GospelWorship

byJeremiahBurroughs

TableofContents

SermonI-TheIntroduction

SermonII-GodWillbeSanctifiedinThoseWhoDrawNeartoHim

SermonIII-TheImportanceofPreparingforworship

SermonIV-TwoCasesofConscience

SermonV-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinHolyDuties

SermonVI-SuitingOurDutiestotheGodWeareWorshipping

SermonVII-WhyGodWillBeSanctifiedintheDutiesofHisWorship

SermonVIII-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinHearingtheWord

SermonIX-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinHearingtheWord

SermonX-WhyGodwillHaveHisNameSanctified

SermonXI-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinReceivingtheSacrament

SermonXII-WhatisRequiredinReceivingtheSacrament

SermonXIII-KeeptotheInstitutionoftheSacrament

SermonXIV-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinPrayer

SermonI-TheIntroduction

Gospel-worship: OR, The Right Manner of drawing nigh to God, inGeneral:AndparticularlyintheseThreegreatORDINANCES:Viz.

1.HearingoftheWORD.2.ReceivingtheLordsSUPPER.3.PRAYER.

Leviticus, 10. 3. "ThenMoses said unto Aaron, This is it that the Lordspoke,saying;Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme,andbeforeallthePeopleIwillbeglorified.AndAaronheldhispeace."

ThesewordsarethespeechofMosestoAaronhisBrother,endeavoringto quiet and comfort his heart, which was (no question) exceedinglytroubled upon that great and sore affliction that was upon him, in thestrangedeathofhistwosons,NadabandAbihu:Thestoryisthis:

AfterAaron'ssonswereconsecratedtothepriestly-office,theycomingtoattendthistheiroffice,theveryfirstdayaftertheirconsecrationtoofferincenseuntoGod, theyventured tooffer incensewithstrange fire,withother fire than God had appointed: Upon that the fire of God's wrathbrokeoutuponthem,andslewthembothpresentlyintheverysanctuarybeforeallthepeople,foritwasasolemntime:beingthebeginningofthesolemn consecration of the priesthood. Upon this, the spirit of Aaroncould not but be exceedingly troubled, to see his two sons thus struck.NowMosescomestohimandsaith,ThisisthatwhichtheLordspoke,Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatdrawnighme,andbeforeallthepeopleIwillbeglorified.Anduponthis,Aaronheldhispeace.

We read that once fire came down fromHeaven in a way ofmercy toconsumethesacrifices:butnowfirecomesdownfromHeaveninawayofjudgment to consume the sacrificers, evenNadabandAbihu: theywereAarons sons, the sons of a godlyman, the sons of thehigh-priest, theywerehiseldestsons,forAaronhadothersonsbesidesNadabandAbihu,EleazarandIthamar,but thesewerehis twoeldestsons: theywere twoyoungmen,theywerestruckintheveryprimeoftheirage,theyweretwothatwerenewlyconsecratedinthepriestsoffice,forsoyoufinditinthe9thChapter.Andtheyweretwomenofrenowninthecountry,andbeforeallthepeopleofIsraeltwomenthatGodhadmuchhonoredheretofore;

asyoushall find inExod.Chap.24.and thebeginning; thisNadabandAbihuweremenof great repute, andgreat renown, thatGoddidmuchhonor in former times; forwhenGod calledMoses andAaronwith theElderstocometohim,hesinglesoutNadabandAbihuamongsttherest,andnamesthem.AndhesaiduntoMoses,ComeupuntotheLord,thouandAaron,NadabandAbihu,and70oftheEldersofIsrael.MosesandAaron,NadabandAbihuareonlynamed,and then70.of theElders ingeneral,butMoses,Aaron,Nadab,andAbihu,as if thesewere the foureminentmenofrenownamongallthepeopleofIsrael,henamesnoneofthe70.Eldersbut these two,besidesMosesandAaron: therefore thesetwothatwereconsumedbystrangefire,wererenownedmen,andnewlyconsecratedintotheiroffice.

Whatwastheirsin?

Theirsinitwasofferingofstrangefire,sothetextsaiththattheyofferedstrange fire, whichGod commanded them not, in the beginning of thechapter.

But had God ever forbidden it? Where do we find that ever God hadforbiddenthemtoofferstrangefire,orappointedthattheyshouldofferonlyonekindoffire?ThereisnotextofScripturethatyoucanfindfromthebeginningofGenesistothisplace,whereGodhathsaidinterminis,insomanywordsexpressly,Youshalloffernofirebutonekindoffire.AndyetheretheyareconsumedbyfirefromGod,forofferingstrangefire.Ifind in the 30. of Exod. ver. 9. that there theywere forbidden offeringstrange incense, but I do not find that they were forbidden offeringstrangefire.InLevit.6.13.anddiversversesinthatChapterwefindthatGodhadappointedthattheyshouldkeepconstantlythefireonthealtarburning, and never to let it go out: Now that was (it seems) God'sintention that therefore they shouldmakeuseof that fire, and that fireonly.Godwouldhavethemtopickouthismeaning:Godsentfiredownfromheavenupon thealtar, so in the latterendof the9thchapterGodsentdownfirefromheaven,andgavethemachargetokeepthatfireonthealtarconstantly,andnevertoletitgoout:sothatitseemsGodwouldhavethempickouthismeaning,thatbecausehehadsentdownfirefromheavenuponthealtar,andgavethempowertokeepthatconstantly,Godwouldhavethemthereforetounderstand,thatwhatincenseorsacrifice

hewouldhavetheuseoffirein,itshouldbeonlythatfireandnoother,thoughGoddidneversaytothemdirectlyinthesewords,Youshallmakeuse of this fire and no other, butGodwould have them to understandthis.That'stheirsinthereforeinofferingofstrangefire.NowfirecomesfromtheLordanddothconsumethem.Somethinkthis firecamefromthe altar, but surely it couldnot be any ordinary fire that did consumeNadabandAbihuatthistime:foryoushallfindinthenextversetomytext,thatthebodiesofNadabandAbihuwerenotconsumedbythefire,no, not their clothes, they were killed by the fire and yet their clotheswerewhole,thereforeitwasnotanordinaryfire,itwassomecelestialfirestruckintothemtoslaythem,forsosaiththetextinthe4thverse:comenear, carry away your brethren from before the sanctuary out of thecamp:andsotheywentandcarriedthemintheircratesoutofthecamp,sothattheirclothesandbodieswerenotconsumed,onlytheywerekilledby the fire: they were struck with a sudden death, and that in thepresenceof theLord: suchadeathasGodhadnever threatened in thewordbefore,Godhadneverthreatenedthepriestsandsaid,Ifyouofferstrangefireyoushallbeconsumedbyfire:butyetGodsmitesthemwithdeathby fire, theyhadnot time toseekGod,nonotsomuchastosay,Lordhavemercyuponme: theyhadno time topromiseamendmentatall:nowuponthisheavyjudgment,the,heartofAaroncouldnotpossiblybut be verymuch troubled, yea, and the spirit ofMoses too, forMoseswastheiruncle,andAarontheirfather,theycouldnotbutbeexceedinglymuchgrieved:butMosesbeingthebrotherofAaron,seeinghisspirit(noquestion) exceedingly troubled, being under such a sad affliction, andthat such a godly man even as Aaron was, should have such a sadjudgment befall his children: Moses comes and speaks comfortably tohim,and laborstosupporthisspirit:andhowdothhedo it?Hecomesnotasordinarilyyouusetovisityourbrethren,Oh!youmustbecontentwiththis:no,buthecomesandappliesthewordofGod,andshowshowGodmust be sanctified; and by that he comes to quiet the heart of hisbrotherAaronThis is thatwhich the Lord hath spoke saithMoses:HeseekstostaytheheartofhisbrotherwiththatwhichGodspoke.

ButwheredowefindthatGodspokethis?

It'shardtofindinanyScripturetheseverywordsinterminisbeforethis

time:andthereforeAugustinethinksitwasonlythewordGodspoke,butnotwritten,andsotheyhad it fromhandtohandbytraditionasmanyother things,as theProphecyofEnochthat theApostleJudespeaksof,youdonotfinditwrittenintheBookofGod,andyettheApostlespeaksofit,sothatindeeditwasfromhandtohand:yeaandwefindintheNewTestamentwhenPaulspeaksofathingthatChristshouldsay,howthatourLordsaith,Itisamoreblessedthingtogivethantoreceive;youfinditnot recorded in theGospels thatChrist saidso.So, this is thatwhichtheLordsaid,thoughitwasnotwrittenfromthebeginningofGenesistothisveryplace,orotherwisethoughitbenotrecordedinexpressterms,yetsomethingisrecordedtothesamepurposeandeffect:andsoitmayseem to have reference to that ScriptureExod. 29:43. Therewe have aScripturecomesasneartoitasanyIknow.AndtherewillImeetwiththechildren of Israel, and the tabernacle shall be sanctified by my glory,that'sasmuchineffect,asIwillbesanctifiedinthosethatcomenighme,inthosethatcometoworshipmeinmytabernacle,Iwillbesanctifiedinallthingsthatconcernmyworship,Iwillbesuretobesanctifiedthere.

Iwillbesanctified,Iwillbehallowed,foritistheverysamethatyouhavein theLordsPrayer,hallowedbe thyName,only that's theGreekword,andthisistheHebrew:butifyouwouldtranslatethiswordintoGreek,youmusttranslateitbythesamewordthatChristspokewhenhetaughthisDisciplestopray,hallowedbethyName,hallowedandsanctifiedisallone.LordletthyNameappeartobeholy:soIwillbesanctified,thatis,Iwill havemyName appear to be holy, I will bemade known untomypeople,andtoalltheworldthatIamaHolyGod:that'sthemeaningof,Iwillbesanctified,IwillbeknowntoalltheworldthatIamaholyGod.

AndbeforeallthepeopleIwillbeglorified,soitisinthelatterpartoftheverse, as ifGod should say I account it tobemyglory that I shouldbemanifestedtobeholybeforealltheworld.

Iwill be sanctified; that is, Iwill havemypeople to demean and carrythemselvesso,astoholdforththeiracknowledgmentofmyholinessso,asbytheircarriageImayappeartobeaholyGod.Iwillbesanctifiedbythem,orotherwise if theyshallnot inanactivewaysanctifymyName,thatis,iftheyshallnotdemeanthemselvessoastoholdforththegloryofmyholiness,thenIwillbesanctifieduponthem;Iwilldemeanandcarry

myself towards them so, as by my actions upon them, I will make itappearwhataholyGodIam:SoGodissanctifiedtwoways,eitherbytheholiness of his people, in their carriage towards him holding forth thegloryofGod'sholiness:andsointhat1Pet.3.15.sanctifytheLordGodinyourhearts;thesaintsdosanctifyGodintheirheartswhentheyfearGodasaholyGod,andreverencehim,andlovehimasaholyGod,andsosanctify him in their lives, when their lives do hold forth the glory ofGod'sholiness,thenGodissanctified.

Butthenifwedonotdoso,thenGodsanctifieshimself,thatisinwaysofjudgmentuponthosethatdonot inwaysofholinesssanctifyhisName.And thus you have it, Ezek. 28. 22.And say, Thus saith the LordGod,BeholdIamagainsttheeOZidon,andIwillbeglorifiedinthemidstofthee,andtheyshallknowthatIamtheLord,whenIshallhaveexecutedjudgmentinher,andshallbesanctifiedinher.AndthisisallonewithIwillbeglorifiedinthemidstofthem.Andinthe38.ofEzek.16.23youhavetothesamepurpose,AndthoushaltcomeupagainstmypeopleofIsrael,asacloudtocovertheland:itshallbeinthelatterdays:andIwillbringtheeagainstmylandthattheheathenmayknowme,whenIshallbe sanctified in theeOGog,before their eyes.And in the23. ver.ThuswillImagnifymyelf,andsanctifymyself,andwillbeknownintheeyesofmanynations,andtheyshallknowthatIamtheLord,inthewayoftheexecutionofjudgment:thusIwillsanctifymyself,soIwillbesanctifiedinthosethatdrawnighme.

Inthosethatarenighme.Nighones,soitmayberead:thatis,especiallytheprieststhatdidapproachtoGod.Ezek.42.13.theyapproachtoGodespecially.Butitismeantgenerallyofallthosethatshallhavetodealinmyworship, whosoever shall come to worshipme, let them look to it,they must sanctify my Name, they must so demean themselves in myworship, as to hold forth my Name to be holy: or otherwise, I willmanifestmyselfagainsttheminthewaysofjudgment,forIwillappeartobeaholyGod.Iwillhavethegloryofmyholinessonewayorother(saithGod) in those that come near Me; As if God should say, Though it'sotherwisewithmen,theyindeedwillbereadytofavorthosethatarenearthem,butIwillnotdoso.Menwillsoonerpassbytheoffencesofthosethat arenear them, than those that arenot: as suppose that a stranger

commits an offence, you would be severe towards him; but suppose itwereoneofyourownchildren,orkinsmen,whatwouldyoudothen?Donotwesee thatmenwill rather favor theirownkindredthanstrangers,thoughtheoffencebethesame?ButIwillnotdososaithGod.Supposeitbeoneofyourownfamily,willnotyoubereadytoexcusethem?Supposeit were your own child that should commit such an offence, Oh! whatfriendswouldyoumaketotakehimofffrompunishment?Thoughmenwoulddosotowardstheirown,yetbebitter&severetowardsstrangers;YetIwillnotbesosaithGod:Letthosethatarenearmelooktoit,Iwillbesanctifiedbythem.Iwillbesanctifiedinthosethatdrawnearme.

Nowupon this,whenMoses said thus, thatGodwouldbe sanctified inthose that draw near him: thiswasMoses scope to Aaron, as ifMosesshouldsay,Aaron, thoughIconfess thehandofGod isheavyuponyouthisday:YetitisfitforyoutosubmittoGod,'tisfitthatGodshouldbeglorifiedwhateverbecomesofyou;youaredeartoGod,butGod'sNameisdearertohimthanyouare:whateverthelivesofyoursonswere,yetitis fit that God should be honored, and his Name sanctified what everbecomeofyoursons,orofyourcomforts,andthereforeletyourheartbequieted,youhavehadagreatlossandafflictionuponyou;butGodhathhadglory;Godhath glorifiedhimself.HowhathGodglorifiedhimself?Verymuchbythisway;forGodbythiswayhathdoneanacttomakeallthepeopleofthelandfearbeforehim;tocausethemtoworshiphimwithall reverence.All thepeopleof the landseeingsucha judgmentas this,andhearingof it;theywill learnforevertofearandreverencethisGod:theywill say,How shallwe appear before this holyGod?Wehadneedtakeheedhowweappearinhispresence,andworshiphimaccordingtotheway thatHeHimself would beworshiped; As ifMoses should say,ThishonorthatGodhathbythismeansintheheartsofhispeople;itisthat that you should account a greater good than the lives of yourchildren,whatevertheyare.ThisisthescopeofMosesspeechtoAaron.NowuponthistheTextsaith:

Aaron held his peace. He was silenced. It may be before, he wasexpressinghimself ingrief,andsorrowedexceedingmuchinwords;butnow he was quiet and had nothing to say: he did by his silenceacknowledgehischildrenweredeartohim,butit'sfitthatGodshouldbe

glorifiedwhateverbecomesofhischildren,andthereforeAaronholdshispeace.

But theword that ishere translated,holdshispeace, Ithathmore in itthanmeresilence;fortheHebrewshaveanotherwordthatsignifymeresilenceofspeech:butthissignifies,astayingoftheheart,thatitdothnotfurtherproceed inand troubleof spirit,a silence in theveryheart,andstayingofit;astayingofthemotionsoftheheart.IfindthesamewordtobeusedinScripture,whenJoshuasaidtotheSun,standstill,staythyselfonGibeon, Jos 10. 12. It is the sameword that is here translated, andAaron held his peace, that is, he was stayed from further vexing ortroubling of himself, or being disquieted; whereas his heart was in astrongviolentmotion:NowMosesspeechdidstophim,andgaveastopto his heart tomake it stand still in a wonderfulmanner, As the Sun,whenJoshuaspoketoittostandstill.AsiftheLordshouldhavespokentohisheart,Aaron,thyheartisinamightystrongmotion,butconsiderthat Imust be sanctified in those that draw nighme; and let all thosemotionsofthyheartbestoppedandquiet.ThusnowyouseethemeaningoftheScripture,andthescopeofit.NowinthisScriptureyouhavethesethreespecialandnotablepoints.

1.ThatinworshipingofGod,thereisadrawingnighuntoHim.

2. That when we do draw nigh to God, we should take heed toourselvesthatwesanctifyGod'sName.

3. Ifwe do not sanctifyGod'sName in our drawings nigh toHim,thencertainlyGodwillsanctifyhisownNameuponus.

These are the three points that I intend to handle; And especially thesecondtohandlelargelyamongyou.IconfessuponanotheroccasioninonesermonIhavespokeoutofthesewords,butnowIintendnotonlyingeneral,toshowyouhowyoushouldsanctifyGod'sNameinworship,butlikewise in the particular acts of worship: As sanctifying His Name inprayer, in receiving the sacrament, in hearing the word; in the severalchiefpartsoftheworshipofGod,howhisNameshouldbesanctified:ForinalltheseyoudodrawnightoGod.AndforthatendIhavepitchedmythoughts upon this Scripture. But before I come to these three great

points, thatare theprincipalpoints in thewords readuntoyou; I shalltakeupdiversothernotesofobservationthatlieupanddownasitwerescattered, that areof greatuse, andwillhelpus further tomakeuseofthis Scripture in the other points that I shall come to afterward, andhandlemorelargely.

The first note is this, That in God's worship there must be nothingtendereduptoGodbutwhathehathcommanded,whatsoeverwemeddlewithintheworshipofGod,itmustbewhatwehaveawarrantforoutofthewordofGod.

ForthisspeechofMosesisuponoccasionofthejudgmentofGoduponAaron'ssonsforofferingstrangefire:TheyofferedfirethatGodhadnotcommanded.Hence I say, that all things inGod'sworshipmusthave awarrantoutofGod'sword,mustbecommanded,It'snotenoughthatitisnotforbidden:Ibeseechyouobserveit:itisnotenoughthatathingisnotforbidden, and what hurt is there in it? But it must be commanded: Iconfessinmattersthatarecivilandnatural,therethismaybeenough;Ifit be but according to the rules of prudence, and not forbidden in theword;wemaymakeuseofthisincivilandnaturalthings.ButnowwhenwecometomattersofReligion,andtheworshipofGod,wemusteitherhaveacommand,orsomewhatoutofGod'swordbysomeConsequencedrawn from some command wherein God manifests his will; either adirect command, or by comparing one thing with another, or drawingconsequences plainly from the words. We must have a warrant of theworship of God. One would have thought that these priests offeringincense to the trueGod,what hurtwas there in taking other Fire?ButtherewasnoCommandforit,andthereforeitwasnotaccepted.It'strue,there are some things in the worship of God that are natural and civilhelps,andthereweneednothaveanycommand:Asforinstance;whenwe come to worship God, the congregation meets, they must have aconvenientplacetokeeptheairandweatherfromthem:nowthisisbutanaturalhelp,andsofarasIusetheplaceofworshipasanaturalhelpIneedhavenocommand.ButifIwillputanythinginaPlacebeyondwhatit hath in its own nature, There I must look for a Command. For if IaccountoneplacemoreHolythananother;ortothinkthatGodshouldacceptofworship inoneplaceratherthaninanother:This is toraise it

abovewhatitisinitsownnature.Sothatwhenanycreatureisrasedinareligiousway,abovewhatithathinitbynature;ifIhavenotScripturetowarrantmeIamthereinsuperstitious.It'saveryusefulrulefortohelpyou:IfanyCreaturethatyoumakeanyuseofinawayofReligionbeyondwhat it hath in its ownNature, if youhavenot somewarrant from theword of God (whatsoever specious show there may be in it) it issuperstition.Asnow for theplace, therewas aplace thatwasholy, butthen it had an institution fromGod.And so for garments, to use thosethataredecent, thelightofreasonisenough:but ifIwillputanythingupon them beyond what there is in them in their own Nature, asheretofore in a surplus, what, had that any more decency in its ownnature,butonlyman's institution?Nowwhenmanshallputareligiousrespectuponathing,byvirtueofhisowninstitutionwhenhehathnotawarrantfromGod;here'ssuperstition!wemustalbewillingworshipers,butnotWill-worshippers;WemustcomefreelytoworshipGod;butwemustnotworshipGodaccordingtoourownwills,andthereforewhateverwedointheworshipofGod,ifwehavenotawarrantforit,whenthisissaid,Whorequireththisatyourhands?Itwillstopourmouthsanotherday:InMatthew15.9.Invaindotheyworshipme,teachingfordoctrinethe commandments ofmen. In vain: it is a vain thing toworshipGod,when there is nothing but a commandment ofman for thisworship. IfyouwouldworshipGod,youmusthaveacommandmentofGodfortheworship: And in Isa. 29. 13. there is a place to the same purpose, thatshowshowtheLordisoffendedwithanymanthatshallteachhisfearbytheir own precepts,Wherefore the Lord said, forasmuch as this peopledrawnearmewiththeirmouth,andwiththeirlipsdohonorme,buthaveremovedtheirheartfarfromme,andtheirfeartowardsmetaughtbythepreceptsofmen.Markit:Nowifthisbeso,theLordhavemercyuponusinthisthing.Youhavecausetobehumbledeveryoneofyou;Ibelieveinsome degree or other, this congregation very much, and mostcongregationsthathavehadthefearofGodtaughtthembythepreceptsofmen:HowmanythingshavetherebeenintheworshipofGodthatyoucanshownowarrantinthewordfor?Agreatmanythingsmerelymen'sinventions,howevertheyarenowcastout,becauseauthoritycameinandcastthemout,andsoyousubmittoit;butthatisnotenoughforyoutosubmit to it because authority would have it so; but you ought to behumbledbeforeGodforallyourwill-worship,forallyouryieldingstoany

thingintheworshipofGod,thatwastaughtbythepreceptsofmen:YouseehowsevereGodwastoNadabandAbihuforbuttakingotherfirethanthatwhichGodhadappointedtoofferup incense, thoughtherewasnodirect Commandment against it. If the Lord hath spared you, and notmanifested any displeasure upon you, you have cause to acknowledgeGod'smercy,andtobehumbledforallyourfalseworship;CertainlyGoddoth expect it from this land to be humbled for their will-worship, orotherwisetheysowamongthorns:AlltheReformationthatisamongus,if there be not a humiliation before, for all our false worship; 'tis notenough that we set up now the true worship of God, but we must behumbled for our false worship. And that's the first note; That in theworshipofGodtheremustbenothingbutwhatGodcommands.

The SecondNote is, In thematters of worship, God stands upon littlethings: Such things as seem to be very small and little to us, yet Godstandsmuchupon them in thematter ofworship. For there is nothingwherein the prerogative of God dothmore appear than in worship: asprinces,theystandmuchupontheirPrerogatives:NowGodhathwrittenthelawofnaturalworshipinourhearts,asthatweshouldloveGod,fearGod,trustinGod,andpraytoGod;thisGodhathwritteninourhearts:Butthereareother things intheworshipofGodthatarenotwritten inourhearts, thatonlydependuponthewillofGodrevealed inhisword,whichwerenoduties except theywere revealed inhisword.And theseareofsuchanatureaswecanseenoreasonfor,butonly this,becauseGod will have them. As now, there are many kinds of ceremonies tomanifest honor to princes that there is no reason for them at all, butmerelybecause it isacivil institutionsoappointed:SoGodwouldhavesomewaysforthehonoringofhim,thatthecreatureshouldnotseeintothereasonofthem,butmerelythewillofGodtohavethemso:NowGodstandsmuchuponlittlethings,thoughmenwouldthinkitalittlematterwhetherthisfire,orthatfire,andwillnotthisburnaswellasthat?ButGodstandsuponit:Andsofortheark,whenIzzadidbuttouchtheark,whenitwasreadytofall,wewouldthinkitnogreatmatter,butonetouchofthearkcosthimhislife.ThereisnotanyoneminimumintheworshipofGod, butGod standsmightilyupon it: In thematter of theSabbath,that's His worship, for a poor man to gather a few sticks, what greatmatter is it? But God stands upon it. And so when the men of

Bethshemeshdidbutlookintotheark,itcostthelivesoffiftythousandthreescoreandtenmen.Ifitbeamatterofaholythingthatconcernshisworship,hewouldnothave itabused inanything.Letus learntomakeconscienceoflittlethingsintheworshipofGod,andnottothink,Ohownicesuchare,andhowpreciseandniceinsuchsmallthings!Thoudoestnot understand the nature ofDivineworship if so be thou art not niceabout it; God is nice and stands upon little things in thematter of hisworship.

AnotherNoteisthis;ThatthereisnoprivilegesordignitiesofmanthatcansecurethemfromGod'sstroke.

First, Moses the man of God, he was their uncle, Aaron that greatinstrumentofGod'sglory,hewastheirfather:Theywerementhatwerenewly consecrated to the priests office, they were renowned, men thatGodputmuchgloryupon;yet if theywill venturebut tooffendGod inthis little thing, God's wrath breaks out upon them, and kills thempresently.Letustakeheedthenofventuring,anddonotthinkthatanyservices that we have done heretofore can bear us out; If the greatestcannot be bore out with all their privileges, how dare we poor wormsventureuponthedispleasureofGod?Thouthatartaworthlesscreatureofnouseatall intheworld,darest thouprovokethisGod,whenastheLordissoangryagainstmenthatareofgreatuseandservice,toletouthiswrathuponthemsuddenly?Ifyoushouldseeaprincenotsparehisfavorite,orhisnoblesthatareabouthim,butupononeoffencethatwethink is but a little offence, that the princes anger should be somuchagainst them as to cost them their lives; what cause is there for poorpeople to tremble then,when theyhavedone thatwhichmay incur theangeroftheprince?Youseealloutwardprivilegesandgreatnesswillnotexcuse from the stroke of God's Justice, it should not excuse from thestrokeofmansjustice:It'strue,amongmen,poorpeopletheygotoitifthey offend, but if greatmen offend, they escape; but it is not so withGod,forNadabandAbihuweregreatandrenownedmen.

Thefourthnoteis,thatthemorethedignityofmenis,themoreistheirdanger if they look not to it: And this note I gather from hence, ThatNadabandAbihuwerethetwoeldestsonsofAaron,andwefindintheScripturethatEleazerandIthamerthatwerethetwoothersonsofAaron,

theyescapedandwerenotthusconsumed.Why?Becausethetwoeldersons had the dignity and privilege to come and offer the incense, andhavinggreaterdignitythantheyounger,andnotbeingcarefultobehavethemselves as theyought todo, theLord smote them, and the youngertheyescaped.Andsomanytimestheythatareinameanerconditiontheyescape,whenthosethatareinahigherconditiontheyarestruck.Letmenthat are in higher conditions than others look to themselves, for theirdangerisgreater:Andyouthatareinameanercondition,envynotthosethatarehigher,foryoumaybemoresafeinthatmeanconditionwhichyouarein,thantheyintheirs.

Thefifthnoteisthis,thatthebeginningsofthingsofhighconcernment,domeetsometimeswithgreatdifficultiesand interruptions.ThisnoteIgather from hence, That Nadab and Abihu were struck at the verybeginningof theirpriesthood:Asnow, suppose therewereanewofficeerected in a commonwealth that concerned the public good of theKingdom,andintheveryfirsterectingoftheofficetherefallsoutsomehideous accident that rings throughout the whole Kingdom, as if Godfrom heaven had done something against them in that office: As now,supposethatthefirsttimethejudgesshouldcomeatthebench,thatGodshould strike them from heaven dead at the very bench, it would be amightymattertodarkenthegloryandhonorofthatoffice.Soonewouldthinkthatitshouldhavebeenamightymattertohavedarkenedthegloryand thehonorof thepriesthoodalways:butGod standsnotupon that,manytimesthebeginningsofgreatthingsaredarkenedbysadaccidents,andthereforeletusnotbeoffendedthoughweseesomesadaccidentstofalloutatthebeginningofgreatthings,forthoughaccidentsfalloutsadlyatfirst,yetGodmayprosperitafterwards,ashedidthepriesthood.

Thesixthnoteis,thatthosethatenterintopublicplaces.andespeciallysuchplacesasconcerntheworshipofGod,theyhadneedhavethefearofGodmuchupon themwhen they first enter into thoseplaces.Now thiswereaverygoodpointifIweretopreachtoanauditoryofministers.YouseeNadabandAbihuupontheirfirstconsecrationtheLordsmotethemforthislittlemiscarriageaswewouldthink.Andthat'sasixthnotewhichespeciallyconcernsministers,andthereforeIpassitover.

The seventh note that we have, and that's very useful for us all, God

wouldhaveusalltopickouthismindfromdarkexpressionsinhisword.

Though he doth not expressHiswill fully, and in express terms; yet iftherebeanythinginHiswordwherebywemaycometogatherthemindofGod,GodexpectsthatweshouldgatherHismindoutofHisword,andifwedonotit'satourownperil.

ThemindofGodaboutthisstrangefirethattheseoffered,youwillsay,theywere topick it out:How could theyhave known that itwasGod'smindthattheyshouldnotofferanyfirebutthatonthealtar?

Theyshouldhavereasonedthuswiththemselves,whathathGodletfirecomedown fromheavenupon the altar, andhathHe commanded thatthatshouldbepreservedonthealtarforHisservice?SurelythismustbeGod'smind then, thatwe shouldmake use of this fire rather than anyotherfire:Godexpectsthattheyshouldhavereasonedthus,butbecausethey did not pick out God's mind by reasoning after this manner,therefore the hand of God came out upon them. They offended, and itmay be itwas through ignorance, but itwas at their peril, if theywereignorantofthemindofGodwhenitmightbeknownthoughitwerebutdarklyrevealed,andweretobepickedoutfromseveralplacescomparedtogether, itwas at their peril. It is a point thatwehave a great deal ofneedof: forthis isthevainheartofman,that if therebeanythingthatGod would have that is not suitable to his own ends, he will standwranglingagainstit,andcavellingatit;howdothitappear(willhesay)can you bring express Scripture for it? Bring me express Scripture inwordsfortoproveit,andthenIwillbelieveit;andsostandsouttillyoubringsomanywordsofScripturethatforbidssuchathing,orcommandssuch a duty. Now my brethren if you be of this temper, that you willforbearnothing,norsetupanythingbutwhatyouhavedirectlyexpresswords of Scripture for, you may run at your own peril into woefuldangers,intowoefulsins:knowthatGodhathsorevealedagreatpartofhismindasit isonlytobeknownbygatheringonethingfromanother,and by comparing one thing with another. And God expects this fromyou, that if upon examination of Scripture that one thing appearmorelikelytobehismindandwillthananother;youareboundtogothatwaythatismorelikely.Itoldyoubefore,thatinmattersofworshipwemusthavewarrantfromtheword;butitdothnotfollow,thatwemusthavea

directexpresswarrantineverything:Asitismanytimesinsomekindofpicture,thegreatart,itisinthecastofthelooks;youcannotsay,it'sinthedrawingofthisline,ortheotherline,butaltogether,itisthecastofthe looks thatcauses thebeautyof thepicture:So in theScripture,youcannotsaythatthisoneline,ortheotherline,takeitsinglethatprovesit,butletthembelaidalltogetherandtherewillbeakindofaspectofGod'smind,thatwemayseethatthisisthemindofGodratherthantheother,andweareboundtogothatway.

Now so farNadab andAbihumight have seen, that they should ratherhave taken fire off the altar than any other fire: But they presumedbecausetheyhadnotexpressword,andyouseeitwasattheirperil.Ohtake heed of standing out, and wrangling against what is required,because you have not expresswords; the Lord hath laid things so, andespecially in theNewTestament, for the ordering of the Church in theNew Testament, as you have not express command for abundance ofthings,butsometimesanexample insomethings,andsometimesnotaclear example neither; but compare one thing with another, and thatwhichseemstobenearestthemindofGodthatshouldbebondenoughto us, to tie us to go according to what the mind of God seems mostprobabletobeintheScripture;andanhumbleteachableheartwillsoonbeconvinced,whenanothermanwillnot.

We find it clearly, that such things that aremost suitable tomensownends,alittlematterwillservetheturntopersuadementoit,thoughonemight argue against it: I could easily show it, but that I think it not soconvenient in pulpits to meddle with such things as those are. Thosethings I saywhichare suitable tomen'sownendsandways, themtheywill closewithal;butother things thatdocross the flesh, thataremostoppositetolooseness,andwouldbringmenmostunderthegovernmentofChrist, those thingsmenstandoutagainst,andtheymusthaveclearandexpresswords,expressandclearwarrantoutofthewordinsomanyterms, or otherwise by no means they will not so much as yield to it:That'sapointthatifGodwouldbutsettleituponourhearts,mightbeofvery great use; A gracious heart will see the truth through a very littlecrevice;But it ismarveloustoconsiderwhatadothere is toconvinceamanbeforeheishumbled,ofsomepartofGod'swill;andhoweasyisit

toconvinceamanafterheishumbled.

The eghth note is this, that sinnersmaymeetwith some judgments ofGodthatwereneverthreatenedinhisword.

God did never threaten beforehand, and say, whosoever offers strangefire, I will consume themwith fire from heaven; But theymeet with ajudgment thatwasnot threatened; consider of this, itmaybewhenwecome to speak out of the word, and show you plainly how God doththreaten such and such sins, you are afraid then; but know, if thouventurestuponwaysof sin, thoumayestmeetwithdreadful judgmentsexecutedthatneveryetwerethreatened:Besidesallthosejudgmentsthatare threatened in the Book of God, thoumayest meet with judgmentsunheard of, unexpected: As God hath mercies beyond what he hathexpresslyrevealedinhisword,forneverwasitheardsincethebeginningoftheworldwhatGodhathlaidupforthemthatlovehim:SoGodhathjudgmentsbeyondwhatisinhisword.SometimeswhentheministersofGoddoopenthethreateningthatareinGod'sword,youthinkthattheyare terrible: But know that God in the treasury of his judgments hathmoredreadful things thaneveryethathbeenrevealed inhisword;andtherefore learn to tremble, not only at what is revealed in God's wordagainstthysin,buttrembleatwhatthereisinthatinfinitejustice,power,andwisdomofGodtofindout,andexecuteuponsinners;forthouartasinner,andespeciallyifthoubeestaboldandpresumptuoussinner;thoumayest I say expect tomeetwithwhatsoever evil an infinitewisdom isabletodevise,andthataninfinitepowerisabletobringupontheethatthouartcapableof:Thoucommittestsuchandsuchasin;perhapsthoudoestnotknowofanyparticular judgmentthat is threatenedagainst it;but think thus, I thatdoprovokeGodbymysins,whatmayI look for?'Tismore than I know to the contrary, but thatwhatsoever the infinitewisdomofGodisabletofindout,andwhatmiserysoeverIamcapableof,thattheLordmaybringuponme.Considerofthis,andtakeheedofsin.

The ninth observation is this, that God is very quick with some in thewaysofhisjudgments.

Itmay be hemay spare others for a long time, but concerning thee he

maysay,thoushaltnotoffendtwice.Ifthouwiltventurethefirstact,Godmaystriketheewithdeath;hedidsoherewithNadabandAbihu,fortheywerebutnewlyconsecrated,soIfinditbyinterpreters,thattheyweretobe in consecration for seven days, and this was the first day that theycametotheirplace,andintheveryfirstactthattheydid,Goddidsmitethem: Let us tremble: the Lord is quick towards some, he is patienttowardsothers,butdonotthoupresumebecauseheispatienttoothers,hemaytaketheeintheveryfirstactofthysin,andbequickwiththee.

Thetenthnote is this, that theholinessofadutywillneverbearamanoutinthemiscarriageofit.

Thiswasaholyduty,theywerethetruepriestsofGod,theycametoofferincensetothetrueGod,Itwasrightincensethattheyoffered,therewasbut this one miscarriage, They had not the same fire that God wouldhave;now thismiscarriageGodcomesupon them for,andall thegoodtherewasinthedutyitwouldnotbearthemout.

Considerofthis,youthatperformmanyholyduties,takeheedofgivingwaytoyourselvesinanymiscarriage,fordonotthink,thatbecauseyourduties are very good and holy, that by doing thereof youmay ventureuponmixture;takeheedofmixinganyevil,anymiscarriageinanyholything,thoughyouhaveperformedathousandholyduties,yetitwillnotbearyououtinthemiscarriageofthem.

The eleventh note is this, that the Lord is very terrible out of his holyplaces.

ThenoteisthesamethatyouhaveinPsal.68.35.TheLordisterribleoutofhisholyplaces:WhenwehavetodealwithGod,whocanstandbeforethisholyGod?ourGodisaconsumingfire:TheLordmanifestshimselfheremostdreadfullytostrikewithfirethesetwopriests,asinEzek.9.6.BeginatmySanctuary,saithGod.Godisterrible,terribletowardsthosethatshalldaretoapproachuntohim,andyetarewickedandungodlyintheir approaching, he is terrible to those that are near unto him, Godwouldhaveusalltotrembleathispresence.

In the twelfth place, God's judgments are often very suitable to men's

sins.

Heretheysinnedbyfire,andtheyareconsumedbyfire.Theyoffendedbystrange fire, andGod strikes them by a strange fire. The judgments ofGodare very suitable to the sinsofmenoftentimes.Ashereby fire, soanothertimewefinditbywater:Pharaohhesinsbydrowningtheinfantsof thepeopleof Israel in thewaters,andGoddrownshimin thesea. Ifyouwillbedrowningbywater, youshallhavewaterenoughsaithGod:And so here, if you will be meddling with strange fire, you shall havestrange fire saith God: God dothmany times proportion judgments tosinners that his righteousness might the more appear: those verycreaturesinwhichwesin,manytimesGodmakesthem,orothersofthesamekind,tobetheexecutionersofhiswrath.So itwaswiththeJews,theywould sell Christ for 30 pieces of silver, and theywere sold 30 ofthemforapennyafterwards.AndsothestoryofAdoni-bezekinthefirstofJudges,thatwassocruelinsuchawaytocutoffthumbsandtoesofKings,evensohewasserved in the likekind:and it'sordinary formenthatareofcruelfieryspirits,tomeetwithcruelfieryspiritslikewise.

AndIwouldapplyitinthisparticular,Youthatarestoutchildrentoyourparents,ifGodletsyoulive,youmanytimesmeetwiththeverysameinyour children, and when you that are parents meet with stubbornchildren, you should reflect, doth not God come righteously uponme?And so you that are servants, you are stout to your masters, andafterwardswhenyou come tohave servants theywill be so to you; andperhaps you were unfaithful to your governors, afterwards when youcometohaveservants, it'sathousandtoonebuttheywillbesotoyou.Nowyoushouldstrikeyourhanduponyourheartandsay,It'sjustwithGodthat itshouldbeso,andthatHeshouldcomeuponmeinmyownkind.

Anothernote is this, theyoffered strange fire.Let's takeheed all of us,howwebringstrangefireintoGod'sservice.

BringstrangefireintoGod'sservice,what'sthat?

I find diverse writers speaking upon this, saith Ambrose, lusts, andcovetousnessarethisstrangefire.ThatwhichIwouldhaveyouconsider

of, isthis,aboveallstrangefire, takeheedofthestrangefireofpassionandanger;andespecially in theworshipofGod;andatany timewhenyoufindyourheartsheatedandfiredwithanger,whenyouareabouttoworshipGod,rememberthisScripture,NadabandAbihuwereconsumedbyGod,withfirefromGod,forcomingintoGod'spresencewithstrangefire: Now, O Lord, how often have we come into thy presence withstrange fire! Perhaps your hearts have been burning hot with passionwhen you have been coming intoGod's presence: You are to praywithfervency,forsotheScripturesaith:weareindeedtobeheatinprayer,bytheHolyGhost inourhearts,but certainlynot to comewith the fireofpassionandanger:Liftupyourhandswithoutwrathanddoubting.Ifyouhavebeenpassionate,andyourheartshavebeenheatthatway,besureyougetyourheartscoldbeforeyougotoprayer.Andsowhenyoucometoheartheword,ifyourheartshavebeenheatwithpassion,besureyougetthemcoldbeforeyoucometoheartheword:Receivewithmeeknesstheingraftedwordthatmaysaveyoursouls.

AndsowhenyoucometotheLord'sSupper,Takeheedofcomingwithwrath and malice, for then you come but to offer strange fire. It is aspecialconsiderationforministersthatcometopreach,theyshouldtakeheed of bringing strange fire into their pulpits; that is, of venting theirownpassions;Thathathbeeneverarule,thatIhavebeenconvincedofsinceIknewanythingofpreaching,Thatthatmanthat isappointedtorevealGod'swrath,hadneedtoconcealhisownwrath:that'scertainlyaruleforallpreachers,fortheLordsendshispreacherstomakeknownhiswrathagainstmenssins;butnow,themoretheymakeknownhiswrath,themoretheyshouldconcealtheirown;andsobythatmeanswhentheycome in the openest way to manifest God's wrath, the more theirpreachingwouldbeaccepted.Nowit'strue,acarnalheartwouldbereadytothink,thatwhenapreacherspeaksoutoftruezealtoGod,hewillbereadytosay,thathehathaimingathimself: takeheedofthat,Ibelieveyouhavehadbut little occasionof such a temptation in thisplace: buthoweverthisIknow, it is thedutyof theministersofGodtobesuretobringnothingbutthefireoftheSpiritofGod,thefirethattheyhavefromthe alter; their tongues being touchedwith one of these coals, and notthat they should come with their own passions to further therighteousness of God, no, the wrath of man doth not accomplish the

righteousnessofGod.Therearesomeotherparticularswhichbeinglaiddown,weshallcometothethreemainpoints.

SermonII-GodWillbeSanctifiedinThoseWhoDrawNeartoHim

LEVITICUS.10.3.

IwillbeSanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

Webeganthesewords the lastday,andshowedthescopeof them,andopened themeaning of them, and spoke of divers notes of observationthat we gathered from this story of Nadab and Abihu, and of God'sdealingwiththem.Fromthegeneralstoryofit,thereweremanypointsofnotable observation that were drawn from thence: I'll add some morenow,andsocometothemaindoctrinalpointintheText.

Afurthernoteofobservationisthis,thatmanytimeseventhedearSaintsofGoddomeetwithverysoreandgrievousafflictionsintheirchildren.

That themost eminent saints of God are not freed from very grievousafflictionsevenintheirchildren;ItwasoneofthesorestafflictionsthatalmosteveranysaintofGodmetwithallinhischildren;thisafflictionofAaronatthistime,Thattwoofhissons,and(asItoldyouthelastday)renownedmen in Israel, newly consecrated to the office of priesthood,thattheveryfirstdaytheycametoofferintheiroffice,theywerestruckbeforeallthepeoplewithfirefromheavenandconsumed:Ohwhatasadaffliction was it to Aaron their father when he saw his sons in such amanner destroyed by God himself! Consider of this you that havechildren,andarereadytomurmurandcomplainofeverylittleafflictionthatisuponyouinrespectofyourchildren:Ifsobethatyourchildrenbebut a little sick, or there be anymiscarriage of them, you think it is aheavy hand of God; But especially if God take away your children bydeath, thenyoumournandwillnotbe comforted:Yeabut thoughGodhave taken away your children by death, yea perhaps it may be by a

violentdeath,asbeingdrowned,&c.yet theyhavenotbeenstruckwithfire from heaven by God, and they have not been of such public use.These here were renownedmen, and taken away in their very sin too,yourchildrenwhichhavegoneupontheir lawfulemploymentsandGodhathtakenawaytheirlives;there'snosuchcauseofmurmuringhere,butwhenGodtakesawaychildrenintheirsins,andinsuchawayasbyfirefromheaven;thusGodtookawayAaron'schildren,andhewasasdeartoGod as you are: And yet thusGod dealswith his saints;withAaron inregardofhischildren,andwithhiselderchildrenandwithtwoofthemtogether.Thisexamplemaybeenoughtostillandquiettheheartsofmenand women that are afflicted in respect of any calamity befalls theirchildren. You see what a hand of God is against the very children ofAaron.

AfurtherNoteisthis,thatGod's judgementsweseesometimes,thoughtheeffectofthembevisible,yettheycomeinaninvisibleway.

Foryoushallfindifyoureadoninthisstory,thattheyweresmotewithfirefromheaven,butitdidnotappearwhatfire,foritdidnotsomuchasconsume their clothes, nor their bodies, but went through and struckthemdead,andnobodycouldtellhow.God's judgementsdocomeinawaythatisinvisible:ifithadbeeninavisibleflameoffireallwouldhaveseen it, and it would have burnt their clothes, or their bodies: but youshallfindinthe5verse,thattheywerecarriedawayfromthesanctuaryintheirchothes,theywerenotburnt.

Anothernoteisthis,thatthoughthelivesofmenbedearandprecioustoGod,yettheyarenotsopreciousashisglory.

ThegloryofhisNameisathousandthousandtimesmoredearuntoGodthen the lives of thousand thousands of people; the lives ofNadab andAbihumustgothatGodmaybesanctified:Ifitcomessointheway(asImaysosay)helivesofmenandthesanctifyingofGod'sName,thegloryofGodmust pass on, andmast have its course let the lives ofmen gowhichwaytheywill.

Wethinkmuchtohavethelivesofmentakenaway;butifweknowwhatthegloryofGodmeant,andwhatinfinitereasonthereisthatGodshould

begloriedin,wewouldnotthinkitmuchthatthelivesofneversomanymen should go for the glory ofGod. 'Tismercy that our lives have notgonemany times for God's glory: How oftenmight God have glorifiedhimself in taking away our lives?Wehave cause to bless him, that ourliveshavebeenpreservedsolongastheyhave.

Againnote,thattheneareranymenaretoGod,themoretheyhadneedtakeheedthattheyglorifyhim,fortheymustexpecttobesparedthelessiftheysinagainsthim.

NadabandAbihuthepriestsofGod,andtheycameneartoGod,yetbytheir transgression: though I told you we do not find in any place ofScripture directly in words that this fire is forbidden, but they shouldhave gatheredGod'smind by consequence,And therefore by theway Ionlynote,Thatwemustnot think tourgeuponmen inall thingsstrictcommandsinverywords,butifitbecommandedsoaswemaydrawitbyanyconsequence,it'sacommand,asnowhereforthenegative,theyhadnotanegativeprohibition inwords,yet theyhad itbyconsequence;Sofortheaffirmative,thoughwehavenottheaffirmativeinexpresswords,yet ifwemayhave it by consequence it is an affirmative aswell as thenegative, when we have it by consequence. But now the note ofobservationis,thattheneareranycomestoGodiftheysinagainsthim,theymustnotexpecttobespared.DonotthinkthatGodwillspareyouthemorebecauseyouareprofessorsofreligion,orbecauseyoudooftenworshiphim:IsupposeyouthatareacquaintedwithScriptureknowthatplaceinAmos3.2.YouonlyhaveIknownofallthefamiliesoftheearth:thereforeIwillpunishyouforallyouriniquities.

Anothernoteisthis,thatwhenajudgementisexemplary,thenweshouldhave recourse to thewordofGod, to seehowGoddothmakehiswordgoodinthatjudgement.

SoMoses doth, this is that which the Lord hath said. Do you see anyremarkablehandofGodintheexecutionofajudgementuponone,haverecoursetoGod'sword,andpresentlybegintothinkthis,WhatisthereinGod'swordagainstthatsinthatthismanhathbeenguiltyof?IfyouseeajudgementofGoduponaDrunkard,rememberthethreatsinthewordofGod against drunkenness, and so the judgements ofGoduponunclean

persons, swearers, Sabbath breakers, liars, or any profane and ungodlypersons,haverecoursetothejudgementsofGodthreatenedinthewordagainst such; and so likewise concerning scorners and opposers ofreligion,rememberwhatissaidinthewordofGodagainstsuch,andsolearntosanctifyGod'sNames.WemighthavementionedsomeparticularthreatsofGodagainstparticularsinnersforthehelpingofyou,thatwhenyouseeexemplaryjudgements,tohaverecoursetothewordofGod.Butweletthatpasse.

A further note from this story is this, that the great honour that GodintendstohisName,ItisthemakingofhisNameholy.Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatdrawnighme,andbeforeallthepeopleIwillbeglorified.

As ifMosesshouldsay inGod'sname,why, Imusthaveglory fromthepeople,andhow?Bymakingmynameappeartobeholy,thisistheglorythatIstanduponaboveallotherthingsthatmyNamemayappeartobeholy,thatImayappeartobeaholyGod.Ibeseechyoubrethrenconsiderofthis,

God stands upon nothingmore then to appear to all theworld to be aholyGod,there'sthegloryofGod'sNameinaneminentway,Goddothnotsomuchstanduponthis,toappeartobeastrongGod,toappeartobeapowerfulGod,tobeaGodofpatience,long-suffering,GoddothnotsomuchstandtobeanomniscientGod,thoughtheseattributesaredeartoGod,but thathemayappear tobeaholyGod: thathe standsupon.Whatever glory of theName ofGod, thatGod shall be content to haveeclipsedintheworldforawhile,yetheisresolvedhewillhavethegloryofhisholinessaboveall things:andthereforetheAngelswhentheyarecelebrating the glory ofGod, they do not say LordAlmighty,Almighty,Almighty,orLordOmniscient,Omniscient,Omniscient,butHoly,Holy,Holy.Thosethreetogether,theholinessofGod,thereinappearsthegloryofGodaboveall:GodstandsuponitthathewillappeartobeaholyGod.

OhthatthosewhoprofessthemselvestobetheservantsofGod,thattheywould especially endeavour to hold forth God's holiness; you that areneartoGod,youthathopeyouareGod'schildren,andmakeprofessionofhisName, labouryoutoholdforththegloryofhisholinessaboveallthings,inyourholylivesandconversations:forGodstandsuponthis,to

havehisNametobesanctifiedIwillhesanctifiedsaysGod,andIwillbeglorified,sohedothinterpretthegloryofhisNamebybeingsanctified.AsifGodshouldsay,that'stheglorythatIlookfor,ThatmyNamemaybe extolled as holy: And therefore the very first petition that Christteaches us to pray in the Lord's prayer, it is, Hallowed be thy Name,whichisallonewiththis,sanctifiedbethyName;OhlettheNameofGodappear to be holy in theworld: that's another note, that these two arejoinedtogether,I'llbesanctifiedinthosethatdrawnighme,andIwillbeglorifiedbeforethepeople.

Againobserve,thatitisthepartoftruefriendship,tohelpfriendsintheirdistresses,andseektocomfortthemfromtheword.

Thoughweourselvesbeinafflictions,yetweshouldseektocomfortourfriends thatare ingreaterafflictions,andtocomfort themby theword,forsodidMoses:Mosescomes tocomfortAaronandapplies theword,ThisisthatwhichtheLordhathsaid,Iwillbesanctified.Nowmark,noquestionMoses was afflicted upon this heavy hand of God, for he wastheir uncle; but though itwas heavy upon the uncle, yet itwas heavieruponthefather,andthereforethoughMoseswastroubled,yetheknewthatAaronwasmoretroubled,andthereforehegoestoAaronandseekstocomforthim,andhemakesuseofthewordinhiscomfortingofhim.Learn this then, togoandcomfortyourbrethren, forAaronwasMosesbrother;goandcomfortthemintheirafflictions,andthinknotbecausethatyouhavesomeafflictionsuponyou,thatthereforeyoushouldnotbea comfort to your brethren: their affliction is greater then yours, andwhenyoucometocomfort,them,comenotinamerecarnalwayandsay,brotheryoumustbecontent,butyoumustcomeandapplysomewhatofthewordofGodtocomfortthemandsay,thisisthatwhichtheLordhathspoke;andtothatendyoushouldlabourtobeexercisedinthewordofGod,thatsoyoumaybeabletogotoyourbrethrenandcomforttheminanyaffliction;forthereisnoparticularafflictionbutthereissomewordofGodthatissuitabletothatparticularaffliction,andthosewhoarewellexercised in the word of God, they can apply some word to everyaffliction: And indeed this is an excellent friend, and such a friend isworthhisweightingold,thatcancometoanotherfriendinanyafflictionand ever more hath some what of the word of God to apply to that

affliction.

Thelastobservationisthis,thatAaronheldhispeace.

Fromwhencewemaynote,thatthereisnosuchwaytoquietagraciousheart under any afflictions in the world as that God will fetch out hishonourbyit.

Itisgrievoustome,butGodfetchesouthisgloryandhonourbyit.Theapplying of the word, and the consideration that God hath his way tofetch out his glory in our afflictions is the onlyway to quiet a graciousheart.All thesepointsmight takeupa greatdeal of time,but Iwill letthempasseandcome to themainpointofall, Iwillbesanctified inallthosethatcomenighme.Therearethesethreepointsinthesewords:

1First,ThatintheworshipofGod,menandwomendrawnightoGod.

2 Secondly, That we ought to sanctify God's Name in drawing nigh tohim.

3Thirdly,That ifwedonotsanctify it,Godwill sanctifyhisownNameuponus.

First,ThatinworshippingofGod,thereisadrawingnightoGod.

Quest.WhyisnotGodineveryplace?

Answ.Yescertainly,wecanneverbeinanyplacebutwearenightoGod,God stands by us and looks upon us. It is not only when you areworshippingofGodthatyouarenighhim,butwhenyousinagainsthim:whenthouartswearingprofaninghisNamehisDay,Godstands&looksupon thee thouartnighhim:And itmaybesaidorwrittenuponeveryplace,whatwassaidofthecityinthelastwordsoftheProphecyofEzek.48.35.Thenameof the citywasJehova-Shammah, that is, theLord isthere, theLordJehovahhe is there,he ispresent in thisplace:Oh thatyouwould rememberwhen you are in anyplace, that thenameof thatplace is Jehova-Shammah, The Lord is there. In himwe live,wemoveandhaveourbeing.ThereforewearealwaysnighhimyeabutthoughwearealwaysnighGodinregardofthatessentialpresenceofhis,yetthereis

a more peculiar and special drawing nigh to God in the duties of hisworship, and that the Scripture seems to hold forth unto you. First I'llshowyouhowtheScriptureholdsitforth,andtheninwhatrespectsthecreaturemaybesaidtodrawnightoGodinholydutiesofworship;forsoitwashere,theywerecomingtoofferincense.

1ThatwedodrawnightoGodinholyduties,*seeJam.4.8.DrawnightoGod (so that youmaybenearerGod thenyouwere) that is, byholydervices,&holyduties,&henceitisinPs.95.2.Letus(saithhe)comebefore his presencewith thanksgiving, so that there is amore peculiarcoming before God's presence when we come to worship him then atothertimes:Andv.6.Ocomeletusworshipandhowdown,letuskneelbefore the Lord ourmaker. So in Psal. 100. 2. Let us come before hispresencewithsinging,forthat'sonepartoftheworshipofGod.ButtheScriptureisplain,thatthereisaspecialcomingbeforeGodwhenwearecoming toworshiphim,and in this respect theservantsofGod inPsal.148. 14. are said to be a people near to God. It is a very remarkableexpressionandlets forthmuchthehonourof thesaintsofGod:There'sthecommendationoftheexcellentestateofthesaints.Healsthehornofhispeople,thepraiseofallhissaintseventhechildrenofIsrael,apeoplenearuntohim.The saints ofGod, the children of Israel, theChurchofGod are said to be a people near toGod;Whynear him?Because thattheyworshipGod,theyaremuchexercisedintheworshipofGod.Thisisonerespectthoughtheremaybediversothersmentioned,yetinrespectof their coming somuch beforeGod in hisworship, therefore they arenearGod.

Quest.Nearhim,why,inwhatrespectsmayamanbesaidtodrawnightoGodwhenheworshipshim?

Answ.TothatIanswer,therearethreerespectsinwhichamanwhenheisworshippingofGodmaybesaidtodrawnightoGod:

1 First, Becausewhenwe come toworshipGod,we come to tender upthathomageandserviceuntohim,thatisduefromusascreaturestotheinfinitecreatorthat'stheveryendofworship.IfyouwouldknowwhatitistoworshipGod,itisthis:

You come to tender up that homage and respect that is due from thecreature to the creator. Now when a subject comes to tender up hishomage to his prince, he comes towards him, when he doth itimmediately: Sowehavenone to tender it upbybut JesusChrist, andwhenwe tender it upwemust come ourselves too, for Christ doth nottakeourserviceandtenderituptoGodandwebeabsent,butwemustcomewithChrist,andChristtakesusbythehandandsotendersituptotheFatherwhileweareinpresence,sothatwearesaidtocomenightoGod in that respect, because of the immediate tendering up of thatworshipofourstoGod;Icallitimmediateinrespectofanycreature:ButinrespectofChristindeedheisaMediatortodoit,butyethedothitinaspiritualway,andwehavetodowithnonebutGodthroughJesusChristin the tendering up of our worship to him: We may make use of aninstitutionthatGodhathappointed,butwedonottenderupourworshiptoGodthroughthatcreature,butintheuseofthatcreaturewedocometo God, and our souls are to tender up that respect we owe to Godimmediately. Therefore in Levit. 21. 21. it is said of the priests in theirsacrifices,whentheywere tocometoworshipGod,nomanthathathablemish of the seed of Aaron the priest shall come nigh to offer theofferingsof theLordmadeby fire.So thatwhenany come toofferanyofferings of theLordmadeby fire, it appearshe camenigh toGod: hecame to bring a present toGod: therefore he comes nigh. SowhenwecometoofferourspiritualsacrificesuntoGod,wecomenightoGodtooffer, it's the offering of a sacrifice to God. And that's the first thing,becausethecreaturecomestobringapresenttoGod,thereforeheissaidtodrawnigh.

Andsecondly,thesoulissaidtodrawnightoGodinholyduties,becauseitdothpresentit'sselfbeforeGodinthosewaysthroughwhichGoddothuse to communicate his choice, precious, most excellent and gloriousmerciestohispeople:Isay,whenwecometoworshipGod,wecometosetourselvesbeforeGodinthosewaysthatGoddothusetocommunicatethe choice, most excellent and glorious rich mercies that he hath tocommunicatetohiscreature.

Whenwehavetodealwithcreatures,asmeatanddrink,andouroutwardbusinesses we have to do with God in them; but when we come to

worshipGod,we come to present ourselves before him in those thingsthathedothusetoletouthimselfthoughinamorespecialandgloriousmannertothesoulsofhispeople.What'sthereasonwhyheavenissaidtobethepresenceofGod,andwhythosethatare inheavenaresaidtolivewithGod?TheretheybeholdthefaceofGodandarebeforehiminaspecialmanner,thereforewhenChristteachesustoprayheteachesustolookuptoheavenandtosay,OurFatherwhichart inheaven,&c.NowcertainlytheessentialpresenceofGodisonearthastrulyandreallyasinheaven,andGodisnotsoastohaveonepartinoneplace,andanotherinanother,butallGodisineveryplace,butthereasonwhyGodissaidtobeinheaven, it isbecause theLordmakesknownhimself there inamoreglorious manner then in any other place, and therefore heaven is thepresenceofGodinamorespecialway.NowthenifthecommunicationofGoduntoacreaturebeenoughtomakethepresenceofGodmorespecialifthisbeenoughtomakeacreaturetolivewithGod,andtobebeforehisface,becausetheyaretherewhereGoddothmostcommunicatehimself,thencertainlywhenwecometoworshipGod,wecometobenearGod,andbewithGodbecausethedutiesofhisworshiparethosemeansthattheLordhathappointedforthelettingoutofhimselfinthegloryofhisgoodness and mercy to his people: You may expect other manner ofcommunicationofGod'sgoodnessthroughthedutiesofhisworshiptheninanyotherway:Andthat'sthesecondrespectwhereinyoumaybesaidtodrawnightoGodinholyduties.

Thirdly, youmaybe said todrawnigh toGod,because thenwe should(and ifweworshipGodasweought,wedo)actour faithandhumility,and all the graces of the Spirit;Wedo act them, as itwere, uponGod,whenwecometoworshiphim:That'srequiredineverydutyofworship,thatyoushouldstirupthefacultiesofyoursouls,andallthegracesoftheSpirit of God, and you should act them upon God when you areworshippingofhim.TisnotenoughtocomewithgracewhenyoucometoworshipGod,buttheremustbeanactingofthatgraceuponGod.

And sowe find in Scripture, that the acting of grace uponGod, it is adrawingneartohim, therefore inIsa.29.13. theLordcomplainsthere,Thispeopledrawsneartomewiththeirlips,buttheirheartsarefarfromme, as if God should say, Indeed they come and speak to me, and

thereforetheythinktheydrawnightome,butIexpectthattheirheartsshould be acting uponme, that's themeaning. And in Zeph. 3. 2. Godcomplainsthereofhispeoplethattheydidnotdrawneartohimastheyshould:And it appearsplainly, itwas fromhence, that their gracesdidnotactsouponGodastheyought,Sheobeyednotthevoice:shereceivednotcorrection:shetrustednotintheLord:shedrewnotneartoherGod.SothatactingfaithuponGodisadrawingnightoGod,andsoactinganygraceuponGodisadrawingnightoGod.NowwhenisthereatimefortheactingofourgracesuponGodsoaswhenwecometoworshipGod?And therefore in Isa.64.7. theLordcomplains there,Thatnomandidstiruphimself to takeholdonhim.Whenwecome toworshipGodweshould stirupourselves to takeholdofGod.And thus you see inwhatrespects the soul may be said to draw nigh to God when it comes toworshiphim.

