature of Angels rj but he took^ upon him the feed of Abraham. It remains therefore, that the Covenant of Redemption is an ac"l of foveraighty and freedom upon God's part who defigned a Redeemer, and upon Chrift's part who confented unto the defignation. 4- This

.4. This Property of the Covenant of Redemption is further confirmed, by the negation and removal of all things contrary to ibveraign freedom. 1. There was nothing from himielf (abftrafting from his own decrees, and love-defigns) that could trench upon the freedom of this eternal act of his will 0 for there was no neceflity of nature upon Jehovah , nor upon the Son of God, that did determine God to enter in this Covenant (as is already cleared). 2. There was nothing from without that could trench upon the freedom of this eternal a£t; as nothing could neceflarily determine, io neither compel nor conftrain Godtolayfuchalerviceuponhis own Son Chrift, nor himta undertake it *, For 1. This transaction having been from eternity, it was a concluded bargain before the creatures had a being* Pro v. 8. 23, / was fet tip from everlaftingy from the beginning, or ever the earth was. 2. Put cafe they had then had a being -, what could the bejng of Men and Angels, and all the works of his hands have trenched upon the ibveraign freedom of their

Makers will and actings ? for who hath reffted his will? hath

not the potter power over the clay i Rom. 9. 19, 21. 3, The Father and the Son were not only free from all natural neceflity and outward compulfion *, but alio from all hire, allurement or motive from any thing without their own will, there was nothing in man, no not foreieen, that could allure or move*, far lef s hire the Father to give Chrift, to engage him in this work,. nor.Chrift t® engage his name in our bond 5 fince he well forefaw what it would coft him: It's true he values his feed as a fatisfy-ing return of his travel, I fa. 5 3. 11* He jhall fee of the travel of his fouly and jhall be fatisfied *, but befide that, there is no proportion betwixt his work, and this poor wages: was man a price for the Lord of glory to work for ? or was he a reward for him to wreftle for ? could he be hired for io low a wager, if the foveraign freedom of his own will had not a£led him? Confider, 1 lay, who gave this price to- the Lord -.did man give himfelf to the Lord, or did the Lord give his elect people to Chrift from eternity, and afterward he is the firft giver alio ? Now there can be no hire given by man to the Lord, unlefs he were the fir ft giver, Row. 11. 35, For who hath firflgiven to-him^ and it jhall be recommenced to him again I 1 Chr. 29. 14, Of thine own have we given thee. Jer. 30. 21, And I will caufe him to draw neer , and he jhall approach unto me • for who is

' I 2 he

he that ewawth his heart to approach unto me , faith the XM» .'!'? :

2. Another Property of this Covenant is Gracioufnefs it Ts not only the Covenant tranfatted withus,the Gofpel-Covemnt, that is, pure Grace:, but this alio that was tranlatted betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, even while it was vet in hispurpofe, and as it was the eternal acl of his will, is frequently called x*?'' IvfcKHty Grace and his good pleaftire, or gracious plea/are, Eph. I. 5, 6, 9. 2 Tim. 1.9',- his purpoje and grace. 1 Now Gntci6u J is attributed to the Covenant of Redemption, in a far other fenfe than 'tis attributed to the Covenant of reconciliation: For, 1. Gracioufnefs is attributed to the Covenant of Redemption, in regard of both Parties tranfacting 5 it was pure Grace that determined both the Parties, and engaged them both *, the Father to tend, and the Son to come-, andthis Grace was equally in both the Parties, and did fhine equally and by way of efficiency in them both, Zech. 6. 11, The courtfel of peace was between them both. But gracioufnefs is attributed to the Cove-rant of reconciliation V becaufe of the fhining glory and activity of the Grace of God through Jeius Chrift, that is therein manifefted \ which Grace is in us fubje&ively •, and though the acts thereof be ours in a vital formal manner * 7 yet it is from God byway of efficiency , and it is his Grace, not ours, from which the Covenant hath its name of Grace, Tit.2. it. i Tim.i. 14. Eph. 1. 6, 7. And 2. 5, 7,8. 1 Cor. 15. 10. 2. Gracioufnefs is attributed to the Covenant of Reconciliation *, not only in regard of God's making fucha Covenant with us', but alio in regard of the tenor of that Covenant, and whole difpenfa-tion '-, the promifes, conditions and reward therein is all pure Grace ^ as the fame is oppofed unto, and contra-diftinguilhed fromwerks, which fignifie nothing in that Covenant, as it is a Court of Righteoufnefsand Life, Eph. 2. 8,9, For by grace are ye faved through faith-, and that not of 'your fehes y it is the gift of God. Notofwork£-> left any man Jhonld boafl. But of this Covenant of Redemption, Gracioufnefs is a property thereof; mainly, becaufe of the reafons following *, but not becaufe the whole tenor thereof, as well the conditions as promifes were pure Grace confidered as fuch, and coDfra-diftinguifhed from works: For though pure Grace made this Covenant ofRedemp-tion j yet the condition thereof upon both fides were works.

1. Chrift

i. Chrift is a doer and fulfiiler of the Covenant of works moft exactly in all points, both the command, and the curie and penalty of the Covenant, is fatisfied by him ; this is works, and this was the condition required upon his part, Heb. 10. y,Then faidl, to I come, in the volume of the booh^it is written of me , U do thy will, O God. Gal. $. 13, Chrifl hath redeemed us from the curfe of the Law, being made a curfe for us.

2. Chrift as a doer and obedient fulfiller of the Law, hath a reward in Juftice by the promiie of this Covenant : For (' I humbly conceive) he had his reward of debt, and merit, having payed a condign price to the Juftice of God \ therefore his reward is due to him, by commutative Juftice, Phil. 2. 7,8, But made himfelf of no refutation, and took^ upon him the form of a fcrvant, and was made in the hkenefl of 7 man ', And being found in faflnon as a man, he humbled himfelf ', and became obedient unto death, even the death of theCrofs ; wherefore Godalfo hath highly exalted him, and is craved by him, Joh. 17.4, 5, / have glorified thee on earth, I have finijhed the work^which thou gave ft me to do. And now, O Father, glorifie thou me with thine own felf

But Gracioufnefs is attributed to the Covenant of Redemption. 1. Efficiently, or in regard of the efficient caufe thereof; the ipring whence it came was Grace, pure Grace, and nothing elie made it and gave it a being} it was not only an att of will, pleafure, freedom and foveraignty *, but an a& of gracious will, and the good pleafure of his will, that made it, Eph. 1. 5. Col. 1. 19.

2. Gracioufnefs is attributed to this Covenant ultimately, in regard that the ultimate end and fcope thereof is the mani : fefting the glory of the richnefs and freeneis of Grace •, tis a defign of Grace that is driven and carried on in the Covenant of Redemption , Eph. 1.6, To the praife of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 2 Tim. 1.9, Who hath faved tts, and called us with an holy calling; not according to our works, but according to his own purpofe "and grace which was given us in Chrifl Jefus before the world began.

^Gracioufnefs is attributed to the Covenant of Redemption, becaufe Grace was in it fundamentally *, the whole contrivance and diipenfation of Grace is bottomed upon this eternal

tran-

tranfaction, and turns upon the hinge of this Compaft betwixt Jehovah and Chrift t therefore all the mercies and faithfulriefs of the Lord that we are made to ring of within time, are laid upon this foundation, Tfal 8p. i, 2, u I mil frig of themir-ctes of the Lord for ever , with my month will I make known thy faithfninefi to all generations. For I have J"aid, mercy ft) all be built np for ever , thy faithfninefs Jhalt thou efta-blijh in the very heavens. I have made a Covenant with my chofen.

4. Gracioufnefs may be attributed to the Covenant of Redemption, becaufe Grace was here originally ; for here the flrfV draughts of pure, foveraign, free Grace, and the unfearchable riches thereof, were drawn and portrayed; here is fountain-Grace, and from thence came the ftreams; here were the beginnings of that noble defign of Grace laid, and from hence. did th^y come forth, Col. 1. 26,27, Even the myfterie which had been hid from ages and from generations * 7 but now is made manifefl to his Saints. To whom Godwoald make known what is the riches of the glory of this myfterie among the Gentiles, which is Chrift in y oh , the hope of glory.

5. Gracioufnefs is attributed to the Covenant of Redemption, becaufe Grace is here comprehenfvely *, even all that God hath been driving and acting upon the fpirits of his people, by the Gofpel-covenant and Ordinances thereof, and the work of his Spirit fince the beginning of the world *, and all that he fh&ll do, until the day that the ranfomed and redeemed company be perfected} even the whole plot of Grace,, is all comprifed in this eternal tranfaelion with Chrift, and to it are we led as the comprehenfion of all Covenant-grace and mercy, J fa. 55. ^, Incline your ear and come unto me, hear, and your foul [hall live , andlwillmfMe with yon an everlafting Covenant, even the fare mercies of David.

6. Gracioufnefs is attributed to this Covenant,becaufe Grace is here eminently z, and indeed if the comparifon might be fitly made, pure Gofpel free Grace is more in the Covenant of Redemption, than in the Covenant of Reconciliation -, for 'tis in* the Covenant of Redemption principally, as water is in the fountain ', and in the Covenant of Reconciliation by participation, andconfequentially \ becaufe God was in Chrift, reconciling the world to himfelf by that Covenant j therefore he is now

in

in Chrifl: reconciling the world to himfelf by this Covenant of reconciliation, 2 Cor, 5. 19,20,21 , God was in Chrifl reconciling the world unto himfelf, not imputing their trefpaffes unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we arc ambajfadors for Chrifl , as though God did befeech you by us, weprayyouinChrifls flead, be ye reconciled unro God', for he hath made him to be fin for us, who knew no fin, that we might be the righteoufnef of God in him.

7. Gracioufnefs is attributed to the Covenant of Redemption, b:caufe Grace was therein exemplarily; for hereby God did aft Grace in Chrift, and made him a Samplar, and the firft copy of free Grace to all his brethren, feed and heirs, that they might (hare with him, upon whom the firft a&s of eternal Covenant-love, and Grace fell, and that God might fhew forth in him a pattern of Covenant-dealings, and out-letting of Covenant-favour and promifes, Pfal. 89.26, He (hall cry unto me, *hoh art my father y my God, andtherock^ofmy falvation. With Heb. 1.5, For unto which of the Angels faid he at any time, thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee f. And again, I will be to him a Father, and he jhall be to me a Son. Gal. 4.6, And becaufe ye are Sons , God hath fent forth the fpirit of his Son into your hearts , crying^ Abba, father. Col. 1. 18, And he is the bead of the body, the Church,who is the beginning, the flrft-born from the dead, that in all things he might have the preheminence. Rom k 8. 17, And if children , then heirs, heirs of God, and fint-heirs with Chrifl, if fo be that we fuffer with him, that we may be alfo glorified together.

g. Another Property of the Covenant of Redemption, is Eternity : For, 1. Both the Parties are eternal, the eternal God who is from c-verlafling to cvcrlafling, Deut. 3 3. 27. and the eternal Son of God, whofe eternal jwn^r and Godhead, Rom. i. 20 , is equal with God his Father. Phil. 2.6, And whofliall declare his generation ? Ifa. 53.8. Joh. 1. 1,2, In the beginning the word was, and the word was with God, and the word was God, the fame was in the beginning with God. Rev. 1.8, I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, faith the Lord • which is, which was, and which is to come.

2. The union o£ the two natures in the Perfbn of the Redeemer, which was tranfa&edin this Covenant, is an eternal Union V I mean, the humane nature, which was from eternity

deftgned

€\ Of the Eternity of Chap. Ilf.

deftgned unto-a fubftantial union with God*, being once aftumed, Hands in that fubftantial union for ever', ib that it is impoflible that the perfonal union which was transacted in the Covenant of Redemption, can be diffolved unto all eternity: for 'tis unquestionable that Chrift fhall ftand glorified in our nature in heaven for ever •„ for even there is a throne for the man Chrift, for the Lamb flain, for evev^Rev. 22. 3, But the throne of God, and of the lamb, flail be in it, Aft- 17. 31.

3. The New Covenant-relations which were eftablifhed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, by this Covenant of Redemption, are eternal relations, which fhall never .ceafe, Heb. 1. 5, For unto which of the Angels faid he at any time, Thou art my Son , th. s ds.\. hav: I begotten thee ? And again ', / will be to him a Father, a?:d he flail be to me a Son. This Covenant-relation (I fayj whereby God is the God and Father of our Lord Jeius Chrift, and wherebv he hatha new Sonfhip, iPet. 1. 3, Bleffedbe the Cod an dFother ef our Lordjefus Chrift : Even this, fhall ftand eternally; therefore Chrift f peaking of the promiied glorious ftateof his people in heaven,dotlifour times own that Covenant-relation to his Father, even with refpeel: to his and their being together in his Kingdom, Rev. 3. 12, Him that overcometh^will 1 make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he flail go no more out: and1will write Hpon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerufalem, which comet h down cut of heaven from my God; and I will write upon h'un my new name. And if our Covenant-relation to God which did ipring out of his, fhall ftand, and not ceafe in our glorified ftate in heaven, much-more his, Rev. 5. 10, Arldhaftmade us unto our GodKings and,? Hefts,and we flail reign on the earth .There the redeemed Muficians, that have the new Song in their mouths,own their Covenant-relation to God, and the Covenant-compella-tion, cur God., is a note in their new Song.

4. The .offices, which Chrift did take on by this Covenant, are eternal offices, fuch as fhall never ceafe, and whereof he fhall never be.divefted *, that his Mediatory-office, his Kingdom and Priefthbod, are parjtakers of the eternity of this Covenant, is plain Scripture, Ln\. 1. 33, And he flail reign over the koufe of Jacob for ever, and of his kingdom there .flail be no end. Heb. 1..8, But unto the Son, he faith, thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever, afcepter of righteoufneft is t'he fcepterofthy ki*g-

dm*

Chap. III. the Covenant of Redemption. °5

d$m. And j. 6, Thou art a prieft for ever , after the order of Melcbifedec. And 7.25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the utter wo ft that come unto God by him, feeing he ever Uveth to make imercejfton for them. The only queftion is, whether or not this Covenant (hall then ceafe, and Chrift's Mediatory-office fhall then ceafe, when Chrift (hall render up the Kingdom to the Father? \Cor. 15.24^020.

Concerning the full anfwer whereof, I refer the Reader toRutherf. Tmt. what is written by Mr. Rutherford upon that queftion : For my °f thecovenant, part it fatisfies me, that I fee veftiges in the Scripture. 1. That P* 2 * c * x 2t after the laft Judgment, there (hall be noufe of ilich exercife p * and afts of ChrirVs Mediatory offices, as King, Prieft, and Prophet to his Church as we are now under in this laft Oeco-nomy and difpenfation of the Covenant of Grace *,becaufe there (hall be no fm then, nor any enemy unfubdued •, Chrift having perfected his people, and prefented them without ipottoGod, Eph. 5.27. and having fubdued all his foes, and broken allop-pofition to his Kingdom , and the elecl people being brought out of danger, fo as they need no Temple or Ordinances, Rev. 21.4. 22. 1 Cor. 15.25. 2. That Chrift Mediator (hall unqueftionably ceafe from, and leave off fuch atts and exercife of his Mediatory-office, as his body the Church hath no need of-, he (hall be no Mediator of Reconciliation then, becaufc there (hall be no fin then , no Mediator to apply his death, or to interceed for finners, for there (hall be no finners •, he fhall be no Mediatory King then to beat down his foes and oppofers of his offices *, for there (hall be none, when he fhall have put down all rule j and all authority and power, 1 Cor. 15. 24. that is, all Magiftracy and Government that now is, either in Church or State. j. It is manifeft that after the laft Judgment, there (hall be a change of the Oeconomick government, and thatChrift (hall render the ^^owOeconomick or di(penfatory, to his father : but after what manner this change of government (hall be, I do not fo clearly underftand: whether it (hall be only by Chrift'« rendering an account to his Father of his deputed * and delegated charge, having now (aved all the ele£t, and lub dued all the rebels; or if it (hall be by laying 4own his-Com million, no more to rule in th« former way of government ? or whether the government (hail be fo changed, as the Father, Son, and Spirit,fhall immediately govern tkc glorious Church, which

K feems

leems to be infinuated , Rev. 21. 22, 23, And I faw notemple therein ', for the Lord God almighty arid the Lamb are the temple of it. Andthe City had m need of the Sun, neither of the Moon to Jhine in it *, for the glory of God did lighten it y and the Liamb is the light thereof. 1 Cor. 15.28, that Godmay beallin all. 4. That Chrift frail not then leave off to reign as Mediator, even when the fore-mentioned change is made 7 yet he remains the fubftantial glorified head of his myftical glorified body for ever, who (ball appear eternally for us, as a pledg of the fatisfattion once given, whofe preience is a fpeaking token of the ftanding Confederacy and Peace betwixt God and us, in whofe righte-ouihefs we ftand cloathed before God-, in whofe tranfaftions and acting in the work of Redemption, God is eternally well-pleafed, and by whole Covenant we ftand and reign with him eternally and indefedlibly in a confirmed glorified ftate : elfe, 1. To what end fhall Chrift ftand glorified in our nature in heaven for ever ? 2. Why is the Lambs throne in heaven eternal ? Rev. 22. 3. 3. Elfe what means the Lambs lervants in heaven forever? Rev, 22. 3. and the new Song that is to the Lamb in heaven for ever, Rev. 5. 12. and 7. 10. 4. Elfe what meaneth the Lambs being in the midft of the glorified company, his leading them, being a temple, and a light unto them ? Rev.j. 1 7. and 21. 22,2 3. Sure the Lord Mediator as a glorified tead of his glorious body in heaven, a&eth as Mediator, though not as he a&eth now *, and though we cannot well determine what fort of leading, and what difpenfatron of influences from him are there ( and no wonder if his union with us and headfhip over us even here, be a myfterie, the knowledg whereof is referred to his coming again, Job. 14.20,- At that day ye fhallknovo that I am in my father ', and you in me, and I in you): yet the Lambs throne there, and his leading the redeemed, and being a light aad temple to them, proves his peculiar headfhip to them. 5, The bkffings purchafed by this Covenant of Sureti(hip , are partakers of eternity, they are eternal bleflkng* : the Redemption obtained by the Mediator, is eternal Redemption ', Heb. 9.12. and eternal\ Inheritance^Heb. o. 15. and eternal life. Tit. 1.2. eternal Salvation y Heb. 5.9. eternal Glory , 1 Pet. 5. 20. You fee then, that eternity is a property*ofthe Covenant of Redemption, and that many things belonging to it are partakers of eternity: la a word, it is a Covenant which was traniacled

from

c Chap. lit the Covenant ofRedemption. $7

from eternity, before the foundation of the world was laid *, it is as old as the Ancient of days; ib that we cannot reckon the beginning thereof, Frov. 8.2$, / was fet up from everlafting, from the beginnings or ever the earth was: and which (hall endure throughout eternity *, for the righteoufnefs of this Covenant, even the Surety-righteoufnefs of Chrift the Redeemer, (hall be worn in glory for evermore, by all the redeemed people *, and through the force and vertue of the blood thereof, (hall the glorious Church ftand and reign for ever, Rev. iy. 8, And to her was granted that flie (hould be arrayed in fine linnen, clean and white; for the fine linnen is the righteoufneft of Saints* And 5.9, And they fung a new fing, faying , thou art worthy to take the book^ and to open the feals thereof i for thou waft jiain, and haft redeemedm to God by thy blood out of every kindred y and tongue y and people, and nation,

4. Another Property of the Covenant of Redemption, is equality : They who diftinguifh Covenants into equal and unequal Covenants j by equal Covenants they underftand fuch wherein there is equality in the parties or conditions, when the parties ftand in equal terms, and do agree upon equal or like conditions.

No Covenant betwixt God and meer Man, can properly and ftrictly be called an equal Covenant', neither the Covenant of works made with man in his integrity, nor the Covenant of Grace made with fallen man *, for befide the infinite diftance and inequality of the parties, there is no proportion betwixt the terms and conditions given and required in thefe Covenants: And upon ftricl: examination, there are but few equal Covenants betwixt man and man *, for it is rare to find the condition and affairs of Parties entering in Covenant in fuch an equal poife, as that the inequality of their condition, and the moment and exigent of their affairs, does not influence the , terms and conditions of their Covenants, -fo as to render them unequal.

But iure the Covenant betwixt Jehovah and Chrift,is an equal Covenant. 1. This Covenant was betwixt parties equal*, I do not fay that the Man Chrift, or Chrift Mediator was equal with God ; for in this refpect there was an inferiority and fubordina-tion unto which Chrift humbled himfelf ', by giving his aclual confent in this Covenant unto the designation of him to be the

K 2 Perfon

£8 Of the Equality of Chap. III.

Perfon that fhouid do the work of our Redemption • but considering Chrift as the eternal Son of God, and antecedently to his actual confent to humble himfelf j yea , and after that con-ient too, confidering Chrift the fecond Perfon as the natural Son of God, the parties traniatling this Covenant (though not quatenw, as they were confidered in this Covenant-tranf attion) were equal in Power, Greatnefs, Wiidom, Honour, &c. as hath been before fhewed from Phil. 2. 6, Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. Joh. 10.29, $0, My Father which gave them me, is greater than all — I and my Father are one.

2. This Covenant was betwixt equal parties, when they ftood in equal term, and were at a perfect freedom to chufe or refufc, to give confent to this Covenant or refufe it, as pleafed either party; these may be fometimes equality betwixt parties covenanting •, yet the inequality of the condition and freedom at the time of tranfacling, may render the Covenant betwixt them unequal', as when the one party is not at freedom, is concluded by ibme preflure or neceflity that is not upon the other party 7 hence often the terms are unequal: but in the Covenant of Sure* tiihip (whatfoever inequality and fubordination was fubiequent, by the tenor of this Covenant) at the time when it was trania-&ed from eternity, the parties ftood both on equal terms, and were at perfect freedom to tranfaft or not, as pleafed either (as I have already proved)*, there was nothing in the condition of either party ( abftrac"ting from the purpofe of the parties own will, ana the defign that atted them, which was common to both) that could conclude either party to enter into fuch a Covenant (If I may call a tranf a&ion that had no beginning, by the name of entering a Covenant in regard of our manner of conceiving thereof) *, for this Covenant was not only confented to by Chrift, a perfon equal with God •, but by him being in the form of God, Phil. 2. 6, 7, that is, while he ftood in equal terms with God, and was under no neceflity to be found in the form of a fervant, till he humbled himfelf, and made himfelf of no reputation, &LC

3. The defign that afted both parties in this tranfaclion, Was equal *, for it was one and the fame, a defign of love a&ed both the Father and the Son ^ the carrying on a purpofe of Grace and defign of love which God had laid upon hiseleft people, acted

Jehovah

Jehovah in fending Chrift to do this work of Redemption , and in making him Surety for his people •, and the lame defign alio acled Chrift in his contenting to take our Law-place, and in his coming accordingly to a& our part, Joh. }. 16, For Godfo loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that vphofoever believ-eth in him Jhould not perijh , bnt have everlafting life. With

Gal. 2. 20, / live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved

me, and gave himfelf for me. Even this Love-defign which took up the delight and the thoughts of both the patties equally, and wherewith both parties were lblacing thcmfelves in the works without themfelves •, when as yet there was no world, nor Inhabitants thereof created, Prov.S. $i, Re)oycmgin the habitable part of hit earth, and my delights were wUh the fons of men,

4. This Covenant of Suretifliip was made upon equal or like conditions and terms*, there was an equality betwixt the ftipula-tionand reftipuiation ; the conditions promifed to Chrift, and thefe required from him by this Covenant', not that worthlefe man was a wager for God to work for*, for he was far below the price that love put upon him. But underftand it thus, 1. There was an equality of Juftice betwixt the conditions on the one part and the other •, punitive Juftice could exatt no more of man, by the curie of the broken Covenant, than that which Chrift fuffered as his Surety, Gal. $. 1 j, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the Law, being made a curfe for Hi', and remunerative Juftice could give no lets to his perfect obedience unto the Law cf works, than the righteoufnefs and life whicbhe pur-chafed, Rom.S.j.j That the riglneoufnef of the Law might be fulfilled in tit. 2. There was an equality of proportion or merit betwixt the conditions required from, and performed by Chrift, by venue of this Covenant, and the conditions promifed and performed unto Chrift by this Covenant. Not a merit and ia-tisfaclion upon Chrid's part de congruo (as the Schoolmenr> ur and lik a lpeak) whereby the friendfhip and love of the party injured &m. 21i qwft?L doth accept of that which h not equivalent to the offence, which Vorftiiu calleth God's Divine acceptation (which properly had no place here, though the friend (hip and love betwixt God and Chrift, be iuchas renders any thing done by him, acceptable )-^ but a merk and fatisfaction de condigno, there being a juft and equal proportion betwixt the fault committed,

and

the fatisfa&ion given, and betwixt the reward promifed and given to Chrift, and the obedience required from and performed by him, Joh. 17.4, 5, / have glorified thee on the earthy I have fmjhed the work^ which thou gave ft me to do. And now, O Father, glorifie thoH me with thine own felf. Phil. 2. 7,8, But made himfelf of no refutation, and took^upon him the form of a fervant, arid was made in the likeneft of man. And being found in faftrion as a man y he humbled himfelf.~-Wherefore God hath highly exalted him, &c

5. The advantage redounding to both parties by this Covenant is equal $ I mean, the glory and honour of this tranfa&ion *, for no other profit and goodneis can redound unto the all-iuffi-tient good, Job $5.7, If thou be righteous , what giveftthou him? or what receiveth he of thine hand ? Pfal. 16. 2, $,— My goodneft extendeth not unto thee : But to the Saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent , in whom is all my delight. I fay of the Covenant of Suretifhip, that though the profit is ours, and extendeth only to the redeemed people \, yet the advantage of honour and glory, doth equally reach both the parties tranfa-cting in their own order \ for thereby there is a peculiar honour of our Redemption and Salvation to God, the Author thereof, who gave Chrift, and fent him to work this Redemption; and a peculiar honour to Chrift Mediator, to the Lamb the grand Jnftrument that wrought it, and whofe foul travelled in it. So that the honour accrewing hereby is not peculiar to any one of the parties, but parted betwixt them, Joh. 5.2$, That all men jlmuld honour the Son, even as Hoey honour the Father. Rev. 7.10, And cryed with a loud voice, faying , Salvation unto our God which fitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.

5. Another Property of the Covenant of Redemption^ order: that which is laid of the Covenant of Reconciliation, that it's ordered in all things *, is eminently true of the Covenant of Redemption: It is a well-ordered Covenant^ and how can it be made otherwife., fince he that made it is the Gcd of order, 1 Cor. 14. 3 1. and Godonlywife, 1 Tim. 1. 17. who knew well how to contrive the comely order which he defigned. The order of this Covenant doth chiefly confiftin thele two things. 1. In God's beautiful contriving and ordering the methods and ways of our Redemption and Salvation. 2. In his comely ordering and adapting thcie Methods of Redemption to anfwer the

ends

Chap* HI. the Covenant of Redemption. ft

ends and intents, which were purpofed and propofed in this tranfaftion. Under the firft of thefe, I comprehend, i. His ordering and fending of a Saviour and Redeemer to fallen man. 2. His ordering the things that the Peribn defigned fhould do andfuffer for purchafing this Redemption. 3. His ordering the means whereby the purchaied Redemption fhould be applied to the Redeemed people. 4. His ordering the efficacy of means towards the ends purpofed by him, that there might be no mifgiving in all the matter. Under the fecond, I comprehend God's ordering, 1. That the fatisfaction of Divine jultice fhall be, by a Surety. 2. That the iatisfaclion of the Surety fhall meet with, and fully come up to the demands of the Law and Covenant of works, by his obeying the command, and bearing the curfe. $.That the Sureties fatisfa&ion fhall ftand for the broken man's; he taking our Law-place upon him,and acting our part. 4. That Juflice fhall be fo fatisfied, as mercy be alfo entreated •, that the means and methods of Redemption, may anfwer the intent of God, to glorifie thefe two attributes, Juftice and Mercy, in Man's Redemption. I do not fay that the beautiful order of this Covenant confided in thefe things only *, but in thefe, and the like ; which will appear further,when we come to fpeak of the lbbje&-matter of this Covenant, and the things that were therein concluded.

6. Another Property of the Covenant of Redemption, is ftability^ God's Covenant with Chrift is an immutable, inviolable tranfaclion j and all the things therein concluded are firm and unalterable, nothing thereof can fail 'j for, 1. It is tranfa-&ed in the unchangeable counfel of God's will, where all the decrees and conclufions are unalterable, Neb. 6. 17, Wherein God willing more abkndantly to fliew unto the heirs of promife, the immutability of his r counfel 9 confirmed it by an oath. Ifa. 14.27, For the Lord of hofls hath purpofed , and who fhdidifannut it t

2. It muft be an inviolable Covenant, being tranfacted betwixt two parties who have all imaginable Properties that can enlure their dealings and transactions, and render them firm \ For it is, 1. Betwixt God unchangeable, with whom there is no variable nef^ norjhadowof turning Jam. 1. 17. I am the Lord^ I change not^ Mai. 3. 6. And Jefta Chrifi , the fame yefterday^ and to day 9 and for ever, Heb. 13.8. 2. It is betwixt God tte

ftrength

ftrengthof ffrael, who u not as the fon of man, that he fliould repent, i S*m. 15.29. who hath fworn to Chrift, and will not repent, Heb. 7. 2 1. and Chrift Jefus, in whom all the promifes ol God are yea, and amen, 2 Cor. I. 20. 5. It is betwixt the true God, Jer. 10. 10. the Godof trnth, Dcut. 32.4. and Jeius Chrift, who is the truth it {elf, fob. 14. 6. 4. It is betwixt the faithful God which keepeth Covenant , Deut. 7. y. who abideth faithful, and cannot deny himfelf, 2 Tim .2. 15. and Jeius Chrift the faithful witneft, Rev. 1. 6.

$. This muft be a fure and inviolable Covenant, being a fworn confirmed Covenant *, for God hath not only fworn and confirmed his Covenant with us, but he hath alio confirmed this Covenant with an oath, and fworn to Chrift, Pfal.So. 35, Once have J fworn by my holinef, that I will not lye unto Lavid. Heb. 7.21, For thofe Prlefts were made withvnt an oath, but this with an oath, by him that faid unto him, The Lord fware, and will not repent ; thou art a Trie ft for ever, after the order of MeU chifedee. Now the Argument ufed by the Apoftle, from the confirmation of a Covenant, to the (lability thereof, holds good and firm of this Covenant alfo (though it be not the thing principally intended therej, Gal, $. 15, Though it be but a man's Covenant, yet if it be confirmed) no man difannulleth or addetb thereuuto.

4. Stability and Inviolablenefsmoft eminently agree to that Covenant •, for which, and becauie of which the Covenant of Reconciliation made with us is firm, fure, and inviolable. Now 'tismanifeft, that the (lability of that Covenant fprings out of this ^ and the inviolablenefs of the one, is given by the Holy Ghoft, for the ground and caufe of the (lability of the other • SeePjfc/.8o. 3$, $4> 35, j6, Neverthelef)myloving^ndneftwiU I not utterly take from him , nor fuffer my faithfulneft to fail. My Covenant willl not break,, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips. Once nave J fworn by my holinef, that J will not lye unto David. His feed Jhall endure for ever , and his throne as the Sun before me. Ifa. 55. 3,4, I will make an evtrlaft-ing Covenant with)'ou, even the Jure mercies of David* Behold) I have given him for a witneftothe people) a leader and comman* der to the people.

5. This Covenant is above thepoflible reach of all caufes or ^occafions whatfoever, that render Covenants unftable and uncertain ;

Ghap. IIL the Covznwt of RedmpiM* f%

certain v for here,' ft There can be no place in either of the parties for unskilftilnefs nor rafhnefe, in contriving or entering this eternal Compaft, being the deed of parties, whofe under-ftanding cannot be fearched out, If a. 40. 28, the depths whereof are to be admired, Row. xl. I 1, O the depth of the riches both of the wifdom and knowledg of God; whofe fooiijhnefs is wifer than men! 1 Cor. 1. 25. who doth all his matters by coun-feland eternal deliberation, Eph. 1.11, whoworketh all things after the counfel of his mil. Nor, 2. Is there place in either of the parties for unrighteoufnefs, Rom. 3.5,6, Is god unrighteous ti Cod forbid: nor for inconftancy or unfaithfulnefs (as is already proved) or any other thing that is contrary to Covenant-keeping. 1 . Nor is there any weaknefs or wearying in either of the parries to perform their undertaking, againft difcouragement and oppofition that ftands in the way of performing what is mutually engaged ; no fuch thing is incident to Jehovah, Luk. 1.37, For with God nothing jhall be impoffible. Ifa. 40. 28, The creator of the ends of the earth fainteth not, neither is weary. Nor can Qirift Mediator be impeached of fuch things, jr/^.42.4. He fyaU not fail nor be difcour aged, till he have fet judgment on the earth } and the Ifles fall wait for his Law. And 63.1 , travelling in thegreatneftofhis fir'ength : J that fpeak^in right eouf-nef, mighty tofave.

. The Parties in this eternal traniaftion about the work ofRe-cbnvption,' were Jehovah on the one part; and the only Son of God on the other part.. That thefe were the parties, and thefe only, is generally acknowledged7 and it is plain Scripture, Pfal. 89. 3, / have made a covenant with my chofen. Heb. I. 5, For unto which of the Angels faid he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee ? And again, I will be n him a Father, and he Jhall be to me a Son. And 5. 5, 6, So alfoChrifi glorified not himfelfto be made an high prieft, but he that faid unto him, thou art my>Son, to day have J begotten thee . As he faith alfo in another place, thou art a yrieftfcr ever, after the order ofMel-chifedec. And 10. 5,7, Wherefore when he cometh unto the world, he faith, facrifioe and offering thou would ft riot \ but a body haft thou prepared me. Then faid 1, lo, I come (in the' volume of the boosts writtedofme) to do tkywill^ tfh^Tity? difficulty lyeth in theri^uridtfiftanding how thefe parties are to be confidered: for clearing whereof, I (hall 1 lay dowftfour Aflertians. L jtfferu

Ajfert. I. Although God be on both fides of this Covenant ' 7 yet God is not to be the iame way confidered upon both parts of the Covenant; for upon the one part God is to be considered ejfentially , and it is opm ejfentiale y an aft common to all the three Perfons of the Godhead. The one party covenanting is Jehovah; God h common to all the three: upon the. other part the Son of God is to be confidered personally, an acl: peculiar to the Son of Gody thefecond Peribn ; elie there could be no diftinftion of-parties, no diftinftion of confents , and 1 confequently no Covenant of Redemption, no compact about that work -, and according to this diftinftion, we are to understand the Scriptures before-mentioned.

AJfert. 2.. The Covenant'of Redemption is tranfafted with Chrift per final, not with-Chrift. tnyftical :, not with the ekft: Company, but fingly with the Captain of Salvation , not with the head and body, the Church*, but with the chofen head, unto whomGod promifed and had appointed a numerous feed, that fhould become a body to him. It was made with Chrift, not as. a publick perfon, reprefenting many; but as an eminent' chofenperibn, chofen .-out among his brethren, Pfal. 89. ip, L have laid help upon one that is mighty, I have exalted one chofen ' cut of the people. Heb. 5. 1, For every high priefi taken from among men, is ordained for men in things pertaining to God, that he m/iy ojfcr both gifts and facrifees for fin ; for though the my-fticaf body of Chrift were to reap the benefit of this tranfa-ftion j yetthey were not parties in the tranfafting their own Redemption. The Covenant of peace, kindnefs, reconciliation and life,. was indeed made with Chrift my ftical, head and members 5 with him as" a publick perfon, reprefenting all his feed and heirs that were chofen in him*, but the Covenant of Redemption was not fo.

■Th'dethirigs confirm this Aflertion.. 1. The work and bufi-nefs tranfafted by this Covenant,was peculiar to Chrift's perfon, the fatisfying divine Juftice, by paying a price*, the aft of Suretifhip,.and taking the broken-man's Law-place, &c- Sure this was peculiar to Chrift perfonal. 2. • It was he to whom a feed of his own begetting, comprehending ail. the eieft, was promifedr, to whom a bride and ajbody, whereof he fhould bi head and husband, with whom this Covenant was tranftfted. : * Now this was Chrifts perianal; for it could not be, that God '

pxomifed"-

promifed this feed to the feed $ he did not prpmife a people to themfelves :, but to Chrift their cbpfen head. 3. By this Covenant, God did prbmife'and give the headfhip to Chrift over, that body, and did veft him with powers and authorities futa-ble:, even with all power in Heaven and Earth : Now the head/hip and thefe great Authorities, were neither promifed nor given to the head and body, to Chrift myftical *, but to Chrift perfonal. 4. Chrift plainly claims the work of this Covenant to himfelffmgly and perfonally confidered, and leaving out all others, even his own body, as having no acceflion to this that he was fingly engaged in, Heb. 2. 10, For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things ; m bringing many Sons to glory, to make the Captain of their Salvation per ft A through fujfering. And 5. 9, And, being made perfect J he became the Author of eternal Salvation unto all them that obey him. Joh. 17-4, I have glorified thee on the earthy I have finijhed the workjvhich thou gave ft me to do. Ifa. 6 3. 3, 1 have trodden the wine pre ft alone, and of the people there was none with me.

After f. 1. The Covenant of Redemption which was tranfa-£ted with Chrift perfonally confidered, even with the only Son of God, the fecond perfon : was not made with Chrift God \ but with Chrift God- man, the perfon tranfafting with Jehovah, was not the Son of God, confidered as God, as the natural Son of God ; but confidered as God-man, as Mediator*, this : Cove-nant w r as ftricken with Chrift t« 9ii^f»ff«,' not w ao>». And i. That it was not made withChrift God, or confidered as the natural only Son of God, ismanifeft: For, 1. Chrift God »• could not be under the Law- 2. Norreprefent man, and take / his Law-place. 3. Nor can Chrift God fuffer and pay a price ofblood. 4. Nor coulctiDfrfiftf God receive a Million and Mandates *,. he could not be a Meffenger, nor be fen|, if we fpeak properly. ' 5. Nor to Chrift God could there be promifes made, or any reward given, &c. Thefe,and manyluchinftances may ferve for eftablifhing the negative part of this Aflertion , to wit, that the Covenant of Redemption was not made with Chrift God: befide , that this will receive further confirmation by eftablifhing the affirmative part of the Af-fertion. .

2. The Covenant of Redemption was made with Chrift

L 2 God-

; ..

7£ Of the Partus inr Chap. III.

God-wan : For, I.In thisre{pe& only, Chrift could make a party diftinft from the other party covenanting ; to wit, Jehovah 5 it could not have been a Covenant except there Jiad been two parties agreeing together. Now Chrift God, the fecond perfon, could not conftitute a party covenanting diftinft from God considered eflentially, as common to all the three, Father, Son and Spirit, Joh. 10. 30, / and my Father are one : It was therefore Chrift Goc'-oian, that made the Covenant of Redemption. 2. Chrift had a will diftinftfrom Jehovah's will, only as he was God-wan: for as God, his will is one and the fame with his Father's will, ahdundiftinguifoed from it, Joh. 1. 13, Not of the will of man *, but of God. Now where there is a Co-nantbetwixttwo, there muft be two wills, elfe how can there be any agreement or ccnfent of two ; for confent is an ad of the will : It follows therefore, that the Covenant was made with Chrift God-man, fmce in this refpeft only, there are two wills meeting, confenting, and agreeing on the lame thing. 3. In what refpett only Chrift had a will capable of bowing, yielding, and obeying, in that refpeft he is to be confidered in the Covenant of Redemption \ whereby he voluntarily yielded to do thefe things, which no natural neceflity obliged him to, Heb, \o. 7, Then Jaid I, lo, J come (in the volume of the boof^ it is written of me) to do thy will, O God. Now it is evident, that Chrift only as he was God man, had a will capable of bowing and yielding, Mat-16. 39, Neverthelefs, not as 1will ,* but as thou wilt '•) for the will of Chrift as God was not capable of bowing and yielding-, for who hath refifled his will? Rom. 9. 10. the Covenant therefore was made with Chrift God-man. 4. In what refpeet Chrift was inferiour to God, or fubordinate to him, and did receive offices, truft, miflion, commands, &c. and did obey : In that refpecl only, was the Covenant of Redemption ftri£fcen with him *, for by the tenor of that Covenant he did all theie things, Joh. 10. 18, This commandment have J received of my father. And 6. 38, 39, For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will , but the will of him that fent me. And this is the fathers will that hath fent me. And it is mani-feft, that in this refpeft only, Chrift as God-man is inferior to God , Joh. 14.28, My Father is greater then I •, for Chrift God is equal with his Father, Ffal. 2. 6. It follows therefore neceiTarily> that the Covenant of Redemption was made with

m Chrift

Chrift: God man. 5. In this confideration only as Chrifl: is Ged-man, the conditions and fatisfa&ion performed by him, are performed by one party, and accepted by another*, in this reipeft only there is fending and coming, asking and receiving, commanding and obeying, giving fatisfattion and receiving it ', for if Chrift be confidered as God, then there could be no performing and accepting of fatisfattion *, for fo the party giving and receiving, fending and going , working and rewarding, being the fame, all Jatisfaction is taken away *, for the party the fame every way, cannot be the giver and receiver of the fatisfavtion 5 fo all diftinclion of parties is taken away, and confequently all Covenant-dealings enervated. 6. The Covenant of Redemption muft be with Chrift God-man , in regard that the fatisfa£Uorfrequired upon God's part to be performed by Chrift, and undertaken by him, was fuch as might ftand in Law for our fm. Now it is not imaginable how the fatisfaction of Chrift God j could meet with the curfe of the Law of works that had gone forth againft man, Gal. 4.4,5, But when the fnine ft of time was come , God fent forth his Son % made of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem them that were under the Law, that % we might receive the Adoption of Sons. It refts therefore, that it was a fatisfaction undertaken by God-wan in the Covenant (^Redemption, 7. In that confideration that Chrift was Surety^r his people, and Mediator betwixt God and man -, in the fame confideratien was the Covenant of Suretifhip and Redemption made with him *, for he could not be a Suret^a one refpeft, andacl: himfelf unto it in another •, but it is vmm Scripture that it was not Chrift God that was Mediator and Surety •, but Chrift God-man , 1 Tim. 2. 5, For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and man, the man Chrifl; Jefw. Heb. 7. 22, By fo much was Jefus made fnrefy of a better teflament. 8. In what eonfideration Chrift did perform the Covenant of Redemption, in the famerefpeft he is to be confidered as a party'Undertaker (for no man can probably think that one party undertook, and another performed); but it is above queftion, that Chrift God-man did perform this Covenant, and fulfil the conditions, therein required, iTim. $. 16, And without controverfe, great is the myflerie of Godlinef, God was manifefted in the fiejh , jnftified in the fpirit, feen of angels , preached unto the gentiles, believed on in the world, received up

into'

into glory. Gal. 4.4, But when the fnine $ of time w/u cove- God fent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the Law. Rom. 8. $, For what the Law could not do in that it was weakjhrough the flejh , God fending his own Son in the iilgnefi of ftnful fleft , and for fin condemned fin in the JleJJj. I conclude therefore, that with Chrift God man was the Covenant of Redemption made. Befides thele arguments, many-more might be framed, from the particular commands, conditions and-promiies of the Covenant of Redemption, which are competent only to Chrift God-man, and no ways to Chrift God.

From this which hath been faid of Chrift confidered as God and as God-man, we may anfwer the queftion, How thejuftice of Godcanhavealatisfac"tion from," and by a perfon or party who is God? Anf i.-If Chrift God had^een the party with whom the Covenant of Redemption had been tfanfac"ted, then indeed the party giving, and the party receiving the fatisfa&ion, had been the fame. But the Covenant being made with Chrift God-man, a perfon different from offended God efTen-tially confidered:, lb it is another party that makes the fatis-"'faction, than the party which was offended, and doth receive the fktisfacl:ion. 2. Chrift God-man in one perfon, having man's nature that offended, united into a perfonal union with the Godhead *, was thereby fitted fo to ftand in our place, and upon our fide, as a party different fr#m God, that he might therein fatisfie wrath, and therein merit by making a full and real compenfation to offended Juftice. 3. Chrift God-man , who makes the fatisfattion as he is God, being one with the Father, while he fatisfies the Father's Juftice, h^itisfieshis <own; but as he is God-man, being a party diro'ent from the Father, he is by the Soveraignty of free Grace given to be a Surety *, and the fatisfa&ion which he makes in our Nature as our Surety, is accepted by his Father, as by another party.

Affert.Of. Chrift was chofen and predeftinated Lord Mediator, and we are chofen in him before he is a party covenanting with Jehovah, about the work of our Redemption : I fay, i. He is firft in order, in the eternal purpofe of God, deflgned and fet apart to do this work, before he 1 gave an aclual confentunto the Covenant of Suretiftiip. This followeth neceflarily upon the former Aftertion •, for if the Covenant

be,

Chap. III. the Covenant of Redemption. j$

be made with Chrift God-man , with Chrift Mediator betwixt God and man, then he muft needs be Mediator by fome eternal ad of the counfel of God antecedent in order of nature to this Covenant with him, which is made with him confidered as God to be made manifeft intheflefh. 2. I lay, not only- Chrift is choien *, but we alio are chofen in him, unto the fruit of that great labour and fervice which he was defigned to undergo *, for a Covenant of Suretifriip and Redemption, does not only iuppoie a Redeemer and Surety predeftinated to be undertaker for a loft people ^ but alio a people defigned to be partakers of the Redemption which he was to work. So%at I fay, this Covenant that was made with Chrift God ^#,doe$fuDpoie Chrift's headfhip,and our member-fhip by eternal predefflnation, and by a co-ordination, which maybeexpreis'din this order*, firft, the choien head, and then the body, God did not not firft chufe a body x and then had a head to feek for them •, nor did he chufe a head to be Without a body, or as one that knew not of a body for that head ; but Election, which was the firftaft of God's Iove*n eternity, fell firft upon Chrift, whom God did chufe to be the head of his body the Church, and the Captain of Salvation to all the choien company r, and having chofen him, he chuied us in him, as our head, and as the firft-born of the elect houfe and family, Rom. 8.29, For whom he did foreknow , he alfo did predefiinate, to be conformedto the ImageMhis Son y that he might be the firfl- born among many brethren . Epn. 1.4, -According as he hath chofen m in him, before the foundation of the world 5 that we {hould be holyi and without blame before him Move*

■

._ tk. -±-

:<mAP/<

CHAP. IV.

Of the tenor , Articles , and SubjeSl-matter of the Covenant of Redemption ; or of the Commands 5 Conditions, and Promifes thereof

TH E Subjeft-matter and Ankles of the Covenant of Sure-tifhip, which were agreed and concluded betwixt Jehovah and Chrift by an eternal Compact fwhiclialfo may be divided into commands, conditions, :andpromifes of that Covenant^, were mainly thefe feven. Who fhould be the Redeemed ? Who the Redeemer ? What his work ? When to be done ? How to be applied ? What his reward ? And what affurance- given be-twfxt the parties for mutual performance ?

Now becaufe fome of thefe Articles may feem to be the fame upon the matter, which I have before after ted to be fuppofed as antecedent in order of nature to the Covenant of Redemption * Let it be reraembred, that they may well be fuppofed in our manner of conceiving thereof, as antecedent in God's purpofe^ and yet be Articles of ^iis Covenant, and fall under Chrift's actual content, which^akes a clofed Covenant about them : for it is not repugnant, that the fame thing be concluded in the eternal purpoie of God's Will, and in his eternal agreement with Chrift.

i. By this Covenant it was agreed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift God-man, who fhould be the Redeemed people:, there was a definite certain number of Redeemed ones agreed upon, for whom Chrift fhould pay a price*, he was not Surety and undertaker for all Mankind, nor for all the vifible Church to whom the Gofpel fhall be preached*, for his undertaking is no> wider nor larger than his dying, purchafiog Redemption, bearing Iniquity, Praying, &c. thefe being of equal extent an* efficacy: for whom Chrift was undertaker to his Father, for them he dyed, andpurchafed Redemption by his death*, for tHem he did pray and make interceflion, &c. Now 'tis ma-

nifeft

nifeft that he did not purchafe Redemption, and make intercef-fion for all Mankind ; but for a chofen people, Heb. 9.15, And for this canfe he is the Mediator of the New Teftamem, that by means of death for the redemption of the tranfgreffions that were under the firftTeftament, they who are called might receive the fromife of eternal inheritance. Joh. 17-9, / fray for them , / pray not for the world , but for them that thou haft given me • for they are thine. Neither was Chrift undertaker for a people under any general notions or qualifications (fuch as them that fliould believe in him, or the like), not knowing definitely who the peribns were: but he was Surety and undertaker only for the elecl, and for a definite number of people, who were by number and name given to him by his Father, and received by him, to be redeemed by his blood *, which doth plainly appear by the defcription of the Redeemed people, who are ordinarily called thofewhom the Father gave unto Chrift Joh. 17.5,6,9,11. ck 6.57) 19' and who were chofen in him,TLph. 1.4. and whofe names are written in the book, of life, and in the Lambs book^of life -as if the Father, who gave them to Chrift , had kept one record of their number and names , and the Lord Mediator, who undertook for them, had kept another \ Rev.iQ. 12. and 21.27.

2. By this Covenant it was agreed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, who fhould be the Redeemer; I fay, it was agreed who fhould be the peribn to undertake this great work of Redemption and Salvation for thefe elec*t people -, for although we may conceive that Chrift was predeftinated unto this work before his actual confent', yet we muft conceive the agreement is by his own actual coni en t and compact with God. See the agreement andconfent of both the parties, that Chrift fhall be the Lord Je hovah his iervant in this work, If a* 49. 5,6, And now faith the Lord that formed me from the womb to be hisfervant, to bring Jacob again to him *, though Ifrael be not gathered, yet Jhall I be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and my God ftiall be my ftrength. And he faid, it is a light thing that thou jhonldft be my fervanty to raife up the tribes of Jacob, and to refiore the preferred of Ifrael', J will alj ogive thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou may ft be my falvation unto the end of the earth- And under this part of the agreement,! comprehend, 1. The defignation of the perfon who fhall be the redeemer,that it fhall be the fecond perfon,theSon of

M God

God only, not the Father, nor the Spirit, Ifa* 59. 20, Andthe Redeemer fhall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from tranf-greffion in Jacobs faith the Lord. A&. $. 26, Vntoyoufirft, God having raijed up his Son , fent him to blefl yotiy in turning away every one of'you from his Iniquities, 1 Joh. 4. 9, God fent his only begotten Son unto the wsrla\ that we might Ike through him, 2. The conftituting of that Peribn, Surety and Mediator to take that place upon him, which the work of our Redemption did require, Heb- 7. 22, By fo much was J*fat made a furety of a better teflament, 3. The confent and agreement of Chrift to both thefe, to be the perfon that (hall work this work, and to be fubftitute in this place for doing the work, Heb. 10.7, Then' faid /, Iq I come {in the volume of the boof^ it is written of me) to do thy willy 0 God •, thus did the Creditor and the Cautioner ftrike hands together.

$. By this Covenant it was agreed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, What fhould be the Redeemer's work •, or what fhould be the price that he fhould pay, and the fatisfa&ion that he fhould make to divine Juftice, for the fins of the elecl that were given to him , under this, I take in, 1. The concluding betwixt the parties, that Chrift (hall take upon him our Law-place and room, and in order to that his taking our nature upon him,that Juftice might reach him in our ftead and place, Gal. 4.4, God fent forth his San made of a woman, made under the Law.

2. That Chrift as our Surety fhould dye, and lay down his life for us,that he fhould pay for us the whole fura that was owing } even all that the Law and Juftice could exaft of the broken man, Joh. 10. 18, No man takerh it from me \ but J lay it down of my felf. Rom, 8. 3, God fending his own Son in the liken eft of finful flefhy and for fin condemned fin in theflejh. Gal. 3. 1 $, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the Law, being made acurfefor us ^ this is at length held forth,//**. 53-5, 6,7,10,12.

3. That the payment and fatisfa&ion that fhould be made to Juftice, by our Surety in our nature, and in our room, fhould be accepted as our payraent,and as a condign price for our right to Heaven, Heb, 9. 15, And for this caufe he is the Mediator of the new Teflament , that by means of death for the redemption of the tranfgreffwns that were under the fir ft Teflament , they which are called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance.

4. By this Covenant it was agreed betwixt Jehovah and

Chrift.

Chap. IV, the Covenant of Redemption. -§? *

Chrift,whatfhould be the term of paying this price, and making this fatisfattion to Juftice. A time and term-day is condescended upon, fuch as 1 eemed fit to infinite wifdom to appoint,

Cah^. 2,4, until the time anointed of the Father-— but when

the fulnef of the time was come. Heb. 9. 10, 1 1, until the time cf reformation. But Chrift being come , an high priefi of good things to come. Dan. 9. 26, And after threefcore and two weeks. fhallMeffiab be cutoffs but not for himfelf I fay, though the price was agreed upon from eternity, yet God in his wifdom thought fit to put off the time of actual paying this price, till the Redeemer that fhould come out of Zton fhould be long waited for, Luk± 2. $8,— andjpakf of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerufalemfiut though the payment was fufpen-ded till the fulnefs of time; yet neither Chrift's a&ing as Mediator, nor the force of the biood of this Covenant ', but in contemplation of the price to be payed at the.time appointed by theFatber^ he was the Lamb fain from the foundation of the world^Rcv. 1 5.8.

5. By this Covenant it was agreed betwixt Jehovah and v Chrift, how the Redemption wrought by him fhould be apply ed to his elec~t people. And under this, I comprehend,. 1 .The eternal appointment of the Gofpel-Ordioances, efpecialiy the Covenant of Grace and Reconciliation, as means by divine appointment, fitted to give the knowledge of the Redeemer, and of the Redemption and Salvation wrought by him , Luk^ 1. 77, ^78,7p, To give knowledg of Salvation unto his people , by the remiffion of their fins : Through the tender mercy of our God y whereby the day-fpring from an high hath vifited us *, To give light to them that ft in darkgef? and in. the Jhadow of death? to guide our feet in the way of peace. 2. The conclufion , that the Gofpel fhould be preached to all Nations ^ that for the ElecYs fake it might come unto all the Societies of men in the world, among whom there are any of the redeemed ones, Pfal. 110.2, The Lord jhall fend the rod of thy frength out of Zton , rule thou in the midflof thine enemies. \. The appointment of the times and feaibns, and of the particular Inftruments that fhould carry the Gofpel to the bounds of each ele& Soul's habitation, that it might meet with them, Alt. 17. 26,27, And hath deter* mined the times before appointed? and the bounds of their habitation. That they fwuldfeekjhe Lord? if haply they might feel after him y an^fndhim? though he be not far from every one ofw. Accord-

ing as we fee it brought to pafs in the execution, fo it was concluded from eternity, Alt.%.19. and 1.6, 17. and 9. 15. and 18. 9, 10. 4. The pouring out of the Spirit to make the Golpel-ordinances and means of Salvation effectual to the Redeemed people *, this alfo was comprehended under this Article of the agreement, that this fhould be procured by him, for his elect people, Joh. 16. 7,8, Neverthelefl I tell yon the truth, it is expedient for you that I go away •, for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you ', but if I depart, J will fend him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of fin , and of right eoufnef, and of judgment, Pfal. 110.3, Thy people fliall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holinefi from the womb of the morning.

6. By this Covenant it was agreed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, what fhould be the reward and wages that he fhould have for this great Service, for working the work of our Redemption ; his reward and wages in the general Notation thereof, vras 9 askjtnd have ; it was a grant of whatfoever he would ask of God for fo great a work and fervice ^ his recompence was at his own asking, Pfal. 2.8, As\^ of me, and I fliall give thee, &c. and according to his own heart, full content and fatisfaction , I fa, 53.11, He fliall be fatis-fied, &c. but more particularly, his reward and wages, which was all his own asking, comprifed thefe three things ( which fpeaks thefe particulars to have been much upon his heart, and inhisdefign). 1. That he fhould have a feed, and a people \ that for all his labour he might have a redeemed people: when he had his reward and fatisf action at his own asking, he made the redeemed ones, his end 5 his asking, his fatisfaction *, this was the refult of his tranicendent love, that he might be Imma-nuel, God with m \ that he might enjoy his poor worthlefs people, I fa. 53. 10, il, Tet it pleafed the Lord to bruife him, he hath put him to grief: when thou flialt make his Soul an offering for fin, he fliall fee his feed, he fliall prolong his days y and the pleafure of the Lord fliall pro/per in his hand. He. fliall fee of the travel of his Soul, and (hall be fat is fed. 2. That he might have a Crown to himfelf •, I mean, a peculiar glory of being Lord Mediator and Redeemer, and of working this great work \ and this he had in Heaven before the foundation of the world, even fince the eternaldefignation and deftination

of

of him unto this work; for thenceforward he was the Lamb of God flain from the foundation of the world. Rev. 1 $.8. And was fet up from everlafting, Prov .8.23, and was glorified with the Father, not only with the eflential glory that is common to all the three peribns, which was obicured in his humiliation for the work of Redemption * 7 but alio with a peculiar glory, as Lord Mediator, which he had with him before the world began, Joh. 17.5. and this glory he fhall have in Heaven, throughout eternity, even after the laft Judgment, there fhall be in Heaven a peculiar throne, and glory following y and a peculiar long to the Lamb , whereof read Rev. 22. 3. and 7. 10, 17. and 5.9. 3. That he might have a crown and throne for each of thefe redeemed ones, whom he took for a iatisfa&ion to his Soul, their crown, and throne, and robes was part of the reward and wages that he wrought for, and asked of his Father, Joh. 17.24, Father, I will that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory which thou haft given. me. And 14. 3, I will come again and receive you unto my felf, that where I am, there ye may be alfo. Luk. 12. 32, Fear not little flock;, for it is your father*$ good pleafure to give you the King" dom. Rev. 5.21, To him that over cometh willI grant to fit inmy , throne withme^ even as I alfo overcame, and am fet down with my Father in his throne.

7. By this Covenant it was agreed betwixt the parties, what, fhould be the mutual aflurances given betwixt the parties for the performance of the Articles agreed upon. - There needed, no Solemnities betwixt parties who knew one another, and trufted one another fo perfectly *, but for our lakes, that we , might be helped to conceive of this eternal inviolable tranla-£Hon: Therefore upon the one part, 1. Jehovah giveth his word and faithful promife unto Chrift, Ffal. no. 1, The Lordfaid. to my Lord', and not his faithful promife only, but his-oath, alio, Pfal.89. 35, Once have I fworn by my holinef, that I will. mt lye unto David. Heb.7.21, For thofe priefts were made without.^ an oath, but this with an oath , by him that faid unto him, The. Lordfwore, and willnot repent, Thou-art a prieft for ever, after, the order of Melchifedec. 2. Upon the other part, Chriftdoes not only give his word of promife and conient to do this work,, Ffal. 40. 6, Sacrifice and offering thoudidft not defire, mine.ears-haft thou opened, burnt offering and finroffering haft thou not re~

quired\ ,

B5 The Conditions required of Chriji in Chap. IV.

quired, &c. But he alio comes under a Jndicial and Law-acl of Suretifhip, whereby he did from eternity acl himfelf, in the volume of the book^ of God's eternal Records, that he would fulfil all his undertaking, Heb. 10.7, Then [aid I, lolccme^ in the volume of the book^ it is written of me , to do thy mil , O God. And under this acl: of Suretifhip, I comprehend, 1. His eternal confent to take our Nature and Law-condition upon him. 2. His plighting of his faith and truth to acl: our part, and to anfwer the Law, and Demands of Juftice in our Law-place and condition. 3. His eternal agreement that by his own confent a judicial acl: fhould be put upon him, and ftand in record for ever in Heaven, and irt the volume of books that are there, that this perfon had voluntarily undertaken, and promifed by ftriking hands with Jehovah^ to anfwer all demands of Law and Juftics againft his eleel: people.

Having offered the before-mentioned fum of the Articles concluded and agreed upon in the Covenant of Redemption betwixt Jehovah and Chrift :, 1 come in the next place to diftribute and divide that fum , and the things compriled under it, into the reciprocal and mutual engagements of the parties covenanting-, to wit, 1. What were the commands and conditions hid upon Chrift, and voluntarily yielded unto by him, in the Covenant of Redemption. 2. What the promifes and engagements that were given to Chrift by the fame Covenant.

And, 1. Concerning the commands, conditions and engagements, which were required of Chrift Mediator by the Covenant of Suretifhip : I (hall in thefe eight Aflertions open the nature of them, and what they were.

Affert. 1. AH the commands of the Covenant of Redemption, are conditions*, and are to be confidered as fuch^ when they are laid upon Chrift, who came not under commands, but upon terms and conditions. It is not fo in God's Covenant-dealings with us, all the commands of the Gofpel are not to us conditions of righteoufnefs and life (unlefs we underftand conditions in a very large and improper fenfe) •, neither is it of the effence of commands laid upon us to be conditions-, for God oweth nothing to our obedience, nor is he obliged to make any promifes to it *, but the commands of the Covenant of Redemp* tion are all of them conditions of that fame Covenant: For, 1. They are commands, to the obedience whereof, promifes

arc

are n\ade, I fa. 5$. 12, Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great , and he foall divide the [foil with the ftrong, be-caufe he hath poured out his foul unto deaths and he was num-bred with the tranfgreffors , and he bare the [in of many , and made interceffion for the tranfgreffors. 2. They are commands unto which Chrift yielded upon terms, Phil. 2. 7,8, But made himfilf of no reputation , and tooh^ upon him the form of a fer-vant, and was made in the likenefof man. And being found in fafluon as a man , he humbled himfelfr and became obedient unto deaths even the death of the Crofi j therefore God hath highly exalted htm* k

Affert. 2. All the conditions of the Covenant of Redemption , both thefe more general of obeying the Law, and fulfilling all righteoulhefs, Mat. 3.15, For thus it becometh tt$ to fulfil allrighteaufnefi; and the more ipecial condition of laying down his life, were voluntary free at"ts of Chrift's will and infinite love, wherein he was aclred by no neceflity, without his own free confent, Joh. 10. 18, No man takethmy life from me, but I lay it down of my felf^ 1 have power to lay it down, and 1 have power to tak* it again ; this commandment have J received of my Father.

Affert. 3. All the conditions required of Chrift, and undertaken by him m the Covenant of Redemption, were eniiired and certain conditions, there was 110 hazard of failing, nor coming fhort upon his part in any the commands or conditions of that Covenant: therefore it was laid of him, Ifa. 42.4, Hefhallnot failj nor be difc our aged till he have fet judgment in the earth. Three things evidence this. 1. The peribnal union of the two Natures, exempted the man Chrift from all hazard and poflibi^ lity of finning or coming fhort in the obedience of any command or condition required of him. 2. Chrift as man had the Spirit above meafure, and the confirming Grace which is given to ele£l Angels in their head Chrift} he had not only thepromiie of the Spirit and heavenly influences to all duties and conditions required of him *, but he had thefe actually, even from his Mothers womb, Ifa. 42. 1, Iwillputmy fprit upon him. Ifa. 11.2, The Spirit of the Lord fhall refl upon him. $. There were no threatnings in the Covenant of Redemption (though there were promifes) j becaufe there was no hazard of Chrift's failing in the conditions thereof-, nor poffibility of his falling fhort of the promiled reward. Affert. 4.

Affert. 4. Although it was eminent pure Grace that made the Covenant of Redemption ; yet the conditions thereof required from Chriit, were works j it was doing, not believing, that was required of him, Rom. 5. io> By the obedience of one flail many be made righteous. Joh- 9.4,/ mnjl work^the works of him that fent me. 1 acknowledg there was a kind of faith required of Chrift-man, which cannot be excluded the conditions of this Covenant. ( underftanding conditions in that large ienfe as comprehending all thefe tyes, obligations and duties which the man Chrift took upon him, by taking on our Nature, and our Law-place) * 7 whereof he maketh profefTion , If a. 50. 7, For the Lord God will help me , therefore flail I not be confounded *, therefore have I fet my face like a flinty and Iknowthat Iflail not be aflamed. And Pfal. 16. 8, / have fet the Lord always before me *, becanfe he is at my right hand y I flail not be moved ,&c. compared with Act. 2. 25, for David fpeaketh concerning him , I forefaw the Lord always before my face ; for he is on my right hand, that I flonld not be moved. And Heb. 2. 13, I will put my truft in him. But, i .This faith profefTed by Chrift, was faith of another kind, than that faith which is the condition of the Gofpel-covenanttous*, it was the faith of dependance and relying on God, foraffiftance and acceptance in doing the work, which-was the eminent condition of the Covenant of Suretifhipr, but not-a faith whereby he went out of himfelf to rely on another for righteoufnefs; it was works, not Grace; not the Evangelical Inftrument, but the att and work of faith, 2. This faith profefled by Chrift, was upon another account, and for another ufe \ it was a debt which the holy humane nature of Chrift, being a creature, owed unto God j a debt, I fay, fuch as did not exclude that from being meritorious, and part of his fatisfa&ion (fince it was part of his obedience taken on by voluntary compact) no more than his being made under the Law, whereby he was debtor to fatisfie the penalty thereof, did exclude his fuffering from being fatisfa&ory *, yet he was not by this kind of believing juftified , and conftituted righteous, by •any righteoufnefs received by his faith, or imputed to him *, as we are juftified by faith. 3. This faith profefTed by Chrift, was neither the whole condition of the Covenant of Suretifhip, nor the chief and eminent part of it (as (hall be made to appear)*, butatmoft it could amount to no more of the condition of

his

^Chap. IV, the Covenant of Redemption. $?

hisSuretifliip, than fuch a faith of dependency in Adam before his fall, fhould have been in the conditional part of the Govenant of works that was made with him , and that was but one fingle aft and work of righteoufnefs; which was a foiall part of the condition of that Covenant-

AJfert. 5. The conditions of the Covenant of Surety • (hip made with Chrift, did fully and perfectly aniwet the intent of the Covenant of works * 7 and that in both the parts of it copulatively, which did but alternatively oblige manjfor the Law does not oblige man in an abiblute fenfe, both to perfect doing and iufFering, but to one of themj for if we keep the Law,we are not obliged to fuffer, Gen. £. 17, But of the tree of th? knowledg of good and evil, thou ft alt not eat of it \ for in the day thou eatefi thereof thou ft alt fur ely die. But Chrift by the conditions of the Covenant of Redemption, 1. He is a full doer and obedient fulfiller of the commands thereof in all points, Mat. 3. 15, For thus it behoveth us to fulfil all righteouf-nefi. 2. He fully iiiffers the penalty of that Covenant, and fatisfies for the broken commands thereof, I fa. 53.5,6, He

was wounded for our tranfgrefifions The Lord Laid upon him

the iniquity of u4 all. Hence, \. By the conditions of this Covenant which he performed, he had right to Law-juftification, and life eternal, even by the Law of works j for the righteoufnefs which he wrought was perfect Law-righteoufnefs, though the imputation of it to us be an act of Grace *, and our receiving it by faith, make it Gofpel-righteoufnefs to us, 1 Joh. 1. 7, But if we walk^in the light as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jefus Chrift his Son cleanfeth us from all fin. Compared with Rom. 4. ^, But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that jufiifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteoufnefi.

AJfert. 6. Neither Ghrift's active nor paflive obedience are to be excluded from making up the adequate condition of the Covenant of Suretiihip : For, 1. The man Chrift his paflive obedience could not have amounted unto a iatisfaction for us, if by his active obedience, his habitual and actual conformitv unto the holy Law of God, he had not been fuch a high priefi as became us, as is holy, harmlefi, &c. Heb. 7. 26. 2. Although Chrift as man was obliged to obey the Moral Law *, yet confi-dering that he voluntarily took that obligation upon himfelf,

N and

and being Lord and Law-giver, he made himfelf under the Law by this Covenant of Suretifhip. I do not fee how his obedience to the Law can be excluded from among the conditions of this Covenant. $. The whole courfe of ChriftVs obedience, from his Birth to his Grave, by doing and differing, is to be confi-dered as the doing and iufrering of fo excellent a perfon who was God-man •, and lb all thefe being a&s fo excellent, and fo undue (except by voluntary condelcenfion), they muft needs be fuch conditions as were part of the price payed by him. 4. The obedience of Chrift, and all that he did in obedience to-the Law, being performed by him in the ftate ©f his humiliation in which he was, whatfoever he was, for hs^ 2 Cor. 8. % for your fakes he became foor *, all thefe muft have refpeft of conditions of his Covenant with Jehovah , which he performed for us.

Affert. 7. The conditions of the Covenant of Redemption required from Chrift,and performed by him, were meritorious; that is, they were not confequent conditions, which denote only a connexion and order betwixt the thing promifed, and the condition required *, but they were antecedent conditions, when the condition is the caufe of the thing promiied \ as in contracts of Juftice, where one thing is given for another. So the conditions of this Covenant performed by Chrift, did by order of ftritt ]uftice, and )ure emptionis, claim the reward that was promifed and covenanted with him, to be given to himfelf the head, and to his elect people, in whole ftead he fatisfied Juftice by paying their debt with a price of blood} hence it is that he craves the reward to be given, and that in Juftice, for the work he had done, J oh. 17. 4, 5,24, / have glorified thee on the earthy I have finiflied the work^ which thou gave ft me to do. And now,

O Father, glorifie thou me with thine own [elf. Father , / will

that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where lam , that they may behold thy glory which thou haft given me 0 for thou lovedft me before the foundation of the world. Hence it $ alio, that his Advocation is grounded upon Juftice, and he {lands in Heaven, Jefus the righteous, 1 joh. 2. 1. who being nowjuftified and acquitted of the debt that he took upon him by his bond of Suretifhip , whereby he was made fin, and made a enrfe for us, 2 Cor. 5.21. Gal. ^.13. He pleads now the meat of blood-

Jfcrs.%,

Affert. 8. The condition of the Covenant of Suretifhip, is either more general and adequate, or more fpecial and formal ^ and accordingly we muft aniwer the queftion , when 'tis asked, what was the condition of this Covenant i An fa. i. The general adequate condition of the Covenant of Suretifhip can be no narrower than Chrift's whole undertaking; fo that whatfoever he undertook to do, whether in his own perlbn, or inhispeo pie ^ for carrying on, and perfecting the work of Redemption from beginning to end, muft be part of the conditions required at his hand •, whereof read Pfal. 40. 6, to 11. compared with Heb. 10. 5, to 11 *, all which may beiummed up in fix compre-henfive heads, 1. Chrift's accepting the grand charge of this work of Redemption, even the Mediatory-office that was put upon him ^ he receives the keys of the houfe of David, the truft: and weight of the loft, but elect world ; and all the burthen and care of them is devolved upon him, with this office, Ifa. 22. 22, 24, And the ksy of the houfe of David will I lay ttpon hit Jhoulder ', fo hejhall open, and none Jhall Jhut *, and he fall jhutj and none Jhall open : And they fall hang upon him all the glory of his Father's houfe, the offspring and the iffue • all veffels of fmall quantity, from the veffels of cups, even to all the veffels of fiaggons. 2. His taking our nature upon him, and that not in its primitive virgin integrity, but when it was at the worft •, it was a condition of this Covenant, that Chrift fhould humble himfelf to take on him the likenefiof ft nfulflejh,Rom.$. $, that he fhould take the fame nature that offended divine Juftice, even the fame flejh and blood, whereof the children are partakers, and no other, Heb. 2. 14. $. His taking our Law-place, was another condition ^ not our nature only, but our Law-place and room *, that is, to put his Soul in our Soul's ftead, that the Law of God might reach him, who otherwife could not be reached by the Law ; and that. Divine Juftice executing the curfc and penalty of the Law, might fmite him, as the guilty man being by his own confent, and his bond of Suretifhip become legally the debtor and finner f though not intrinfecally), Gal. 4.4, made under the Law, and made fin form, 2 Cor. 5. 21. though he knew no fin. 4. His acting our part, not in a fcenick, but in a real manner *, he came upon the ftage to represent o^ir perfon, and in our nature and Law-place he really acted our part*, and this was another condition required of him , who

N 2 per-

perfectly obeyed the command of the Law, and fuffered the threatning thereof for us, even all that Juftice had threatned to infliit upon the offender and tranlgreflbur of the Law,GW. 3.13. "he was made a curfe for us , Ifa. 55.5, the chaftifement of our -peace was uponhim , &c. 5. His ta-ing a new Covenant-right unto God his own Father, and not to God only, but to heaven^ and glory, and all the New-covenant bleflings, whereby the Covenant-right and rites of his redeemed people might be con-folidated in him, as their head \ and whereby he might for ever carry their names and interefts before his Father, as being there reprefented by him, Ffal. 89. 26, He Jball cry unto me, thou, art my Father , my God, and the rock^ of my Salvation. Heb. 2. 11. 13, For both he that fanBifieth, and they who are fantlifed , are all of one \ for which caufe he is not ajhamed to call them brethren. And again, 1will put my truft in him\ and again, behold 1,and the children which thou haft given me. And 9.24, For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true , but into heaven it fclf, now to appear in the prefence of God, for us. 6. His effectual application of the Redemption purchaied by his Suretifhip unto all his redeemed ones. And under this, I comprehend Chrift's undertaking for the pouring out of the Spirit, to fend to them his Spirit, to draw them to him,to caufe them to believe ek receive his Surety-nghteoufnefs,to keep them in his favour and love, to caufe them t.opedevere,to prefent them perfefted,and without fppt to God, Joh. 15. 26, But when the Comforter is come, whom J will fend unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth , which fro-ceedcth from the Father , he jhallteftifieofme. Joh. 12. \2,And if I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men* unto me. "(oh. 6. 37, All that the Father giveth me [hallcome to me : and him that cometh to me , I will in no wife caft out. Joh. 6. 39,40, And this is the Father's will that hath fent me, that of all which he hath given mt, I fiould lofe nothing, but flwuld raife it up at the laft day. And this is the will of him that fent me, that every one which feeth the Son, and bclievcth on him, may have everlaftmg life, and I will raife him up at the laft day. Joh. 14. 3, And ff 1 go and prepare a place for you , / will come again and receive you unto my felf, that where I am , there ye may be alfo.

2. But if ye enquire after the formal condition^ the Covenant

Chap. IV, the Covenant of Redemption, , 93

venant of Suretifhip •, I fay it was hte whole obedience a&ive and paflive, even unto death, Phil. 2.8, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the crop \ though the fpecial, principal eminent condition of this Covenant may be referred to the principal, eminent, laft aft of his obedience to that fignal fpecial command of laying down his life for the ele<ft, Joh. 10.18, No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my felfc I have power to lay it down-, and 1 have power to take it again :, phii commandment have I received of my Father. For, 1. This Covenant being a bargain betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, of buying a people to God; then the whole price and ranfom told down and paved for them, muft be the formal condition of that Covenant, whereby we are bought with a price, 1 Cor.6.20. 1 Pet, 1.18,19, For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corrupt tible things, as filver andgold, from your vain converfatwn received by tradition from your Fathers : but with the precious blood ef Chrifl, as of a Lamb without {pot , and without blemijla. 2. Chrift was under a fpecial explicite command for the performance of this condition of laying down his life ', as is clear from Joh. 10. 18, and Chrift was under a fpecial aft to obey this command, as himfelf acknowledges, Heb. 10.7, Then faid I, lolcome, in the volume of the beck^it is written of me, to do thy will, O my God-, and therefore we may well call it the fpecial condition of the Covenant of Suretifhip. 3. This lolemn acl: of obedience, in offering himfelf a Sacrifice to death for our fins, is the condition of his bond of Suretifhip, that is moft notifed by the Holy Ghoft, and frequently referred unto 7 as may be gathered from Heb.y. 14, 15,26, How much more fljall the blood of Chrisl , who through the eternal Spirit offered himfelf without jpot to God, purge your confeiences from dead works, to ferve the living God. And for this caufe he is the Mediator of the New Teftament , that by means of death for the Redemption of the tranfgreffions that were under the firft Teftament, they which are called might receive the promifc of eternal inheritance. — but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away fin by the facripce of himfelf Rom. 8. 1, — God fending his own Son in the likenefi of finful fie fin, and for fin condemned fin in the fiefl?. And therefore when we fbeak of the condition of the Covenant of Suretifhip, this is to be held the fpecial eminent condition thereof. 4. The Father "of our

Lord

Lord jefus Chrift ftates the condition of this Covenant upon this eminent iblemn aft of his obedience, even his making his foul an offering for fin, &c. for-vent which he makes the great promiies of his glorious reward, J fa. 5 $. throughout. 5. Our Lord Jefus Chrift himfeif does own this as the ipecial condition of his Coovenant of Suretifhip , and that both at his entringinto the world, Heb. 10. 5,7, Wherefore when he cometh into theworld,he faith, facrifice and offering thou wonldft not\ but a body baft thou prepared me. Then faidj, lo I come, in the volume of the boohjit is written of me y to do thy will, O God : And about, or at th* time of his leaving the world 9 when he had fulfilled, or was about to fulfil all his undertaking and conditions to his Father, Job. 17.4, / have glorified thee on the earth , / have finijlied the worh^ which thou gave ft me to do. With 1 p. 50, When Jefus therefore had received the vinegar, he faid, it ufinifhed, and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghoft. StiMr Huthctf. Thefe being the fum of the conditions required from Cht 1ft, Trut.'ofthcco- and undertaken by him-, let us enquire alio after the promiies vinant, p. 2.made to Chrift, and the encouraging-conditions that were ch. 11. And raa de to him by Jehovah, for undertaking fo hard a work Mr. Robert* as was tn e redemption and recovery of loft man : Thefe were

C, 2. °* ei 8 nt * 0rtS *

The firftkindof promifes made to Chrift in the Covenant of Redemption, were fuch as relate to the offices, authorities, trufts and powers that were covenanted to hiro, for the doing of this work. 1. I lay, Jehovah promifeth to inveft Chrift with offices iutable to that great work of Redemption, to make him Lord Mediator of the new Covenant', to make him great Lord Ambaflador, that he might go and travel in that bufineis of our Redemption; to make him a King, a Prieft, and a Prophet,for effecting this bufinefs, Pfal.i 10. throughout, The Lord faid to my Lord, fit thou at my right hand,^-he foall judge among the heathen, — the Lord hath fworn^ and will not repent , thou art a Prie& for ever, Ifa.49. 6. And42. 6,7, J will alfo givethee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou may ft be my Salvation unto the ends of the earth, — to open the blind eyes, Sic. Pfal. 2. 6, 7, Tet have J fet my King upon my holy hill ofZion ; I will declare the decree, the Lord [aid unto me, &c. 2. God did not only promife to inveft Chrift with offices and

■trufts ^

Chap. IV. the Covenant of Redemption. . c/5

trufts •, but with authorities and powers alio , with headffiip and power of judgment over Men and Angels, that fhall make them all bow to him, Rom. 14. 10. II, We [hall all ft and before the judgment feat of Chris! *, for it is written. As I live, faith the Lord., every knee jhall bow to me, and every tongue ft) all con-feft to God* He was not a titular King or Prieft, nor a fcenick one, a King upon a ftage-, but a King upon a throne, Luk± 1. }2, 11, And the Lord God ft)all give unto him the throne of his father David. And he fhall reign over the houfe if Jacob far ever, and of his kingdom there jhall be no end. A King that had power to bow the hearts of his Subjects, and to crufh the greateft Heads and Rulers in the world that op-pofe him, TfaL 110. $. 5, 6, Thy people ft)all be willing in the day of thy power. —7 he Lord at thy right handftiall ftrike through kings in the day of his wrath. He ftudl ]udg among the heathen, he ft all fill the places with the dead bodies, he jhall wound the heads over many countries. And 2. 9, Thou ft)alt breaks them with a red of iron, thou ft)alt daft) them in pieces like a potter's vejfei And 45. %, 4, 5, Gird thy fword upon thy thigh, Omofh mighty, with thy glory and thy majefty. And in thy ma-jefty ride profperoufty, becaufe of truth andmeeknefs, an d right e-eufneft, and thy right hand Jhall teach thee terrible things. Thine arrows are ftiarp in the heart of the kings enemies, whereby the people fall under thee. A perfonin offices, who had all judgment committed unto him, who had power given him over, all flejh, Joh. 17. 2. and all power in heaven and earth, Mat. 2&. 18. this was he to whom all the honourable offices and ablblute powers of his Father's houfe was promifed, that he might aft and give orders, and let up, and put down, and none to controul him, Ifa. 22. 22, 24, And the key of the houfe of David, will I lay upon his ftoulder, fo he ft all open and none fhall ftut, and he ftiallftmt and none jhall open. And they ft)all hang upon him all the Glory of his father's houfe, the offfprin* and the iffue , all veffels of fmall quantity, from the vejfels of cups, even to all the vejfels of flaggons. 3. I iky, the Lord Mediator had all thefe offices and authorities by Covenant •, the Lord promifed to him, and covenanted with him to give him thefe offices, for doing the work of Redemption ■ therefore we read Pfal. 89. that Chrift (who there is called David) is conftituteda King byjCovenant, % 3,4*, and by what Covenant ?

nam? even by that Covenant whereby the help of God's elect people was laid upon him, v. 19. anci this was the Cove' nam of Suretifhip ar.d Redemption *, and in ihe lame place we read of the ftanding foft of God'? Covenant with him, v. 28. even that Covenant whereby he was made higher than the Kings of the earth, ^.27. And again, we find the lame Covenant whereby he had a Lifting Kingdom lWorn with him, v. 34, 5^, Aiy Covenant will I not breaks nor alter the thing tbjit is gone ont of my lips: Once have I [worn by my holinefi f that I will not lye unto David. To the lame purpofe alio, there is an eath interpoled with the promife of his Prieft-hood, to (hew that he was in that office by a more unalterable Covenant than that which was made with Levi-, Mai. 2.5, My covenant with him was of life and peace * 9 compared with Heb. 7. 21, For thofe Prlefts were made without an oath *, but this with an oath, by him that faid unto him, the Lord [ware and will not repent, thou art a Prieft for ever. The fecond kind ^ • of Promifes made to Chrift, are fuch as relate to the gifts, endowments, and habitual furniture which was necefTary unto the man Chrift, for performing this great work *, he had an inftru-mental fitnefs for this extraordinary work, Jfa. 11.2, $,4, And the fpirit of the Lord ftall re si upon him, the fpirit of wif dom and under ftanding , the fpirit of counfel and might, the fpirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. And ft:all make him of qitick^underftanding in the fear of the Lord,: andhefhall not judg after the fight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of bis ears. But with righteoufnefs fliall be judg the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek^of the earth : and he jhall [mite the earth with the rod of his mouth , and with the breath of his lips ftjall he flay the wicked. And under this fort of Promifes, I comprehend, 1. The Sanctiflcation of our nature to beaftumed by him , and infufion of habitual Grace in the holy humane nature of Chrift, from the very firft moment of his conception, and of rhe perfonal union of the two natures,/,/^ 1. 1 5, Therefore alfo thzt holy thing which Jhall be born of thee, ftall be called the Son of God. Heb. 7, 26, For fuch an high prieft became us, who is holy, harmleft, undcftled, feparated fromftnners, and made higher tmp the heavens. . 2. The grow th of Grace, whereof the man Chrift was capable, who was made in all things like his brethren (except Qn), we muft therefore

cone

conceive of his growth, to have been without fmful weaknefs , iind to have been in experience, and in phyfical intention, and bendednefs of ads of obedience, which the Law does not require in like degree from the young as from the old, Lul^ 2. 52, Andjefusincreafedin wifdomand fiature , and in favour with God and man. Heb. 5.8, Though he were a Son , yet learned he obedience by the things which he fuffered. Zech.6. 12, Behold the man whofe name is the Branchy and he jhall grow up out of his place , and he fiali build the temple of the Lord. 3. The a anointing in its fulneis without raeafure, and above his fellows y whereby the man Chrift was full of Grace, and had a fulneis for this work, whereof no other creature was capable,

Pfal. 45. 2, 7, Thou art fairer then the children of men\

Grace is poured into thy lips *, therefore God hath bleffed thee

for ever. Thy God hath anointed, thee with the oyl of gladnefl

above thy fellows. Joh. 1. 14, And the word was made flef), and dwelt among ta-i and we beheld his glory , the glory as of the only begotten of the Father ', full of grace and truth. And 3. Hjfor Godgiveth not the fpirit by meafur? unto him. 4. The overflowings of his fulnefs, whereby the Spirit and All-iaving Grace, being placed in him as in a Store-houfe and Treaiure, not for himielf only, but for his elect people :, did run down and flow out from the Mediator, from Chrift God-man, as water from a fountain and frefh lpring, as dropping fhowers from full clouds, Joh. 1. 16, And of his fulncfi have all we received, and grace for grace. Col. 2. $, In whom are hid all the treafures of wifdom and kgowledg. And 1. 19, But fi pleafed the Father that in him Jlwuldall fulnef dwell. 5. The bodily inhabitation of the fulneis of the God-head in him : By vertue of that unconceivable myfterie of the peribnal union, he had a-perfbnal fulnefs, Col- 2. 9, for in him dweilcthall the fulnef of the Godhead bodily.

The third kind of Promifes made by Jehovah to Chrift, and covenanted to him, were iuch as relate to his actual fupport in the execution of this office, and performing of the work which he undertook*-, for the man Chrift being a creature,needed more than habitual Grace, and anointing with gifts for iuch a work ♦, there was a neceffity that he fhould not act independently , without influence from God. And to this kind of promifes may be referred the promifes of heavenly influences

O to

<j8 '?£e Vromifes made to Chrift in Chap. IV.

to all the a£bof his Mediatory-office, and his Surety-obedience \ fo that as the man Chrift needed the Spirit and Influences, thefe were enfured by Covenant unto him*, fo that it was impoflible that the man Chrift could fin y or come fhort in performing all his Father's pleaiiire (as Adam finned, and fell fhort of the command), having actual influences enfured unto him, as well as habitual Grace :' hence he faith of himfelf, Job. 16. 32. and 8. 16, / am not alone-^ it was impoflible that he could be left alone of his Father y.md to him was the promife made, I/a. 1 1.12, The fpirit of the Lord foall refl upon him • the Spirit and heavenly influences, were his conftant companions, Jfa. 50. 4, He wake net b morning by mornings he wakraeth mine ear to hear at the learned. The promife of help, ftrength, fupport, and afliftance, which are the immediate effects of actual influences, and in which the heavenly influences of the 'Spirit have a proper efficiency and caufality^there is a divine furniture of ftrength and afliftance promifed to him in the difcharge of his office, & in every aft of his obedience, Jfa- 42. 6, J the Lord have called thee in righteoufnef y and will hold thine hand y and will keep thee. Pfal. 89. 2 1, With whom my hand pall be eftabUfied^ mine arm alfe Jhall ftrengthen him. The promife of confirming Grace:the man Chrift had the promife of the lame confirming Grace in his obedience, and office, and covenant-ftate of favour, which is now given to the elect Angels in Chrift their head, Jfa. 49. 1,2,3, Liften Oljles unto me y and hearken ye people from far *, the Lord hath called me from the womb , from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name. And he hath wade my month like a fiarp fwcrd , in the jhadow of his hand hath he hid me r and made me a policed floaft , in his quiver hath he hid me. . And faid unto me , thou art my fervant, 0 Jfrael , in whom J will be glorified. And 42.4, He fliall notfail y nor be difcoura-gedy till he have fet judgment in the earth. To him is the promife made, that he (hall never be bowed nor broken *, he (hall not be turned off his work nor his way, by any thing that he can meet with.

And this kind of Promifes is made to Chrift-man, to en-

Medul.Bibl.b, 2. courage him (as Mr. Roberts obferves), 1. Againft the utmoft

€ - a * extremity of his fufferings, when he fhould make his Soul an

offering for fin, when the wakened-up fword of divine Juftice

fhould finite him , Zech. 1 J. 7, Awak*i O fword } againft,my

facvherd

Jhepherd, &c and againft the man that is my fellow, faith the Lord of hofls. Though he was forfaken for a time, and wanted influences of confolation, and felt-fruition of the pre-fence of God , Pfal. 22. i. Mat. 27.45 \ yet thefe promiies were verified to him, aud God ftood by him with influence of ftrength, fupport, afliftance, and prefervation in all his Mediatory-adminiftrations, till he laid, the work is finified, Joh. 19. so. Pfal. 22. 9, But thou art hethattook^me out of the womb , thou didft make me to hope when I was upon my mothers breafis. 2. Againft all oppofitions and enemies: There was much oppofition made to Chrift ?% and many were againft him j but againft all the rage, plots, combinations of Jews and Gentiles, the Lord ftood by him, and let up his Kingdom, Pfal. 2. 2, 6, The kings of the earth fet themfelves, and the rulers take counfel together againft the Lord, and againft his anointed ;— let have I fet my king upon my holy hill of Sion. Acl. 4. 27,28, For of a truth againft the holy child Jefm, whom thou haft anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles and the people of Ifrael were gathered together , for to do whatfoever thy hand and thy counfel determined before to be done. 3. Againft the deepeft difcouragements that he fliould meet with .in the dif-charge of his office : H< is lupported by thefe promifes made to him, and accordingly he encourageth himself, If a. 49. 4,5,6, Then faid I, I have laboured in vain, I have fpent my ftrength for naught, and in vain ; yet furely my pdgment is with the Lord, 'and my wor\wiith my God. And now, faith the Lord that formed me from the womb to be his fervant, to bring Jacob again to him : Though Ifrael be ■ not gathered; yet flail I be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and my God fuall be my ftrength. And he fiid, it is a light thing that thoujhouldft be my fervant to ruife up the tribes of Jacob,and to r eft-ore the preferred of Ifrael; I Will alfo give thee for a light of the Gentiles, that thou may ft be my* fahation unto the end of the earth.

The fourth kind of Promiies made by Jehovah unto Chrift in the Covenant of Redemption, were fuch as relate to the iucceis-fulnefs and prolpering of the work of Redemption in his hand. 3^nd unto this head, 1 refer, 1. The promiie of God's making Chnft the man of his right hand; and that hot only in refpecl: of* lpecial love and honour, but efpecially in refpedlof inftrumen-Tality v whereby God promiies to make Him the main Inftru-

O 2 meat

mentof aftion, that ihouldbe made ferviceable to his ends iw the work of Redemption, Pfal. 80. 17, Let thy hand be upon the man of thy right handy upon the Son of man whom thou madest ftrongfor thy felf. 2. The promife of a luccefsful hTueofhis undertakings: the Lord covenanted! to Chrift, and giveth to him aflurances that he fhall eilect the work which he undertaken j as if Jehovah had been Surety for this, he ftrikes hands with him, that he fhall go and profper, If a. j4j io,The plea fare of the Lord jliall profper in his hand. — He fliall fee of; the travel of his foul. — by his kgowledg fliall my righteous fer-vant yeflifie many. Iia. 49. 6, 7,8, And he faid, it is a li?ht thing that thou fliouldsl be my fervant to raife up the tribes of Jacob , and to reft ore the preferved of Ifraei -, / will alfo give thee for a, light to the Gentiles, that thou may fibs my falvation iwto the end of the earth. "Thus faith the Lord., the Redeemer-of Ifraei, and his holy One, to him whom man defpifeth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a fervant ofrulers ^ Kings fliall fee andarife, Princes alfo fhall worfliip, becaufe of the Lord that is ^ faithfd j and the holy One of Ifraei *, and he fhall chufe thee. Thus faith the Lord, in an acceptable time have I heard thee, and. in a day of falvation have 1 helped thee ^ and I will preferve thee, and give thee for a Covenant of the people, to eflablifli the. earth, to caufe to-inherit the defolate, her it Ages. 3. The pro-raifes of victory over all his enemies: the Lord covenanteth with Chrift, that whofoever maketh oppofition to him in any of his offices, in anypaft of his work, of working Redemption and Salvation for his elect people, fhall be trodden down, and fhall fall before him, Pfal. no. 1, 5,6, Sit thou at.my right hand, until J maki thine enemies thy footHooL The Lor datthy right hand fliall ftrikethrough kings in the day of his wrath. He fliall judg among the heathen ^ he fliall fill the places with the dead bodies, he fliall wound the heads over many countreys,-Pfal. 89. 2 1, Aed I will beat down his foes before his face, and plague them that hate him. 4. The promifes of triumph: God covenanted with him, not only to give him the victory, but a moft glorious publick triumph over Principalities and Powers, and all oppofitions and enemies to his undcrta* kings, Jfa. 5 $-.-. 12, Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he fliall divide the fpoil with the.flrong* Eph. 4. 8, Wherefore he faith, when he afc ended u-p on high, he led captivity

Chap. IV. the Covenant of Redemption. l.oi

vky captive, and gave gifts unto men. Col. 2. 15, And having foiled princ palities and powers, he made a frewof them openly,,, triumphing over them in it. It was in the f.iith of thefe Promiies made to Chrift concerning his Father's (landing by him in this work, and crowning it with iucceis in his hand, that he put on that holy hardneis againft all oppofition, and walked as unconcerned who ftood in his way, fince his Father was with him, engaged by fb iblemn an act of promiie and covenant made with him, I fa. 50. 6,7,8,91, 1 gave my back^to the fmiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair : I hid not my face from frame and (pitting. For the Lord God will help me ^ therefore jhaU I not be confounded; therefore have I fet my face like a flint, and J know that I frail not be a framed. He isneer that juslifieth me, who will contend with me f let us sland together :, who is mine adversary ? let him come neer to me. Behold, the Lord God will help me, whais he that frail condemn me? lcr y they all frail wax old as a garment, the moth frail eat them ups The fifth kind of Promiies macie by Jehovah to Chrift in the Covenant of Redemption, were tnofe that relate unto his Fathers acceptance of the travel of his Soul in this work of our Redemption. And under this I comprehend, 1. What-' ibeverwas fpokento him of his Father's deleftation,and taking pleaiure in the perlbn of Chrift God-man, and in his Mediatory-traniaclions *, all- delight arileth from futablenefs , and this* from Chrift's futablenefs unto the Lords ends, and thelVrvice unto which he was chofen, and his iutable actings unto thefe ends, Luk^ }.2i,22, Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pafi that Jefus alfo being baptized, and praying, the he a-* venwas opened'. And the Holy Ghofi defcended in a bodily fr apelike a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which faid, -thon art my beloved Son, in thee 1 am well-pie a fed. Pro v. 8. $Q y -Then I was by him as one brought up with him , and I was daily his delight,' re'joycing always before him. lfa. 42. I, Behold my fervant whom J uphold, mine el$U, in whom my foul delighteth^ 2. The promiie of gracious acceptance to whatibever he fhould aft or requeft, on the behalf of his Redeemed ones, within the time of Grace. J fa. 49.8, Thus faith the Lord, in an acceptable time have J heard thee, and in a day ofjalvation have I helped-thee. Joh. 11. 41,42, Father I thank, thee that thou hafi heard: me : And I knew that thou loeareft. me always. Heb- 5. 7, Who.

in the days of hisfleft, when he had offered tip Prayers and Sup plications, with f rang crying and tears, unto him that was able tofave him from death, and was heard in that he feared. $. The Pro-^ miles of Juftification: there wasfome fort of Juftification covenanted to him, which he eyeth, and wherewith he encouraged himfelf under hard and reproachful ufage, If a. 50. 8, He is near that pfiifieth w, who will contend with me ? and accordingly it is laid of him, 1 Tim. 3. 16, he was juftified in the fpirit 9 and though he was not capable of remiflion of fin, and juftification from intrinfecal guilt^ for he had none, being holy, harwlep, undefiled, and feparate from finners y Heb. 7. 26. becaufe he had done no violence *, neither was there any deceit in his mouthy Ilk. 53. 7- Yet juftification is promifed to him, and he is laid to be juftified, 1. Becaufe he was a per feci: doer .and obeyer of the Law, 1 Joh. 1. 7, But if we walk^ m the light as he is in the light, we have fellowjhip one with another , and the blood of Jefiu Chriji his Son cleanfeth nsfrom all fin, Chrift did in all things give confummate and perfect obedience to the Law: and this is to be juftified by a Law-juftification and title to life, which Adam fhould have had •, if he had obeyed the Law and Covenant of works. 2. When his caufe is juftified, he himfelf is formally juftified, in refpect of thefe fins for which he undertook to fatisfie: the caufe that he ftood for in the Covenant of Redemption, the action is win in Law that he ftood for, and that was his elect peoples caufe, for whom he ftood when Tufticefmote him*, he is juftified and acquitted from our fins, rhough he had none of his own, Rom. 6. 9, knowing that Chrift being raifed from the dead, dieth no more *-, death hath no more dominion over him. 3. He is juftified as a publick perfon (though in no private capacity) as head of the party whom he represented, and whole Law-place he took upon him, as one who perlbnated and acted the part of another bv allowance and warrant of Law, Heb. 2. 10. 13, For it became him for whom are all things, and by whom- are all things, in bringing in.zny Sons unto glory, to make the Captain cf their falvation per jell through fiifferings. — And again, I will put my truftin him-^ and again,, Behold, I, andthe children which God hath given ^e. 4. He is juftified deelaratively, in regard that he was declared by a Law-act: and Judicial-declaration, to bzjefitsthe righteous, 1 Joh.2.1.. whohadiatisfied the Law, Mom. 1.4, And declared to be the

Son

Son of God with power , according to the fpirit of holineft, by the refurrelHon from the dead * 7 he was declared juftified by his rcfurrection, even as he was declared condemned by his death. 5. He is juftified bycancelling his bond of Suretifhip which he gave to Jehovah', and now having compleatly fatisficcl for our debts, which was the intent of that bond of Suretifhip, the right is cancelled, according to the manner of the Creditor's delivering back the bond to the Debtor when it is latisfied: And thus we are to conceive, when he blotted out the handwriting of ordinances that was again ft n$ , Col. 2. 14. that he had then a difcharge of his bond of Suretifhip for our debt ; for his bond could not lye for our debt, when ours was cancelled And though the preciie fcope of that Scripture and Context lead us to underftand the cancelling there mentioned, as firftly relative to the Ceremonial-Law *, yet I know no reaion why wefhould reftricl: it to that only; but, we may extend it to the finsagainft, and threatnings of the Moral Law alfo, info far as that is a writing againft us, efpecially fince the words immediately before, fpeak of Juftification and remiffion of all Cms, as a fruit of Chrift's death ; and the words following, declare the extent of his death in this glorious conqueftand triumph over all his peoples enemies. 6. He is juftified, bccauie it is a&ed and recorded in the volume of the book of the written word, that he hath fulfilled what was written of his undertaking in the book of God's eternal Decrees *, and in this fenfe-aperlbnmay befaid to be juftified, who being atted in the record of a book to perform any thing, or to pay any debt, or to become baiie for any perfon, when it is thereafter alfo recorded of him, that he latisfied and performed his undertaking, And thus we find that his undertaking and luretifhip that was-recorded ere he came into the world, Pfal.^0.6, Sacrifice and offering thon didft not deftre, mine cars haft thou opened, burnt' offering and fin-offering haft thon not reqniredfac. Is alio recorded of him to have been latisfied by him, when he came into the world, Heb. 10. 5,6, 7, Wherefore when hecometh into the world, he faith, facrifice and offering thon wotddft not \ but a body haft thon prepared me. In burnt offerings and facrifces for fin thm haft had no picafitre. 'Then faid 7, lo J come, in the vo~ lame of the book^ it is written of me , to do thy will, O God. 7. He is juftified, becaufe he is openly relaxed and chftaifTed the

Pri&n?

Priion, after that he had entered his perfon for payment of the broken man's debt: the Debtor being under lafh and execution of Law at the Creditor's purliiit, and let go again, is juftitied and acquitted. And thus was Chriffc judicially and by authority of God loofed from death, from the Priion and Fetters j becaufe the Priion could not hold him, nor the gripes and fetters of death detain him Prifoner, when the Sentence of the Law was fatisfied, and the Judg declared him free, Aft. 2* 24, Whom God hath raifed up, having loofed the fains of death , becaufe it was not pojfible that he jlwuld be holden of it ; 'tis a Phrafe like to that Pfal. 105. 20, The king fent and loofed him, even the rider of the people, and let him go free. Rom. 6. 9, . Knowing that Chrifl being raifed from the dead, dieth no more m 7 death hath no more dominion over him.

The fixth kind of Promii'es made by Jehovah unto Chrift, were theie that relate to the reward that fhould be given to him for this great work and fervice in our Redemption : And iuch were, 1. The promiie of exaltation, after the debafement , and ignominy that he fhould humble himiclf unto, in the execution of his Suretifhip •, Jehovah covenanteth with him to advance him to the greateft height of dignity and honour that is in earth or heaven, Pjal. 89.27, Alfo I will make him my fir ft born , higher than the kings of the earth. And 110. 7, He Jhall drwk^of the brook^in the way \ therefore fijall he lift up the head. IIa. 53. 12, Therefore will I divide him a portion nith the greati and he jhall divide the fpoil with the ftoong -which was performed unto him, Phil. 2. 8 , And being found in fafirion as a man, he humbledhimfelf and became obedient unto death, even the death of the Crofi \ therefore God hath highly ex-a!tedhim,&c. Heb. 1. i->When he had by himfelf purged our fins,fate down on the right hand of the Ma)efty on high : Which promifes and performances have a peculiar refpeft to the exaltation of Chrift in his refurreclion from the da-d, afcenfion unto heaven, and fefTion at the right hand of God-, whereof read Pfal. 16. 8, 9, 10, 11, compared with AEb. 2. 25, to 32- And i 5. 32,5 3. and Pfal. 110. 1. compared with Aft. 2. 34, 35. 2. The pro-mile of fatisfattion , a reward that fhould fatisfie hi n, a reward that fhould-be according to his own heart, and at his own asking and craving , Jfa t 53.1 1, He Jhall be fatisfied. Pfal. 2.8, Ask^of me } and J jhall give. 3. The promiie of a feed : Since a

redeemed

redeemed feed Was one of Chrift's ends for which he ferved} he endured hard labour, he fuffered, he died : which, next unto the honour of God, was upon his heart. The Lord by Covenant.. with him, promifeth that he mall not want ofT-fpring, he fhafl neither want children nor heirs, he (hall have the fatisfacTion - ,\ , Which he defired , Ifa 5 3. 10, 11 , When thou fralt make his foul an offering for fin, he frail fee hit feed. — He frail fee of the travel ofhis foul', and frail be fatisficd. Heb. 2, 1 3, Behold, J, and the children which God hath given we. Eph. 5. 25, 26, 27, Chrifl alfo loved the Church, and gave himfelf for it , that he might fantlife and cleanfe it with the wafring of water by the word: That he might prcfent it to himfelf agloriom Church, not having Jpot or wrinkle, or any fuch thing ', but that it frouldbe holy and without blemtfr *, and if this was one of Chrift's ends for which he wrought, and a part of his reward which his Father prcmiied to him •, then, 1. Sure he is Lord and Mafter of the will of man, and hath a forcible ibveraignty and dominion over man's free well, to bow and determine it (which Armi- seeMrRutherf. mans and Socinians denyj, elfe how can he promife a feed to Tnat.of 'the Co* Chrift, and undeclinably and inluperably make that promife v . enm » P- 2 « good , and caufe them believe and perfevere unto the end, c -9-p-? 2 7>& c « whereby they come and abide his feed ? Then, 2. There is no more definable fight to the eye of Chrift, than to fee all his Redeemed feed about him in his Father's houfe, fairly landed, and without the reach of all poflible danger of perifhing, Job. 17. 24, Father, I will that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where lam. Heb. 2. 13, Behold, I, and the children which God hath given me. Then, 3. There can be nothing more certain than the faith, perfeverance and falvation oi Chrift's elect and redeemed feed * 7 in regard it is both undertaken by Chrift in his part of the Covenant of Suretifhip, and promifed to Chrift by his Father *, and fo undertaken by Jehovah alfo, in the articles of the Covenant of Redemption, 4. The promife of a large Dominion and Kingdom: the Lord promifeth to Chrift, that a large and flourifhing Kingdom fhall he given him, over many countreys, and that he fhall have many fubjefts, and thefe conquering too, who fhall ftand laft in the fields, and have a proiperous war until the day of their Redemption, Pfal.i.S, Askjfme, andlwillgive-theethebea-

P then

then for thy inheritance, and the utter wofl farts of the earth for thy pojfejfion. And 72. 8, 9, 11, He (hall have dominion from fea to fea, and frov the river unt0 the ends of the earth. They that dwell in the wtlderncf frail bow before him, and his enemies frail lick the dufl , yea, all Kings frail fill down before him, all Nations frail ferve him. And I 10. 3, Thy people Jhall be will in or in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holmef, from the womb of the warning . Ma!. 1. II, For from the rifing of the Sun, even unto the going down of the fame, my name jhall be great amow the Gentiles, and in every place incenfe (hall be burned unto my name, and a pure offering *, for my name frail be great amona. the heathen, faith the Lord of hofrs. Zech, 9. ic, His dominion frail be from, fea to fea, and from the river , even to the cads of the earth. Dan. 7. 14, And there was given him dominion and glory 1 and a Kingdom that all People., Nations and Languages fhdtildjervehim'j his dominion is an everlafiing dominion > which frail not pafi away, and his Kingdom that which frail not be de-Ihoycd. 5. The promife of glory, a peculiar glory in heaven, throughout eternity to the Lord Mediator and Redeemer, to the Lamb that was flain, who wrought this great and glorious work of our Redemption , this glory he craveth as his wages, Joh. 17.4, 5, I have glorified thee on forth, I have finifred the worl^which thou gave ft me to do : And now-, O Father , glorifie thou me with thine own felf. This glory he eyed when he was at hard labour about the work, //^49'4>5> Surely my judgment is with the Lord, and my wor^wlth my God.*~-Though lfraeU be not gathered \ yet■■fall I be^ glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and my God fall'be my ftrength* Heb. 1.2. 2, Who for the ]oy that was fet before him, endured the crof. This glory was pro-mifed to him, Zcch. 6. 1j, He frail build the temple of the Lord, and he frail bear the glory. Ha. 22. 24, And they frail hang- upon him all the glory of his Fathers honfe \ this glory i> actually payed to him in heaven,where theXamb has a throne, Rev.22. i. But the throne of God, and of the Lamb, frail be in it. And 7.17,. For the Lamb which is in the mid ft of the throne, frail feed them ^ where there is a new Song fung unto the Lamb,.fov. 5. 9, 10, And they fung a new Song, faying, thou art worthy to take the book^ and to open the feals thereof', for thou waft fiain,and baft redeemed us to God by thy bloody out of evjry kindred, and tongue , andpi

and

-Chap. IV, ihe'Covenant of Redemption. T07

and nation : And haft made us unto our God Kings and Priefts^ and we flail reign on the earth. Yea, and a crown and glory tor his redeemed ieed, was part or'the reward promifcd to him, and for which he wrought, Job. 17.24, Father, I wultha: they alfo whom thou haft given me y be with we where I a>n , that they may behold my glory which thou haft given me. Luk. 12. £5, fear not little flocks for it is yonr Father's good pleafure to give you the Kingdom, 2 Pet. 5.4, And when the chiif Shevherd flail appear , ye flail receive a crown of glory.

the ieventh kind of Promiies made by Jehovah to Chrift, were thefe that relate to intereft } I mean, the new contracted mterefts, Covenant-interefts that were promifed to him, as part of this agreement betwixt Jelwvahmd Chrift Mediator, out of which did ipring all the new Covenant-interefts and relations that we have to God : And fuch were , 1. The intereft in God as his God by Covenant', for to him was the great Mother-promife of the Covenant made, 1 will be his C.od % Pial. 89. 16 ? Heftiallcry to me., thou art — my God: This intereft is bound up with him in the Covenant of Suretifhip. 2. The intereft in God as his Father.by Covenant, to Chrift was promifed, and with him was bound up a new Sonftrip and Covenant-title to God as his Covenanted Father, Pfal. 89. 26, He flail cry unto me , thou art my Father. Heb. 1.5, / will be to jfim'M Fother r and he ftiall.be to me a Son ; and thefe Covenant-relations and interefts, and the cpmpellations arifing from them, we find Chrift own and acknowledge Joh: 20. 17, 1 afcend.unto my Father and your Father } and to my Godandtoyour God? Hence he calleth us brethren, children of the lame Father• j who have one Covenant-relation with him, to the fame God, Heb. 2. 12, / mlLdeclare thy name unto my'brethren * r -hence God is called the God and Father of our Lord Jefus Chrift, 1 Pet. 1, $.. $. The intereft of Saviourfhip , for to the man Chrift 'tis promifed that jehovah fhall be the rock o{ his Salvation, P/W/89. 26. he .{hall cry to mt % Thou art my God f -and the rock^of my Salvation : hence he cryed, Father fave me from this hour? Joh.12.27, Jehovah was a Saviour to the .man Chrift fronv the things that he luffered as our furety; he faveth the head and body: therefore it is laid, Heb. 3.7, that he cryed to him that was able to fave him from death. 4. The intereft of headlhip : when Chrift

Je8 the Vromifcs wade to Chrijl in Chap. IV.

was given to be head of his body the Church, he took upon him the man Chrift, the Mediator took upon him a new relation to God as his head , which is founded and bound up in the Cove-venant of Suretifhip *, by which this comely order was efta-blifhed, that Chrift fhould be a head to his Church, and God fhould be a head to the man Chrift : In this reiptft it is faid, that Chrift is God's, i Cor. 3.23, and how I As ye arc Chrisls, and all things arc yours *, that if, ina fubordination to do fervice, 1 Cor. 11. 3, and the head of Chrift is God ; the G od and Father of our Lord [eius Chrift muft be the head of Chrift *, a head by union, to which Chrift is united by bonds of union, not natural only, but federal, Joh. 1 o. 50, /, and my father are one. Joh. 1.1, And the word wa< with God\ a head by influence of Spirit and Grace to the man Chrift, who liveth by the Father, Joh. 6.37, As the living^ father hath fent me, and I live by the father } a head by way of order, who is over Chrift Mediator , and to whom the man Chrift is fubjeft, 1 Cor. 15.28, Then fliall the Son alfo himfelf be fubjett to him that put all things under him. 5. The intereft of hearing Prayer, Pfal. 89. 26, Heftull cry •unto me •, this is bound up among the Covenant-interefts, which he took upon him by his Suretifhip, and by this relation : when Chrift fhould humble himfelf to pray, Jehovah promifeth to hear him, and he hath hearing by Covenant, as his feed alfo have it, //rf.49.8, In an acceptable time have Iheardthee. ]oh. r 1. 41,42, father , I thanks thee that thm haft heard me: 'And I knew that thou hear-eft me always. Heb. 5. 7, Who in the days of his fie (h y when he had offered up Prayers and Supplications with

ftrong crying and tears unto him that was able to fave him from deathy and wo* heard in that he feared. Thefe and the like inte-refts and relations were covenanted to Chrift; and out of thefe Covenant-interefts engaged unto him, did our Covenant-relations fpring.