Nowfor theapplicationof thispointand it is indiversparticulars.Thefirstisthis,

HencelearnwhatyoudowhenyoucometoworshipGod,andconsiderofiteverytimeyoucometoperformanyactofworship.Trulythisonethingwouldbeofmarvelloususe,anditwouldhelpforwardtothenextpointofsanctifyingofGod'sName.Thisyouareall convincedof, that it isyourdutytoworshipGod,whenyouprayyoucometoworshipGod,whenyoucometohearhiswordyoucometoworshiphim,andwhenyoureceivethesacramentyouworshiphim.Now if I shouldcome fromoneendofthecongregationtotheother,andaskeveryoneofyouthisquestion:Itisyour duty to worship God, is it not? Yes: that you will all be ready toanswer. And what do you do when you worship God? I fear that thissecondquestionwouldgravellmany.Youwillsay,wemustpraytoGod,and serve him, and hear hisword, and go to the communion, yea, butwhatdoyoursoulsdointhisworkofworshippingofGod?Thisshouldbethe answer, and so you should think with yourselves, and charge thisuponyourownhearts,IamnowgoingtoworshipGod,eitherinprayer,word, or sacraments, I amnowgoing to tenderup that homage that isdue froma creature to the infinite creator, so that Imust so pray, as ImustmanifestthathighrespectthatIowetoGodasmyCreator;butthatI shall speak tomore afterward: only now remember this, that you do

professeverytimeyougotoprayer,thatyougototenderupthathomagethat you owe unto God and so every time you come to hear theword,thereisaprofessionthatyoucometotenderupthatrespectandhomagethat you owe to the infinite God: And so likewise when you come toreceivethesacrament.Nowwhenwecometoofferapresenttomen,weknowhowweprepare,andwithwhatsuitablepresencewedesiretooffer:butofthatafterwardwhenwecometospeakofsanctifyingGod'sName.

2Secondly,remember,whenIcometoworshipGod,Icometosetmyselfbefore the Lord in those ways that God doth let out the choice of hismerciestohispeoplein:IhavemanymerciesfromGodintheenjoymentof the creature, but when I come to worship him I expect thecommunicationofhismercyinanotherwaythenthroughanycreatureintheworld.ThedutiesofhisworshiparethechiefchannelsthatGoddothletoutthechoicestofhismerciestotheheartsofhispeoplethrough,andnowIamgoingtoworshiphim,IamgoingtopresentmyselfbeforeGod.Indeed there is a little glimmering of the light of God through othercreaturestome,butthegloriousbeamsofthelightofGodisthroughthedutiesofhisworship.

3Andthenthirdly,IamnowgoingtoactmysouluponGod,sothatifIhaveanyabilitiestoclosewithGod,toactmysouluponhim,itmustbeput forth now at this time; I am indeed at all times to labour to enjoycommunionwithGod,whenIseethecreatures,theSunandMoonandstarstolabourtoliftupmyhearttoGod,andwhenIseethegloryofGodin the sea, and for my meat and drink I am to bless God, and toacknowledgeGod inall;butnowwhenIcometoworshipGod, thenallthestrengthofmysoulistobeacteduponGodinamorespecialmanner;ImustthenabovealllabourtostirupwhatsoeverIhaveinmysoultoactuponGod,thisisnowtoworshipGod.

Secondly,*If toworshipGod,betodrawnightoGod,henceweseethereasons why guilty consciences have little mind to the duties of God'sworship.Whenamanorwomanhathgivenlibertytoanylicentiousway& sinned against their consciences, if they have any light in theirconsciences,it isoneofthemosttediousthingsintheworldtocometothedutiesofGod'sworship:theyhadratherdoanythingthentocometoholyduties,astoprayerandespeciallytosecretprayer.Amanorwoman

that hath an enlightened conscience, and is under the guilt of sin, thecoming toGod inholyduties, isaverygrievousburden to them:Why?Here'sthereason,becausetoworshipGodistodrawnightoGod,andtheguiltthatisuponthemhathmadethepresenceofGodterribletothem,and therefore they had rather go into their company & be merry, eat,drink, sport, or any thing rather then to come intoGod's presence.WeknowhowitwaswithAdam,whenGodappearedinthegardenandcalledtohim,herantohidehimself;Why?Becausehehadguiltinessuponhim:Oh the evil that the guilt of sin brings upon the soul, it makes thepresence of God terrible! The presence of God it should be morecomfortable to us then our lives but our sin makes God's presencegrievousandterrible.Achildsometimeswhenithathoffendedthefatherandisconsciousto itsselfoftheoffencethat ithathgiventhefather, ithadratherbe in thekitchenamong theservants, then tocome into thehallorparlourwherethefatheris,becauseithathoffendedhim:andsoitiswithaguiltyconscience,whenitisconscioustoitsselfofsomehauntofevilthatithathgivenitselfunto,ithathnomindatallofcomingintothepresenceoftheFather,buthangsoff.Mybrethren,theverypresenceofGodinthecommunionofhissaints is terribletoaguiltyconscience,theverylookinguponagodlymanisterribletoaguiltyconscience.Whenasthouhastbeenabroad&c.beenloose&c.wickedinthyways,Iappealto thy conscience, when thou comest into the presence of some holygraciousmanorwomanthatlivesclosewithGod,dothitnotdauntthee?Now is the presence ofGod in the very faces of his saints terrible to aguiltyconscience?HowterribleisthepresenceofGodinhisordinancesthen? Indeed those men and women whose consciences are notenlightened,butareignorantandsottish,theycansinagainstGodandgointohispresencewithoutanytrouble;youshallhavemenswearandbedrunkenovernightandcometo thesacramentthenextday,what's thereason?Because there isno light in theirconsciences, theirconsciencesareindarkness,theyarebesottedintheirsin;butIspeaknowofonewhohathanenlightenedconscience,thepresenceofGodisterribletosuchaone.

Athirduseisthis,hereisthereasonwhyhypocritesdomeetwithsuchvengeance fromGodas theydo: Iconfessweshallmeetwith thismoreespeciallyafterwards,onlybythewaytakenoticeofit;hypocritesabove

allmenmayexpecttheseverestjudgementsofGoduponthem,becausethey come so nigh God, for they come often to the duties of God'sworship;nowtheythatwillcomesonighGod'spresence,andcomewithbaseandungodlyhearts, to cloak theirvillainy,of all in theworld theymustexpecttohavetheseverevengeanceofGodletoutuponthem;theythatstandnighestthebulletmustexpecttohavethestrengthofittobethe more upon them; so when the wrath of God proceeds out uponsinners,wickedmenthatstandnighesthimtheyhavethegreateststrokeofGod'swrath;butofthatmorewhenIcometothethirdpoint,thatGodwillbesanctifiedinthosethatdrawnighhim.

The fourthuse is this, if toworshipGod,be todrawnighHim, then toneglect God's worship, is to depart fromHim; thatmust needs follow,andthisisadreadfulthing,itisthesentencethatshallbeatthelastdayofjudgement,departfromme.ThounowartwillingtodepartfromGod,Ohconsiderofthisyouthatneglectworship,theworshipofGodinyourfamilies,andinyourclosets,andinthecongregation,inthecommunionof the saints, thouhast littlemindedor regarded theworshipofGod itmaybeallthydays,whathastthoubeendoingallthiswhile?thouhastbeendeparting fromGodall thiswhile,&when thyconscienceshallbebut enlightened and awakened to see how far thou art fromGod, howterriblewill itbe to thee?Remember thisyou thathavenomindto thedutiesoftheworshipofGodbutlovethecommissionofsin,youneglectGod'sworship,youwerewonttoworshiphiminaconstantwayinyourclosetsandfamilies,butnowyougrowmoreloose,andsoyougrowmoredeadeveryday thenother,yougooff fromGodmoreandmore.SurelytherecanbenogoodtoneglectGod'sworship.AndthosethatareloathtoworshipGodbecause theycannotworshiphimas theyought, fromthispoint it appearsplainly, that there canbenogoodgottenbyneglectingGod'sworship,foritisdepartingfromGod,whatsoeverpleatheremaybebyanytemptationtoneglectGod'sworship,certainlythere isdanger init,and thereforenever listen toanysuch temptationas shalldrawyourhearts from the duties of God's worship. There are a generation ofwantonsinthesetimesthatmakelittlematterofcontinuingthedutiesofGod'sworship,theywerewontconstantlytoworshipGod,andtoattendupontheword,butnowitisnothingtothem,andtheyareevenreadytothankGodforitthattheymakenotsuchconscienceastheywerewontto

do in the duties of the worship of God: It may be they will say, Thatheretofore some slavish terrordid carry themon in thedutiesofGod'sworshipmorethentheunderstandingofthefreenessofthegraceofGodwouldadmitof:Butshalltheunderstandingofthefreedomofthegraceof God carry thee on less then thy slavish terror did? Oh blind andwantonspirit thatknowestnot thewaysofGod,nor the freenessof thegraceofGod,northerichesof it!Ohwhatadishonorart thoutoJesusChrist and to the freenessofhis grace, thatnowcanstgoupanddownfromdaytodayandneverworshipGod!DidJesusChristcomeintotheworldtothatendfortocausetheetodepartmorefromGod? 'Tisplainout of the word, That the duties of God's worship are those dutieswherebythesoulcomestodrawnightoGod:AndIbeseechyoubrethrenobserve these men, whither there be that holiness in their lives, thatspiritualnessastherewaswonttobe;no,youshallfindthembydegreesto grow loose, yea run sometimes into gross sins, growmany times tolying and deceiving, and to drunkenness and company keeping; yea toworse things by degrees: Perhaps they are at first ready to say, Is thyservantadeaddogthatIshoulddothis?ButbydepartingfromGodtheygrowdeadtoholyduties:Wefinditbyexperience,Thattheprofessorsofreligionhavenotthatholiness,heavenliness,spiritualness,astheywerewonttohave in formertimes.Andnomarvel, fornowtheykeepnotsonigh to God as they were wont. You that are seamen and travellers,sometimesyouareneartheSun,andthenyouarehotbutthefurtheroffthe Sun you go, you grow to be colder and colder: And so those thatneglecttheworshipofGod,theygofromthewarmSun,theygofromthelight of God's countenance and from the presence of God and so theygrowcoldandchill,andbydegreestheygrowtoprophaness,anditistobefearedthatmanyofthemwillgrowtomereAtheism.

Anotheruseisthis,Auseofexhortation,thatwewouldbeencouragedtoworshipGod,andtobemuchintheworshipofGod.InHeb.10.22.Letusdrawnear(saiththeText).WhowouldnotdrawneartoGod?Ohwhata good thing is it to be in the presence of God! Is not the Lord thefountainofthylife?Isitnotasweetthingtobeinhispresence?Wethinkit a sweet thing to be in the presence of godlymen;Oh 'thatwemightalwayslivewithsuchmen,andbenighthem!ThatmartyrDoctorTaylorrejoicedinthis,thateverhecameintoprisontobeacquaintedwiththat

angelofGodholyMasterBradford,andasIremembersomeamongtheheathensthatprofessedtheywouldratherbeinprisonwithCatothenbein the greatest glorywith someother: It is a blessed thing to be in thepresence of God, to be with him that is the God of our lives, and thefountainofallgood;letusdrawnightoGodoften,letusknowthatitisamercythatwemaydrawnightoGod;wemighthavebeenbanishedfromthepresenceoftheLordlongbeforethistime.

ThisisthatthatthehappinessofthegloriousChurchissetoutbyinRev.22. 4. They shall see his face andhis name shall be in their foreheads.ThisistheprivilegeoftheChurch.AndthatitissuchablessingtodrawnightoGodyoumayseeitbythatinEph.2.18.ForthroughhimwebothhaveanaccessbyoneSpirituntotheFather.

[Through him] Through Christ we have access by one Spirit unto theFather, and now (saith he) Ye that were strangers and foreigners, aremade fellow citizenswith the saints, and of the household ofGod: andvers. 13. But now byChrist Jesus yewho sometimeswere a far off aremadenighbythebloodofChrist,andyouhaveaccessthroughChrist:SoourcomingnightoGodissuchaprivilegeascostthebloodofChrist;andwillnotyou improve it?Youwere faroff inyournatural condition,butnowyouarenighthroughhisblood;Laybutthistextwarmtoyourheartsthismorning,ThatIthatwasfaroffammadenighbythebloodofChrist,madenightoGod, itwillbeameansforevertodrawyourheartstoallthosewayswherebyyoumaydrawnearesttoGod.

AndbydrawingnightoGodoften,youwillcometoincreaseyourgracesabundantly:yourgraceshowwilltheyactthepresenceofGodwilldrawforththeactsofgraceasthepresenceofthefiredrawsforthourheat,sothepresenceofGodwilldrawforthourgraces.

Andbythismeanswecometolivemostholylives.WereadofMoses,hewasuponthemountainfortydayswithGod,andwhenhecamedownhisface did so shine, that the people were not able to bear it; what's thereason? it was from hence, because hewas so nigh toGod:would youhave your faces to shine in a holy conversation before men? conversemuchwithGod,beoftenwithGod,benigh tohim, and thatwillmakeyoushineaslightsinthemidstofacrookedandperversegeneration.We

finditsowithsomethatconversemuchwithGod,thereisashineupontheirverycountenances.

AndfurtheritisaspecialsignofouradoptiontolovetobenightoGod.What should a child lovemost but to be in the presence of his father?WouldyouknowwhitheryouhavereceivedtheSpiritofadoptionyeaorno?Icanhardlygiveyouanyonesignsoclearas this, for to lovetogointoGod'spresence,asDavidsaid,Iwasgladwhentheysaid,ComeandletusgoupuntotheHouseoftheLord.Youshallhavemanythatlovetobe inGod'spresence, soas they thinkon it overnight, and long for thetime while it comes; I never am better then when I am with God, methinks when I get into God's presence, either in Prayer or any duty ofGod's worship, I find my heart warmed and quickened, &c. They arereadytosaywithPeter,Master,itisgoodbeinghere.

Andthat'sanotherthing,Itisthatwhichwillputusinmindofthelifeofheaven,itistheonlythinginheaventobeinthepresenceofGod.Why,themorethouartnighGodinthedutiesofworship,themorethouartinheaven, and doest not thou pray, that the will of Godmay be done inearth as in heaven? Now the saints and angels are always before Godworshipping of him; then be asmuch as thou canst in the presence ofGod,Ifthouwouldestbeinheaven,bethere:Manyofthesaintstheyfinditso,itisnotsowithcarnalhearts,theyarewearypresently,whentheyareinprayer,orhearingtheword,itisnotsotothem:yea,that'sbecausethouhastnotthepresenceofGod,asinMal.1.whatwearinessisthere?thoucanstbeagamingtilloneortwoaclockatnight,andthoughthoushouldest lose thysupper,or theworkof thy family, it isnot tedious totheetobeexercisedinthosethingsthatpleaseththeflesh;butwhenthoucomesttoworshipGod,howquicklyartthoutired?Nowwhatwiltthoudo in heaven where there is nothing else done to all eternity butworshippingofGod?

And then itmust needs be delightful toGod that thou shouldest comenigh him: There is nothing in theworldmore pleasant to God then tohavehissaintscomeintohispresence.Whatdothafathermoredelightin then tohavehischildrenabouthim?neverdidany fatherormotherlovetohavetheirchildrenbythem,soasGodlovestohavehischildrencomenighhim,andbeoftenwithhim.Andthetruthis,onegreatreason

thatGodsuffersyoutofallintoafflictionssomuchisthatyoumaycomerunningtohim:Howdoththechildcomerunningtothefatherormotherwhenitisafraid?why,theLordiswillingtopermitmentodoyouwrongthatyoumayruntohim,thathemighthavemoreofyourpresence:Thouthat art such a poor creature, yet thou hearest this day that there isnothing in the world that God takes more pleasure in (next to thepresenceofhisownSonJesusChrist,andhissaintsandangels thathehathwithhiminheaven)thentohavehissaintscomenighhim,tohavethemalwaystobeunderhiswing.

Andthenbycomingoften intoGod'spresence inhisworship therewillgrowasweetandblessedfamiliaritybetweenGodandthysoul,forthouwiltbespeakingtoGod,andGodwillbespeakingtotheetoo:Weknowmanytimesthatdear friendswhoareverynearly linkedtogether,yet iftheybelongabsentonefromanothertheregrowsastrangeness,andsobydegreestheirfriendshipisdeadened;butnowwhentheyaretogethereveryday,andthere isan intercourseof loveandfriendship, thentheirfriendshipiskeptactiveandquick,butnowiftheybeabsentlong;Indeedif they be absent in another country when they cannot come together,thattheyaresureitisnotthroughanyneglect,thenitwillnotdamptheirfriendship; butwhen they are near and come not one to another, thentheythinkitisoutofneglect&sotheygrowstrange.Soitiswiththesoul,iftherewerenopossibilityofacomingintoGod'spresence,thenitwouldnothinderthesweetnessoftheloveofGodtous.ButnowwhenwehavethosedutiesofworshipwhereinwemaydrawnightoGod,ifweneglectthemour familiaritywithGodwillquicklybe lost,acquaint thyselfwithGodandbeatpeace.God iswilling tobeacquaintedwithhis servants;theLordlovestobefamiliarwiththepoorestofhissaints,andwiltnotthoumaintain that sweet familiaritywithGod? These two benefitswillfollowuponthyfamiliaritywithGod.

First, those that aremost familiarwithGod they aremost potentwithGod; As now a stranger cannot prevail in any petition so as a familiarfriendcan:Thusmybrethren,whenstrangerscomeintoGod'spresence,Goddothnotsomuchregardthem;butwhenhisfamiliarscomeintohispresence, the saints of God that keep close with him in constantcommunion and converse in the duties of his worship, God doth take

themashisfamiliarfriends,andtheywillprevailmuchwithGod.

Secondly,bythismeanstheterrorofdeathwillbetakenaway,thereisnosuch way to take off the terror of the thoughts of death as by keepingfamiliaritywithGod,deaththenisjoyfultothosethatconversewithhim.That ReverendDivine that is nowwith God (Doctor Preston) when hewas to die he had this speech, I shall but changemy place, I shall notchange my company; whereas its otherwise if thou growest estrangedfromGod, when death comes it will look with a terrible face, for thenthouhast todealwithGod, thouart thentogo into thepresenceof theinfinitedreadfulGod,intowhosepresencethouneverhadstanymindtogo before, but saith death, Imust now carry thee into the presence ofGod.AsthybodyreturnstothedustsothysoulmustreturntoGodthatgaveit;thatis,toreceiveitseternaldoom,&c.Butnowsaithasaint,whatmustmy body return to dust andmy soul toGod that gave it? it is hewhich I have beenwith every day, and can say as he said,my soul goforth,goforth,whyart thouunwillingtogoforthtohimthatthouhastconversedwithallthydays?

And thenwhat safety is there in being near toGod, especially in thesedangeroustimes?InthetimewhereinweliveitissafetobenearGod;inPsal. 22. 11.Benot far fromme, for trouble is near, saithDavid:Lord,trouble isnearmebenot thoufar fromme;It'sablessedthingtohaveGodneariswhentroubleisnearus,troubleisnearmanyofyou,perhapsthere'snotaspansbreadthbetweendeathandus,whatablessedthingisitthentohaveGodtobenearus?whenthepoorchickseesthekitecomenearittoseizeuponit,andis liketobesurprized,ifthehenbenear, itrunsto thehen,andthehencovers itandkeeps itsafe;so itshouldbewith us, for so Christ saith of Jerusalem, How often would I havegatheredtheeasahengatherethherchicks?Thereareacompanyofkitesabroadintheworld,andwearepoorshiftlessecreatures;nowhowhappyarewe then ifwecan rununder the shaddowofGod'swing? there isakindofshaddowinthepresenceofGodintheenjoymentofthecreature;buttheshadowofGodthatwehaveinhisworshipthatisastheshadowofhiswing.Thereistheshadowofatree,andthatmayhelpfromsomekindoftroublesbutthere'sanothermannerofshadowundertheshadowofthewingofthehen,becausethatnourishesthechick:Themenofthe

world they have the shadow of the tree, as it were, God's generalprovidencewhich is over all creatures; but the saints ofGod that drawnightoGodtheyhavetheshadowofGod'swing,liketheshadowofthehenswingtothechick,whichdothcomfortitandsafeguardit;letusbythedutiesofworshipthusdrawnightoGod,andkeepnighuntohim.

SermonIII-TheImportanceofPreparingforworship

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

Iwillonlyaddoneparticularmoretowhatwesaidthelastdayandthenproceed.

If in theduties ofworshipwe arenigh toGod, thenhence appears thegreat honour that God puts upon his servants that do worship him.Certainly the worshippers of God have great honour put upon thembecausetheLordvouchsafesthemtodrawnighuntohim,theyaresuchasarepreciousandhonourable inhis eyes. Iwillnot enlargemyself inthis, only give you three Scriptures that show the great honour andrespectthatGodputsuponthosethathedothadmittocomeandworshiphim.

ThefirstScriptureisinDeut.4.17.ThereMosesspeakingofthepeopleofIsrael;andthegreatrespectthatGodshowedtothemmorethenothers;for saithhe,Whatnation is there so great,whohathGod sonighuntothem,astheLordourGodisinallthingsthatwecalluponhimfor?WhatNationistheresogreatasyouare?(Sogreat)Howdothitappearthatthenation of Israel is a greater nation then other nations are? how? Thathath God so nigh unto them in all things that they call upon him for:herein anyman orwoman, or nation,may be said to be great, that is,

greatly honoured by the Lord God, in that they have the Lord nigh tothem and they are nigh to him, here's the greatness of a nation; youwouldthinkthatifonewoulddescribethegreatnessofanation,itshouldbeintheirgreatwealth,theirgreattradingandtrafficthattheyhaveandthefertileplacethattheylivein;no,thisisnotthegreatnessofanation,ButwhatnationistheresogreatthathaththeLordGodsonightothem?There'sthegreatnessofanation,andsoaspiritualheartwouldaccountgreatnesstoconsistinhavingGodtobenighuntoit.

TheSecondScriptureisinNumb.16.9.TherewehaveMosesspeakingunto the sons ofKorah rebuking them for their sin, and he brings thisaggravationtothemofthegreatnessoftheirsin,saithhe,seemethitbutasmallthinguntoyouthattheGodofIsraelhathseparatedyoufromthecongregation of Israel to bring you near to himself? That is, that youshould come to worship him, is this a small thing to you? is not thishonourenough?As ifMosesshouldhavesaid,Whydoyoucontend forany more honour, the Lord hath separated you to bring you near tohimself?

Object.Thisyouwillsaywasspokentothepriests?

Answ.Butitmaybesaidofeverygracioussoul,foreverybelieverChristhath made a king, priest, and prophet unto himself; now there is nobelieverbutJesusChristhathseparatedhimorherfromtherestoftheworld to benear untoGod.This is thedignity thatGodhathput upontheethatthouartseparatedbyhisgracetobeoneneartohim,whereasothersof theworld theydepart fromhim, continuallydepartmore andmore fromhim;but Isay theLordbyhisgracehathset theeapart forhimself,ashesaithinPsal.4.3.TheLordhathsetaparthimthatisgodlyforhimself: Thou art separated from theworld, towhat end? It is thatthoumightest be near to him, this is thy privilege, and thou shouldestaccountitthygreathonour:thouhastnotthathonourandrespectintheworldasothershave,butthouartoneofGod'sseparatedonesthatthouartneartohim.

Athirdscripture is inPsal.33.28.ThereyoumayseehowtheProphetDaviddidhighlyesteemofthatgreathonourthattheLorddidputuponhiminthis, inbeingneartoGod:But it isgoodformetodrawnearto

God.Markhowhespeaks,Butit isgoodforme:Why?Forlo,theythatare far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go awhoringfromthee.Asifheshouldsay,therearesomethatdidseemtobenearunto theeheretofore, thatwereas thewife to thehusband,buttheyaregoneawhoringfromthee;basehypocrites,baseapostates,theyaregoneawhoringfromthee,theirheartsbeingcarnaltheydidnotfindthat contentment and satisfaction in thyworship as thy saints do, andthereforetheyaregoneawhoringfromthee,butitisgoodformetodrawnear to thee: It isanexcellent scripture,doyouseeanyyoungones,orothers thatwere very forwardnotmany years ago, andwould speak ofgood things, and seem to rejoice in theword, but now they are gone awhoring,theyaredepartedfromGodandhisways,andthepleasuresofthe fleshhath taken theirhearts?Thouwilt destroy them (saithDavid)that go a whoring from thee. So thou shouldest thinkwith thyself; Ohmiserable is the condition of those who once were forward in theprofessionofreligionandnowaregoneawhoringfromGod,butit'sgoodfor me to draw near to God, they are gone from thee, and thou wiltdestroythem,butitisgoodformetodrawneartothee;Iblessmyselfindrawingnear to thee theLord, andbless the time that ever I diddrawnear to thee, and that ever I knew thosewayswherein inmy soulhathdrawn near to God. Such a worship God aright, and do delight in theworshipofGodtheyaresuchashaveagreathonourputuponthem,theydodrawnightoGod;Andthuswehavefinishedthefirstpoint.

TheSecondPointisthatwillholdussometime,andthatis,

ThesanctifyingGod'sNameinourdrawingneartoGod.

WhenweworshipGodwedrawnightohim,butletustakeheedhowwedrawnigh,Heb.10.12.Letusdrawnearwithatrueheart.Looktothyfeet when thou comest into the house of God, Eccle. 5. 1. Now for thesanctifyingofGod'sName indrawingnigh tohimweshallendeavor toopenit;

1FirstinshowingyouwhereinthesanctificationofGod'snameconsists,orwhatweshoulddothatwemightsanctifytheNameofGodindrawingnightohim.

2ThereasonwhyGodwillhavehisnametobesanctifiedinthosethatdodrawnightohim.

Howwe should sanctify the name ofGod in drawing nigh to him, it isunderthesetwoheads:

First,TheremustbeaduepreparationuntotheworshipofGodthatweexerciseourselvesinatanytime.

Secondly,Arightbehaviorofoursoulsinit:inthesetwothingsconsiststhesanctifyingofGod'sNameinhisworship.NowunderthesetwoheadsallthatIshallspeakabouttheopeningofthesanctifyingofGod'sNamewillbecontained.AtthistimeIshallonlyspeakofthefirst:

TheduepreparationofthesouluntothedutiesofGod'sworship;thereinconsistsaspecialpartofthesanctifyingofGod'sNameindrawingnightohim. And that it is so, we find it in Scripture, That preparation forworship it is called the sanctifying of ourselves; and by finding this inScripture ithintedmeupon thishead, tospeakof thepreparationuntoworship inoursanctifyingGod'sName,becauseI find inScripture thatthesanctifyingourselvesforworship,andthepreparationofourselvesforworshipare all one: I'll give you these two texts; In 1Sam. 16 . 5 . youshallfindthere,thatSamuelwhenhewassentbyGodtoanointDavidinBethlehem,thetextsaith,IamcometosacrificeuntotheLord,sanctifyyourselvesandcomewithmetothesacrifice,Doyoucomepeaceablysaythey?Yes;whatthen?

Sanctifyyourselvesandcomewithmetothesacrifice:That'sallone,asifhe should have said, prepare yourselves and come with me to thesacrifice:andsoinJob.1.5.thereyoushallfindthattheholymanJobwhen his sons had been feasting, he was some what afraid least thereshould be some miscarriage, and that they had sinned against God intheirfeasting;asitisveryhardtogivelibertytopleasethefleshandnottosin,nottotransgressbounds;thereforeJobthoughhedidnothearofanynotoriousabuseoftheirfeasting,yethewasafraidleasttheyshouldsin, he knewhowdangerous itwas tohave somuch satisfaction to thefleshandnottotransgressbounds,thereforeitissaidhesenttohissonsand sanctified them. It was so (saith the text) when the days of the

feastingweregoneabout,thatJobsentandsanctifiedthem:thatJobsentunto them to prepare them to offer sacrifice, to prepare them for theworship of God: So that the Scripture holds forth this then, that toprepareforworshipitis,tosanctifyforworship,andsoitisonespecialthing that is required inour sanctifyingofGod, inourdrawingnigh toGod,tomakeaduepreparationforhisholyworship.Nowfortheorderlyhandlingofthings;

First,Ishallshowyou,ThatwemustpreparefortheworshipofGod.

2Secondly,Ishallshowyou,WhereinthispreparationfortheworshipofGoddothconsist.

3Thirdly,theexcellencythatthereisinthis,orwhatgreatgoodthereisinpreparationforGod'sworship.

Fourthly,IshallAnsweracaseofconscienceortwo.

Fiftly,IwillshowyouwhatisthebehaviorofthesoulinsanctifyingGod'sName.

6 Sixthly, The reasons why God will be sanctified in the duties of hisworship.

First,ThattheremustbepreparationtotheworshipofGod.

ForFirst,thatGodthatwecometoworship,isagreatandgloriousGod,andwehavingtodealwithsuchaninfinite,glorious,dreadfulmajesty,itis fit that we shouldmake preparation when we come nigh unto him:therefore in Exod. 19 . 10 . when God came among the people to givethemhisLaw,hedid require that they shouldbe sanctified to day andtomorrow,andthattheyshouldwashtheirclothesandbereadyagainstthethirdday,forthethirddaytheLordwouldcomedownuponmountSinaiinthesightofallthepeople.Goddidnotsomuchstandupontheirclothes, but it was to signify an inward washing. Nowmy brethren, ifwhenGodcametogive theLawtheywereso toprepare, thencertainlywhenwearetocometoworshipGodinthewayoftheGospel,wearetoprepare as well as they, because God is coming. For that that is

observable is, why they were for two days together to make suchpreparation, theargument isbecauseof thepresenceofGod;TheLordsaidtoMoses,Goandsanctifythepeopletodayandtomorrow,andletthemwashtheirclothesandbereadyagainstthethirdday,Why?fortheLordwillcomedowninthesightofallthepeopleuponmountSinai:TheLordwillcomedownthethirddayandtherefore letthembesanctified.Sowhen thougoest toworshipGod, thouexpectestorshouldestexpectthatGodwillcometothee,andthatthyheartshallbedrawntoGod,andtherefore thou shouldest make some preparation (For the time ofpreparationwe shall speak to afterwardwhenwe come to the cases ofconscienceaboutpreparationforworship.)Andsoin1Chr.22.5 .14 .DavidmakespreparationforthehouseofGodbecauseitwasthehouseofGod thathehad tobuild, thoughhe couldnotdo ithimself inhisowntime, yet being the house of Godwhat great preparation wasmade byDavid?ThemoralofwhichisthisthatthehouseofGodbeingatypeofthe Church and theworship ofGod, aswell as of Christ; it shows thatthereshouldbemuchpreparationwhenwehavetodealwithGodinhisordinances.

Secondly,*AsGod isgreat thatwedrawnigh to, so thedutiesofGod'sworshiparegreatduties,theyarethegreatestthingsthatdothconcernusinthisworld,anditisasignofaverycarnalhearttoslightthedutiesofGod'sworship, tomakeaccountof themas littlematters:Carnalheartsordinarilythethingsthatconcerntheirbusinessesintheworldtheythinkgreatmatters;Oh Imaynotneglect that, Imaynotneglect that, Imaynotneglectsuchabusiness,orImaynotneglecttovisitorgratifysuchafriendbutnowfortheworshipofGoditisgoodindeed,butwhitheritbedoneornotitisnogreatmatter,thereforetheycanputoffprayer;iftheyhaveanybusinessthetimeofprayermustpayforit;theycanputoffthatuponanyslightoccasion,theydonotaccountthedutiesofGod'sworshipgreatmatters;MybrethrenIbeseechyoulearnthislessonthismorning,toaccountthedutiesofGod'sworshipgreatmatters,theyarethegreatestthingsthatdoconcernedyouhereinthisworld;fortheyarethehomagethat you tender up to the high God, as you heard, and those thingswherein God communicates himself in his choice mercies, now beingsuch greatmatters there is cause thatwe should prepare. For that onethingofprayer,saithLuther,Itisagreatwork,andadifficultwork,and

therefore there had need be preparation for it: Business of greatconsequence wemake preparation for, indeed if a business be a slightbusinesswecanfalluponitonasudden,youmakenotpreparationtogoinaboatintheThames,buttogoavoyageyoumakegreatpreparation.Now if men and women would but understand the duties of God'sworship to be great, theywould see a necessity tomake a preparation;Manymenforwantofpreparationtodutiestheyloseagreatpartofthetime,whentheycometoperformadutyofworshipinprayertheyspendhalfthetimethatisconvenienttobespentinprayerbeforetheybegintopray; and so in hearing theword, they are a long timebefore they cansettlethemselvestoattendtotheword,orinanyotherkindofworship;Isayagreatdealoftimeintheworshipisspentordinarilybeforewecangetourheartstoclosewiththeworship;nowthatisasoreandagreateviltoloseanypartofthetimeofworship:Christians,Ibeseechyouaccounthighlyofthetimeofyourworship,youhavebeensolongtimeatprayer,yea but howmuch of it hath been lost because you have not preparedbeforehandforit?perhapsyoukneeleduponyourknees,butyouwerealongtimebeforeyoucouldgetyourheartswarmatyourwork,whyyoushould have been warm before you had come: It is so oftentimes withmanymen,whentheymeettogetherandthereisnopreparationfortheirbusiness, they come together and they are a long time before they canbuckle to the business that they came about, because there was nopreparation, but if there be preparation made, that every man knowsbeforehandwhathisworkis,theycanfalltoit,andtheycandispatchasmuchinonehourasothersdointwoorthree;butofthatweshallspeakmoreafterwards.

Thirdly, there must be preparation because our hearts are naturally,exceedingly unprepared for every goodwork, we are all naturally evenreprobate toeverygoodwork, thedutiesofGod'sworshiparehighandspiritual,andholythings,butbynatureourheartsgrovelinthedirt,andwearecarnal,sensual,drowsy,dead,slight,sottish,andvain,altogetherunfittocomeintothepresenceofGod:OhthatwewerebutapprehensiveandsensibleoftheunfitnessofourheartstocomeintoGod'spresence!PerhapsbecausethouknowestnotGodthoucanstrushintohispresencewithout any more ado, but if thou knowest thyself, and God, thoucouldestnotbutseethyselfaltogetherunfitforhispresence,andsoasto

wonder that the Lord should not spurn thee out of his presence everytimethoucomestuntohim,therehadneedthenbepreparationbecausewearesounfittocomeintohispresence.

Fourthly,therehadneedbepreparationbecauseofthegreathindrancesof the worship of God. This business and the other business wouldhinder; the entanglements, they would hinder; the temptations of theDevil,theywouldhinder;sometimestheindispositionofourbodiesdothmightily hinder; and the stirrings of the passions of our minds theyhinder: if therebeanybusiness fallouts in the family,andany thinggobut cross, how arewe put off the hinges&made unfit for holy duties!There had need be preparation therefore because there are so manyhindrances in the way, many of you will complain that you are muchhindered,butdoyoudowhatyoucantomakepreparationbeforehand?Do the hindrances that you complain of put you on to be somuch themorecarefultomakeduepreparationforholyduties.

Fifthly,wefindthattheheathensthemselvesbythelightofnaturewhentheydidbutworshiptheiridolgods,theywouldmakesomepreparation,such as was suitable to those gods that theworshipped, therefore theywould wash their flesh and purge themselves, but though theirpreparationwasbut verypoor, yet they taughtus thusmuch, that theywereconvincedintheirconsciencesthatwhenGodwastobeworshipped,peopleshouldbeprepared.

The sixth & last reason hath a great deal in it, which I beseech youconsiderof;wefindthattheScripturedothmaketheuprightnessoftheheart much to consist in preparation for worship; and doth make thefalsenessofthehearttoconsistinthis,thatmendonotprepare.Perhapsyouhavenotsomuchthoughtof this,butyet it isofexcellentuseuntoyou.We shall find theScripturedothmake the veryuprightness of thehearttoconsistinthepreparationforduty;andthefalsenessofaman'shearttoconsistinthis,thathemakesnotconsciencetopreparehisheartforGodandhisworship.AndthisIwillshowuntoyouveryplainlyandclearly,takethesetwoexamples.ThefirstofRehoboam,andthesecondofJehoshaphat,oneawickedmanwhoseheartwasfalse,andtheotheragodlymanwhoseheartwasrightwithGod.Thefalsenessoftheheartofthe one is in 2 Chron. 12 . 14 . there you havewhat God's thoughts of

Rehoboamwereintheversesbefore:butnowhebringsthereasonofhissentenceuponhim, and saith the text, hedid evil becausehepreparednot his heart to seek the Lord; there were many good things thatRehoboamdid; Imight showyou some things; ashowhedidobey theProphetofGodwhenhewasseekingtoavengehimselfuponthosethatdid rend themselves from his obedience: the Lord did but send hisProphet,andthoughhehadanarmyreadytorevengehimselfuponthosethat in a way of rebellion did rend themselves from under hisgovernment,&heobeyedthewordoftheLordbutforallthathedidevilin the fight of the Lord God looked upon him as a man that had nouprightness in him, why? for he did not prepare his heart to seek theLord,saithGod,IlookuponallRehoboamdidasnothing;Ilookuponhisways as evil and himself as a wicked man, Why? Because he did notpreparehishearttoseektheLordifhisharthadbinuprightwithmehewouldhavepreparedhishearttoseekme.Ibeseechyounowlaythistexttoyourheartsdoyouprepareyourhearts toseekGod?whenyougotoprayercanyousaythatyoutakepainsinpreparingyourheartsfori?andinhearingtheword,andsolikewiseforreceivingthesacrament.

NowforJehoshaphatagodlymanin2Chron.19.3.thereyoumayseewhat theLord saith of Jehoshaphat thatwas godly.Nevertheless, therearegoodthingsfoundinthee,inthatthouhasttakenawaythegravesoutoftheland,andhastpreparedthinehearttoseekGod.Jehoshaphatwasfound guilty in joining himself to wicked men too much, the Prophetcomesandsaithtohim,wouldestthouhelptheungodly,andlovethemthathate theLord? therefore iswrathupon thee frombefore theLord.Jehoshaphathereweseewasveryfaultyinjoiningwiththosethatwerewicked,andisrebukedbytheProphetfromtheLord;Whatwiltthoujoinwiththewicked?thewrathofGodisuponthee:Well,butforallthat,(Ibeseech you observe it) that at that time when the Lord is mostdispleased against Jehoshaphat, and sends his Prophet in his name topronouncethis,thatthewrathofGodisoutagainsthim;yetforallthis,Godcannotbuttakenoticeofthis,thathehadanuprightheart,thoughhefailedinthatparticular,yetthereissomegoodfoundinthee,inthatthouhastpreparedthyhearttoseekGod.Indeedthroughsomesuddentemptations thouartdrawnaside in thisparticularact;Yea,but ithathbeenthycaretopreparethyhearttoseekme,andinthatregardIdolook

upon thee ashavinganuprightheart:And thus you seehowmuch theScriptureputsuponthepreparationofthehearttoseekGod.Andsoin1Sam.7.3.youshallfindthattheScripturemakestheuprightnessoftheheart to consist in this, And Samuel spoke unto all the house of Israelsaying,IfyedoreturnuntotheLordwithallyourhearts,whatthen?whythen, put away the strange gods, and Ashtaroth from among you, andprepare your hearts unto the Lord, and serve him only: As if Samuelshouldsay,IfyouwillreturnindeedtotheLord,ifindeedyourheartsbeupright according towhat you seem to profess in turning to God, whythen prepare your hearts to seek the Lord. You do not in truth turn toGodexcept youmake conscience toprepare yourhearts:Therefore youthat yet never knew what it was to make conscience to prepare yourheartsforholyduties,knowthatyouhavenotturnedwithallyourheartuntotheLord, therehathnotbeenthetrueturningofyourheartsuntotheLord.Thusnowyou see there ismuch liesuponpreparation to thedutiesofGod'sworship:Well,youwillsay,seeingthereliessomuchinit,I pray open it wherein it doth consist. To that I answer, It consists inthesefivethings,whichIshallbutbrieflyname.

First,InthepossessingtheheartwiththerightapprehensionofthatGodbeforewhomwecometotenderourduties;Thendowemakeconsciencetoprepareourhearts,whenwelabouruponourgoingtoworshipGod,toget our hearts before hand possessed with right apprehensions of themajestyof thatGod thatwearegoing toworship,andof thegreatness,and weight of the duty that we are setting about the nature of it, themannerhowitistobeperformed,therulebywhichwearetobeguided,theend thatweare toaimat:Meditation isagoodpreparation toholyduties. And these are the general heads of our meditation for ourpreparationtoduty.Viz.

WhatGodHeiswehavetodealwith:MeditateofGodinhisattributesandthenmeditateoftheweightofourduties,andthenatureofthemandthe rule of them, and the end of them; get your hearts possessedwithmeditationsofthisnature,andinthisasaspecialthingdothconsistyourpreparationtoholyduty,andthat'sthefirstthing.

2 The second thingwherein the preparation to a duty consists, it is inthis,inthetakingoffoftheheartfromeverysinfulway,theendeavourat

least,iftherebeiniquityinthinehandorheartlabourtoputitout:WhenthouarecomeintoGod'spresence,donotbringintothepresenceofGodtheloveofanysininthineheart,butlabourtoputitfromthyheart:In2Chron. 29 . 5 .We find therewhat is required to preparation the Textsaith, Hezekiah said unto them, Hear me, ye Levits, sanctify nowyourselves,andsanctify thehouseof theLordGodofyour fathers, andcarryforththefilthinessoutoftheholyplace:thatissanctifyingathingtocarryforththefilthinessoutofthatthingthatwewouldsanctifysothesanctifying of ourhearts it is by carrying forth the filthiness out of ourhearts,soastobefitforaduty.AndinJob.11.13,14.Ifthoupreparethine heart, and stretch out thine hand towards him: What then? Ifiniquityheinthinehand,putitfaraway,andletnotwickednesswellinthytabernacles:TheseTwomustbetogether.

3AThirdthingisthis,thepreparationoftheheartitisthedisentanglingoftheheartfromtheworld,andfromalloccasionsandbusinessesintheworld.IamtoworshipGod,buthowismyheartensnaredandentangledinthisandtheotherbusiness?NowwhenIcometoworshipGodImustlayasideall,forthere'sthepreparationoftheheart,theseparatingofitforsuchawork,forthat'sthenatureofsanctification,theseparatingofathing from a common use I am toworshipGod, now Imust labour toseparate my heart from a common use: At other times God gives meliberty to let out my heart to common uses; but now when I come toworshiphim, Imust separatemyheart fromall commonuses, thatmyheartmaybewholly forGod. I remember it is said in the storyofCieilwhichwasLord treasurer, thatwhenhewent to read,hewould layhisgownoffandsay,liethereLordCieil:Sowhenwegotoduty,weshouldsay,liebyworld:(andbylayingasidetheworldImean,layingasideofallhousehold affairs, or affairs in trading,&c.) Imustbe as one thathathnothingtodointheworldforthattime:Itistrue,thetimecannotbesaidtobeholyforthis,asthetimeoftheSabbathdayisholy.

Youwillsay,whymaynotanytimebesaidtobeholythatIspendinholyduties?No,that isnotenoughtomaketimeholy, forthetimethatGodmakesholy, it isnotholybecauseof theduties thatIperformin it,butthedutiesthatIperformthenaremoreacceptablebecausetheyaredoneinsuchatime,andsothatmakesaplaceholy,notbecauseitisappointed

forholydutiesanduses,butbecauseit issoappointedbyGod,andtheperformingadutyinthatplaceismoreacceptabletoGodtheninanotherplace: But now though we cannot make our time holy in that secondsense,yetinthefirst,itistimesetapartforaholyuse,andinthatregardit is holy, and so we should look upon it as not to have our outwardbusiness to devour that time that is holy in that regard, as NehemiahwhenTobiahandSanballat sent tohim to comeand conferwith them;No, saithhe, I cannotgo for thework is great that Ihave todo:SowemustnotentangleourselvestomeddlewithotherthingswhenwearetocometoworshipGod,forourworkisgreat.

The fourth thing for preparation is, to watch and to pray: We shouldwatchoverourhearts least theybemadeunfit forduties.Soweshouldprepareforprayeralldaylonginthissense,thatis,weshouldwatchoverourheartsthattheybeenotletoutsofarastohinderusinprayerwhenwecometodoIrememberthatTertulliansaith,ThattheChristiansdidso sup as if that theywere to pray, sowhen thou art in company thoushouldest watch unto prayer; Oh that you did so, you cannot but beconscioustoyourselvesthatoftentimeswhenyouhavebeenincompanyyourheartshavebeenputoutoftuneandframe,thatyouhavebeennoway fit forprayer;whenyoucomehomeyourhouseand family finds itso;youthattakesuchdelightincompanyandfittinguplate,Iappealtoyour consciences whither you can come home and find yourselves fiteitherinyourfamilyorclosettogoandopenyourheartstoGod.

Thisisonenotebythewaywherebyyoumaycometoknowwhitheryouhavebeenimmoderateincompanyatanytime;Godgivesnotmenlibertytobebusyinanyoutwardoccasionsintheworldsoastounfitthemforhis service. preparation consists in that, in watching over your hearts,thatyoumaynotbeunfittedforanyholydutywhenGodcallsyoutoit,butthatyoumaybereadyeventoeverygoodwork.

The fifth is this,preparationconsists in thereadinessof the facultiesofthe soul and the graces of the spirit of God, presently to act upon thesettinguponaholyduty.Whenamanorwomanshallfindthefacultiesoftheirsoulandthegracesthatare inthem,tobereadytoactassoonasevertheyfalluponduty,justasyouseeacompanyofringerswhentheyhavemadeallpreparationfortheraisingofthebells,theninaninstant

when they begin to pull, all the bells go in that tune that according totheir skill they set them in. And so it should be with our hearts, thefacultiesofoursoulsandgraces, thoughnowwearenotuponduty,yetweshouldbesoreadythatasitwereuponapull,allthefacultiesofoursoulsandgracesofGod'sSpiritshouldwork inamelodiousway;Therearethosethatkeeptheirheartssopreparedasat theveryfirstmomentthattheysetaboutthedutyofworship,all facultiesandgracesbegintoactandtostirandareworkingtowardsGod,asafire,whenallthematterisreadylaid,presentlyitcomestobekindledandflameout;andthusitshouldbewithourhearts: So thatnowyou seewhereinpreparationofourheartstodutyconsist•.

Thenext thing is the excellencyof thepreparation; and thatmaybe inwayofapplicationtoyoutomakeyoutobeinlovewithpreparationforholyduties.Thereisabundanceofgoodinit.

First,bythismeanswecometomakeeverydutyofworshipeasytous,thingsaredifficultwhenwecomeuponthemunprepared,Ifyouhaveafriendcometodinnerorsuppertoyou,andshouldcomesuddenly,andyou have nothing prepared there would be a great deal of stir in thehouse,butityouhaveeverythingprepared,itwouldbecarriedoninaneasyway; and the reasonwhypeople complain somuchofdifficulty induty,itisbecausetheirheartsarenotprepared.IndeedwehavenaturallymanythingstokeepusofffromGodbutnowwhentheheartispreparedforaholyduty,itgoesoffaseasytoGodevenintotheinfiniteoceanofallmercy and goodness, as a ship goes off to be launchedwhen you havemadepreparationforitandtheheartcangowithaholyboldnesstoGodwhen you have made preparation for holy duties. In Job 11. the placewhichIquotedbeforefortheworkofpreparation,dobutconsideraverseor two further,andyoushall findwhatabundanceofgood therecomesuponthekeepingoftheheartpreparedinthingsthataregood.Vers13.Ifthoupreparethineheart,&c.AndthenVers.15.Thenshaltthoulifeupthy face without spot, yea, thou shalt be steadfast and shalt not fear:Whentheheartispreparedforthatthatisgood,whenitcomesintothepresence of God it is able to lift up itsself without fear, in a steadfastcomfortableway,andthiswillquitthecostofanylabour.

2Secondly,iftheheartbeprepared,itwilldoagreatdealinalittletime

In2Chron.29.36itissaid,ThatHezekiahrejoiced,andallthepeople,thatGodhadpreparedthepeopleforthethingwasdonesuddenly.Thething came off freely and suddenly when as that they were prepared:Hezekiah rejoiced andblessedGod for such amercy as thiswas it is agreatmercytohavetheheartsofpeopleprepareduntoagoodwork.Andso in 2 Chr. 27 . 6 . the text saith, Jotham becamemighty because heprepared hisway before the Lord hisGod. Jotham, he grewmighty bythis,andsocertainlythewaytogrowtobeverystrongandmighty,tobeabletodoagreatdealinalittletime,itistomakepreparation,theremaybeasmuchworkdoneinonehourso,asintentimessomuchtimewhenthe heart is not prepared for it. In Ezra 7. 10. you shall find that thereason is given why Ezra had such good success in his journey, it wasbecausehehadpreparedhisheart.MakepreparationforholydutiesandyoushallhavesuccessinholydutiesThereisanotableScriptureforthatinPsal1017wheretheHolyGhostsaith,thatGodpreparestheheartandwhatthen?WhenGoddothpreparetheheart,hedoththencausehiseartohear.Therewasneveraprayermadewhereintheheartwaspreparedfor it but that prayerwas heard, they go both together, Lord thouwiltprepare their heart, and thouwilt cause thine ear to hear: it God hathonce prepared thy heart, thou wilt be sure to be heard then: Is it notworthaworldfortoknowoneselftobeacceptedofGodineverydutyofworship thatwe tender up to him? This one Scripture Psal 10. 17. willshowit.Ohtheexcellencythatthereisinpreparationtoduty!

There isone thingmore that is veryobservable, and that is this,wherethe heart is prepared to duties, there the Lordwill pass byweaknessesand imperfections in duties.When thou comest to performholy dutiesthouarttroubled,willtheLordhaveregardtosuchadutyasthisis?thoumayesthavecertainassurancethattheLordwillhaveregardifthoucanstmake this point good to thine own soul, that it was thy care to makepreparation for this duty canst thou say, Lord I have endeavored anddonewhatIcouldtofitmyheartforduty,butOLord,IfindwhenIamatit, wonderful distractions,much deadness and vanity, what shall I do?WhycanstthoumakegoodtheformerandappealtoGodthatindeeditwasthycaretomakepreparation?I'llgivetheeonescripturethenforthequieting of thy heart in this: That the weakness of the duty shall bepardoned and past by, where there is care to prepare before hand the

scriptureisin2Chron.30.18,19.ButHezekiahprayedforthemsaying,The good Lord pardon every one, what every one? Every one thatprepareththehearttoseektheLordGodofhisfathers,thoughhebenotcleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary.As if he shouldsay,OhLord,therearemanythingsamissinthispeople,theyarenotinmanyregardspurifiedaccordingtotheorderthatthouhastset,butLord,ifthoudoestbutseeanyheartpreparedtoseekthee,thoughtheyfailinsuchparticulars,Lordhealthemandpardonthem:anddidGodhearkento his prayer? Mark the following words, And the Lord hearkened toHezekiahandhearedthepeople.NaysaithGod,Iwillnotstandsomuchuponthepurificationofthesanctuaryiftheyhavepreparedtheirheartsto seekme. Take this Scripture, know it'swritten for thine instruction,andthoumayestmakeuseofittothineownsoulthisday,ifthoucanstappeal to God that thou art careful to prepare thy heart, though thoushouldest not have that pureness of thy heart as thou doest desire, theLordwillpardontheeandhearthee,makeconscienceofpreparationtoholyduties.

Again further, by being careful to make preparation for duties, withinsomelittletimethouwiltbringthyhearttosuchaframeasitwillalwayshereadyfordutywithoutmuchado;Indeedatfirstitissomewhathard.

Youwillsay,areweboundtospendsometimeeverytimewegotoprayerbeforehand,oreverytimewecometotheword?Thatshouldhavebeenoneofthecasesofconscience,butIcannotcometoanswerthat,butthiswe may say, be careful to prepare for duties, you that are youngbeginners,oryouthathavemadeprofessionalongertime,butyethavenot had theweight of this duty upon your spirits; nowbe careful for awhile toprepare foreverydutyofGod'sworship, thatGodcallsyou to,and I say within a little time thoumayest bring thy heart into such atemper as thou mayest be ready at all times to perform holy duties:because you shall be able to come to that temper and frame that theApostleexhortsto,praycontinually,forindeedsoitshouldbewithus,weshould be always prepared either for prayer; hearing the word, orreceiving sacraments. Now because sacraments are so rare, those thathaveanyenlightenedconsciencetheythinktheydarenotbutprepareforsacraments,butyoushouldbealwaysinapreparationforthereceivingof

thesacraments,astheprimitiveChristiansdid.Andthosethathavebeenacquaintedwith thispoint that Iamupon,ofpreparing forduties, theyhave come to such a frame of Spirit, as that there is not somuch timerequiredof themasofothers, for theyare inaconstant fitness, so thatthereisnoinstantoftimeinthewholedaybutifGodcallsthemtoprayertheycouldpresentlyfalldownupontheirkneesandpraysoastosanctifyGod'snameinprayer,thatwereanexcellenttemperindeedifyoucouldfinditso,thatyouwalksospirituallyandholybeforeGodastherecouldbe never a quarter of an hour from morning to night, nor from thebeginning of theweek to the end, but if youwere called to pray, or toreceivethesacrament,youhadyourheartfitted,thatyoucouldcomeintoGod's presence with a prepared heart, and were able to sanctify God'sNameintheduty.Acquaintyourselveswiththisworkofpreparation,andsoyoumayhaveheartsfittedtocomeintoGod'spresenceatanytime.

SermonIV-TwoCasesofconscience

LEVITICUS.10.3.

IwillbeSanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

WEproceednowtowhatremains.*Thereareonly for theperfectingofthis point two Cases of conscience to be resolved: And then we are toproceedtootherthings.

The first is, whither we ought at all times to set apart some time forpreparationtoeverydutyofGod'sworship?

Secondly supposewe do not find our hearts prepared aswe do desire;whitheritwerebettertoleaveoffthedutythenperformit?

Forthefirstofthese,Viz.Whetherwearealwaysboundtosetsometimeapartforpreparationtothedutythatwearetoperform.

The answer to that is this; we must distinguish of persons; There aresomethatareexercisedinthewayofgodliness,anddokeeptheirheartsclosewithGodinthewaysofholiness;nowforthemitmaybesupposedthatthroughtheirexerciseinthewaysofgodliness,andkeepingoftheirhearts constant with God in communion with him walking with Godclosely, that theyareatall timesprepared toeverygoodwork,and〈◊〉fulfil that command of the Apostle, pray continually, that is, in thedispositionoftheirhearts,theyarefittoprayatanytime,thereisnodayintheweek,nornohourinthedaybutthey(ifGodcallthemtoit)couldfalldowntosolemnprayer.AndindeedthisisanexcellentconditionandagoodevidenceoftheheartswalkingclosewithGodthatthereisnotimebut they are fit to pray, and fit for any ordinance, yea to receive thesacramentoftheLordssupper.ItispossibletokeeptheheartsoclosetoGod, as to be fit for prayer, and for the hearing of the word, and forreceiving of the sacrament every day, or any hour in the day but thisneedsaveryclosewalkingwithGodandcommunionwithGodandthetruthisthisisveryrare;mostmenletouttheirheartssomuchtootherthings,astheirconsciencescannotbuttellthem,thatifGodcallthemtoprayerat sucha time in theday, theyarealtogetherunfit for it: If theywerecalledtoreceive,thesacrament,theirconscienceswouldflyintheirfaces and tell them, theyareunfit for it but it isnot sowith those thatwalkclosewithGod,thoughtheybeintheworld.

Youwill say if amanhave business in theworld how can this be? Yesthoughtheyhavebusinessintheworld,yettheycarrytheheavenlinessoftheir hearts along with them; our conversation is in heaven saith theApostlePhil.3.Nowthewordthatistranslatedourconversation,it isawordthatsignifiesourCityconverse;ourtradingisinheavenwhenwegoto the City or the Exchange, or about any business; yet our trading isalwaysinHeaven.Butnowthereareothersortsofpeoplethathadneedatalltimestolooktotheirheartsinwayofpreparation.As,First,thosethatfirstsetuponthedutiesofReligion:youngbeginners,thatbeginatfirsttosettheirfacestowardsHeaven,toworshipGodtheyhadneedlookto their hearts they should spend some time in Preparationwhen theycome toholyduties, and the truth is,when the conscienceof amanorwomanisatfirstenlightened,andawakened,theywillbeverycarefulinpreparingtoholyduties,thefearofGoditismightyupontheirSpiritsat

first, and it should not afterwards lessen the constancy of God's fearshouldbring theirhearts to suchaholy temperas tomake themfit forholydutiesalways.

Secondly, Those men and women that at any time shall sin againstconscience, shall commit such sins as shall in a kind even lay wasteconscience,shallbreaktheirpeacebetweenGodandtheirsouls;theyhadneedspendsometime inpreparation forholyduties, theycannotcomeinto the presence of God to enjoy communion with God, but they hadneedbeforehandbeveryseriousintheexaminationoftheirhearts,andtoendeavourtheworkingoftheirheartsintomourningfortheirsin,andtolabourtopossesstheirsoulswiththepresenceofGodevenbeforetheycome.Thesetwosortsofpeople,suchashavenotbeenacquaintedwiththeways of godliness, or such as have broken their peacewithGod bysome evil carriage of theirs towards God in some vile way, I say it isrequiredofthemtobeemoresolemnintheworkofPreparation.

2Butnowforthesecondcasewhichindeedisthemain;Supposewhenwecometoduties,andbegintoexamineourhearts,andbegintobethinkourselveswhetherwebepreparedyeaornotoholyduties,andwedonotfind our hearts prepared according to that that we do desire, whetherthenwemayletthedutygoforthattime,andforbeartheperformanceofit,assupposePrayer,orreceivingthesacrament,orcomingtothewordoranyotherholyduty?

And the reason of this doubt is, because when any man or woman isconscientious, theythinkwiththemselves that theymustSanctifyGod'sName in holy duties, now if they cannot find their hearts in a f•tdispositiontoSanctifythenameofGodinholyduties,theyarereadytothinkthus,Wereitnotbettertoneglectthisdutyandlayitasideforthepresent,willGodacceptofadutywhenIperformit,andamnotfitforit?

Therefore for the Answer to this, because it is a temptation thatsometimescarnalheartshave,andtheyarereadytotakethistemptation,andwillingtoneglectthedutyuponsuchathoughtasthis,thattheyarenotprepared:Andthetruthis,theyaremoregladtoletthedutyfall,thentheyaresorry forwantof thepreparationof theirhearts for theduty. Ibeseech you consider of this, whether you have not found it so, that

sometimeswhenyouhavenotbeenfittoperformaholyduty,therehathnotbeenamoresecretwillingnessofthehearttoletthedutygo,thenasorrowoftheheartbecauseyouarenotitfortheduty.Thisisaveryevilsignthattheheartisverymuchdistempered.Thosethataregodlyindeedwhentheyfindnottheirheartspreparedforthedutyitisthetroubleoftheirsouls,itisthatthatgoesneartotheirhearts,whentheythinkwiththemselves that theyarenow like to loseadutyof theworshipofGod,theyarenowliketolosetheircommunionwithGodinaholyduty,theyevenlookuponthemselvesinanevilcaseinregardofthis;anditmakesthemwatchfulfortimetocometotakeheedofthosethingsthathaveputtheminsuchanunpreparednessastheyfindtheirheartstobeinatthistime:Now if it be sowith thee it is a good sign that thy heartmay beuprightwithGodthoughthroughinfirmityitcomesatsuchatimetobeunpreparedfortheduty.

ButyetsupposeIfindIamnotprepared,Iamgrievedandtroubledatit,(for thatmustbepremised)whetherwere Ibetter to leave theduty forthistimethentofalluponitinsuchanunpreparedstateasthisis?

NowfortheAnswertothisQuestion.

1First,ThatwhichIwouldAnswertoitisthis,Theomissionofaduty,orthelayingofadutyaside,willneverfitthesoulforadutyafterwardsitisno way tomake thy soulmore fit afterwards because thou hast laid itasidenowforthepresent;dobutobserveyourownheartsthatway,andyouwill find thisbyexperience:Sucha timeyouhavebeenbusy in theworld,andoccasionshavehinderedyousoasyourheartisoutoftemperandframeforaduty,youlayitaside,nowareyoumorefitthenextday?Ifyoudoneglectdutyinthemorninguponanybusiness,areyoufittertoperform duty at night because of it? you will not find it to be so: theforbearingadutynowwillnotmakethesoulfitterforadutyafterwards;thereforeisnowisdomtoforbearadutyforwantofpreparation,becausetheforbearancewillneverhelptofurtherpreparation,butwillmakethesoulmoreunfitforduty.ItisanexcellentspeechthatIreadthatLutherhath concerning himself, I have learned this by experience, that theoftenerIdoomitduty,theoftenerdoImakemyselfthemoreunfitforduty,andcauseIhavetoabhormyself.Itisnotthedeferringthatmakestheethemorefit.

2Thereforeconsiderthatthisisbutatemptation,andthatistheSecondthingthatIwouldpropoundtothosethatshallomitadutybecausetheyarenotprepared,That this isbutaTemptation tokeep thee from it, totell theethat thouartnotprepared:and if thoushalt forbear itbecausethouartnotprepared,inthisthingthoudoestgratifytheDevil,andtheDevil hathwhat hewould have, and sowould be encouraged to tempttheeanother timebecausehehathnowwhathewouldhave in causingtheetoforbeartheduty;First,helabourethtounfittheeforit,andthenhetemptstheetoforbearitbecausethouartunfit,thisisthesubtletyoftheDevil.Fromwhenceisitthatthouartunfitbutfromthetemptationofthe Devil? And I and Luther again, that was aman that had asmuchconversewithGod as any in his days, and aman that had asmuch todraw his heart away, asmany temptations, and asmany businesses asany, for indeed thegreatCauseofChrist inall theChristianworld inagreatmeasureunderGodlayuponhisshoulders,andyetsaithhe,Ifanyone think that prayer must be deferred till the soul be purified fromimpurecogitations,hedothnootherthenhelptheDevilwhoispowerfulenough;hethinkstobewise indeferringthedutybecausehe isnot fit,andhehathmanyillthoughtsandtroublesinhisSpirit,hedothnothingelsesaithLuther,butgratifytheDevilthatisstrongenoughwithoutthis.Oh letus takeheedofgratifying theDevil inhis temptations, thereforerememberitisatemptationfortheetoomitadutymerelybecausethouartnotpreparedfortheduty.

3IntheThirdplace,thatwhichIwouldAnswertothisQuestionisthis,Ifanyoneperformadutyofworshipinthatsincerityandstrengththatheisabletodoit,thoughhebenotpreparedasheought,yetitisbettertodoitthentoneglectit.Itistrue,somedoperformadutyinamereformalway,andtosatisfytheirconsciences,ortocloakandcovertheirsinsandthe like: perhaps they may so perform it as it might be better to beunperformedthentoperformitastheydo,butifyoudoendeavortotheuttermostofyourstrengthtodoit,thoughyoubenotpreparedasyoudodesire,yet it isbetter todo it then toomit thedoingof it, andyouwillfinditso,foronedutydothprepareforanother.ThoughitbenotdoneasIdesireitshouldbedone,yetthedoingofitaswellasIcanatthistimewillhelpmetodoitbetteratanothertime,thatiscertainasonesindoth

prepare the heart for another sin, so one duty prepares the heart foranother,asnow,supposeamancommitsasin,andhehathaconsciencethat is enlightened that doth hinder him from committing his sinwiththatfullstrengththathewoulddoitmanyamanhathamindtosinbutthroughtheenlighteningofhisconsciencehecannotsinwiththatdelightashewould,becausehis conscience flies inhis face anddoth interrupthim, but yet for all this through the strength of his corruption he willbreak through to that sin:now thoughat first they cannot commit thatsinwith that delight and freedomas they do at other times yet if theircorruptions be so strong as to break through the light of theirconsciences, thenext timetheycometothecommittingof thatsintheywillcommititwithmorefreedomandeaseagreatdeal.

Thisisevidentbyexperience,thereisnoneofyoubutifyouwellobserveyour hearts you will find this, A Temptation comes to a sin, now youcannot do it with so much freedom as you would, but yet you breakthroughit,youwillfindthatthenexttimeyouwillcommititwithmorefreedom,andsoonesinwillprepareforanother,anditmaybeyouhavesome troubleof conscienceat first,but thenext timeyouwillhave lesstrouble, till at length you can commit it freely without any trouble ofconscienceatall.Asitisinsin,soitisingodlinessmanytimesinsomedegree at the first you have a motion to a holy duty, but through thestirringsofyourcorruptionsyouarenotfitforit,nowdoyoubutbreakthrough that difficulty, and the next time youwill bemore fit, and thenexttimeafterthatyouwillbemorefit,andsostillmoreandmorefitasitisinsin,Ifamanwhenhehathsometroubleofconsciencewouldbutlisten to his conscience andwould not commit that sin, his consciencewouldgrowstrongeruponhim,andstrengthenhimagainstthatsin,soifanymanorwomanlistenstothetemptationtodeferdutyandputitoffbecause they are not prepared,why after that the corruptionwill growmore strong, therefore set upon the duty, and the performance of onedutywillprepareforanother.

4 In the Fourth place,whilemen andwomen are strugglingwith theirsouls and the corruption of their hearts, and do not fall upon seekingGod,theybytheirverystrugglingtopreparethemselvesmanytimes,doensnare themselves: Itmay be thou hast thoughts of Atheism or other

wickedness, the very struggling with those thoughts may ensnare thyheart;nowthebetterwayweretofalluponprayer,andtocrytoGodtohelptheeagainthem,forwhilethouartstrugglingandstrivingwiththosethoughts thouartstrivingwith thecorruptionof thyheartandwith theDevilallalone,butnowwhenthoufalltothedutythoucallestinthehelpofGodandofJesusChrist,andthatisagreatdealbetter,whilethouartmusing, plodding, & troubling thy heart that way, I say thou artstruggling alone but now when thou fallest upon the duty then thoucallestinhelpfromGodandsothouartmoreabletotheperformanceofthe duty then thouwert before. And therefore it is the bestway to falluponadutythoughthoucanstnotfindthyheartpreparedasthoudoestdesire thevery fallingupon itwill fit thee for it.Andthusmuchfor theAnsweruntothosetwoCasesofconscience.

Nowthenwearetoproceedfurther intheopeningof thesanctifyingofGod'sNameinholyduties.Thusmuchfor thepreparationof theheart.But when the heart comes to it in what manner should the duty beperformedsoasthenameofGodmaybesanctifiedinthedutyorwhatisthebehaviorofthesoulinthesanctifyingofGod'sNamewhenitisintheveryactoftheduty?

Tothat•Answer.Firstingeneralthus,WhenthesoullabourstoperformdutiessoasGodmayhavesuchgloryfromthedutyasisfitforaGodtohaveinsomemeasure:thendoISanctifyGod'sname.

You will say this is a very hard thing to perform a duty so as that weshouldgiveGodtheglorythatisfitforaGodtohave:Certainlythisisnotdonebyeverymannerofperformanceofadutyofworship:yetyoushallhear this opened to you, and I hope you shall have itmade very plainbeforeyou.

First therefore I shall showyou, thatwhenweare toperformadutyofworship,weshouldsetourselvestoglorifyGodasaGod,thatistodoitinthatmannerthatGodmayhavethatglorythatisfitforaGodtohave.AsnowinthedutyofPraisePsa.66.2.makehispraiseglorious,thatis,doitso as youmay lift upHisName in it, and thatGodmaybe glorious inyourpraise.AndRom.1.21.theretheApostlespeakingoftheHeathens;hedothrebukethem;Forwhat?Itwasforthis,becausethatwhenthey

knewGod,theyglorifiedhimnotasGod,neitherwerethankful.NowthisisspokenespeciallyoftheworshipofGod:forhesaithafterwardsver.23.thattheychangedthegloryoftheincorruptibleGod,intoanimagemadeliketocorruptibleman&c.Sothatit'sspokenoftheworshipofGod;thatthey glorified notGod asGod. That is then to sanctifyGod'sName, toglorifyGodasGod:andthereforeourSaviourinthe4.ofJohnwhenhespoketothewomanofSamaria,hetellsherthatGodisaSpirit,andmustbeworshipped in spirit and truth, that is wemust labour to suite, ourworshiptowhatthereisinGod;thatourworshipmaybeproportionableinsomemeasureevento thenatureofGodhimself;AndthereforeGodbeingaSpirit,hisworshipmustbeaDivineworship.IhavereadofsomeoftheHeathensthatdidworshiptheSunforaGod,andtheywouldoffertotheSunsomewhatsuitable;thereforebecausetheydidsoadmireattheswiftnessofthemotionoftheSun,theywouldnotofferasnailtothesun,butaflyinghorse,ahorsewithwings;nowahorseisoneoftheswiftestcreatures, and the strongest creature to continue in motion for a longtimetogether;andtheyaddedwingstothehorse,andtheythoughtthatsuitabletobeasacrificefortheSun.SowhenwecometoworshipGod,thatis,tosanctifyhisName,wemustbehaveourselvessoastogivehimtheglory that is fit foraGodtohave.Asnowin those threeparticularswhichIopenedtoyouwhenIshowedyouwhereinwedrawnightoGod.Thiswasone,ItoldyouthatwhenwecometoworshipGod,wecometotender up some present to God, now then we must tender up such apresentasissuitabletoGod'sexcellency.Ifamanshouldcometoapoorman to give a present, If itwerenotworth twelvepence, yet itmaybetakenwell;butifyouweretotenderupapresenttoaPrince,aMonarch,anEmperor,thenyoumusttenderapresentthatisfitforthequalityofthe person. ThereforeMal 1. 8.When the Lord rebukes them for theirSacrifices that theywere suchpoor things:GosaithGodand tenderupthis to your governor and see whether he will accept of it or no. Socertainly that which may be accepted of by a mean man, would beaccountedascorne,ifyoushouldtenderituptoaPrinceoranEmperor.NowwhenwearetoworshipGodwemustconsiderthatwearetotenderupourservicetoGod,whoisthegreatKingofKings,andLordofLords.Butyouwillsay,isitpossibleforanycreaturewhenitcomestotenderupit'sworshiptoGod,totenderupthatwhichisfitforaGodtohave?Thismay rather be a discouragement unto prayer or any other duty of

worship,thenanencouragement.

TothatIAnswerthus,thoughwebeverypoorandmean,yetitdothnothinderbutwemaytenderupthattoGodwhichGodwillacknowledgetobesuitabletohisinfiniteexcellency,as

First,ifwetenderuptoGodallthatwehave.Thoughwebeneversopoorandmean,yet ifGodhaththestrengthofoursouls,Godaccepts it.Forweare toknowthatGoddothnotstand inneedofwhatwehave,orofwhatwedo;butthatwemightshowourrespecttohim:Thereforeifwegive all that we have God accepts it. As a child if it puts forth all it'sstrengththatithathtodoabusinesswhichthefatherbidshim,whetherthe business be done or no, the father looks upon it and accepts it assuitable to the child's strength; and it shows the respect that the childhath tohis father.Andas it is storiedof anEmperor thatwhenapoormanhadnothingtoofferhimbutalittlewaterthathehadtakenupwithhishand,hehavingnothingelsetheEmperoracceptsofit.Sothat'sthatwhich God looks for, that the Creature should lift him above all. IfthereforewhenthoucomesttoworshipGod,Godhathmoreofthyhearttheneveranycreatureintheworldhad,Godacceptsofthat,andthatyoumustlookunto;Canyousayso,whenyougotoworshipGod,Lorditistruethereismuchweaknessinmyspirit,butthouthatknowestalthingsknowest, thatthouhastmoreofmyhearttheneveranyCreatureintheWorldhad.ThisissuitabletoGod:Godwillaccountthis(intheCovenantof grace) to be a present suitable to himself. As in the Law,when theyofferedtothebuildingoftheTemple,everyonecouldnotoffergoldandsilverandpreciousstones,butsomecameandofferedBadgers-skins,andsome women did spin and offered Coats-hair to the building of theTemple,andsoGodacceptedofthatbeingthemosttheycoulddo.

2IntheSecondplace,WhenwedonotonlyofferuntoGodthemostwecan, but whenwe add to this the grief of our souls that we can do nomore,whenthesoulshallstrivetotheuttermostitcan,andwhenithathdoneall, saith, I amanunprofitableServant,Oh that I coulddomore!ThisissuitabletoGod.

3 Thirdly, The people of God though they be weak, yet the weakestServantofGodisabletoofferuptoGodsomewhatthatissuitabletothe

infiniteMajestyofGod,uponthisThirdGround,becausethatthereisakindofimpressionofGod'sinfinitenessinthoseservicesthatagraciousheartdothtenderuntoGod,andthereforesuitableuntoGod.

You will say, God is an Infinite Glorious God? Be it so; He is Infinitethat'scertainbutthedutyofworshipthatagracioushearttendersuntoGod,ithathanimpressionofGod'sinfinitenessuponit.Howisthat?Ifthatcanbemadeout,thenindeedwemaybeencouragedtoworshipGod.Thus,ThatthatagracioushearttendersuptoGodhathanimpressionofhisInfinitenessinthisregard,becauseasGodhathnolimitsofhisBeing,soagraciousheartwhenitcomestoworshipGodwillnotpropoundanylimitsorbounds,butinthedesiresofitwouldfainbeenlargedinfinitelyif it could. If it were possible for a creature to be enlarged to Godinfinitely itwould be.Here lies I conceive themaindifference betweenthemostgloriousHypocrite intheworld,andonethathathtrueGrace,yeathathathbuttheleastdegreeofGrace:ThemostgloriousHypocriteintheworld,whoitmaybefortheoutwardactdothmorethenonethathathtrueGrace,yetsuchaonedothlimithimself,hedothgreatthings,buthedothitso,ashelimitshimself,thatis,somuchasmayserveforsuchandsuchendsofhis,somuchasmayservehisturn,eithertosatisfyhis conscience,or toget credit andesteem, tobeaccountedeminent insuch away, somuch he doth do, but his duty is always limitedwithinsuchboundsandifhecouldconceivethathemightgotoheaven,andthathe might have as much credit and honor, and as much peace ofconscience with doing less, he would do less. But now one that hathGrace, though but little though but the least dram of Grace, he goesfarther: Indeed saith he, though through the little Grace that I have, Icannotdowhatanothercando,yetthisdothsoenlargemyheart,thatIwould have no bounds set in what I do for God, but I would have itenlargedtotheuttermostLatitude, if itwerepossiblebeyondwhateveryet was done for God in the world; and themore I do, themore I dodesire todo.That'snowakindof infiniteness that there is in theheartwhere Grace comes: I say, Grace enlarges the heart to a kind ofinfiniteness that the more it doth, the more it would do: there is noHypocritebutwillhavehisperiods,hewillrisethus,andthus,andthushigh;ordinarilyyoushallfindthatifhelivesinsomecompanythereheishigh, but if he lives in other company, there he is lower;Now there is

nothingdothlimitagraciousheart,buttoallEternityitwouldworkandworkmoreandmore forGod.Herenow is aworship that is somewaysuitable to the infinite excellency that there is inGod:Here's a kindofproportion (as I may so speak) even between the creature and Godhimselfinthisthing,butitisthegraceofGodinthecreature,hereistheImageofGodindeed,becausegracedothsoenlargethehearteventoaninfinitenessasitwereforGod.Andthusyouseeinthegeneralwhatitisto Sanctify God's Name, to tender up to God that which is some waysuitabletothegloryoftheinfiniteGod.

2YouknowtherewasaSecondthing,viz.ThatthenIdo

SanctifyGod'sNamewhenIcomesotoworshipGodasmyheartworks,andfollowsafterGodasaGod,soasitdothbeseemthesoulofaCreatureto follow the infiniteCreator, and toworkafter the infiniteCreator:SoDavidinPsal.63.5.Mysoulfollowethhardafterthee,OGod,and(markit's a very sweet Scripture) thy right hand upholdethme. Thosewhosehearts follow hard after the Lord, they have the right hand of Godupholdingofthem:Itisamightyencouragementtoputforththehearttotheuttermost,becausewhenthoudoestsotherighthandofGodupholdsthee:sothatthyheartmustfollowafterGodmorethenitfollowedafteranycreature.

3When I come todrawnigh toGod, I come topresentmy self for thecommunication of the choicest of hisMercies, so then I SanctifyGod'sNamewhen I labour to prepare and openmy heart for God as for thechoicestMerciesthatGodhathtobestowuponhisCreature.Whenthereissuchatemperofheartthatmyconsciencetellsmeitissuitabletothatthat is fit forasoul tohave thatexpects to receive thechoicestMerciesfromGod:butthatwespoketoomoreintheopeningofourdrawingnighto God Now we are to come more particularly to this, to open thesanctifyingofGod'sName.

1First,InwhatparticularsthebehavioroftheheartmaybediscoveredtobesuitabletoGodinrespectofGod'sgreatnessandglory.

2Secondly,What thebehaviorof theheart shouldbeas suitable to theseveralattributesofGod.

ItwillcostussometimetoopentheparticularthingsinthebehavioroftheheartasinreferencetotheGreatnessandMajestyofGod,consideredmore generally; as in Psal. 48. 1. Great is the Lord, and greatly to bepraised.And so inMal. 1. 14.Cursedbe thedeceiverwhichhath inhisflockamale,andvoweth,andsacrificethuntotheLordacorruptthing.Why?forIamagreatKingsaiththeLord,andthereforecursedishethatdothnotofferaSacrificesuitabletomyGreatness?Andin2Chron2.5.we find thatSolomonwhenhewaspreparing for theTemple,hewouldbuildagreatTemple,why?becauseGodwasagreatGodthathewouldbuildittoo:SothattheworshipofGodmustbesomegreatthingbecausetheLordisagreatGod,anditmustbesuitabletohisgreatness.Nowifyouaskmeinwhatparticularsdoththebehaviorofthesoulconsistthatis very suitable to thegreatness.ofGod in thegeneral? therearemanythingsinthis:

1TheFirstis,YoumustbecarefultobringaSanctifiedheart.Youcannottender up a worship suitable to his greatness. except you bring aSanctifiedheartwithyou,theremustbeholinessintheheart:UndertheLawyouknow,ifanyonecametoofferaSacrificeinhisuncleanness,hemustbecutoff:andsoitmustbehere,wemustlooktoitthatweoffernottoGodinouruncleanness:Washyou,andmakeyouclean.inIsa.1.andthencomeletusreasontogether:ThereisnocomingtoGodwithoutwashingandmakingclean:inPsal93.5.HolinessbecomeththinehouseO Lord for ever: Holiness becometh the presence of God for ever, wemust look to get aSanctifiedheart. Sanctification consists in those twoparts,Mortification, andVivification: theremustbe amortifyingof thelusts of the heart: We read in the Law, that every Sacrifice was to besaltedwithSalt;thatdidsignifythemortificationofourheartswhenwecometoofferupourselvesasaSacrifice toGodtheSaltdideatout therawhumors,andkeptthefleshfromputrefying;sodoththeGraceofGodinmortifyingourLusts:InHeb9.14.youhaveanotablescriptureforthecleansingofourheartswhenwecometoofferanyservice toGod,Howmuch more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spiritofferedhimselfwithout spot toGod,purge your consciences fromdeadworks to serve the livingGod: So that you cannot serve the livingGoduntilyourconsciencesbepurgedfromdeadworks:Andhowcomesyourconsciences to be purged from dead works? It is through the blood of

Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot toGod, he must purge your consciences. So that here's the way ofsanctifyingGod'sNameby applyingof JesusChristwhowasoffered toGodwithoutspotthatourconsciencesmightbepurgedfromdeadworks,thatwemightbepurgedfromthatnaturalfilthinessanduncleannessinwhichweallwere;forthewholeworlddothlieinfilth,asacarriondothlieinhisslime.NowifwewouldworshipGodsoastoSanctifyhim,wemustapplyChristtooursouls,andgetourconsciencespurgedfromdeadworks,andtohavetheSpiritofChristinustoquickenupourheartsinthewaysofholiness;tohavetheimageofJesusChristinus,wherebywemaybeholyaccordingtoourproportionevenashehimselfisholy,thisisthesanctifyingoftheheartTheremustbeanhabitualSanctificationandanactualSanctificationof theheart:AnHabitual, that is that theheartmust be changed through the work of Regeneration there must be aRegenerationintheheart,theremustbeDivineprinciplesoftheGracesoftheSpiritofGodintheheart.

Butyouwillsay,MaynotanunregeneratemanPray?

TothatIAnswer;

It istrue, it ishisdutytopray,PourforththywrathupontheHeathen,anduponthefamiliesthatcallnotuponthyName:Butit'sastrue,thattheycannotSanctifyGod'sNameindoingofit:ButifwewouldSanctifyGod's Name in it theremust be an Habitual holiness in the heart, foreverythingdothactaccordingtoitsprinciples,innatureitisso;andsodoththeheartwhenitcomestoworshipGod,itdothactaccordingtotheprinciplesthatithath.

And then there must not only be Habitual Sanctification, but ActualSanctification likewise, as in Exod. 19. 10, 11. there you see what a dotherewastofitthemforthehearingoftheLaw,becauseGodwastocomeamongthem:Godistocomeamongus,andwearetocometoGodwhenwearetoperformholyduties; therefore it isnotenoughtohaveGrace,but there must be an improving of Grace, there must be an acting ofGrace not only when you come to receive the sacrament, to think thatthentheremustbeanactingofGracebuteverytimeyouprayandheartheremustbeanactingofGrace;Apurgingoutofyourcorruptionsand

actingofGrace.So thatone cannotSanctifyGod'sName inholydutiesunless he come thus far, to be able to say, Lord, thou that knowest allthings,knowest,thereisnothingthatthoudoestrevealtobecontrarytothywill, butmyheart is against it, that's the least; thoucanstnothaveanypeaceofconscienceindrawingnightoGod,untilthoucomethusfar,tohavethyhearttoworkthusagainstsin,andtobesetuponeverygoodthatGodrevealstobehismind.Youknowwhenamanofqualitycomesto your housewhat a deal of stir there is, not only in sweeping, but inmakingallthingsascleanandtightandshiningaspossiblycanbe:ThusitshouldbewhenthoucomesttoGod.

AndtheReasonwhytheremustbethissanctifyingoftheheartis.

1First,Because theLorddoth first acceptof thepersonbeforehedothaccepto•theAction:MenindeeddoacceptofthepersonsofmenbecausetheydogoodactionsbutGodacceptsoftheactionsofmenbecausetheirpersonsaregoodIfindeedweseeamandogood,thenwelovehimandacceptof thepersonof theman,butGod firstwill acceptof thepersonbefore the Action: As the Lord accepted of Abel first, and then heacceptedhisoffering:Soyoumustlooktothat,tohaveyourpersonsfirstacceptedofGodbeforeanydutycanbeaccepted:Youthinkthoughyoubewickedandsinful,yet ifyouamendyour lifeGodwillacceptofyou,yougo thatway towork;butcertainly that is thewrongway;youmustfirstlookaftermeansofacceptationofyourpersons,whichisthroughtheRiotousnessofJesusChrist,andthroughtheSanctificationofhisSpirit,wherebyyoucometohavehis Imageand life,andsoareaccepted,andthenall thatproceeds fromyoucomes tobeaccepted.There isnotanyactionwhich comes fromyou that comes to be accepted to eternal life,untilyourpersonsbeacceptedbeforeGod,andthereforetheremustbeasanctifyingoftheheartbeforetherecanbeasanctifyingtheNameofGodin the duties of hisworship: Thereforewhen you come to perform anydutiesofGod'sworshipyoushouldconsiderthis,IsmyheartSanctified?ImustSanctifyGod'sName,andhowcanIdothat,exceptmyheartbeSanctified?

2 Secondly, Our heartsmust be Sanctified because the Lord doth lookmoretotheprinciplefromwhenceathingcomes,thenatthethingitself.As indeedwereourhearts rightas theyshould thenall thegood things

thatcometous,wewouldnotsomuchregardwhatthethingsare,thatwedoenjoyfromGod,aswhattheprincipleisfromwhencetheycome,that is,Whetherwhatwedoenjoy fromGod is fromthe loveofGod inJesusChristorno?WhetheritbefromthegeneralBountyandPatienceof God, or from the special grace of God in Jesus Christ? Our heartswould regard thatmore ifwewere Spiritual: now then look as a godlyman is not satisfied with enjoying any good thing fromGod except heknowsitcomesfromaprincipleoflovetohimJesusChrist;SoGodisnotpleasedwithanythingthatcomesfromus,exceptheknowsthatitcomesfromaprincipleofLove,Grace,andHolinessinourhearts.

3Thirdly,Accordingastheheartis,sowilltheServicebe;Certainlyiftheheartbeuncleanthedutywillbeunclean;perhapsthewordsmaybefineandbrave,butiftherebeanuncleanheart,thedutywillbeunclean:AsitiswithamanthathaththePlague,supposehemakesabraveOration,yethisbreathisinfectious:soitisinourServiceswithGod:Ifsobethatourhearts within us have the plague, then certainly the breath that comesfromus,allourdutieswillbeunclean,andthereforethatisthefirstthingthatwearetolookforinthesanctifyingGod'sNameinholyduties:LooktohavethyheartSanctified,andconsiderfromwhatprincipleitcomestisforwantofthisthatthousandsofourdutiesarecastasideandGodneverdothregardthem:Butthis is thefirstParticular, there ismanymoretospeakof.

SermonV-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinHolyDuties

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

Weproceed.ThenextthingthereforeforthebehaviorofthesoulinthesanctifyingGod'sNameinworshipisthis,

When we come to worship God, if we would sanctify God's Name, wemusthavehighthoughtsofGod;wemust lookuponGodashe isuponhisthrone,inmagesty,andingloryasinIsa6.1,2.youshallfindthattheprophet saw theLorduponhis throne: It isanexcellent thingwhenallwho come toworshipGod, every time they come toworshiphim,havetheir eyes darted up to heaven and behold the Lord God sitting in hisglory upon his throne: So you shall find in Rev. 4. the 24 elders thatworshippedGod,theysawhimuponhisthroneinhisgloryandsotheyworshippedhimtheyworshippedGodtopurposeindeedwhentheysawthe Lord in that majesty as he was; we should at all times have highthoughtsofGod:takeheedofhavinglowthoughtsandapprehensionsofthe infinitemajestyofGodatany time,butespeciallywhen thouart toworshipthegreatGod,thenlookupontheLordinthatinfinitedistancethatthereisbetweenhimandthyself,yeathatinfinitedistancethatthereisbetweenhimandallcreaturesintheworld,lookupontheLordasliftedupinglory,notonlyaboveallcreatures,butaboveallexcellenciesthatallangelsandmen,inheavenandearthareabletoimagine:LookupontheLord as having all excellencies in himself, joined in one, and thatimmutably; look upon him as the fountain of all excellency, good, andglorythatallcreaturesintheworldhave.AndlookupontheLordeverytimethoucomesttoworshiphim,asthatGodwhomangelsdoadoreandbeforewhomthedevilsareforcedtotremble:beholdhiminthishisgloryandthiswillhelptheetosanctifyhisNamewhenthoucomesttohim.

ThegreatreasonwhypeoplecomeandworshipGodinaslightway;itisbecausethattheydonotseeGodinhisglory,'tisagreatmercyforGodtogiveuntousasightofhimself,asightofhisgloryhereinthisworldwhilewe are worshiping of him, this would keep our eyes and our thoughtsfrom wandering, if we had a sight of the glory of God, and had highthoughts of God.What's the reason why we wander so as we do? butmerelybecauseweseenotGodasnowsupposeyouwereinyourhouse,andlookingaftereveryfeatherthatwereflyingupanddownifyoushouldhearthatthekingwerecomeintotheroom,oranygreatperson,itwouldcomposeyourspiritsbecauseyouhavehighthoughtsofsuchasorthosethatareaboveyou:SoletuslookuponGodasinhisexcellency,andhisglory,andhavehighthoughtsofhim,andthisisthatwherebywearetosanctifyGod'sNamewhenwecomebeforehiminholyduties,Andthatis

thesecondthing:FirstasanctifiedheartandthenhighthoughtsofGod.

Athirdthingis,high-ends,raised-endsintheworshippingofGod:Prov.15.24.Thewayof life isaboveto thewise: it isonhigh in thisrespect,when he worships God his heart is lifted up on high: there is a holyraisingof theheartwhich iswellpleasingtoGod:Ourheartsshouldbeonhighinregardofthehighendsthatweaimatinholyduties:LiftupthyprayersaithHezekiahtotheProphetinanothercase:soImaysayliftupthysoulwhenthoucomesttoworshipGodinregardofthehighendsthat we aimest at: when we are worshipping God we should have ourheartsaboveallcreatures,andaboveourselves.Letnotourhearts thenbegrovelingupontheground,mingledwithbaseanddrossythings,whenwe come to worship the Lord indeed it is fit that we should have ourheartslow(asweshallshowhereafter)inregardofhumility,butnotlowin regard of any baseness of Spirit tomixwith anybase and low ends:NowtherearelowandbaseendsinworshippingofGod,As.

First,wemusttakeheedwedonotsubjecttheworshipofGoduntoourlusts,thatisacursedthing,thouartfarfromsanctifyingGod'sNameinworshippingofhimthatshaltsubjecthisworshiptothybaselusts,thisisan abominable and cursed thing indeed: You will say, who doth thus?whoisthemanorwhereishethatwilldothissubjecttheworshipofGodtohisbaselusts!TothatIanswer,whosoeverdothmakeuseofanydutyofworship,asprayer,hearingtheword,orwhateveritbe,tocloakanykind of wickedness, whosoever is conscious to himself of any kind ofsecretwickedness,andyet shall think tocover itby theperformanceofduties,andshallreasoninthismanner,whowillthinkmetobeguiltyofsuchavile thing,whenIpraysoas Ido,andamsocareful tohear theword?andIhopeIshallcoversomewickednessthisway:IftherebeanyinthisplacewhoseconsciencetellsthemthattheysubjecttheworshipofGod to such a base end as this is the Lord rebuke them this day, andspeaktotheirhearts,IfIknewany,IwouldsetmineeyesuponthemandsayastheApostletoSimonMagus,Iperceivethatthouartinthegallofbitternessandinthebondofiniquity;andashesaidtohimthatdidseektodrawtheDeputyfromtheFaith,OthouchildoftheDevil,andfullofallsubtilely,todamnandundothyselfeternally,thatseekesttocloakanywickedwaybyanydutyofGod'sworship;Is itagreatevil foramanor

woman tomakeuseofanyofGod's creatures tobe serviceable to theirlustsasmeatanddrink&c.WhatadamnablethingisitthentomakeuseofanydutyofGod'sworshipsometimesextraordinaryworship,asfastingandprayer,tobeacloaktocovertheirwickedness!ThouartsofarfromsanctifyingGod'sName,thatthoupollutestGod'sName:thoudoestwhatintheeliesfortocastevendirtinthefaceofGodhimselfthatdoestso.

The second base end, is to subject the duties of God's worship to thepraise ofmen, as to performduties ofGod'sworship for the esteemofmen,andbecauseweshallbewellthoughtof;takeheedofthisyouyoungones, andothers, youwould fainbeesteemedwellofby those thatyoulivewithal:Itisadesirablethingtohaveagoodesteemfromthosethatare godly: but take heed that you do not subject the duties of God'sworship to this. Indeed it may be an encouragement to you, as Davidsaith, IPsal. 52.9.This is goodbefore thy saints:Daviddid encouragehimself to praise God, because it was good before God's saints; and IconfessitmaybeanencouragementbecauseholydutiesaregoodbeforeGod's saints: but take heed that this be not thy highest end that thouaimestat,andthatwhichcarries theeon in thework,merely toget thepraise of men, and that they shall think that thou hast good gifts andparts, and therefore thou art enlarged in that regard take heed of that,knowthatnowthoudoestnotworshipGod,butthouworshippestmen,thoudoestmake the praise ofmen to be thyGod, forwhatsoever thoudoest lift up in the highest place, that's thy God, whatsoever it be:therefore if thou liftest up the praise ofmen andmakest that thy end,thoumakestthatthyGod,andsothouartaworshipperofmen,butnotaworshipperofGod

Thirdly,takeheedofmakingselfthyendtherearesomethatarenotsobase& low in theirhearts, as tomake thepraiseofmen their end,buttheyaimandlookatthemselves,thatis,theyaimattheirownpeace,andsatisfying their own consciences in the performance of duties; nowthoughit'strue,whenweperformdutiesofGod'sworship,wemayexpectto receive some good to ourselves, and we may be encouraged to thedutiesbytheexpectationofgoodtoourselves;yetwemust lookhigher,we must look at the honour and praise of God, that the name of theblessedGodmaybehonoured:NowIamgoingtoprayer,OhthatImay

praysoasImayliftupGod'sName:Iamgoingtohear,OhthatImayhearso,asGodmaybehonoredbymyhearing:tisthisthatcarriesmeontohearingtheword,andmakesmerisereadilyandtogoforthcheerfully:Ihope thatGodmayhavesomehonourbymyhearing thisday,&GodknowsthatthisisthethingthatIaimatIdonotcomeforcompanynorto be seen of men, neither do I come merely to satisfy mine ownconscience:Others go and hear such truths ofGod as do good to theirsouls, and if I should neglect them merely for mine own ease, myconsciencewouldnot letmebequiethowsoever there aremanywhoseconscienceswillbequietenough;thoughtheyloseanopportunityintheworshipofGod;butyetthereareotherswhoseconsciencescannotdosotheir consciences would tell them when they are lying and turningthemselves upon their beds, how do you know but that God had somethingtospeaktothyheartthismorning,thatmayneverbespokentothyheart at any other time? therefore they cannot be at quiet except theyattenduponGodinthedutiesofhisworship:butstillthisisnotenoughmerely to satisfy conscience; thymain end itmustbe that thoumayestthisdayknowsomepartofthemindofGod,thatGodmayspeaktothyheart,thatsothoumayestbefittedtohonourtheNameofGodthatthoumayest be enabled to live tohishonor theweek following somuch thebetter.As in thismanner thy thoughts shouldbe, Lord, I find a drossycarnalheart,Iambusyintheworldintheweektime,andIfindthatmyheartisfulfilledanddefiledwiththebusinessoftheworld,andentangledbutLord, thouhastappointedthySabbath,andword, tobeameans tosanctifymyheart,andtocleanseit;OhLord,communicatethygracetomysoulthroughthyordinancesuponthisday,thatsoImaybeenabledtheweek following thebetter to live to thinehonour,Lord, I come intothypresencetothatend,thatImightknowsomepartofthywill,andthatImightgetthySpirittobeconveyedthroughthiswordofthineintomyheart:thisshouldbethyendwheneverthoucomestandnotonlyself.IwillgiveyoutwoorthreeScripturestoshowthatGodregardslittleanydutieswhereselfisthehighestend;theFirstisinHos.7.14.Theyhowledupontheirbeds,(saiththeTextthere,)buttheycriednottome:TheLordtheredidacknowledgethattheywereverymuchaffectedintheirprayers,butwhatwasit?itwasbutahowlingupontheirbeds:andhowso:itwasbecause only they did cry for themselves, Theyhavenot crieduntome(saith theLord)with theirheart,when theyhowledupon theirbeds: It

was but merely for Corn, and Wine, and Cyle, but not unto me, theyaimedat themselvesandnotatme:And inAmos5.22. there theLordprofesses that he did reject the fat of their peace offerings: Though yeoffer me saith he, burnt offerings and your meat offerings I will notaccept them,neitherwill I regard the peace offering of your fat beasts.Theywerecarefultooffertheirfattestbeastsintheirpeaceofferings,andwillnotGodregardthem?Itwasintheirpeaceofferingsthattheyofferedtheirfatbeasts,andtheretheyweretoeatagreatpartof itthemselves:IndeedtheburntofferingwaswhollyoffereduntoGod,Godhadallthat,butthepeace-offering,thosethatdidofferit,theydideatagreatpartofitthemselves:nowtheywereverycarefulinthoseofferingsthattheyshouldpartake of themselves to offer fat beasts; you do not see that theHolyGhosttakesanynoticeoffatbeastsintheirburnt-offerings.Nowthenotefrom hence is this, that in those things where men are interestedthemselves,theywillbeverycarefultohavethebestthings.ButnowtheLordrejectedthefatbeastsoftheirpeace-offerings:saithGod,youwereverycarefultoofferfatbeastsinyourpeace-offeringswhereyoumayfeedyourselves,butforthoseofferingswhereinIhaveall,thereyouarenotsocareful,andthereforeIregardthemnot.ThethirdScriptureisinZach.7.5.theretheydidkeepmanydaysinseekingofGod,(it isanobservableScripture for these times,)Speakuntoall thepeopleof the land,andtothePriestssaying,Whenyefastedandmournedinthefifthandseventhmonth, even those seventy years, did ye at all fast untome? evenuntome?Markthephraseyoufastedinthefifthandseventhmonth,andforseventyyears together,but saith theLord,Didyouat all fastuntome?and then mark how it is doubled, To me? even unto me? Noting thatwhenwefastorpray,ordoanythingintheworshipofGod,weshouldbesure to aim at God more then ourselves, that God may not say of usanotherday,Doyoudoittome,eventome?

Youmayaskmethisquestion,howmayIknowthatIamactedbyself-endsinholyduties?Foritisahardthingforonetoknowonesownheart,whenoneisactedbyprinciplesofself,andwhenweaimatGodinholyduties. Now for that I will give you these notes, to try whether you beactedfromyourselvesorno.

The first is this, If aman loves holy duties (though he find no present

good comes in by them) because they are such things asGod requires,and therefore though Igetnothingby them,yet this is enough to carrymeon,and to carrymeon readilyandwillingly in theworshipofGod:those that candelight inGod'sworship, even at that time, though theyfind nothing coming into themselves. But now when we find not thatcoming in thatwedodesire,webegin tobewearyofworship;andsay,whyhavewefasted,andthouseestitnot?ThisisanargumentthatthouartactedbyselfratherthenbyGod.

Secondly,Toknowwhetherwebeactedby self ends,or ratherbyhighends for God: Those men that can rejoice in others that are able tohonourGodinholydutiesmorethenthemselves,theymayhaveagoodevidencetotheirownsouls,thatwhentheyworshipGod,theyareactedbyhigherends thenself,butnow, suchasare straightened themselves,and when they see others more enlarged in the worship of God, theyrather envy them, are grieved and troubled; know that self is a greatingredient in those duties that thou doest perform: if thy heart wereraised high to God, though thou canst not thyself be enlarged in holyduties, yet thy soulwould be glad that any others are, though I have awretchedandvileheartofmyown,yetblessedbeGodthatthereareanyothersthatcanworshipGodbetterthenIcan.

Thirdly,amanthatisactedbyselfinholyduties,heregardsholydutiesbut little,save in timeofextremity, in timeof fear,orofsickness,or indangers. But now, one that hath high ends in holy duties, makes theduties of God's worship to be the joy of his soul in the midst of hisprosperity,andthatisanevidentsignthatthouartnotactedbyselfendsbutbyhigherendscanst thou in themidstof thyabundancesay,Lord,thougivestmeallconveniencesinthisworldandalloutwardthingsthatIwantbutLordthisisthatwhichisthejoyofmysoul,thisisthatwhichmakesmylifecomfortable,evencommunionwiththyself,inthedutiesofthy worship, that I have free access unto the throne of thy grace toworship thee the Lord, and there meet with thee when I am in theperformanceofholyduties.OLord,thouthatknowestallthings,knowestthatthisisthethingthatmakesmylifecomfortable;ItisnotthatIhaveatablefurnishedwithvarietyofdishes,andthatIcanhavelibertyoftimeto go into company, and spend according as I please but Lord those

incomesofthySpiritthatIdofindinthedutiesofthyworshipthosearethethingsthatmakesmylifeblessedindeeduntome?SuchamanasisablethustoappealtoGod,surelywhenheworshipsGod,heisactedbyhigh-ends, and not by self ends: And that is the third thing that isnecessaryforsanctifyingofGod'sNameinholyduties,thoumusthaveasanctifiedheart,highthoughtsofGod,andhighends.

Inthefourthplace,theremustbemuchreverence,andmuchfearwhenthou comest into the presence of God to worship him thou doest notglorifyGodasGod,exceptthoudoestcomeintohispresencewithmuchfear&reverenceofhisgreatName;Fear inworshippingofGod it is sonecessary,thatmanytimesinScripturewefindthattheveryworshipofGodiscalledthefearofGod,theyareputbothforone,ImightgiveyoudiversScripturesforitandhenceitwasthattheNameofGodwascalledthefearofIsaac,JacobdidswearbythefearofhisfatherIsaac,becauseIsaacbeingagreatworshipperofGod,kepthisconstanttimestoworshipGod, andworshippedhim in sucha constantway, as exceptDavidandDaniel, we do not find mention of the constancy of any in theworshippingofGodaswedoofIsaacs;forit issaid,thathewalkedbutinto the fields in theeveningashewaswont todo, tomeditate,and topray; and thereforeGod is called, The fear of Isaac. InPsal. 89. 7. is anotableScriptureforthisdrawingnightoGodwithfear:Godisgreatlytobefearedintheassemblyofthesaints,andtobehadinreverenceofallthemthatareabouthim:Godis tobehadinreverenceofall themthatareabouthim,butintheassemblyofhissaintsheisgreatlytobefeared,he isdaunting terrible (so thewordsare) in theassemblyof the saints.WhenthoucomestnightoGod,thouhadstneedhavethyheartpossessedwithmuch fear.So inPsal.2. 11. thekingsandprincesof theeartharecalledupontoserve theLordwith fear:Let thembeneversogreat,yetwhentheycomeintoGod'spresence,theymustservehimwithfear:AndsoinPsal.5.7.InthyfearwillIworshiptowardthyholytemple.NowthisfearofGod, itmustnotbeaservile fear,Butareverential fear;Formybrethren, there may be a great deal of slavish fear, where God is nothonoured; theremaybe fear fromsome terrible apprehensionsofGod,whichisnotownedbyGodtothisgraceoffear:HegiveyoutwonotableScriptures for that, inDeut.5.23,24comparedwith the29. Itcametopass(saiththetextvers.23.)whenyeheardthevoiceoutofthemidstof

thedarkness,forthemountaindidburnwithfire,thatyecamenearuntome,evenalltheheadsofyourtribes,andyourelders,Andyesaid,Beholdthe Lord our God hath showed us his glory and his greatness, and wehaveheardhisvoiceoutof themidstof the fire:wehaveseenthisday,thatGoddothtalkwithman,andheliveth,nowthereforewhyshouldwedie?forthisgreat firewillconsumeus:Ifwehearthevoiceof theLordourGodanymore, thenwe shall die. Seewithwhat a terror theywerestruckattheapprehensionofGod'sappearance;youwouldthinksurelythesemendid fearGodmuch, butmark in vers. 29.O that thereweresuchaheartinthemthattheywouldfearme.Why,didtheynotfeartheLord?Weretheynotstruckwithsuchfearthattheythoughttheyshoulddie? they sawhispresence so terrible that theywereafraid they shoulddieandyet,Othatthereweresuchaheartinthemthattheywouldfearme!Sothatitappearsbythis,thatonemaybestruckwithmuchterrorinthe apprehension of God's presence, and yet have no true fear of theNameofGod:Sosomeofyouitmaybeintimeofthunderordanger,arefilledwithterror;butyetmayitnotbesaidpresentlyafter,Othattherewere the fear ofGod in the heart of thisman orwoman, this youth ormaid: They are terrified sometimes, but yet there is not a filial andreverentialfearofGodinthem.AndIfindin1King.19.(whereyouhavethe story of God's appearing in that most terrible manner unto theProphetElijahbyfire,bythunder,andinamightywind)theProphetwasnot so struck with fear of God's presence when he did appear in themightywindorearthquakeorfire,aswhenGoddidappearinthesmallstillvoice,thereforeinvers13.itissaid,AnditwassowhenElijahheardit: that is, the soft voice, after the fire and earthquake, and themightywind)thathewrappedhisfaceinhismantleandwentoutandstoodintheenteringinofthecave,andbeholdtherecameavoiceuntohimandsaid,WhatdoestthouhereElijah?Thenhisheartwasmorestruckwithfearwherewasmost of God's presence, (though it was in a soft voice)then when the fire and earthquake did appear: It is a good sign of agraciousfearwhenthesoulcanbestruckwithmorefearfromtheword,and from the sight of God in enjoying of communion with him in hisworship,thenwhenGodappearsinthemostterriblewayofhisworks;orwhenthereisterrorinamansconsciencethroughfearofhell,whenGodappearsasthoughhewouldsendhimdownpresentlytohell,thoughGodexpectstobefearedthen,butwhenthesoulinenjoyingcommunionwith

Godinholyduties,andthemorecommunionhehathwithGod,themoreishestruckwithreverenceandthefearofGod,thisisasignofsanctifiedfear,andthendoththeheartsanctifytheNameofGodindeedwhenitisso possessed with fear in the duties of worship. Now this fear of Godshouldbe indeed in thesoul,andexpressedoutwardlywhenyouare intheassembly,bysuchreverentcarriageinprayer,asifaheathenshouldcome inhemay seeGod'sName sanctified, andmay say,Howgreat isthisGod that this people doworship!And in your Families, a reverentcarriage, not lying all a long in prayer, upon the elbows sleeping, butcarryingyourselvesso that ifaheathenshouldcome intoyour families,theymaysay,Ohowgreat isthisGodthatthispeopledoworship!Andlikewisethisfearitmustbeanabidingfear,notonlyatthatinstantwhenyouareworshippingofGod,orspeakingofanyofGod'stitlesandnames,but a fear thatmust abide upon your hearts after duty is over; that is,afteryouarecomeoutfromyourclosetsonemayperceivethefearofGoduponyou,andsowalkingallthedaylonginthefearofGod,asitbecomesthose thathavebeen solemnly setting themselves toworshiphim:Nowthisfearandreverenceiscontrarytotheslightness,vanity,theboldnessand presumptuousness that there is in the hearts of men and womenwhentheyareworshippingofGod.

Fifthly,ThedutiesofGod'sworshipmustbefullofstrength,fortheyarenotsuitabletoGodelse,becauseGodisaGodinfiniteinpowerandgloryhimself, thereforeGod cannot endure vainworshipping. In Isa. 1. 13. Ihatevainoblations:VanityofSpiritinworshippingofGodisveryhatefultoGod,itdothdefiletheNameofGod.Godisdishonoredbythevanityofmen'sspirits.Nowthisstrengthisthreefold:

1First,ThestrengthofIntention.

2Secondly,ThestrengthofAffection.

3Thirdly,thestrengthofallthefacultiesofthesoul,andthestrengthofbodytoo,asmuchasweareableshouldbeputforthintheworshippingofGod1Firstthestrengthofintention.Wemustintendourworkasifitwere forour lives:Ifeverwewereseriously intentiveorattentiveaboutanything,itmustbewhenweareworshippingoftheNameofGod.Whenyouarecomingtopray,beintentaboutit.Youshallseesomewhenthey

are going in the street when they have much intention about theirbusiness, their friendsmeet them,and theynevermind them;onemayperceive as they are going, that they are mightily intent about theirbusiness.Mybrethren,lookuponeverydutyofworshipasagreatthingwhichyoumustbeintentinyourthoughtsabout,andnotgivewaytothewanderingofyourthoughts.Ihavereadofonemartyr,thatwhenhewastodie, and the fire a kindling, saith anofficer,whatwill not you speakwhenyouseethefirekindling?saithhe,IamspeakingtoGod:thatis,hewaspraying,andhemindednotatallwhattheyweredoing.Owhatlittlethingsdotakeourthoughtsawayfromholyduties!Wheneverytoy,everyfeather,everylightmattercallsthemoff;IsthistosanctifyGod'sName?Wouldnotweaccountitadishonorablething, ifweweretalkingtooneaboutseriousbusiness,andwhenwearetalking,everyonethatcomesbyheshouldbelookingafterthem,andturningasidetotalkwiththem?Ifasuperiorbetalkingwithyou,hedothexpectthatyoushouldmindwhathesaith.ButwhenGodisspeakingtoyou,andyouarespeakingtoGod,everyvainthoughtthatcomesby,youareturningasidetoo:asifitwereagreaterthingtotalktovainthoughtsandtemptations,thentothegreat&gloriousGod.ThereforenowthatistheverytimethattheDevilchoosesfortobringtemptationswhenweareinholyduties,fortheDevilknowsthenhedothtwoworksatonce:hedothdisturbusinourdutiesandcalloff our hearts to that that is wicked, and doth aggravate our sinexceedingly. It may be thou wilt not dare to commit that sin that thetemptationdoth turn thy thoughtsupon,yeabut theDevilhathspoiledthe duty by it. The Lord doth expect that there should be strength ofintentionwhen thou art upon the duty: and there is no time to parleywithtemptationsnow,whateverthoughtscomein.Thetruthis,thoughtheybegoodthoughtsthatshouldcomeintothymind,andthattimethatthouart

Praying,yetiftheybenotpertinenttothedutythoumustcastthemawayasthetemptationoftheDevil.

Youwill say,canany thing that isgoodcome fromtheDevil?Certainlythatthatismateriallygood,andcomingunseasonably,maybefromtheDevil;theDevilmaytakeadvantagebywhatisinitselfmateriallygood,andbringinthatinanunseasonabletime,andsohemayturnittoevil:

Asnowwhen thou art hearing theword, itmay be theDevil thinks hecannotprevailtocausetheetohavethyheartrunningaboutuncleanness;yea,butsaiththeDevil,IfIcaninjectgoodthoughts,Iwillputintotheirminds someplace of Scripture that is noway pertinent to this, only todivertthem:TheDevilgetsmuchbythis;thereforelooktoit,andknowthat God expects the strength of thy spirit in duty: that is, strongintention;thouartaworshippingofGod,andthereforethouhadestneedbeintentaboutwhatthouartadoing.Indeedsometimesbeforeyouareaware,evilthoughtswillcomeintoyourmindsaswhenamaniskeepingof a door, and there is a crowd of people without that would come in,perhapsthemandothopenthedoorforsomegentlemanthathehearsisatthedoor,butwhenheopensitforonethatistocomein,fortyotherswillcrowdin:andso it ismanytimeswiththesoul, thatwhenitopensthedoorforsomegoodthought,agreatmanyevilthoughtswillcrowdin:thosepeoplemightcomeiniftheywouldstaytheirtime,buttheyshouldnotnowcomein.Soaboutworldlybusinessesthatarenotinthemselvesunlawful, if theywill stay the time theymaycome in;but theymustbebarredoutnowatthistime.Thereisrequiredstrengthofintention.

2 Secondly strength of affection is required also: That is, the affectionsmustworkmightily afterGod strivingwithGod in prayer: If ever thouhadestaheartinflamedinanything,itshouldbewhenthouartprayingor attending upon the word; as the heathens that worshipped the SunsometimesIhavetoldyouthattheywouldnothaveasnail,butaflyinghorse,theywouldofferthatthatwasswiftsowhenwecometothelivingGod,wemusthavelivingaffections,ouraffectionsboiling;andthatwillbethewaytocurevainthoughts;astheflieswillnotcometothehoneyifitbeboilinghot,butwhenitiscold:Soiftheheartbeboilinghot,andtheaffectionsaworking,itwillkeepoutvainthoughtsandtemptations:Itisasignofthebreathoflifewhenitiswarm,butartificialbreathyouknowitiscold;asnow,thebreaththatcomesoutofthebodythatiswarm,butthebreaththatcomesoutofapairofbellowsthatiscold:Sothebreathofmanypeopleinprayer,itisdiscoveredtobebutartificialbreath,becauseitissocoldbutiftherewerespirituallifethenitwouldbewarm.Theremustbestrengthofaffection.

3 Thirdly, there must be likewise the strength of all the faculties: We

shouldstirupwhateverweareorhave,orcandotoworkinprayer,thenthe bent ofmind, and conscience, andwill, and affection; yea, and thebodyshouldbeputtoittoo,andthosethatworshipGodtopurpose,theyspendtheirbodies innothingsomuchas in theworshippingofGod. Itwill bea sad thinganotherdaywhen this shallbe chargeduponmany,thouhastspentthestrengthofthybodyuponlusts,butwhendidestthouspendanystrengthofthybodyaboutanyholyduty?Whatariddleisthistomostpeople, to tell themof spending the strengthof their bodies inprayer,orhearingof theword,or sanctifyingaSabbath; they think theSabbath is a timeof rest, I confess it is a timeof rest fromanoutwardlabour,butitisatimeofspendingstrengthinaspiritualway;andthosethatshallworshipGodarightontheSabbath,willfinditaspendingofagreat deal of strength, and blessed is that strength that is spent in theworship of God rather then in the ways of sin, as most spend theirstrength:IfGodgivestheeahearttospendthystrengthinhisworship,thoumayest think thus,Lord, thoumightesthave leftmetohavespentmystrengthinsin,howmuchbetterisitspentintheworshippingofthyName?ThereisonenotableScriptureinJer.8.2.thatshowshowmuchstrength the idolaters put forth in the worshipping of their idol, theywouldnotdo it inaslightandvainway,but theirheartsweremuch inthat falseworship,saith the text,andtheyshallspreadthembefore theSun,and theMoon,andall thehostofheaven, (marknow)whomtheyhave loved, and whom they have served, and after whom they havewalked,andwhentheyhavesought,andwhomtheyhaveworshipped:Alltheseareputtogetherinreferencetotheiridols;Ohthatitcouldbesaidsoofus in reference toGod,whenwe come toworshiphim,whomwehaveloved,andwhomwehaveserved,andafterwhomwehavewalked,andwhomwehavesought,andwhomwehaveworshipped; there isalltheseseveralexpressionstoshowthestrengthoftheirspiritsinfollowingafter their idols: And that is the fifth thing in our sanctifying of God'sName.

6Thesixthis,IfthouwiltsanctifyGod'sNameinworship,theremustbean humble frame of spirit, worship him with much humility of soul:Abrahamdid fallupon thegroundbefore theLord,anddustandashes(saith he) hath begun to speak unto thee; yea, we read of Jesus Christgroveling upon the earth, and the angels they cover their faces in the

presenceofGod,andsoshouldwebehumblewhenwecomebeforetheLord:thereisnothingmoreabasesthesoulofman,thenthesightofGod;andthegreatreasonoftheprideofallmenshearts,isbecausetheyneverknewGod: If thoudidestbutseeGod, thyheartmustneedsbeabased;andwhendoththesoulseeGodifnotwhenitcomestoworshiphim?InJob42. Ihaveheardof theeby thehearingof theear,butnowmyeyeseeththee,whereforeIabhormyself,andrepentindustandashes.Nowthishumilitymustbeinthesenseofourownmeannessandbaseness.Ps.34. 6.This poorman cried toGod:They arepoor souls that come intoGod'spresencethatsanctifyGod'sNamemost;eventhosesoulsthatdoapprehendandaresensibleof theirownbasenessandmeannessbeforeGod.ThispoormancriedtoGod:weusetosay,Givethatpoormansomewhat.ItdothaffecttheheartofGodwhenheseesmuchpovertyofSpirit:whenwecomebeforehimwemustbesensibleofourinfinitedependenceuponGod.ComeasthewomanofCanaan,OLord,evendogsdoreceivecrumbs, and though I be a dog, yet let me receive crumbs; here ishumilityofspirit.Nowthishumilityofspiritappearsinthesethings.

1FirstadmiringGod'sgoodnessthatwedoliveatthistime,andthatwehave liberty to comebeforehim:wemighthavebeenpast praying andworshipping of God: think thus, what a mercy is it that we are notbanishedoutofGod'spresencethattheLordhathnotspurnedusoutofhissightasfilth,andcastusoutasaneverlastingabhorring,whileothershave been praying wemight have been yelling under the wrath of theeternal God: Come with this apprehension of thyself, and adore God'sgoodness,thatthouartalivetopray,andalivetohearGod'sword.Andthat it is not only a duty, but a rich privilege andmercy that Godwilladmitoftheetocomeintohispresence.Again,itisthegoodnessofGod,thathewill vouchsafe to lookupon the things that aredone inheaven,theniftheLorddothhumblehimselftobeholdthethingsthataredoneinheaven,thenhowdoththeLordhumblehimselftobeholdmeapoorvilecaptiveasIaminmyself:andyetthatGodshouldnotonlybeholdmebeforehim,butinvitemetocomeintohispresence;Whatmercyandgoodnessisthis!

2Ourheartsmustbetakenoff fromthethoughtsandapprehensionsofallexcellenciesinourselves;wemustnotcomeintheprideofourhearts,

because we have abilities more then others, what do all thy partscommendtheetoGod;thouhastabilityinexpressingofthyselfinprayer:whydo thyparts commend thee toGod?Whatever isnatural in anyofourdutiesisnothingtoGod,onlythatwhichisfromhisownSpirit,andtherefore thou shouldest come in thine own thoughts as vile as if thouhadestnoparts andabilities at all. Lay aside all such apprehensionsofthyself, for the truth is, some poor broken hearted sinner that can butsigh out a few groans to God, and is not able to speak two or threesentences together in a right language, but only breath out his soul toGod,may be a thousand thousand timesmore acceptable to God thenthouthatartabletomakegreatorationswhenthoucomestbeforehim.

3 Thou must come without any righteousness of thy own, thou mustnevercomeintoGod'spresence,butasapoorworm;andiftherebeanydifferencethatismadebetweentheeandothersinoutwardrespects,itisnothingtothee:whenthouartinthepresenceofGod,thouartasabasevileworm,thoughthoughbeestaprinceoremperor.

4 Thy heartmust be taken off fromwhat thou doest: If thou hast anyabilitiesofgraceyetthyheartmustbetakenoffthere,theremaybepridenotonlyfromone'sparts,butitmaybeGodhathgivenmeenlargementsin prayer, the Devil will come in and seek to puff up thy heart evenbecauseofthisbutthyheartmustbetakenoffthere,andthoumustdenythyself inall,whenthouhastdonethebestserviceofall,yetthoumustconclude, thou art an unprofitable servant, when thou hast prayed thebest, yet risewith shame, and take heed of having thy heart puffed upeven through the assistance of the graces of the Spirit of God in holyduties.

5Lastly,thoumustcomewithahumbleresignationofthyselftoGod,tobecontenttowaituponGodas longashepleases, towaituponGodinregard of the time, and of the measure, and of the manner of thecommunication of himself, in regard of themeanness bywhich hewillplease to communicate himself, wait upon him; Let me have mercythoughatthelasthour.Thisnowisanhumbleheartinprayer;andwhenwecomewithsuchapovertyofspiritas this is,wemayexpect that theLordwillacceptofus,givethispoormansomewhat,willGodsay:thispoormancriedandtheLordheardhim.

In the seventh place, we must bring that which is God's own insanctifyingGod'sName.Ispoketothisbeforeinthepointofpreparation,Viz.ThatinGod'sworshipwemustgivehimhisown.IwillonlymentionithereinthesanctifyingofGod'sNameintworegards:

1First,togiveGodhisown,forthematterofit.

2Secondly,togiveGodhisown,thatis,whatcomesfromtheworkofhisownSpirit,orelsewedonotsanctifyGod'sName.Iwillgiveyouonetextfurtherabout thematterof it, inExod.39. if youread thechapter,youshall find that there is ten times said, that they did as God hadcommandedMoses:Andtheninthecloseofthechapter,whentheyhaddone as God had commanded in his worship; the text saith, Mosesblessedthem.ThatpeopleisablessedpeoplethatdoobservetheworshipofGodasGodhathcommandedthem.Butthemainthingis,allthatwedo itmust be acted by the Spirit ofGod; it is not enough to have truesilverandgold,butitmusthavetherightstamporelseitcannotgoforcurrentcoin.AndsoitisnotenoughthatthethingsweoffertoGodinhisworshipbeGod'sown,bewhatwehavewarrant foroutofGod'sword,but itmusthave the stampof theSpirit ofGod. In theworshipofGodtherebe twoquestions thathewillask;First,whorequiredthisatyourhands?Butthenifyoucananswerthus,ThouOLord,did'strequireit:Itis well, but then God hath another question, Whose image andsuperscriptionisthis?Ifthoucanstnotgiveananswertothat,itwillberejected too: Thoumust be acted byDivine principles, in all that thoudoest,theremustbethestampoftheSpirituponthatwhichistenderedtoGodelseitisnothing.Toopenthispointfullywillasksometime.

First, therefore Iwill showyouhowwemayknowwhenourduties areactedbyournaturalpartsratherthenbytheSpiritofGod.

Secondly how we may know whether our duties be acted by naturalconscienceratherthenbytheSpiritofGod.

1First,Ifthouartactedbynaturalparts,theywillnotchangethyheart:Menthatdoperformdutiesbythestrengthofnaturalparts,theymaybeaslargeasothers,andspeaktotheedificationofothers,butthoseduties

doneverchangetheirhearts;nowifthoubeestactedbytheSpiritofGod,thouwiltbechangedintotheveryimageofhisSpirit.

2 Secondly, Ifmen are actedbynatural parts, theywill not carry themthrough difficulties and discouragements, but now the Spirit of God ifthou hast acted by him, though thou doest meet with never suchdifficulties&discouragements,thouwiltbecarriedthroughthemall.

3Thoumayestknowitbythis,whereindoestthouaccounttheexcellencyofadutytoconsist,eitherinthyselforothers?Thouperformestaduty,nowitmaybethypartsdoactverylively,andtothycredit,andyetthyconsciencetellstheethatthyheartwasstraightened:Nowcanstthouriseup with joy because thou hast thy ends? At another time perhaps thyheartismoretroubled,andbroken:Butthoudoestnotexpressthyselfsomuch,thenthouartdiscouraged.Andwhenthouseestanotherperformaduty,ifthouseestbutanyfailingintheirexpressions,thoupitchestuponthat, and lookest upon it as a poor thing: thou art not able to see anexcellency inholyduties,excepttherebeanexcellencyofnaturalparts;but those that have the Spirit of God, they can find the Spirit of Godactinginothers,thoughtheyhavenotsuchnaturalparts.

4 Those that are acted by their natural parts, in secret they are lessenlarged, thentheyarebeforeothersagreatdeal.Theirpartsactmuchbeforeothers,butwhatistherebetweenGodandtheirownsouls?

5They thatbe soactedwillnotbevery constant, youshallhaveyoungones,thatbegintolooktowardsreligion,theirpartsarealittlefresh,andtheyaremightilyenlargedinholyduties,andthethingisgoodforthemtomakeuseof theirparts;buthowordinary is it, thataftera fewyearstheyaredeaderanddullerthentheywerebefore,andhavelessmindtothedutiesofGod'sworshipthentheyhadformerly?WerethistheSpiritofGod,youwouldfindasmuchsavorandrelishinthemafterwards,astherewasatthattime.

Secondlyfornaturalconscienceswhichsometimesputsmenuponactingofduties,andindeedisbetterthenmerelynaturalparts.

1 If it be only natural conscience, it puts upon duties, but gives no

strengthtodothem:butwhentheSpiritofGodputstheeuponaduty,itgives thee some strength to perform it, some strength whereby thougettestsomecommunionwithGod.

2 If it be natural conscience it puts upon the duty, butmakes not theheartgladoftheduty,andtolovetheduty;butifitbetheSpiritofGod,itmakestheetodelightinit,andtoloveit.

3Thirdly,Ifitbenaturalconscience,thoudoestnotbythatincreasethycommunionwithGod,thoudoestthydutiesasinaround,butnowwhenthe Spirit ofGod puts thee upon holy duties, it is not a task done, butthoufindestmoreandmoreincreaseincommunionwithGod;thyheartmoreraisedtoGod,andmoreclosingwiththeLord,andsostillmoreandmore in the course of thy life: I had a little conversewithGod at firstwhen God began to acquaint my soul with his ways, but through hismercy now I findmore communionwith him, and so thou canst blessthyself inGod, inthatconversethatthouhast incommunionwithhim,thouwouldestnotlosethatcommunionthouhastwithGodinholydutiesfor all the world; others have their companions that they have theircommunionwithal,muchgoodmaydo them,but theLordhath shownmeanothermannerofcommunionwhichmysoulcanhavewithhimself,in which it hath sweet satisfaction. And thus you have had sevenparticularsforthesanctifyingoftheNameofGodinholyduties.

SermonVI-SuitingOurDutiestotheGodWeareWorshipping

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

4AGAIN,asnaturalconsciencedothgivenostrengthtodotheduty,soitmakes not the duty to be strong to the soul; that is thus, there's nostrengthgotbytheduty,theyarenotbyonedutypreparedforanother,ButthewayoftheLordisstrengthtotheupright,thatis,whenagraciousheartisinthewayofGod'sworship,itfindstheverydutyoftheworshipofGodtobestrengthtoit,andsoitfitsitforanotherduty.