ThelaftkindofPromifes made by Jehovah to Chrift, were thefe which relate to the whole defign and intent of his Suretifhip: And the great and publick effects which it fhould produce in the whole frame of the creation, for the ele& redeemed peoples fake. Andfuch were, l.The promife of delivery of the whole creation from bondage and vanity, unto which it was made futoeft for man's Sin, and whereof the whole world

Chap. IV. the Covenant of Redemption. \oy

is Tick, like a woman travelling in birth, &wz.8.20, 21,22,

For the creature was made fub)eft unto 'Vanity, not willingly, but by reafon of him that hath fub]efted the fame in hope: Becaufe the creature it felf alfo jhall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God : For we hrww that the whole creation groaneth and travelleth in pain together until now. 2. The promile of reftoring all things to their primitive perfection: all things were broken, defaced anJ marred by man's fin ; infomuch that the beauty of them all is gone, and nothing remains upon theie inferiour creatures, but the old mines of glory * 9 but there (hall come a time of the refli-tutlcnof all things, Aft. 3. 21. and who fhall do this? Chrift mends and makes all things new again by his Surety-covenant, that were broken by the rupture of the Covenant of works, Rev. 21. 15, And J faw a new heaven , and a new earth :> for the fir ft heaven, a?jdthe fir ft earth were pa (fed away, and there was no more fea. Andhe that fate upon the throne, faid. beheld, J make all things new. 2 Pet. 3. I $, Neverthelefs, we according to his promife, look^for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwetleth righteoufnefs. $. The promife of reftoring the broken league that was betwixt man and the reft of the creatures in their original condition, when all obeyed Adam, and were de-pendersupen him :, after the violation of which there was conr tinual war and jarring betwixt man and the reft of the creatures *, fin did make a breach in the whole creation ', when man finned* . all the creatures became enemies to him, and one to another*, but now in Chrift all the creatures are reconciled, Eph. 1. 10, That in the dijpenfation of the fulnefi of times he might gather together in one, all things in Chrift, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth, even in him. Hof. 2. 18, And in that day Willi make a Covenant for them with the be aft of the field,and with the fowls of heaven, and with the creeping things of the ground ^ and I will breaks the bow, and the fword, and the battel out of the earth, and 1 will make them to lye downfafely. By Ch rift's Sure-tifhrpandthe Covenant-promifes through him, the creatures are brought in a new league with man , Job 5. 23, For thou jhalt be in league with the ft ones of the field, and the beasls of the field Jhall be at peace with thee. Plal. 121.6, The Sun flmUmt fmitztheeby day, nor the Moon by nifht. 4. The promife of

removing

removing the'Law c uric out of all difper rations, and writing the Goipcl-bleiTing upon them, that all and every of them may be bleffings in Chrift to his Redeemed people : Dent. 28.4, 5, Bleffed flail be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattily and the encreafe of thy kfne j blefjed flail be thy basket } and thy fere :, that even the rods and chaftife-v ments, which are curies of the Law to the wicked, ( Dent, 28. 15, 16, But it flailcome to pafi y if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to obferve to do all his commandments and ftatktcs which 1command thee this day , that all thefe curfes flall come upon thee and overtn^ thee. Cur fed flak thou be in the city, andcurfcdflalt thou be in the field, ckc.J fhould be covenanted-mercies, and written in the boo:, of the Covenant of Grace to God's elect people, Pfal. 89.30, 31,$$, If his children fcrfakj my Law, and walkjiot in my judgments , If they breaks my flxtutes, and keep not my commandments , then wilt I vifit their iniquity with the rod. — Neverthdef, my loving kindnefs will I not utterly take from him, nor fuffcr my faithfulnefs to fail. Heb. .12.6, For• whom the Lordloveth, he chafeneth, and fcourgetb every Son whom he receiveth. 5. The promiie of eftablifhing and fetling all things that were let a reeling by the breach of the Covenant of works: it is promiled that Chrift (hall be the repairer y it is hethateftablilhesthe earth, ib that the creatures that are for man's ufe, are not deftroyed , for Juftice did require as fpeedy vengeance upon men, as it did upon the Angels*, and the Sentence had been executed immediately, had not the Covenant of Suretifhip prevented it *, and in this refpect the very reprobate have ibme temporal advantage by way of Concomitancy, and for the elects fake, I fa. 49. 8, Thm faith the Lord } in an acceptable time have I heard thee , and in a day of Salvation haze I helped thee. Col. I. 17, And by him all things confisl. Heb. 1. }, /Upholding all things by the word of his power. All thefe, and promifes of like nature , were made to Chrift the firft.heir, whom God appointed heir of all things-, Heb. 1.2. and for his fake they redounded unto them who flail be heirs of Salvation , Heb. I. 14. and it is upon this very account that the whole Creation are commanded to ling, becaufe Chrift the reftorer of all things, is come to the throne, Pfal. 96. H 5 12, 13, Let the heavens rejoyce , and let

the

Chap. IV. the Covenant of Redemption* \tt

*he earth be glad: let the fea roar and the fulncfi thereof. Let the field be ]oyful , and all thzt is therein \ then fliall all the trees of the wood re Joyce before the Lord, for he cometh ', for he cometh to yidg the earth '■, he flmll )udg the world with righteoufnef, and the people with his truth. And 98. 7,8,9, Let the fea roar, and the fulncfi thereof: the world , a>id they that dwell therein. Let the floods clap- their hands, let the hills be)oyfaltogether before the Lord, for he cometh to yidg tht earth * 9 with right eoufnefi fJail he judg the world, and.the people with equity. 6. The promiie of the reipective eminent: change of the Government from the ible efTential Government of [Jehovah, to;the difpeniatory Government of the Mediator, Joh.^.ll, Fcr the Father judgeth no man % bat hath committed all judgment unto the Son. I Cor, 15. 25, For he mus~b reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet', for fuppofing that, the Covenant of works fhall be broken, the world cannot now any more be ruled according to the rules of that Covenant, to wit , by God the Father immediately 7 for then he muft deftroy man : therefore together with the change of the Covenant, there mutt needs be a change, of the Government*, Chrift as.Mediator'mult: govern the world, I fa. 9^6, The government fhall be upon his Jlwulder: and he muft judg the world in our nature, Aft. 17- 31 , The man whom God hath appointed : and he reigns not only over the Church -, but alio (though in a far different way) over all the Kingdoms of the world, and all things in the world, for the Churches fake, Fph. 1. 2,1, 22, Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion , and every name that is named, not only in this world , but alfo in that which is to come. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church. Heb. X. 5.-— 7. 8 , For unto the Angels hath he not put in fubjeilion the world to come, whereof we Jpeak^-— Thou made si him a little lower than the Angels » and. thou crownedfl him with glory and honour, and didst fct him over the works of thy hands. Thou hap: put all things in fubjetlion under his< feet ; for in that he -' put all in fubjeition under him, he left nothing that is mi put under him : But now we fee not yet all things

w ■

pit under him. 7. The promiles of the iervice of all the world, and of all the creatures •, God promiieth , and will hive the fervices of all the creatures brought about; firft, to Chrift, and then to him by Grind:, he hath the iervice ( f all the world promiied him , and indeed he payed for it', for he bought it with a price ; the fervice of Tome as Sons to live with him, and enjoy him for ever, TfaL 110. $, Thy people flail be willing in the day of thy power , in the beauties of holi-ne$, from the womb of the morning ; and the iervice of others as flaves, Pfal. 2. 9, Thou flalt breaks them with a rod of iron, thou flalt dafl them in pieces like a potters vcffel. And 72. 9, n, They that dwell in the wildernef flail bow before him, and his enemies flail ticket he duft^Tea, all fags flail fill before him, and all nations flail ferve him. The whole veiieis of this great houfe, the world *, whether they are vefTels of honour or dishonour, Men or Angels, .elect Men or Reprobate, elect Angels or Devils; yet all muft be for the Matter's ufe, 2 Tim. 2. 20, But in a great houfe there are not only veffels of gold and of fiver , but alfo of wood and of earth \ and fome to honour, and [owe to diflonour. Prov. 16. 4, The Lord hath made all things for himfelf • yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.

CHAP.

CHAP. V.

Of the Harmony of the Covenant of Sureti-flip made with Chriji 5 and the Covenant of Reconciliation and Grace made with Sinners, i. Wherein they agree. 2, Wherein they differ. 3. What Conjunction and Connexion is betwixt thefe Covenants.

THereis a great affinity between the Covenant of Redemption made with Chrift, and the Covenant of Reconciliation made with Sinners *, but it is not the fame Covenant that is made with Chrift , which is made with us : * We are therefore to take heed to two extreams, That we neither confound, nor divide thefe two Covenants. There is a likenefs betwixt them, but not a famenefs } there is an union here, but not an evennefs; there is here a diftinttion, but not a divifion } a conjunction, but not a confufion: Let us therefore look upon theie two Covenants, 1. As agreeing in many things, yet not being the fame, butftill to be diftingutfhed. 2. Differing in many things *, yet not to be divided nor feparated. }. Connected and coajoyned many ways •, yet not to be confounded.

1. The Covenants of Redemption and Reconciliation,agree together (befide thefe things that are efTential, and fb common to all Covenants, which I do not here mention); in the firft rife of both, pure, foveraign, free Grace was the fountain of both *, hence did both thefe Covenants fpring: There was no caufe, reafon, motive, nor allurement from without, nor any neceflityof nature within, that made Jehovah upon the one part, nor Chrift upon the other, enter into this agreement of Suretifhip •, it was his meer good and gracious pleafure, as is already proved *, See Eph.-1.9, Having made known unto w the myfterie of his will, according to his good plea/are, which he purposed m himfelf. 2 Tim .1.9, Who hathfaved %a , and called m with an holy calling *, not according to oht work** but according t*

CL his

**4 T" e "*mtony °f ™ e Covenant made north Cbrijt, Ch.v.

his own purpofe and grace, which wot given us in Chrift Jeftu before the world began. And the fame is the fountain-caufe, the firft fpring and rife of God's Covenant of Reconciliation with us; it is not from any realbn, caufeor motive in us, nor from any neceflity upon God ; but meerty his gracious pleafure, Eph. 1. 7, In whom we have Redemption through his blood, the for-givenefs of fins, according to the riches of his grace. Deut. 7. 7-, 8, The Lord did not fet his love upon you, nor chufeyou, bc-e-aufe ye were more in number than any people : But becaufe the Lord loved yon, and becaufe he would keep the oath which he had /worn unto your fathers. Mat. 11. 25, / thank^ thee , O <■ father, Lord of heaven and earth , becaufe thou haft hid thefe things from the wife and prudent, and haft revealed them unto » babes , even fo father, forfo it fe erne dgood in thy fight.

2. Theie two Covenants agree in. this*, That it is the fame defignmd bufmefs that is carried on in bothrThe Redemption of a, loft or lapfed ele& people , or as the Apoftle calls it, Heb. 2. K>, The bringing many fons to glory: This was the bufineis that Chrift did undertake by the Covenant of Suretifhip, and which he doth profecute and perfect by the Covenant of Reconciliation: This was the thing that was treated and agreed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, and is now over again treated and agreed betwixt Chrift and us, Tit. 1. 2, In hope of eternal life, whieh « Cod that cannot lye promt fed before the world began. 2 Cor. 5.19, Cod was in Christ reconciling the world unto himfelf, not imputing their trefyaffes unto them ; and hath committed tons the word of Reconciliation. Joh. 17. 4, / have glorified thee on the earth , / have finifoed the worl^ which thou gaveft me to do.

I. Thefe two Covenants agree in this, That the grand Inftru** mentality of doing the work in both theie Covenants, is upon .Chrift ^ he was to be the main Inftrument of aclion in the work of thefe two Covenants, and is therefore (as for other reafons, io alio upon this account) called the man of God's right handy PfaL8o. 17. whofe inftrumentality and fervice God did ufe, fron^beginning to end, in all this bufmefs, both of Redemption and Reconciliation, Eph. 1.7, In whom we have redemption through his blood. Col. 1.20, And having made peace through the blood ef his croft , by him to reconcile all things to him/elf.

4. They

4. They agree in this, that both tfiefe Covenants arcxom-men far able with Gods eletlion of the parties with whom he made the Covenants: He firft chufeifihrift, and by an eternal defti-nation, ele&ed him to be the only perib.n that fhould work the great work of Redemption, and be the Captain of Salvation to his people *, and with him only he makes the Covenant of Redemption, Pfal. 89. 19, / have exalted one chofen ont of the people. Again, he makes choice of an elect Company to follow this Captain, to be a people favedby the Lord, and with this elect company only, chofen in Chrift, ne makes a Covenant of peace and reconciliation in him, Lh\: i. 68,69, Bleffed be she Lord Gedoflfrael, for he hath vifited and redeemed his people : And hath raifed up an horn of Salvation for u* in the houfe of hisftrvant David In both (I lay J the Covenant is comraen-furate to God's election •, the parties with whom God made both thefe Covenants, were firft chofen ; he firft chufeth, and then eovenanteth with the elect head, and with the elecl body and members, and with them only } See Pfal, 89. i, I have made a Covenant with my chofen. 2ThefT. 2. 1 j, God hath from the beginning chofen yon to Salvation , through fanttification tf the fpirit, and belief of the truth.

5. Thefe Covenants of Redemption and Reconciliation agree in this, that the principal ends of both, are the fame:, which were,

1. The higheft manifeftation of all the Lords glorious attributes, which were fo manifefted in Chrift, ajhey were never known before (whereof in its proper place) ; this was one of the principal ends which the Lord had before him, both in the Covenant of Redemption, and the Covenant of Reconciliation, Eph. $. 9,10, 11, And to make aU men fee what is the fellowship of the Myftery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jeftu Chrift. To the intent that mwmto the principalities and powers in heavenly places, might be l^Hown by the Church, the manifold wifdom of God , according to the eternal pnrpofe, which he purpofed in Chrift Jeftu our Lord.

2. Thehigheft and neareft union of man with God, was one o{ the Lords ends in both thefe Covenants, to makeup fuchan union betwixt God and Man, as might be a ground and foundation of futable communion, Joh- 14. 20, At that day ye fraU kgow that J am in my father, and yon in me , and I in yon.

1 Cor. 6. 17, But he that i* joyned to the Lord, is one Jpirit*

Qji 3- Another

11 6 The harmony of the Covenant wade with Chrift. Ch.V. $. Another principal end which God had before him in his Covenant-dealings, was the higheft and fulleft communication of himfelf toman*, this end was propofed in both thefeCovenants of Redemption and Reconciliation *, God would dif-penfe nothing of himfelf unto the creatures, but by his Son *, and through his Covenant with him, and with us, he purpofed to communicate himfelf to us, I Joh. 5. 11 , And this is the record, that God hath given to ns eternal life, and this life is in his Son. And 1. 3, And truly our fellowjhip is with the Father, and with his Son J ejus Chrisl.

6. The Covenant of Suretifhip made with Chrift, and the Covenant of Redemption and Grace made with finners, agree in this, That the good and advantage of both thefe Covenants redounded unto us, even as the honour of both accrues unto the Lord, who after the opening of this fubjett of his Covenant-dealings with Chrift, and through him withus,vjy^. 42. 1, to 8, immediately fubjoyns, I am the Lord, that is my name, and my glory I will not give to another^ both thefe Covenants were tranfa&ed to the praife of the glory of his grace, Eph. 1.6. But the profit and advantage of both is ours, not his; and if thefe words, Pfal. 16.2, 3, My goodnef extendeth not unto thee, but to the Saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight, be the words of Chrift Correlating to Covenant-tranfa&ions betwixt Jehovah and Chrift), as moft

Ta Cocc D<?P art °f tnat P^ m ls -> and fome Expofitors apply it ; and I do

feed, c. p. not ^ ec wn y it: ma Y not rtft^ fidy be applied to Chrift, than to

p. io5.' David -, I fay, if thefe words be Chrift's, they fpeak the point

* in hand fully. Befides, ieeRom. 5. 15, The grace of God, and

the gift by grace, which is by one man Jefus Chrifl, hath abounded

unto many. 2 Cor. 4.15, For all things are for your fakes, that the

abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many, redound

to the glory of God.

7. They agree in this,That there is exchange of places betwixt Chrift ancl his elect redeemed feed, in both thefe Covenants. In the Covenant of Suretifhip he taketh our Law-place and room, and putteth himfelf in the finners ftead fas hath been faid), Heb. 10. 7, Lo, Icome;to do thy will. And again, in the Covenant of Reconciliation, we take Chrift's Law-place, or rather have beftowedupon us that place, and room with God, which the Law allowed to ftbf that obeyeth the Law, and fitisffeth

the

Ch. V. With the Covenant made with us. ny

the Law to the full: Hence 'tis faid, that we are made the righte-oufnef of God in fa, 2 Cor. 5. 21. This is our place by the Covenant of Reconciliation, to have that high righteouihefs of our Surety, unto which the .God-head gave excellency, and the right eoufnef ofthe Law (isfaid) to be fulfilled inns, Rom. 8.4. to wit, the paflive righteoufnefs thereof, in fuffering for the breach of the Law: and how was this ? only by commutation and exchange of places with Chrift our Surety, who put himfelf in our place, and put us in his.

8. The Covenant of Redemption, and the Covenant of Reconciliation, agree in many properties; both thefe Covenants are free, gracious, everlafting, ordered in all things, fure, &c as may fully appear by what is already ipoken of the properties of the Covenant of Suretifhip, and by the fecond part of* this Treatife, which relates to the properties of the Covenant of Grace.

2. In the next place let us take notice of the difference between the Covenants of Redemption and Reconciliation,where-by it may appear that thefe are two Covenants, and not one and the fame. Thefe Covenants differ,

1. \nthtrife: although they agree thus far in the rife, that^Afr.Rutherf, both thefe Covenants had the rife from Grace (as I have ^' eat '0f the Co-(hewed), yet they differ in this, that the Covenant of Redemp- ^f J p ' 2 * tion and Suretifhip did fpring out of Grace in both the parties * 7 for therein did the Grace of Jehovah. , and the Grace of Jelus Chrift appear '-, it was the gracious pleaiiire and good will of both the parties, which equally gave it the firftrife. But the Grace that giveth the rife to the Covenant of Reconciliation, is not fhared between the parties, but it Hands all upon one fide : Grace in God, and in our Lord Jefus Chrift, without any gracious cjifpofition or qualification upon our part (^ till it be wrought in us by the Grace of Chrift) giveth the firft rife to the Covenant of Reconciliation and Grace made with finners, Tit. 2. 11, For the grace of God that bringeth .Salvation, hath appeared unto all men. 1 Joh.4. 10,19, Herein i$ love, not that we loved God i) but that he loved us, anajent his Son to be the propitiation for our fins. — We love him, becaufe he fir ft loved us, Rom. 5. 6,%,-For when we were yet without ftrcngth, indue time Chrift died for us. — But God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were \<t finners, Christ died fir us,

2. Thefe

:x»i8 the 'difference of the Covenant made with Chrifi [Ch. V.

2. Thefe Covenants differ in the property of eternity, for although both are everlafting Covenants,yet both are not eternal: The Covenant of Redemption is eternal *, for the Lord does not b^ginin time to defign Chrift a Surety and Mediator *, nor does the Son begin in time to be a Confenter , but we are to underftand the Apoftles faying, he was madefurety, Heb. 7. 22. by Chrift's own ikying, / was fet up from everlafting, &c, JProv. 8. 2 1- 1 Pet. 1. 20, Who verily was fore-ordained before the foundation of the world j but was manifeft in thefe lafi times for yon. But the Covenant of Reconciliation is no more eternal, than all other things which come to pafs in time, which were from eternity decreed with God, Aft. 15.18, Known unto God are aH his works, from the beginning cf the world ^ for although the Covenant of Reconciliation was decreed from everlafting; yet it had no being as a Covenant, nor could have any, till firft there were objects created to deal with in the way and terms of a Covenant *, till firft the Covenant of works were entered with man, and broken too •, till firft raan by his breach of the firft Covenant, and his fall into fin and enmity with God, became a qualified object for reconciliation, and the Grace that is peculiar to this Covenant: Then came the news and knowledg of a Redeemer to Adam, immediately after his fall (for the Grace and love of Chrift which longed for this opportunity, to be made manifeft, made hafte,when man was now a qualified object); then tidings came in all hafte to loft man, of a Saviour, when he was lying fick unto death of his fall, 'Tit. 1. 2, 3, In hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lye, promifed before the world began-. But hath in due time mani-fefled his word through preaching'-, then came the ranfom to be tefti-fiedin due time.

3. The Parties are different. In the Covenant of Suretiflup and Redemption, the Parties are Jehovah and his only Son Chrift fas is before proved); but in the Covenant of Reconciliation, the Parties are God the Father, Son and Spirit, and loft Sinners, 2Cor. f. 10, God was in Chrift reconciling the World unto himfelf, not imputing their trefpaffes unto them. The one is ftricken betwixt God and Chrilt God-man, a perfon that is not meer man, confidered in the precife notion of Reconciliation, as betwixt God and meer men, iTjw.2.5, For there is we Gidy and one Mcdhttcr between G*d -And men, the man

Chrifi

Chrift Jefus. The one is a Covenant betwixt God and his only begotten natural Son, Heb. 5. 5 ; the other is betwixt God and many Sons 1 even his adopted Sons, Heb. 2. 10. the Covenant of Redemption is made with Chrift perfonal ( as hath been proved,) 7 the Covenant of Grace (as it comprehends the whole buflnefs of Grace, from beginning to end J with Chrifi myftical, head and body, Heb. 2. 13; with him and the children whom God hath given to him v the Covenant of Suretifhip is made with Chrift as a peculiar chofenperfon, Pfal. 89. rp, I have exalted one chofen oat of [the people ; who did by that Covenant take upon him a publisk capacity, wherein he did ever thereafter act, in heaven and earth *, but the Covenant of Grace is made with Chrift as a pubHelperfin, reprefenting many with Chrift, as the fecond Adam, who flood and covenanted for all his feed, Heb- 2. \\, Behold,!, and the children which God hath given me. Rom. 5. 19, For as by one mans difobedience, many rotre made finners *, fo by the obedience of one, jhall many be made righteous. Gal. *. 16, Now to Abraham and his feed were the promifes made: be faith notj and to feeds, as of many, but as of one, and to thy feed which is Chrifi. The Covenant of Redemption was betwixt God, and the man who is his fellow, Zech.13.7. the Covenant of Reconciliation is betwixt God and Men, who are the work of his hands*, not bis equals, but his fubje&s, his fervants, &c. and thefe of the loweft rank and degree, Heb. 2. 6, 7, What is man, that thou art mindful of him, or the Son of man, that thou vifitefi him : Thou madefi him a little lower than the Angels. The Covenant of Redemption is betwixt God and his Son in favour and friendfhip with him, who never offended him, Mat. 3. 17, This is my beloved Son, in whom J-amweU pieafed; but the Covenant of Reconciliation is betwixt God and his enemies, fmners at variance and enmity with God *, and it's made with Chrift, only as he took the finners place, Rom. 5.8. 10, But God commendeth his love towards us, in that while we were yet fmners, Chrift died for us \~*-for when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God.

4. The Covenant of Redemption, is an equal Covenant *, but the Covenant of Reconciliation is unequal: This difference is in the Nature of thefe Covenants* I fay, the Covenant of Redemption is an equal Covenant, being betwixt equal parties, and upon e<jual terms and conditions (as I have already (hewed);

But

I 2C* me arjjerence oj tnc uovcnam maae vpnn tnrtjt v>n.V»

But the Covenant of Reconciliation made with Tinners, is an unequal Covenant, where there is> i. Infinite unequality betwixt the parties, betwixt Man and his Maker; God who worketh, and who flail let it? [fa. 4 3. 13. and man, who layd in the b.illafice, is altogether lighter then vanity , Pfal.62.9. Be-t., ixt God who giveth conditions to his creatures ,* but taketh none from them *, and man, who giveth no conditions to God, but is bound to accept what conditions he is pleafed to give. 2. There is a vaft diiproportion and unequality in the terms and conditions of this Covenant, betwixt that which is promifed • upon God's part, and that which is required upon man's part *, betwixt the condition of the Covenant of Reconciliation, and the promifes and bleflings thereof : O what vaft unequality and difproportion betwixt our little faith, and of low ftature*, and the far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory that is promifed to the believer ! 2 Cor, 4. 18.

5. There was no Mediator in the Covenant of Redemption, neither was there need of any *, the parties covenanting being ib near to one another, and in fb good terms, Prov. 8.30, Then was I by him, as one brought up with him, and I was daily his delight, rejoycing always before him. Neither could there be any Mediator in this Covenant} for who could interpofe betwixt the Father and the Son? Joh. 10. $0, /, and my Father are one ^ and from whence fhould the Mediator fee taken when that eternal tranfaftion was made when Chriffc was fet up from everlafting , before his works of old ? Prov. 8. 22, 2 j* But in the Covenant of Reconciliation, there is a Mediator ( the need whereof, we fhall fhew in its proper placed •, there is a days-man, a perfon who interpofeth betwixt the parties who are at variance, and travelleth in the peace, 1 Tim. 2. 5, for there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Chrifi Jefus. Heb. 12. 24, And to Jefas the Mediator of the new Covenant,

6. The Promifes of thefe two Covenants are different : 1. There be many promifes in the Covenant of Reconciliation made to us, that cannot agree to Chrift., and whereof he was not capable-, fuchas the promifes of a new heart, ofcleanfing from all fllthinefs and Idols; the promifes of repentance, re-miflion of fins, and the like, £2:^. $6. 2. There were promifes made to Chrift in the Covenant of Rederaption>that were

pecu-

peculiar to himfelf, that were peculiar for the preheminency oT the Head and Captain of our Salvation, and whereof we are not capable, fucl> as a throne at the right hand of God, a name above every name, Dominion from Sea to Sea, all power in Heaven and Earth, and the like, Heb. 1.8, \\. Phil. 2.8,9. Pfal.Sg. li. 25,27. Jfa. $3. 10,11. Mat. 28. 18.

7. There be many threatnings annexed to the Covenant of Reconciliation: Threatnings of Gofpel-vengeance to the tranf-greflbrsof the Covenant, Heb. 2. $, How Jhall we efcape , if we negleft fo great falvation y which at fir ft began to be Jpoken by the Lordy and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him? 1 Cor. 16. 22, If any man lave not the Lord Jefns Chris!, let him be Anathema Maranatha. But there are no threatnings in the Covenant of Suretifhip, nothing denounced againft the man Chrift if he fhould fail of his undertakings \ for there was.no ufe nor place for threatnings in that Covenant, in regard the undertaker was exempted from all poffible failing in the performance, the man Chrift could not poffibly fin, nor fall fhort of that Covenant, in regard of the perfonal union.

8. The Commands and conditions of the Covenant of Redemp 7 tion and the Covenant of Reconciliation are different: For,

1. There are commands in the Covenant of Redemption peculiar :

to Chrift alone, and iuch as are not required of us, nor do belong to us *, luch as the command of taking upon him our nature, and laying down his life, and making his foul an offering forSin,d-c. Heb. 10.5,7. Joh. 10. 18. J fa. 5$. 10,11. Again, there are commands and conditions required in the Covenant of Reconciliation, which are peculiar to us alone', fuch as the commands of believing in Chrift, repenting and working out our Salvation with fear and trembling, dr. Aft. 16. $1. and $. 19. Phil. 2. 12. The former is Chrift's work, not ours *, and thefe are conditions required of us, not of Chrift. 2. All the commands of the Covenant of Redemption are conditions: whatfoever work is put upon Chrift to do, is a condition of his Covenant with Jehovah *, but all the conditions of the Covenant of Reconciliation, are not conditions of the righteoulhefs and life therein promiied; elfe Juftiftcation fhould be of works, Rom. ^. 4, 5, Now to him that worketh is the reward nut reckoned ofgrace , but of debt: Bntto him that worketh not-> but believeth

R en

122 The difference oft he Covenant made with Chriji Ch.V.

on him that juftifeth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteouf-tief. Phil. 3. 7, But what things weregain to me, t hofe I counted lofifor Christ. 3. The conditions of the Covenant of Redemption, are works, down-right obedience, doing and iuffering, Joh. 17.4, I have glorified thee on the earth, I have finijljcd the workjxhich thougaveft me to do. But the condition of the Covenant of Reconciliation, is grace, not works, Rom.^. \6, Therefore it is of faith that it might be by grace, to the end the . fromife might be fur e to all the feed \ Not to that only which is of the law , but to that alfo which is of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all. 4.. The conditions of the Covenant of Redemption, are antecedent meritorious conditions •, for which the reward and wages promiied to Chrift by that Covenant is given, Joh. 17.4, 5, / have finifhed thewor\which thougaveft me to do. And now, O father, gbrifie thou me with thine own felf. But the conditions of the Covenant of Reconciliation are not antecedent conditions, fuch as are in civil contracts of Juftice, when one thing is given for another ; but they are confequent conditions, fuch as hold forth the connexion and order of things: Conditions which do not hold forth the caufe for which God gives the things promifed, but the connexion of things, the qualification of the fubjeft, or the way and means of conveyance, by and through which he gives the things promifed, and without which he will not give them, Rom. 3.24,25, Being juftified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Jefus Chrift : Whom God hath fent forth to be a propitiation, through faith in his blood.

9. The Covenant of Redemption tarried not for our con-fent, to make it an actual Covenant *, neither had any dependency upon man, or any aft of his will-, but alone upon the free will and good pleafure of him who is Lord of our will, and could give us away to Chrift,. without our knowledg and confent, when yet we were not*, becaufehe hath power over the clay, and can indedinably bow the wills of Men and Angels : therefore, I fay, this Covenant tarried not for our faying Amen to it *, but was aftually concluded and tranfafted with Chrift, who was fet up from everlafting in.Heaven as defigned Mediator, before we were in a capacity to know it, or to fay yea r or no : being a deed that was from everlafting, as we Have.often hinted from Trov. 8.22 ; to 31, But the Covenaot

Ch. V. from that which is made with ns. Hj

of Reconciliation made with us, as it depends principally upon Chrift's eternal traniattions -with Jehovah , whereby we were virtually in Covenant with God, through his undertaking for -us, to procure our confent unto fuch conditions of righteouf-ngfsand life, as his Father had fore-ordained, Joh.6. $7, AH that the Father giveth me, fiall come to me :, and him that cometh ts me, I will in no wife cafi out. So alfo it cannot be an actual formal Covenant with us, without our own confent: before we are actually and formally in Covenant with God,- through Graces and before we receive any acluaL benefit by a new Covenant ftate •, not the Spirit only muft fay come ; but the Bride alio, Rev. 22. 17,20, And the Spirit and the Bride fay y Come, Amen, even Jo.

I . But although thefe Covenants are on this wife to be differenced and diftinguifhed ; yet they are not to be divided and feparated : there is an obfervable conjunction and connexion betwixt the Covenant of Redemption made with Chrift, and the Covenant of Reconciliation and Grace made with us Sinners -, which doth demonftrate the dependance of this latter upon the former, and chat the Covenant of Reconciliation hath its rife and original from the Covenant of Redemption made betwixt Jehovah and Chrift.

Thefe two Covenants are conjoyned together by a five-fold connexion.

1. By an inferrable connexion : There.is fuch a near and ftrid conjunction betwixt thefe Covenants, that they cannot be feparated *, take away the Covenant of Suretifhip, and the Covenant of Grace falls to the ground*, this can no more ftand without that, than a houfe without a foundation \ take away the foundation, and the whole building and fuperftrutture falls. God hath founded the Covenant of Reconciliation made with us, upon the eternal compact of Redemption < which he made with Chrift*, his Covenant with Chrift is the key and corner-ftone of the whole frame and building of his Covenant with us; yea, it is the very pillars of the houfe that wifclom hath built *, of that Mafter-piece of work that is worthy the wifdom of him that framed it, and cannot be feparated from the Covenant made with us, Frov.g. r, Wifdom hathbnilt her houfe, jhe hath hewen out her feven pillars : therefore the Lord gives the Name to Chrift, a pre-

ciom corner-ft one , a fare foundation^ Ifa. 28. 16. Hence alfo the whole building of Covenant-mercy and faithfulnefs with us, is joyned with God's Covenant with Chrift, Pfal. 89. 2,1, For I have/aid, Mercy JhaH be built up for ever, thy faith-fulnefi fiialt thou eftablijh in the very heavens: J have made a Covenant with my chofen. Ifa. 59. 21, As for me, thiz is my Covenant with them, faith the Lord y My Sprit that is upon thee, and my words which J have put in thy month, jhall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the month of thy feed, nor out of the mouth of thy feeds feed, faith the Lord , from henceforth And for ever.

2. By an infallible connexion , whereby one thing doth necefTarily and certainly follow upon another: for fuppofing that God hath made a Covenant of Redemption with Chrift, and hath from eternity given apeople to him,, to be redeemed by him ', it necefTarily follows that this redeemed people (hall come under Covenant-dealings with Chrift, by faith in him ', for if that go before, this muft needs follow, Joh.6. 17, AU that the Father giveth me, Jhall come to me : and him that com* ethto me , / will in no wife caft out. And 17. 6, 8, / have manifefied thy name unto the men which thou gave ft me out of the world', thine they were, and thou gave ft them me, and they have kept thy word. For 1 have given unto them the words which thou gave ft me, and they have received them, and have kgown furely that 1 cawe out from thee, and they have believed that thou didft fend me : The reafon is manifeft; becaufe as nothing is here tranfa&ed in time, which was not from eternity concluded in the counlel of God's Will ', fo nothing is there concluded, nothing agreed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift that can mils to take effect, Ail. 15. 18, Known unto him are ail his wor^s, froTt the beginning of the world. And 4. 27, 28, For of a truth, again ftthyholy childJ'efus, whom thou haft anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Ifrael were gathered together, for to Ho. whatfoever thy hand and thy counfel determined before to be done. And 13.48, And as many as were ordained to life , believed. Ifa. $....10, And the pleafure of the Lord jhall' prof per in bjs-hand,

3. Thefe two Covenants are con joyned by an Jnfuperable conaexicn., fuchas the ftrength of no oppofition can overr

come,

come *, for the Covenant of Suretifhip made with Chrift, hath fuch ftrong influence on the Covenant of Reconciliation made with us, that it regafdeth no oppofition in the way of that work: but the people who are given to Chriit by thatfirft Covenant to be redeemed by him, he doth redeem them out of aH Nations by the mighty efficacious power and working of his Spirit:, he bows their wills indedinably to believe •, n hearken that their fonts may live, and to make with him an everlading Covenant, Ifa. 55. \. Joh. 17.2, As thou haft given him power over all fleflj, that he jhould give eternal life to as many as thou haft given him ; the -force of this Covenant with Jehovah draws fo, that nothing can keep back the Sinner from coming,Song. 1.4, Draw me, we will run after thee. Matth. 16.18, Vpon this rock^ I will build my Church, and, the gates of hell {ball not prevail againft it. Zech. 10.8, 1 will hifs for them, and gather them \ for I have redeemed them.

4. By a fecret and hidden connexion, which natural eyes-and carnal minds cannot lee nor take up: This fecret and my-ftery of the Covenant was long hid in God's breaft, even after it had a being betwixt him and Chrift; yea, and how great a fecret was it in the world, even after it began to break forth firft in Paradife? Col. 1.26, Even the myfterie which hath been hid from ages, and from generations ', but now is made manifeft to his Saints. Pial. 25. 14, The fecret of the Lord is with them that fear him, and he will jhew them his Covenant. It is but one continued tracl of Covenant-grace, one current of the water of life, that run along like a river under ground, hidden in the fecret counfel of God's Will, and kept clofe betwixt God and Chrift, and at Ien-gth brake out above ground in a Covenant of peace with believers., Neb. 4. 17, 18, Wherein God willing more abundantly to fliew^ unto the heirs of promife the immutability of his counfel, confirmed it by an Oath : That by two immutable things, wherein it was impojfible for God to lye , we might have a ftrong confo-lation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope fet before us. Joh. 17. 7, Now they have k^cwn that all things whatfoeverthou haft given me, are of thee.

5. Theie Covenants are conjoyned by a beautiful' connexion, which eminently fhineth in the exact correfponden--cy of the Covenant of Suretifhip made with Chrift /and

the-*

tl 26 The Connexion of the Covenant nude with ChriftCh.V.

the Covenant of peace made with us-, which being laid together, do perfectly quadrate, and aniwer one another in all points. O what a deal of beauty is to be feen in the connexion of the Covenants of Redemption and Reconciliation ! In the former all things relating to the Redemption and Salvation of Chrift's elect feed, were plotted and contrived ^ in the latter, the fame things are executed : by that Covenant they were ordered, by this they are acted. It is the fame bufinefs in the hand of Chrift, by the Covenant of Reconciliation, which was long before in his heart, when he made a Covenant with Jehovah ? the lame defign of love acted him in both. Now Chrift negotiates the fame bufinefs which was long before undertaken by his Suretifhip, J oh. 17. 6,7,8, / have manifefted thy Name unto the men which thou gaveft me out of the world: thine they were , and thou gave ft them me, and they have kept thy word. Now they have known that all things whatfoever thon haft given me, are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thon gaveft me , and they have received them , and known furely that I came out from thee , and they have believed that thou didsl fend me. 2 Cor. 5. 19,2i, God was in Chrift reconciling the world unto himfelf not imputing their trefpajfes unto them: and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. For he hath made him to be fin for us, who knew no fin , that we might be made the righteoufnefs of God in him. Zech. 9. 11, As for thee alfo, by the blood of thy Covenant, I have fent forth thy prifoners out of the pit wherein is no water.

In a word, there is fuch a connexion between the Covenant of Redemption made with Chrift , and the Covenant of Reconciliation made with us, as is betwixt the caufe and the effect:, God's Covenant with Chrift is the caufe , his " Covenant with us is the effect:: for it hath a proper efficiency in the producing of this, fuch as is betwixt the root and the branch, the fountain and the ftreams *, the Covenant made with us, did fpring out of that fountain, did grow out of that root •, for Covenant-grace is in God's dealings with us, as fap is in the branch, and water in the ciftern \ but it is in his Covenant-dealings with Chrift, as fap is in the root, and water .in the fountain. There is fuch a connexion betwixt thefe

two

two Covenants, as betwixt decree and execution, deliberation and action, promife and performance, furetilhip and fa-tHfaftion , bond and payment, &c. for the Covenant with Chrift was in the decree of God *, with usi it is the execution of that eternal decree; there it was deliberated and confulted, here 'tis a&ed *, there the promiles were made, the iuretifhip acted, the bond given: but in God's Covenant-dealings with us, the promiles made betwixt God and Chrift are performed, his act: of furetifhip fatisfied , and actual payment and fktisfaftion made of all obligements which he took on.

The connexion of the Covenants of Redemption and Reconciliation may be illuftrated by a fimilitude or two. It is as if a deed of favour were drawn for children and heirs not yet born, and the whole conveyance ietled, how that deed of favour fhall redound unto the benefit of children not yet born, which in due time by the wiidom of the contriver. takes place and becomes actually profitable to thofe for whom it was intended. The Covenant of Redemption is the wife contrivance of this deed of favour to a feed given to Chrift,. but not yet created *, and the Covenant of Reconciliation is the conveyance by which the favour intended for this elect people takes place.

Or , as if a Marriage were concluded by a wife father betwixt his*only Ion, and a peribn wholly under his power at his dilpofing*, but now under-age, not marriageable, nor car pableto give confent to inch a contract as were drawn upy-but the knowledg of this is kept up from the bride a great* while, but at laft the bridegroom makes propolals according to his fathers concluded contract, and gains the brides heart and confent to the intended match', this matter is all of a piece, and every part of it connected with another ; but the firft part is the work of the Covenant of Redemption betwixt Jehovah and Chrift : And the latter part is the work of the Covenant of Reconciliation betwixt God and Sinners.

Or as if a King upon paction with his Son fhould grant. a, fair Charter with many priviledges, to perlbns who yet know nothing of the King's favour , the actual communication oftheie priviledges being fufpended till.the Kirg's Son

actually

a&ually own thefe peribns for his Subjects, and they actually own him for their Lord. The Covenant made with Chrift is the fair Charter: the Covenant made with us is the mutual owning betwixt the King's Son, and the perfons to whom the favours and priviledges of the great Charter of Redemption was intended.

CHAP. VI.

Of the Grounds of affurance and comfort , and fupports of Faith , refnlting from the Covenant of Suretijhip , unto all thofe who are in the Covenant of Reconciliation and Grace.

1 Shall fhut up the Doctrine of the Covenant of Redemption and Suretifhip, with a collection of ibme grounds of comfort, and fupports of Faith which arife from it.

i. That the original and foundation of God's Covenant-dealings with us, is an eternal compact betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, and had not its beginning and rife from our firft thoughts of that bufmeis, when we begun to entertain the news of a Saviour, and of Redemption by him^ it bred not in our breafts, but was under deliberation betwixt God and Chrift long before ever it entred into our hearts *, yea, it was there tranfacted, the heirs of Salvation were fore-ordained unto their lot and inheritance with them who are fanftified, when the Captain of Salvation was deftinate unto this work, %Thef 2. I $, God hath from the beginning chofen yon to fal-vat ion through fanftification ofthefpirit, and belief of the truth. And it is only the manifeftation of this to us , and our con-fent to it that is of yefterday., and but lately tfanf acted, Job. 17. 8, For I have given unto them the words which thou gave ft me y and they have received them, and have known fnrely that I tame out from thee ■, and they have believed that thondidft

fend

fend me. Heb. 6. 17, i3, Wherein God, willing more abundantly to frew unto the heirs of promife the immutability of his will, comfrmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was tmpofftble for God to lye, we might have ftrong confolation, who have fled for refuge, to lay hold upon the hope fet before us. O how comfortable and ftrengthening is this to the weak believer, that eternal Covenant-love, Covenant-dealings, and Covenant-relations and engagements, begin at the head Chrift, fall firft upon him, and defcend to his redeemed feed, Eph. 1. 3,4, Bleffedbe the God and father of our Lord Jefus Chrift , who hath bleffed hs with all fpiritual blejfmgs in heavenly places in Chrift % , according as he hath chofen us in him, before the foundation of the world, &c.

2. That the lame love of the Father and of Chriftj which now hath appeared and broken forth, in drawing thee into this new Covenant-ftate, Jer. 3 1. 5, The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, faying y 1 have loved thee with an ever-lafting love, therefore with loving-kindnefs have J drawn thee ? hath been in action for thee and about thee in eternity, when thou waft not, Prov. 8. 2 $, $ 1, / was fet up from ever-

lafting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was Rejoycing

in the habitable part of his earth , and my delights were with the fons of men. How fhould that fupport faith, and comfort and allure our hearts, that the love of God and of Chrift did provide a rich inheritance for us when we were not yet created, and did provide a phyfician before we fell fick : who had a Redeemer in readinefs, before the fall of Man, which he forelaw: who provided a Surety before he was needed, to be in readinefs to ftrike hands for our Debt *, that Chrift fpoke kindly for us, when we were not prefent: that he took our cafe in hand undefired : that he undertook for us when we had neither being, nor a&ion, nor vote, nor know-ledg of his undertaking.

3. That our Redemption and Salvation hath fo very little of our will'in it, and lb much of Gods Will, and that' of Grace, fo much of his gracious Will, or of the good' pleafure of his Will, Eph. 1.5. Being now by the Cove- ' nant of Suretifhip, the will of the Father and of Chrift, without our knowledg or confent, or any act of our will* Joh. 6. 3,9, And this is the fathers will that hath fent me, that

S •/

r^O Grounds of fnpport and comfort Chap. VI.

of all which he hath given me I ftieuld lofc nothing, but fheuld raife it up at the loft day. With 17. 24, Father, 1 will that they alfo who<n then haft given mejbe with me where J am. And there is now no n.ore of our will in all the bufinefs, but io much as is captivated, bowed and carried after Gods will, Phil. 2. 13, For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleafure. Pfal. 110. 3, Thy people fiall be willing in the day of thy power. And how lweet and comfortable is it, that Salvation is by the Covenant of Saretifhip, taken'off the mutable will of man, the flippery yea and nay of mans free-will, and laid upon the immutability of his counfel, Heb. 6. 17, and will, with whom there is no variablenefs ! Rom. 9. 15, / will have mercy on whom I will have mtrcy, and I will have compaffion on whom J wiU have compaffwn. Jam. 1. 18, Of his own will begat he us with the Word of truth.

4. That by the Covenant of Suretilhip the fountain and well-fpring of Life, and Salvation, and of all the influences that mud needs ad us toward it, lay out of our felves, and are placed in Chrift, Pfal. 8. 7, All my fprings are in thee. Col. 3. \, Tour life is hid with Chrift in God. The Well-head of Life to Adam was in himfelf •, and that which was placed in himfelf went dry, he had no other Fountain, whence he had afTurance to draw and fetch any more_: but by Chrifts Suretifhip, the fpring of Life and Salvation to us is placed in him, which makes it indefectible to us \ and O how fweet is that to the believer, that his Salvation is fountained in Ghrift! thus when his water fails within, he needs do no more but turn the water cock of Faith that is in his own heart, and take in frefh fupplies from Jefus, the refurretlion and the life, Joh. 11.25. Ifa. 27. 5, Left any hurt it, J will keep it night and day : / will water it every moment. Joh.4. 14, The water that I ft)all give him, fhall be in him a well of veater fpringing up into everlafting life. Joh. 14. 19, Becaufe I live, ye ft)all live alfo.

« 5. By the Covenant of Suretifhip,our Rights and Charters, I mean the promifes not of Heaven and Salvation only, but of all our concernments, are in a furer hand than our own, and under better keeping: for now by that Covenant they are k Chrifts keeping, to whom the promifes are made,

Gal.

Gal. .}. 16, Now to Abraham and his feed were the promifes made \ he faith not, and to feeds as of many, but as of one, and to thy feed, which is Chrifl. He is the firffc heir of all things, Heb. 1.2. to whom the firfl title and right to the promifes, which are our Charters, doth belong: they were firfl: his, before they were ours: yea, and he was the firfl poiTelTor too; upon Chrift did all the afts of Gods Covenant-love to us fail firfl:, Aft. 13. 34, 1 give yon the flire mercies of David. Moft of the promifes were mite formally to Chrift, even thofe which directly relate to our Calling, Juftification, Salvation, lfa.$l- 10, 11, And the pleafure of the Lord jhall profper in his hand. He jliall fee of the travel of his foul, and jhall be fatisfied. By his knowledg Jhall my righteous fervant juftifie many, for he jliall bear their iniquities. And thefe that were not made formally to him,fuch as the pro-mife of a new heart,a new fpvit y remiffion of fins', yet thefe were made to him eminenter, they were laid down in him,and confign-ed v\ his hand: for Chrift is not only the fountain and original* caufe of all the promiies, who merited by his Blood, Remiflion, Righteoufnefs and Life, which the Lord makes ours by free promile-, but he is alio the firfl: fubjeft of the promifes: Chrift receiveth all the Covenant-promiies which are our Rights and Charters, and he keepeth them, and manageth them for our ufe, as may moft tend to our good: Chrift is made by his Suretifhip, that excellent Ark which keepeth the tables of the Covenant, and the book of the Law and Covenant, Dent. 1 1. 26. 1 Kin^s 8. 9, How fweet and fatisfying is it, that our Rights of Heaven is in iiich a Charter-cheft, and in the hands of fuch a keeper, even under Chrifts cuftody, who fliall give a good account to his Father of all that is committed to him?* Job. 17. 12, Thofe whom thou gavefi me I have kept, and none of them is loft: and whofe keeping is in high account with all thofe who know him, 2 Tim. 1. 12, For I know whom I have believed, and I am perfwaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him againft thai day* 6. By the Covenant of Suretifhip Chrift and the be* liever are in a manner in one Writ *, for notwithstanding that there be differences between the Covenant made with him, and that which is made with us, ( as is before fhewed ):

S 2 yet

,22. Grounds offnpport and comfort Chap. VI.

yet it may be laid, that Chrift and the believer are iome way in one Writ.

i. Becauie thefe two-Covenants are all of a piece; they are to be diftinguifhed, but not divided: it is the fame de-fign of Grace, the fame bufineis of redeeming and laving loft Man, that is carried on in both.

2. Although Chrift and the believer be not formally, and as parties, in this Writ of Chrifts Sureti-covenant to God j yet they are. virtually, and as to their interefts and concernments. It is Chrifts bufmefs and concernment, and the believers too •, even all his eternal concernments that are in that Covenant, and ours, thefe meet together, and are trani-a&ed in one Writ: and thus even among men, a perfon raay be faid to be in a Writ, where his concernments are handled.

3. Becauie of the contexture and interweaving, not only of Chrift and the believers interefts, but alio of their Names in the fame Writ. For in the Covenant where his Name is put alone as undertaker, and which is his fingle bond, to -wit, the Covenant ofSuretifhip*, even there is the believers Name put, as being the perfon for which he payed a price, and for whom he undertook, and who were promifed to him for a feed, as a fatisfying-fight for the travel of his Soul.. And again, in the Writ given to us, we ftand not a-lone in Covenant-dealings with God} but in the fame Writs of the promifes made to the believer, Chrifts name ftands as principal party Covenanting for us, and receiving the promifes, as is manifeft from what is already kid,

4. There is not only a contexture, but a commutation with Chrift and the believers Name in the Covenant-writs: for his Name is put in our Bond, for he wrote himfelf the [inner (legally,) and in the finners place under the Law accurfed: and. our Name is put in the Writ of Juftification. given to him, and the new Law of Faith writes the believer right tons and bleffed, 2 Cor. 5.21, For he hath made him to fit fin for us who knew no fin, that we might be made the righteoufnefs of God in him. Gal. $• 13, 14, Chrifl hath redeemed us from the cwrfe of the law, being made a- enrfe for ns: for it is written, Cnrfed is every one that hangeth on a

tree

tree. That the blefifing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through faith. Rom. 3. 22, Even the right eoufnsfs of God, which is by faith of Jefus Chrifl unto all, and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference.

5. There is not only a commutation, but a community of Writs betwixt Chrift and the Believer : for joneWrit and Pro-mife-wreats,God,the God and Father of our Lord Jefus Chrift, and the God and Father of the Believer: this Covenant-relation to him and us, is by the great promifes of the Covenant, Heb. 1. 5, I will be to him a Father, and he flail be to me a Son. Pfal. 89. 26, 29, He flail cry unto me, Thou art my Father, my God, and

the rocksfmyfahation His feed alfo will I make to endure for

ever.. One Writ makes Chiiftthe firft Heir, and Son of the promife *, and the Believer a younger Brother coming irinmder Chrift the firft Heir, Pfal.&g. 27, Alfo I will make him my firft-born. Gal. $.26, For ye are all the children of God, by faith in Chrift Jefus. Rom. 8. 17, And if children, then heirs y heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Chrift. One Writ and letter of acquittance diichargeth both Chrift and the Believer from the curie and condemnation of the Law, Rom.%. 3,4, God fending his own Son in the likenefs of finful flefl-, and for fin condemned fin the flefl. That the righteoufnefs of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk^ not after the flefl, but after the fpirit. G how comfortable and (lengthening is this, that Chrift and we are in one Writ, that our Covenant interefts and relations to God, and all his and our concernments are thus bound up in one Writ ! if his title to God, to Heaven, to promifes, be good and valid, ours is fo too •, if he acquit and defend his own Charters, he doth the fame for ours: blefTed are they who are united to him in s this New Covenant-relation.

6. By the Covenant of Suretifhip, Chrift is conftituted the grand Inftrument and Aclor of all things that appertain to his peoples Redemption and Salvation, and that not only of eternal Salvation and Redemption, which he alone brought unto his people, Heb. 5. 9, And being .made perfebJ, he became the author of eternal falvation unto all them thai o~ bey him. Heb. 9. 15, And for this caufe he is the mediator of the new Teftament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the tranfgreffic-ns that mrc mdn the fir ft teftamm y they

who

Grounds of fupport and comfort Chap. VI.

who are called, might reecive thepromife of eternal inheritance. Luk- i. 68, Blejjed be the Lord God of Ifrael, for he hath vifttcd and redeemed his people: And of fuch part of that Redemption as is wrought within time, Heb. 7. 25, Whfcre-fore he U able alfo to fave them to the utter mo ft that come unto God by him: But of whatsoever Salvation and other ad-miniftrations are good for them in this life: And therefore we find that Chrift was the grand Inftrument, and had an active hand in the deliverance of his people from all affli£ti-ons and oppreflions in all ages, I fa. 63.5,9, And I looked^ and there was none to help,and Iwondred that there was none to uphold: therefore mine own arm brought falvation unto me, and my fury it upheld me. In all their afflictions he was afflicted, and

the Angel of his pre fence faved them •, and in his love and in his pity he redeemed them, aud he bare them, and carried them all the days of old. It was Chrift the Angel of the Covenant , Mai. 3. 1, who delivered Jacob from all evil, Gen. 48. 16, It was he who brought the people out of Egypt, and laid to Mofes, And now come, I mill fend thee unto Egypt- He it was who appeared unto Mofes in the Bufh, and made him a ruler and a deliverer, A£t- 7. 32, 34, 35. It was he that brought the people out of Babylon, and built the temple, Zech. 6. 12,1 3, Behold the man whofe Name is the Branch, and he Jhall grow up out of his place, and he fall build the temple of the Lord. Even he jliall build the temple of the Lord, and he fliall bear the glory, &c. If the temporal Salvation of the Church and people of God lay upon men, how cold a comfort were that? Ifa. 59. 16, And he faw that there was no man, and wondred that there was no interceffor. Pfal. 142.4, Hooked on my right hand, andbeheldj and there was no man that would know me: refuge failed me^ and there was no man cared for my foul. And if the working of that part of our Salvation which the Lord hath made the Believers Duty, and hath commanded him to do for his own Soul, if that lay upon us alone, how heavy would it prove? Phil. 2. 12, Work-out your own falvation with fear and trembling. But O how warm, how comfortable is it, what a (iipport to faith, that Chrift is by his Suretifhip engaged to work all manner of Salvation for his people, and to become the grand inftrument, and chiefaclor thereof / lfa.d\.

t\ y I that fpea\in right eoufnefs, mighty tofave: 1 have trodden the wine-prefs alone, and of the people there was none with me. Phil. 2. 13, For it is God that worketh in yon both to will and to do of his good pleafure. Heb. 12.2, Looking unto Jefta the author and finijher of our faith.

8. By the Covenant of Suretifhip, all the hard conditions lay upon Chrift:, all that the Law requires of Man condition ways : hen^ made under the lave, Gal. 4.4, that we might not be under the law, but under grace, Rom. 6. 14.

0 how iweet and comfortable is it to the poor weak Believer, who finds himfelf fo very infignificant a creature at all Covenant-conditions, to know that by Chrifts Sureti-fhip, 1. He did take upon him all conditions which the law requires of man, to abide in every thing that it requires: the Believer is yet under the commands of the Law *, but

1 fay not under the conditions thereof: for it is not to him a Covenant: Chrift alfo did bear the curfe of the Law, but that which the Believer fuffers even of the things that were fometimes written in the book of the Law, are now written in the book of Covenant-mercies. 2. Chrift did take upon him all the conditions that are works, and nothing refts to the believer condition-wife, but that which

is grace, Rom. 4. \6, Therefore it is of faith, that it might be * by grace. Its true, the Believer yet worketh, and is created unto good works, Phil. 2. 10, But all working condition-ways, was upon Chrift by his Suretifhip. $. The principal and moil fignificant condition of Redemption, Salvation, and all Covenant-bleflings and priviledges promifed to us, is Chrifts doing his part of the Covenant of Suretifhip; his laying down his life, this was not only a condition of the reward that was to be given to Chrift perfonal, but even of air the promifes that were made to him, concerning his redeemed feed, I fa. 53. 10, 11, And the pleafure of the Lord Jhall profper in his hand. He fo all fee of the travel of his Soul, and f j all be fatisfied: by his knowledg Jhall my righteous"■ fervant jufifie many, for he fiall bear their iniquities. 4. By this Suretifhip, befide all that he hath fulfilled and done in his own perfon, he is under a Covenant to work in his people what God requireth condition-ways of them, Joh. 6. 37, All that the father giveth me, jhall cone tome -, and hint

thatt

that cometh to we, J will in no wife caft out. O how comfortable is it, that Chrift is under a Covenant to enjoy his Elect people, not for any thing they can do for themfelves, but for the work that he hath wrought, and the conditions that he hath fulfilled in his own perfbn, and is obliged to fulfil and work in them. And indeed the promifes are fulfilled to us, not becauie we fulfil the condition, but for Chrift, in whom they ure made to us, and who by his Suretilhip did perform all conditions that the law doth require.

9. ;Thatin the Covenant of Suretifhip the Believer is undertaken for by both the parties: 1. Jehovah undertakes, forafmuch as he promifes a redeemed feed to Chrift, and engages that he fhall fee them, //i.53.10, He Jhall fee his feed. Now he who undertakes for this, muft needs undertake that they (hall be born again •, fb that the Lord is undertaker for our believing, Juftification, Perfeverance, and Salvation : then Jehovah is engaged by Covenant with Chrift to make fure our believing and Salvation, as he will be true to his Son, to whom he gave this promile, and to himfelf and his holy nature, for he cannot deny him-J'elf . 2. Chrift hath undertaken for us alfo. He is made furety y Heb. 7. 22. He hath given Bond for our believing,and Salvation*, he hath by an eternal a& of cautionry, acted himfelf for all them who fhall believe on him, body for body, life for life, foul for foul, that his life fhall go for theirs, that his foul {hall be in their fouls ftead, Ifa. 5 *;. 10, When thou fhall make his foul an offering for fin. And by the Mediatory office that he took upon him, he hath laid Bonds upon himfelf, and made a ne-ceflary duty of hisoffice,to fave his people,to become a Captain of Salvation to them, to bring many fons to glory , Heb. 2. 10. And that he will be faithful in this office he hath taken Bonds upon him, that by vertue of his office, and place, he muft do whatfoever is for his peoples welfare : See Heb. 4. i, 2, Confi-der the Apoftle and High-prieft of our profejfion, Chrift Jefus y who was faithful to him that appointed him. Chap. 2. v. 17, Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren^ that he might be a merciful and faithful High-pricft y in all things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the fins of the people. How comfortable is this to the weak Believer? and

how

how (lengthening to Faith , to confider that Jehovah gave Bond from eternity to Chrift, and ft.inds engaged to him, for the bowing of our rebellious wills, and for fuch a frame of heart to us, as our Redemption and Salvation neceffarily requires ! And that Chrift flands engaged to be to all his own a merciful and fjthful High-prieft! and that by the Bonds he hath laid upon himfelf, it behoved him to be fo! Heb.2. 17. O confider ! he can no more be unconcerned wkh our concernments, he can no more be untouched with, and want a feeling of our infirmities, than he can ceafe to be a merciful and faithful High prieft j which qualifications he behoved to take upon him, by taking on that office, Heb. 5.2, $. Chap.2.r. 17. Chap.4.^. 15. Chrift canno more fail in any thing pertaining to our peace with God, and our Salvation, than he can break his faith of Suretifhip, and fail in Covenanc-faithfulnefs, and the Bonds that he hath given to Jehovah.

10. By the Covenant of Suretifhip paffed betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, the believer is in a fure confirmed ftate; he is not in a tottering, flippery, mutable condition, as were the Angels that fell, and like to Adams firft Covenant-ftate *, but the believer is in a fure confirmed ftate, as fure as the Elect Angels who never fell. i> By the Covenant of Suretifhip the believers help is laid upon one that is mighty, pfal. 8o\io. A potent perfon is his helper, for their Redeemer is ftrong, Dent. 3 3- 2.7, The eternal God is thy refuge , and underneath are the everlafting arms. Ifa- 40. 28, 29, Haft thou not known y haft thou not heard, that the everlafting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earthy fainteth not, neither is weary , there is no fe arching of his under ft anding ? He giveth power to the faint: and to them that have no might, he encreafeth ftrength. 2. By this Covenant there is a great juncture of undertakings for the believers (landing , to wit, by both the parties of that Covenant. 1 . By this Covenant the believers ftanding and perfeverance is taken off the creatures mutable will, and is now upon the gracious immutable counfel of Gods will, Heb. 6. 17, Wherein God, willing more abundantly to Jhew unto the heirs of promife, the immutability of his counfel, ckc Lu\. 12. 32, Fear not little flock^ for it is your fathers good pleafure to give you the kingdom. 4. By

T this

this Covenant-falvation, the weight of Salvation is taken off the creatures acting, and laid upon Chrifts, 7/^.49. 6, That thou may eft be my falvation unto the end of the earth. Joh. 17.2, As thou haft given him power over allflejh, that hejhouldgive eter~ nal life to as many as thou haft given him. 5. The fame confirm-ing-grace that is given to the Elett Angels, is by Chrifts Covenant of Suretifhip enfured, yea, given in Chrift to the believer, inwhom ye arecompleat^ C0L2.10. 2Tim. 1.9, Who hath faved us, and called us with an holy calling-, not according to our Works, but according to his own purpofe and grace, which was given us in Chrift Jefm, before the world began. 6. The honour of Chrift Mediator, by this Suretifhip of his, lies at the ftake for the weak believers (landing, Joh. 17.10, All wine are thine, and thine are mine. I am glorified in them.

How fhould this comfort the believers heart, and fupport his faith, that though he be not yet without the reach of dangers, yet by Chrifts Suretifhip he is in a confirmed ftate ? that he can no more fall quite away from his ftate of Grace and Faith, than Jehovah can break to Chrift, or Chrift break to his Father, which is impoffible ? Pfal.%9. $5, 36, Once have I fworn by my holinefs r that I will not lye unto David. His feed Jhall endure for ever. Rev. 1. 5, And from Jefus Chrift who is the faithful witnefs. That the faith of the leaft of them that believe on Chrift, can no more fail, than Chrift can want his reward, which is impoflible, J fa. 53. 11, He jl all fee of the travel of his foul , and jhall befa-tisfied. Chrift cannot be left unfatisfied, which he fhould be if the faith of any of his fhould fail, in regard of Chrifts Suretifhip \ the weak believers legs can no more fail, in regard of Chrifts Suretifhip, than his arms can fail, PfaL^o. 11, He ft:all gather the lambs with his arms.

11. Whatibever Chrift acted by the Covenant of Suretifhip, he did it for us, and we did that in him. For, 1. Whatfoever he acted by vertue of the Covenant of Suretifhip, he acted as a Surety. Now a Surety is one that undertakes and does for another, and whefe deed by the allowance of the Law, (lands for the deed of that perfon for whom he was undertaker: a perfon who puts himfdf in the ftead of another', liich a perfon was Jndah for Benjamin, Gen. 43. 9. Chap. 44. 32. 2. Whatfoever he acted by

vertue

vertue of this Covenant, he a&ed as a publick perfon, I do not fay that in the tranfa&ing of the Covenant of Suretifhip Chrift atted as a publick perlbn : for then fallen man fhould be an undertaker to iatisfie juftice,and to pay a price of blood toGod for his own fin,becaufe a perlbn who represented him,did undertake this: but I fay, ?.fter Chrift perfonallyconfidered, had by the Covenant of Suretifhip taken upon him this publick capacity and place, whatfoever he ac~Ld by doing or fuffering, he a&ed ftill as a publick perfon: Now a publick perfon is one who peribnates, reprefents and a&s the part of another, fo that what he doth ( as fuch ) that other perfon whom he reprefents, is reckoned by the Law to do: iuch publick per-fons were Adam and Chrift *, the firfl man and the fecondy the heads of two families, who reprefented all that came of them, their feed and heirs, Rom. 5. i2,&c. 1 Cor. 15.21, 22. Confider, how comfortable this is to the believer, and what fupport it affords to his faith-, look over his ftate, his condition, his actings, all that he was made, all that he did, all that was done to him; he was made, and did, and fuf-fered all that for the believer*, and his Eleft people were made, and did, and fuffercd, and received all that in him: when he died, God reckoned us dying then, and would have us reckon fo alfo, Rom. 6. 10, 11, For in that he died, he died unto fin; but in that he liveth 3 he liveth unto God. Likgwife, reckon ye alfo your [elves to be dead indeed unto fin 3 but alive unto God through Jefus Chrift cur Lord. When he fuffered and fatisfled the Law, God reckoned that we did fo alfo, Gal. g. 13, Chrift hath redeemed us from the cur ft of the law, being madt a curfe for us. When be was acquitted and difcharged of the Debt, when he rofe again, and was releafed from the Prifon and Bonds of the Law, we did fo alfo, Rom. 4.25, Who was delivered for our often-cesy and was raifed again for our juftifcation. 1 Cor. 15.20, 21, But now is Chrift rifen from the dead? and become the fir ft fruits of them that flept. For fine e (?y man came death; by man alfo came the refurrettion of the dead. When he entered jnto Heaven, and had reception, and a welcome of Covenant-favour, there we did fo alfo, and had the lame welcome, Eph.2.6, And hath raifed us up together , and made us fit together in heavenly places in Chrift Jefm, For he

T 2 afted

atled all thefe things in our ftead •, and all thefe things were done to him, as a perfon representing us.

12. By the Covenant of Suretifhip, befide all other Attributes in God, Juftice it felf, that is moft terrible to the believer, and was ibmetimes a dreadful Attribute, and fpeak-ing nothing lefs than Damnation to fallen man, is now turned to be as much for the believers Salvation, as any other attribute in God: and upon that account is, and may be comfortably looked upon, ijoh. 1.9, If we confefs our fins ', he is faithful and jufi to forgive hs our fins, and to cleanfe pu from all unrighteonfnefs . 11 you ask, How can that be, that Juftice fhould be for the forgiveneis of our fins, if we do but confefs them, though we can make no fatisfaftion to juftice for them? Chrift by his Suretifhip hath brought a-bout the bufmefs, and handled the matter of Salvation fo, that Juftice and Righteoufnefs is as forward, as much engaged to fave the believer, as any other Attribute in God, 1 Joh. 2.2, And he is the propitiation for our fms: and not for our fins onlyj but alfo for the fms of the whole world. For, 1. Chrift hath fatisfied Juftice by a condign-price, the price of the blood of a perfon who is God 5 he hath payed the believers Debt to the leaft farthing. 2. He pleads this fa-tisfaction, and his own righteoufnefs for the people whofe Debt he took upon him to pay *, and thus he carried his matter by righteoufnefs and Juftice. Now Juftice, when'tis fatisfied and made for a perfon, is as comfortable, as 'tis terrible when it is unfatisfied, and againft a perfon. How fweet and comfortable is this to the believer, that by the Suretifhip of Chrift, not only favour and grace is for him, but Juftice alfo ? that fatisfied Juftice is the finfui believers friend, ftands on his fide:, and if God be righteous and juft, he wilJ, he muft, he cannot but forgive the confeflmg-belie-ver, and fave him upon Chrifts account, who fuffered and fatisfied funitive Juftice, and merited by a condign-price, holding proportion with the thing which he bought, that Cowm unit drive and remunerative- Juftice fhould give this reward for his work.

Learn hence, 1. From the Covenant of Suretifhip, to frame an anfwer to all temptations from our own frailty, mutability, inconftancy, mixture of unbelief with faith, of corruption

ruption with grace, &c. and the like : the weak believer think?, Adam and the Angels fell, who had no fin in them, who had habitual grace in perfection, and how can I ftand The Covenant of Suretifhip anfwers thefe and the like af-faults of the weak believers faith .* 1. Thou ftandeftby faith-, which excludeth boafting: and if thou be not high minded^ but fear, Rom. 11. 20, thou (halt ftand by faith: but they ftood by the Law of works, which doth not exclude boafting, Rom. 3.27. And therefore they feared not, but were lifted up, and fell. 2. That fame low defpifed thing, the little weak faith that is in thee, as it is of another kind than any faith which was in them, which was not faith in Chrift Mediator, fo it is given to thee for another end, even that thou mayeft by going out of thy M^, ftand by faith •, and cometh f om another fpring, which makes it indefectible, Luk^ 22. 32, *But I grayed for thee that thy faith fail not: this is his feed that remaineth in him that is born of God, 1 Joh. 3.9. 3. Although Adam and the Angels that fell, had habitual grace in perfection, without mixture of corruption *, yet they had no promifc nor alfurance of the fpirit and actual influences which the weakeft believer hath fetled upon him bypromife, Ez*ekz 36.27, And I will put my fpirit within you , and caufe you to walk^in my ftatutes, and ye fiall keep my judgments, and do them. 4. Neither had thefe grace in the ftore-houie, Chrift given to them j though they had a fair ftock, yet it was all in their own hand at adventure, and the well head and fountain of life to them was placed in themfelves, or the ftreams were cut off from the fountain ; but to the weak believer, the fountain of life and grace is placed in Chrift, Eph. 2. ic, For we are his workmanship, created in Chrift Jefm unto good works. Joh. I. 26, And of his fulnefs have all we received-, and grace for grace. 5. Nor was Chrift an undertaker and Surety tor the Angels that fell, nor for Adam in his firft Covenant ftate :, he gave no Bond, nor came under any act of Suretifhip for their {landing, Heb. 2. 16, For verily he took^ not on him the nature of Angels , but he took^ on him the feed of Abraham. God never faid to them as he doth to the believer, Pfal. 89.10, / have laid help Upon one that is mighty.

2. -Learn hence to admire and ftudy thefe eternal depths

of

Grounds offupport and comfort Chap. VI.

of love and wifdome that flrine forth in Gods Covenant-tranfaftions with Chrift, Eph. $. 18, 19, That you may be able to comprehend with all faints, what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height ; and to know the love of Chrift which puffeth knowledge This glorious myftery the Angels defire to fearch into, though not fo much concerned in it as we, and (hall not believers much more ftudy it? 1. The wifdom and knowledg that found out this way, that was beyond the poflible reach of men and Angels *, that loll man who was in as hopelefs a condition «s the Apoftate Angels, fhould be by a Surety, by fuch a Surety undertaken for, when Angels were palled by, Heb. 2. 16. 2. The everlafting out-goings of that fame eternal love, which came forth in Covenant-tranfac"tions betwixt the Father and the Son, when thefe objects of his love and e-ternal delight were not yet revealed, nor knew any thing of it, Prov.%.2$, to 31. What a wonder is this, that the heart of God, the delights of God fhould be taken up about fuch objects! $. The Soveraign gracioufnefs and free pre-venting-grace of this Surejtifhip, that Chrift became Surety and undertaker, and came to fulfil his Suretifhip, not fought for, not fent for, not fo much as defired by us, to undertake and act any thing for us, If a. 65.1, I am fought of them that asked not for me, I am found of them that fought me not. I faid, Behold me, Behold me, unto a nation that was not called by my Name. 4. The feafonablenefs of his fending the notice of this unto us *, the Lord provided a phy-fician before we were fick, and fent him to us in due time y 1 Tim. 2. 6. Gal. 4. 4. When fallen man was fick unto death, when Juftice with a fiery fword kept him out from happinefs, when he was running away, and hiding himfeif at the voice of God Gen. 3. 10: When the cure was defpe-rate, and the remedy impoflible to our knowledg, then came the news of a Surety to undertake for us in our low condition. 5. The double tenure whereby the believer holds his pardon and life through Chrifts Suretifhp, by free-grace, and by Juftice, Jam. 3. 24, Being juftified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Jefus Chrift. The Covenant of Redemption has provided both, that Free-grace fhould acquit wretched finners, and Juftice alfo (hould difcharge

them

Chap. VI. from the Covenant of Snretifoip. j^o

them for a full price laid down: Chrifr hath faid to Jehovah by his Covenant of Suretifhip, as Paul kid to Philemon concerning Onefimus, Philem. v» 18, 19, If he hath wronged thee, or owed thee ought, put that on mine account, I Paul have written it with my own hand, J will repay it. And this an-fwers all that Law and Juftice, and the accufer can fay j and therefore the believer may well fay with Paul, Rom. 8. S H $4> Who Jhall lay any thing to the charge of Gods elett ?. It is God that juftifieth, who is he that condemneth f

3. Learn how needful the knowledg and perfwafion of Chrifts Suretifhip and undertaking for us is. Nothing is more necefTary than to believe this, 1. For the right understanding of our Debt to him, who did lb freely, being under no neceflity of nature, and not defired by us, undertake for us, and put his foul in our fouls Head: a worthy ftudy indeed, and well becoming a believer to know what we owe to Jefus the Surety of the Covenant, who fpoke for us behind our backs, when we were abfent, and who laid down his Bond for ours, iCor.6. 19,20, Te are not your own y for ye are bought with a price, therefore glorifie God in your body and in your fpirit^ which is Gods. 2. For the eftablifh-ing our hearts in the faith of our Salvation, and compleat Redemption: is there any thing can ib eftablifh the heart of a believer, as to know that Chrift is an undertaker for him? he that can believe that Chrift became Surety for him, in the eternal Counfel of God, cannot reafonably doubt, but he will fulfil all his undertaking, and that he fhall be laved by his Surety-actings, Rom.$.$, 9, 10, But God commendeth his love towards us, in that while we were yet /Inners, Chrift died for us. Much more then being now juflified by his blood, we Jhall be faved from wrath through him. For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son: much more being reconciled, we fhall be faved by his life. 3. For filencing all the actings of unbelief in us, and the perverie fufpicions of our heart concerning Gods Covenant Good-will towards us*, all which do refolveuponfome apprchenfions of breach of the Covenant of Suretifhip betwixt Jehovah and Chrift: for if that ftand faft upon both fides, what place is there for doubting and unbelief, iTtm. 2. 13, Jf we believe not, yet he abideth faithful, he cannot deny

ny him ft If. Rom. $. 5, 4, For what if fome did not believe, {hall their unbelief make the faith of Cod without ejfeft f God forbid.

4- Nothing more neceflary for engaging our hearts in the ftudy of faith and holinels, and unto a,walk becoming the redeemed of the Lord, than the faith of Chrifts Sureti-(hip.

Three ways does this engage unto holinels and becoming walking.

1. Morally, and by way of excitement and motive: the faith of Chrifts Suretifhip and undertaking for us, is both an inviting, and encouraging motive to be holy, forafmuch as we are chofen in Chrift to be holy, and given to him to be made holy, Eph. 1.4, According as he hath chofen us in him before the foundation cf the world, that we jhould be holy, &c. Joh. 17. 17, Sanclifie them through thy truth, thy word ts truth. Heb. 2. n, For both he that fanclifieth, and they who -are fanclifed, are all one.

2. By way of obligement: Chrifts Suretifhip doth oblige us, and lay on Bonds and Obligations to this duty, that we fhould believe and be holy : ^nd he who hath the faith of Chrifts Suretifhip cannot but judg ib, 2 Cor. 5. 14, 15, For the love of Chrift Conftraineth us, becaufe we thus judg, that if one died for all, then were all dead. And that he died for all, that they which live Jhould not henceforth live unto them/elves, &c. 1 Cor. 6. 20, For ye are bought with a price, therefore glorifie God in your body, and in your fpirit, which are Gods.

3. By way of real influence : the faith of Chrifts Suretifhip hath real influence upon the believers heart, to make him ftudy to walk like the redeemed people •, if the threat-nings of the Law and Gofpel have fome influence upon the fpirit of man, to make him obey the Law or Gofpel, 'tis without doubt they have a moral influence*, and when accompanied with the fpirit, they have real influence, Heb. 2. $> Howjhallwe efcape, if we neglect fo great falvation ? Chap. 12. v. 25, See that ye refufe not him that fpeakeih : for if they efcaped not who refufed him that fpake on earth, much more frail not we efcape, if we turn away from him that fpeaketh from heaven. Sure the gracious Covenant of Suretifhip betwixt

twixt Jehovah and Chrifr, the undertakings of Chrifl:, for the believer mufl much more have influences upon the believers fpirit, and really put him to it, to walk like aranfom-ed foul, Gal. 2. 20, 1 am crucified with^ Chrifl ^ neverthelefs y I live *, yet not I, but Chrifl liveth in me ', and the life which I now live in the flefi, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himfelf for me. 2 Cor. 7. 1, Having therefore thefe promifes, dearly beloved, let its cleanfe our felves from all filthinefs of the flefij and fpirit, perfetling holmefs in the fear of the Lord.

CHAP. VII.

Of the Name Mediator, what it fignifieth, and how it agreeth to Chriji.

THat there is a Mediator of the Covenant of Grace, and but one only, even the Lord Jefus*Chrift, doth clearly appear from H p b.%.6. Chap. 9. v. 15. Chap. 12. v. 22, 2$, 24. 1 Tim. 2.5, For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and man, the man Chrift Jefns.

The firft Covenant which was of works, had no Mediator : for then there was no difagreement betwixt God and Man -, but this Covenant under which we (land by Grace,

h a Mediator, and needeth one, as I fhail fhew by and u

Concerning the Mediator of the new Covenant, we fhall confider, 1. The Name, what it fignifieth, and how it agreeth to Chrifl:. 2. The neceffity of a Mediator in the new Covenant. 3. The Perfon that is Mediator. 4. The Office of Mediatorfhip, and thefe things that belong unto it. 5. The grounds of comfort, and fupports of faith afi-fing to believers from Chrifts Mediation.

1. The Name Mediator, \jhq\7u, properly fignifies a midler, whether he be fuch in regard of his Perfon orCffice, one be-twixt two. Gal. 3.20, Now a mediator is not a mediator of

V one,

t\6 Of the Nam Mediator, Chap. VII.

one? but God is one. And ^Reconciler? as the Hebrew word fignifies, Job 9. 33, Neither is there any days-man betwixt Gmt. de fatisf. HS > that might lay his hand upon us both rV3?E> Mochjach? chrift? cap. 8. a Triefter , one who interpofeth for taking away differences betwixt difagreeing parties. It fignifies alio one that de-clareth things betwixt parties, internuntim interpres? one that, goes betwixt parties, and carries the mind of each to other*, in which fenfe Mofcs was a typical Mediator betwixt God and the Children of Ifrael? who carried 'the will of God to them, and carried back their anfwer to God, Gal. 3. 19, 20, with Exod. 19.3. Chap. 20. v. 19. Dent. 5. 5. Socir.de fervat. And although Socinus plead that the word Mediator? fig-lib, i. cap. 2.nifies nothing in Scripture but an Interpreter? the falfhood whereof doth evidently appear from, Heb.g. 15, And for this caufe he i* the mediator of the new Teftamem? that by means of death? for the redemption of the tranfgreffions that were under the firft teftament? they which are called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance , &c. 1 Tim. 2. 5, 6, For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and man, the man Chrift Jefus? who gave himfelf a ranfome for all? to be teftifiod in due time. Alfo, he would have Chrift to be a Mediator, only in this laft fenfe, that is, Gods Interpreter : yet all the three fignifications of the word do agree to Chrift*, and he is called the Mediator of the new Covenant, with reipeft to all the three. 1. He is one betwixt two, that middle perfon? God and man equally diftant from both, equally drawing near to both- parties, and fo in a fit capacity to mediate and interpofe, Mat. 1. 23, And they (hall call his name Emanuel? which being interpreted? is God with us. -jjle is the days-man the Reconciler, and triefter of the difference, who h j th int-rpofed and actually compofed the difference, Eph. 2. 14, 16, For he is our peace? who hath

made both one And that he might reconcile both unto God?

in one body by the crofs? having jlain the enmity thereby. 2 Cor. 5. 19, God was in Chrift reconciling -the world unto himfelf? not imputing their trefpaffes unto them? and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Col. 1.20, And having made peace by the blood of his crofs? to him to reconcile, all things to himfelf. 3. He is the Mediator in this fenfe alio, and Interpreter? who publifned and declared the new

Covenant,

Covenant, and the peace, Eph. 2. 17, And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. He went betwixt the parties, and carried the offers ol one, and the acceptation of. the other. In which refpeft: he is called the Meffenger or Angel of the Covenant, Mai. 3.1. And fo much for a tafte of the Name and fignifica-tion of the word Mediator: of the thing we (hall fpeak, when we come to fpeak of the Mediators Perfon and Office.

More particularly *, Why is Jefus called the Mediator of the new Covenant ', Heb. 12. 24? Or, in what refpe&s does this Name agree to him? and what may it import?

I will not trouble the Reader with the enumeration of how often and ordinarily he is found in medio jm the middle ', he that Gerard, loc. plealeth may read it elfewhere. But I think he is called the Me- cm. deper-diatorofthe new Covenant upon a fourfold account. 1. lnl on \*: c : °ti* Cm refpett of his Perfon, vbecaufe he was a middle per/on, participate £ r &* 4 * ing of both parties, 0e*'j/0f a>*r©-, having intereft in both parties, Cod-man ; Immanuel,Godwith hs,qx God us, Mat. 1.2 3. 2. In refpe&of his Office, not only a middle-peribn, but a middle officer, defigned for a middle-work, for dealing betwixt God and man in the great tranfattion of Reconciliation, Col.i. 20. 2 Cor. 5. 19. $. In refpeft of his fitnefs and qualifications to interpoie betwixt God and man, (whereof more afterward, at this time but a paffing-word of it). He was the only fit perfon to lay hands on both parties: In Heaven or Earth, there was not found a fit perfon to mediate betwixt God and man until Heaven and Earth, God and man, be joyn-ed in one perfon, to make a dt Mediator, a perfon equally diftant from, and equally near unto both parties. A perfon who is Gods feHow, Zech. 13.7, Awake, Ofword, againfi my jhepherd, and againfi the man that is my fellow. And who is our fellow, made himfelf our companion, and like un* to his brethren, Heb. 2. 14,17. A perfon who is Gods Sort, and our brother, J oh. 20. 17, I afcend unto my father, and yonr father', and to my God, and your God: our Goel, Job 1 p. 25, For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he fhall ftand at the latter day upon the earth. Our kinfman, who had the right of Redemption. 4. He is called Mediator, the

V 2 raidling

148 Of the Name Mediator, Chap. VII.

midiing perfon, not only in regard of his fitnefs^ but upon the account-of his attual interpofmg, and ftepping ia betwixt the difagreeing parties # , becauie he acted and executed the Mediators Office which he took upon him, and for which he was fitted-, he acted the day-mans part in the treaty of peace: he, through whom the whole Covenant of peace from beginning to end was trania&ed *, who flood in every pafTage of it as a middle perfon, through whom God dealt with us, and we with him.

i. Through him was the Covenant with us fir ft motioned, and by him was the motion and overture entertained on our behalf: there had never been a Covenant betwixt God and fallen men, had not Chrift ftept in to overture the reconciliation of Juftice and Mercy, Trov. 8. 30, 1 1, Then I was by him, as one brought up with him, and 1 was daily his delight, rejoycing always before him. Rejoycing in the habitable part of his earth: and my delights were with the fons of men. He is Mediator Propofitionis , or rather proponendo, the perfon through whom the firft motion of it was made and entertained.

2. Through him was the bufinefs done, and ended in the Counfel of God : he entertained the motion of a Covenant; and agented it till it was a clofed bargain, in an eternal plot betwixt his Father and himfelf, Pfal. 80. 3, J have made my Covenant, with a chofen: 7 have [worn unto David my fervant. 6^^40.^.7, ThenfaidLLo, J come. He is Mediator Impetrationis, who obtained and procured, that the pro-pofal of free Redemption fhould be a conncluded Agreement.

I. Through him were we reprefented in Chrifts tranfadion with his Father: he interpofed and did the bufinefs by way of reprelentation, as the Head of the Church in the name, and on the behalf of many, Heb.i. 1 $, Behold I, md the children which God hath given me. 2 Tim. 1.9, Who hath faved as, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, htt according to his own purpofe and grace which was given us in Chrift Jefus, before the world began. He is Mediator re-prefentationis, the perfon that ftood and reprefented many : When God fpoke with us in him, as the Angels did with Ifrael in Jacobs loins, for there he fake with us, Hof. 12. 4.

4. Through

4. Through him did God ftrike hands with us: the fti-pulation on our part was made by him, whom God took as a refponfal perfon, and in our room to bargain with, Heb. 7. 22, By fo much was Jefus made a furety of a better Teftament. Pfal. 89. 19, / have laid help upon one that is mighty. I have exalted one chofen out of the people* He is Mediator, fdei-]uffwnis, the perfon who put his name in our Bond, and ftept in as a Sponfor and Surety for the broken man.

5. Through him is the whole Covenant fulfilled, and e-very word of it hath a being, ex parte dei he fulfilkth all that is promifed on Gods part, 2 Cor. 1. 20, For all the pro-tnifes of God in him arc yea, and m- him are Amen: And ex parte homnis, he worketh in us, and for us, whatfoever is required of us, Phil. 1. 21, Being filled with the fruits of right eoufnefs, which are by Jefus Chrift, unto the glory and praife ef God. Heb. 12.2, Looking unto Jefus the author and finijher of our faith. He is Mediator impletionis, the perfon in whom the whole Covenant is fulfilled and accomplifh-ed.

6. Through him came the news of this fecond Covenant:. he proclaimed and publifhed the glad tydings, lfa,6\. i 5 The fpirit of the Lord is upon me, becaufe the Lord hath an-vointed me to preach gosd tydings unto the meek. Eph- 2. 17, And came and preached peace to yon which are afar off, and to them that were nigh. Pfal. 40. 9, / have preached righte-oufnefs in the great congregation. He is Mediator promulgations, the chief herauld and melTenger, the perfon by whom* and by his appointed fervants, the Covenant was and is preached.

7. Through him is the myftery made manifest in the hearts of his people : he fhines upon the myftery of the Covenant, and makes it to be underftood •, and this fecond difcovery of God in Chrift, can never be revealed but by the Mediator himfelf, Joh. 4,7.6. I have manifefted thy name. 2 Cor. 4. 6. For God who commanded the light to fhine out of darknefs, hath jhined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledg of the glory cf God, in the face of Jefus Chrift. Joh. 1. i8 ; No man hath feen God at any time: the only begotten Son, which is in the bofime cf the Father, he hath declared him. He is

Mediator.

Of the Nam Mediator, Chap. VII.

Mediator illnminatioms, or the very medium of this ntw-Ligftt, the perfon bv whom the Covenant is revealed .

8. By him was a price told down to Juftice on our behalf: he interpoied to latisfie Juftice on the terms it flood upon, and entered his perfon in priibn for us, till he payed the Debt by the price of his blood, after which he was fet at liberty, Heb.y. 12, 15, But by his own blcodhe entred in once into the holy place, having obtained redemption for us.

And for this caufe he is the Mediator of the new Tefla-

tnent, that by means of death ', &c Rom. 3.24, Being juftified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Jefus Chrifl. He is Mediator redemptions feu fatisfatlionis, the perfon that made the fatisfaftion, and payed the price to Juftice to the full, by his obedience to death.

9. Through him is the difference actually compofed, and the peace made, the difagreeing parties are brought together in him as a middle perfon, and fit refting-place, Eph. 2. 13, 14, But now in Chrifl Jefus, ye who fometimes were far off', are made nigh by the blood of Chrifl. For he is our peace, who hath made both one. Heb. 2. 17, To make reconciliation for the fins of his people. He is Mediator reconciliations, the perfon that made the peace, and in whom the difference is compofed, 2 Cor. 5. 19, God was in Chrifl reconciling the world to himfelf.

10. Through him are all the bleftlngs of the Covenant applied to us, and the fruit of his purchafe is drawn forth by his interceflion as a Prieft for ever, which he doth as a Mediator, Heb.7.15, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermofl that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liv-ethto maki inter cejfion for them. H* is Mediator applications feu interceffionis, the perfon that ftill mediates and officiates before God on our behalf, for frefh applications of all his purchafe.

11. Through him we receive all the bleffings of the Covenant: he receives them for us, and Chrift Mediator is conftitute great Lord Difpenfator and Theafaurer, the head of the Church, who receiveth bleffings for the whole body, and every member thereof, iTin\. 1. 9, According to his own purpofe and grace which was given us in Chrifl Jefus

before

before the world began, Eph. I.J, Blejfed be the god andfa* ther of our Lord Jefus Chrift, who hath blejfed us with all fprimal bleffwgs in heavenly places in Chrift. Pfal. 68. 18, Thou haft received gifts for men. He is Mediator reception nisj the perfon who receivcth all the bleflings of the Covenant at the firft hand *, who is the ftore-houfe, and fountain, the perfon on whom all the atts of Gods love are firft put forth, Job. I* 14,16, And the word was made flejh, and dwelt among us \ and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the enly begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.-—And of his fulnefs have all we received, and grace for grace.

12. Through him was the Covenant with us confirmed: he fealed the new Teftament with his own blood, and in-terpofed by his death to make the Covenant Gods irrevocable will of grace to us-ward, Gal. $. 15, 17, Though it be but a mans covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man difannulleth or addeth thereunto. And this I fay, That the Covenant that was confirmed before of God in Chrift, the law which was four hundred and thirty years after cannot difannul, that it jhould make the promifes of none effect. Heb. 6. 17, 18, Wherein God, willing more abundantly to manifeft unto the heirs of promife the immutability of his counfel, confirmed it by an oath, that by two immutable things, wherein it was impoffible for God to lye,we might haveftrow confolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hops fet before us. He is Mediator confirma-tionis, the perfon in whom, and by whom the Covenant was confirmed.

13. Through him is the Covenant a clofed bargain, as to the addition of our content to it: through him are our hearts ingaged to the bargain : he travelleth with us to get our confent to it, 2Cor. 5. 19, God was in Chrift reconciling' the world unto himfelf, not imputing their trefpaffes unto them ' 0 and hath cdmmittei unto us the word of reconciliation. Ezek. 20. 37, Aid-1 will caufe you topafs under the rod, and I will bring you into the bond of the Covenant. Rev. 22. 17, And the fpirit and the bride fay , Come. He is Mediator, adftipulationis feu confenfus noftri, the perfon who interpofeth for the fubjecltion of our confent, and to get our heart to fay Amen to the Covenant} and is therefore called the A-poftle and High-prieft of our profeffwn^ or adftipulation, Heb. 3. I 14. Through

jp Of the Name Mediator, Chap. VII.

14. Through him is the Covenant held fa ft with all thofe who are once really engaged in it, that it crumble not a-vvay as the raft Covenant did, but may Hand firm and (table, Pfal.%9. 34, 35, My Covenant will I not breaks nor alter the thing that is gene out of my lips. Once have I [worn by my holmefs, that l will not lye Unto David. Joh. 17. 12, Thofe that thou gavefl me I have kjpt, and none of them is loft. He is Mediator confervationis y the perion who conlerveth and keepeth the peace betwixt the covenanted parties, and makes the Covenant lure, ijoh.2. 1,2, And if any man fin, we have an advocate with the father, Jefus Chrift the righteous. And he is the propitiation for our fins.

From this, that Chrift is Mediator of the new Covenant :

Vfe 1. This fheweth the mifery of all thofe who are under the Covenant of works,which is the ftate of all natural men. Chrift is not Mediator of that Covenant under which you (land \ you muft either do for your (elves, or think of changing your Covenant ftate *, for Chrifts mediation doth not-reach you, fo as you continuing in that condition can have any a&ual benefit by it, Joh. 17.9, / pray for them, I pray not for the world, but for them that thou haft given me, for they nre thine.

Vfe 2. This fheweth sdfo the blelTed ftate of believers who are in the Covenant of grace: you are not come to the Mountain that can not be touched -, you may w r ith bold-nefs approach to God w T ith your fervices ^ and for obtaining bleffmgs and directions from him , you have a Mediator to deal for you *, if he be angry at any time, you have one to put between you and his anger, to (peak for you when you dare not fpeak for your felves •, to procure bleflings for you when you deferve none, 1 Joh. 1. 2, If any man fin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jefus Chrift the righteous. Eph. 2. 18, For through him we both have an accefs by one fpirit unto the Father. Chap. \.v. 12, In whom we have boldnefs and accefs, with confidence by the faith of him.

Vfe 3. Since Jefus Chrift is Mediator of the new Covenant, then he muft be imployed, and acknowledged in all things pertaining to the Covenant, Heb. 2. 17, And in all things pertaining to God : for if it be a bufine(s betwixt God

and

Chap. VIII. Of the Neceffitj/ of a Mediator* j 53

and a man who is within this Covenant, that falls within his office, i7?/ff.2.'5i For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Chrifi Jefus. In all things he muft be employed as Mediator, and acknowledged and honoured as Mediator, Joh. 5. 23, That all men flronld honour the Son y even as they honour the Father.

CHAP- VIII.

Of the Necejpty of a Mediator; and Rea-fons why this Covenant is ejiablijbed in the hands of a Mediator.

Concerning the neceffity of a Mediator in the Covenant Aquk. jum. of Grace, it is to be remembred, that we ipeak not 1 part Q. ip. of an abfolute neceffity of that which God could have done art. 3. by his abiblute power : whether he could have reflored man ^ #w n lJ s ( ! lt ' without a Mediator, and have pardoned fin without afgfe-^i 1 "1 "' faction: nor of a natural neceffity: but we fpe?k of an hy-' pothetical, refpective neceffity, upon connexion of one thing with another^ In regard or the decree of God, who having purpofed not to iuffer fin to pais utterly unrevenged, neither yet to ckftroy all mankind in the punifhing of fin, and fatisfying of Juftice *, but to glorifie himfelf in inch ma-nifeftation of his grace, as fhould have fatisfaftion to Juftice carried along with it: In this refpet"t it was neceffary that a Mediator fhould be found who might do the work in this . manner.

The Reafons fhewing th 1 neceflity of a Mediator, or Gods ends in eftablifning the Covenant in the hand of a Mediator, are of thre-e forts, according to three great end's which God hath before him in the work of our Redemption # , The glory of God, the glory of Chrifi, and the good of his people.

1. Some Reafons there are which moft directly 1 efpeft God .himfelf, and his glory. X 2. Others

* 5+ Of the Kecefity of a Mediator. Chap. VIIL

2. Others reipeft Chrift and his honour, as Mediator in this employment.

The third fort refpeel the Creatures good and happi-nefs.

And, i. The Reafons of eftablifhing this Covenant in the hands of a Mediator, which refpeel God himfelf, and his glory, may be, i. For the glory of his Greatnefs and Majefty; it is his glory to be dealt with like himfclf, throughout the whole bufineis of our Salvation.

i. It was for his honour that he fhould carry like a Su-periour wronged: it became the Majefty of the Lord to keep at a diftance with finners, and not to be dealt with immediately by the parties who had done him the wrong -, but by the Mediation and Interceflion of another great Per-" fon, Mai. i. 14, For 1 am a great king, faith the Lord, Heb. 7.25, Men muft therefore come to God by him, by a Mediator. 2. It became the Majefty and Honour of God to be dealt with only by his own Son, he being the greatenV Courtier in Heaven, and who knew moil of his fathers mind, Joh. 1. 18, No man hath feen God at any time : the only begotten Son which is in the bofome of the father, he hath declared him,

2. For the glory of his Wifdom : This was a plot becoming the wifdom of God, and much for the honour of it, to find out this way of making up an union betwixt God and man. Again, by bringing down God to man, and bringing up man to God, and treifting both to meet in a Media-tor: wonderful did the wifdom of God appear in the Reconciling'Juftice and Mercy, and making them meet together in this bufinefs *, in punifhing fin, and fetting the finner free, in making a Covenant with us through a Mediator, when there could be none without a Mediator, Eph. 3. 10, 11, To the intent , that now unto the principalities- and powers in heavenly places, might be known by the Church the manifold wifdom of God : according to the eternal purpofe which he parpofed in Chrift Jefus oar Lord.

I. It was for the glory of Gods Goodnefs and Free-grace. that grace may be acknowledged, and dealt with like Free-grace 5 therefore there muft be a Mediator, who throughout the accomplifomertf of ourSalvatioi} fhall deal with grace by

way

way of entreaty, and requefts *, and fhall obtain our Salvation as freely by requefts, as if there had been no purchaie made of it through iatisfa&ion to Juftice, Heb. 5. 17, Who in the days of his flefh, when he had offered up prayers and fupplicationSy with firong crying and tears unto him that was able to fave him from death ; and was heard in that he feared. Chap. 7.^.25, Seeing he ever liveth to make interceffwn for them.

4. It was for the glory of his Juftice, which muft be dealt with in a way of iatisfa&ion: grace will be dealt with by requefts, fdlva juftitia, which muft be dealt with by a fa-tisfa&ion *, therefore the Covenant is eftablifhed in the hands of a Mediator, who may tell down a price to Juftice, 1 Tim. 2. 6, Who gave himfelf a ranfome for aH, to be teftifiedin due time. Theie two the Apoftle joyns, Rom. 5.24,25,26, Be-ing jufified freely by his grace^ through the redemption that is in Jefus Chrifl: Whom God hath fet forth to be a propitiation through faith in his bloody to declare his right eoufnefs for the remiffwn of fins that are paft, through the forbearance of God. To declare, I fay, at this time his righteoufnefs, that he might be jnft, and the jufiifier of him which believeth in Jefus. The higheft Juftice, and the freeft grace, met together in the Mediator, to fave us by paying a price as fully as if there had been no grace} and entreating of favour in the matter of our Salvation: and yet as much entreaty and requeft is made to grace, as if Juftice had received no fatis-fa&ion.

Secondly, Other Reaforts refpetl: Chrift: the Covenant is eftablifhed in the hands of a Mediator, for the glory of the Mediator in this employment, whole honour and glory God had in his eyes, as well as his own, Joh. 5.2$, That all men fhould honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. And 16. 14) He fidl glofife me, for he fiiaU receive of mine, and fhall fhew it unto you. Now the conflicting and appointing Chrift Mediator of the new Covenant, is for his honour, 1. In rdpecl of the honourable offices which are laid upon him as Mediator: for it is as Mediator that he is conftituted a King, a Prieft, and a Prophet to his people, Heb. 1, and 7 Chap, throughout, which are honourable oftj-ces, Heb. 5.4, And no man taketh this honour unto himjelf,

X 2 but

but he that is called of God as was Aaron. Joh. 5. 22,2$, But hath committed all judgment to the Son, that all men frould honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. 2. In reipccl of the exceeding great power which is put in his hand as Mediator: no lets than the adminiftration of the whole affairs in Heaven and Earthy and that every knee frould bow to him, Phil. 2. 10, And the government frail be upm his fr odder, Ifa. o. 6. Mat. 28. 18, All power is given unto me in heaven, and in earth. Rev. 3.7, He that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man frutteth : and frutteth,and no man openeth. $. In refpeel of the great dependancc that lhall be upon Chrift Mediator, by many fupplicants refortr ing to him, and waiting on him, for the reprefenting and offering of their rcquefts. Joh. 15. 16, Whatjoever ye frail as\ of the Father in my name, he frail give it yon. Zeph. $. 10, From beyond the rivers of Ethiopia, my fupplicants, even the daughter of my difperfed frail bring mine offering. 4, In reipeft of his ible and abfolute working of the whole bu-finefs of our Salvation from beginning to end, every part of it being immediately from him as the Fountain and ftore-houfe, and Great Lord Treafurer of ail the bleflings of the Covenant, Heb. 12.2, Looking unto Jefus the author and finifrer of our faith. Eph. 1. $, Bleffed be the God and Father of our Lord Jefus Chrift, who hath bleffed us with all fpiritual bleffmgs in heavenly places in Chrift. Aft. 2. jg^ 1 here fore being by the right hand, of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promife of the holy Ghoft, he hath fred forth this which ye now fee and hear.

The third fort of Reafons reipe&ing the creatures good and happinefs, may be holden forth, I. Negatively. 2. Affirmatively.

1. Without Chrift the Mediator, we fhould have had no knowledg of God which is laving: for fince the fall, God dealeth not with man immediately: nor can man fee him, or hear him fpeak without a Mediator. This was typified, Bxod. 20. 1 o, And they faid unto^Mofes, Speak^thou with us, and we will hear: but let not Codfpeak^ with us, left we die. But in the Mediator we fee Gods face, and know him fa-vlngly, Joh. 17. 3, And this is life eternal^ that they might know thee the only true Gq^ and Jefus Chrift whow thou haft

fenu

[cut. 2 Cor. 4. 6, To give the light of the knowledg of the glory of God> in the face of Jefus Chrift.

2. Without Chrift the Mediator, there could be no union betwixt God and man: the diftance was ib great, that the parties could not come near to one another, Eph. 2.1 3, But now in Chrifi Jefus, ye who fometimes were far off, are made nigh by the blood of Chrift..

3. Without the Mediator there could not have been any communion with God : union h the foundation of communion : without Chrift the Creature fhould everlaftingly have loft' the fruition of God. Without Chrift, and without God, go together, Eph. 2.12.

4. Without the Mediator we could never had any conformity with God; we loft the Image of God, but could never have regained it : but in Chrift it is reftored more excellently, 2 Cor. $. 18, But we all with open face beholding as in a glafs the glory of the Lord, are changed into the fame image from glory to glory, even as by the fpirit of the Lord. In a word: without a Mediator, no part of mans fpiritualor everlafting good fhould have been brought to pais *, foraf-muchas all the good which God had from eternity decreed to do to man, was decreed to come to him in and through a- Mediator: hence we are laid to be choien and ordained unto adoption, hoiinels, obedience, perfevcrance, &c. in and through him, Eph- 1. 3,4, 5, Bleffed be the God and Father of our Lord Jefus Chrift ^ who hath blejfcd us with all fpiri-ritual bleffmgs in heavenly places in Chrift. According as he hath chofn us in him y before the foundation of the world,that we fhould be holy, and without blame before him in love. Having predeftinated us unto the adoption of children by Jefus Chrift to himfelf, according to the good pieafure of his wiU. 1 Pet 1.2, Through fancbifcation of the fpirit unto obedience, and fprinkling of the blood of Chrift.

But by eftablifhing the Covenant in th: hands of a Mediator, mans good is advanced. For, 1. There is a foundation laid of a higher happmeis to be recovered in Chrift, than was loft in Adam\ for there is much more of God manifefted and revealed in Jtfus Chrift, than was in the creation: for now we may behold his face as in a glafs, 2 Cor. I, l $j throughout. Chrift, who is the brightnefs of his Fathers

glory , Heb. 1.5. Therefore this is a better Covenant, which hath better promifes in it, laid to our hand in a Mediator,^ Heb. 8.6. 2. Not only a higher happinefs, and a better Covenant in that refpeci, but alio through the Mediator there is a foundation laid of a better iecurity for that happinefs , a furer Covenant, and (landing in it, than was before : a Covenant that cannot be difannulled, as was the firft; this being eftablifhed, and ordained in the hands of a Mediatory Gal. $. 15, 17, 19. Jer. 51, n, But this frail be the ■Covenant that 1 will make with the ho'ufe of Ifrael after tlpofe diys, faith the Lord, I will put my laws in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts : and will be their God, and they frail be my people*, Chap. $$.i>. 20, 21. A happinefs that cannot be forefaulted, PfalSg.^, $4, 35. 5. Through the eftabli'hing of this Covenant in, the hands of a Mediator, there is ftrength and height of confidence and confola-tion,anfwerable to the fecunty granted, and the folid grounds of confidence and comfort that are laid in this Covenant3 the fum whereof is, That all (hall go well, notwithstanding all things in us that fpeak the contrary, becaufe there is a Mediator in this Covenant, 1 Joh. 2. 1, 2, And if any man fin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jefiu Chrifl the righteous *, and he is the propitiation for our fins : and not for ours only, but alfo for the fins of the whole world. Heb. 7.25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermofl that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth to make intercefli-on for them. Chap. 2. v. 17, That he might be a merciful and faithful High-prieft in things pertaining to God , to make reconciliation for the fins of the people. And truly if there had not been a Mediator in the Covenant of grace, in whofe hand it was ordained, through whom it is eftablifhed with us *, it had been as weak, ineffe&ual, and unprofitable to give righteoufnefs and life, as the firft Covenant proved.