5Further,anaturalconsciencelimitsitsself,andisbounded;thatis,somuchaswillservetheturnforitsownpeaceandquiet,somuchitwilldoandnomore:ButwhenoneisactedbytheSpiritofGod,oneisenlargedwithout any limits at all, notbounded toonesownpeace, for themorepeaceagracioushearthathinduty,themoreitisenlargedinduty:Nowanatural conscience, that puts to duty, and will act you when you wantpeace,whenyouareintroubleandfear,butwhenyouarenotintroubleand fear, then it putsnot on theheart to performance of duty: but theSpirit of God puts on the soul to duty, when there is most peace andcomfort.

6Alittlewillservetheturntosatisfyanaturalconscience,sobeittheyperformthedutyitisenough;butonethatisactedbytheSpiritofGodinduty,mustmeet withmuch of God or else he is not satisfied; he goesmourning in the day time if he hath notmetwithmuch ofGod in themorning in the performance of duty. Thus you see there's muchdifference between the actings of natural parts and conscience in duty,andtheactingoftheSpiritofGod.

TherebeonlynowtwothingsmoreforthesanctifyingofGod'sNameinduty, and then we are to come to show how we should sanctify God'sName induty in reference to the severalattributesofGod.But first for

thosetwoheadsfurther.

8Theeight thing is this,whenyoucome toperformholyduties, if youwouldsanctifyGod'sName;youmustconsecrateyourselvestoGod;theremustbearesignationofsoulandbody,estate,andliberty,name,andallyou are, have, or candountoGod:This is to sanctifyGod'sName, theconsecration of yourselves to God. And the professing of this in theperformance of duty, when you are to pray, were a very good thing,actuallytoprofessyourselvestobeGod's,toprofessthatyoudogiveupallthatyouare,have,orcandotoGod:Lord,Iamthyservant,takeallfaculties of soul andmembers of body, and improve all, lay out all, tothine ownpraise, to the uttermost, to bring glory to thy great name. IfeverytimeyoucametoGodinprayeryoudidthis,thisweretosanctifyyourselvestoGod:Ispokebeforeofasanctifiedheart,butnowthisisinaprofession of yourselves to God; do it secretly at least in your ownthoughts; if youdonot every time express it inwords, yet in yourownthoughtsdo it;devoteyourselves toGodeveryday:Ofadmirableuse itwouldbeifeverydaywhenmenandwomenworshipGod,eitherintheirclosetsorfamilies,theydidprofessedlydevoteandconsecratethemselvesto God; and so likewise, every time they came to hear the word, or toreceivesacraments,Godwouldaccounthisnametobesanctifiedinsuchaworkasthisis.

9Lastly, that thatmustmakeallup,andwithoutwhichall theother isnothing; it is, that youmust tenderupall yourworship in thenameofJesusChrist; letamanorwomanworshipGodneversowell, yetwhentheyhavedoneall,iftheydonottenderitupintheNameofJesusChrist,GodwillnotaccounthisNametobesanctified;thoumustbyfaith lookuponJesusChristasthegloriousMediatorthatiscomeintotheworld,bywhom thouhast accessunto theFather:And act thy faithuponChrist,and give up thy duties into his hand, as the hand of aMediator to betendereduptotheFatherbyhim;thoughthouhastlabouredwhatthoucansttoperformdutyaswellasthouartable,yetthoumustnotthinktotenderitupbythineownhanduntoGod;butthoumusttenderituptotheFatherby thehandof JesusChrist theMediator, and so thou shaltsanctify theName ofGod in holy duties.We read in Levit. 16. 13. thatwhenAaronwastotenderuptheincense,hewastoputtheIncenseon

thefirebeforetheLord,thatthecloudoftheincensemaycoverthemercyseatthatisuponthetestimony,thathedienot:mark,itisasmuchashislife isworth,whetherhedothit,ordothitnot:Nowincenseit is intheNEWTESTAMENTcalledprayer,andsointheOLDTESTAMENTtoo,itwas a kind of emblem of prayer: The offering up of our prayers is theofferingupof incensetoGod,andthemercyseat itwasatypeofJesusChrist.Nowtheincenseshouldcoverthemercyseat;soourprayersmustgouptoJesusChrist,mustbeuponhim,andsomustbeacceptedbytheFather.AndaswereadinJudg.13.20.whenManoahofferedasacrifice,the text saith, that the Angel of the Lord ascended in the flame: ThisAngelofGodherewasJesusChrist,aswemighteasilyfromthisscripturemakeitout,andheascendsupintheflamefromthealtar,Nowthoughwedonotoffersuchkindofsacrificeswithfireandincenseastheydidinthe time of the Law, yet whenwe are offering up of our incense theremust be a flame of fervency and zeal: But that is not enough, togetherwiththefameoftheAltar,theAngelofGodJesusChristthegreatAngelof the New Covenant (for Angel signifies nothing but messenger) thegreatMessenger that iscome into theworld,about thatgreaterrandofhis,toreconciletheworldtohimself;hemustascendupintheflame,andsoGodwill account hisName to be sanctified, the name ofGod is notsanctifiedbutthroughJesusChrist.TheactingofourfaithuponChristasmediatorisaspecialingredienttothesanctifyingofGod'sNameinholyduties; as youknow theScripture saith, that the altardoth sanctify thegift offeredupon the altar, JesusChrist is the altar uponwhomall ourspiritual sacrificesare tobeoffered,and thisaltardothsanctify thegiftthatisoffereduponit,letneversogreatagiftbeoffereduponanyotheraltar,itwasnotaccountedholynoraccepted;soletmenbytheirnaturalstrength, or power that they have, offer up the most glorious andspeciousestservicetoGod.ItisnotacceptedunlessitbeofferedupuponthealtarJesusChrist,wehaveanaltarnow,(nottheCommunionTable)butJesusChristhimself isouraltaruponwhomweare toofferalloursacrifices,andthisaltarmustsanctifythegift;wecanneverhaveourgiftsanctified,nonorGod'snamesanctified in thisgift except itbeoffereduponthisaltar,andourfaithacteduponJesusChrist.Peoplelittlethinkof this, but of other things, viz. ThatwhenweworshipGod,we shouldworship him with fear, and reverence, and with humility, and withstrength of intention, such kind of things every one that hath any

enlighteningofconsciencewillthinkofatsometimeorother;butpeopledo least think of this, which is the greatest ingredient of all that isrequiredinthesanctifyingofGod'sNameinholyduties:thatis,tocomeandtenderupalltotheFatherintheNameofJesusChrist:Howmanymenandwomenthathavebeenprofessorsofreligion20or30years,andyetnotacquaintedwiththisgreatmasteryofgodliness,totenderupalltoGodinthenameofhisSon.ThisisthatthatupondiversoccasionsIhavespoken unto, and am willing upon every occasion as I meet with it tospeakof,becauseitisaprincipalpartofthegreatmasteryoftheGospel,withoutwhichallourdutiesarerejectedofGodandcastaway.Nowthenputall theseninethingstogetherandseebythemwhatweought todothatwemaysanctifytheNameofGodinholyduties.

ButthereissomethingfurthertobespokenthatmayhelpyoutosanctifyGod's Name in holy duties, and that is, several, workings of heart,suitable to the several attributes of God, for that is to sanctify God'sName,tohavethedutytobesuchasissomewaysuitabletosuchaGodaswearenowworshipping.NowthenletusconsiderwhattheScripturesaith of God, and then let us see what suitable dispositions we shouldhaveinusuntothosethingsthattheScripturesaithofGod:

1First,YouknowtheScripturesaith,thatGodisaSpirit, inJoh.4.24.Then presently Christ saith, That he that worships him, must worshiphiminSpirit;thatis,theremustbeasuitablenessinourworshiptowhatGodis:IsGodaSpirit?thenallthatworshiphim,mustworshiphiminSpiritandTruth: that is thus,WhenIamtogo toworshipGod, Imustconsiderofhim,asheisaninfiniteandgloriousSpirit;wellthen,surelybodilyworshipisnotsufficientforme:ThoughIdokneeldowninprayer,ordocomeandpresentmybodytoheartheword,ormybodytoreceivethesacrament, this isnot toworshipGodasaSpirit: If indeedthatourGod were as the heathens, that were corporeal, then it were anothermatter,thenbodilyworshipwouldservetheturn,butGodbeingaSpirit,hemusthavespiritualworship, thereforemysoulandall that iswithinme,magnifyhisname: saithDavid,my soulmagnifyhisname,notmylips only, but my soul: The Apostle in 1 Tim. 4. 8. saith, that bodilyexercise profits little; it is no greatmatter for the body, God looks butverylittleatbodilyexercise;butitisgodlinessthatisprofitable,itisthe

workoftheSpirit;whenwecometopray,wemustprayintheSpirit;thatis,wemustpraywithoursouls,wemustpourforthoursoulsbeforeGod,and when we come to hear, our hearts must not go after ourcovetousness,wemustsetourheartstowhatwehear,wemusthearwithourheartsaswellaswithourears,oursoulsmustbeatworkinhearingoftheword,whenyouhearitisnotenoughforyoutocomeandsitinapew, and have the sound of amans voice in your ears, but your soulsmustbeatwork:Andsowhenyoucometoreceivethesacrament,yoursoulsmustfeeduponJesusChrist:Bodilyworshipwithoutsoul-worshipis nothing, but soul-worship may be accepted without bodily worship;thereforeitisthesoulthatGoddothprincipallylookatinholyduties:IfyoubenotabletoworshipGodinyourbodies,youmayworshiphiminyour souls, andGod regards that bodily exercise in holy duties is littleworth, somewhat itmay beworth, I confess sometime bodily exercisemayfurtherthesoul,asareverendcarriageofthebodyandthelike,butit is nothing in comparison, the greatwork is thework of the soul, forGodisaSpiritandmustbeworshippedinSpirit.AndGodissaidtobeaSpiritnotonlyinthatheisnotofsothickacapitalsubstance,butitnotesthe simplicity of God, he is without any composition, whatsoever is inGod isGodhimself, he is absolutely one, there arenotdivers things inGod; now then, those that come toworship him,mustworship him inSpiritand intruth: that is, theremustnotbeaheartandaheart, theremust not be a compounded heart, but you must bring simple heartsbeforeGod,without any composition of drift in yourselves, and of anykindof falseness,but in thesimplicityofyourheartsyoumustcometoworship God, and thus you shall worship himwith such worship as issomewaysuitabletohimasheisaSpirit.

2FurtherconsiderGodasheisaneternalGod,whatsuitabledispositiondoththisrequireofmewhenIamtolookuponGodasaneternalbeing;itrequiresthisonly,Thatthereforethyheartmustbetakenoff fromalltemporal good things, and set upon that eternal good, thou mayestindeeddesiretheseoutwardgoodthingsbutinordertothyeternalgood.

Then further, Thou art worshipping an eternal God: hence thenwhatsoever sin thoudoest confessalthoughcommitted20.or40.yearsago,thoumustlookuponitasifitwerenowpresentlycommitted,andbe

humbled asmuch before the Lord as if it were now committed at thispresent,youwillsay,Whyso?BecauseGodisaneternalGod?Yes:ForifIunderstandGod'seternity,IknowthatthereisnosuccessioninGod'sbeing: therefore the sins that I committed in my youth, if I come toconfessthem,theyarebeforeGodasiftheywerenowadoinginregardoftime;andthereforeImust(asmuchasIcan)looksouponthem,andbehumbledforthemasiftheyweresinslatelycommitted.Manypeoplearetroubled for their sins theverydayafter they commit them,but a littletimewearsofftheirtrouble;butifyoudidconsiderthatyouhadtodealwithaneternalGod,thenyouwouldlookuponyoursinsthougha longtimesincecommittedasiftheywerenowdone.

Likewise there will be this required from the consideration of God'seternity,youmustcomewithsuchadispositionofheartasnottothinkmuch,thoughwhatyoudesiredbedeferredandnotgrantedinyourtimewhenyouwouldhaveit.ForiftherebenotimethatalterswithGod,butathousandyearsarewithGodasoneday,thenthatthatweaccountlongbefore itsdone, it isnothingwithGod;andthereforewemusthaveourheartssoworktowardsGodastowardsaneternalGod,asonewithwhomthereisnoalterationoftimeatall,withwhomthereisnosuccessionoftime. If we come to a man and seek any thing of him, if he doth notansweruspresently,wewillthinkthathewillforgetit,andotherthingswillcomeintohismind:butwhenwecometoworshipGod,wemustlookuponhimasaneternalbeing,andthattimealtersnothingwithhim:thusunderstandingGodinarightwaywillmuchhelpusinhisworship,andso to sanctify his Name. We cannot sanctify God's Name, withoutknowinghisName,withouthavingseriousthoughtsabouthisName;andgettingourheartstoworkaccordingly.

3 Thirdly, look upon God when you come to worship him in hisincomprehensiblebeing;thatis,asaGodthatfillsallplaces,hisbeingisasrealintheroomthatweareprayingin,theplacethatwearemeetinginas it is inheaven.Nowthenwhenwecometoworshiphim,wemustconsiderthatthatinfinitegloriousbeingstandsbeforeus,looksuponus,is at our elbow; and therefore especially when you worship in secretconsider this, it is good to consider it when you are with others, butespeciallyIsay,consideritwhenyouareinsecret,andknowthatwhen

youaremostprivate,youhaveonethatlooksonyou,andtakesnoticeofyou, who is more then if you had ten hundred thousand witnessesstandingbyyou,andlookinguponyou:ForitistheLordthatstandsbyyou, and sees your behavior, sees what you do in your worshipping ofhim; take heed therefore that there be nothing done by you that isunbeseeming the presence of such a God as the Lord is: Suppose thatsomeofyouwerepraying,andthereweresomegodlyableministerstoodnearyou,itwouldbesomemeanstostirupyourheartstomindwhatyoudid;butnow theLordhe isnot in thenext roomonly,but in thesameroom, and stands by you: Let there be nothing done thereforeunbeseeming thepresenceof that infiniteholyGod that standsbyyou:andholdthistruthforth,TheLordispresentwithme,Iacknowledgeit,andIownit,andthereforeIcarrymyselfthus,andallbecauseIwouldwitnesstoangelsandmen,thatIdoacknowledgethattheLordispresentwithmeinthisduty.

4 Fourthly, consider God is an unchangeable God, immutable. That isanotherattributeofGod,heisunchangeable.

First, thereforeourheartsmustbetakenoff fromthesemutablethings,andsetuponGodasthatunchangeablegood.

Secondly,wemustbehumbledforourficklenesse,andunconstantnesse;thereisnoshadowofchangeinGod,andthereisnoshadowofconstancyinus.

Thirdly,whenwecomeintothepresenceofaGodwhoisunchangeable,thenweshould lookuponGodasbeing thesamenowthateverhewasheretoforehehathasmuchdispleasureagainstsinnowaseverhehad,andthatGodthathathdonesuchgreatthingsforhisChurchinformertimes,isthesameGodtodogoodtohispeopleaseverhewas,andmakeuseofthis;Whenyoureadtheword,andtherefindhowGodhathmadehimselfappeartobegloriousforhispeople;andnoweverytimeIamtoworshipGod,IshouldthinkthatIamtodealwithGodthatisthesamethateverhewas,asmerciful,andgracious,andjust,andpowerfulaseverhewas,andsomyheartistoworktowardshim.

5Fifthly,whenIamtoworshipGod,Iamtolookuponhimastheliving

God, as that God that hath life in himself, and gives life unto hiscreatures.

Thenwhat suitable behavior doth becomeme? Imust come before hispresencewith fear; It is a fearful thing to fall intohishands that is thelivingGod;thathathmylifeunderhisfeet,hehaththeabsolutedisposeof my present and eternal condition, he gave me my life, he hathpreservedmy life, and somay take it awaywhenhepleases, andbringdeath, eternal death untome. These thingsmaymarvelously help yourmeditationwhenyouaretocomebeforehim,youwhoarebarreninyourmeditations, go over the attributes ofGod thus, and considerwhat youmay be able to draw from thence. God he is the living God: Whatbehavior then doth beseemme towards this living God? Oh let me beafraid least my soul depart from the living God. Letme bring a livingservice to him, Imust not bring a dead heart; letme take heed how IcomebeforethelivingGodwithadeadheart,andwithadeadservice,tosacrificethatthatisdeadbeforeitcomes,itslikeacarrionthatliesdeadin the ditch. Oh let us be humbled for our dead hearts, and deadsacrifices; it is a livingGod that I amworshipping, & therefore Imustpray,Lord,turnawaymineeyesfrombeholdingvanity,andquickenmyheartinthyLaw.Ps.1.19.37.Rememberwhenthoucomesttoworship,that thou come with a quickened heart, for thou hast to deal with thelivingGod:Amanorwomanthat isofanactivespirit,cannotendureadull and heavy servant in the family; but the Lord is a pure act, andnothing else but act, and therefore he doth expect that all his peopleshouldhavequickactiveandlivelyspirits.

6WhenyoucometoworshipGod;youaretolookuponhimasAlmighty.Andsoare1

ToFearhisgreatpowerwhenyoucomebeforehim.And2,

Thenyouarenottobediscouragedbyanydifficulties.Icometoseekforsomegreatthing,andIcometoseektoagreatGod,thathathallpowerinheavenandearth,andinfinitelymorepowerthenthereisinallcreaturesinheavenandearth;IamprayingtoaGodthatcancreatepeace,createhelp:Myconditioncannotbesodesperate,butthisinfiniteAlmightyGodis able to helpme letmemake him the object ofmy faith as he is so

infinitelyAlmighty:What a full object of faith is thisGod that hath allpowerinhim?Letmethereforecometohimasastrongtower;runtothenameofGodasastrongtower,thatcanhelpinallstreightswhatsoever.Therewouldbemuchdrawingforthofourfaith;ifwecouldpresentthatLordbeforeusasaninfiniteAlmightyGod:whenweseeoutwardhelpsandmeans near at hand, then we can believe that wemay have somesuccorfromhim,butwhenalloutwardhelpsandmeansfailthenwearediscouraged;wedonotsanctifyGod'sname,butwerathertakethisnameofGodinvain,whenasourheartsarediscouragedwithanydifficulties;now the Lord expects that all his children that come to worship him,should worship him as the Almighty God, and so have their heartsworkingtowardshim;therewouldbemightyworkingsofSpirittowardsGod,ifwesawhimbytheeyeoffaithaswellasreason.

7LookuponGodasanomniscientGod,asaGodinfinitelyunderstandingallthings.Nowwhatdoththiscallfor?

First ifGodbeaGodof infiniteunderstanding, then letnotmebringablind sacrifice toGod, then let notmebring an ignorant heart toGod;thisistheexcellencyofanunderstandingcreaturetoknowtheruleandendof itsownactions;now thou comest toworshipan infiniteGod,ofinfiniteunderstanding,thenknowtheruleofwhatyoudo,andknowtheendofwhatyoudo,andcomewithunderstandingintohispresence

Secondly,Ifhebesounderstanding,comewithafreeopenheart,toopenwhatsoever is in thine heart to God; take heed of keeping any secretresolutionsinthineownheart,Godknowsthee,andcantellhowtofindthee out; God knows all that is in thine heart before; all the secretbasenessthatisinthinehearttheLorddothunderstandit,theLordseyeisapiercingeye,heseesthroughandthroughthyheart.Itsavainthingfortheetocomeandconcealanythingbeforehim.

Youwill say, ifGod understand amans heart,what need he come andconfess?

Yes,he requires it it as thyduty that thoushouldest comeandopenallbeforehim:InspiteofthyheartthoucanstnotcoveranythingfromtheLord's eyes; but the Lordwill seewhether thou beestwilling of thyself

that he should understand all: God doth not require us to come andconfessoursins, thatsohemightknowthatwhichheknewnotbefore,butforthisend,thattheremightbeatestimony,thatthouartwillingthatheshouldknowallthatisinthyheart;thereforenowwhenthoucomesttoworshiphim,ransackeverycornerofthyheartandconfessallbeforethe Lord, and give glory to his name, as that God that is an all-seeingGod,thatknowsallthewindingsandturningsofthyheart:Nowmeditateofthesethingsthatbepresentedtothee,anditwillbeamightymeanstohelptheetosanctifyhisName.

8God isaGodof infinitewisdom, thereforewhenwecome toworshipGod, letusbeashamedofour folly:When thoucomest tohave todealwithGod,lookuponhimasaGodofinfinitewisdom,andIsaybethouashamedofthyfollythen,anddothouexercisethegraceofwisdomtoowhenthoucomest toGod; that is,bypropoundingrightends(ofwhichwespokebefore)thatisonepartofwisdomtohaverightends,andrightmeanstowardsthoseends,sothatthemeditationofthewisdomofGodwhenwecometoworshiphimwillfurtherustosanctifyhisName.

And further; this is to sanctify God's wisdom, when thou comest intoGod's presence, in thy greatest streights, deny thy own wisdom, comewith a resolution to be guided by the wisdom of God, in thismanner,Lord,Iknownothowtoordermysteps,thereismuchfollyandvanityinmy heart, but thou art a God of infinite wisdom, I come to thee fordirection,andIprofesshere,Iamwillingtogiveupmywholesoultobeguidedby thywisdom. If every timewe come toworshipGodwe camethus,OhLordwhatsoeverourthoughtshavebeenheretofore,yetifthoushaltbutrevealthymindtous,wewillhearkentothee,Lord,webelievethatthywisdomitisthyself,andthereforeweprofesstogiveupourselvestothywisdom.NowthisistosanctifytheNameofGod.

9ConsidertheholinessofGod:GodisaGodinfinitelypurefromallsin,andthereforewhenwecometoworshipGod,wemustbeashamedofourunholiness, as the Prophet in Isa 6. when he heard the seraphins cry,holy,holy,holyistheLordofhosts,hefailsdownandsaith,woeismeforIamundone,becauseIamamanofuncleanlips.AndisGodaholyGod?ThenletmetakeheedwhenIcomebeforehim,thatIbringnotwithmealove toanysin for theLordhates it,and letmetakeheedthat Idonot

castdirtintheveryfaceofGod'sholiness,butgiveupmysoultoberuledwhollybyhim:

AndlabourthattheremaybeasuitablenessbetweentheholinessofthyheartandoftheinfiniteGod.Nowthis istosanctifyGod'sName,whentheconsiderationofthisattributeofGodhathsucheffectuponmyheart,thatIlabouruponthistocomewithasuitableheartbeforeGod.

10WhenthoucomestbeforeGod,considerthatthoucomesttoamercifulGod:Andwhatshouldthiswork?

First,Itshouldmakemecomejoyfullyintohispresence,asaGodthatiswillingtodogoodtohispoorcreaturesthatareinmisery.

Secondly,Itshouldmakemetocomewithaheartsensibleoftheneedofthis mercy; O Lord, I have had my heart let out to other vain thingsheretofore,butnowLord,thymercyitisthatmysoulcomesfor,asthatwhereinmychiefandonlygoodconsists.

Thirdly, It shouldmakemecomewith expectationof great things fromGod;donotcomeuntoGodasuntoanemptyvine,butasuntoafullvine,andthemorethyfaithisraisedtoexpectgreatthingsfromGod,themoreacceptableart thoutoGod:Certainlythehigheranyonesfaith israisedwhentheycomeintohispresence,toexpectthegreatestthingsthemoreacceptable;ItisotherwisewithGodthenmen,ifyoucometomentobegalittlething,youmaybewelcome,butifyoucometoaskagreatmatter,theywilllookaskewuponyou:butthetruthis,thegreaterthethingsarethatwecometoGodfor, themorewelcomearewe intoGod'spresenceandthosethatareacquaintedwithGodtheyknowit,andthereforetheycomethemorefully.WhentheycometoaskJesusChristhimselfandhisSpiritthatismoreworththententhousandworldstheycomewithmorefreedomofSpiritthenwhentheycometoasktheirhealthsandthelike.

Fourthly,itwillbelikewiseanothermeansofsanctifyingthisattributeofGodwhenthoucomesttohim:Ifthoudoestcomewithamercifulhearttowardsthybrethren.TakeheedwhensoeveryoucometoworshipGod,that you come not with a rugged and cruel heart towards any of yourbrethren; therefore you find that Christ lays this upon you in teaching

how to pray; youmust say, forgive us our trespasses aswe forgive ourbrethrenthattrespassagainstus;Andyoufinditrepeatedagain,Ifyouforgive, thenyourheavenlyFatherwill forgive,andnototherwise.As ifChrist should say, when you come to beg mercy be sure you bringmercifulhearts.

Fifthly,itisagoodwaytosanctifytheNameofGodinthisattribute,forthesoultobesolicitouswithitself:Whatisthatthatwillhindermefromthemercy of God, and letme avoid it? It is otherwise, a taking of thenameofGodinvain,formetocometoprofesswhatneedIhaveofGod'smercy,andyet forall that,never regard toavoid those things thatmayhindertheworkofhisgraceuponme.

11Consider the justiceofGod, (that is another attribute)Consider thatthouhasttodealwithaninfinite,righteous,andjustGod:Donotthinkthatifthoubeestabeliever,thatthouhastnothingtodowiththejusticeofGod,forcertainlythouarttosanctifythejusticeofGod.

Now you will say, How should a believer sanctify the justice of God?Thus;

First,Heshouldbeapprehensivesensiblehowbysinhehathputhimselfunder justice, and deserved the stroke of justice to be upon him toeternity;he shouldconsiderwhathe is inhimself: It is true, thatJesusChristhathcomebetweenabelievingsoulandthejusticeoftheFather,andhathtakenthestrokeofjusticeuponhimself:yeabutthoughhehathdone it, it doth not hinder but that thou shouldest be apprehensive ofwhatthouhastdeservedthyself.

Secondly,here isaspecial thing inthesanctifyingof the justiceofGod:Whenwecomebeforehim,weshouldconsiderthatwehavetodealwithan infinite just God, and therefore not to dare to come but through amediator:Here you have the reasonwhywemust tender up all in thename of Christ, because when we are to come before God, we are tosanctifythenameofhisjustice:Fortheetothinkthus,Ihavesinned,andGodismerciful;andIwillgoandpraytohimthathemightbemerciful,andthere'sanend.Isthisall?Ohno,Godrequiresthesanctifyingofhisjustice,andthereisnothingthatdothsanctifyhisjusticesomuchasthis,

thatwhenapoor creature sees the infinitedistance that sinhathmadebetweenthatinfiniteGodandit,itseesthatthroughsin,ithathmadeitsself liabletojustice;andwhenitseesthatthereisanabsolutenecessitythat infinite justice must have satisfaction, and thinks the sinner, if itcomestomethatImustsatisfythejusticeofGodIamneverabletodoit,butthereisamediator,andthereforeI'll flytohim,andbyfaithtenderup to the Father all the merits of his Son as a full satisfaction to hisinfinitejustice:WhenthoucomestthusbeforetheLord,thousanctifyhisNameindeed.Manythinkthatwhentheycometopray,theyshouldlookuponGod's grace, andmercy, and not upon his justice; but thoumustlookuponboth.

AnotherattributeitisGod'sfaithfulness:ConsiderthouhasttodealwithaGodofinfinitetruth,andfaithfulness,andthereforelookuponhimasanobjectofthyfaithtorestupon.AndlikewisethoumustbringafaithfulheartsuitablesomewaytothisfaithfulnessofGodthatis,aheartfaithfulwithhim,tokeepwithinthecovenantthatthouhastenteredintoandtoperformallthevowsthatthoumakestwithGod;Rememberthouhasttodeal with a faithful God, and as the Lord delights to manifest hisrighteousnesstopoorcreaturesthatseekhisface,sothisGoddothexpectthat thou should be faithful in all the covenants that thou doestmakewithhim,andthisistosanctifyGod'sName.

NowthenputalltheseattributesofGodtogetherandthereyouhavehisglory, the infiniteness of his glory. The shine and lustre of all theattributestogetherisGod'sglory.IhavethentodealwithagloriousGod,andletmelabourtoperformsuchservicesasmayhaveaspiritualgloryuponthem,thatsomeimageofthedivinelustrethatthereisinGodmaybeuponmyservices;andletmelookforgloriousthingsseeingIhavetodealwithsuchagloriousGod.

Youwillsay,HereisagreatdealofdutyinservingofGod,howmuchisherethatwemustdo?

Iappeal toanygraciousheart,whatcanst thouwantofanyof these,orwhatwouldestthouwant?Doestthousay,here'sagreatdeal?Cantherebetoomuchtomaketheehappy?Thesethingsarenotonlythyduty,butthy happiness glory and excellency consists in them: If any one should

bringyouagreatmany jewelsandpearls,wouldyousay,here'sagreatdeal duty? Oh no, themore themerrier. So say I, this onemeditationwouldtakeoffthethoughtsofagreatdeal,forinalthesemyhappinessconsists,andthemoreIhaveofthese,themoreshallIenjoyofGod,themorehappyshallIbebothhereandforever.

NowIhadthoughttohavegivenyousomereasonswhytheNameofGodmustbesanctified;onlyIbeseechyoubyallthathathbeensaidgoawaywith this thought, what little cause is there that any of us should restuponanyofourduties;IfthisberequiredofusthustosanctifythenameofGod induty, Isaywehave littlecauseanyofus torest inanydutiesthat we perform. There are many poor creatures that have no othersaviourstorestuponbuttheirprayers,andcomingtochurch,andtakingthecommunion;NowifinallthesetheLordexpectsthatthoushouldestthussanctifyhisName:Thouhastlittlecausetorestuponanythingthatthouhastdone,thouhastcauserathertogoaloneandmournfortakingtheNameofGodinvaininthedutiesofhisworship:Restnotinanyofyourperformances;labourtoperformdutiesaswellasyoucan,butwhenyou have done, know that you are unprofitable servants after all, andrenounceallasinthepointofjustification,andrestuponsomethingelse,otherwiseyouareundoneforever.

SermonVII-WhyGodWillBeSanctifiedintheDutiesofHisWorship

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

We are coming now to the conclusion of this great argument ofsanctifyingGod'sName inholyduties for thegeneral.Godexpects thatwe should all in our drawings near to him in the duties of worship,sanctifyhisName.NowwearetoconsiderofdiversreasonswhyGodwill

besanctifiedinallthedutiesofhisworship.

1Thefirstreason is this, it is theverynatureofGodtowillhimself thelastend,andallotherthingstoworksuitabletotheliftingupofhimselfasthelastend:Isayitisasessentialtohimasanything,forhimtowillhimself as the highest end, and that all things shouldwork so as to besuitableuntothatgloryofhisforthefurtheranceofit:GodshouldceasetobeGod,ifsobeheshouldnotwillhimselfasthehighestend,andsowillthatallthingsthathaveanybeingshouldsomewayorotherworkforhimself:ThisistheverynatureofGod.ItisthatwhichIconceivetheverynatureofGod'sholiness consists in, thewillinghimself as the last end,andso toworkall thingsas issuitableuntohisown infiniteexcellency.NowasthisisGod'sholiness,soitistheholinessthatGodrequiresinhiscreatures (thatarecapableofholiness) that theyshouldwillhimas thelastend,andall thingssuitable to that infiniteexcellencyofhis.NowifthisbethenatureofGod,andthisbehisholiness,thencertainlyitmustneedsbeanecessarydutyinallthosethatwouldhavecommunionwithGodandwouldhonourGod,towillasGodhimselfdothwill,thatisthatallthingsshouldworksuitabletotheinfiniteexcellencyofGod,thatGodmayattain thegloryofhis infiniteexcellency,and thismakes it tobeanecessarydutythatwhenwecometoworshiphimweshouldsanctifyhisname:SothatthefirstreasonistakenfromtheverynatureofGod,itistheverybeingofGodthatallthingsshouldworktohimself,andinsuchasuitablewayastoliftuphisexcellencyandglory.

2Secondly,WemustsanctifyGodinthedutiesofhisworship,becauseitisthespecialglorythatGodhathintheworldtobeactivelyhonoured;forhispassiveglory,thatis,tobeglorifiedinapassiveway,thathehathinhell, but the special glory that God would have it is that he might beglorifiedactively:NowthereisnosuchwayofglorifyingtheNameofGodactivelyasbyworshippingofhim inaholymanner, and thereforeGodstandsmuchuponthis,ThatwhenwecometoworshiphimwesanctifyhisName;ForsaithGod,IfIbenotsanctifiedinmyworship,whatactivegloryhaveIintheworld?ItisthespecialactiveglorythatGodhathintheworld,thesanctifyingofhisNameinthedutiesofhisworship.

3Thirdly,Thatwhichwehaveintimatedbefore,ThatthedutiesofGod'sworship are the most precious things, the special conveyances of the

choice mercies that he intends to bestow on his saints, and thereforethoughhe loseshis glory in any thing else,hewouldnot lose it in thatwhereinhedothespeciallyconveyhismercyandgoodnesstohispeople.ButthatwespoketooinshowinghowwedrawnightoGodinholydutiesand it may well come in here again as an argument why we shouldsanctifyGod'sname.

4AFourthreasonisthis,becausethereisnowayforustobefittedforthereceivingofmercyfromGodthroughthosedutiesofworship,butbyoursanctifyingofGod'sname;whenthoucomestatanytimetoworshipGod, what wouldest thou have? there is some communion that thouwouldestenjoywithGod,nowthereisnowaytomaketheeafitsubjectofmercy,orcapableoftheenjoymentofcommunionwithGod,butbysucha behavior of soul as this is that hath been spoken of, to, sanctify theNameofGod:thouwouldestbeloathtolosethosedutiesofworshipthatthoudoestperform,thereforeit isrequiredoftheetosanctifyhisNamelest thou doest lose all, for 'tis this that makes thee the only capablesubjectofwhatgoodistobehadthere.

5 We must sanctify God's Name in holy duties, because otherwise weshould certainly never hold out in duties, but vanish and come tonothing; now God would be worshipped so by his creatures, as to beconstantly worshipped, he would have those that do worship him, toworship him always, to worship him for ever, and he would have thisworshipthatweperformtohim,buttobethebeginningof thateternalworship that he shall have from us in heaven. And so the saints doworship God now, the worship which they perform, it is but as thebeginningofthatworshipthathereafterinheaventheyshalltenderuptoGod,thoughtheremaybesomedifferenceinit,asthereourprayerswillbeturned intopraises,and itwillnotbe insuchoutwardordinancesasnowweworshipGod intherewillbenopreaching,norsacraments:yetnotwithstandingthesoul-worshipthat isnow,willbe ineffect thesameas it shall be in heaven. God would have us so to worship him, as tocontinuetoworshiphim:NowIsay,unlesshisNamebesanctifiedinourworshippingofhimwewillcertainlyfalloff;andthetruthis,thisisthevery ground of all apostasy in hypocrites; Some that have been veryforward in the worshipping of God when they were young ones, and

afterwards they have fallen off, they were wont constantly in theirfamilies,and insecret in theirchamberstobeworshippingofGod,andthey accounted it the very joy of their lives for the present to beworshippingofGod;butitisnotsowiththemnowasitwasyeatheyarefallenoffitmaybefromtheirveryprofessionofreligion,andturnedlose:Andnowtobeinvaincompany,todrink,orplay,isbettertothemthenany service orworship ofGod, they prizemore to be in companywiththeir sports then to hear a sermon, or to be in communion with thepeople of God in prayer:Heretofore they would not have changed oneshorttimeofprivatecommunionwithGod,fortheenjoymentofagreatdealofpleasuresandcontent intheworld;butnowit isotherwisewiththem.How comes it to pass that these are apostatized thus fromGod?Surelyhere is thegroundof it, thattheydidnotsanctifyGod'snameinholy duties, at themost itwas but awork of conscience that put themupon them, and they had but some flashes, there was no realsanctificationoftheirheartswherebytheydidsanctifythenameofGodinholyduties,anduponthisitisthattheyhaveleftoff.ThisIdaresay,ThattherewasneveranysoulthatdidknowwhatitwastosanctifyGod'sNameinworship,thateverwaswearyofworshippingGod.

It may be some of you may say, we have heard that there is muchrequiredinsanctifyingGod'sNameinduties,andthatistheonlywaytowearythesoul,andtomakeitfalloff;Ohno(aswesaidthelastdaythereisnot anyone thing thathathbeenopened for the sanctifyingofGod'snameindutiesthatanygraciousheartcantellhowtomiss,andthemorewedosanctifyhisName,themoreweshallbeinlovewithworship.Foritis fromhence that those that sanctifyGod's name inworshipwill holdout,becausetheywillfindthesweetnessofworship,theywillmeetwithGodinholyduties,andsotheycometobeencouragedinworship,butasforotherswhodoworshipGodinaformalway,theirworshipwillprovetobetedioustothem,fortheyperformtheduties,butdonotfindGodintheduties in thatspiritualwayas thesaintsdo;If they thinktheymeetwithGod,itisbutanimaginationratherthenanyrealmeetingwithhim;theydonot findthe influenceofGodintheirsouls inholyduties,soasthosedo that sanctifyGod'sname inholyduties;here thenyousee thereasonswhywearetosanctifyGod'snameinholyduties.

Nowthenfortheapplicationofallthis.

1IfallthiswhichyouhaveheardberequiredofusforthesanctifyingofGod'sName:Henceweseehowlittlecausewehavetorestuponanydutyofworship thatwe do perform, certainly the duties ofworship thatweperformareno such things as are fit to be restedupon for life and forsalvationandyet forthemostpart there isscarceanythingthatpeoplehave to restupon,or to tenderup toGod foracceptation toeternal lifebut only their prayers, and their coming to hear, and receiving of thecommunion, and suchduties that theyperform; this is all theyhave totenderupforlifeandforsalvationperhapstheymaysometimesspeakofChrist,butthetruthisthatwhichtheirheartsrestuponforacceptationtoeternallifeisthis.Andisitbutthis?Itisaweakprop,arottenreedthatthouhasttorestupon;Letthedutiesofworshipbeperformedneversowell; Suppose we did sanctify God's Name to the uttermost that ispossibleforanycreaturetodointhisworld,yetsuchdutiesarenottoberestedupon:Abraham,Isaac,andJacob,andtheApostles,themostholymen that ever did performduties in themost holymanner, yetwoe tothemiftheyhavenothingtorestuponbuttheirduties;considerthereforeof this, thatwhat thoumust rest upon for acceptation to eternal life, itmustbethat thatmusthavesomuchworth in it,asmustsatisfy forallthysinsthatformerlythouhastcommitted;yeaandforallthesinsthatever thoushaltcommit.NowIappealuntoanyonesconscience, is thatwhichthouperformest,isprayer,orreceivingthesacrament,orhearingoftheword,suchaworkasinthyconsciencethoucanstthink,ithathsomuchworthinit,astosatisfyGodforallthesinsthateverthoudidestorshalt commit? I am persuaded if people that have rested upon dutiesheretofore,wouldbutseriouslyhavethis thought in theirminds,ThatImustrestuponnothingformyacceptationforlifeandsalvation,butthatthatmusthavesuchworthinit,astosatisfyGodforallmysinsthateverhavebeencommitted,orshallbecommitted;thiswouldtakethemoffforeverfromrestinginduties.Yea,anditmustbesuchasmustbetheobjectoftheinfiniteholinessofGodtotakecontentin,surelythedutiesthatweperform are no such duties to rest upon: the truth is, If we wouldseriously considerwhat theyare, as they come fromus,wewould evenabhorou selves indust andashes, andaccountof themas theProphetspeaksofhisownrighteousnessasmenstruouscloths,theyaresuchasif

Godshoulddealwithus,asjustlyhemaydo,hemightcastthemandusto thedogs, for theyare (as theProphet saith) tornand rent sacrifices;nowifamaninthetimeoftheLawshouldbringtotheLordasacrificethat was all torn and rent before he brought it, would such a sacrificehavebeenaccepted?AllthedutiesweperformaswereadinExod.22.31.concerningsuchthingsasweretorneandrent,thattheyshouldcastthemtothedogs.Yeshallbeholymen,neithershallyeeatanyfleshthatistornofbeastsinthefield,yeshallcastittothedogs,becauseyeareholymenuntome:Must thepeopleof Israelmanifest theirholiness in this,Thattheymusteatnothing tornbybeasts,butcast ituntodogs?Orwas theholinessofthepeopleofIsraelsuchasGodrequiredthem,thattheymusteat nothing that was torn by beasts?What then is the holiness of theinfiniteGod?ourservicesthatweperformareofthemselvessuchasaretorn by our beastly lusts many times: how many are there that bringsacrificestoGodthatareasacarrionthatswinehavebeentearingbeforehand,andyetthesearethesacrificesthattheybringtoGod,andnotonlythink that God should accept of them, but they do rest upon them fortheiracceptationtoeternallife.Howinfinitelyarethesepeoplemistaken,howlittledotheyknowofGod,orofthewayofacceptationtoeternallife!Thatisthefirstuse.

2 Secondly, If all this be required for the sanctifying ofGod'sName induties, That we cannot perform the duties of worship without thisbehavior of soul; hence we see that the work of religion is a hard anddifficult work to flesh & blood. Amainwork of religion is thework ofworshipping of God, for indeed those that are not religious and godly,theyneverworshipGod to anypurpose: thenwe come toworshipGodwhenwebegin tobe religious and godly.Now itmustneedsbe a busyworktobeareligiousandagodlyman,becausethereissomuchrequiredin the sanctifyingofGod'sname inholyduties:manypeople think it averyeasymattertoworshipGod,andtheworshipthattheytenderuptoGod is an easy matter, there is little in it. If it were nothing else toworshipGodbutmerelytogoandsayafewprayers,andcomeandhearasermon, and take a piece of bread and wine, then it were the easiestmatterintheworldtocomeandworshipGod;butthereismorerequiredinthedutiesofGod'sworshipthenthouhastbeenacquaintedwith;thereisapowerofgodliness in it.ThattextofScriptureisaveryfamousone

thatshowsthedifficultythatthereisintheworshipofGod,andhowmenare mistaken in thinking it such an easy and slight matter to worshipGod:ItisinJosh.24.16.19.whereJoshuadothcalluponthepeopletoworshipGod,andtheycameoffpresently,andsaid,theywouldworshiphim (soyou shall find themprofess, verse 16.)Butmarkwhat theTextsaith inverse19.AndJoshuasaidunto thepeople,Yecannotserve theLord, forhe isanholyGod,he isa jealousGod,andhewillnot forgiveyour transgressions and your sins, As if he should say, You think it isnothingtoservetheLord,andthatitisaneasymattertoservehim,youthinktoputoffGodwithanything:AlasyoucannotservetheLord,forheis a holy God, and a jealous God and youmust have othermanner ofhearts then yet you have, and you must understand his worship inanothermannerthenyetyoudo,theLordwillbesanctifiedinthosethatdraw nigh him, and therefore until you understand God, and his waysandworship,youcannotservetheLord.Knowthattheworkofreligionisaveryhardanddifficultwork,foritrequirethallthis,andthereforethesoulhadneedbeverydiligentandlaboriousthatwouldcometoworshipGodinarightway.

3Thirdly,henceisauseofhumiliationtousall,eventothebestofus;ohhow little,how littlehath thebestofusall sanctified thenameofGod!howfarhaveweallcomeshortofthesanctifyingofGod'snameinholyduties!AndwhenwelookabroadintheworldandseewhatpoorserviceGodhathgenerallyfromthemenandwomenoftheearth,itshouldmakeour hearts bleed within us. Where almost is the man or woman thataccordingtothattextinIsa.StirsuphimselftotakeholdonGod.AndIverilybelievethatintheopeningofthispointofsanctifyingthenameofGodinholyduties,thatIhavebeeninthebosomsofasmanyasintheopening of any point whatsoever; and as manymay have cause to laytheirhandsupontheirheartsandsay,certainlyIhavecomeshortofwhatisrequiredhere,andhavenotbinacquaintedwiththisway,thismysteryofgodlinessinsanctifyingGod'snameinholydutiesasIoughttobe:Obe humbled for this, for all the uncleanness of your hearts in theperformanceofdutiesInExod274,5.youread,thatatthealtarwherethesacrificesweretobeoffered,theLordrequiredthatthereshouldbeagratemade.Thoushaltmakeforit(meaningthealtar)agrateofnetworkofbrass, andupon thenet shalt thoumake fourbrass rings in the four

corners thereof, and thou shalt put it under the compass of the altarbeneath,thatthenetmaybeeventothemidstofthealtar.Therewasasitwereagratefortheashesofthealtartogothrough,asyouhavegratesinyourfirestomakethemburnclear,andfortheashestofalldown,sotheLordwouldhavesuchagratefortheashesofthealtartofalldown:Wehadneedofsuchagrate.Ohtheashes,anddirt,andfilth,thatthereisinourserviceswhenwecometoofferandtenderthemuptoGod!Sothatwe have cause I say to be humbled for holy offerings. There be manygodlypeoplethatthroughGod'smercyareabletokeepfromgrosssins,they do not find it any great matter to keep from company, swearing,drinking,uncleanness,lyingorwrongingofothers,andsuchkindofsinsasthoseare,sothattheyseenotsuchneedofhumiliationinthisregard,unlessitbeforthattheirnaturesareascorruptasany,thoughtheybreaknot forth into those actual gross sins, but the main work of thehumiliationofthosethataregodly,itistobehumbledfortheirthoughts,forthemisspendingoftime,andfornotsanctifyingofGod'snameinholyduties,thosearethemainthingsthatarethesubjectofthehumiliationofthe saints, beside the body of sin and death that they carry aboutwiththem.Anditwouldbeagoodsignthatthyhearthathsometendernessinit when thoumakest these to be thematter of thy humiliation: Carnalpeople little are troubled for these, if they fall into such sins, as theirconsciencesdoflyintheirfaces,thentheyaretroubledandhumbled.Butforsuchthingsasthesearetheyareseldomhumbled:Tobehumbledforthy holy offerings is a good sign of a gracious heart. We read of thecherubimsthat theyhadsixwings,andwith twoof theirwings the textsaiththeycoveredtheirfaces,somybrethrenwehadneedhavewingsasitweretocoverourbestdutiestheyhadwings,andwithtwotheycoveredtheirlegs,andwithtwotheirfaces:Wehadneed,notonlyofacoveringforourlowerpartsandmeanerduties,butacoveringofourholyduties,to cover our faces our best duties of all, the most heavenly duties weperformhadneedbepurgedbythebloodofChrist.InLevit.16.14.16.wereadoftheirholythings,thattherewasneedofpurgingofthembyblood;and so it should be in our holy duties: Let us be humbled for our bestperformance thateverweperformed inour lives:Thebesthadneedbeso, but then as for others that have made little or no conscience ofsanctifying of God's name, how had they need be humbled? Thou hastsomethingmore to repent of then thou thoughtest of; for the truth is,

thosethathavenotmadeconscienceofsanctifyingofGod'sNameinholyduties,theyneverinalltheirlivesdidanyserviceforthehonourofGod,thouhastlivedperhaps30.or40.itmaybe60.yearsormore,anddidestneveryethonourGodinanyonethingthateverthoudidestinallthylife.

Youwillsay,Godforbid:HavenotIprayed,andheardthewordmuch,andreceivedthecommunionoften,andyethaveIneverhonouredGod?

If thou hast not been acquainted with this mystery of godliness insanctifying his name in these things, this is said fromGod to thee thismorning,ThatthouhastneverdoneanyoneactiontothehonourofGod:Thouhadestneedbeginpresentlyforthytimeisnotlong,andwiltthougooutofthisworldandthenameofGodnevertobehonouredbythee?

Yea and further, thouhast lost all thyduties, all the timehathbin lostthatthouhastbeeninperformanceofduties,nowitisanillthingtoidleaway time in the thingsof theworld:Whenamanhathanopportunityfor to gain in the world, If so be he loses his time and neglects it, weaccount itaverysad thing tohim,butnowto loseour trading time forheaven(forthetimesoftheworshippingofGodareourtradingtimesforheaven) that's sad indeed: And yet thou thatmakest not conscience ofsanctifyingtheNameofGodinholyduties,allthetimethouhastspentislost.

Andyet further,You thathavebeen false in theperformanceofduties,andhypocrites,notonlyallyourpainsandlabourisquitelost(forifthatwereallitmightbewellwithyou)butyouhaveaggravatedyoursinsbyyourholyduties.ThosedutiesthatothershaveenjoyedcommunionwithGodin,andfurtheredtheireternallifeby,thouhastaggravatedthysinsbythem,yet itwasthydutytodothem:butIsay,bynotsanctifyingofGod'sName, thouhastaggravated thysinssomuch themore.As thosethataregodly,theyworkouttheirsalvation,evenintheirnaturalactionsthey sanctify God's Name, in eating and drinking, and following theirbusiness; they perform those actions in such a holy manner, as theyhonourGodinthem,andfurthertheireternalpeace;butastheyintheirnatural and civil actions work out their salvation; so thou in the veryreligious actions doest work out thy damnation: Certainly wickedmenthat are not acquainted with this work of godliness to sanctify God's

name in holy duties, they work out their damnation even in theperformanceofthem.

Youwillsay,thentheyhadbetternotdothem.

Yes,theyareboundtodothem;buttheyareboundtodotheminarightmanner,assometimesIhavegivenyouthisinstance,anditisafullandaclearone,toshowthatmenareboundtoperformholydutiesandnottoleavethemundone,andyettheymayfurthertheirowndamnationwhilethey are doing of them: As for example, If so be that a prince shouldappointamantocomeintohispresencesuchadaytopetitionforhislife,whichhehathforfeitedbytheLaw,ifhedonotcomehemaybeadeadman:Butnowifthismanbedrunkonthatday,andcomedrunkintothekingspresence,hemaybeadeadmantoo,forpresumingtocomedrunkbefore him; so wicked and ungodly men, whether they worship orworshipnot,theyareindangertoperish:ButofthismorewhenwecometoshowthatGodwillbesanctified.

Inthefourthplacehereisauseofexhortation,thatseeingwehavethistruththuspresentedtousandopenedbeforeus;Othatwehadheartstoapplyourselvesnowtoitwithallourmight,toseektosanctifythenameofGodwhenwedrawnightohim.TheLordhathshowntheewhatitisthat he requires of thee;make conscience of it for time to come, thoudoestnotknowwhatblessedcommunionthoumayesthavewithGodifthou doestmake conscience of this, the truth is, If you have not beenacquainted with this, you have not been acquainted with the way of aChristianinhisenjoymentofcommunionwithGod,thoudoestnotknowwhatthecomfortofaChristianlifemeans;dobutmaketrialofthisfortimetocome,andthouwiltfindmorecomfortinthewaysofgodliness,andmorethrivingintheminonequarterofayearthenthouhastdonebeforeinsevenyears,oneChristianthatkeepsclosetoGodinholydutiesand sanctifies thenameofGod in them, I say findsmore comfortwithGod,andgrowson ingodlinessmore inonequarterofayear, then theotherdoth in seven years that goes on in anordinary, dull, and formalway in theperformanceof thedutiesofworship:Somethereare inourtimethatcryoutofduties,andwhatneedwetroubleourselvessomuch?those that know not how to sanctify God's name they think lightly ofthem;butnowdoyouapplyyourselvesfullyasyouareabletothisthatI

amspeakingof,andyouwill findyourselvestobeas itwere inanotherworld,youwillbeabletosay,well,Ihavenotyetunderstoodwhatitwasto enjoy communion with God in prayer, in word, and in sacramentsbefore,thiswillmakeyourfacesshineinyourconversationsifyouwoulddoit;andnowtothatendthatyoumaydoit,therearethesetwoorthreethingsthatIwouldpropoundtoyou.

1Inthefirstplace, learntoknowGodmorewithwhomyouhavetodo,and present those things that you have heard before you in yourmeditations,whenasyouaretocometoGodinprayer,or inanyotherduty,andwhenyouareworshippingofGod,rememberthatyouhavetodowithGodandnoneelse.Youareeverytimeyoucometoperformholyduties to be as a man or woman separated from all things. ValeriusMaximustellastoryofayoungnoblemanthatattendeduponAlexanderwhilehewassacrificing,thisnoblemanheldhiscenserforincense,andintheholdingofit,therefellacoaluponhisfleshandburntitsoastheveryscentofitwasinthenostrilsofallthatwereabouthim,andbecausehewouldnotdisturbAlexanderinhisservice,heresolutelydidnotstirtoputofthefirefromhim;butholdsstillhiscenser:Ifheathensmadesuchadointheirsacrificingtotheiridolgods,thattheywouldminditsoasnodisturbancemustbemadewhatevertheyintended:WhatcareshouldwehavethenofourselveswhenwecometoworshipthehighGod?AndsoJosephus he reports of the preists that were sacrificing in the templewhenPampeybrakeintothemwitharmedmen,andthoughtheymighthave fled and saved their lives, yet they would not leave off theirsacrificingbutwereslainbythesoldiers.Theydidsominditasamatterofgreatconsequence:OhthatwecouldmindthedutiesofGod'sworshipasmattersofgreatmoment,thatsowemightlearntosanctifythenameofGodintheperformanceofthemmoretheneverwehavedone.

2Whenthoucomesttoworship,takeheedthoudoestnotcomeinthineownstrength.ForthereismorerequiredinsanctifyingthenameofGodthen thystrength isable tocarry theeon in,and thereforeact thy faithuponJesusChristeverytimethoucomesttoworshipGod,notonlyasIsaidbefore,totenderupthyservicesinhisname,butactthyfaithuponChristtogivetheestrengthtodowhatthouhasttodo.&whatstrengththouhast received fromChrist be sure to stir it upmany godlymen&

women have more strength then they know of themselves; & if theywould but stir up that strength that they have received, they mightsanctify the Name of God a great deal more then they do. Thereforerememberthattextbeforementioned,nonestirsuphimselftotakeholdonGod:Quickenupthyheart,androuseupthyspiritwhenthouart toworshipGod.

3WheneverthouartworshippingofGod,donotsatisfythyselfmerelyinthedutydone,butconsider,doIsanctifyGod'sNameintheduty?everytimethouworshipesthim,examinethyheartwhetherthoudoestityeaorno.And if thou findest that thouhastnotattained insomecomfortablemeasuretothisthathathbeenpresentedtothee, lettheshameandthesorrowforthatabideuponthyspirituntil thenexttimethoucomesttoworshipGod;at sucha time IhavebeenworshippingofGod, andGodknowsIhavebeenstirringupmyheartinsomemeasure,butIfindmyheart dead,wandering sluggish, anddull I say,when thou findest thoucanstnotdoitaccordingtowhatisrequiredinanycomfortablemeasure:Lettheshameandsorrowofheartforitabideupontheetillthenexttimethoucomest toworshipGod,and thatwillmightilyhelp thee:Thouartnowpraying,andthoucanstnotnowgetupthyhearttowhatisrequired;Thenext timethoucomest toprayer,come in theshameandsorrowofthyheartforthewantofsanctifyingGod'snamethelasttime;Andsoforhearing of theword, or receiving the sacraments. And thiswill furthertheemightilyforthesanctifyingtheNameofGodinholyduties.

Butnowthatallmaybesealedupuntoyou,andsothatwemayclosethepoint, know thatGodwillbe sanctified in those thatdrawnigh tohim.Andtherearethesetwothingsinthepoint;

First,IfwedonotsanctifyGod'sName,GodwillsanctifyhisNameinawayofjustice.

Secondly,IfwedosanctifyhisName,thenhewillsanctifyhisNameinawayofmercytowardsus.

Forthefirst,Godwillmanifestthatheisdispleasedwithsuchdutiesthatthoudoestperform,hewillmanifestitonewayorotherthatheisaholyGod,andhedothnotacceptofsuchunholythingsasthoudoesttender

up to him; for the truth is, ifGod should accept of such unholy thingsfrommen,Godmaybe said tobe likeunto themselves.Asaman ifhedothentertainanyashis familiar friendthat isnaughtandwicked, it ishis disgrace and dishonor; a man may sometimes employ in somebusinessthosethatarenaughtandwicked,anditmaybenodisgracetohim, but if he doth entertain one in his house that is wicked, it is adishonortohim:SoGodmayemploythemostwickedmenintheworldinsomeoutwardservices,butifheshouldacceptoftheminhisworship,itwouldbeadishonortoGod,andthereforeGodthathemightsanctifyhis own Name, he will manifest his displeasure at one time or otheragainst such duties of worship you that perform worship in a formalmanner,andwithuncleanvilehearts;Isay,itstandsuponthehonourofGod if he will manifest himself a holy God, he must manifest somedispleasure against that way of thy worshipping of him: This onemeditation onewould think, shouldmightily sink into the heart of anyman thathath an enlightened conscience, to think thus, it standsuponthe holiness ofGod,Andhe cannot appear to be a holyGod except hedoth someway or other appear to be againstme in such duties that Itenderupuntohim.

Nowyouwillsay,howdothGodappear,thathedothnotacceptofthem?Hewillappearinthesethreethings:

1Firstbyblastingthosethatdoworshiphimthusinaformalway:Itshallat firstbesecret,butafterwards itwillappearmoreapparently,andwesee it by experience, that such as have bin professors of religion, andworship God in hypocrisy, and in formality, they have been blasted intheirpartsandcommongifts.

ThejudgementofGoduponNadabandAbihuthatdidnotsanctifyGod'sNameitwassecretatfirst:Itstruckthemdead,andthoughbyfire,yetifyoureadthestoryyoushallfindthattheirclotheswerenotburnt,andyettheywereburnt in theirbodies:So theLordsometimesdothblastmeninwardly in their spirits, in their souls, in their parts, in their commongifts.HeblaststhemIsayinwardlythoughitdothnotappearoutwardly,yetatlengthitwillappearbeforementhattheyareblasted:andinthesetimesof theGospel theLorddothcomewithspiritual judgmentsratherthenwith outward temporal judgements. In the time of the Law, those

thatdidnotsanctifytheNameofGodinholyduties,theLorddidappearbysomeexternalandvisiblewayupontheirbodies;butnowinthetimeof the Gospel there God comes with more spiritual judgements uponmens souls, and those are the most terrible judgements: We have anotableScriptureforthisinIsa.29.13.HowGoddothblastthosethatdonot sanctify his name in holy duties. Wherefore the Lord said, For asmuchasthispeopledrawnearmewiththeirmouth,andwiththeir lipsdohonourme,buthaveremovedtheirheartfarfromme,andtheirfeartowards me is taught by the precepts of men: Mark what follows:Therefore behold I will proceed to do a marvelous work amongst thispeople, even amarvelous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of theirwisemenshallperish,andtheunderstandingoftheirprudentmenshallbehid.Whatdo they comeanddrawnearmewith their lips and theirheartsarefarfromme,anddotheyworshipmeinaformalway?I'lltakeawaythewisdomfromthewise,andtheunderstandingfromtheprudent:And that is the reasonwhy somany great scholars are blasted in theirveryparts,becausetheywouldworshipGodaccordingtothepreceptsofmen, ina formalway;andsoallhypocritesandformalworshipperstheLorddothblast theminonewayorother, the judgementsofGoduponthe spirits of men were sometimes in the time of the Law; But in thetimesoftheGospeltherewefindgenerallythejudgementsofGodtobemore spiritual upon the hearts and consciences of men; we find it byexperienceGod doth discover that he doth not accept of such as thoseare; and therefore when you see any that have made profession ofReligion, thathadexcellentpartsat first,manycommongifts,andnowareaswesay,nobody;RememberthisText,ThatGodwillbesanctifiedinthosethatcomenighme.

Secondly theLorddothmanifest thathewillbesanctified in those thatdrawnigh him, by awakening their consciencesmany times upon theirsickbedsanddeathbeds,theLorddothforcethemtogiveglorytohim,andthere toacknowledge that theydidnotworshipGod inuprightnessbutinformality.AndnowtheyareinhorrorofconscienceandcryoutintheanguishoftheirsoulsupontheapprehensionofthedreadfulwrathofGodthatisuponthem:TakeheedfortheLord'ssakeofthisthing,whenyouareperformingof thedutiesofworship,donotrest in theoutwarddutiesfortheywillnevercomfortyouuponyoursickanddeathbeds,you

mayperhapsput off your consciences a little for thepresent, butwhenyou come upon your sick beds there will be no comfort unto you, andthen you will be forced to say, well all this while I have but taken thenameofGodinvain,andnowGodhathrejectedmeandallmyservicesandyouwill thenspeaktothosethatcomeaboutyourbedside,andbidthem take warning by you, take heed that when you worship God youworshiphimtopurpose,Ihavespenttimeinprayer,andhearingbutforwantof this I find Ihaveno comfort at all, but theLordappears tobeterrible tomy soul, and comes out againstme as an enemy I say nowGod'sname issanctified;whateverbecomesof thee,hewill forcegloryfromtheeonewayorother,anditmaybeevenhere inthistimeof thylife,buthowever,atthegreatday,whenthesecretsofallheartsmustbedisclosedbeforemenandangels, thentheLordwillappeartobeaholyGodbyrejectingallsuchservicesthatthoudidesttenderuntohim,anditwillthenbeagreatpartoftheworkofthedayofJudgmentforGodtobesanctified in those that did worship him; by declaring beforemen andangels,howhedidrejectsuchformalandhypocriticalworshipthattheydidtenderupuntohim,OhthatGodwouldstrikethisuponyourhearts,thatitmayabideuponyoueverytimeyoucometoworshiphim,tothinkthus, letmelooktoittosanctifyhisnamenow,forIhearthatGodwillsanctifyithimselfifIdonotdoit.

But then on the other side if so be that thou makest conscience ofsanctifyingGod'snameinduties,thenhewillsanctifyhisnameinawayofmercy;thatis,hewillmanifesthowhedothacceptoftheleastdegreeofholinessthoughtherebemuchmixture:GodhathawaytotakeawaythemixturebythebloodofhisSon,andthentoacceptofanyholinessheseesinthee,hewillsanctifyhisnamebymeetingwiththee,andrevealinghisglorytotheewhenthouartworshipingofhim:Thereisanexcellentscripture for this, Exod: 29. 43. There I willmeet with the children ofIsraelandthetabernacleshallbesanctifiedbymyglory.Thouthathastagracious heart and art worshiping of God in sincerity, thou art as atabernacleofGod,andGodhathhisserviceandworshipfromthee,thouartasthetempleofGod,andtherewillImeetwiththee(saithGod)andIwillsanctifymytabernaclebymyglory.Godwillsanctifythyheartbyhisgloryifthoudoestsanctifyhisname.

Further;thoushaltitmaybenotalwayshavesuchgloriouscomforts,thefullbeamsoftheSunrisinguponthee,butatonetimeorothertheLordwillbreakinupontheeandmanifesthisglorytothee,anditslikeifthouhastnotsuchfullcomfortsnow,yetuponthysickbed,thoughGoddothnotthenalwaysmanifesthimselffully,forsometimesthediseasemaybeahinderance,yet it isordinarythatthosethatintheirconstantwaydidsanctifyGod'snameinholydutiestheydoliecomfortablyupontheirsickbeds, and a glorious entrance is made for them into the everlastingkingdomofourLordandsaviourJesusChrist.

Andthenagainallthingsaresanctifieduntothem:asontheotherside,those that do not sanctifyGod's name all things are cursed to them, ifthoudoestnotmakeconscienceofsanctifyingGod'snameinduties,Godcares not to sanctify any thing for thy good: But now, those thatmakeconscienceofsanctifyingGod'snameinholyduties,theLordtakescare,that all things shall be sanctified for their good, for the furtherance oftheireternalgood.

Andhoweveritbehere,yethereafteratthegreatdayofjudgmentitwillbeapartofthegloryofGodtomanifestbeforemenandsngelshowhedidacceptofthoseholyservicesthatthoudidesttenderuptohim;whenhypocrites shall be cast away and abhorred, and thou who hadest anupright sincere heart shalt be owned before God, and beforemen andsngelsatthatgreatday;andGodshallsay,well,itisapartofthegloryofmyholinesstomakeitappear,thatIhaveacceptedoftheseholythings,thatthesemypoorservantshavetendereduptome.Andthisnowisofmarvelloususe for thecomfortingofagraciousheart; thoseduties thatthoudoestnowthinkthouhastlost,andtherewillnothingcomeofthem,thoushaltcertainlyhearof themanotherday,Godwillmake itappear,thereisnothingthathestandsmoreuponthenthegloryofhisholiness,anditisthegloryofhisholinessthatisthystrengthinthisthingandthatmakes it certain to thee that there must be a manifestation of thyacceptance; and therefore take these truths into thy heart aboutsanctifying the name of God. You have had only the point in generalopened to you.Oh that the Spirit ofGodwouldbring thingsunto yourremembrance.

SermonVIII-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinHearingtheword

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

We have (as you may remember) preached many sermons upon thatpoint, of sanctifying theNameofGod in theduties of hisworship:Wehavespokenuntothepointinthegeneral,thelastdaywefinishedit.Idonotintendtolookbacktoanythingthatwassaid,butwearetoproceedto show how the Name of God should be sanctified in the particularduties of his worship. Now the duties of God's worship, are especiallythesethree:

1TheHearingoftheword.

2Receivingofthesacrament.

3AndPrayer.

Otherthingscomeunderworship,butyetthesearethethreechiefdutiesofworship;andIintendtospeaktoalthesethree,andtoshowhowweshouldsanctifytheNameofGodindrawingnighuntohim,intheword,sacrament,andprayer.

WemightchooseseveralTexts forall these,but they fall fullwithinthegeneralandthereforeitshallbesufficient,fortogroundthesanctifyingofGod'sNameinthesedutiesofworshipuponthisText;

1.OfsanctifyingtheNameofGodinthehearingoftheword.

Thatwhichwe are to speak to thismorning it is the sanctifying of theNameofGodinthehearingofhisword.IfyouwouldhavethegroundofwhatwearetosayconcerningthisinaparticularScripture,youmayhave

itinLuk.8.18.

Takeheedthereforehowyouhear:It isnotenoughtocometoheartheword, that is good, and no question but God is pleased with thewillingness of people to come to hear his word, but youmust not restbarelyinhearing,buttakeheedhowyouhear.NowthisisapointofgreatconsequenceandIhopeitmaydogoodtohelptomakemanysermonstobe profitable to you, & the point I hope is seasonable & will be verysuitableuntoyou:Forthosethatcometohearsosooninamorning,andarewillingeveninhardweathertocomeoutoftheirbeds,theygivesomegoodtestimonythattheydodesiretohonourGodintheirhearing,andtogetgoodbytheirhearing;andit ispitythat labourandpainsshouldbebestowed and no profit but hurt rather got by it, which God forbid:ThereforenowIamtospeaktoapointthatmayhelpyousotohear,asmay recompense all your labour and pains in hearing. In preaching tothosethatcometohear,thatsotheymaygetgoodandbenefitbyit;thereisagreatdealmoreencouragementthentosuchascomeinaformalwaybecausetheyusetocome;thereforethispointbeingagreatpoint;Ishallopenitsomewhatlargely,andshallcastitintothismethod:

First, I shall show you that the hearing of God's word is a part of theworshipofGod,forotherwiseIcouldnotgroundituponanytext.

Secondly, I shall show you how we are to sanctify God's Name in thehearing of his word, either in regard of preparation unto it, or ourbehaviorinthehearingoftheword.

Thirdly,WhyitisthatGodwillbesanctifiedinthisordinanceofhis.

Fourthly,HowGodwillsanctifyhimself insuchthatdonotsanctifyhisnameinthehearingofhisword.

Fifthly,HowGodwillSanctifyhisName inwaysofmercy to those thatarecarefultosanctifyhisNameinthehearingoftheword.

Thesearethefiveprincipalthingsthatconcernthisargument.

Forthefirst,thatthehearingofGod'sworditisapartofGod'sworship.

Youheard in the opening of theworship ofGod in the generalwhat itwas, I toldyou itwasa tenderingupof thecreatureshomagetoGod,atestimonyoftherespectthatthecreaturedidowetoGod;nowifthatbethenatureofworship,certainlythehearingofGod'swordit isapartoftheworshipofGod:forinthehearingofGod'swordwe

1FirstdoprofessourdependanceuponGodfortheknowingofhismindandthewaytoeternal life:Every timewecometohear theword, ifweknowwhatwe do,we do thusmuch,we do profess thatwe dodependupontheLordGodfortheknowingofhismind,andthewayandruletoeternal life; we do asmuch as if we should say, Lord, of ourselves weneither know thee, nor the way & means how we should come to besaved,andthereforethatwemighttestifyourdependanceupontheeforthisthing,weherepresentourselvesbeforethee,nowthisisatestimonyofthehighrespectweowetoGod.

2Secondly,thehearingofGod'swordisapartofhisworship,becauseinit we come towait uponGod in theway of an ordinance, to have thatgoodconveyedtousbywayofanordinancebeyondwhatthethingisablein itself to do, and therefore 'tis worship. I wait upon God when I amhearing the word (if I know what I do) to have some spiritual goodconveyed tomebeyondwhat there is in themeans itself, thismakes itworship. When I am busied in natural and civil actions, there I mustprofess that these things candomenogoodwithoutGod,but Idonotwait upon God in an ordinance for the conveyance of natural goodbeyondwhatGodhathputintothecreature;tishisblessingwithit,thatGodintheordinarycourseofhisprovidencedothconveysuchnaturalorcivilgoodintheuseofthosecreatures.Butnow,whenIcometohearhisword, IherecometowaituponGod in thewayofanordinance for theconveyanceofsomespiritualgoodthatthisordinancehathnotinitsself,take it materially, but merely as it hath an institution in it, and isappointedbyGodfortheconveyanceofsuchandsuchthings.Goddothappointmeattonourishme,andtogetherwithhisappointmenthehathgiven a natural power tomeat to nourishmy body that in an ordinarycourseofprovidenceisenoughforthenourishmentofmybody;butnowwhenIcometoheartheword,Imustlookuponthatnotonlyasathingappointedtoworkuponmysoul,andtosavemysoulbynotasa thing

thathathanyefficacyputintoitinanaturalwayastheotherhath;itsnotthe nature of the thing that carries such a power in it, but it is theinstitutionofGod,andtheordinanceofGodinit;Nowthen,whenIcometowaituponGodinanordinanceforthespiritualgoodthatisbeyondthevirtueofanycreaturetoconveytome,certainlyIworshipGod,thatisaspecialpartofworshiptowaituponGodinthisway;ThereforeinthesetworespectsthehearingofGod'sworditisapartoftheworshipofGod,and I beseech you remember these two things every time you come tohear. I comenow to give a testimony that I amnot able tounderstandGodandthewaytoeternallifeofmyself,butIdodependuponGodfortheknowledgeofit.AndhereIcometowaituponGodfortheconveyanceofthatgoodtomysoulthatisnotinthepowerofanycreaturetoconvey:NowIworshipwhenIdothese.

Butfurther(youshallfinditmoreplainwhenwecometoopenhowweshould sanctify God's Name in the hearing of his word) this is divineservice,asmuchasanyservicecanbeperformed.Heretoforeourprelatesandthosekindofmen,madealltheworshipofGodtobeintheirdivineservice(astheycallit)whichwasoftheirowninventions,andmadelightof thepreachingorhearingof theword,but theword isagreatpartofthatdivineservicethatGodrequiresofusinhisworship,andinityoudotenderup yourhomage toGod;You thereforemustnot onlywhenyoucometohear,think,Icometogetsomething,Icometounderstandmorethen Idid, and tohear suchaman'sparts, and the like,but rememberyoucometotenderupyourhomagetoGod,tositatGod'sfeetandtheretoprofessyoursubjectiontohim:Thatisoneendofyourcomingtohearsermons.

Nowthenyouwillsay,WhatshouldbedoneinthehearingGod'sword,soasGod'sNamemaybesanctified?

Forthatasweopenedinthegeneral,thatinthedutiesofGod'sworshiptheremustbepreparation,andthenananswerablebehaviorofthesoul.So here theremust first be a preparation of the soul to thiswork, andthenananswerablebehaviorofthesoulinit.

1Theremustbeapreparationofthesoul,soaswhenyoucometohear,you may with all readiness receive the word; the soul must be made

ready,inAct.17.11.thereitissaid,TheseweremorenoblethenthoseofThessalonica, in that theyreceived thewordwithall readinessofmind:Thewordis,withallalacrityaswellasreadiness:theirmindswereinafitpreparation to receive the word: and the text saith, They were morenoble:Thewordthat'stranslatedmorenoble,itsignifiesbetterbred,forIdonottakethisscripture,asifitweremeantonlyofmenthatwereearlsorlords,thatdidthusreceivethewordwithreadiness,buttheywereofamore noble disposition, They were well bred men, so the Greek wordsignifies.Amansometimespreachingtoacompanyofrudepeoplethatnever had any good breeding, theywill behave themselves rudely, theyslighttheword,andliketheswine,regardacornsratherthenpearls:Andthewordisseldomsoprofitabletoacompanyofrudepeoplethathavenobreedingatall;butnowthereismorehopestopreachtomenthathavebreeding: Men that are exercised in arts and sciences, and have someunderstanding, and so some ingenuity in them, they will hearken toreason.Nowthereisagreatdealofspiritualreasonintheword,thereisagreatdealtoconvincementhatarebutrationalmen;letamanbebutarationalmanandwillingtoattendtotheword,Isaythereisagreatdealofreasontoconvincehiminit,anditisasignofgoodbreeding,ofmenofingenuitytobewillingtoheartheword,whoarethoseinaparishthatsodisregardthewordasnottohearit,buttherudersort?TherearemanyIconfessthataremenofpartsperhapstheworddothnotprevailwiththeirhearts to convert them;yet if theyhaveanygoodbreedingat all, if theword be preached in a convincing way, so that they see there is painstaken, and preached as the word of God to them, they will vouch safetheirpresenceat least:but therudemultitudethatknownothingatall,theyhadratherbeinalehousesdrinkingandswillingtheynevercaretohear the word, as in such a place as this there are very few of yourmiserablepoorpeople that come tohear theword.Whatplace is therefuller of miserable poor people then this place is and yet what a poorappearance is thereof suchpeople at thehearingof theword?Butnowthosethathaveanyingenuityinthematall,oranybreeding(forsothewordis)theywillreceivethewordwithreadiness:Butthisbreedingherespokenof,wasalittlehigherthennaturalbreeding;Theywerespirituallynoble, & so they had a readiness in their hearts in receiving theword.Now this readiness of heart in receiving the word consists in theseparticulars:

First, When you come to hear the word, if you would sanctify God'sName,youmustpossessyoursoulswithwhatitisthatyouaregoingtohear, that what you are to hear is the word of God, that it is not thespeaking of aman that you are going to attend upon: but that you arenowgoingtoattenduponGod,andtohearthewordoftheeternalGod.Possessyoursoulswiththis;youwillneversanctifyGod'sNameelse inthehearingofhisword;thereforeyoufindthattheApostlewritingtotheThessalonians,hegivesthemthereasonwhytheworddidthemsomuchgoodasitdid:ItwasbecausetheydidhearitasthewordofGod1Thess.2. 13. For this cause also (saith he) thank we God without ceasing,because when ye received the word of God, which ye heard of us, yereceiveditnotasthewordofmen,but(asitisintruth)thewordofGod,which effectually worketh also in you that believe, mark, so it cameeffectually towork, because they received it as theword ofGod;manytimesyouwillsay,come,letusgohearsuchamanpreach;Ohno,letusgo hearChrist preach, for as it doth concern theministers ofGod thattheypreachnotthemselves,butthatChristshouldpreachinthem:Soitconcernsyouthathear,nottocometohearthismanorthatman,buttocometohearJesusChrist.Weas theambassadorsofChristdobeseechyou,saiththeApostle.

2. Possess your hearts likewise with this consideration, that I come tohearthewordasanordinanceappointedbyGodtoconveyspiritualgoodto my soul, and this is a very useful consideration, and especially itconcernsmenofunderstandingandpartsforthehelpingofthemtohear.Formenthatareofunderstandingandparts,whentheycometohearthistemptationisreadytocomeuponthem,thatexcepttheyhearsomenewthingthattheydidnotunderstandbeforewhereforeshouldtheycome?Iamabletounderstandasmuchinsuchapointascanbesaid:AndwhenIhavecomeandheardmany times, Ihaveheardbut that Iknewbefore,anduponthattheythinkthereisnouseofcomingtohear:Nowthisisagreatmistake,whenyoucometoheartheword,youdonotcomealwaysto hearwhat you did not know, itmay be sometimesGodmay dart insomething that youdidnot thinkof before, or so fully understand, butsupposeitbenotso,youaretocometoitasanordinanceofGodfortheconveyanceofspiritualgoodtoyoursouls.

Youwill say. cannotwe sit at home and read a sermon?But hathGodappointedthatthegreatordinancefortheconvertingandtheedifyingofsoulsinthewaytoeternallife?True,thereissomeuseofit,butthegreatordinance is the preaching of the word, faith comes by hearing, theScripturesaith,andneverbyreading,Sothatthoughwhenyoucometohear,youdonothearthatwhichyouheardnotbefore,yetyoucometoattenduponthisordinancefortheconveyanceofsomespiritualgoodthatitmaybehathnotbeenconveyedbefore,or ina furtherdegree then ithath been conveyed before, And so you should come to hear the wordwith your hearts possessedwith thatmeditation, that it is theword ofGod,andthegreatordinancethatGodhathappointedfortheconveyanceofspiritualgood.SothatIcomenowinobediencetoGod,andinthisdoItestifymyrespecttoGod,thatIwillattenduponthisordinanceofhisforthe conveyance of Spiritual good tome, and although Imay think thatthisor theothermeansmaydo thedeedaswell, yetbecauseGodhathappointed this tobehisordinance, therefore inobedience tohim Iwillattend upon this means rather then upon other means, as you knowNaaman he thought the other waters would have been as good as thewaters of Jordan to have healed him, but if God will appoint him thewatersofJordan that theyshouldhealhimrather thenotherwatershemust wash there; No question but other waters had as much naturalvirtue in them as they had, but because thewaters of Jordanwere theordinancethatGodforthattimehadappointedtocurehisleprosywithal,he must come and wash in those waters rather then in any other, Sobecause preaching of the word is the great ordinance that God hathappointed for to conveyhimselfby, thereforehedoth require that thoushouldest show thy respect tohim, so faras toattenduponhim in thisordinance.

2Thesecondthingthatistobedoneinwayofpreparation,itistoplowupthe fallowgroundofyourhearts,andnot tosowamongst thorns,asyouhaveitinJer.4.3.andsoinHosea10.ThewordofGodyouknowiscomparedtoseedinthatparableofChristinMar.13.Andanauditoryiscompared to the ground, I suppose you are all acquainted with thatparable of the sower, that it is to set out theministry of theword, andwhatfruitithathupontheheartsofmen,acongregationislikethefield,andaministerpreachingislikethesowerthatsowstheseedinthefield:

Heknowsnotwhichtruthwhetherthatortheotherwillprosper,theseedbeing sowed, in somepart of the ground is lost, and in another part itgrows:soinonepewtheseedofthewordislost,inanotherpewitgrowsup.ButnowifpeoplethatarecomparedtothegroundwouldsohearthewordasGod'snamemaybesanctifiedinit,theirheartsmustbeplowedasifoneshouldsowseedupongreensoil,sowitinthefieldsupongreengrass,whatwouldbecomeofit?Thegroundmustfirstbeplowedforthepreparationoftheseed.

Butyouwillsay,whatisthemeaningoftheplowingofourheartsforthepreparationoftheword?Themeaningisnothingelsebutthistheworkofhumiliation,thehumblingofthesoulbeforetheLordwhenitdothcometohearGod'sword.

Humbleitinthesetworegards.

FirstbehumbledforyourignorancethatyouknowsolittleofGod'smindasyoudo.

Secondlybehumbledforallthesinfulnessofyourhearts,besensibleofthe sinfulness and wretchedness of your hearts and the miserableconditionthatyouarein,ifyoucangetyourheartsbrokenwiththesenseofyoursinandmisery,andcomesotoheartheword,it isverylikethewordmaybeofmightyuse,andGod'snamemaybeverymuchsanctifiedinyourhearingoftheword.

Youwillsay,mustweplowupourheartsbeforewecometohear?Itmustbethewordthatmustplowus,thewordistheplow,andsotheministersofGodarecompared toplowmen in theword,he thatputshishand totheplowandlooksbackisnotfitforthekingdomofheaven.

It is true, it cannot be expected that the heart should be thoroughlyplowedasitoughtbutbytheword,thereforeatthefirstcomingtohearthereisnothopethatmenwillsanctifyGod'snametillthewordgetsintoplowthem,andsobygettingatonetimeintotheirheartstheycometobeprepared forhearing at another time.Andyet somewhatmaybedonebeforebythatnaturalknowledgethatmenhavetheymaycometoknowthemselvestobesinners,andcometounderstandthemselvestobevery

weakandignorantbysomeknowledgethattheymayhavebytheworksofGod,andbyconferencewithothers,andbyreadingandthelike,andsotheymayinsomemeasurecometohavetheirheartstobehumbled.Anditisgoodtomakeuseofthesetohumbletheheart,butnow,youthathaveheardthewordoften,andyethavenotsanctifiedGod'sname,therebetruthsthatyouhaveheardheretofore,thatifyouhadmadeuseofinprivate tohave,plowedup yourhearts, theywouldhavepreparedyourhearts for thenext time in hearing of theword. If therefore youwouldhear thewordwith a great dealmore profit then formerly, your heartsmustbeplowedbyhumiliation.

2. Secondly, the heart must be plowed by labouring to get out thosethorns that are in the heart, those lusts that growdeep in the heart asthornsgrowintheground:labourtopluckthemout,thatis,whenthoucomesttohearthewordgetthyheartintothatframe,astobewillingtoprofessagainsteveryknownsinthatthouhastfoundinthyheart,labourtofindoutthoseluststhatareinthyheartandthenprofessagainstthem,that thouartwilling tohave them tobe rootedoutof thyheart, ifmenandwomenwouldbutdothuswhentheycometohear,thatGodmightseethisinthem,thattheyhavebeforetheycomeprofessedagainsteveryknownsin,Thiswouldbeanexcellentthingindeed.

3.Againinthethirdplacewhichwillfollowfromhence,

When thoucomest tohear theword, comewitha resolution toyield towhat everGod shall reveal to behismind, I amnowgoing tohear thywordohLord, towaituponthee, toknowwhat thouhast tosay tome:Andthouthatartthesearcherofthesecretsofallhearts,ThouknowestthatIgowithsucharesolutiontoyieldupmyselftoeverytruthofthine,Howwould thenameofGodbesanctified ifyoudid thuscome toheartheword.Ifyoudidcomewithsucharesolution,Job.32.34.ThatwhichIknownot,teachthoume;andifIhavedoneiniquity,Iwilldonomore.InIsa.2.3.youhaveaprophecyofthegentileshowtheyshouldcometotheword,Andmanypeopleshallgoandsay,comeye,andletusgouptothemountainof theLord to thehouseof theGodofJacob,andhewillteach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: Here is a blesseddispositionwhenyoucometoheartheword,someofyoucometogetherin streets and lanes, and over the fields, when you come together, and

meetonewithanotherasyouwalkoverthefields,makeuseofthisText.Oh that this prophecymight be fulfilled in your coming over the fieldseveryLord'sdaymorningandatothertimes,thatyouwouldsayonetoanother,orwhenyoucalloneuponanothertogotohear,comeletusgouptothehouseoftheLordandhewillteachusofhiswaysandwewillwalkinhispaths.WeareresolvedthatwhatevertheLordshallteachusto be hiswayswewill submit unto it. This is a due preparation of theheartforthesanctifyingofGod'snameinthehearingofhisword.

4.Whenyoucometohearthewordcomewithlongingdesiresaftertheword, comewithanappetite to it.As in 1Pet.2.2.Asnewbornbabesdesirethesinceremilkof thewordthatyoumaygrowthereby.Doitasnew born babes.Now you know little babes they do not desiremilk toplaywithalbutonlytonourishthem:Childrenofthreeorfouryearsold,theymaydesiremilktoplaywithbutnewbornbabesnevercareforitbutwhentheyarehungrytonourishthem,Andso it is true,manycometohearthewordtoplaywithit,butnowyoushouldcometohearthewordasnewbornbabes,withahungeringdesireafterthewordthatyoursoulsmaybenourishedthereby.ThatwereexcellentifeveryLord'sday,andatotherdaysyoudidcomeashungrytothewordaseveryouwenttoyourdinner or supper. The word of God should be to you more then yourappointedfood,andthenyouareliketogrowbyitandtosanctifyGod'snameinit.

5. Pray beforehand, that God would open thine eyes, and open thineheart,andaccompanyhisword,thusdidDavid,openmineeyesOLord,that Imay understand thewonders of thy Law.And you knowwhat issaidofLydia, theLordopenedherhearttoattendtothewordthatwasspoken:Nowseeingitisanordinancethoudoestexpectmoregoodfrom,thanwhatitselfofitsownnatureisabletoconvey;thouhadestneedtopray, Lord I go to such an ordinance of thine, and I know there is noefficacyinitself,itisnotabletoreachtosucheffectsasIexpectthatis,tohavemyheartspokentoo,andquickened,andtohavemineeyesopened,butOLordopenmineeyesandopenmineheartLordmyheartnaturallyis locked up against thy word, there are such wards in my heart, thatexceptthouartpleasedtoputinakeythatmayfitmyheart,itwillneveropen;manheisnotabletoknowmyheart,andthereforehecannotfita

key to answer every ward, to resolve every doubt, to silence everyobjectionbutLordthoucanstdoit:DothouLordthereforefitthywordthisdaythatmaymeetwithmyheartLord,Ihavegoneoftentothyword,and the key hath stuck in it and it hath not opened; but Lord, if thouwouldestbutfititandturnitwiththineownhand,myheartwouldopen.Ohcomewithsuchaprayingheart to theword,and therebyshalt thousanctifytheNameofGodinhearinghisword,thisistocometotheword,astothewordofGod,youmustnotcometothehearingofthewordastohearaspeechoranoration,butcomeinsuchapreparationasthisis,andsoIsayGodwillbeglorified,andyouwillbeprofited.

The next thing is, what should be the behavior of the soul in thesanctifyingGod'sNameinthewordwhenitiscome,nowtothattherearetheseparticulars:

1.Firsttheremustbeacarefulattentionuntotheword,youmustsetyourheartsuntoit,asMosesinDeut.32.46hesaiduntothepeople,setyourheartsuntoall thewordswhichItestifyamongyouthisday,whichyoushallcommandyourchildrentoobservetodo,foritisnotavainthingforyou,becauseitisyourlife.Setyourheartstoit,foritisnotavainthing,itis your life;when you come to hear theword give diligent attention towhat youhear. InAct. 3. 6. it is said,ThepeoplewithoneaccordgaveheeduntothosethingswhichPhilipspoke.Theygaveheed,thewordisused often in Scripture, sometimes it is used for to beware of a thing,bewareoftheleavenofthePharisees,Bewareofthem;asamanwhenheseesanenemyandisawareofhim,heisverydiligenttoobservehowtoavoidhim;Sothereshouldbeasmuchdiligencetogetgoodbytheword,asonewouldbediligenttoavoidanydangerwhatsoever,Andthewordsignifiessometimestogivesuchheedasadisciplegivesuntohismaster,so they gaveheed to theword. So inProv. 2. 1, 2.my son, if thouwiltreceivemywords and hidemy commandmentswith thee, so that thouincline thine ear unto wisdom: We must diligently attend, and not tosufferoureyes&ourthoughts tobewandering,butdiligentlyattendtowhatissaid:MyBrethren,thereisallthingsthatmaychallengeattentionintheword.Whatwouldmakeyoutoattendtoanything?

Firstifhethatspeaksweremuchaboveyou,ifitwereagreatprince,orlordthatspoketoyou,thenyouwouldattend.Now,thoughitistrue,itis

butaman,thatitmaybe,isinferiortomostofyou,thatspeaks,yetknowinhimitistheLordofheavenandearththatspeakstoyou:AndsoyouknowwhatChristsaith,hethathearethyouhearethme:Sothoughyouwouldnotattendinrespectofthemessengersomuch,yetasitistheSonofGodthatisspeakingtoyou,itmaychallengeyourattention.Thisdayifyoushouldhearavoiceoutof theclouds fromheavenspeaking toyou,wouldyounotthenlisten?thetruth is,weshould listenasmuchtothevoiceofGodintheministryofhisword,asifsobethattheLordshouldspokeoutofthecloudstous.AndIwillgiveyouaScriptureforthat,thatthevoiceofGodinhiswordshouldbeasmuchregardedofyou,asifGodshouldspeakfromheaventoyoubyanaudiblevoiceoutoftheclouds.In2Pet.1. 18,19.Thisvoicewhichcamefromheavenweheard,whenwewerewithhimintheholymount.Butmark, invers.19.Wehavealsoamere sure word of prophecy whereunto ye do well that ye take heed.Mark;Weheardavoicefromheaven,saithPeter,yeabutwehaveamoresurewordofprophecywhereuntoyedowellthatyetakeheed.Therewasavoice fromheaven spoke, youwill say, ifwehadheard that voice,wewouldhavegivenheed to that, saith theApostle,Youhaveamoresureword of prophecy: Now prophecy in Scripture is taken for preaching,Despise not prophesy:As if theHolyGhost should say, Youmust haveregard to theword of prophecy as youwould have regard to any voicefromheaven:Supposeanangelshouldcomeandspeaktoyou,wouldnotyou attend to him? then whatsoever thoughts you had, they would betakenoff,forthereisanAngelthatiscomedownfromheaventospeak:Nowmarkwhat is said inHeb. 1. 1. Godwho at sundry times, and indiversmannersspokeintimespasttothefathersbytheprophets,hathintheselastdaysspokenuntousbyhisSon,whomhehathappointedheirofall things,bywhomalsohemadetheworlds.Andtheninvers.3.hedescribeshisSon,Andbeingmadesomuchbetterthentheangels,ashehath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name then they: If aprophetshouldcomeandspeak,thatisnotsomuchasiftheSonofGodcomes;nonorasifanangelshouldcome,forJesusChristhathobtaineda more excellent name then the angels, and it is Christ that is in theministryofhisword,Hethathearethyouhearethme.

2. Secondly, that which would cause attention, is the greatness of thematterpropounded:It is true, ifamanshouldspeakofsomeflightand

vainthings,thereneednotsomuchattention.Mybrethren,themattersinthewordarethegreat thingsofGod, it is thevoiceofGod, thegreatmysteries of godliness, those deep things that the angels themselvesdesiretopryinto;YeatheangelsthemselvesbythechurchestheycometohavetheknowledgeofthemysteriesofGod.Imakenoquestionbutintheministryofthewordamongthechurchestheangelstheyattendandcome to some knowledge in the mysteries of godliness; for so theScripturesaith,thattheyhaveitbythechurches,therethegreatestthingsof God's will, the greatest counsels of God that were kept hid from alleternity,areopenedtoyouintheministryoftheword:Wedonotcometotellyoutales,andtheconceitsofmen,buttoopenthegreatcounselsofGod,whereinthedepthofthewisdomofGodcomestoberevealedtothechildrenofmen,andthereforethiscallsforattention.

3. Thirdly, suppose they be great things, yet if they do not so muchconcern us, there is no such great reason of attention, therefore in thethirdplace, thatwhichwespeak, it is your life; it is that concernsyoursoulsandeternalestates:Yoursoulsandeverlastingestatesdo lieupontheministryoftheword,ifthatbemadeeffectualtoyou,youaresaved:ifthatbenotmadeeffectualtoyou,youaredamnedandundoneforever.Ifwe should come to tell you of somethingwhereby youmight get somegoodbargain,orofawayhowtogetgreatriches,Imakenoquestionbutyouwouldrise though itwereacoldorrainymorning:Butknowwhenyouarecalledtohearthewordyouarecalledtohearthatwhichmaydoyou good for ever, that forwhich youmay blessGod for to all eternitywiththeangelsandsaintsinthehighestheavens.Iftheybesuchthingsofso great concernment, then there had need be a great attention: Youknow what Christ said to Martha when she was troubled about hisentertainment (Luke 10. 41) Martha, Martha, thou art careful andtroubled about many things, but one thing is needful; and Mary hathchosenthatgoodpartwhichshallnotbetakenawayfromher.WhatdidMarychoose?Itwasthis,thatshediddiligentlyattenduponJesusChristtohear theword fromhis ownmouth,whenMarthawasbusied in thehouse toprovide forhisentertainmentbut it isabetter thing toattendupon theword then to entertainChrist in yourhouses:You that are oflovingdispositions,thatifagoodministershallcometoyourhouses,oragoodChristian,thatyouseebuttheimageofChristinyourheartsspring

withinyou,andyouwilldoanythingtoentertainthem:Well,butwhatifJesusChristshouldcome,ifyouknewthatsuchamanthatcamewithinyour doors were the Son of God, how would you bestir yourselves toentertainhim?Butknow,itisamoreacceptableservicetoJesusChristtoattenduponhiswordthentoprovideforhiminyourhousesAndthereisgreatreasonto, thatweshouldbediligent indrawingnightotheword,andgiveearuntoit;becauseyoufindthattheLorddothexpresshimselfintheScripture,howhegiveseartouswhenwespeaktohim.Godissaidtoinclinehisear,sometimestoopenhisear,sometimestobowhisear,sometimestocausehiseartohear,anddiverssuchexpressionsthereareto that purpose. Now if Godwhenwe that are poor wretches speak tohim, shallbowhis earbendhis earopenhis ear, causehis ear tohear,muchmoreshouldwewhenwecometoattenduponhim.

2.SecondlyastheremustbeattendingtothewordofGod,sotheremustbeanopeningofthehearttoreceivewhatGodspeakstoyou,itistrue,itistheworkofGodtoopentheheart,butGodworksuponmenasuponrationalcreaturesandhemakesyoutobeactiveinopeningyourhearts,so thatwhenyouhaveany truth come tobe revealed, you shouldopenyourunderstandings,yourconscience,andwill,andaffections,OhLordthy truth which thou art presenting here tomy soul at this time let itcomein,letmereceiveit,astheexpressionisinProv.21.MySon,ifthouwiltreceivemywordsandtheninv.10.Whenwisdomenterethintothyheart:ThewordsofwisdomthewordsofGod, theymustenter intotheheart,getin;itmaybetheygetintothyear,butthat'snotenough,theymust get into thy heart, in Joh 8. 37. There Christ complains that hiswordhadnoplaceinthem,that'sasadthingwhenthewordofGodshallhavenoplaceintheheart.Ifatemptationtosincomes,thathathaplaceintheheart,butwhenthewordcomesthathathnoplaceintheheart;Isay, it is a very sad thing that we can find no room for the word; weshouldgetroomfortheword,Openyegates,Standopenyeeverlastingdoors,thattheKingofglorymaycomein:Knowthatwhenyoucometoheartheword,theLordisknockingatthedoorsofyourhearts;havenotyou felt it sometimes? Open, O open the doors, let all be opened toreceive the word into your hearts. That is the Second thing for thebehaviorofthesoulinhearing.

3Thethirdthingisthecarefulapplyingoftheword,soinPro.2.2.Theremustbeanapplyingofthehearttotheword,andanapplyingofthewordunto theheart.Allaction isbyanapplicationof the thing thatdothactuntothesubject,theremustbeanapplicationofthewordtothysoul,asnow, suppose thou comest to hear theword, and thouhearest of somesin,thatitmaybethouknowestthouartguiltyof,takethewordandlayittothyheartandsay,TheLordhathmetwithmysoulthisday,theLordhathspokentome,totheendthatImightbehumbledforthissin,andtheothersinthatmyconsciencetellsmeIamguiltyof,So,doththeLordputtheeuponadutythatconcernsthee?acknowledgethis,theLordhathspokentomethisdayandputmeuponthereformationofmyfamily,andthereformationofmyownheart.Isthereawordpresented?applythat,andletnotthetroubleofthyheartcausetheetocastoff thatwordthatGod hath spoken to thee; application of the word to thy heart is ofmarvelloususe,anditconcernsnotonlyministersingeneraltolaybeforepeople the doctrine of the Gospel but to apply it, And know that itconcerns you as well asministers to apply it; And not only when theycometothatthatiscalleduse,butallthewayintheopeningoftheword,itconcernsyoualltoapplyittoyourownsouls,andtoconsiderhowdothitconcernmeinparticular?MybrethrenthereisnosuchwaytohonourGod,orgetgoodtoyourownsouls,astheapplicationof theworduntoyourselves.As aman that is asleep if there be a noisemade itwill notawakehimsosoon,butcomeandcallhimbyhisname(andsayJohn,orThomas,) and thatwill awakehimsooner thena greaternoisewill; So,when thewordmakes a noisewhen it is delivered only in the general,mentakelittlenoticeof it,butwhenthewordcomesparticularlytothesoulsofmen,anddothasitwerecallthembyname,thisawakensthem;nowGodmanytimesdothspeaktoyourheartsbutyoushouldapplyit,youknow theword is compared tomeat, and itmustbeapplied to thebody,ThendoweworshipGodinarightwaywhenaswetakenoticeofGod'swordasconcerningusinparticular,asthatnotableScripturethatyouhavein1Cor.14.25.WheretherecomesapoormanintothechurchofGod,andhearsprophesying,hearsthewordopened,andthetextsaithheisconvincedofall,he is judgedofall,andtheninvers.25,Thusarethe secrets of his heart manifest and so falling down on his face heworshipsGodandreportsthatGodisinyouofatruth,thatis,whenthewordcomesandmeetswithhissoulinparticular,thathefindshimselfto

be aimed at by the word, then he worships God, and saith that Godcertainly is in them,here's the reasonnowthatwhenyoucome tohearthewordyoudonotworshipGodbecauseyouapplyitnottoyourselves,youarereadytosay,Thiswaswellspokentosuchaone,anditconcernssuchaone,buthowdothitconcernthysoulinparticular?SometimestheLorddothevenforcemenandwomentoapplyitwhethertheywillorno,forthattheythinktheministerspeakstotheminparticular,andthatnobodywasspokentoointhecongregationbutthemselves;ThisisamercywhentheLorddothituntoyou;butitisagreatermercywhentheLordgives youaheart to apply it to yourselves, andalthough itmay troubleyoualittleforthepresent,yetbewillingtoapplyit,andaccountitagreatmercyfromtheLord,thattheLordwillbepleasedtospeakinparticulartoyoursouls.

4.Fourthly,wemustmix faithwith theword,orotherwise itwilldousbutlittlegood;Applyitandthenbelieveit.InHeb.4.2.itissaid,thatthewordpreacheddidnotprofit them,notbeingmixedwith faith in themthatheardit.Whereforetheremustbeamixtureof faith, tobelievetheword that the Lord brings unto you. Now concerning that I'll butpropoundthesefewparticulars;

Youwillsay,mustwebelieveeverythingthatisspoken?sometimestherearesomethingsspokenthatwecannottellhowtobelieve?

I do notmean so, to believe every thingmerely being spoken, for youmusttakeheedwhatyouhear,aswellashowyouhear;butdothusmuchatleast.

1.Inthefirstplace,whatsoevercomesinthenameofGodtoyou,(exceptyou know certainly it is not according to thewrittenword) you owe somuchrespecttoit,astoexamineit,at leasttotryitwhetheritbesoorno, as it is said of those well-bred men that I spoke of, that they didexaminewhetherthingsweresoorno.DonotcastoffanythingpresentlythatcomesintheNameofGod:Nowanythingthathaththebroadsealuponit,youmustnotdisobey:Youwillsay,Itmaybecounterfeit:butdonotdisobeyittillyoubesureitbecounterfeit.

Ohthatmenwouldgivebutthisrespecttoallthingsthattheyhear,never

tocastthemofftilltheyhaveexaminedandtriedwhethertheybesoorno.

2.Secondly,dobutgrantthisrespecttothewordthatisspokentoyou,asto think thus,what if all that I hear spoken againstmy sin,which laysopenthedangerousconditionthatmysoulisin,provetobetrue,whatacasewere I in then?Thishathbeen thebeginningof the conversionofmanysouls, thehavingbutsucha thoughtas this. Itmaybe thingsarenotsoterribleasIhear,butwhatiftheydoproveso?thenIamundoneforever.DareIventuremysoulandmyeternalestateuponhopes thatthesethingsarenotsobadasIhear?Ibelieveifyouwouldputyourselvestoit,youwouldthinkitaboldadventure,andthecomfortthatanyofyouhavegroundeduponthis,merelyhopingthatthingsarenotsobadasyouhear;itisacursedcomfortthathathnosurebottom:Grantthatrespectthereforetotheword.

3.Thirdlyconsiderthis,itmaybeIdonotseeclearlythatthesethingsaresowhicharedelivered,Idonotseeenoughtobelievethemnow,butwhatifIwerenowdying?WhatifIwerenowgoingtoreceivethesentenceofmyeternaldoom;wouldInotthenbelievethesethings?WouldInotthenthinkwhatIhearoutofthewordtobetrue?Itisaneasymatterformentorejectthewordwhiletheyhavetheirhealth,andprosperity.Butifyouwere to die, and upon your sick and death bed if you saw the infiniteocean of eternity before you,whatwould you say then?were thewordtrue yea orno?would you give belief unto the suggestions of theDevilthen?We find it by experience, Thatmen that could easily cast off thewordintheirhealth,yetwhentheyhavecometolieupontheirsickbed,anddeathbed,theyfoundthewordtrue:Believeitnowaswellasthen.

4.Consider,ifthoudoestnotbelieve,whatacaseartthouin?AmIworsethenthedevilsthemselves?TheScripturetellsme,thatthedevilsbelieveandtremble;whyLorddoIcometohearsermons,andamImorehardtobelievethentheverydevilsthemselves?TheydobelievethatwordthatIcastoff,andtheytrembleatit,butmysoulisnotatallstirred,asiftherewere no reality in such things that have been spoken tome. There beotherthingswhichmayfurtherhelpustowardsbelievingofthewordofGod, but these shall suffice: And certainlymy brethren tillwe come tothistobelievethewordthoughweshouldsitunderitmanyyears,itwill

do us little good, and we shall never sanctify the Name of God in thehearingofit.

SermonIX-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinHearingtheWord

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

The next thing for the right behavior of the soul for sanctifying God'sNameisthis,wemustreceivethewordwithmeeknessofspirit,thatyouhave inJam. 1.21.Wherefore layapart all filthiness, and superfluityofnaughtiness,andreceivewithmeeknesstheengraftedwordwhichisableto save your souls. Receive with meekness; The former part of thisScripture I confess concerns some what that was before, about thepreparation of the soul, and we shall perhaps afterwards in theapplication come to open the former part of this verse. Lay apart allfilthiness&superfluityofnaughtiness:Butonlynowwequotetheplaceforthis,receivewithmeeknesstheengraftedwordwhichisabletosaveyoursouls.Lettherebeaquietness inyourspirit inattendingupontheword, no hurrying; There is a twofold distemper of passion in manypeoplethatisagreathinderancetotheprofitoftheword,andsanctifyingGod'sNameinhearingit.

1.The first isadistemperofpassion in those thathavesometroubleofconscienceinthem,theyaretroubledfortheirsin,andtheirspiritsareinadiscontentedfrowardhumourbecausetheyhavenotthatcomfortthatthey do desire, and therefore the word of God when it comes to bepreached to them, if itdothnoteverywaysuitwith theirhearts, and iftheydonotfindpresentcomfortbyit,theirspiritsareinadistemperandfrowardness, and cast it off; and if at any time there be never suchcomfortable things spoken in the word, yet there is an anger in their

spirits because they are not able to apply the word to themselves, andtheythink.Thisdothnotconcernme:nowthereshouldbemeeknessofspirit in those that are in trouble of conscience above all; they shouldquietlyattendupontheword,andwait forthetimethatGodwillspeakpeacetotheirconsciences:AndifIcannotfindthewordsuitabletomeatthistime,yetImayatanothertime:letmeattendwithmeekness,letmereceiveeverythingwithmeeknessthewordisaboveme,andifeverIhavegood,itmustbebythewordatlast.Itdoethmuchconcernthosethatareintroubleofconsciencetohavemeekspirits.

2.Thereisanotherdistemperinothersandthatisworse;thatis,suchaswhen they find theword comenearunto them, relating those sins thattheir consciences tells them they are guilty of, their hearts rise againstGod,andhisword,andministerstoo:Becauseitwouldpluckawaysomebelovedcorruption,becauseitrebukesthemforsomehauntofevil,somedistemperofheart that theyhavebeenorareguiltyof, itputsa shameuponthem,andtherefore theirheartsdoriseagainst it. It isadreadfulthingtohavetheheartriseagainsttheword.AswereadofthatfrowardPrince Jehoiakim in the Prophecy of Jeremiah, that when the roll wasread inhishearing, sitting in thewinter timeby a great fire, he took apenknifeandcutitapiecesandthrewitintothefireinanger;andIhavereadthattheJewskeptafasteveryyeartomournforthatgreatsin,&yetthisJehoiakimwasthesonofJosiahwhoseheartdidmeltatthehearingoftheword,hehadanhumbleandameekheartwhentheLawwasread,andyetseewhatadifferentspiritJehoiakimhadeitherfromhisfatherorgrandfather. It is a great dishonor to the name ofGod formen to giveliberty to their passions to rise against the word; take heed of passioneitherwhileyouarehearingtheword,oraftertheword,asmanyofyouwhen you are discontented with what is said. When you come incompany,whatafuryaremanymeninuponthehearingofsomethingsin theword thatcomesclose to theirhearts; rememberwhenyouareahearingofthewordthatitisthatwhichisaboveyou,anditisnotfitforone that is an inferior to show himself passionate in the presence of asuperior:Itistrue,theministerstheymaybeinaslowaconditionasyou,and ina lower;but theword they speak, it is aboveall theprincesandmonarchsuponthefaceoftheearth;andit isfitthereforewehavingtodealwithGodthatweshouldbehaveourselvesinameekdisposition.

6. The next thing for the sanctifying God's name in the hearing of thewordisthis,wemusthearitwithatremblingheart,withfearaswellasmeekness, and for that you have that famous Scripture in Isa. 66.beginning.ThussaiththeLord,theheavenismythrone,andtheearthismyfootstoolwhereisthehousethatyebuilduntome,andwhereistheplaceofmyrest?Forallthosethingshathmyhandmade,andallthosethingshavebeensaiththeLord,buttothismanwillIlook,eventohimthat ispoor,andofacontritespiritandtremblethatmyword. this isamostadmirableScripture.MarkhowGodliftsuphimselfinhisglory,sogreat a God as the heaven ismy throne, and the earth ismy footstoolwhereisthathousethatyewillbuilduntome?butthenmayapoorsoulsay,howshallIbeabletostandbeforethisGodthatissoglorious?SaithGod,benotdiscouragedpoorsoulwhodoest trembleatmyword, forIlook toyou;andthen this isa further thingobservable thatGodhatharegard to that soul that trembles at his word, rather then to any thatshouldbuildthemostsumptuousbuildingsintheworldforhim,forsaithGodhere,theheavenismythrone,andtheearthismyfootstool,whereisthehousethatyebuilduntomeandwhereistheplaceofmyrest?theyhavebuiltaglorioustempletoGod,butwhatdoIregardthatsaithGod?I regardone that tremblesatmywordmore then thatgreathouse thatyou have built untome, it is a notable Scripture to show what a highrespectGodhathtoonethattremblesathisword,heregardsthemmorethen this glorious temple, that was built unto him, if youwere able tobuildsuchaplaceasthiswasfortheserviceofGod,youwouldthinkitagreatmatter,itisnotsomuchregardedasifyoucouldbringatremblinghearttoGod'sword,that'saspecialthingwhereinthesanctifyingofthenameofGodconsists,whenwecome tosee thedreadfulauthority thatthereisinthewordofGod,whenweareabletoseemoregloryofGodinhisword then in all theworks ofGod besides, for there ismore of hisgloryinthewordthenthereisinthewholecreationofheavenandearth,taketheSun,andMoonandstars,youthataremarinersyouhaveseenmuchofthegloryofGodabroadthatonewouldthinkmightstriketerrorintoall yourhearts,butknow that there ismoreof thedreadfulnessofGod'snameinhiswordtheninallhisworks;InPsalm138.2.Thouhastmagnifiedthywordaboveallthyname,theworditismagnifiedaboveallthenameofGodwhatsoever, and it is a very good sign of a spirituallyenlightened soul that can see the name of God more magnified in his

wordtheninallhisworksbesides;Iappealuntoyourconsciencesinthisthing,haveyoueverseen thenameofGodtobemoremagnified inhiswordtheninallhisworks?Imaywithverygoodconfidenceaffirmthisthat there is no godly soul upon the face of the earth, that hath theweakestdegreeofgracebuthathseenmoreofthegloryofGodrevealedinhisword, thenhehath seen inall theworksofGodbesides, andhisheart hath been more taken with it, it requires therefore a tremblingframeofheartwhenwehearit.

And then further when this is considered that the word is that thatbindeththesoulovereithertolifeordeath,men'seternalestatesaretobecastbytheworld,certainlythenitrequiresatremblinghearttohearthatbywhichtheeternalestateofmanis tobecast,wedonotsanctifyGod's name when we come to hear the word, except we come withtremblinghearts,andtheyarethemost likelyofallmenandwomentounderstandthemindofGod,as forsuchascomewithconceitedspiritsthattheyunderstandasmuchbeforetheycome,andthinktheirreachofwit or capacity is beyond the capacity of any that shall open the worduntothem(yetthatwerenotsomuchifitdidbutonlyrestuponthemanandnotreflectupontheworditself)Nowthesethatarerichintheirownthoughtsandunderstandingsaresentemptyaway,but those thatcomewith trembling hearts to the word, they are the men that are like tounderstand God's counsels revealed in his word. In Ezra 10. 2, 3.Shechaniah the son of Iehiel one of the sons of Elam answered& saiduntoEzra,wehave transgressed against ourGod&have taken strangewives &c. Yet now there is hope in Israel concerning this thing, nowthereforeletusmakeacovenantwithourGodaccordingtothecounselofmy lordandof those that trembleat thecommandmentofourGod; sothat those that trembleatGod'swordare suchasare fittest to counsel,theyunderstandmostofGod'smind;andthat'sanotherparticularofthebehaviorofthesoulinsanctifyingGod'snameinhearinghisword.

7.Thenextisanhumblesubjectiontothewordthatwehear,ourheartsmust bow to it, must lie under the word that we hear, it is a veryremarkable Scripture that we have in 2 Chron. 36. 12. There it is saidconcerningagreatKingZedekiah,Hedidthatwhichwasevilinthesightof the Lord, his God, and humbled not himself before Jeremiah the

prophet, speaking from the mouth of the Lord. It it a very strangeexpressionasanywehaveinthebookofGod,thatZedekiahagreatkingshouldbechargedwiththisasagreatsinthathedidnothumblehimself,humble himself before whom you will say? we are bound to humbleourselvesbeforeGod,buthereitisthathedidnothumblehimselfbeforeJeremiahtheprophet;Whybefore theprophet?Becausehespoke fromthemouthoftheLord.IfitbeanymessengerthatspeaksfromthemouthoftheLord,Godexpectsthatweshouldhumbleourselves,sothatifanytruthcomes tobedelivereduntoyou, theLordexpects thatyoushouldfall down and yield obedience to it, whatsoever your thoughts, yourjudgments,youropinionshaveheretoforebeen,iftherecomeanythingintheword against it youmust submit your judgments, submit your veryconsciences, you must submit your wills, whatsoever your hearts havebeen set upon, though it hath been never so contentful to your spiritsbefore,yetnowsubmit,andyieldthoughitgoneversocrossuntoyourminds, yourwills, your ends, yet allmust be submitted, and laiddownflatbeforetheword,soastobewillingtodenyyourselvesofanythingintheworld.Whenamanorwomancansaythus,Lorditistrue,IconfessbeforeIheardthywordopenedintheevidenceanddemonstrationoftheSpirituntome,Iwasofsuchamind,andmyheartwentaftersuchandsuch contentments, and I thought itwas impossible that evermyheartshouldbetakenfromthem,butOhLordthouhastbeenpleasedplainlytoshowtomeby theopeningof thyword in theevidenceof thySpirit,whatthymindis;Nowwhatsoeverbecomesofmyname,ofmycomforts,ofmycontentmentsinthisworld,LordhereIcastdownallbeforethee,Isubmituntothyword;thisisagraciousframe.NowisthenameofGodextolled, and lifted up in hearing of the word, the name of God issanctified in such a work of Spirit as this is. I have read of a GermandivinewritingtoOecolampadosanotherfamousGermanDivine,hehaththisexpression,OhletthewordofGodcome,&thoughwehad600neckswewouldallsubmitthemuntothewordofGodsaithhe.SoitshouldbethetemperofsuchashearthewordanddesiretosanctifyGod'snameinit, let the word of God come this morning, let God speak and we willsubmithadwe600necks,wewillsubmitallweare,orhave,tothiswordoftheLord,itisthewordofGod,thatwearewillingshouldtriumphoverus: To have a congregation to lie down under the word of God that ispreached to them is a most excellent thing, and God's name is much

sanctified,wedonotbrethrendesireyoushouldlieunderus,wearenotonlywilling,butweareverydesirous that youwouldexaminewhatwespeaktoyou,whetheritbeaccordingtothewordofGodorno.Butlooktoit,thatifwedospeaktoyouthatwhichisthewordfromthemouthofthe Lord, know then that God expects that you should submit yourestates, your souls, yourbodies, all that youare andhave to thisword,and that is another particular in the sanctifying of the name ofGod inhearingtheword;theremustbeanhumblesubmissionofthesouluntoit.

8.AnotherparticularwhereinthebehaviorofthesoulforthesanctifyingofGod'snameconsistsisthis,theworditmustbereceivedwithlove,andwith joy, it isnotenough foryou tobeconvincedof theauthorityof it,andtothinkthus,wellImustyieldtoit,thisisthewordofGodandifIdo not yield to it Imust expect the plagues and judgements of God tofollowitthatisnotenough,butyoumustyieldtoitwithlove,andwithjoy,exceptyoureceivethewordwithloveandwithjoyitisnotsanctified;youdonotsanctifyGod'sName,noris itsanctifieduntoyou.Youmustreceive thewordnotonlyas the truewordof theLord,butas thegoodwordoftheLord.InThessalon.2.10.wefindittobethecauseofmen'sbeing given over to a spirit of delusion, because they received not thewordofGodinlove:ItisspokenofAntichrist,thatathiscomingheshallcomewithalldeceivableness,andheshallprevailwiththemthatperish,whoarethey?Theythatreceivenottheloveofthetruththattheymightbesaved.Itisnotenoughmybrethrentoreceivethetruththatwemightbesaved;butwemust receive the loveof the truth if everwewouldbesaved;good is thewordof theLord tomysoul.Andwemust receive itwithjoytooaswellaswithlove;Prov.2.10.Whenwisdomenterethintothyheart,andknowledgeispleasantuntothysoul:Thendiscretionshallpreservethee,understandingshallkeepthee,&c.Thatisagreatmatter,whenthewordrevealssometruthtothyunderstanding,andthoucanstsoreceiveitasitshouldbepleasanttothysoul,thatthysoulrejoicesinit; it is a goodword, it is that that dothme good at the heart, when apeoplecanheartheword,andthewordcomingnearuntothem,theycansay,Thisworddothmegoodattheheart,itispleasanttomysoul,thatisexcellent.InAct.2.41.thegodlyaredescribed,thosethatdidreceivethewordsoastosanctifyGod'sNameinit;bythis,thattheygladlyreceived

the word andwere baptized, and the same day there were added untothemaboutthreethousandsouls.Therewerethreethousandinonedaythatdidgladlyreceivetheword;WhatanauditoryhadPeteratthistime?Thentheworditdidthemgood,whentheygladlyreceivedit.

Quest.But itmaybesaid,weread inMatt.13.of thestonyground, thehearers that were not good and did not profit by theword so as to besaved,yet theyreceivedthewordwith joy.AndHerod it issaidofhim,thatheheardJohnBaptistgladly:Itseemsthenthatitisnotenoughtoreceiveitwithgladness?

Answ.TothatIanswerfirst,theremustbethatthathypocritesmayhave,iftherebewantofthat,wecannotsanctifyGod'sName.Butyouwillsay,WemustgofurtherorelseGod'sNameisnotsanctified:ThatIconfess;thereforewhen I speak of gladness and joy, know that Imean anotherkindofjoythenthestonygroundhad;andsocertainlythepleasantnessthat is spoken of in Prov. which Imentioned before; And the gladnessthatthethreethousanddidreceivethewordwithalisdifferentfromthegladnessof the stonyground. If youaskmewherein itdiffers? Iwouldanswer it differs thus, the gladness of an hypocrite in receiving God'sword,itarisetheitherfromthenoveltyofit,becauseitisanewthing,andhegetsnewnotionsthathehadnotbefore,orelseheisjoyfulfromsomeothercarnalexcellenciesthathefindsgoingtogetherwiththeword,someesteem or honour that he shall get by it, some selfishness there is thatmakeshishearttobeglad,forthereisagreatdealofnaturalandcarnalexcellency that goes along many times with the word. But now thisgladness that is spoken of in the Acts and in the Proverbs, it is thegladnessthatarisethfromtheapprehensionofthespiritualexcellenciesthat there are in theword, as that it is thatword that revealsGod andChrist to my soul; that word that comes nearest to my soul to themortifyingofmylusts,andthesanctifyingofmyheart:Thisisthatwhichmakesme rejoice in theword, theholiness and the spiritual excellencythatIseetobeintheword:Thywordispure(saithDavid)andthereforedoththyservantloveitandrejoiceinit.Thisnohypocritecansay;IseetheimageofGodinhisword,IseetheveryglassofGod'sholinessinhisword,IfeelthatinthewordthatmaybringmysoultoGod,whereinmysoul enjoys communion with God and Jesus Christ, and it is this that

gladensmysoul. Ifwereceive thewordwith joy thus,weshallcometosanctify the Name of God in the hearing of it; And that is the eightparticular.

9.Theninthparticularisthis,ifwewouldsanctifytheNameofGodinhisword,wemustreceivethewordintohonesthearts.ThisyouhaveinLuke8. 15. in the Parable of the Sower; you shall find there that there arediversgroundsthatdoreceivetheseed;andbythosediversgroundsaremeantdiverssortsofhearers:Thereisfirstthehighwayground,thatis,suchashear thewordandneverregardwhat theyhear,andassoonasever theygooutof the congregation the seedof theword isquite goneandisasiftheyhadnotheardatall.Andthenthereisthestonyground,andthethornyground,thatis,thosethathearwithjoy(aswasspokenofbefore)butthecaresoftheworldchoketheseedoftheword;assoonasever they are gone, they are upon their worldly business, and theirthoughts and hearts runs thatway. But then there is the good ground,that is, those that receive the seed of theword into a good and honestheart, a good and an honest heart they are both joined together. By agoodheartismeantaheartthathathnotmaliceinit,aheartthatdoethdesiretoemptyitselfofeverythingthatisagainsttheword,andwhichisnotsuitabletothespiritualnessoftheword:AheartIsaythatentertainsnothinginitthatanywaymakesagainsttheword:Agoodheartisaheartwhich (as theApostle saith in Jam. 1. 21. and that placemay verywellcomeinheretobeopened)iscleansedfromallfilthinessandsuperfluityof naughtiness. The word that is there translated filthiness it signifiesexcrements;thatwhichisunclean,thatwhichcomesfromthebody,suchisthesinfulnessofyourhearts;youcometoheartheword,if itbewithevilheartsyouminglethatveryfilthinesswhichisasvilebeforeGodasexcrementsare:Andsuperfluityofnaughtiness;bythatItakeismeant,asiftheHolyGhostshouldsay,donotthinkitenoughfortopurgeawayfilthiness, that is notorious stinking evils, abominable sins, that youdonot come with such filthy vile hearts, but whatsoever there is in yourheart that is any way against the work of Grace, it is a superfluity ofnaughtiness, all kind of evil thoughts, and evil affections that aremorethenneeds.Lookintoyourheartsandaffections,andseewhatsoeveryoufindtherethatismorethenoughttobe,runningoutuntoanythingthatthey should not, labour to purge out that saith he, do not satisfy

yourselves in any kind of evil whatsoever: It may be you are cleansedfrom the notorious evils of the World; but if there remains anynaughtiness,anykindofdrowsinessinyourheartsthatisnotgrace,itistobepurgedout,foritisasuperfluity:Sothenthatisagoodheartthatentertainsnokindofevil in it. Itmaybe there is someevil,but itdothdesiretopurgeoutnotonlythatthatisfilthy,nasty,andabominable;butiftherebeanythingthatshouldnotbethere,agoodheartisagainstit.And that is a good heart that is willing to receive any thing that Godreveals; As we use to say, such aman is a goodman, that is, you canpropoundnothingtohimthatisfittobedonebutheiswillingtohearkentoyou.Agoodmanhehathnokindofevilendsinhim,noevildesignsatall, but he is willing to hearken to every thing that is good: So a goodheartwhatsoeverisgoodheisreadytoentertain,ifitbeagoodthinghisheartissuitabletoit,andrunspresentlyuntoit;havingagoodheart,itdothpresentlyclosewiththegoodwordoftheLord.

Butwhatismeantbyanhonestheart?

Byhonestyofheart,certainly there ismoremeantthensuchaonethatwe call an honest man, that is, a man that is honest in his dealingsbetweenman andman; there is many aman that is accounted a veryhonest man in the world but hath not an honest heart: I beseech youobserveit,thatmanthathathanhonesthearttoGod,isonethatreceivestheseedoftheword,soashegoesbeyondthehighwayground,thestonyground, or the thorny ground, he goes beyond those three sort ofprofessors; he is one that hath an eminency in profession of religionbeyond those three: now theworld accountsmanyhonestmen that donotgobeyondanyofthosethree;yeatheworlddothordinarilyaccountanyof those three tobehonestmen, as thehighwayground:Are therenotmanyhonestmenintheworld,thatregardnotthewordofGodatall,but only come to hear a sermon, and as soon as they have done, as itcameinatoneear,soitgoesoutattheother?Ifeartherearesomemenandwomenthatareaccountedhonestmenandwomenintheworldthatcanhardlygiveanaccountofanyonesermontheyhaveheardinalltheirlives:hardlyIsay,butthewordwhichtheyheardispresentlytakenawayfromthem,andyettheseareaccountedhonestmenintheworld:Butthisisnotthehonestheartthescripturespeaksof.Andmanytherearethat

gofurtherthenthese,thatcometohearthewordwithjoy,andyettheyhave not this honest heart: Yea theymay hear theword so as to bringforthablade,andyetnothave thishonestheart.By thishonestheart Itakethereforetobemeantthis,aheartthatdealssquarelyandtrulywithGod,behavingitselfinabeseemingmannersuitabletothatauthorityandexcellencythatthereisinthewordofGod.Asnowforexample:

1.First,amongstmenheisaccountedanhonestmanthatdealssquarelyand trulywithmen inall actions; suchamanyouwill say isanhonestman, as honest a man as ever broke bread; that is, one that will dealsquarelywithmen,notonlyinonething,butturnhimtoanything,andyoushallfindaproportionbetweenoneactionandanother:Sothisisanhonest heart, not one that only will be forward for God in some oneactionwhereinhemayenjoyhimselfaswellasGod;butone thatdealssquarely with God, let God put him upon duty, upon any service, Godshallfindhimstilltobethesameman:Puthimuponaneasyservice(asmanywillembracethat)orputhimuponadifficultservice,itisalloneifitbethemindofGod;youshallfindhimsquareineverything,thoughhebeputuponthatwhichheis liketosufferverymuchin,yethegoesonaccording to his principles. An honest heart is one that hath receivedgraciousprinciples,andaccordinglyheacteth,all theworldcannottakehimoff fromhisprinciplesof godliness that theLordhathput intohisheart.

2. Secondly, an honest man is one that provides things honest beforemen, that doth all things in a seemlyway in all those relations that hehath unto others, that we account honesty: So when aman's behaviortowardsthewordissuchasdothbeseemthewordofthatGodwithwhomhehathtodeal,thatlookwhatexcellency,whatglory,thereisinthewordofGod,suchasuitablebehaviorthereisintheheartofamantoit,thisisanhonestheart.Sothattherearethosetwothings,whenamanissquarewithGodinonethingaswellasanother,andwhenthereisasuitablenessinthebehaviorofthesoultowhatexcellencythereisintheword,whenthe heart of man will not abuse the word at all, but behaves itselfhonestly,accordinguntothegravity,holiness,andweightthatthereisinthe word. And thus nowwith such a good and honest heart we are toreceivethewordifwewillsanctifyGod'sNameinit.