Vfe 1. The neceflity of a Mediator in this Covenant, cleareth one of the main differences betwixt the Covenant of Grace and the ffrft Covenant which was of Works, wherein there was no Mediator, nor need of a Mediator, the parties being friends, and in fltnefs to deal immediate-

Vfe 2.

Vfe 2. From the neceflity of a Mediator in this Covenant, be convinced of your need of a Mediator, i. Let natural men be convinced of this:, you have none to deal for you, you muft ftand or fall by your own righteouihefs without any mending of if, you muft do for your lelves, or be undone ^ for there is no Mediator of that Covenant under which you ftand : you muft do fo, or of neceflity come to Chrift the Mediator, that you ma,y partake in a better Covenant. 2. Let believers be convinced of this, It is not natural men only that need a Mediator to make their peace, and to change their Covenant-ftate, but you alio heed a Mediator : l- At all times before, and after juftification, Rom. 5. 6, 10, For when we were yet without ftrength^ in due time

Chrift died for the ungodly. For if when we were enemies,

we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more being reconciled, we fall'be faved by his life. In making your peace, and maintaining it: before, and in, and after your converfioh, you will need a Mediator, till you be in over the threfhold of glory *> till you have put off the body of fin, Joh. 6. 44, No man can come to me except the father which fent me, draw him. Song. i.4> Draw me, we will run after thee. Luk. 22. $2, But I have frayed for thee that thy faith fail not. 2. To all intents and purpoies, as well relating to your Covenant-ftate, as to your duties*,, not only for your perlbns, to make your peace :, but alio for your performances, to procure their acceptance, Rom. 1.2^ Being juftified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jefus Chrift,. Rev. 8. 3, And another Angel came and flood at the altar , having a golden cenfor, and there was given unto him much incenfe, that be jhould offer it with the prayers of all Saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. $. In all things pertaining toGod, whatibever you have to do, if it be a thing that relates to God, Heb. 2. 17, That he might be a merciful and faithful High-pneft in things pertaining to God y to make reconciliation for the fins of the people. If you have any direction to receive from God, if you have any blefling to receive, you need a Mediator to procure it to you, and to receive it for you: If you have any fervice to offer to God, any duty to perform, you need a Mediator both, to afford you ilrength to perform it, and to offer

it:

it to God for you: if you have any evil to deprecate,you need a Mediator to avert it,whether it be for fins before,or after con-verfion. «$. In all cafes, not only in thy deadnefs, and indilpo-fitions for duties, but when thy heart is in beft frame, thy tendernefs and good frame cannot mediate for thee, Dart. 9. 3, 17, And I fet my face unto the Lord God to feek^ by -prayers and fupplications, with fafting, and fackjcloath, and

a flies, Now therefore, O our God, hear the grayer of thy

Jervant, and his fupplications, and caufe thy face toflrine upon thy fan51 nary that is defolate, for the Lords fake. Ha. 38. $,

14, And Hezekjah wept fore. Li\e a Crane or a Swallow

fo did I chatter, I did mourn as a Dove: mine eyes fail with looking upward: 0 Lord, 1 am opprejfed-, undertake for me. Not only when thou art at diftance with God, and canfl not find aecets, but when thou art neareft to him, and admitted to his prefence, to fpeak before his throne, then thou needed a Mediator *, not only for eftablifhing thee in that good condition, but for covering the evil of thy be-ft condition, If a. 64. 6, Bat we are all as an unclean thing, and our righteoufnejfes are as filthy rags. Chap. 6. v. 5, Then faid /, Wo is me, for I am undone, becaufe 1 am a man of unclean lips j and 1 dwell in the widfl of a people of unclean lips *, for mine eyes have feen the king, the Lord of Hofts.

Vfe 3. Study to carry as becometh thole who need a Mediator : and for this end take thefe directions: 1. Take care to beat down felf-confidence, and felf adorayon, even of every thing in you that is not Chrift, his gifts, and graces, and affiftances not excepted •, put not a created grace in Chrifts room j be not lifted up with thefe, nor led away from the Mediator by them, Phil. $. 3,4, For we are the circumcifion which worflnp God in the fpirit, aud re Joyce in Chrift Jefus, and have no confidence in the flejh : Though I might alfo have confidence in the flefli : if any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might truft in the flejh, J more. 2. When duties go well, and a good frame of fpirit is enjoyed, watch that your hearts lay not the weight of your acceptation upon thefe things, but that you keep them efpecially within fight of Chrifts Mediation, as the ground of your confidence, Phil. 3.7, But what things were gain to me, thofe I counted loft for Chrift. 3. Let your employing of him be" as

large

large as the extent of his mediation reaches to, and that is to all things pertaining to God, Heb-2.17. Shut him not out of his office in any thing that is a matter betwixt God and you: think not to put him to drudg at your burdens, and to flight him in other things: he will not be fo dealt with. 4. Let us beware of tempting Chrift, of grieving the Mediator : if you carry about with you the frefh conviction of your need of him, you will be very tender and wary of tempting him, and finning againfthim, 1 Cor. 10.9, Neither let us tempt Chrift as fome of them*alfo tempt ed, and were deftroyed of Serpents.

\6l

CHAP. IX.

Of the Perfon who is Mediator , and of the great difcoveries of God which are made to us in and through Cbrijl.

IN the next place I fhall fpeak fomething of the Mediators Perfon, or of the Perfon who is Mediator, and his fitneis and qualification for this work. When the perfon is known, his fitnefs for the Mediatorfhip will appear: for it is namely in order to that end that we fpeak here of the Perfon who is Mediator, that his compleat qualifications for that Office, and the difcoveries which are made of God to us through him, may be known.

And, 1. Before we fpeak of the Mediators Office, let us confider the Perfon who is Mediator of the new Covenant, Jefus Chriit, Heb. 12.24. Chap.8. 6. iTim.2.<$ t Chap. 3. 17. Jefus Chrift Mediator carries three Names, which relate to three great difcoveries and manifeftaticns of God that are made to us in him. 1. As he manifefts the will of God, he is called the word of God, Rev. ip. i 6 . 2. As he manifefts the nature and elTence of God, he is called the brightnefs ofhisglory^ Heb. 1. 3. 3. As he manifefts the per-fons of the Godhead, he is called the exprefs Image of his

Y Fcrfon,

Terfort. I do not fay thefe names relate only to thefe difco-veries, but mainly,

i. The Perfonwho is Mediator of the Covenant of grace, is he whole name is called the word of God, Rev. 19. 13. and that "both in relation to Creation and Redemption. 1. He is the word by whom all things were made, £pb. 3. 9, Who hath created all things by Jefus Chrifl. Heb. I. 2, By whom alfo he made the worlds, Pfal. 3 ^. 6, By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, and all the ho ft of them by the breath of his mouth, 2. He is the word in relation to the revealing all the will of God \ he is medium reve-lationh, as Well as reconciliationls. There is a new difcovery of God after the fall *, its a difcovery of him in Chrift: and this is a myftery which the Angels dive into, with ftupen-dious endeavours, 1 Pet. 1. 12, Which things the angels deftre to lool^. into. Chrifl is the word of God that reveals this myftery, Mai. n.27, Neither knoweth any man the lather fave the Son, and he to whomfoever the Son will reveal him. Joh. 1. 18, No man hath feen God at any time : the only be-gotten Son which is in the bofome of the Father, he hath declared him. 3. He is the word of God in relation to the fulfilling all the word of God, and accomplishing his will, elpecially that which relateth to himfelf: this Name is given him in the time of the feventh Trumpet, Rev.\i.i$, with 19.137 When all the promifes and threatnings are to be fulfilled, then he fhall be acknowledged to be the word of God. The ordering of all things according to the word of God, and the accomplifhment of all his will fince the fall, is committed to the adminiftration of Chrift Mediator, Joh. 5. 22,2 $, for the father yidgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment to the Son, that all men fliould honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. It was Chrift that brought the flood upon the world : it was he that went down to Sodom, and deftroyed it, 2 Pet. 2. 5,6, Jehovah did it, Gen. 7. and 21. The fame name is given to Chrift. It was Chrift the Angel of the Covenant that appeared in the Bufh, and delivered his people out of Egypt, Exod. $. 2, And the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in, a flame of fire out of the mid ft of a bufi: and he looked, and behold, the bufi) burned with fire, and the bufh was not con fumed: A&. 7. 30, An

Angel

Angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bujh. . It was he that brought all thefe Judgments on them in the Wilder-ncfs, 1 Cor. 10. 9, Neither let as tempt Chrifl as fome of them aljo tempted, and were defiroyed of Serpents. It was he that brought them to Canaan, and out of Babylon, and built the Temple, and filled it after their return, Jfa.61.9, By the angel of his pre fence he faved them. Zech. 6. 12, Behold the man whofe name is the Branch, and he fhall grow up out of his place, and he Jhall build the temple of the Lord. Chap. 9. V. 11, As for thee alfo, by the blood of thy Covenant, I have fent forth thy prifoners out of the pit wherein is no water. Hag. 2. 7, And 1 will fhake all nations, and the defire of all " nations jhall come, and I will fill this houfe with glory, faith the Lord of hofis. And this contributes to make Chrift a fit Mediator, and to fupport the faith of Gods people, that the making of all things, the revealing of the will of God, and the fulfilling of it, even the whole government is upon his fhoulders: which may allure our hearts that the work which he undertaketh (hall be accomplifhed.

2. This is he who is called the brightnefs of his Fathers glory y Heb. 1. $. As Chrift is *o>©-, lb he manifefts Gods will: here he is *ir&vyetrn* y lb he manifefts the nature of God.

And here let us, 1. See what the glory is: I take it to be meant, not of the efjential glory which he had with the Father from all Eternity *, but of the manifeflative Glory and Majefty of the Lord which fhined forth in Chrift: for it is of Chrift Mediator that the Apoftle is here fpeaking; it is the excellencies of God as they fhine forth in the Mediator, which otherwife had been invifible, and could not have been feen, difcovered, nor looked upon, 2Cor. $. 18, Bit we all with open face beholding as in a glafs the glory of the Lord. Therefore the end of Chrifts being conftitute Mediator, is for this manifeftative glory whereof we read, Joh. U.4 X When Jefus heard that, he faid, 'This fick»ejs is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God wight be glorified thereby. Chap. 5. v. 22,23, For the Father jadgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment to the Son: That all men fhsuld honour the Son, even as they honour the Father.

Z. The brightnefs, or fent-forth Light here ipoken of, is a

Y 2 fimilitude

! £4. Of the Perfon of Jefus Chrift Chap. IX.

fimiiitude taken from the Sun *, wherein there is the body of the Sun, there is the light of the Sun, and the fhining fplendor or beams of the Sun : Interpreters think this to be an expreftion of the eternal generation of the Son, proceeding from the Father, as light from the Sun. I take it rather to be the manifeftation of the Father in Chrift the Mediator , who is otherwife invifible : as the Sun is manifefted by its own light, i'o that if you would light all the Torches in the world,you cannot fee the Sun by the light of thefe, without its own light: No more can you fee God but in Chrift Jefus, who is the brightnefs of his Glory, the light where-** by his excellencies are manifefted, Joh. i.p, That was the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. Mat. 11. 27, Neither knoweth any man the Father^ fave the Son y and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. $. This is he who is called the exprefs Image of his Fathers Terfon, Heb. 1. 3. %«tp**T«p, the imprinted form, this fimilitude relates to the perfons of the Godhead, as the former did to the Divine EfTence and Nature. It is borrowed from the fignets impreflion, which reprefents all the lineaments of the Seal, the Character is the perfect exprefTed Image. Mark, Chrift is called the Image ofGods Per[on, not of his Effence\ for he is the lame EfTence, not the fame Perfon. There is in the God-head ejfentia & fubfiftentia *, the EfTence is but one, but the Subfiftences or Perfons are different, as is ex-prefTed in Scripture, 1 J oh. 5.7, For there are three that bear record in heaven^ the Father ^ the Word> and the holy-Ghofi: I take not this to be meant of Chrift, as God principally : for lb he is the fame in Nature, Names and Attributes *, rather than the Image of God: but I underftand it of Chrift as Mediator, in whom there is a full and perfect refemblance of the Fathers Attributes and Excellencies. And here for our knowledg of the perfon who is Mediator, I lay down two conclufions from that comprehenfive de-fcription of him : 1. That Jefus Chrift hath in him a glorious refeaablance, and a perfect Character of all the glorious Excellencies and Attributes of the Father, Col. 2. 9, For in him dwelleth all the fninefs of the Godhead bodily. 2 Cor. 3. 18, But we all with open face beholding as in a glafs the glory of the Lord, 2. That it is by Chrift Mediator, that all the

glorious

glorious excellencies of God are revealed unto us, 2 Cer.\. 6, For God who commanded light to frine out ofdarknefs, hath finned in our hearts, to give th* light of the knowledg of the glory of God in the face of Jefus Chrift.

Confider, 1. That Gods great end in all his goings forth towards the Creature, in Predeftination, Creation, Providence, &c. is his own glory, and the manifeftation of his excellency, Prov. 16.4, The Lord hath made all things for him-felf, yea, even the wicked for the day of evil. Rom. 11. 36, for of him, and through him, and to him are all things, to whom be glory for evor. Rev. 4.1aft, Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, and honour, and power, for thou haft created all things, and for thy pleafure they are and were created. But more efpecially this is his end in Redemption, Eph. 1. 6, To the praife of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Joh. 17.4, I have glorified thee on the earth, I have fnifred the work^ which thou gaveft me to do, 2. That which is Gods end, is our happi-nefs; even to have God manifefted to us, to fee him, and to have difcoveries made to us of his excellencies, Joh. 17. I, And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the vnly true God, and Jefus Chrift whom thou haft fent. Mat. 5.8, Bleffed are the pure in heart, for they frail fee God.

1 Joh. $. 2, But we know when he frail appear, we frail be like him, for we frail fee him as he is. To fee him, and be transformed by that fight, 2 Cor. $. 18, But we all with open-face beholding as in a glafs the glory of the Lord, are changed into the fame image, from glory to glory, even as by the fpi-rit of the Lord. 3. The way of Gods attaining his end, and

'our attaining our happinefs (which are both one ), the way (I fay ) is alfo one: it is in Chrift the Mediator that God is manifefted, and in him do we fee God*, the knowiedg of his glory and our happinefs are both in the face of Chrift,

2 Cor. 4. 6. All the excellencies of God are manifefted in Chrift, he revealeth the myfteries, 1. Of his will as he is the Word. 2. Of his nature as he is the brightnefs of his Glory. 1* Of the fubfiftences and diftinclion of the per-fons, as he is the Image of his Perfon •, he only knows the Father, and he only can reveal the Father, Joh. 1. 18. Col.

1. 15, He is the image of the invifible God, i.e. The excellencies

What of God is mamfejl Chap. IX,

lencies of God (otherwife invifible) are revealed by him, and to be feen in him.

Thefe three things of God are difcovered in Jefus Chrift. I* The Attributes of God. 2. The diftincl: fubfiftences of tneperfons of the God-head. 5. The diftincl: offices of the three Perfons.

i. There is a full manifeftation of the Attributes of God in Jefus Chrift the Mediator of the new Covenant j thefe Attributes that were never manifefted before, Mercy and Long-fuffering, are revealed in hina:, and thefe that were manifefted before, fhine more brightly through Chrift. i. The Wifdom of God: there was great and infinite wif-dom fhewed in creating the world, and ruling it by his wife providence*, but what is that to the wifdom that is fhewed in Chrift ? the wifdom that reconciled Juftice and Mercy, the wifdom that punifhed fin, and pardoned the finner? how wonderful and unfearchable is that Wifdom, that by the fall of man, railed him to a greater height of happinefs than ever he had before? Rom. u. ;;, ;4> O the depth of the richesj both of the wijdom and knowledg of God I how un-fearchable are his judgments, and his ways paft finding out ! for who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counfellor? Eph. $. 10, To the intent; that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places, might be made known by the Church, the manifold wifdom of God : this is, w woau-*ohiK@- o-o(piA y the manifold wifdom of God, which yet doth not fully exprefs the GV^word, which fignifies the manifold and various wifdom, or the wifdom of God that is full of admirable varieties: fo Bez.a, Erafmus, Zanchius, Ste-phanus.

2. The Goodnefs of God is manifefted in Jefus Chrift*, his goodnefs and love to man appeared much at firft in making him of the rank of the higheft creatures on earth, and putting all the reft of the Creatures under his feet, Pfal.S. "$-> 6> F° r t ^ m haft made him a little lower than the Angels, and haft crowned him with glory and honour. Thou niadeft him to have dominion over the works of thy hands: thou haft put all things under h'is feet. This was penned to magnifie the nature of man : but in Chrift our nature is more magnified, as we fhall (hew byandby^ ffcb. 1. 6, And again, when

he

he bringeth in the firft begotten into the worlds he faith, And let all the Angels of Godworjhip him. This is a higher pitch of the love of God, this is the goodnefs of God more ma-nifefted than ever before, to give his "Son Chrift for man, and his Son to become fin, and a curfefor man, J oh, $. 16, For God fo loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whofoever believeth in him jhould not perijh, but have everlafiing life. 2 Cor,. 5 • laft, For he hath made htm to be fin for us that knew no fin, that we might be made the righteoufnefs of God in him. Gal. $. 1$, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the law, being made a curfe for us.

I. The Mercy of God is eminently manifefted in Jefus Chrift: man is made to rife by his fall: Mercy never law the light before-, it was never revealed but in Jefus Chrift: for it refpects the creature in its mifery, Luk^ 1.72, 78, To perform the mercy promifed to our fathers, and to remember

his holy Covenant. Through the tender mercy of our God,

whereby the day-fpring from on high hath vifited us. When all the pofterity of Adam were as fuel for the fire, mercy refcues and referves fome to be ions and heirs, Rom. 9. 2 1, And that he might] make known the riches of his glory on the veffels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory.

4. The Power of God is manifefted in Chrift : God fhew-ed his power in the Creation, as we read, If a. 40. 12, Who hath meafured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the fpan, and comprehended the duft of the earth in a meafure, and weighed the mountains in fcales, and the hills in a balance, &c. Job 58, &c. But what is this to the taking of our nature, and uniting it in a perfo-nal union with the Son of God? that God fhould become man :, the Ancient of Days become a Child : the Incomprehen-fible to become comprehenfible ! Col. 2. 9, For in him dwelleth all the fulnefs of the God-head bodily. The invifible God to become vifible, and to dwell here as in a tabernacle with men, Joh. 1. 14, And the word was made fie[h, and dwelt a-mong us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

5. The Soveraignty of God is manifefted in and through

Chrift,

What of God is manifefi Chap. IX.

Chrift:, great was the Soveraignty of God that was exer-ciled in predeftination, in making of vefTels of honour or difhonour, according to the pleafure of his will, Rom. 9. 21,22,23, Hath not the potter power over the clay of the fame lumpy to makj one veffel unto honour, and another unto dishonour ? What if God, willing to jhew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-fuffering the vejfels of wrath fitted to defirublion : And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vejfels of mercy which he had before prepared unto glory I But all this was Soveraignty o-ver the creature: but that Jefus Chrift the Son of God fhould be appointed a Mediator of the new Covenant, made a Servant, commanded to lay down his life, this is greater Soveraignty, J oh. 6. 38, For I came down from heaven, not-to do mine own will, hut the will of him that fent me. Chap. icy. 18, This commandment have I received of my Father.

6. The Juftice of God is manifefted in Chrift : Juftice was f«en in cafting ofF the Angels that fell without hope : and in executing the fentence and curie of the firft Covenant upon Adam, for his tranfgreffion thereof: but the world never heard of fuch manifeftation of Juftice -as appears in the fatis-faftion of Chrift to Juftice :, That Chrift the Son of God is made fin for us, and being made fo in obedience to his Fathers command, Juftice fpares him not, but he muft be fmit-ten to death, that fatisfa&ion may be made for fin in our nature, Rom.%. 32, He that fpared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all. Ifa. 53. 8, For the tranfgreffions of my people was he ftricken.

7. The Holineis of God is manifefted in Chrift: his Holineis did appear in that holy Image which he put in Adam, and the holy Law which he gave to him under a penalty : but this holineis of the Image of God ftamped on the creature, was poflible to be left, for both men and Angels were capable of fin, and did fall: but herein is a greater manifeftation of Gods holineis, that a Creature, Chrift-man, Chrift Mediator, is made the Fountain of all Holineis, Holineis cannot be loft in him •, yea, it is derived from him, Job. 1/14,16, Full of grace and truth, and of his fulnefshave ail we received, and grace for grace. Chap. 3. v. 34, For God

giveth

giveth not the fpirit by meafure unto him. This is fpoken of Chrift man, 01 Chrift Mediator; for one of the perfons of the Godhead cannot receive another. O what an imprefii-on of Holinefs is this! what a communication <;nd mani-feftaftn of the Holinefs of God ! The fulnefs of the Godhead dwells bodily in the man Chrift, Col. 2. 9. Where there is the higheft union, there is the greateft communion ', there was never fuch another union as that perfonal union, and therefore there could never be iuch a communication of God.

8. The All-fufficiency of God appears more in Chrift than ever before: the declarative glory thereof fhines in the re-ftoring of loft man: for whofoever can reftore loft man, can raiie him to a higher happinefs than he fell from *, he is Allfufficient, and Almighty, and is thereby declared to be ib, this did God in Chrift the Mediator/, this is a declaration of Gods All-fufficiency, and of Chrifts, Gen. 17.1, 1 am God almighty. 2Cor. 8. p, For ye know the grace of our Lordje-fus Chrift, that though he was rich, yet for your fakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be made rich. Chap. 12. 9, And he faid unto me, My grAce is fuffcient for thee, for my ftrength is made perfetl in weaknefs : moft gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Chrift may reft upon me.

9. The Patience and Long-fuffering of God was never heard of before, until it was manifefted in Chrift. God executed his Juftice againft the fallen Angels, without ex-ercifing any Patience and Long fuffering towards them, 2 Pet. 2.4, For if God fpared not the Angels which fell, bat caft them down to hell. But in Jefiis Chrift there is a difco-very of the Patience of God, and his bearing with finners, I fa. 49. 8, There is a Covenant to eftablifl) the earth, that Juftice do not ruine it. Jeius Chrift obtained pardon and reprival for fooae finners, that they fhould be fpared, Fxod, $4. 6, And the Lord pajfed by before him i and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord God^ merciful, and gracious, long-fuffering, and abundant in 'goodnefs and truth. In him the Lord proclaims himfelf merciful, andgracious, long-fuffering, ckc. 1 Tim, I. 16, Howbeit, for this (faufe I obtained mercy, that in me

fir ft Jefus Chrift might fhew forth all long-fuffering, for &

Z pattern

pattern to them which Jhould hereafter believe on him to life everlafting. Yea, and by way of concomitancy, and for the Ele&s lake, reprobates reap lb me benefit by the Patience of God thus manifefted. He luffers the creatures t^mock him, and lay, Where is thepromife of his coming? 2p(r. 3.4. Rom-9. 22, Endured with much long-Offering the veffels of Wrath fitted to deflrutlion.

10. The Faithfulnefs of God is manifefted in Chrift: he was known to be true and faithful, in fulfilling the threat-ning and certification of the tranfgreflion of the firft Covenant, Gen. 2. 17, In the day thou eatefl thereof) thou Jhalt fire-ly die. And in keeping the Covenant with all the creatures, G>/z.8.22, While the earth remainethjeed-time, andharveft-time y and cold, and he at) and fnmmer, and winter, and day and night jhall not ceafe^ Jer. $$« 2 °> Thus faith the Lord, If ye can breaks my Covenant of the day) and my Covenant*of the night y and that there fiwuld not be day and night in their feafon^ &c. But this was but a fmall declaration of his faithfulnefs, being compared with the manifeftation of his Faithfulnefs in Chrift, which fhines fo brightly in keeping Covenant and Promiies with him, and with his people Opoi his account, notwithstanding all your unfaithfulnds to him: hereby he is proclaimed to be the Lord) abftndanl in truth. Exod. $4. 6. 2 Cor- I. 20, For all the promifes of God in him a e yea, and in him are Amen. Pfal. 89. 34, J5, My Covenant will I not breaks nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips. Once have I [worn by my holinefS) that 1 will not lie unto David) Mic. 7= 18,20, Who is a God lik? unto thec, t

doneth iniquity. Thon wilt perform the truth to J.:coh y and

the mercy to Abraham^ which thou haft fworn unto of' fathers from the days of old.

11. The Majdty of the Lord, fomething whereof is manifefted in the Creation, Pfal. 19. 1, The heavens declar glory of the Lord) aud the firmament fieweth forth ha handy-, work^ But much more in reftoring man-, rf there be a Ma-jefty in Angels, Heb. 1.7, And of his Angels he faith, who maketh his Angels fpiritS) and his minivers a flame of fire, And in godly men, which is but a little difcovered here, &c. (hall be more fully afterward, iTheff. 1. 10, When he jhall com to be glorified in his faint f, O what excellent Majefty

mull

rauft there be in Jefus Chrift? Heb. 1. 13, But to which bf the Angels faid he at any time fit on my right handy until I make thine enemies thy foot-ftool. And what fhall'he revealed in him, when he (haH come in glory? iTheJf.i.j, When the Lord Jefus fhall be revealed from heaven, with hi* mighty angels. Col. 3.4, When Chrift who is our life Jhall ap^ pear, then flail ye alfo appear with him in glory. You fee then-all the Attributes of God are made more bright, and get a new luftre in Jefus Chrift the Mediator: he is the brigktnefs of his Fathers glory ', and the exprefs Image of his P erf on.

2. The diftintt Subfiftences of the Perfons of the Godhead and blefifed Trinity, are more brightly difcovered in Jefus Chrift, than ever before: God was but darkly feen before in the diftinc"t Subfiftences of the perfons of the Trinity ; but in the Gofpel, through Jefus Chrift, there is a glorious manifeftation thereof, 2 Cor. 4. 6, For God, who commanded the light to jhine out of darknefs, hath fhined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledg of the glory of God in the face of Jefus Chrift.

1. The Eternal Son of God, the fecond Perfon, his taking on our nature, doth clearly fhew that there are diftintt Subfiftences or Perfons in the Godhead : There are two natures in one Subfiftence or Perfon , which illuftrates the three Subfiftencies in one nature, or three Perfons in the Godhead.

2. By Jefus Chrift, from his own mouth, and in his carrying as Mediator, there were many bright diicoveries of this great myftery, as we may read, Mat. 3. 16, 17, And Jefusy when he was baptised, went up ftraight-way out of the waters: and lo, the heavens were ofened unto him, and he faw the fpirit of God defc'ending like a dove, and lighting upon him. Andlo, a voice from heaven, faying, This is my beloved S&n^in whom I am well pleafed, Chup. 28. v. 28, Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptising them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy-Ghoft. Joh. 14. 16,26, And I will pray the Father, and he Jhall give you another comforter, that he may abide with you for ever. But the comforter, which is the holy-Ghoft, whom the Father will fend in my Name, &c. And many like teftimonies were from him, manifefting this glorious myftery. Z 2 3. The

3. The dlftinfl Offices of the three Peribns, or their ordered adxniniftfation and working, and the various and di-ftmcl acts .of the Trinity , in the work of redemption, are brightly oiicovered in and by. J^iiis Chrift the Mediator, 2lim. i. q, id, Who hath faved us, and called us with an inly callings not according to our worlds, but according to his own purpofe and grace which was given us in Chrift Jefus, before the world began', but is now made manifeft by the appearing of our Saviour Jefus Chrift, who hath abolijhed death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the Gafpel. But becauie thefe may be gathered from what hath been ipoken of the Covenant of Surctifhip or Redemption, I (hall only touch upon them in this place. And, i. The Acts t)f the Father plotting and making the Covenant with Chrift Mediator, i. He had a purpofe to raife man through a Mediator, Fph. f. 5, Having predeft'tnated us unto the adoption of children, by Jefus Chrift to himfelf, according to the good pleafure of his will. 2. He chofe the Son for the doing this work, and us in him, Eph. 1.4, According as he hath chofen us in him before the foundation of the world. PfaL 89. 19, / have laid help upon one that is mighty. 3. He makes a Covenant with the Son, PfaL 89. 1, I have made a Covenant with my chofen : and promifes were given to Chrift, and grace given to us in him, lefore the world began, Tit. 1.2. 2 Tim- 19. 4. God the Father appoints who (hall be faved y and gives them to the Son, that all that were written in Gods book may alio be written in the lambs boo'^ of life, Joh. 17. 9. Them that thou haft given me y for they are thine, Rev. 20. 12, 15. Chap. 21. v. 27. 5. He appoints what meafure of grace and glory every one of them fhall have, JEph. 4. 7, But unto every one of us is given grace, according to the meafure of the gift of Chrift. Mat. 20. 2$, But to fit on my right hand and on my left, is not mine to give, but it fiall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. 6. He commits all GoverniRent to the Son for the Eletts lake, that he may do according to this appointment, Ifa.Q* 6, And the government fiall be upon his fioulder. Joh. 5.22, For the Father ]udgeth no man, but hath committed all Judgment to the Son.

2, The Afts of Jefus Chrift undertaking:- 1. He confents

to

Chap. IX. in Jefns Chr/Jf. jjq

to the Covenant, Pfal. 40. 7, Then faid J, Lo, I come, in the volume of the boo!^ it is written of me. 2. He engageth himfelf to take the Creature into union with his Peiion, ffeb. 10. 5, Wherefore when he tometh into the world, he faiths Sacrifice and offering thou wouldfi not, but a body haft thou prepared me. And to lay down his life according to his Fathers command, Joh. ic. 18, This commandment have I received of my Father. 3. He undertakes to receive, and keep, and raiie up at the laft clay, all thole given him by the Father, J oh. 6. 37, All that'the Father giveth me, fliall come to me \ and him that cometh to me , / will in no wife 'cafl out. Chap. 17. throughout. 4. He undertakes the Government, of the world, and to Judg it at the laft day, Pfal. 2. 8, Askjofme, and I will give thee the heathen for thine inheritance^ and the uttermofl parts of the earth for thy poffeffion. Mat. 11. 2.7, All things are delivered unto me of my Father, Joh. 3.35, The Father loveth the S<?#, and hath given all things into his> hand.

3. The Ads of the Spirit: 1. He undertakes to unite the humane nature to Chrift, by a miraculous conception, Luk^ 1. 35, The holy Ghofl fiiall come upon thee, and the pow~ er of the higheft foall overfradow thee, 2. To joyn us with God in one fpirit, iCor.6. 17, Bat he that is \oyned to the Lord, is one fpirit. 3. To be a Spirit of "Hnfiion, firft to Chrift, and then to us through him, Joh. 3, 34, For God glveth not the fpirit by meafure unto him. lfa.6i. I, 'The fpirit of the Lord is upon me, becaufe he hath anointed me to preach good tydings unto the meek^ 4, To ac*l all our grace?, to blow upon them, and to help our infirmities, Song. 4. laft, Awake, O norths-wind, and come thou fouth, blow upon my garden, that the fpices thereof may flow out. Rom. 8. 26, Like-wife the fpirit alfo helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we jhouid pray for as we ought, but the fpirit it felf maketh interceffion for us, with groanings that cannot be uttered. 5. To fried abroad the love of God in our hearts, torn: 5.5, Becaufe the love of God is flied abroa'd in cur hearts by the, holy-Ghofl which is given unto us. 6. To fet a Seal upon our hearts, and to bear witnefs of all the work of God in us, Eph. 1. 13, In whom alfo after that ye believed, ye were fealed with that holy fpirit of pro mi fe. Rom. 8. 16, The

fpirit

fpirit it felf beareth witnefs with our fpirit, that we are the children of God.

Now all thefe things are difcovered, and manifefted to us in Jefus Chrift the Mediator of the nevr Covenant.

CHAP. X

Of Chrijls Calling to the Office ofMediator^ flip.

THis being the Perfon who is Mediator of the new Covenant : We come in the next place to fpeak of the Office. And, i. Of Chrifts Calling to it. 2. Of his qualification for it. 3. Of his carriage in it. And firft we (hall enquire after Chrifts Calling to the office of Mediatorfhip, which we fhaH fhortly difpatch by anlwering of thefe three Queftions.

Q^ 1. How came Chrift to undertake this work ? A. He was called to it: he did not intrude himfelf in the Mediators Office, but was fent and employed in the work : thefe things clear his calling to the work. 1. Several of his Names import it, Mai. 3. 1, He is called the Angel or Meffen-ger of the Covenant. Becauie of his million, and Gods fending of him to do this work, &c //a.42. 1. My feryant, and mine elect. Becaufe of his being called, and employed by his Father: he was called a Servant or choien Officer, formed for a fpecial imployment, //i.49. 5, Thus faith the Lord that formed me from the womb to be his jervant, to bring Jacob again to him. Phil. 2. 7, And too\^ upon him the form of a fervant. 2. He is about the work of Mediation by Office, and not by medling without his ftation *, which alio (heweth his calling to the Work, inafmuch as he was about it by Office, as his duty, in his Calling, Heb. j. 1. Confider the Apofrle and High-prieft of our profeffton Chrift Jefus* Chap. 5. io, Called of God an High-prieft, after the order of Melchifidec. And this is pointed at by all thefe

Scriptures

Chap. IX. to the Office of Mediatcrfiip. \j^

Scriptures which make mention of the things that Chrift did as Mediator •, he did them ex officio, by vertue of fome tye and obligation to do them, as duties of his Office: hence we find the holy-Ghoft ufing the words, mt.fi, neceffity, became him, behoved, &c. Heb. 2. io, 17, For it became him, for whom are all things. Wherefore in all all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren. Chap. 8.£>. 3, Wherefore it is of neceffity that this man have fovzewhat alfo to offer. Joh. 4. 4, And he mufi needs go through Samaria. 3. He is in Office not by intrufion, but by annointing, which imports lawful calling and miffion, Pfal. 2. 2, The Lord and his an-minted. Joh. 1.41, Wehave found the Meffias, whido is, being interpreted, the Chrift. So the Apoftle to the Hebrews fhews -of all his three Offices. 4. The Scriptures plainly holds it forth, and the more ftrongly, that it is held forth bath Negatively and Affirmatively, denying any intrufion on Chrifts part, and affirming a calling from God to him, Heb. 5.4, 5, And no man taketh this honour unto himfelf, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. So alfo Chrift glorified not himfelf to be made an High-priefi: but he that faid to him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. Gal. 4. 4, But when the fulnefs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son,&c. J^. 6. 38, 39,40,44, Chrift doth frequently make mention of the will of him that fent him.

Q^2. By whon was Chrift called unto the Office of Me-diatorfhip? A. By Gcd his Father, not excluding the other two peribns of the Trinity, though for orders lake it be attributed to the Father, the fountain of divine operations, Col. 1. 19, For it pleafed the Father that in him fiwuld all fulnefs dwell. Joh. 6. 27, For him hath God the Father fsaled, i.e. fet apart, defigned, and fitted for this Office: that he was called unto this Office by God, the Scripture fpeaketh plainly, Pfal. 89. 19, J have laid help upon one that is mighty, I have exalted one chofen out of the people. Heb, 5. 5,6^ lo. So alfo Chrifi glorified not himfelf to be made an High-priefi, but he that faid unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have 1 begotten thee. As he faith alfo in another place , Thou art a* PrUfi for ever after the Order of Melchifedec — called of God an High pruft after the order of Melchifedec. And 3. 2, Who was faithful to him that appointed him. And that he could

be called by no other, may appear, i. From the Antiquity of his calling to this Office, which was before all created beings, Prov.8.23, / w-as fet up from everlafiing, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. He was elected to this in order, before we were elected to ialvation, Pfal.89.$, / have made a covenant with my chofen. Eph. 1.4, Recording as he hath chofcn pu in him, before the foundation of the world. 2. From the end of the Office of a Mediator, which was Reconciliation: new who could find out a fit peribn, and call him to undertake this work, but he that had found out the way and means of Reconciliation •, which was God only, for man did neither feek nor plot a peace with God, Col. 1. 20, It pleafed the Father by him to reconcile all things to himfelf. Pfal. 89. 19, / have laid help upon one that is mighty* 5. From the nature of the Office of Mediatorfhip, which is an Office of Inferiority, a fervice, Mat. 20. 28, Even as the Son of man ca*ne not to be mini fired unto, but to minifler, and to give his life a ranfome for many, Ifa. 42. 2. Chap. 5 3. -U, 11. Now who could defign Chnft, call or ordain, and command him unto an Office of Inferiority, (although by voluntary difpenlation), but God only ? Joh. 10.18, For this commandment have I received of my Father. 4. From the Impoffibility under which the creature flood to find any days-man, except God had found one, and called him to it •, amongft all the Creatures there was none that durft undertake this caufe, or could defign another to undertake it/tnz* To interpofe betwixt the Creator and the Creature, Job 9. 11 y 'Neither is there any days-man betwixt us, that wight lay his hand upon us. i Sam. 2. 25, If one man fin a-gainfv another, thejndg jhall )udg him: but ifa man fin againfi the Lord, who fiall intreat for him f

Q^j. When was Chrift called to be Mediator of the new Covenant ? A. For the clearing of this: Confider, that Chriils calling to the Office of Mediatorfhip may import S three things, his Designation, his Furniture, his Invefiiture in the Office*, Now according as the queftion relateth to thefe parts of his Calling, h it requireth different An-fwers.

1. Chrifts Calling, or Defignation to the Office of Mediator of the Covenant, is eternal \ he was chofen and de-

ftinated

Chap. X. to the Office of Medi<ztorJhip> fjj

flinated hereunto before-time, even from all eternity, Prov. 8.23, Wifdom was let up by the Father from everlafting^ defigned and appointed unto this high and honourable Office and employment, to be Mediator of the new Covenant ; yea, it muft be {o, i. Since Gods Covenant with Chrift is eternal, and his chufing and defignation of Chrift to be Mediator, is in order of nature, before his Covenant with Chrift: for it prefuppofeth him to be Mediator, Vfal 89. $, / have made a Covenant with my chofen, 2. Becaufe our election prefuppofeth Chrift full chofen before us as the head of the Elect, Eph. 1.4. Therefore we are faid to be chofen in Chrift , i. e. as members of the head, or through him as Mediator, although Chrift be not the caufe of Election, or of Gods Love.

2, Chrift's calling to be Mediator, in refpect of his Furniture for executing-that Office whereunto he was defigned before time; and in refpect of his being inwfted in the Office, it is in time, to wit, when he was anointed, which was at two times efpecially:

1. When he took our nature upon him.

2. When he was to appear in the publick execution of his Offices * 7 whereof more particularly when I come to fpeak of his Unction.

Vfe. If Chrift be called unto this Office of Mediator-fhip by God his Father from all eternity:, Then 1. wonder at the eternal love of God, and let your hearts be raifed up to adore the unfearchable riches of grace and wifdom manifefted in Gods early calling Chrift to an Office and Service for our fake, and Chrifts voluntary iiibmiffion to it. He knew well enough it would be too late to wait for our call: He knew that we might dye in our fin, before we lent for the Phyfician: he did well forefee our flownefs and back-wardnefs to give him employment for making our peace-, and therefore he prevented us, JohnS.iy. Heb. 10.9.

2. This may eftablifh our hearts in the faith of the weight and prevalency of Chrifts Mediation *, he being no Ufurper, but a called chofen perfon, let in lawful Authority, ail whofe travels receive weight from his Place and Calling: for becaufe he was fent, and had a commandment to travel in the work of his peoples Redemption, therefore the work

A a that

that was let him to do, muft profper, and his travels with tr>th the parties muft prevail, Joh. 10. $6, Say ye of him vchom the Father hath fanflified and fent unto the world, Thou bUfphemeft, becaufe J [aid J am the Son of God* Ila.53.iO, 11, By his knowUdg flail my righteous Servant jnftifie many, for he flail bear their iniquities. He flail fee of the travel of his foul, and flail be fatisfed.

2.. This fhould bear upon us a neceffity of receiving the Mediator in his travels about Reconciliation. He is in his Office, and called to travel with you about this work-, take heed how you entertain and anfwer his propofitions of peace, now he is making propofals of peace to you by virtue of this Office which he bears, 2 Cor. 6.2, Behold, now is the accented time: behold, now is the day of fahation. Ch. 5. v. 20, Now then we are ambaffadors for Chrift, as though God did befecch you by us, we pray yon in Chrifis (lead be ye re-conciled to God. Heb. 2. 1, $, Therefore we ought to give the more came ft heed to the things that we have heard, left at any time we flwuld let them flip — How flail we efcape if we neglect fo great falvation ? Your flighting of the Gofpel, befide the neglect of fo great falvation brought to you in the offer, hath alfo in it great flighting of a chofen Officer, and of a Perfon called and put in high authority by God , to travel with you in the bufmefs of your peace, Heb. 12.25^ See that ye refufe not him that fpeaketh -, for if they efcaped not who refufed him that fpake on earth, much more flail not Wt efcape, if we tarn away from him that fpeaketh from heaven.

4. This fpeaks comfort to believers, Chrift is Mediator betwixt God and you, by an eternal call from God his Father '<, he needs not much entreaty to be about the Office whereunto he is called of God (although it be no lefs your duty to entreat his favour as the Difciples did, than if he had no other calling to it, but your invitation ), Luke 24. 29 ■, But they conflrained him, faying, Abide with tts, for it is towards evening, and the day is far fpent: and he jwent in to tarry with them. If you fhould at any time apprehend that he would refule your entreaties ( which you have no ground to think), yet he will not, he cannot (hake off hhFather's calling to mediate for you j he dealeth betwixt God and you

by virtue of an Office, which having taken upon him by voluntary fubmiffion, the duties of that Office lye upon him through a biefTed neceffity, as is written of the High-Pneft who was a type of him, That by reafon hereof, to wit, of his Office, he ought to offer for fins, Heb. 5. $. And %.$,For every High-friefl is ordained to offer gifts and facrificeswherefore it is of neceffity that this man have fomewhat alfo to tffer. Comfort your ielves, believers in Chrift, that befides all the fupports of your faith, which you may have from his union of nature with you, and his un&ion •, from his propriety in you, and confanguinity with you *, from his gracious qualifications for that work :, you have this moreover, That he is your Mediator by Calling, by Office, and can no more decline any thing that may be lor your good, than he can be unanfwerable to his Fathers Calling, or unfaithful in his Office, and in the performing the duties thereof, which is impof-fible.

CHAP. XL

Of Chrifts taking onr nature upon hint, which is his grand qualification for the Office of Mediatorjhip.

CHrifts qualification and fitnefs for this Office of Media-torfhip, may be confidered, 1. In his taking our nature upon him, wherein confifts the grand qualification, and fundamental fitnefs of Chrift for being Mediator of the New Covenant. And 2. In other qualifications which refult from the union of the two natures in him. Or we may confider Chrifts qualifications for this Office in the union of thefe two natures in him. 2. In his unction.

And 1. of Chrifts coming in the flefh, and taking our nature

japon him, which I call the chief and grand qualification of

him for Mediatorfhip. This is a fundamental truth, and yet

a great myftery. We think we know this fo well, that it

is below us to ftudy it, to preach it, and to hear of it* but

A a 2 you

you are not at the bottom of your unbelief and ignorance, '$ you know not that this myftery is little known and believed, God manifefted in the flejh, feen of Angels, with ftudy and delight, i Tim. 1. 16, with i Pet, i. 10, 11, 12. We ihall confider, 1. The reality of his human nature, and the affuming of it. 2. The tranfeendent love and condefcenti-on (liewed by the Son of God in the taking our nature upon him. 3. The honour and exaltation of our nature*,yea, and of us, by Jeius Chrift his taking it into a perfonal union with the Divine nature. ^. How or in what reipe&s the taking of our nature upon him did qualifie him to be Mediator of the New Covenant. 5. Something for the clearing of fome queftions relating to this Myftery.

And 1. He took our nature really upon him: Jefus Chrift became truly man, as kindly a man as ever lived, vents fed non menu homo, true man, but not meer man. That word Rom. 8. 3, fimilirude of fiefi, is put for famenefs, asAuguftine obferves, Non quia caro non erat caro, fed quia peccati caro non erat. Chrifts manhood was a true nature, yet nofinful nature, tyut had only the fimilitude or likenefs of fmful flejhy becaufe he bare all our infirmities in which we lay through fin: And it may appear thus: 1. Jefus Chrift hath taken mans nature upon him, Heb. 2. 16, For verily he took^noton him the nature of angels, hut he took, np°n him the feed of A-braham: WihctyLCavira.1, he catched at it, teok^ hold of it', it properly fignifies to catch one who is running away, or falling in a pit*, to fetch back or recover again: the lame word that's ufed of Chrift's catching hold of Peter when he was like to fink, Mat. 14. 31, it is anfwerable to the word uied Gen. 19. id, of the Angels laying hold on Loth hand. So did Chrift in taking our nature upon him. 2. He took all the parts of a man, body and foul, Mat. 26. 38, Then faith he nnto them, My foul is exceeding forrovvful unto death. Hcb-10.5, A body haft thou prepared me. Luke 24. ig, Behold my hands and my feet fthatit is I my felfj *, handle me and fee *, for a fpirit hath not flejh and bones as ye fee me have. 3. He hath all the names of a man, Adam, Enofh, Jjh, X3e-ber, whereof lee Zech. 6.12, and 13. 7. Dan. 7. 13. 4. He took upon him all the affections of a man, fear, and forrow, and love, and anger r &c. Mat* 26. 38, My foul is exceeding

ing forroxvful unto death. Heb. 5. 7, And was heard in that he feared. Joh. 11. 3 $, 35, }6, //? groaned in the [firit and W/ts troubled.——Jefus wept. Then /aid the Jews, Behold^ how he loved him. Mat. 10. 14, Aud when J efts [aw it, he was much difpleafed, Mat. 21. 12. 5. He took upon him all the fialefc infirmities of a man, to hunger, thirft, be weary, affli&ed, tempted, die,&c Heb. 2. 18, For in that he himfelf hath fujfered, being tempted. Chap. 4.1^. 15, For we have not an High-prieft which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities , but was in all points tempted like as we are y yet without fin. Chap. 5. v. 2, For that he himftlf alfo is compared with infirmity. Mat. 8. 17, Himfelf too^ our iniquities^ aud bare our fickneffes. Chap. 4. v. 2, And when he had fafled forty days, and forty nights^ he was afterwards an hungred.

2. Confider, in Chrifts taking our nature upon him, his condefcending love : union betwixt God and man was the great defign intended through the Mediator j this is brought about by hiscondefcenfion, and our exaltation: where love is, it will ftoop, and the greater condefcenfion, the greater love.

Thefe things hold forth infinite condefcending in Chrifts taking our nature upon him. 1. Confider who condefcends thus: The higher that the perfon be who condefcends, the* more love is in his condefcenfion: if it be a great condefcending for God to look down upon things here below, Pfal. 1T3 . 46, The Lord is high above all nations, and his glory above the heavens *, who humbleth himfelf to behold the things in the heaven, and in the earth : What then mud it be for the Son of God to take upon him the form of a Creature/ P&/7. 2. 6, 7, Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. But made himfelf of no reputation, and tookjipon him the form of a fervant, and was made in the likcpefs of man. That he that made the world fhould be made of a woman ! That the immortal God fhould become mortal flefli 1 it were a great condefcenfion, that the ibul of a man fhould enter into a worm, or that all the Angels fhould become worms j yet that were nothing to Chrifts ftooping to take our nature upon him. 2. Confider what he-took upon-him, not our perfon, but our nature, Heb.2.

15, 16, The feed of Abraham, our flelh and blood, that is our nature ; many can be content to take upon them the peifons of men, to represent them, who yet would not be willing to take their nature*, but Chrift took our nature, 3, Tne end wherefore he took our nature upon him, fhew-eih yet more of his condescending. 1. It was that he might iuffer, and that he might die for us in that nature, Fhil.i.%, And being found infafhion as a mt.n, he humbled himfelf, and became obedient unto the death, even the death of the crofs. Non ad gloriam fd ad ignominiam, to be abafed in our nature. 2. it was for our good, not for any thing that it could profit him, Gal. 4.5. To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of fons. 4. He took our nature upon him, not for a day, or a fhort time, but to continue ib : It may be a Prince at a Masque for a little time might be moved to take the form of a fervant upon hiiv, but to continue lb, he would not be moved : but here is infinite condefcenfion, Chrift takes our nature upon him, and keeps it (till, he will come again in our nature to judg the world, Act. 1. 11, This fame Jefus which is taken up from you into heaven, JhaH come in like manner as ye have feen him go into heaven. Chap. 17. v. $ 1, Becaufc he hath appointed a day in the which he will judg the world in righte-oufnefs, by that man whom he hath ordained. Though he doth nothing now in Heaven, but a&s of Majefty, beinga/V*>y? fet upon the right hand of the throne of Majefty, Heb. 8. 1. Yet he will do thole ac"ls in our nature; yea, when he (hall deliver up the kingdom, See Chap. 6. the Kingdom which he hath received as Mediator, he will not lay down our nature, 1 Cor. 15. 24. 5. Confider the time when he took our nature upon him *, not when our nature was a virgin, but when it was defiled *, not mans nature in innocen-cy, but in his finful, corrupted, condemned, accurfed e-(tate, Rom. 8. $, In the Ukenefs of finful fiefh. Chap. 5.1/. 10, When we were enemies, and when all the Creatures did hate us •, when we were not worth the following, then he did . thus condefcend to love us, and follow us. 6. Confider the manner of his taking our nature upon him. 1. He doth not perlbnate our nature, but is made flejlj, Job. 1. 14. 2. He does it voluntarily and chearfully, and with earned

defire.

defire, when we were not following him, but fleeing away from him, he himfelf rofe out of his place and followed after us, and caught our nature, as the words frgnifies, Heb. 2. 7, And too!^ upon him the form of a fervant. Pfal. 40. 7, Then faid he, Lo, I come. $. He takes our nature upon him, with all the infirmities of it, Heb. 2. 17, Wherefore iri all things it behoved him to be made Wze unto his brethren. Chap. 4. v. 15, For we have not an High-prieft which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted^ like as we are, yet without fin. He would con-defcend fo far, that in all things he would be like us ( (in only excepted)*, and ev.n in that, though he took not the corruption of fin, yet he took upon him the guilt of our fm, ( 2 Cor. 5. laft, For he hath made him to be fin for us, who knew no fin. He was legally the finner, though not intrinfecally ), and the punifhment thereof, Gal. $. 1 $, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the law being made a curfe for us. He was content to be numbred with the tranfgreffors, Ifa. 55. 12. He was content to be punifhed for our fins, even by God his Father. And, which is yet wonderful, that he might come as near to us as poflible, he was content to condefcend to be tempted to the thing wherewith it was impoflible that he could be tainted, Mat. 4.2. To be tempted of the Devil to fill, and yet the Prince of the world had nought in him, Joh. 14-20. 7. Confider the comparifon in-ftituted by the Holy-Ghoft, which doth yet further and more fignificantly exprefs this condefcending love, Heb. 2. 16. It was a favour which he denied to the Angels, Iffa* not at all, or not in any wife •, he neither looked after nor . fent, nor went after the Angels •, he neither followed them nor took hold of their nature, nor fuffered them to take hold of hrm *, though thefe glorious fpirits were incomparably far above us, that Chrift would manifeft himielf, not in the moft glorious Creatures, but in our fkfh, was Arrange condefcenfion !

$. In Chrifts taking our nature, we are to confides the honour and exaltation of our nature, and of us in that union. And, 1. That it may appear what honour is conferred upon our nature by Chrift ailuming it into the peribnal union with the Godhead,

Confider^

! g + Of the Mediators Chap. XL

Confider, i. The nearer that any Creature is to God, the greater honour is put upon it. It is the honour of people that are under ordinances, that they have Gcd near to them, Dent. 4. 7, For what nation is there fo great, who hath Gcd jo nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all thing's, float we call upon hi<n for '( It is a more eipecial honour of thole that have efnees in the houie of God, Heb. 5.4, And no man taketh this honour unto himfelf. Now there is a threefold union-, 1. Moral, fo were men and Angels united before the fall. 2. Afyftkal, fo are Believers united a-mongfl: themfelves, and with Chrift. 3. Hypoftatical, fo is our nature united with the divine nature in the Perfon of Chriit:, there is a perlbnal union of our nature with God *, this is the neareft union, and therefore the higheft honour and exaltation, Heb. 1. 4, Being made fo much better than the Angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name then they.

2. Confider the Sonfhip that Chrift hath as Mediator, whereby our nature is alio highly exalted ; the Son of God and our nature have but one Sonfhip ; for filiatio eft perfonx, Heb. 1. 5, For unto which of the Angels, [aid he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee. And a-gam, I will be to him a Father? and he jhall be to me a Son.

3. Confider the glorious communion that our nature hath by this union with the Son of God, 'tis a high and great communion, that Angels and the fpirits of juit men are made perfect, have with God*, but the communion that our nature hath with Chrift, is far higher, Joh. 3.13, And no man hath afcended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. Even the man Chrift is Gods fellow, Zech. 1;, 7, This is high communion indeed, whereby all the will of God is known to him, and fo to our nature, Col. 1. 19, For it plea fed the Father that in him fhould all fulnefs dwell.

4. What honour is it, that our nature fhould be the Treafury and Store-houfe of all the good which God intends to difpenfe to men and Angels? Col. 2. 9, For in him dwelleth all the fulnefs of the Godhead bodily. Divines call the humane nature Canalk gratis, Eph. 1.22, And hath

fUt

put all'things under his feet , and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church.

5. What honour is it that all the Creatures fliould worship God in our nature ? Heb. 1, 6, And again, when he bringeth in the firfl begotten into the worlds he faith, And le*all the Angels of God worjhlp him, Phil.2.9,10,11, Wherefore God alfo hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name } that at the name of Jefus every knee jhould bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth. And that every tongue fliould confefs that Jefus Chrift is Lord. Willingly or unwillingly, by confent or by conftraint, all (hall bow to the Lord Mediator, to God in our nature, even to the Son of man.

6, What honour is it to our nature, that God in the humane nature fhould dilpofe of the eternal eftates of men and Angels ? for God (hall even ]udg the world by the man Chrift, Act. 17. 5 h Joh. 5. 27, And hath given him authority to execute judgment alfo , becaufe he is the Son of man.

Yea, by Chrifts taking our nature upon him, not only our nature, but we our felves are honoured. 1. We have a nearer union with Chrift than man in his innocency had with God •, a nearer union than the Angels have *, for believers make up one body with Chrift: he is the head, and they are the members, Col. 1. 18, And he is the head of the body the Church. Eph. 1.22,25, ^ n ^ g ave him to )be the head over all things to the Church , which is his body. Heb. 2. 11, For both he that fanBifieth, and they who are fanttifi-ed, are all one, for which caufe he is not afliamed to call them brethren. 2. We are not beholden to one of another nature, not to the Angels, nor any other Creature ; you are independent of them all *, you * have Salvation by one of ybur own nature, Heb. 2. 16, 17, For verily he took, not on him the nature of Angels, but he took^ on him the feed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful High-priefl in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the fins of the people.

4. Let us confider how Chrifts taking our nature upon him, or taking it into the union of his Perfon, is the great

B b qualification

qualification of him for the Office of Mediatorfhip. Our Mediator behoved to be God manifefted in the flefh: to make way for clearing this, 1 (hall premife, 1. That the Angels Covenant (it any Covenant was made with the Angels, as fome think ) it was not made with the whole Angelical nature, it was perfonal, fome of them fell, and ibme of them ftood, and all fell not in them that fell. Mans firft Covenant was with his Nature, and in Adam all fell. 2. When Man and Angels fell, God intended to raife the one, and not to raife, but to deftroy the other. \. God will notre-ftore man without a fit fatisfaction to his Juftice. 4. There is an eternal impotency in man to give to God a fitting fa-tisfa&ion \ the command of the Law man cannot obey, the curfe cf the Law he cannot bear to his own advantage, fo as to make way thereby to his own reftitution. Here is obedience required that cannot be performed by man *, and a guiltind's contracted that cannot be taken away by man : Therefore a Mediator muft be had,, and he muft. be God and man in one per ion.

1. He muft be God: for man could not make fatisfa&i-on to God for fin: It was the union of the Divine nature with the human, that made all Chrifts fufferings meritorious, that made his fhoulder fit for the burden and weight of the work of fatisfying Divine Juftice, Pial. 89 10, / have laid help upon one that is mighty, I fay therefore, that it was- ab-folutely neceffary our Mediator muft be God, 1. Becauie thefe evils which he was to expiate , could never be taken away by any perfon that was not God *, fin done againft an Infinite Majefty, muft have an equal fat is faction. 2. Becaufe the things with which he was to wreftle, and the Enemies which he was to fubdue, could not be wreftled with, nor fiibdued by any perfon who was not God. Could a rr.eer man wreftle with the infinite wrath of God? fubdue Satan and Death ? No, the only human nature of Chrift, which in it felt is finite and mortal, could not bear up with that, except the perfon had been God. $. Becaufe the good things which he was to piuchafe, could never have been pur-chafed by any perfon who was not God, a happinefs far ar bove Adam's, eteraal righteoufnefs, the image of God, and communion with him in glory ; only the infinite worth of

Chrift

Chrift the Son of God, could compafs that.

2. He muft not be God only: for a Mediator is not a Mediator of one, but he muft be God manifefted in the ftefh. He muft be man, i. Becaufe his name is to be put in our Bond: he is to ftand in our ftead, and to put his Soul in our ibuls room*, therefore he muft be fomething ell'e than God: for God will have fatisfa&ion to Juftice, of man *, the foal that fmneth jhall die. 2. Our Mediator muft be a Mediator of fatisfaciion : A Mediator of interceflion may exalt grace and mercy by entreaties, but cannot fatisfie Juftice: this will not do the turn *, the Debt muft be payed,the principal Debt j to obey the command, he muft be fubjecl to the Law, and the forfeiture muft be fatisfied, he muft bear the curfe and die-, for without blood there is no remiffion: he muft then be a man, and muft have a body and ibul: the nature of Angels will notfuffice, Heb. 10.5,9, A body haft thou prepared me. Then /aid he, Lo,lcometo do thy will, O God. j. He muft be one with us*, elfe what he doth cannot be imputed to us*, as there muft be an imputation of our fin to him,fo of his righteoufnefs to us: now imputation imports an union*, for union is the ground of imputation*, and it muft be an union in nature and Covenant*, the Angels fin was not imputed to man, but Adams was, with whom we were one in nature and Covenant. 4- Our Mediator muft receive the Spirit, without which we cannot be fan&ified, J oh. 17. 19, And for their fakes 1 fanclipe my felf, that they alfo might be fanftified through the truth. Chap. 5.1/. $5, The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. Now the Father cannot receive the graces of the Spirit, neither the Son as God:for unto that which is infinite,nothing can be added*,there-fore our Mediator muft have mans nature, which is capable of receiving that which our Mediator muft have. 5. Our Mediator muft convey to us the Adoption of fons, and therefore muft receive it himfe! f, and fo become a man, that he may receive it, Gal. 4.4, 5, 6, But when the fulnefs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son made* of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of fons. And becaufe ye are fons y God hath fent forth the fpirit of his Son into your hearts, cryinr, Abba Father. Chrift is the natural Son of God,

r Bb 2 L*k,

! 89 7he Mediator God Chap. XI.

Luk^ I. 1 5, That holy thing which Jhall be born of thee Jhall be called the Son of God. He is alio as man, a Son, as is evident from the original Greeks where the article is not prefixed, tivfQ-h 7* et«, Mat. 4. 5, And when the tempter came to him, he faid, If thou be the Son of God ( GV. if thou be a Son of God ). Becaufe Chrift owns us as brethren, therefore God is not afhamed to own us as Sons, Heb. 2. 11, for both he that fantlifieth, and they who are fanthfied, are all of one, for which caufe he is not afhamed to call them brethren. He muft be of our kindred; for if Chrift had not been cur born brother, we could not have been Gods Children. 6. Our Mediator muft be fuch a Peribn from whom we may receive the inheritance} he muft therefore be man y for it is from Chrift-man, as he, is an heir appointed, Heb. 1.2, that we receive the inheritance*, for the natural inheritance of Chrift cannot be communicated, Gal. 4. 5 j 7, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of Sons. Wherefore thou art no more a fervant, but a fon\ and if a fon, then an heir of God through Chrift. Rom. 8.17, And if children, then heirs : heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Chrift. Heb. o- 15, And for this caufe he is the Mediator of the new Teftament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the tranfgreffions that were under the fir ft Covenant, they which are called might receive the pro~ mtfe of eternal inheritance.

3. Our Mediator muft be God and man in one Perfon, Immanuel, Ifa. 7. 14. 0f<68p<w-T©-, both God and man, (fome-times denominated from one nature, fometimes from another). 1. That the great defign and end of the Mediators Office, might firft be accomplished and made manifeft in the Mediators own perfon: union betwixt God and man, was the defign of a Mediator, and this was done, 1. In Chrifts Perfon: for in him the houfes of Heaven and Earth are allied. 2. That he might be a perfon duly qualified for his Office; he muft be a Perfon equally diftant from, and equally drawing near unto both the parties j this could not be a Perfon who was either God alone, or man alone 7 but God-man is a Perfon at fome diftance, and in fome near-nefs with both the parties, having intereft in both, and participating of the natures of both: he is a fit days-man to

lay

lay his hands m both, Job 9. 11> 3* That he might have accefs to both parts of his work as Mediator: he had two great tranfaclions to go about, 1. He was to deal with God for man. 2. He was to deal for God with man : unto thele he could not have acceis without partaking of both the natures. 1. That he may deal effectually with God for man, he muft be God : for who can have acceis to deal with God, but a Perfon who is God, to deal with an angry God ? 1 Sam. 1. 25. 2. That he may deal with man from God, and for God, he muft be man*, for man oannot endure the voice and preience of God immediately ♦, man unreconciled, man without a Mediator cannot fpeak with God, Exod. 20. ip, And they [aid unto Mofes, Speak^ thou with ///, and we will hear: bat let not God ffeak^ with us, left we die % Heb. 12.20,21, For they could not endure that which was commanded. And fo terrible was the fight, that Mofes faid> 1 exceedingly fear and quake. But of this more, when I {hall Come to fpeak of the Requifites of a Mediator.

CHAP. XIL

Several Quejiions refolved, concerning Chrifis taking our nature upon him.

WE come to clear fome doubts and Queftions about this myftery, of Chrifts taking our nature upon him.

Que ft.. 1. ( If we may foberly make it a Queftion with- Sce Kogt pra ^ # out curiofity, and enquire a little after. fo much of the catech. p. 2. Reafons of it, as God hath been pleafed to reveal). Why p. 26. did not God the Father, or the Holy Ghoft, take on mahs B r /# h tr i at J fe nature to be our Mediator, but the Son, The fecond Perfon ? ^mt^g.^66. . Anfw. It might fuffice for an anfwer, That fo it pleafed God in the deep and unfearchable counfel of the Will of ail the three Perions, to order it, Tfal. 89.

19,20,

I oo . Why tnnfl the Son take on our nature^ Chap. XIL

19, 2o, Then thou /pakeft in vifion to thy holy One^ and faidft, I have laid help upon one that is mighty. I have exalted one cht-fenont of the people. I have found David my fervanty with my holy oyl I have anointed him. And although 1 know not another iktisfying-reafon that can be given, or that (hould becurioufly enquired after: yet I (hall foberly propofe a few confederations, which may help us to adore the unfearchable depth of the counsel of Gods Will, in this part of the myftery of Chrift.

I. Confider, That the world was made by the word Chrift, Heb. I. 2. Joh. i. ;., All things were made by him y and without him was not any thing made that was not made. Aa who was fo fit to reftore aii things, and to amend the world, to create the new World, as he that created ali things ? he by whom the world was made, Aft. 3.21? The Redemption that came by Chrift, and is to be perfected at the day of his coming again, is called by the Apoftle the rcftitution of all things. 2. Jefus Chrift the Son of God, the fecond Perion of the Trinity, is appointed Mediator, and takes our nature upon him, that the order of the three per ions of the Godhead, and their working, might in this be manifefted unto us: The Father is the fir ft Perfon and Fountain of divine operation, he works by the Son, and the Father and the Son work by the Holy Ghoft. Our Mediator mud be a perlbn who muft give fatisfa&ion to the Father for us* and who muft be able to fend the Spirit for our falsification, and therefore muft be the Son and fecond Perfon. 3. Confider the things which we loft in Adam: we loft the Image of God, our Sonfhip and Inheritance: and who lb fit to reftore the Image of God, as he who is the Image of the invifible God y the exprefs image of his perfon t Col. 1. 15. Heb. 1. $. Who fo dt to reftore us to a Sonfhip, as the only begotten Son ? Joh. 1.18. Mat. j.laft Who fo fit to reftore man to the inheritance, as the heir of all things, and firft-born of every creature? Heb. 1.2. Col. 1. 15. 4. Confider the Offices which our Mediator behoved to carry: he muft be a King, a Prieft, and a Prophet*, and who fo fit to be our King, as the Power and Wifdom of God ? 1 Cor. 1.24, $0, Chrift the power of God, and the wifdom of God. Who of God it made unto us wifdom. Col. 2. 3, In whom are hid all the treafures of wifdom

and

Chap.XII. and beeomt Mediator, t^t

and knowledge Who fo fit to be our Prieft, as he who licth io the bofome of the Father ? who can have fuch accefs to treat for us with God, and fuch favour with him, as he that lieth in the center and feat of love, the beloved that iieth in the fathers bofome 1 Mat. $. 17, This is my beloved, Son, in whom I am well f leafed, Joh. 1. 18. Who fo fit to be a Prophet to us, as he who is the word of God, who only knoweth and revealeth all his Will? Rev. 19. 13. Joh.l. 8. Mat. 11. 27. 5. Confider that reaibn given by B. Andrews : Becaufe Adams fin was moft directly againft the fecond Per-fon, Gen. 3. 5,22. Man will be*/ God, and have the know-Iedg and wiiclom of God, which is Chrifts prerogative, CoL 2. 3. And who fo fit to pack up that injury, as the fecond perfon ? flejh would have been as the Word, and the Wifdom and Word of God becomes flejh, to raife up ruined man in a quite contrary way to his own finful defign: a marvelous, humble condefcenfion, to expiate fo proud a plot!

Qutft. 2. Why muft the Son of God be not only a man, but the Son of man, of the feed of the woman, of the fame lump with us? Might not the taking of a created nature have fitted him to be our Mediator? Gal. 4-4> He might have been man, and yet had a body framed for him in heaven, and not made of a woman ?

A/if.Ht muft be of the fame lump with us r 1.The more to fet forth his condefcenfion, and our exaltation: in this his condefcenfion was greater, in taking a nature of the fame lump with us, than if he had taken our nature created, as Adams was *, and the exaltation of our nature was the greater, that Chrifts flefti was not only of the fame kind, but of the fame lump with ours. 2. That we might have the more comfort in his fatisfaction : for if he had taken a created nature,that could have reached to a perfonal fatisfa&ion only •, but he takes our nature, and the flefh of our nature, that he might fatisfie for the fin of our nature, and make a publick fatis-faftion for the fins of many. The Covenant with Adam being with his nature, not perfonal ', and his fin alfo being of the fame kind, the fatisfaction muft be in the lame nature, and by one of the fame lump, and not with a perfon having that kind of nature, but not the fame nature, Heb. 2.14,9, Forafmmh then as., the children are partakers of flefh and bloody

he

be alfo hmfelf likjwife took^partof the fane, that through death he might deftroy him that had the power of death , that is the

devil that be by the grace of God fiwuld tafl death for every

man. 3. That nfc-mjght be a fit Mediator, one between two, he behoved to draw as near to us in refpeft of his human nature, as to God in refpeft of the Divine nature \ he muft be a man, and a man of the fame lump that his brethren are of*, a Prieft ordained for men^ and taken from among meny Heb. 5. 1. 4- That the alliance with us might be the ftraiter, and his right of Redemption the ftronger : for our Mediator behaved not only to be a Redeemer, but a G^/, one to whom belonged the right of Redemption. Now this could not be, except he were our own kinfman, our brother of the 'fame lump and flock, Dent. 25. 5, 6,&c Chriftcame to raife up feed to his dead kinfman, old Adaw y who dyed without iffue of grace (for ought that his feed had from him) therefore he behoved to be our brother and kinfman *, and by this means Chri(t (1.) as the kinfman, not only may do it, but he takes it on him as his duty, v. 7, to perform the duty of a hvubands brother: if the kinfman had refufed, he is put to open fhame, by taking off his fhooe -, which Chrifr. will not let be done to him. 2. By this means the Inheritance ( even the better Inheritance than that of Adams ) is fetled upon our Family, Jer.32. 8, For the right of ..Inheritance is thine, and the Redemption is thine. 5. That he might fan&ifie our nature in the root, and repair it in the very foundation where Adam defiled it, when he and we have it of the fame lump : Now you know it is the firft fruits that fantlifieth the lump, Rom. 11. 16: for except he had been the firft fruits of the fame lump that we are of, the lump could not have been fan&ified by him, Heb. 2. 11, For both he that favllifieth, and they who are fantlified, are all of one. Col. 1. 15, The firft-borri of every creature. But in as much as he is the firft fruits of the fame lump with us, he faufti-fieth our nature in the root, our conception, birth, nurfmg, education, life, &c.

Que ft. 3. Why did not the Son of God take upon him Adam's nature in Innocency, when it was a virgiw *, but he took our nature upon him when it was at the worft, when it was corrupted and accurfed ?

Anft. i t

Anf. 1. It was not Adam's nature in innocency that needed a Mediator, but finful nature; therefore he will take upon him that nature that needed help, and will ianclifie it by his taking of it upon him, Rom. 8. $, God [ending his own Son in the likenefs of finful fiejh, and for fin condemned fin in the flefh.

2. He did this to magnifie his love (as I have before (hewed ) ; there w r as the more wonderful love in it. There was, 1. Diftinguifhing love in it, that put difference betwixt us and the Angels, Heb.2. 16, For verily he toob^not on hi<n the nature of Angels, but he took^ on him the feed of Abraham. 2. There was condefcending love in it, that loved us at our worft, Rom. 5. 8, But God comwendeth his love towards us, in that while we were yet finners Chrifi died for its. Ezck. 16. 8, Now when I paffed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold j thy time was the time of love, and Ifpread my skirt a-ver thee, and covered thy nakednefs ; yea, I fware unto thee, and entered into a Covenant with thee, faith the Lord God, and thou becamefl mine.

$. He did* this, that he might be glorified in the greater definition and confufion of mans enemy, the Devil.

Confider, 1. The weaker that the enemy be, the greater is the confufion of them that fall by him: how-great is Satans confufion, that by his power is able to de-ftroy a world of men in a night, if he were permitted, when the man Chrift in our nature, and having taken our nature upon him at the worft, is the defhuttion* of the Devil forever ? 'Heb.2. 14, Forafmuch then as the children are partakers of' flejh and blood, he alfo himfelf like wife took^part of the fame, that through death he might deftroy him that had the power of death, that is the Devil. When by a babe and fuckling the enemy and avenger it filled, Pl'al. 8.2.

2. For one to perifh. in his own plot, is a great confufion: when the Devil fell from Heaven, and could not reach Angels to tempt them, he becomes mans enemy, and Chrift deftroys him in mans nature, in the fimilitude of finfulfiefli: he is twice defeated in his own plot, in our nature, 1. The Devil tempts man to fin, and this proves his greatefi: confufion, for out of mans fall came the bruifing of his head :

C c and

and it is obfervable, that in Satans fentence is put the firffc* promite of Chrift to man, Gen. 5.15, ^w<2? / will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy feed and her feed \ it ftiall bruife thy head, and thou flialt briufe his heel, Rom. 8. $. 2. When Chrift is manifefted in the fkft, the Devil tempts men to kill him, and in this plot he is defeated again, Htb. 2. 14, That he might defiroy him that had th? pover of death , that is the Devil. When he hath made innocent man become finh.il flefh, he is deftroyed in thejSW-lituds of fwful fleflj by the man Chrift, who took cur nature upon him when it was at the worft.

3. It is a great confufion for one to have his enemy to become his Judg, and to pronounce the fentence againft him, as his Judg : and hereby is Chrift yet more glorified in the deftru-£Hcn of mans enemy, theD:vil; that the man Chrift Jeiiis in the fimilitude of our flefh, which he took upon him when it was at the worft, hath judged the Devil, and fhaH judg men and Angels, J oh, 16. 11, Of judgment, bee aufe the prince of this world is judged. Arf. 17. 51, Bee aufe he hath appointed a day in the which he will judg the world in righteoufnefs by that man whom he hath ordained, whereof he hath given affurance unto all men, in that he hath raijed him from the dead.

4. Our Mediator behoved to partake of all our infirmi* tie?., Ifa. 53. ^ A man of forrows : who is to leave us an example of iufferings, and therefore behoved to take our nature upon him when it was at the worft, Heb. 12.2, He endured the crofs, defpifvng the Jkawe. 1 Pet. 2. 2D, 21, Bat if when ye do well, axd.fujfer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable before God. For even hertunto were ye called, becaufe Chrift alfo fuffered for us, leaving us an example, that W€ fjould follow his fieps. He is a Mediator that is to be made perfeEb through Offerings, Heb. 5. 8, 9. Chap. 2. v. 10. Which agrees not with mans nature in inno-cency.

Que ft. 4. Why muft our Mediator be born of the feed of Abraham, and when ? was there any matter what prerogatives he had ? might he not have been of any other ftock, tince he is to be the redeemer of man, both Jews and Gentiles, Heb. 2. 16? Anfw. That he might be known to be the promifed Meffias,

of

of whom all the Prophets had (pokes, all which agree that he fhould be a Jew by Nation, of Abrahams feed, and Davids fon, Diut 18. 15, The Lord thy God will raife up unto thee a Prophet from the mid ft of'thee, of thy brethren, like unto me, unto him ye ftiatt hearken. Gen. 22. 18, And in-thy feed fnafl all the nations of the earth be blefied. Pikl. 132. 11, The Lord hath fworn in truth unto David, he will not turn from it, Of the fruit of thy body will I fet upon thy throne. 2. Becauie God had then no other people in the world at that time, but Abraham feed * 9 and he would honour his own people, by taking his humane nature of their family. 3. thrift was to be fubjeel: to the Law, even the ceremonial Law, which was among the Jews only ^ and here for explicating this Branch of the Anfwer more fully,. we fhall take it in a diftincl: Qiieflion.

Qticft. 5- Why mud our Mediator be made under the law? Gal. 4. 4. Or fubject to the Law both Moral and Ceremonial ?

Anfw- That the Law might reach him as the finner legally, as one that was made fin for us: for if he had not been made under the Law, he had been without the com-pais of it, it could not have reached him, nor taken hold of him, as one who took our Law-place upon him, and io we fhould not have been the better of ttm ', the taking on of our nature, could not have profited us, except he had alio taken on our condition, as we were finful men, liable to the ientence of the Law, for the tranfgrefiion thereof, which is -exprefTed Gal. 4. 5, by our being under the Law? that was our condition *, and that he might take it on him, he is made under the Law-

More particularly, 1. He was made under the Moral Law, under the whole Law. -1. Under the Directive part of it, which he fulfilled and eftablifhed ^ he fatixied tin- part of the Law, without breaking io much as one jot or titd'e of it *, and eftabliined it to be a rule to all hiy, tha; by the.obedience thereof they fhould teftifie their iove ro nirr.. Cor, 5. 14, 15, For the love of Chrifi conftraineth us, h . wt thus^ ytdg, that if one died for all, then were all dead: an& that he died for aU,. that they which lime, fhould not hence* firth live unto themfelves, hut unto him which died for them,

C C 2

X gg Why the Mediator Chap. XIL

and rofe again. 2. He was made under the Forfeiture and penalty of the Law *, which he fulfilled and abolifhed * 7 to wit, the Forfeiture which we had incurred, and by Forfeiture had brought our felves under the penalty of death therein contained, Col. 2. 14, Blotting out the hand-writing of ordinances that was again]} us, which was contrary to us, and toolkit out of the way, nailing it to his crofs. And this he fatisfied by his obedience, even to the fufrering of death noftra vice, in our (bad or room \ and (0 he fatisfied the Law fully, and cancelled the fentence thereof.

2. He was made under the Ceremonial Law-, Luk. 2. 2i 5 22,23,24, And when eight days were accomplice d, for the purification of the child, his name was called Jefus,&c. Ceremonies fall under a threefold consideration: 1. As they are Ordinances, and lb he was made under them to fan&ifie them ', for Chrift needed not circumcifion nor baptifm, but by him they are fancied. 2. As they are types, and fo the whole Ceremonial Law was fulfilled in Chrift, C0L2, 17, Which are a Jhadow of things to come, but the body is Chrift. $. As they are burdens, and fo they are removed by Chrift, Ac!. 15. 10, Now therefore, why tempt ye God to put a yoke upon the neck, of the difciples which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear.

He was then made under the Ceremonial Law, to fulfil and abolifh it: fW if Chrift had not come and been under it, we had ftill remained under the burden of it: but by his being a Jew, made under the Law, we enjoy thefe privi-ledges of freedom from that yoke which believers enjoy under the new Teftament.

Queft. 6. Why was the Son of God born of a Virgin, and not of a married woman ?

Anfw. That he wight anfwer the type given of him by the Holy-Ghoft, in Melchifedecs Priefthood, Heb.7. 3, 15, Without father, without mother, without defcent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life, but made like unto the Son

•/ God, abide th a Trie ft Cdntinually And it is yet far more

evident, for that after the fimilitude of Melchifedec, there a-rifeth another Trie ft. 2. To anfwer the predi&ions of his miraculous conception: Chrifts being manifefted in the flefh was miraculous, andftretoldtp be fo} and that it might be

the

the better known to be fo, God will have his Son come into the world in a miraculous manner, Dan. 2.^*>FGraf-much as then fawe ft that the flone Was cut out of the mountain withe ut hands, &c. As alio he went out of the world in like manner, Aft.'i. 11, This Jame Jefus which is take?? up from you into heaven, jhall come in like manner as ye have feen him go Into heaven. Therefore alio the Argel's, came clown at his birth, to waken up men unto the obfervation of that miracle, Lnk.2. 1 ;, 14, jfhd fuddenly there was with the Angels a multitude of the heavenly hofl praifng God, and s faying, Glory to God in the highefl, and on earth peace, good will towards men. It is a fign above nature, Ifa. 7. 14, Therefore the Lord himfelf flail give you a fign, Behold, A virgin fall conceive and bear a Son, and fall call his name Imwanuel. A matter that reafon comprehendeth not , faith only deal-eth in it. 3. Becaufe Original fin ( at leaft the flain and filth thereof) cometh to us by propagation-, therefore he muft not come into the world in the ordinary way, being that he mufl be fephirated from finners, and be that holy thing upon wftch the corruption of our nature cannot fall, Heb. 7.26. Luk^ 1. 1 5. Being alio conceived of the Holy-Ghoft,to fanftifie the ^cc\ of the woman, Luk^. 1. 35, And the Angel anfwered, and, [aid unto her, The Holy-Ghofl flail come upon thee } and the power of the highefl flail over-fladow thee, therefore alfo that Holy thing which fall be born of thee flail be called the Son of God.

Quefl. 7. Why is Ghrift made man in the fulnefs of time, and not fooncr nor later ?

Anfw. It may fatisfie and content us, that it is written,-GaL^, 2, that was the time appointed of the Father. It liked him to appoint that time*, yet for further fatisfa&ion (if further be necefTary or attainable ),

Confider, 1. God will have the world to know their own condition, to try their own wifdom, and he will give them time to do fo , if the world can do any thing for them-felves to deliver the creature from vanity and bondage, unto which it was made fubjeel: by reafon of corruption j and when the world in- fo long time might fee that they could do nothing for their own happinefs and Redemption , then God will fend his Son, and let out his wifdom in Chrifl, that had been hid from the world ever fince the fall, when

tfe

£.e§ Of the Vvicn of the two KJtures. Chap. XII.

the Law of God written in mans heart was corrupted, and ail things out of order} fo that by the light of nature, and rules of virtue, no man cculd find out the way to happi-nefs, nor ciicover any thing of Chrift, i Cor. 1.20,21, Where is the \vi r e ? where is the fcribe ? where is the cli p liter of this world? hath not God made fooUjh the wisdom of this world? Tor after that in the wifdom of God, the world by wifdom kjiew not Ged -, it pleafed+God by the focUfrnefs of preaching to fave them that believe. •

2. God will have his people to wait long, and to be much exercifed, before he let out great mercies, and fulfil great prcmifes to them. And fo it is in this: If in the fulfilling of the promiie of bringing Abraham's feed to Canaan 9 he would be ib long waited on : If in the deftruction of An-, tichrifl he will be ib many years waited on, before he fulfil his promife *, What w T onder that he will be waited en for the promiie of Chrift longer, even till the fdnefs of time, this being the greater!: promiie that ever he made to his people ? He will have the confolation of Jfraelwaited forbid redemption in Jernfalem looked for, Luke 2. 25, $8.

Before we proceed to {peak of Chrifts unclion, and his qualifications for his Mediatorfhip refulting thence *, let us fhft make lbme ufe of this union of the two natures in Chrift, this great fundamental qualification of him for the Office of our Mediator, that he is God and Man^ that for his due qualification he hath taken our flefh into his perfbn, therein to fubfift.

In the union of the two natures in the Perfon of our Mediator, 1. As it holds forth his condefcending, who ifcooped to be made manifeft in the flefh, 1. Let us admire and wonder at his love : It was love that made him con-defcend y it hath been and will be the admiration of Angels, Luke 2. 13, 14, And fuddenly there was with the Angel a multitude of the heavenly heft , praifmg God, , and fay-ing. Glory to Gcd in the highefl , and on ca.rth peace , good will towards wen. 1 pet. I. 12, Which things the Angels dc-fire-to hvk^ir^. And how is it that we want affections and admirations? Beilde what I huve before fkid., thefe things wonderfully frt out Chrifts love, 1. That he would net en-trull our Redemption to Angels, but he would come him-

felf,

Chap. XII. Of the Vtiion of the two Nature t. f<^

felf, and work it, Heh. 1.5, For unto which of the angels [aid he at any time. Thou art my Son, to day have \ begotten thee'< 2. That for the payment of our debt, and h order to his being in a capacity to do fo, he would be in the fame condition of clay with us, a worm and not a^man, Pial.22.6. 3. That h? would-not buy us at a bale ranfom, but at a great price, he would breathe out his life for us, 1 Pet. 1. 18, i() } Forafmuch as ye kvoiv that ye were not redeemedwith corruptible things, but with the precious blood of Chrifi. 4.That he would concieicend thus fngularly to love man, to love him fo, as that he loved not any other creature that finned againft him. Heb. 2. 16, For verily he took^not on him the nature of angels, bnt he totk^on him the feed of Abraham.

2. Let this raife up our hearts to thankfulnefs, whence think of Chrifts Incarnation, 1. This is the greateft demonstration of his readineis to lave fmners : the principal^ errand Chrift had unto the world, and in taking oiar nature, Was to fave fnnerSjAf^.9.1 ^,1 am not come to call the righteous^. but finn rs to repentance. You may therefore be allured of his readiaefs to receive fuch when they come unto him. 2. This is the Fountain of all the promrfesofthe Covenant of Grace : the three greateft promifes in all the Covenant flow from Chrifts Incarnation. I will be your God: I will give' you my Son : and, I will give you my Spirit. AH thefe, and all; the reft too, flow from this Fountain *, for neither the Father, the Son, nor the Spirit are given to us, but through-a Mediator, and through* his aflTuming of our nature, Eph.

1. I, Bleffed be the God and Father of our Jefus Chrift^ who* hath bleffed us with all fpi ritual bleffwgs in heavenly places m Chrift.

2. As the union of the two natures in our Mediator,* holds out the exaltation of our nature •, Hence, 1. Let us wonder what in man thus to be exalted: the eighth Pfalm is written for this end, that we may wonder at mans exaltation, not in Creation only, but in Redemption* as Virf.-

2, (hew?, which is applied to'Chrift, Mat. 21.16, Out of the mouth of babes and fnclztings, thou haft perfected praife ? how fhould this provoke to admiration, that in our nature the fulnefs of the Godhead fhouM dwell bodily, Coh 2, 9, 2. Let us take Chrifts coming in the flefh, and the

• exalting^

exalting of our nature, by the perfonal union with the Godhead, for .a pledg of the fulfilling of all other promifes,and granting all other mercies and talvation to us ', the root and body of the promifes is come, the branches will follow alio, 2Cor. I. 20, For all the promifes of God, in him are yea, and in him are Amen. Rom. 8.^2, He that fpared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how Jliall he nn with him alfo freely give us all things ? This pledg was ufed by Jfaiah, as a confirmation from God, and a ground of af-furance for delivering the Church from A)mr, Ifa.j.n 3 I-V, Ask^thee a fin of the Lord thy God, ashpit either in the

depth, or in the height above, Therefore the Lord him [elf

fljall give you a fign, Behold, A virgin JJ)all conceive, and bare a Son, and JJ;all call his ntlne JmmamteL And (hall we di-ftrult him for granting any other petition, or deliverance, who hath granted the main one? $. Let us take boldnefs to come to God through Chrifts fleffi: the great Courtier in Heaven is of our kindred *, take courage, and improve the favour and friendfhip that our brother hath in Heaven, Heb. io 4 19,20,21,22, Having therefore, brethren, boldnefs to enter into the holiefl *by the blood of Jefus, by a new and living way which he bath confecrated for us, through the vail, that is to fay, his fleflu And having an High-prieft over the houfe of God, let us draw near -with a true heart, in full ajfurance of faith.

3. As the union of the two natures in our Mediator holds out his due qualification and fitnefs for his office : 1. Behold in him a general fitnels to receive each Perfon, whefe nature he beareth. I fay, a fitnefs to receive them, even all forts of perfons without exception y there is none who n?eds him and cometh to him, needs to diftrufl him, Heb. 7. 25, Wherefore, he is able alfo to fave them to the m-termoft that come unto Gcd by him, feeing he ever liveth to make interceffion for them. 2. Let this encourage fiich as are afraid to draw near to God for union and reconciliation with him, becaufe of their eftranger.ent from him, through lofs of -his Image : Lo, he is willing to unite himielf to thee, and hath given aflurance of it in his Son, by vertue of his union with our nature, Rom.S. 3. 3. When we find difficulty to draw near to God, or languifhing in the life of

our

our faith toward God: Let us draw aear to God, the flefh of our our Mediator, for influences, and learn to come to God through the vail of his flefh, Hcb. 10. 20. Jefus Chrift is not ftrange, he is near to us, and his graces cannot be far off, Rom. 10. 6, 8, Say not in thine heart , Who ftjall af-cend into heaven . ? The word is nigh thee, even in thy month y and in thy hearty that is the word of faith which we freach. But it is with many, and even with the mod part, as with the ten Tribes, who pleaded kindred and blood to David, yet there were but two tribes that clave to him •, and being nearer in kindred, would not be beaten from him, 1 Kings 12.16,17. Some talk luftily, and bear themfelves boldly upon Chrift in words \ others are near of kin to him, and will not be beaten from him.

CHAP. XIII.

Of the Mediators 'VnHivn , as it rclatetb to the feparating of him for his Offices.

TH E fecond part of Chrifts qualification for the Office of Mediatorfhip, is his Vnclion *, this was coniequent unto his perfonal union} ib that as we called the union of the two natures in Chrift Perfon, the principal and chief qualification of him for this Office \ fo we are to look upon his Unction, as carrying in it divers qualifications which re-fult from the former.

The Unction of Chrift comprehends two things \ 1. The feparating of him unto thefe excellent Offices of being Prophet, Prieft, and King of his Church. 2. The endowing him with the Spirit above meafure, with gifts and graces of the Spirit, and afliftances meet to enable him for the Work.

The firft part of Chrifts Unction, is that whereby he is

D d anointed

anointed to thefe Offices: Chrift Mediator is anointed to. be Prophet, Prieft, and King of his Church. Concerning, which we fnall fpeak: i. Of the anointing. 2. Of the Offices. A-id fitft by this Unction, as it relateth to his Offices ( for of his lliclion, as it comprehends his Furniture,,, we are not now fpeaking, but (hall in the next place), we may ur.derftand according to the various life of anointing among men: and the Seizure purport of the Word. 1. HisD.-fignation for thefe Offices in the Counfel of God, ifa. 42. 1, Beheld, my fervant whom 1 uphold, mine elcft in whom my \oul delighteth. So the word is ufed, 1 Sam. 16.13, °f Davids firft Defignation to iucced in the Kingdom to Saul, long before he came to the Government. 2. The declaration/of his being defigned unto thefe Offices, Pfal. 2. j, I will declare the decree, the Lord luth [aid unto me, Ihou art my Son, this day hAve J begotten thee. So anointing is taken in the cafe of Gods declaring Jehu fucceflor in the Kingdom, 1 Kings 19. 16, With. 2 Kings 9. 1. $. The feparating of him, or fetting him apart for thefe Offices, Pfal. 89. 20, / have found David my fervant, with my holy oyl have I anoint-cd him. So the word is ufed, 1 Chron. 29. 22. 1 Sam. 15.. 17, with Pfal. 1C5.15. 4. Thepublickfolemn inverting him in thefe Offices, with power and authority to exercife them, jdt?. 10. 38, How God anointed Jefus of Nazareth with the I/oly-Ghoft and with power, who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppreffed of the Devil, for God was with him. Luk. 1. ll, And the Lord God Jhxll give unto him the throne of his father David. And its from his anointing that Chrift hath his name, J oh. 1.4.1, We have found the Meffi-ns, which is, being interpreted, the Chrift, Luk. p. 20. The Chrifi *f God.

2. Concerning thefe three Offices of Chrift, we fhaU briefly touch upon, 1. The neceffity of them in. our Mediators Perfon. 2. The nature and ufe of them, g. The harmony and confent of thefe Offices in Chrifts perfon, and in his execution of them.

And, 1. The neceffity of thefe Offices in our Mediator, appeareth, 1. From the evils under which we were lying •, man being under, 1. Ignorance of God. 2. Alienation from God, Eph.q. 18, Having the wider ftanding darken?d y

being

■ faivg alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance ■that is in them, becaafe of the blindnefs of their hearts. $. Impotency to come unto him, 70/7.6.44, No man can come to mc, except the Father which fent me, draw him, Ne-ceflary it was that our Mediator be a peribn that carrieth Offices, which may reach thefe evils. His prophecy and teaching meets with our ignorance of God, for he is a teacher come from God, Joh. $.7. A Prophet by whom all his people are taught of God, Jer. 51-53. Ha. 54* * J- His .Prielthocd and Sacrifice meets with our alienation and eftrangement from God, for thereby the diilance is removed, and a friendinip bound up with God, Eph. 2. 13, 14, 18, Bat now in Chrifl Jefns, ye who fometimes were far off, are made nigh by the blood of Chrift. For he is oar peace, whi hath made both one. For through him we both have an accejs • by one fpirit unto, the Father. And his Kingdom meets with our impotency, for thereby we are mightily wrought upon and determined, fo as our impotency proves no overpowering lett in the way of his grace, Jer. 31. i\\ Bat this fiall be the Covenant that I will make with the hoafe of Ifra-el after thofe days, faith the Lord, I will pat my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and I will be -their God, and they jliall be my people.

2. It appears feora the work which he came to do, which required this conjunction of Offices in his Peribn: 1. He came to reveal a new way of happinefs, and therefore behoved to be a Prophet, Alb. 7. 37, A prophet ftall the Lord your God raife up mto yoa , of your brethren, like unto me, bint JJ)all yoa hear. Heb. 2. 1, How jhall we efcape if we neglect fo great falvation, which at the firfi began to be fpoken by the Lord I 2. He came to purchafe and acquire this new blelTed-nefs, and therefore behoved to be a Prieft, to offer Sacrifice for it, Heb. 0-15, And for this caafe he is the Mediator of the newTeftament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the tranfgrejfions of the firfi Tefiament, they which are -.called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance. 3. He came to make application of his purchafe, and therefore behoved alio to be a King, Heb. 5. 9, And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal falvation unto all them that obey him.

Dd 2 2. The

Of the Mediators Vnttion Chap. XIII.

3,. The nature and ufe 6f thefe three Offices in our Mediator, we find in iome meaiiire let out in the promifes of the Covenant, at leafta chief and material hint at Something of all the three, Jer. *-i.3fe$4i with Heb. 8. and 10. i. Chrift Mediator as a Prophet, travelleth in begetting a right understanding betwixt the two parties that are at variance, betwixt God and man 5 and to this effect, being intimately acquainted with all his Fathers fecrets, 1. He publifheth and declareth all the mind of God to his people, especially in revealing the gracious purpofe of God concerning the way and means of reconciliation, Mat. it. 27, Neither know* eth any man the father favc the Son, and he to whomfoever rhe Son will reveal him. Eph. 2. 17, And came and preached peace to yon which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 2. He worketh the effectual knowledg of God, and of his will, in his peoples heart, See zCor. 4. 6, For God whs can-fed the light to flrine out of darknefs, hath fame din our he art s^ to give the light of the knowledg of the glory of God in the face of Jefus Chrift. Luk. 1-77,79? To give knowledg of Salvation unto his people, by the remiffwn of their fins. To give

light to them that fit in darknefs, and in the fliadow of death, to guide our feet in the way of peace. 3. He removeth the miftakes and prejudices whereby the alienation betwixt God and man is h'ightned and continued *, and this by imparting the true mind of the parties to each other, £/?/.>. 4. 21, If fo be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him^ as the truth is in Jefus. This is the nature and ufe of his prophetical Office, which he executeth by >his word and fpirit, caufing light firft to appear, and then to fhine into the hearts of his people.

The end of this Office, and his exercifmg it after this manner, is to promote his great defign of reconciliation, which is the end of his Mediation; and this he cloth, by declaring the mind of the parties to each other, removing miftakes, which encreafe alienation*, begetting a good un-derftanding, and thereby working a compliance betwixt the parties: and in refpeft of this Office mainly he is called a Prophet, Deut. 18. 15. tAtts 3.22: and by way of eminency, the Prophet^ and that Prophet, Joh.6.14, and 7.40: and the Angel or Meffenger of the Covenant y who publifhed and revealed

vealed it, Mai. 5. I: and the Word, John I, 14. Rev. Ip. 3, who revealeth the will of God, whereof I have already fpo-ken-, and zWUnefs, or teacher and teftifier of the will of God, Ifa* 55.4. kev. 3. 14 : and xhz Apoftle of our profef fion, Heb. 3. 1: and the Wifdom of God, 1 Cor. 1. 24. Col. 2. 3.

2. Chrift Mediator in his Priefthood travelleth, 1. About Satisfaction. 2. Interceflion. Ifa. 53. 12, Becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death , and he was numbred with the tranfgreffors, and he bare the fin of many, and made intercef-fion for the tranfgreffor : And about both thefe in order to Reconciliation, which is the great bufineis belonging to the Mediators Office.

1. I fay, the nature and ufe of that Office relates to fa-tisfaction for fin, becaufe by virtue of that Office principally he performs the great work of fatisfaction for our fins, by offering up himfeU a facrifice to death, after he had given perfect obedience to the Law, Heb. 9. 26, But now bn:e in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away fin by the facrifice of himfelf And this he did as our Surety, he flood in the Elects room, and Juftice did ftri>e him in their (lead, Jfa.51. 5, He was oppreJJed } &Lc. or rather, according to the: original, he was exatled, and anfwered\ that is, God the Father required fatisfaction for our fins, and his Son (as our Surety ) anfwered for us.

2. Unto this Office belongeth his IntercenTon, which is performed in the virtue of the fatisfaction given by him to Divine Juftice, and the Sacrifice once offered up by him, Ifa* 55. 12, He poured out his foul unto death — and mad.e inter-cefjhn for the tranfgreffors. Heb. 9. 24, For Chrift is not etyred into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true', but into heaven it felf now to appear in the pre fence of God for us. And this according to the two parts of the HighPriefts Office, which were, 1. The offering of facrifice. 2. The prefentingof it in the Holy of Holies with See q 0& ^ prayer and interceflion, that God would accept it for the fins chrift fet ' of the people, fee Levit. 16. The excellency of this Priett-forth,- p. i^jr',-hood of our Mediator, was typified by Aarons Prkfthood in I2 3-

thefe two parts of itj and more eminently and excellently^' 9 q^^ in Melchifedecks Priefthood, which fhewed alio the continu-^ H ^ f ^ r o-,

an-ce-

ance of Chriits PrUfthood for ever, and the excellency of it above Aaron* y .Pfal. no. Hcb. 5, and 7 chap.

Concerning the nature and parts of this-'Office, we (hall only obferve thefe three things: 1. That Chrift Mediator did and doth both the parts of this Office on earth, and in Heaven , but with this difference, 1. On earth he eminently iacrihced and offered up himfelf, Heb. 9. 14, "How much more fall the blood of Chrift , who through the eternal Spirit offered himfelf without fpot to God-, purge your con-fcience from dead work* to fervc the living God. Yet he interceded alfo, Hcb. 5. 7, Who in the day* of hi* flefj, when ,he had offered up prayer* and fup pi: cat ion* with ftrong crying and tear* unto him that was able to fave him from death, and was heard in that he feared. 2. In Heaven he eminently intercedes, Heb. 7. 25, Seeing he ever liveth to make inter-ceffion for them. Chap. 9. 24, But into Heaven it felf now to appear in the pre fence of God for us: but he offereth up himfelf alfo, by prefenting the lacrirlce, and offering of himfelf, which was once made, Heb. 12.24, We are come , faith the Apoftle , to Jcfus the Mediator of the new Covenant , and to the blood of fprinkling, that fpeaheth better things than that of Abel. 2. That all Chrift's iatisfaction and Pried-hood would be ineffectual for our good, if he did not continue in the exercife of it by his intercefTion in Heaven, whereby he becometh the applying- caufe of falvation to us, Heb. 5. 10, 11, (failed of God an High prieft after the order of Melchifedec ; of whom we have many things to fay, and hard to be uttered, feeing ye are dull of hearing. Rom. 5. 1 o, For if when we were enemies , we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more being reconciled we foall be faved by his life. $. That the defign carried on bylhis Office is the fame as in the former , to wit, Reconciliation, which is promoted through this Office, 1. By his giving latisfa&ion to Juftice. 2. By his application of that latisfa-ftion, and making Attonement for the fins of his people.

The nature and ufe of Chrifts Kingdom , I lay down in thefe After tions : 1. That it is Difpenfatory '-, Chrift Mediator is a King appointed, a Viceroy and D^puty-go-vernour in fubordination to his Father. Tfal. 2. 6. Jet have

1 fet

have 1 fet my King upon my holy hill of Z''.on. John $« 2* v That a!I mm frould honour thz [on even as they honour the father *, he that honoureth not the fon, honoureth not the fa-ther that fent him: a Kingdom which is to bt rendered up again to him who gave it'to him, 1 Cor. 15.24, Then com-cth the endj when he frail have delivered up the kingdom to God even the father , when he frail have put down all rule and all authority and power. His Kingdom as Mediator, is not regnum naturale, which he hath as God co-effential with his Father*, but regnum ceconomicum, which he hath by donation and unction from his Father. 2. That it is very large, yea univerial; for it is all power in heaven and earthy Matth.28. 18 : and it reacheth to the upholding all things by the word of his power, Heb. 1. 3. It is over all the creatures, Eph. u 22, And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church. Over all

o

Mankind, Dan. 7, 14, And there was givsn him dominion and-glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations and languages frould ferve him. Rev. 17. 14, He is lord of lords, and king\ of kings. Over the Reprobate as well as the Ele<ft, Tfalot ido. I, The Lord faid unto my Lord-, Sit thou at my right-hand, until J make thine enemies thy foot ft col. Over all ages-and generations of men : Dan. 7. 14, his dominion is an ever* lafting dominion*, which frail net pafs' away \ and his kingdm that which frail not be deftroyed. Although it be more fpe-cial, and he be a King more peculiarly to the Church and the eleel: World, Pfalml. 6,8,9, Ytt have J fet my king upon my holy hill cf Zion,~Ask of me, and 1 will give thee the heathen for thine inheritance , and the uttermoft parts of the earth for thypojfejfion : thou fralt breaks them with a rod of iron, thou fralt dafr them in pieces like a potters veJJ'el. And that both outwardly, by appointing them Laws, Ordinances and Officers, Pfalm p. 6,7, For unto as a child is born, nn-+ to us a fan is given, and the government frail be upon his~ froulder : and his name frail be called Wonderful Counfellour^ the mighty Goi, the ever lafting Father, the Prince of peace , of the encreafe of his government and peace there fliall be no * end *, upon the throne of David,^and upon his kingdom to order it, and to eftablifr it wfoh juftice and with judgment from hence- -forth and for ever. And inwardly by ruling in their hearts.-

Lnke

Luke 17. 21, Neither flail they fay, lo here, or lo there : for behold, the kingdom of 'God is within you. Ezek. 56.27, And I will fat my fpirit within you, and caufeyou to walkjn my ftatutes, aid ye fall keep m y judgments and do them, Jer. 31. $3, But this flail be the Covenant that I will make with the houfe of Ifrael after thofe days, faith the Lord, I will pat my Law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts. And his Kingdom is over other creatures, but for the caufe and behoof of the Elect", Bph. 1, 22, And gave him to be the head over all things to the Church. 1 .It is Spiritual, over the fouls and coilfciences of men, to awe and over-rule the hearts of men, to captivate their affections, Rom. 14.17, for the kingdom of God is not meat and drirtkj) but righteoufnefs,andpeace,and joy in the Holy Ghoft. Joh. 18.36, Jefus anfwered and J aid, Ady kingdom is not of this world. Chap. 6.15, When Jefus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force to make him a King, he departed again into a mountain himfelf alone. To break in pieces his enemies with an iron Rod , to rule and day them with the words of his mouth, Tfalm 110. 2, Rule thou in the midfl of thine enemies. Ifa. 11. 4, But with righteoufnefs flail he judg the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek^ of the earth ; and he jhall fmite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath tf his lips fhall he fay the wicked. 4. It is everlafting, Dan. 2. 44, And in the days of thefe kings flail the God of heaven fet up a kingdom which Jhall never be deflroyed : and the kingdom fiall 7iot be left to other people, but it flail breaks in pieces and confumc all thefe kingdoms , and it flail fland for ever. Chap. 7. 14, His dominion is an everlafting dominion which flail not pafs away , and his kingdom that which flail not be deftroyed. Heb. 1.8, But unto the Son he faith y Thy throne , O God^ is for ever and ever: and although it be laid , 1 Cor. 15.24, he flail give the kingdom to his Falser , yet his Kingdom fhall not then ceaie: for I take that to be in regard of the manner of adminiftration of it by Ordinances, Officers, e^-c. for then all his Saints fhali be perr fecled, and all his enemies fubdued, whereof fomething hath been already fpoken. 5. In the kingdom of Chrift Mediator, he doth all things with authority and power, and yet it is wholly ruled by his Word and Spirit. He doth all things in his Kingdom, not by outward fecular force, but by his

influences

influences upon the fpirits of men, and determining them in a fecret way, whether providentially, or by (living and ian-ttiiying influences. Z?ck. 4. 6, Not by mighty nor by power y but by my font, faith the Lord of Hofls. Pialm 110. 1,2, The Lord Jaid unto my Lord, fit thou at my right hand until J make thine enemies thy foot fool. The Lord fiall fend the rod of thy ftvength out of Zion : rule thou in the n. idft of thine enemies. 2 The(T. 2.8, And then jlhall that wickfdbe revealed, whom the Lord full con fume with the fair it of his mouthy and fall defiroy withjhe brightnefs of his coming. 6. The ^^ great work of his Kingly Power is to imploy it for laving of his people, and i'ubduing his and their enemies, to bring to pafs his purpofe of the one and the other , either without or againfl all contradiction, .Pfalm 110 throughout, Pfalm 2 throughout, Phil. 2. 9, 10, Wherefore God a!fo hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name, that at the name of Jefus every knee flwuld bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth , and things under the earth. 7. The great and ipecial end of Chrifts Kingly Office, is to make his other Offices effectual for the laving of his Elect, to fupport his Priefthood and Prophecy, and to give vigour and efficacy to them: for except Chrift had been a Prince that had power over his friends and foes, his other Offices could never have been made effectual to trie Elect, nor he a Captain of Salvation to them, Heb. 2. 10. Therefore alfo he is let forth as a Pried: upon a Throne, who carrieth all things as a King with power, Heb. 1. 3, When he had by himfelf purged our fns, fat down on the right hand of the Mays fly on high. It is his Kingdom which effects that Reconciliation which is the end of a Mediator, that which his Prophecy teacheth, and his Priefthood and Sacrifice hath purchafed •, he fits as a King, and conveys the power of it into the foul. 2 Cor- 10.4, 5, For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal? but mighty through God, to the pulling down of flrong holds, and cafling down imaginations, and every high thing that exalt eth it felf againfl the knowledg of God y and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Chrift. .

3. The Harmony and Confent of thefe three Offices in our Mediator, and how they do concurr for the end of his

E e Media-

Mediatorihip, to wit, the triefting of the difference betwixt God and man, by making a reconciliation , and binding up friendlhip by a new Covenant. Here oblerve the fweet concurrence of the three Offices in the Mediator Chrift. i. All theie Offices level at one end, to wit, Reconciliation and Salvation, which is the great bufmefs wherefore a Mediator was appointed, 2 Cor. 5. 19, Cod was in Chrift reconciling the world unto him [elf \ but with this difference, his Prophecy teaches the way of Reconciliation, Atts 5.22, Him [hall ye hear in all things whatsoever he fall fay unto you. His Prieft-hood opened the way, and purchafed the peace, Heb. 9. 14, 15, How much mere jhall the blood of Chrift, who through the eternal Spirit offered himfelf withont fpot to God, purge your confcience from dead works to ferve the living God. Ana for this eaufe he is the Mediator of the new 'Teftament, that by means of death for the redemption of the Tranfgrejfors that were under the fir ft Teftament, they which are called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance. His Kingdom doth effect and do thebufinefs, John 12. 32, And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. Col. 1. 20, 21, And having made peace through the blood of his crofs, by him to reconcile all things to himfelf, J fay, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you that were fome-times alienated, and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled. But yet we mult not conceive the actings of theie Offices in Chrift feparately, nor appropriate to any of them folely the effecting Reconciliation or Salvation : 'but underftand it by way of eminency , and fo of the following particulars. 2. Thefe three Offices in our Mediator, concur to do the fame work, but in divers ways, that our Reconciliation and Salvation might be the more compleat and fure: he would have us faved, Heb. 7. 25, to the ut-. ttoft ^ it< t3 watmxit, or, as the word is rendred by fome,

^Gdodrpin!* ^ r ana * a ^ 0<ije &l manner of ways •, for the word as fome Chrift fet obferve, fignifies, Omni modum perfecutionem, omnem adeptta forth, com. ftnem, and abfolute perfection in all manner of ways where-UhrwUUxh. unto thefe three Offices in our Mediator concur. 1. Chrift asPrieft through his death reconcileth us to God, and faveth us ( as captives are redeemed ) by Ranfom and Price. Heb* 10, 12, But thU mn. after be had offered om favrifice for fins,

for

for ever fat down on the right hand of God. Col. r. % 20,

And having made peace through the blood of his crofs, by him to reconcile all things to himfelf Rom. 5. 10, For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son,&c. 2. Chrift as King, by his-Reiurreaionand Afcen-fion effectuates our Salvation by power and conqueft, Heb. , 2. 14, That through death he might deftroy him that had the power of death , that is the Devil. Eph.4. 8, Wherefore he faith when he afcended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. 3. Chrift as Prophet effe&uates our reconciliation with God, and Salvation, by our own content: informing our judgments, begetting a good underftanding betwixt God and us*, removing miftakes, and making us willing to be reconciled unto him, and faved by him, Pfal. no. 2, 3, The Lord fjall fend the rod of thy ftrength out of Zion,-*Thy people foall be willing in the day of thy power : in the beauties of holinefs, from the womb of the morning, thou haft the dew of thy youth. This he effects by Treaty, till he hath* concluded favour and friendfhip betwixt the parties by voluntary confent in a Covenant, Rev. 22. 17, And the Spirit, and the Bridge fay, Come.

I, Thefe Offices in our Mediator fweetly concur toge- ' ther to meet with three great Evils in our natural condition (which are comprehenfive of all our mifery), and to deal in taking them away : I, Chrift as a Prophet dealeth with our Ignorance of God, and blindneis: and removeth that, by applying himfelf to us in the exercife of that teaching-Office, Eph. 4. 18,21, Having the underftanding darkened', being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance, that is in them, becaufe of the blindnefs of their heart — If fe be that ye have heard him, and been taught by him, as the truth is in Jefus. 2. Chrift as Prieft, with his Atonement and Satisfaction, dealeth with our alienation and eftrangement from God, and our enmity againft him, which is the fruit of our Ignorance of him , and by making a fatisfaftion to offended Juftice, he takes away the enmity. Eph. 4. 18, ite-mg alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them. See Rom. 5. ic, When we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son. Col. I. 21, And you thatmre fometimes alienated, and enemies in your mind by

E e 2 . wicked

wicked workj, yet now hath he reconciled. $. Chrift as a King dealeth with our Impotency and Rebellion, which is the third great evil in our unnatural condition, which he fweetly iubducth by the power and dominion of his grace, Tfalm^. 5, Thine arrows are ftnirp in the heart of the kings enemies, whereby the people fall under thee. Rev. 6. 2 y ylnd he went forth conquering and to conquer. Or the harmony of theie Offices may be conceived thus:

i. That Chrift as a Prophet dealeth eminently with the underftandings of men, to peri wade and convince them by his teaching, 2 Gor. 4.4, 6, Jn whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, left the light of the glorious Gofpel of Chrift, who is the image of God, ft)ouli finne in them — -for God, who commanded the light to ftrine out of d.irhnefs, hath finned in our hearts, to give the light of the hnowledg of the glory of God in the face of Jefus Chrift. 2. Chrift as a Prieft, as a merciful, loving, condelcending man, who hath laid clown his life for us, ufeth entreaties, and dealeth with the auctions mainly, when the judgment is informed by his prophefie and teaching, 2; Cor.5.20, Now then we are amha/fadors for Chrift, as though God d\d hefeech you by us, we pray you in Chrifts ftead be ye reconciled to Cod. 1. Chrift as King dealeth with the wills of men, the proud-eft and higheft enemy that Chrift hath in our nature, which he iubducs and overpowers by determinating grace, Pfil. 110. 1, Thy people foall be willing in the day of thy power.

4. Thefe three Offices in our Mediator, do moft plea-fantly conlpire in aiding and fupporting one another, that each Office may be vigorous and effectual for the end of his Mediation. And here confider, 1. How the prophecy of Chrift is aiding to his Priefthood and Kingdom :'■ 1. By teaching what the Priefthood and Kingdom of Chrift are, and the way how reconciliation and peace is to be made: His prophecy teaches thofe myfteries of the Kingdom, and our falvation, which otherways we could not know, Joh. 1. 18, No man hath feen God at any time: the only begotten San which is in the bofome of the Father, he hath declared him. It fheweth, 1. Where a Sacrifice is to be had, and a power to make out our peace, which upon the matter is the Priefthood and Kingdom of Chrift, Afts 5. 31, Him hath God exalted

alted with bis right botidf to be a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance to Jjrael, and jorgivenejs of fins. 1 Joh.2.2.7, And ye need not that any man teach yon , but as the fame anointing teacheth yon of all things, and is truth, and is no lye. 2. How to apply Chrrils Priefthood at fird for jufti-location, and how to apply it daily and continually for repeated pardon and fbrgivenefs, and how to improve it as our daily iacrihee, 1 John 1. 9, If we confefs our fins, he is faithful and \uft to forgive us our fins, and to clean]e us from all unrighteoufnefs. And 2. 1,2. My little children, thefe things write I unto you, that ye fin not: and if a'ay man fin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jejus Chrift the righteous, &c. 3. How to live by taith, to depend upon Chrift, and to be guided continually by him, as the ruler of his people, Heb. 10. ;8, Now the \ufi foali lire by faith. Pial. 73.24, Thou Jhalt guide me with thy ccu-ijel, and, afterward receive me to glory. 2. By removing miilakes and preji dices, which are ib rooted in our heart?, that there can be no agreement till thcie prejudices be t.-.ken off, and a gocd imderitanding be gotten betwixt the patties: Thus Cbrill played the Prophet to the woman of Samaria, by inftrutting her, till he had removed her miflakes and prejudices,, and informed her judgment right, and then he had acceis to deal further with her, Joh. 4. j, By convincing of the need of his Prieil-hcod and Sacrifice, and of his Kingdom; he doth teach his people as a Prophet, till they know they need a Sacrifice, and till he ihew them where it is *, and till they know they need a King and the arm of Omnipotency, for effecting a change of the Covenant-Mate, John 16. 8, And when he is come, he will reprove the world of fin, of righteoufnefs , and of judgment. Job 1 3. 23, If there be a wejjenger with him, an interpreter, one among a thoufand, to Jl)ew unto man b& up-rightnefs.

Confider, 2. How. the Priefthood of Chrift: concurreth with his Prophefie and Kingdom, and is aiding to them: 1. His Priefthood is aiding to his Prophefie, 1. By making God acceffible through the new and living way of Reconciliation, taught by his Prophefie •, God having now accepted aiacriftce : and we having a Pried, by whom we may come to him, Heb. 10.19.J 20, Having therefore brethren,, boldnefs to

enter

enter into the holiefi by the bloodhtfjefus^ by a new and living way which he hath confecrated for us through the vail, that is to fay, the flejli: and an Advocate and Intcrceflbr to pray for us, i John 2. i, 2, We have an Advocate with the father , Jefus Chrift the righteous ', and he is the pro-fitiation for oar fins. 2. By making that great Prophet more affable and condefcending to us, by how much he is come near to us in our nature *, and hath taken his Sacrifice from among his brethren •, I mean, his flefh and body, Heb. 2. 17, Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren. Chap. 5. 1, For every Higb-prieft fallen from among men, is ordained for men.in things pertaining to God y that they may offer both gifts and facrifces for fins. Chap. 10. v. 5, Wher ere fore when he cometh into the worldy he faith , facrtficc and offering thou wouldft not , but a body haft thou prepared me. 2. His Priefthood is aiding to his 'Kingdom, and that in both the parts of it: 1. In his iacrifice and fatisfa&ion, he hath doubled his right and title to his people , and worketh their falvation by price} which as a King he doth by power and conqueft , Heb. s>. 15, And for this caufe he is the Mediator of the new Te-Jlamentj that by means ef death for the redemption of the Sranfgreffions that were under the fir ft Teftament , they which are called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance. 1 Pet. 1. .18, 19, Forafmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things^ — but with the precious blood of Chrift. 2. In his Interceflion, he carrieth the famebufinefs of our Salvation by favour and entreaty, which he hath alio carried by Command as a King, Heb. 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermoft that come unto God by him y feeing he ever liveth to make interceffion for them. With 1. 3, When he had by himfelf purged our fins^ fat down -en the right hand of the majefty on high. John 17. 24, Father , I will that they alfo whom thou haft given me , be with me where I am.

3.. Confider how his Kingdom doth fupport his Priefthood and Rrophefie, and give vigour and efficacy to them both.

And 1, His Kingdom doth aflift his Prophefie, 1. By fu-ftaiiing and keeping up the means of Salvation and Teaching,

ing, by his Gofpel and Ordinances, againft all the enemies that have riien up and beftirred themfeives againft the fame ever fince the beginning of the world : Thus he keepeth thefe pillars of his Throne from mine. Tfalm no. 2, 5, The Lord pall fend the rod of thy ftrength oat of Zion : rule thou in the midft of thine enemies. The Lord at thy right hand pall fir ike through kings in the day of his wrath. 2. By making his Goipel and Ordinances have their full efTetlualnefs in the hearts of his people, to convince and convert them, and to pierce and condemn thofe that defpiie them , John 9. 39^ And Jefus faid. For Judgment J am come into this world, that they which fee not, might fee, aandthat they which fee, might be made blind. Ifa. 55. 11,. So pall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth , it pall not return unto me void j but it pall accomplip that which I fleafe : and it pall profper in the thing whereto I fent it, .

2. His Kingdom doth affift his Priefthood : r. By giving efficacy to his fatisfa&ion, to reconcile the perfons of the E-lefttoGod, and to obtain forgiveneis of their fins: for it is his Kingdom that doth convey the power of his Priefthood-into the foul. 2. By giving Efficacy unto his Interceffion, •for keeping all thofe that are given to him by his Father,, continually in a ftate of grace and favour, John 17. 11,24, Thofe that thou gavefi me J have kept, and none of them is loft hut the fon of perdition "Father , / will that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where I am. 3. By making his Death and Refurreclion effectual to fubdue ourlufts, and to let up his Kingdom within us. Bph. i< 19, 20, And what is the exceeding greatnefs of his power to m-ward who believe , according to the working of his mighty power , which he wrought in C^'rift when he rat fed him from the dead, and fet him at his own right hand in the heavenly places. Rom. 6.4, 5, Therefore we are buried with himbybaptifm into death, that like as Chrift was raifed up from the dead by the glory of the father , even fo we alfo pould walk^in newnefs of life, for if we have been planted together in the likenefs of his death, we pall be alfo in the likenefs of his refurreflion.

Vfe 1. Of ChriftsUnction unto thefe Offices: How excel-lent and eminent a perfon muft our Mediator be, in whom thefe three Offices concur, which take in all things that pertain

tain to inihuftion and wifdom, to favour and entreaty, to power and acting? who is anointed unto all the high Offices cv:r the houfe of God, Heb. 10. 21, unto which great " perfons have at any time been anointed. The excellency of all high Offices treift in his Perfon, io that as the Apoftle iaith often , fuch a High prieft 7 we may fay, fttch a Mediator , by way of Excellency, Vjalm Sy. 19, 20, I have exalted one chofen out of the people, I have found David my fer-vant, with my holy oyl have I anointed, him. Ila-22. 22,-^-And the l^ey of the houfe of David will'I lay upon his flwulder: fo he jihall open , and none Jhall flint: and he fiallfnit, and none frail open.

2. How. well hath God provided for his people in Chrift the Mediator ?S 1. There mult be a wonderful fulnefs of Satisfaction which proceedeth from a perfon thus anointed. 2. An ad arable weight in the interceflion of a Perfon car-rving fuch jjugh Offices. $. He hath treafured up all his Churches happinefs in Chrift, that he fhould be to them wheufoever they need : and that he fhould carry all Offices whereof they can have ufe. Col. 1. 15?, for it pleafed the

' Father that in him flwuld all fulnefs dwell. 4. From the weH-fpring of his Unction, he hath made another UicTion to flow to us, for calling us to high and honourable things, and furnifhing us for them*, Rev. 1.6. And hath made m Kings and Priefls unto God, and his Father. iJohn2. 27, But the anointing which you have received of hiw y abidetb in you : and ye need not that any man teach you, but as the fame a-minting teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lye : and even as it hath taught you, ye pall abide in him. 1 Pet. 2 . y, For ye are a chofen generation, a royal Prieflhood, a ho-ly Nation, a peculiar people , that ye flwuld fhew forth the praifes of him who hath called you out tf darknefs unto his marvellous light.

3. Let iis make ufe of Chrift Mediator in all his Offices, and acknowledg him in them all, and take notice of the concurrence of thefe for effecting our happinefs. And for this effect, 1. Let us ftudy to be acquainted with our need of Chrift in all his Offices: Some men know not their need of a Prieft, but very few know their need of a Teacher: they think they are very knowing, while they are blind *, but far

fewer

Chap. Xlrt. for hit Offices* $iy

fewer know their need of a King ^ they think they can rule therafelves. Rom. 7.9, For 1 was alive without the law once ; but when the commandment came, fin revived, and I died. And yet our need of all thefe is luch, that we could not have been compleatly laved, if any of thefe Offices had been wanting in our Mediator : we fond in need of a Prophet, a Prieft, and a King,

2. Stu \) to know, and be convinced, that there is in us a natural enmity againft all thefe Offices of Chrift the Mediator : 1. Enmity againft him as a Prophet, againft his Teaching and his Truth ^ difliking his truths which crofs our lulls, John 6. 60, Many therefore of his Dfciples when they had heard this, faid, This is an hard faying , who can bear it f Quenching and refilling the voice and teaching of his Spirit- I fa. 6$. 10, But they rebelled and vexed his holy Spirit. 2. Enmity againft him as a Prieft, by undervaluing his Perfon, Suffering, Satisfaction, Righteoufnefs, Merit?, Rom. 10. 3, For they being ignorant of Gods righteoufnefs, and going about to eflablifh their own righteoufnefs, have not fubrnti-ted themfelves unto the righteoufnefs of God. $. Enmity a-gainft him as a King •, againft his fpiritual Worffiip, Commands, Wages: a principle which controuls them, and rebels againft him, Rom. 7. 23, But I fee another law in my members warring againfi the law of my mind, bringing me into captivity to the law of fin, which is in my members.

3. We muft take with our need of Chrift in thefe his Offices, and lay down our enmity againft them •, that is, in the knowledg that we need not only a Prieft, but a Prophet, and a King •, we muft break off our rebellions againft thefe his Offices, and lay down the weapons whereby we have oppo-fed them, which are mainly feTf conceit, and knowledg, or Science, fafly fo called, oppofmg him as a Prophet, 1 Cor. 8. 2, And if any man thinks that he hfioweth any thing, he know-eth nothing yet as he ought to know : and felf will, oppofmg his Kingdom, refufing to admit of his Laws within us, Luke 19. 14, We will not have this man to rule over us: and felf-worth, or righteoufnefs, oppofmg his Priefthood , by fetting up fomething in the place of it, Rom. to. $, For they being ignorant of Gods righteoufnefs, and going about to efiablifh their own righteoufnefs^ &c.

4. Let us by all means take heed that the grace of God tendred to us through a Mediator in all theft Offices, be not in vain, through our not feeking to it, and laying hold on it, Hcb. 4. 1, 2, Let m therefore fear, left a promife being left m of entring into his Reft, any of yon jhould feem to come port of it. For unto us wm the Gofpel preached, as well as unto them : but the word preached did not profit them , net being mixed with faith in them that heard it. A Court of Juilice is a publick Sanctuary, but it actually relieveth none but thofe that feek unto it, Heb. 6. 18, We might have a flrong confolation who have fled for refuge, to lay hold on the hop; Jet before us. It is in vain as to our profit, that Chrift carrieth theie Offices, if we do not make application to him for his Teaching, his Sacrifice, and his Government, Gal. 2. 21, Do not fruftrate the grace of God : for if righte-oufnefs come by the Law, thenChrift is dead in vain. 2 Cor. 6. 1, 9, Wc befeech you alfo, that ye receive not the grace of God in vain,

5. Let us have our hearts* jointly and equally fatisfied to receive him in all his Offices, and not to divide his compleat Unction, Ija. 55.4, Behold, I have given him for a wit-neff to the people, a leader and commander to the people. Acts 5. 31, Hi-Ti hath God exalted with his right hand, to be a Vrmce and a Saviour, to give repentance to Jjrael, and for-givenefs of fins. Jer. \\. $.$, .4, But this fl)all be the Cwt venant that I will make with the hcufe of Ijrael after thofe days, faith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts-, and write it in their hearts, and will be their God, and they [ball be my people. And they fhaB teach no mere every

his neighbour, faying, Knew the Lord: for all fliall know me from the lea ft of them unto the great eft of them, faith the Lord\ for I will fo-rgive their iniquity , and I will remember their fin no more. 1 Cor. 1. $0, But of him are ye in Chrifijefitj, who of. God is made unto us wifdo-n, and. righteoufnefs, and fancliftcation and redemption. Tnere be who divide his Offices, who would be faved bvbisPrkfthcod, but will neither be taught by his Prophecy y nor ruled by his Kingdom. 2. Others, who would be both faved and taught, but not commanded by him. Again., There be who would divide the things belonging to his Offi:es: As 1, who would iubr

mit

mit to his teaching by outward Ordinances, but will not fubmit themfelves to the inward teaching of his Spirit. 2.Who will be content to take his fatisfattion, and merit of his death, but think they need not his interceffion. 3. Who would take the protection of his Kingdom, but will not have the Laws and Government thereof. 4. Who would be made happy by his means, but will not be made holy.

6. Let us labour to feek within us the experiment of the virtue of each of his Offices, and of the feveral parts thereof, and things pertaining to the fame.

And 1. of his Prophecy} and that not only of his doing the part of a Prophet, in (hewing to us things more plea-fant, but things more bitter alio, even our fin, and his reproofs, joh. 16. 8, And when he is come, he will reprove the world of fin, and of righteoujnefs, and of judgment. Pfal. 50. 2 1, But I will reprove thee, and fet them in order before thine eyes.

2. Let us ftudy to experience the power and efficacy of his Prieflhood in both parts thereof, of his Satisfaction, and of his Interceffion} of the death and life of our Prieft, and that to all the intents of thefe parts of that Office, for Reconciliation, fo£ accefs to God, for bringing you in favour, for keeping you in favour, for per fever ance, for righteouf-nefs, for holinefs, and for falvation , Rom. 5. 9, 10, Much more then being now juftified by his blood, we Jhall be faved from wrath through hiw. For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son: much more being reconciled, we frail be faved by his life. Heb. 4. 14$ Seeino-then that we have a great High-Prieft that is faffed into the heavens^ Jefm the Son of God, let us hold faft- 4ur- profeffion. And 10. 22, Let us draw near, in the full affurance of faith, having our hearts fprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies wafhed with pure water. '1 Cor. 1. 30, But of him are ye in Chrift Jefus, who of God is made unto us wifdom, and righteoufnefs, fanclification, and redemption. Acts 5.31, Him hath God exalted with his right hand, to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Ifrael, and forgivenefs of fins. Heb. 9. 15, And for this caufehe is the Mediator of the New Teftament, that by means of death for the redemption of : the pranfgreffions that were under the fir ft Teftament , they

F f 2 which

which are called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance.

3. Let it be our endeavour alio to feel within us the virtue of his Kingdom, by taking on his yoke, iubmitting ro his commands, Mat. 11. 29, Take my yoke upon yon. Admitting him as a King upon a throne, to rule within us, Luke 17. 21, Behold the kingdom of God is within yon. Yielding him fervice , Pfal.2. 11, 12, Serve the Lord with fair, and re Joyce with trembling. Kifs the fon left he be angry. Subduing your lulls, 2Gor. 10.4, 5, For the weapons of our war-fart are not carnal, but mighty through God, to the pulling dc V'i of ftrong holds : cafting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth it felf againft the knowledg of God * 7 and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Chrift. Committing your felves to his protection , and making it your refuge, 2 Tim. 1. 12, For J know whom 1 have belie* ved \ and 1 am perfwaded, that he is able to keep that which J have committed unto him againft that day.

%>fe 5. Try your improving of Chrifts Offices, and whether he carrieth them in vain as to your reaping profit by them. 1. In general: 1. By your delight in the wile con-junction of them, infomuch that if it were "at your difpo-fing, ye could not be content that any of them were wanting in him. 2. By your unfatisfiednels with your felves until you have had forne good, and found ibme effect: of each. of them upon you.

2. More particularly, 1. If you have been under the efficacy of Chrifts Prophefie, no outward teaching will fatii-fie you, till you feel the power of his Spirit teaching you inwardly. 2. If you have been under the efficacy of his Priefthood, no facrifice, nor fervice, nor prayers of your own will be refted on, but his Sacrifice and Interceffion on-ly. 3. If you have felt the efficacy of his Kingdom, no externals of a well-ordered and ruled walk, will content you, without his Kingdom within you.

C HAP.

pi

CHAR XIV.

Of the Mediators "VnSiion as it relateth to the endowing of him with all requifite Qualifications for that Worh^

THE Second Part of ChrifVs Unction (which is alfo con-iequent to his perfonal union ) is the furnifhing and fitting of him with ipecial Requifites and Furniture for the work of Mediation:, and particularly, he is anointed with requifite qualifications for the difcharge of theie three high Offices unto which he was defigned, to be a King, a Priefi:, and a Prophet to his Church: And this alfo is comprehended in the Anointing from which our Mediator has his name, Meffiah, or Chrifi, Joh. i. 41. Luke 9. 20.

Of this part of his Unction we fhall fpeak, 1. More generally, laying open what it is, and the comprehenfive phra-fes of Scripture which fpeak of it. 2. More particularly, pointing at the ipecial graces which were required, and were found eminently in our Mediator.

Ad 1. of his Unction in general, whereby the Godhead made the Manhead full of himfelf, and of all the commu-nic ole graces and gifts of the Spirit, to fit him for the work of a Mediator.

The Scripture-phrafes concerning this unction, or fitnefs and furniture of Chrift for his Mediatorfhip, are exceeding large and comprehenfive, Pfal.45.2,7, Thou art fairer than

the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips thy God

hath anointed thee with the oyl of gladnefs above -thy fellows. There his unction with the Holy Ghoft, and graces of the Spirit, compared to oyl (which in regard of its nature re-frefheth and maketh fit for ufe •, and in regard of its ufe^ was imployed for figuring and figniiying mens fitnefs for the calling), is extolled comparatively, comparing it with the unction of believers •, a large efrufion of the Spirit was upon him after an extraordinary meafure and manner, John 3.34, For God giveth not the fpirit by meafure unto him : how then?

without

without meafilrc: i.e. mod abundantly: the like phrafe fee Ezra 7. 22, And fait, without prefer thing how much. Chrifl did receive the gifts of the Spirit in iuch abundant rneafure, that he might have an overflowing rneafure in him, that fhould run over, and fill all his members, Joh. 1.14,16, fall of grace and truth. And of his fulnefs have all we received, and grace for grace. 1 Job. 2. 27, "But the anointing that ye have received of him, abideth in you: and ye need not that any man fetch you, &c. Eph. 4. 7, But unto every one of us is given grace, according to the rneafure of the gift of Chrifl. And 1.2 $", The fulnefs of him that filleth all in all. Acts 10. 38, He is laid to be anointed with the holy Ghoft and with power , having both fvv&iMv and \%**ittp, given to him, both might and authority, Mat. 28. 18, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Joh. 17.2, As thou haft given him power over all flefli. 1 Cor- I. 24, Chrifl the power of God, and the wifdom of God. A r id Col. 1. 19, It pie a fed the Father that in him ftwuld all fulnefs dwell: that is, admirable perfection of Grace *, he hath all worth in his peribn, nothing is wanting in him that may compleat his peoples happinefs : fome fhort view of the Graces wherewith he was filled, we have J fa. 11. 2, 3,4, 5, And the fpirit of the Lord ftiall reft upon him, the fpirit of wifdom and under ft anding, the fpirit of counfel and might, the fpirit of knowledg, and of the fear of the Lord: And ftiall mak? him of quicks under ft anding in the fear of the Lord: and he ftiall notjudg after the fight of his eyes, neither ft)all reprove after the hearing of his ears: But with right eoufnefs ftoall he ]udg the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek^ of the earth: and he ftoall fmite the earth with the rod of his month •, and with the breath of his lips ftiall he flay the wicked. And right eoufnefs jhall be the girdle of his loins, andfaithfidnefs the girdle of his reins. Rom. 15. 12, And again Efaias faith, There ftiall be a root of Jeffe ^ and he that ftiall rife to reign over the Gentiles, in him ftoall the Gentiles truft. And Col. 2.3, AH the treafures of wifdom and know' ledg -, not abfolutely taken for infinite knowledg, as the words relate to the human nature of Chrifl: *, 'but relatively, for a marvellous height of perfection of thefe things, iuch as was requifite for his Mediatorfhip in order to our ialvation. A-gain, Col. 2. 9, it's laid of him, The fulnefs of the Godhead

dwells

dwells in him bodily , i. e. per/anally, by the union of the divine nature with the human, in the unity of his ptrfoti, the per feci: Deity of the San, with all his Attributes ( and not only in regard of particular gifts and graces, as he dwel-leth in the Prophets and Saints), but as the foul dwelletb in the body, perfonally, or fubft ami ally, in oppofition to the fhadows of the Old Teftament.

But mainly, by the anointing of Chrift with the Holy Ghoft, we underftand two things, which we find joined with, the Spirit promifed to him: 1. All the Gifts and Graces of the Spirit in copious an;l abundant m:afure > and according to the highell pitch and degree that the human nature of Chrift was capable to receive*, and fo the Spirit put upon him, is joined with the variety and eminency of excel-celleat gifts, Ifa. it. 2,&c. 2. Tne unutterable aiTi.tance and pretence of the Spirit, bearift;* his Himan nature up in all that he was to do as Mediator, that he fhouldnotierve on his 07/n charges: See J fa. 42.1, 2, Behold my fervani whom I have chofen : mine cleft, in whom my fopd delighteth. I h*~e put my fplrit upon him: he (lia'l bring forth judgment to the Gentiles: He jhall not cry, nor lift up , nor caafe his voice to be heard in the ftycet, &:. Pial.8p.21, With whom my hand fisJl be eftablified: mine arm alfo flail (Irengthen hiwk And both theie the holy Hainan nature of Chrifl needed, for theie reaibns: 1. For the things which he was to fuf-fer: If Chrift had nothing to do bu* active obedience, the fpirit of Adan> or confirmed Angels, might have done his . turn: but he had another work to do (which would have crufhed thofe excellent creatures ) to latisfie juftice, and lye under the infinite wrath of God, and therefore needed mors than they received, Heb. 9. 14, He is faid to have offered up himfeif, by the power of the eternal fpirit , which I take to fignifie, not only the Godhead which gave value to his fuffering, but theaiTidanceoftheHoly-Ghodjwh^reoy he was marvelloufly helped (I mean his humane nature) to go through thofe fiafferings. 2. Eecaufe his anointing was intended to run over to his people, and the off fallings of it was defigned to fill them*, therefore it behoved to be without meafure ♦, fuch a .meafure as cannot be comprehended by any other creature, J ah. 1. 16, Of his. falnefs do> we receive* Efklvi$&

2, h

2, It is like the precious oyntment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aarons beard, that went down to the skirts of his garments. Pial. 68. 18, Thou haft afc ended on high-, thou haft led captivity captive , thou haft received gifts for men ; yea, fir the rebellious alfo, that the Lord might dwell among them : with Eph. 4. 8, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. Joh. 5. 26, For as the Father hath life in him-jelf, fo hath he given to the Son to have life in himfelf. ^ Be-caufe God hath fo contrived the bufmeis of Grace, that no created thing can aft without the fpirit: not Adam , not the Angels, not the holy humane nature ofChriit j that all creatures might be known to have no felffufficiency, but to be very depending things upon God, and upon grace, the aflifting-grace of his Spirit, that framed them, and gave them being, Mat. 5.15, And Jefusanjwering, faid unto him^ Suffer it to be fo now, for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteoufnefs. Rom. 11. $6, For of him, and through him^ and to him are all things, to whom be glory for ever.

For a further clearing of this part of Chrifts Un&ion, I lay clown thefe four Pofitions:

1. Concerning the Nature thereof, that it was the fame with the lln&ion of believers •, it was not one fpirit which Chrift received, and another which believers receive: grace in him, and in them, differ not in kind, but in degrees: See Joh. 1. 14, 16, And the word was made fiejh, and dwelt among us, aud we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. And of his fulnefs have all we received, and grace for grace, pfal. 45. 7, Thy God hath anointed thee with the oyl of gladnefs above thy fellows. Gal. 4. 6, And becaufe ye are fons, God hath fent forth the fpirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba Father. Rom^ 8. 9, 11, But ye are not in the fleflj, but in the fpirit, if fo be that the fpirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the fpirit of Chrift, he is none of his." — But if the fpirit of him that raifed up Jefus from the dead dwell in you, he that raifed up Chrift from the dead, jhall alfo quick: en your mortal bodies, by his fpirit that dwelleth in you. For, Confider the Unftion of the humane Nature of Chrift, 1. It was Created-grace wherewith he was anointed* it was grace given upon the one part, and received upon the other:

it

it was grace poured out and infufed in the fame manner as believers receive grace, Ffal.dZ. 18, Thou baft received gifts for men , yea, for the rebellious alfo,that the Lord might dwell among them. Pial.45.2,7, Grace is pouredinto thy lips, therefore bath God blc{fed thee for ever. Thou love ft righteo'ufnefs,and ha-teft wickednefs, therefore God,thy God, hath anointed thee with oyl ofgladnefs above thy fellows^ 2.11 was grace, which being finite, did receive encreaie, Lukj 2.40, 52, And the child grew , and W axe d ftr ongin fpirtt filled with wifdom,and the grace cfGod was upon him. And jefus cncrcafcd in wifdom and fixture, and in favour with God and man ; as all his members do, JEph. 4, 13, Till all we come in the unity ofthe faith, and ofthehnowledg of the Son of Gad, unto a per fell: man, unto the meafure of the flat ure of the fulnefs of Chrift. 5. It mud needs be of the lame k inducing our grace and Unclion is part of his fulnefs, Job. 1.1 6, And of his fulnefs have all we received and grace for grace. 1 Joh. 2. 20,27,But) e have an Hnfhionfrom the holy one.- -But the anointing which you have received of him, abideth in you. Yet fo, as Chrift is not degraded from his Soveraignty by his partners exaltation, Col. 1.18, And be is the head of the body, the Church \ who is the beginning, the firft-born from the dead, that in all things he might have the preheminence.

2. Concerning the meafure of Chrifts Unclion: although his Unclion differ not in kind from the Unclion of believers ; yet the meafure of it fo far exceeds our meafure, that in refpeft thereof it is without meafure, and yet the humane Nature of Chrift had not infinite grace *, for thereof it was not capable: it is as the Ocean compared with the drop of a Bucket ^ the fpirit and grace was in him as water in the Fountain •, in us, as water in the Cittern; communication in regard of Chrift, is full and immediate \ grace is in him as the money in the treafure, which is disburfed to us according to our need •, grace is in him as life and fenfe is eminently in the heart and head, which is diffufed into his members, Job. 5.26, For as the Father hath life in him-felf, fo hath he given to the Son to have life in himfelf Chap. 6, v. 57, As the living Father hath fent me, and I live by the Father: fo he that eateth me, even he floall live by me. Pfal^* 45.2,7, Thou art fairer than the children of men, grace jfa

poured into thy lips. God y thy God, bath anointed thee wi/fr?

F f the

the oyl of gladnefs above thy fellows. Col. i. iS, And he is the head of the body, the Churchy who is the beginning, the fir ft-born from the dead, that in all things he might have the pre* heminence.

1. Concerning the time of Chrifts Un&ion : whether he received the fpirit without meafure, in that copious abundant effufion, from the womb, and firft moment of his conception: We fay he was anointed even from the firft union of his two Natures in his perfon ; the Godhead did fan&ifie the huname Nature, and make it holy, undefiled *, and irifufed all graces, as appears from L#^.i. $5, 7 her fore alfo thatholy thing which pall be born of thee, fhall be called the Son of God. Heb. 7. 26, For fitch an High-prieft became us, who is holy, harmlefs, undefiled, feparate from (inners, and made higher than the heaven\ And from the glorious effe&s thereof,which did early appear in him, Luk.2. 42, to 49. Yet fo, as he did more fully receive the.anointing, and the fpirit without meafure, when he was to appear publickly, in the entire executing of his Offices, which was about the thirtieth year of his age, Luk. 5. i\, with 4. 1, 22, And Jefus being full of the Holy-Ghofi, &c— And all bare him witnefs, and wondred at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. Which was typified in Davids being twice anointed, once when he was firft defigned King, 1 Sam. 16.13. And again, when he was inverted in the prefence of the people, 2 Sam. 2.4. Which was alfo held forth in the vifible ftgn of the Holy-Ghoft, his defcending upon him at his baptifm, Mat. 3. \6„ And was intimated to John before-hand, Joh. 1. $ $, 34, And I krtew him not: but he that fent me to baptise with water, the fame faid unto me , Vpon whom thou fhalt fee the fpirit defcending and remaining on him, the fame is he which bapti-z.eth with the Holy-Ghoft, And I faw, and bare record, that this is the Son of God, i.e. That he who as man fhould receive the fpirit, fhould alfo as God, yea* as Mediator, give the fpirit to others.

4. Concerning the extent of his Un&ion, as it reacheth unto all the parts of his Mediatorftlip, and the furnifhing him for them. J. He was anointed to be a Prophet, furnifhed With a dexterity to preach the Gofpel, Luk. 4. 18, 19, 22, Tfk Spirit of the Lord is upon me^ becaitfe he hath anointed me

to

to preach the Go/pel to the poor, he hath fent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and re-covering of fight to the blind: to fet at liberty them that are

bruifed : to preach the acceptable year of the Lord. And all

bare him witnefs, and wondred at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. Ha. 50.4, The Lord hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I fliould know how to fpeak^ a Word in feafon to him that is weary. Mat. 7. 28, 2q, And it came to pafs when Jefus had ended thefe fayings, the people were aftoniftied at his dotlrine. For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the Scribes. Joh.6.6$, The words that I fpeak^unto you, they are fpirit, and they are life. Yea, he was not only furnifhed with a fpirit for that calling, but alio for prompting others, and fitting them for it, Bfh.

4. 8, ii, And gave gifts unto men. And he gave fome A-

poftles, and fome Prophets, and fome Evangclifts, and fome Ta-ftors, and fome Teachers. 2. He was anointed (not only called, but furnifhed) for his Prieftly Office, for both the parts thereof furnifhed by the Spirit, wherewith he was anointed, both for offering his Sacrifice, and for making his interceflion, Heb.g. 14, Who through the eternal fpirit offered himfelf without fpot to God. Chap. 5. v. 7, Who in the days of his fiejh, when he had offered up prayers and fupplications, with flrong crying and tears, &c. 3. He was anointed, and furnifhed for his Kingly Office, with a fpirit, and gifts for Government *, for -conquering his enemies, and for ruling his people, Pfal. 45.3,4,5, Gird thy fword upon thy thigh, O mo ft Mighty, with thy glory and thy Majefty. And in thy Mays fty ride profperoufty, becaufe of truth, and meeknefs, and righteoufnefs: and thy right hand ftiall teach thee terrible things. Thine arrows are fharp in the heart of the kings enemies, whereby the people fall under thee. Ifa. 11. 2, And the fpirit of the Lord fhall reft upon him, the fpirit of wifdom and under- * ftanding, the fpirit of counfel and might, the fpirit of know-ledg, and of the fear of the Lord, &c. >

Vfe 1. Behold, how well furnifhed our Mediator is fet out for his work: there is a fulnefs in him to meet with all our emptinefs v yea, his fulnefs was given to him for this very end, that fmners which cannot come where the fulnefs of God lieth, to receive from him immediately, may receive it out of Chrifts fulnefs. F f 2 Confider

Confider then, I fay, i. What a fulnefs is in him, whas a running-over Unction he received •, this is a work above us, and matter beyond our expreffion, wherein we may more eafily loie our fetves, even in this depth, than expreis our felves: by this thftion he is full of God, Col. 2. o, For in him dwelletb all the fulnefs of the Godhead bodily. Full of the fpirit,the Holy-Ghort, Lu^. 1, And j/fus being fall of the Holy-Ghoft, full of grace and truth. Joh. 11.4, Full of light and of life. Joh. 1.4, In him was. life, and the life, was the light of men, &c. Full of faving grace, and ftnclified gifts,'//*! 11. 2, And the fork of the Lord flail reft upon him, &c.

2. Confider for what end all this fulnefs was given unto him : he was full of the lpirit, that he might fill us with his lpirit, Joh- 16. 7, Neverthelefs I tell yon the truth, it is expedient for you that I go away : for if I go not away, the comforter will not come unto you ; but if I depart, I will fend him unto you. Eph. $. 19, That ye might be filled with all the fulnefs of God. He was full of grace, that we might receive of his fulnefs, Joh. 1. 16 That his Unclion might run down upon us, 1 Joh. 2. 27, But the anointing which ye havo received of him, abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you. That his grace might work^ mightily in us, Cok 1. laft. He received gifts for our ufe, to give them to men, to the word of men, even to the rebellious, gifts to be meafured out again, Pfal.6%; 18, with Chap. 4. v.S.

Vfe 2, Let his fulnefs and compleat Unction be improved, 1. For convincing luch as continue fo empty, when Chrift: isfo full ? Ah, that wefhouldbe fo poor, when Chrift is fo rich! when we have fo -full an anointed one, that wefhould never tafte of his Un&ion! fome have nothing, and fome have little •, but very few are filled with the fulnefs of Chrift, and made to run over with his Unclion: the fault is in us that he is fo wet, and we are £b dry, John 5. 40, Ah& ye will not come tOx me, that ye-might have life.

2. For alluring and gaining the hearts of empty creatures. Things allure, as there is much of precious furniture in them: but this is fad, when God hath anointed Chrift with the Spirit above meafure : that empty creatures care nothing for

him,

him, that his fulneis and furniture is propounded and offered every day in the Goipel, and we are not allured by it. Song' I. $, Becaufe of the favour of thy good ointment s> thy name is as ointment pouredforth, therefore the virgins love thee.

5. For comforting believers: all this fulneis of the Spirit* of gifts and graces wherewith Chrift was anointed, it is yours: it was not only for your ule, but it is your property. 1 Cor. 3.22,23, All are yours, and ye are Chrifts, and Chrift is Gods: You may ufe it as your own \ you may come to the Fountain, to the Treaiure, to the ftore-houie of Chrifts fulnefs, when you will: you may comfortably and confidently hold up your Citterns, till they be filled and run over, I fa. 12. 3, Therefore with joy JJjall ye draw water out of the wells of Salvation. Phil. 4. 18, 19, But I have all, and abound: I am full — Bit my God full fupply all your needy according to his riches in glory by Jefus Chrifi.

CHAP. XV.

Qf the Requifites in a Mediatory which are-eminently to be found in Chrift the Mediae tor of the New Covenant.

IN the next place, I come to fpeak more particularly of this part of Chrifts "Lh&ion, or his Furniture for the work of Mediatorfhip, by laying open the Requifites in a Mediator, which are all eminently to be found in Chrift, and may be reckoned as fo many properties or qualifications in the Mediator of the New Covenant.

The Requifites in a Mediator or Reconciler, that dealeth betwixt two parties, are of two forts: 1: Some Requifites which more dire&ty relate to the qualifying a peribn for fuch an Employment. 2. There be other Requifites which look more dire&ly to the managing of that truft : both the

one

one and the other are eminently to be found in Chrift.

And i. Of the Requifites fitting,a Perfon for this truft: i. A Mediator muft be fuch a Perfon that hath Intereft in both the parties, elfe he fhould be fufpe&ed either by one party or other: yea, his interpofing fhould not be admitted of by the parties, without this Requifite: Chrift hath this Requifite mod: eminently j he is fuch a Perfon who is not only of Kindred to both parties, but by that rare conjunction of the two Natures in his Perfon, who is God man , he is equally diftant from, and drawing near to both parties ('whereof I fpoke before when I treated of the Union of the two Natures : and therefore will not infift here).

2. A Mediator muft be a Perfon trufied by both parties: one to w T hom they can confidently intruft their Interefts: fuch a perfon is Chrift, to whom God hath entrufted and committed whatfoever relateth to his Honour and Intereft: John 5. 22,27, For the Father judgeth no man y but hath committed all judgment to the Son — And hath given him authority to execute judgment alfo, becaufe he is the Son of man. He is a Perfon, a Truftee, to whom we may commit all our Interefts : yea, Believers have done lb, and will do fo, 1 Pet. 4. Iy, Commit the keeping of your fouls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator, 2 Tim. 1. 12, And I am perfwa-ded, that he is able to ks^p that which I have committed unto him, againfl that day: Yea, he is the perfon to whom our Interefts were committed by God before we were born, and before we were capable to difpofe of our own interefts. When we were Minors, yea before we were, John 17. 6, Thine they were, and thou gavefl them me, and they have kept thy word*

I. A Mediator muft be a Perfon which is wetl-ajfettedto, and which feeketh the welfare of both parties : one who dcfires their union and agreement, ejfe he were not fit to deal betwixt them: fuch a perfon is Jefus the Mediator of the New Covenant*, one who defireth and endeavoureth Gods honour and our happinefs *, one who carrieth on his Fathers Honour in the promoting of our happinefs*, and one who carrieth on our happinefs in fuch way as may moft highly advance his Fathers Honour: one who is mar-velloufly affefted to the union of the difagreeing parties:

John-

Chap. XV. in a Mediator. ^j

JohnZ.^9, But 1 honour my father, and ye do diftonour me : with Tit. 2. 14, Who gave him [elf for its, that he might redeem m from all iniquity, and purifie unto himfelf a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 2 Cor. 5. 19, God was inChrifl reconciling the world unto himfelf.

4. A Mediator mud be a Perfon which hath power over both the parties: one that may determine the difference, and engage the parties to ftand to the decifion : one that can lay his hands on both, Job 9. $). Such a perfon is Chrift, who hath power with God, being his only Natural Son, Matth. $. 17, This is my beloved Son , in whom I am well-pleafed. John 11.41, 42, Father, J than^thee that thou haft heard me; and I know that thou hear eft me always. And a perfon who hath power with us, can draw us alter him, and make us do what he will. John xz. 52, Andl, if I be lifted up from the earthy will draw all men nnto me. PiaK 1 ip.

35, Make me to go in the path-efthy (fommandments. Ezek.

36. 27, And I Will put my fpirit within yon , and canfe yow-to walk^in my ftatutes: and ye jliali keep my judgments, and; do them.

2. There are other Requifkes, which relate more directly to the managing fucha work. And i. A Mediator mult be a condefcending Perfon^ which can humble himfelf, and bow, for the compaffing an union betwixt the parties: Ghrift is

fuch a Perfon. Zech.g. 9, Behold, thy king cotneth he i*

lowly- A condefcending Mediator, whole condefcenftons were eminent. 1. He {hewed himfelf very condefcending in taking on the Office of a Mediator. In this he bowed himfelf, andftooped very low: he came off the Throne, and left it, to take on a fervice, Phil. 2. 6, 7, 8, Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God' r but made himfelf of no reputation , and took^upon him the form-of a fervant, and was made in the likenefs of men: And being found in fajhon as a mm, he huMed himfelf, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the crofs. 2. G3nde-fcending to take on the duties of that Office: he became a fervant to both parties, that he might make peace betwixt them. I fa. 42. 1, Behold, my fervant whom I uphold , mine eletl in whom my foul delighteth. Ver. 53. II, By his know-ledg fall my righteous fervant juftifie many, for he ftiall bear

their

Of the Kequiptes Chap. XIV.

thtir iniquity. Matt. 2D. 28 , Even as the Son of man came not to be minifired unto, but to minifter , and to give his life a ranfomfor many* 3. Condeicending in his way of going about that Office, and the things pertaining to it: condeicending to the weakeft and lowed condition of his people, and (hewing his dealings accordingly. I fa. 42. 2, $, He jljall not cry, nor lift , nor caufe his voice to be heard in the fflreet •, a bruifed reed Jhall he mt breaks And 40. 11, He fiall feed his flock, like a fiepherd , he jhall gather the lambs with his arms-, and fliall gather them in his bofom y and fiall gently lead thofe that are with young. Ezek. 34. 16, J will feek^ that which was loft, and bring again that which was driven away: and I will bind up that which was broken , and will ftrengthen that which was fick^ 4. Condescending in all his carriage : not ieeking his own honour, nor affecting popularity, but doing his greateft works with little noiie, and bidding tell no man of them. John 6. 15, When Jeftis therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force to mak^e him a king , he departed again into a mountain himfelf alone. Mat. 12. 18, 19, Behold my fervant whom 1 have chofen , mine eleel in whom my foul is well-pleafed *, / Will put my fpirit upon him, and he fiall flew judgment to the Gentiles : he fiall not ftrive nor cry , neither fliall any man hear his voice in the ftreets. And 8.. 4, And Jcfus faith un-ts> him y See thou tell np man.

2, A Mediator in carrying his bufinefs, muft be mollify-,ipg, to bring the parties from rigour and high courfes and conditions, to abate for peace and union-lake. This did eminently fhine forth in Chrift •, he was a mollifying Mediator*, for 1.-He brought God down, and took him off high demands of Law : 1. Inftead of ; perfonal iat-isfa&ion from Sinners, to accept of fatisfattion in the perfon of another, to wit, Chrift our Surety, who was made a curfe for «/,Gal. 3. 13. Ilk 53-8, For .the tranfgreffions of mp people was he ftricken. 2. In place of an inherent righteoufnefs, to accept an imputed Righteoufnefs, 1 Cor. 1. $0, But of him are ye in Chrift Jefus , who of God is made unto us wifdom, and right eoufnefs, and fantlification^ and redemption. $. In-ftead of a perfect obedience from man, to accept his poor endeavours after perfection, and to pardon (hort-comings

in duty :, to accept a perfection of fmcerity, where, he re-, quires the rigour of perfection, 2 Cor. 8. 12, For if there be firft a willing mind y it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 2Chron. 30. 18, 19, The good Lord pardon every one that prepareth his' heart to feei^ Gody the Lord God of his fathers, though he be not clean fed according to the purification of the Sanctuary.

2. He hath brought up man in his own body, to come nearer to God, and to leave the terms whereupon he flood at odds with God before: 1. By quitting his own righteoufnefs, and his feeking to eftablifh it, Rom, 10. 3 : to fubmit to the righteoufnefs of God, and to the way of Jufti-fic^tion by a free-gifted righteoufnefs, Rom. 3. 24, Being juftified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Jefm Chrifi y Sic 2 Cor. 9. 13, Whiles by the experiment of this mimfiration they glorifie God for your profeffed fubjetli-on unto the Gofpel of Chrifi. 2. lnftead of peribnal fatisfa-ftion, to offer to God fatisfa&ion in the perfon of another, to prefent Chrift to God, 2 Cor. 5. laft, For he hath made him to be fin for m who knew no fin, that we might be made the righteoufnefs of God in him, 1 Tim. 2.6, Who gave him-felf a ranfom for all, to be teftified in due time. 3. lnftead of that extream undutifulnefs and averfnefs to yield any obedience to God, to offer to God his utmoft endeavours of obedience and iervice, and not to think God his debtor when he hath fo done. 2 Cor. %. 15, And that he died for all, that they which live, Jhould not henceforth live to themfelves , but to him which died for'them, and rofe a* gain.

3. A Mediator muft be affable, one to whom both parties may freely tell their mind, and have accefs to do fo. Chrifi is an affable Mediator, a Perfon who courteoufly and kindly entertaineth both the parties in whatibever they will employ him ', and this for the unions-fake, that he may make them one. 1. He is affable to both parties, for he hath Gods heart, and a mans heart.

1. Chrift is an affable Mediator, in refpeft of his Father, the offended party: and no wonder, for he dwelleth in his bofom, Joh. 1. 18. He doth kindly entertain and receive his proportions, John 6. 38, 39, For I came down from hsaven, not to

H h do

do mine own will, but the will of him that fent me : And this is the fathers will that hath fent me y &c. 2. He is an affable Mediator' in refpeft of the offending-party: one who kindly and courteoufly receiveth and etertaineth the worft of finners that ever employed him : His carriage while he was here on earth, did throughly bear witnefs of this before his death, and after his refurre&ion; whereby he gave a proof how he would carry to us when he fbould be in glory, being then in the way and firft ftep to it. O, how affable was he then! Luke 24. Johmo, and 21 Chapters. And how affable is he flill now, when he is let down on the right hand of Majefty ! Joh. 16. 25,26, 27, The time cometh when J Jhall no more fpeak^ unto yon in Proverbs , but I Jhall fhew you plainly of the Father. — At that day ye jhall asf^ i n my name: and 1 fay not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you, for the Father himfelfloveth yon. Heb. 2.17, That he might be a merciful High-priefi in things pertaining to God. And 5. 2, Who can have compaffion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of'the^way , for that he himfelf alfo is compared with infirmities.

2. He is affable to Juftice and Mercy both, [thefe two Attributes in God which were to be eminently glorified in our Salvation : 1. He is affable to Juftice, ready always to fpeak with Juftice, and to fatisfie it with a Ranfom and Price, Heb. I2. 2^, And to Jefus the Mediator of the new Covenant, and to the blood of fprinkling, that fpeaieth better things than that of Abel. 2. He is affable to Mercy and Grace, and ready always to fatisfie Mercy by entreaties, even for the thing which he hath bought, Heb. 7. 25, Seeing he ever liveth to make intercejfion for them: Yea , he pleads in our name with both thefe Attributes in God, by virtue of his fatisfaftion and intercefTion, Heb. 9. 24, For Chrift is. not entredinto the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true: but into heaven it felf, now to appear in the pre fence of God for us*

4. A Mediator muft be meef^ and long-faffering for the Unions-fake, to bear with both the parties, although they fhould finite him, and be angry with him : Chrift is fuch a Mediator, Matth. 21. 5, Tell the daughter of Zion y behold r thy king cometh nntQ thee, meek^ and fitting upon an afs, and

a colt,

a colt y the foal of an afs. And 11.29, I am meek^ and lowly in heart. Mofes in his Mediation was a type of him, Numb. 12. 3, New the man Mofes was very mee\^ above all the men that were upon the face of the earth. O io meek a Mediator as Chrift is! 1. He endured his Fathers anger and wrath for our fake, and was fmitten by him, J fa. 5 3. 10, Tet it pie a fed the Lord to bruife him, he hath put him to grief : Rom. 8. 32, He that fpared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all. 2. He endured our anger alfo; he was imitten by the other party, by his own, for whole lake he was content to be fmitten of his Father, Mat. ' 21.38, But when the husbandmen faw the Son , they Jaid a-mong themfelves, This is the heir, let us kill him, and let us feiz*e on his Inheritance. I fa. 53. 3, He is dejpifed and replied of men : a man of for rows and acquainted with grief, and we hid as it were our faces from him •, he was defpifed, and we efleemed him not : And when he was imitten by both parties at once, and endured the wrath and difplealure of both at the fame time, yet he carried as a meek Mediator, who did bear all for.the Unions-fake, that he might make peace, J fa. 5?. 7, He was oppreffed , and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth : he is brought as a lamb to the f aught er, and as a Jheep before her fliearers is dumb , fo he opened not his mouth: with 1 Pet 2.23, Who, when he was reviledj reviled not again *, when he fuffered, he threatnednot, but committed himJelf to him that judgeth righteoufly. He went through all the bufinefs with little clamour, noife or complaint, Matth. 12.17, 18, 19.

5. A Mediator muft be merciful and tender-hearted, one that hath bewels to pity the unreconciled flate of the offender: Chrift is eminently iuch a Peribn. 1. One who hath conjoyned in his perfon the heart of God, and the heart of a man: the infinite mercy of God, and the kindly companion of an experienced man *, who in his Humane nature hath felt our afflictions and temptations, Heb. 2. 17, 18, Wherefore in $11 things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful High-Trie ft in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the fins of the people : For in that he himfelf hath fuffered, be* ing tempted-) he is able to fuccour them that are tempted. And

H h 2 5.2,

Of the Requires Chap. XV,

5. 1, Who can have companion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way : for that he himfelf alfo is compaf fed with infirmity. 2. A Perfon, who in all his dealings hath fhewed himfelf merciful, and hath evidenced his companionate difpofition: one that hath fhewed mercy to all that ever came to God through him , and upon all occafi-ons that ever were given him, to (hew himfelf fuch. John

6. 37, All that the Father giveth me flail come to me: and him that cometh to me, J will in no wife cafi out. Matth. ' 15. 22, And hehold a woman of Canaan came out of the

fame coafis, and cryed unto him , faying , Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David: my daughter is grievoufly . vexed with a Devil. And 9. 27, And when Jefus departed thencej two blind men followed him, crying and faying, 'thou Son of David have mercy on us. Gne who fhewed mercy, not only upon the matter, but even in the way and manner of his dealings with his people : Matth. 12. 20, A bruifed reed fhall he not breaks, and fmoaking flax flail he ■not quench , till he fend forth judgment into viclory. \ And p. v 17, Neither do men put new Wine intd old bottles, elfe the bottles breaks, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles. perifl, but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preferved. One who carryeth compaflionately unto, and is pitiful even of the wilful refufers of his mercy , uLuke 19.. 41, And when he was come near, he beheld the City, and wept over it, &c. One who was not only pitiful in the days, of his flefh, but hath carryed alfo the fame heart and bowels of a merciful and companionate Mediator unto heaven with him, Heb.z. 18, For in that he himfelf hath Juffer-cd being tempted, he is able to fuccour them that are tempted. And 4. 15, For we have not an High-priefl which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities: but was in all points tempted like, as we are , yet without fin. 1 John 2. i, And if any man fin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jefus Chrifl the righteous.

,6. A Mediator mud be Totem, and able to compafs his undertaking: Chriftis fuch a Mediator, Pfal.%9, 19, I have late help upon one that is mighty. If a. 9. 6, Mis -name flail be

tailed the mighty God. He is a potent Mediator, I. In

?ec1 cf the power that is in his hands; Coniiderhis ability

Uty to compafi the work committed unto him, in refpeft of his effential power and kingdom, and in refpeft of his di-fpenfatory power and kingdom, I fa. o.6, 7, He is able to fave to the Htmoft, perfectly. Heb. 7. 25, He is mighty to fave, lfa.6 3. 1. He is able to fave from fin, and all that is in it, whether guilt, power, or defilement: and from wrath, and all that may follow upon it: he is able to fupply all our wants, and to do for us .exceeding abundantly above ail that rve cau askjr thinks Phil.4.19. Eph. 3.20. And con-fider his ability to perform whatibever he hath undertaken, and. that as well for God to man, as for man to God. He is- . able to do what ever he hath engaged to us on Gods behalf^ to finijh the work^ that he gave him to do, John 17. 4,C^c and for this caule he is a King by Covenant, and hath all power in heaven and earth given ~to him, Mat. 28. 18. Heb. 10. 12, But this man after he had offered one [a-crifice for fins, for evi'r fate down on the right hand of God. Chap. 8.-Z/. 1, Now of the things which we have fpoken, this is the fam, We have fuch an Htgh-prieft who is fet 6n the right hand, of the throne of the Ma]efty in the heaven. Eph. 1. 20. 2 1, 22, And fet him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this worlds but alfo in that which is to come. And hath put all things under his feet, and given him to be head over all things to the Church. 2. He is a potent Mediator in refpeft of the trufl: and delegation of power given to him, for fetling and removing the difference hetwixt the parties: the arbitration being rendred up to him to determine and lay his hands on both, Joh. 5.22, For the Father judgeth no man^but hath committed all judgment to the Son. This is a great power that is put in Chrifts hands, that he (hall order the fatisfaclion that fnall be given, io as to bring about the giving of itupon the one part,and the acceptation of it upon the other part, Joh. 10.17,18, Therefore doth my Father love.me, becaufe I lay down my life, that J might take it again.~-—L have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. Chap. 17.1/. 2, As thou haft given him power over, all fief), that he Jhould give eternal life to as many as thou haft given him. 3. In reipect of the powerful intereft he hath with both the parties, i,,With God his Father

with

with whom he is very gracious, and hath power with him to procure his acceptance of Such Satisfa&ion as he offer-eth, Mat. 3. ,17, This is my beloved Son in whom I am weE pleafed. And to obtain from him whatsoever he defireth for the believer of the other party, Joh. n.42, AndTVnew that thou hearefi me always. Chap. 17.^. 24, Father, J will that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where J am. 2. He hath a powerful intereft with man, to make him offer the fatisfaftion which his Father is content to accept. To make him fab jell his confent to the Gofpel, 2 Cor. 9. 1 $. Joh. 12. i2, And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. And to make him walk in that way which may pleafe his Father, £^^36.27, I will put my fpirit in you, and caufe you to walk^ in my ftatutes. A potent Mediator, that hatha great ftroak of power with both the parties, to reconcile God to man, by his accepting the Sacrifice of Chrifts death', and to reconcile man to God, by his humbling himfelf to offer Satisfaction to God in Chrift. 1

7. A Mediator muft be faithful and true to the intereft of both parties in his Mediation, Seeking and ftudying their good: Chrift is eminently iiich, Heb.l.xq. &v. t. 4. and 3. 14. and 19. 11.

Confider how he is faithful to both the parties, and how he is faithful to the bufineSs of reconciliation, which is the end of a Mediator.

1. He is faithful to the parties. And, 1. To God, he is faithful to him that appointed him, Heb. $. 2. True to his fathers intereft, in Seeking his honour, executing his wiH, Satisfying his juftice, Joh. 6. 38, For J came down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him that fent me. Chap. 8. v. 49, / honour my Father , and ye dishonour me.

2. He is faithful to man, and true to his intereft in dealing effectually with his Father on our behalf, in all things wherein we have dealing with God, Heb. 2. 17, That he might be a merciful and faithful High-prieft in things pertaining imto God, to make reconciliation for the fins of the people. 1 John 2. 1, We have an advocate with the Father Jefus Chrift the righteous > and he is the propitiation for our fins. 2. He

2. He is faithful to the bufinefs, which is the end of his Office } to wit, reconciliation, and making friendfhip betwixt the parties: this being entrufted to him, he makes it his work, and minds it exceedingly, LuJ^ 2.49, Wifi ye not that I muft be about my Fathers bufinefs ? Joh. 4. 34> My meat is to do the will of him that fent me, and to fimjh his work^. And this appeareth, 1. In his faithful agenting the bufi-nefs of our peace in Heaven, whither he is gone for the making and maintaining peace between God and his people, there to appear in the pre fence of God for us, Heb- 9. 24. Joh. 17. throughout. Rev.8. $, And another angel came and flood at the altar, having a golden cenfor , and there was given to him much incenfe, that he jhould offer it with the prayers of all faints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. 2. In his faithful reporting back again to his people what may be expected by them at his Fathers hands: he is the mejfqger of the Covenant, and the true and faithful witnefs, Mai. 3. 1. Rev. 1. 5. Joh. 14. 2, In my Fathers houfe are many manfions, if it were not fo I would have toldyeu. I go to prepare a place for you. Eph.2 17, And came and preached peace to them which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. Joh. 1.18, No man hath feen God at any time : the only begotten Son which is in the bofome of the Father, he hath declared him. 3. In his effectual procuring his peoples peace with his Father : he never giveth over dealing in the bufinefs, until it be done and ended, and the treaty be clofed and figned; until he have finijhed the work. Joh. 17.4,24. and have faid unto his people, Peace I give unto you, Joh. 14. 27. Eph. 2. 14, 15, 16, For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us : Having abolished in his flejli the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances, for to make in himjeif, of twain, one new man, fo making peace. And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the crofs, having flain the enmity thereby.

8, A Mediator muft be a Wooer of both the parties, to bring them in friendfhip together: The Mediator of the new Covenant did this eminently,, he wooed God for us,, and wooed us for God, which none of the parties had ac-cefc to do immediately, without his interpofing betwixt them*,

and,

and this he doth feveral ways: 1. By praifing and commending both the parties, andipeaking good of each of them to the other, as it were behind their backs: he commendeth God to us, Jeh.6. $9, And this is the Fathers mil which hath fent me, that of all which he hath given me I fljouldlofc nothing, but jlwidd raife it up at the lafi day. Chap. 14.1/. 2, In my Fathers houfe are many man/ions, if it were net fo I would have told it yon: J go to prepare a place for yon. Chap. 1 6.v . 17, For the Father himfelf loveth you. And he commendeth us to God, Joh. 17.8, 25, For I have given unto them the words which thou gavefl me, and they have received them y and have known furely that I came out from thee, and

they have believed that thou dtdft fend me. 0 righteous

Father, the world hath not known thee : but 1have known thee, and thefe have k^iown that thou haft fent me. 2. By praying and requefting both the parties to be at peace: he en-treateth his Father to be at peace^rith us, Joh. 17.9, / pray for them : / pray not for the worla, but for them that thou haft given me, for they are thine. And he entreats and re-quefts us to be reconciled with his Father, zCor. 5. 20, Now then we are ambaffadors for Chrift, as though God did befeech you by us, we pray you in Chrifts ftead be ye reconciled to God. 3. By engaging and becoming Surety to both parties, for ail that he fpeaketh in the name of any of the parties unto the other, Heb. 7. 22, By fo much was Jefus made furety of a better Teftament. He maketh faith, and undertaketh that we fhall find God as good as the commendation which he puts upon him j and he maketh faith to God-ward, that he (hall make us anfwer his promifes in our name •, and what we do not, he {hall do for us.

9. A Mediator muft be of a Couragious and unfubdued fpirtt, to go through difficulties, difcouragement, and oppo-fition, without being layed by m his work : elfe in dealing for reconciliation betwixt parties that are at a great diftance, he fhould be foon difcouraged: Chrift is eminently iuch a peribn v he goeth on in the work of redemption and reconciliation, laving his people, and fubduing his enemies ', and though there be many enemies to this peace, and many dii 1 couragements be caft in his way from fome of the parties themfelves j yet doth he go on in his work with a heroick

and

and undaunted fpirit, he can neither, be bowed, nor broken, nor laid by. Pial. 4 2 -4, He flail not fail, nor be difcouraged, till he have fet judgment in the earth : and the JJles flail wait for his law.

1. He was not broken nor difcouraged by the weight of the work which he had undertaken, his duty broke him not, but he went on in it till he had ended his work. Joh. 17.4* I have fnifled the wor^ which thou gave ft me to do. We read indeed that he wept fometimes, Luke 19. 41. Heb. 5.7. but he was not difcouraged then, but went on to do his work; the courage of faith of his victory was not fhaken nor crufh-ed. 2. His enemies, and all the oppofition they could make to 4iim, did not break him, nor lay him by, he would go up to Jerufalem, where they fought to kill him, L/^9.51, And it came to pafs, when the time was come that he flould be received up, he ftedfaftly fet his face to go to Jerufalem. And 1 $. $2, -dn& he faid unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold I caft out Devils , and I do cures to day, and to morrow, and the third day I flail be perfected. He would walk on his twelve hours, he knew not what unbelieving fear was. I. His fufferings did not break him, nor lay him by from his work *, when he fweat blood, and when he fuffered on the Crofs, even then he fet about his duty, and intermitted it not, but minded finners more than nim'felf; often in prayer, caring for his Mother, preaching to the thief, &c. Mat. 26. Mark, 14. Lu\g n chapters. 4. His cold and bad entertainment which he got from his people when ht was about his work, did not break him, nor lay him by, John 1. 10, 11, He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew h'vn not. He came unto his own,and his own received him not. And the many feoffs, and the flighting carriage of his people, and the grieving his fpirit, and breaking his heart every day yet, doth not difcourage him, nor lay him by from his work, and from endeavours for their reconciliation with God, Rom. 10. laft, But unto Jfrael he faith, All day long I have ftretched forth my hands unto a difobedient and gain faying people. Luke 19.41,42, And when he was come near, he beheld the City, and wept over it, faying. If thou haft known, even thou, at leaft in this thy day, t he things which belong unto thy peace, but now they are hid

1 i from

Of the Requires Chap. XV.

from thine eyes. j. The difpleafure and wrath of both the parties, which he knew he behoved to go through, brake him not, laid him not by, but he ventured to take on the difpleafure of both, that he might agree them, and take away the difference, Zech. 1 $. 7, Awake-, O fword, againfi my jhepherd, and againfl the man that is my fellow, faith the Lord of Hofts. Smite the fhepherd, and the Jheep fball be feat~ teredo and I mil turn my hand upon the little ones, Luke 19, 14, But his Citizens hated him. Mat. 21. $8, This is the heir, come let m kill him, and let hs feize on his inheritance. 6.The fair offers of the world, and fmiles of temptation from it, laid him not by, nor took him off the work which he came to do, Joh. 6.15, When Jefits therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, and make him a King, he departed again into a mountain himfelf alone. Mat. 4. 8, 9, Again . the Devil taketh him up unto an exceeding high Mountain, and fhewetb him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them, and faith unto him, All thefe things will I give thee if thou wilt fall down and worjhip me.

Befides all thefe Requifites in a Mediator which fhine forth fo eminently in Jeius the Mediator of the New Covenant, there are alfo fome other Properties in our Mediator, qualifying him for that Office, which are peculiar to his Mediation, and are not to be found in any other Mediator among men*, namely, 1. His Onenefs and SaftflSasfe*. with both the parties betwixt whom he mediates. There have been mediators among men who have had fome inter-eifc and relations to both parties, but never any like to this one and only Mediator of the New Covenant, who is perfectly one with both the parties which ftand at fo great diftance, Phil. 2.6, Who being in the form of God y thought it not robbery to be equal with God. Heb. 2. 17, Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren. And therefore he ls.fo much engaged to make them one in him , he is nearly concerned in the union of thefe two par-tics : 1. In point of Intereft, he gaineth by it, his Fathers .honour is gain to him, and lb is our happinefs alfo, John 16. 14, 15, He fjallglorifie mc, for he fnall receive of mine, and fhall jhew it unto you. All things that the Father hath, are mine, therefore faid J, that he fhall take of mine, and fhall

few

Chap. XV. in a Mediator. ^^

jhew it unto you, Ifa. 59. 10*, Therefore his armbrmghtfal-vation unto him. 2. In point of Faithfulnefs, he hath undertaken it, and will do it, for he is faithful and true, Rev. 1. 5. and 3.14. and 19.11. 3. In point of Honour *, 7 tisa Crown to him to make the agreement betwixt God and man, 70^.17. 4, 5, / have glorified thee on the earth: I have finifhed the work^ which thou gavefi me to do: And now, O Father, glorife thou me with thine own felf, with the glory which I had with thte before the world was. Ifa. 53. 12, Therefore Will I divide him a portion with the great, and he ft all divide the fpoil with the ftreng, becanfe he hath poured out his foul unto death, and he was numbred with the tranfgreffors , and he bare the fin of many s and made intercefficn for the tranfgreffors. Pfal. 110. laft, He ft all drink^of the brook in the way, therefore ft all he lift up the head. 4. In point of Satisfaction *, it's comfort to him to fee this union, Ha. 53. if, He ft all fee of the travel of his foul, and fhall be fatisfied.

2. Chrift is a Mediator, who never declined to mediate in the bufinefs of all tbofe~who have any dealing with the King and Court where he lies, being a potent, accefTible Mediator to all who will employ him," Heb. 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the utfermoft that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth to make iutercefsion for them. Joh. 6. 37, All that the Father giveth me, Jkall come unto me: and him that cometh unto me, I will in no wife cafl out.

3. A Mediator who is always at hand, never abfent from the Court, never mifling when finners have any bufinefs with God. He is a conftant Agent, who lieth always in heaven to make the Addrefs of his people to his Father, Rev.$.z y And another angel came and flood at the altar, having a golden cenfor^ and there was given unto him much incenfe, that he ftould offer it with the prayers of all faints, upon the golden altar which was before the throne. Heb. 9.24, For Chrift is not entredin* to the holy^ places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven it felf, now to appear in the pre fence of God for us. But Mediators among men are oft-times far to feek, and ill to find, iSam. 14. 29, as Joab was when^-folom would have fent him to the King * 7 who when he was fent for the firft and fecond time, would not come to him.

4. A perpetual Mediator, who neither dieth, nor layeth down his Office. Mofes, who was a typical mediator, and Jofeph who dealt with Pharoah for Ifrael, died , and then it went hard with lfrael: But Jefus the Mediator of the New Covenant, continueth for ever, Heb. 7. 2 f, 24, ^4/7^ r^fy rr«/y IW* many priefts, becaufe they were not fujfered to continue by reafon of death* But this man, becaufe he continueth ever, hath *n unchangeable Priefthood.

Let us fhortly hint fome Ufes of thefe things : And 1. of the Qualifications fitting Chrift for this Employment.

Vfe 1. If Jefus the Mediator of the New Covenant, be a jjerfon interefted in both parties, Then there can be no ground to fuipecl: him of partiality, but to look upon all that he propounded in the Goipel in order to the reconciliation of God with finners, as coming from one who is nearly inter-efted,and well affected to both parties: it is our fin that we look upon Chrift, and the things propounded by him in the, - Gofpel, as if he were for God only, and not for us alio ,Joh. 17. 19, And for their fakes I fanftifie my felf , that they alfo might be fantlified through the truth.

Vfe 2. If the Mediator be fo truily a Perfon, Then let us entruft to him the managing of our everlafting interefts: know him to be fuch, that you may without fear and jea-Ioufie confidently commit to him what ever you have to do with God, 2 Tim. 1. 12, For I know whom 1 have believed, and I am per/waded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him, again]} that day.

9 Vfe 1 . If the Mediator be marvelloufly affected towards the union of God and finners, for the good of both parties: Then bear with his way of promoting your happinefs, fo as he may honour his Father : for he mufl have both in his eye, and therefore will make your peace, and will make you happy, by humbling you, and making you feek his peace, and by making you holy, &c Eph. 1.4, 5,6, According as he hath-chofen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we fhould be holy and without blame before him in love. Having vredefinated us unto the adoption of children by Jefus Chrift, to him felf according to the good pleajure of his will, to the praife of the glory of his grace , ( wherein he hath made us accepted.in the beloved. And Z,\o, For we are his workman-

(hip,

(kip, created in Chrift Jefus unto good work* , which God hath before ordained, that we jhould wa\ in them. And think not that any way that Jcfus Chrift will have his Father honoured in you, is contrary to your happinefs.

Vfe 4. If Chrift have power with both the parties betwixt whom he is a Mediator, then you muft needs let him difpofe of you, and command you wherein he will, for making your peace with his Father *, and whatever power you yeiid to him, over you, with your own confent, believe it, he will improve it for your advantage 5 and he hath credit with his Father to effectuate the buiineis for his part alio, Joh. 11.42, j4nd I know that thou hear eft me always.

2. From the fpecial requifites and graces which fhine forth eminently in Chrifts managing the work of Mediation.

Vfe i. If Chrift be a condefcending Mediator, who hath Hooped low to compals an union betwixt you and God: Then it is your duty to ftretch and raife your felf to meet him: Come and meet, him : Will you let all the condefcen-dance be on his fide, and will you not yeild and bow to him in anything? Nay, be it far from you. 2Chron.30.8, Now be ye not ftif~necked 7 as your fathers were, but yeild your felves unto the Lord.

Vfe 2. If he be a mollifying Mediator, who hath brought down God from high demands of Law: Then 1. Confider with what eafe your conditions with God is now granted: Confider the terms upon which Chrift hath brought you an offer of God. 2, Be you brought off the terms of diftance whereupon you ftand proudly with him. And $. If Chrift Have broken you off from your proud terms wherein you flood with God, then you may judg thereby and conclude, that he hath mollified himfelf alio.

Vfe 3. If Chrift be lb affable, Then put away your prejudices at him, and your mifliapen thoughts of him, as if he were auftere to his people r . and be encouraged to come to him with every thing relating to your peace with God:, you (hall find courteous and kind entertainment, and (hall experience that the Mediator is good to fpeak to.

Vfe 4. If the Mediator be fo meek and gentle, Then be lievers may expert that he will bear with their infirmities, wherein they do not allow themfelves, yea, cannot bear with

them-

themfelves, Pfal. 103. y, 1 3^ 14, #ie will not always chide, neither will he keep his anger for ever. Uke as a father pitieth his children, fo the L$rd pitieth them that fear him: for he knoweth our frame , he remembreth that we are duft: yet fo, as you would not tempt Chrift, 1 Cor. 10. 9, nor abufe his meeknefs and gentlenefs: for there is fuch a thing in Chrift as Gofpel-feverity : the Lamb of God is a Lion when he is ftir-red up to be angry, Heb. 2. 2, 3, For if the word fpoken by angels was fteadfafi, and every tranfgreffion and difobedience received a ]uft recommence of reward: How Jhall we efcape if we negleFt fo great falvation, which at the firfv began to be fpoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him. And 10. 26, For if we fin wilfully after that we have received the knowledg of the truth, there remaineth no more fa~ crifice for fins.

Vfe 5. If the Mediator be fo eminently merciful, Then, 1. it your condition be fo miferable, and the evils of your tftate fuch that can plead pity, put no doubt but they fhall find pity with him, even when you can fcarce fpeak for pity to them, but only lay them before him, fet them in his eye, Luke 19. 4, And he ran before, and climbed up into a fycamore-trte to fee him, for he was to pafs that way. 2.Fear not to meet with rough dealing, repulfes, untendernefs, harfh anfwers, Ifa. 40. 11, He fliall feed his fiock^like a Jhepherd, he pall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bo-fome, and pall gently lead them that are with young. Believers, beware that ye do not upon the matter, deny your Mediators merciful difpofition *, fay not by your carriage, that lie is a hard man, Mat 25. 24.

Vfe 6. Is he a Potent Mediator, Then, 1. let finners only deal to get Chrift engaged for their peace, and the bufi-nefs is done, he fhall bring it about, Ifa. 38. 14, O Lord, I am opprejfed, undertake for me. And 53. 10, And the plea-fur e of the Lord fhall profper in his hand. 2. Believers, know whom you have believed, how potent he is to do what is entrufted to him, Pfal. 89. 19, I have laid help upon one that is mighty ; that you may be comforted, and your faith ftrengthened. Rom. 4. 20, 21, He fiaggered not at the pro-mife of <3od through unbelief, but was ftrong in faith, giving glory to God. And being fully perfwaded that what hehadpro-mifed he was able alfoto perform. Vfe 7.

Vfe 7. If he be a faithful Mediator, Then 1. be perfvvaded to give him more truft in the employment you put upon. him: in all your bufmefs leave your care upon this trufty perfon : 1 Thef 5.24, Faithful is he that calleth you, who alfo will do it. Pfal. 1 7. 5, Commit thy way unto the Lord: truft alfo in him, and he Jhall bring it to pafs. 2. Then it muft be a great fin and provocation in any who have employed Chrift, to be jealous of him, and to diflrufb his undertakings*, fure fuch do not know him well whom they have believed, 2 Tim. 1. 12. ^.Believers who have fled to him for refuge, and rolled over your temporal and everlafting interefts upon him, you may quiet your minds, and lye down fecurely without fear of the mifcarryingof any thing that is good for you, Phil. 4.6,7, Be careful for nothing, but in every thing with prayer andfapplication, with thanksgiving, let your requefts be made known to God. And the peace of God which paffeth all under ftanding, jhall keep your hearts and minds through Chrift Jcfus.Vidl. 3.5,6,/ laid me down and ftept, I awaked, for the Lord fuftained me. J will not be afraid of ten thoufands of people that have fet themfelves again ft- me round about.

Vfe 8. If our Mediator be the Wooer and Sutor of both \ the parties unto the peace : Then, 1. be you willingly wooed by him: be not nice and wild when he is courting your hearts to wed with him, and to make peace with God, 2 Chron. 30. 8, Now be not ye ftiff-necked as your fathers were, but yeild your felves unto the Lord , and enter into his fantluary. When he prays you, and befeeches you to be reconciled to God, be not hard to be entreated, 2 Cor. 5.19,10* 2, Fear not, if your hearts have become toward to his Proportions, if you be content to be wooed by him, doubt not but he will, get his Father's confent to whatfoever he propounds to you •, yea, he had his mind and good-will to what-loever he propoundeth to you, before he fpoke with you,. Joh. 6. 57, 38, All that the Father giveth me, Jhall come to me:

and him that cometh to me, I will in no wife cast out And

this is the Fathers will which hath fent me , that of all which he hath given me 1 Jhouldlofe nothing, but Jhould raife it up ■ 4t the laft day. And 17. 16, / have manifested thy name un* to the men which thou gave si: me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gave ft-them-me r and they have kept thy word*

z ±8 Of the Requlfite* Chap. XV.

j. No thanks to us that ever God and we were in good terms *, but all thanks to the Mediator, the Wooer of both parties, the Peace-maker, who came and preachedpeace, and made peace, 2 Cor. 5. 20. Eph. 2. 14, 15,17.

Vfe 9. If our Mediator be of fo heroick and fo unfub-dued a fpirit: Then, 1. Let all his enemies be afraid, and pack them out of his way, and (land not in the way to hinder the work which he hath undertaken for his people: he is of an unfubdued fpirit, and cannot be laid by*, pack you, or he will ride over you, Pfal. 110. 1, $, The Lord faid unto my .Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy foot-ftooL The Lord at thy right hand ft all ftrike through Kings in the day of his wrath. Rev. 6. 2, And IJaw and beheld a white horfe, and he that fate on him had a bow: and a crown was given unto him, and he went forth conquering and to conquer. Pfal. 45. 5, 4, 5, Gird thy fword upon thy thigh, O mo ft Mighty, with thy glory and thy may By, and in thy majesly ride profpcroufly > becaufe of truth, and meeknefs, and righteoufnefs: and thy right hand jhall teach thee terrible things. Thine arrows are fiarp in the heart of the Kings enemies, whereby the people fall under thee. 2. Believers, comfort your felves in Chrifts Heroick fpirit; he cannot be laid by, nor turned from his purpofe, neither by the oppofition made by the enemies of your happinefs, nor by the difcou-ragements received from your felves, 1 70/7.4.4,60:.//"*. 42.4, He jhall not fail nor be difcouraged. See an eminent example of this in his dealing with the woman of Samaria, ]oh. 4. 10, Sic.

3. Let us make fome ufe of the whole Properties and Qualifications of our Mediator, taking in alfo thofe which are peculiar to him: Hence a threefold Exhortation.

Fir ft, Be exhorted to know what a Mediator Chrift is: A Mediator, and fuch a Mediator, the Apoftle Paul hath many hints in his Epiftle to the Hebrews ( which is written to fet forth Chrift in his Offices) whereby he layeth a deal of weight upon the qualities of our Mediator, being fuch a perfon, fuch a High-priest, &c. as the like was never heard of, ch. 1. 4. and $. 1. and 4. 14,15. and 5. 11. and 7. 16, 24,26. and 8. 1,2. and 9. 11,24* The ignorance of this,or not confidering thefe things, is the caufe why Chrifts Media-

torfhip

torfhip is To little comfortable to Believers: fludy to know this better, that you may be comforted by it, that you have fuch a Mediator, on* whofe office, interefts, relations, engagements to you , and qualities before enumerated, may affure you that you have a Friend in Heaven, one to whom you may come for pity and help in all your miferies and ' diftrcfTes.

2. Be exhorted to more boldneft in coming to the Throne of Grace ; Believers, you difhonour your Mediator, who having fo great a Favourite at the Court of Heaven, fhould not with greater confidence come to God *, yet this boldnefs ought to be humble and awful, keeping in fight your own unworthinefs, and the awe of Gods Majefty ; but be confident of the prevalencyof Chrifts Mediation, Heb.4.. 14,15, 16, Seeing then that we have a great High-Triefl that is paf-

fed into the Heavens, Jefus the Son of God, let us hold fafl oar profeffion, for we have not an High-Trieft which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without Sin: let us therefore come boldly unto the Throne of Grace, that we may obtain Mercy, and find Grace to help in time of need. And, 10. 19, 20, Having therefore, Brethren, boldnefs to enter into the Holieft by the Blood of Jefus, by a new and living way which he hath con-fecrated through the vale, that is to fay, his fie fly, Gr. yaret vappntitts with open month. Lay not weight upon your liberty, but let the confidence you have in your Mediator, give you boldnefs, which would beget and draw forth liberty in Prayer for your felves and for others, 1 Tim. 2. 1, 5, / exhort therefore, that firfi of all fapplications, prayers, intercef-fwns, and giving of thanks, be made for all men — for there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Chnfi Jefus.

3. Be exhorted, you who have the offer of fo great fal-vation, and of Chrift Mediator to be a friend to you in Heaven, to take heed that you flight it not, Heb. 2. 1, 3, Therefore we ought to give the more earneft heed to the things that we have heard, lefi at any time we jlwuld let them flip.*—How frail we efcape if we neglect fo great falvation , which at the firfi began to be fpoken by the Lord, and was confirmed nut* us by them that heard him f And 12.25, 2p, See that ye re-

fufe not him that fpeaknh : for if they efcaped not who refufed him that fpake on earthy much wore fhall not we efcape if we turn away from him that fpeaketh from Heaven: For onr God is a conjuming fire. And, 10. 26, 29, 39, For if we fin wilfully after we have received the knowledg of the truth, there rentaineth no more facrifice for fins. — Of how much forer p&-nifhment fuppofe ye fhall he be thought worthy, who hath-trodden underfoot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the Covenant, wherewith he was fanttified, an unholy things and hath done defpight unto the Spirit of Grace? — But we are not of them who draw back^ unto perdition, but of them that believe, to the faving of the Soul. There is no fin nor judgment comparable to fins againft the Mediator, and judgment that follow thele fins, Joh. 15. 22, If I had not come and fpoken to them, they had not had fin: but now they have no cloaks for their fin. Matth. 11. 21. Wo unto thee Cerazjn, wo unto thee Bethfitida: for if the- mighty works which were done in yon, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in fackcloath and ajhes.

CHAP- XVI.

Of Chrifis execution of the Office of Mediae torjhip.

IT remaineth now that Ibmething be fpoken of Chrifls ex-cucion of the Office of Mediatorfhip^ into which he was called, and for which he was fitted and furnifhed: before I fp:ak particularly how he carrieth on the work committed to him as Mediator *, I ihall fir ft lay down fome general conclufions relating to his execution of the Office of Mediatorfhip : Namely, 1. That Chrift executeth this Office of Mediatorfhip according to both natures. 2. That he executed this Office from the beginning of the World,before he came in the rlefh. 3.,That he executeth this Office, as well in the (late of his exakation^s in theftate of his humiliation. And

Chap. XVI. Office of Mediatorjhip. $51

And 1. Of that Queftion, According to which Nature Chrift See Mr. Ball is Mediator ? Whether according to his Divine Nature treat - °f the as God, or according to his human Nature only as Man, or ^s^AUMr* according to both as God-man} Brinftcy of

Moft part of the Popifh Writers hold that Chrift per- drifts MedUt. formeth the Office of Mediatorfliip, not according to his P- 203. Divine Nature, but according to his Human Nature, only as Aqnin. ^. part.

Man. ; Vk'*. '

Orthodox Divines, hold that Chrift is Mediator accor-Bellarm. de ding to both Natures, and doth not execute that Office cW/?. Medfat, only as God, nor only as Man, but as €Wi'0p»<»©- God-llb * *• ca P- ?"•

man ZlC *- lt ' tam >

Eonavent & For clearing whereof, I fhall premife a few things. 1. T\\t Mag ift r . fenu

Queftion is not, whether there be in the Mediator the con- Auguft. de

currence of both natures in the unity of his Perfon? forOvibMhom.12.

that is confefied by all. But whether both Natures concur w^ ier di

in the Works of Mediation,or in the execution of that Office. %£'*£ Cap ' 7 '

2. Nor is the Queftion,Whether the two Natures in Chrift be j U h. contr. 1.2:

diftinft in their effence and properties, and fo in their ope-c$. not. 2$.&

rations, for we yeild that the Human Nature doth ? araL *• 3- ™-

that which pertaineth to the Humanity, and the Divine c '^ r *

Nature that which pertaineth to the Divinity: yet fo, as

the Natures being united in one Peribn , fo the operations

concur to make up one Work of a Mediator, the Human

and Divine Natures concurring to produce one acl or work

of Mediatorfhip. $. Nor is the Queftion, Whether all the

Works of Chrift the Mediator, were the Works of both

Natures : For it is certain, fome of them were the Works

of his Humanity, fome of his Divinity, in refpeel: of the thing

done: but, Whether there were not a concurrence of both

Natures acting jointly, although diftin&ly in the performing of

them ?

2. That Both Natures concur in Chrifts performing the Office of Mediatorfhip, and what he doth as Mediator he doth as God-man , may be confirmed by thefe reafons.

1. According to what Nature Chrift is the King, Prieft, and Prophet of his Church, accordingly he is Mediator, for he carried thefe Offices as he was Mediator: but according to both Natures, Chrift is King, Prieft, and Prophet of his Church; for according to the approved rule, Names of

Office which are gives to Chrift, they agree to him according to both Natures: therefore Chrift executes the Office of Me-diatorfhip as God-man, according to both Natures.

2. If the Godhead of Chrift concurred with the Manhood in all the acts of Mediatorffiip: then Chrift performeth not the Office of Mediator as Man only, but as God-man*, but we find the Godhead interefted in every aft which Chrift did, or doth as Mediator: It is evident from the ieveral acts of each of his Offices, from his Obedience, Suffering, Resurrection, Interceffion, Heb 9. 14, How much more frail the Blood of Chrift, who through the eternal Spirit offered up himfelf without fpot to God, purge your Conscience from dead works , ts ferve the living God. And 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermoft that- come unto God by him , feeing he ever livethto make interceffion for them. Eph. I. ip, 20, According to the working of his power , which he wrought in Chrift, when he raifed him from the dead, and fe-t him at his own right hand in the heavenly places. None of which could be performed by his Human Nature alone, without concurrence of his Godhead. True it is indeed , we may conceive fome Acts wherein the Humanity of Chrift did not concur with his Divinity, viz.. Thofe that he wrought before his Incarnation: but none wherein his Humanity acted without his Divinity. It followeth therefore, that Chrift performeth this Office as God-man.

}.. If many chief eflential ads of Chrifts Mediation, are from the Deity of Chrift, as from the next, proper, formal, and immediate caufe, then Chrift performeth not the Office of Mediator as Man only, but as God-man : but many chief eflential acts of Chrifts Mediation are from his D:ity, as the next, proper, format, immediate caufe: Ergo,&c The Minor is proved by thefe instances: The Incarnation of Chrift is from the Deity, "which did aflume the Humanity; which when it was not, could not aflume itfelf. The manirefta-v tion of God was a work truly divine, which was from the Deity as the true caufe \ though from the Humanity as an lnftrument, Job. 1. 18, No man hath ften Cod at any time-. the only Legottten Son which is in the bojom of the Father , he hath declared him. Matth. 11. 27,. AH things ere delivered unto me of my Father, and ho wan knowetb the Son but the \ Father^

Father, neither krwweth any man the Father fave the Son, and he to whowfoever the Sen will reveal him. Cbrift as Man teacheth as an -Inftrument, an.! Chrift the Word teacheth as Mediator-, the works of Authority and Power were all performed by the Divine Nature.

4. If Chrift as Mediator performed many divine acts, which cannot be from his Humanity alone, Then Chi ill performed! not the Office of Mtdiatorfhip as Man only, but as God alio: But Chrift as Mediator performeth many Divine acts, which cannot be from his Humanity alone, fuch as his rifing from the dead, which was by the power of his Deity, Rom. I. 4, And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holinefs, by the refuretlion of Jefpu from, the dead. And 8. fy, Who is he that condemneth litis Chrift that died, yea rather that is rifen aga'nr, who is even at the right hand of God, who alfo maketh intercejfwn for us. Eph.i; 19, 20, Chrift as Mediator hath power and authority to forgive fins, and fend the holy Spirit, to enlighten the'un-derlhndings, to foften the hearts of men , and that not only meritorioufly ,but efficiently,' which are the proper works of God: Mar. 2. 10, But that ye may know that the Son of man hath fewer on earth to forgive fins. Joh. 15.26, But when the Comforter is come, whom 1 will fend unto yon from the Father, even the Spirit of truth which proceedeth from the Father, he fljali tefiify of me. And 16. 7, But if I depart, J will fend him unto you.

5. If none of the works performed by Chrift as Mediator, whether the works of Miniftry that were performed by him, in the Nature of man, or the works of Authority and Power performed by the ; Divine Nature, were performed without the .concurring of the other Nature in Chrift} Then Chrift performeth the Office of Mediator not asGod atone,nor as Man only, but according to both Natures as God-man : but the former is true , Ergo, cjrc, The Major h proved by parts. 1.. The works of Miniftry which were performed in the Nature of man, and were the works of Chrifts Humanity, fuch as were his death upon the Crofs, &c. yet the Divine Nature was concurring in thele, not only to,- fupport and fuftain the Human, but the thing done had its efficacy, dignity, and value, from ,-his Divinky, in that they were the

works

works of him that is God. It was the Son of God , the Lord of life, that died on the Crofs, but it was the Nature of Man, not of God, wherein he died *, yet it was the Divine Nature that did fupport him, and gave worth to his facrifice. 2. The works of authority and power, iuchasthc remitting of fins, giving the Spirit, raifing the dead, &c. which were the w,orks of his Divine Nature} yet were not done without an instrumental concurrence of the Nature of man.

6. If the end of the Perfonal union of the two Natures of Chrift, be the fitting and qualifying of him for the Office of Mediatorfhip ( as is before cleared ), then the two Natures do and muft neceffarily concur in the works of mediation ( at leaft after theie were united ) elfe the union of the two Natures had not been $eceiTary in Chrift *, for the fame neceffity is for the concurring of the proper works of the two Natures in the Mediators work, that is, for the union ef the two Natures in his perfon: the end of that union, being to fit him to act in this Office as a qualified perfon.

Objeft. i Tim. 2. 5, The Mediator is called, the man Chrift Jefa. Hence ibme infer that he is Mediator according to his Human Nature only.

jinfw. There is a vaft difference betwixt thefe two: the man Chrift is Mediator, and he is Mediator only as Mam the man Chrift is that perfon, not any other man, not any meer man \ that perfon who was God and Man in one perfon, and flood as a fit middle betwixt both the parties: fo that Man is not here taken natnralitcr, but perfonaliter : not naturally but perfonally * ? it being mod ufual to name the perfon of Chrift from either nature **«/r<»ia \hvyiirm , a communication of Properties: fee 1 Cor. 2.8, For had they known it , they would not have Crucified the Lord of Glory. Aft. 20. 28, The Church of God , which he hath furchajed with his own Blood. Joh. $. \^And no man hath afcended up to Heaven, but he that came down from Heaven , even the 'a Mr. Ball, Son of man which is in Heaven. But there are better rea-*d Mr. Brio- fons affigned why the Mediator is called the man Chrift , ley, *&/*? M -than to point out that nature according to which he is Mediator. See Brniftey of the Mtdiat. p. 208.

CMjrff.

Qb\e£b. F*nl here diftinguiftieth betwixt God and this OV]eB. Mediator *, And therefore Chrifl is not Mediator as God \ but as Man only. To this, Aniwe* hath been made by lew-cbam.de Med. ned men. r. That the Word of God k there not to bee, $. fect.6.7. taken effentially but perfonatly, as denoting the Father, be* twixt whom and mankind Chrift the Son is faid to be a Mediator. 1 Joh. 2.1, And if any man ftn , we have an Advocate with the father, Jefus Chrift the right com. So its taken J oh. 3. 16, For God fo loved l the World , that he gave his only begotten Son. 2 Cor. $. 19, God was in Chrift reconciling the World to himfelf 2. The naming of God in the fiift place doth not hinder that it fhould be underftood in the lecond alio: lee Joh. 14. h Y e believe inGod y believeal-fo in me.

See more to this purpofe, Jnn. Animad. in Bell, contr. lib. 5* cap. $. Ball on the Covenant, p. 270. Brinfley of the Mediator , p. ziO;.&c. And of the ill aft rat ion of the Word God man. Brinf.y. 220.

Vf.e. If Chrift be Mediator according to both Natures. Then Believers may. be comforted in the pre valency of his mediation, and in the condeicendency thereof. Your Mediator is God-man. 1. Your Mediator a&s as God,he carries his matters very ftronglyand effectually. 2. He acts as a man alfo, very tenderly andf condeicendingly, Heb. 7.25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fdve then* to the uttermoft that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth fo ma\e intcrcef-fion for themv With. 2. 17, 1%, Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he .might be a*, merciful and faith fm High- firitft- in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the fins */ the people* for in that he himfelf hath fnffered ^ being tempted, y he is able to fneeof them that are tempted. Pfaf.2. 7,3,7 will declare the decree-, the Lord hnth faidunto me. Thou art ?ny Sori y this day have J begotten thee : Asl^ of me and I fball give thee the Heathen for thine Inheritance^ and the utmeft parts of the JEarth far thy poffejfion.

' Concluf. 2. That Chrift hath executed this Office ever fmce the beginning of the World, ever fince the firft Covenant was difTolved and broken, fince enmity entered betwixt God. and. man, as well before his- being made mamfeft

in

in the flefh,as after \ as well before and under the Law, as in the dayes of the New Teftament: For although he be called Mediator of the New Covenant , or New Teftament . Heb. 12.24. which is to be underftood, 1. by way of op-pofition to the firft Covenant, whereof he was not Mediator. 2s 'k*t f£*jfc»p becauie he was then exhibited, and then he perfected the wor-k of Redemption: Yet did Chrift enter upon the execution and cxercife of this Office of Mediatorfhip ( to which he was before defigned ) from the time that fallen man was at variance with God-, the execution of this Office extends to the firft ages of the World, from the time that the promiie made to our firft parents ( while they were yet in Paradice ) took place, Gen m 3. 15, It frail bntife thy head, and thou jhalt bruife his keel. 2 Cor. 5. 19. God was in Chrift, reconciling the world M*o himfelf. Heb. 13. 8, Jefm Chrift ^ the fame yefterday, and to day and for ever. Gal. 3.17, And this Ifay y that the Covenant that was before confirmed of Chrift, the Law which was Four hundred and thirty years after, cannot difannul, that it Jljould make the fromife of none effect. Rev. 13.8. he is called the iamb flam from the foundation of the world r As in refpeel: of Gods deftination, being defigned before time, to be offered up in time:, lb alio in refpeel of the efficacy of his lacrifice and mediation, which extended to the firft ■ ages of the world. For, 1. From that time there was need of a Mediator. .2. From that time begun the. works oftheDe-vil to be deftroyed : Gen.^. 15, And 1 will put enmity between thee and the Woman^and between thy feed and her feed : it frail bruife thy head } andthoufralt bruife his heel. 1 Joh. 3.8, He that commiteth fin is of the Qevil-, for the Devil finneth from the beginning -.for this purpofe the.&on of God was manifefted, that he might deftroy the works of the Devil, 3 -From that time were feme fnmers faved, by the Median th it was to come: Therefore from thence we mud reckon the exercile of his Med.'atorfhip.

Undcrftand this with three diftinctions. 1. That before Chrifts Incarnation, he was a Mediator virtually, and undiicernedly, i.e. the virtue and efficacy of that. Office, to which he was defigned, did extend £0 the firft ages of the world, (though the way of his afting in that Office before his Incarnation, tranicend our underftanding) but after

his

his Incarnation, when he had taken our nature upon him t, then he was manifeftly an at);ml Mediator. 2. Before his Incarnation he was not Compleatly fitted for all the parts of that Office,not being yet the Man Chnft,\Tim.2. 5, but after his Incarnation he was a Compleat Mediator: Heb. 10. 5, 7, Wherefore when he cometh into the wwld, he faith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldeft not, bat a body haft thou prepared me. Then faid I, Lo 1 come, (in the volume of the Book^it is written of me) to do thy will, O God. 3. Before his Incarnation, he was fecretly and invifibly a Mediator in Heaven : after his Incarnation, he did vifibly acT: that part upon Earth, and then went into the holieft to continue in the exercife of this Office, Heb. 9.24, Now to appear in the pre • fence of God for us.

ZJfe. This alfo fhould contribute to eftablifti our faith, while our Mediator is abfent from us, or rather while we are abfent from him, and he is out of our fight: If this Office was effectual for the good of believers, before he actually offered facrifice, or interceded, how much more when he hath actually done both theie? Have we any better fup-port of Faith ? if his Mediation was effectual before he was a compleat Mediator, and had not yet taken our nature upon him, {hall we not believe now the efficacy thereof, after he is the Man Chriftf If his Mediation was effectual while he had not yet come down from Heaven to acl: vifibly here on Earth*, how much more when he hath finifhed the work, and is now returned, and gotten his Fathers welcome? Believe it, he is at Court, though he be out of our fight.

Conclufion 3. That Jefus the Mediator of the' New Covenant executeth this Office, as well in the ftate of his Exaltation, as Humiliation. Heb. 7. 24, 25, But this man, be-caufe he continneth ever, hath an unchangeable Priefthood. Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the utmoft that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth to make interceffionfor them. . But with ibme obfervable difference, which is to be ieen, 1. In his exercifing the three Offices which were parts of his Mediatorfhip. And, 2. In the diftinft parts of thefe Offices.

: 1. It was mainly his Prieftly Office, which the Mediator k

LI di(-«

difcharged here on Earth, in his ftate of Humiliation *, his | entry upon his Kingly Adminiftration, being eminently re-ferved to the ftate of Exaltation: Heb. i. $, When be had by himfelf purged our fins, fate down on the right hand oj the Mayfly on high. And, 8. I, We have an High-prieft,who isfet on the right hand of the throne of the Mayfly in the Heavens. Phil. 2. 8, <>, And being found in fafhion, he humbled himfelf and became obedient unto death, even the death of the Crofs. Wherefore Godalfo. hath highly exalted him. Mat. 28. 18, Ml power is given unto me in Heaven and in Earth. But his Prophetical Office was excercifed by him in both thefe flues, of his Humiliation, and Exaltation : Luke 24. 47, And that repentance and remijfwn of fins fliould be preached in his Name among all Nations, beginning at Jerufalem. Heb. 12. 25, See that ye refufe not him that fpeaketh 5 for if they efcaped not who refufed him that fpoke on Earth , much more Jhall we efcape, if we tarn away from him that fpeaketh from Heaven.

2. His Prkfthood, which he difchargeth in both parts thereof, as well in his Exaltation as Humiliation} Yet eminently he facrinced here, and eminently he intercedeth in Heaven, Heb. 9.1^, 26, Now to appear in the frefence of God. for iu. — Now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away fin, by the. facrifice of himfelf: His Kingdom, which was reierved for his Exaltation, underftand it by way of emnency alio, Matth. 28. 18, And Jefvu came and fpoke mto them, faying, All power is given unto me in Heaven and in Earth. Rev. 5. 6, And I beheld, and lo in the midfl of the Elderi flood a Lamb: For he was a King when he was here on Earth, and carried matters in a Princely way, although his glory was over-clouded by his leaving the Throne for a time, that he might fit down in it afterward in greater honour , PhiL 2.6,8, Wherefore God aifo kith highly exalted k'un, and given him a name which is above every name. His Prophetical Office, which was exerciild in both ftates, yet was in his Humiliation vifible, and in his own perfon, Joh. 1. 10, He wo* in the world, and the world was made by him, •and the world knew him not. Heb. I. 1,2, God,who at fun-dry times, and in divers manners fpakj in the time pifl unto the Fathers by the Prophets , hath in thefe hfi days flpok&n unto

Chap. XV7. Office of Mediatorfaip. §**

us by his Son. Luke 24. 27, And beginning at Mofes And all the Prophets, he expounded unto them in aU the Scriptures, the things that concerned hirfelf But in his Exaltation it is done by his MefTengers, or more fecretly by his Word and Spirit, JLph. 4. 11, 12, And gave fome Apofiles, and fame Prophets, and fome Evangelijls, and fome Paftors and Teachers : for the perfecting of the Saints, for theworl^of the Miniftry, for the edifying the Body ef Christ. Joh. 14. 26, But the Comforter , which is the Holy Ghoft, whom the Father mil fend in my name, he ftall teach yen all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatfoever I have fatd unto you, I Joh. 2. 27, But the anointing which yon harve received of him, abideth inycu : and ye need hot that any man teach you , but as the fame anointing teacheth you all things , and is truth , and is no lye : and even as it hath taught you , ye fhall abide in him,

Vfe. Believers, think not that Chrift is out of his Office, when he is^out of your fight: or that the height of honour unto which he is now exalted at the right hand of God, doth abate any thing from fas carefulnefs and condefcendency for finners behoof: but be you rather comforted from this; As high as the Mediator is now, upon his Throne, he yet carrieth that Office, and is made high for your advantage and confolation, Heb. 4. 14, 16, Seeing then that we have an High-priefl that is paffej. into the Heavens, Jefm the Son of God; Let us hold faft our profeffion, — Let us therefore come boldly unto the Throne of 7 Grace; that we may obtain mercy, and find grace in time of need. And 10. 2 1, 22, And having an High~priefl over the Houfe of God, let us draw near with a true heart, in full affurance of faith; having our hearts fprinkjed from an evil confeience, and our bodies wajhed with pure water. You may come as familiarly and boldly to him now, as when he was in his humbled condition, converfant among men, feeing he is about the fame work, and exer-cifing the fame Office now as then, Heb* 13. 8, J'efus Chrift, the fame yefterday, and to day, and forever.

It is a Queftion not unfitly moved: Whether the Angels ££*$-have any fhare in Chrifts Mediation ? Anfw. Two Scrip* tures feem to appropriate the benefit of Chrifts Mediation to Mankind. Yet I conceive they may admit one native

interpretation,without ftraining the word, which doth not ihut out the Angels. The firlt Scripture is fhat, iTim.z, 5, For there is one God, and one Mediator between Cod and men> the Man Chrifl Jefpu : which ieems to let forth the object of Chrifts Mediation to be men, not Angels; but confider, that there is a twofold Mediation of Chrift \ the one of Redemption or Reconciliation, the other of Prefer-vation or confirmation : Chrift is only a Mediator of Redemption betwixt God and man, for he never undertook for the fallen Angels, Matth. 25.41, Then fiiall he fay unto them on his left hand) Depart from me ye cur fed into ever lofting fire prepared for the Devil and his Angels, Jude,ver. 6, And the Angels which kjpt not their fir ft eft ate, but left their own habitation , he hath referyed in everlafting chains under darkj nefs^ unto the judgment of the great day. And of this Mediation (peaks that Text, 1 Tim. 2. 5, A Mediation which had a ranfom and propitiation in it : that Chrift diedonly for man, not for the Angels. The other Scripture is that, Heb. 2. 16, For verily he took^net on him the nature of Angels y but he tool^on him the feed of Abraham : Which will indeed prove, and fpeaketh it plainly, that when fallen men and Angels were before him, finking into their mifeiey, he took hold of the one, not of the other: And fo that none of the fallen Angels have benefit by Chrifts Mediation: It will prove that herein Chrift expreffed his love more to Men than. Angels, in that he faved fome of the fallen men, but none of the Angels} and would carry this Office not in their Nature, but in ours:. Yet I-conceive it will not prove that the elect Angels have no benefit by Chrifts Mediation. I incline therefore to think it moft probable, that the eleel: Angels are not to be excluded from the benefit of Chrifts Mediation : whether they had need of. a Mediator or not (as Calvin upon Col. 1. 2o,lubourethto prove ),'I (hall not.debate *, but thefc two things only 1 fhall.fpeak of: 1. I fhall fhew^ that the good Angels have benefit by Chrift, which is certain. 2. That, there are probable grounds to judg, that they have this benefit through, Chrifts Mediation.

1. By Chrift. the-Angels have, knowledg of the. myfte-

, ries of our.Salvation, even a glorious addition of knowledg,

by this new difcevery and bright manifeftation of God in-all

his

his Atributes that have fhined forth in Chrift, &ph. 3. 10, To the intent that now unto the Principalities and Powers in 'Heavenly places-, might he known by the Church, the manifold wifdom of God. 1 Pet. 1. 12, Which things the Angels did defire to look^into. 2. By Chrift they have an honourable * 'Office, they became principalities and Powers in governing the world •, and Miniftring Spirits, that Chrift may be honoured in the Church, Col. 1. 16, for by him were all things • created, that are in Heaven, and that are in Earth , vifible $nd inviphle: whether they be Thrones, or Dominions, or Principalities, or Powers,' all things were created by him, and for him. Heb. 1. \a?, Are they not all miniftring Spirits, fent forth to mini fter for them, who ft: all be heirs of Salvation. And therefore when Chrift (hall give up his difpenlatory Kingdom, then fhall all rule be put down, which is not only to be underftood of the being of no Magifttacy,, and no Miniftry, but even of the Angels, Principalities, and Powers. 3. By Chrift the Angels have joy at the converfion of .tinners. Luke 15. 10, Likewife I fay unto you, there k Joy in the pre feme of the Angels of God, over one fimier that re-. penteth. Matth. i3. ia, Take heed that ye defpife not one of thefe little ones : For J fay unto you, that in Heaven their Angels do alwayes behold the face of my Father which is in Heaven. Luke 2. 1 1, And fuddenly there was with the Angel a multitude of t'he Heavenly HoH, praifing God. By Chrift the Angels have a more perfect and firm union with God a kind of reconciliation, Col. 1/20, And hav'vag made peace by the blood of his Crofs, by him to reconcile all things to himfelf: by him I fay,whether they be things on Earth, or things in Heaven, Where by things in Heaven, is underftood Angels , who are faid to be reconciled to God, not properly : for where there is no breach, there can be no reconciliation; this is peculiar untb man, but improperly and annalo-'gically they may be laid to be reconciled','by confirming and eftablifhing them in the grace and favour of God,Tollendo peccata hominum- & poffibilitatem peccandi in Angelis : taking away all pofTibility of defection in them.

2. Thele benefits which the Angels certainly have by Chrift, they may be probably conceived to have them by ChriftsMediation: 1. Becaufe Chrift is ahead to the elect

Angels

Angels as well as to elect men •, and they are part of his my-ftical body, Col. 2. io, And ye are complex in him which is the head of all Principality and Power. Eph. I. io. That in the Difpenfation of the falnefs of times, he might gather together in one all things in Chrift, both which are in Heaven^ and which are on Earth , even in him : they are reckoned a part of the Catholick Church, and inhabitants of the Heavenly Jerufalem, Heb. 12. 2$, 24, Now if Chrift be head of the Church as he is Mediator, then whatfoever benefit they, as part of his Body, have from Chrift the Head, I do not fee how we can avoid to fay they muft have it through his Mediation: For how can it be conceived that one part of Chrifts Body hath benefit from Chrifts Mediation, and another part of it hath benefit by him, and yet another way thin by his mediation? 2. Becaufe whatfoever benefit the Angels have by Chrift,they were elected unto it \ 1 Tim, 5.21, / charge thee before God, and the Lord Jefus Chrift, and the elett Angels. Now Chrift being the head of the election, in whom all that are elect are elected, Eph. 1.4, According as he hath chofen us in Chrift, before the foundation of the world-. And the benefits unto which we are elected in Chrift, coming through his Mediation, to all the elect •, thefe muft come fo to the elect Angels alfo, Eph. 1. 4, 5, 10, According as he hath chofen m in Chrift, before the foundation of the world, that we Jhould be holy, and without blame before him in love: Having predeftinated us unto the Adoption of Children, by Jefus Christ. — That in the difpen-fation of the fulnefs of time, he might gather together in one all things in Chrift. 1. Becaufe whatfoever creature is not If'n'P 1 ^' 1 ' under a poflibility of finning, it hath that, not by the con-f*' *' rf 'dition of its nature, but by grace: Now the elect Angels being freed from all poflibility of finning, this they muft have by Grace, which cometh riot only from Chrift, but through his Mediation, Joh. 1.17, For the Law was given by Mofes, but Grace and Truth came by Jefus Chrisl: being fome other thing fupervenient, befide the good of their natural condition wherein they were created, which was mutable.