10.Atenthparticular is this, ifwewillsanctifyGod'snameinthewordwemusthidethewordinourhearts,wemustnotonlyhearthewordbutkeepit,preserveit,andthendowedeclarethatweaccountthewordofGodtobeworthsomethingindeed;ForwhatisittosanctifyGod(aswehaveopenedbefore in thegeneral)but suchabehavior towardshimasmaytestifytheexcellencyofthenameofGod,sothebehaviorofthesoulin hearing the word must be such as may give a testimony to theexcellencyofthewordandmanifestthehighesteemIhaveofit.NowifIreceivedathingthatisofgreatvalue,ifIslightit,andletanybodytakeitfrommeIdonotgiveatestimonytotheexcellencyofthatthing,butifItakeitandlockitup,andsokeepitunderlockandkeyIdotherebygiveatestimonyoftheesteemthatIhaveoftheexcellencyofthatthing,sonow,whenIcometoheartheword,andmeetwithtruthsthathavegottenintomy soul I close with them, and am resolved within my heart as I amhearing of them, well this truth I will keep through God's grace, thisconcerns me, and I will make much of it, and although I forget otherthings,yetIhopeIshallrememberthistosanctifyGod'snameinhearingoftheword,InIsa.42.23.Hear(saiththeholyGhostthere)forthetimetocome?Whenwecometo thewordwemustnotonlyhearken for thepresent,asmanyofuswhilewearehearing,ourheartsarestirredforthepresent,Oh thatwecouldbuthave thataffectionofheartalwaysaswehavewhenwearehearingoftheword,howmanyofyouhavesaidwhenyouhavebeenhearingsuchasermon,OhthenmethoughtIcouldhavegone through fire andwater forGod? I butmark it, youmust hear forafterwards.AndinPsa.119.11.TheretheprophetDavidprofessedthathedidhidetheword inhisheart, thewordwassweetuntohim,ThywordsaithhehaveIhidinmyheartthatImightnotsinagainstthee.YouthatcomeandhearthosetruthsupontheLord'sdayifyouwouldhidethemthus in your hearts and keep them all the week, they would help youagainstthemanytemptationsthatyoumeetwithal,yougoabroadontheweek days into company, and there youmeetwith a temptation and itovercomes you, and you complain, alas I am weak, I have met with atemptation and it hath fooledme? But had you hid the word that youheardon theLord'sday inyourheart, itwouldhavekeptyou fromthestrengthofyourtemptationthatitshouldnothaveovercomeyou,thosethat are truly godly they have a care to hide the word in their hearts,when theyhear it, they think, thiswordshallhelpmeagainst suchand

suchsinswhichIampronetobynature,andwhenatemptationcomestothatsinIhopeIshallhaveuseofthewordthatIhaveheardthisday;Asnowsupposeyouhearawordagainstpassion,thenyoushouldhidethatwordinyourheartsagainstthattimethattemptationcomestopassion,and you hear aword against sensuality and abuse of the creatures youshouldhide thatword, against that temptation cometh, andyouhear aword against unrighteousness and unjust dealings, when a temptationcomestothatsinyoushouldhidethatwordagainstthattime,soyouheara word that speaks of obedience to parents, and servants duties togovernors, now you should hide that word in your hearts against thattime,Ihavehidthyword inmyheart thatImightnotsinagainst thee.You say that you would fain withstand and not be overcome withtemptations?why here is theway, hide thewordwithin thee that thoumayestnotsinagainsthim;Andso inPro.2.1.youhaveaScripturetothesamepurpose,abouthidingthecommandmentswithinus.Andthenin1John2.14.Iwriteuntoyouyoungmenbecauseyouarestrong,andthewordofGodabidethinyouandyehaveovercomethewickedone.Ihavewrittentoyouyoungmen,youareyoung,youhavestrongnatures,andsostrengthofnatureforGod,Buthowcomesthistopass?YouarestrongandthewordofGodabidethinyou;hereisanexcellentScriptureforallyoungmen,youhaveyourmemoriesfresh,andifyouwillexerciseyourmemories about any thing it shouldbe in thewordofGod, it is acomelyandanexcellentthingtoseeyoungonestohavethewordofGodabidinginthem,thatifyoucometothem,notonlyaweekbutamonthaftertheyhaveheardthewordtheyareabletogiveyouanaccountofit:Iamverilypersuaded that there aremanyyoungones in thisplace, thatareabletogiveyouoldones,ifyouaskthem,anaccountofwhatitistosanctifyGod'snameinthedutiesofworshipandwhy?becausethewordofGodabidethinthem,itisthehonourofyoungmentohavethewordofGodtoabideinthem,andherebytheyovercomethewickedone.Andontheothersidemanyyoungpeoplethatdocometoheartheword,itmaybetheyaredrawntoitbyothers,oritmaybetheylovetohaveawalkinthe morning, but the word of God abideth not in them, and thereforewhen the wicked one comes with temptations the week after they areovercomebyhim,but those thathave thewordofGodabiding in themthey overcome the wicked one. And so in Job. 8. 31. you have a veryremarkableScriptureforthispurposeofkeepingthewordafterwehave

heardit.ThensaidJesustothosewhichbelievedonhim,ifyoucontinueinmywordthenareyoumydisciplesindeed.Ibeseechyouobserveit,itis said that the Jews did believe in Christ, and yet saith Christ if yecontinue inmyword thenareyoumydisciples,why,were theynot thedisciplesofChristthatdidbelieveinhim?Bythisbelievingthereforewemust understand some kind of general notion that they had of Christ,theybegantothinkthatChristmightbethetrueMessiah,somekindofimperfectbelieving theyhad,but theywerenot thoroughlybroughtoff,nowsaithChrist,ifyoucontinueinmyword,youaremydisciples.Asifheshouldsay,donotyouthinkitenoughthatyoucometohearme,andthatyouaretakenbywhatIsay;youmustcontinueinmyword,andthenyouaremydisciples:Christwillnotown thatmanorwoman tobehisdisciplethatdothnotcontinueinhisword.Othatyouwouldconsiderofthis,youthatsatisfyyourselvesinhavingsomeflashesofyouraffectionswhenyouarehearingtheword,butdonotthinkthatyouarethedisciplesofChristbecauseof them,InTit. 1.9.Holding fast the faithfulwordasyouhavebeentaught,thatisthethingyoushouldlabourfor,toholdfastthefaithfulword,holditfast,thatitmaynotbetakenfromyou,andsoyoushallcometosanctifythenameofGodinthehearingofhisword.

11ThelastthatIshallspeaktoisthis,IfthouwouldestsanctifytheNameofGodinhearinghisword,turnitintopractice,orotherwisetheNameofGodisblasphemed,orat least istakeninvainbytheeif thoudoestnotturnwhatthouhearestintopractice:SoyouhaveitinJam.1.22.Hethatisnotaforgetfulhearerbutadoeroftheword,thisman(saithhe)shallbe blessed in his deed.And vers. 22. Be ye doers of theword, andnothearersonlydeceivingyourownselves.Thewordherethatistranslateddeceivingyourownselves,itsawordtakenfromlogicians,andsignifiestomakeafalsesyllogism.Amanthathearsthewordanddothnotdoit,hedothasitwerereasonthus,thosethatdocometoChurch(asweusetosay) those surely are religious people, but I come to sermons andthereforeIamreligious:Nowthisisafalsereasoning,andthoudoestbutcozen thyself. Be not a hearer only, but a doer of the word, that thoumayestnotdeceivethineownsoul.SoinRom.2.3.thinkestthouthisOmanthat judgestthemthatdosuchthings,&doestthesame,thatthoushalt escape the judgement of God? As if he should say, you have theword,andyouareableto judgetherebywhatyouhear,butyetstillyou

arewickedinyourlives;thisisdespisingoftherichesofthegoodnessofGod towards you.And inPhilippians2. 16. youhave a remarkable textwheretheHolyGhostsaithofthePhilippians,thathewouldhavethemhold forth thewordof life. Itwereamostexcellent thing if itmightbesaid of this congregation, that as they come diligently to hear, and arewillingtotakepainstogetoutoftheirbedssoearlyinthemornings,soalltheweekaftertheyholdforththewordofGod.Youthatareservantsitmaybe yourmasters arenaught, and the familiesnaught fromwhenceyoucome:nowwhenyougohome,thoughitmaybetheywillnotletyourepeatthesermon,yetyouaretoholdforththesermoninyourpracticeandconversation:HowistheNameofGodglorifiedwhenweholdforthhisword!thisistolet,notonlyyourlightshine,butthelightofthewordshinebeforementhattheymaybeholditandglorifyyourFatherwhichisinheaven.

Sothatnowputalltheseelevenparticularstogether,andthenyouhavemadegoodthatexpressionwefindinAct.13.48.ThatthewordofGodwasglorified.Andtothesamepurposewehaveanotherexpressionin2Thess.3.1.Finally,brethren,prayforus,thatthewordoftheLordmayhave free course, and be glorified even as it is with you. This is thecommendation of a people, that they do glorify the word of God: Ibeseechyoubrethren,inthenameofJesusChristthismorningthatyouthatarehearersofthewordwouldglorifytheword,andglorifytheNameofGodintheword;Ohthatnotoneofyouwouldbeadisgraceorshameto thewordofGod; this is the charge thatGod thismorning laysuponyou, as ever you expect to receive any good from the word, or to lookuponthefaceofGodwithcomfortwhosewordthisis:donotbeashameto his word, and to the ministers of his word. Put all these thingstogether,Isay,andlearntomakeconscienceofsanctifyingGod'sNameinhearingtheword,thatsotheremaybenoneofyouthatmaygiveanyjustoccasiontootherstosay,isthistohearsermons?Doyougetnothingelsebutthisbyhearingsermons?Ifyoushouldopenthemouthsofmento say so of you, the word of God as much as lies in you would bedisgracedbyyou;youshouldratherthinkthus,itwerebetterformethatI should die, and that Iwere under the ground and rotting there, thenthatthewordofGodshouldeverbedisgracedbyme:Letmeholdforththegloryoftheword,thewordisthatthathathdonegoodtomysoul;the

wordisthatthatIwouldnotfortenthousandworldsbuthaveheardit,andshallIdisgracethisword?shallIgiveanyoccasionthatthiswordoftheLordshouldbespokenillofbyreasonofme?OGodforbid.Thereforeifyouregardnotyourselvesandyourownhonour,yetregardthehonourof theword; If ever you have got any good by theword you should goawaywith this resolution,Well, I will labour all the days ofmy life tohonourthiswordofGodthatIhavegotsomuchgoodby:Ifthiswerebutthe resolution of every one of your hearts thismorning, it would be ablessedmorningswork.

SermonX-WhyGodwillHaveHisNameSanctified

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

Now follow the reasons why God stands somuch upon it, that he willhavehisNamesanctifiedinthisordinanceofhearinghisword.

1First,itisbecausethereissomuchofGodinhisword,andthereforeweshould sanctify God's Name. If it were possible there could be sin inheaven,thatsinwouldbegreaterthansincommittedhere;thereforethesin of the angelswhen theywere inGod's presence in amore especialmannerwasthegreater:thenameofGodbeinginanything,thegreaterwillbetheevil ifwedonotsanctifyGod'sNameinit;nowthereisverymuch of God in his word,more of God there, than in all his works ofcreation and providence. In Ps. 138. 2. Thou hast magnified thy wordaboveallthyname:TherebeingthereforesomuchofGodinhisword,wemustsanctifytheNameofGodinit.

2 Secondly, God hath appointed his word to be the great ordinance toconveythespecialmerciesthatheintendsforthegoodofhispeople.That

we spoke to before in the general, in showing how the duties of God'sworshipareasachannelfortheconveyanceofspecialgoodtotheSaints:But nonemore then the word, that's the ordinance to convey the firstgrace to those that belong to God's election. The sacrament is forstrengthening,andthereforethereisrathermoreinthewordtheninthesacrament, and yet every one thinks in conscience that he is bound tocome carefully to the sacrament, and to look to sanctify God's Namethere. It is an easiermatter to convincemenandwomen, that they arebound to sanctify thenameofGodwhen they come to receive theholycommunion,thenforthehearingoftheword:theythinknotsomuchofthat,butcertainlythewordisappointedtobeanordinanceofconveyingmoreblessingthenthesacrament,becauseit isappointedtoconveythefirstgrace,andtoconveystrengthofgraceaswellasthesacrament:Nowbeingappointedtoconveysuchgreatthingstothesoulsoftheelect,boththe first grace and strengthening of grace, and comfort, and assistancethereof,theLordexpectstohavehisNamesanctifiedinit.

3Thirdly,theNameofGodmustbesanctifiedintheword,becausethewordisveryquickandlively,itworksmenorwomentolifeordeath,tosalvation or damnation. In Heb. 4. 12. The word of God is quick andpowerful, and sharper then any two edged sword, piercing even to thedividingasunderofsoulandspirit,&c. It isveryquickofoperation thetextsaith; that is,whenGodhathtodealwithmenbyhisword,hewillnotstanddallyingandtriflingwiththem,butheisveryquickwiththem,eithertobringtheirsoulstolife,ortocastthemaway.ThetimeofmensignoranceGodwinksat,butnowhecallsallmentorepent.Letthemlooktoitnow,Goddidforbearinthetimeofignorance,buthewillnotforbearsowhenthewordcomes,nowis theax laidtotherootof thetree:Andwhenwas that?WhenJohnBaptist came topreachrepentancebecausethekingdomofheaven is athand.Though the treewerebarrenbefore,anddidnotbringforthgoodfruit,yetitmightstandstillandnotbecutdown;butwhenthepowerfulministrationofthewordcomes,thentheaxislaidtotherootofthetree;eithernowcomeinandbesaved,orresistthewordandperish:And therefore that isveryobservablewhenChristsendsouthisdisciplestopreach,inMark16.15,16.saithhe,Goyeintoall the world and preach the gospel to every creature, and he thatbelievethandisbaptizedshallbesaved;buthethatbelievethnotshallbe

damned.Asifheshouldsay,thereshallbequickworkmadewiththem,goandpreach,&thosethatbelongtomyelectionshallbebroughtintobelieveandbesaved,andtheothersshallbedamned:As ifGodshouldsay, if theywill come in and embrace the gospel they shall be saved, iftheywillnot,theyshallbedamned,andthereisanendofthem:SothatIsay,wehaveneed to look to it thatwesanctify theNameofGod inhisworduponthesethreegrounds.Becausethere issomuchofGodinhisword.Becausehehathappointedittoconveythegreatestmerciestohissaints.AndbecauseGodisveryquickinhisword,onewayorother.

Weshallnowproceedtotheapplicationofthispoint:And,

FirstbywayofreprehensiontoallthosethatdonotsanctifyGod'snameinhearingtheword,andhereinweshallshowtheirfearfulcondition,andhowGodwill sanctify his name upon them inways of judgement, andthenwhenwecometotheuseofexhortation,toexhortyoutosanctifythenameofGod,thereweshallshowyoulikewisehowGodwillsanctifyhisname in ways of mercy upon those that do sanctify him in ways ofobedienceinhearingofhisword.

1.For the first: certainly if thatbe to sanctify thenameofGod thatwehavespokenof;God'snameisbutverylittlesanctifiedbypeoplethatdocometohearhisword,andwehavenocausetowonderthatthereissolittlegoodgotbytheword,becausetherearesofewthatmakeconsciencetosanctifyGod'snameinhearingit;SometherearethataresofarfromsanctifyingGod'snameinit,astheyaltogetherneglect it,andmakeitamatterofnothingwhithertheycometohearitorno:saithChristinJoh.8. 47.He that is of God hearethmyword, ye therefore hear them notbecauseyearenotofGod.CertainlyhethathaththeknowledgeofGodand any interest in God, and that belongs unto him, nothing is moresweettohimthenthehearingofhisword,butbecauseyearenotofGod(saith Christ) therefore you hear not his word. Thosemen andwomenthat have no interest in God, but live without God in this world, theyregard not to hear his word. O howmany have we that belong to thisplacethatdoso!HowmanylivewithoutGodintheworld,anddodeclaretoalltheworldthattheyarenotofGod?theyhavenopartnorportioninGodinthattheyhearnothisword.Sometherearethatcometohearit,but they come to hear it as a mere matter of indifference, in a mere

formalandcustomaryway,or forcompaniessake,or togivecontent toothers: These are poor and low ends, thou shouldest come to hear thewordasexpectingGodshouldspeaktothysoulforthefurtheranceofthyeternalgood,butyourconsciencesmaytellyouwhatvainandwanderinghearts you have,when you come to hear it. The eyes of the fool (saithSolomon)areinallthecornersoftheearth,upanddownwandring,littleminding that you are come to hear God himself speak to you in theministryofman.Andifsobethatitbeminded,yetordinarilytheheartsofmendoputoff theword,and if it comeany thingnear to themtheythinktoshiftitfromthemselvestoothers.WehaveanotableScriptureinHeb. 12. 25. for suchmen as shift offGod'swordwhen it comesmanytimesveryneartothem:Seethatyerefusenothimthatspeaketh:foriftheyescapednotwhorefusedhimthatspokeonearth,muchmoreshallnotwe escape, ifwe turn away fromhimwhich speaketh fromheaven:Seethatyerefusenothimthatspeakstheword,seethatyoudonotputhim off: And that that is the signification of it: If you compare it withLuke, 12. 18. you shall find that there is the same word used, wherespeakingofthosethatwereinvitedtothesupper,itissaid,theyallwithoneconsentbegantomakeexcuse, theybegantoshift itoff, that is thesameword:OtakeheedofthisthatwhenyouarehearingthewordandChrist comes and speaks to your hearts, and you begin to think that itmayconcernyou,andyourconsciencesbegintostir,takeheedthatyoudonotshifthimoff, takeheedthatyoudonotputawaytheword fromyoubyanykindofpretencewhatsoever.Itmaybeyouwillsay,ifIwerecertainitwerethewordofGod,andthatGodspoketome,GodforbidbutthatIshouldsubmituntoit.Butthoughitmaybetheheartsofmenarenotsonotoriouslyrebelliousastoresolvetosinagainsttheword,whichtheywillacknowledgetobethewordofGod,yetthisisthedeceitoftheheart,whenthehearthathnomindtoobey,itwillshiftofftheword,andhavepretences, andputoffs,O takeheed that youdonot shift oft himthat speaks fromheavenbymakinganykindofexcusewhatsoever,butwhen thou hearest, if the word of God come to thy conscience, do notlistentovainreasoningsthatareagainstit.Otherstherearethatcannottellhowtoshiftoff thewordbut itwillcomeuponthemwhentheyarehearing,itmaybetheyarealittlestirred,butitispresentlygone,sothattheyarefarfromholdingtheword,farfromkeepingitintheirhearts.Ohhow many of you have been stirred when you have been hearing the

word,andhowhappyhaditbeenforyouifyouhadhidthosewords inyourheartthattheLordhathspokentoyouintheministryof it.Ifyouhadbut the invitationsof theSpiritnow that sometimesyouhavehad,howhappywereitforyou?Butitiswithmanyinhearingtheword,justaswithyoumarinerswhenyouaretogoaboard,yourfriendscomewithyou,taketheirleavesofyou,andthenyouseethemstandupontheshoreawhile,butwhenyousailalittlefurtheryourfriendsareoutofsight,andthenyouseeonlytheshore,yousailonalittlefurther,andthenyouseeonlythehouses,yousailalittlefurtherandthenyouseeonlythesteeplesand suchhigh places, and you sail yet a little further and then you seenothingbuttheocean:Soitisinhearingtheword;Itmaybewhenyougohome there are some things fresh in your minds, but on the Mondaymorningyouhavelostsome,butthentherearesomeothersthatdoyetpresentthemselvesbeforeyou,andthenyouloosemoreandmoreuntilyouhavelostthesightofall:alltruthsaregone,youseenomoreoftheword,asifyouhadneverheardit;thisisnottosanctifyGod'sname,youshouldtreasureupthewordasthemostrichtreasurethatmaybe.

Another sort tobe rebukedare those,whoare so far from fallingdownbefore the Lord to receive the word with meekness, as they can blessthemselves in their wickedways, notwithstanding the word comes andmeetswith them.Ionlynamethisbecauseof thatnotableScripturewehave,InDeut.29,18,19.saithMosestheretothem,takeheed,lestthereshouldbeamongyouarootthatbearethgallandwormwood,(what'sthatroot that beareth gall and wormwood?) And it come to pass when heheareththewordsofthiscurse,thatheblesshimselfinhisheart,saying,Ishallhavepeace,thoughIwalkintheimaginationofmyheart,&c.Takeheed there be not among you a root that beareth gall andwormwood;Thisisabitterrootinmenshearts,whentheycanhearthewordofGod,andhavetheirheartsriseagainstit,andthinkwiththemselvesthatthereis no such matter, these are but mere words, but mere wind, let theministersaywhathewill,andtalkas longashewill,Iwillgooninmyway,Ishalldowellenough,thatwhichhesaithitisbuthisopinion,Isaywhenmen can bless themselves thus in theirway, andwhen there aresuch tumultuousandrebellious thoughts rising in theirhearts, this isarootofgallandwormwood,andtakeheedofit, itwillbringforthbitterfruitoneday.But I shouldquicklybeprevented if I should launch into

thisargument,toreprovetheseveralwaysofsinningagainstGodinthehearingofhisword.AndthereforeIleavethoseandcometoshowwhatafearfulthingitisformenandwomennottosanctifythenameofGodinthehearingofhisword,thatsoyoumayseethatGodwillhavehisnamesanctifieduponthem.Andtheyarethese;

1 In the first place, you that donot SanctifyGod'sname inhearinghisword in those ways that have been opened to you, first you loose thegreatestandhappiestopportunityofgoodthatevercreatureshad,foranoutward opportunity: indeed when God moves by his Spirit if that beneglected, that opportunity ismore thenmerely hearing the word, butotherwiseexcept itbeatsucha timewhenGodaddshisSpirit togetherwithhisword;IsayyouthatarecastbytheprovidenceofGodinsuchaplacewherethewordoftheGospelispreachedtoyou,appliedandurgeduponyou,ifyousanctifynotthenameofGod,tohearasyououghtandtoprofitbyit,Isayyoulosethegreatestopportunityforgoodthatisintheworld? Oh what hast thou lost that hast lived many years under theministry of the Gospel, and yet hast not been acquainted with thismystery of godliness in sanctifying God's name in the word. There aremanythousandsoulsthatareandshallbeblessingGodtoalleternityforwhat of God they havemet with all in the word, but thou hast fifteenunderitstupidasablock,deadandbarren,andnogoodhathbeendone;Whereforeisthereaprizeinthehandofafool,andhehathnohearttoget wisdom? this will lie upon thee heavy one day, the loss of such anopportunity,andthatisthefirst.

2Inthesecondplace,knowthatthiswordthatisappointedbyGodforthe conveyance of so much mercy to his elect, it will prove to be thegreatestaggravationofthysinthatcanbe:Thisisthecondemnationthatlightiscomeintotheworldandmenlovedarknessratherthenlight:Thisis[The]condemnation.Ifsobethatlighthadnotcomeamongyou,thenthecondemnationhadnotbeensogreatyoursinhadnotbinsogreat,&your punishment had not been so great. In Mat. 10. 14, 15. wherespeakingofthosethatdidenjoytheword,andyetdidnotsanctifyGod'sNameinit.Whosoevershallnotreceiveyou(saithChristtohisDisciples)norhearyourwords,whenyedepartoutofthathouseorcity,shakeoffthedustofyourfeet;VerilyIsayuntoyou,itshallbemoretolerablefor

thelandofSodomandGomorrahinthedayof judgementthenforthatcity.ItisamostdreadfulScripture;theirverydustmustbeshakenoffintokenofindignation,anditshallbemoreeasyforthelandofSodomandGomorrahinthedayofjudgment,thenforthatplace:Youwouldbeveryloth to be in a worse condition then Sodom and Gomorrah that wasconsumedbyfirefromheaven,Andnowsufferthevengeanceofeternalfire,Jude7.CertainlytheyshallnotbesodeepinjudgmentsasthosethatliveundertheministryofthewordandsanctifynottheNameofGodinit.Your sin is of adeeperdye, then the sinof theheathens, yeaand insomerespectsthenthesinofthedevils, theyneverhadthewordoftheGospelsenttobepreachedtothemandthereforethiswillaggravateyoursin not only beyond heathens but beyond devils. Look to it then, thatGod'sNamebesanctifiedinthehearingofhisword.

Thirdly, know that so much as the word is rejected, Jesus Christ isrejected: Luk. 10. 16.He that despiseth you despisethme, and he thatdespiseth me despiseth him that sent me. It is Christ himself that isrejectedwhenthewordisrejected,thouhastnottodowithmansomuchaswithJesusChrist inthehearingoftheword:AndthepowerofJesusChrist istobeputfortheithertodothegoodbytheword,ortoavengethyneglectoftheword:ThereforeinMatt.28.18,19.whenChristsendsforth his disciples to preach, hemakes this preface, all power is givenuntomeinheavenandearth,goyethereforeandteach:Asifheshouldsay,Ihavingreceivedallpowerinheavenandearth,throughthepowerIreceivedIsendyoutopreach,andI'llbewithyoutotheendoftheworld:that is, all power in heaven and earth shall go alongwith you to assistyourministry,eitherforthegoodofthosethatshallembraceit,orforthemiseryofthosethatshallrejectit;Sothatwhosoeverstandsoutagainsttheministryoftheword,standsoutagainstallthepowerinheavenandearth that is given toChrist:Donot think that thoudoest resist apoorweakmortalman,butthoudoestresistallthepowerinheavenandearth.And is not this a dreadful thing then, to be guilty of not sanctifying ofGod'sName?

4 Fourthly, it is an Argument of extreme hardness of heart not to bewroughtuponby theword.Luk. 16.31. If theyhearnotMosesand theprophets,neitherwilltheybepersuadedthoughonerosefromthedead,

saithAbraham.Certainly thatmanorwomanthatshallnotbewroughtuponbythewordsoastosanctifyGod'sNameinit,Isaytosuch,Ifoneshouldrisefromthedeadtheywouldnothavetheirheartswroughtupon,andthereforemuchlessaretheyliketobewroughtuponbyafflictions.Itmaybesomeofyouthinkwhenyouareuponyoursickbedsthenyouwillrepent;nosurely,ifthisthatisthegreatordinancetobringmentoGodshallnotworkuponyou soasGod shall behonoured in it; you cannotexpect that sickness and affliction should do it, no if one should comefromthedead to tellyouofall themiseries thatwere there,certainly ifthewordwork not upon you, thatwill not do it. But youwill say,Onewould think that there should bemore power to work upon the heart:truly no, because that is not such an ordinance appointed by God forworkingsuchgreatworksupontheheartsandconsciencesofmen,asthewordis:Itistrue,thewordisbutaweakthinginitself,buthereliesthestrength, that it isanordinanceofGodappointed for toworkupon theheartsofmenthereforeifthisworknotuponyoutogiveGodgloryinthehearingit;thereisnoothermeansisliketodoit.

5 Fifthly, when the word works not uponmen, it is a dreadful sign ofreprobation. IfourGospelbehid(saith theApostle in2Cor.4.3.) it ishid to those that are lost. It is a dreadful argument that here is a lostcreature, one that God intends no good to. One the Lord works upon,perhaps he lets pass another, one in a family and not in another.Nowwhereitissothatthewordworkethnot,Isay,thereisnosuchdreadfulbrandofreprobationasthisis.Itistrue,wecannotgiveanycertainsignof reprobation; therefore I cannot say of anyman, he hathnow such amarkuponhimasdothevidentlyprovethatheisareprobate;wecannottellthat,becauseweknownotwhatGodmaydoafterwards,butwemaysay this, that it is as dreadful a sign as any. There are not any moredreadfulsignsthenthesetwo.

First,Foramantobesufferedtoprosperinasinfulcourse;ForGodtoletmengoonandhavetheirheartsdesiresatisfiedinanungodlyway.

And thenSecondly, for theLord to leave them to themselves, soas theministry of the word shall not work upon them, that they shall be byGod'sprovidencesodisposedof,astoliveunderafaithfulandpowerfulministry, and that it should not work upon them: These are the two

blackestsignsofreprobation:andthereforeitisamostdreadfulthingtositundertheministryofthewordandnottosanctifyGod'sNameinit.

6. In thenextplace, surely there canbenothing sanctified to theewhodoestnotsanctifyGod'sNameinhisword.TheScripturesaith,thateverything is sanctified by theword and prayer. And how canst thou expectthatthewordshouldsanctifyanythingtothee,seeingthatthoudoestnotmakeconscienceofsanctifyingGod'snameintheword?Thegodlythinkthus, 'Tis theword thatmust Sanctify all things tomy soul, and I hadneedthensanctifyGod'snameinthatfromwhichIexpectthesanctifieduse of all blessings. You therefore that can fit under it, andmake notconscience of sanctifyingGod's name in it, I say you cannot expect nosanctifieduseofanythingthatyouhaveinthisworld.

7 Such as do not sanctify God's name in the word, are very nigh to acurse: There is a notable Scripture for this in Heb. 6. 7, 8. where theApostlecomparesthewordtotherainthatfallsupontheground,Fortheearththatdrinkethintherainthatcomethoftuponit,andbringethforthherbsmeetforthembywhomitisdressed,receivethblessingfromGod:But(saithhe)thatwhichbeareththornsandbriers,isrejectedandisnighuntocursing,whoseendistobeburned.Themeaningisthisplainly.Therainhereistheword,andthegoodhearerstheyarelikethegroundthatreceivetherainandbringforthfruit,andreceiveablessing:ButnowillhearersthatdonotsanctifyGod'snameinhisword,theyarelikegroundthatreceivetherainasmuchastheother,hearasmanysermonsastheother,buttheybringforthnothingbutthornsandbriers;andmarkwhatadreadfulexpressionisagainstthem;First,Itisrejected.Secondly,Itisnigh to cursing.Thirdly,Whoseend is tobeburned.Thourejectest theword,doestthou?TheLordrejecteththysoul.Ifthouhastnoneedoftheword,thewordhathnoneedoftheeitisadreadfulthingtoberejectedofGod.Andthen,thouartnighuntocursing:ItmaybetheLordmayforthetimewithdrawhimself from the soul, andmanifest that it is as itwererejected;butyetthesoulhathnotthecurseofGoduponit,tosay,well,letthissoulperishforever:butsometherearethatareunderanactualcurse,andsaithGod,Well,mywordshallneverdogoodtothissoul,sucha one hath sat under it thus long, and hath rejected it, my word shallneverdogoodtohim:LikeasinLuk.14.wherethosethatmadeexcuses

when theywerebidden to the supper, the text saithat length,That themasterofthefeastwasangry,(whichwasGodhimselfthatinvitedthembytheGospeltopartakeofhisSon;andwhenmenwouldnotcomeinbutmakeexcuses,andrefusedtheofferoftheGospel,)Verily(saithhe)noneofthosementhatwerebiddenshalltasteofmysupper.TheyshallneverpartakeofanygoodoftheGospel.Thisisadreadfulcurse.NowtheLorddeliver you from having this curse pronounced against you, but yet Ibeseech you tremble at this Scripture in theHebrews, they are nigh tocursing. Who knows how nigh some soul in this place may be to thiscurse,forGodtosay,thissoulhathbeenofteninvited,andyethathmadeexcuses and put off all, he shall never taste ofmy supper, of the goodthingsinJesusChrist,thewordthathathbeensorejectedshallneverdothemgoodmore;youhadbetterneverbeenbornthentohavethiscurseactuallyuponyou.Ohfearandtremblelestyourconditionbesuchastobenigh to cursing:Whoknowswhat aday, aweekmaybring forth? ItmaybetheLordmayspareandbewillingtopassbytheneglectofformersermons;butwhoknowswhatthenextactualrebellionagainsttheLordinhiswordmaydotobringthecurseuponthee?Andthenifso,thenextpartoftheversewillprovetobethyportion,whoseendistobeburned.Oh!Itisadreadfulthingtosinagainsttheword:Godstandsmuchuponit.

8Eighthly,knowthat ifGod'snamebenotsanctifiedinit, theendthatGod hath appointed it for, will be turned quite contrary to thee; TheproperendthatGodhathappointedhiswordfor,itistosavesouls,butnow,whereGod'snameisnotsanctifieditisturnedquitecontrary,sotheApostlein2Cor.2.16.Totheonewearethesavorofdeathuntodeath,andtotheotherthesavoroflifeuntolife:Itisadreadfulthingthatthegood word of God in which there is such treasures of God's mercy,whereinthecounselsofGod,concerningman'seternalestatescomestoberevealed,thatthisshouldprovetobethefavourofdeathuntodeath,untoanysoul,thatis,tohavesuchanefficacyinit,astokillthembytheveryscentofitasitwere;Assomethingshavesuchapoisoninthem,astheveryscentisenoughtopoisonone.SosaiththeApostle,tosomeourwordhaththatefficacybeingturnedquitetothecontraryendsomesoulsaresaved,andareandshallbeblessingGodtoaleternityfortheword,andthysoulisdammedbytheword,soasthouwilthereaftercursethe

timethatever thoucamest tohear it:Thatwillbeadreadful thing thatthe sameword that others shall be blessing ofGod eternally in heavenfor;thatthoushaltbecursingeternallyinhellfor,itwillbeturnedtothequitecontraryend,ifitworksnotintherightwayitwillworktheother,thetruthis,ithardensmensheartsifitbringsthemnottoGod;thereisnothingthatdothhardentheheartsofmenmorethentheministryoftheword:yetbyaccident,notby itsself, there isnomenintheworldhavesuchhardheartsasthosethatarewickedundertheministryoftheword;It is not only an argument that their hearts are hard, but they arehardenedbyit:ThatinIsa.6.9.10.isremarkableforthis,andtheratherbecause I find it sooftenquotedbyChrist, I think it isquoted threeorfour times in the Gospel, And he said go and tell this people, hear yeindeed,butunderstandnot,andseeyeindeedbutperceivenot;Maketheheartof thispeople fat,andmaketheirearsheavy,andshut theireyes,lest they seewith their eyes, and hearwith their ears, and understandwiththeirheart,andconvertandbehealed.This isastrangeScripture,whatmust a prophet go to them, tomake their hearts fat, and to shuttheir eyes,why, theword is appointed toopenmenseyes,buthere theprophetissenttoshuttheireyesthattheymightnotbeconverted,thisisdreadful,thisisforthepunishmentofsomeformerneglectofthewordofGodsentuntothispeople,aboveall judgementsyoushouldbeafraidofthis;Itisnotsomuchthatafireshouldbeuponyourhouses,asthatGodshouldmakehiswordtobeameanstohardenyourhearts.InEzek.14.wehaveadreadfulexpressiontothispurposebytheprophetthere,wheretheLordsaith,thatthepeopledidcometoinquireofhim,withsettinguptheiridolsintheirhearts,butsaithGod,Iwillanswerthemaccordingtotheir idol. Ifmen come to theministry of the word with their belovedsins,andresolvethattheywillnotpartwiththem,theLordmanytimesinhisjustjudgmentsufferssomethingsinthewordtobeaccidentallyameanstohardentheminthatsinoftheirs,Iwillanswerthemaccordingtotheiridol,thosemenareinadreadfulestatewhoseheartscometobehardenedbytheword.

9Ninethly, if thoudoest not sanctifyGod's name in the hearing of theword,what comfort canst thoueverhaveby theword in thedayof thyaffliction? certainly when the day of thy affliction comes, then there isnothing can comfort thee but the word. Unless thy law had been my

delight(saithDavid)Ishouldthenhaveperished inmineaffliction,butthou having been exercised in the word so much and God's name notsanctified,thoumustnotexpecttohavethysoulcomfortedinthedayofthyaffliction.Nomarvel thenthoughthewordhathbeenappliedagainandagaintoyourhearts,andnothingwouldstick:Irememberitwasanexpression of one in a great deal of terror of consciencemany came toapplycomfortableScripturestohim,andhehimselfforawhiledidtakethose Scriptures and lay them upon his heart to pacify his troubledconscience, but a little before he dyed, he cries outwith amost fearfulterror,Thereisafairplaistermadebutitwillnotstickon,itwilnotstickonsodieddespairing;sothereisinthewordsuchaplaisterasmayhelpawoundedandtroubledconscience,butcanstthouexpectthathastnotsanctifiedGod'sNameinthylifetimethat itshallstickuponthysoul inthedayofthyaffliction?neverexpectit,fortheLordhathsaidotherwise,Prov.1.BecausewhenIcriedandcalledyewouldnothear,youshallcryandcallandIwillnothear;TheLordinhiswordcriestothee,Ohthousinful soulwhoartgoingon in thewaysof sinandeternaldestruction,return,return,thatisthewaythatwillbringtheetoeternalmiseries,buthereisthewaythatwillbringtheetolifeandeternalsalvation:thustheLordcriesandcallstodaytoday,andthoustoppestthyear,ohhowjustisitwithGodtostophisearfromthycryingandcallinginthedayofthyaffliction.

10.Further,knowthatthouthatdoestnotsanctifythenameofGodinhisword,thatallthewordofGodwillbemadegoodonedayuponthee,Godhathhis time tomagnifyhisLawand tomake it honorable Isa. 42. 21.You slightGod's Law, you slight hisword, and despise it, butGodwillmagnifyitandmakeithonorable,thereisnotanysentencethatthouhastheardintheword,butitshallbemadegood,whatsoeverbecomesofthysoul,ThouthinkestthatGodisamercifulGod&hewillnotdamnthee;butthoughGodbemerciful&hathregardtohiscreatures,yettheLordhathtenthousandtimesmoreregardtohiswordthentoallthesoulsofmenandwomenintheworld,andGodwillstandtomakethatgood,hewillnothavesuchregardtothatwretchedvilesinfulsoulofthineasnottohonourhisword,hewillhonourhiswordwhatsoeverbecomesofthee,andall thatthouhastheardandrejectedshallbemadegoodupontheeoneday.

11.Againthewordthat thoudoestrejectandsinagainst, it shallbe thewordthatshalljudgethee,Joh.12.48.Looktoitaswellasyouwill:thisbookofGodoutofwhichwepreach,andthosetruthsthatwedeliveredtoyou from thisword, theymust be called over again at the great day tojudge your souls by, the sentence of every one of your eternal estatesmust be tried out of this book:Oh look upon it as theword thatmustjudgeyoursoulsatthelastday,andthenyouwillseeitadreadfulthingnottosanctifyGod'sNameinit.Andthenwhentheworddothjudgeyou,youshallobeyitwhetheryouwillorno.Nowthewordconvincesyouandyouwillnotobeyit;butwhenGodcomestojudgeyoubytheword,thenyoushallobeyit:ThenwhenGodcomestoreadthatsentenceoutoftheword,Goyecursedintoeverlastingfire:thenIsayyoushallbeforcedtoobeyit.

12. Lastly, there is yet one thing more (which should have beenmentionedbefore)which is very remarkable;That thosemenwhichdonotsanctifyGod'sNameinhisword,theywillbeblasted,evenherewhiletheylivetheirpartsandcommongiftsthattheyyethavewillbeblasted,wither, and come to nothing.We find it ordinarily, thatmany that areyoung, had very good beginnings, and very good parts, that were veryhopeful, and would speak very favorably where they came, afterwardsbeginning by degrees to neglect theword, the Lord hath blasted them,theirgiftshavewithered,thecommongiftsoftheSpirithavebeentakenfrom them. I will give you one Text for that in Luke 8. 18. Take heedthereforehowyehear.(ItisanexhortationthatfollowsupontheParableoftheSowerthatwentouttosow)becauseitissothatwhenthewordissownasseed,thereissolittleofitdothprosper,andmosthearersdonotsanctify God's name in it, therefore look to yourselves: Why? Forwhosoeverhath,tohimshallbegiven;andwhosoeverhathnot,fromhimshallbetakeneventhatwhichheseemethtohave.Youhadneedlooktoyourselveshowyouhear,forthetruthis,alldependsuponitunderGod,haveyougotanycommongiftsoftheSpiritofGod,oranyabilitiestodoanyserviceforGod?donotbeproudofthem,neitherbejolly,northinkthatyouareabletodobetterthenothers,andthatthosearebutordinarythingsthattheministerspeaks,andyouaregottenintoahigherforme.Look to yourselves, take heed you come not to the word with a proudSpirit,benotoffendedat theplainnessof theword, takeheedhowyou

hear;forifyoudonot,thatthatyouseemtohaveshallbetakenfromyousaithChrist:Youseemtohaveexcellentgiftsyeayouseemtohavegracetoo,but takeheedhowyouhear forall this,whatsoeverpartsyouhavegot,thoughyoubehighlyesteemedinthecompanywhereyoucome,andyouareabletodothingsmorethenothers,yetIsay,takeheedhowyouhear,forotherwisethatthatyouhavewillbetakenawayfromyou:havehavewenotseenthisinourownexperience?anditisapparentthattheybegan to bewithered and to be blasted byneglecting of theword.AndthereforeIbeseechyoulooktothis,thatyoudosanctifythenameofGodinhisword,andletyourheartsbowuntoitasuntotheordinanceofGod,andwaituponitintheministryofit,lestyouwitherandbeblastedandcometonothing.

AndthusIhaveshownthegreatevilofnotsanctifyingGod'sName,andhowGodwillbesanctified.

Ishallbeverybriefintheuseofexhortation.

Oh that the Lord by this would cause some thing to stick upon yourhearts,thatwhathathbeenpreachedinthispointmaybemadeusefulformanysermonsafterwards!thatitmightbesaidofyouinthisplaceasitwassaidoftheminAct.13.48.WhentheGentilesheardthistheyweregladandglorifiedthewordoftheLord,andasmanyaswereordainedtoeternal lifebelieved!Oh thatGodwouldmakeeveryoneofyou tobeameanstoglorifythewordofGod!ThatshouldbeourcarethatthewordofGodmaybeglorifiedbyus;wecometoheartheword,buttakeheedthat thewordofGodbenotdishonoredbyus, In2Thess. 3. 1.FinallybrethrenprayforusthatthewordoftheLordmayhavefreecourse,andbeglorified,evenasitiswithyou;Ohthatwewereabletosayso!andyetthroughGod'smercyinsomedegreewehopewecansaysoandIcouldheartily pray that theword ofGodmight be glorified in all places as ithathbeenwithmanyofyou;butyetgooninthis,andlaboureveryoneofyouthatitmaybemoreglorified,thatyoumaymanifestthepoweroftheword in your conversations, that all thatdobehold youmayglorify thewordand say,Ohwhathath theLordwrought in suchaplace, in suchfamilies,familiesthatwerewretched,wild,carnal,andlivedwithoutGodin theworld, profane, swearers, foulmouthed, unclean;Now since theyhave attendedupon theword, howhath itwroughtupon them!what a

change is there in suchmenandwomen!That thecarnalhusbandmaysay,sincesuchtimeasmywifehathattendeduponthewordIhaveseenabeauty inher conversation, she ismoreholy,moregentle, andmeek;and so my servant, more submissive and faithful, and so my childrenmoreobedientthenbefore;Ohthatthewordmaybethusglorified!TakeheedIbeseechyouthatthewordbenotblasphemedbyanyofyou:InTit.2. 5. there the Apostle gives divers exhortations, and among others towives, and to servants, To be discreet; chaste, keepers at home good,obedienttotheirownhusbands,thatthewordofGodbenotblasphemed;youmustperformyourdutiesuntoyourhusbandsandwhy?thatsothewordofGodbenotblasphemed,thatis,thatneitheryourhusband,noranyof your friendsmayblaspheme thewordandsay.Whatdoyougetthisbygoingtosermons?Ohitshouldpierceyourheartswhenasyourconscience tell you thatyouhavegivencausewhereby thewordofGodshouldbeblasphemed:andsoheexhortsservantsandothers,andallinthestrengthofthisargument,ThatthewordofGodbenotblasphemed:yougetupearlyinamorningtoheretheword,that'sgood,buttakeheedyougivenooccasionthatthewordbeblasphemed.

Now,IshallshowwhatanexcellentthingitissotosanctifyGod'snameinthehearingofhisword,astohonourit,andhowGodwillsanctifyhisownnameinmercytoyou.

1First,allthegoodinthewordisthineifthoudoestsanctifyGod'sname.Thereisabundanceofgoodinthiswordthatwepreach,itisthewordoftheGospel,andtohaveallthegoodinthattobethine,thatmustneedsbe an excellent thing; you will say, some times I read and hear suchthings in the word that if I were but sure that these things were myportionhowhappyshouldIbe?Here'sonesignbywhichthoumayestbeassured that they are all thyportion: Is it thyunfained care to sanctifyGod'snameinthehearingofhisword?Ohpeacebetothee,allthegoodinthewordisthine:AndherewemightfallintoacommendationofthewordoftheGospel,andifIshouldgivewaytothatagreatdealoftimewould quickly be gone, I will only give you one Scripture for yourencouragementtosanctifyGod'snameinthehearingofhiswordbywayofcommendationofit.ItisRom.10.5.(aplaceIamafraidyouhavenothadthesweetnessofitforthewantofunderstandingit)Itisquotedout

ofDeuteronomy:ForMosesdescribeththerighteousnesswhichisoftheLaw, that themanwhich doth those things shall live by them. But therighteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise; say not in thineheartwho shall ascend into heaven, that is, to bringChrist down fromabove,orwhoshalldescendintothedeep, that is, tobringChristagainfrom the dead? But what saith it? the word is nigh thee, even in thymouthand in thyheart, that is thewordof faithwhichwepreach.Thetext hath some difficulty and yet exceeding sweet to us to know it; IconfessiftheApostlePaulhadnotquotedthisplaceoutofDeut.andthusinterpretedit,whocouldeverhavethoughtinreadingofDeut.thatbytheonehadbeenmeant thewordof theLaw,andbytheother thewordoftheGospel, thereforethemeaningisthis,hereisacomparisonbetweenthewordoftheLaw,andthewordoftheGospel,concerningthewordoftheLaw,thereistwothingswhereinthatcomesshortofthewordoftheGospel.

First,Itisnotsonighthee.

Secondly,itisnotsocertaintoassurethysoulwhatshallbecomeoftheetoalleternity:ThewordoftheLawsaithwhoshallascendintoheaven,&c.ButthewordoftheGospelisnightheeeveninthymouthandinthyheart: Youwill say,why is not theword of theLaw as nigh one as thewordof theGospel? IAnswer,Thewordof theLawyouhear it inyourears,but it isnotwritten in theheartas thewordof theGospel is:TheLaw cannot work savingly upon the heart of aman to bring salvation:thosethataremerelylegaltheycanhearthedutiesthatarerequired,butthatwordhathnopowertowriteintheirheartswhattheydohear:ButnowwhenyoucometohearthewordoftheGospel,thatisnighyou,eveninyourveryheartsaswellasinyourears,Godspeaksinit,anditcomesintoyourheartsandthere itworksefficaciously,whichtheLawcannot.TheLawisbutasadeadletterincomparisonofthewordoftheGospel.Ifyou comemerely to hear the Law preached, and not in an evangelicalway,youmayhearitahundredtimesanditwillneverbewritteninyourhearts,ButwhenyoucometoheartheGospelinanevangelicalway,thatwillcometobewritteninyourhearts:SothatthewordoftheGospelisnighyou:Butwhatisthemeaningoftheother,saynot,whoshallascendupintoheaven,&c?Themeaningisthis,AsiftheApostleshouldsay,the

truth is,whileyouhavenootherbut the righteousnessof theLaw,youareatan infiniteuncertaintyaboutyoureternalestates.TheLawsaith,doandlive:butyoucanneverknowwhenyouhavedoneenoughsoastobecertainthatyouarewellforeternity.Thatsaith,whoshallascendintoheaventoknowthemindofGodconcerningme?whetherhewillacceptofme,andofthatobedienceandworshipthatItenderuptohim?Whoshall godown into thedeep?Whoshall godown tohell toknow there,whether thatplacebeprepared forhimornot? It is aphrase thatonlyexpressethanuncertainty thatonecannotbesatisfiedabouthiseternalestate,excepthecouldgo toheavenandthereseeandreadGod'sbookandsodiscoverGod'smindconcerninghim;orgodowntohell,andsoknowwhetherthatplacebeappointedforhimornotexceptIcandooneofthese,Icannotcertainlytell,(merelybytheLaw)whetherIshallgotoheavenorhell.Asyouthataremerchantsanddealersabroad,youareatagreatdeal of uncertaintywhat shall becomeof your estates. Indeed if IcouldsendoneovertotheIndiestotellmehowmyShipprospered,thenIcouldbeatacertainty,thenIshouldhearwhetherIwerearichmanyeaorno,butexceptIcoulddosuchathingIamatanuncertainty:Suchistheexpressionhere.Asifapoorsoulshouldsay,Iwouldfainbesaved,andlothtoperisheternally;ButallthewhilethesoulremainsundertheLaw,itremainsinanuncertaincondition;butnowsaithhe,thewordoftheGospelisnightheeeveninthineheart;Andthatisthewordthatwepreach, thatsaith,Rom.10.9. If thoushaltconfesswith thymouth theLord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised himfromthedead,thoushaltbesaved.Asifheshouldsay,thiswordoftheGospel that is come into thineheartdothassure thy soulof thyeternalestate,sothatthoughthoucanstnotgouptoheaven,norgodowntohell,yetthouhastthatinthineheart,thatdothasitwereassuretheethatthoushalt be eternally saved, as if thou wert able to go up to the highestheavensandfetchnewsfromthence.OhnowthegoodwordoftheGospelhowshouldweprizeit,andkeepitinourhearts?forthat'sinourheartsthat will assure us of our salvation to all eternity, & of God's eternalpurposetodothegoodinheaven.Youwouldaccountitagreathappinessiftherecouldbeanyarttosendabroadtothestraitsortootherplace,toknow how things fare with you: but now if thou hast the word of theGospel within thee, if that prevails in thy soul, thou hast always gotsomething in thy heart that will tell thee how things are with thee in

heaven,andwhatshallbecomeoftheeforalleternity.Ohwhowouldnotsanctify the Name of God in hearing of his word, seeing it is such ablessedwordwherein theGospel isopenedwithmoreclearness then ithathbeentomanyofourforefathers.

2 It is a certain evidence of your election, in Thess. 1. 3, 4, 5.Rememberingwithoutceasingyourworkoffaith,andlabouroflove,andpatience of hope in our Lord JesusChrist, in the sight ofGod and ourFather;knowingbrethren,beloved,yourelectionofGod.Why?Forourgospelcamenottoyouinwordonly,butalsoinpower,andintheHolyGhost, and in much assurance. And know this excellency there is insanctifyingGod'snameinhearingtheword,Ibeseechyoumarkit,thatitisamoreblessedthing,thenifyoudidbearJesusChristinyourwombs;Youthatarewomen,wouldnotyouhaveaccounteditagreathappinessifChristhadbeenborninyourwombs?Nowifthoucomesttothehearingof the word, and sanctifiest God's name in it, thou art in a bettercondition,andhastagreaterblessinguponthee,thenifthouhadestbornJesusChristinthywomb.InLuke11.27.28.Anditcametopasseashespokethesethings,thatacertainwomanofthecompanyliftuphervoiceandsaiduntohim,bessedisthewombthatbarethee,andthepapswhichthouhastsucked.SeeingChristandwhatgraciousthingscamefromhim,shespokeso;Buthesaid,yea,ratherblessedaretheythathearthewordof God & keep it. That is, labour to sanctify my name, (as hath beenopenedintheparticulars)ratheristhatwomenblessedthatdoso,thenthewomanthatbareChrist:Methinksthisonescriptureshouldbesuchascriptureforwomen,tocausethemtosanctifyGod'snameinhearingoftheword, instead of a hundred scriptures; certainly thoumayest be soblessed,ifthouwiltbelievethewordthatcomesfromChrist'smouth.

3DoyousanctifythenameofGodintheword,thatwillsanctifyyou,bythatyoursoulscometobesanctified,&itwillcomfortyouinthedayofyouraffliction,&itwillsaveyouatlast.

4YouthatdosanctifyGod'snameinthehearingofhisword,youwillbethegloryoftheministersofGodatthegreatdayofjudgement.Youwillbeanhonourtothem,beforetheLord,andhissaints,andangels.InPhil.2.16.Holdingforth(saiththetext)thewordoflife.Thisisthedutyofallthehearersofthewordthattheymustholdforththewordoflife;when

yougohome,youmustholdforththepowerofthewordyouhear,wellwhatwillbecomeofthat?ThatImayrejoice inthedayofChrist, thatIhave not run in vain, neither laboured in vain; Let that be onemotiveamongtherest,saiththeApostle,thiswillbesuchaglorytome,thatIinthe day of JesusChrist shall rejoice that I havenot laboured in vain, IshallblessGodforallmystudiesandcare,andall thepainsthateverIhavetaken,andventuringmyselfforthispeople,IshallblessGodinthedayofJesusChrist.Woulditnotbeacomfortablethingtoyou, thatalltheministersofGodthatcometopreachthewordfaithfullytoyou,IfatthedayofJesusChristyoushouldhearthemblessingGodthateverhedidsendthemtopreachtheGospelinsuchaplace,andyoushouldhearthemsaying,OhLord,itmaybehadIbeensenttoanotherplaceIshouldhavespentallmystrengthinvain,butthroughthymercyIwassenttoateachable people that were ready to embrace thy word, Oh this is mycrownandglory.Woulditnotdogoodtoanywhoseheartsarefaithfultothinkthis,thattheirholdingforththewordoflifewillnotonlybeagloryto God, which is the chief, but it will be a glory to the ministers, torecompensealltheirlabours,thatyoushallnotonlybesavedyourselvesin thedayof JesusChrist, but you shall add to thegloryofhis faithfulministerslikewisewhentheydoappearbeforeChrist?

5Ishalladdoneparticularmore,thereisatimecomingwhenGodshallmagnify his word before men and angels: In Isaiah. 42. 21, He willmagnify his Law andmake it honorable,What a joy shall it be to theewhen theLord beforemen and angels shall come tomagnify hisword,andmakeithonorable,fortheethentothink;Thisisthewordthatspoketomyheartatsuchandsuchatime,thisisthatwordthatIdidreverence,thatIdidobey,thatIdidlove,thatImadetobethejoyofmyheart,thiswordtheLordnowdothmagnifyandmaketobehonorable?Thiswillbecomfortabletothysoul.

SermonXI-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinReceivingtheSacrament

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

ThelastdaywefinishedthepointofsanctificationoftheNameofGodinthehearingofhisword;andnowwewillproceedtothesanctificationofthe name of God in receiving the sacrament; that's the next duty ofworship.

Nowfirstforthewordsacrament,IconfesswehavenotthatwordinalltheScripture,asneitherhavewethewordTrinity,anddiversotherwordsthatministersmakeuseof, toset forththemysteriesofreligionby,butyetitisusefultoconsiderthemeaningwhyministersintheChurchhavegiven this name, unto those signs and seals that the Church receives;sacrament,istohallowathing,ortodedicate,becauseinthesacramentsthereareoutwardthings,thataremadeholy,forholyandspiritualends.

Secondly,weourselvesdoas itwerehallow,ordedicateourselvesuntoGodintheuseoftheseordinances;that'sonereasonfromwhenceithaththename.

Or otherwise as some will have it sacramentum, because it is to bereceived sacrament, with a holy mind, and therefore called thesacrament. The churches have used it a long time; in Tertullians time(whichwas above fourteenhundred years ago)hewas the first thatwefindusedthisword,andmostthatwouldopentheworduntous,say,thatespeciallyitwastakenfromthepractiseofsoldiers,whowhentheycameandlistedthemselves,boundthemselvesinasolemnoathtobefaithfultotheircaptain,andtothecausethattheydidundertake;andtheoath,theywere wont to call sacramentum, A sacrament. Now in regard thatChristians when they come to this ordinance, they come to seal acovenantwithGod,andthoughtheydonot formallyandexplicitly takean oath, yet they bind themselves in a holy covenant, which hath the

strengthevenofanoathinit;(ForasolemnpromisetothehighGodhaththestrengthofanoath in it)andfromthencetheywerecalledbythesenames,sacraments:butthatfortheword,thatyoumayunderstandit.

ButthewordtheScriptureusethtosetoutthissacrament,bythatnowIamspeakingof,isthecommunionofthebodyandbloodofChrist;soyouhave it in 1Cor. 10.6.Thecupofblessingwhichwebless, is itnot thecommunionof thebloodofChrist?Thebreadwhichwebreak, is itnotthe communionof the body ofChrist? I saywe arenow treating aboutthis point, how we are to sanctify the name of God in that which theScripturecallsthecommunionofthebodyandbloodofChrist;Andnowfortheopeningofthat.

First,Wemust know that this is a part of theworship ofGod, andwedrawnightoGodinthis,orotherwiseitwillnotcomeuptoourpoint.

And then we shall show that God is to be sanctified in this duty ofworship.

Andthenthirdlyhow.

First,wedointhisdrawnightoGod;WeworshipGod;Forwhenwearecoming to receive these holy signs and seals, we come to presentourselvesbeforeGod;andwehavetodealwithGodhimselfinaservicethathehimselfrequiresofus, inaholy, inadivineservice:wecometopresentourselvestoGodforblessing,forcommunicationofsomehighergooduntous,thenpossiblythosecreaturesthatwehavetodealwith,areableofthemselvestoconveytous,comeforahighergoodthentotasteapieceofbread,or todrinkadraughtofwine,wecome I say topresentourselvestoGod;thatwemighthavecommunionwithhim,andthatwemight have the blessing of the covenant of grace conveyed unto usthroughthesethings;nowcertainlythisisadrawingnightoGod;fortopresentourselves, for the conveyanceof theblessingof the covenantofgracethroughthesecreatures,yea,thatwemighthavecommunionwithGodhimself in them, this isdrawingnightohim,whenwecometohisTable; therefore we draw nigh to God; had not God instituted andappointedthesecreatures,breadandwineandtheactionsaboutthemtobethemeansofconveyanceofblessinguntous,ithadbeenwillworship

for us to have expected any further presence ofGod in such creatures,thenthere is inthenatureof them.It is true,Godispresentwitheverycreature,whenweeatanddrinkatourtablesGodispresentthere;butwecannotbesaidtodrawnightoGod,andworshipGodthere;forwetherelook for no further presence ofGodwith us in them, to convey furthergoodthen theLordhathput into thenatureof those things:onlywhengodlypeople take them,andreceive themasblessings sanctifiedby theword, they take them as the blessings of God that come out of love tothem. But now when we come to receive that which is called thecommunion, thereweexpect things thatarebeyondthenatureof thesecreatures to convey that that is by an institution of God set apart forsupernaturalusesandends,not toconvey inanynaturalwaysuchandsuchthingsbutinasupernaturalway,throughtheinstitutionofGod,andsoitcomestobeworship.HadwenotIsayacommandforthis,itweresuperstition and idolatry for us tomake use of such creatures for suchends.Ifanymanintheworldshouldhaveappointedapieceofbread,oradraughtofwinetohavesignifiedand,sealedthebodyandbloodofChristit hath been superstition in any, and will-worship, and sinful andabominable to you; but we are to look upon God setting apart thesecreaturesforsuchholyandsolemnends,and,thereforewhenwecometobeexercisedinthem,wecometoworshipGod;andwecomelikewisetotendsupourhomagetoGodwhenwecometoattenduponhiminsuchordinances as these are; to tender up that homage that is due from uspoorcreatures,untosuchaninfiniteandgloriousGod:andthereforewedrawnightohiminthese.

Secondly, we must sanctify God's name in drawing nigh to him:whatsoeverwedo,whetherweeatordrinkwemustdoalltothegloryofGod;Now if in our commoneating anddrinkingwemustdo all to theglory of God, then certainly in this spiritual eating and drinking theremustbesomespecialthingdoneforthegloryofGodinthis.

BecausethereissomuchofGodinit,forherethereisapresentingbeforeusthegreatyeathegreatestmysteriesofsalvation,andthedeepcounselsofGodconcerningeternallife,arepresentedbeforeusintheseoutwardelements of the bread andwine, and the action thereof; nowwhenwecometoeatandtodrinkthosethingsthatareappointedtosetforththe

greatestmysteries of salvation, and the deepest of the counsels of Godconcerning mans eternal good, wherein especially God will glorifyhimself;wehadneedtheresanctify thenameofGod, for thethingsareverygreatandgloriousthatarepresenteduntous.

This ordinance of the Lord's Supper, or the Communion it is anordinancethatChristhathlefttohisChurch,outoftheabundanceofhislove,andthereforeyoushall find ifyoureadthe institutionof it, in the25.ofMatth. that the samenightwhereinChristwasbetrayed,he tookbread and brake it; though Christ was to die the next day, and toencounterwiththewrathofGod,yeathatverynighthewastobeinanagony,andtosweatdropsofwaterandblood,andthenextdaytodieandtohavethesetrialsofwrathpoureduponhim,soastoputhimtocryoutmyGodmyGodwhyhastthouforsakenme:Yethebusieshisthoughtsthat very night to institute this supper; surely it must be a greatordinance,andthereisagreatdealoftheloveofChristinit.Christsawthat his Church had need of it, that he should that nightwhen hewasbetrayed have his thoughts busied about such a thing as this is. Onewould think at that time, that he had enough to take up his thoughtsconcerninghimself,beingtoencounterwiththeLaw,andwiththewrathofGodforman'ssin;butforallthatgreatworkChristhadtoencounterwith, yet his thoughts are busied about this great ordinance of theinstitutionofthesupper,andthereforetherewasgreatloveinit,Christsaw that itwas amatter of greatmoment;now if it is so, than there isgreatcausewhyweshouldsanctifyGod'snameinsuchanordinanceasthisis,andnottoaccountitasacommonandordinarything.

WemustsanctifyGod'snameinthis;becauseit isthesacramentofourcommunionwithChrist;whereinwecometohavesuchanearunionandcommunionwithhimastoeathisfleshandtodrinkhisblood,andtositat his table.We come to have communion with Christ even in all oursenses;nowChristcomingsofullytous,thatcallsuponustosanctifyhisnamewhenwecomebeforehim.