More particularly, The execution and work of Chrifts Mediatorfhip, may be reduced to thefe Five heads: 1. To

bring

bring the elect into a capacity of covenanting with God. 2. To bring them within the bond of the Covenant, after he-hath thus prepared the way. $. To enable them whom he bringeth into this New-Covenant-ftate, to perform the duties of the Covenant. 4. To keep thofe whom he bringeth into this Covenant ftate, from falling away from it, or to enable them to continue in it. 5. To bring thofe whom he hath brought up to the terms of a Covenant with God, to that height of that BlefTednete which is appointed for them, and to Crown his work in them.

The firft part of the Mediators work, and execution of his Office is, to prepare a way for mans covenanting with God} to make the way of God acceflible, and to put man in a capacity to enter in terms with God: For man by firt was made uncapable of covenanting with God, until the Mediator cometh in to eompofe the difference, and to reftore the love and friendfhip that once had been betwixt God and man*, who to prepare a way for mans covenanting with God, doth two things himfelf, and worketh two things in us. The firft, to make God acceffible; the other, to make men capable of covenanting with God, who is made acceffible in Chrifts death. 1. He taketh on mans nature, that a Sacrifice might be among mankind , who had finned *, he putteth his name in our Obligation , that the Law might reach him. Gal 4. 4, 5. God fent forth his Son, made of a Woman, made under the Law, to redeem them that were under the Lawj that we might receive the Adoption of Sons. 2. In our nature he obeyeth the La w, and fuffereth : he pay-eth a price for our Ranfom, 2Cor. 5.21, He is made fin for us; an offering for fin, he ftood in the finners fteadhere, he purchafeth a liberty to the ele<ffc, and hath it in his juft and legal power to fet them free when he will, Ait. 20.28, being the Church of God which he hath fur chafed with his own Blood. $. He convinceth men of their fin, and of their bondage, and impoflibility to fatisfy Juftice, and to this end he attacheth them before Divine Juftice, Job. 16.8, And when he is come , he wilt reprove the World of fin, of righteouf-nefs and of judgment. Rom. 7. 9, For I was alive without the Law once : but when the Commandment cams, fin revived , and I died. Gal. $, 24, Wherefore the Law VMS our Schoolmaster

t&

to bring ut unto Chrift^ that we might be juftified by Faith. 4. He worketh their Hearts to a yie/.ding-frame, liltning; and ready to welcom the news of delivery (which have not yet been actually ipoken to their hearts J, to be content to come out of their bondage, and to enjoy freedom by hin : to be content to come in his will, and to yield the weapons to him, and to change the (late and righteoufnefs where-: of fometimes they had no fmall content, All. y. 6, Lord, What vpilt thou have me to do ? Arife, and go into the City, and it fhall be told thee what thou muft do. They pant after a Saviour, as Paul did for compleat Redemption, .fowz.7.29, O wretched man that I am 0 Who foall deliver me from the body of thus death ? And w r hen all this is done, Sinners are but in a capacity of covenanting w 7 ith God, till more be done by Chrift in the w r ork of his Mediatorfhip for man: he is riot yet in a covenant with God •, all this is to make ready a people prepared for the Ltrd, Luke 1. 17. For though Chrift hath payed the price of the^ eels ranlbm, and hathpurcha-fed their liberty on the Crofs, yea, and hath alio convinced a man of his need of this ranfom, and made him txnvard and tractable to liften, to accept of it * 9 yet till a man come in by faith, and manifeft his acceptance, or rather actually accept of Chrifts propofals, he is not yet actually in a Covenant with God, but concluded under wrath, Job. 3. 36, And he that believeth not the Son 0 jJiall not fee life> but the wrath of God abideth on him.

The fecond part of the Mediators work and execution of his Office, is, to bring the elect within the bond of the Covenant. And for bringing about this, ' 1. Chrift makes an offer of a New-Covenant-ftate, with all fuitable allurements and encouragements which may invite the Souls of the elect to accept of it * 7 And for this end he hath appointed the Miniftry of Reconciliation, 2 Cor. 5. '19, 20, God was in Chrift reconciling the world unto himfelf , not imputing their trefpaffes unto them , and bath committed unto us the word ef reconciliation. Now then we are Ambafjadors for ChriB y as though God did befeech yon by tu , we pray yon in Chrift sfte ad be *ye reconciled to God. And 6. 17, 18, Wherefore come out from among them y and be ye feparate, faith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing , and I will receive yon , and will be a

Father

Father unto you, and ye flail be my Sons and Daughters ', faith the Lord Almighty. Ha. 55. i 3 ^ ? Ho^ every one that thirftethj come ye to the waters — 'Incline your ear , and- come unto me:. hear and your Soul flail live : and I will make an everlafiing Covenant with you, even the fure mercies of David. 2. He fhnpeth and frartieth the "hearts of his people for acceptation of his offer, and bringeththem unto a liking and fatis'iactioa with the Covenant, and the terms of if, 2 Sam. 2 5. 5, For this is all my falvation, and all my defire y although he makt it not to gr„?. Pfel. 7$.laft, But it is good for me to draw near to God-;—I have put my trufl in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works. 3. He actually maketh them to em7 brace it, and enter into it: for after he hath fliaped their hearts for acceptation, he actually engageth them by conferring and agreeing oil their part, Hof. 2. 14,19, Therefore behold^ I will allure her, and bring her unto the Wilder-nefs, and Jpea^comfortably unto her. — And I will betroth the* unto me for ever. Ezek. 20. 17> And I will bring you intb the bond of th$ Covenant. Joh.d. $7, All that the Father givcth me, flail come to me, And this he doth, 1. By making us receive and welcom the Goipel, and fubjecl: our con-lent unto it, by taking on the very bonds and rebukes of tht Word, and yielding our felves captives unto it, 2CV.9.13, Whiles by the, experiment of this minif ration they glorify God for your profejfed fubjeblion unto the Gofpel of Chrift. Arid 10. 4, For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal , hut mighty through God, to the pulling down of ftrong holds. Rom. 6. 17, But ye have obeyed from the heart that form of Dotlrine which was delivered unto you. 2. By making us receive and embrace the Promifes, Heb. 11. 13, and take hold of the Covenant, Ifa, 5^.4,6. And this is a further ftep of the Mediators work, in making the Soul clofe with God in a Covenant. 3. By making us receive Chrift himfelf in the promifes, Jeh. 1. 12, But as many as received hiht, to them gave he power to become the Sons of God, even to them that believe on his namb. For- as Faith hath for the object of it, the wholeWord of God; ib efpeeially the promifes,. and more efpecially Chrift in the promifes. 4. By making us give up our felves to beChrifts, and no more our own, Ifa.^.^One flail fay, lam the Lords : and by making usfubjett our Confent unto him,as the Wife doth to

M m the

h

a ^g 0/ Chrijts execution of the Uiap. XVI.

the Husband in a Marriage-Covenant, 2 Cor. 9. 13. And all this is the Mediators work, and the execution of his Office. For, 1. It is he that offers the Covenant, Heb. 12. 25, S$e that ye refufe not him that fpeaketh. 2. It is he that fhapeth the heart for acceptation of the offer, £5.^36.26, A new heart alfo will J give yon, and a new Spirit will I put within yon, j. It is he that engageth the heart to God by a Covenant, Jfer. 30. 2\, And I wilt caufe him to draw near , and he Jhall approach unto me j for who is this that engaged his heart to approach unto me, faith the Lord? Joh. 12. 32, And I, if I be lifted up from the Earth, will draw all men unto me^ 4. It is he that maketh us give up our felves to him , Ez.ek. $6. 27,28, And I will put my Spirit, into you , and cattfe you to walk^in my wayes. — And ye JhgH be my people, and I will be your God. The third part of the Mediators work in the execution of his Office, is to enable them whom he bring-eth into the Covenant of Grace, to perform the duty of the Covenant according to his undertaking to his Father on their behalf: and for this effect, 1. He circumcifeth their hearts, and taketh away the ftone and natural averfhefs and rebellion againft Covenant-duties, Dent. 30. 6, And the Lord thy God will circumcife thy heart, and the heart of thy feed, to tove the Lord thy God with all thy heart , and with all thy foul? that thou maift live. Ezek. 36. 26, And 1will take away the ftony heart out of your flejh, and 1 will give you an heart *f flejh. 2. He engrafFeth a new inward principle in their hearts,of compliance with,and propenfion unto their duty, Jer. 31. 33, I will f HP my Law into their inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and will be their God, and they Jhall be my people. And 32. 4?, I will put my fear in their hearts, that they Jhall not depart from me. 3. He affordeth ftrength to them, for performing the duties of the Covenant, and maketh his Grace effectual in them for that end : fee Ez,e^. 36. 37, And 1 will put tny Spirit within y'ou, and canfe you to walk, in my Statutes^ and ye jhall keep my Judgments and do them. He craveth his Rent, and filleth the hand wherewith to pay it*, Tfal. I. 1 J. Being filled with the fruits of righteoufnefs which are by Jefu* Chrift, unto the gtbry and praife of God. 2 Cor. 9. §, And God is able to make all grace abound towards yon, that ye alwayes having all-fufficiency in all

things,

things) may abound to every good work. 4. He breathes upon the graces of his people, and afteth them by daily frefh and quickening affiftances, Song. 4. \6, Awake, O North-wind , and come^O South, blow iff on my G'ar den, that the [pices thereof 7nay flow out: Yea, he worketh in us, and for us, all that which we take upon us as duty in the Covenant of Grace, I fa. 16. 12, For then alfo haft wrought all our works m ns. Phil. 2. n, For it is Gad that wcrketh in you both to v will and to do of his good plcafure.

The fourth part of the Mediators work in executing this Office, is, to keep thote whom he bringeth into the Cove-venant,frorn falling away from that blefTedeftate : If-itwere not for- the Mediators travelling in this work , the reconciliation once made could not {land : if he did not continue forever Mediator of the New Covenant, we fhould not for ever continue in that Covcnant-ftate, Heb. 7.24,25, But this man, becaufe he continue! h ever? hath an unchangeable Frieft-hood. Wherefore he is able alfo to Cave therh to the uttermoft that. come unto God by him^ feeing he ever liveth to make in-urce'ffvon far them. And for keeping believers in this Covenant, Chrift the Mediator, befide his contriving the Covenant fo, that br-eaches fhall not make it void, Ffal. 89. 30,' 3$, If his Children for fake my Law, and walk^not in my Judgments: Never thelefs my loving-kindnefs willI not utftrly take from him , nor fuffcr my ^faithfulnefs to fail. Jer. 31. $4? I vpill forgive their iniquity , and Will remember their fin no more. 1. He giffceth them with,* and conveyeth to them an immortal and everiafting principle of Grace that cannot dye nor utterly perifh, J oh'. 4. 14? But the water that I fhall give him, fjall be in him a Well of water ' fpringing up into ever-lafting life. ijoh. 3.9, His feed remaineth in him, and he cannot fin, becaufe he is born of God. 2. He keepeth life by his interceflion, in that engaging principle of Faith, that it fail not, Luke 22. 5 2, But I have prayed for thee that thy Faith fail not. But all this could not effecl: the bufmefs, being but our gripe of him *, therefore, 3. Confider how he keepeth a gripe of them, he engageth his Father to keep his people, and he himfelf employeth all the power, credit, and interefl that he hath in Heaven and Earth, to keep them *in that bleiTed ftate, Joh. 17. H, 12, And now I am no more

Mm 2 in

in the Worlds but thefe are in the World: And I come to thee, holy Father ; keep through thine own name thofe whom thou haft given, me, that they may he one, as we are. While 1 was with thsm in. the world I kjpt them through thy name : thofe whom thou gaveft me I have kept, and none of them is loft but the Son cf perdition^ that the Scripture might be fulfilled, i Pet. I. $,Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto falvation j

0 ready to be revealed in the lafi time. Job. 10.28,29, And I give unto them eternal life,, and they foall never perifli, neither ? frail any man plucky them out of my hand. My Fadjer which gave them me, is greater than all *, and no man 1 is able to pluckjhcm out of my Fathers hand. Deut. 33.27, The eternal Cod is thy refuge, and underneath is the everlaftiug arms. Jfa. 40. 29, He giveth power to them that are faint , and to them that have no might he encreafeth flrength.' 4. Bemain-taineth the peace and agreement "that he made through his own being in . Heaven , a conftant,.and ordinary Agent to apear in the prefence of Cod for us,, Heb. 9. 24. Who lieth there of purpofe that the Covenant betwixt God and his people may continue, and that-league never be bro-•keny for ib kng as Chrift apeareth in Heaven, there fhall be peace and Gitndihip for all Believers, Rom. 5.1, i y Therefore being fafiified by faith, we have peace with Go<dJhtitikgktfur x Lord Jcfi44 v Chr'■>({., By whom.alfo we have..<zs.eefs by Faith unto this grace wherein we ftand^and re Joyce in hope of the glory of God a Eph. 2*. 14, For he, is our peace, whohathcrhade^ both one. 5. He keepeth intercourse and good correspondence betwixt his Father and his people, that their tradmgLwith Heaven be not flopped, Eph. 2.. 18, For by him we both have an accefs through one Spirit unto the Father. . And 3."12, In whom we have bold-nefs and accefs with confidence by. the Faith, of him: 1 Pet. $.> 18, For Chnfi alfo hath once Jujfered by fmt\ the \juft for the~ unfiift; that he might bring nrfa&y ■•• v :;_ | word that Signifies

• leading- by the hand, Heb. io.jq? Having therefore, Brethren\ boldnefs to enter into thz holieft by thd blood of Jcfus. . And-4. 16, Let us therefore cor,ie boldly unto the .Throne of Grace, 6. He taketh up emergent differences,, and reryioveth the incident breaches of Peace, betwixt both, parties,, Jfa..^. 12, And he, was numbred with the tranfgrejfors \ and he bare the:

■ fin of many, and trade interceffw^for"theTra^ifgre(fors,^ih,

%7i

p. 7, Not without blood, he which offered for himfeif and for the errors of the people, ttyromy.<tr»v —the word fignifieth the infirmities to which the people of God are daily fubjecl:, which would break the league of Peace, were it not for the Mediators doing his Office, to hold it firm: And this he doth, i • As an Agent, making his conftant refidence in Heaven, that upon all occafions he may appear in the prefence of God for us, Heb. 9. 24. 2. As an Advocate, pleading his peoples caufe, and {hewing that fatisfied Juftice muft be for them, 1 Job. 2. 1, And if any man fn r we have an Advocate with the Father, Jefus Chrift the-righteous. Heb. il, H,And to Jefus the Mediator of the New-Covenant, and to the bleed affpr inkling, that fpeaketh better things than that of Abel, 3., As an Interceffor , praying for them; J oh. 17, througout, JL4m. 8. 34,. Who js he that condemneth. ? It is Chrift that dyed, yea rather that is fifth again, who is even at the right hand of God, who alfo maketh inter eeffion for m. 4. As a Solicitor, pre-Jptirfg and promoting the Prayers and defires of his people,, R> his Father, Rev. 3. 1, And another Angel came and food. at the Altar, having a golden Cenfor, and there was given unto him much incenfe, that he flwuid offer it with the prayers of all Saints, upon the golden Altar which was before the "Throne.

The fifth part of the. Mediators work in executing this Office, is to bring-all thofe whom he hath engaged by this Co> , > venant,to the height of that blefTednefs which he hath appointed for them, that as a Captain of Salvation he might bring -many: Sons to glory,Htb.2. id, which ftandeth in perfect and glorious conformity with Chrift, and in perfect and: glorious communion with God, ijoh. ji 2, But we know that when he Jhall appear, we fliall be like him, for we frail fee him as heis. For accomplishing whereof, Chrift in executing the Mediators Office, 1. He prepareth that happinefsfor them,, and a, fit place where they may enjoy'it for ever, 1 Cor. 2. 9, Eye hath net feen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entred into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. Joh. 14. 2, $,' In my Fathers houfe are many Manfwns : if it were not fo, J.-would have told you^', J go to.pre pare a place for youx, andnf I go and prepare a place far ywtfl will came again'and receive you. unto my felf, that, where

/ am^thereye maybe alfo. i. He keepeth this happinefs for them, when they can contribute nothing to keep it *, all this while that it is hid, it is lure and referved for them in Heaven, iP^.j.4, To an Inheritance incorruptible, and that fadeth not away , referved in Heaven for you. 2 Tim. 4.8, Henceforth there is laid up for me a Crown of righteoufnefs , which the Lord the righteous Judg fiall give me at that day, and not to me only, but unto them alfo that love his appearing. S • He keepeth them for it: for we have as much need of keeping as our Crown and Inheritance •, as we cannot keep it, fo we cannot keep our ieives,- 1 Pet. 1. 5, Who arc. kept by the power of God through Faith unto Salvation , ready to be revealed in the la ft time. Luke 22. 32, But I have prayed for thee that thy Faith fail not. 4. Chrift Mediator in executing his Office, hego-eth before his people, and breaketh the oppofition that is in .their way to Glory, ib that he leaveth them no Adversary to right with, but broken forces, iuch as he hath routed and conquered, PfaL(&. i3, Thou haft afcended on high, thot^ haft led captivity captive, thou haft received gifts for men, yeM for the rebellions alfo, that the Lord God might dwell among them : with Eph. 4. 8, Wherefore he faith , when he afcended up on high, eke. Yea, he went before his people to take pofTeflion for them, and in their names, Heb. 6. 20, Whither the fore runner is for us entred. Joh. 14.2, I go to prepare a place for you- 5. He roaketh his petfple meet an4 fit for that glorious condition which is referved for them: for we need preparation, being unpolidied matter, and unfit forfuch a houfe as Heaven is: we.muft be made meet for it, before we enjoy ir, Col. 1. 12. Giving thanks unto the Father, which bath made m meet to be partakers of the Inheritance of the Saints in light: the Father doth this work by the Son} it is the Mediators work immediately to make the Saints meet for their Inheritance, Eph. 5.26,27, That he might fantlify, and might cleanfe it with the wajhing of water by the Word : that he might prefenr it to himfelf a glorious Church, not having fpot or wrinkje, or any fuch thing: but that itfhould be holy and without blemijh. Joh. 17. 19, And for their fakes I alfo fanttify my felf, that they alfo might be fantlified through the truth : he is the Author andfinifher of our faith, Heb. 12. 2. 6". When all^his people are fitted and ready to receive what he hath

pre-

prepared for them: -he will not then fend -any Ambaflador to bring them, but he himfelf in his own peribn will come and hring them home to the place of immediate everlafting injoymentsof God, which he hath prepared, and will crown and perfect his work in all his people, Job. 14. 3, And if I go and. prepare a place for yon, I will come again and receive yon nnto my fclf that where ham , there ye may be alfo. Col, 3. 4, When thrift who is our life frail appear , then frail ye alfo appear with him in Glory. Rev. 19. 7, 8 7 Let m be glad and rejoyce, and give honour to him y for the marriage of the Lamb is come^ and his Wife hath made her felf ready. And to her was granted that fre fronld be arrayed in fine iinnen than and white *, for the fine Iinnen is the righteonfnefs wf Saints,

c H AP,

CHAP. XVIL

Of the grounds of Comfort and fitpports iff Faith, arifwg to Believers from Chrijis Mediatorfbip.

I Shall fliut up this patt of the Doctrine of Chrifts Me-diatorfhip with ibme grounds of Comfort, and fupports <rf Faith, .which arife thence.

i. There is Comfort here, and fupgort for Faith to all who are convinced of enmity betwixt God and them, and do defire reconciliation with him : Lo here are glad tidings, there is a Mediator, a Peace-maker betwixt God and men. i He is already long ago defigned and appointed for this Office. 2. He hath already done the work, he hath pur-chafed and proclaimed the Peace, even to Rebels who will come in and accept of it \ Eph. 2. 16,17, And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the Crofs, having /lain the enmity thereby ; and came and preached Peace to yon which were afar off , and to them that were nigh : and being now removed out of our fight, he hath appointed it to be done by his mefTengcrs, Rom. 10. 15, How beautiful are the feet of . them that preach the Gofpel of Peace, and bring glad tidings of good things ? 3. He is now ready to accept of, and make interceffion for all thofe that (hall come in and declare their acceptance of his offer, Heb. 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermofi that come unto God by him, feeing he ever- liveth to make interceffion for them: Joh. 6. 3 7, And him that cometh to me, I will in no wife caft out. Why then do you haefitate? Why ftand you off? What aileth you? Is there not here encouragement and fupport of Faith ? Is there not comfortagainft the felt-enmity and feared-wrath to come? Joh. I« 29, Behold the Lamb of God which takgth away the Sin of the World.

*2. There

2. There is comfort, and fupport for Faith from Chrifts Nlediatorfhip, namely to Believers, and to thole who have come to God through him. 1. To all forts of Believers. 2. In all the variety of their feveral conditions. $. Againft all their fears and evils wherewith they are affli&ed.

1. To all Believers, I mean found Believers, 2 V-et. r. i,to* the weak as well as the ftrong, to them who have like precious Faith with the Apoftles, although they have not like perfect and ftrong Faith: he is not a Mediator for the ftrong only, but for all that believe on him, Joh* 6. $7, All that the Father giveth me y Jhall come to me : and him that cometh to me, I will in no wife cafl out. And ,17.20, Neither fray I for thefe alone, but for them alfothatjljall believe on me through

their word. And it is well obferved by .Mr. Goodwin from Goodwin, Heb. <#7.25, that the comfort and encouragement ipropofcc\ chr $ f et f ortl *° there from Chrifts Interceflion, is fitted for a Recumbents Faith : the proper aft whereof, as 'tis diftinguifhed from the Faith of AfTurance, is a coming to Chrift : he is a Mediator for all that have caft themlelves on him in their way of coming to God, though their Faith be not yet grown up to aflurance.

2. To all Believers in their feveral conditions he is Mediator, and does the Office of a Mediator, not only when Believers can a£l faith,and employ him} but when their Faith is well-near failed, like a worn week, when they are at the weakeft, and at the worft: Luke 22. ^2, But J have frayed for thee that thy Faith fail not. Not only when his eleft people are doing him lervice*, but when they are ignorant-ly oppofing him, as many times they do, efpecially before their Converfion, Aft. 9. 5, 6, I am Jefpu whom thou ferfe-cuteft. — And he trembling and aflonifoed [aid, Lord what wilt thou have me to do f And the Lord [aid, arife and go into the City , and it fljall be told thee what thou mufl do, Luke 2]. 1 4, And Jefm [aid, Father forgive them far they know not what they do. Not only when they are in his way, but when they ate out of the way, Heb. 5. 2, Who can have compajfton on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way. Not only wtan they can pray, and wrcftle for

Nn them-

therafelves, Rev.. 8. 3, And another Angel came and flood at the Altar, having a Golden Cenfor, and there was given unto him mueh Jncenfe, that he jhould offer it with the prayers of all Saints upon the Golden Altar which was before the Throne: but when they cannot utter their heart before the Lord, Rom.%. 26,27, Likewife the Spirit a lf&-helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we Jhouldprayfor as we ought, bat the Spirit it felf maketh Interceffion for us with growings that cannot be uttered. And he that fearcheth the hearts, knoweth what is the mind of the Sprit, becaufe he maketh Interceffion for the Saints according to the will of God. Ifa. 59. 16, An d he faw that there was no man, and wondred that there was no Inter-uffor: therefore his arm brought falvation unto him y and his-righteoufnefs it fustained him. Not only when all is well, and at peace, and when nothing is charged againft them*, but when they are under Challenges, and condemning-things are laid to their charge, Rom.%. $3, $4 r Who fi)all lay any thing to the charge of Gods Elect?' it is God that juftifieth r who is he that condemneth ? It is Christ that died, yea rather that is rifen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who alfa maketh interceffion for us. Not only in time of peace, but when wrath and deftru&ion is gone forth againft his people, Ezje\^. 9- 4> And the Lord faid unto him, Go through the midst of the City, the midft of Jerufalem, andfet a mark^Hpon the foreheads of the men that figh, and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midfl thereof Zech. 1. 12, Then the Angel of the Lord anfwered and faid, Q Lord of Hofts, how long wilt thou not have mercy on Jeru-falem, and on the Cities of Judah, against which thou haft had indignation thefe Threefcore and ten years ? Not only at their firft coming, but in all their after-addrefTes to God through him, Heb. 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermofl that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth to ma\$ Interceffion for them: With 4. 14, 16, Seeing-then that we have an High priefi that is paffed into the Heavens, let us therefore come boldly unto the Throne of Grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find Grace to help in time of need.

3. The

3. The Comfort and-fupport of Faith flowing from Chrifts Mediatorfhip, reachcth to all the evils wherewith Believers can be afflicted. Namely, 1. It may comfort againft the daily infirmities wherewith bJievers are cornpafled ; thefe fhall not make a breach betwixt God and us, for as much as Chrifts Mediation is intended to prevent that, 1 Job. 2. 1, 2, And if any man fin, we have an Advocate with thz Father, Jefus Chrifi the righteous : and he is the propitiation for our fins. 2- Againft the many challenges, whether of an accu-(ing-confeience, or of the great accufer of the Brethren, Rom. 8. \\, 34, Who flail lay any thing to the charge of Gods tlecl f It is God that juftifieth who is he that condemneth? lt\ is Chrifi that dyed, yea rather that is rifen again , who is even at the right hand of God, who alfe maketh Inter^ ceffion for us. j. Againft the more foul and grofs ftumb-lings of Believers, for as much as it is aifo intended for the helping of thefe, Luke 22, 32, But J have prayed for thee, that thy Faith fail net. 4. Againft the fear of their falling away from the blefied Covenant-ftate, with which fear believers have often been - buffeted, Ffal 51. 11, Cafi me not away from thy prefence, and take not thy holy Spirit from me. And 17. 5, Hold up my goings in thy paths , that my foot-fteps flip not* It is by Chrifts Mediation that we have cftablifhment in Grace, Job. 6. 39, And this is the Fathers will which hath fent me , that of all which he hath given me I flould lofe nothing, but flould raife it up at the laft day. Rom. 5. 10, For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled, to God by the death of his Son, much more being reconciled we flail he faved by his life. 5. Againft the manifold afflictions wherewith Believers are tofierl here: the Mediator was fometimes an afflicled man, and went through much iufTering , and hath the feeling of thefe, lfa. 5 \. $,7, A man of forrow, and acquainted with griefs-He was op-preffed, and he was afflicted : Ffal. 22 throughout. 6. Againft the many temptations of all kinds which occafion much hea-vinefs to Believers, 1 Fet. 1. 6, Ye are in heavinefs through manifold temptations. The Mediator had the experience of all forts of temptations, and row fympathizeth with his people

Kn2 like

like condition,//^. 2.17,18, for in that he himfelf hath fuffered being tempted, he is able to fuccour them that are tempted. And 4-15? For we have not an High prleft which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in att pints tempted like as we are, yet without fin, 7. Againft the empty and needy condition unto which Believers are fubjec% through the manifold wants wherewith they are daily prefTed: We have confidence through the Mediator, to come-fpeed in every petition that is acceptable to God , and profitable to us, 1 Joh. 5. 14,1 J, And this is the con-, fidence that we have in him, that if we ask^any thing according to his will, he heareth us : And if we know that he hear as, whatjoever we askj, we know that we have the petitions that we defired of him. Joh. 14. 13, And whatfoever ye fhall as\ in my name , that will I de, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 8. Againft the fear of death, which is terrible to nature: Joh. 11.25, Jefus faid unto her, I am the re fur-rettion, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead^ yet jhall he live, &c. 1 Cor. 15. 26, The lafi Enemy that jhall be defiroyed, is Death. Job 19. 25, for I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that he jljall Hand at the latter day upon the Earth. Joh. 17.2, As thou haft given him power over all flejh, that he fiwuld give eternal life to as many as thou haft given him. 9. Againft the fecond appearing of Chrift (which is lbmetimes terrible without caufe to believers) and the laft Judgment that (hall be given, concerning the everlafting interefts of the creatures: the Man Chrift,whom you have owned for your Mediator, fhallfit-as Judg, Att. 17. go, 31, And the times of this ignorance God winked at, but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Becaufe he hath apponited a day in the which he will judg the world in righteoufnejs, by that man whom he hath ordained. 2Thef.(,7. 10, And to you who are troubled , reft with us—When he frail come to be glorified in his Saints. Then fhall he perform a comfortable act of his Mediator-fhip, J vide ver. 24, Now unto him that is able to keep you from filing and to prefect you fultlefs before the prefence of his glory , with exceeding )0v, &c.

And

And there is good ground for all Believers to be comforted from Chrifts Mediatorfhip, if we confider, 1. The perfon who Mediates. 2. The Perfon with whom he Mediates. 3. The Perfons for whom he Mediates. 4. The caufe for which he Mediates.

1. For the Perfon who Mediates: Confider, 1. His Gracioufnefs with his Father, O fo great- a Courtier with God as the Mediator is, Joh. 11. 41, 42, Father J thanks thee, that thou hafi heard me. And I knew that thou he are ft me alwayes : and no wonder he be fo, being his Son, his only begotten Son, Joh. 1. 18. His beloved Son, Matth. 3. 17. His obedient Son, Phil. 2. 8. 2. His Greatnefs andab-folute Power to do of himfelf whatfoever he Mediates for with his Father. Matth. 28. 18, All power is given unto me in Heaven and Earth. Joh. 5. 2i, 23, 26, 27, For as the Father raifeth up the dead, and c\mckneth them *, even fo the Son quichneth whom he will: 'that all men jhould honour the Son, even as they honour the Father: He that ho* noureth net the Son honoureth not the Father that fent him. For as the Father hath life in himfelf , fo hath he given to the Son to have life in himfelf. And Hath given him authority to execute Judgment alfo i becaufe he is the Son of Man. Therefore he is called a Frieft upon a Throne •, a Prieft who is a King, to command whatlbever he prayes for, Heb. 1. $. and 8. i, Zech. 6. 13. 3. The onenefs of his will with : his Fathers, which maketh iure the prevalency of his Mediation, being fine to ask nothing but what is his Fathers wiil^ and all that he asks being his Fathers will as much as his f, how can it be ineffe&ual ? Joh. 17. 24, Father I will that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where 1 am.

2.. The Perfon with whom he Mediates: Confider. i.His nearnefs of relation both to the Mediator, and to tire Perfons for whom he Mediates: He is Gfrrtfts Father, and our . J 7 tther, Job. ,20. 17, But go to my brethren and fay nnto them, I afcevdpsyno my Father and yo.ir Father, and to my God and

ycay

your God. 2. His gracioufnefs and affe&ion'both to Chrift and to us', he loveth Chrift, and he ioveth us-, and therefore- it is that he is as inclinable to hear Chrift for his people, as Chrift- is to mediate for them, Joh. 16. 26, 27. At that day ye fiall ask^ in my name , and I fay unto yon , that I will fray the Father for yon. for the Father himfclf loveth youj becaufe ye have loved me, and have believed that I came ont from God.

3. In the perfons for whom he Mediates: Confider, 1. Our nearnefs of alliance with the Medhtor, Heb.2. u, 14, 17, For both he that fantlifeth, and they who are fancli-fed are all one : for which caufe he is not afTamed to call them Brethren. For as much then as the Children are partakers of fief) and blood, he alfo himfelf took^ part of the fame— —Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren , that he might be a merciful and faithful High-prieft in things pertaining to God y to make reconciliation for the fins of the people. Joh. 17. 2$, / in them, and thou in me , that they may be made perfect in one. 2. Our nearnefs to God through Chrift the Mediator, 2 Cor. 6. 18, And 1 will be a father unto you , and ye jhall be my Sons and Daughters faith the Lord God Almighty, &c. 1 Cor. 6. ver. 17, But he that is joyn&d to the Lord is one Spirit.

4. In the Caufe for which he Mediates: Confider, 1. The Righteoufnefs thereof:, Chrift having now fatisfied Juftice, and his caufe being juftified., he hath a ftrong plea in Law and Juftice, 1 Cor. 1. 8, p, 10, Who fliall alfo confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blamclefs in the day of our Lord Jefus Chrift. God is faithful by whom ye were called unto the fellowftrip if his Son Jefus Chrift our Lord— And 2. 2, For 1 determined not to know any thing among you, fave Jefus Chrift and him Crucified. 2.. The honour-ablenefs of it, not to Chrift only , but to God: his Mediation being contrived to exalt his fathers Grace by In-tercefiion, even after Juftice is fatisfied by Sacrifice, Hcb.g.

2 <5>

26,, Bnt now once in the end of the world hath he appear-ed to put away fin by the facrifice of himfelf. With 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermott that come unto God by him , feeing he ever liveth to make mere effort for them.

GlfA'P.

Chap. XVII. *97

CHAP. XVIL

Of the feveral Relations which Cbrift Jujiairu eth in the Covenant of Grace: and, 1. Cbrift a witnefs to the People.

IT is not cafie to find out and determine all Chrifts relations to the Covenant of Grace, they are ib many and fo com-prehenfive, that I know not whether to lay, that Chrifts relations ieem to exhauft the total of the Covenant; or that the compend and liim of the Covenant is comprized in his relations, which he fuftaineth in it. I fuppofe there is a truth in both *, for whatsoever is neceflarily related to the Covenant, is in him, whether it be Parties, Articles, Promifes, Conditions, Confirmations , Witnefs, Mediator , MeflTen-ger, &c. and in him is to be found the whole Covenant, therefore he is called the Covenant it felf* Ifa. 4.2, 6. & 49.8.

Chrift hath feveral relations to the Covenant: 1. He i^f^^^f^ a Party Covenanting. 2. He is Mediator of the Covenant, r ^ ^phlf $. He is the witnefs of the Covenant. 4. He is the Meffen-/^. pi ger of the Covenant. 5. He is a Servant in the Covenant. 6. He is the Surety of the Covenant. 7. He is the Tefta-tor. 8. He is the Covenant it felf.

I (hall fpeak nothing here of the firft two relations, how Chrift is a fide, or the one half of the Covenant *, nor how heftandeth as amidol? perfonbetween the difagreeingParties. But for thefe I refer to that I have faid of the Parties covenanting , and of the Mediator of the Covenant} only before I proceed to fpeak of thefe other relations, I fhall pre-mile thefe few things, as being of common ule for under-ftanding of the whole relations.

Firft, Whatfoeyer relations Chrift beareth in the Covenant, he was from Eternity chofen and defigned unto thofein the counfel of God, and by an everkfting Decree, Pfal. 2. 7, / will declare the decree , the Lord hath faid unto me , thou art

Rr my

my fo^ this day have I begotten thee :, and Ifa. 42. I, Behold my fervant whom J uphold^ mine deft in whom my foul delight" eth.

Secondly, Whatfoever relations Chrift fuftaineth in the Covenant, he doth it by voluntary difpenfation, and not by any natural neceffity or compulfion: that he is a Party contracting, or that he is Mediator, or that he is Meffen-ger of the Covenantee, nothing could compel Chrift to put his name in any of thefe relations, it was all of confent ; Phil. 2. 7, But made himfelf of no reputation , and took^ upon him the form of a fervant , and was made in the likenejs of men. Heb. 10. 9, Then [aid he, Lo I come to do thy will % 0 God.

Thirdly, All thefe relations which Chrift fuftaineth in the Covenant, are all acts of Grace, both upon Gods part, who defigned Chrift unto thefe relations, that he might act Grace in Chrift as the firft copy of Free-grace, and that we might (hare with him*, and alio upon Chiiftspart, who could not be hired to undertake theie relations, knowing what they would coft him *, but the Free-grace of his own heart engaged him in thefe relations: 2. Sam. 7. 21, According to thine own heart haft thou done all thefe great things. Rom. 8. 32, How frail he not with him alfo, freely give m all things? with Gal. ?, 20, Who loved me, and gave himfelf for me.

Fourthly, Though in the Covenant of Grace Chrift be difpenfed in all his offices, and and the efficacy and fruit of all theie offices, as appeareth from Ifa. 55.4, with Rom. 8. 32 > and Jer. ji. 33, 34 *, yet ibme of j his relations which he fuftaineth in the Covenant, do more efpecially reipect one of his offices, and Ibme another*, as alio fome of them directly refpect all his offices: Take for inftances, His relation as Mediator, refpecteth all his offices: His relation as Party contracting, refpecteth all his offices, wherein he was a publick perfon, who did reprefent many: His relation as Surety doth efpecially relate to his Kngly office, in regard of which he was undertaker, and made potent to help, PfaL 89. 19. His relations as Witnefs, Meifenger, and Servant, doth refpect efpecially his prophetical office: His relation as Teftator, refpecteth efpecially his Prieftly office,, &c.

Rfthly, Whatfoever relations Chrift fuftaineth in the Covenant

venant of grace,he beareath all thcfc relations by Covenanted by cxplicite contract he hath undertaken them *, fo that as we fay of his offices, he was a King, a Prieft,and a Prophet by Cove-j nant, Pfal. 89. $, I have made a Covenant with my chofen :> I have fworn unto Davidmy fervant: We fay the lame of all his relations in reipeft of the Covenantee is by Covenant and Compatt with God, by the Covenant of Suretifhip, whatibever he is in Cove-nan t-relations.He is by Covenant,Mediator of the Covenanf.Hc is by Covenant, a Party in the Covenant, reprefenting others, He is by a Covenant, the Witnefs, MefTenger, Servant, Surety, Teftator of the Covenant, Heb. 10.9. 7/4.59.21, & 5$. 10, 11,12. Heb. 2. 10, 12. Join. 17.2,6, 12, &c.

Sixthly, For whomfoever he beareth any of thefe relatione in the Covenant, for them he beareth them all, if he be for, and unto any perfons, Mediator to God-ward, he hath engaged as party contracting with God for fuch perfons} he is become Surety for fuch, he hath and (hall be Witnefs, MefTenger and Servant, for promoting and manifefting the things of this Covenant unto fuch \ he hath tefted in' his Legacy things pertaining to fuch perfons, &c. //*. 42. 1. & $*• 10. Jw+6. 37. Joh. 17, throughout.

I proceed now to the third relation which Chrift fuftain-eth in the Covenant of Grace ; he is the Witnefs of the Covenant, If a. 55.4, Behold , / have given him for a witnefs to the people. Rev. 3. 14, Thefe thing faith the Amen , the faithful and true witnefs. Rev, 1. 5, And from Jefus Chrifi, who is the faithful witnefs. Chrift may be confidered as the witnefs of the Covenant in a double refpecl. 1. He is the Witnefs witnejfed. Z. He is the Witnefs wit~ neffwg. The Hebrew word "iy Ghnedis rendred, and doth frequently fignifie Teftimonium^ as w r ell as Teftis7 and fo the

LXX render it, I fa- 55.4. m*?™W Chrift is thzTefii-

moniummd the Tcftis^tht MAprv^or M*f7**, and the papTv'ptov, fee Rev. 3. 14} Write , thefe things faith the Amen-, the faith* fnl and true witnefs \ with 1 Tim. 2. 6, Who gave himfelf a ranfome for all , to be tcftified in due time, Firft, I fay Chrift is the Witnefs witnejfed , or the great evidence and *eftimony of the Covenant betwixt God and his people, ( and in this fenfe a Witnefs is uied frequently in the Scripture to fignifie not only a perfon that beareth teftimony,

Q3 2 b«t

goo Chrifi the witnefs Chap. XVII.

but for any thing that doth evidence as a witnefs: Heb. n. 4, By which he obtained witnefs^ that he was righteous; God tefti-fying of his gifts, Luk. 22. 71, And they faid, what need we any further witnefs , for we our felves have heard of his oven mouth)? For, Firft, He is given of God as the great evidence of Covenant-love, and of that ipecial good-will to tinners which gave the firft rife to the Covenant, Joh. 3. 16, for God fo loved the world , that he gave his only begotten fon , that whofoever believeth in him , Jhould not perijh, but have everlafting life. Luk. 2. 10, 11, And the Angel faid unto them , fear not; for behold I bring you good tidings of great jay , which jhall be td all people ; for unto you is born this day, in the city of David , a Saviour y which is Chrifi the Lord. Secondly, He is given as the great evidence of Covenant-intereft, and relations betwixt God and finners, as the fign and evidence that the difagreeing parties are made one in him: I fa. 7. 14, Therefore the Lord himfelf jhall give you a fign: Behold , a, virgin Jhall conceive and bear a Son , and jhall call his name Immanuel. Thirdly, As the great evidence and witnefs of Gods fulfilling all the promifes of the Covenant, 2 Cor. 1. 20, For all the promifes of God in him are Yea, and in him they are Amen; therefore Chrift was of old given as the fign of fulfilling all promifes, and accomplishing all deliveries to the Church before his coming in the flefh. Zech. 6. 12, and he Jhall build the temple of the Lord^ Ifa,7. 14. Fourthly, As the great evidence and witnefs of the ftanding-perpetuity of thefe Covenant-relations betwixt God and his people, Pfal. 89. 54, 35, 37, My Covenant will I not breaks nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips. Once have 1 fworn by my holinefs , that I will not lye unto David. It Jhall be efiabliJJoed for ever as the moon: and as a faithful witnefs in heaven. Selah* Fifthly, As the great evidence of the nature and complexion of the Covenant, he is fo given of God for a -witnefs, that all the Covenant is comprifed in him, /y^.42. 6, And will give thee for a Covenant of the people , for a light of the Gentiles: and therefore alfo when it was firft revealed, there was nothing heard of but this witnefs Chrift, in the promife of whom all the Covenant, the union of God and man, was fummed up, (?«*, 3.15, And I will put enmity between thee and the woman , and be-

tween

Chap. XVH. of the Covenant. '301

rween thy feed and her feed? it jhall bmife thy head, and thou jhalt brmfe his heel.

If Chrift be given to the people for a witnefs in this fenlb; then, 1. You who are under the Preaching of this Gofpel, qua f&dm annnciathm^ confider the office of Chrift, and underftand it as the great witneis and evidence of Gods commanding and approving will, that you (hould enter in-Covenant with him, and that you ought to believe on the Son of God j and know for a certainty, that if you obey not the command of believing and taking hold of this Covenant, the offers of Chrift that hath been made unto you, (hall be for a witneis and evidence that fhall acquit the Lord of your condemnation, and (hall cut off all excufe from you, in as much as your Obligation and Duty to believe, was revealed unto you, and the offer of Chrift is the witneis of this, to all the people who have heard the Gofpel, \Joh.$. 2 3, And this is his commandment , that we jhould believe in the name of his [on Jefns Chrift. Joh. 15.25, /// had not come and ffoken unto them, they had not had fin: but now they have no cloaks for their fin.

2. To iiich as have the Covenant of grace a^ted in an erTe&ual and powerful way upon their hearts, according to Gods Decree and Will of purpofe •, I mean, fuch as have been brought under the bond of this Covenant upon their hearts, Ez.ek. 20. 37, in which ienfe the Covenant is fpoken °f> 7 er - 31? and Ezekj $6,&c. 1 would have you to underftand Gods giving of Chrift unto you, as he doth intend h y to wit, as a witnefs and teftimony of his Covenant with you, as the greateft evidence and demonftration that can be of his Covenant-love to you, of your Covenant-intereft in him, of the continuance of that Covenant-relation betwixt you and him, and of the nature and iiibftance of that. Covenant: you fearch for witneifes within you, and from Heaven, to teftifie of your Covenant-ftate through grace*, you long for that which may evidence it iatisfyingly unto you ( and it may be moft of us fin more on the other hand, through neglect of iearching after thefe witnefles which are attainable)^ but it's a pity that believers who have received Chrift freely given to them by God, fhould flight the greateft witnefs that ever God gave to his people •, a witneis

go3 Chrifl the roiintfs Chap, XVH.

nefsis at hand, and you receive not theteftimony thereof: it may of this be f aid, He that believeth on the fon of God hath the witnefs in himfclf i Joh. 5. 10, 11, 12. He hath Chrift the great witnefs of theCove uintjand who knows but we may be left of God to wander the more in the dark,about our Covenant ftate, becauie we lay ib little weight upon the having of him . whom God hath given for a witnefs to the people ? O let us not tempt God by flighting him thus ^ but let us look upon the having of him given to us, as the witneis of all theie things before-mentioned , concerning a Covenant betwixt God and us, he being given of God tor this end , io may we find the door and way which we grope for, how to be eflabliihed in the faith of our Covenant-relation to God.

But I come to ipe&k of the fecond, which I take to be. chit-fly meant, Chrifl: is the Witnejs witnejfwg, or the perfon who beareth witneis of all that is contained in the Covenant: For opening of this, confider theie four particulars. Chrift is the Beholding \Witnc\s y the Acting witnefs, the Dsclaring-wit* nds, the Confirming-vtitxidLs of the Covenant.

1. Chrifl: is an Eye-witnefs of the Covenant *, that is, he was prefent, and heard and law the whole trania&ion of the Covenant, from the beginning to the end j in which refpeft the Scriptures call peribns prcfent at any thing, and beholders of it, witneffes, \ Tim t 6. iZ. & 2. ZZ. 1 Joh- 1. z, 3, becauie they are fit to bear witnefs in that thing, having certain grounds of knowledg of it: Thus was our Lord Jeiiis a fit witnefs of the Covenant, for he was prefent at the very firft motion of it, and heard and law all the convey of it, Prov.S.zz, 2 h $°5 The Lord poffeffed me in the beginning of his way, before his works 0; old. I was fet up from everlafling , from the beginning * 0 or ever the earth was, then I was by him , as one brought up with htm\ and I was dayly his delight,-re-joycing always before him. 2 Tim. I. 9, Who hath faved ns y and called pis with an holy calling , not according to onr workj* fait according to his own purpofe and grace , which was given us in Chrift Jefns ? before the world began. So that we may lay of him in reference to the Covenant-trania&ion, that which John faith o; him with reference to creation, Job.i. 2, ; 3 The fame was in the beginning with God , all things were made fa> him^ and witbm him was not any thing made

that

that wot made. Nothing was done in that bufinefs without him, neither indeed could it be, he being not only prefent, but the alone party with whom God had firft dealing with reference to this Covenant.

2. Chrift is an Atting-witnefs of the Covenant, who not only was preient, and did fee the whole traniaction of that bufinefs^ but had an active hand in if, yea it was acted upon his perfon, when before Tontiw Pilate he witneffed a good confeffion, 1 Tim. 6. 13: and in this fenfe it is that the Apoftle/Vrer, 1 Ep.$ y calleth himMi zWitnefs of the fujferwgs of Chrift : becauie he had experience of them in his own perf( n; he was partaker of them, and had them acted upon him. Tis beyond queftion, that Chrift was iuch a wit-nefs of the Covenant, he had an active hand in it from beginning to the end, in the making of it, and in the fulfilling of it} he was a prime actor and undertaker from eternity. Hence it is that the Apoftle, Heb.S. io ; 11, aicribes the making of the new Covenant, to Chrift; for its of him and his Miniftry that the Apoftle fpeaks in that place •, lb Joh. 17. 2, 6, &c. As thou haft given him power over all flejh, that he ftwuld give eternal life to as many as then hsft given him. I have manifefted thy name unto the men which thou gave ft me out of the world : Thine they were , and thou gave ft them me j and they have kept thy word-) Joh. 15. 15: for all things that I have heard of my father , / have made known unto you : yea, I lay the whole Covenant was acted upon him, the union of the contrary difagreeing parties was acted upon his perfon*, the bringing of man near to God, and Gods coming near to man*, the paying of the ranfome, and the acceptation of it, it was acted upon him; it was a bloody act up- . on his perfon, If a. 53, throughout. Zech. 13-7, Awake, O fword y again ft my ftjepherd , and again ft the man that is my fellow, faith the Lord ofhofts\ fmiie the jl:epherd. 2 Cor-5. 19, To wit , that God, was in Chrift, reconciling the world unto himfelfj not imputing their trefpaffes unto them.

$. Chrift is the witnels of the Covenant y who did declare and reveal the great fecret of the Covenant, even all that he heard, and faw> and acted about it y he doth witnels and declare even the whole Counfel of God concerning his Covenant } his purpofe and will of grace concerning his people y

pit , which things we had never known, had not the wit-ncfs of the Covenant revealed and declared them, Pfal. 25. 14 5 The fecret of the Lord is with them that fear him: and he will ftjew them his Covenant, Joh. I. 18, No man hath feen God at any time: the only begotten [on which is in the bofome of the father , he hath declared him. Eph.2. 17, And came and preached pace to yon which were afar off', and to them that were near. The reafon is manifeft, becaufe Natures light, which can fhew fbmething of God, yet it's utterly blind concerning Chrift and the Covenant of grace. iCor. 2.7, 8^ 12. But we fpeak^the wifdom of God in a myftery, even the hid-dtn wifdom which God ordained before the world, unto our glory, which none of the princes of this world knew : For had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory. Now we have received , not the [pint of the world, but the /pint which is of God , that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Mat. 13. 11, He anfwered and Jaid unto them, becaufe it is given unto you to know the my ft tries of the kingdom of Heaven, but to them it is not given. And in this fenfe it is that the Minifters of the Goipel who reveal and declare that myftery, are called witneffes, A&. 1. 8. Rev. 11. 3, 10. There be three great myfteries and fecrets of the Goipel and Kingdom of Heaven, which had never been known unleis Chrift the witnefs of the Covenant had declared them, but by him they are revealed and difcovered unto us.

1. The myftery of the Covenant, the Gofpel-Covenant, is one of the greateft myfteries that ever the world heard of ^ Eph. 6. 19. To make known the myftery of the GofpeL Col. 1. 26, Even the myftery which hath been hid from ages and from generations , but now is made manifeft to his faints. It's a treafure of hidden myfteries of fcience and knowledg, truly fo called*, Pfal. 19. 7,8,' knowledg of God arfd of our felves, Joh. 17. 6, I have manifefted thy name unto the men which thou gaveft me out of the world. Job 42. 5,6, But now mine eye feeth thee, wherefore I abhor my felf, and repent in duft and ajlies. A treafure of myfteries of commerce and trade with the Land that is afar off, 1 mean with Heaven: Col. 3. 1,2, 3, If ye then be rifenwith Chriftyfeek^thofe things which are above , where Chrift fitteth on the right hand of God: ftt your afetlion on things

above.

above , not on things on the earth *, for ye are dead, and your, life is hid with Chrift in God. A treafure of the my fteries of State] of the Kingdom of Heaven, Matt. 13. 11, He anfwered and [aid unto them, Becaufe it is given unto you to know the] myfteries of the Kingdom of Heaven, but to them it is not given. A treafure or the myfteries of intelligence and fecrets of correipondence, about what is doing in Heaven and Earth,! Pfal. 25. 14, The fecret of the Lord is with them that fear \nm: and he will fjjew them his Covenant. 'Gen. 8. 17, And the Lord Jaid , flail I hide fron Abraham that thing which I do} A treafure of the myfteries of duty, or of the approving, commanding will of God in all cafes, Ifa.%. 20, To the law t and to the teftimovy : If they fpeai^ not according to this word, it is becaufe there is no light in them. Pfal. 119, 9, Wherewith flail a your*? man cleanfe his way i by taking heed thereto accordi-ag to thy word. A treafure of the myiteries of di-ipeniations, whereby we may know the moft unknown footfteps of providence in dark difpeniations, Pfal. 77. 19, And thy footfteps are mt known: with Pfal. 73. 17, Vntil I went unto the fanftuary of God-, then under flood I their end. A treafure of the myfteries of the fecret Counfels and will of God, as it's, acted upon the hearts of men, Eph. 1.9, Having made kjwwn unto ns the myfterie of his will , according to his good pleafure , which he had purpofedin hitnfelf.li?b> 6. 17, Wherein God willing more abundantly to flew unto the heirs of pro-mife, the immutability of his counfel^ confirmed it by an Oath. A treafure of myfterious paradoxes, and feeming contradictions , wherewith the Gofpel-Covenant is filled, Gal. 2. 20, / am crucified with Chrift', neverthelefs I live', yet not I 9 but Chrift liveth in me, and the life which I now live in the flefl, I live by the faith of the fon of God, who loved me, and gave himfelf for me.

2. The myftery of Chrift, Eph. 3. 4, Whereby when ye read, you may under ft and my knowledg in the myftery of Chrift. Col. 2.2, To the acknowledgment of the myftery of God, and of the father, and of Chrift. There is a complication of myfteries in him ; he is all fecrets •, which had never been known unlefs himfelf had witnefTed and declared them*, the wifeft mitural Politicians, are ftupid here, 1 Cor. 2.8, Which none of the princes of this world knew : for had they known if,

Rr they

they would net have crucified the Lord of glory. Hence it is that he is lb often fpoken of, with a [_Beholdr\ ; There is a myfterie in his name•, all his names need an interpreter,, need his own declaration and witnefnng, Jer. 23.6, And this is his na-e whereby he flail be called: The Lord our rightcoujnejs. Rev. 19. l£, And his name is called., the word of God. M-t. 1.2;, Behold, a virgin flail be with child, and flail bring forth a fori, and they flail call his name Emmanuel, which being wterpi eted, is, God with us. There is a myftcrie in his perion, a high myftcrie in his natures, the union of two natures in that blefled perion, 1 Tim. 3. 16, jpiKppith-, out comr over fie, great is the myfterie cf godly nefs : God was manifefl in the flefl, yuftifed in the Spirit, feen of Angels, py cached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world > received, up into glory. A myfterie that cannot be throughly understood in this life. There is a myfterie in his offices, in his bearing them, and in his exercifing them, Heb.f. 11, Of whom we have many things to Jay , and hard to be uttered, feeing ye are dull of hearing. Heb. 8. 1, Now of the things which we have fpoken , this is the fum: we have fuch an High-priefl who-is fet on the right hand of of the throne of the Mayfly in the. Heavens . A myfterie in his union with his Church, and his inhabitation in them, which are referred to be throughly underftood till the day when Chiift fhall come again. Eph.<$. $ 2, r This is a great my flerie : But I fpeakjeoncerning Chnfl and the Church. Col. 1.27, To whom God, would make known, what, is the riches of the glory of this my flerie among the Gentiles, which is Chrift in you the hope of glory. Joh. 14.20, At that, day ye flail know that I am in my father , and y-ou in me, and I in you. ^

3. The myftery of the Golpel-righteoufhefs and way of juftifying and faving Tinners: This is the myftery upon which, many wife, learned men have ftumbled, becauie it hath not been revealed unto them by the witneis of the Covenant r Rom.y. 31, 32, 33, But Ifrael which followed after the law of riy heoufnefs , hath not attained to the law of righteoufnefs ', wherefore , becaufe they fought it not by faith , but as it were by the works of the law: for they ftumbled at that ftumbling-flone 0 as it is written, behold, I lay in Sion- a ftuwbling-fl^ne. 9 md rock^of offence ; and x whofloevtr belkvstb on him,flail " not

Chap. XVII. of tU Covenant* go;*'

not be afimmed. I Cor. I. 20, 2 3, Wfor* jj the wife ? Vthere It //?? ycrita . ? wfor* jj the difputer of this world ? hath not God made foolif) the wifdom of this world l But we freach Chrift crucified, unto the Jews a ft iwblwg-blocks, and unto the Greeks fooliftmefs. You may obferve feveral great myfteries concerning the Gofpel-righteoufnefs ; There is,

1. A myftery in the imputation of it to us: what greater myftery, than that a real Righteoufneis mould. come .to us by the imputation of the righteoufneis of another ! 2 Cor. 5. 21, For he hath made him to be fin for us , who kriew no fin, that we might be made the righteoufnefs of Gcd in him.

2. There is a myftery in, the inftrument apprehending this righteouihefs, I mean in Faith, 1 Tim. $.9, Holding the myftery of the faith: Which is a myfterious hidden grace in the manner of its life and acting, Col. 3. 1, For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Chrift in God.

$. There is a myftery in the perfons to whom it is imputed , or rather in the imputation of it with reference to the perfons unto whom it is imputed *, a palling by of the wot-thieft in the worlds acount, and imputing it to the nothings of the earth, Heb. 2. 16, for verily he tool^not on him the nature of Angels ', but he tooh^ on him the feed of Abraham. 1 Cor. 1.26,27, For ye fee your calling, brethren, how that not many wife men after the flefj, not many mighty , not many noble are called-, but God hath, chofen the foolijh things of the world, to confound the wife: and God hath chofen the weak^ things of the world to confound the things that are mighty : Which hath been matter of wonder unto many. 2 Sam. 7.18. Then went King David in, and fate before the Lord, and he faid, Who am I, O Lord God, 'and what is ?ny houfe , that thou haft. brought me hitherto ! All thefe, and many things more, concerning the Covenant, had never been known, if the Witnefs of the Covenant had not revealed, them and tefti-fied of them, Joh. 17. 6, I have manifefted thy name unto the men which thou gave ft me out of the world.

4. Chrift is the Witnefs of the Covenat, who eftabtifaeth zpA covfirmeth the truth of all that is contained in it: Chrift the true and. faithful witnefs, hath fworn it, and tcftified all the Articles, of the Covenant upon Oath, Rev'. 3. 14. Thefe things }akh the Amen, the faithful and true witnefs. 2 Cor. 1. ' Rr2 " 20.

20, For in him all the promifes of God are Tea-, and in him they are Av.cn. I iky, he is the Witnefs who hath e-ftablifhed the Covenant by his teftimony, and that in two reipefts: i. He hath fct his Seal to the Covenant, and attended all that is in it, Rev. 21.5, And he [aid unto ne y write: for thefe words aro true and faithful. Rev. 22. 6, And he Jaid unto me , thefe fdpngs are faithful and true, 2. He faith and fweareth that all things contained in the Covenant are true*, the true and faith:ul Witnefs of the Covenant teftifieth thefe things, and iaith Amen to them all. All that is contained in the Covenant may be fummed up in Commands, Promifes, Conditions, Threatnings, Predictions and Exceprions •, the truth of all which the witnefs of the Covenant hath tefti-6ed and fworn : 1. Commands: this is the great command of the new Covenant, That ye believe on the fon of Cody 1 Joh. 3.23. Chrift the Witnefs of the Covenant teftifieth, that that is the revealed will of God *, he hath laid it, and fworn that it is true*, nothing would pleafe his father better, Joh. 6.40. And this is the will of him that fent me , that every tne which feeth the fon, and believeth on him , may have ever-lafting life : and I Will raife him up at the lafi day. The new Covenant commandeth that we be holy, and that we love God, and live to him who hath loved us *, and love one another, ckc. 1 Pet. I. 16, Be ye holy, for 1 am holy. 2 Cor. 5. 15, And that he died for ally that they which live, fliould net henceforth live unto themfelves^ but unto him which dud for them, and rofe again. Pial. 31.2 3, O love the Lord all ye his Saints : for the Lord preferveth the faithful. Gal. 5. 14, For all the law is fulfilled in one word } even in this. Thou jiialt love thy neighbour as thy felf. And the Witnefs of the Covenant, Chrift, teftifieth ttiat it is true indeed \ thefe things are the Will of God, Mark^ 12/30, And thou jhalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heartj and with all thy foul, and with all thy mind , and with all thy ftrength: this is the firfi commandment. Joh. 13. 34, A new covimandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you *, that ye alfo love one another. Mat. 5. 4$, Be ye therefore perfect, even as your father which is in Heaven, is perfect. 2. Promifes and Propofals of mercy and good things. The Covenant propofeth and promifeth life to finners through the death of Chrift, Rom. 4.15, Who

was

was delivered for our offences, and was raifed again for ear yifttfication. Rom. .25, VI horn God hath fet forth to be a fro-fit lation through faith in his blood , to declare his righteoujnefs for the remiffion of fins that are paft, through the forbearance of God. Rom. 5.8, 9, In that while we were yet fwners^ Chrifl died for us; much more then being now juftified by his bloody we Jhall he faved } from wrath through him. And Chrift the Witneis of the Covenant teftifieth thefe thing?, and iaiththat they are the true and faithful layings of God, Rev. 1. \S, J am he that liveth, and was dead-, and behold I am alive for evermore, Amen-, and have the keys, of Hell and of Death. I Tim. 1. 15, This is a faithful faying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Jefus Chrift came into the world to fave firmer s, of whom J am chief. Luk. 19. 10, For the Jon of man is come to feeh^and to fave that which was loft. The Covenant propo-poieth and promifeth peace with God upon eafie terms,free-gifted righteouihefs, perfect Holinefs, compleat Victory over all the adverfaries of our happinefs, 2 Cor. 5. 19, 21. Rom. $. 21, to the 27. and 5. 15, to 20. Ez.c\^. $6. 25, &c. Chnttthe Witnefs of the Covenant teftifieth fteie things, be crftab'ifh-eth them all, 2 Cor. 1. 20, For all the promifes of God U him are Yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us^ He faith Amen to them all, and iweareth that they are true, Rev. 21.5, And he faid unto me, write \ for thefe words are true and faithful , Rev. 22. 6. And he faid unto we, thefe fay-tngs are faithful and true. Where the Witncf> of the Covenant fetteth his Seal of Confirmation unto all that is pro-mifed in the Gofpel-Covenant. 3. Thefe things which the new Covenant promifeth, it promifeth upon Condition of Faith, it promifeth them only to the believer, Rom. 10.9, That if thou fhalt confefs with thy mouth the Lord Jefus, and fialt believe in thine heart, that God bath raifed him from the dead, thou fa alt be faved. Rom. 3. 22. Even the righteoufnefs of God, which is by faith of Jefus Chrift unto all, and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference. Joh. 1. 12, But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the fons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Chrift the Witneis of the Covenant teftrfieth, that that is true; if ye believe not, ye fhall never be the better off any thing proposed by the new Covenant} and if ve believe, Ve $\i%Joh. 3.

J8.30V

■\$. \6, He that befievetb on him, is not condemned: but he

th.-tt ■ biluveth not, is condemned already, became .he .hath not bdicved in the name of the only begotten [on of God. He that bclnveth on .the [on , hath everlafting life, and he that believ-eth not the [on, flail not [ee life: bnt the wrath of God abid-cth on him. Joh. I i. 40, Jefits [aith unto her, [aid I not unto .thee, that i[ thou wouldfi believe, thou flwuldftJee the glory of -God? 4. There are alio Trjreatnings annexed unto the Cov\-f ntj, denouncing wrath and the vengeance of the Goipel, upon ail unbelievers and wilful rejecters of the new Covenant, iThef. 1.8, In flawing fire , taking, vengeance on them that .know not Cod, and that obey not the Go[pel of our Lord Jefus Chrifi. .1 Cor. 16. 22, If sw'y man love not the Lord Jefus g let hiv- be, Anathema Maranatha* And denouncing woe, and evil to the Hypocrite m hrart, to the backflider, 1 lie carclefs ileker of God, to the barren fruitless proiei-ibr, Mat. 2]. 13, But wo unto you Scribes-andPharifces, Hypocrites. Rev. 2. 5, fce.zctfbcr therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repr.:t r and dp thy firjt workj , or elfc I will , come uqto.tke qiucl-^fdnd willrtmovc thy candlefiich^out of his place, except then repent. ReVj. 3.16, So then, becaufe thou, art luke-yvaroj, and neither cold nor hot, I will [pew thee out o[ my mouth. Heb. 6.8, But that which bear eth thorns and briars is rejeued, and is nigh unto curfing, who[e end. is to be burned* Chrift the Witncts -pf the Covenant teftiheth theie things, and affirmeth they are the true layings of God,, as well as his' promlfes, Rev . 3. 14. Write, theje thi?;gs [aith the Amen, the faithful and true witnefs. Joh. 3. 18, But he that believeth not, it condemned already^ Joh. 8.24. 1[aid. therefore unto you, that ye [mil die in your fins ) for if ye believe not that I am he, ye fiall die in your fins. 5. There are Predictions and Pro-phefies in the Gofpel-Covenant, I mean efpeciaHy thele which concern Eternity^ the laft Judgment, Hell and Heavenjwhich <re the things that are lead believed of all that ever men heard tell of.. C'hnff the Witnefs of the Covenant : teftih*eth .alio, that theie things are true. ; the Covenant telleth us that this world flu 11 have an ejid,,. and-time ftall pe,_ no/ ; nrore,

vnap* Avar. oj ineLovenanr. gH

3-, 10, But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the nighty in the which the Heavens pall pafs aWay with a great notfe, and the elements pall melt with ferve?.t hear; the earth aljby a<id the works that are therein, pall be bur?it up. Chiui the Witnefs of the Covenant, teftibeth and ivveareth that is true, .^y. 10.5,6, And the Angel which I[aw ftand upon thefca, and upon the earthy lift up his hand to Heave n x and.fw'are by hi-n that Lveth forever and ever,who created Heaven, and the things that therein arc^andthe earth and the things that therein arc, and the Zealand the things which are therein,, that there pould be time no longer .The Covenant iaith,thatGod hath appointed a day wherein Chriftfhall jndg the world, and all (hall bow to him. Act. 17. 31, Because he hath appointed a day in the which he Will \udg the world in righteoufnefs, by that, man whom he hath ordained. And this witnefs of the Covenanant teftineth an:i con-firmeth that with an Oath, Rom' 14. 10, H, 12, We pall all ft and before the judgment feat of Chnfi ; for it is written , As I livey faith the Lord, every knee pall bow to me, and every tongue pall confefs to God, fo then every one of us pall give account of fcmfelfto God. The Covenant faith, there is a Hell and a Heaven, there is a refting-ptace prepafed for,the people of God, and a place of torment for all the wicked, 1 Cor. 2. q, 10, pm, as it is written y eye hath not feen^ nor ear heardy, neither hath entred into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his fpirit : for the fpirit fearcheth all things ■', yea, the deep things of God .-Luk. 16. 2 ^ -And in Hell he lift up his eyes , being in tor~ ment, and feeth Abraham afar vjf, and Laz+arm in his bofome d Rev. 14. 10, ii 5 The fame pall drink^ of the wine of the wrath of God,, which is poured out without mixture Jnto the cup of his indignation, and he pall be tormented with fire and brimfcone in prefence of ? the holy Angels, and in the pre fence of the lamb : and the fmo ak^of their torment afcendeth up for ever and ever. The Witnefs of the Covenant teitifieth that; theie things are true, for. he vyas both in Hell and Heaven, i. e, he faw both, andtaftexLof the things that are in them, PfaL 16. 10, For thou wilt not leave my foul in Hell. Luk. 23.43, J e ftts [aid unto him, Verily J fay, unto thee-, to. day thou pah be wilh me in paradife. joh fl 17, 5, And now O father glorifie-thou. **e, w^h thine mn felf, With the glory'which I had ppith thee

before -

jra chnjt the Wiinofs <Jhap> xvn.

before the world was. 6. There are Exceptions and Refervati-6ns of rhe crofles and affliction; in feveral cafes, by the Go-venat, Pfat. 8y. jo, $2, If his Children for fake my law , then mil I vifit their tranfgreffions with the rod. The Witnefs of the Covenant teftifieth it is true, and confirmeth it by making it an exprefs Rdervation and Exception in all bis dealings with his people, Lw^.9.2?, And he faid unto them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himfelf, and take up his irofs^daily and follow me. Luk. 14,27. And whofoever doth not bear his crofs,and comt after me, cannot be my Difciple, Mat. 16.24. Then faid Jtfus unto his Difciples, if any man will come after me, let himAeny himfelf, and take up his crofs and follow me.

2. The Covenant may be laid to beeftablifhed and confirmed by Chrift the Witnefs,in regard that it is his witnds that put-teth an end to controverfies about all things pertaining to the Covenant; for in- him they have a double eftablifh-tnent^ they are lure in themfelves, and they are lure unto us. 1. All which is contained in the Covenant is firm and lure in Chrift, 2 Cor. 1.20, for all the promfes of God in him Are yea, and in him, A en, unto the glory of God by *4| Aft. 13. 54) -And m concerning that he raijed him up fron the dead, vow no more to return to corruption, he faid on this wife, I will give you the fure mercies of David. His Witnefs makes it certain that there are fuch things, and that thefe things are irrevocable and unalterable , not to be done away nor broken, becaufe the Oath of God and witnefs of his Chrift is in this Covenant, which was not in the fir ft Covenant, PfaL$$. $4, 35, My Covenant will I not break,: nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.Once have 1fworn by my holincfs,that 1wtil not lye unto David. 2.His witnels maketh them fure to us, as well as fure in themfelves *, for it is that which puts the bufinels of our lalvation beyond doubting, at leaft fliouldput it beyond doubting, becaufe we haveChrifts teftimo-ny for it ,he hath made it a fworn article of the Covenant, Heb.6. 17, 1%,Wherein God willing more abundantly tofhew unto the heirs o c premifey the immutability of his counjel y confirmed it by an Oath (to wit, the Promife and Covenant made and confirmed with Abraham by the Ange! of the Covenant), that by two immutable things , in which it was impofftble for God to lye 9 we might have a flrong cmfolation , who have fled for

reftgg:

refuge to lay hold upon the hope fet before its. 1 Joh. 5. p, If we receive the witnefs of men , t%e witnefs of God is greater. %

For application of this: Let us firft refle&upon ourfelves, and the way of our hearts with the Lord, that we may be convinced how much we have flighted this Covenant-relation of Chrifts, how little ufe we have made of him as the witnefs of the Covenant *, and how final 1 weight we have laid-upon his teftimony. That this may appear ^ Confider, 1. He hath not been employed by us, to witnefs in all things wherein we have wanted certainty, in the matters pertaining to the Covenant; fuch as the revealing the fecret of his Covenant, the certifying us of his Covenant-love , and our Covenant-ftate and intereft in him, &c. How often have we fled unto, and trufted in means and marks for the attaining of thefe things, and have not employed him who was given for a witntfs to declare and allure of thefe things? Joh* 1. 18, No man hath feen God at any time; the only begotten Son 7 which is in the bofom of the father , he hath declared him. Pfal. 23. 14, The fecret of the Lord is with them that fear him\ and he will ^ew them his Covenant. Rom. S. 16, The fpirit it felf bear'eth witnefs with our fpirit , that we are the children of God. 2. He hath come and lpoken ? and hath teftified of things which concern our Covenant-ftate , by his fpirit and by his work in us', and we have not heard nor taken notice that it was the Witnefs of the Covenant, teftifying the things that concern himieif and his Kingdom, Heb. 1.2, God hath in thefe la ftday&fpoken unto us by his Son *, whom he hatb appointed heir of all things. Heb. $. 1, Wherefore, holy brethren , partakers of the heavenly callings confider the-Apoftle and High-prieft of our profeffion, Chriftjejus. Heb. 12; 25, See that ye refufe not him that fpeaketh : for if they cjca~ ped not , who refufed him that fpake on earth, much more Jhall not 'we efcape , if we turn away from him that fpeaketh from Heaven. Joh. 16. 5. 1 Joh. 5. 6, 8, &c. 3. His Witnefs and teftimony hath' been heard, and obfervably difcerned, and yet not received *, fometimes we have known that it was Chrift f peaking',, and that it could be no other;, and yet we have not received his teftimony, Joh. in 12, And none of the Difci-pies dnrft ask^him who art thou? knowing that it was theLcrd.

Si Joh. 1.

Job. l. 11, Hz came unto his own, and his own receive

hi.i% -not. He dotlf fometimes fpeak, and wc will not beHcve that it is he: 7^24.37,41, But they were ttrnfied and affrighted, and juppofed that they had fecn a fpirit. And while they yet believed not , for joy, and won-dred, he faid unto them, have ye not here any meat? 4. At other times we receive and believe his teftimony and wit-nefiing, and by and by upon the lmalleft temptation to unbelief, we fall a quarrelling, and difputing with the teftimony which we received, andftraight-way wereje&itasa delufion, Z/^24. 21, But we trlifted that it had been he which jhould have redeemed Ifracl: and be fides all this, to day is the third day fmce thefe things were done.

Vfe 2. Confider what manner of Witnefs he is, and what manner of witneftmg his teftimony is, that.you may lay weight upon whatfoever the witnefs of the Covenant faith. Chrift the witnefs of the Covenant may be commended, in order to the weight and credit of his teftimony, from thefe properties of the Witnefs, and the manner of his witneflmg. i. He is an Eye-witnefs of the Covenant, who was prefent, and heard,, and faw all the Covenant trantatted *, yea, he was an aclor in it throughout, as hath been faid before*, this teftimony he taketh to himlelf, Prov.%. 22, to 32,. And the fame is given him alfo by fuch as were lent to witnefs of him, Joh. 1.7,18, The fame came for a witnefs, to bear witnefs of the light, that all men through him might believe ; no, man hath feen God at any time: The only begotten Son which is in the bofome of the father , he hath declared him. 2. He is the true and faithful witnefs, Rev. 1. 5. & 3.7,14, which- cannot lye, and is not capable of being by a fled from the truth-for any refpecV, for he is the truth it f elf, 70k 14. 16. $. He is a Witnefs above all exception, there can be no exception laid againft him*, yea, all the great witnefles which God hath made uie' of in declaring this Gofpel from the beginning, do bear witneis of him, jich 3.24, Tea, and all the Prophets from Samuel, and thefe that follow after , as many as have fpoken, have likew ife foretold of thefe days. Aft. 10.4 >, To him give all the prophets witnefs, 4. His Witnefs is greater than the teftimony of men, 1 Joh. 5.9, If we receive the witnefs of men y the witnefs of Cod is greater:. Not only in refpeft of the

Authority

Authority of him who witnefTeth, *vtq< tpa, but in refpeft of the weight and imprefiionof his teftimony : For, i. His Witnefs fpeaks to the heart. 2. It ends the controverfie , there needs no further witnefling after he fpeaks, Hof. 2.14, Therefore behold , / will allure her , and bring her into the wildernefs, and fpeak^ comfortably unto her, Hebr. fpeak^ to her heart. Mat. 8. 8, The centurion anfwered and [aid, Lord, I am not worthy that thou fwuldft come under my roof: but fpeal^ the word only, and my fervant frail be healed. 5. Of all theie various things which he hath witneffed from the beginning of the world until now, there hath not failed one word, neither of one kind nor another, Jof. 21.45. & 2 3- ! 4> x 5-with Ifa. 63.9. Ate. 7. $o. 1 Cor. 10. 9. 1 Kings 8. 1 5, 24, 56, Ifa. 38. 15* Z/^24.44. Re-0.22.6) And he faid unto me. Theje fayings are faithful and true. And the Lord God of the holy prophets fonthis A ';. gel, to fluw unto his fervants the things which muft Jlwtly be done. Zech. I. 5, 6. Tour fathers, where are they ? and the prophets, do they live for ever ? but my words and my ftatutcs, which I commanded my fervant s the prophets, did they not take hold of your fathers ? And they returned, andfaid, Like as tbe Lord of hofis thought to do unto us , according to our ways , and according to our doings , fo hath he dealt with us.

Vfe 3. Be exhorted to receive him under this Covenant-relation, as he is given of God for a Witnefs to the people. Under this 1 comprehend theie particulars. i. If you would make uie of Chrift as the Witnefs of the Covenant;, then in ajl matters doubtful, appeal to his teftimony for decifion : if you have any doubt about any matter of faith or falvation, about any duty, about any thing pertaining to God, or unto your own Covenant-ftate and intereft in him, make his teftimony and witnefs your Judg in that matter; go familiarly and boldly to him, that he may determine the queftion, andrefolvc your doubt, Ifa. 8.20, To the Lw, and to the teftimony. 2 Pet. L9. We have alfo a more fure word of prophefie, whereunto ye do well that ye take heed^ as unto a light that finneth in a dark^place , until the dafdawn^ and the day-ftar arife in your hearts. As his Difciples did upon all occafions, Joh. 13. 21,22,25. & 14.5,8,22. 2. Heaii and give e.ar to whatfoever he witnefTeth •, and take it off his

S f 2 hand,

hand, Luk.g. 35. This is my beloved Sort, hear him. And look carefully th:it you neither neglect to hear what he will lay and witnefs of you, and to you, of your way or ftate, or prefent fit and temper, for you or againft you ', nor interrupt his witnefiing ; but let him fpeak out: nor, that you ftop the ear againft it: Thefe are marked in Scripture , as manifeft fins againft, and rejecting of his wkneffing, Aft. 24. 25, Go thy way for this time^ when I have a convenient fea-[on , I will call for thee. Zech. 7. 7, 1 1, Should ye not hear the words which the Lord hath cryed by the former Prophets ? But they refufed to hearken, and pulled away the fwulder, and flopped their ears that they f:oidd not hear. Heb. 12.2.5, See that ye reftife not him that fpeakjth : for if they tfcaped not, who reffifed him that fpake on earth ; much n ore Jhall not we e rape, if we turn away from him that fpeakjth from Heaven. Neh. 9. ;o, And teftified againfi them by thy fpirit, in the Prophets : yet would they not give ear : therefore gave ft thou them into the hand of the people of the Lands. 3. If you receive him in this Covenant-relation, you mull take his teftimony for Sufficient proof of whatfoever he fpeaks unto you; lay fhch weight upon his witnefling, that it may be to you an end of all ftrife and controverfie, 1 J oh. 5. 9, 10, // m receive the witnefs of men , the witnefs of God, is greater : He that believeth on the Son of God, hath the witnefs in himfelf : He that believeth net God, hath made him a lyar, becaufe he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. You mud believe his Witnefs, elie you wrong him exceedingly, Joh. 14. 11, Relieve me that I am m the father, and the father in me : or ,dfe believe me for the very works fake. Pial- 35. 3, Say unto my foul, I am thy falvation. 4. If you receive him as the Witnefs of the Covenant, having received him in this Covenant-relation , you may never come in the contrary of any thing that he faithr, you muil neither iufpect, nor quar-^ ret, nor be jealous of any thing which he hath witnefled,

Prsv. 14. 5, A faithful witnefs will not lye. For Chrift will no more lye unto you, wherein he hath fworn and witnef-fed, tnWGod will lve unto him, which is impoflibie, Pfai 89- i>, Once have I f\XD?n by my holinefs , that I will not lye tfnto David. Heb. 6. ijfj Wherein God,willing more abundantly ■:c\v unto the heirs of promtfe, the immutability of Mis court-

M

fel, confirmed it by an Oath. 5. If you receive him as the Witnefs of the Covenant, then muft you not only receive whatsoever he faith, for a cerrain truth of the Covenanr,but what he ipeaketh not and teftifieth not, concernining your Covenant-ftate and relation, that you muft take to be no truth, though it % were otherwife fuggefted to you by temptation, Job. 14. 2 5 In my fathers houfe are many manfions 7 if it were not fo, I would have told yon: J go to prepare a place for you. If he had other thoughts towards you, then., thole which he hath told you, he would have revealed them, ( I fpeak to believers) , Jer. 29. 11, For I know the thoughts that I thinly towards yon, faith the Lord, thoughts of peace y and not of evil\ttgive you an expetted end. 6. Whatsoever way he doth witneis and teftifie, take his Witneis, and preicribe not a way unto him, but make all his ways of witnefling welcome, whether he Witnefs by his word, or by his work-, by his fpirit, or by your fpirit, 2 Pet. 1. 19, We have alfo a more fur e word of prophecy,.where unto ye do do well that ye take heed, as unto alight that Jhineth into a dark^ place, until the day dawn, and the day-flar arife in your hearts. I Joh. 5. 10, He that believeth on the Son of God, hath the witnefs in himfelf Rom. 8. 16, The fpirit it felf beareth witnefs with our fpirit, that we are the Children of God. Neh. 9. 30, Yet many years didfl thou forbear them, andteftifiedfl againflthem by thy fpirit, in thy Prophets. Rom. 10.8, But what faith it? the word is rtigh thee, even in thy mouth , and in thy heart ^ that is, the word of faith which we preach.

Vfs 4. For decifion of the great practical controverfies which are in the world ( to lay .nothing here of Doctrinal controverfies relating to the Covenant, which are alio decided by his Teftimony)-,as well thole which are amongft Athiefts,. and in the unbelieving world, as thofe which are among believers*, Chrift is given for a Witnefs to the people, and what he faith muft put an end to every controverfie. Ia It's a controverfie to the world,whether time (hall have% end, or whether the fafhion of this world fhall pafs away,or whether all things (hall continue as now they are-, and whether too morrow (hall be as this day ^Pfalj^g.I 1, Their inward thought is, that their houfes fhall continue for ever. Ifa. 56. 12, Come ye, fay .they, 1 will fetch wine, 'and wc will fill our felves with ftrong drinks

and

and to morrow fiall be as this day, and much more abundant. The Witnefs of the Covenant hath decided the controverfie by his Teftimony and Oath, and hath faid, that time fhall be no more,Ktv. 10.6.) 2, It's a controverfie to the world, whether Eternity be coming after time,or whether there be another life and world after this, iPct. $.4, Andfaying,wh'ere is the promife o; his coming ? for jince the fathers fell ajlecp, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. The Witneis of the Covenant hath decided this alio, R.v. 22. 20, He which teftifcth the ft things, faith? furely 1 tome quickly,

_ Amen. Tit. 1.2, In hope of eternal life, which God that cannot tyr, promifd before the world began. Joh.6/47, Verily, verily , / fay unto you, he that believeth on me, hath everlafhng life. 1. It's a controverfie to the world, whether there be any reiurreclion and judgment to come, or any immortality of the Soul, If a. 22. 15, And behold,.joy and gladnefs, faying cxen, and killing foep ? eating fteflj, and drinking wine 1 let as eat and drinks for to morrow- we Jhill dye. Luk. 12. 19, And I will fay to my foul, foal, thou haft much goods laid up for many years ■> take thine eafc, eat, drink^j and be merry. The Witnefs of the Covenant hath decided that controverfie, and teftifieth, that he hienftff had experience of it *, ke was dead and is alive, Rev. h iS, I am he that liveth , and was dead y and behold I am alive for evermore, Amen. Joh.6.40, And. this is the will of him that fent me, that every one that feeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have cverlafting life : and I will raife him up at the la ft day. Heb. 12. 2 3, To the general ajfembly y and Church of the firft born , which are written in Heaven *, and to God the Judg of all, and to the fpirits of )uft men made perfect. Mat. 22. 2 5, to 31. 4. It's a controverfie to the world, whether there be any Heaven or Hell; they fay in their hearts, who knoweth that there are filch things, and what theyb:, and where they are ? Z,k^.i6. 1 1, And he J aid unto him, If they hear not Mofes and the prophets, neither will they be perfwaded, though one rofe from the dead. Ifiu28. 15, Becaufe ye have faid, we have made a

, Covenant with death, and with Hell are we at agreement,when the overflowing fcourge ftmll pafs through , it jhall not come unto us. The Witnefs of the Covenant teftifieth rhat there are fuch thing?, and that he law both, and txperienced the

truth

truth of the things that are written of them, Pfal. 16.10, For thou wilt not leave my SohI in Hell , neither wilt thon fuffer thine holy one to fee corruption. Luk.23.4j5, Verily I Jay unto thee, to day Jhalt thou be with me in Paradife. Joh. 1.1, $. &.14. 2. Luk. 16. 23,24, 25. Heb,i2.2},24. aThef. i.-g. Rev. 21. & 22. 5. It's a controverfie to the world, whether there be a God,or a Providence that ruleth the world, Pfal, 14. 1, The fool hath Jaid in his hearty there is no God. Ha. 2p. 15, And they fay, who feeth us r and who knoweth us? The Witneis of the Covenant hath decided this controverfie, Job. 20. 17, / afcend unto my father, and your father, and to my Godj and your God. Joh.<^. 57, As the living father hath fent me, and I live by the father: fo he that . eateth me, even be-all live by we.'Dan. 5.21,23, Till he knew that the mo ft high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he hath ay-joint ed over it whomfoever he will. And the God in whofe hand thy breath is, and whofe are all thy ways, haft thou not glorified. Rev. 15. 3,4, And they fmg the fong of Mofes the Jervant of God, and the fong of the lamb , faying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty, juft and true itrc thy ways, thanking of faints. Who ftiall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorifie thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations ftia.ll come and worftiip before thee, for thy judgments are made mamfeft. 6. It's a controverfie with the world , yea and ibmetimes alio with the iaints, whether the people of God, or the wicked of the world have the better lot, Pfal. 73. }, 1 z,*For I was envious at the fooliftiy when I faw the fro ferity of the wicked. Behold, thefe are the- ungodly who profper in the world: they increafe in riches. But this alio is decided by the Witneis of the Covenant, Pfal 49. 18, ip^ Though- whiles he lived, he bleffed his Soul: and men will praife thee, when thou doe ft well to thy felf. He ftiall go to the generation of his fathers, they ftiall never fee light. Joh. 3-^,36, He thatkelieveth on him, is not condemned : but he that believ-ctb not, is condemned already, becaufe he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. He that believeth on ihe Son, hath ever la flinglife *, and he that believeth not the San, ftiall not fee life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. lfa. j. 10, 11, Say ye to' the righteous, it ftiall be well with btiQ f 4 Qr th e y fiaU eat the fruit of their doings. Wo unto \ th*

the wicked^ it frail be ill with him, for the regard of his hanMs [hull be given him. Rev* 21.4, And God frail wipe' all tears from their eyes : and there frail be no mor death, neither forrow, nor crying, neither frail there be any more fain , for the former things are pajjed away. Again,- it is a controverfie to doubting believers, whether God hath chofen them and loved them with an everlafting love, PfaL 88.4, 14, I am counted with them that go down to the pit. Lord, why cafteft thou off my Soul? This controverfie is decided by the Witnefs of the Covenant, who giveth that double certainty of alt thefe things, whereby they are not only made lure in themfelves, becaufe he hath teftified them j but are alio made Jure unto us, Jer> 31. 3, The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, faying, yea, I have loved thee with an everlafting tove : therefore with loving-kindriefs have I drawn thee. Heb. 8. io. For this is the Covenant that I will make with the houfe of Ifrael after thefe days, faith the Lord: I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they frail be to me a peopte. Where the fayings of Jeremy are applied to Chrift who made the Covenant. Joh. 15. 13, 16, 19, Greater love hath no man then this, that a man lay down his life for his friends, Te have not chofen me^ but I have chofen yon, and ordained yon, that ye ' frould go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit frould remain. But becaufe ye are not of the world, but I have chofen you out of the world, therefore the world hdteth you. Joh. 6. 69, And we believe and ate jure that thou aft that [Chrift, the Son of the hiving God. 2. It is a controverfie to doubting believers, whether they be the Children of God, and whether they be effectually callexl by the Grace of Chrift, PfaL 22. 6, But I am a worm and no man *, a reproach of men , and defpifed of the people. . Chrift decides the. controverfie'by interpofing his TeftimOny, Joh. I 3. 35, By this pall alt men know that ye are my Difci-ples, if ye have love one to another.< Rom. 8. 16, The fpirit it felf beareth witnefs with our fpirits, that we are children of God. Ha.43. 1, Fear not, for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name, thou art mine. 3. It is a controverfie to doubring'-behevers, whether they foal! ever fee Chrift, and meet' with him again, when he doth but a little withdraw out of their fight, Jfa: 49. h\ ^ Ht $**: fed,

the

the Lord hath forfaken me , and my Lord hath forgotten me. Whether they fhall at any time again be comforted with his prefence.- but he decides the controverfie, and witnef-leth clearly, that he and they fliall meet again, Joh. 16. 22, And ye now therefore have for row ' but I will fee you again , and your heart fhall re Joyce, and your joy no man takfth from you. Joh. 14. 18, / will not leave you comfortlefs, I will come to you. Ha. 54. 8, In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a- momeni ; but with everlafling kindnefs will I have mercy en thee, faith the Lord thy redeemer. Ifa. 49 15, Can a woman, forget her fucking-child, that fie fiwuld not have compajfwn on the fen of her womb ? yea, they may forget, yet wll I not forget thee. 4. It's a controverfie to the doubting-believer, whether there be any reality in his prefence, and in the fellowship of his company, both when they enjoy it, and when they want it, Luk. 24.21, 37,41, % Ht we trufted that it had been he which fiould have redeemed Ifrael: and be fide all this, to day is the third day fince thefe things were done. But they were terrified and affrighted, and fuppofed that they had feen a, fpirit. And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondred. 2 Chron. 6. 18, But will God in very deed dwell with fnen on the earth? But by hisWitnefs he decides that controverfie, Luk. 24. 58, 39,40, 42, And he faid unto them, why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arife in your hearts . ? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I my fclf: handle me and fee, for a fpirit hath not flefi and bones as ye fee me have. And when he had. thus fpoken, he jhewed them his hands and his feet. And they gave him a piece of a broyled fiflj, and of an hony-comb. Joh. 6. 20, But he faith unto them, it is I, be not afraid. 1 Cor. I. 9, God is faithful by whom ye were called unto the fellowfirip of his Son Jefm Chrifi our Lord. 5. It is a controverfie to the doubting-believer, whether his Salvation be fure or not, whether he fhall be faved and inherit Life-eternal, Pfal.SS. 11, 12, Shall thy lovi?ig-kindnefs be declared in the grave ? or thy faithfulnefs in deftrufhion ? JJjall thy wonders be known in the darkj and thy righteoufnefs in the land of forgetfulnefs ? But Chrift hath interpofed hisWitnefs to decide that controverfie, Joh. 6. 57, As the living father hath fent me, and I live by the father : fo he that eateth -ctf, even he fliall live by me. Joh. 3. 15, 16 } Tktt whofoever

T t believeth

helleveth in him, frould not perifi, but have Eternal life. For God fo loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whojoever believeth in him, jhould not perijh, but have everlafting life. Pial. $5. 3, Say unto my foul, I am thy Salvation. 6. It is a controverfie to believers, whether they fhall ever be Victorious over their Lufts, and prevail againft their temptations, when they feel the ftrength and working of corruption in themfelves, as Paul did, Row. 7. 14,15, But f am carnal, fid under fin \ For that which I do, J allow not: for what I would, that I do not , but what I hate, that I do. Many a time they utter that language, Lam. $. 18, And I faid, my flrength and my hope is peri foe d from the Lord. But the Witnefs of the Covenant teftifieth in this alio, and decides the controverfie in their favours, ifoh.4. 4> Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: becaufe greater is he that is in you, then he that is in the world. I Joh. 5. 4, 5, For whatfoever is born of God, over com eth the world: and this is the vittory that overcometh the world, even our faith : who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that y Jefus is the Son of God? Rom. 16.20, And the God of peaee fliall bruife Satan under your feet portly. 7. It is a controverfie to doubting-believers, whether they fhall perievere to the end, or fhall not rather fall away finally. Pfal. 51. 11, Caft me not away from thy pre fence: and take not thy holy fpi-rit from me. But Chrifi hath decided the controverfie, Joh. 17. 12, Thofe that thou gave ft me, I have kept, and none of them is loft, but the fon of perdition. Joh. 10.28, And 1 give unto them eternal life, and they fall never perijh, neither jhall any man plucky them out of ?ny hand. Joh. 14. 19, Becaufe 1 live, ye pall live alfo. 8. It is a controverfie to the doubting-believer, whether it be good for him to be fo dealt with, to be afflicted , deferted, tempted,&c. Pfal. 42. 9, I will fay unto my God, my rockj why haft thou forgotten me ? why go I mourning becaufe of the opprejfwn of the enemy f Pfal. 71* M> 14? Verily J have clean fed my heart in vain, and wafted my hands in Jnnocency. For all the day long I have been plagued, and chaftened every morning. Chrifi: hath decided this controverfie alfo, not by his verdict only of the matter, but by his Witnefs in his peoples hearts, Joh. 16.7, Never-thelefs I tell you the truth , it is expedient for you that I go

away:

away i for if I go not away, the comforter "Will not come unta you : but if 1 depart, I will fend him unto you. Rom. 8. 28, And we know that all things work^ together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his pur-pofe. 1 Pet. 1. 6, Wherein ye greatly rejoyce: though now for a feafon ( if need be ) ye are in heavinefs through manifold temptations. Pfal. 119.71, It is good for me that I have been afiicfed, that I might learn thy fiatutes. It is a controverfie to the doubting-believer, while he reaps not the preient fruit of his leeking God, whether it be in vain to ferveGodr, and to follow duties, Pfal. 7;. i}, Verily i have clean fed my heart in vain, and wajlied my hands in innocency. But it is the Witnefs of the Covenant who only can decide this; and he hath done it, 7/2.45. 19, I [aid not unto the feed of' Ja~ cob, feekjye me in vain : I the Lord, fpeak^ right eoufnefs, I declare things that are right. Pfal. 73.28, But it is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trufi in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy work*.

VJe 5. This Covenant-relation of Chrifts, layeth grounds of comfort to believers. j*-

1. That you want not ^Witnefs to teftifle unto you concerning all things which are dark and doubtful, If a. 5 5. 4, Behold, I have given him for a witnefs to the people. 1 Joh. 5. 8,9, lo y And there are three that hear witnefs in earth, the fplrit, and the water, and the blood, and thefe three agree in one. If we receive the witnefs of men, the witnefs of God is greater: for this is the witnefs of God, which he hath teftified of his Son : He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witnefs in him-felf: he that believeth not God, hath made him a lyar, becaufe he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. So that if you be doubtful, and in the dark about any thing pertaining to God and to the matters of your Salvation, you know how to have that witnefTed and plainly made out unto you, by Chrift the Witnefs of the Covenant*, and if you continue under your doubting, blame your felves, If a. 42. 6, -And I give thee for a Covenant of the people, for a light of the Ge'ntites.

2. Another ground of comfort, refulting from this Covenant-relation, is, that we not only have a Witnefs, but that we have fuch a Witnefs, him for a Witnefs •, that God

Tt 2 who

who might have given us other witnefTes, and have denyed this Witnefs, hath, given him for a Witneis, Htb. i. 1,2, God who at fundry times, and in divers manners, /pake in times paft unto the fathers by the Prophets', hath in thefe laft days fpoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom he alfo made the worlds. Aft. 14. 17, Nevertheless, he left not himfelf without witnefs , in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful fia* fins, filling our harts with food and gladnejs. So fit a Witneis, ljoh.i. 2, 1, who heard and law, and afted all the bufinefs of the Covenant, Prov. 8. 22, to 32. Sa faithful a Witnefs, that will not lye, that cannot lye, Rev. 1. 5. and 3..14. So great a Witnefs, a perlbn of fuch Authority, being God, ijoh.^.g. LukzQ. 35.. So companionate a Witnefs^ who can pity his doubting-people, Heb. 5. 2. So condefcending a Witnefs, who can ftoop to teach and perfwade the weaklings of the people, Ifa. 40. 11. Joh.y, 39, as all his carriage did prove, while he was upon the earth: So convincing a Witnefs, whole teftimony can put an end to all ftrife, if he^vill only fpeak the word, Mat, 8. 8. And all this is for the ftronger coniblation of Believers, Heb. 6. 17, 1.8,, Wherein God, willing more abundantly to fbcvp unto the heirs of promifi, the immutability of his counfel, cm-firmed it by an oath : That by two immutabile things, in which it was impQJfible for God to lye, we might have a firong confola-tion, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope fit before us.

3. Another ground of comfort which this relation afford-eth to believers, is, That Chrift is by office a Witnefs, and\ that he is. a• Wicnefc by Covenant.* i>e. not only doth the office which: is upon .him, bind this upon him/, but by Cove-: nant and voluntary conde'cenfion,* he is engaged,, and hathi confented.to.be a Witnefs to the people: therefore faith the Lord, B:hold 1 have given himfor a witnefs. Ha. 55.4. And he faith, Lo 1 come to do. thy, will, ¥kb. 10.9. This is your-comfort, B:Hevers, that Chriil: is a Witnefs by office and Covenant, and can no more deny to teftifie unto you the, things pertaining to the Covenant, .than ye can-deny his office, or break his /Covenant.

4-' Another ground of comfort in this Covenant-relation*

is,.

is, that he is given for a witnefs to the people : I mean, that whatfoever belongs to him by this office and relation of being a Witnefs, and whatfoever he is by vertue thereof, that he is:, and that he performeth to all the people of God without exception or refpect of perfons, what he hath been in his way of witnefTing, and what he hath teftified and declared to others of the people of God *, infomuch that he hath fetled, quieted and comforted them, by doing the part of a Witnefs, to reveal and to prove unto them, things about which they doubted, concerning their Covenant-ftate, and his- Covenant-love; that fame he will do to thee and to any of his people, Rom. $ . 22, Even the righteoufnefs of God, which . is by faith of Jefus Chrift^ unto all, and upon all them- that believe : for there is no difference. Gal. 3.28, There is neither Jew nor Greeks there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female , for ye are all one in Chrift Jefus. Aft. J 0.34, Then Peter opened his mouth , and faid, of a truth I perceive that God is no refpellor of perfons. 1 Joh. 1. 3, That which we have feen and heard, declare we unto you-, that ye alfo may have fellowjhip with us ', and truly our fellowjhip is with the father r: and with his Son Jefm Chrift.

CHAP. XVIII.

Chrijl the Meffenger or Angel of the Covenant.

THE fourth relation which Chrift beareth in the Covenant of Grace,is, That he is the Meffenger of the Covenant. Mai. $. I, The Lord whom ye feek^ ft) all fudder.ly come to his temple y even the Meffenger of the Covenant whom ye .d/elight in. That this is fpoken and meant of Chrift, is acknowledged both by Chriftian and Jewifh Interpreters: It is alio clear from the. Text, that it can be meant of no otIter: for the'Meffenger of the Covenant is he, before whom John the Baptiil wasfent a Meffenger to prepare the way, MaU 3. \, Behold,.

I Will'

/ will, fend my Aieffengcr, and he flail prepare the way before me. Luk: 7- 2 7, This is he of whom it is written^ behold, 1 fend' my Mcffenger before thy face, which flail prepare thy way be-fore thee. Luk. I. 76, And thou Child flail be called the Prophet cf the High?ft: for thou flak go before the face of the Lord , to prepare his ways. This is he who is the Lord, whom the people leek, and in whom they delight*, he whole coming was much longed and looked for, by the people of God: this is he who fitteth as a refiner, v. 2, 3. Now this can be no other but Chrift: compare this with Lnk; 2. 25, $8. Ifa. 59. 20. with Rom. 11. 26. 2 Thef. 2. 8.

The word in the Original, here .D'lDn "JX^I umalach haberith, the MeiTenger or Angel of the Covenant, as Arr. Mont, renders it j or the Angel of the Teftament, as the Chald. Paraphrajl, with the ^70), and Hieron read if, the Hebrew word, llay, is of a large iignification, as i^i*©* is in the Greeks Language, and lis. uied for any delegate, whether Meifenger, AmbafTador or Mimfter, employed for any efflcV whether to declare or to ad and effect any thing:, and is applyed to, and uied of men of created ipints, and of Chrift'; which fhall appear in the opening of the name as it's applicable to Chrift.

For the better understanding of this relation which Chrift fuitaineth in the Covenant: We fhall fhortly hold forth, 1. What the name MeiTenger or Angel of the Covenant doth import, as to the nature of the thing, 2, In what re-fpects it is applicable to Chrift, 3. Betwixt what parties he is a MeiTenger. 4. Whole MeiTenger he is •, of one of thefe parties, or of both. 5. In what bufinefs he is a MeiTenger. 6. Somewhat of the properties of this MeiTenger of the Covenant, which commend his travelling in this employment..

And 1. the name MeiTenger or Angel doth import, 1. A delegation or Truit: a MeiTenger is a Truftee*, it is a name of office or imployment, and doth neceflanly import a MnTioiv, therefore it is often joyned with lending, See Mat. $i I. Behold, I will fend my meffenw, and he flail prepare the way before me. Mat. 11. 10, Belmld, I fend my meffenger before thy face. I Kings 19. 2, Tmn JcL^ebel fent a meffenger

H7)t9

t,nap. AVlii. oj the Covenant.

unto Elijah,'faying, &c. If it be asked, unto which of Chi ids offices doth tnis name relate? I aniwer, it doth in ibme re-ipcct relate to all his offices, becauie his MefTage is as large as his Million and Unction, which inclndeth all his offices •, but it doth more especially relate to his Prophetical and Prieftly Office, becauie in regard of theft mainly, he travelled betwixt the parties, and carried Mefiages and Reports hither and thither. 2. This name of MelTenger cloth import a fubordination or fubje&ion, in regard that he who fendeth, is greater than he who is lint, J oh. 15. 16, Verily , verity J fay unto you , the Servant* is not greater than his Lord, neither he that is fent, greater tien he that fent him. Mat.S.9, Fcr I am a mavi under Authority, having foldiers under me : and I fay to this man, go, and he goeth : and to another y come, and he cometh : and to my fervant, do this, and he doth it. And therefore it mull: be underftood of Chrift, in regard of his difpeniatory employment and voluntary conde-fcenfion, whereby be humbled himielf to travel in the work of Redemption, Phil. 2, And took^upon him the form of a fer-van. 1. This name ofMeiTenger of the Covenant, doth import on the part of a Mefienger, a travelling betwixt the parties of the Covenant, betwixt him who fendeth Chrift, and theie to whom he is fent, Ifa. 5;. 11, He fiall fee of the travel of his foul , and flnzll be fat is fed. Joh. 16.28, / came forth from the father, and am come into the -world: a~ gain, I leave the world) and go to the father. Joh. 14. 2. / go to prepare a place for you. 4. This name imports corre-ipondence and intercourfe betwixt the parties, through the MeiTenger, and by his means and travel, iSs.m.n. 22,23, 25, So the meffenger went, and came and Jhewed David all that Joab had fent him for. And the Meffenger faid unto David, furely the men prevailed againfl us: Then David faid unto the meffenger, thus jhalt thou fay unto Joab, let not this thing difpleafe thee,&c. JW?. 17.6,8, I have manifefled thy name unto the men which thou gave ft me out of the World: arid they have believed that thou didfi fend me. Joh. 1 1 • h -dnd that he was come from God, and went to God.

2. Confider next, Jn what refpe&s the name Meffenger is applicable to Ghrift with relation to the Covenant. 1. Jh

regard

regard of the power and truft committed unto him in the matters of the Covenant \ he is the MefTenger of the Covenant, that is, the great Lord Ambafladour extraordinary, and Truftee of Heaven, who reprefented his father, ;nd who was Plenipotentiary, being perfectly inftru&ed, and fully im-powred to propound, treat and conclude in all matters pertaining to the Covenant, and the fettlement of peace 'twixt God and man:, and in this ienfe the word is ufed, i Kings 16. 7. and 17.4, CD'DKbc. malakim Meffer.gers, i.e. Am-balTadours, and J fa. 33.7. ?£*fcSa melache, the Awbajjadors of peace : thus Chrift is the MefTenger of the Covenant-, this power and trufl: is committed unto him, to repreient his father, 2 Cor. 5. 19, To wit, that God was in Chrift, reconciling the world unto himfelf. Hcb. 1. 1, 3, God hath in thefe laft days fpoken to us by his Son. And to treat and conclude with us a Covenant in his name, Joh. 5.22, for the father judgeth no man : but hath committed all judgment unto the Son. Joh. 17. 2, As thou haft given him power over all flejh 7 ■that he fl?ould give eternal life to as many as thou haft given him. Mat. 28. 18, All power is given unto me in Heaven and tarth.

2. This name of MefTenger of the Covenant, is applicable to him in regard of his pains and travel in the matters of the Covenant: I mean, in regard of his work as well as his trufl:; and thus in regard of ieveral pieces of his work and travel, he may be called the MefTenger of the Covenant .• 1. He is the Mefienger who carried the MefTage of a new Covenant, who travelled from Heaven to Earth with this MefTage, to make a Covenant betwixt God and Tinners ; he came exprefly for this one errant, Gal. 4. 4, 5, But when the fulnefs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son wade of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of Sons. 1 Joh. 5.6, This is he that came by.water and blood, even Je-fus Chrift, not by water only, but by water and blood. 1 Joh. 1. 5, This then is the meffage which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darknefs at all. And in this fenfe the word is frequently ufed for an Expref?,or one fent for a particular Errant and purpof c.Joh.^ 1.-6, 7, There was a man fent from God, whofe name was John

The

The fame came for a witnefs, to bear witnefs of the light, 'that all men through him might believe. Mat. 11. 10, For this u he of whom it is written. Behold , / fend my me finger before thy face, which ftiall prepare thy way before thee. 2. He is the Meflenger who did publifti and intimate the new Covenant, and Gods gracious purpofe in it, as that thing whieli was his errant in the World", he did it Authoritatively, o-thers only Minifterially, iCor. 5.20, Now then we are am-baffadors for Chrift, as though God did befeech yon by u^ we fray yon in Chrifis ftead, be ye reconciled to God. He W the chief Minifter of the new Teftamenr, others only by com-miflion from him, J fa. 61. 1, The fpirit of the Lord God is upon me,' becaufe the Lord hath annointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek: Heb. 8.2, 6, 10, A minifter of the Saniluary, and of the true Tabernacle which the Lordpitched f and not man. But now hath he obtained a more excellent mini-ftry, by how much alfo he is the mediator of a better Covenant, which was eftablijhed upon better promifes. For this is the Covenant that J will make with the houfe of Ifrael, after thofe days faith the Lord,&c. Eph-^-g. il, Now fhat he afcended, what is it, but that he alfo depended firft into the lower parts of the earth ? and he gave fome Apefiles , and fome Prophets , and fome Evangelifts , and fome Paftors and Teachers. Luk. 19. *o, Eph. 2. 17. Pov.o. 1, 3. So the word is taken for one that intimateth or bringeth word, and giveth notice of any thing, Job 1.14. J, He is the Meflenger who doth interpret and declare the Meflage of the new Covenant, who travelleth to be an Interpreter of the mind of God in that matter, Mat. 11.27, All things are delivered wto me of my father: and no man knoweth the Son bat the father: neither knoweth any man the father fave the Son, and he to whomfoever the Son wiH reveal him.Joh. 1 . 18, No man hath ften God at any time: the only begotten Son which is in the bo fome of the father, he hath declared him. Rom. 3.25,26, Whom God hath fet forth to be 4 propitiation, through Faith in his blood, to declare his rightc-oufhefsfor the remijfton of fins that are paft,through the forbearance of God. To declare, 1fay, at this time his righteoufnefs: that he might bejuft, and the juftifier of him which believeth in Jefus. Luk. 24. 17, And beginning at Mofes, and all the Prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures, the things concerning

Vv himf'tf*

himfelf Hence he is called a Prophet, A&. 3.22. And fW Prophet. Joh. 6. 14. and 7.40.. And in this ienfe this word is taken, Job 33.23, If there be a mejfenger with him, an inter •-prefer, one among a. thoufand, to flew unto man his uprightnefs. 4. He is the meffenger, which atteth the Covenant upon, the hearts of his people ,. effective & phyfice, I mean, the. MefTenger which attacheth the hearts of his people fas a Serjeant at Arms, that layeth hands upon a man ) and bring-eth them into the bond of the Covenant ; the MefTenger that. nevel* leaveth purfuit until he hath apprehended, Eiek^ 20. 37, And 1 will bring y oh into the bond of the Covenant. Heb. 8. 10, For this is the Covenant that I will make with the houfe of Ifrael,after thofe days, faith the Lord: J will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to. them a God, and they fliall be to me a people. Hof. 2.1 9, And J will beJroth thee unto me for ever, yea, I will betroth thee nnto me in righteoufneft, and in judgment, and in loving-kind-n.efs,avd in mercies. Ezek. 36,27, And I will put my fpirit. within yon, and caufe yon to walkj.n my ftatutes, and ye fliall k?ep my judgments, and do them. Joh. (5. 29,. 37, Jefus anfwer-ed ana jaid unto them, this is the work, of God, that ye believe on him whom he hathfent* All that the father giveth me, fliall come to me. So this word is ufed, 1 Sam. 19.1 i,i4> Saul alfo fe?jt meffefigers unto Davids houfe to watch him, and to flay him in the morning: And when Saul fent mejfengers to David, fie fdid y he is fiek, 5. He is the meflenger which reporteth the Covenant, and the tranfa&ions with every Soul that receiveth this.Gofp.el, where, and with whom the treaty tookeffetV,. and where, and with whom, the propofal of the Covenant halted, Joh. 17.6,7,8, I. have manifefled thy name unto the men which thou gave ft me out of the world', thine they were ; and thou gave ft them me; and they have kept thy word. Now they have known that, all things whatfoever thou haft given me 7 are of thee- For J have given unto them the words which thou gave ft me, and they have received them, and have known furely that I came out from thee, and. they have believed that thou didft fend me. So the word is ufed, Gen. 32-6> And the meffengers returned to > Jacob, faying, &C.