Inthisthecovenantofgraceissealed,thecovenantofgracecomestobesealedinboththepartsofit;nowwhenwecometohavetodealwithGodinthewayofthecovenantofgrace,bothtohavethesealonhispart,andthesealonours,surelythismustneedscallforasanctifieduseofsucha

thing as is so holy as this is. And that's the first reasonwhywe are tosanctify God's name in this, because if we be in ordinary eating anddrinkingwemust do it, then in this,wherein there is somuch ofGod,whereinthemysteriesofgodlinessaresetbeforeus,whereinthereissomuchoftheloveofChrist,whereinwearetohaveclosecommunionwithJesusChrist, andwherein the covenant of grace comes to be sealed onbothsides:therehadneedthereforebeasanctifyingofGod'snameintheuseofit.

Secondly,considerthis;thatthereisnodutyinallthebookofGodthatIknowof,thatisurgedwithmorestrengthandseveritythenthisis;asthatplace in 1 Cor. 11. showeth where you have required of every one thatcomes to receive the bread and wine in the Lord's Supper, that theyshouldexamine themselvesandsoeat,andyouhave themostdreadfulexpressions against those that do not do it, that I know arementionedagainst the neglect of any duty in all theBook ofGod; there theHoly-Ghostsaith,thatwhosoevereatsanddrinksunworthily,first,heisguiltyofthebodyandbloodofChrist,andthensecondly,heeatsanddrinkshisown damnation; These two expressions have as much dreadfulness inthem as can be imagined, andwe do not find an exhortation to a dutybackedwith twosuchsevereexpressions, incaseweshouldneglectourduty,as thisexhortation.What ifwedonotsanctifyGod'snameinthisduty? we come to be guilty of the body and blood of Christ. Blood-guiltiness isa terrible thing;youknowDavidcriesout,Lorddelivermefrom blood-guiltiness; to have but the blood of an ordinaryman to lieuponone,toshedthebloodofthevilestroguethatlives,inamurderousway,itwouldlieupontheconscienceandbeveryterrible;itisimpossiblethat such aman canbe quiet all his days thoughhehathnever such asearedconscience.AHeathencouldnotbeatquiet,ifhehaththeguiltofbloodlieuponhim;buttobeguiltyofthebloodofChrist,whosebloodistenthousandthousandtimesmoreworth thenthebloodofall thementhateverliveduponthefaceoftheearth,mustneedsbeamostdreadfulthing; It is a fearful expression; guilty of the body andblood ofChrist,thatis,heofferssuchanindignitytothebodyandbloodofChrist,astheLordwill chargehimofbeingguilty of it, guilty of abusingof thebodyandbloodofJesusChrist.

Andthenhedotheatanddrinkhisowndamnation;butweshallspeakmoretothat,whenwecometoshowhowGodwillsanctifyhisnameinthose that do not sanctify it here in this holy ordinance. I will nottherefore spend further time in those Scriptures, for I bring them onlynowtoshowthatthereisanecessityofit,thatwedosanctifythenameofGodinthisordinance.

Thirdly, there isnothingthatstrikesmoreuponaman'sconscience;wefinditbyexperience;evenuponwickedmen'sconsciences,andespeciallyupon suchasbegin tobe enlightened in theholiness of this ordinance,God hath put much honour upon it; I confess some men may use itsuperstitiously though it be an ordinance of Christ, yetGodhath put agreatdealofhonouruponthisordinance,thatmenthatareverywickedotherwise, yet their consciences tell them that when they come to thisordinancethentheymustbegood,thentheymustnotsin,buthavegoodthoughts,andgoodprayersat that time.Andmanytimes theydarenotcome,iftheirconsciencestellthemthattheyliveinsomesin.Iknewonemyself once that was to be executed, and he had never received thisordinanceinallhislife,thoughaboutfortyyearsofage,Andbeingaskedthe reason why, he confessed he lived in some sin that he was loth toleave, and therefore would never come to that ordinance all his life,thoughhereintheDevilgul'danddeceivedhim;butImentionittoshowwhatapowerthereisintheconsciencesofmenaboutthisordinance;thisordinarily is one of the first things that strikes upon the souls ofmen,when they come to have their consciences awakened, Oh how have IprofanedthenameofGodintheordinanceoftheholycommunionandhavenotsanctifiedhisnameinit.

ThatGodshouldbesanctifiedinthisordinance,that'sclearenough.

But now the greatwork is (which is the third thing that I promised toshow)howweshouldsanctifyGod'snameinthisordinance.CertainlythenameofGodhathbeenmuchtakeninvain,therehathbeenagreatdealofpollution in theuseof thisordinance,and inmensspiritswhentheyhave been exercising themselves in such an holy ordinance as this is;thereforeIwillopenthistoyou,andshallnotbeverylargeinit,onlytoshowyouthemainandprincipalthingsthatmayserveforthedirectionofus,thatthenameofGodmaynotbesotakeninvainanddishonored

as heretofore, and I shall cast what I intend to speak of into theseparticulars.

1Thatwhosoeverwastopartakeofthismustbeholyhimself;nonecansanctifyGod,buthemusthaveasanctifiedhearthimself.

Secondly,thisordinanceitmustbereceivedinaholycommunion;Theremust be a communion of saints for this ordinance; and it cannot bereceivedanywhereelsebutinacommunionofsaints.

Thirdly, theholydispositionofsoulparticularly,or thequalificationsofsoulthatarerequiredforthesanctifyingofGod'snameinthisordinance.

Fourthly,themanneroftheexplicitgoingsoutofthesoul,thattherearetobeeatthatverytimeofreceiving.

Fifthly, the keeping of the institution of Christ in our receiving. Thesethings are required for the sanctifying of the name of God in thisordinance.

Forthefirst,thosethatcomemustbeeholythemselves.

This isanordinancenotappointedforconversion,tomakeholy;othersthat are not converted may come to the word, because the word it isappointed toworkconversion; tis appointed toworkgrace, towork thefirstgrace,faithcomesbyhearing;butwedonotfindinalltheScripturethat this is appointed for conversion, but it supposes conversion; nonearetocometoreceivethissacramentbutmenandwomenthatbeforeareconvertedbytheword;thewordfirstthereforeistobepreachedtomenfortheirconversion;andthenthis isanordinanceappointedfortosealthem;thereforeintheprimitivetimestheyletallcometohearingoftheword,andthenwhenthesermonwasdone,therewasanofficersteppedupandcriedholythingsforholymen,andthenallothersweretogoout,andthereforeitwascalledmissa(thoughthePapistsdidcorruptitandsocalleditthemassafterwards,bymixingtheirowninventionsinsteadofthe Supper of the Lord, but it had that name at first) I say this holycommunionwascalledbythenameofmissa,becausethatallothersweresent away, and only such as were of the Church, and accounted godly

staid;holythingstoholymen.

Andthismustneedsbeso,becausethatthenatureofitbeingthesealofthecovenantofgracerequiresit;itmustbesupposedthatallthatcomehithermust be in covenantwithGod, theymust be such as have beenbroughttosubmittotheconditionofthecovenant.Nowtheconditionofthecovenantofgrace is,believeandbe saved; it is thereforeappointedforbelievers;Andasthenatureofitbeingasealsupposethacovenant,sononecanhavethiscovenantsealedtothem,butthosethatdofirstsubmitto it,andarebrought intocovenant;whenyoumakean indenture,andput to the seal, certainly the seal belongs only to those that have theirnames in the indenture: Now tis true though men's names are notmentionedintheword,yettheconditionistothosethatarebroughtintobelieve inJesusChrist; saithGod I comenow to seal allmymercies inChristtotheirsouls.WeabuseGodifwecometotakethesealtoablank,it is tomake this ordinance a ridiculous thing; therefore theremust besome transactions betweenGod and your souls before you come to theseal;ifamanshouldsaytoyoucomesettoyoursealtosuchathing,andthere were never any kind of transactions between this man and youbefore,youwouldaccountitridiculous;aftertherehathbeenagreementsbetweenyou,youusethentoseal.Soitmustbehere;Iwouldappealtomany of your consciences that have come to the Lord's Supper, whattransactionshavetherebeenbetweenGodandyoursouls?canstthousaytheLordwaspleasedtorevealhimselftome;tomakeknowntomemywretchedcondition,andthewayofgraceandsalvation,andshowedmethatuponmycoming in toreceivehisSon,hewouldbemerciful tomeandpardonmysins;andIhavefoundtheSpiritofGodworkingmyhearttoJesusChrist,theLordfromheavenspeakingtome,andIsendingananswer to heaven again, how willing my soul was to accept of thecovenant,whichtheLordhathmadewithpoorcreatures inthewordofhis Gospel? canst thou say this in the uprightness of thy heart? if not,knowthatthissealbelongsnottothee:until theLordhathbyhiswordsubduedthyhearttothisagreementfirstwithhim.

Secondly,thisordinance,itistheordinanceofspiritualnourishment,ofeatingthefleshofChristanddrinkinghisbloodinaspiritualway.Nowitmustneedssupposethatfirsttheremustbelifebeforetherecanbeany

nourishmentreceivedin.Ifitbeappointedtonourishandincreasegrace,then surely there must be grace before; what nourishment can a deadchildtake?theveryfirstthingthatistobedoneisnourishmenthere,Thewordhathpower to convey life and then tonourish, butwe readofnosuchthinghere,butthatwhichistobedonehereispresentlytofeed,toeat, and to drink, that's the end of the sacrament; therefore itmust besupposed that thoumust have spiritual life, theremust come no deadsoultothisordinance,butthosewhoarequickenedbytheSpiritofJesusChrist,theymustcomefornourishment.

Thirdly,theacthererequireddothnotethatonlythosethatareholyandgodly can receive this sacrament; we are required by the Apostle toexamine ourselves. To examine ourselves of what? it must be of ourgodliness,examinewhatworkofGodhathbeenuponthesoul,howGodhathbroughtthesoultohimself,andwhatgracesoftheSpiritofGodarethere,andhowwehavebeenbroughtintocovenantwithGodnowifonlythosecanreceiveworthily,andaretocomethatfirstexaminethemselves,then certainly such only as are godly are to come, for they only canperformthoseactsthatarerequired.

Fourthly,It'sasacramentofcommunionwithGod,andcommunionwiththe saints; now what communion hath light and darkness? or whatfellowshiphathChristwithBelial,Ifitbeasacramentofcommunion,ofcoming to the Table of God will God have his enemies to come to hisTable?youwill invitenoenemies toyourTables,butyourchildrenandfriends,sotheymustbethechildrenofGodandthefriendsofGod,thesethatarereconciledtoGodinthebloodofhisSon,andthosethatarehischildrenthatmustsitathisTable,thereforetheymustbeholy.Nowthismaysufficeforthatfirstthing,thatthisisnotanordinanceforallsortsofpeople, but such as have submitted to the condition of the covenantbefore. Such as have grace, and ability to examine themselves of theirgraces,andsuchasarechildrenandreconciledtoGod,andsoarefittositat theTableofGod,andtoenjoycommunionwithhimandwithhisSon, and with the saints; for we are one body sacramentally when wecometothisholyordinance;allothersthereforecertainlyaretobekeptfromthissacramentbutsuch.

2 The second thing will make it out more fully, and that is, it is not

enough that we be holy ourselves; (and so all ignorant, profane andscandalous,yeaallthataremerelycivil,thatcannotmakeoutanyworkofgodlinessupontheirheartsinbringingthemtoChrist,areexcluded.)

But1.Itistobedoneinaholycommunion,andisclearoutofthatplacein 1 Cor. 10. 16, 17. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not thecommunionofthebloodofChrist?thebreadwhichwebreak,isitnotthecommunionof thebodyofChrist?and thensaith theApostle in the17.verse,forwebeingmanyareonebreadandonebody;thereforeallthatcome to receive the sacrament, theymust socomeas theymustbeonebody,one spiritual corporation; thisvery consideration, that thosewithwhomwereceivethesacramentareonebodywithus,ithathagreatdealinit,forthehelpingofustosanctifyGod'sName;thisordinanceIsay,itistobereceivedonlyinaholycommunion;oneChristiancannotreceivethesacramentalone;theremustbeaCommunionwheresoeveritistobeadministered; it is not enough there is one godlyman there, but theremust be a communion of saints, and in that communion it is to bereceived.

Quest.Youwillsay,mustitbereceivedinacommunionofSaints?whatifwickedmen do come there?will that hinder us from sanctifyingGod'sname in partaking of the sacrament with them? do not we find inScripturethattheChurchhadalwayswickedmenamongthem?therearealways tares growing up with the wheat: If you read even in theCorinthians,youshallfindthatthereweresomeinthatChurchthatwerewicked,yeaanditsthoughtthatJudashimselfdidreceivethesacramenttoo;thereforewhatifwickedmenbethere,doththathinder?

Answ.Ianswer,firstitistrue,thatintheChurchofGodtherehavebeenwickedmen,andisliketherewillbewickedmentotheendoftheworld;butyetwheresoeverthereisarightcommunionofSaints,thereoughttobethepowerofChristexercisedtocastoutthosewickedmen,oratleasttowithdrawfromthem.ThisistheLawofChrist,thatiftherebeanythathavecommunionwithyou,ifanyofthemdoappeartobewicked,youarebound inconscience togoand tell them; if theydonot reform,youarebound to take twoor three,and if theydonotyet reform, thenyouareboundtotellthechurch,totelltheassemblyofthesaintswhentheymeettogether;forsothewordchurchdothsignify,andwefindinthe1Cor.5.

chap. that when there was an incestuous person to be cast out, it wasdoneinthepresenceofthecongregation:Thusfaryouareboundtodo,otherwiseyoucannotsay,thatitisnothingtoyouifwickedmenbethere,for you have not discharged your conscience. and so you come to bedefiled, andyoudonot sanctifyGod'sName in thisordinance,becauseyou have not done to the uttermost of your duty for the casting out ofthosewickedmen.

Andmark in 2 Cor. 5. 7. there the Apostlewriting to the Church, bidsthemthattheyshouldpurgeouttheoldleaven,knowyenotsaithhe,thatalittleleavenleaveneththewholelump?theApostledothnotspeakthereofsin,butofthewickedincestuousperson,saithhe,youmustlooktoitthatthismanbepurgedoutfromyou,orotherwiseyouareallleavenedbyit,thatis,thewholechurchwouldbeleavenedbyit,iftherewerenotcaretakentopurgeoutthatoneman.

Youwillsay,shallwebetheworseforonewickedmanscoming?no,ifwebenowayfaultyof it, thenwecannotbesaidtobeworseanditcannotleavenus;butnowwhenitisourdutytopurgehimoutandwedonotdoit,asinallcommunionofsaintsthereisaduty,andthereisnotanyonebutmaydo something towards it; thus far every communicant ineverycommunionofsaintsmustgo;iftherebeawickedmanthere,ifyoucometo know it, anddonot go thus far as I have spoken, you art defiledbyhim,youarenotdefiledbythemerepresenceofwickedmen,(forthat'sameredeceitandgallthatsomewouldputuponmenthatdifferfromthemotherwise;)butthusnowyouaredefiledbytheirpresence,ifyoudonotdoyourduty,andtheuttermostthatyouareabletopurgethemout;yea,thenthewholecongregationisdefiled,iftheydonotdotheirduty;nowthisisthedutyofeveryoneinthecongregation,totelltheirbrother,ortotaketwoorthree,andafterthattotellthechurch,andsocometoprofessagainst them, or if the churchwill not do their duty as they ought, yetthen to free theirownsouls,as toprofess,here isone that is soandsoguilty,andmaybeprovedthusandthus,andsoformypartItofreemyownsoulprofessthatthismanorwomanoughtnortohavecommunionhere;andthusyoucometofreeyourownsouls,andwhenyouhavedonethus,thoughwickedmenbethereyoumaythereeatanddrinkandnotbedefiledbytheirpresence,foryoucannotbesaidproperlytoeatwiththem

now,not tohave communionwith them,nomore than if a dog shouldcomeandskipuponthetable,andtakeapieceofbread;youcannothavecommunionwithhimbecausehe takes it,nomorehaveyouwith thosewicked men when once you have dealt so far with them, you foryourselvesprofessagainstthemthatyouforyourownparticularcannothave communion with them herein; this is not to eat with them: TheApostle in1Cor.5. latterend,hedoththererequire, inthe11.v.thatIfany man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or anIdolater,oraraylor,oradrunkard,oranextortioner,withsuchaonenonottoeat;forwhathaveItodotojudgethemalsothatarewithout?thatis,theheathens,andthosethatwereinnocommunionwiththem,Ihavenothingtodoto judgethem;butdonotye judgethemthatarewithin?Whenwehavesofarfreedourselvesasprofessingagainsttheirsin,thenwe cannot be said to have communion with them, and then we dowithdrawfromthosethatwalkdisorderly,whenwedoourdutythusfar.1 Thess. 3. 14. If anyman obeynot ourword by thisEpistle, note thatman,andhavenocompanywithhim,thathemaybeashamed;andinthesixthverseof thatchapterhecommands themin thenameofourLordJesus Christ that they should withdraw themselves from every brotherthatwalkeddisorderly.Sothattillwedoourdutywecometobedefiled;butnow, ifwedoourduty,thenit isnotthemixtureofaCongregationthatisenoughtohinderanyfromreceivingthesacramentthere:andthiswilltendmuchtosatisfymenaboutthereceivinginmixedcongregationswhereanyarecastintothemandareactualmembersthere.

But now on the other side, if we be in a place where either thiscongregation will not take upon them any such power to cast outunworthyones,orarenotconvincedofthispower,thenthereisnorulethatChristhathset,thatwemustbeforcedallourdaystocontinuetobeinsuchacongregationasdeniesoneoftheordinancesofJesusChrist;ifsobetherebeanysuchthatarewicked,andwedofirstwhatwecantohavethemcastout,andwewaitwithpatienceinsuchacongregationfortohave themcastout,andyetwesee thateither thecongregationdothnotunderstandthattheyhaveanysuchpower,ordodenysuchapowerthattheyhave,andsouponthatallpeopleareleftinamixedway,Isaythen there is no rule in all the book of God that should force men tocontinuetobemembersofsuchacommunionwheretheycannotenjoy

oneordinanceofJesusChrist,which is theordinanceof separating theprecious from the vile, the ordinance of casting out the wicked andungodly.Itwereaverydiseasedbodyandindangerquicklyofthelossoflife,totakeineverythingintoit,andtohavenoexpulsivefacultytopurgeanythingoutagain;soacongregationthatisaltogetherwithoutsuchanordinanceasthatisofexpellingsuchasarewickedandungodly;Isay,IfindnoScripture thatdoth forcepeople, and require themasbound inconsciencetocontinuetherewheretheymaynotenjoyalltheordinancesofJesusChrist,andtherightunderstandingofwhatIsaynow,willhelpus to answer all those Scriptures that are brought. As if it be that ofJudas, first it is hard to make it out clear whether it were the Lord'sSupperthathereceivedyeaorno:butsupposeitbegrantedthathedid,yetImakenoquestionbutsuchasJudaswas,thatshallcontinuetomakesuchanoutwardprofessionashedid,andcouldnotbediscoveredinthechurch-way,butthatwemayreceivewithsuchasareclosehypocrites.

YouwillsayJesusChristknewhimtobefaulty,andhetoldJohnthatlayinhisbosomwhathewas;butthoughheknewhimashewasGod,yethedealswithhiminhisministerialway,andhehadappointedbeforethatnoneweretobecastoutbutweretobedealtwithalinsuchaministeriallway;sothatitisnotenoughthoughIknewbyrevelationfromGodthatsuchamanwereanhypocrite;supposeGodshouldrevealfromheaventomethatsuchamanwereanhypocrite,IthinkImightcommunicatewithhimstill,whenhedothnotsofardiscoverhimselfthatIcanbywitnessesprovehisevil;thereforethoughmenbewicked,yetitdothnotdefilethecommunionwheretheyareif therehathbeenthatwayusedthatChristhathappointedfortobeobservedinhisChurch.AndwhenthatisdonethenIamtowithdrawfromhim,andtoprofessagainstcommunionwithhim,sothatitsenoughtoanswerthecase.

We read likewise that there were divers wicked men among theCorinthians,andoftaresthatgrewinthewheat.

It'strue,therewerewickedmenamongthem,buttheywereenjoinedbytheApostletocastoutthosewickedmen,andiftheydidnotdoit,itwastheirsin,andtheyweredefiledbyit.

And for tares that were among the wheat, take it that this is meant

concerningtheChurch,supposeitwere(andyetChristsaithplainlythatthefieldistheworld,and'tisthegodlyandthewickedlivingtogetherintheworld,andsoIfindmanyinterpreterstakeit;buthowsoevertakeitthatitismeantoftheChurch-communion;yetthusfarisclearthatitwasthroughthefaultoftheofficersthatthereshouldbeanytaresamongthewheat;forsothetextsaithplainlythatwhiletheservantsslepttheredidtaresspringup;thereforethereshouldhavebeennone.

Secondly, they were not such tares as would spoil the wheat, but asJeromesaithinthosecountriesthetaresdidgrowmuchlikewheatallthewhile itwas in the blade, so that theywere hardly to be distinguished,thoughsomethatwereofmoreunderstandingwereabletodiscernthemfromthewheat;thereforethoughsuchasdogrowuplikeuntothewheatmay be suffered, and yet in this case only, that is, in case that it willprejudicethewheat,thatis,whentheyaresoclosetothewheatastherewillbedangerbypluckingthemuptopluckupthewheattoo,thentheymustbeletalone;mark,firstitwasthroughthenegligenceoftheofficers;theyshouldhavebeenkeptout.Secondly,iftheydogetin,yetwhiletheygrowsoclose to thewheatas therewillbedanger thatwhenyoupluckout them, to pluck out the wheat too, only in that case it must beforborne;butthisgivesnolibertythatthereforeallsortsmaybeletintotheChurch,and there shouldbenokindofordinance tocastout thosethatarevenomousweedsthatwilldohurtandmischief.

But if you understand it (as many do) concerning the world, then themeaningisthus,thepreachingoftheGospelthatcomestoaplace,andthere'sonlygoodseedsown,andisameansof theconversionofmany,but togetherwith theconversionof some, thereareothers thatdohearthe Gospel preached, and the truth is, they being mingled among thehearersoftheword,insteadofbringingforthgoodfruitaccordingtotheGospel, they bring forth the tares; now saith the servant, Lord, howcomesittopassethatwepreachsuchexcellenttruthsinthisplace,andyet there are somany wickedmen that bring forth such wicked fruit?Lord, is it thymindthatweshouldbewhollyseparated fromthemandhavenothingtodowiththem,thatthereshouldbeafullseparationwhileweliveinthisworld?

No saith Christ, not so; for then the truth is, if all godly men should

wholly withdraw fromwickedmen, and believe that theymay not liveamongthem, theycouldnot live in theworld. ifyoudidbelieve itwereyourdutynotsomuchastolivenearawickedman,nortohaveanythingtodoinanykindofconversewithhim,therewouldbenowheatgrowinginthisfieldoftheworldhere;andthereforeyoumustbecontent,whenyou livewherethepreachingof theGospel is,andtheseedbrings forthgood fruit in some,and inothers itbrings forth tares, youmustnotbeoffended by this, that here in this worldGod doth not by some visiblestroke of judgement come and strike them dead, or that God doth nottakesomecoursethatthereshouldbeafullseparationhere,butthattheymightlivetogethertillthedayofjudgement;hereIsayyoushallnothavesuchafullseparation;sothatyouseeitcarriesaveryfairsensetotakethe field to be the world, and the kingdom of heaven there to be thepreachingoftheGospel inanyplace,andsowemustbeecontentwhilewe live in thisworld to beewherewicked andungodlymen are.But itdothnotfollowfromthisplacethatwearetohaveconverseintheclosestcommunion, in church-communion with wicked men, to be made onebodybyeatingthesamebread,anddrinkingthesamewine;itholdsnotforthsuchclosecommunionasthis is;sothatthere's littlestrengthcanbe taken fromthatplace,butstill itholds thatwheresoever there is thesacrament of the Lord's Supper, there must be a holy communion ofsaints.

Object.TheScriptureonlysaithletusexamineourselves.

Answ. Igrant for thebenefit tomineownsoul, Imust look toexaminemyselfmoreespecially;butnowforanotherIambutonlysofarboundtolooktohimastokeepmyselfclean;itistrueIamnotboundtogoandpryintohislifeandallhisways,soastoforcehimtogiveanaccountofthingsthataresecret,butIamboundtokeepawatch,andifanythingbedone that offendsme, then I am bound to go to him according to theformerruleofChrist,andifheappearstobewicked,thenIamboundtoseehimpurged from the congregation; for takebut that other text in 1Cor.5.6.knowyounotthatalittleleavenleaveneththewholelump?IfIdonotdosomuchasconcernsmyduty,thenIamdefiledbyit.SoasthatyoumustnotthinkthatitisnothingtoyouhowmanywickedmencometotheLord'sTable,andthatitbelongsonlytotheministersandtheyare

to look to it; the truth is thateveryone inhisplace is to look to it,andevery one may be defiled if he doth not perform this duty that Godrequiresofhim;donotsaywhathaveItodowithmybrother;amImybrotherskeeper?itwasthespeechofCain;ifthoubeestofthesamebody,you are to have a care of your brother; do not ye judge those that arewithin?There issomekindof judgementthateveryonemaypassuponsuchasdojoinwiththeminthesamebody;surelyitconcernsmemuch;what shall I do in such an action as to join with them to eat bread,wherebyImustprofessthatIdobelievemyselftobeofthesamebody,thatthisdrunkardisof,thatthiswhoremasterisof,thatthisswearerisof? whenever you receive the communion with any company, you doprofessyourselvestobeofthesamebodywiththatcompany;onlyinthiscase, If I have discovered any, and can particularly profess againstanyone,thenIdonotprofessmyselftobeofthesamebodywithhim;butnowwhenIcomeinanordinaryway,andIknowsuchtobewicked,vile,andprofane,andIprofessnothingagainstthem,nortakeanycourseatall, I do thenbypartakingwith them,professmyself tobeof the samebodythattheyareof.Thoudoestasitwereopenlydeclare,Lord,herewecomeandprofessthatweareallof thebodyofJesusChrist;nowwhenthouknowestsuchandsuchasarenotoriouslywickedandprofane,anddostnothingintheworldtohelptopurgethemout,dostnotthouthinkthat God's name is taken in vain? Is not God's name profaned here?Therefore it concerns us very much to look unto it, that it be a holycommunion that we receive the bread and wine in; I beseech youtherefore understands things aright that I have spoken of; I havelaboured to satisfymen that there is away thatwemaypartake of thesacramentthoughwickedmenbemixedwithus:Butthis is thatthat isrequired of you for doing your duty, to keep yourselves clean that youmaynotbeaccessoryanywaytoanywickedmanscomingtopartakeofthisholymysteryofthebodyandbloodofChrist,therearediversthingsfurtheraboutthis,andthespecialthingIthoughtofwastoshowyoutheholy qualifications that there ought to be; but this I conceived to benecessary, and I shouldnothavehadpeace inmineown conscience asbeing faithful toyou inwhat I amspeaking,of sanctifying theNameofGod in this ordinance, if I should not havementioned this that I havespokenuntoyou,andthere'sanerroronbothsides,thatIdesiretomeetwithal; either those that come hand over head, and think it concerns

themnot at all withwhom they come to the sacrament, but to look totheirownhearts: and there's anerroron theother side, that if theydowhat theycan tokeep themaway,andyet if they shouldbe suffered tocome,theymaynotcometopartakeofthosethings,nowitisveryusefulforustoknowwhatweshoulddointhiscase.

SermonXII-WhatisRequiredinReceivingtheSacrament

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

IshalladdsomethingtooneparticularthatIhadthelastday,concerningpeoples withdrawing from such a congregation where they could notreceivealltheordinancesofJesusChrist.

As now, if I were in a church where I could have but a piece of thesacrament,supposetheydealtwithmeasthepapistsdowiththepeople,that is, theywillgive themthebreadandnot thewine,certainly Iwerenotboundtostaywiththemthen,butIwereboundtogowhereImighthave the whole sacrament. So if a church will give me some oneordinanceandnotanother,IconfesssolongasthereishopethatImayenjoyit,andthattheyareinawayforenjoyment,Ithinkthereshouldbeagreatforbearancetoachurchaswellastoaparticularperson;asImustnot withdraw from a particular man, where there is hope still of hisreformation, and that there may come good of my forbearance, sotowardsa churchmuchmore;but I say, if I cannot enjoy,neitherdoththere appear any hope of the enjoyment of all ordinances, certainly itwerebut a cruelty to forcemen to stay there,whenasotherwhere theymayenjoyallordinancesforthegoodoftheirsouls.Andthiscannotbeschismthustodo;asnowisthisschism?supposeamanwereinaplaceandjoinedinsuchacommunion,forhisoutwardbenefithemayremovehisdwelling fromoneplace toanother, ifhe canhavebetter trading inanother place; then certainly if he may have more ordinances for theedificationofhissoul,hemayaswellremovefromonetoanother,ashe

mayremovebebetterinoneplacethananother.Christwouldhaveallhispeople look to the edification of their souls; and should I account thatschism?whenamanorwomanmerelyoutoftendernessandadesiretoenjoyJesusChristinallhisordinancesforthebenefitoftheirsouls,theyfindsuchwanttotheirsoulsofallordinances,thatthoughtheymayhavesomeinoneplace,yetiftheycannothaveall,theirsoulsdonotsothrive;now if this be all the endwhy they remove that theymight havemoreedification to their souls enjoying the ordinances of Christ more fully,God forbid that this should ever be accounted such a sin, that theScriptureistobrand;nothatsschismwhenthereisaviolentrendingoutofmalice,forthewantoflove;forasapostasyisarendingfromthehead,So schism from the body, that is, when it is out of an evil spirit, fromenvy,orfrommalice,fromwantof love,orfromanybasesinisterends,anduponnojustGround;butnowwhenitismerelyoutoflovetoJesusChrist, that Imight havemore edification tomy soul, and still I retainlovetothesaintsthatarethereastheyareinacommunion,andsofarastheyhaveanythinggoodamongthem,Iholdcommunionwiththeminthat;onlyIdesire inhumility,andinmeeknessthatImaybe insuchaplace,wheremy soulmaybemost edified,where Imayenjoyall thoseordinancesthatChristhathappointedforhisChurch,certainly,thatsoulthat can give this account to Jesus Christ for going from one place toanother, will be freed by Jesus Christ from such a sin, as this that theworld calls schism; but the truth is, thisword is inmen'smouths thatunderstandnotwhatitmeans,andtheDevilalwayswillhavesomewordor other cast upon them that are good; for he hath heretofore gainedmuchbyit,sostillhemakesaccounttogainmuchbywords,andterms,andthereforemenshouldtakeheedofwordsandtermsthattheydonotunderstand,andexamineseriouslywhatthemeaningofthesewords,andwhat isheld forth in thosewords;and thusmuch for thatpoint, that itmust be in a holy communion; wherever there is the receiving of theLord'sSupper,itmustbereceivedinaholycommunion.

Nowwearetoproceedtothatwhichisthemainthing,andthatis,whatare theholyqualificationsordispositionsof the soul, togetherwith theactings fit in thereceivingof theLord'sSupper,what is required in thesoul,forthesanctifyingofthenameofGodinthisholysacrament;therearemanythingsrequired.

Asfirst,thereisrequiredknowledge;ImustknowwhatIdowhenIcometoreceivethisholysacrament;knowledgeappliedtotheworkthatIamabout; when some of you have come to receive this sacrament, if Godshouldhavespokenfromheavenandhavesaidthustoyou,whatareyoudoingnow,whatdoyougofor,whataccounthadyoubeenabletohavegiven unto him, you must understand what you do when you comethither.

FirstyoumustbeeabletogivethisaccounttoGod,Lord,Iamnowgoingto have represented to me in a visible and sensible way the greatestmysteries of godliness, those great and deep counsels of thy willconcerningmyeternalestate,thosegreatthingsthattheangelsdesiretopryinto,thatshallbethematterofeternalpraisesofangelsandsaintsinthehighestheavens, that theymaybesetbeforemyview;Lord,whenIhave come to thy word, I have had in mine ears sounding the greatmysteriesofgodliness,thegreatthingsofthecovenantofgrace,andnowIgotoseethemrepresentedbeforemineeyesinthatordinanceofthinethatthouhastappointed.

YeaLord,Iamnowgoingtoreceivethesealsoftheblessedcovenantofthine,thesecondcovenant,thenewcovenant,thesealsofthetestimonyand will of thine; I am going to have confirmed to my soul thineeverlastingloveinJesusChrist.

Yea Lord, I am going to that ordinance wherein I expect to havecommunionwiththyself,andthecommunicationofthychiefmerciestomysoulinJesusChrist.

Iamgoingtofeastwiththee, to feeduponthebodyandbloodofJesusChrist.

YeaIamnowgoingtosettothesealofthecovenantonmypart,torenewmycovenantwiththee,Iamgoingtohavecommunionwiththysaints,tohavethebondofcommunionwithallthypeopletobeconfirmedtome,that theremightbea strongerbondofunionand lovebetweenmeandthysaintsthenever;thesearetheendsthatIgofor,thisistheworkthatIamnow going about, thus youmust come in understanding; youmustcomewithunderstanding,youmustknowwhatyouaregoingabout;this

isthatwhichtheApostlespeaksof,whenhespeaksofthediscerningtheLord's body; he rebukes the Corinthians for their sin, and shows themthattheywereguiltyofthebodyandbloodofChrist,becausetheydidnotdiscerntheLord'sbody,theylookedonlyupontheoutwardelements,butdidnotdiscernwhat therewasofChrist there, theydidnotunderstandthe institution of Christ; they did not see how Christ was under thoseelements, both represented, and exhibited unto them, that's the firstthing,theremustbeknowledgeandunderstanding.

And now for the knowledge and understanding of the nature of thesacrament; there need be knowledge in other points of religion, forwecan never come to understand the nature of this sacrament, withoutknowingGod,andknowingourselves,knowinginwhatestatewewerebynature,knowingourfall,knowingthewayofredemption,knowingJesusChrist what he was, and what he hath done for the making of anatonement, the necessity of Jesus Christ, and what the way of thecovenant is thatGodhathappointed tobringmens souls to eternal lifeby.Themainpointsof religionmustbeknown,butespecially that thatconcernsthenatureofasacrament.

Now this knowledge likewise must be actual, not merely habitualknowledge,buttheremustbeastirringupofthisknowledge,thatis,bymeditation,Imustbemeditating,haveactualthoughtsandmeditationsofwhatIdoknow;thatoughttobetheworkofaChristianincomingtoreceive the sacrament, toquickenuphisknowledge, tohavea renewedwork of his knowledge by actual thoughts andmeditations of themainpoints of religion, and especially of thenature and the endof thisholyinstitution,thatisthefirstthing.

Secondly, as wemust come understandingly, without whichwe cannotsanctifyGod'sname, sowemust comewithhearts suitable to theworkthat we are about, that is, because the great thing that is here, is thebreaking of Christ's body, and the pouring forth his blood. A suitabledisposition to this is brokenness of heart, sense of our sin, of thatdreadful breach that sin hathmade betweenGod and the soul; our sinshouldbeuponourheartssoastobreakthem;Butthisbrokennessmustbeevangelical;itmustbethroughtheapplyingofthebloodofChristuntomysoul;Imustcometobesensibleofmysin;butespeciallybesensible

ofitbywhatIseeintheholysacrament,thatmustmakemesensibleofmysin:Thereareagreatmanythingstomakemesensibleofmysin:Theconsideration of the great God that thou hast sinned against, and thecurse of the Law that's due to thee, the wrath of God that is incensedagainst thee for thy sin, and those eternal flames that are prepared forsinners,thoseeverlastingburnings.

But now those are not the things that will break the heart in anevangelicalway,inagraciousway;themainthingbywhichthesoulmustcometobreakitsheart,mustbethebeholdingoftheevilofsinintheredglass of thebloodof JesusChrist, thebeholdinghimbroken; and trulythereisnothingintheworld,thathaththatpowertobreaktheheartforsin,asthebeholdingofthatwhichistobebeheldintheholysacrament;andthatheartisahardheartthatcanseewhatistheretobeseen,andnotbreakintheapprehensionofsin;whenIhereseewhatmysincost,whatapricewasmadeformysoul,whenIseethehatredofGodagainstsin,andthejusticeofGodinnotsparinghisSon,butinbreakinghisSonformysin,and insheddingthebloodofhisSonformysins,IseeherethatthemakingofmypeacewhichGoddidcostmorethententhousandworlds isworth; I see thatbymy sin suchabreachwasmadebetweenGod andmy soul, that all the angels in heaven, andmen in theworldcouldnevermakeupthisbreach;onlytheSonofGod,hethatwasGodandman,thatwasthusbrokenbytheburdenofthewrathofhisFather,for my sins, could do this. The truth is, when we come to this holycommunion,weareto lookuponChristas ifwesawhimhangingupontheCross;supposethouhadstlivedatthetimewhenChristwascrucified,and hadst understood as much concerning the death of Christ as nowthoudoest,andwhatChristwas,ifsobethatthoushouldesthavebeheldhiminthegarden,andtheresweatingdropsofwaterandblood,andliegrovelingupontheground,cryingifitbepossibleletthiscuppassfromme:andshouldesthavefollowedhimtothecross,andtheirhaveseenhishandsandfeetnailed,andhissidepierced,andthebloodtricklingdown,andhaveheardhimcryingoutmyGod,myGod,whyhastthouforsakenme,wouldnotsuchasightasthis is,havebrokenthyheart forthysin;the truth is there ismore, Iwon't say only somuch, but I say there ismoreinthissacramenttobreaktheheartforsinthensuchasightasthat.

Youwill say if you shouldhaveChrist tobe crucifiedagainbeforeyoureyes, if you should see the body ofChrist hangingupon theCross, andtherebeholdhimcrucified,andhearingofhimcryout,myGod,myGod,whyhastthouforsakenme,youwouldthinkifyourheartsdidnotbreakforsinthen,thattheyweredesperatelyhard;knoweverytimethatthouhastcometoreceive thesacrament, thouhastcometoseesucha fight,anditisasgreatanaggravationofthehardnessofthyheartifithathnotbrokenatthissight,asitwouldbeifitshouldnotbreakatthatfight;WereadinGal.3ofPaul'sspeakingofthepreachingoftheGospel,hesaiththatChristwascrucifiedbeforethosethatdidheartheword;and,foolishGalatians,whohathbewitchedyou, thatyoushouldnotobey the truth,before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucifiedamong you?hedothnotmean thatChristwas crucified inGalatia, butthat where the word was preached he was evidently set forth, andcrucifiedamong them;butnowmybrethren, thecrucifyingofChrist intheword,isnotsuchareal,evident,andsensiblesettingforthofChristcrucified, aswhen he is set forth in this sacrament, and tis thatwhichworkswithmoreefficacytobreaktheheart,thenthatothersight;andthereasonthatIgiveisthis.

BecauseyoudoneverfindthatGoddidsetthatapartasanordinance,aninstitutionappointedtothatendthattheyshouldcometolookuponthatforthebreakingoftheirhearts;therewasindeedanaturalnessinit,thatiftheydidbeholdChrist,itmightbreaktheirhearts,butitwasnotsuchan ordinance, it was not a sacrament as this is; now this being in asacramentalwayintheuseofanordinanceappointedbyJesusChristtosetforthhissufferings,andalltherichesofthecovenantofgracetothesoul, there may be expected here a further blessing then in the other,thoughitstrue,theothermightworkmightilyupontheheart;butyetthisbeing a great ordinance of Christ in the church, a great institution ofJesusChrist, for thesettingoutofhis sufferings, ithathamorespecialblessing that goes alongwith it; everyordinancehathapromise, andamore specialblessing thenanyother thing that isnot anordinance.SowhenyoucomeheretobeholdChristcrucifiedbeforeyou,youcannotseeChristnaturallycrucifiedasupontheCross:butyouhaveChristcrucifiedbeforeyouinthewayofasacrament,inthewayofasolemninstitutionofJesus Christ, that hath a special blessing which goes along with it;

therefore if theheartbenotbrokenhere, there isanaggravationof thehardnessof theheartasgreatas ifweshouldbeholdJesusChristupontheCross andourheartsnot broken there; and indeed this is a specialreasonwhythosearesaidtobeguiltyofthebodyandbloodofChristthatreceiveunworthily;asifamanhadbeenthenalive,andhadbeenbeforetheCross,andtherehaveseenhowthebloodofJesusChristwasshedforsin,andshouldnothavebeenaffectedwithit,butshouldhaveaccounteditasacommonthing;thismaninsomeregardmighthavebeensaidtobeguiltyofhisdeath;thatis,tohavejoinedandconsentedwiththosethatdid crucify him; for if a man sees another commit a sin, if he be notaffectedwith thatsin,and itdoesnotstirhisheart,hemaycometobepartakerofhissin;sothosethatshallcometoseeJesusChristcrucified,andhavenottheirheartsatallstirredwiththecrucifyingofChrist,theyareinsomeregardtrulysaidtobeguiltyofthebodyandbloodofJesusChrist;andthat'sthesecondthing,brokennessofSpiritissuitabletothelightofabrokenChrist.

ThethirdthingthatisheretobedoneinthesanctifyingofGod'sname,isthepurgingandcleansingoftheheartfromsin;anactualcleansingandpurgingtheheartfromsinthereoughttobe.TheJewsintheirPassoverweretocastoutallleaven,andthosethatwriteofthecustomoftheJews,say that they were wont to do three things in the casting out of theirleven.

Theymade diligent search for leaven; they lighted candles to look intoeverycornerleastthereshouldbeanybitofleavenleftinthehouse.

Whentheyfoundittheycastitout.

They used an execration, they did curse themselves if they shouldwillinglykeepanyleaveninthehouse.

Somybrethren,whenwecometopartakeof thisholyordinance, thereshouldbeadiligentinquisitionforsin,forsininScriptureiscomparedtoleaven; thou shouldest make a diligent search what sin there is in thyheart,inanyofthefacultiesofthysoul,whatsinthereisinthythoughts,in thy conscience, in thy understanding, in thy will, in any of thyaffections, what sin there hath been in thy life, what family sins, what

personalsins.Thoushouldestmakeadiligentsearchtoseewhithertherebenotsomeleaven,someevilinthyheart;andwhateversinthoushaltcometofindoutinthyheart,theremustbeacastingofitout;thatis,thysoul must be set against it to oppose it with all thy might; whateverbeloved sin, whatever gainful sin, whatsoever become of thee, thy soulmustrenouncethatsinofthine;yeaandinakindofexecrationofthyself;thats thus, Lord, as ever I expect to receive any goodby this body andbloodofChrist,thatIcomenowtoreceive,soLord,hereIprofessagainsteverysinthatIhavefoundout inmyheart;Idesiretofindoutall,andprofessagainstall,andrenounceall,andwoulddototheuttermostthatIamablefordeliveringofmysoulfully,fromeveryknownorbelovedsin;ohthattheremightnotbeanyremaininginmyheart; thismustbethedispositionof thesoulcominghither,and itmustneedsbe thusorelsewe cannot sanctifyGod's name, because there is nothingmore suitablethen this disposition unto the receiving of the sacrament; forwe comeheretoprofessthatwedoacknowledgethatsindidcostsomuchasitdid,thatitcostthebloodoftheSonofGod;nowthiscannotchoosebutcausethe heart to renounce sin; If indeed I do believe that sin hath cost theblood of Christ, that it cost him so dear as it did, that it did troubleheaven and earth, that theremust be such amighty wonderful way ofsatisfactiontoGodformysincommittedagainsthim,certainlysinhathadreadfulevilinit;oh,letmeneverhavetodowithsuchsinthatwasthecauseofsuchsufferingstomySaviour, thatdidshedhisblood.Ifsobethatthousawestaknifethathadcutthethroatofthydearestchild,wouldnot thyheart rise against thatknife?Supposeyou come toa table, andthereisaknifelaidatyourtrencher,anditwastoldyou,thisistheknifethatcutthethroatofyourchild,orFather,ifyoucouldusethatknifeasanother knife, would not any one say, therewas but little love to yourfatherorchild?Sowhenthereisatemptationcomestoanysin,thisistheknife that cut the throat of Christ, that pierced his sides, that was thecauseof allhis sufferings, thatmadeChrist tobea curse;nowwiltnotthoulookuponthatasacursedthing,thatmadeChristtobeacurse;ohwithwhat detestationwould aman orwoman fling away such a knife!andwiththelikedetestationitisrequiredthatthoushouldestrenouncesin, for that was the cause of the death of Christ; I remember it isreported of Anthony when Caesar was slain, he comes to stir up thepeopleagainstthosethathadslainCaesar,andhetakestheclothesthat

were bloody and holds them forth to the people, and saith, here is thebloodof yourEmperor, andupon that thepeoplewereenragedagainstthose thathad slainhim,andwentandpulleddown theirhousesuponthem; so when thou comest to this sacrament, thou seest the blood ofChristgushingout,andforthysin,ifeverthysinbepardoned;eitherthysoulmustbeeternallydamnedforthysin,orelsethysincostthegushingoutofthebloodofChrist;nowwhenthouseestthis;thisshouldcauseaholyrageinthysoulagainstsinthatcausedthis,surelytheputtingawaysin, the risings of the heart against sin must needs be a dispositionsuitable to such an ordinance as this is. And that's the third thingrequiredinthesanctifyingofGod'snameinthisordinance,thepurgingoutofsin,andrisingoftheheartagainstit.

ThefourththingthatistobedoneforthesanctifyingofGod'snamehere,itisthehungeringandthirstingofthesoulafterJesusChrist;whosoevercomeshither,hecomestoafeast,andtheLordexpectsthatallhisguestsshould come with stomachs unto this feast, come with hungering andlongingforJesusChrist;thisshouldbethedispositionofthesoul,ohthatmysoulmightenjoycommunionwithJesusChrist;now,thisistheendthatIamcomefor;oh, theLord: thatknowstheworkingsofmyheart,knows that this is the great desire of my soul, that I might enjoycommunionwithJesusChrist;ohthatImighthavemoreofChrist,thatImight meet with Christ, that I might have some further manifestationwithJesusChrist, that Imighthavemysoul furtherunited to theLordChrist, and sohave further influence ofChrist tomy soul; I comewiththirstingaftertheLordChristknowingmyinfiniteneedofhim,andtheinfiniteexcellencythatthereisinJesusChrist;mysouldothfamishandperish foreverwithoutChrist; but in the enjoyment ofChrist there is afullnessforthesatisfyingofmysoul;thatIhavehadofChristsometimesintheword,andsometimesinprayer,thathathbeensweetuntome,butI expect a further communion of Christ here, for this is the grandordinance for communion with Jesus Christ; in deed the word in thisrespectitisbeyondthisordinance,thatis,itisnotonlyfortheincreaseofgrace,butforthebegetting;thisisonlyfortheincreaseofgraceandnotappointed for the begetting; now in that respect theword is above thesacrament; but now this sacrament is a more full ordinance forcommunionwithJesusChrist,thisisthecommunionofthebodyofJesus

Christ,andofhisblood,andtherefore thereought tobehungeringandthirsting desires of the soul after JesusChrist, therefore youmust takeheedyoudonotcomewithyourstomachsfulloftrash,aschildrenwhenthey can get plums and pears and fill their stomachswith them,whentheycometoyourtables,thoughtherebeneversomuchwholesomediet,theyhavenomindatalltoit;soitiswithmenoftheworld,theyfilltheirheartswiththetrashofthisworld,andwithsensualdelights,andhenceitis thatwhen they come to such a great ordinance to enjoy communionwithJesusChrist, that then they feelnowantatallofChrist,only theycomeandtakea littlepieceofbreadandadraughtofwine,but foranystrongpausingdesirestomeetwithJesusChristthereintheordinance,tocomesoas theyknownothow to livewithoutChrist, evenasamanthatisanhungeredcannotlivewithouthismeatanddrink,andsoforthesoultohavesuchadispositionafterChrist,thisisararething;butknowthatGod'snameisnotsanctified,unlessthoudoestcomeinsuchawayunto this holy sacrament; that's the fourth thing, hungry and thirstydesires after Christ, from a deep sense of the need of him, and theapprehensionoftheexcellencyinhim.

Inthefifthplace,theremustbeanexerciseoffaithforthesanctifyingofGod's name here; faith, that is both the hand and the mouth for thetakingofthisspiritualmeat,andspiritualdrink;whenthoucomesttothefeastoftheLord,faithfirstistheeye,andthenthehandandmouth;itistheeyeofthesoultogivearealsightofwhatthere ishere,youarenotabletodiscernthebodyoftheLordbutbytheeyeoffaith;ifthoucomestonlywithbodilyeyestolookuponwhatishere,thouseestnothingbutalittle bread andwine;But nowwhere the eye of faith is, there is a realappearanceofJesusChrist to thesoul,as ifChristwerebodilypresent,andweneednothavethebreadturnedintohisbody;forfaithcanseethebodyofChristthroughthebread,andthebodyofChristgushinginthewine. And it is amighty thing to have Christ and such spiritual thingsmaderealandnottobeafancy.Ifonelookuponthefirethatispainted,onecannotheatoneself incoldweatherwith that,but fire that is reallyburning upon the hearth; so those that come to receive the sacrament,andnotcomewithfaith,thathaveonlytheeyeoftheirbodies,theyonlyseeasitwereapaintedChrist,theydonotseeChristreally:hisbodyandbloodand thosegreatmysteriesof theGospelarenotpresentedasreal

thingsto theirsouls;andhence it is that theygoawayandgetnothing;but now when the soul comes with the eye of faith, the soul sees thewonderfulthingsofGod,itisthemostglorioussightintheworld;allthegloryofGodintheheavensandearthisnotlikethissightofJesusChristand the mysteries of the Gospel that do appeared to the eye of faith;thereforeyoumaybythisknowwhetheryouhavecomewithfaithornotothesacrament;whetheryouhaveseenthemostglorioussightthateveryour eyesdidbehold, alas,with ournatural eyes,webehold aministercomingwithapieceofbreadandalittlewine:butwhentheeyeoffaithisopened, thenwe behold the glorious things of the Gospel;many timeswhenyou come tohear theword, yourhearts burnwithin you, as theythatwenttoEmmaus;butwhenyouarebreakingbread,theeyeoffaiththat must look upon Jesus Christ; and in this sense, those that havepiercedChristmustlookuponhim;thatScriptureisfulfilledinZach.12.latterend,theyshall lookonhimwhomtheyhavepiercedbytheirsins,and thenmourn and lament; this eye of faithwill causemourning andlamentingforsin.

Andthenasfaithistheeyetomakewhatisherereal,sofaithisthehandtotakeit;whenyoucometoafeast,youmusthavesomethingtotakethemeat toyou;sosaithChristhebrakebreadandgave it tohisdisciples;saying,takeeatthis,takeit;howshallwetakeit?byreachingoutofthehand;ifyousanctifyGod'snameinthisordinance,asyoureachoutyourhandtotakethebreadandwine,sotheremustbeanactualreachingoutof the soulby faith,putting forthanactof faith to receiveJesusChristuntothesoul,toapplytheLordJesusChristtothysoulwithallhismeritsandgoodthingsthathehathpurchased;whentheministerdothgiveoutthatordinance,youshouldlookuponGodtheFathergivingouthisSon,as if thiswere your condition. I amnow in the presence of the eternalFather,whonowdothactuallygiveoutisSontomysoul,andsaithsoul,herereceiveanew,thisdaymySonwithallthathehathpurchasedforthygood;nowthenthesoulactsuponthis,andbystirringupanactoffaith,comesandcloseswiththisgiftoftheFather,andcastsitsselfuponJesusChrist,andsaithasitwereAmentowhattheFathergives,ohLord,hereIcomeandembracethySonasmylife,asmySaviourasthefountainofallmygood,inwhomIexpectallthegoodIamliketohaveeitherhereortoall eternity; so that theremustbe a stirringupof the act of faith in an

actual taking of Christ, if thou beest a believer; canst thou rememberwhatthoudidst,whenfirstthoudidsttakeJesusChrist?whentheLordinthepreachingofhisworddidrevealedJesusChrist to thysoul,whatdidstthouthenohsoul?howdidthysoulworkinclosingwithChrist;asthysouldidtheninclosingwithChrist,soitmustnowrenewthework,theremustbearenewaloftheworkatthattime.Sothatwhenyoucometo the sacrament, youmust not think that it is then a time to listen todoubts, fears, and scruples; no, but it is a time that God calls for theexerciseoffaith,thecastingofthesouluponChrist,andhismeritsforlifeand for salvation,or else thenameofGod isnot sanctifiedas it ought;thou doest not sanctifyGod's name,when thou art busying thy soul indoubtsandscruplesinthyreceivingofthesacrament.

Andthenfaithisasthemouth;whenthoucommesttoeatanddrink,howcanstthouifthouhastnotamouth?thouhastabodilymonthtotakeinbread and wine; but know that without faith thy soul cannot take inChrist; faith isas itwere themouth; that is,by theactof faith thesouldothopen itself forJesusChrist,andnotonlyopens itself,but takes inChristtothesoul,andmakesChristandthesoulasone,asourbreadandwineismadeonewithourbody,sofaithtakesinChrist,andmakeshimasonewiththee,andturnsChristintothenourishmentofthysoul,andthouandChristbyfaitharemadeastrulyone,asthebreadandwinethatisputintothybody,ismadeonewiththybody.Thisistheworkoffaith,withoutwhichwecannotsanctifythenameofGod.

Sixthly,theremustbespiritualjoy;thatmustbeexercisedhere;foritisafeast;herewecometositwithChristathisTable,wecomeaschildrentoourFather'sTable,and tosit therewithJesusChristourelderbrother;nowasafatherdothnotlovetohavehischildsetinasullenanddoggedway at his table, or to be crying, but he would have the child set incomfort,andwithaholycheerfulnesswithaholyfreedomofspirit;notina sullenway, but as a child in the presence of his father, and not as aservantwiththemaster.

Object.Youtoldusbeforethatthereshouldbebrokennessofspiritandsenseofoursin.

Answ. That may be and joy; we rejoice with trembling; therefore that

brokennessofspiritthatImeant,mustnotbeslavishhorrorandfear,buta kindlymelting of the soul from the apprehension of the love of GoduntoitinJesusChrist,thatwaswillingtobeatsogreatcosttopurchasethepardonofsin:suchagraciousmourningasmaystandwithjoy,andthe truth is that that sorrow for sin in the sacrament that is notmixedwithjoy,isasorrowthatdothnotsanctifyGod'sname;godlysorrowandevangelical joy may stand together very well. And therefore know thatthis isnot the time;neither togive liberty tohaveyourheartssink;no,theremustbenosinkingsorrowofheart,butsuchasorrowofheartasinthemidstofit,youmaybeabletolookuponGodasareconciledFathertoyou,andhaveacheerfulnessof spiritas in themidstof it, youmustlookuponyourselvesasGod'sguest,tobemerryathisTable;nowthisisagreatmysteryofgodliness, that thereshouldbeat thesametime, thesightofChristcrucified,andyetatthesametimeaspiritualcheerfulnessintheassuranceof the loveofGodinJesusChrist. Isay it isamysteryandonlythosethatarebelieversareabletounderstandthismystery,howtohavetheirheartsbreak,andyethowtorejoiceatthesametimeinthatunspeakable love of God that is here presented unto them in thissacrament.

Seventhly, In the next place theremust be thankfulness; therefore it iscalledtheEucharist,andinoneoftheevangelistswhereitissaid,Christblestthebread,inanotheritissaid,Christgavethanks;Christwhenheinstitutedthissacrament,hegavethanks;hegavethanks; forwhat?HegavethankstoGodtheFather,thathewaspleasedtosendhimintotheworldtodieforpoorsouls;nowshallJesusChristgivethanksuntoGodtheFather for that thatdidcosthimhis life?yeasaithChrist I see thathereisawaytosavesouls;andletitcostmemylifeifitwill,yetIblesstheeOFather, if soulsmaycometobesavedthough itcostmemy life.Christ rejoiced in his Spirit in thanking his Father for this; then howshould our hearts be enlargedwith thankfulnesswhenwe come to thisthattheancientswerewonttocalltheEucharist,thatisathanksgiving?we are to give God thanks for everymercy, you will not eat your ownbreadwithoutgivingofthanks;butwhenwecometohavethisbread,thisbread of life, here is matter of thankfulness, here is matter ofengorgement of soul; thou that hast the deadest and dullest soul, andstraightest spirit, yetwhen thou comest hither andunderstandestwhat

thoudoest,herethoucanstnotbutseematterfortheenlargementofthyheart, and wish that thou hadst ten thousand thousand times morestrengthtoexpressthepraisesof theLord;here isathingthatmustbethesubjectofthehallelujahsanddoxologies,thatangelsandsaintsmustforeversoundoutinthehighestheavens;dostthouknowwhattheLordpresentstotheehere?ItismoretheniftheLordshouldsay,Iwillmaketen thousand worlds for the sake of this creature, and give all theseworlds tohim, thouwouldest thinks that thouwertbound toblesshimthen;onlywhenGodinthebreadandwine,reachesouttotheethebody&bloodofhisSon,here ismorematterofpraise, then if ten thousandthousandworldsweregiventothee,andthereforeGodexpectsthatthoushouldest say to thy soul,my soul praise thou the Lord, and all that iswithinmepraisehisholyname;blesstheLordOmysoul,andforgetnotall his benefits; who forgiveth all thine iniquities, who healeth all thydiseases; O poor soul, here is the foundation of all mercies; dost thoupraise God for justification, for sanctification? here is a gloriousapplicationof themercyofGod to thesoulsof sinners,and therefore ifeverthouwertthankfull,bethankfulhere.TheSabbathmybrethren,thatis appointed to be the set constant day of thanksgiving for the greatmerciesofGodinChrist,andthereareotherdaysfornationalmercies;now a special work of the Lord's day is the celebration of this holysacrament,and theChristians in former timeswerewont todo it everyLord'sday,becausethat'sthedayappointedbyGodfortobethedayofthanksgiving for that greatmercy, theLordJesusChrist: and that's thereasonwhy theSabbathwas changed; the last dayof theweekwas theJewishSabbath,andthatwastocelebratethememorialofthecreationoftheworld;andthefirstdaynow,itistobethedayofthanksgivingforalltheworkofGodinman'sredemption.

Eightly, a further thing is this, if you would sanctify God's name, youmustbewillingtorenewyourcovenant,that'stheendofit;theremustbean actual renewing of your covenant with God, that's thus, I come toreceive this bread and this wine, and this is to be as the seal of thecovenantonGod'spart;now thiswill be employed in thenatureof thething,thatifItakethesealsofGod'scovenant,thatImustbewillingtosettomysealtoo,torenewthecovenantthatGodcallsmeto;nowknow,allmen andwomen that are saved, they are saved by the virtue of the

covenant of grace; and there God on his part promises and makes acovenant,thathewillbestowhisSon,lifeandsalvationthroughhim;andthou must likewise come in on thy part, and believe on his Son andrepent,whichisthetenoroftheGospel;noweverytimethoucomesttoreceivethissacrament,thoucommesttorenewthiscovenant;Asifthoushouldestsay,Lord,thouhastbeenpleasedtomakeacovenantofgrace;asthefirstcovenantwasbroken,andallmenwerecastbythatcovenant,nowthouhastmadeacovenantofgrace,andcallestthyservantswhomthouintendesttosavethattheyshouldrenewtheircovenantwiththeeinthissacramentofthine;LordhereIcome;andLordhereIrenewitandsettomyseal,topromiseandcovenantwiththee,thataseverIexpecttoreceiveanygoodfromChrist,soLordhereIwillbethine,Iwillgiveupmyself for ever to thee; as thou hast given me the body and blood ofChristformysalvation,soLord,hereIconsecratemybodyandbloodtothee,thelastdropofmyheartbloodshallbegivenuptothee,andsomystrengthandestate,andname,andwhateverIamorhaveshallbethine.Haveyoudonethuswhenyouhavecometoreceivethesacrament?haveyouactually renewedyour covenantwithGod?you thathave taken thebodyofChrist,haveyougivenupyourbodytoChrist?what'sthereasonthen that you sin somuchwith yourbodies? that you abuse yourbodywithuncleanness?anddrunkenness?andotherwickednessafterwards?ohyouprofanethenameofGod;andtheverybodyandbloodofChristinthis,exceptthougivestupthybodyandsoultoGodinwayofcovenant.