3. Betwixt whom doth Chrift travel as Meflenger of the Covenant? For. a right understanding of this, we are to

make

make ufe of thefe two neceflary distinctions : 1. The Covenant may be confidered, either as it's preached and offered generally to< all who hear it, Aft. 1^.46,47, ThenPauland Barnabas waxed bold, and [aid, it was necejfary that the word of God jlwuld firft have been fpcken unto you : but feeing ye put it from yon, and ]udg your [elves unworthy of everlajiing life, Lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For fo hath the Lord commanded us-, faying, I have fet thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou Jhouldft be for falvation unto the ends of the earth. Mark. 16. 15, Andhe faid unto them,go ye into all the world, and preach the G of pel unto every creature : Or it may be confidered, as it is atted,and effectually fulfilled upon the hearts of the Elect, Atb. 13.48, And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad^tndglorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were crdaimdto eternal life, believed. Heb. 8. with Jer. $ 1. 2. This different confideration of the Covenant, affords a diftin&ion of the parties in the Covenant: the parties contracting in the Covenant preached, are God, and all within the vifible Church, Atb. $.25, Te are the children of the ^Prophets, and cf the covenant which God made with our fathers, faying un~ \

to Abraham, And in thy feed jliall all the kindreds of the earth be bleffed. A&. 2. 39,40, For the promife is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God Jliall call. But the parties contracting in the Covenant, confidered in that fecond reipect, as 'tis afted upon hearts, are only the elect people, upon whofe hearts the law is written, and in whom God hath put his ipirit, Jer. $1. 3 3, But this Jhall be the covenant that I will make with the houfe of Ifrael', after thofe days, faith the Lord, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts, and Will be their God, and they foall be my people.

Ezek. 16.2 7, And I will put my fpirit within yeu, and caufe you to walk^in my ftatutes y andye Jhall keep my judgments,and do them. Thefe things premifed for clearing the point in hand, I lay down four Conclufions: 1. Chrift is in fome refpecl a Me/Tenger betwixt God and all the vifible multitude to whom the Covenant is offered, and the Golpel preached -, therefore it's faid of him, That he is given for a light to the Gentiles, and for a witnefs to the people , even to nations , Iia, 49, 6. & 55.4,5. Rom. 15.8,9, io, iU 12. I faid

Vv 2 xa

\

332. Chrift the Mejfevger Chap. XVIII.

in ionic refpeft *, becaufe he did procure the Gofpel to be preached to all nations, and doth carry the MefTage of the Covenant to multitudes, Rom. 10. i8, But I fay, have they n$t heard ? yes verily ', their found went into all the earth , ami their words into the ends of the world, 2. Chrilt is in a more fpecial refpeft, MefTenger betwixt God and his few chofen people, becaufe he hath a MefTage from God to a& upon their hearts, that which is only externally revealed, commanded and offered unto others *, and he hath undertaken for them, and for fheir receiving the MefTage which he carrieth unto them, Joh. 6. 37, 39, All that the father giveth me? fliall come to me. And this is the fathers will which hath fent me, that of all which he hath given me 1 fhould lofe nothing, but jlwnld raife it up again at the loft day. Joh. 17.6, 8, / have manifefted thy name unto the men which thou gave ft me out of the world: thine they were ; and than gave ft them me j and they have kept thy word. For I have given unto them the words which thou gave ft me? and they have received them, and have known furely that I came out from thee , and they have believed that thou didft fend me. Aft. 1 \ . 26. And wbofoever among you feareth God? to you is the word of this faU vation fent. 1. Chrift is a MefTenger of the Covenant t& many Hypocrites and Reprobates unto whom he bringeth the offer and MefTage of the Covenant; not for their fake and caule, but for the Elects fake, with whom they are tnixed here in focieties upon the earth, 2 Cor. 4.; 15, For all things are far your fakes ? that the abundant grace might, through the thanksgiving of manyi redound to the glory of God, 2 Tim. 2. 10, Therefore J endure all things for the elects'fakes 9 that they may alfo obtain the falvation which is in Chrift Je~ fus? with eternal glory, So that the MefTage of the Covenant is preached to them by way of concofhitancy, in relpeft that they are in thefe focietiee* unto which the Gofpel is fent for falvation to the Elect, 7^- 17. i9, iq, 2 i> As thou haft fent me into the world? even fo alfo have It fent them into the World. And for their fakes I fantlifie my felf? that they alfo mght he fantlified through the truth. 'That they all may be one, as the* father art in me? and I in thee? that they alfo may be one in us: that the world may believe that thoit haft fent me. 4. Chrift is a Mefftnger to the multitudes unto

whom

whom the Gofpel is prepared, only for carrying unto them the commanding Will of God^which revealeth unto them their duty and obligation to repive the Gofpel, and to take hokl of the Covenant, 2 Cor* 16. 17, Wherefore come out from a-mong them, and be yetfepar'ate, faith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, ana I will receive yon. But Chrift is a Meffen-ger unto the Eleft, not only for carrying unto them Gods Will of command, but alio his Will of Counfd and Pleafure, that is, the things which he hath reiolved to aft upon their hearts, and to work in them, Hcb.6. 17, Wherein God, willing more abundantly to jhew unto the heirs of promife the immutability of his counfel, confirmed it by an Gatb. Eph. 1.9, Having made known unto us the my fiery of his will, according to his good pleafure which he [Jd purpofed in himfelf 4. Whole MefTenger is Chrift ihthis^ovenant-relation? whether of one of the parties, or of both? Anfw. 1. In fome reipecls he is only the MefTenger of one of the parties, I mean, as the * name doth import a Midion, Delegation and Subordination,. fo he is only Gods MefTenger; becaufe Chrift Mediator, the Angel of the Covenant, had his commimon only from God, and is to give an account of that honourable truft and employment to him only, lfa.^Z. l, Behold my fervant whom I uphold, mine eleV: in whom my foul delight eth. Joh.5.22, for as the father yudgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment nmo the Bon,hcc. 1 Cor. 15.24, Then cometh the end, when he Jhall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the father. Yea, even in theie things which he acteth upward ( toward his father ) as MefTenger of rhe Covenant, put cafe his negotiating with God for his people, he hath his Miflion and Delegation from God , for that fpecial efTea, Job. V 2,24, As thfi haft given him power over all fiefb, that he foould give eternal life to as many as than haft given him. Father^ i vbill that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be witti me where I am, that they may behold my ghry which thou haft given yne. 2. In fome refpefts he is the Meflenger of both the parties ', as namely, 1. In refpe{l of the bufmefs about which he is errtployecf; his MefTage is about matters of huge con-rrrnment to both the parties of the Covenant \ for his fathers honour, and his peoples happinefs, lay equally in the tefmefs about which he is employed, fob. 17.2,4, That he

fiwld

■jjjokld give eternal life to .as many as thou haft given him. I <havc glorified thee on the earth : 1 .have finifced the worJ^ which i\ion gavcfi me to do. 2. In refpeft of the travels of his .foul in that bufinefs and MefTage*, he did it cordially, and ucondcfcendingly did he run the Eivnints of both the parties j he came his fathers Errant to us, and he went our Errant ,to his father, Joh. I}. 3, Jefus knowing that the father had given all things into his hands, and. that he was come from Cody and.went to God. Joh. 14. 2, 12, I go to prepare a place for you , becaufe I go unto my father. Joh. 16. 5, 28, Bat now 1 go my way to him that fent me, and none of you asketh me, whither gocft thou ? Icame forth from the father, and am com* into the world', again, I leave the world, and go to the father. \. In rejpeft of his AmbafTage^id Agency} he was an AmbafTador and Agent on Goc^)art} while he was here upon the earth, he was his MefTenger, who came to declare and to confirm the Covenant, 2 Cor. 5. 19, To wit, that God XVas in Chrifi, reconciling the world unto himfelf. Gal.4. 4, 5, But when the fulnefs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law-, that we might receive the adoption of fons, And he is now our Agent, he is MefTenger and Lieger in Heaven on our part, in regard of his conftant refidence there for our bufmefe, Heb. 9. 24, for Chrifl is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true , but into heaven it felf now to appear in the pre fence of God for us. Aft. 3.21, Whom the heavens muft receive Hntil ,the times of reftitution of all things. 4. In refpeft of his correfpondency with both parties: he is correlpondent with God for his people, Joh. 17.8, l^ For J have given unto them the words which thou gaveft me 9 and they have received them, and have known furely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didfi fend me. And thefe have known that thou haft fent me. And he is correlpondent with us for God, Joh. 6. $8, $9, For I eame down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that fent me. And this is the fathers wiM which hath fent me, that of all which he hath given me, I jhould lofe nothing, but fhould raife it up again at the lafi day. Luk. 12. $2, Fear not little flocks for it is your fathers good fleafure to give you the jKivgdomils is correfpendent betwixt the cooiederace parties* 5* About

5. About what- bufineis is he MeiTenger? and what is the fpecial iubjeit matter of his employment ? Anfw.- His Name and Covenant-relations do declare the bufinefs:, he is Mcffcn-ger of the Covenant, Legatns faderi*, AlaL 3. 1. His MeiTage is as large and broad as all things pertaining to the Gove-lant. Heb. 2. 17, Wherefore in- all things it behoz'ed him to be made like unto his brethren-) that he might be a merciful and faithful Higheriefl m ■ things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the fns of the people. So that there is nothing which doth any way relate to the Covenant betwixt God and believers, which falleth not under this Covenant-relation j a fum whereof may be comprehended under thefe three heads.* 1. Whatfoever appertained to the making of the Covenant, he is MeiTenger betwixt God and his people for that effe<ft; whether it be any thing which belongeth to the courting and wooing of his peoples hearts, by commending his father, and making offers of himielf, and of his love unto them, Joh. 14.2, In my fathers houfe are many manfions-^ if it were not fo, I would have told yon. Joh. 15. 1, / am the true Vine. Joh. 16.27, Eor the father himfelf loveth yon. Joh. $. 16, For God fo loved the werld, that he gave his only begotten Son, Joh. I ex 14, 29, lam the goodflcph'erd: myfather which gave them me, is greater then ail, Wildom cryeth, who will have Chrift? Prov. 9. 1, Wifdom hath buil'ded her houfe, fhe loath hewn out her feven Pillars, &e. Joh., 7. 37,58, In that lafl day, that great day of the feaft , Jefus flood, and criedj faying, if any man thirft, let him come unto me and drinks He thatbelievethon me, as the fcripture hath faid, out of his belly fliall flow rivers of living water. Mat.-11.28, Gome nnto me all ye that labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give yon refi^ Hof. 2. 14, Therefore behold^ J will allure her, and bring her into the wilder'nefs, and fpeak^ comfortably unto her. Song. 2. 1, / am the rofe of Sharon, and the lillie of the vallies* Or whether it be any thing which belongeth to the engaging the hearts sf his people, in determining them by his grace, and acting the Covenant upon their hearts, he is MeiTenger alto for that, to command Souls to engage with him, and to a-rife and go after him, and to forfake ail for him, Ezel^ 20: 37, Audi willcaufe you to pafs mSer the rod, and I will bring yon into tke hnd of the Covenant, Ezek. 3*6^27, And Lwul

}$6 Chrrji the Mejfenger Chap. XVIIL

put my fpirit within you, and caufe you to walk in nty ftatutes, and ye frail keep my judgments and do them. Heb.8. 10, For this 'is the covenant that I will make with the houfe of Ifrael, after thofe days faith the Lord: 1 will put my laws into their mindj and write them in their hearts, and I will be to them a God j and they Jhall be to me a people. Plal. 45. 10, Hearken y O daughter and confider, and encline thine ear : forget alfo thine own people , and thy fathers houfe. Gen. 12. I. 4, Now the Lord had Jaid unto Abraham, Get thee out of thy countrey, and from thy kindred^ and from thy fathers houfe, unto a Land that Jwilljhew thee. So Abraham departed as the Lord had fpoken unto him. Mat. 4. 19*20., And he faith unto them, follow me, and I will make yon fifrers of men- And they freight-way left their nets and followed him. 2. Whatfoever appertained to the maintaining and preferring of the Covenant and confederacy betwixt God and his people, Chrift is MelTenger for that and herein he doth 5 the part of the Meffenger of the Covenant: 1. By travelling betwixt the parties for keeping up free accefs betwixt them, and liberty to fpeak with one another: for it is by him that God hath accefs to ipeak to our hearts, and that we have accefs to him by frequent mutual MeiTages, the MelTenger being a Courtier and favourite with both the parties, Mph.2. 18, Forthrough him wo> both have ascefs, by one fpirit, unto the father. Eph.}. 12, Jn whom we have boldnefs and accefs with confidence, by the faith of him. Heb. 1. 1,2, God who at fundry times , and in divers manners, fpake in times pafl unto the fathers by the Prophets, hath in thefe laft days fpoken unto us by his Son. 2. By travelling betwixt the parties for correfpondence and entercourfe, to maintain communion and a good underftand-irig betwixt them, to the end that none of the parties engaged in the Covenant of kindnefs, become Grangers to one another through the want of converfe and correfponding. Chrift is a MelTenger betwixt them to J main tain the peace and friendship, Joh. 16.16, A little while and ye frail not fee vte: and again a little while, and ye frail fee me : becaufe I go to the father. Joh. 14. 18, 19, I will not leave you comfort-lefs, I will come to you. Ye£ a little while, and the world feeth pie no more \ but ye fee me : becaufe 1 live, ye frail live alfo. }. He is a Meffenger to maintain the Covenant betwixt God

and

and his people, by travelling betwixt the parties with good reports, Heb. 12.24,2,5, And to Jefm the mediator of the _ new covenanti and to the blood of fprin^ing, that fpeaketh fatter things then that of AbeU See that ye rcfufe not him that fpeaketh, &c. Commending God to his people, and his love, and ipeaking good of all his way with them, Joh. 10. ig y My father which gave them me, is greater then all. Joh. 16.27, For the father himfelf loveth yon, becaufe ye have loved t&g; Pial.25. 10, All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth , unto fuch as keep his covenant, and his t eft monies. And commending believers unto his father, -and ipeaking good of them, and for them, frequently behind their back , w|ien they do not hear him, Job. 17. 6,8,25, / have manifefted thy name unto the men which tho u gaveft me out of the world: thine they were , and thou gave ft them me ^ and they have kept thy word. For I have given unto them the words which thou gaveft me, and they have received them, and known purely that I came out-from thec y and they have believed that thou, didft fend me. O righteous father, the world hath not known'thee, but I have known thee, and thefe have known that thou haft fent me. Jer. x I. 20, Is Ephraim my dear fon I is he a pie afant child ? for Jmce J fpake again ft him, I do earneftly remember him fill : therefore my bowels are troubled for him: I will furely have mercy upon him, faith the Lord- Jet. 12.7, / have given the dearly beloved of my foul, into the hand of her enemies. Chrift maketh both a good report of his father to his people here on Earth, and a good report of them to his father in Heaven-, he pntteth good conftruclions, not only upon his fathers way with his people, ( which cannot reafohably bear an evil conftruction ) , Rom. 8. 28, And we know that all things work^ together for good, to them that love God, to them who are ttyc called according to his purpofe. But alfo upon his peoples way and walk, and duties to God-ward, a conftrudtion and report or them, which they would ftand in awe to give of themielves} yea they are in hazz-ird to contradict this b'elTed Meflengers report many, a time, Joh. 14.4) 5, And whither 1 go ye know, ' and the way ye. know. Thomas faith unto htm, Lord, we know not whither thou goeft : and how can we know the way ?

3. Whatsoever appertained to the repairing of the. Covenant, dr to the renewing and eitablifhing thereof in- the cafe

Xx of

ef any breach betwixt the parties, he is a Meffenger for that: he is the repairer of the breach, and doth declare himielf the Angel of the Covenant, i. By taking up emergent differences betwixt God and his people, that they may not controvert about them, but may rather have fatisia&ion in him, Ifa. 53. 12, And he was numbred with the tranfgrefi forSj and he bare the fin of many , and made interceffion for thetranfgrejfors. Heb. 9, 7, But into the fecond, went the High* priefl alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himfelf,and for the errors of the people. For as our Htgrrprieft, he makes offering for the errors of the people: for all the differences arifing betwixt God and his people, are taken away alone by his travels. 2. By renewing the Covenant-kindnefs, and love, and engagements, he travels as a Meffenger, and cannot reft after breaches and differences betwixt his father and his people, or betwixt himielf and them, until the wonted kindneis be renewed, and till it be betwixt God and his people, as it ufed to be, 1 Job. 2. 1, 2, And if any man fin, we have an advocate with 'the father, Jefits Chrift the righteom, and he is the propitiation for our fins. Jer. 2.2, Go and cry in the ears of Jerufalem, faying , Thus faith the Lord , / remember thee , the kjndnefs of thy youth, the love of thine e-fpoufals, when thou wentefl after me in the wildernefs, in a land that was not fown. Ifa. 54. 8, In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment *, but with everlafling kjndnefs will I have mercy on thee, faith the Lord thy Redeemer. Ezek. t6. 60, Neverthelefs, I will remember my covenant with thee in the days of thy youth, and I will eftablijh unto thee an ever* lafling covenant,

6. Let us a little confider the properties of the Meffenger and Angel of the Covenant, which do commend his travels in that bufmeis, and may hold forth a pattern to all the inferiour Meffengers of the Covenant, and Angels of the Churches. 1. He is a faithful Meffenger, and true to the truft committed unto him *, one who varied not, and departed not from his commiffion in a tittle, in any thing of his fathers will, and the welfare of his people ( I do not fay, the will of his people; for though he be very condefcending to fatisfie them, yet he not holding his commiffion of them, he is conftrained,

for

for their good, to crofs their will fometimes, that he may be faithful to him who appointed him) Heb. y, 1,2, Wherefore holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling? conftder the Apoftle and High-priefl of our profejfion? Chrifl Jefus? who was faithful to him that anointed him, as alfo Mofes was faithful in all his houfe. Jon. 6. $8, }p, 40, For I came down from heaven? not to do mine own will? but the will of him that fent me. And this is the fathers will which hath fent me? that of all which he hath given me? I fhould lofe nothing? but jhould raife it up again at the lafl day. And this is the will of him that fent me> that every one which feeth the Son? and believeth on him? may have everlafting life : and I will raife him up at the lafl day. A MefTenger who kept dole to his inftructi-ons. 2. He is an active diligent MefTenger, who did never deal with a flack hand in any matter of the Covenant, whether committed unto him by his father, or wherein he was employed by his people *, his heart did lay fo much to the bufmefs, that it is impoftible he fhould not be a&ive and ftir-ring in it} yea, his Soul travelled fo diligently in that truft, • that he could take no reft until it was done, 7/^. 53. 11, He Jhall fee the travel of his foul? and ft all be fatisfied. Joh. 17. 4, / have glorified thee on earth: I have finijhed the work^ which thou gaveflmetodo. Yea, lb careful was he of that Mef-fage, that it made him forget his refrefhments and his reft, as appears in his unwearied pains for converting the woman of Samaria? even while he was wearied with his journey ,Joh. 4. 6) Yea it was refrefhment to him to be about that bufi-nefs, Joh. 4. $4, Jefus faith mto them? My meat is to do the mil of him that fent me? and to finish his workj Yea, it made him ibme way forget his relations here on earth; Luk. 2.49, And he faid unto them? how is it that ye fought me t wifi ye not that I mufi be about my fathers bufmefs. Mat. 12. 46,49, 50, While he yet talked to the people , behold? his mother and his brethren flood without? defying to fpeakjwith him. Behold^ my mother and my brethren? for whofoever jhall do the will of my father which is in heaven? the fame is my brother? and fifter^ and mother. $. He is a fwift MefTenger, who in all the matters of the Covenant which are committed unto him, loveth to make good difpatch: he is commended for this, Mai. 3. I, And the Lord whom ye feekj jhall fuddenly come to

Xx 2 his

his temple,even the meffenger of the covenant whom ye delight in. And we may take notice of it in the word of the Prophet, Ij'a.iS.2. though fpoken in another ilnfV. O fo fwift a meffenger and ibeedy as ha was, when he was fent to lay down his life / Luk^ 19, 20, And when he had thus /pollen, he went before, afcendmg up to Jcrufalem, &c. he made hafte to die. Joh. I 3. I'7, A'td after the fop, Satan entrcd into him : then [aid Jefm unto hi;?, That thou doc ft, do quickly' And'he made hafte * to ariie again, Joh. 20. 1, 12, The fir ft day of the week, early y yet when it was dark. He made hafte to (hew hinvlelf to his friends after he role, Joh. 20, and Lnk. 24, and he tnakeih hafte to come again to "his people, Joh. 14. $5 18, Andif Igo^wd prepare a place for you, / will come again, I wUl not leave you comfortlefs , / will come to you a,?x oua *' come unto you: 4. He is an Accurate reporter of'the MefTage which he bear-eth; a Meffenger who never failed to bring a return of his errant, both upward to God, and downward to his people, J oh. 13. 3, Jefus knowing that the father had given all things into his- hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God. Joh, 14. 7, iy I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and, prepare a place for you, 1 will come again, and receive you unto my felf, that where J am, there ye may be alfo. 5. He is a Meffenger who was hugely mortified if if I may ulethat word) and denyed to his own honour and credit*, for all the while he travelled up and down here, about the Meffage of the Covenant, he did not regard hew he was ufed, ib that his MefTage were taken off his hand, Heb. 12.2, Who for the 'joy that was fet before him, endured the crofs, d.efpifing the Jliame, and is fet down at the right hand of the throne of God. Mat. 20.28, Even as the Son-cf man came not to be mi~ niflred unto, but to mini ft cr, and to give his life a ran fore for many. Joh. 4.9,10, Then faith the woman of Samaria unto him, how is it that thou, being a Jew, askeft drinks of me, which am a woman of Samaria f for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jefus anfwered, and faid unto her, If thou knew-eft the gift of God, and who it is that faith ur.to thee, give me to drinks, thou wouldft have asked of hi'/i, and he would have given thee living Water. *

Vfe 1. Take heed howyoirreceive and entertain theMefTen ger of the Covenant, //*L. 12.25, See that ye refufe not him

that

that fpeaketh: for if they efcaped net, who refuted him th.zt Jpakj on earth, much more [Vail not we efcafe, if we turn a-vp 'ay from him that fpeaketh fro n heaven 1 Heb. 3. 1, Wherefore, holy brethren, partners of the heavenly callings cpnfider tlee Apofiie and High-priefc of our prcfejjion, Chrift 'fefas,&ic. This is the more ot your concernment, 1. Becatrfje the entertainment and ufage given unto the MefTenger of the Covenant, recoundeth upon him that lent; him, whether you ufe him honourably or diireipettivelv, J oh. 12.26, Jf any man ferve Pie, let him foliox mc\ and where 1 am, there JJ)all alfomyfcr-vant be. Jf any man ferve me, hi*? will my father henour. Luk. ic. iv*, He*that heareth yon, heareth me : andhethsJ dc-fpifcth yon, defptfeth me : and he that defpifeth me, defpifeth him that fait me. 2. Becauie great weight is laid upon the unworthy ufng of the MefTenger of the Covenant, ir. lb much as no fin nor aggravation of 6a carrieth li e ftrefs d is I upon it, Joh. 5.56, He that hdieveth on the Son, hath cver-la fling life.', and he that believeth not the Son, fiali not fee life, but the wrath of God abideth on him. Joh. 15*22, If I had not come and fpoken unto them, they had not had fin : but now they hitve no cloaks fir their fin. 3. Becauie that cfage that is v given to the MefTenger of the Covenant, is hugely relented, whether it be good or evil, Joh. 1. 11, 12, He came tin-to his o\w, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the Sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Mat. TO. 4-1, He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet, flail receive a prophets reward. 4. Becauie no fin hath been more ibeeclily and feverely revenged, than the ill ufage of this MefTenger, JUfat. 2 1. 41, Tloey. fay unto him, he will miferably defiroy thofe wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other Husbandmen, which fiall render him the fruits in their feafons. Mat. 22. 6, 7, And the remnant tookhis fervants, and entreated themfpite-fully, and few them. But when the king heard, thereof, he was wroth, and he fint forth his armies, and defiroy ed thofe murderers, and burnt up their city. Luk. 19. 14,27, But his citizens hated him, and fent a meftage after him, faying, We will not have this man to reign over u<. But thofe mine enemies, which would not that I Jliould reign over them, bring hither, and •flay them before me,

But

But befide thefe things relating to the danger of flighting the MefTenger of the Covenant, Confider furtherj i. it is your own bufrneis about: which the Meffenger of the Covenant is travelling with you, Luk. io. 10, 42, For (he Son of man is come to fiel^ and to fave that which was loft. Spying, if thon had ft \novpn , even thou, at lea ft in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. Joh. 5. 40, And ye mil not come to me, that ye might have life. The honour of his MbiTage and travels (hall be his own and his fathers^ yet the profit and advantage of it fhall be yours, Joh. 17. 2, As thou haft given him power over all fie ft), that he Jhould give itemal life to as many as thou haft given him. 1 Tim. 1. 15, This is a faithful faying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Jefm Chrift came into the world to fave firmer s, of whom I am chief. 2. Confider, there is a limited let-time for the MefTage which he carrieth, Mark^.14.. 7, But me ye have not always, i mean, there is not only a time let unto Chriil by his father, at which his travelling as MefTenger of the Covenant (hall expire, Joh 13.-1, Then Jefus knew that his hour was come that he Jhould depart out of this world unto the father. 1 Cor. 15. 24, 25, Then cometh the end, when he Jliall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the father ; when he fhall have put down all rule, and all authority and power. For he muft reign till he hath put all his enemies under his feet : But the MefTenger of the Covenant hath alio fet a time to you all, until which he will tarry for your aniwer, whether ye will take hold of the Covenant or not, and after which he will tarry no longer for it, Joh. 12. $5. 36. Then Jefus faid unto them, Tet a little while is the light with you: walk^ while ye have this light, left darkntfs come upon you: for he that walketh in darknefs^ knowethnot whither hegoeth. While ye have the light, believe tn the light, that ye may be the children of light. Lu'. I}. 7, Then faid he unto the dreffer of his vineyard, Behold, thefe three days J come feeking fruit on this Fig-tree, and find none ; cut it down, why cumbreth it the ground ? We have not this MefTage fetied upon us by inheritance, nor by Life-rent-taxes. 3. Confider, that the MefTenger of the Covenant, maketh fhorteft ftay and abode, where his MefTage, the offer of the Covenant is flighted, and gets not an anfwer,

AH.

jifl. 1 1 . 46, /?#/■ feeing ye put it from yen , and judg your [elves unworthy of everlafiwghfe; Lo, we turn to the Gentiles. Mat. 21. 41, 77;^y /^y *»fo him, he will miferably dftroy thofe wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which fall render him the fruits in their feafons. Mat. 10. 1 1, And if the houfe be worthy, let your peace cov.e upon it : but if it be unworthy, let your peace return to you. Rev. 2. ^ Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the firfl works, or elje I will come unto thee quickly , and wtM remove thy candleftick^ out of his place, except thou repent. Song. 5. 5, 6, / rofe up to open to my beloved, and my hands dropped with myrrh, and my fingers with fwect fmtlling myrrh upon the handles of the lockj I opened to my beloved, but my beloved had withdrawn himfelf, and was gone. 4. Con-fider, that there is a time coming, when the Meflenger of the Covenant, and his Meflage cannot avail you, if you let go the feafon and opportunity of Grace, iCor. 6. 2, For he faith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of falvation, 1 have fuccoured thee : Behold, now is the accepted time : Behold, now is the day of falvation. Heb. 4. 7, Again he limiteth a certain day, faying in David, "To day, after fo long a time^ as it is faid, To day, if ye will hear his voice y harden not your hearts. Heb. 12. 17, For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the bleffing, he was rejected, for he found no place of repentance, though he fought it carefully with tears. Luk. 13.25,26, When once the mafter of the houfe is rifen up, and hath fut to the dore, and ye begin to ft and without, and to knock^at the dore y faying, Lord, Lord, open unto us y and he fall anfwer and jay unto you y I know you net whence you are. Then fall ye begin to fay, we have eaten and drunk^ in thy pre fence, and thou haft taught in our ftreets. 5. Confider, that the Meffenger is to make re-report , to him who lent him, what iucceis he had for his travel, and who did receive his Meffage, 7^.17.6,7,8, 25, I have manifefted thy name unto the men which thou gave ft me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gave ft them me , and they have kept thy word : Now they have k?o\vn that all things whatfoever thou h,-ft given me, are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thou gave ft me, and they have received them, and have k^own furely that I cave

out

out fro-. believed that thon didfl fend

O y;-!:t:o,:s father, the v. tb not known thee, but i \

mdthcfe have kj^^ that thou haj} fent n.e. O be-tjiink your felves in rime, what fliall be 4 reported of your ehtt g the Meitepger of the Covenant, and the things

he propofed uato you ^ fliall that be told of you in Heaven which hath been told of many, Joh. 1. 11, He cwme unto his own, and his own received bun not I Joh. 5.4-, And r.ot come to me, that ye might have life. Job- 12. 37, tgb he had done fo many; wracks before tbem^ yet they believed net on him. Joh. 15.23,24, He that Littth me, hatetb my father aljo: but now have they both feen, and hated both me and rr.y father. Luk. 7. ,c, But the Fbrrifees and Lawyers re-\e:ced tbecounfel cf God again]} them [elves, being net baptized of him. Piul.Si. 11, But my people would not hearken to my voice , and IJracl would none of me. Mat. 22. 5,6, But they triad* light cf it) and went their ways, one to his far w, another to his mcrclxmdife 1 and the re: :l^ his fervants, and

inrreased them fpitefidly, and few them. Mat- 23. 3-, O Jeru-f.ils n, jernfalem, thou that kjiiefi the prophets, and ft one ft them whiz',, a,-2 fnt unto thee, hew often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathercth her chickens under her Wings, and ye would not! Ifa. 49. 4, Then I faid , I have laboured in vain, 1 have fpe; t my ftrength for -nought, and in vain. Mat. 11. 17, jfnd faying, we have piped, unto you, and ye base rot danced: we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. Shali the MeiTengcr of the Covenant have'no good report to make of you, like that which he made of his Difciples? Job. 16.27,' for the father hitnfelf lovetb you, becauft ye have Uvea me, ar.d believed that I came out from Cod. At leaft, let him have that to lay of you, that he reported of Ephraim , That you have lamented the iroward-iids of your own hearts under all his pains and travel,- Jer. \\. 1?, 1 have fur els heard Ephraim bemoaning bimfelf: thou haft cbafiifedme, and i was chafifed : as a budjik^unaccufrom-cd to the y?--k^ eke.

Vfe 2. Suffer me from this Covenant-relation o/Chrifts, to exhort vou, 1. To employ hint in that which is his tru'l: he is the jfleSengef of the C -; if there be any

thing which you have to do with God, .relating to the

mal

making, maintaining, or renewing a Covenant with him, there is a MefTenger appointed for negotiating in that matter, and one who is willing to be employed by you, Mat. 20. 28, The Son of man came not to he miniflred unto, but to minifler. Joh. 6. 37, All that the father giveth m, Jhall come to me: and him that cometh to me, I will in no ways cafl out. Heb. 2. 17, Wherefore in M things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren , that he might be a merciful and faithful High-prieft in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the fins of the people. 2. Beware that you ufurp not his employment, neither intrude upon it; take heed that you attempt not to lend any MefTage to God, and not by the MefTenger of the Covenant, Heb. 12.29, For owr God u a con fuming fire. See that you go not any errant of the Covenant without him : See that you lend not your prayers and other performances to God, or any MefTage without him, in their own ftrength, or by the hand of another MefTenger, befide the Angel of the Covenant, Rev. 9. 3. And another angel came and flood at the altar, having a golden cenfer^ and there was given unto him much incenfe, that he ftrould offer it with the prayers of all faints , upon the golden altar which Was before the throne. Joh. 16.23, Verily, verily, I fay unto you, whatfoever ye Jhall ask^ the father in my name, he will give it you.

3. Acknowledg Chrift in this Covenant-relation, and in the execution of it: That ever you- heard of the Covenant; that it hath be,en declared, revealed, and interpreted to- you, you are debtors for that to the MefTenger of the Covenant: if he had not travelled in that bufinefs, you had never heard of it, Eph. 2. 17, And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that' were nigh. Mat. if: 11, Be-canfe it is given unto you to know the myfieries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. Much more you are his Debtors, if the Covenant be a£ted upon your hearts, Heb. 2. 6, 10, But now hath he obtained a more excellent mi-niflry, by how much alfo he is the mediator of a better c<rve~ nant. for this is the covenant that J will make with the houfe oflfrael after thofe days, faith the Lord'. I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts : and I will be to them a God, and they fljall be to me a people. Mat. 16.17,

Yy And

And Jefus anfwcred and [aid unto him, Bleffed art thou r Si-won Bar-Jona: for flefl) and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my father which is in heaven. Joh. 17. <",8, J have manifefled thy name unto the men which thou gaveft me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavejl them wr, and they have kept thy word. For J have given unto them the words which thou gavefl me, and they have received them, and have known furely that / came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didfl fend me.

4. Be requefted to take notice and to liften what Meffage the Meffenger of the Covenant bringeth to you.: it is the Meffage of a Covenant, of a good and fbre bargain, that you would join your felves to the Lord, and take hold of'his covenant, Iik. 56. 4,6. Whereunto, if you would but liften, it (hould prove a life-giving motion, I fa. 55. 3, Incline your ear , and come unto me: hear , and your foul foall live: and I will make an everlafting covenant with you , even the fure mercies of David. Joh. 1. 38, 39, They faid uuto him, .Rabbi, (which is to fay, being interpreted , A4after} where dwellefi thou ? he faith unto them, come and fee : they came and faw where he dwelt, and abode with him that day. It's a Meffage of peace \ you need not ftare at it, nor be afraid of what we have in commiffion, 2 Cor. 5, 19,20, 21, To wit, that God was in Chrifl, reconciling the world unto himfelf, not imputing their trefpaffes unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambaffadors for Chrifl ^ as though God did befeech you. by us, we pray you in Chrifls ftead, be ye reconciled to God: for he hath made him to be fin for us, who knew no fin, that we might be made the righteoufnefs of God in him. Luk. 2. 10, 14, And the Angel faid unto them, fear not ? for behold, I bring you good tidings

« f great ]oy, which fl>all be to all people, Glory to God in the

highefty and on earth peace, goodwill towards men. lia.-60.17, For brafs I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring filver y and for wood brafs, and for flones iron: 1 will alfo make thine officers peace, and thine exaftors righteoufnefs. It's a Meffage of love, of the Fathers love, and of the Sons, 1 Joh* \. l, Behold, what manner of love the father hath be ft owed upon us, thtg we ftwuld be called the Sons of God: therefore the world kjtfwe-th us not, becaufe it knew him not. Joh. 15.13*

Greater

CHap. XVIII. of the Covenant. *m

. Greater love hath no man then this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. It's a Meffage of Marriage-love, of a match propoied to your Souls, Pfal. 45. Song. i,&c. Gome and h:ar Chrift, commend Ohrift :, come and hear the MefTcn-ger of the Covenant commend the bargain, commend the . Covenant, commend God, commend Heaven and the lot ol Saints -, and it became him well to do ib, his praile is iavoury even in his own-mouth, Joh.6.^>. and 8.14,2 3,24. and 10. 11, 29. and 14.2. and 15. 1. Songi. 1. prov. 9. i, ckc. with Song j.laft.

5. Be perfwaded to receive the Meflenger himfelf: if it were poflible to receive his MefTage, and not to receive himfelf, that could not avail youj confider with your felves, 1. What huge unkindnels it were not to receive iiich a . Meflenger, who hath travelled fo far, and through fo much hardfhip, and for this one errant, To make offer of his love to you, J oh. 1$. 1, Having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. Song 5, 2, Saying, open to me my fifier, my love, my dove, my undefiled, for my head is filed with diW, and my lockj with the drops of the night, 2- Confider, how unexcufable before God this one a& fhall make you, and how much it fhall leave upon your felves, and bind upon your.felves your own blood and damnation, Joh. 15. 22, If I had not come and fpo\en unto them 9 they had not had fin ; but now they have no cloaks for their fin. Joh. %. 40, And ye will not come to me that ye might have life. Joh. 1. ip, And this is the condemnation , that light is come into the world, and men have loved darknefs rather then light) becaufe their deeds were evil. $. Confider what high and excellent priviledges the receiving of the Meflenger of the Covenant bringeth with it. See Joh. 1. 12, But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the Sons cf God^ even to them that believe on his name. Rev. $. 20, If any man hear my voice, and open the dore, I will come in to him , and will (up with him, and he with me. Joh. 14. 2 $, Jefus anfwer-ed, and faid Hnto him. If any man love me, he will keep my Words -, and my father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. I fa. 56. 7, Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my houfe 9 f? ra yer; their burnt-offer ings , and their facrifces fiall be

Yy t accepted

accepted upon mine altar: for mine houfe jhall be failed an houje of grayer for all people. 4. Confider how near God hath brought Heaven and Salvation unto you, by the MefTenger of the Covenant: it is even come down to meet you, and brought to your dore to knock for entry, Rev.U.-h+y And 1 heard a great voice out of Heaven^ faying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men^ and he mil dwell with them, and they jhall be his people y and God himfclf jliall be with them, and be their God, and God Jhall wipe away all tears from their eyes. Luk. 10. p, And fay unto them, the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you. Ifa.46. 13, 7 bring near my righteoufnefs ; it jhall not be far off, and my falvation jljaM not tarry : and J will place falvation in Zion, for Ifrael my glory. Rom. 13. 11, And that, knowing the time, thai now it is high time to awake out of fleep: for now is our falvation nearer then when we believed. 5. Confider, that the MefTenger of the Covenant is the jewel and preciousftone of that ring; he himfelf is the chief thing that is in the Covenant, and much better than Salvation and Heaven, ^^.13.44,45, Again the kingdom of heaven is like unto rreafure hid in a field , the which when a man hath found , he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and felleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant-man ', feekjng goodly pear Is y See. 1 Pet. 2.7. Vnto you therefore which believe, be is precious. 6. Confider, that he defireth no more fatis-fattion for all the travel of his Soul in this Meflage, but that he may fee fome fruit of his travel, through his peoples receiving his Meflage, and making the MefTenger of the Covenant welcome •, and it is a pity to refufe him To rea-fonable a defire, Jfa. 53. 11, He jhall fee of the travel of his foul) and jhall be fat is fed. Luk. 19.41,42, And when he was come near, he beheld the city and wept over it ; faying, If thou hadfl .known, even thou, at leafi in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace ! but now they are hid from thine eyes. 7. Confider, that if you receive not the MefTenger of the Covenant, -you mifs the whole bargain, for he is all the Covenant, Jfa.42.6, And I will give thee fir a covenant of the people x for a light of the Gentiles.

6. % all means take heed how you entertain the Mef-frpger of the Covenant, 1 Cor .10,9, Neither let hs tempt

Chrift,

Cbrifi, as fame of them alfo tempted, and were deftroyed of ferpents. If you ufe him kindly, he will indeed deal well with you, and be eafily entreated, Exod. 23.20,22, Behold, I fend an angel before thee to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee in the place which I have prepared. But if thou jhalt indeed obey his voice y and do all that I fpeak^, Then J Will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adverfary unto thine sdverfaries. Rev. 3. 20, BehoId , I ft and at the dor e and kgovkj if any man hear my voice, and open the door* I will come in to him, and [up with him? and he with me. Joh. I42 S 5 ft fas anfwered, and faid unto him, If any man love me, he will keep my jvords : and my father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. Luk. 24. 29, But they conftrained him, faying, Abide with us, for it is towards evening, and the day is far fpent , and he went in to tarry with them. But if you provoke him and flight him, O you had need to beware of him, he will not bear with it, Exod. 23.21. Jfa.61.2,1* 1 Or. id. 22,

CHAP. XIX.

\

Chrifi a Servant in the Covenant. \

TH E fifth relation which Chrift fuftaineth in the Cove--nant,is, He is a Servant in thebufinefs of the Covenant. Many Scriptures point at Chrift under this Covenant-relation, J/^.42.1. and 49. 3, 5,6. and 52. 13, and 53. 11. Ez^ek, 34. 23,24. and 37.24,25. Zech. 3.8. Mat. 12. 18. Lu\. 22.27, . Mark, 10.45. jfow. 15..8. For the better underftanding whereof, let us a little enquire in thefe fix Particulars: ?. In what refpe&s this name is given to Chrift. 2. How he came under this" Covenant-relation, 3. Whofe Servant he is. 4. What kind of Service this is, which lyeth upon Chrift by this Covenant-relation. 5. What doth pertain to his office, as Servant in the Covenant \ and what was the Service he did in the bufinefc of the Covenant. 6. Some

things

things in his Service, which commend, his acting in this Covenant-relation.

And, i. This Name, which is a name not only of fub-ordination and fubjection ( as is the name MefTenger ), but of the loweft and moft abjec~l condition of fubordination. I fay, i. This name is given to Chrifi, not in regard of his nature, but in regard of his officv as Mediator, as he took upon him a Service •, this name is not a name of nature, for in regard of his Divine nature he hath another ftyle, My Son is his name, not my Servant, Mat. 5. 17, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleafed. And in regard of his Humane nature, though the man Chrift is by nature Gods Servant, yet he is not by nature a common Servant to both the parties in the Covenant, nor a Servant of the Covenant, but a Free-man, Mat. 17.26, Jefas faith unto him, then are the children free. Therefore 1 fay, it is not the name of the natural only begotten Son of Gocl, nor the name of the man Chrift ( as it importeth any thing peculiar, and not common to the reft of the creatures ) *, but it is the name of Chrift Mediator, God-man, Heb. 12.24. 2. This name is given to Chrift mainly and eminently , in regard of the ftate and condition of his humiliation, Phil. 2.7, 8, But made himfelf of no reputation, and tooh^ upon him the form of a Servant, and was made in the likenefs of men: and being found in fajhion as a man, he humbled himfelf, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the erofr. For though now, when God hath highly exalted him, he be ftill a Prieft upon a Throne, Heb. 8. 1, and con&quently promoting the lame Truft and Service about which he was lent to the earth •, yet his way of carrying on that Service is fo Princely, as he carryeth condeiceridingly to men, Phil.2.9 ,10, Wherefore God alfo hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jefiu every knee jhould bow> of things in heaven, and things in earrh, and things under the earth. If we fhould yet name him by this Covenant^rela-tion, we behoved to look upon him as a kinged and crowned Servant, who for performing that notable Service that was committed unto him, hath been exalted to a Glorious Throne *, and yet for all his preferment, is as humble, and affable, and eafie to be fpoke with, as when/he was upon

the

the earth *, for he beareth the fame heart toward his people, //<?&. 4. 15, Id, For we have not an High-pricft, which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities-, but was in all feints tempted like as we are, yet without fin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we way obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. j. The name of Servant in the bufinefs of the Covenant, is given to Chrift, in regard of his trull*, becaufe the greateft truft that ever was put upon man, was put upon him by the Covenant of Redemption ; he was entrufted with a rare piece of Service *, the laving of finners, the carrying through the work of Redemption, the weight of the loft World being laid upou his (boulders, Ifa.49.6, And he faid, it is a light thing that thou fliauldft be my fervant, to raije up the tribes of Jacob, and to rcftore the preferved of Jfrael: I will alfo give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayefl be my falvation unto the end of the earth, Joh. 17.2, As thou haft given him power over all fiefti, that he fliould give eternal life to as many as thou haft given him, Joh. 5. 22, For as the- father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son* 4- This name is given to Chrift, in regard of his work *, for it is a name of work as well as of truft, becauie he ierved a great Service in the bufinefs of the Covenant. I have e!fewhere fhewed, that the whole bufinefs of Redemption was his work : therefore you find he fpeaks often of his work, and labour,, and fpending his ftrength, and of the travel of his Soul, //*. 49.4, Then I faid, I have laboured in vain, I have fpent my ftrength for nought, and in vain. 11a. 5$. 10, 11, Tet it pleafed the Lord to bruife him, he hath put him to grief: when thoujhalt make his Soul an offering for fin, befiiallfee his feed y he jhall prolong his days, and the pleafure of the Lord JhalL ' profper in his hand. He foall fee of the travel of his Soul, and fiall be fatisfied. Joh. 4. 54^ J*fus faith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that fern me, and to finifi) his norl^ Joh. 17.4, I have glorified thee on earth : I have fimflied the workwhich thou gave ft me. to do. Joh. S.29, And he that fent me is with me: the father hath not left me alone y for 1 do always thofe things that pleafe him. 5. This name is given to Chrffir, in regard of his wages and reward, which redounded unto him by this great Service which he performed unto

God,

God, by faring the elect world, which yet rauft be ur ftood of no fervile reward, for his love could not be hire but we read of a reward promifed and : him,

: :, :. He frail fee of the travel of h:s Soul, andjhtdi be fatisfed* Therefore will I divide him a portion

:t, and he frail divide the fpoil with the ftrong : becanfe he

hath feared out his foul nxto death : and he was r.umbred with

the tranfgrejfors, and he bare the fin of many, and made in-

the tranfgreffors . Pfal. 2.8, Ask^of me, and I frail

thee the heathen for thine inh^ and the uttermtft

earth for thy foffejfwn. A reward expected and

d by him, 7/^.49.4, 5, Yet furely my judg snt is with :-.? L:>-Js ar.d my worh^with my God. Though jfreal be not

:rred, yet fall 1 be glorma in the eyes of the Lord, and aII be my ftrength. A reward craved bv him, :-. ,, 5, / have glorified thee on earth : I have finified the work^ which thou gavefl me to do \ And now, O father, glonfe thou me with thine own felf, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. A reward payed unto him as * the fruit of his labours, Phil. 2.$ 9 e) 9 A y :d being found in fajhon as a man, he humbled himfelf, and became obedient iir.t: death, even unto the death of the crofs. Wherefore God al 0 hath highly exalted him, and given him a 7iamc which is above every namejieb .12.2. 6. The name of Ser-Tant is given to him, in regard of the fpirit of fear unto which he did fubject himfelf for a feafon, while he was here 1- onr nature, in the fhape of a Servant; I fay, though there were always in the heart of Chriit a defign of love, w made him run and ferve in the bufinefs of the Covenant", ye: :omething of the :p:ri: of a Servant in the man Chriit, made under the law *, and having taken upon him our condition , as well as our nature ( which yet muft be under-ftooc to be fuch as did well (land with the heart of a Son,

, with the heighth of that transcendent love, which was the love of God). And in regard of this he is God to be mule under the law> Gal. 4.4. When he put his n?.me in bond, he took on c 3c condition, and fubjected him-

felf to threatnings and terrors of the law : and hence it is that he is laid to fear, Heb. 5. 7. and to be troubled r rri, Joh. 12. 2-, and 13.21.

:. I

2. But what erigaged him, and brought Chrift: under this Covenant-relation, to become a Servant ? An fa. Sure it was by no neceflity of nature that Chrift was engaged in this Service *, for he was not engaged, becaufe he could [not chufe but he muft be a Servant: But rather I judg thefe four things did engage him : 1. The Lords choice and call} the Lord did freely and of meer Grace make choice of Chrift, and fend him in this Service, lfa*A% 1? $-> Behold my fervant

whom I uphold: mine elect, in whom my font delighteth. 1 the

Lord have culled thee in righteoufnefs, and will hold thine hand y and will keep thee. Ilk. 61. 1, The fpirit of the Lord God u upon me , because the'Lord hath anointed me to preach good tydings unto the meek^: he hath fent me to bind the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prifon to them that are bound. Ifa.49. 7,9, Thus faith the Lord, the redeemer of Ifrael, and his holy one, to him whom man defpifeth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a fervant of rulers: kings jhall fee and arifc, princes alfo-Jhall worjhip, becaufe of the Lord, that is faithful, and the holy one of Ifrael, and he jhall chufe thee y that thou may eft fay to the prisoners ', go forth ', to them that are in '.darknefs, fliew your felves. 2. His own love engaged him r there was always in the heart of Chrift, a defign and aim of love to the elecl: world, and this engaged him in the Service of a Covenant, by>whichhe might enjoy them, and they him," Joh. 13,1, 3,4, Now before the feaft of the paffeover, when fefas knew that his hour was come, that he Jhould depart ?ut of this-, world unto, the father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved

them unto the end. And that he was come from God, and

went to God. And he took^a towel, and girded himfelf, &c.

i. His own free conient, who was as willing to undertake this fervice,as the Lord was to.fend him : this engaged him, Joh. 10. 17, 18, Therefore, doth my father love me,- betkufe I lay down my life that I might take it again, AV man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my felf: I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again, this commandment have 1 received of my father. Heb. 10, 7, Then faid I, Lo, I

*>*a Chri(l a Servant in the bujittefs Chap.XIX.

made him a Servant, Phil. 2. 6, 7, Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made himfelf of no reputation, and took^ upon him the form of a fervant, and was made in the likenefs of men. 4. His compact and Covenant engaged him: for he not onlyVonfented to ierve in this bufmeis of the Covenant, but he gracioufly condefcended to be hired to perform iuch a Service, and undertook, for it, I fa. 5$. 10, 11, 12, Yet it pie a fed the Lord to bruife him 9 he hath put him to grief: when thou fralt make his foul an offering for fin, he frail fee his feed, he frail prolong his days, and the pleafure of the Lord jhall profper in his hand. He frail fee of the travel of his. foul, and frail be fat is-fed : by his knowledg frail my righteous fervant juftifie many : for he frail bear their iniquities, therefore will 1 divide him a portion with the great, and he frail divide the fpoil with the frrvng-y-becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death: and he was numbred with the tranfgreffors, and he bare the fin of many, and made interceffion for the tranfgreffors. Thele, and nothing but thefe did conclude and determine Chrift under this Covenant-relation, to ferve this great Service of laving the loft world 3. Whofe Servant was Chrift in the bufineis of the Covenant? whether of one of the'parties, or of both? was he his fathers Servant only? or ours alfo? Anfw> He was a common Servant' to both parties, God's Servant, and our Servant : I fhall clear it by the following particulars:

1. He was God's Servant, for lb his father frequently ftyles him, Ifa.42. 1, Behold my fervant. I fa. 5$. 11, My righteous fervant. Zech. 3.8, My fervant the branch. So he acknowledged himfelf to be, Joh. 17.4, I have gbrified thee en the earth: I have finifred the work^ which thou gavefi me to do. Heb. 10. 9, Then faid he, Lo, I come to do thy will (O God). Joh. 6. $8, For I came down from heaven , not to do mine own will, but the will of him that fent me.

2. He was our Servant alfo *, for fo he confeMeth "himfelf, Mat. 20. 28, Even as the fon of man came not to be miniftred unto, but to minifter, and to give his life a ranfom for many, Luk. 22. 27. And fo he behaved himfelf, and in his carri-

, age while he. was on earth, he gave proof of it, J^k 13.4, 5> l 4> V5, He rifeth from fupper, and Uicf'afide fiis garments^ and tovk a towly'and girded himfelf. After 'ffml he poureth

water

Water into a bafo*, and began to wafii the difciples feet, and to wipe them with the towel, wherewith he was girded. — -Andjaui^ if I then your lord and mafter have wajhed your feet, ye alia ought to wajlj one anothers feet. For 1 have given you an ex-ample, that ye Jloould do as I have done to yon.

3. He was Servant to both parties, but with this obfer-vable difference, which is to be underftood and cautioned:

1. Chrift was Servant to God, in the Covenant and, work of Redemption, by choice and election, not fo to us: God made choice 0? him for this work, but we did not make choice of him*, he made choice of us, Jfa-&, 1, Behold my

- fervant whom I uphold: mine elett, in whom my foul delight eth. Joh. 15. 16, Te have not chofen me, but I have chofen you } and ordained yon, that ye fwuld go and bring forth fruit , and that your frnit jlwuld remain. 2. He was God's Servant, not by condefceniion only, but by Covenant and compact with God ; he is our Servant by condefcenfioa, but by no compact with us. In all Covenant-relations betwixt him and us, he is our Lord ancP Matter, he is our Head and Husband, Ffal.$$. ii, for he is the Lord, and worftip thou him. Pfal. 110. I, The Lord faid unto my Lord, fit thou at my right hand until I make thine enemies thy foct-ftool. And what '

further (looping is upon his part, is voluntary humbling of bimielf, Joh. 1 3. 13, 14, Te call me mafter and Lord, and ye fay well: f§r fo I am. If I then your Lord and mafter have wafhed your feet, ye alfo ought to wajh one anothers feet. Phil.

2. 7, But made himfelf of no reputation , and took^ upon him the form of a fervant, and was made in the likenefs of men. ..

3. He is God's Servant, not for love only to the work wherein he Serveth ', but for wages, as I have already fhewr ed: but he is our Servant for no wages nor rew ard which he could expert from us, but purely for love, Joh. 13.1, Having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. Joh- 15. 13, Greater love hath no man then this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. 4. He is God's Servant, as a Son ferveth his father, yea as a Servant ferv-eth his Mafter, MaU 1.6, A fan honoureth his father, and a fervanu his mafter. Phil. 2. 7, And took^upon him the form of a fervant. Joh. 6. 38, For 1 came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that fent me. But he k

Zz 2 our

^ - 5 C hrifil a Servant in the bujinefs Chap.XIX.

our Servant, as a friend ferveth his friend-} Joh. 15. 14, Tear e my friends if ye do whatfoever 1 command yon. And as a man Serveth one whom he loveth and wooeth, which he doth neither for fear nor reward, but being wholly a&ed and determined to do fo, from a principle of love, and a defignoflove within himfelfr; Joh. 3.29, He that hath the bride, is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom^ which ftandeth and heareth him, rejoiccth greatly becaufe of the bridegrooms voice. Song 5. 2,/r is the voice of-my beloved that knocks tth, Joying, of en to me, my fifter, my love, my dove, my nndefled. 4. What kind of Service is it which belongeth to Chrift by this Covenant-relation? Anfw. 1. It was the greateji piece of Service and truft that ever was put upon man: no lefs then the whole work of our Redemption and Salvation, the weight of the loft World , and of all the elecl, was upon his fhoulders in this Service, Jfa. 22.24, And they frail hang upon him all the glory of his fathers houfe, the off-fpring and the ijfue 7 all veJJ'els of fmall quantity ; from the veffels of cttps, even to all the veffels of flaggens. Joh- 17-2, 3,4, As thou haft given him power over all fiejh, that he fiiould give e-ternal life to as many as thou haft given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jefm Chrift whom thou haft fent. 1 have glorified thee on the earth : 1 have finifired the worl^ which thou gov eft me to do. 2. It was the harfeft piece of Service that ever was laid upon any perfon. O what a hard Service was it to deftroy the works of the Devil, to bind the ftrorrg man, and to fpoil his houfe, to fall into his quarters, and to bring off the priibners-, yea, to go into the.priion, and to let open the dores, and let the priibners go free ; to' enter his peribn in prifon for them-, to-pay the debt of fo many broken men *, to bear their tranf-greflions, and the chaftiiement of their peace*, to endure the ftroak of the wakened up fword of Divine Juftice in our (lead! Heb.i.i^. Mat. 12. 29. Jfa. 61.1,2. Zech.9. 11. ^#.2.24. Col. 2. 15. iCor. 15.55. Jfa.$l. throughout. It w r as the hardfhip of this Service that made him heavy and grieved* that made him pray, and cry, and weep, and iweat blood, Joh. 13.21.^ Joh.26. 22,42, /jKKj. 7. Luke 22. 24. The Service of no labouring man, of no flave, that ferveth for hire, as a ftranger in another country,is

ta

to be compared with the hardfhip of his Service. 3. This Service was an honourable place and Service *, he ferved as a King, Heb.S. I, Now of the things which we have fpoken, this is the fuw; we have fitch an High-priefi, who is Jet on the right hand of the throne of the Majefty in the heavens, Joh. 5. 22, 23, For as the father judgeth no man: but hath committed all 'judgment unto the Son, that all men Jhould honour the Son, even as they honour the father. He that honour-eth not the Son, honoureth not the father which hath fent him, Ila. 22. 23, 24, And he jhall be for a glorious throne to his fathers houfe. And they Jliall hang upon him all the glory of his fathers houfe, the off-fpring and the ijfue. Yea, It's a greater place than to be a King * 7 for by it the man Chrift' is exalted far above all principality, and conftituted Judg and Ruler of the Nations, Prince of the Kings of the Earth,head of the Church, and King of Saints. Phil. 2.8,9. Eph. 2.20, 21,22. Col. 1. 28. lfa. 9. <5. All. 17. $1. Rev. 15. 3. and 17. 14. 4. It was the moft kindly Service that ever was done by man *, for it was the Service of love, the defign of love that was in his heart, made him with good will to ferve: Jer. $i. 3, The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, faying, yea, I have loved thee with an everlafling love : therefore with loving-kindnefs have I drawn thee. He Served not only as a hired man and a Granger in a far Country, and as a King and great Lord Ambaflador, whole Service was a Rule and Government *, but he ferved alfo as a lover, becaufe of the defign of love, and of eternal enjoyment of his chofen people, which was in his heart, he wearied not to ferve his father, who had promifed to give him the people whom he loved with an everlafting love *, and he wearied not to ferve his people, that he might court and woo them to himfelf; he did ferve for the fatisfa&ion that he promifed to himfelf, in the enjoyment of the people, upon whom he had fet his heart; and as low a price as poor finners are, yet he counted them worthy to be compafTed with lb high a defign *, he reckoned them a wager and recompence for all his Service., Jfa. 53. 11, He jhall fee of the travel of of his foul, and jliall befatisfied. Heb. 12.2, Who for the joy that was fet before him, endured the crofs, defpifing the jliame, and is fet down at the right hand of the thrwe of God, His Service is not unfit-

ly refembled by Jacobs, who Served for a Wife whom he loved, 6^.29.15,21,27, And Laban faid unto Jacob, Becaufe thou art my brother ?flwuldft thou therefore ferve me for nought f tell me what flail thy wages be.-— And Jacob [aid unto Lab an. Give me

my wife, (for my days Are fulfilled') Fulfil her weekly and we

will give t hoc this alfofor the fer vice which thou (halt [erve with me, yet [even other years.

5. What was the Service which Chrifl: did in the bufinefs of the Covenant? though-this cannot be fufficiently anfwer-ed by us, who have not yet come to know and underftand half of that which he hath done for his people, 1 Cor. 2. 9, But as it is written, Eye hath mtfecn, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 1 Joh. 1. 1,2, Behold, what manner of love the father hath be flowed upon us, that we fiwuld be called the Sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, becaufe it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the Sons of'God, and it doth not yet appear what we [mil be * 9 but we know, that when he [hall appear, we [mil be like him : for we [hall fee him as he is. Yet let us glance at it by that dim light which we have of the Scriptures. It is in general called by him-felf the workwhich his father gave him to do, Joh. 17.4- By which we underftand, all that Chrift had in commiflion to do in our nature, from the time of his receiving a commiflion to be the Mediator of the Covenant, unto the. time of his delivering up the Kingdom to his father:, more particularly, this Service which Chrift did in the bufinefs of the Covenant, it's called the reflitution of all things,. A£t. $.21. When Chrift fhall bring all things out of that difordered and ruined condition whereunto they were brought by the fall of man, and fhall reftore them to the Primitive integrity ; when he fhall reftore fore-faulted man into his firft eftate of innocency and happinefs, by taking of the fore-faulture, and bringing him out of his excommunicated exiled condition, into the prefence and fellowship of God, Eph. 2. 12, 1 $, That at that time ye were without Chrifl, being aliens from the commonwealth of Ifrael , and ftrangers from the Covenant of promife, having no hope, and without God in the world. But now in Chrifl *Jefus, ye who fometimes were afar off, art made nifh by the blood of Chrift. And when the creatures . j J fhall

Chap. XIX. of the Covenant.

fhall be delivered from the bondage of corruption? into the glo-rioHS liberty of the Sons of God? Rom. 8. 21. This Service is called, the bearing the tranjgreffwns of many? the making his foul an offering for fm y Ilk. 53. ic, 12. It was the putting his Soul in our Souls (lead \ that the law might overtake him, that juftice might fmite him for us, and might take iatisfafti-on from him, for the broken Covenant ? it was the offering up of himfelf in a Sacrifice; the putting of his Soul in the flame of hot burning wrath for us, that the furbufhec! and wakened-iip fword of Divine Juftice might be bathed in his blood, until it w r as full of blood, and latisfied, Heb. 9. 14, How much more ftiall the blood of Chrift? who through the e-ternal /pint, offered himfelf without fpot to God> purge your conscience from dead works to ferye the living God. Zech. .14. 7, Awake? O fword? again ft my Jhepherd? and again ft the man that is my fellow? faith- the Lord of hofts: jmite the ftiep-berd?&c. It's called, the reconciling of the world to God? 2 Cor. 5. 19. By which we understand, all the travel of his Soul, in the propounding, treating, and concluding of a peace 'twixt God and ilnners: for all that Service was laid upon him, and was performed by him: for he maketh the proportion of peace, he carryeth on the treaty, until his own hand lead our hand to fign the articles of peace propounded in the Gofpel, £ph. 2. 17, And came and preached peace to you which were afar off? and to them that were nigh. 2 Cor. 5. 19, 20, To wit y that God was in Chrift reconciling the world unto himfelf? not imputing their trefpaffes unto them: and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 2 Cor. 9.15, Whiles by the experiment of this miniftration? they glorifie God for your profeffed fub]eclion unto the Gofpel of Chrift. This Service is called the faving of the loft world? Luk. 19. 10. And the bringing many Sons to glory?. Heb„2. 10. That was a great Service indeed, to have th* weight of the loft world upon his fhouldiers *, to have the keeping and leading, yea, the bearing in his arms of all that numberlefs number of the ranibmed and redeemed ones, whom God had appointed unto Glory, Joh. 17. 12, While I was with them in t\x worlds 1 kept them in thy name: thofe that thou gave ft me^ J have kept? and none of them is loft. Ifa.40.. 1.1, He ftiall feed his ftock^like a Jliepherd: he fliall gather the lambs with his arm?

and,

$6c Chrijl a Servant in the bnfwefs Chap.XIX.

and carry them in his bo[ome, and fiall gently lead thofe that are withyouvg. In a word, the Service which Chriit. did in the bufmeis of the Covenant, was the the transacting of the Covenant \ he did all that bufinefs from beginning to end*, and without him was nothing done of all things pertaining to God, and a new Covenant betwixt him and us: whereof fee more particularly what we have fpoken of the Mediator of the Covenant, Chap.^.

Vfi i. Think with your felves and confider the love that made him come under this Covenant-relation *, that made him a common Servant to both the parties : for though he had wages and a rew T ard propounded to him, yet it was love that a&ed Chrift in performing this great piece of Service. His Service of love is much commended, 1. From the infinite condefcenfion that was in it: O what condefcenfion was it for a Son to become a Servant! Heb.^3, Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he fuffered: for the Son, the only begotten Son and Heir, to become a Servant! Mat. 21. 37, 38, But lafl of all, he fent nnto them his Son, raying-) they will reverence my Son. But when the husbandmen [aw the Son, they [aid among themfelves, this is the heir, come, let us kill him, and let us feizje on his inheritance. For the Son of God to become a Servant to the ions of- men ! Plnl. 2. 6, 7, Who being in the form of God, thought it -not robbery to be equal with God: but made himfelf of no refutation : And took^ upon him the form of a fervant, and was made in the likenefs of men. 2. From the voluntari-nefs of his coming under this Covenant-relation -, when he was not a Servant by any neceflity of nature, that he made himfelf one •, that when nothing elfe was to do it, his grace, his love determined him to go and ierve his enemies, and make himfelf of no reputation, Phil. 2, 7. Rom. 5.8, But God commended his love toward us, in that while we were yet [inner s, Chrijl died for us. Heb. 10. 9, Then [aid he, La, I come to do thy will CO God). O what ftrange love was that, which made Chrift fo willingly leave the Throne, and come down to the foot-ftool, and ihnd and ferve! Mat.20.2S, Even as the Son of man came not to be miniftred unto, but to minifler, and to give his life a ranfome for many. Joh. 13 .4-5 5> He rifeth frem fapper y and laid afide his garments, and took^ a

towel.

Chap. XIX. of the Covenant.

towel, and girded himfelf. After that, he poureth water into a bafon, and began to waftj the difcipUs feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Gal. 2. 2D, And the life which I now live in the flefti, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himfelf for me, 3. His Service of love is commended, from the lowneis of the wager and price which he is to have for his Service and love. Was man a crown and wager for Chrift to work and to run for, that he might win it ? how great a difproportion is there betwixt the Service and the Wages ? Can-poor polluted nothings, Rich as we are, be a price for fuch Love, for fuch Service, for fuch tranfeendent infinite Love ? and yet fuch was the wager for which he ferved, Joh> 13.1, Having loved his own which were in the world^ he loved them unto the end. Joh. 17. 19, And for their fakes I fantlifie my felf p that they alfo might be fanttifted through the truth, 4. His Service is commended from the largenefs of his defign of Love, through which he did drive the ferving of this Service*, that God, the Son of God, did drive this piece of Service through fo deep, and broad, and long a defign of tranfeendent love, from everlafting to everlafting *, through fo many decrees, which at laft could produce nothing in the re-fbit, but this price, To have his poor people engaged to him by a Covenant; whereas we might think a lower defign might compafs finners, and a lefs price might buy poor man, Jer, 31. 3, The Lord hath appeared of old nnto me, faying^ Tea, I have loved thee with an everlafting love: therefore with loving-kindnefs have 1 drawn thee. 1 Joh. 3.1, Behold what manner of love the father hath be flowed upon us, that we fljould be called the Sons of God :- therefore the world knoweth us not, becaufe it knew him not, Eph. 3* 18, 19, may be able to comprehend with all faints, what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height: and to know the love of Chrift which pajfeth kyowledg, that ye might be filled with all the fulnefs of God, 5. His Service is commended for his performing of it, and doing his work fo long before he was to reap that low price of all the travel of his Soul, to wit, the enjoyment of his people, lja.$il 11, He jhall fee of the travel of his foul, and fiatl be fat is fed : He ferved long ago for that wager which is not not yet payed to him *, and he knew when he ferved that

Aaa Service,

Service, that he fhouLd lie fo long out of a great part of his fatisfaclion, Joh. 17. 20, Neither pray I for thefe alone? but for them alfo which fu.tll believe on me through their word. Vfe 2, This Covenant-relation fpeaks fad things to them who will not ferve Chrift:: 1. Wo to them that will not ferve him, who refufe a confent of their Service to him, who made himfelf a Servant for our lake, Luk. 19. 14, But his citizens hated him? and fent a meffage after him, faying? We will not have this man te reign over us. Pial. 2. 3, Let us break^their bands afunder ? and caft away their cords from vu. We love to be Lords over our own liberty and wills, and to break his bands. 2. Wo to them that think fhame to ferve him: there is a generation that think it is below them to ferve Chrift • they judg his Service is not honourable, though fce was not afhamed to lerve us, Lukj 22.27, For whether is greater? he that fitteth at meat? or he that ferveth ? is not he that fitteth at meat ? but I am among you as he that ferveth. Heb. 2. 11, For both he that fanttifieth? and they who are fancbified are all of one •, for which caufe he is not afhamed fr call them brethren: And though it be no fhame, but honourable to ferve him, Pfal. 116. 16, O Lord? truly I dm thy fervant ? I am thy fervant? and the Son of thine hand-maid: thou hafi loo fed my bonds. Pfal. 84. 10, For a day in thy courts is better then a thoufand: I had rather be a dore-keeper in the houfe of my God? then to dwell in the tents of wickednefs. I fa. 58. 13, And call the fabbath a delight? the holy of the Lord, honourable? and fialt. honour him? not doing thine own ways? nor finding thine own pleafure, nor fpeakjng thine own words. 3. Wo to them that pretend to ferve him, and do nothing but Eye-fervice in his work ? though he was real and cordial in ferving our Intereft, for his Saul travelled in the bufinefs ; but the fpirits of fuch act nothing in his Service, Eph. 6. 6? Not with Eye-fervice , as men-pleafers? but as the fervants of Chrifi? doing the will of God from the heart, lia. 29. 13, Wherefore the Lord faid? Forafmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth? and with their lips do honour me? but hath removed their heart from me? and their fear toward me is taught ' by the presepts of men, &c. -

O Cohfider with your felves, 1. What pride there is in refusing to ferve him, whole Sexvice is io honourable an employment,

rcent, that it "is not below the Kings of the Earth to bring their. Glory unto Chrifl, and to bow beiore him: Pfal. 2. 10, II, 12, Be wife now therefore, O ye k[vgs: be trtfi ye judges of the earth, ferv*. the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kifs the Son, left he be angry, and ye peri ft} from the , way, when his wrath ts kindled but a little, Pial. 54. throughout. Who would not bow to him, who (hall break them all that will not bow unto him? IJa, 6c. 12, For the nation and kingdom that will not ferve thee, pall perifti *, yea, thofe nations ftmll be utterly wafted, Pial. 2.9, Thou (halt breaks them with a rod of iron, thou ftialt daft) them in pieces like a potters veffel. Pial- no. 5, The Lord at thy right hand, ft) all fir ike through kings in the day of his wrath. 2. Confider what huge and. monftrous ingratitude, and unkindneis it is, not to ferve him who hath voluntarily humbled himfelf to ierve us j who though he was our maker, Heb. 1.2, 3, yet made himfelf of no reputation for otfr advancement, Phil. 2. 7. Confider how he hath commended hi:- Service unto us, -juid be afhamed not to be found among his fervants and followers. See more of this, Chap. 18.

Vfe 3. Exhortation. 1. Confider and know what he hath .done in this Covenant-relation,after he hathferved this Service, and done all that; was incumbent to him in this relation: he may put the queftion to us, which fometimes he put to his Difciples, Joh. 13. 12, Know ye what I have done to yon f 'tis a pity that his Service is fo little known and taken notice of among his own people,for whom he hath done this Service: 'tis a pity that it Ihould be met with doubtings, whether he hath done Service for us *, or denials of our interefl: in it: which occafion diminutive thoughts and expreffions of it.

2. Confider how ill Chrift was ufed in this relation, that you may be broken for it: he was fmitten by both the parties,/? pleafed the Lord to bruife him, Ifa. 53. 10. Rom. 8. 32, He fpared not his own Son. Zech. 13.7, Awake, O /word, againfi my jhepherd-) and againfi the man that is my fellow-, faith the Lord of hofts. And his own people fmote him, and ufed him very ill, Mat.li. 58, But when the husbandmen faw the Son, they [aid among themfelves, This is the heir, come, let us kjk him, and let us feme on his inheritance. Joh. 1. II, He cam? ■ unto his ow&j and his own received him not. Ifa.53. 3, He is

Aaa 2 ; defpifed

defpifed and rejetled of men ; a man of forrows, and acquainted with grief, and we hid as it were oar faces from him: he was dtfpifed, and we efteemed him not. Yet his love did bear him through all this cold encouragement.

I. Confider how you entertain his Service, 2 Cor. 6a , We then, as workers together with him, befeech yon alfo , that ye eceive not the grace of God in vain. Do not flight it , do not refufe it npon whatlbever pretext *, but if he will do you Service, and condefcend to do you good, fuffer him to do it: 'tis no prelumption to let him take his will of you; he took it ill to be other wile dealt with, Job. 13.6,8, And Peter faith unto him, Lord, dofl thou wajh my feet! 1 Peter faith unto him, Thou fhalt never wajh my feet. Jefus anfwered him, If I wajh thee not, thou haft no part with me. And no wonder he take it very ill, to have his Service flighted and refilled *, for his Service ft the heighth of his love, which he annot endure to have flighted : his Service offered, is flighted jy all thofe who will not give their confent to let him do unto them all the good offices which are mentioned in the Gofpel by all who do not f ubjeel: their confent unto it, J oh. 5.40, And ye will not come to me that ye might have life. Mat. 22. 5, But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another lo his merchandife. 4. Confider what advantages we have by his Service: 1. His condefcen-fion was the caufe of our exaltation : if he had not ferved, wc had not reigned : if he had not come down to the footftool, we fhould never have come up to the Throne, ,£/<?&.5.8,9, Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he fujfered: and being made per feci, he became the Author of e-ternal falvation unto all them that obey him. Rom. 8, 17, And if children , then heirs, heirs of God, and joint heirs with thrift: if fo be that we fuffer with him, thai we may be alfo gloried together. 2. It was the hardfhip of his Service which makes ours 16 eafie •, he left us little to do: when he was made under the law, he did bear away the bondage of our Service and Duties, Rom. 7.4, Wherefore my brethren, ye alfo are becQme dead to the law by the body ofChrift, that ye fhould be married to another, even to him who is raifed from the dead, that we fhould bring forth fruit unto God: He did bear the hard and infupportable yoke,andleft us nothing to do,

but

Chap. XIX. of the Covenant. %6$

but to ferve for love •, he brake the force and power of the adverlary, and left us only a broken party and routed forces to deal with, 1 Cor. 15. 55, O death, where is thy fling? O gravej where is thy vittory ? Yea, he hath not left us alone to deal with th^k. 3. By his Service we have our liberty} and can be no more Servants, but Friends and Children of the houfe. See Gal. 4.4, 5, 6,7, But when the fulnefs of time was come, God [em forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of Sons. And becaufe ye are Sons, God hath fent forth the Sprit of his Son into your hearts, crying Abba, father-, wherefore thou art no more a fervant but a Son: and if a Son, then an heir of God through Chrift. Joh. 8. 36, If the Son therefore jhall make you free, ye Jhall be free indeed. Joh. 15. 15, Henceforth J call you nor fervant s,for the fervant knoweth not what his Lord doth-, but J have called y oh friends : for all things that 1 have heard of my father, 1 have made known unto you. Rom. 8. 2, For the law of the fpirit of life in Chrift Jefns hath made me free from the law of fin and death. Gal. 4. $ 1, So then, brethren, we are not children of the bond-woman, but of the free. We were flaves, and condemned under perpetual bondage , married unto an angry tyrant (To was the law become to tranfgreffbrs)*, but by his becoming a Servant under the law, by his putting on our condition, we became fharers of his liberty and Son-(hip- 4. By his Service we have wages and a reward for our Service,, even for our poor worthlefs endeavours after duty, about which there are fo many queftioniugs in the hearts of believers, whether they fhall be accepted , and but few thoughts of a recompence. I fay, our Service could never have been rewarded but for his Service : this brought with it not acceptation only, but a reward to Ours, upon his account, being done in his name, Luk^. 17. 10, So like-wife ye, when ye jhall have done all thefe things which are commanded you, fay, We are unprofitable fervants; we have done that which was but our duty to do. Heb. 11. 6, And that > he if a rewarder of them that diligently feek^ him. Ifa. 45. 19, J fold not unto the feed of Jacob, Seek^ye me in vain. Ifa, 56. &■> 7> <dlfo the fons ef the ftranger that join themfetves to the Lord,'to ferve him, arid to love the name of the Lord, to be

his-..

his fervants, every one that keepeth the [Math from polluting. if, and tdketh hold of my covenant, even t'hem will 1 bring19 my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my honfe of grayer : their burnt offerings, and their facrifces frail be accepted upon mine altar : for mine houfe frail be called an honfe of prayer for all people. .5. By his Service we have that honourable marriage with him which was the price of the travel of his Soul, even to have our Souls engaged to him for the Service of love which he ferved, that he might have his people for his reward, as Jacob ferved for the Wives that were given him in Laban his houfe, Gen. 29. 2c, 28, 29. If a. 5$. 11, He frail fee of the travel of his foul, and frail be fatis-fed.

5. Confider what this relation calleth for at our hands: That Chrift was a Servant in the bufmeis of the Covenant, this calleth us, 1. To yield our felves to be his Servants upoa the terms of that Covenant wherein he ferved, even to fub-jecl: our confent to ferve him in like relations, 2 Cor. 9.1 3, Whiles by the experiment of this mimftration , they glorified God for your profeffed fubjetlion unto the Gofpel of Chrift. 2Chron. $0. 8, Now be ye not ftiff-necked, as your fathers were ; but yield your felves unto the Lord, lia.50.6. 2. His Service calleth us to ferve all his interefts and relations, his people, efpeci-ally the people who are nearly related to him, Mat. 12.49, 50, And he fir etched forth his hand toward his difciples, and [aid, Behold, my mother, and. my brethren : for whofoever frail do the will of my father which is in heaven , the fame is my brother, and ft ft er, and mother. So he himfelf argueth, Job, * I' *4? J 5> If I then your Lord and mafter have wafred your feet, ye alfo ought to wafr o?ie anothers feet. For I have given you an example, that ye fro uld do as I have done to you. 3. To ferve him in that Covenant-relation, in fuch manner as he ftrved us, or rather our interefts *, and that was, 1. Willingly and chearfully : For fb did he undertake and undergo that Service, Heb. 10. 7> Then faid I, Lo, I come ( in the volume of the booh^ it is written of me ) to do thy will, O God. Luk. a2. 15, And he faid unto them, With defire have I defired to eat this paffover with yon before 1 fuffer. Let our Service to him be fuch, Pfal. 2. 11, Serve the Lord with fear, and rejtice with trembling. Deut. 28.47,48, Becaufe thou fervedft

not

Chap. XIX. of the Covenant. s6y

not the Lord thjf God with -joyfulnefs, and with gladnefs of hearty for the abundance of all things ', therefore jhalt then ferve thine enemies which the Lord Jhall fend againft thee, in hunger, and in thirfi, and in nakednefs, and in the Wane of all things. 2. He ierved cordially , his Soul travelled in the bulinefs, Joh. 12. 27, Now is my font troubled, and what foall I fay ? father, Jave me from this hour : but for this caufe I came unto this hour. Mat. 26. 38, Then faith he unto them, My foul is exceeding forrowful, even unto death : tarry ye here, and watch with me. Let your Service to him be iuch, that your hearts may be yoaked, and your Spirits may a& ibmething in ferving him, Deut. 10. 12, And now, Jfrael, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk^ in all his ways, and to love him, and < to ferve the Lord thy God, with all thy heart, and with all thy foul ? Rom. 1. o, For God is my witnefs, whom I ferve with my fpirit in the^ Gofpel of his Son. Phil. 3.3, For we are the cir-cumcifion, which worjhip God in the fpirit, and rejoice in Chrifl Jefm, 3 . He ierved with much iubmidion of his will to his fathers in all things, ffeb. 5. 8, ttough he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he fuffered. Mat. 26. 3 9,42, And he went a little further , and fell on his face, and frayed, faying, O my father, if it be pojfible let this cup pafs from me: nevertheless, not as I will-, but as thou wilt. He went out again the fecondtime, and prayed, faying, O my father, if this cup may not pafs away from yne, except I drinks it, thy will be done. Joh. 4. 34, Jefus faith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that fent me, and to finijh his workc Let Us do Service to him with like iubmhTion of Spirit, 2 Sam. 15. 26, But if he thus fay^ I have no delight in thee : behold, here am J, let him do to me as feemeth good unto him. Ac"l. 20. 22 ? 24, And now beholfi, I go bound in the fpirit unte. Jerufalem y not knowing the things that jhall befall me there : but none of thefe things move me: neither count I my life dear unto my • \ felf, fo that I might finijh my courfe with joy, and the mini fry which 1 have received of the Lord Jefus, to tefiifie the Gofpel of the grace of God. 4. He ierved faithfully * for in all quefti-ons and debates that occured while he was here in the form ©f a Servant, he-was always for his father, true to his inter-eft, Heb. 3. 2 y Who was faithful to him that appointed' him.

Joh,

Job, 8. 2 8, 38, Then faid Jeftu unto them, When ye have lift up the Son of ma/i, then flhtll ye know that I am he, and that 1 do notling of my felf, but as my father hath taught me, I fpeak^thefe things, I fpeal^ that which I have feen with my father : and.ye do that which ye have feen with your father. Let us be fure to fine him fo, in all queftions and fides in thefe days, to be ever for him, and his inter efts, and upon his fide, 1 Kings 22. 14, And Micajah faid, As the Lord liveth, what the Lord faith unto me, that will J fpeak^ Heb. 1.2, As alfo Mofes was faithful in all his houfe. Act. 13. 56, For Da-vid after he had ferved his own generation, by the will of God fell a fleef, and was laid unto his fa: hers, and faw corruption. 5. He performed his Service prudently, Ifa. 52. ij, Behold^ my fervant fhall deal prudently, he fliall be exalted, and ex* tolled, and be very high. He did all things for promoting the bufmefs that was committed unto him, wich admirable vviidom and difcretion : ib is there alfo a wiidom with fidelity to be ftudied in ferving his interefts, that we do not mar the end of our Service, Mat. 24/45, Who then is a faithful <tnd wife fervant, whom his Lord hath made ruler over his houflwld-, to give them meat in due feafon ? Mat. 10.16, Behold, I fend ycu forth as fieep in the midfi of wolves : be ye therefore wife as ferpents, and harmlefs as doves, Mark. 9. I aft. Have fait in your felves, and have peace one with another.

CHAP. XX. Cbriji the Surety of the* Covenant.

Bi?i pi lecnm.

THE fixth relation which Chrift fuftainethin the Covenant of Grace, is, He is Surety of the Covenant: ib he is ex-prefly called, Heb. 7.22, Jefm was made furety of a better teftamenty or rather Covenant, as Bezji reads it: becaufe a Surety is not ufed in Teftaments, neither is Chrift properly to be confidered as Surety in his Teftament •, but as Teftator.

For

Chap. XX. of the Covenant. $69

For the opening of this relation, I fliall, 1. Enquire a little into the name and thing, that the nature of this relation may be the better known *, efpecially what it imports as it is applied to Chnft. 2. I fhall lay down fome affer-tions for the better underftanding of Chrifts Suretifhip in the Covenant. ;. How Chrift came under this relation, to be an undertaker for (bme of the fons of men. 4. For whom did he become Surety and undertaker. 5. For what is he engaged by this relation. 6. What doth commend his Suretifhip , that the excellency of it may appear. 7. Wherein his Suretifhip doth differ from undertakings of that nature among men. 8, What are the advantages that the Lords people have by Chrifts Suretifhip. And in the laft place I fhall fhew you what ufe is to be made of this relation, or of Chrift confidered as Surety of the Covenant.

The Hebrew word 3")y Ghnarab, to which the Grcekj r i<k Mtret*. ^ word «>fv«*, doth anfwer, is of very large fignification, as * n * Buxtor. in any word in that language: I will touch but a few of many, voce ' becaufe they are appofite to exprefs the nature of Suretifhip; The firft and native fignification of the word, is to mx, and to mingle, fee PfaL 106. 1%, But were mingled among the heathen, and learned their works . And to meddle, or to have dealing and commerce, fee Pra/,2o,iy, Therefore meddle not with him that flatter eth with his lips. Prov.24. 21, And meddle not with them that are given to change. And indeed Chrifts Suretifhip, was a mixing and mingling with his people ; it was fuch a mingling with us, as the like was never heard of, a mingling of natures ( if I may ufe the word ), by a wonderful perfonal union, two natures meeting in one perfon, and yet remaining diftincV, and a myftical union whereby he is in us, and we are in him: a mingling of inter-efts ', his interefts are ours, and our inter efts are his*, whereby in fome refpeft he cometh in our place, and w T e come in his place: See Joh. 17. 21, 22,2$, That they all may be one, as thon father art in me, and 1 in thee, that thty alfo may be one in hs : that they may be one, even as we are one : 1 in them, and rhpu in me, that they may be made perfett in one, 2 Cor. 5. 17,21, Therefore if any man be in Chrifl, he is a new ^

creature. For he hath made him to be fin for hs, who \ytew

m fin, that we might Be made th* right eenfinefs of Cod in "him,

Bbb Ua,

I&j<j -3, For. he, was cut off out of the land of the living ; fey the tranfgrejfwn of my people was he ftrkken. Rom. 8.1, There is therefore row no condemnation to them that arc in Chrijf Jefus. And his medling and dealing in our matters, is iuch as hath laid the whole weight' of them upon him, J fa. 9. 6, For unto us a child is bjrn, nnto hs a Son is given, and the government flail he upon his fh odder i And hath drawn on an cverlafting commerce, communion and exchange of commodities betwixt him and'his "people, 2 Cor. 6. i6 r 18, For ye are the temple of the living God, as God hath faid> I will dwell in them) and wdkjn them-, and 1 will be their God, and they fall be my people\ And will be a father unto you, and ye Jhall be my Jons and daughters, faith the Lord Almighty. Again, 2. This word fignifleth to engage. See Jer. 30.21, For who is this that engageth his heart ? Arr. Mont, reads it, Dilata-vit , alii obligavit , accommodavit , Hierom, qui applicet cor. And in this ienie, Chrifts Surerifhip is the enlargement of his heart to a voluntary engagement for his people, unto which there was no neceflity lying upon him. Tis the offering of himfelf willingly to undertake for them, Heb. 10. p, The?? faid he, Lo, 1 come to do thy will ( O God'), Joh. 10. 11, 18,

The good jhepherd giveth his life for the Jheep. No man take

eth it from me, but J lay it down of my felf: I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again, Joh. 18.8. \. This word fignifleth alio to be Surety, to undertake, be-caufe he that becomes Surety for another, doth fo mix with him, that in ibme reipeft he is fubftitute in^his place and room *, ib 'tis frequently ufed, Gen. 43-9, /"will be furety for hi*n\ e ftny hand fhalt thm require him: if I bring him not nnto thee, and fet him before thee, then let me bear the blame for ever. Gen. 44. \2, For thy fervant became furety for the lad unto my father, faying ,&c. Prov.6.u and 11. 15. and 22. 26. lfa. 38. 14. Pial 119- i 22 ? which is well rendered by the (earned Expofitors, fponde, fide jube pro fervo tuo, be furety for, thy fervant. In this fenfe alfo Chrift is the Surety ^ who did undertake for his people, that what fhould be required of them, he fhould anfwer for it; and what fhould be wanting of their account, the burden and blame of it fhould lie on him j as Judah ipoke in the place cited; See Joh. 17. throughout, 4, This word fignifies to give fledges, which is a kind of *^ H Surerifhip

Chap. XX. of the Covenant. §7S

Sureti r hip, I fa. 36.8, Now therefore give pledges, 1 fray thee, to my mafter the king of Affyria, and 1 will give thee two thou-fand horfes, if then he able on thy fart to fet riders npm ihem^ 2 Kings 18. 2 $. Da vadem, fponfionem fac H^nce cometh that word Arrhabo, which is originally an Hebrew word, and came from Phenica into Greece ( as is obferved by Gro-Gmius in 2. tins), that which we call the earneft and arles of any bar-ad. cor.c. 1. gain, 2 Cor. 1.22, Who hath alfo feakd us, and given the y * 22t earneft of the fpirit in our hearts. In this fenfe alio, Chrift is made Surety of the Covenant:, he who gave himfelf pledg and hoftage for his people*, he who not only did undertake and give bond, but alfo put 1 his perfon in prifon, until the Debt of his people fhould be paid, and until all things promiied in their name were made good, he being the pledg which lay for the whole price, If a. 53.8, He was taken from prifon, and front judgment ; and who frail declare his generation ? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the tranfgreffion of my people was he ftricken. Rom. 8. 52, He that [pared not his own Son , but delivered him up for hs all. 5. This word fignifieth to ftrike hands: forib were Covenants made , and Sureties engaged, Prov.22. 26, Be not thou among them that ftrike hands, to wit, fide jubendo, as Mont, iiipplieth, and the LXX renders it, by the fame Greeks word that's ufed, Heb, 7.22, give not thy felf \h tvyvliv, as a Surety : and in this fenle alio was Chrift made a Surety of the Covenant, he did ftrike hands with God y he did Covenant with us, and for us, by ftriking hands with God, P/^/,.40.7, Then faid I, Lo, 1 come. Ifa.59.21, As for me, this is my covenant with them, faith the Lord, My' fpirit which is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth , frail not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy feed, nor out of the mouth of thy feeds feed, faith the Ltrd, from henceforth and for ever.

The Greeks word ufed for a Surety, Heb. 7.22, lyyv&. fponfer, fide jutfor, . I do not read elfewhefe in the new Tcfta-ment ( though the LXX life it fometimes) for afleuf the , Hebrew word' that figiffiH&i Suretv, ll^U^W and 2c.'Tq. Whethe-piriqud': or from iyyvit

which ctfraes from try v we.

Bbb 2 porf

%jir Ckriji the Surety Chap. XX*

port the nearrefs of the Surety, and the Debtor, and to ckiftus' nobis anlwer well the Hebrew word,, which importeth mixing toge-cenjwulift' tner ^ i t importeth that Chrifts Surerifhip made him near to us, mm: prop"- anc j ^id m [ x fc,im anc ] us w x conjunction of blood; for bv

anus ndirntns* . . .. . . , . ... . , / . > , /•

By natural, xt ne phghted his faith, and truth, to take on our nature, and myftical, and our condition in law, and lb became our ^N)V"- Goal our voluntary re- kinfman, J^. 19.25, our neareft of kindred, who had the

la r t,( ? ns V?ji 1, rislit to redeem us, Lev. 2c„2*. Ruth. 1*9.. of the Media- S™ r A j r r 3 j 1 •■ • m>

tor n, 13 $&c. The Latin word Jponjor according to the opinion of Divines, Jurifts and Humanifts y fignifieth one who engageth for another. Span for proprte eft, qui fro alio fatisfattionem fpon-det, vel de ea covet. Par cm Commen. in Heb. 8. 6. Again, fponfor eft qui fponte pro alio promittit \ ff on fores Junt quic unique fpondent maxime pro aliis, five rogati five non rogati, five, folemui ftiyulatione , five nuda receptione, intercedant r quib/a fpondentibus, pecunti cuipiam creduntur r ant aliquid derriaw promittitur. Calv.Lexic. Jurid. in voce iponfor. Cicer. ad at-ric. Lib. iv And it cometh from ffonderc quafi ffonte di-cere y dare ac promittere *, therefore alio he is called ad^promif for. Fide ]ujfor dicitur qui pro alio fidem [nam obligat, et fide-fua y id eft periculo fuo ejfe Jubet, quod alius debet. Calv. Lex. Jurid. in voce fide jttjjor. Again, fide )ujJor eft autor credendi Minm aliquid daturum fatturumve, fuafide, fuoque perk do pro-mittens. Ulpian. in tract, de fide ]u(fore.- And in this fenfe-Chrift is Surety of the Covenant,, that is, he who willingly engaged, and undertook for the parties, eipecially for Us*, he that put in hi* faith and obligation for ours,.ancL bad God trunY us on his Credit, and reckon #ur Debt «pon his account^ and. wherein, we fail, let it be on his peril.

But that we may a little more particularly-confider the

nature of this relation and Suretifhip of Chriit: 1. The end

and trie of Suretifhip among,, men, was no doubt the efta-

bliffrment of a firm fecurity, to be ground of faith and truft,

r . ..... as the Jnrifts tell us , dum cur ant homines ut diligentius fibi

*fT dt'fdt pi' ca "t"»* fit* And it is not to be doubted, bit in the purpofe

fa of God, the Suretiftiip of Chrift was intended as a

ground ofttult, confidence and iecurity, betwixt himielfand

the people for whom Chrift did undertake, that firmers might

be iaduced to give him credit, and that he might have a re-

fponfai'

fponfal party to deal with*, man being a broken unbelieving creature, who xould neither truft God, nor was to be truft-cd by him. See Heb.6. 17,18, Wherein God , willing more abundantly to jhew Unto the heirs of promife, the immutability #/ his cottnfel, confirmed it by an cnth, that by two immutable things, in which it was impcfftble for God to lye> we might have a ftrcng confutation y who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope fet before hs. Pfal.89. 19, Then then fpakeft in vifi-m to thy holy one, . and. faidfi y I have laid help Hfon one that' is mighty: I have exalted one chofen out of the people. And io the Surety of the Covenant is that pcribn upon whole account, truft and confidence is betwixt the parties CoVe-Ranting, and in whom it ftandeth faft. 2. Ifweconfider tht Suretifhip, 1. It imports an obligemcnt for another, and is to be reckoned among Contracts" and Covenants *, and therefore the Lawyers fay, fide ytffor non ft nift per ftipHlaii-**?™^*-^ •nem^ and they reckon it among contracts and ftipuiations.,Mr '** r "••''" Trov. 22. 26, Be not thou one of them that ftriks hands, or of them that are fnreties for debts* And indeed Chrifls Suretifhip is relative to a Covenant betwixt him and the Greditor ; whereby he came under this relation, whereof we have fpoken elfewhere on this fubjeft, Chap. And ftiatl hint fome-thing further ere we pafs it over. 2. It imports a voluntary obligation,, as I have fhewed in expounding the word: The law cannot force and compel any man to be Surety for another, though it may conftrain him for his own Debt. Chrifts Suretifhip was a moft free voluntary aft on his part: for he was not under any obligation of law* nor under^any necefiity of nature, to- put his name in our bond, or to fatisfiefor our Debt* Joh. 10. 18, No man takethit (my life) from me, but I lay it down of my felf: J have'power to lay^ it down y and I htfve power to take it again: this commandment have I received of my father. Heb. 10.5^7, Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he faith, Sacrifice and offering thou wonldfi not, but a body haft thou prepared me: then faid /, Lo, J come (in the volume of the beok^it is writun of me*) to do thy will, O God. Phil, 2.7, But madehimfelf of no reputa-lion, and toeh^npen him the form of a fervant, and was made in the lihenefs of men, 3. It imports not only a'voluntary tMigatkm for another perfoi), but alfo imion ©f parties, and

aflumptkm

: .j.74 Chrifi the Surety Chap. XX.

afTurnption of the condition of that perfon in the laws fenfe,' lb that the Surety and the Debtor are but one party in the law *, therefore lay the Jurifts, fide jujfor proprie dicitur debitor. Chrift by his Suretifhip, he did not only take our nav ture upon him, but he took our condition upon him: it's liud of him, that, he was made under the law, Gal- 4-4- He put his name in our bond, that the law might reach him for our Debt. 4. It imports a communion betwixt the Debtor and the Cautioner, whereby as the Debt of the principal Debtor becometh the Debt of the Surety, and affecteth him ; Jo alio the fatisfaction and payment of the Surety,'and his difcharge and relief, becometh the fatisfaction, diichargeand relief of the principal Debtor. ChriflS 1 Suretifhip imports, not only an union of parties, and conjunction of interefts and condition with his people j but alfo a communion with debt-ful broken man, refulting from his bond of Suretifhip, whereby as upon the one part our Debt became his intirely, as the Jurifts fay of all Sureties, Stnguli in folidum tenentur^ lb' upon the other part his fatisfaction and difcharge becomes ours, 2 Cor. ylaft, For he hath made him to be fin for us, \iho knew no fin, that wc might be made the right eonfnefs of God in him. Gal. 3. 13, Chrift hath redeemed us from the cwrfe of ther law, being made a curfe for us: for it is written, Cur fed u every one that hangeth on a tree. 5. it imports a commutation, lurrogation, orfubftituting of one in the room of another y and fo Chrift was fubftitute in our ftead and room, as JUdah was in Benjamines, 1 Pet. 2. 21, Becaufe Chrift alfo fuffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye jhould follow hk fteps. Rom. 4.1'aft, Who was delivered for our offences, and was raifed again for onr ]uftification, Rom. 5.8, But God commended his love toward us, in that, while we were yet finners, Chrift died for us. Gen. 44. i\, Now therefore 1 pray thee, Let thy fervant abide in ftead of the lad, a bond-man to my Lord, and let the lad go up with his brethren. 6. It imports a conjunct: obligation, both of the Surety and of the Debtor to the Credi-

■JuftinUn hbi tor • Nam fide] ujfirum obligatio eft acceffw principalis obligations.

(upra. So Chrifts Suretifhip is not a binding of himlelf, and loofing

of his people from all obligation * ? but ftill the Debt lieth on the (inner, till Chrift make actual fatisfaction for it, and till he appty the fatisfaction, and report a relief to the poor creature

• turn And in other parts of the obligement, Chrift and the believer ftand both under a conjunct obligation for the believers duty, that the broken man who was bought from the hands of Juflice, (hall ferve for love all his days, Rom. 1 . y, F)o we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: .yea, we cftablijl) the law. Luk. 1*74, 'That he would gram unto us, that we being delivered out of the hands cf cur enemies, night ftrve him without fear. 7. Suretifliip in the nature of it imports either irrefponfalneis in the Debtor, or diftruft-fulnefs betwixt the Creditor and Debtor : or it imports both. Sure however it be in other cafes, there is in this cafe where Chrifts Suretifhip intervenes, both an irreijponialnefs on the one part, broken man not being folvendo, able to pay his Debt i and themis a diftruftfulnefs betwixt the parties : God defervedly diftrufling impotent perfidious man, a bankrupt creature, who had debofhed his flock, and broken his Covenant. And man .cauflefly diftrufting God, till Chrifts Suretifhip intervened, to take away both thefe evils, which kept the parties at diftance, Heb. 8.7, For if that firfi covenant had been fault left, then flwuld no place have been fought for the fecond. Pfal.89, 19, / have laid help upon one that is mighty: I have exalted one chofen out of the people, 2 Cor. 1. 2G, For all the promifes of God in him are, yea',and in him, Amen, unto the glory of God by hs..

I. It is to be remembred, that Suretifhip among men is of divert .kinds, all which can be but an imperfect refemblance of Chrifts Suretifliip. 1. Suretifliip is diftinguifhed according to the time of the Sureties interven'ng, and it is either before or after the obligation of the piincipal Debtor. Fide jujfor & pr<ccedere obligationcm & fcqui potefl. There j u f}j }l f an #;, is fomething of both tfreie in Chrifts Suretifhip •, for his Suretifhip being a deed of grace concluded in the counfel of God, before the beginning of the world, in that refpeft ir was before our obligation, yea, and before our being,, iTim. 1 * 9, Who hath faved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our worki, but according to his own purpofe aud grace, which was given us in Chrift Jefits, before, the world began. Pro v. 8.23, I was fet up from everlafting, from -the be-ginning, or ever the earth was. But in another refpeel:, he being Surety of. this new -and better Covenant, and fo man

being;

being confidered in this Covenant as a broken irrefpoofal creature, who could not fulfil his obligation to God , in this refpeel Chrifts Suretifliip may be confidered as fubfequent to mans obligation funderftand it in order of nature, not of time): for his Suretifhip and the Covenant vrherein he was made Surety, prefuppofeth the firft Covenant broken, and man thereby became a bankrupt creature, Heb. 8. 9,11, Becanfe they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, faith the Lord. For this is the covenant that J will make with the hohfe of ifraely after thofe days, faith the Lord. 2. Suretifhip is diftinguifhed according to its extent: and here is a double ciftinclion of Suretifhip: 1. A Surety is either more particular, when he doth not undertake for all that may follow upon the obligation of the principal Debtor, but hath hi- Suretifhip reftri&ed it may be to a particular bond, and not to all the perfons Debt •, or to the principal fum, and not to all the penalties and interefts thereof: or he is a more <*/tv&£r\//^,univerial Surety, called by the Jurift?, Fide yuffor in omnem canfam, qui in id omne, quod ex ea obligatione, cm acceditj rtoflri poteft, fc obligat. And this kind of Suretifhip extends as far as the obligation of the principal Debtor. Our Lord Jefus was a Surety, both for a particular debt and obligation, to fatisfie the violated Law and Covenant of works, Rom. 10.45 For Chrift is the end of the law for right eoufnefs, to every one that believeth. Such a particular Surety was Ju-dah, Gen. 45.9. and 44. $2. Chrift was alfo iiich a Surety as this laft fort, who took upon him the Debt, and all that could follow upon the broken mans obligation *, who faid unto God, that he did become good for his people, for all the Debt which they owed, and for all the penalties which they had incurred *, let all that might follow them, by vertue of their obligation, be upon him, Heb. 10. 5, xo. 2. In refpeft of the extent, Suretifhip is either for one of the parties Covenanting, or for both', which is a rare cafe among men: yet Chrifts Suretifhip was of this laft fort: for he was flich a Surety, as was Umpire and Mediator, and is nearly related to both the parties, and hath power with them both, and therefore he is an undertaker for God to man, 2 Cor. 1.20, For all the promifes of God in him are, yea , and in him Amen y Ht9o the glory of God by us* And for man to

God,

God, Luk^ 22. $2, But I have frayed for thee, that thy faith fait not. Whereof more particularly, when wc come to ipeak of what he is engaged unto by this Covenant-relation.

Suretifhip isdiftinguifhed according to the manner ofaflurance granted by the Surety, or according to the way of his making faith for his undertaking. He that interpofeth and imder-taketh for another, is properly a Surety, quocun^ac modo in* tercejferity which way ibever he doth interpofe for another, whether it be by ftipulation; explicite, by promife or by bond *, or if it be by a perfon, acting himfelf in the books of any court for another perfon , or if it be by giving any pledg, pawn, or hoftage for the thing undertaken : Our Lord Jefus had ibmething of all thefe ways in his Suretifhip for his people. He a&ed himielf in the court of Heaven, and book of God, Heb> 10. 7, Then faid /, Loy / come (in the volume of the book^ it is written of me ) to do thy willy O Cod. He did exprefly give his promife and bond for his people unto.all effects ( whereof afterward), Ezel^. 56.27, 31, And I will put my for it within yon, and caufe yon to walk^ in my fiatntes y and ye Jhall k*ep my judgments, and do

them. Then jhall ye remember your own evil ways, and your

doings that wen not goody and JhaH loath your felves in your own fight for your iniquities y and for your abominations % Which is afcribed to Chrift, Heb.S. He did give himfelf, his own bleffed perfon, to the prifon and to juftice, as a pledg and hofhge to God, for the fulfilling of this Covenant; a pre cious and worthy pledg to lie Surety for the Debt of all his broken people, Ifa. 53.8, 12, He was taken from prifon, and from judgment: and who Jhall declare his generation f for he was cut off out of the land of the living 9 for the tranfgrejfi* on of my people was he ftriclten. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great , and he flail divide the fpoil with the firong : becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death. Gen. 44. 1 1 , Now therefore J pray thee 7 let thy fervant abide in fiead of the lady a bond-man to my Lord 7 And let the lad go up with his brethren. iChron. 21. 17, Let thine handy I pray theey O Lord my Gody be on me, and on my fathers hoafe: but not on thy people, that they Jhould be plagued. He verily ac> ed that which Jnfah and David faid in thefe Scriptures-

Ccc Wc

We hsve.an evidence ,©f thk ipirit- :n him, Job. 18, 8,JV/Jm anfwered y J have told you Wat 1 am he: if therefore ye feek^ me, let thefe go i -.. 4. Suretifhip is diftinguifhed ac-

cording to the Tub terj arid things undertaken. A

Surety is either, 1. A Surety for Debt, Prov.-22.26, Be not thou one of them that ftrike hands, or of them that are fureties for Debts. Or, 2. A Surety for perfons, to wit, /or their fafety d^nd indempnity, Gen. 44. 32" for thy few ant tecame furety for the Ud unto my father, faying. If 1 bring him $o£ unto thee^ then J jhall bear the-blame unto my father for ever. Or for their good behaviour,or for their appearing. Or. 3. A Surety for performance, to wit, of conditions and ftipulations, fuch are commonly hoflages in war, I fa. 36.8, Now therefore give pledges, I pray thee, to my mafter the king of Ajfyria. The fir ft is Suretifhip in the way ot fatisfallion, and it is fponfio de pr&terito, or de prcfenti: The latter two is Suretiihip byway of caution y and is fponfio de futuro: Chrifts Suretifhip hath ibmethingofall thefer 1. He He was Surety for your Debt, to iatisfie for that, for all your Debts and Trefpafles, Ifa. 5.3.6, And the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. 2.. He became Surety for your peribns, for your indempnity, that none of you fhould be loft ; and not for the indempnity of your perfons only, but for the appearing of your perfons, that he fhould prefent you to God at the time appointed* Job. 17* 12, While I was with them in the world, l.k$pt them in thy name: thofe that r.hou gave ft me, I have kept, and none of them is loft, but the Jon oj perdition: that the fcriptwres might be fulfilled. He was bail for his people, • 3. He became Surety,for performance of the ftipulation, and all the conditions of the Covenant upon both fides, Job.6> 37,39,40, All that the fathergiveth me, Jhall come to me \ and hiw that cometb to me, I will in no wife caft *ht.—.-- Atid. this is: the fathers^M which hath fent me, that of *U whiih be hath'given, me r I fhould lofe nothing, but fiould raift it up ogam at the I aft K day. ■ And this is the will of him that. fent.me, that every one which feeth the Son, and believeth *n him, may have everlafting life: and I will raife him up at 4he'-laftxfoy* J<&> A7'4r £, / ha*ve glorified thee on tjj^earth : J kwoe finifhed tist[ work, which thou gave ft me to do. I 'have m*n*f*ft*d thy #am hW %he men which thou gave ft me out of

the

the world i thine tbepwtrefand .tftoxfaveji tker m: \\ afi&they have-- kept thy word, I

in the lecond-ipkrtf Lfhali lay down fomc Afflrfions-brefly for clearing of this. Covenant-relation.

Affert,- i. Man as he is confidcrcd in the iecond Covenant, hath as much need of a Surety as of a Saviour;. hath equal need of one to beget a commence 1 betwixt God and him, as. of one to help, him, Htb.% 7, Vof tf that firft covenant had been fanltlefsy then fhskld no place have been fonght for the fecond. He'being not only • a broken creature, and irreipon-ial \ who having banqueted out, with the ftock which his Lord committed to him, did merit to be no more trufted by him*, and who had alio with the lofs of his ftock Of Grace, put himleif in a defperate Condition, having finned a-way all power and pofTibility of paying his Debt, and iatis-fying his Lord *, > who alio had :begottdn a mutual diffidence and diftruft betwixt his Lord and him , that there could henceforth be no more dealing with expectation of truft and performance, until a Surety intervened to make up this * breach by hisundertaking, Pfdl. So.-. iq, 2% ) 5, / have laid help npon one that is mighty: I have exalted one. chojen ow of the people.—*-My mercy'-will I keep for him .for evermore ',

and my covenant Jhatl fiand fafi with him. Neverthelefs, my

lovingAtindnefs will / not Htterly take from him: nor faffer my faithfulnefs to fait,

Affert. 2, Chrifts Suretifhip was not only a voluntary a&, it was alfo an aft of abfolute Soveraignty : He being an abfolute Lord, this was his priviledg, that he had power over him-felf and over his own life, to lay it down at his pleafure, ( which others may not do ) *, take this AfTertion from his own mouth, Jeh. 10. 18, / have power to lay down my life, not only MvctfAi*, ability, but t&ffUr, —Authority and right. This Chrift had by| conceflion and grant from God his father who had given him power over all fteflj^ Joh. 17. 2. And this he had in and from himfelf*, being iiod, he had power over himielf as man, to difpofe of his manhood as pleafed hire*, and thefetwo concurring Chrifts confent, and his power over his own life, did make it- lawful and juft that he fhould be punifhed, being innocent, 1 Pet, '5. 18, For Chrifialfo hath once fuffered fit fins> the ytft for the wjjufi, that he might bring hs to God. Ccc 2 Affert. 1.

Affert. 3. When man was in this broken condition, Chrift tinrequefted, did undertake for the broken creature, to pay his Debt, and to fatisfie the Creditor, Rom. 5.8, But God commended hit love toward us, in that while we were yet finners-, Cbrift died for us. And this he did not by any requeit of ours, or any Covenant with us, to undertake for us,, whereby we did iotlicitc him or compact with him to be Surety for-us, ( for his Suretifhip gave the rife to the Covenant made with us*, our Covenant with him gave not the rife to his Suretifhip)-, but becaufe the Lord the Creditor, and Chrift the Cautioner, had long before ftricken hands together, that he fhould both undertake and diicharge the Debt of thefe broken men : Therefore its faid, that God laid %ur iniqui-ties Hpon him, Ifa. 5 3. 5, 6. And he was made a Surety, Heb. 7.22. catxb.Kamv. Affert. 4. Chriflthe Surety of the new-Teftament died, net c. 8. Sow. dtonly noftro bono for our good and profit, as Socinians fay-, fim*** 1 ' \ 2 -but he died alfo in our ftead and room, noftra vice: For, c *• an ' 1. Sure he died for us, as no other perfon can be laid to die for us, 1 Cor. 1. 1 $, Is Chrifi divided? was Paul crucifi-$d for yon? But for the good of the Church other-perions may ftrTex and die, Co/, 1. 24, Who now rejoice in my fitffer-ings for yon, and fiM up that which is behind of the ajfliclions of Chrift in my fie ft), for his bodies fake, which is the Church. 2 Tim. 2. 10, Therefore I endure all things for the elecls fake, that they may alfo obtain the falvation which is in Chrift. Jefus, with eternal glory. 2. Sure, he died other wile for elect men*, than for Angels, than for the whole Creation*, and yet he died for their good, that he might be head of Angels, and to reftore ail the creatures to their perfection, Col.i.io, And ye are compleat in him, which is the head of all principality and power, Whereof alfo, fee icw>.8,2o,to 24. 3. The ibrce of the particle *vrl> and of the phrafe, to die for another, doth enforce no 1 els then in the room and ftead of another, Mat. 20. 28, And to give his life a ranfom for many. Gal. $. 1 1,' Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the law, being made a, curfe for us. Luk. 11. 11, Or if he aski 4 fifth will' he for a fab.give kin a ferpent ? Mat. 2,22, But.when he heard 'that' Atchekks did reign in jFudsa, in the room 4f his father Herod, hi was afraid to gf thither t Mai. <. -8, An eye

<or an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. Where without quefti©n wfh is, inftead: whereof fee at length the learned treatifes of Crotms de fatisfacl : Cbrifti & vojfmm e]us defenforem, and Mr. Ratherf his treatife of the Covenant, part 2. ch* 3. and Mr. Br in/ley his treatifes of the Mediator, pag,

sijfert. 5. Chrift the Surety, and broken man the Debtor, are one in law* but not intrinlecally one, I fa. 1. they are legally one, or in the laws ienfe one *, becaule by a legal i ubfti-tution and furrogauon, Chrift having put his name in the believers bond, by the law he is in Jiis place, and the believer is put in Chrifts law-place: fo that by a legal aft the Surety is the broken man *, therefore Chrift being made Surety, faith, I am the broken man *, all my friends Debts be upon me, my life for their life, my Soul for their Souls, GW. 4.4, 5* But when the fninefs of the time was come, Cod fent forth his Son made of a woman, wade under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of fons. Joh. 18. 8, Jefas anfwered, I have told yon I am he : if therefore ye feek^ me, let thefe go their way. Gen. 44- 3 1, Now therefore, 1 pray thee, let thy fervant abide inftead of the lad , a b#nd-man to my Lord, and let the lad go up with, his brethren. And God commands the wakened-up iword of Juftice, to fmite him for his brethren, fince he will ftand in their room, and take their Debt upon him, Zech. 13. 7, Awakg, O fwordy againft my ^upherd, and again ft the man that is my fellow? faith the Lord of hofls: Smite the Jhepherd. 2. 1 lay, The Surety and the Debtor are not m-trmfecally, phyfically and formally one fthough they be one in law ; fo that there is not two Debts, nor two Bonds, nor two Debtors in law ) h for though the Lord laidon Chrift the punifhment of our iniquity, yet he did not lay on Chrift iniquity it lelf fas Avtinmin us tells us), for the broken Debtor is a finful creature, and continueth fuch even after the punifhment. due to him, is removed by a (atisfying Surety : I lay, he continueth fuch till by fanctificationthe evil of fin be wholly removed, Rom. 7. throughout: but Chrift the Surety was in this refpeft feparate from finmrs, Heb. 7.26, And was not one with them. iPet. }. 18,^^ Chrift alfe hathxonce fnffered for fixu the juft for the nn'ytft, that he might I fomg

any

\uth:f trca- ^ vc " io ^ bnenei's and lamehefs, or law-identity betwixt Chrift ifcofthcCo- the Surety, arid us the Debtor's f mentioned by Mr. Ruther (enz'\t.par.2.ford)0 though phyfically the Surety and Debtor be two >*£•*$*' different men: yet, i. They are One and the lame legal party, and. the fame object of juftice: whofo in law purfues the Surety, puriues the Debtor. 2. The' Debt and ium is one: not two Debts/not two punifhinents, not two lives to lole, but one. ' 3. It's one arid the fitne fatisfa^ion: there cannot in juftice and law, another reckoning and fatisfacYidn come after the Surety hath paid. 4. There is one and the fame acceptation, upon the Creditors part: if he accept of fatte-taction from the Surety, he cannot purfue the .'Debtor, but mud look upon him as no Debtor, for fatisfa&iou to juftice. 5. It is one and the fame legal effedl, Chrift rifen and juftu fed in the fpint , I Tim. 3. 16. and we in him, as the meri-rorious caule of our purification, are legally juftihed, -Rom. 4. loft, Who was delivered for our offences, and was rat fed again for our juftification.

Affert. 6. ( which followeth upon the former ), neither the Creditor nor the Law can exact latisfaction from both the Surety and the Debtor*, but the Surety having paid all, and fatisfied ; the broken Debtor can iky, I have paid all, I am free : he may plead, My friend and Surety hath done all for me \ and that is as good in foro> in the court of Juftice, as if I had paid all in mine own perfon,* Gal. $. 13, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the lam, being made a curfe for us. Rom. 4. laft, Who was delivered for our offence s^ and was raifed again for oar juftification. 1 Pet.2.24, Who his own feIf hare our fins in his own body on the tree, that we being dead to fins , fliould live unto right eoufnefs: bywhofe ftripes ye were healed. The Debt that Chrift payed, is our very Debt \ and the believer can fay, When Chrift my Surety was judged and crucified for my fins, then was I judged: and what would you have more of a man, than his life? fa. 53. 6, 7,8, jbfdthe Lerd hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was opprejfedj he w*t afflicted^ yet he opened not his mouth: he was taken from prifon-, and from judgment ' and who frail declare

his

his generation ? for he was cut off out of the land of the living : for the tranfgrejfion of my people was he ftrickcn.

Affert. 7. Chrifts Suretdfhip was a mixture of juftice and s . ee * ri *[: of grace: for thereby there was a fatisfaftion made to jufficep^Mediator tor the violation of the law-, yet fo as God was pleaied to

1 difpenfe with his own law which was peremptory, Gen.i.ij. For though it was juft that the law fhould have aj fatisfacti-on, yet it was of Grace .that God was content to accept that liitisfaftion which the law required, from the peribri of another, than the fame foul that finned : God being no ways bound to admit of fuch a fatisfaction by a Surety, which the rigour of the law exacted from the perfon of the offender ; and therefore there can be no ground for the Socinians charge againft us, that while we affert the fatisfat~tion of Chrift, we derogate and detract from the Grace of God •, the Grace of God and the fatisfaftion of Chrift being no ways repugnant, but rather Grace is advanced and exalted by the fatistaction of Chrift, by the finding out of that way, by his undertaking and his performing of that fatisfaclion, and by Gods.accepting thereof, Rom.^^fi, For fcarcely' for a righteous man will one die: yet per adventure for a good man fome wquld even dare to die. But God commended his love toward us> in that, while we were yet finners Chrift died for us.

Affert . 8. Chnfts Suretifhip was not private^ for the Debt of one or ; fomcfew peribns, but of putyick concernment: for his engagement was for the faiety of many, yea, it was for the elect, world, whole Debt he payed,. whofe punifriment he did bear, Mat. 20. 28, Arid,- to give his life a ran fome for many. Ifa. 53.6, 8, And, the Lord, hath laid on him. the iniquity of us all.----For he was cut off out of the land, of the 4&ffl&jj f QT the tranfgrejfion of my people -.was he ftricken.

2 Cor. 5. 19, To wit, that God was in Chrift, reconciling the world unto himfelf r not imputing their trefpa>Jfes u unto them. It Vvas a noble ad of Grace and favour on his part s it vvas like a mans laying down his lite for the fufe ty of his kindred, and of his Cowntrey ; he was. given as aahoftage, who did engage his; life for the performance oi the conditions ..agreed , upon, for laving the loft world. ' >

Affert. 9, Chrift m his undertaking and engagement as Surety

" #f .

-of the Covenant, had his fathers bond of relief and warran-dize*, I faf t he had no relief nor warrandzie from the broken creatures \fhofe Debt he paid ; neither could khe reftitu-tion of his loffes be expected from broken men: but he had as it were a back-bond, or a bond of relief from God his

• father, that when he went into the prifon, his Sou! ftiould not be left in the grave, but that he fhould come out with honour : fee Pfal. ro\ 10, For thou wilt not leave my Soul ite hell ; neither wilt thou fuffer thine holy one to fee corruption. Ilk. 53. 10, II, 12, Yet tt pie a fed the Lord to bruife him, he hath put him to grief: when thou fralt make his foul an offering for fin, he Jhall fee his feed, he frail prolong his days, and the pleafure of the Lord jhall profper in his hand. JHe

J Jhall fee of the travel of his foul, and frail be fatisfied: by his knoxfledg frail my righteous fervant jnfiifie many : for he frail bear their iniquities. Therefore will 1 divide him a portion with the great, and he frail divide the fpoil with the firong: becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death. Pfal. 2. 7,8-, y, I will declare the decree: the Lord hath faid unto me, Thou art my Son y -this day have I begotten thee. Ask^ of me, and I frail give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermoft parts of the earth for thy peffeffion. Thou fralt break, them with a, rod of iron, thou fralt dafr them in pieces like a potters wffel.

Affert. 10. AU Chrifts offices are founded upon his Sureti-fhip: for by that Covenant of Suretifhip that is betwixt Jehovah and rne Son, he is King, Prieft, and Prophet: whatfo-ever he did by office, and by compart and agreement with Gody he did becaufe he had put his name in our bond, having become Surety for his people. As a King he fuflers for his fubjetts and faves them, becaufe he was engaged to do fo *, as a Prieft he dies for them, becaufe by his Suretifhip he was engaged to bear their punifhment j he performs alfo a Prophets office towards them, becaufe he was engaged to God to do fo,&c. Joh. 17.4)6, 1 have glorified thee on the earth : 1 have fnifred the work^which thou gavefi me to do. J have manifefied thy name unto the men which thou gavefi me out of the world. Heb. 9. 28, So Chrift was once offered to bear the fins of many. 1 Joh. 3. 5, And ye know that he was manifefied to take away our fins, and in him is no fin. And if that had

not

not been for his engagement as a Surety, we fhould never

had the fruit of any of his office?.

The third thing to be confidered, is, how Chrift came^ ee Mr * ^th*

under this Covenant-relation, to be Surety of the better Tefta-* r ^ t,feo f ^ c t* 1 • 1 a /Li ■ r rr 1 Covenant, />.

ment. To this the Apoitle gives an antwer, Heb. 7. 22, 2i c< 7

yiyevi tyyvQ-y He was made the Surety of a better Teflament, or Covenant. If Jefus was made the Surety, then, 1. H? was not Surety by nature, nor by any natural neceffity : Then, 2. He was not Surety by any neceffity, or conftramt of Law: he was not fo made Suretyj becaufe there was no Law that could exact upon him* anteceding his bond oi Suretifhip -, neither could there be any neceflity upon him, there being no conjunction betwixt him and us ( antecedently to his act of Sureti(fiip ), by any relations, whether natural, legal, federal, or myftical, until this voluntary conjunction and Covenant-relation of Suretifhip was brought a-bout, upon which all his offices, and all other relations 'twixt Chrift and his people are founded. I take therefore the making of him Surety, fpoken of by the Apoftle, to relate mainly to that eternal free tranfattion and Covenant of Suretifhip that was betwixt God and Chrift, whereby he came under a judicial and Law-act to fatisfie for the fins of his people.

And this imports, 1. Something on Gods part, Heb.7.21, He was made Surety by him, that [aid unto him. The Lord Jware, and will not repent ,&c. God made him the Surety of the better Teftament. I fay on Gods part, the making of him Surety, imports three things]: I. His eternal decree, whereby he was defigned, ordained, and chofen in the coun-fel of God for this Suretifhip : he was made the Surety, that is, defigned and ordained to this by an everlafting decree, Heb. 5.4, 5,6, 10, And no man taketh this honour unto him-felf, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. So alfo Chrifi glorified not himfelf to be made an High-prieft; but he that [aid unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have 1 begotten thee As he faith alfo in another place, Thou art a prieft for ever after the order of Melchifedec^ — Called of God an High-prieft^ after the order of Melchifedec. Pfal. 2.7, 1 will declare the decree-, the Lord hath faid unto me, Thou art my Son, this day have J begotten thee, lia.42. 1, Pehold, my fervant whom I

D d d uphM.

uphold, mine elect in whom my foul delighteth. 2. His air nointing, furnifhing, and fitting of Chrift for this bufineis: he was made the Surety, i. e. He was anointed and qualified for that work: fo the father faith of him, //#. 42. 1,4,6, / have put my fpirit upon him 9 he flail bring forth judgment to

the Gentiles. He flail not fail, nor he difcouraged, till he have

fet judgment in the earth, and the JJles flail wait for his law.

/ the Lord have called thee in righteoufnefs, and will hold

thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of ■ the people, for a light of the Gentiles. And fo Jefus faith of himfelf, Heb. 10.5, A body haft thou prepared or fated we : to the fame purpofe, alfo the Apoftle tells us, Gal 4.4, That he was not only made of a woman, but made under the law, i. e. ordained and fitted for taking on our condition in Law, or our Law-place and room, as well as our nature. 3. The inverting of him in this relation:, he was ma'e the Surety, i. e. He was inverted, conftitute and fet in^ that Covenant-relation unto which he was ordained, and for which he was fitted *, therefore he was made with an oath, And the Lord fware unto him, Heb. 7.21. and Joh.6.27. Him hath the father fealed, i. e. inverted him, and conftituted him under his commiflion and feal.

2. This imports fome things upon Chrifts part: He was made Surety •, God made him Surety, his father made him, and he made himfelf the Surety : he was willingly made Surety by his own free confent and Covenant: the Scriptures fpeak frequently of his confent, and of the making of himfelf, whatfoever his father made him, Phil. 2. 7,8, He made himfelf of no reputation. He. and he humbled himfelf. Joh. 10. 18, No man taketh my life from me, but I lay it down my felf. I fay, on Chrifts part this doth import, 1. His eternal condeicending to empty himfelf, and to take on him our nature, and our room, and place, under the Law , he was made Surety^ he condefcended, and agreed to take upon him both our nature and our condition, Heb.2. 14, 16, Forafmuch then as the children are partakers of flefl and blood, he alfo himfelf likewife took^ part of the fame, that through death he might deflroy him that had the power of death.

that is the devil. lor verily he took^ not on him. the nature

of Angels -j but he took^on him the feed of Abraham. Phil.2.6,7,

Who

Chap. XX. ef the Covenant. gg^

Who being in the form of God, though it not robbery to he equal with God : hat made himfelf of no reputation, and took^ upon him the form of a fervant, and was made in the Ukemfs of -men. l. His engaging and plighting his faith and truth to perform whatsoever he did condefcetid and agree unto by his aft of Suretifhip, fo that whatfoever the law could exaft of us, he plighted his faith to fulfil that: he was made Sure-? ty, i.e. He did promife and ftrike hands to Iktisfie all that the Law could demand of his people (for fb the word Surety fignifieth, as 1 have already (hewed you, Trov.22.16.*) to make Satisfaction for the fins done againft or under the firft Covenant and Teftament, Heb. 9. 15, And for this caufe he is the mediator of the new Teftament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the tranfgreffions that were under thefirfi Teftamentj they which are called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance. Rom. $.25, Whom God had fet forth to be a propitiation, through faith in his blood, to declare his righte-* wfnefs for the remiffion of frns that are paft, through the forbearance of God. Heb. 10. 5, 7, Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he faith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldft not, but a body haft thou prepared me: then faid J, Lo I come (in the volume of the book^, it written of me) to do thy wiM, O God. 3. His performance of all thefe things unto which he did agree, and for which he plighted his faith, by his aft of Suretifhip : he was made the Surety, i. e. He payed the debt, he Satisfied the Law, he flood in the place of the broken men, till Juftice faid, It is enough: and till he himfelf faid, It is finijhed, Ifa. 53, throughout. 2 Cor. 5.21, For he hath made him to be fin for us^ who knew no fin, that we might be made the righteoufnefs of God in him. Gal. 3. 13, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the law, being made a curfe for hs. Thus did Jefus the Surety of the better Teftament, 1. By an eternal tranfaftion agree and condefcend to put his name in the bond and writ of the Law that ftood over our head, Deut.17.16. Gal. 3. 10. 2. Thus did he engage for us, and aft himfelf to anfwer at the demands of Law and Juftice, Heb. 10.7. GW.4.4. 3. Thus did Jefus in due time difcharge and perform, and aftually was made a curfe for us, Gal. 3. 13-From this voluntary relation of Chrifts Suretifhip for his

Ddd 2 people,

people arifeth a fourfold relation, which is founded on this, which relations betwixt Chrift and his people import a near-nels of conjunction and union with them, and do contribute to the clearing the juftice of God, in fmiting Chrift for our lin, and in our place and room. i. From Chrifts Suretifhip arifeth a natural relation betwixt him and us, that he is our kinfman, and our brother, of the fame nature, of the fame flefh and blood with us: this reiulteth from his Suretifhip, whereby he condefcended and agreed to take our nature upon him : for otherwife he and we had never been of the fame lump, Heb. 2. 11, 14, 16, For both he that fan&ifieth, and thty who are fanttified, are all of one : for which catife he is not a-flamed to call them brethren. Forafmuch then as the children are partakers of flefh and blood, he alfo himfelf li^ewife took^part of the fame. for verily he took^not on him the nature of Angels y but he tqpk^ on him the feed of Abraham. 2. From his Suretifhip flows a Legal relation betwixt Chrift and us, that he and we are one party in the Law: that his fatisfatiion and payment is ours, and that our debt is his: that what he did and fuffered, we did it Legally in him : this proceeds from his Suretifhip, becaufewhenhe was made Surety of the Covenant, he put himfelf in the bond and writ of the Law, and put in our names in the Gofpel-writ, GaL 2. 20, / am crucified with Chrift. Neverthelefs, J live, yet not J, but Chrift liveth in me. Rom. 6. 5, For if we have been planted together in the likenefs of his death, we Jl all be alio ' in the likenefs of his refurrettion. $. From Chrifts Suretifhip, proceeds a fcederal relation betwixt him and his people, whereby they are his, and he is theirs by Covenant ^ where-, by he and his people have one God and Father by Covenant, Ffal. 89. 26, He fhall cry unto me, thou art my father , my Cod, and the rock^of my Salvation. Joh. 20. 17, But go t» my brethren, and fay unto them, I afcend unto my father, and your father: and to my God, and your God. Heb. 1.5, For unto which of the Angels faid he at any time, Thou art my fon, thu day have I begotten thee ? and again, 1 will be to him a father, and he flail be to me a fon ? This alfo floweth from his Suretifhip, for thereby he plighted his promife and faith to God, that he would undertake the bringing about of this conjunction : and God plighted his faith to him, that he fhould do the

Lufinefs,

bufuieis, and that this work fhould profper in his hand, Joh. 17. 4, I have glorified thee on the earth: J have finifred the work, which thou gave ft me to do. If a. 5 $. 10, And the pleafure of the Lord fiall projper in his hand. 4. From his Suretilhip proceeds a myftical relation betwixt him and his people, whereby he is the head, and they are the members: he is the vine, and they the branches: he is the king, and they are his lubjecls: he is the husband, and they are his bride and wife : 1 Cor. 12. \2, For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, fo alfo is Chrift. Col. 1.18, And he is the head of the body, the Church , who is the beginning, the firft-born from the dead, that in all things he might have the pre-eminence. Joh. 15. 5, / am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abi-deth in me, and I in him, the fame bringeth forth much fruit. Rev. iy. 7, for the marriage of the lamb is come, and his wife hath made her J"elfready. Plal.45.10, forget alfo thine own people, and thy fathers houfe, ckc. Yea, it any relation can be more near and myftical, that alfo is the refult of his Sureti-(hip. See Gal. 2. 20, / am crucified with Chrift : neverthelefs, J live ; yet not I, but Chrift liveth' in me. iCor.6. 17, But he that is joyned unto the Lord, is one fpirit. Joh. 6. 57, As the living father hath fent me, and I live by the father: fo he that eateth me, even he fiiall live by me. Joh. 17.25, I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one. Think it not ftrange then that Juftice fhould ihiite Chrift for the tranfgreflions of his people, there being iuch nearneis of relations, and conjunction betwixt the perfbn offending and the perfon luffering: for even among men we find one GroL ■ a e r at i s . man fuffering for another, upon the account of theie and the fjd. rap. 4. like relations: 1. Upon natural relations: do not parents,and and valor children, and kinfmen, often juftly iuffer with and for one ~* x '^' fj# another? Bxod. 20. 5, For J the Lord thy God am a.jealous on t j ie cove-God, vifiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto na nt. p*g. 2. the third and fourth generation of them that hate me. Jofri. 7. c. f. 24, And Jojhua, and all sfrael with him, too^ Achan the fon of Zerahy and the fiver, and the garment, and the wedg of gold, and his fons, and his daughters, and his oxen, and his affes, and his (licep, and lus tent, and all that he had : and they hrought them unto the valley of Acker, &c. 2. Upon

Legal

Legal relations : doth not the husband pay the wives debt ? doth not the heir fuffer fcr his predeceffor, and the peribn to whom he is heir ? doth not the hoftage and pledges given, fuffer fcr them who gave them? doth not the Surety fuffer for the Debtor, becaufe thefe are but one party in law? Prov. 6. i, 2, My Sen, if thou be Surety for thy friend, if thou haft firkken thy hand with a ftranger, thou art fnared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy month. Prov. II. 15, He that is Surety for a ftranger, fiall f mart for it: and he that hateth Suretijhip, is fure. 5. Upon foederal relations: do not people fuffer for and in their confederates ? Ez,e J^. 16.37, Behold therefore, I will gather all thy lovers, with whom thou haft taken pleafure, and all them that thou haft loved, with all them that thou haft hated : / will even gather them round about againft thee, and will difcover thy nakednefs unto them, that they may fee all thy nakednefs. Fzek. $0. 8, And they ft?all know that 1 am the Lord, when I have fet a fire ih Egypt 1 and when all her helpers fhall be deftroyed. 4. Upon myitical relations, whether iu the body natural, doth not one member fuffer for another ? doth not the head pay for what the hand afted ? or in the body politick, and civil: do not princes and people often fuffer for one another, 1 Sam. 12. laft, But if ye fhall ftill do wickedly ', ye {hall be con fumed, both ye and your king. 1 Chron.21. 17, And David faid unto God, Is it not J that commanded the people to be numbred ? even I it is that have finned, and done evil indeed: but as for thefe jheep, what have they done ? let thine hand, J pray thee, O Lord my God, be on me, and on my fathers houfe , but not on thy people, that they fliould be plagued. Or in the Church and body politick and Ecclefiaftical: do not paftors and people often fuffer for one another? Ez.ekji.26, And I will make thy tongue cleave to the roof of thy mouth, that thou jhalt be dumb y and Jhalt not be to them a reprover : for they are a rebellion houfe. Rev. 2. 5, Remember therefore from whence thou art fal-len, and repent, and do the fir ft works : or elfe 1 will come unto thee quickly, and remove my candleftick^ out of his place, except thou repent. How much more may it ftand with juflice to finite Chrift, and to put him to fuffer for his people, having in him a complication of all thefe relations towards therrr, and of all kind of relations that can import and exprefs

nearnefs,

nearnefs, conjunction, union, and onenefs with them ', he alfo being willing to fuffer for his people, and abfolute Lord of his own life, J oh. 10. 17, 18, Therefore doth my father love me, becaufe 1 lay down tny life that I might take it again. J$o man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my felf: I have tower to lay it down, and I have power to take it again, this commandment have Ireceieved of my father.

Now the confideration of this point, how Chrift came Brln „ of -under an acl of Suretifhip for his people, to wit, by a free Mediator,* a& confent and agreement betwixt God and Chrift in a Cove-123, &c. nant, whereby God willingly made him the Surety, and he willingly made himfelf the Surety•, this I fay, doth exceedingly commend this grace of God in the fatisfaftion made by Chrift the Surety of the Covenant, elpecially in thefe things. 1. It was grace and favour in God, that he was pleafed to difpence lb far with his own Law, as to admit of fatisfa&ion by a Surety, and not to ftand upon the rigour thereof, which requires that the fame foul that finned might fuffer and die, and no other for him, Gen. 2. 17, But of the tree efthe knowledg of good and evil, thou jhalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatefl thereof, thou Jhalt fwrely die. Gal. 3. io, Cur fed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book^ of the taw, to do them. It is grace, that the fame foul that finned dieth not, but another: and yet more grace, that every foul that finneth, dieth not, but one for many, one for all the Elect world, Mat. 2028, And to give his life a ranfome for many. 2Cor. 5. 15, And that he died for all, that they which live, jhould not henceforth live unto themfelves, but unto him which died for them, and rofe again. 2. This was grace in God, that he did not only admit this way of fatisfaction, but himfelf did find it out. The finding out of a way of latisfaclion to juftice, without the eternal pnnifhment of the firmer, this was Gods aft, and this was one act of fpecial grace : for it was not only above the reach of men and Angels, but alio before their being, I Cor. 2. 7,8, But we fpeak^ the wifdom of God in a myftery, even the hidden wifdom which God ordained before the world, unto our glory : Which none of the princes of this world knew, Prov. 8. 2$, 30, 1 was fet up from everlafling, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. Then 1 was by him, as one

brought

brought up'with him: and I was dally his delight: rejoycing always before him. $. This was pure grace in God, that he did dcfign, provide, and foreiee a Surety and facTista&ion for us, before we became broken men, and needed one •, that he ddlgned a Phyfician before we were Tick, iTim. 1.9, who hath faved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpofe and grace, which was given us in Chrifi Jefus, before the world began.

4. This was grace, even fingular grace in God, that he neither did admit of this way of iatisia&ion for the fin of Angels, nor did he find it out for them, but unto men only did he indulge this diipeniation, Hcb.2.1^,16, Forafmuch then as the children are partakers of flefo and blood, he alfo himfelf Iikewife t compart of the fame, that through death he might dejiroy him that had the power of death, that is, the Devil.

For verily he took^ not on him the nature of Angels: but he

tcol^on him the feed of Abraham. 2 Pet. 2.4, For if Godfpa-red not the Angels that finned, but cafi them do.xn to hell, and delivered them into chains of darknefs, to be referved unto judgment. Jude verf. 6, And the Angels which kept not their fir ft eftate, but left their own habitation, he hath referved in ever-Ufving chains under darknefs, unto the judgment of the great day. There was no relaxation of the rigour of the law toward themj but a ftritt execution of juitice upon them.

5. It was unfpeakable grace in God, that having admitted of iuch a way of iatisfacTion, he fhould put his own Son upon the work, and make him the Surety, who fhould make fa-tisfaclion unto the juftice of God, by giving his life a ranfome for us: fuch an acT of grace as this hath not been heard of: J oh. 3. 16, For God fo loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whofoever believeth on him fhould not perifh, but have everlafting life. Rom. 5. 8, But God commended his love towards us, in that while we were yet finners, Chrift died for us. 1 Joh.2.2, And he is the propitiation for our fins\ and not for ours only, but alfo for the fins of the whole world. 1 Joh. 4. 10, Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us> and fent his Son to be the propitiation for our fins. 6. It is grace in God, that when he hath found out this way of fatisfacTion, and is content to admit of it, and hath put his Son upon the work, that he fhould be at the

pains

pains to reveal to us Chrifts Surety-righteoufnefs, and to apply it unto us, without which the fatisfaction of the Surety could not avail us: and what elfe can it be but grace in God, that maketh the fatisfaction of Chrift effectual to one,' and not to another, who hath alio heard of this way of fa-tisfying-juftice ? 70b 33.2^24, Jf there be a meffenger with him, an interpreter, one awong a thoufand, to Jliew unto man his upright nefs. Then he is gracious unto him, and faith, Deliver him from going down to the fit, I have found a ranfom. Joh. 6.44, No **an can come to me, except the father which hath fent me, draw him: and J will raife him up at the lafi day. Eph. 2. 8, For by grace are ye faved through faith, and that not of your felves, it is the gift of God. And upon this account it is, that juftification and remiffion of fins are called free, notwithstanding the fatisfaction of Chrift -, that the wonderful riches of Gods free grace might fbine in the Sureti-fhip of Chrift, Ifa. 43.25, I, even I am he that blotteth out thy tranfgreffions for my own fake, and will not remember thy fins. . Rom. 3. 24, Being juftified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Chrift Jefus.

4. For whom is Chrift engaged as Surety of the Covenant ? (I fpeak now of his Suretiftrip, only as it relateth to his act of cautionry for his people *, remitting the confidera-tion of it, in a larger extent, unto the next thing to be handled upon this Subject) Before I anfwer this Queftion, I (hall premit fome diftinctions which make way for an anfwer to it. 1. It is a neceffary diftinttion. of the Covenant of See Mr. Ruth. grace, that it is confidered, either, 1. As it is preached ac- treatifc of the cording to the commanding-will of God : or, 2, As it's ^/-Covenant, h filled in the Elect, according to the Lords will of purpofe: 2% c * IO ' the Covenant in the flrft confideration, (lands of promiies, commands, threatnings, &c. And £0 it holds forth what is the command of God concerning our duty, and the things which we may conditionally expect *, and puts nothing abio-lutely, whether we perform it or not. See Aft. 2.38.39, Then Peter faid unto them, Repent, and be baptised every one of you in the name of Jefus Chrift, for the remiffion of fins, and ye jhall receive the gift of the holy Ghoft. for the promife is unto you-, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God.Jhall call. Act. 16. 31, And they

E e e faid,

faid, Believe on the Lord Jefus Chrifi, and thou fialt befaved y and thine houfe. In the fecond confederation, the Covenant ftands wholly in promifes, and thole ablblute promifes, and does not hold forth our duty and obligation, and what is morally good or evil, becaufe God commands it, or forbids it: but what is Gods will of purpofe and decree, and what ts his pleaibre, to aft effectually upon the hearts of the Eleft, he over-ruling their corrupt wills: fo the Covenant is to be underftocd, Jer. \t* $i,&o Ez.ek. u. i6,&c. and 36. 25,&c.

2. We rauft diftinguifh the parties of the Covenant, according to this two-fold confideration thereof: for the parties contracting with God in the Covenant, under the firft confideration, are all thofe who are within the vifible Church, whether Eleft or Reprobate ( and their feed ) profefling o-bedience to the Goipel-ordinances, under which they are (as I have at length proved elie-where) , Pfal. 147. 19,20, He fnweth his word unto Jacob: his flatutes and his Judgments unto Ifrael. He hath not dealt [0 with any nation : and as for his judgments, they have not known them. But the parties contrafters with God in the Covenant, confidered in the fecond refpeft, are only the Eleft of Chrift-, to whom the fpirit is given, as well as the ordinances; to whom the pro-mife of the new heait is made, and in whom it is fulfilled, I fa. 59.21, As for me, this is my covenant with them, faith the Lord-, My fpirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, frail not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy feed, nor out of the mouth of thy feeds feed , faith the Lord, from henceforth, and for ever,

3. We are to diftinguifl) betwixt Chrifts aft of Suretifhip and undertaking •, and ibme benefits which by concomitancy redound to them, for whom he never was made Surety: for many hypocrites and reprobates that have the Gofpel preached by concomitancy, becaufe they are mixed with the Eleft, in the habitable parts of the earth, and Societies of men, where thefe have their abode-, yet Chrift was never undertaker for them, nor doth the preaching of the Covenant come to them from Chri(t,as their Surety : but this benefit they have by Ch'rifts undertaking and Suretifhip for the eleft that are among them, and for the Elects fake, concerning whom Chrift

under-

£hap. XXi $f the Covenant* .5.

undertook ta preach thl Covefl&nt to thirty fcriS & fulfil ie in them*, therefore he is a light to tfo Gentiles, 1(11.49.6, with J0, M« 2( "'> Men and brethren, children of the f.ock^of Abraham, and whofoever among you fcaretfr^God, to yon is the word of this falvation fent, 2 Cor, 4. 15, For all things are for your fakes , that the abundant grace might, through the thanks^ giving of many, redound to the glory of God. Joh. 17. 19, And for their fakes I fanffifie my felf, that they alfo might be fantti* fed through the truth.

Thefe things premifed, we anfwer to the queftion *, 1. Negatively. 1. Sure he was not made Surety, Chrift did not Cat. Racov. &* undertake for all Mankind, in whom was ever the breath of Prophet. cK life, the Reprobate as well as the Elect, Cain as well as Amntre ' bel, Judo* as well as Paul, ( as Socinians and Arminians tell us) for the Apoftle's [alP), 1 Tim. 2. 6, Who gave himfelf a j aCt j m ,om. ranfom for Call], to be tefiified in due time-, can be?no more fxcdotiocbrifli* than Chrift's many. Mat. 20. 21, And to give his life ^pag. 16,17. ranfom for many, Heb. 9.28, So Chrift was once offered to bear the fins of many *, and unto them that look^ for him, jhall he appear the fecond time without fin unto falvation. 2. Sure jy lvmi nt: he was not Surety, nor did undertake for all thefe who are difjett.de mom within the vifible Church, or within the Covenant externally -.chrifti, cap.4. for many of thefe were neither given to him by the father, P* 4^ nor undertaken for by him, \J0h.2. 19, They went out from us, but they were not of us: for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us : but they went out, that they might be made manifeft, that they were not all of us. Mat. 22. 14, For many are called, but few are chcfen. $. He was not made Surety for all men conditionally, to wit, if they fhould believe : -for, 1. His Suretifhip was an abfolute act of his own will and grace, and cloth not depend upon our will, over which Chrift hath the dominion, Joh. 6. 37, All that the father giveth me, Jhall come to me: and him that cometh to me, I will in-no wife caft out. Zech. 10. 8, / will hifs for them,and gather them, for I have redeemed them. 2. It was part of his undertaking, to purchafe by the meirt of his death, grace to bow our will, and to heal our nature, Heb. 10. 10, By the which will we are fanftified through the offering of the body of Jefus Chrift, once for all. Ha. 42.4, He jhall not fail, nor be difcouraged, till he have fet judgment in the earth, and the lfles

Eeez jhall

frail wait for his law. 3. God knew them all particularly - whom he gave to Chrift, to be ranfomed by him •, and Chrift knew them all by name, for whom he did undertake : therefore we read of names written in the lambs book^ of life. Rev. 21.27.

2. We anfwer affirmatively, That Chrift undertakes in his bargain of Suretilhip, only for the Elect, Chrift from eternity came under an aft of cautionry for all thefe and no o-ther.

For, 1. No other were given to him by the Father: but thefe were given unto him, and without queftion he became Surety for none but thele who were given to him by his father, J oh. 17.2, 19, That he fhonld give eternal life to

as many as thou haft given him And for their fakes I fantti-

fie my felf. Joh. 6. 57, Ml that the father giveth me, Jhall come to me : and him that cometh to me, I will in no wife caft out. Joh. 10,28,29, And I give unto them eternal life, and they frail never perijh, neither frail any man plucky them out of my hand. My fatber which gave them me, is greater then all: and no man is able to plucky them out of my fathers hand.

2. He became Surety for none but for thole for whom he died, and in whofe ftead he anfwered the demands of the Law, and fatisfied the Juftice of. God *, now he died only for the Elect, Rom. 8. 33, 34, Who jhall lay any thing to the charge of Gods elect? it is God that juftifieth. Who is he that condemneth ? it is Chrift that died *, yea rather, that u ri-fen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who alfo make eth interceffwn for us. ]oh. 10. 11, lam the good frepherd: the good frepherd giveth his life for the fheep. 3. He did undertake for thefe only for whom he doth pray and intercede with God, and thefe were only the Elect:, Joh. 17.9, / pray for them, I pray not for the world: but for them which thou haft given me, for they are thine. 4. He did undertake for thefe only, for whofe believing his father did undertake to. him, and theie were only the Elect, I fa. 53. 10, 11, And the pleafure of the Lord frail vrofper in his hand. He frail fee of the travel of his foul, and frail be fatisfied : by his knowledg frail my righteous fervant juftifie many: for he Jhall bear their ini~ canities. 5. He did undertake for thefe only, in whom the Covenant is fulfilled, upon whofe hearts it is really acted, fo

that

that a new heart is given to them, and life eternal, and thefe were only the Eleft, Jer. 31. $2, 3$, Not according to the covenant that J made with their fathers, in the day that 1 toek^ them by the hand, to hring them out of the land of Egypt, which my covenant they breaks although I was an husband to them, faith the Lord. But this jliall be my covenant that I will make with the houfe oflfrael, after thefe days, faith the Lord, I will put my law in their inwards farts, and write it in their hearts, and will be their God, and they Jhall be my people. Joh. 17. 6, I have mantfefted thy name unto the men which thougav-eft me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gave ft them me ; and they have kept thy word.

And 'this is as fad news to many of you who heard this Gofpcl, as it is glad news to thefe who receive it, and believe in Chrift: wo to them who have not this undertaker for them, for the Law muft have a fatisfaftion by the eternal undoing of all thefe.

5. Let us confider for what Chrift is engaged by his Suretifliip : That this may appear, we fhall take notice of fome distinctions, which fpeak the extent of his undertaking for his people. He was a Surety and undertaker* 1. In his ftate, and in his actions. 2. In Earth, and in Heaven. 3. In our ftead, and in our behalf. 4. To us-ward, and to God- ward..

1. I fay, Chrift is a Surety for his people, in his ftate, and in his atl'ions : that is, 1. In whatsoever date and condition Chrift was, in that ftate and condition he doth iuftain our perfons, and is iurrogate in our place and condition,, ( for fo much his Suretifhip doth import, as I have already (hewed ) when he was in a ftate of humiliation here, ,upon the earth, in that low condition, he did iuftain the perfons,. and bear and reprelent the ftate and condition of his poor broken people: he was furrogated a Surety to iuftain their Legal ftate, or the ftate wherein they are by the violation of the Law and Covenant of works, Heb. 2. 14, Fetaf-much then as the children are partakers of flejli and blood, he alfo himfelf li\twife took^ part of the fame, that through death he might deftroy him that had the power of death, that u, the devil. Gal. 4.4, Rut when the fulnejs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son made of a woman, made under

the

f$3 Chrift th Surety Chap. XX.

the law. Rom. 8. % For what the law could not do, in that it was Xteakjhroiigh thcflefii } God fending his own Son in the like tie ft of finful flefh, and for fin condemned fin in the fieJJj, Again ', in his exaltation, Chrift doth iiiftain the peribns, and repre-ient the condition of the Elect, unto the which they are advanced by the Covenant through him: and therefore the Scripture holds him forth in his refurrection and afcenlion, &c. as reprefenring the ftate of the Elect : He is in heaven this day, ikith the Scripture, for us, iuftaining our ftate, and glorified condition, till we come there •, .taking pofftflion of our inheritance, unto which»he hath acquired for us a right, Htb.6.20, Whither the fore-runner is for us entred, even Jefus. Heb. 9.24, For Chrift is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true : but into heaven it felf now to appear in the pre fence of God for us. 2. In his atlions, he acted our parts *, especially in what he did, or in what befel him here upon the earth: for it was his end of coming down into this world to aft our parts , and to have acted upon him, what fhould have been done to us: he died as our Surety, and he arofe as our Surety; Juftice fmote him as our Surety, he was taken into prifon, and to judgment, and was condemned as our Surety, being numbred among tranlgreffors 5 and again, he was taken from the prifon and judgment, as our Surety, being juftifled when he payed the Debt; and by vertue of tha^t communion which we had with him in all thefe actions of his, he being our Surety, and iuftaining our Law-place and room, by a juft law, thefe things are reckoned unto our account, whofe per-fons he iuftained, and whofe parts he acted, I fa. 5 ^throughout. Rom. 4.1aft ; Who was delivered for onr offences, and was raifed again for our jufiification. 1 Pet. 3.18, For Chrift alfo hath once fujferedfor fins, the juft for the unjuft, that he might bring us to God. Chrift fet And to this purpofe is that inftance and parallel of Adams

forth. Stit. 3. iuftaining the condition of all men, and therein being a t*t; 4 type of Chrift, 1 Cor. 15. 22, 48. and Rom. 5. 14, Fitly, and

at large applied, by Mr. Thomas Goodwin.

2. Chrift was a Surety on Earth, and he is a Surety ftill in Heaven: Chrift is as well a Surety in his interceffion, as he was in his death j for befide all that Chrift did upon earth

for

for difcharging his undertaking unto God for his people^ he (lands yet engaged in Heaven as an undertaker for them, and fhall not be acquitted of all his engagements, until he have brought all the Eleft company, as fate there as he came himfelf, Joh. 17.24, Father; 1 will that they alfo whom thou hafi given me , be with me where I am , that they may behold my glory which thou haft given me : for thou lovedft me before the foundation of the world. Therefore the Apoftle, Heb. 7. 22, By fo much vcas Jefus made Surety of a better Teftament. After he hath made mention of the Suretifhip of Chrift, he inftanceth in his interceflion and continuing a Prieft for ever, verf 25,24, 25. Shewing, that becaufe he is engaged as a Surety, therefore he intercedes to fave to the ut-rnoft.

That this may be yet more plain*, confider, 1. That the Suretiihip of Chrift, as it was acted in a free Covenant and tranfaction betwixt Jehovah and Chrift, doth not only relate unto the justification of the Elect, but alio to their Salvation, Jfa. 53. 11, He frail fee of the travel of his Soul, and frail be fatisfied: by his knowledg frail my righteous fervant juftifie many 5 for he frail bear their iniquities. Rom. 5.9, 10, Much more then, being now juftified by his blood, we frail be faved from wrath through him. For if when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by. the death of his Son: much more being reconciled, we frail be frail be faved by his his life. And therefore as long as the perfons of any for whom he died, remain ftill unfaved, he is not acquitted of this Suretifhip and engagement, but after that he hath payed a price to juftice tor them, there remains an obligation upon him, to bring thefe for whom he died to glory, Hch.z. 10, For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing^ many fons unto glory, to make the captain of their falvation perfect through fuffcrings . i. Confider that the being part of his Covenant of Suretifhip to be performed,, as long as the perfons of any of the Elect are yetunflived to the utmoft, the performance of that which is behind of his engagements is afcribed to his interceflion, which he is now performing in heaven, and therefore he muft intercede in Heaven, as Surety of the better Teftament, ffeb. 7. 22, to 25. with Rom. 5.10, and Rom.%. 34, Who is he tnat'condemnethi

* -is

it is Chrifi that died, yea rather, that is rifen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who alfo maketh interceffion f»r hs. \ . Confider, that unleis he were a Surety in Heaven, and afted therein that Covenant-relation by his interceffion, all his o-ther agings as Surety of the Covenant would be to little purpoie for our behoof: for it is this part of his Suretifhip that maketh his latisfa&ion to the Law effe&ual for the good of the Eleft •, this is it which putteth life in the death'of him who died in our flead and room*, and without this, the blood of the Surety had been fried in vain. For this is the very application of it, and fprinkling the blood of the Covenant upon us, Heb-9- io> 2 Oj 2 4) For when Mofes bad fpoken eve-ry precept to all the people according to the law, he took^ the blood of Calves and Goats, with water and fear let wool, and Hyfopy and fprinkled both the book^ and all the people, faying, this is the blood of the Teefiament which God hath enjoined unto you. For Chrifi is not entered into the holy places made with

hands, which are the figures of the true: but into heaven it felf, now to appear in the pre fence of God for us, Heb. 7.22, 25. By fo much was Jefus made Surety of a better Teftament.

Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermofl that

come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth to ma\e interceffion for them, l Joh. 2. I, 2, My little children, tbefe things write J unto you, that ye fin not ; and if any man fin, we have an advocate with the father, Jefus Chrifi the righteous', and he is the propitiation for our fins, 4. Confider, that as his foul and his life was at the flake, and was pawned for that part of his Suretifhip that was to be performed on earth, to wit, the paying of a price to Juftice: fo his honour lies yet at the flake and in pawn for that part of his engagement which is to be performed in heaven by his interceflion : fo that as it behoved him to have lien in prifon for ever, and the foul to have been left in the grave, unlefs he had payed his Debt, and made fatisfa&ion to Juftice, his Soul being in •our fouls Head as a Surety, fo his honour (I fay) lieth flill at the flake for all his peoples compleat Salvation: info-much that Heaven cannot hold him if he bring not them there, he fhall not have the glory of a perfected Saviour and Surety, if he perform not his engagement to fave them to the utmoft j yea, he muft quit heaven if he bring not his

people

people thither, for whom he undertook, See Joh. 6. 57, As the living father hath fern wf, and I live by the father : fo he that eateth me, even he ftiall live by me. Joh. 17. 1,4, 12,24,

Glorifie thy fan, that thy [on alfo may glorifie thee. / have

glorified thee on the earth: I have finiflied the work^which then gave ft me to do. — -While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name : thofe that thon gave ft me, I have kept, and none of them is loft, but the fon of perdition , that the [capture might~b^-fuJftKed. Father, i will that they alfo whom thou haft given me, be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory which thou haft given me : for thon lovedft me before the foundation of the world, Heb. 2.10, for it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many fons unto glory, to make the captain of\ their falvation perfect through fufferings. Heipeaks for his brethren as J'udah did for little Benjamin, Gen. ^^9. 3. Chrift is a Surety in our ftead, and in our behalf 1. I fay, in moft things which Chrift did as a Surety of the Covenant, he did them in our ftead and room •, he did them as a perfon repreienting us ; and we did them in him by vertue of that communion that is betwixt the Surety and the Debtor: when he died, he died in our ftead, and we died in him 5 there we paid the Debt: when he arofe and afcended , he role in our ftead, and we rofe and afcended in him •, there we had a difcharge and liberation when he had it,&c. Rom. 6. 6,8, Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of fin might

be deftroyed, that henceforth we Jlwuld not ferve fin. Now if ,

we be dead with Chrift, we believe that we Jhall alfo live with him. 1 Cor. 15. 22, For as in Adam all die, even fo in Chrift Jhall all be made alive. Eph. 2. 5, 6, Even when we were dead m fins, he hath quickened us together with Chrift ( by grace ye are faved ) ^ and hath raifed us up together-> and made us fit together in heavenly places in Chrift Jefus. 2. Yet there are ibme things which Chrift the Surety performed wholly for us indeed, and on our behalf', but he cannot be laid to ■ perform them in our ftead, or to a& our part in them, that is, to aft thefe things as that which we ihouid have done : fiich was his incarnation and taking of our nature upon him, and the taking of our Law-place upon him, which wereafts of Chrift the Surety of the Covenant, and unto which he

Fff had

? ecMr. 1b: had voluntarily engaged himfelf by his Covenant' of Sureti-GoUmn* fhip with God, Gal. 4. 4 5 But when the fulnefs of the time f^h^StJ lVaS ccme r God fent forth his Son, made of a woman, made un-<TL nag "149.^ f ^ e iaWt ^ e ^* IO '5>7> Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he jaith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldfl not-, but a, body hafl thou prepared me : then faid I, Lo, 1 eome (in the volume of the bco 1 ^ it is written of me ) to do thy will, O God. Yet he cannot be laid properly to have done thefe things in our ftead, though he did them on our behalf, and wholly for us; for theie were the very foundation of all that he acled in our ftead, and opened the way to his afting as our Surety, in* our ftead \ by theie a&s he put himfelf in our ftead, that he might aft our part, being found in our nature, ftate and condition, Rom.%. ;, For what the law could not do, m that it was weak^through the fiefij, God fending his own Son in the hkgnefs offinfulfiefl), and for fin condemned fin in the fiejh,?h\l, 2.6,7,W&0 being in the form of God,t bought it not robbery to be equal with God. But made himfelf of no refutation, and tookjtpon him the . form of a fervant, and was made in the likenefs of men. Such alio is his interceflion in heaven: for though he intercede as a Surety in Heaven, and on our behalf % yet he doth it not in our ftead : for it cannot be faid that we intercede in him: for this is the accomplifhment of all the work, and fo proper to himfelf only as Mediator, being the Crown of all his works of Mediation.

4. Chrift is a Surety on Gods fart to man, and on mans, fart to God.

1. I fay, Jefus the Mediator of the new Covenant, is a Surety fir God to man : that is, he who made faith HpOn the Covenant on Gods behalf, who is engaged to make good all Dt LuKixgton the promifes thereof to us: and upon this head the Socinians comment.*d alK J we differ not*, for in this ienie the Apoftle calieth Jefus Gfr'r 2 d % Htb t ^ ie Suret y °f a better Teflament (though not only in this 7. °22. ' ' 'fcnfeas they affirm), Heb. 7.22. And in this fenfe Jefusmay be called Surety of the Covenant, for four reafons, or in four refpecls: 1. As he is a party contracting on Gods behalf with his people, becaufe Chrift is he who makes the Covenant and all the promifes', he who contrafteth a Covenant with us in his fathers name. He is the Angel of the Covenant^ Mai. }.J. who kid to Mofes, / am the God of thy,

fathers,

fathers, A£t. 7. $2, $8. 2. As he is undertaker and engager tor God, to make his promifes good to us} becaufe he un-dertaketh on Gods part, that all his promifes fhall be made good and effectual to us-ward. Therefore we find that thefe Scriptures of the old Teftament, which promife the fulfilling of the Covenant in the Elect, and the acting of it upon their hearts, the promifes of a new heart, and of forgivenefs and -perfever ance,&c. Jer. $1.34. and 32. $0,40. The making of thefe promifes, and undertaking for Gods making them good, is afcribed to Chriit by the Apoftle, Heb. 8.6,8, 10, 11, 12, $. Ashe is performer of what God hath promifed: becaufe Chrift doth not only undertake for God, but he difchargeth his undertaking for him, by fulfilling thefe promifes *, for Chrift is he who performeth and fulfilleth the promifes of God unto his people, even he who appeared to Mofes in the Bufh, and had an active hand in the delivery of his Church out of Egypt, whereby he fulfilled the promife made to Abram, Gen. 15. 14. This was he that faw their affliction, and came down to deliver, Acl. 7. $4. And was with them all the way in the Wildernefs, iCor. 10.9. Exod. 23.21. This is he who is advanced above Mofes, as a more fpiritual and effectual Minifter and Prieft, who a&eth the Covenant on his peoples hearts, Heb. 8.6, 10. 4. As he is confirmer of the Covenant, becaufe he ratified it on Gods part: for in him all the promifes thereof are yea, and in him they are Amen, 2 Cor. 1. 20. For as they are made to him eminently as the chief heir of the promifes •, and for him, as he by whofe merit the grace promifed is given to us, and fo alfo the promifes are made firm and (table to us in him and through him, who did ratifie the Covenant, GaL $. x 5> 1 7j l 9-> Brethren, I fpeak^after the manner of men: though it be bat a mans covenant, yet if it be confirmed^ no man difannul-leth, or addeth thereto. And this I fay, that the covenant that Was confirmed before of God in Chrift, till the feed fi;onld come to whom the promife was made. Heb. 9. 16, 17, For where a Teftament is, there muft alfo of neceffity be the death of the Teft at or. For a Teftament is of force after men are dead: otherwife it is of no ftrength at all, whilft the Teftator liveth. And who did make faith for confirming all things whatib-eyer are promifed in it, J oh. 5.24, Verily, verily I fay unto

Fff 2 yon,

yon, he that hearerb my word, and believeth on him that fent me^ hath everlafiing life^ and Jhall not come into condemnation , Virm ad lo- but is paffed from death unto life. And in this refpetl mainly cm. iome learned excofitors understand, Heb. 7. 22, Chrift to be

Diod. tfwwof.tfi called Surety of a better Teflament^ becaufe he did confirm it, H.b. 7. 22. y, nt0 t ^ is p art 0 j: Qjfifts Suretifhip doth Mr. Brinfley refer the affurance given unto us by Chrifts word, J oh. 5. 24. by his works, J oh. 5. 36. Mark\6. 17, 20. by his blood, Heb. 9.12,17. Zcch.y. 11. and by his fpirit, Rom. 8. 16. ijoh. 5. 8, Which you may read at more length in his treatife of the Mediator, pag. 145, &c. c*t. R ^ ov ^- 2. Chrift is Surety of the Covenant for mans part to God : s'ofin. de)tr- this is denied by the Socinians^ who will have him Surety of vatAib, 2.c.8.the Covenant only in the fenfe before mentioned : and upon Jo. crell. ad- the matter the lame is denied by Arminiam alfo. Let us vtrf. Grot, p.i. endeavour to clear and eftablifh the truth. C ja.Am. ex- ^ e ma y ** um U P thrifts Suretifhip for man to God in am. Pertyf. e- thefe three parts: The firft relates unto the violation of the dit.Bntiant.y. Law, and broken Covenant of works. The fecond unto the 616. performance of the v Condition of the new Covenant 7 yea r

3°'ff hh dting tvtn of the preceptive part of the Law and Covenant, in fo far 2 2# ' * c,7 ' v 'asit ftands in force towards believers. The*thirdrelatethunto the perfons of thofe for whom he hath undertaken what the Law did threaten, and what the Gofpel doth command. Cautions. j n a i| tne fe three parts of his Suretifhip, 1. We are ftill to diftinguifh his undertaking from his difcharging of that which he undertook : for in all thing appertaining to his Suretifhip, he did firft undertake (as 1 have fhewed) by an eternal agreement with his father, and afterwards he did fulfil and difcharge his undertaking. 2. We are to confider, that though his undertaking in all thefe parts of his Suretifhip for man, was at once by one eternal z€t and Covenant of Suretifhip with God ; yet his difcharging of that undertaking, is brought about in different periods of time, ib as at one time he fatis-fies for the breach of the firft Covenant: at another time he fulfilleth the condition of the new Covenant in his people, and at another time he fulfilleth what he undertook concerning their perfons, to fave them compleatly, which may remain unperformed when the former two are difcharged. For it was not the intent of God, that by Chrifts Suretifhip the

finner

(inner fhould be immediately delivered from the whole curfe of the Law, and inverted in the whole blefling of the new Covenant. 3. There is an order of Chrifts difcharging his intire Suretifriip for the Elect : for Chrifts iktisfa&ion to the Law goes before the new Covenant, and treating of new conditions for the finner: there can be no treating on new terms till the old be fatisfied:> and again, both thefe go before the performance of fome things which Chrift the Surety hath undertaken concerning the perfons of the Elecl:: for a peribn loofed from the law, and married to another husband, may yet remain without a performance of fome things which Chrift hath undertaken for him: whereof read, Rom. 7. 3, to 24. Heb. 2.14, 15. GW.4,4, 5, 6. and 3. 21,25. ^-» 1.13.

And, 1. Of Chrifts Suretifhip for man to God, as it relates to the violated Covenant of works: this comprehends two things: 1. ChxiAs furrogation in our place, whereby he put himfelf in our room, and took upon him our Law-place and Condition, Gal. 4.4, He was made under the law •, he put his Soul in our Souls ftead, fo that he might be in that condition Legally, wherein we had put our felves through our non-performance of the Covenant of works, 2 Cor. 5. 21, He was made fin for us. He ftood in the finners Law-place : for having by his Suretifhip put his name in our bond, then he was in our ftead as the Scripture fpeaks of Sureties, Gen. 44.* 23. 2. This comprehends Chrifts fatisfattion, who being iub-ftitute in our ftead and place, did undergo the penalty and curfe of the violated Law, and fo did perfectly fatisfie the Juftice of God for our non-performance of the Condition of the Covenant of works. In regard of this fatisfaftion, it is ? that the Scripture faith, Ifa, 53. 6, The Lord laid upon .him the iniquities of us all: that is, not the evil and pollution of them ( for Chrift was not intrinfecally and phyfically the finner ), but the guilt and penalty belonging to them ( for he was Legally the finner)*, and God charged it upon him as* the Creditor chargeth a Debt upon the Surety, requiring a fatisfaction of him. The like equivalent expreffions, we find*-*/. 7,8, 10,11, 12, He was opfrejfed, and he was affHtted, or as the words may be rendered, it was exdled: and heanfwered : that is, God required iktisfa&ion for our fins, and his Sox^

(a*

(as our Surety) anfwered for us, Lo, I come, Hcb. 10.

5,7. Their curie be upon me-, let the law exact, and J will Sib, litems aniwer', let Juftice fmite, and I will bear the puniihment for coKtraSecin. them: and unto this fatisfaction do thefe Scriptures relate, r^' 2 'J :, / 7 '• wmcn *° °^ ten mentions Chrifts dying for hs } fuffering form, Gw. dtjitis. k e i n g m ^ e a cm k for us, a ranfome for us, a Sacrifice and

propitiation for our fins,&c. iPet. 2. 21. and $. 18. iCor.

5. 14, 15. Hcb. 2.9. Rom. 5.8. Mat.20.2S. Gal.1.11. \Joh. Mr. Kutberf. 2. 2. Now to die v<*if> \avtU for us, is to die in our ftead, treatifeofthe^/Ve noflra: which is fo abundantly proved in the learned Covenant,;^. trcat if es 0 f other men more worthy to hold forth light in lrh(Loi the tnis P oint > tnat I J uc *g needlefs to infill upon it, but rather Mediator,^do refer you to them. Only ere I leave this, let me leave 72, &c. with you thefc three advertifements concerning Chrifts iatis-

Dr. Owen, faction for our violation of the Covenant of works.

1. Though our punifhment an3 fuffering fhould have been eternal, becaufe we could never out-fatisfie *, yet the fufferings of Chrift, becaufe of the dignity of the per-lbn, God-man, were perfectly fatisfactory in a fhort time.

2. Chrift payed not the idem, but the tantundem; not the fame that was due, but the value: for he fuffered not the fame pain, nnmero in number, but fpecie in kind.

j. Yet its one and the fame fatisfaction in the Lawsfenfe, which Chrift payed,and which we ow r ed,in refpect that the Law doth not require of the Surety to pay the fame fum in number, which the Debtor borrowed: 'tis fatisfaction, if the lame in fpecie,'m kind, or in value be paid.

2. Another part of Chrifts Suretiihip for man to God, re-lateth to the condition and commands of the new Covenant: for Chrift is not only Surety for fatisfying the violated Law, and broken Covenant of works for us, that is, in our ftead ; but he is alio Surety for performing of the Gondition and Commands of the Gofpel and new Covenant in us, that is, y. for our performing of them through his grace working in us,

\l<Hx (for the act is ours though, we be acted by grace ) and for our obedience to the preceptive part of the Law, which is not annulled, nor repealed, but ftandsyet in force towards believers.

1. I fay, he is Surety to God for our performance of the condition and commands of the Gofpel or new Covenant; and

this

this reacheth unto all things whatfoever, which are commanded in the Gofpel as conditions of righteouihefs and life *, all which he undertaketh to work in us, and fo far to inable us to endeavour thefe things, that in the performance thereof we (hall be accepted, Phil, 2. 15, For it is God which worketh in yon, both to will and to do of his good pleafure, Phil. 4. 1 2, J can do all things through Chrifl which flrengtheneth me, 2 Cor. 9. 8, And God is able to make all grace abound towards you, that ye always having all fuffeiency in all things , may a-bound to every good work. And this is his undertaking, for grace to be given unto us out of the ftore-houfe and treaiii-ry of his fulnefs, J oh, 1. 16, And of his fulnefs have alt we received, and grace for grase. Col. 2. 9, 10, For in him dwelleth all the fulnefs of the Godhead btdily. And ye are' compleat in him, which is the head of all principality and power.

More particularly: by this part of Chrifts Suretifhip for man to God , he is engaged, and he is undertaker: 1. For' our believing, that we (hair come and fubjecT our confent unto the Gofpel of Jefus Chrifl, J oh. 6. 37, All that the father giveth me, foall come to me : and him that cometh to me, I will in no wife cafl out, Joh. 12. $2, And J, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me, 2 Cor. 9. 13, Whiles by the experiment of this miniflration, they glorifie God for your profeffed fubjetlion unto the Gofpel of Chrifl, 2. For ©ur obedience, that we (hall bring forth the fruits of holi-neis and new obedience, that we (hall ferve him from a principle of Love, who was made Surety for us, Ez.ek^ 56. 27; And I will' put my fpirit within you, and caufe you to walk in my fiatutes : and ye fltall keep my judgments, and do them. Heb. 8.6,7,10, 11. Joh. 17. 6, Thine they were, and thou gave ft ' them me', and they have kept thy word. 2 Cor. 5. 14, 15, For the love of Chrifl conflraineth us, becaufe we thus \udg, that if one died for all, then were all dead. And that he died for all, that they which Uve, jhould not henceforth live unto themjelves, but unto him which died for them, and rofe again. $. For our perfeverance: Chrifl: as Surety (lands engaged for the perfe-verance of the weak believer, that his faith (hall not fail, but that he (hall endure unto the end, Luk: 22. 32, But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. John 17/

12>

12, While I was with them in the worlds I kept them in thy name: thofe that thou gave ft me 1 have kfpt, and none of them is loft.

2. Again, by this part of Chrifts Suretifhip, he is undertaker and engager, to make all thefe things which are required of us, both poflible and certain in the performance.

1. To reveal and maniieft the way of righteoufnefs and life, through the new Covenant, Joh. 17. 6, 1 have manifefted thy name unto the men, which thou gave ft me out of the world.

2. To make the condition of the new Covenant, poflible and practicable, which confidered with relation to our own ftrength, are as impoflible to man now, as the conditions of the flrft Covenant are, Joh. 6. 44, No man can come to me , except the father which hath fent me, draw him. 2 Cor. 3. 5, Not that we are fufficient of our Jelves to thinly any thing as of our [elves: but our fuffciency is of God. Joh. 15. 5, For without me ye can do nothing. And this part of Chrifts Suretifhip doth put his people in fuch condition, by the power which they (hall receive from the grace of Chrift, as Adam was in, by the power which he received from God by nature *, and this is done by healing our nature, and creating and infufing new habitual grace, whereby he makes the conditions of the new Covenant practicable and poflible to man through the power of grace received from Chrift *, as it was poflible for Adam to have performed the conditions of the flrft Covenant, by the power which he received by nature, Phil. 4. 15, / can do all things through Chrift which ftrengtheneth me. But this is not all.

3. Chrift as Surety for man to God, engageth not only to make the conditions of this Covenant poflible (as the conditions of the flrft Covenant were to Adam), but alfo to make them Sure*, he undertaketh to enfure his peoples performance of the things required of them by the Covenant of grace, whether they be fuch. things as are required of them by meer commands which hold forth the Duties of the confederates •, or if they be required of them by commands which are alfo conditions of the Covenant, by the obedience or dif-obedience whereof they muft live or die 5 fuch as the command of believing, Joh. 3. 36, He that believeth on the Son hath ever lofting life \ and he that believeth not the Son, jhall

mt

not fee life: but the wrath of God abideth on him. K&- 16. 1 1, And they faidy Believe on the Lord Jefus Chrift y and thou fialt be favedy and thine houfe. 1 Joh. 5.25, And this is his commandment :, that we Jhould believe in the name of his Son Jefus Chrifty and love one another , as he gave us commandment.

And this which Chrift engageth that his people {hall receive of him through grace, is much more than Adam received by nature; for he had not his performance of the conditions of that Covenant, and his (landing enfured to him : he had but a poflibility to have performed conditions that were commanded him, but no certainty. Now we know that things may be poflible, both confidered in themfelvcs, and confidered with relation to the Agent; which notwithstanding from ibme other cauie and defecl:, may refolve in a nonr futurition :, yea, for all that, it may be certain that they fhall never be, and come to pafs, as was Adams (landing and performing the conditions of the Covenant of works. But now by Chrifts Suretifhip for his people, he is engaged for their (landing, and for their actual performance of the conditions of that Covenant of grace, they are not only put into a poflibility of (landing, but they are put into iuch a certainty by the Sureti-ihip of Chrift, that they are exempted from the poflibility of non-performance of the conditions of this Covenant, Luk^H. $2, But I have frayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. Mat. j6. 18, And upon this rcck^ will I build my Churchy and the gates of hell jhall not prevail again ft it. 1 Pet. 1.5, Who are kept by the power of God through faith uxto falvation, ready to be revealed in the laft tirre. Jtr. 32. 39,40, And / will give them one hearty and one way, that they may fear me for every for the good of them y of their children after them. And I will makj an everlafting covenant with themy that I will not turn away from them^ to do them good: but I will put my fear in their heartSy that they fiall net depart from me.

3. By this part of Chrifts Suretifhip tor man to GW,arid in order to the making the conditions and commands of the new Covenant poflible and certain in the ifTue, he is engaged for giving habitual grace , and for giving actual influences. 1. Habitual grace, Chrift as Surety of the Covenant did undertake to give to his people the immortal feed of God, to repair that defaced Image of God in man, by a new creation of

Ggg the

the habits of grace in him: he is engaged to give a new (lock of grace to man, who had once before banquered our, a ftoc'K that (hall thrive in his hand, and wherewith he fhall never henceforth play the bankrupt: this is the new heart, and the new fpirit promiied by Chrift who made the Covenant, and engaged to fulfil, and to acl it upon the hearts of his people, Ez.ekj 36. 2i, A new heart alfo will I give ygu, and a new fpirit will i put within you : and I will take away the ftony heart out of your flefl, and 1 will give you an heart of fl e fr- J er - L*« lh But this fhall be the covenant that I will mak? with the houfe'of lfrael after thofe days, faith the Lord, J will put my law in theirjnward parts, and write it in their hearts, and I will be their God, and they flail be my, people. Heb.8. 6, id, 11, 12. 2. Chrift is engaged, and hath undertaken for aclual influences, Ezek. 56,27, And I will put my fpirit within you, and caufe you to wdh^in my fiatutes, and ye jhall keep my judgments, and do them. Ifa. 44. ^ For I will pour water upon them that (ire thirfly, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my fpirit upon thy feed, and my bleffwg upon thine off-fpring. Becauie God hath contrived the buii-neis fo, that no created thing fliould aft independently of him, without the fpirit, without influences *, not Adam in his integrity, not the Angels, not the holy humane nature of Chrift, lfa. 42. I, 2, Behold my fervant whom I uphold, mine elect in whom my fonl delighteth : I have put my fpirit upon him, he flail bring forth ]udgment to the Gentiles. He flail not cry, nor lift up, nor caufe his voice to be heard in the flreet. And hnce habitual created grace can neither preferve it felf, nor ad it felf, nor encreafe it felf without influences, therefore Chrift as Surety for man to God, did engage for actual influences, whereby habitual grace might be afted, unto a performance and fulfilling of thefe things which are conditions or commands in the Covenant upon our part: and by this he ftands engaged, I. For actual bowing of our wills, and determining our hearts to believe, and to believe to the end -, to draw forth thefe habits to acl: lively, found faith, the hrft acl: whereof is a performance of the condition of the new Covenant, Job. 6. 37, All that the father giveth me, fJ-all come to me. Joh. 12. 32, And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me, 2. He ftands engaged for the

preferyation

Chap. XX. of the Covenant. a^\ preftrvation of thtk habits of grace, that howfoever they may be weakened, and it may be alio dimnifhed through our ill ufing of that ftock, yet they fhall never be loft, neither fhall the flock of habitual grace come to nothing, Lukj 22. 32, But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. 1 Joh.3.9, Whofoever is born of God, doth not commit fin , for his feed " remaincth in him: and he cannot fin, hecaufe he is born of God. 3. He ftands engaged for our ufmg and exercifing habitual grare, after that he hath freely given it, that he fhall by a&ual influences make us trade with thofe talents, and not fuffer them to lie by us, without making ufe of them. JLzjek. 36. 27, And I will put my fpirit within you, and caufe you to walk, in my flatutes; and ye fliall keep my Judgments, and do them. Plal. 119. $2, 35, / will run the way of thy commandments , when thou fhalt enlarge my heart. Make me to

g* in the path of thy commandments: for therein do I delight.

4. Chrift is engaged for the iivelineis of our graces: that he fhall not only keep them from dying, but fhall keep them in good condition, frefh and green, Pfal. 1. 3, And he jhalt be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in hisjeafbn: his leaf alfo fhall not wither, and what-foever he doth fhall profper, Job. 4. 19, Yet a little while, and the world feeth me no more: but ye fee me: becaufe J live, yc jhall live alfo. Pfal. 92. 12, 13, 14, The righteous fliall flow rijh like the Palm-tree : he jhall grow like a Cedar in Lebanon. Thofe that be planted in the houfe of the Lord, Jhall flourijh in the courts of our God. They fliall ftill bring forth fruit in old age.: they fliall be fat and fiourifliing.

5. Chrift is engaged for the encreafe and growth of thefe habits of grace, to make our ftock to grow among our hands, to make our faith, love, diligence in duty, delight in God, knowledg of himi'elf, ckc. to grow, and our fruit to abound and to grow in quantity and quality, in bignefs and ripenefs, more fruit, and iweeter fruit, more favory to his tafte, 2 Cor. 9.8, And Goh is able to make all grace abound towards you, that ye always having all fuffciency in all things, may abound to every good work*, Joh. 15.4,5, Abide in me, and I in you: as the branch cannot bear fruit of it felf,.except it abide in the Vine : no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 1 am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the

Ggg 2 fame

drift the Surety Chap. XX.

fame bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing, 2ThefT. I. J, We are bound to thank^God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of yon all towards each other abundantly.

6. Chrift (lands engaged for our up ftirring \ when we have given his work in us a back-fet, and brought grace to a low ebb: when we have contra&ed lazinefs, and a numnefs oi ipirit upon our feives,fo that we either drive heavily,or cannot ftir at all in his ways ', he is engaged to oil our wheels, that we may recover a ivveet facility and eafmefs in his ways': and to blow upon us, when we are calmed, and cannot fetch the wind to our felves, Song. 4. 16, Awake , O North wind, and come thou fouth, and blox upon my garden, that the fpices thereof may flow out: let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pie afant fruits. Song. 5.4, My beloved put in his hand by the hole of the dore, and my bowels were moved for him. Song. 6. 11, Or ever J was aware, my foul made me U\e the charrets of.Aminidab. Ifa.64.5, Thou men eft him that rejoiceth and worketh righteoufnefs, thofe that remember thee in thy ways.' Behold, thou art wroth, for we have finned: in thofe is continuance, and we Jhall be Caved* I fay , that Chrift ftands engaged, not only for our performance of Gofpel-conditions and commands, but alio for our obeying and performing the preceptive part of the Law : for clearing, of this, I fliall lay down thefe five afTertions.

1 .The Law,as it commandeth and dire&eth obedience according to the will of the Law-giver,is not repealed,annulled,or abrogated by Chrift and by the Gofpel: though the Law confidered as a Covenant, holding forth obedience to the commands thereof, as a poflible way of Life, be annulled and abrogated : See Rom. 3,20,23,28, Therefore by the deeds of the Law there fhall no flejh he jufiified in his fight: for by the law is,

the knowledg of fin. for all have finned, and come fhort of

the gloryLojGod. Therefore we conclude, that a man is jufiified by faith, without the deeds of the law. Rom. 8. 3, for what\ the law could not do, in that it. was weak, through the fiefi>,&c.

2. The Law which fir ft, commanded perfeft obedience as a. poffibk way of life, may be, and is continued for, other ufesu

and

and ends than for that: fuch as to direct, command, prohibit, promile, threaten, and to prove the loyalty even of Chrifts Subje&s, Rom. 3.27, 31, Where is boafling then? it is-excluded: by what law? of works ? nay: but by the law of

faith. Do we then make void the law through faith ? God

forbid: yea, we eftablifirthe law. Rom. 7. 7,9, iZ, Nay, I had not known fin, but by the law : for J had not known luft, except the law had faid, Thou jhalt not covet. For I was alive

without the law once : but when the commandment came, fin revived, and I died. Wherefore the Law is holy, and the commandment holy, and juft, and good.

3. The Law as it is continued, and in force towards believers, is reduceabk to the new Co/enant, and doth more properly appertain to it, than to the Covenant of works: For, 1. It is the law, as 'tis delivered up and put into the hands of Chrift to be managed and ufed by him, for the advantage of his Subjects and Kingdom, by the new Covenant^ and that is for other ufes and ends than thofe for which it was fir ft: given, Gal. \- 19,21,24, 25, Wherefore then ferveth the law ? it was added becaufe of tranfgrejfwns, till the feed Jh<mld come, to whom the promtfe was made *, and it was ordain- -

ed by Angels, in the hand of a Mediator. Is the law then a-

gainfl the promifes of God ? God forbid : for if there had been a law given, which could have given life y verily righteoufneft

jhould have been by the law. Wherefore the law was our

School-mafter to bring us unto Chrift, that we might be juftified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a School-mafter. Rom. 10. 4, For Chrift is the end of the law for righteoufnefsj to every one that believeth. 2. 'Tis the Law as its qualified by Chrift, who gave out a new edition of the commands thereof ( without detracting from-the old) as his Law in the new Covenant, whereby his Subjffts might know his will, which they muft endeavour to obey, Joh. 13. $4, A new commandment [give unto you, that ye love one another, as I have loved you, that ye alfo love one another: Mat, 5. 17, 2i 5 22, 27, 28, Think^not that I am come to deftroy the law

or the prophets: I am not come to deftroy, but to fulfil. Ye have

heard, that it whs faid by them of old time, thou Jhalt not kill : and whofoever Jhall kill, ft)all be in danger of the Judgment. But 1 fay unto you, That whofoever is angry with his brother

without

^ T+ Chrijithe Surety Chap. XX.

without a c-&*fe, frail be w- danger of the- Judgment-, and who-foever frail fay to his brother, Racha, friaH he in danger of the Counfet: but wkofoever frail fay, Thou fool-, frail be m

darger of Heli-frrc. Te have heard thit it was /aid by them.

of old ti^e, then fralt not commit adultery. But I fay unto you, that whofoever lod^cth on a woman to luft after her, he hath committed ..adultery with her already in his heart, &c. And this new giving out of the commands and preceptive part of the Law and Covenant of works, did neither derogate from the ibbihnce of the Law, nor from the authority and. binding force thereof, by vertue of the hrft Covenant, to which it did appertain ; but did rather fuper-add a new and per-fwafive obligation, 2 Cor. 5. 14,15, For the love of Chnft con-firaineth us, beeaufe we thus judg, that if one died for all, then were all dead. And that he died for all, that they which live, frwuld not henceforth live unto themfelves, but unto him which died for them, and rofe again. Rom. 6. 1,2, What frail we fay then ? frail we continue in fin, that grace may abound i God forbid: how friall we that are dead to fin, live any longer therein ?

4. Though the Law and preceptive part of the Covenant of works doth appertain to the new Covenant, yet are not the commands and conditions thereby required, and the obedience given thereunto, conditions of the new Covenant, which ftandeth only of faith, Rom. 4. 5, 16, But to him that wor^eth not, but believeth on him that juftifieth the ungodly, his faith is

counted for righteoufnefs. Therefore it is of faith, that it might

be .by grace, to the end the promife might be fure to all the feed', not to that only which is of the law, but to that alfo which is of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all. Act. 16. 31, And they faid, Believe on the Lord Jefus Chrifi, and thou fralt be faved, and thine houfe. For, 1. This were upon the matter to confound the conditions of the two Covenants , which are . Hated as fo contra-diftmguifhed in terms, that there is no mixture nor femblance of mixture to be admitted, Ro>n.g. i )t i,i2 y But Ifrael which followed after the law of righteoufnefs, hath- not attained to the law of righteoufnefs. Wherefore ? beeaufe they fought it not by faith, but as it were by the, works of the law.: f or. they ftumbled at that flumb-lingfione. Rom. 10. 3,4^6, 8, For they being ignorant of Gods

righteoufnefs,

righteoufnefs y and going about to eftablifh their oven right eoufnefs, have not fubmitted themfehes unto the righteoufnefs of God. For Chrift is the end of the law for righteoufnefs, to every one that believeth,\kc. 2. if this obedience to the preceptive part of the Law, which is yet of force to believers, and required by the Goipel, were the condition of the new Covenant, then perfect obedience to the Law fhould ftill be the condition of the new Covenant, forafmuch as the Law doth 'fall command that to Relievers, and it is their fin that they do not come up t<f the obedience thereof, Gal. 2. 21, / do not fruftrate the grace of God : for if righteoufnefs came by the law, then Chrift is dead in vain. Rom. 7, throughout.

5. Chrifts undertaking to God for our fubjeclion and o-bedience to the Law, is not ib to be underftood, as if he had undertaken that the Law fhould have perfect obedience from us, and in us, in this life: for if he had been Surety for that, it fhould alio have been performed. But by hisSureti-fhip for our obedience to the law, we mean, 1. That he hath undertaken for our fubje&ion to it as a rule, unto which his people fhall fubmit, and whereof they fhall accept, Luk. I. 74, 75, That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies , might ferve him with out fear , in holinefs and righteoufnefs , &C. Rom.7. 12, Wherefore the law is holy y and the commandment holy ^andjufty and good.. Pfal. 119.97, O how love I thy law ' it is my meditation all the day, 2. For the oniveriality of our obedience to it, that our obedience (hail be equable and uniform, and that there fhall not one command of it be flighted by h s people, Ewkz 56. 27, And I will tut my fpirit within you, and caufe you to walkJ n m y ft a ~ tutes, and ye pall keep my judgments, and do thetn. Pfal. 119. 6, 128, Then fhall I not be afhamed: when I have refpcU: unto all thy commandments.-— Therefore I efteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right: and I hate every falfe way. 3. For the fincerity of our obedience, that fhall fincerely obey and fulfil the commands 6f the Law, Rom. 6. 17, But God be thanked, that ye were the fervants of fin: but ye have obeyed from the heart that form *f Doctrine which was delivered you. 4. For the reality and feriouiheis in the obedience thereof, that we fhall labour and work as hard at obedience

to

a\6 wriji %r.e surety ^nap. aa.

to the Law, as if wc had not another righteoufnefs, nor poflible way of life; and that our love to him (ball put us on to carry thus, Col. 1.29, WhereunU I alfo labour, ftriving according to his working which worketh in me mightily. $. For our deadnefs to the Law, and to our own obeying the commands thereof, that when we work hardeft, and iweat moft, that then we fhall claim nothing upon that account, Gal. 2. 21, 1 do not fruftrate the grace of God: for if righteoufnefs eome by the law, then Chrift is dead in vain. 6. Chrift hath undertaken that what fatisfaction th^Law wanteth in us, it fhall have in him, w T ho is the end of the Law: that he fhall iatisfie for our fhort coming, iCor. 1. 30, But of him. are ye in Chrift Jefus, who of God is made unto us wifdom,and righteoufnefs ■, and fantlifcation, and redemption, Rom. 10.4, For Chrift is the end of the law for righteoufnefs, to every one thzt helieveth. 7. Chrift hath undertaken that he fhall in all thefe performances make us fo far to endeavour duty through his ftrength, and be forth-coming in obedience, that therein we fhall be accepted, 2 Cor. 9.8, And God is able to make all grace abound towards you, that ye always having all fufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work^ Joh. 15. 5, J am the vine, ye are the branches : he that abideth in me, and I in him, the fame bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

Object. Since the Law and Covenant of works is alternative, and requireth but that a man fhould obey and perform the commands thereof, or elfe undergo the punifhment and curie threatned againft the tranigreflbrs: how can it be required of us to perform the obedience to the Law, fmce Chrift cur Surety hath fatisfied the Law, and endured the curie and punifhment thereof in our ftead ? how can it ftand with ju-ftice to exacl both ? In this Objection the Aatinomian, the Ar~ minian, and the Socinian concur, though for different ends, and upon different accounts. The Antinov.tan to eftabliih Chrifts dying in our ftead, fo as he performed all active obedience to the Law that God can require of us. The Armir.ian, to eftablifh faith and converfion on mans part, as part of fatisfaclion to offended Juftice : and fo to derogate from free grace,and Chrifts Surety-righteoufnefs, and to axalt free-will. The Socinian to impugn Chrifts dying in our ftead, and iatisfying offended Juftice in our room. In

In anfwer to this,we fliall ofFer thefe confiderations: 1. Chrift Anfw. did not fulfil the preceptive part of the Law in our ftead, in that ftrit~t fenfe, that we lay he did bear the punifhment of the Law for us: for then fhould all Duties ceale as well as facri-fice and ranfome to offended Juftice, which is contrary to the Scripture, Rcm.i. 31, Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we efiablijh the law. Ezek. 36. 27, And I will put my fpirit within you, and caufe you to wdkjn my fiatutes, and ye Jha/l keep my judgments, and do them. And then alfo did Chrift die and fuffer in vain : for if we did perfectly fulfil the Law in Chrift, then there is no need nor ufe of his fufrering for difobedience, Gal. 2.21, For if righte-eufnefs come by the Law, then Chrift is dead in vain. Then alio Chrifts Surety-righteoufnefs fhould be ours, though we {hould never believe : for what need we believe, if he did it for us, and if we did it in him, which is alfo contrary to the Scripture, Rom. 4. 5, But to him that worketh not, but be-lieveth on hi™ that jufiifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteoufnefs. Rom. 10. p, 10, That if thou flialt confefs with thy mouth the Lord Jefus, and fhalt believe in thine heart that God hath raifed him from the dead, thou Jhalt be faved. For with the heart man believeth unto right eoufnefs, and with the month confeffion is made unto Salvation.

2. Confider the obedience required of us unto the precep-tive part of the Law( for whom Chrift did bear the punifhment thereof): and in feveral refpefts it may appear to be confident with Juftice, that even they for whom Chrift died, fhould be bound to obey the Law. 1. The believers obedience which is required in his own perfon, is not that obedience which the Law required as a pcfiible way of life, I mean a perfect obedience of "'a righteous perfon who had never finned, but an obedience of fincerity that may be in a tinner. 2. Our obedience is not for the fame end that Chrifts fufrtrings were (to wit, for a fatisfa&ion to offended Juftice ), for its no part of our ranfome: but for other ends^ and fo it is not inconfiftent with Juftice to demand fatisfaction of Chrift for one ufe and end, and obedience of us for other ufes and ends. 3. Since the Law is not ch.mged nor repealed, though our relation to it be changed, 'tis juft that we fhould obey Chrift our head and husband, whole will this

Hhh Law

Law is: Notwithftanding, that he hath divorced us by his f iifferings from the Law, as a husband commanding obedience, as the marriage-condition of life. 4. The Lord may juftly require obedience to his Law from them, even in their own perfbns, for the time to come, for whofe tranfgreflions he hath accepted of a fatisfaftion in the perfon of another} e-fpecially when that obedience is nothing that can lie in the balance, as the juft alternative of the Law, foment the fa-tisfaclion given by Chrift. 5. The Law and Juftice may require both fatisfattion and obedience in different refpctts, or in regard of different actions: for it is not the fame thing which we obey, and for which Chrift makes fatisfaftion: for he fatisfied for our difobedience, not for our obedience } be-fide, Chrifts fatisfaftion is for diibbedience to the Covenant of works: our obedience even to the Law, is the obedience to the Gofpel-Covenant, to which the Law is reduced by Chrift who hath made it his Law in this Covenant. 6. It cannot be fuppoied that Chrifts iufferings for our difobedience to the Law, fhouid put us thereafter in another condition, in relpeft of obedience to the Law, than Adam fhouid have been in, if he had never finned, and if his life and hap-pinefs had not depended on his obedience:, in both which caies he had been bound to obey the Law and will of the Lawgiver.

The third part of Chrifts Suretifhip for man to God, re-lateth to his undertaking for the perfons of the Elect, the former two parts being his undertakings for what the Law did threaten, and what the Gofpel and Law both do command : for he is not only a Surety for Debt and for Duty, for penalty of the Law, and for performance of the commands of the Law and Gofpel, but alfo a Surety for the perfons of the Elecl:: a Surety by way of caution, who did give bail for them all: and in relation to this part of his Suretifnip, Chrift is Surety.

1. For the indempnity of all the Elecl:, that fmce the father hath given them into his hands, he hath engaged to loie none of them : he is acted a cautioner to make a good account of all that company *, that however he fet them a warfare, and although he lead them on, and engage them againft ftrong advedaries, and through manifold tentations, although

he

he {hew his people hard things •, yet he fhall bring them off lafe, and bear them through, ib that he may Iky he bath loft none of them, Joh. 17. 12. But is a. captain of falvation to them all, Heb 2. 10. Pfal.66. H, Thou haft cattjed men to ride 0-ver our heads: wt went through fire, and through water j but thou broughteft us out into a wealthy place. Such a Surety was Judah for little Ben'jamin^Gtn.^i. 9.

2. He is Surety for the good behaviour of all thofe whom he hath reconciled unto God: tor having made our peace with God, he is Surety that we (hall keep the peace: that howfbever we may fail in many things, yet his people being once reconciled to God, and pardoned their difloyalty, they fhall never break forth in open rebellion again: they fhall never take up the arms again of enmity againft God, which once they laid down, 2 Cor. 10.4, 5, 6, For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God,to the pulling down of ftrong holds: cafting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth it felf againft the \nowledg of God *, and bringing into captivity every thought into the obedience of Chrift * and having in a readinefs to avenge aU difobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. Pfal. 45. 5, Thine arrows are jharp in the heart of the kings enemies, whereby the people fall under thee. Chrift is Surety for his peoples loyalty, and keeping their peace, treaties, and Covenant with God inviolable, Ifa. 54. 9, 10.

3. Chrift is Surety for the appearing of his people before God, that he fhall prefent them all at the day appointed,and : not one of them fhall be miffing, who fhall not give hi? appearance at that day, Eph. 5.27, That he might prefent it t§ himfelf a glorious Church , not having fpot nor wrinkle, nor a-ny fuch thing: but that it Jlwuld be hdy, and without blemijh. Col. 3. 4, When Chrift, who is our life (ihall appear, then jhall ye alfo appear with him in glory.

4. Chrift is Surety for compleating. whatfoever concerns the Salvation of his people, and their redemption from thofe; evils which remain with them, after that he hath fulfilled and iatisried the Law for them, and hath alfo procured obedience to the Gofpel in them, 1 Cor. 1.. $0, But of him are ye in Chrift Jefus, who of G^od is mkde unto us wifdom, and righte~ oufnefs, and fanWification-> and, redewpti-on.

Hhh 2 5. Becaufc

5. Becaufe there are many things remaining with them, from which they need a delivery, for compleating thedifcharge of his undertakings for them, Rom. 7. 24,25, O wretchedman that I am, who jhall deliver me from the body of this death ? I thank^ God through Jefm Chrifl our Lord : [0 then, with the mind I my [elf [erve the law of our God: but with the fie fa the law of [in, 1 Cor. 15. 53, to 57.

6. We (hall take a vkwol ibme things which do commend Chrifts Suretifhip, that the excellency thereof, and the matchleis love which fhineth forth in it, may the more appear.

1. This commendeth Chrifts Suretifhip, that he rendred himfelf Surety, and came under an«att of cautionry for his people, before they needed a cautioner:, that upon the fore-knowledg of this, that it was to come to pais that man fhould become a broken creature, and needing one to undertake for him, he by an eternal tranfaftion and agreement with his father, did fo early provide this remedy, before man was broken and ftoodinneed ofaSurety, Prov.$.2i, Iwas [et up from everlafling, from the beginning, or ever the earth was, 2 Tim. 1. 9, Who hath faved us, and called m with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpofe and grace, which was given us in Chrifl Jefus before the world began.

2. This commendeth Chrifts Suretifhip, that he came under this relation fo freely, unrequefted, and undefired, according to his own heart: he a&ed himfelf cautioner for us, when there was none of the creatures once to hint fuch amotion: that in the day when there was none found to help, nor fo much as to think of laying help on him, then he freely offered himfelf, aud faid, Lo I come: take me Surety for thefe poor broken men- Heb. 10. 7, Then [aid I, Lo, 1 come (in the volume of the booh^ it is written of me ) to do thy will, O God. 1 fa. 63. 5, And I looked, and there was none to help: and I wondred that there was none to uphold : therefore mine own arm brought [alvation unto me: and my fury it upheld me. Ifa. 59. 16, And he [aw that there was no man, and wondred that there was nointerceffor: therefore his arm brought [alvation unto him, and his righteou[ne[s it [uflained him.

3. The exceeding great reach and danger of his under-

taking

taking doth commend his Suretifhip, that he put his name in fuch a bond as he knew well fhould bring upon him the Debt offo many broken men, and fhould oblige him to make fatis-faftion for the fms of all the Elect world, J fa. 53. 5, 6,11, 1 2, But he was wounded.for our tranfgreffions, he was bruijed for oar iniquities: the chaftifement of oar feace was upon him, and with his frizes we are healed. All we like fieep have gone a/tray, we have tamed every one to his own way, and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of as all. — -By his knowledg ftaU my righteous fervant jufttfie many: for he (hall bear their iniquities. Bccaufe he hath poured oat his foal unto death : and he was numbredwith the tranfgreffors. That he did knowingly put his ibul in their fouls ftead, that'Juftice might fmite him, and that the fame etern al punifhment of fin, for kind, that was due to us, fhould be upon him, Col. 3. 1 $, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curje of the law y being made a curfe for as : for it is written^ Cur fed is every one that hang-eth on a tree. Zech. 13.7, Awake, O fword, again ft my jhep-herd, and again fl the man that is my fellow, faith the Lord of hofls. The fame fword of Divine Juftice that fhould havefmit-ten us, did fmite him.

4. This commendeth Chrifts Suretifhip, that he engaged for a party which deferved no pity, for man who had willingly forfeited a fair inheritance, when it was poflible for him, and in his power to have performed the commands and conditions of life laid upon him*, who would pity and undertake for fuch a peribn, who being put into a fair and free inheritance, with power to perform the conditions upon which he holds it, fhould notwithstanding forfeit his good eftate, and run himfelf under debt irrecoverably? yet-in this condition Chrift pitied us, and undertook for us, Rom. 5.6, 7,8,-For when we were yet without ftrength, in due time Chrift died for the ungodly, for fearrely'for a righteous man will one die : yet peradiknture for a good man fome will even dare to die. But God commended his love toward us, in that while we wert yet finners Chrift died for us.

5. This commendeth Chrifts Suretifhip, that he engaged for the debt of a people from whom he could expeel: no fa-tisfaftion nor relief of all the debt which he payed for them, that fo potent and refponfal a party joined interefts, with

fuch

,pi Chrift the Surety Chap, XX.

fuck impotent and unrefponfal, broken creatures: how wonderfully doth this commend his Suretiftiip, that he came under an act of cautionry for fuch as we are, knowing us to be what we are, a people that fhall never requite his kindnefi ? yea, doing all this for us the rather, that we fhall be eternally in his debt, and never able to recompence the fatisfafri-on wfiich he made for us, Lnk± 17. 10, So likewife ye, when ye jhall have done all thefe things which are commanded you, fay, We are unprofitable fervants \ we have done that which Was our duty to do. 2 Sam. 7. 18, Then went king David in, and fate before the Lord, and he faid , Who am I, O Lord God 9 and what is my houfe, that thou haft brought me hitherto, &c !

7. Let us confider wherein Chrifts Suretifhip difFereth from bonds and acls of cautionry ufual among men, whereby the excellency thereof may yet further appear. fr-rto.Good. i. Among men, ufually, Sureties and Debtors enter into

'onkva 2 0ne and t ^ ie * ame k° nc * w ^^ t ^ ie Creditor (asMr. Goodwin ■>y a £- * 2 *hath well obferved ): but here Chrifts fingle bond lyeth for all, our bond being of no value, Pfal. 8y. 19, / have laid help upon one that is mighty. .Here Chrift our Surety hath changed bonds and obligations with us, and putteth out our name, and putteth in his own name in the bloody bond of the Law, that the debt, fatisfac~tion and curfe may be upon him alone, Gal. I. 13, Chrift hath redeemed us from the curfe of the law, being made a curfe for us. Ifa. 55. 5, But he was wounded fcr our tranfgreffions , he was brut fed for our iniquities: the chaftife-ment of our peace was upon him, and with his ftripes we are healed. He laid of his people, as Jacobs mother faid to him, Gen. 27. 13, Vfon me be thy curfe, my fon: only obey my voice.

T u(lin. inftit. 2 - Among men, the Creditor hath it in his choice which 3. tit. 21. of the two he will feize upon, the Surety or the Debtor, as.

ehdejtfiorli-he f eet b i t b e ft f or his fatisfa£tion: but it is not lb here; for

lZ'a Cr qlo the Lord the Creditor hath declared that he wili take him elit joiidum 4° thrift for all: and hath determined that all the fatisfaftion ntn. fhall be made by him: and Chrift the Surety is content that

it fhall be fo, and that the poor broken creature fhall go free, and no execution of the bloody bond of the Law fhall pals againft him, he being a bankrupt creature, who hath obtained

tained a liberation, as where there is ceffio honor urn. See PfaL S9. 19, / have layed help upon one that is mighty. Heb. 10. j y Then [aid /, Lo, I come, ( in the volume of the bookjt is written of me ) to do thy willy O God. Rom. 8. 1, There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Chrift Jefus. Ilk. 53.6, And the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of m all. You fee how the Lord doth adrift himfelf to the fatisiaftion of the Surety for all the debt.

3. Among men ufually, the principal Debtor ( as we call him ) is firft convened for the Debt, before the Surety be purfued*, and it may feem juft it fhould be fo: there were

ibme ancient Laws among the Romans to this effect. But it? l f ift ' ib ' ^ e is not fo here; the curie of the Law, and the execution oiy^l™^™*' the bond thereof, doth not firft flick upon us, and then af- q !um ms , & c . terward upon Chrilt, to feek from him what it cannot find Jo.calv.Lexti, in us: but the Lord the Creditor having aftri&ed himfelf to^'^P ? dr > the cautioner (as I laid before), the Law ftrikes firft upon f^fjf'lfj him, and can never come to ftrike againft the believer, urilefs ve J r } an C t ° g n ' it fhoulct not find compleat iatisfaftion in our Surety, ^Mdiprhdpatem.Fi" is impoflible, J/k. 53.8, He was taken from prifon, and from ^}'#r five \udvment: and who (l)all declare his generation t for he was cut * K a terce lI er ron off out of the land of the living: for the tranjgreffion of his ^ . rius ^i. people was he ftricken. Gal. 3. l $, Chrift hath redeemed us tore principal! from the curfe of the law-, being made a curfe for us :convent9. for it is written, cur fed is every one that hangeth on a tree.

4. Among men, the Debtor is the principal Bondfman, and f*&* n ; ti-VJde his obligation and bond is the principal obligation, and ■ the' } '*" vm t lii a Sureties obligation is but an accefhon to it, tor ftrengtnen-^/^w^ „£_ ing the Security: but here the Surety is the principal Debtor, ligitiwus mo and by his bond of Suretifhip he hath changed the nature we* mm di-of the believers bond and obligation, and put his own name at . ! jl * d V ro ' in it, fo as he is become the principal Debtor: his Sureti-^'^ fhip hath fwaliowed up the Debtors obligation to fatisfie Juftice •, the Surety being the head and husband of the poor broken Debtor, Rom. 7.4, Wherefore my brethren, ye alfo are become dead to the law by the body of Chrift, that ye fiould be married to another, even to him who is raifed from the dead, that we fhould bring forth fruit unto God. And having changed the bond of fatistaction, and put out our -name, and put

in

in his own, whereby he hath tranferred the Debt upon him-fclf, as principal Debtor. Heb. 10. 7, Then /aid I, Lo,I co-ne (in the volume of the bockjt is written of me ) to do thy wl'I, OGod. . ib.fr h 5. Among men, there may be a outgiving of fatisfaftion to the Creditor, and of relief to the Debtor, through the contingent, emergent, pclTible unrefponfalnefs of the Surety, is the doctors or the Law do fometimes put the cafe, and provide againft it: fo it was in Judah his cafe, when he became Surety for Benjamins return, and could not perform it, Gen. o-rn-^- 4; . p. But here it is impcfiVole that there can be a miigiving r '^ kc - ia the iatisfaftion of the Creditor, or in the relief of the poor Debtor, the Surety being a potent perfon, and exempted from all poliability of unrefponfalnefs, and incapacity to fatishe the Law, and to anlwer the charge thereof to the ut-moit. Being one who is mighty and able to fave to the utmofl, PfaL Sp. ip. Heb. 7.22,25, By fo much was Jefus made Surety of a better Teftament. Wherefore he is able to fave them to the uttermofi, that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth to mak* interceffion for them. Col. 2. p, 10, For in him dweller h all the fulnej\ of the Godhead bodily. And ye are compleat in him , which is the head of all principality and power. V'- 6. Among men, ufually the Sureties bond and engagement is fcr Debt already contracted at or before the time of the Sureties giving bond, and dually for particular fums fpecifted : but Chrift became Surety 7 for his peoples Debt before ever it vas contracted and drawn on by them \ yea, he gave bond ;';' to fatishe the Law for all the Debt that' (houid be at any ./ time of all their days contracted and drawn on by them: fo *' univerfal is his Suretifhip, that it reaeheth all pclTble, e-mergent tranfgreffions of his people upon whatsoever occailon, Jcr. 1. 5, Will he referve his anger for ever? will he keep it to the end ? behold, thou haft fpoken and done evil things a* thou ce.ddefl. Jer. ) 1. ; ~, Thus faith the Lord, if heaven aboz be meafured, and the foundations of the earth fearched cut be-neath, I will alfo caft off all the feed of Ifrael, for all that they it done, faith the Lord, heb. 7. 25, Wherefore he u able to fave them to the utter mo ft.

7. Among men, the Surety being by a Legal fubftitution,

the

the Debtor, the'broken man, he pays the Debt, but doth Jo. Cdv.ttz; not, yea, cannot take away the blot, evil, fin and unjufticei^j^.P-S' 52 * of the Debtors breach of Covenant, of his borrowing, ^I'tisiu^iil Vr-not paying again: but ftill the Debtor, when the Law is mint % quUbhit§ tisfied, and the Debt payed, he remains the unjuft man, car-&proprhmrbo rying the blot of a peribn who violated his Covenant, in bor-k^/tf, iUi rowing, and not paying again: but Chrift is a Surety yf^V^'alienoth doth not only by paying the Debt remove the punifhment nenU ' ' due unto the Debtor for his unjuftice *, but he removeth alio the blot and the evil of fin, by infufing inherent righteouf-nefs and holinels, by expelling of (in out of its iubjeft, and introducing the contrary form; to wit, the habit of grace, which no other Surety but he can do, Tit. 2. 14, Who gave himfelffor us^ that he wight redeem us from all iniquity , and purifie unto himfelf a peculiar people-) jealous of good works, 1 Cor- 6. 11, And fuch were fome of you: but ye are wajhed^ but ye are fanttificdj bul ye are juftifiedin the name of the Lord Jefus^ and by the fpirit of our God. 1 Cof. 1. 30, But of him are ye in Chrifl Jefus , who of God is made unto us wifdom , and righteoufnefs , and fantlifcation , and redemp~ tion.

8. Among men, the Surety hath repetition of the Debt juftin, nbif* payed *, and whatsoever fatisfaftion he hath made to the Qxt-pi ft quid auditor, he is allowed repetition of that from the Debtor*, but tem fi de J u ^°!, Jeius the Surety of this Covenant, hath no repetition of the^.^J^ latisfaclion made by him for his people*, nay, he never inf ^ 5 h^n tended nor demanded any fuch fatisfa&ion to be made to him, cum eo mandatl by us, as he made to God for us: all the iktisfattion defiredW'"'^-by him from us, is to accept of his free difcharge, and to thank him for it: ]fa. 5 1 . it, He jhall fee of the travel of his foul, and fiall be fatisfied: by his knowledg pall my righteous fervant juflifie many : for he fliall bear their iniquities. Who ever heard of fuch a Surety, who payeth Debt, and leeks no repetition of it, no reftitution of his lolTes ; but to thank him for it, and not to fruftrate the grace of God which he intendeth to make confpicuous in his free gift 01 his own fatisfaction? 2 Cor. 5. 14, 15, pgrtbekveofCkrifi co"jha'mcth us 7 becaufe we thus judg, that if one Hied -hen wcr

dead. Add that he died for all not henceforth live w r •'■• -.

them, and arofe again* Gal. 2.20, 21, And the life which I now live in the fiefr, 1 live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave bimfelffir me. 1 do not fmftrate the grace of God: for if righteoufnefs oome by the law, then Chrifi is dead tn vain.

9. Among men, ufually the broken Debtors name ftands ftiil m the bond, even after the reiponfal Surety hath intervened : but here Jelus the Surety of the new Covenant, when he put in his own name, he puts out our names, that the Law might reach him, and might not at all reach us ( except in fo far as it is annexed to the new Covenant, and eftabliihed in the hands of a Mediator, which hath no lke-nefs to the old bloody bond ) : he wrote himfelf the Tinner Legally, and wrote us the righteous peribns: iCor. 5.21, For

he hath made him to be fin for us, who knew no fin, that we might be made the righteoufnefs of God in him, Jer. 50. 20, In thofe days, and in that time, faith the' Lord, the iniquitie of Ifrael frail be fought for, and there frail be none : and the (ins of Judah, and they frail not be found: for I will pardon them whom I referve.

10. Among men, the Surety hath a bond of relief from the Debtor, to keep him harmlefs of all that may follow upon his obligation and undertaking as Surety *, but it is far otherwife in this Covenant: for here the Surety hath no bond of relief from the Debtor} but he hath a bond of relief from the Creditor. Chrift had his fathers bond of relief to keep him harmlels in that undertaking: he had, as it were, a backbond, that he fhould not fuccumb in his undertaking, but that when he went into the prifon, he fhould come out again with honour and vi&ory,~ and fo fhould be kept harmlefs from the hurt of the broken mans Debt. Read it at length, I fa. 53. 10,11, 12, Tet it pleafed the Lord to bruife him, he bath put him to grief: when thou fralt make his foul an offer inv for fin, he fin all fee his feed, he frail prolong his days, and the pleafure of the Lord frail profper in his hand. He frail fee of the travel of his foul, and frail be fatisfied: by his kriowledg frail my righteous Jervant juflifie many: for he frail bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great * 7 and he frail divide the fpoil with the ftrong : becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death: and he was numbred with the

tranfgretfors

Chap. XX. of the Coven ant. a~j

tranfgrejforsy and he bare the fin of many^ and made inter ctffwn for the tranfgreffors. Ifa.4 2 - j j4j Behold my fervent whom / upbeidy mine elect in whom my foul delighteth: I have put my fpirit upon himy he frail bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. He frail not fail, nor be difcouragedy till he have fit judgment in the earth: and the Ifles frail wait for his law. Pial. 16. io, for thou wilt not leave my foul in hell^ neither wilt thou fujfer thine holy one to fee corruption ', Pial. I io, throughout.

11. Among men, ufually the difcharging and performance of the Sureties undertaking (how willing i'oever ), is a burden : Sureties after ftriking hands with the Creditor, could willingly defire to be freed from the engagement, Prov. 6. i, 2, My Son y if thou be Surety for thy friendy if thou haft flrkken hands with a fir anger y thou art fnared with the words of thy mouthy thou art taken with the words of thy mouth. But it is not fo in Chrifts undertaking, who difchargeth his Suretifhip as willingly and chearfully as he undertook it, Heb. io. 7, Then faid Iy Loy J come ( in the volume of the book^ it is written of me) to do thy willy O God. Luk.22. 15, And he faid unto themy With defire have 1 defired to eat this paffcover with yon . before I fujfer. Joh. 10.18, No man taketh it from me y but I lay it down of my felf: I have power to lay it down y and 1 have power to take it again : this commandment have I received of my father. He did voluntar ly fulfil his act of cautionry, and not through conftraint of Law and Juftice *, yea, it was not accounted grievous To him, but was rather his fatisfaftion and delight thus to make the glory of his grace confpicuous, Jfa. 55. 11, He frail fee of the travel of his fouly and frail be fa-t is fed. Pial. 40. 8, I delight to do thy willy O my God: ye ay thy law is within my heart.

In the laft place, let us confider the advantages which believers have by Chrifts Suretifhip: which are fo many, that they cannot be reckoned: we fhali inftance upon ibme few.

1. By Chrifts Suretifhip we have our exemption and liberation from the Law, and the hand of Juftice: our divorcement from the Law and Covenant of works as a husband, in which refpeel it is now dead and extinct (though it live for other ends and ufes ), Rom. 7.4, Wherefore my brethren*

ye alfo are become dead to the law by the body of Chrift, that ye fhould be married to another, even te him who is r^ifedfrom the dead \ that we Jhould bring forth fruit unto God. So that now the believer cannot be puriued at Law: or if puriued, cannot be made to undergo the fentence of the Law, Jufiice being iatisrled by a Surety, Gal. \. 13, Chrift hath, redeemed hs from the curie, of the law, being made a curfe for us. Heb. 2. 14, 15, That through death he might deftroy him that had the power of -death , that is, the devil: and deliver them, who through fear of death, were all their life-time fubjeel to bondage, in a word, we owe to Chrifts Suretifhip our delivery from the fentence, from the p«rimt, from the Covenant, from the terror, from the rigour, from the irritation of -the Law} yea, from the perfect obedience of the Law, it will now accept lefs ♦, and from all obedience to it, as a poflible way of life, Rom.%. ^ For what the law could not do, in that it Was weal^ through the flefh, God fending his own fon, in the likenefs of finful fief), and for fin condemned fin in the flefh. Heb. 12* 18, 22, 24, For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire: nor unto black?

%efs 7 and darknefs, and tempeft But ye are come unto mount

Sion, aud unto the city of the Living God, the heaven-ly Jerufalem. And to Jefus the Mediator of the new covenant.

2. By his Suretifhip we have this new and better ; Cove-aant-ftate, wherein we (land: we owe oifc being in Chrift ? and in the Covenant of Grace, unto his Suretifhip, who did undertake to bring about that bond of engagement betwixt God and us : for .if Chrift had not a&ed himielf to do this, it had never beendone : Joh. 17. 2,6, As thou haft given him power over all flefh, that he fttould give eternal life to as many

as thou haft given him. 1 have manifefted thy name unto the

men which thou gave ft me out of the world: thine they were *, and thou gave ft them me •, and they have kept thy word. Joh. <5„ 37, All that the father giveth me, Jhall come to me : and him that cometh to me, I will in no wife caft out.

I. By Chrifts Suretifhip we have our perfeverance and (lability in this Covenant-ftate *, I fay, not our being only, but our continuing in this blelTed flate, that we do not depart from God, and utterly forfake him, in a divorcement, even ; when

when we go a whoring from him: and that he doth not cafl us off, and diicovenant us for all that we have done: this advantage we have by Chrifts -Suretiihip," that there can be no reverfmg, annulling, of repealing of Gods Covenant with his people: and if it were not for that, a divorce fhould follow upon the whorings.and treacherous dealings of our hearts y day, Pfal £9. \§&$\> 34? 3 5> tf his children for fake my

Uw, and Walk, not in mV judgment s^ &c. Nevertbelefts, my

loving-kindnefs mil I not utterly tal^e from him: norftuffermy faithfulnefts to fail. My covenant mil I not breai^ nor 'alter the thing that is gone out of my lips. Once have I fworn by my holmefs, that 1 mil not lie unto David. Jer. 3. I,'I4, 22, They f a y-> If *> V^n- put away his wife, and fiie go from him, and become another mans, fliall he return unto her again ? (hall not that land be greatly polluted ? but thou haft played the harlot with many lovers, yet return again to me, faith the Lord.

Turn, O back-ftidwg children, faith the Lord, for 1 am

married unto you: and I will take you, one of a city, and two

of a family, and I will bring you to Zion. Return ye backc

fliding children, and 1 will heal pur backefidrngs: hehold, we come unto thee, for thou art the Lord our God. Jer. 31. 37, Thus faith the Lord, If heaven above can be meafured, and the. foundations of the tarth fearched out beneath, I will alfo caft off all the feed of Ifrael, for all that they have done, faith the Lord. Jer. 32. 39,40, And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them. And 1 will make an everlafting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good: but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they fliall not depart from me.

4. We owe to Chrifts Suretifrup very much, upon the head of the conditions of the new Covenant', as namely, 1. The poflibility of Gofpel-conditions and commands, that they are ; not as unprofitable to us, as the keeping of the whole Law, Deut. 30. II, 14, For this commandment which 1 command thee this ,day>. it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. But the word is very nigh uftQ thee, in .thy mouth, and iri thy heart, that the u.may eft do it. Rpm. 10. 6,' 8, 'Bit the righteoufnefs which is cf faith, fpeake.th on this wife: fay not in't'hine heart, who fliall a fend into heaven f' Shat is to bring- thrift down from

above.

above. — -But what faith it s the word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy hearty that is, the word of faith which we preach. 2. The certainty of a performance ot thele conditions *, that believers have any ground to expert that there fhall not be a mifgivmg in them, as was in the commands of the firft Covenant. Job. 6. 37, All that the father giveth me Jhall come to me: and him that cometh to me, J will in no wife cafi out. Ez*k. 36.27, And I will pnit my fpirit within yon, and caufe yon to walk^in my fiatutes, via ye fiiall keep my judgments and do them. 3. The tweet facility and eafineis which is found in all Goipel commands and obedience, when endeavoured in the ftrength of Chrifts grace. Mat. 11. 30, For my yoke is eafie, and my burden is light. Phi!-4. 1 $, I can do all things through Chrifi which ftrengtheneth me. I Joh. 5. 3, And his commandments are not grievous. This is the fweet fruit of Chrifts Suretifhip, who did undertake to work all thefe things in us, and to give his fpirit and influences toward the effe&ing of thefe things.

5. By Chrifts Suretifhip we have our boldnefs in all di-ftreiTes, to lay our weight upon him, If a. 38. 14, Like a crane or fwallow, fo did I chatter -, I did mourn as a dove : mine eyes fail with looking upward : O Lord, I am opprejfed, undertake for me. Whcnfoever any duty or tentation is above our ftrength, when any difficulty prevaileth againft us, then to come to Chrift, as unto one who is engaged with us and for us, I fa. 45. 24, Surely, pall one fay, in the Lord have I righteoufnefs and ftrength : even to him pall men come, and all that are incenfed againft him Jhall be afamed. 2 Cor. 3. 5, Not that we are fufjicient of our felves to thinks any thing as of our felves : but our fujfeiency is of God. Pfal. 37.5, Commit thy way unto the Lord : trufl alfo in him, and he Jhall bring it to paff. When the Law cometh with any hard commandment, then to offer to God Chrifi the end of the law, Rom. 10.4. Heb. 12.24.

6. We owe to Chrifts Suretifhip many things upon the head •f tentations', as namely, I. Our being prevented, that many a tentation cometh not to our dore, before which we ftiould prove weak: that we enter not into all tentations fitted for our humors, Math. 26. 41, Watch and pray ', that ye enter net into temptation : the fpirit indeed is willing^ but the

fiejh

Chap. XX. of the Covenant. a*i

fiejlj is wok; 2. Our tending it out, when tentation cometh, that it doth not carry us quile away before it, with a full confent, Luk^iz. 32, But 1 have frayed for thee that thy faith fail net. 3. Our efcaping and delivery trora tentations, 1 Cor. 10. 13, There hath no temptation takrn you, but fuch as is common to man : but God is faithful, that will not fujfer yon to be temped above that you are able : but will with the temptation aljo make a way to efcape, that ye may be able to bear it. All thefe things we have by Chrifts Suretifhip, and undertaking for us, Joh. 17. 12, While I was with them in the world, 1 kept them m thy name: thofe that thou gave ft me I have kept, and none of them is loft, but the fon of perdition, that the fcripture might be fulfilled. Rev. 3.10, Eecanfe thou haft kept the word of my patience, I alfo will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which fiall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Vfe 1. Behold, we bring you glad tidings ef great joy, Luk. 2. 10. Good news to broken Tinners, who have made them-felves irreiponfal, who cannot fulfil the Covenant of works, who cannot anlwer the charge of the Law themfelves: behold, there is a better Covenant which hath a cautioner in it, who hath ftricken hands with God, who hath undertaken the Debt, and hath difcharged it, Ifa.51.6, And the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. Col. 2. 14, Blotting out the hand-writing of ordinances that was againft us, which was contrary to us : and took^ it out of the way-, nay ling it to his crofs. Here is, in one word, manifold grounds of comfort to believers, and of encouragement to believe in Chrift, to come and thank him for his undertaking, and to fay, Amen to that which he did without our requeft : here is one ground to anfwer many objections and doubtings, if you be by nature under a Covenant which hath no cautioner, Chrift doth tender a Covenant which hath a cautioner in it, Heb. 7, 22, By fo much was Jefus made Surety of a better Teftament, Heb. 8,6, But now hath he obtained a more excellent miniftry, by how much alfo he is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was e-ftabHifhed upon better promifes. If the conditions of that be hard, the conditions of this are eafie, Heb. 12.20, For they could not endure that which was commanded. Rom. 10. 6,8, But the right eoufnefs which is of faith fpeaketh on this wife.

That

'^ja Chrifi the Surety Chap. XX.

-—That is the word of faith whichwep/eqeh : if thou flialt believe with thine hearty thou ftMt be fayed. If you ihtnd alone in that Covenant, you do not lb here, Heb.2. 13, Behold, 1 and phe children which God hath given me, 11a. 59. 21, As for me, this is my covenant with them, faith the Lord, My Jpirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouthy pall not depart out of thy month-, nor out of the mouth of thy feed, nor out of the mouth of thy feeds feed, faith the Lord-, from henceforth, and for ever, it" the charge of the Law be hard, luch as you cannot fatisrle, you have a Surety who hath both undertaken and made iufficient latisfa£lion to the Law, J fa. 55.8, He was taken from prifon, and from judgment: and who Jhall declare his generation f for he was cut off out of the land of the living, for the tranfgrejfion of my people was he ftricken. Dan. 9. 26, And after threescore and two weeks fliall Meffiah be cut off, but not for himfelf: and the people of the prince that fhall come, &c. If you be unrefponfal creatures, who have not only broken Covenant, but difabled your felves to perform any thing that the Law, even the new Law doth require of you, your Surety is a refponfal perfon, one that is mighty^ Pfal.%9. 19, Then thou /pakeft in vifion to thy holy one, and faidft, I have laid help upon one that is mighty : I have exalted one chofen out of the people. Heb- 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the utter mo ft that come unto God by him.

Vfe 2. Here is a matter of expoftulation with believers, and with unbelievers, and that upon divers grounds: 1. Why do any of you think or lay, that the Gofpel-conditions and commands are hard and heavy ? that they are unprofitable or impoflible ? Rom. 10. 6, 7, 8, But the righteoufnefs which is of faith, fpeaketh on this wife: fay not in thine, heart, who fliall afcend into heaven ? that is to bring Chrift down from above. Or who jhall defcend into the deep ? that is, to bring up Chrift again from the dead. But what faith it f the word is nigh thee^ even in thy mouth, and in thy hearty that is .the word of faith which we preach. Is there any caule to think fo of a Covenant that hath a Surety in it ? nay, 'tis groundlefs to think fo, Deut. 30. 11, 14, For this commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. But the word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouthy

and in thy hearty that thou may eft do it, 1 Joh. 5, $, And, his commandments are not grieve us, M;U. 11. <,o, For my yol^c is eafie, and my burden is light, 2. Why fhould broken men, and diver Debtors think to pay this Debt, or to perform their duty, without the help of their cautioner? do you not often attempt this? to.make amends to God for your faults, and to be more forth-coming in your performances, even you alone,without Chriftyour Surety? Joh. 15.4^ 5, Abide in mz> and I in you : as the branch cannot bear fruit of it felf, except it abide in the vine: no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches : he that abideth in me, and I in him, the fame bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 2 Cor. 3. 5, Not that we are fuffi-dent of our felves, to thmk^any thing as of our felves ', but our Sufficiency is of God, Rom. 10.3. and 9.51. But thefe did better, who would do nothing without their Surety, Ilk. 38. 14, Mine eyes fail with looking upward,: O Lord, 1 am oppreffed, undertake for me. Pial. Up. 32, 122, / will run the way of thy com-mandments, when thou flialt enlarge mine heart. Be furety for thy [ervar.t for good: let not the proud opprefs me. Phil.4. 13, / can do all things through Chrift which ftrengtheneth me. 3. Why do you queftion and fufpect the Covenant of God, and the grounds of faith and afTurance granted therein ? is there not a Surety in the Covenant, which fhall make it (land faft, and in whom it fhall ftand faft with you ? fo that there is no ground left for doubting and fears, that it may be fhaken, Pfal.%9. 28, 35, My mercy will I keep for him for evermore: and my covenant fhall ftand faft with him. Once have I fworn by my holinefs , that I will not lye unto David. Heb. 6. 17, 18, Wherein God willing more abundantly to fhew nnto the heirs of promtfe, the immutability of his counfel, confirmed it by an oath: that by two immutable things, in which it was impoffible for God to lye, we might have a ftrong confolation* who have ftcd for refuge to lay hold upon the hope fet before us. 4. Why do you lean upon any thing, and feek relief from that which God hath not made the Surety of the Covenant ? why do you take caution from your own • hearts for any thing-commanded in the Covenant? can your refolutions be caution an4 Surety to God for you ? can your ftock of gifts or grace be Surety for your performance of any thing

K k k commanded

commanded, or fet as a condition in the Gofpel ? Nay, fure they cannot, I Cor. I. 13, as the Apoftle ikith, Thefe were not crucified for you, thefe never became Surety to God for you : and if lb, wherefore do you truft in them, and lean upon them?

Vfe 3. For tiyal, whether Chrift hath undertaken, and come under an aft of Suretifhip for you. This being amon« Gods eternal fecrets and immutable counfels, it is to be found out by the effefts thereof, whereby God hath fhewed to the heirs of the promife, the immutability of his counfel, Heb. 6. 17. Then, 1. If you be in the Covenant of grace, or if you be reached by any of thefe qualifications by which he delcribes thofe peribns who are comprehended in his Tefta-ment, then hath Chrift undertaken for you: for he is Surety of the new Covenant , and better Tefament, Heb. 7.22- and o. 6. And confequently hath undertaken for all thofe who are comprehended in it, If a. 56. 6, Aifo the fons of the ftranrer that join themfelvcs to the Lord, to ferve him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be his fervants, every one that keepeth the jabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant. Joh. 13.8, Jefus anfwred him, Jf I wafh thee not, thou haft no part with me, Joh. 15. 2, 15, 16, And every branch that bear-eth fruit , he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. — -Henceforth I call you not fervants; for the fervant knoweth not what his Lord doth : but I have called you friends ; for aM things that I have heard of my father, i have made known unto you. Te have not chofen me, but I have chofenyou, and ordained yo&> that you fhonld go and bring forth fruity and that your fruit fhould remain : that whatfoever ye fliall ask^ of the father in my name, he may give it you, Joh. 17. 6, 7, 3, 2. If he hath atted the Covenant upon your hearts, according as it is commanded in the Gofpel, and according as its foretold, that he will fulfill it effectually in his people, then hath he undertaken for you, and hereby you may know it for a certainty : Jer. 31. 33, J will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts: and I will be their God, and they fliall be my people. Efcek. 11. 19, And J will give them one heart, and I will put a new fpirit within you ; and J will take the flony heart out of their flefh, and will give them an heart of flefh. Ezek. 36. 26, A new heart alfo will J give you,

and

and a new fpirit will I put within you 1 and I will take away the ft$ny heart out of your fiefh, and J will give you an heart of flejh. Joh. 6, $7, All that the father giveth me, pall come to me: and hint that cometh to me, I will no wife cafl out. $. If Chrift hath taken your name out of the Law-writ and curie, and hath put your name in the Gofpel-writ, and written you bleffed in that little book, or pronounced you fuch by any thing contained in it, then hath he undertaken for you : Rom. 4. 7,8, Saying, Bleffed are they whofe iniquities are forgiven, and whofe fins are covered. Bleffed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute fin. Gal- 3.9, i$> 2 9> So then, they which he of faith, are hie{fedwith faithful Abraham. Chrift hath redeemed ns from the curfe of the law, being made a curfe for us: and if ye-he Chrifts, then are ye Abrahams feed, and heirs according to the promife. 4. If you can go out of your felves, and find in your heart to engage him for you, and to lay the weight of your eternal interefts upon him, yourrighte-oufnefs and falvation, and of all things commanded in the Gof-pel, in order to thefe, then hath he undertaken for you *, for he doth not give fuch a heart to any, but to them for whom he came under an act of Suretifhip: Phil. 1. $, For we are the circumcifwn, which worflnp God in the fpirit, and re-joyce in Chrift Jefus, and have no confidence in the fiefh. Ifa. 38. 14, O Lord, 1 am oppreffed, undertake for me. Pfal. 119. 32, 35,122, I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou fialt enlarge my heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments: for there in do I delight: he furety for thy fer-vant for good.

Vje 4. The Doctrine of Chrifts Suretifhip doth confirm many articles of our faith.

As, 1. The particularity and freenefs of election: for if Chrift had the Ele£t given to him by a Covenant, and did from eternity undertake for them, fure he knew for whom he did undertake; he knew their number, and names, how many was in that company, and who they were, Joh. 17. 6, 12, / have manifefted thy name imto the men which thou gave ft me out of the world. Thofe that thou gave ft me, I have

kept, and none of them is loft. 2 Tim. 2. 19, JSTeverthelefs, the foundation of God ftandeth fure, having this feal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And if the matter of our Salvation

Kkk 2 ftand *

xl upon Gods giving to Chrift, and his undertaking, then t there were none given by the father to the Son from iti ■.".:.; , upon relief of faith or holinefs : for that fhould d ttroy Chrifts Suretiftip and undertak lay the weight

of lich isfrincipaJ in the illue upon the creatures will,

that ;e the creature a Surety for bimfelf, Rom. 9%

llj, \6, For the children being yet not to>-?\ net tuing

done aftygpad or i& the purvoje of God act t$ e-

ieinon might fund, not ef worki, but of him that . ckc.

So thirty it is net cf htm that will-th, nor of him \

neth, hut of God thai - mercy.

2. Chrifts Suretifhip is a confirmation of the dominion and Sovereignty of his grace, and of the reality, efficacy, and irrefiftableneis of the working of his fpirit, and the phvficvl uences thereof*, for if Chriil had not the power and dominion of our wills, how could he undertake for us? an Salvation were not taken off the ilipperv yea and nay of wiflj how could our Lord be Surety for his people? were it poffible that he fhould undertake, and discharge his undertaking for thofe, over whole hearts and wills he hath not an abfolute power and dominion? fob. 6. 37, All that the father giveth wfj fliall come to me : and him that cometh to me, I will in no wife caft out. Jer. ;C.2i, And their nobles fa all be of themfehes, and their governour fliall proceed from the n cf them: and I will cauje him to draw near, and he (hall ap-preach unto me: for who is th:s that engaged his heart to approach unto me, faith the Lord f Ezek. $6.27, And I will put my fpirit within yon, and cauje you to Walk, in my features, and ye f:all keep my judgments, and do them.

I. Chrifts Suretifhip is a confirmation of the perfeverance of the faints, and of the certainty of the the Salvation of all the El eel:: for if their perfeverance and believing to the end be undertaken for by him, how can it be uncertain? if our heaven and happinefs be in a furer hand than our own, even in the keeping of Chrift, how can it be but well kept-? 1 Pet. 1.4,5, To an inheritance incorruptible, unde filed, and that fadeth not away, referred in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of Cod through faith unto Jalvation, ready to be revealed in the laft time, Jer. $2. 59,49, And J will give them* one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the

good

good of them, and cf their children after them. And J will make an cverlafting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do them good: but I will -put my fear into their hearts, that they flmll not depart from me. Luk. 22, 32, But 1 have prayed fcr thee, that thy faith fail not. It is the Suretifhip of Chrift which holds the Covenant faft with us, and makes firm our Covenant-ftate, that upon no breaches on our part it can be disannulled, Pfal.89. 30, 34, 35, If his children for fake my law, and walk^ not in my ]udgments: my covenant Will J not breaks nor alter the thing that is gone -out of my lips: Once have I fworn by my holmefs , that I will not lye unto David. Jer. 31. 37, Thus faith the Lord, if heaven above can be meafq/red, and the foundations of the earth fearched out beneath, I will alfo cafl off all the feed of Ifracl, fir all that they have done, faith the Lord. ■ Vfe 5. The Doctrine ofChrift^ Suretifhip ferves to anfwer all tentations, difcouragements, and doubtings that arife in, the hearts of believers, concerning their Covenant-mterefis. If there be any doubt with you, about the performance of the precious promifes, Chrifb Suretifhip anfwers it, and ai-iureth that there ft:all be a performance of all thefe things which are fpoken by the Lord, Luk. 1. 45. 2Cor. 1.20, For all the promifes of God in him are, yea, and in him, Amen, unto the glory of God by us. If there be any thing too hard for you among all the commands and conditions of the new Covenant, his Suretifhip anfwers that, Rom. 10. 6, 7,8. But the righte-aufnefs which is of faith, fpeaheth on this wife : fay not in thine heart, who jhall afcend i?ito Heaven f that is to bring Chrift down from above. Or who ft) all defcendinto the deep ( that is, to bring up Chrift again from the dead. But what faith tt ? the word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy'heart,, that is the word of faith which we preach. Phil. 4. 13, / can do all things through Chrift which ftrengtheneth me. If your {landing be doubtiul fmce Adam and the Angels have fallen, Ghrifts Suretifhip aniwers, that he was never an undertaker • for them-, but he is engaged for every believers ftapding,, J oh. 17. 12, Thofe that thou gave ft me,. J have kept: and none of them is loft, but the fon of perdition. Luk. 22. 32, But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. Heb. 7.22, By fo much was Jcfus made a fumy of a better Teftamcnt, If you

fear

fear your our own frailty and finfulnefs, left it (hould make void the Covenant with you, his Suretifhip anfwers that, it mud ftand with him, and if with him, then with you alio, PfaLKy, 30, 33, 35, If his children for fake my Uw, and walk^ not in my judgments .-—JSTevertheUfs, my loving kindnefs v;ill J not utterly ta\ie from him, nor fnffer my fait hfnine fs to fail. Once have I fworn by my holinefs, that I will not lye unto David. Jer. 31. 37, Thus faith the Lord, ,f Heaven above can be meafured, and the foundations of the earth Jcarchcd out beneath, I will alfo caft off the feed of lfrael, for all that they have done, faith the Lord. If you fear your own backiliding, Tome decay and withering of grace in you , his Suretifhip anfwers that: for he is engaged tor influences to you, Jfa. 44. 3,4, for I will pmr water upon him that is thirfty, and foods upon the dry ground: I will pour my fpirit upon thy feed, and my bleffing upon thine ojf-fpring : and they jhall fprifsg up as among the grafs, as willows by the water-courfes. Iia. 27. 3, J the Lord do keep it } / will water it every moment : left any hurt it, I will keep it night and day. If your ftrength fail and decay, his Suretifhip fhall renew ftrength unto you, If a. ■40. 31 5 But they that wait upon the Lord, jhall renew their ftrength : they fhall mount up with wings as eagles : they jliall run, and not be weary *, and they jliall walkj, and not faint. If your legs fail, and your warmnefs decay, the undertakers arms and bofbm fhall iiipply that, Jfa. 40. 11, 29, He Jhall feed his flocks like a fhepherd: he jhall gather the lambs with his arm^ and carry them in his bofom y and jhall gently lead thofe that are with young. He giveth power to the faint: and to them that have no might, he encreajhh ftrength. Deut. 3 3. ^ 7, The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the e-verlaftings arms. If you wanr a ranfom to prefent to offended Juftice, if you be anxious about a fatisfa&ion to God at any time, Chrifts Suretifhip anfwers that *, for thereby a fatisfacti-on was found, and is performed, Job n» 2 4) Then he is gracious unto him, and faith j Deliver him from going down to the pit 7 I have found a ranfom. 1 Joh. 2. 2, And he is the propitiation for our fins. If you want comfort or afTurance, his Suretifhip is the ground of that, you need not want it^ but through your own default, Heb.6. 17, 18, Wherein God willing more abundantly to jhew unt&the heirs of promife the immutability

Chap. XX. of the Covenant. ^rg

kility of his counfcl, confirmed it by an oath: that by two imrnu-' table things, in which it was impoffible for God to lye, we might haw a ftrong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope fet before us.

Vfe 6. Believers, for whom Chrift hath become Surety, let me exhort you, i. To admire the love which made Chrift undertake for yon, and come under an a$ of cautionry for you: in every piece of his Suretifhip you may clearly read that which was read upon a lighter occafion, Joh* n. 36, Behold how he loved him. Read a demonftration of his love in every thing which he acted as your Suvety, in every ftate wherein he carried your condition, and in every act wherein he acted your part*, in his humbling himfelf, in his fuffer-ings, in his actings for you and in you. Gal. 2. 20, / am crucified with Chrift : ncverthelefs 1 live, yet not J, but Chrift liv-€th in me: and the life which I now live in the fieftj, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himfelf for me. Gal. 4. 4, $■> But when thefulnefs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the Law-, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of fons. Its flrange that you who feek for de-monftrations and proofs of his love, fhould flight ib great a proof of it, and that you will not read it, where he hath moll legibly written it, Joh. 15. 13, Greater love hath no man than this , that a man lay down his life for his friend. Confider more of the peribn who was made Surety, and the parties for whom he became Surety^ and of the motive and prin • ciple that acted him in this undertaking, and of the fpecial reipect which he carried toward each of his people in this, and the fweet fpirit which waited on his diicharging of io great undertakings, that your hearts may be railed to admiration : confider the extent of his Suretifhip, how it reach-eth unto the whole Covenant, and to every condition and command in it; to every promiie in it: take it in the largeft tenfe ♦, to fulfil all the promifes to us, to pay. all our Debt, and to perform ail our Duty, to work all our work, and to undergo all our punifhment.

2. Confider how you are in Chads Debt, and for what, be-caufe of his Suretifhip: Believer s,you .are in Chrifts Debt beyond aH reckoning that can be made, of it. 1. You are infinitely

in his Debt, yotffhallnot be able while you live in this world once to reckon your obligations, it (hall be work throughout eternity,, to caft up the ium of this Debt of Grace, ?••;/. 40.5. Mary, O L'/rd my God, are thy wonderful worls \xh ch thou haft done, and thy thoughts which are to us-ward:

■ cannot-be reckoned up in order itnto thee: if I would declare and fpedzjof them, they are more d. 2 Sam.

7. i&j to the end. Epb. $. 7 3, 19, That ye may he able to comprehend r aints^ w h\ ar.d length, and

depth, and height : ar.d to know 1 f thrift which paffeth

vlcdg, that ye fright be piled with all th: fnlnefs of God. Rev. 7. 10, Salvation to oar God 0 which fittcth upon the throne, and unto the lamb. 2. You r.re eternally in his Debt: you Tnali never be able : • requite hiiTi: nay, though it be yonr duty to ftucly thankfulnefs, yet it would not become you once to think of recompencing him, PfJ. 11 5. 12, What fyall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits towards we /.Rev. 5.9, 12, And they fang a new fong, faying, Thou art worthy to take the bcokj, and to open the feals thereof: for thou waft (lain, and haft redeemed us to God by thy blood, cut of every

kinred, and tongue, and people, and nation. Saying with a

loud voice, Worthy is the lamb that was fain, to receive power, and riches, and wifdom, and ftrength, and honour, and glory, and bleffing. You Hull through all eternity remain his Debtors, tor his undertaking and engaging for you, for his paying that which he undertook, and for his discharging of'the Debt to you; yen, and for reporting his fathers difcharge of it: all which* come to us by Chrifts Sureti-fhip.

1. You are in Chrifts Debt for his undertaking that, un-requefted, w T hen there was none to ibllicite him, and when there was no neceflity of nature upon him to aniwer for our Debt, that then he did content and agree to put his name in our bond, and to fubferibe a fetisfeftibn to the violated Law, Gal. 4. 4, 5, But when the fulnefs of the time was come, God fent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of fons. Heb- 10. 5, 7, Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he faith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldft not, but a body haft thou prepared me : then faid J, Lt, I come, (in the

volume

volume of the book, it is written of me ) to do thy willy 0 Cod,

2. You are in his Debt for paying ib great a fum for you, to great a ranfome, as you can neither count the Debt wnich was payed, nor the price which was told down* in fatisfa&ion of the penalty which wc had incurred, Pfal.ap. 12, For innumerable evils hath compaffed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon we, fo that I am not able to look^ up : they are moe then the hairs of my head :■ therefore my heart faileth me, Luk. 7.47, Wherefore I fay unto thee, Her fins which are many, are forgiven, for flje loved much : but to whom little is forgiven 7 the fane loveth little, 1 Pet. 1. 18, 19, Forafmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as filver and gold, but with the precious blood of thrift, as of a lamb with* out blemijh, and without fpot. Ifa. 5 \. 5, But he was Wounded for our tranfgrefficfns, he was bruifed for our iniquities: the chaftifement of our peace was upon him, and with his ftripes we are healed. 3. You are in his Debt for the fair acquittance and difcharge which he hath obtained and received for you, when he was juftified in the fpirit, 1 Tim- $.16. Rom. 4. 25. And for his reporting of that unto you, Luk^ 7.48* And he faid unto her, Thy fins are forgiven. And giving you an extract of it in your bofome to bear about with you, and helping you to read it, Fph. 1. 13, In whom alfo after that ye believed, ye were fe ale d with that holy fpirit of promife. Ifa. 50. 8, He is rmgr that jufiifieth me: who will contend with me ? let us ft and together : who is mine adverfary ? let him cowc near to me. Rom. 8. 3 $, 34, Who fiali lay any thing to the charge of Gods elect" ? it is God that jufiifieth : who is he that condemn-ethf it is Chrift that died, ye a, rather that is rifen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who alfo malzeth intercejfwn for us. 4. You are in his Debt for all that he hath wrought in you, from the time that firft he bowed your will to be iieve, unto this day, for every piece of your obedience, for all you fruit,for every duty performed by you, for all the influences of his fpirit upon you, &c. you owed all thele to Chrifts Suretifhip, Phil.i. 13, For it is G0d, which work?th in you botfj to will and to do of hisgcodpleafurc. Rom .0.16, So then, it is net of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of Godthat fiieweth mercy. Hof. 14. 8, J am like a green fir-tree, from me is thy fruit found. Phil. I. 11, Being filled with the fruits of righteoufnefs,

L11 which

which are by Chrift Jefus unto the glory and praife of God. Joh. 15.4, 5, Abide in me, and 1 in yon S as the branch cannot bear fruit of it felf, except it abide in the vine, no more can yej except ye abide in me. I an. the vine, ye are the branches : he that abideth in me, and J in him y the fame bring-eth forth much fir nit: for without me ye can do nothing. 1 Cor. 15.10, But by the grace of God, I am what I am-, and his

frace which was be ft owed upon me, was not in vain ; but I la-onred more abundantly then they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. Jer. 30. 21, And 1 will cauje him to draw near^ and he Jhall approach unto me: for who is this, that engaged bis heart to approach unto me, faith the Lord I I . Believers learn to deal with God in all things pertaining to his Covenant, as having a cautioner, whether you be under any doubtfulnefs about the promifes, or in any-difficulty and perplexity about the commands and duties of the Covenant. Let your dealing in thefe things declare that there is a Surety: and this doth call for, i. More confidence and boldneis, 1. In your dealings with God, and applications to him *, you need not flee from his face and prefence, as from a hard matter, fince there is a Sirety in the Covenant, and he is content to take of his hand, what you cannot afford: when you are afhamed to be feen in his preience, and cannot be feen where God is, do but prefent Chrift in your place and room, prefent a Surety, and he is fatisfied, Heb.9.24, Jcor Chrift is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true : but into heaven it felf, now to appear in the prefence of God for us. Prefent him to God, and come to God through him, and command him, in a manner ask and have all your will, Ifa. 45. 11, Thus faith the Lord, the holy one of Ifrael, and his maker y Asl^ me of things to come, concerning my fons, and concerning the work^ of my hands command ye me. 2. In your dealings with Chrift, come unto him as unto a perfon already engaged for you, as unto a Surety who hath already come under an acl: of cautionry for his people', and ccnfequently as unto one whole honour lieth at the ftake, for a performance of all things whatsoever are contained in the Covenant; and do not come unto him, and make ufe of him with doubtfulnefs, whether he will do for you, and work in you thefe things for which

he

he ftands already engaged by his Suretifhip, Heb. 10. io, 22, Having therefore, brethren, boldnefs to enter into the holtefi by the blood of Jefus : Let us draw near with a true heart in full ajfurance of faith, having our hearts fprinkjed from an evil con-fcience^ and our bodies wajlied with pure water- Heb. 4.14,16, Seeing then that we have a great High-prieft, that is faffed into the heavens, let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. 5. In your dealings with your duty, and with the Law which commandeth it, you are not to flee the command as the divour Debtor fleeth the face of his Creditor, as thele which are not Law-biding j but you are now through the Suretifhip of Chrift, to welcom every command and charge of the Law, as being in fome near capacity to (peak with it, and to give it fome iatisfying anfwer, Pfal. no. 97, O how love I thy law. Ifa. 60. 17, I will alfo make thine officers peace, and thine exatlors righteoufnefs.

2. This doth alfo call for more quietnefs of mind in you : you are often difquietted anxioufly, that you do not reap the fruit of Covenant-promifes, and that Gofpel-commands do not find that obedience in you, which is acknowledged to be due unto them *, you have covenanted obedience to the Gofpel, and you are as an unjuft Debtor through the nonperformance of your Covenant and promifes •, and this is your affliction, and makes you walk in heaviness every day. I fay, that Chrifts Suretifhip doth call for quieting your minds, aad to lay more weight upon his free undertakings, and lefs upon your own flippery performances ( be it fpoken without giving any colour to flack your hand in the beft and utmoft endeavours after duty ) : 1. Becaufe what obedience the Gof- • pel hath not yet had in you, it fhall have, flnce he is engaged for it, Pfal. 1 58. laft, The Lord will perfect that which *on-cerneth me: thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: for fake not the workj of thine own hands. Ha. 26. 12, Lord, thou wilt ordain peace for hs , for thou alfo hafl wrought all our works in us. 2. What the Law and Gofpel cannot find in you, they (hall have in him*, and 'tis enough if it be found either in the Surety or the Debtor, Rom. 10.4, For Chrift is the end of the law for righteoufnefs to every one that belitveth. Rom. 8.3, for what the law could not do, in

/ /Lll 2 that

that it was weak, through the fiefi, God fending his own Son m the likenefs of finful flejh, and for fin condemned fin in the ficflj Gal. 4. 4>5 5 But when the fninefs of the* time was come, God fent forth his Som made of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem them that were under the law.* that we might receive the adoption of fons. 3. The Surety hath already iatisfied for your difobedience: it is not a thing to be done, but pail already, Heb.9. 15, And for this caufe is the Mediator of the new Tefiament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the tranfgreffwns that were under the fir ft tefiament, they which are called, might receive the promife of eternal inheritance.

Vfe 7. Learn hence a necetfary cautioufnefs (the neglect-whereof is one chief caufe of the milgiving of our hearts in . duties every day ) : do not put any thing in Chrifts place as Surety and undertaker for you. Sometimes we take our gifts and graces to be Surety for us, and we reckon that thefe may engage for us, and make us forth-coming in Duty ; fome-times we take our own hearts, and our refolution, Surety for us j and we truft to them -as the people did, Jofiu 24. 16, A'ndjhe people anfwered, and faid > God forbid that we ftould for fake the Lord, toferve other gods. Deut. 5. 27, 29, Go thou near and hear all that the Lord our God jfiall fay, and fpeak^thou unto us all that the Lord our God fiall fpeak^unto thee, and we will hear it, and do it, Sometimes we take our own good frame Surety for us: if we have at any time fome warmnefs and . life under prefent influences, we reckon thefe may be Surety for us, and that is but to put ibmething in the Sureties place, which God hath not made cautioner in this Covenant, 1 Cor.. *' IO, 31, But of him are ye in Chrifi Jcfus., who of God is made unto us wifdavz, and righteoufnejs, and fanftification, and ' redemption: that according as it is written-, He that glorieth, let him glory t in the Lord,

CHAP,

Chap. XXf. ^ * a*

CHAP. XXL

Chrift the Teftator of the new Covenant or Yefta~ went.

THE feventh relation which Chrift fuftains in the Covenant of Grace, lie is Teftator, or he that makes the will and teftamenty Heb.Q. 16, 17.

Now becaufe Teftator and Teftament are fo nearly related, that the one is not underftood without the other ^ I muft> here refer you to that which I have already fpoken of Chrifts Teftament, which being largely handled before, we fhall not need to be large in fpeaking of the Teftator *, but briefly of thefe particulars: 1. What this Name and Covenant-relation imports. 2. What'wasthe defign of this Covenant-relation, 3. How the thing defigned in Chrifts being Teftator in the new Teftament or Covenant, is rendred efle&ual by his-luftaining this relation.

And, 1. Of the name and relation, f*M[xevo* fignifies a Difyofer or Teftator , one that maketh his latter will and Tefta-ment; one who according to his own will and pleafure dilpo-ieth of his eftate and goods, in contemplation of his death, and the leaving his pofTefTion to be in joyed by others after his death.

This Covenant-relation, that Jefus Chrift is Teftator, imports, 1. A perfon dying , or doing a deed in contemplation of the neceflity of his own death,, as being thereunto appointed : this relation fpeaks Chrift , under not only the common appointment unto death with all men, Heb. 9. 27, but under a fpecial appointment unto death, for that end for which he made his Teftament, which he well underftood, and did often contemplate and remember, when he* a&ed in this Covenant-relation, Heb.Q. 15, 16, Where a teftament is^ there wnft alfo of neceflity be the death of the teftator. And Joh, 1 }. I, Jefiis knew that his hour was come that he frould depart out ofthis world unto the father. 2. This relation imports a-

perform

Chrijl the tejiator tf Chap. XXf.

perfon vefted with poflcflion and right unto fome eftate or goods, whereof he makes a Difpofal and Will: for he that hath nothing in poffeflion nor in title, can difpofe of nothing to another perfon. Chrift the Teftator, is a perfon fully vefted with right unto, and pofTefTion of all good things: for God hath made him both Lord and Chrift^ Aft. 2. $6. and 10. $6, j\nd him God hath anointed heir of all things. Heb. 1.2, It pleafed the father? that in him all fulnefs flwuld dwell, Gol.-i. 19. $. This relation imports a power in the Teftator, to difpofe of the things poflefTed by him *, a power of conveying his eftate to others, elfe it were in vain to bequeath his tftate real or perfonal •, this relation fpeaks Chrift the Teftator in power and authority, to convey all Covenant-bleflings, which are his own, unto his people: for the father hath given all things unto his hands, and hath committed all judgment to the Son, Not a polTeflion only, but a power/and authority, J oh. 3.35. and 5.22. And hath given him power i&tHar authority over all fie {h, that he flwuld give eternal life to as many as thou haft given him , Joh. 17.2. 4. This relation imports a Deed which is the fole will, and meer pleafure of the Tt ft a tor, not on/y a power to difpofe of that which he pof-iefTeth or hath right unto, but to do according to his meer pleafure, and the Teftators will to be the devifing and conveying of whatfoever is his own , and therefore inafmuch as Chrift is Teftator in the Covenant, it is declared that his will in his Teftament, his grace and pleafure, makes the title and conveyance of what we have from and by him, Joh. 17. 24, Fotheri 1 will that thefe whom thou haft given unto me, be with me, &o Joh. 14. 27, My peace 1 give unto you. Joh. 16. 7, 1 will fend the comforter unto you. 5. This relation imports the actual declaring of his will, and difpofing of his goods: for a Teftator is not a Teftator, but in relation to the in-ftrument, or evidence by which he declares his will *, to wit, his Teftament. And therefore this relation holds forth Chrift in the Covenant, as having actually already made his will by an authentick inftrument and evidence *, to wit, the old and new Teftament: for Chrift died not untefted, and without a declaration of his will, and a difpofal of his houfe, and of his goods, but hath ordered and difpofed all of things, and left us this authentick evidence of his will, Luk^ 22. 2y, ui f **(/ (K yrW . And

And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my father hath appointed unto me. The fame word that's ufed, Heb.g. 16, cfiaTifliu*/, 1 dtfpofe or appoint by my will and Teftament; and Heb. 10. 16, J PriM make with yon a cove nam, fiM<r*yt.&t; to wit, this teftamentary Covenant : I declare my will of grace to you in it. 2. What was the defign of Chrifts fuftaining the relation of Teftator in the new Covenant ? 1. That by this relation our Lord Jefus might fuper-add a new title to believers, unto the new Covenant-bleffings, which he would have his people to hold of him, after all manner of the beft fecu-rity ufed among men *, and therefore will not only convey thefc mercies to them by Covenant and promife, but by Teftament and Legacy: therefore he fuftained the relation of a Teftator, Joh. 14.27, Peace 1 leave with you: to wit, by Legacy. 2. He fuftained this relation, to declare the abfo-lute freenefs of his grace, in the conveyance of Covenant-bleffings, which howfoevcr covenanted and promifed to us condition-ways, yet are purely deeds of Grace, and of the pleaiure and will of God, as all teftamentary deeds are, which are the fole will and meer pleaiure of the Teftator, Joh. 17.24, Father, I will: and Lu\. 22. 29, / appoint unto yon a kingdom. 3. He fuftained this relation for the ratification of that title and intereft which believers have unto Covenant-bleffings: for their holding, being by a deed of will and pleafure, fo long as he who dhpofeth of his eftate and goods is alive, his will is ambulatory and alterable: there fore he is a Teftator (which takes in the death of Chrift, that his will of grace to his people declared in his Teftament might be irrevocable): fo the Apoftle argues, Gal. $'. 15, Though it be but a mans teftament, yet if it be confirmed (to wit, by his death) no man difannulleth or addeth thereunto. Heb. 9. 16, 17, For where a teftament is, there muft alfo of ne~ cejfity be the death of the Teftator. For a teftament is of force after men are dead: otherwife it is of no ftrength at all, whiljl the teftator liveth. 4. Chrift fuftained the relation of a Teftator in the new Covenant, to make way for a poffeffion of thefe Covenant-bleffings, unto which his people have a right: he makes his Teftament, and dies, that his will in his Teftament might be executed, which could have no execution till by .his death (typical or real) and contemplation thereof, he

* declared

u a eefiion of his pofTefiion : that this was his very defign, the Apoflle proves, //c&. 9. 15, That by means of death . ch are ailed might receive the promifie of eter-

nal -nee. Joh. 16. 17, // / go not away, the comfor-

ter will not come *, but if I depart , / will fend him unto

:. Let us confider hew this defign hath irs accompWhmetft

in Chrifls iiifhining the relation of Teftator in the Covenant of Grace. And, 1. : Tis unquefhonable, that by this relation, Believers have a new active title to the Covenant-bleflings •, to wit, a ufbmentary title \ they are his friends, and legators, and do hold their mercies as Legacies left to them by the latter will of Chrift the Teftator; his will of favour and grsc he often taught his Difci-

ples, to remember their teftamentary title to their mercies, Mat. 26- 2S. and 1 Cor. 11.25, This is my blood of the new teftamenty fiied for many, for the remiffion of fins, &c. Joh. 5. 21, The Son qm i ckpte tb whom he w*M. J dm. I. iS, Of ha own wiE begat he us. Here is that title of will acknowledged, and the d^f\gi\ of ablblute free-grace, in the Teftator accomptifbed: 2. The defign of God in Chrifts fuftaining the relation of a Teftator in the Covenant of Grace, is accomplished, in lb far, as a ratification and confirmation of the teftamentary Covenant is thereby intended : becaufe by Chriib death, the right that believers have by this Teftament receives a threefold confirmation: 1. A confirmation of the verity and reality of it, that it is a true and real deed, which by the ftricleft tryal, for prcht of Wills, cannot be rejected : for 'tis confirmed, fays the Apoflle, Gal. 5. 15. to wit,- to be an authentick Liilrument and evidence, xiKi^autfry, authen-t ;cat urn, confirmation & rat am habit am, Act. J. 15, A the prince ij God hat>: dead, w

ofwe are witnefifes. Luk.24. 48, And ye are the fie

things. 2. A confirmation of validity, it is mad: able,

fo that it cannot be difannulled or , ;d thereafter ; fo

that no man can make it void, or put any alteration upon it, as the Apofde proves, Gal. }. 15, ':nnalleth, or

addeth there unto fc'=T«* *8tTfTj Xemo abrcj lenfia que

rr abrogari cam vim (1 - Hcb. 7, 18,

Teftament cannot be made void, and of none efo£t :

for

( hap. XXL the New Tc>Jlament or Covenant. for 'tis fu&uw (*iCcLtet-> teflamentum ratum, Hefc. 9. 17. Ff rm and fetled,as a pillar on its bafe. $. A confirmation of efficacy \ it is made available to our ufe, as our evidence in judgment} it is offirength, fays the Apoftle, Heb. 9. 17. ix*a> valet : But the next and third accomplishment of the defign of God in this Covenant-relation, will clear this further 0 to wit, the executing of Chrifts Tt(lament, by his ceeding the pofTeffi-on. Let us therefore confider how Chrifts being Teftator doth make way for thole that are called to receive the inheritance, Heb. 9. 15.

1. Chrift the Ttftator is vefted with the right and po/Tefli-on of all the Covenant-bleflin'gs: for he is the firfi begotten of many brethren-, Heb. 1.6. And God gave him to be head over aU things to the Church. Col. 1. 15, 17, 18, Who is the image of the invifible God, the firfi born $f every creature. And he is before all things, and by him all things conjifi. And he is the head of the body, the Church: who is the beginning, the firfi-born from the dead, that in all things he might have the preheminence.

2. The Teftator by his Will and Teftament, bequeath?, di-fpofes, and leaves in legacy the very lame mercies, and Cove-nant-bleffings that were his at the firft-hand, and all treafu-red up in the Mediator and Ttftator, as in a ftore-houle: Lo, iars he, / give you the fure mercies of David, Act. I 3. 34. with Ilk. is, 3.

$. The Teftator dies: when Chrift hath made his Wili,he laid down his lite, and by his death he opens a way, and gives Legal . accefs to his people, to have his Teftament executed, and his will therein actually fulfilled. 1. He renders up the pofTeflion, and by a cefiion yields it unto his people, Heb. 9. 15. The Mediator

and Teftator dies, that by means cf death. they which are called,

might receive ctsmal inheritance : and Joh-iCj, If1do not go , the comforter will not come unto you, &c. If the Teftator had not died, there had never been room nor accefs for them who are called, to receive the inheritance : though in this there be fomething Angular, and different from humane conveyances , beaiufe Chrift does lb give up the poiTeffion for his peoples accefs to it, that he alfo keeps it for the fame end, that he and they after ratifying his Teftament by his death, may live and poiTcii the inheritance together, a; joint heirs

Mmm with

with Chrijf, Horn. 8. 17. Joh. 14.2, 3. But in humane pof-icffions there is no room tor two to poflefs the fame thin^ by a compleat intire title to if, nor for a peribn that yielas the polfcfTion or inheritance to another, to return to it, without diverting that perfon to whom it was refigned. 2. The Teftator himfelf pleads his Teftament, and his making way through his death tor his peoples coming at the inheritance , and the poffeflion of his goods: I fay , he pleads that to be of force through his death, as a valid Legal right, that they alio may now poiTcis and injoy with him, Job. 17. 24, Father , / vpili that they may be where I am. And in Heaven he appears for us, anchipon our account, in the force of the Teftators death, #^.17.23,24. 3. The Teftator who before pofTeft the inheritance upon his own right and title, does now pofTefs the inheritance by a title fuper-added to that *, to wit, upon our account, as our Attorney, as one repiefenting the Eleft, and having wrought for their heaven, Joh. 17-4) and come to heaven to be veiled with a pollefTi-011 in their name, and for their account: for now he appears in heaven, in the pre fence ef God for us, Heb.9.24. And by the Teftators being in Heaven, God hath made hs fit to-gether in heavenly places in Chnft Jefus, £ph. 2. 6. And he as a fore-runner is for us entered, H:b.6. 20. 4. The Teftator iurrogates his fpirit in his ablence, and alter his death, to fee his Will executed in ail points, and to give real and aftual pofTcfTion of his Teftament-blcffhgs unto thole to whom he left them, Joh, 15.26, But when the comforter is come, vckom I will fend unto you from the father, he jhall tefiifie of me : and Joh. 16.7,8. Which accordingly is fulfilled, and our pofflflion quo ad exequnta, is afcribed to this Executor furro-gdte by the Teftator, and doing his will in his name, 1 Cor. c. 11, Bur ye .ire wajlicd, but ye are fanctifed in the nane of the Lord J efits , and by the fpirit of our God •, the Executor of the Lore T.ft.itors will.

Vft i. This Covenant-relation does exceedingly tfiagnife the nches of the grace and love of Chrift Jdus 'the Tefra-ror: 1. Thar the kjvg immortal, 1 Jim. 1. 17. fhould become a man fubjecfc so inoftallity, Hcb.i. 17. 2. That he ibould a<ft any thing in contemplation of nidttjality, and be a Teftator, even he who was tc fee m cvrruptie,:, Plat. i<5. n.

wi:h

with Atl.i. 11. Job. 13. I. 3. That he who could not fee corruption, yet neverthelels fhould die and give up the Ghoft, for conveying a title and poffefTion of life and immortality to his people, Gal. 2.20.

Vfc 2. Let the friends and Legators of this blefTed Teftator, know, that your holding is of abiblute grace, and of the meer pleaiure of the Teftator : your right and title is tefta-mentary, and you have your mercies by Chrifts will of favour : you are Legatories, and he is the Teftator, Job. 5.21, "The Son quickenetb whom he will. And yet you are not left at uncertainty : for there is nothing fure to changeable creatures, but what is pure Grace, and hangs upon the free will of God, and the motions of his heart, Rom.^. 16, Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace, to the end the promife might be fure to all the feed. Mai. 3. 6, For I am the Lord, I change net: therefore ye fons of Jacob are not confumed. You may fay to him, as he laid to his father upon your account, Mat.

11.25,26, Ithanhjhee, Ofather. And even fo, father;becaufe

fo it feemed good in thy fight.

Vfe 3. Comfort to believers in Chrift, whofe names are written in this Teftament: 1. That our Lord Jefus died not untefted, and without a plain declaration of his Will to whom he left his goods, and what the things be which he left unto them, Atl. 13. 34, And as concerning that he raifed him up from the dead, now no more to return to corruption, he faid on this wife, I will give you the fure mercies of David. Joh. 14.27, Peace I leave with you, my peace 1 give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Joh. t\. I, Now before the fcaft of the paffeover, when Jefus knew that his hour was come that he jhould depart out of this world unto the father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end, Joh. 1 5. 11, 1 1, 14, 15. and 16. 33. 2. That your right is teftamentaiy, the Covenant betwixt God and Chrift being turned unto a teftament betwixt him and you, the bleflings thereof are the abfolute will of the Teftator, Joh. 14.2,7, Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth give J unto you : let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Joh. 17. 24, Father, I will that they alfo whom thou baft given me, be with me where J am, that they may behold my glory which thou haft given me. 3. That

Mm ra 2 there

there is force and ftrength in his latter Will, by vertue of his death, that we can bring his Will as a valid deed of Law now after his death, and can plead it with God, Heb. 9. 15, 17, An i for this caufe he is the mrdtator of the neve teftament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the tranfgrejfions that were under the fir ft teftament, they which are called might receive the promife of eternal inheritance. For a teftawent is

of force after men are d;ad : othenvife it is of no ftrength at all whdftthe teftator livcth. 4. Tn.it he hath left one to execute his Will i that the Teftator wants not an Executor of his Teftament, J oh. 14. 2.5, But the comforter, which is the Holy-ghoft, whom the father will fend in my name, he frail teach yon all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatfaver I have J aid unto you. joh. 15. 26, But when the comforter is come, w ] oom I will fend unto yon from the father, even the fpirit of truth, which proceedeth from the father, he Jhall teftifie of r,e.

Vfe 4. For Exhortation, both to confider of the defign of Grace that lyes wrapt up in this Covenant-relation, and to iearch into the experimental knowledg of the vertue and efficacy of Chrifts being the Teftator of the new Covenant. 1. I fay, ftudy the defign of grace which, is wrapt up in this Covenant-relation, as it fuper-adds a new title to Covenant bleflings, as it declares the abfblute freenefs of Covenant-mercies, as it ratifies Chrifts will of grace, and as it makes way for our poffdfion of the things bequeathed unto us in Chrifts Teftament, wherof we have fpoken. 2. Search (I lay) after the experimental knowledg of the vertue of Chrifts Teftatorfhip, 1. Quo ad executionem, in the force and efficacy of it, that through the Teftators death his Teftament hath been executed and fulfilled as to thee, Heb. 9. 17, For a teftament is of force after men are dead: otherwife it h of no ftrength at all whilft the teftator liveth. Zech.g. 11, As for thee alfo, by the blood of thy covenant, J have font out thy prifoners out of the pit wherein there is no water. 2. Quo ad executa, in the latitude of his Legacies, that nothing difpoied and bequeathed to believers in Chrifts Teftament, hath efcaped thee} that no part of his goods which is the portion of his people, be wanting with thee, 2 Per. 1.5, And be fides this, giving all diligence, add to your faith vertue, and to your vertue hnow-.

ledg,&c.

ledg,&z. 3. Qu) ad execnt$rem, hi the kindly genuine work -of his fpirit •, that the good which God hath done to thee, is the true execution of the Teftators will of grace to his people, 1 Cor. 6. 1 I, And fuch were fome of yon> but ye arewajhed, but ye are fanttified, but ye are jn/lified in the name of the Lord Jefus,andby the fpirit of <&r God. Joh. 1. 13, Which were born not of bloody nor of the will of the flejh^ nor of the will of man y but of God. Rom. 8. o, But ye are not intheflejh, hit in the fpirit, if fo be that the fpint of God dwell in yon: now if any man have not the fpirit of Chrift, he is none of his.

CHAP. XXII.

Christ a Covenant of the people :, or in what re-fpeSis Chriji is all the Covenant.

BEfides the many and various relations before fpoken of, which Chrift fuftaineth in the Covenant of grace, he is the Covenant it fdf: for to him doth the father ipeak, J fa. 42. 6, and 49. 8, / will give thee for a Covenant of the people : things attributed inabftratto, have a great fignification, Rom. I- 7, The carnal mind is enmity >6lq> Chrift is called the peace, A/icah. 5. 5. And our peace, Eph. 2. 14. This is more than the peace-mzker, Col. 1. 20. 'Tis all the trania&ion of. peace, the whole bufnefs of reconciliation comprized in the Mediator, and afted by him. So here Chrift a Covenant, is more than the Covenant-maker, or the Mediator of the Covenant-, the phrale imports two things: 1. The abridging and iun> ming up of the whole Covenant in Chrift Mediator y in whole peribn the two parties at enmity were united. I will give thee for a covenant of the people *, that is, I make a gift of thee, to be to my people the luminary and compend of all that blefTed trania&ion and Covenant which I purpofe with them. 2. It imports the commitment of the whole bu-finds (which God purpofed to do with: his people in the

way

^.54 thrift aCevenant ofthzpeople. Chap. XXII.

way of a Covenant ) unto Chrift the Mediator, to be managed by him : / mil give thee for a coven Am of the people, Is a defignation of Chrifts work, unto which he was called *, and for the doing of which, promifes of afTvftance are made x$ him in the words preceding thefe *, as if it were faid, I fet thee over the whole bufinefs of the Covenant between me and the people given to thee, that from beginning to end it may be managed by thee: Again, Chrift is not only given for a Covenanti but for a Covenant of the people; that is, to be on the peoples fide, and to deal for them: for the people alone are not capable of confederation with God, but Chrift ftands jointly with them, and is gifted of God to the people, to be given back again to God for their part of the Covenant, Pfal.89. io. Heb.2. 13.

Hence let us confider of thefe Propofitions: Chrift is all the Covenant: or all this Covenant is comprized in Chrift : or God by giving Chrift, doth give the Covenant of the people with him.

Chrift is the Covenant, 1. Originally and fundamentally : he is the original and root out of which the Covenant (prang, and he is the foundation upon which it is grounded : the Covenant of grace took its rife and being from Chrift, Rev. 2*. 16, / Jeftts have fent mine Angel to tefiife unto you thefe things in the Churches : / am the root and the ojf-fpring of Da-vid, and the bright and morning-far. Ifa. 28. 16, Therefore thus faith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation, a ftone, a tryed ftone^ a precious corner-ftone, a fure foundation : he that believeth fa all not make hafte. ]udg. 14. 14, And he faid unto them, Out of the eater came forth meat, and out of the frong came forth fmetnefs. ft. He is the ancient foundation of that which was revealed of the Covenant from the beginning of the world: therefore God revealing this Covenant in Paradife, prefently after the fall, bottomed it upon Chrift the feed of the woman, Gen. 3.15. And revealing it to Abraham, he grounded it upon Chrift Abrahams feed, in whom all the families of the earth jhould be blejfcd, Gen. 12. 5. and 17. 1,2. 2. Chrift is the eternal foundation of this Covenant, upon whom it was bottomed in the eternal decrees of God : hence our vocation and falvation are faid to be promifed and given to us in him before the world began,

began, Tit. 1. 2, And in hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie, promifed befor the world began. 2 Tim. 1.9, Wvo hath faved as, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpofe and grace, which was given hs in Chrift Jefus before the world began. Eph. I. 4, According as he hath chofen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we fhould be holy and without blame before him in love. 2. Chrift is the Covenant primarily, and by propriety, as fire is hot for it felf, and all things hot for it, and by participtation: Becaule with him was the Covenant made as the chief party:, with believers it was made in iubordination to him: with him it was made at the fir ft hand *, with us at the fecond hand: with him it was made for himfelf; with us it was only made for him: therefore 'tis his Covenant by propriety *, and ours only by participation : and therefore all the promifes are made firft to him, and fulfilled firft to hirn ; and all the acls of Gods love terminate firft upon him, and come at us only in the fecond room, and at the fecond hand, J fa' 59. 21, As for me, this is my Covenant with them, faith the Lord: My fpirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, f all not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy feed, nor out of the mouth of thy feeds feed, faith thi Lord, from henceforth, and for eve*. Pial. 89. $, n, } have made a covenant with my chofen ', / have fworn unto David my fervant.——Ne- * verthelefs, my loving-kjndnefs will J not utterly take from him, nor fufjer my faithfulnefs to fail. [fa. 5$. 3, And I will ma\e an everlafting covenant with you, even the fure mercies of David. Eph. 1. 1, Bleffed be the God and Father of our Lord Jefus, who hath blefjcd us with allfpiritual bleffings in heavenly places in Chrifi. 3. Chrift is the Covenant eminently, becaule he is the chief blefting of the Covenant ; there being not luch another promife and girt in ail the bundle of promifes contained in the Covenant *, therefore is he fpoken of by Of eminence, as being that tranfeendent gift ol God, matchlefs efTett of Gods love, befides which there is not another the like, J oh. 4. 10, Jefus an [were d and [aid unto her*, If thou knewefi the gift of God> and who it is that faith unto thee, give me to drink z jon. V- T o, For God fo loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son , that whojoever believcth in

„ him,

him, ftwuldnot perifl),but have overlaying life. He is the racft precious ftone in all the Jewel, Mat. \\. 44,45. AH other things in the Covenant, Righteouihefs, Life, Pardon, Peace,&c. are but the garnifh of this Jewel, Song. 5. 10, My beloved i; white and ruddy , the chief eft among ten thoufand. He is the molt iweet and ripeft Berry in all the ch:fter of Proiniies which grow together in the Covenant ? nay, he is the cluft-cr himillf, Song. 1. 14, Jlfy beloved is unto me as a clufter of camphire in the vineyards of Engedi. Rom. 8. $2, He that [pared not his oven Sen, but delivered him up for hs all \ how Jhall he not with him alfo freely give hs ak things ? He is the faireft and moft bright-fhining ftar in all that conftd-lation, Rev. 22. 16, The bright and morning-ftar. He is the faireft ftone in all the building, none like unto him, Jfa-2$. 16, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation, a ftone, a tried ftone, a precious corner-ftone, a fare foundation. 1 Pet. 2. 4, To whom coming as unto a living ftone, difallowed indeed of men, hut chofen of Cod,, and precious. Pfal. Ii8.22, The ftone which the builders refufed, is become the head-ftone of the cor-ner. He is the faireft tree in all the garden of God, like the tree of Life in the midft of Eden, Song. 2. 3, As-the apple tree among the trees of the weed, fo is my beloved, amon<r the fons. Rev. 22. 2, In the midft of the ftreets of it, and of either fide of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month : and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

4. Chrift is the Covenant virtually, or equivalently: he is the juft value of all the bargain: he is of as much worth as all that is promifed and contracted to believers in the Covenant of grace \ lb that if the value of it were asked, how much is it worth ? it could not be anfwered otherwiie, than fo, Tis of as much value as Chriftis : and when the Promises are fulfilled to the utmeft, they amount not beyond the giving of Chrift to believers, Joh. 1.12, But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the fons of God, even to them that believe on his nave. Col. 1. 27, Which u, Chrift in yon the hope of glory. Col. 5. 11. Chrift is all.

5. Chrift is the Cow-went exemplarily, the very fample and firft pattern o»' the Covenant, and of the defign of grace

carried

carried on by the Covenant, was in the union of the two natures in Chrift the Mediators perfon : For confider, I pray, the great deGgn of favour carried on by the Covenant of grace, is an union of man with God, a reftoring of man to the firft ftate of friendfhip with God, and in Chrifl: Mediator •, his perfon was the famplar and original pattern of all the bufmels; to wit, 1. Of Gods infinite <?ondefcenfion and ftooping lb far towards a nearnels, a union with man, Thd. 2. 6,7, Who being in the form of God, thought it no robbery to be equal with God: but made himfelf of no reputation, and took^ upon him the form of a fervant, and was made in the like-nefs of men. 2. Of the unipeakable exaltation of our nature toward an union with God, Heb.2. 11, 16, For verily he took^ not on him the nature of Angels, but he tcol^ on him the feed of Abraham. For which caufe he is net aftamed to call them brethren, 3. Of the union and conjunction of God and man, which is .the refult of Gods condelcenfion, and our exaltation, and which is the fummary of the.fecond Covenant, Mat, 1.23, Immanuel, which being interpreted, is, God withtu. Rev. 21. 3, And God himfelf fn all be with them, and be their God. So then, Chrift is the Covenant in this refpeel: alio, the firft famplar of the union and agreement of the parties covenanting, Eph. 2. 14, For he is our peace, who hath made both one. Zech. 6. 13, And the counfel of ye ace Jhall be between them both.

6. Chrift is the Covenant comprehenfively or fummarily : he is the very compound or abridgment of the Covenant: in the Mediators perfon there is a little fum of the whole Covenant : Confider this , how the parties, articles, mutual ftipu-lations, promifes, properties and bleflings of the Covenant, are all fome way abridged in Chrift, and fummed up in his perfon. And, 1. Chrift is all the parties of the Covenant of grace, or rather both the parties are comprehended in j the Mediators perfon: he is both the parties in three re-fpetts *, 1. Becaufe of the union of the two natures in his blefTed perfon: he is God-man, God made manifeft in the flefli, 1 Tim, 3. 16. Who took not upon him our nature in its primitive innocency and virgin integrity ; But came in the like-nefs of fmful flefl), Rom. 8. 3. He took upon him the nature of fallen man, but fan&ified for and by the union with the

N n n divine

divine nature, Luk. 1.35. Heb.-j.26. And fo he is both the parties, the Covenant being betwixt God and man, not innocent, but fallen man, yet believing and renewed man. 2. Becaule the peribn who is Mediator, is upon both fides of the Covenant: as being one with the Father and holy Ghoft, he is on Gods fide of the Covenant, 1 Job. 5. 7, For there are three that bear record in heaven, the father, the word, and the holy Ghoft: and thefe three are one. 2 Cor. 9.1$, Whiles by the experiment of this miniftration they glorife God for your profeffed fub)et~lion unto the Gofpel of Chrift. And as he is one with us, he is on our fide of the Covenant, Heb. 2. H, 13, For both he that fanftifeth, and they who are fancti-fed, are all of one: for which caufe he is not aframed to call

them brethren. Behold I, and the children which God hath

given me. 3. He is not only upon bath fides.of.the Covenant ; but he contracts for both the parties, carrying the re* lation of a party, both upward to God, and downward to us .* he treateth and covenanteth for God with us *, and he treat-eth and covenanteth for us with God, which upon the matter is to carry, as having the reprefentation and film of both parties in his perfon, 2 Cor. 5. 19, To wit , that God was in Chrift, reconciling the world unto himfelf Heb. 2. 13, ISehold /, and the children which God hath given me. And as it is laid of Jacobs reprefenting the people that came out of his !oins r , Hof. 12.4, He found him in Bethel, and there he fpake with iU : So it may be faid of Chrifts reprefenting his people, for God fpoke with us in him.

2. The ium of all the articles of the Covenant is in Chrift:: Confider, I pray, what is thefum of the Articles *, even this, 1 will be your God, and ye jhall be my people : you find the articles of the Covenant frequently fummed up in thefe two words, Ez,ek. 37.25. Rev.2\. 3. Now this is in Chrift Je-ius, 1. In regard of the conjunction of relations in him* 7 to wit, God owning the people, and the people owning him 0 he being the only perfon in heaven or earth, who doth bear or is capable to bear the relation of God towards the people *, and again, of the people towards God , for he is God with ui, Mat. 1.23. He is God and the people united ana owning one another •, and in fome things he doth reprefent and carry forth God to us as ours, 2 Cor, 5*19. And in

other

other things he doth reprefent and carry in the people of God, and preient them before him as his own people, Heb, 9.24. and 2. 13. Eph. 2. 6. 2, In regard of caufality : (for although Chrift be not the caufe of Gods love to the Eiecls but the effect thereof, Joh. 3.16: yet he is the caufe of the effe&s and acts whereby it runneth forth towards us.) Chrift is the bottom of the relation betwixt God and his people: for by his taking a -new Covenant-right unto God as his God and Father by Covenant, he did lay the foundation of Gods being our God by Covenant, and of our being the people of God by Covenant *, which had never been, were it not for Chrifts new Covenant-right, Pfal.%9. 26, He Jhall cry unto me, Thou art my father, my God, and the roc\of my fahation. Gal. 4. 6, And becaufe ye are Jons, God bath fent forth the fpirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Heb. I- 5, for^ unto which of the Angels [aid he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee ? and again, 1 will be to him a father, and he Jhall be to me a Con. 3. In regard of conveyance, or of the manner and wa^ how we have accefs to this priviledg and Covenant-ftate, to have God to be our God: God is our God in Chrift, and we are Gods people in and through Chrift: and without an exiftence in Chrift, and union with him, God is not ours, neither are we his, Eph. 2. 12, That at that time ye were with-out Chrift, being aliens from the commonwealth of Ifrael, and ftrangcrs from the covenant of promife y having no hope, and without God in the world. For Covenant-relations, as well as bleflings, come to us through Chrift: we come to God in Chrift, and God cometh to us, and becometh ours in him, 2 Cor. 5. 19, To wit, that God was in Chrift, reconciling the world unto himfelf. Heb. 7. 25, Wherefore he is able alfo to favb them to the uttermoft that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liueth to make intereeffwn for them.

3. The iiirn of the mutual ftipulation is in Chrift: there are ibme mutual conditions and ftipulations in this as in 0-ther Covenants. But Chrift may be well. called~4&e_ whole ^fti£ulaiion : 1. Becaufe 'tisHRe who obtaineth the confent of both parties, and receiveth in their Amen to that blefTed tranfattion of fnendfhip and union, the confent of the one from everlafting, Prov, 8.22, 23, 30. with 2 Tim. 1.9. Tit-

Nnn 2 1.2.

1.2: and of the other whet ieve, Joh.6. 37. Rtv.n*

:-, :. ^. Beca n to him, to be

fulfilled on both hini •, it upon Gods fide,

For he is the perfon mm 1 Pent to : all that God

Kad promiild to his people, 1^ 1. '9, 70, -72, 7i , -4, ^i hath raifed up an horn of fa or us, in the houfe of his

ferva>;t David, as he fpah by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have bun fince the world began : to perform the mercy premifed to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant, the oath which he fware to our father Abraham, that he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies, might ferve him without fear. By him it was fulfilled upon our part \ for he is the peribn upon whom our help Bras laid, even to perform whatsoever is required of us by the Covenant; Pfal. 89. 17, 19, For thou art the glory of their

ftrength. Then thou fake ft in vifion to thy holy one, and

faidft, 1 have laid help upon one that is mighty. $ . Becaufe upon * rhe matter, Chrift is the very thing which is mutually ftipu-lated upon both Gdes: Confidcr 1 pray, God ftipulates to give us Chrift, and that is the fum of what he ftipulates, If a. 55. 3,4, Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your foul frail live: and I will make an everlafting covenant with you, even the fure mercies of David. Behold, I have given him for a witnefs to the people, a leader and commander to the people. And again, we reftipulate to give Chrift to God for all that the Covenant requires of us, 1 Cor. I. $0, But of him are ye in Chrift Jefus, who of God is made unto hs wif-dom, and rightccufnefs, and fandifcation, andredemptun. Phil, ;. 9, And be found in him, not having mine own right eoufnefs, which is of the law, but that which is through tioe faith of Chrift, the righteoufneft which is of God by faith. For this is the nature of the Goipel-Covenant, it craveth conditions and duties from us, but filleth the hand w;:h Chrift, wherewith to pay the maftsrs rent: and we do anfwer all that is craved with Chrift, which maketh the craving gentle, Ifa/~o. 17, I will alfo mate thine off.cers peace, and thine exactors rightc-oufnefs,

4. Chrift is the film of all the promifes and bleflings of the Covenant, 7/1?. 42. 6, And give thee for a covenam of the people, for alight of the Gentiles- This doth appear, 1. From

the

the fiift difcovery of this Covenant, which had but one pro-mile in it, and that was the promife of Chrifl, Gen. 1. 15, The feed of the woman. 2. This appears frcm Gods explicating the fum of the piomifes and Covenant, when it was more .explicitely rulcl forth to be Chriil gifted to his people, Gen. 12, 5, And in thee jhall all families of the earth be blejfcd. lfa. 55. 3,4, And I mil make an ever la fling covenant with you-, even the fure mercies of David. Behold, I have given him for a witnefs to the people. 5. This appears from the holy Ghofls accounting Chriils coming to be the performing of the whole Covenant and promifes, Luk* -i. <*y, 72, 73, And hath raifed up an horn of falvation for us, in the houfe of his fervant David: To perform the mercy promifed to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant, the oath which he fware to our father Abraham, &c.

5. Chriil is the fum of all the properties of the Covenant, not only becaufe whatfoever thefe properties fpeak forth of the nature of that tranfa&ion that is to be found in him} but alfo, and chiefly, becaufe Chrifl is the foundation of all thefe properties } as may appear by a fhort recapi^ tulation of the particular properties thereof, which are all comprifed in Chrifl. And, 1. The freenefs of the Covenant is comprifed in him. The Covenant of grace is free : and indeed Chrifl is a free Chrifl, or Chrifl freely given to his people is the fum of the free Covenant, Joh. 3. 16, For God fo loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whofoever believeth in him, fhoitld not perijh, but have e-vcrlafling life. Joh. 4. 10, Jefus anfwered and faid unto her, If thou knewefl the gift of God, and who it is that faith unto thee, Give me to drinkj, thou wouldfl have asked of him, and he would have given thee living-water, lfa. 42. 6, And give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles. Rom. 8. $2, He that fpared not his own Son: but delivered him up for us all: how frail he not with him alfo freely give, us- all things ? Yea, 'tis in and for Chrifl that the Covenant is a free Covenant: for the fame righteoufnefs, and life, and Covenant- bleflings which are freely promifed and offered to us, at the firfl hand were purchafed by Chrifl, and a fatisfacli-on given to the juflice of God for them} and becaufe he payed a price for them, therefore they are free gifts to us: he

made

made all Covenant-mercies free to us by Covenant, becaufe they were bought by him, in the Covenant that was made between God and Chrift, If*. 53. io, 11, 12, Tet it pleafed the Lord to briiife him: he hath put him to grief: when thou flalt m.ike his foul an offering for fin, he ftiall fee his feed, he flail prolong his days, and the pie afire of the Lord flail profper in his hand. He flail fee of the travel of his foul, and flail be (atisfed: by his kjmvledg flail my righteous fcrvant flfiifie many : for he flail bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he flail divide the fpoil with the ftrong : becaufe he hath poured out his foul unto death ; and he was numbred with the tranfgrejfors, and he bare the fin of many, and made interceffion for the tranfgreffors. Joh. 17. 4, 5, I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finiflied the wor\ which thou gavefl me to do. And now, O father, glorifie thou me with thine own felf, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was* I do not fay that Chrift was the caufe of Gods eternal tranfa&ion which he purpofed in himfelf *, but that he is the caufe of thefe effects of Covenant-graces, which come freely to us for his fake, who bought them with a great price, 1 Pet. 1. 19,20, 21, But with the precious blood ef Chrift, as of a lamb without blemifl , without fpot. Who verily was fore-ordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifeft in thefe laft times for you who by him do believe in God that raifed him up from the dead, and gave him glory, that your faith and, hope might be in God.

2. The evcrlaftingnefs of the Covenant is comprized in Chrift: the Covenant is an everlafting Covenant *, and he is God everlafting, yea, an everlafting Mediator, who was fet up from everlafting, and fhall endure to everlafting, I fa. 9. 6, For unto us a child is born, unto us a fon is gtven, and the government flail be upon his floulders, and his na'^e flail be called wonderful comcellor, the mighty God, the everlafting fa-ther, the pr'mce of peace. Prov. 8. 25, / was fet up from everlafting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was. Heb. 7.25, Wherefore he is able alfo to fave them to the uttermoft that come unto God by him, feeing he ever liveth to make interceffion for them. Yea, it is in, and through, and for Chrift, that the Covenant of grace hath everlaftingneis in it ; whether we consider it as everlafting, a parte ante: it could not have been

an

an everlafting Covenant in this refpecT, unleis there had been another everlafting party tor the everlafting God to deal with; and there was not another party of this kind, but Chrift •, in whom grace was given to us, and promifes of life were made to us before the world began, 2 Tim. 1.9. Tit. 1.

2. Prov.8.23. Or if we confider the Covenant as everlafting, a parte poft, Chrift is the foundation of that, and it is in and for Chrift that the Covenant is an everlafting Covenant : and becaufe he is given for a Covenant of the people, therefore everlaftingnefs is given to that Covenant, Pfal. 89.

3, 34, 55, I have made a covenant with my chofen ; / have fworn nnt9 David my fervant: My covenant will I not breakj nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips. Once have I fworn by my holinefs, that I will not lye unto David. Ifa. 59. 21, As for me, this is my covenant with them, faith the Lord ; my jpirit which is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, fliall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy feed, nor out of the mouth of thy feeds feed, faith the Lord, from henceforth and for ever. Ifa. 53. 10, When thou JJoalt make bis foul an offering for fin, he jhall fee his feed, he jhall prolong his days, and the pleafure of the Lord pall pr offer in his hand.

1 . The order of the Covenant is comprifed in Chrift: the Covenant is a well ordered Covenant: and the order of the whole treaty of reconciliaton, and of this Covenant-tranfa&i-on, is fummed up in Chrift, in whom the parties meet together in this order, God coming clown to us in Chrift, and we coming up to God in Chrift, 2 Cor. 5. 19, To wit, that G.od was in Chrift, reconciling.the world unto himfelf. Mat. 1.23, God with us. Yea all things that are ordered and clifpofed concerning Covenant-grace and blefTmgs, are ordered in him, and for him, and by him : for the methods and ways of Gods difpenfing and ordering Covenant-bleftings, are through him, and in him, as the channel and conveyance thereof *, and for him as the caule ; and by him as the great Adminiftrator who is over all that bufinefs for the managing thereof, Eph* 1. 3,4, 5,6, Bleffed be the God and father of our Lord Jeftu Chrift, vtho hath bleffed us with all the ffiritnal blejfings in heavenly places in Chrift', according as he hath chofen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we ftjould be holy and without blame before him in love. Having predeftinatec-.

m

m into the adoption of children by Jefits Chrifl to himfelf, according to the good pleafurc of his will , to the praife of the glory of his grace , wherein he hath made us accepted in the bt~ loved. Eph. 2. 6, io, And hath raifed us up together, and made hs fit together in heavenly places in Chrifl Jefus.——For we are his workman'flip, created in Chrifl Jefus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we Jlw/dd wal!^ in

the.v.

4. The inability of the Covenant is comprifed in Chrift: the Covenant of Grace is a fare Covenant, and he is a firm and lure Chrifl, who fails not, and changes not, Hcb. 13.8, Jefus Chrifl is the fame yeflerday, and to day, and for ever. Yea, he is the very /lability of the Covenant of Grace, 2 Cor. 1. 20, For all the promises of God in him are, yea, and in him, Anen, unto the glory of God by us. The fure foundation upon which it is eftablifhed, If a. 28. 16. Becaufe Chrifl is in the Covenant as a nail in a fure place, and as a foundation and corner-ftone which"'cannot be removed : therefore liability and firmnefs is in the Covenant, Ifa. 22. 23. Becaufe the Covenant made with him is fure, therefore the Covenant made with us is lure, Pfal. 89. 33, 34. And becaufe Chrift is given for a Covenant of the people, therefore (lability is given to that Covenant as an e.Tential property thereof.

5. The perfection of the Covenant of Grace is comprifed in Chrifl: it is a perfect: Covenant, and he is a perfect and compleat Chrifl; a Saviour made perfect, to be the author of a compleat Salvation to his people, Heb.5.9. and to fave to the utmofl, Heb. 7. 25. Yea, the Covenant is a perfect Covenant, becaufe Chrift is in it, in whom we are compleat, Col. 2.9, 10. And in whom dwelleth perfect fulnefs, and all defirable perfections. If Chrift had not been in it, perfection had not been in it, nor fhould that Covenant have been able to perfect us for ever, but it had left us as the firft Covenant did: But becaufe God gave Chrifl for a Covenant of the people, therefore perfection is in it, and came to us by it, 1 Cor. 1. 30, But of him are ye in Chrifl Jefus, who of God is made unto us wifdom, and righteoufnefs, and fantli-fication, and redemption.

6. The fatisfaftorinefs of the Covenant of grace, is comprifed

in

in Chrift: it is a Soul-fatisfying Covenant, and he is a Soul* fatisfying Chrift, iSam.li. 5, For this is all my falvation, and all my defire, although he make it not to grow* Song. 5. 16, His month h mofi fweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O Daughters of Je-rufalem. Pial.73. 25, Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that 1 defire beftdes thee. Yea, Chrift is the foundation of that fatisfa&ion which the fouls of the faints find by being within the Covenant of grace : he is the defire of all nations, Hag. 2.7. It is in and for him, that it is fatisfying : if Chrift were not in the Covenant, the foul of a Saint could nevery fay of it, This is all my defire •, but becaufe he is in it, therefore the fpirits of men by unbracing it, find a fatisfac"tion, PfaL 16. 2, 5, 6, O my foul, thou haft faid unto the Lord, thou art my Lord: the Lord is the portion of mine inheritance, and of my cup: thou maintaineft my lot. The lines are fallen unto me in pleafant places: yea, I have a goodly heritage. And becaufe Chrift is given for a Covenant of the people, therefore fatisfa£tion is in it.

6. Chrift is the fiim of all Covenant-bleflings: they are all abridged in him, CoL \. 11, But Chrift is all, and in aH\ 1. Eminently : becaufe he is the chief bleffing of the Covenant: he is the marrow and fatnefs of the whole bargain, Job. 4. 10, 14, Jefns anfwered and faid unto her, If thou knew ft the gift of God, and who it is that faith unto thee, Give me to drinks thou wouldft have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. But whofoever drinketh of the water that I fhall give him, jhall never thirft : but the water that I jhall give him, Jhall be in him a well of water fpringing up into e-verlafting life. Joh. 5.16, For God fo loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son. 2. Comprehenfively: becaufe in him, as in a ftore houfe, all Covenant-bleffings are treafured up, Col. 2. 9, For in him dwelleth all the fulnefs of the God-head bodily. Joh. 1. 14* l<S And the word was made fit•jh, and dwelt among us ( and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the father ) full of grace and truth. And of his fatnefs have all we received, and grace for grace. 3. %)lti-mately : becaufe he is that Covenant-bleffing for which the whole bargain is fought after, and all other things are but fought for him, Mat. 1 $.44*45, Again^ the kingdom of

O 0 0 heaven

tg£ chrift a Covenant of the people. Chap. XXII.

heaven is like unto trea fare hid in a field, the which when a tr.au hath found, he huleth, and for joy thereof goeth and felleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again , the kjngdon of heaven is like unto a merchant man, feehing.goodly pearls, &c. 4. Virtually r becaufe when God giveth Chriit, the whole Covenant is reckoned to be performed, Lul^ i. 72, To perform the mercy promifed to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant. 5. Confequenttally: becaufe all other Covenant-bleffings follow him, as accefTories follow any principal thing, Rom. 8. 32, He that fpared not his own Son , but delivered him up for us all: how flail he not with him freely give m all things ? Prov.8. 35, For whofoever fndeth me, findethlife, and flail ob-tain favour of the Lord.

Vfe 1. If Chriftbe all the Covenant, or the fum and marrow of all which God hath given to his people by the Covenant of grace} this ipeaketh lad reproof, 1. To thofe who feek fomething elie*, the ftrength of whofe indeavours H laid forth upon fomething inferiour, fomething befide the chief good, J fa. 5 5, 2, Wherefore do ye fpend money for that which is not bread ? and your labour for that which fatisfieth not* hearken deligently nnto me, and eat ye that which is good ', and let your foul delight itfelf infatnefs^ To fuch belongs that warning, If a. 50. i% Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that oompafs your felves about with fparks: walkjn the light of your fire, and in the fparks that ye have kindled. This flail ye have of mine hand, ye flail lie down in for row-. 2. To fuch as leek and follow after fome thing more than Chrift, who is all the Covenant: lure there are not a few, who think they have not a full blefling in Chrift-, Chrift alone, without o-ther things of this world, cannot content them, Gen. $0. fc This evil under the fun hath reached fome of thofe who have been within the Covenant of Grace, Gen. 15, 1,2, After thefe ' things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vifion,fay-ingy Fear not Abram, I am thy flield, and thy exceeding great reward. And Abram faid, Lord God, what wilt thou give me> feeing I go childlefs , and the fteward of my houfe is this £liez.er of Damafcur? To fuch belongs that warning, Jer. 45. 5, And feekefl thou great things fop thy felff feek^ them not: for behold, 1 will bring evil upon all flefl, faith the Lord: but thy lift Will I give unto thee for a prey in all places whither thou

goejf.

goefl. i. It fpeaks reproof to thofe who feek fomething lefs than Chrift: there being among thofe who are not of the worft ibrt of people, whom life and falvation could fatisfie: a crea-ated heaven without Chrift could anfwer their defires after happinefs, Mat. 19. 16, And behold, one came and faid unto him, Good mafter, what good thing fljaH I do, that I may have eternal life ? Something of this alio may overtake the children of Grace among their fevers and fits of difterapers, Mark^ 9. 5, 6, And Peter an/wered, and faid to Jefus, Mafter, it is good for us to be here : and, let us make three tabernacles ; one for thee, and one for Mofes, and one for Eli as. For he wift not what to fay, for they were fore afraid. Such fliould remember Peters words at another occafion, Joh. 6. 63, Then Simon Peter anfwered him, Lord, to whom fliall we go ? thou haft the words of eternal life. Which import, that a created Heaven would not be fignificant, if Chrift were not there ; fee alfo Pfal. 73.2.5, Whom have L in heaven but thee? and there is none upon the earth that I defire be fides thee. 4. It fpeaks reproof to thofe who wrangle about circumftances, to the prejudice of Chrift the fubftance and marrow of the Gofpel- * Covenant: thofe who feek fome things of Chrift to the prejudice of other things of Chrift, that be the more weighty matters of the Gofpel: as put cafe, Forms to the prejudice of fubftance: Order to the prejudice of edification : Uniformity to the prejudice of union, &c. And this, whether by extoiling of the higheft and moft weighty things of Chrift, to the prejudice of other things which are alio his Ordinances: or by the deprefling and decreeing of other more fubordi-nate things of Chrift, and circumftantial, to the prejudice of the weightieft matters of the Gofpel; for although no Ordinance of Chrift be a little one, and to be let at nought y yet without controverfie there be fome of them more weighty than others.

Vfe 2. For difcovery how far we fall fhort in practical giving to Chrift his own place in the Covenant: There be ve ry few, even of thofe who dare not knowingly flight Chrift, who yet do give him his own room in the Covenant. Con-fider it but a little : 1. He is the root and original of the Covenant: have you acknowledged and imployed him as fuch ? have your foul-tranfaftions with God, been grounded upon

O002 Chrifts

Chrifts tranfatlions with him ? or have you not in point of Soul-covenanting with God, dealt as if the Covenant had its fnft rife then, when it firft entered in thy heart? Confider, I pray, where you have pitched the original rife and foundation of that blefled tranlaclion. 2. He is the principal party with whom the Covenant was made at the firft hand: do you always give that place to Chrift? do you put himfore-moft ? or do you not rather drudg him after you ? I fear, nay I doubt not, we deal in many things with God as if we were the principal party covenanting : in matter of Gofpel-promifes,as if we were the principal Creditor, to whom a performance of theie things were due : and in matter of Gofpel-commands, as if we were the prinipal Debtors from whom a performance of Duty could be expected. 3. Chrift is the chief bleffing of the covenant: have you fought himasfuch? or hath any other blefling of the Covenant had his room in thy heart ? have you fought life and ialvation in the pro-mifes, as the chief blefling contained in them ? or have you feen fomething in the promifes better and more defirable than thefe, even Chrift, who is in every promife, and is the beft thing in the promife ? 4. He is valuable above all things elfe contained in the Covenant: he is the full price of the whole bargain y have you put this value upon him ? have you made him your all, your treafure for which you treated in this bargain, and bought the field? 5. He is the famplar and firft copy of the Covenant: did you ever confider how the peace and union was firft made in his peri'on ? have you followed that blefled copy, to have this your Covenant with God, the Divine Nature coming down to you, and you brought up to meet with God in Chrift, and with him, and in him to have myftical union? 6. He is the fum of the Covenant: have you ftudied this compend well ? how to reduce all the Covenant to Chrift, to find it all in him, and to make all the Covenant praife him?

Vft 1 . For tryal, whether you be in the Covenant of Grace, or not: whether you have taken hold of the Covenant: as the Prophet {peaks, /y^.65.4.. Know it by this,if thou art in Chrift,thou art in the Covenant: if thou haft takeahold of him, thou haft taken hold of the Covenant, Joh. k 12, Rut as many as received hm y to them gave, he {ewer to become the fons of Cody even.

to,

to them that believe on his name. Eph. 2.12, That at that time ye were without Chrifi, being aliens from the commonwealth of Jfrael, and fir-angers from the covenant of promifc, having no hope, and without God in the world. To be without Chrift, and to be ftrangers to the Covenant of promife, are equivalent : if the Covenant be given, Chrift is given: and if Chrift be given, the Covenant is given; for you are in io far in the Covenant of Grace, as you have any thing of Chrifi in you, Col. 1.27, To whom God would make known, what is the riches of the glory of this my fiery among the Gentiles, which is Chrifi in you, the hope of glory. 2 Cor. 1 \. 5, Examine your felves whether ye be in the faith ': prove your own felves. Know ye not your own felves, how that J ejus Chrifi is in you, except ye be reprobates f If you have no right to Chrift, then none to the Covenant: try therefore your (landing: Tinners where are you? under the firft husband, or married to another? are you in Chrifi or not? and confequently in the Covenant of Grace, or without it ? Rom. 7.4, Wherefore my brethren, ye alfo are become dead to the law by the body of Chrifi, that ye fhould be married to another, even to him who is raifed from the dead, that we fhould bring forth fruit unto God.

Try this, 1. By your divorcement from Idols, and all 0-ther lovers *, this Covenant breaks all former ingagements, whether they have been to lufts or to creatures: henceforth if thou be in Chrift, and ingaged with him through this Covenant, all thefe former ingagements muft be fo far caft loof e^ that hatred muft be to lufts inftead of former love, Gal. 5. 24, And they that are Chrifis, have crucified the fiejh, with the affections and lufis. Mark. 9.4?, And if thy hand offend thee 7 cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed., than having two hands, to go into hell, into the fire that never fiiall be quenched, where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched, &c. And half a love to the creatures, or limited, iiibordinate, fecondary, regular, fubmiflive love to them, nv ftead of old heart-ingagements, Ezet^ 36-25, From all your filthinefs, and from all your Idols will J cleanfe you, PfeJ. 45.-io, 11, Hearken, O daughter, and confider, and incline thine ear: forget alfo thine own people, and thy fathers houfe^ So fiiall the king greatly defire thy beauty: for he is thy Lord, and worfhip thou him, Jofh. 24.23, Now therefore put away, faid

ht y

Chrijl a Covenant of the people. Chap. XXII.

he, the ftrange gods which are among you, and incline your heart mto the Lord God of Ifrael. Hoi". 14.8, Ephraim jljall fay. What have I to do any more with idols ? Gen. 12. 1, Now the Lord had [aid unto Abram, Get thee out of thy countrey, and from thy kindred, and from thy fathers hou[e, unto a land that I will flew thee.

2. Try it by your conferring to the mutual tye which the Covenant bringeth with it : for it doth not only hold forth what God will be to you, but what you mull be to him: it obligcth you to be the Lords, as well as it maketh him yours, Hof. 3. $. It faith, Thou fialt not be for another man ', fo wilt I rdfo be for thee. If then you confent as willingly to be Chrifts, as to have him made yours , by this reciprocation and eccho of affection and ingagement to him, you may know your being in him, and fo in the Covenant, Rev. 22. 17,20, And the [pirit, and the bride fay come, and let him that heareth fay come. Surely , J come quickly, Amen. Song. 2. 1(5, My Beloved is mine, and 1 am his. 2 Chron. 30. 8, Now be ye not ftijf-necked as your fathers were: but yield your [elves unto the Lord, and enter into his [antluary, which he hath [anclified for ever: and [erve the Lord your God, that the fercenefs of his wrath may turn away from you.

I. Try it by your fubje&ion and fubmiffion to Chrift: for they that are in Chrift, they do not only confent to be his, but there is a fubjeclion of their confent unto him, as unto their Head, Husband, Lord, and King*, as Wives and Subjects do in their Covenants with their Husbands and Kings, 2 Cor. 9. 13, The fubjettion of your confent. There muft be a through compliance with Chrift in all his offices, and in every part of each of his office: for we muft not comply with Chrift as a Prieft only, but alfo as a witne[s, a leadeer and commander of the people, Ila. 55.4, fmce he is given for thefe ends, as well as for the former: Neither muft we fubmit only to that part of his Priefthood, whereby he offered facrifice, and flight his interceflion, Heb.%. 1,7. and 9. 24, 26. Nor only to the external part of his Prophetical and Kingly offices, by fubjetting our felves to ordinances (as the manner 01 formal hypocrites is): but to the foveraignty of his inward teaching and ruling alfo, Jer. $1. 3$, 34* ItotH put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts,

and

Chap. XXII. Chri ft * Covenant of the people. aj

and will be their Gad, and, they fa all be my people. And they Jhall teach no more every man his neighbour , and every man his brother, faying, Know the Lord. Nor to his inward teaching and ruling only ( as defpifers of Ordinances pretend ), but to the external adminiftration of his Covenant, by Ordinances of worfhip and government alfo, ib long as his tabernacle is with men, which muft be till Ghrifts giving up the kingdom, Rev.<ii. 5,22, 23. with ,£^.43. 11.

4. Try it by your fatisfa&ion with, and acceptation of the whole bargain, without divifion, diminution, addition, or alteration of any claule in it, Jja. 55.3. Jer. 31. 32, &c. Thofe who are in Chrift, and ib within the Covenant of Grace, do not divide the promifes of the Covenant, from the condition and commands thereof5 neither do they reject any thing which God hath put in that bargain: but on the contrary they x:loie with it as it (lands in the offer of the Gofpel ( without bogling and skaring at the refervation of the crofs ) : and with a foul-fatisfaftion found in the offer, 2 Sam. 23.5, faying with David, this is all my defire. And PfaL 16.5,6, The Lord is the portion of mine inherita?ice, and of my cup: thou maintained my lot. The lines are fallen to me in pieafant places: yea, I have a goodly heritage. Piil. 73. 25, Whom have I in heaven but thee ? and there is none upon earth that I defire befides thee.

5. Try it by your accounting duties your priviledg, which other men account their burden, 1 Joh. 5. 3, For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments, and his command-ments are not grievous. Mat. 11. $0, For my yoke is eafie, and my burden is light. By your experiencing that holy facility in duties which ipringeth from love to Chrift, and delight in God, 2 Cor. 5. 14, For the love of Chrift conftraineth us, be-caufe we* thus yidg, that.if one died for all, then were all dead. Whereby it cometh to pals, that the very work of believers is wages and hire in their hands *, that I fay, is demon-ftrative of one being in Chrift, and lb of a new-Covenant-eftate.

6. Try it by your equal endeavours after holinefs andnea-ven :, after conformity unto Chrift, and communion with him : if thy endeavours after fan&ification, be as vigorous as after Salvation *, if thou wouldft as gladly be made holy, as be in

heaven",

Chrift a Covenant of the people. Chap. XXII.

heaven*, if thou defneft as really to be made like Chrift, as to have fellowship with him-, this fpeaketh thy being in him, and it" fo, thy being in the Covenant, 2 Cor. 7. 1, Having therefore thefe promifes ( dearly beloved), let us cleanfe our felves from all fbhincfs of the ftejh and fpirit, per feeling holinefs in the fear of God. 1 Joh. 3. 3, And every man that hath this hope i?i him, purifieth himfelf, even as he is pure.

7. Try it by your being humbled and provoked to holi-nels, by the knowledg of your being in Chrift, and your reflections upon this great priviledg with humbling admiration : for after this manner hath it wrought upon Gods children, Rom. 3-27, Where is boafting then f it is excluded: by what law I of wvrks ? nay: but by the law of faith. Ezek. 16. $<>, That thou mayeft remember, and be confounded, and never open thy mouth any more , becaufe of thy frame, when I am pacified toward thee, for all that thou haft done, faith the Lord God. 1 Tim. I. 15, 14, Who was before a blafphemer, and a per [ecu-tor, and injurious. But I obtained mercy, becaufe I did it ignorantly, in unbelief: and the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant, with faith and love, which is in Chrift Jefus, Joh. 14. 22, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifeft thy felf to us, and not unto the world?

8. Try it by your fuperlative valuing of Chrift: the weakeft faith which is precious, doth value Chrift above all, 1 Pet . 2. 7, To you therefore which believe, he is precious. Prov. 3. 15, She is more precious than rubies : and Ml the things thou can ft defire, are not to be compared unto her. Chrift is fuper-latively valued*, 1. When Chrift alone, without all other comforts, is looked upon as enough, when the foul taketh iatisfaction in this portion, Pfal. 73.25, Whom have I in heaven but thee ? and there is none upon earth that I defire be-fides thee. Pial. 16.5,6, The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance, and my cup : thou maintaineft my lot. The lines are fallen unto me in pleafant places: yea , / have a goodly heritage. When the foul reckons it felf eternally made up in him, *Tui bleffeth it felt' in him, Lam. 3. 24, The Lord is my portion, faith my foul, therefore will J hope in him. 2. When we value Chrift out of love, not out of necefiity only, as the manner ofthofe is, who come to him only in their exigency,

as

as men ufe Phyficians, Pfal. 116. 1, I love the Lord , becaufe he hath heard my voice, and my fapplication. 3. When the excellencies of Chrift do affecl: the heart to take pains to feek him, proportionally, as we leek after other things, Song. 5. 6, 9, 10, / opened to my beloved, but my beloved had withdrawn himfelf, and was gone : my foul failed when he [fake : I fought him, but I conld not find him: I called him, but he gave me no anfwer. What is thy beloved more than another beloved^ O thou fair eft among women . ? what is thy beloved more than another beloved, that thou doftfo charge ui ? my beloved is white and ruddy, the chiefefl among ten thoufand. 4. When we are not eafily offended at him, Mat. 11.6, And blejjed i* he, whofo-ever Jhall not be offended in me. Song. 5, 7,8, The watch-men that went about the city,found me, they fmote me, they wounded me : the keepers of the walls took^away my vail from me. I charge you, O daughters of Jerufalem, if ye find my love, that ye tell him that I am fick^ of love. There is nothing that argueth more clearly a low efteem of Chrift, than a readinefs to be foon and eafily (tumbled at him, or fomething in his way with us, or attending the way of feeking him -, and on the other hand, nothing argueth a higher efteem of him, than not to be eafily offended at him * 7 let him do what he will, yet will I go after him •, let me meet with what can be imagined,which ftumbleth others, yet,will I hold on my way ; is the thoughts and heart-language of one that valueth Chrift above all. Job ij. 15, Though he flay me, yet will I trufi in him.

Vfe 4. To teach us, whatfoever things appertaining to this Covenant we caft our eyes upon, to obferve more of Chrifl in it: for if we look upon it aright, there is no part of the Covenant but we may behold Chrift ingraven upon it •, he is the precious iubje£t-matter of the whole, and of every part of the Covenant, whether they be, 1. Things covenanted by God to us *, Chrift is ingraven upon every pro-mife, and bleffing, and priviledg of the Covenant: the righte-oufnels and life whereunto we are reftored, are the righteouf-nefs and life of Chrift, Jer. 23. 6, And this is his name whereby he Jhall be called, The Lord our righteonfnefs. Gal. 2. 20, Yet not J, but Chrift liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the fiefljy I live by the faith of the Son of God. iCor/i.

Ppp iO, But

j'O, But of him are ye in Chrifl Jefus, who of God is made unto us w'ifdom, and right eoufnefs, and fantlification, and redemption. Col. 3.2, 3, Set your ajfetlion on things above, and not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Chrift in God. The Sonlhip, the ipirit, the grace, the title to God, they are our partnerihip of Chrifts Sonlhip, his ipirit, his grace, his Covenant-right to God, Rom, 8.17, And if children, then heirs, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Chrifl : if Jo be that we fuffer with him, that we may be alfo glorified together. Gal. 4. 6, And becaufe ye are fons, God hath fent out the fpirit of his Son into your hearts 9 crying, Abba, Father. Joh. h 14, 15, And the word was made flejliy and dwelt among us, ( and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the father) full of grace and truth. And of his fulnefs have all we received, and grace for grace. Or, 2. Whether they be things re-ftipulated by us to God, as conditions of the Covenant, or as duties of the confederate people •, upon every condition and duty of the Covenant, Chrift is ingraven: the faith accepting Covenant-grace and bleffings,is the faith of the Son of God, Gal. 2.20. The holinefs and worthy walking whereunto we are called, is that fame thing whereunto we are chofen and created in Chrifl Jefus, Eph. 2. 10. and 1.4.

Vje 5. For commending Chrift to you: 1. See the ne-ceflity of receiving Chrift, and of being in him, without which we can have no right to the Covenant, nor to any thing contained in it: he is given for a Covenant : if it were poffible for you to receive all that is in the Gofpel-offers,. and not to receive Chrift, aU thefe things without him could not change your Covenant-ftate, Efh. 2. 12, If you con-, tinue without Chrifl, you are ftill without the Covenant : therefore is that exprefnon fo frequently ufed to denote one in Covenant with God, they that are in Chrift, Rom.8. i. 2 Cor. 12.2.

2. Learn the way how the confederate people (houldcome to God: it is not enough that we fhould come to God, and bring Chrift with us as a third peribn *, but we muft alfo come to God as being in Chrift, as being one with him, Joh. 15.2. Aod this is t9 QQtne to G$d through Chrift, Heb. 7.

3> Be

Chap. XXII. drift a Covenant cf the people. ,--

3. Be perfwaded to take him who is given of God for a Covenant of the people: make Chrift your own, and you make all the bargain your own: for he is the Covenant of the people, and he is*//, faith the Apoftle, Col. j. 11, And, who-fo findeth me, findeth life, and Jhall obtain favour of the Lord, faith he himielf, Prov.S. 35. We beieech you receive the gift which draweth all the Covenant along with it, Joh. 1. 12, *But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the font of God, even to them that believe on his name. If you ask, When do we receive Chrift ? 1. When we receive the verybonds of the word, and that which doth moft crofs our corruption, and ftraiten the loofnefs and liberty of our flefh, 1 Thejf. 1. 6, And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the holy Choft. 2 Cor. 10.4,5, For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God, to the pulling down of firong holds: Cafting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itfelfagainft the knowledg of God', and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Chrift-2. When we imbrace and kifs the promifes, that is, when we love them dearly, and welcome them kindly, for the good that is in them, for the things which they carry forth unto US, Heb. 11. 13, Thefe all died in faith, not having received the promifesy but having feen them afar eff, and were perfwaded of them, and embraced them, and confeffed that they were flrangers and pilgrims on the earth. So did thofe Worthies who obtained a good report through faith, verfe 39. 3. When we find and receive fomething iweeter and better in the promifes than falvation,even Chrift himielf Song. 5. 16, His mouth is moft fweet, yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerufalem. A tempo^ rary may receive the word with joy, and the promifes of the word ; but how ? for falvation that is in them: but the believer finds fomething in them better than Salvation, Joh.6. 6%, Then Simon Peter anfwered him, Lord, to whom fiiall we go? thou haft the words of eternal life. Pfel. 7;. 25, 26, Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there in none upon earth that I defire be fides thee. My heart and my flcfti fail* eth: but God is the ftrength of my heart, and my portion for ever,

Ppp 2 4. Since

Ay 6 Chrijl a Covenant of the people. Chap. XXII,

4. Since God giveth Chrift for all the Covenant, be you perlwaded to take him for ah 1 , and to make ufe of him for all, 1 Cor, 1.5O, But of him are ye in Chrift Jefus, who of Cod is made unto us wifdom, and right eoufnejs, and fancliHca-tion, and redemption, i. To fulfil all the promiies of the Covenant to you *, for in him they are yea, and in him they are all Amen, 2 Cor. 1.20. 2. To fulfil and perform the condition of the Covenant in you *, to determine your wills to believe, Joh.6. 37, AH that the father giveth me, jhall come to me. Song. 1.4, Draw me, we will run after thee. Joh. 12. 32, And I, if J be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. 3. To perform the duties in you, which the Covenant requireth of you, Phil. 4. 13. 70/7.15.5. £ph. 2. 10.

Vfe 6. For comfort and encouragement to believers^ 1. Comfort your ielves in the bargain which you have made, upon this ground, Chrift is in the Covenant} yea, he is given for a Covenant of the people, and therefore all (hall be well, and all fhall be lure and firm, I fa- 22.23, *dnd I mil fafien him. as a nail in a fare place, and he Jhall be for a glorious throne to his fathers houfe.' Zech. 10.4, Out of him came forth the corner? out of him the nail. Ha. 3. 10, Say ye to the righteous? that it fhall be well with him: for they jhall eat the fruit of their doings. Comfort your felves, 1. Againft your being fhort of other men in workily-injoyments, Chrift is given you for a Covenant, but not unto them t O wonder at it! and be comforted, with him who faid, Lord how is it that thou, wilt manifeft thy felf to us,andnot unto the world ? You can own Chriftytney cannot, Pfal.67.6y And God, even our own God jhall blefs us. Pfal. 7 3. 26, My flejli and-my heart faileth: but Godis^ the ftrength of my heart, and my portion for ever. 2. Comfort your ielves againft all fnares, dangers, tentations, and ftorms that can blow againft you in your way to heaven, Chrift is in the Covenant, and that fhall be your fafetyv as the dilciples werefafe at fea againft greateft tempefts,be-caufe Chrift was in. the {hip with them, Mat. 8. 13, to 28. Confider, he is imbarked with you, and (hall bring you to land, 1 Joh. 4.4, Te are of God, little children, and have 0-vercome, them: becaufe greater is he that is in you,than he that isJn the world. 3, Comfort your felves againft all your wants

and

and weakneffes, and aH the miferies of your prefent condition *, Chrift is given for a Covenant of the people: and though you be fooliih, he is wife, 1 Cor. 1. 50, Siit cf him are ye in Chrift Jefits, who of God is made unto us wifdon. Though you be weak, he is ftrong, Pfal.Sp. 19, / have laid help upon one that is mighty. Mat. 12. 29, Or elfe how can one enter into a ftrong mans houfe, and fpoil his goods, except he firft bind the ftrong man, and then he will fpoil his houfe? Though you be faithlefs, he is faithful, 2 Tim. 2. 13, If we be-lieve not, yet he abideth faithful, he cannot deny him-felf. Though you be nothing, Chrift is all, Col. .3. 11. Whatfoever is wanting in you, is abounding in him; and if you. abufe not the grace of Chrift by turning it into wan-tonnels, it is all one if it be betwixt you : its as good and much better it be in him than in you; for if he be given to you, all comes with him, 1 Cor. I. jo, But of him are ye in Chrift Jefus, who of God is made unto us wif-dom, and righteoufnefs, and fanflification , and redemption.

2. Believers in Chrift, you who have received him who was given for a Covenant of the people, take courage and boldnefs to God-ward in all that you have to do with him: For, 1. Having received Chrift for a Covenant of the people, you may pray and deal- confidently with God, as though Chrift did befeech God by you, 7/^.45. n, Thus faith the Lord, the holy one of Ifrael, and his maker, As\^ me of things to come, concerning my Sons, and concerning the work^ofmy hands command ye me. 2. You have gotten Chrift, and therefore nothing (hall be denied you, Mom. 8. 32, He that [pared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all : how fhall he not with him alfo freely give us all things? $. You have received more than you know of, Joh. 14.4,5,20, And whither I go ye know, and the way you k^ow. Thomas faith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thog goeft : and how can we

know the way ? at that day ye fljall know that I am in my

father, and you in me, and I in you. You have aU the Covenant, if you have him. 4. You have received more than you want, a greater thing than ever you fhall be capable ta need or want hereafter *, for how great loever your wants be, you cannot conceive them to be fo great as Chiift, who

is

is given to you, Phil. 4. 19, But my God Jhall fupply all your wed, according to his riches in glory by Chrift Jefns. 2 Cor. 9. 8, And Cod is able to make all grace abound towards yon, that ye always having allfufficiwy in all things, may ahonndtQ every good work*

FINIS.

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Horologiographia optica *, Dialling, univerfal and particular, by Sylvan us Morgan.

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T fcical Divinity of the Papifts difcovered to be deftruc-

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Clofet-prayer a Chnftians duty \ all three by 0. Hey wood.

A practical difcourfe of Praver ; wherein is handled the nature and duty of Prayer, by The. Cobbct.

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Heaven and Hell in a Good or Bad Conicience,by Nath. Vm-cent.

The re-building of London encouraged and improved in feveral meditations: by Samuel Rolls.

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Sober Singularity by the fame Author.

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