Ninthly, in the last place for the sanctifying of God's name, there isrequiredarenewingoflove;thecomingwithlovelydispositionsandtherenewing of the grace of love, not only towards God, but towards ourbrethren; for it is the feast of the Lord and it is an act of communion;communion,notonlywithChrist,butwithhischurches;withhissaints;andasIhavetoldyouthatthereisaprofessionofourselvestobeofthesame body with Jesus Christ, then the Lord requires that his childrenshouldnotfalloutthatcometohisTable,butthatthereshouldbe loveandpeace; there'samightybondupon theewhen thoucommest to thesacrament; and therefore, first, all heart burnings, and heart grudges,mustbeelaidaside;andsecondlyyoumustcomewithawillingnesstobereconciled one to another, willingness to pass by all infirmities in thybrethren;hereIhavethesealofGod'swillingnesstopassbyallmysins,

andthereforeImustbewillingtopassebyallinfirmitiesinmyBrethren;Imustnowcastoutallillwishestowardsothers;andcomewithadesireofallgooduntothem;andwithaheartreadytoembraceanyopportunitytodoanygood;thoudoestlieuntoGodexceptthoucommestwithsuchaheart as this is; Lord thou knowest that I am willing to take allopportunitiestodogoodtothose,thatInowdocommunicatewith,foritisthenearestcommunionthatpossiblycanbeinthisworld,betweenonecreature and another, and this is the reasonwhy there should bee thatordinance of Christ set up everywhere, to cast out those that areunworthy,becauseitisthegreatestunionandcommunionthatpossiblycanbe,foritisthesacramentandcommunionofthesamebody;theyarethesamemembersofChristnowifthoudoestnotthinksuchaonetobeamemberofChrist,whydoestnotthouwhatthoucansttohavehimcastout?butsolongasthouhastdonenothinginprivatetohim,orintellingtheChurch,thoudoestownhimtobeamemberofJesusChrist;ifthoudoestso,takeheedhowthyheartbeestrangedfromhim,takeheedhowthoubehavestthyselftothem;takeheedhowthoulivestinajarringway,andacontentiouswaywiththem,andholdestthemoffatstavesend,orwalkingatadistancefromthem,thoughtheybeneversopoorandmean,know that thou doest profane this holy ordinance every time thoucommest to itwhen thou commestwith such a heart as this is; if thoudost not find this renewed love, Lord, there began to be a strangenessbetweenme,andthosethathavecommunicatedwithme,butLordthouart pleased to vouchsafe us to come oncemore to this ordinance, andLord here we do profess that this ordinance shall unite our heartstogethermorethenevertheywere;IwillstudytodowhatgoodpossiblyIcan to my brother; that is we join here to the feast of the Lord withcomfort, so we may live together in peace and love as it becomes thesaintsofGod,andthemembersofthebodyofJesusChrist;ohhowfararepeople fromany suchworkofGodas this is; theLord expects thatthisshouldbeinyoueverytimeyoucometotheholycommunion;herehath been nine particulars now mentioned, for the sanctifying of thename of Godwhenwe come to partake of the sacrament; but oh Lordwhat cause havewe to lay our hands upon our hearts, for if this be tosanctifythynamethenithathbeenariddle,amysterytous;certainlymybrethrenthesethingsarethetruthsofGodthatIhavedelivered,andsofarasyouhavebeenwanting,inanyofthese,knowsofaryouhavetaken

God's name in vain, in this holy ordinance, you have not been worthyreceiversof thissacrament,youhavecause to lookback toyour formerways,andspendmuchhumiliationforyoursinherein,andnottobesogreedyofitassomeare;theymusthavethecommunion,butIputittoyourconsciences,haveyourepentedyoufortheprofaningofGod'sname,and that's that thatwe should furtherhave spokenof; thatGodwill besanctified;that'sthus,ifwedonotsanctifyGod'sname,itwillquiteturnto the contrary; it is the proper end of the sacrament, to seal up oursalvation; but if we sanctify not God's name, it will seal up ourcondemnation;ifithathnotbeenthyendeavourtosanctifythenameofGod,somanytimesas thouhastreceivedthesacrament,somanysealshastthouupontheeforthesealingupofthycondemnation;manymen'sorwomen'scondemnationsaresealedwiththreeorfourhundredsealsitmaybe.

Butyetforthycomfort,whilethouartalive,itispossiblethatthesesealsmaybebrokenopen;aswereadintherevelationsthatJohnsawthebookthathad seven sealsupon it, andnonecouldbe found thatwasable toopenit;at lengththeLambthatwasslainhewasfoundworthytoopenthebook;SoIsay, thycondemnation issealedupwithmanyseals,andthereisnocreaturethatisabletocanceltheseseals,onlytheLamb,JesusChrist, yea that Christwhose blood thouhast shed, and been guilty of,onlyheisworthy;andheiswillingtoopentheseseals;forasitwaswiththosethatdidcrucifyChrist,yettheyweresavedbythesamebloodthattheyhadshed,asinActs2.sothoughthouhastbeenguiltyofsheddingthe blood of Christ again and again by thy profane coming to thesacrament,yetknow,seeingthere is life inthee,andthedayofgrace iscontinued, it is possible that thy soulmay be saved by that blood thatthouhastcrucified;Ohowmanyarecutoff,thathavethusprofanedthename of God in this sacrament, and never came to understand thisdanger!theyarecutofandnowareundoneforever;whyblessGodthatthouart alive tohearmoreabout this sacrament, andhowGod'snameshouldbesanctified;thatthouartalive,andhasttimetorepenttheeofthisgreatevil,ofprofaningthenameofGodinthisholysacrament.

SermonXIII-KeeptotheInstitutionoftheSacrament

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

There is one thingmore about the sanctifying the name of God in thesacramentwhichclearlyconcernsus:andthatis,

Tokeeptotheinstitutionofthesacrament;forthisissuchaworshipofGod, as dependsmerely upon institution; that is, upon a positive Law,uponthewillofGod;therearesomedutiesofworshipwhicharenatural,that wemay know by the light of nature they are due to God: but thesacramentisadutyofworshipthatisonlybyinstitution;andifGodhadnotrevealedit,wehadnotbeenboundtoit;thereforeinthesedutiesofinstitution,Godstandsverypunctualuponthem;wemustbeveryexact,neithertoerrontherighthandnortheleft;tomakeanyalterationinthepointsof institution;Nowthereforefortheinstitutionofthissacramentwefinditindiversoftheevangelist;inMatth.2626thereyoushallfindthatChristandhisdisciplestheyeatthesacramenttogether;andthiswasthewayof it; theyweretogethersittingatthesametable;so it iscalledthe Table of the Lord sometimes in Scripture; therefore that's the firstthingthatisaccordingtotheinstitution,thatthosethatdocommunicatemustcometotheTableasnearastheycan;asmanyascansetaboutit,and all to come as near as they can, and the reason is, because thatotherwiseyouwillnotbeabletoattaintheendwhyGodwouldhaveyoucometoreceive;theendistorememberthedeathofChrist;nowexceptyoubeabletoseethesight,toseewhatisdone,tohaveyoureyeaswellas your ear exercised, you do not fully accomplish the end that isappointed;forthisisasacrament,thatdothpresenttooureyesthedeathof Christ, and the great mysteries of salvation, and therefore it isaccording to the institution, that every communicantmustbewherehemaybeholdwhat isdone,hemustbewherehemayseethebreakingofthe bread, and the pouring forth of the wine; certainly it hath been a

disorderly way therefore for people to set up and down in their pewseverywhereinthecongregation;andfortheministertogoupanddownafterthem;sothattheycouldseenothing,norscarcehearanything;itismuchfortheattainingtotheendoftheinstitutionforallcommunicantstolookuponthebreakingofthebread,andthepouringforthofthewinein the sacrament; and therefore all should come together; and there asmany as can sit at his Table, or those that cannot, near to it; and theratherbecausethisisnotonlyfromtheexampleofChrist,thathedidso,thoughthat'ssomewhat;butbecauseithathaspiritualsignificanceinit,andthatsthereasonthat itshouldbedone;wefindinLuke22.26.theinstitutionofthesacrament;nowmarkupontheircomingandbeingwithChrist,attheTable,saithChristinthe29.and30.verses,andIappointuntoyouaKingdomasmyfatherhathappointeduntome,thatyoumayeatanddrinkatmyTableinmyKingdom,andsitonthronesjudgingthetwelve tribes of Israel; he spoke it upon that occasion of the disciplessittingwithhimatthetable;whentheydideatbread,andwhentheytookthe cup; upon that occasion Christ spoke to his disciples, and said IappointtoyouaKingdom,andsositonthronesjudgingatmyTableinmyKingdom,andsositonthronesjudgingthetwelvetribesofIsrael;asifChristshouldsay,youcansitwithmeatmyTablehere;andknowthatthis sitting with me at my Table it is but as it were a preludium, aforesignification of the communion that you shall have withme inmyKingdom:youshallhavethatfamiliarcommunionwithmewhenIcomeuntomyKingdom,theretositasitwerewithme,tojoinwithmeinmyKingdomjudgingthetwelvetribesofIsrael:evenasyoudonowinthatholyfellowshipjoinwithmeinsittingatmytable;thisisthemeaningofChrist, so that the gesture in the sacrament is not a mere indifferentthing;heretoforeithathbeenthoughtunreasonabletocontendforwhatgestureweshoulduse.

Now that that hath been the institution of Christ, and hath a spiritualsignificanceinit,isnotindifferent;fornotonlytheeatingthebreadanddrinking the wine is significative, but the gesture whereby we havefellowshipwithJesusChristhere,tosignifythatfellowshipweshallhavewith him in the Kingdom of Heaven; so that the people of God weredeprivedofagreatdealofcomfort,andofonespecialbenefitofthisholysacrament,whereastheymightnotreceiveitfitting;whereasChristsaith

that your sittingwithmehere is a signification of your sittingwithmewhen I come into the Kingdom of Heaven; some say they must kneelbecausetheymayreceiveitwithmorereverence;certainlywereitathingas some say indifferent, itwere anothermatter; but for to say it is notreverencetosit,inthattheyaccuseChristhimselfforwantofreverence,as if hewould appoint away, orwouldhavehis disciplesuse any suchway aswere not reverent; saithChrist I intend by your very gesture tohave this signifiedunto you, that thoughyoubepoorwretchedworms,yetevensuchismylovetoyou,asyoushallsitwithmewhenIcometomyKingdom, and judge the twelve tribes of Israel; and every time youcometomytable,andtheresitatit,oraboutit,thenyoushouldbeputinmind that there isa time, that thoughyoubepoorunworthycreatures,worthytobeamongthedogs,yetthemercyofGodissuchuntous,ashehathappointedustohaveafamiliarfellowshipwiththeLordJesusChristwhen we come in his Kingdom to sit with him, and even to judge thetwelve tribes of Israel, yea to judge the whole world; for so saith theScripture,shallnotthesaintsjudgetheworld?nowthishindersspiritualmeditationandcomfort,thatthesaintshave;thereforewearetolooktotheinstitutionandtofollowit;thatsthefirstthinginsettingwithChristathisTable.

Thesecondthing inthe institutionis, thatthebreadbeingtakenbytheminister is tobeblessed, broken, and then tobee given;Christ took it,andblessedit,andbrakeit,andgaveit:andthepeopletheyaretolookuponall this: to lookupontheministers taking,blessing,breaking,andgiving;andthenthecupbyitsself,wefindChristinMatth.2627hefirstblestthebread,andthenheblestthecupdistinctlybyitsselfsaying,thisis my blood of the New Testament which is shed for many, for theremissionof sins; andyou shall observe that the text saithhedrank it,andsaid,drinkyeallofit;sothatthisisnotaccordingtotheinstitutionforaminister togoupanddown,andtogive it intoeveryman'shand;certainly thiswasnotso fromthebeginning; this isawayofmansowndevising;forthebreadandthecuptobegivenintoeverybodieshandbytheminister:Christdidbutgiveitonce,hegaveittothemall,andsaid,drinkyeallofthis,soitwasdone.

Quest.Butyouwillsay,isitnotbetterforittobegivenintoeveryone's

hand?

Answ.No,becausethatthegivingofitonceforall,dothsignifymorefullythe fellowship and communion that they have together; as at a table itwere a strange thing that every bit ofmeatmust be given to every oneparticularly;no,butthedishesmustbeesetbeforethemandtheymusttakeitthemselves:Indeed,iftheybechildrenyoucuteverypieceofmeat,andgiveitintotheirhandsormouths;butthatssuitabletoafellowshipatTable,andcommunion,tohavethemeatsetbeforethem,beingblest,andthenforalltopartakeofit.

Andbesidesthis,giving it intoeveryoneshand,certainly, itcametousfromaPopishandsuperstitiousconceitofthePapists;forthePapistswillgiveitintotheirmouths,becausethepeoplemustnotdefileitwiththeirhands.Anditwastobringmorereverencetothesacrament;nowthere'sa great deal of danger, for to bring inmen's devices for to causemorereverence;wearetolooktotheordinanceofChrist,hegaveitonce,andsaid,drinkyeofit,ingeneraltothemall;andsotheministersshoulddo.

Andbesidesthereisthisinitmore,andonewouldwonderthatministersshouldgiveit inparticularandnot ingeneraltotheChurch:forbythismeans ministers might abundantly ease themselves of a great deal ofcharge and guilt; for upon this ground it will appear, that a minister,thoughasaneminentofficerheistolooktohiscongregationthattheybefit, yet the truth is, it concerns the Church as well to look who comesthere,andlikewisetheministerIsay,tolookabouthimthathedothnotsay,ThebodyoftheLordJesusChristwasgiventothee,whenheknowstheyareprofaneandwicked;itconcernstheministertolookthathedothnottellalie;butnowwhentheministergivesitgenerallytotheChurch,take,eat,andtakedrink,hegivesitparticularlytonobody;Nowthenhischarge is divided to the Church, and if there be any body that isunworthy,lettheChurchlooktoitaswellashe:thoughheasaneminentofficer, its more especially in particular his duty then any others;heretoforethechargewouldliemuchupontheminister,buttheministeraccording to the institution,shouldgive thesacrament tonoparticular;but in general to the Church, and therefore if there were but anyparticular,thattheministeruponaparticularknowledgedidknowtobenaught, hemight in great part discharge himself, as professing against

thisor thatparticularman; for it isnot inhispoweralone tokeepanyfrom the sacrament, but if so be that he shall profess against such andsuchmen, theChurchmust joinwithhim to labour tokeep them fromthesacrament,andthatisthenextthingfortheinstitution,Christgaveitnot intoanyparticularmenshands;buthegave it toall, saying,drink,andeatyeallofit.

Athirdthingthatistobeobservedfortheinstitutionofthis;thatallthewhile the communicantsare taking, eating, anddrinking thebreadandwine; they should all of them that while have their thoughts exercisedabout the death of Jesus Christ; for thats the institution; do this inremembranceofme;thereshouldbenoactionintermingled,inthetimeofthereceivingofthesacrament;nothingbutmindingtheworkthatyouareabout,thatis,torememberthedeathofJesusChrist;andtodiscernthebodyof theLord,notonlywhenyou takeyourselves thebreadandwine;butwhenyouseethebreadandwine,brokenorpoweredforth,andyou seeothers taking thebreadandwine, all thatwhile, you shouldbethinking of the death of Christ, and discerning the Lords body; andconsiderwhat theseoutwardelementsdo signify, and that theydo sealthegreatbenefitofthecovenantofgrace;thereforeitisnotaccordingtothe institution, to be singing of Psalms in the mean time while thesacramentisreceivingandsotohaveyourthoughtsaboutotherthings:singingofPsalmsin itsduetimeisagoodthing;but foryoutodo itatthattimewhenasthedeathofChristispresentedbeforeyou,andChristcallsyoutolookuponhisbody,andtothinkuponwhathehathdoneandsuffered; this is no seasonable time of singing; and if you read theinstitution,youshall find, thatChrist,afterallwasdone(thetextsaith)they sung an hymn; so that according to the institution, it is after theactionisdoneofeatinganddrinking,thenfortheChurchtojointogetherandsingaPsalminthepraiseofGod;andthentheymustmindall thesamethingtogether;forthat'sthethingtobedoneinthesacrament;thatlookwhatonedothallmustmindtogether;forwhenonepartsings,andtheother arewaiting for thebreadandwine, this isnot suitable to theholyTableaction,andthatcommunionthatGodrequiresofus; thoughthe things in themselvesarebothgood thataredoing;yetwhenweareaboutthisholyordinance,beingitisanordinanceforcommunion,allaretobedoingthesamethingatthesametime;andsowhenallhavedone

eatinganddrinking,thenforalltojointogetherinsingingtothepraiseofGod.

Nowitmaybe,thisatfirstseemsstrangetomany;yetcertainlyobservethis; do but keep to the institution in the sacrament, though youmaythink it a more mean way, yet you will find a greater beauty in thisordinance,theneveryoufoundinallyourlives;forthemorewekeeptoChrist's institutionandminglenothingofourown, themoreglory,andbeauty,andexcellencydothappearintheordinancesofJesusChrist;butwhenanymanshallmixanyofhisowninventions,thoughhemaydoitto a good end, and think to add to and put a greater lustre upon thesacrament: the truth is, that which he thinks to be a greater lustre,reverence, or honour put upon it, it doth rather take off the lustre andgloryofthesacrament;thenaretheinstitutionsofChristgloriouswhenthere is nomixture among them; thus we should sanctify the name ofGod, in receiving this holy sacrament; you have had divers thingspropoundedtoyouwherebyyoumaycometoknowandeasilytoseethattherehathbeenagreatdealofdishonordonetothissacrament,andthebeautyandgloryofithathbeendarkened,andthesweetthatthesaintsmight otherwise have received in plucking hath been exceedinglyhindered.ThereisbutonethingmorethatIshallpropoundtoyou,andthatistheseveralmeditationsthatweshouldmeditateoninreceivingofthesacrament;themostconcerningmeditationsaresuggestedintheholycommunion that are in any thing whatsoever, more concerning, moreefficacious,morevariousmeditationswehavesuggestedherethaninanything,anditisagreatsignthatmenandwomendonotdiscerntheLord'sBody, if so be theirmeditations be barren at that time. Iwill thereforesuggest some nine or tenmeditations that that ordinance of God mayhold out very plainly and familiarly to every communicant, for thebusyingoftheirthoughtsallthetimethatactionisadoing.

Meditation 1. As first, that the way of man's salvation it was by amediator,itisnotonlybyGod'smercy,God'ssayingthatheisoffendedby sin, but he will be content to pass it by; no, but it is through amediator; now thismeditation is suggested thus, when I see the breadandwine,ifIdiscernwhatthatsignifiesitwillholdforththistome,thattheway ofman's salvation, it is notmerely fromhence thatGod saith,

well,Iwillpardonthem,andnomore,butthereisrequiredagreatworkof God to make an atonement, between sinners and himself; thissacrament doth hold forth thusmuch unto us; wherefore else havewebreadandwine,buttosignifythatthewayofourreconciliationitmustbethroughamediator?

Med. 2. The second meditation is this, that this mediator that standsbetweenGodandus, is verily and trulyman;hehath takenournatureuponhim;thebreadthatputsusinmindofthebodyofChrist,andthewineofhisblood,andthereforewearetomeditateofthehumannatureofJesusChrist;andthisisameditationthathathabundancethatmightspringoutof it;whathath theSonofGod takenournatureuponhim?hathhebodyandbloodandhumannatureuponhim?ohhowhathGodhonoured human nature? then let me not abuse my body to lust, towickedness, seeing that Jesus Christ hath taken the body ofman uponhim, human nature upon him, letme honour human nature that is sonearlyunitedtothedivinenature;that'sthesecondmeditation.

Meditation.3.Here'spresenteduntouswhatthismediatorhathdoneforthe reconciling of us unto God, that his body was broken; he hathsubjectedhimselftothebreakingofhisbody,andtothepouringforthofhisblood for thereconcilingofus; it isnotmerely (asbefore) thatGodsaith,I'llpardonthem;butChristundertakingtomakepeacebetweenhisFatherandus,itcosthimthebreakingofhisbody,andthepouringforthofhisblood;thisisausefulmeditation;Ohwhatshouldwebewillingtosuffer for Jesus Christ in our bodies, even to resist unto blood, seeingChristhathbeencontenttohavehispreciousbodybroken,andhisbloodshedforus!

Meditation4.Again,afourthmeditationisthis,thatherewecometoseewehaveoccasionofmeditatingofthattheScripturesaith,thatwearebythebloodofGodsaved,itisthebloodofGod,theycrucifiedtheLordofglory, that's the Scripture phrase;we should considerwhenwe see thewinepouredout, and soput inmindofblood,whosebloodandwhosebodyisthis;It isnootherbutthebodyandbloodofhimthatwastrulyGod,thesecondPersoninTrinity.ThisisthegreatmysteryoftheGospel,and this is very needful for us to be thinking ofwhenwe see the bodybrokenandthebloodpouredout:Whatwillthebreakingofthebodyand

shedding of the blood of a mere creature be sufficient to make peacebetween God andman? surely no; therefore youmustmeditate whosebodythisis,andwhosebloodthisis,itisthebodyandbloodofhimthatwasGod;It'strue,Godhathnobodynornoblood,butthesamepersonthatwasGod,hadabodyandblood;thatbodyandbloodwasuniteduntothedivinenatureinahypostaticunion,andfromthenceitcametohaveanefficacyfortosatisfyGod,fortoreconcileGodandustogether,thisisthegreatmysteryofgodliness.

Med.5.Anothermeditationisthis,whenyouseebreadbrokenandwinepoured out, oh the infinite dreadfulness of the justice of God! howdreadful is the justice of God, that coming upon his own Son, andrequiring satisfaction fromhim, that should thusbreakhimandbruisehim,thatshouldhavehisblood,thatshouldrequiresuchsufferingsevenfrom his Son! Dreadful is God's justice, the justice of God, it is to befearedandtobetrembledat;hereweseewhatisrequiredforthesinofman,andnothingwouldbebatedtoJesusChristhimself.

Med.6.Anothermeditationisthis,hereIseepresentedtomewhateverysoulthatshallbesavedcost;whoevershallhavehissoulsavedhehathitsavedbyaransom,byapricepaidthatismoreworththententhousandthousand worlds; thou slightest thine own soul; but if it prove to besaved,itcostmorethenifthousandsofworldshadbeengivenforthee;eventhesheddingof thebloodofChrist,everydropofwhichwasmorepreciousthententhousandworlds.

Meditation7.Again,fromhenceseewhatistheevilofsin,howgreatitisthathathmadesuchabreachbetweenGodandmysoul,thatonlysuchaway,andsuchameansmust takeawaymysin; Imusteitherhave lainundertheburdenofmysineternally,orJesusChristthat'sGodandmanmustsuffersomuchforit;oh,whatmeditationsarethesetotakeuptheheartsofmen!

Meditation8.BeholdtheinfiniteloveofGodtomankind,andtheloveofJesus Christ, that rather then God would see the children of men toperisheternally,hewouldsendhisSontotakeournatureuponhim,andthus tosuffer suchdreadful things;hereinGodshowshis love; it isnottheloveofGodsomuchingivingyouagoodvoyage,andprosperingyou

outwardlyintheworld;But,soGodlovedtheworldthathegavehisonlybegottenSon;AnditpleasedtheFathertobreakhisSon,andtopourouthis blood, here is the love of God and of Jesus Christ; oh, what apowerful,mighty,drawing,efficaciousmeditationshouldthisbeuntous!

Med.9.Thosethatarebelieverstheyshallbenourishedtoeternallife,sothat there isno fear thateverabeliever shouldquite falloff fromGod,anddie inhis sin;Why?Because thebodyandbloodofChrist is givenunto him for his spiritual nourishment: though a believer be never soweak,yet seeingGodhathappointed thebodyandbloodofhisSon forhimtofeeduponandtodrinkinaspiritualway,surelythentheweakestin the world will be strengthened to go through all the hazards, anddangersthatthereareintheworld;tisthisthatstrengthensbelieverstoencounter with all kind of dangers, its this that preserves the weakestgraceinabeliever,namelythespiritualnourishmentthatGodtheFatherhath appointed to them, even the feeding upon the body, and drinkingtheverybloodofhisSon;thisismeatindeed,anddrinkindeedthatwillnourishtoeternallife.

Med. 10. the lastmeditation is this,when you come to this, seeing thebreadbroken,andthewinepouredout,youhaveanoccasiontomeditateof thewholeNewCovenant, the covenantof grace thatGodhathmadewith sinners; for so thewords of institution are, This is the cup of theNew Testament: the New Testament which is all one with the NewCovenant,onlydifferentinthisparticular;itcontainsthesubstanceoftheNewCovenant,butcalledtestamentinthisregard;toshowthattheLorddothdoall intheNewCovenant,thatis,hedothnotonlypromisesuchandsuchmerciesuponconditionofourbelievingandrepenting,buthedothwork believing and repenting, andworks grace, and therefore thesamethingthatissometimescalledacovenant,iscalledatestament;thatisthewillofGodwhereintheLorddothbequeathhisrichlegaciestohischildren,tothosethatshallbeeternallysaved,sothatallthegoodthingsinthecovenantofgracetheyarebequeathedbywayoftestamentaswellascovenant,andthisisamightycomfortablemeditationtothesaints;forindeed when they look upon the way of the Gospel as in a way ofCovenant,whythentheythinkthis,thisrequiressomewhatofourpartstobedone,andindeedGodwillkeepcovenantonhispart,butitmaybe

weshallnotkeepcovenantonours,andsowemayfailat last;butnowwhenthoulookestuponallthegoodthingsintheGospeldispensedintheway of a testament, that is the will of God, the legacies that God dothbequeathtohisservants,thisisamightycomforttothesoul,thatallthepreciousthingsoftheGospelcometomeinthewayofaTestament,andthat's themeaningof thenewTestament, that is, themerciesofGod inChrist comingnow in thewayof another administration, then theydidbefore; tis not only new in respect of the covenant of works that Godmade with Adam, but new in respect of the administration; ourforefathers, the patriarchs, they had the same thing in substance, butadministered inadarkerway,andmanydifferences thereare;butnowwhenwehearof theNewTestament, there ispresenteduntousall theriches of the covenant of grace in the way of a legacy and in theadministration of itwith clearness, andwith a great deal ofmercy andgoodness of God, the terror and harshness of the old administrationbeing taken away. Now these are themeditations, by whichwe shouldlabour to sanctify our hearts, when we are receiving of the sacrament;andintheworkingofthesemeditationsuponourhearts;weshallcometo sanctify the name ofGod,whenwe are drawing nigh to him in thatholyordinanceofhis;thusformeditation.

The next thing when we are there,must be an actuating of these holydispositions that before we spoke of; tis not enough for a Christian tobringgracetothesacrament:buttheremustbeastirringofthatgraceatthattime;orotherwisethenameofGodisnotsanctifiedinthereceivingofthesacrament,andaboveallgracestheactuatingofthegraceoffaith;tisnot enough that thoubeest abeliever,but thy faithmust act at thatveryinstant,asthus.

First,whenthouhearesttheministerinthenameofChristsaythus,thisis the body of Jesus Christ which was given for you, take, eat, thoushouldesthavethyfaithsoactinguponthemercyofGod,ingivingJesusChrist,forthenourishmentofthysoultoeternallife,asifthoudidstheara voice from heaven saying, here is the body ofmy Son given for theeparticularly,takeitandeat,applyittothee,andsomakeChristonewiththeebyfaith,asthebreadismadeonewiththybodywhenthoudoesteatit.

Andthenwhenthoucommesttotakeholdofthebread,thouarttoputforth an act of faith, faith being as the hand of the soul, and at thatinstant,whenthoutakestthebreadandputtestitintothymouthtoeat,thoushouldeststiruptheactoffaithafresh,layingmoreholduponJesusChrist; lookasonce thoudidst in thy first conversion,whenChristwaspresented to thee in theword or in any otherway, therewas an act offaithdrawn forthwhereby thy souldid cast it self, and roll it selfuponJesusChrist; so shouldest thou renew it; renew the samework of faiththat thoudidst find in thyvery first conversion;and thereby thoushaltcometohaverenewedcomfortintherenewingofthatact;Imightnametheeothergracesanddispositions;howthereshouldbeastirringandanactingof them;onlyrememberI leaveall thispointwith thisnote, thatgrace is not enough for partaking the sacrament of the Lord's supper,except there be an actuating, and a stirring up of that grace; manyChristiansarecarefultoprepare,andexaminebeforewhethertheyhavegraceorno;butatthattimewhentheycometoreceive,thenthereisnota livelyworkingandstirringof thatgrace,andso theycometo lose thecomfort&benefitofthatordinance.ThusmuchshallsufficeforthispointofsanctifyingGod'snameinreceivingtheholycommunion;Ishallnowcometothelastpoint,whichisthesanctifyingthenameofGodinprayer.

SanctifyingtheNameofGodinPrayer.

Nowthisargumentmighttakeusupmanysermons;butuponoccasionofthedaysofprayerandhumiliation,Ihavepreacheddiverssermonsaboutthe point of prayer; therefore I shall be brief, and only now reckon uptogether,andsetbeforeyourview,theseveralthingsthataretobeedoneforthesanctifyingofthenameofGodinprayer.First,forprayerinthatwedrawnightoGod,anditsadutyofGod'sworship,thatIsupposeallofyoucannotbutacknowledge;andthatitisanaturaldutyofworship;theother was instituted, but this is natural; its natural for the creature todrawnightoGodinprayer,whereinthecreaturetendersuphishomagetoGod,andmanifestshisprofessionofhisdependanceuponGodforallgood that he hath, and acknowledges God as the Author of all good,thereforethisisworship,anditsagreatpartofworship,prayeritissuchapartofworshipassometimesinScriptureitsputforthewholeworshipofGod,HethatcallsuponthenameofGodshallbesaved,thatis,hethat

worships God aright, Jerem. 10 25 and, Pour out thy wrath upon theheathen that know thee not, and on the families that call not on thyname,thatdonotpray,thatis,thatdonotworshipthee;thereonepartofworshipisputforthewhole,asbeingaprincipalpartoftheworshipofGod.

SurelywemustsanctifyGod'snameinprayer,foritisthatthatsanctifiesallthingstous;1Tim.45everythingissanctifiedbythewordofGodandprayer;AndiftheargumentofChristwasright,asnoquestionbutitwas,that the templewasgreater thenthegolduponthe temple,because thetempledidsanctifythegold;andthealtarwasgreaterthentheofferingthatwasoffereduponit,becauseitdidsanctifytheoffering;thenprayermustneedsbeamightygreatordinance;agreaterthingthenanyother;becausethatitsanctifiesallthings.Thewordsanctifiesthecreatures;butprayersanctifiestheveryworduntoouruse;andthereforewhenwereadthewordwearetoprayforasanctifieduseoftheword;Prayerisagreatordinance; a great duty of worship that sanctifies all; prayer hath acastingvoice(asImaysay)inallthegreatworksofGodintheworld,thegreataffairsoftheKingdomofGod,theKingdomofhispower,andtheKingdomofChrist,Isayprayerhathakindofacastingvoice,anddothorderunderGodthegreatthingsoftheworld,theyareaccordingtotheprayersofthesaints,theybringdownblessingsuponthegodly,theypourforth judgements on thewicked; the prayers of the saints, they are thevials that are poured forth in a special manner upon the heads of thewicked;thereforeGod'snameistobeesanctifiedinprayer.

Itistobesanctifiedfirstinpreparation;Psalm10.17.Thouwiltpreparetheirheart;thouwiltcausethineeartohear;itistheLordthatprepareththeheart;andthenhecauseshiseartohear;andthereforein1Pet.57wearethererequiredtowatchuntoprayer;menandwomenshouldkeepa narrow watch over their hearts and minds, that they may not behinderedintheirprayers,thattheymaybealwaysinafitposturetopray;watchuntoprayer,itsthatthatwouldhelpsusagainstmanytemptationsto evil; if I give way to such and such temptations it, will hinder myprayers; I shall not have that freedom and enlargement in prayer asotherwise, if I give way to such and such things, therefore letme takeheedof this, for itwillhindermyprayers.As if theApostle shouldsay,

this should be the care of Christians; then they are like to sanctify thenameofGodinprayer,ifthisbetheirgreatcarethatthereisnothingintheworldthatshallhindertheirprayers;OletmetakeheedIdonothingto hindermy prayers; if I go abroad into company, and ammerry andjocund,andtheregameanddrink,andsportmyselfincompany;willnotthishindermyprayers?WillnotthishinderthespiritualnessofmyheartincommunionwithGodinprayer,whenIcomehomeatnight?Iappealto you, have you had that freedom in prayer, afterwards? surely no,thereforewatchuntoprayer.

Now for the preparation of the heart to prayer, we must understandeither,

First,whatistobedoneinthecourseofoneslife,or

Secondly,what'stobedonejustwhenonecomestoprayer.

For the first, the courseof ones life: labour tokeepall things evenandclear between God and your souls; that so you may not come withshackles, about your legs; with guiltiness (I mean) upon yourconsciences;menthathavegivenwaytoanybasesinfulway,whentheycometoprayer, theguiltof theirheartsdothevensinkthem;but thosethatcankeeptheirpeacewithGodinthecourseoftheirlives,theyhaveother manner of freedom in prayer, then you that walk loosely andcontractguiltinessuponyourspirits.

Andthenthesecondthingistokeepourheartssensibleofourcontinualdependance upon God; sensible how we depend upon God, forwhatsoever we are, whatsoever we have, whatsoever we do; for theblessingofallisfromGod.ThebeamsoftheSundonotsodependupontheSun,asweuponGod;thatifhedothbutwithdrawhimselfneversolittle fromus,weall sinkdowntonothingandperish forever; thatsoulthat every day and hour is sensible of the infinite dependance it hathuponGodforitspresentandeternalestate;willbefitforprayer;andthatshould be our care for to carry ourselves, as any hour in the day, orminuteinthehour,wemightbefittogotoprayer;&that'sonemeaningof that place in the Thessalonians, pray continually; not that everymomentweshouldbepraying;but thatweshouldkeepourhearts ina

prayingframe;someofyouwhenyouhaveletoutyourpassionsandareinadistemper,whatwillyougotoprayernow?Yourconsciencewilltellyouthatyouarenotfittogotoprayeratthattime,certainlyifyoubenotfittopray,youarenotfittolive;youareinanillconditionatanytimeifyoubenot fit topray;andtherecanbenoexcusewhatever thatcanbesufficienttopleadforyourselveswhyyoushouldnotbefittoprayatanytime;thereisthatcontinualdependanceuponGodforall,andthatneedyouhaveoftheblessingofGodforeverything,thatthereisreasonyoushouldbeeinafitconditionforprayingatall times;butnowwhenyoucometoprayeratthesettime,thenthereshouldbeaspecialpreparation.

First, you should prepare yourselves by getting fresh and powerfulapprehensions of the glory of God, before whom you go; prepare bymeditation about the glory of that infinite God that you are nowaddressing your self unto; possess yourselves with thoughts andmeditationsofthegloryofthegreatGod;that'sthefirst.

Secondly,labourtogetyourheartssensibleofwhatyougofor.IamnowgoingtoGod;forwhat?Forpardonofsin,orforassuranceofhislove;orforpoweragainstsin;orforsuchandsuchmercies;letmebymeditationworkmyhearttobesensibleofthesethingsthatIamgoingtoGodfor,tosetadueprioruponthosemerciesthatIamprayingfor,andtogetmyheartaffectedwiththem.

Thirdly,labourtogetyourheartsseparatedfromtheworld,andfromallthingsthatareherebelowintheworld;andthatshouldhavebeenathirdthing in thecourseofyour lives,youshouldnever letoutyouhearts toanycreature,either tobusinessesorpleasures in theworldso,but thatyoumayhavecommandofyourheartstocallthemwhenyouwill;tocallthemintoGodinprayer;andthenwhenyoucometoprayerthereshouldbe an actual separation of your hearts from all things in the world;dedicatingyourselvestoGodforthistime,asonethathathnothingtodowiththeworld,nothingtodowithanythingbutthisdutythatnowyouareabout;thisisthepreparationofyourheartstoprayerinthecourseofyourlives.

Nowthenfortheprayeritself.

Firstwemustconsiderofthematterofprayer.

Andsecondlyofthemannerofit.

Firstforthematterofit,wemustlooktoitthatitbeaccordingtoGod'swill1John.514thisistheconfidencethatwehaveinhim,thatifweaskanythingaccordingtohiswillhehearethus;thereforeforthematterwemustbesureitmustbegoodthatweprayfor;itmustbeeforthegloryofGod;forthegoodofourselvesandthegoodofourbrethren.

First,forthegloryofGod,thatshouldbethechiefmatterthatwearetopray for; soChristwhenhe teaches us to pray, he begins the very firstpetition,Matth.69 , 10hallowedbe thyname; thyKingdomcome; thywillbedone;firstbeginwiththethegloryofGod,mindthatinthechiefplace, above all other things. God gives you leave to pray for outwardthings; but first for the glory of God, minding that before your ownbenefit; before the pardon of sin and your daily bread; how few dosanctifyGod's name in this? people have littlemind to pray, butwhentheyare inoutwardafflictions,whentheyareupontheirsickbedsthentheywillpray;oratseainstormsthentheywillpray,thenitseemsthatthemainmatterofyourprayer isonly foryourselves;buthowhaththemattersofthegloryofthegreatGod,andthegoodofthechurchestakenyourheartsallthiswhile?Howhaveyourheartsbeenaffectedwiththis,thatthenameofGodhathbeensolittlesanctifiedintheworld,andthattheKingdom ofGod hath not come, and that thewill ofGod hath notbeendone,havethesethingstakenupyourheartsinprayer,themattersofthegloryofGodandthegoodofthechurches,thoughyourselveshavenotanyparticular interest inthem?if thesethingsdidbuttakeupyourhearts in prayer, then, when you are at sea you would remember thecauseofthechurches,asmuchasyourselves;theChurchisasitwereinthemidstofthesea,tossedupanddownandinagreatstorm;nowwhydo not you pray as earnestly for the Kingdom of Christ among hischurches, as for yourselves when you are in a storm at sea? yea andspiritualthingsshouldbethechiefmatterofyourprayer;fortheyarethenearesttothegloryofGod;thoughGodhathhisgloryfromotherthings,yet spiritual things are nearest the glory of God; now in these days ofprayer,manywill come to pray, that theymight be freed fromdanger,thattheymighthaveoutwardpeace;thisisgood;butspiritualthingsare

thechiefthings;andthereforethestrengthofyourspiritsshouldbethuspoured forth to God; O that I could get my heart to God, and theassuranceof the loveofGod!OthatIcouldget theshineofhis face!OthatIcouldgetpoweroversuchandsuchcorruptions.

And Ibeseechyouobserve this, that spiritual thingsmaybeprayed forabsolutely; but outward thingsmust be prayed for conditionally. Imaypray(andneverputanyconditioninatall)thattheLordwouldpardonmysins,andhelpmeagainstmycorruptions,&c.ButwhenIprayforthehealthofmybody,Ioughttopray, if thisbeaccordingtothywill, thenrestoremetothehealthofmybody,orthehealthofmyhusband,orthehealth of my wife; but thou mayst pray, Lord convert the soul of myhusbandorthesoulofmywife,withoutanyconditionatall;whenyourestates at sea are in danger, when you pray for them, youmust makeconditions,Lord,asthouseestbestformesodothoudealwithme;thisshows the excellency that there is in spiritual things above outwardthings, surely spiritual thingsaremore tobedesired, for theyare tobeprayedforabsolutely,andtheothertobeprayedforonlyconditionally;that'sforthefirst.

In the secondplaceweare topray forourowngood,Goddothgiveusleavesotodo;onlyherecomesinaquestion.

Quest.Whetheritbesinfultoprayforafflictions,assometimessomewillbereadytodo.

Answ.To that Ianswer, first, take itabsolutelyconsidered,wemaynotpraythatGodwouldafflictus,becauseafflictionisinitselfmateriallyanevilthing,andafruitofthecurse,thereforewemaynot(Isay)absolutelypray for it: but thus far we may pray for afflictions, disjunctively,conditionally,comparatively.

Disjunctivelythus,Lord,eithergrantuntomeasanctifieduseofsuchamercy,orotherwiseletmeratherbewithoutit; letmehaveasanctifieduseofmysickness,orotherwiseletmysicknessbecontinuedtome;thusnowyoumayprayforcontinuinginsickness.

Or thus, conditionally, Lord, if thou seest thatmy heart be so vile and

wretched that I will abuse (through my corruption) such and suchmercies,Lordrathertakethemfromme,andletmebewithoutthem;ifthou seest that there be noway to break this proudheart ofmine, butsuchaway,Lordletthatbethywaytobreakit,ifthouseestitaccordingtothywillasthefittestway.

Thencomparativelythus,Lordratherletmehaveanyafflictionthensin,rather letmesuffer lossofmyestate thensinagainst thee, thendepartfrom thee: any thing Lord rather then sin. Thus you may pray forafflictions, but not absolutely. Youmust not pray thatGodwould sendyouafflictionsabsolutely, foryoudonotknowyourhearts; itmaybe ifafflictions should come, your hearts may be as stubborn under yourafflictionsastheyarenow;forafflictionhathnopowerinitselftodousanygood.

Andthenforthegoodofothers,forChristteachesustopray,OurFather.

Therecomesinherearebukeofthewickedpracticeofdiversincursing,andthenaquestionaboutit.

Itisawickedthingtousecurses;butitsamostwickedthingtowisheviltoothersinawayofprayer;yethowmanydoso?thoughitmaybetheydonotthinkit,theyspeaktoGod,anddesirehimtobringsuchandsuchevilsupontheirneighbors;yea,sometimesparents,upontheirchildren;this is awicked practise ofmen;what, is it notwickedness enough fortheetohaveanydesirethatthereshouldanyevilbefallthybrother,butwilt thou dare to presume to call God to be an instrument of theexecutionofthybasesinfulwrath,thatGodmustbeadrudgeasitwereto thywrathand to thypassion? this isabominablewickedness.Anyofyou that ever have been guilty of this sin of cursing others, wives,children, servants, or friends the Lord rebuke you for this sin; how farhastthoubeenfromsanctifyingGod'sNameinprayer?Whereas,insteadofsanctifyingtheholyNameofGod,thouhastcalledGodtobeaservant,andadrudgetothypassion,Godmustbecalledtohelptheventingofthypassion: oh, remember this you that have been at sea, and have beenangry,andthingsnotgoingaccordingtoyourmind,havefallenacursing,andawishingsuchandsuchevilsmightcomeuponthoseyouareangrywith; that'sakindofprayer,but it isamost fearful taking thenameof

God in vain in the highest degree, and certainlyGodwill not hold himguiltlessthatshallsotakehisNameinvain;thereforebehumbledforthissin.

Object.Butyouwillsay,donotwereadinthebookofthePsalms,wheremanytimestheProphetDaviddothcursetheenemiesofGodandwisheseviltocomeuponthem.

Answ.To that I answer, first, that theprophets, and those thatpennedthePsalmstheyhadapropheticalspirit;andthoseplacesthatyoureadthatareinwayofcursing,theyareratherpropheticalpredictionsofevilthendireful imprecations, they are rather foretellingwhat shall be in awayofprophecythenwishingwhatshouldbe.

Secondly, if they bewishingwhat should be, then I answer, that thosethatwereinduedwithsuchapropheticalspirit,theydidknowwhowerethe implacable enemies of God, and who were not, as David prayedagainst Judas, so many hundred years before he was born; by apropheticalspirit,heknewthathewasthechildofperdition;indeedifwecould certainly know aman thatwere to be a cast-away eternally fromGod,itwereanothermatter;astheChurchinthetimeofJulian,becauseofhisapostasybeingsoabominable,itwasdeterminedalmostgenerallybythemthathehadcommittedthesinagainsttheHolyGhost,anduponthat they cursedhim.NowI say, those thathadanextraordinary spiritthatdidknowwhothesewere,theymightdoit;butthisisnoexampleforusinanordinarywaytowishevilandcursesuponothers.ButthusfarwemaydowiththeenemiesoftheChurch.

First,wemaycursethemdisjunctively,Lord,eithertakethemoutoftheway,orkeepthemthattheymaynotdosuchmischiefintheChurch:orthus, conditionally, if thou seest Lord that they be implacable, thouknowestthem,ifso,letthywrathandcursepursuethem;Lordthouseestwhateviltheyaresetupon,andthereforeratherthentheyshouldattaintheirmischievous designs, let thywrath and curse pursue them; sowemaydoit,butnotabsolutelytocurseany,thoughtheyshoulddousneversomuchwrong,weare called toblessing;butnow in zeal toGod, takeheedthatwebenotcarriedoninourownpassion.Butbeingsureitisinazeal toGod,wemaywish thecursesofGod topursue those thatGod

knows tobe implacable; this is but an appealing toGod, andnot at allfasteningituponanyparticularpersonsthatweknow,butleavingituntoGodfortheexecutionofit,andsoinazealtothegloryofGod,wemaydoit, andwearewarranted so todoby the secondpetition,ThyKingdomcome: for that petition that requires us to pray for the coming of theKingdomofJesusChrist,dothalsorequirethatweshouldprayagainstallmeans that hinder the coming of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, so thatevery time that the Church prays thy Kingdom come or any prays thyKingdom come, they do as much as say, O Lord, do thou set thyselfagainst all the enemies of thy Kingdom; if they belong to thy election,Lordconvertthem,butotherwiseLordconfoundthem.NowthusweseehowwearetosanctifytheNameofGodinprayer,inregardofthematterof the prayer; but now for the manner of prayer. The most things Iconfessarethere.

First, when we come to prayer, we must be sure to pray withunderstanding,1Cor.1415Whatisitthen?Iwillpraywiththespirit,andwillpraywithunderstandingalso,Goddothnotlovethesacrificeoffools;wemustnotcomebabblingtoGodinprayertospeakweknownotwhat,andtomultiplywordsweknownotwherefore,butGoddothrequirethatthose that come to prayer, comewith understanding, that they offer toGodarational,areasonable,anunderstandingsacrifice;GodisaSpirit,andhewillbeworshippedinspiritandintruth;nowasitbelongstoallotherdutiesofworship,soespeciallyinprayer,toknowwhatwedowhenwepray,nottothinktoputoffGodwithamereemptysound;that'sthefirstthing.

The second thing in the manner of prayer, it is the giving up all thefaculties of our souls in it; I spoke to that in the worship of God ingeneral,we shall apply it nowparticularly to prayer, the givingup, notonly out understandings, but wills, thoughts, affections, strength inprayer, in2Chron.203 it is saidof Jehosaphat, thathe sethimself toseektheLord,hedidgivehiswholeselftoseektheLord;wearetogiveourwholeself,andnot todivide inprayer.Nowthiswereanargumentthatindeedmightwelltakeupawholesermon,inshowingtheevilofthewanderingofourspiritsinprayer;weshouldtakeheedofthewanderingofourspiritsinhearingoftheword,andreceivingthesacraments,andso

in prayer; the people of God aremuch troubledwith thewandering oftheirthoughtsbothinwordandsacrament,anditistheirgreatburden,and should be so, but I never hear any more complainings of thewanderingof their spirits then in the timeofprayer, thepeopleofGodaremuchpestered in theirspiritswith thisevil, it isverygrievousuntothem,andmanyofthemgounderitasagrievousburdenalltheirdays;the chiefest burden that is upon their spirits is their wandering inprayers;sothatifGodshouldspeaktothemashespokeuntoSolomon,and bade him ask what he should give him, I verily believe there aremanyinthiscongregation,thathavealreadygoodassuranceofGod'slovein Christ, if they had not that, that would be themain thing that theywouldask,buthavingattainedthat,ifGodwouldspeakfromheavenandsay, what shall I give you for yourselves, if he should ask you in thegeneral,itmaybeyouwouldasksomethingforthechurches;butifitbefor yourselves, you would put up this petition, oh Lord that I may bedelivered from a wandering spirit in holy duties, and especially in thedutyofprayer,thatImaytherebycometoenjoymoreholycommunionwiththyselftheneveryetIenjoyed,andtheywouldaccountthistobeagreatermercythenifGodshouldgivethemtobekingsorqueensoverthewhole world; if God should put these two into the balance, either thewholeworldtopossessorotherwisetohavemorefreeheartsincomingto God in prayer, and to be delivered from that that hath so muchhindered their communionwithGod inprayer, theywoulddespiseandscorn the world in comparison of such a mercy as this is: howsoevercarnalheartstheythinklittleofit,butthosethataretheservantsofGodtheyfindittobeverygrievoustothem;butbeingthetimeispast,Ishallreservethattospeakyetalittlemorelargelyforthehelpofthosethatareundertheburdenofit.

I'llonlyspeakonethingfurthernow,andthatshallbetothosethatarewicked and vile, that not only have vainwandering thoughts in prayer,butevenintheverydutyofprayermanytimeshavewickedandungodlythoughts;howhorriblearethey?uncleanthoughts,murderousthoughtsitmaybe,andmostabominable.Iconfesseventhosethataregodlymaysometimeshavesomeblasphemousthoughtscastintothem,fortheDevilisnevermorebusythenatthetimeofprayer;buttheyrathercomefromtheDevilthenfromthestreamandcorruptionoftheirownhearts,which

maybewemaymakeoutmoreclearlyafterward;butnowIspeaktosuchas havemostwicked abominable thoughts, rising from the stream andcorruptionoftheirhearts,suchthoughtsastheirheartsdoclosewithalinprayer,andtheycanroll thosethoughtsabout intheirmindsasachildwillrollapieceofsugarinitsmouth;andthisisthewickednessofmanymenandwomen'shearts.

Take but this one note with you, that all those dreadful, vile, unclean,covetousthoughtsofthineinprayer,theyhavebeentoGodasifyouhadspokentheminwords;thoughtstoGod,areallonewithhimaswordsareto men; for God is a Spirit, and the Spirit doth converse with God inthoughts, as well as men do converse withmen in words; and what awoeful guiltinesswould have been upon you, had you spoken such vileandwickedthingstomenassometimeshathbeeninyourminds,evenwhenyouhavebeenprayingtoGod,howwouldthecompanyhaveevenspitinyourfaces,andkickedyoufromthem?Nonethathaveanyfaceofgodlinesswouldhaveenduredyou in their company;andyethere's theevil of it, your hearts are not troubled, but you rise off your knees andawayyougo;thouhastacauterizedconscience,asearedconscience,thatcanst entertain suchvile thoughtsatany timewithouthaving thy spiritafflicted,andgoingawaywithshameandconfusion,asifthegreatestevilhadbefallenthee;thereforetakeheedofthis.

SermonXIV-SanctifyingtheNameofGodinPrayer

LEVITICUS.10.3.

Iwillbesanctifiedinthemthatcomenighme.

WearefirsttosanctifyGod'sNameinregardofthematterofourprayers.Andsecondly,inregardofthemanner.Forthefirst,wemadeanendofitthe last day, and came unto the manner, and there were two thingsmentioned.

First,thatwemustpraywithunderstanding.Secondly,wemustgiveupourselvestoprayer.Nowinthecloseof theexercisewehadoccasiontofalluponthatargumentabout thewanderingofour thoughts inprayer,andbythatwecometotakeGod'snameinvain,insteadofsanctifyingofhisName;Godexpectsthatweshouldhaveourthoughts,andwills,andaffections,ourwholesoulsactinguponhiminthedutyofprayer,orelsewedonotpraytoGodasuntoaGod;vainthoughtsinprayerdopickupthe sacrifice like thebirds thatAbrahamdroveaway from the sacrifice,thattheyshouldnotpeckit.Wickedlustsinmensheartsarelikeswinetotakethemeatandalltohaleitinthedirt,sotheirprayersarefilthyanddirtywiththeirlusts;butthosethatareotherwisegodly,yetbytheirvainthoughtsthebeautyandexcellencyoftheirprayersistakenaway;aswineandbeerthathavethespiritsof themgone,sothe lifeandspiritofourduties are gone by our vain thoughts, and therefore vain thoughts dodeadtheheartverymuch.SosaithDavidinthe119.Turnawaymineeyesfrombeholdingvanity,andquickenme in thyLaw:whileoureyes lookuponvanity,therewillbenoquicknessinourheartsinanyservicethatwetenderuptoGod;nowmanyofGod'speoplehaveexperienceof theevilofthis,andtheygroanundertheburdenofthis,andasIsaidthelasttime, if sobe that theLord should speak fromheaven to themandaskthemwhattheywouldhave,theyhavingalreadytheassuranceofhislovein Christ, they would ask the deliverance from a vain spirit in theperformanceofholyduties,BringnovainOblationssaithGodinIsa.1.13.Ohwhatvainoblationsdowebringbythevanityofourthoughts inprayer!tistrue,thebestofallwillhavevainthoughtssometimes;butyet,asonecomparesthevainthoughtsofmeninprayer, likeuntoaspanielthat goes out with a man, he walks perhaps but half a mile, but thespanielwillberunningupanddown,thiswayandthatway,andifallthespaceofgroundwhichthespanielhathgoneovershouldbemeasured,itmaybewhileyouarewalkinghalfamile,thespanielfetchingcompasseshere and there would be half a dozen miles, so our fancies are like aspaniel which will have fetches about this way and that way, in athousandvainthoughts;butthusnowitiswithagodlyman;asaspanielthoughrunningfromhismaster,yetifhegivehimacall,heisabletocallhimtohimpresently;and itwerewell if itweresowithus, thoughourfanciesbewildyetifwewereabletocallinourfanciesandtohavethematcommanditwerewellwithus:AndIfinditverymuchthatthosethat

arenewcomerstheycomplainmuchofthevanityoftheirthoughts,theywerewonttopraybefore,andtheyneverhadsuchvainthoughtsasnowtheyhave;thereasonwhythereissomuchvanityofthoughts,oratleastsomuchtakennoticeof,Itisfirstbecausethereisbutalittlegraceinthemidstofagreatdealofcorruptioninyoungconverts,likeasparkoffireinthemidstofagreatdealofashes;nowifthereliesaheapofashesandnothing else,you do not stir them; but if there be ashes and some fire,thenyouwillstirthemandbeblowingthosesparkstokindleanotherfireby. Now when you come to make any motion, then the ashes will flyabout, whereas before they lay still; so it is here; before God wroughtuponthyheart,therewasnothingelsebutashesuponthysoul,andthentheylaystill,butnowGodhathkindledsomesparksofgraceinthyheart,andGodisblowingthemuptoagreaterheat,andisbringingofthemtoaflame; upon thismotion that is in thy heart, and the stirring to kindlethosesparksfurtherinthyheart,itisthattheashesofthycorruptionsdoas it were fly about thine ears, and that there is such stirrings ofcorruption more then there was before, 'tis not because there is morecorruption then therewas formerly,butbefore therebeingnothingelsebut corruption it lay still, and now because there is something else,thereforeit isthatcorruptiondothsostir;andbesidesyouknowamanthatwaswonttokeep lewdcompany, ifGodturnhimthathewillkeepthatcompanynomore,atfirstheshallbemoretroubledwiththemthenhe was before; and they will keep oftener knocking at his door, andlabouringtogethimtothemagain;so'tishere,whenthesoul,vanityandlustswereasfriendstogethertherewasnodisturbance,andtakingnoticeof anything then, but now when the soul is casting out those sinfuldistempers,andwillhavenomoreof them, they for thepresentwillbemoreimportunate,activeandstirringthentheywerebefore.Andbesides,the Lord doth this to humble thy heart the more, that thereby thoumayestcometoseethegreatcorruptionthatwasinthysoulbefore;theworkingofthycorruptionswilldiscovermuchevilinthyheart,thatthoudidest not think was there before; when the corruptions of men andwomen lie still, they think there isnosuch thing in their souls,asyourcivilmen,what'sthereasonthattheyblessthemselvesandthinktheyareinagoodcondition,itsbecausetheircorruptionsliestillinthemanddonot stir, they cannot believewhat abundance of wickedness there is intheirhearts,ifGodshouldopenthewickednessthatthereisinthehearts

of men naturally, and so all unregenerate men they would think youspeak strange riddles, whereas they bless themselves; they bless God;they knowno such thing in their hearts; not yes there are such things,only they are not stirred, but they lie quiet asmud in the bottom of apond,thereitis,yetyoucannotseeittillitbestirred;atfirstconversionIsay theLordsuffers thycorruptionthus tostir, thathemaydiscover totheewhatanevilheart thouhast,whatabundanceofsinthere is inthyheart, and therefore your young converts, they look upon themselvesmoreloathsomeandvilethenevertheythoughttheyhadbeen.

AndbesidestheDevilseesitavainthingtotemptayoungconverttoanygrossactofsin;whenconsciencehathlifeandpowerinit,heshallneverprevailthatway;butnowhethinkshemayprevailtodisturbthemwithvainthoughts,andthereforehelayshisstrengthmostthatway;thereforeletnotsuchbediscouraged,thatfindtheirspiritsannoyedandpesteredwith them, if they make them to be the burden of their souls;notwithstanding much vanity of thoughts, the Lord will accept of anydesirethattheyhavetosanctifyhisnameinholyduties,andIshallgiveyouthesethreeorfourrulestohelpyouagainstthesewanderingandvainthoughtsinholyduties,andespeciallyinprayer.

First,whenthougoesttoprayer,accountittobeagreatwork;setahighpriceuponthyprayer;notashavinganyexcellencyinitasitcomesfromthee; but set ahighpriceupon it as a great ordinanceofGod,whereinthere is communion with God to be enjoyed, and the influence of thegraceofGodtobeconveyedthroughit;sosetahighpriceuponprayer,ateverytimethouartgoingtoprayer;Lord,Iamnowsettinguponaworkthat is of very great consequence, andmuch lies upon it, and I wouldaccount it to be a sore and a great evil tome, if I should lose but thisprayer:thiswouldbeaspecialmeanstocomposethyspirit;andtokeepthee fromwandering,asNehemiah, inNehem.6.3.aplace that Ihavesometimes quoted upon such an occasion, when the enemies ofNehemiahthatwouldhinderthebuildingofthetemple,senttohimthattheymight talk together,nosaithhe; Iamdoingagreatworkso that Icannotcomedown;sowhentheDevilandthevanityofthineownheart,would send to thee to parley, and talk as it were with thee, give ananswer, I cannot standparlayingwith these things; thework that I am

aboutisagreatwork;thereareveryfewpeoplethatdoaccounttheworkofprayeragreatwork;ifthoudidst,itwouldhelptheemuchagainstthevanityofthythoughts.

Secondly, every time thou goest to prayer, thou that artmost troubledwithsuchvainthoughts,renewthyresolutionsagainstthem;Ihavebeentroubledwithvainthoughtsheretofore,andamafraid,ifIlooknottoit,thatIshall losethisprayeralso;andthereforeOLord,hereIrenewmyresolutionstosetagainsttheminthisprayerwithallmymight;itisverymuchthatmaybedonebystrongresolutions,andespeciallyifthystrongresolutionsberenewedresolutions;foranoldresolutionbeginstogrowweak; aman thathath resolvedupona thing a greatwhile ago, it hathlittlepowereverhim;butnowwhenamanhath resolvedupona thingbutthismorning,andjustatthetimewhenheisgoingaboutit,nowhedoth resolveupon it, andsethimselfupon it, anddoth resolve throughthegraceofGod,thatwhatsoeverdifficultyhemeetswithall,whatsoeverit cost him, that he will go through this work, I say that resolutionsrenewedhaveagreatdealofpower;andyoucannotimaginewhatagreatdealofpowertherenewingofresolutionagainstvainthoughtswillhave,if theywere renewedevery time thougoest toprayer,until thougettestpoweroverthythoughts,dobutmaketrialofthis;thouhastlostmanyaprayerbyvainthoughts;and thouhastbeen troubled for them,andyetthey comeagain;do but try for thisweek; as I remember I said in thepoint of passion and anger, thatwe should resolvewith ourselveswell,whatsoeverfallsoutthismorning,IamresolvedIwillbearit;sobethinkthyselfhowmanyprayersthouhastlostbyvainthoughts:andnowrenewthyresolutions,andcovenantwithGod,thatforthisprayer,Iwillsetmyselfagainstthem,whatsoeverpainsItake,IwillbesureyetwithaltolookuptoGod'sgracetoassistone,Iwillbesurethisprayertokeepmyheartclose towhat I am about;& perhaps thatwill help you a little; but yetsomevainthoughtswillcomeforallthat;thenthenextnightrenewthemagain; and the next morning renew them again; and that till thoucommest to a habit of keeping thy heart close to the duty, thoughnowthoufeelestthyheartsowild,thatthouthinkestitisimpossibletobringitintoorder,butcertainlybysuchameans,thyheartwillbebroughtintoorder.

Thirdly,besure toset thepresenceofGodbeforeyou inprayer,haveareallightoftheinfinitegreatness,majesty,andgloryofthatyoupresentyourselves unto,when you are are calling uponhim; if so be that thoucansthavearealfightofGodinhisglory, itwillkeepthyheartclosetotheduty,asifamanbewanderingwithhiseyes,andlookingaftereveryfeather, if the king or some great person come into the room, all histhoughtswouldbeabouttheking,orthegreatpersonthatwerecomingin:soifyouwouldpresenttheLordinhisgloryandgreatness,excellency,majesty,andpower,beforeyou,andwhatadreadfulGodheisinhimself,andyetwhatamercifulGodhe is tous inhisSon: thiswouldmightilycomposeourhearts,certainlymenandwomenthataresowanderingintheirprayers;itisbecausetheireyesarenotopentolookuponGodinhisglory,theyareasitweredreaminganddonotapprehendthatGodstandsand looksupon them,andobserves them, and thatGod takesnoticeofevery wandering thought that comes from them; they do not considerthatGoddothconversewiththethoughtsofmen,aswellasmendowiththewordsofmen;thatsathirdrule.

Fourthly,Takeheedthoubeestnotdeceived;becausethatthosethoughtsthouhastinprayer,donotappeartobeveryevilinthemselves.ThisisagreatdeceitandhindersmanyinthesanctifyingofGod'sNameinprayer;there is sometimes darted in some vain thoughts; now because thethoughthathnogreat evil in it self, therefore they think theymayplaywithit,andtheirheartsclosewithit,andsorunalongwithitasthefishdoth with the bait; if the Devil casts in a thought of blasphemy, thatmakes thee quake and shake; but if thy thoughts have no great evil inthem,buttheyareslightthings;mattersofnomomentonewayorother,upon that thy heart begins to be dandling, and playing with them;therefore remember this rule, That in the time of prayer, whatsoeverthoughtsbe in thymind thatdonot concern thepresentduty, theyaresinfulbeforeGod,thoughthethoughtsforthematterofthembeneversogood,yetthouarttoabandonthemassinfulatthattime.Thereforeneverbedeceivedwiththis,thatthethoughtsarenotverysinful:that'sanotherrule.

In the last place observe this rule, if everGod hath helped thee at anytime inprayer, that thyheart hath been kept close to a duty, and thou

hast had communion with him, bless God for that, bless God for thathelp;tisaruleofverygreatuseforustogetfurtherassistancefromGodinanything,ifsobeourheartsbeenlargedtoblessGodforanyassistancewehavehadheretofore;andthereasonwhywegainandprospersolittleinourChristiancourse, it isbecausewedonottakenoticeofwhatGodhath done for us, to give God glory formercies formerly received, andthereforeGodtakeslittleornodelightincominginwithfurthermerciestous;asifyouhadayoungnurseryoftrees,andtheybegantothriveverywell,buttherecomesacompanyofcaterpillarsandspoilsalmostalltheyoungtreesthatareset,onlytwoorthreearekeptfromthecaterpillars;amangoesintohisorchard,andlooksuponhistrees,andthisisspoiled,andthatisspoiled;butheseestwoorthreeandtheseflourishfairly,andthesearefullofbuds,andareliketocometosomething,andherejoicesmightily in those, because they are saved when so many others arespoiled; and sodo thouview thyprayers, andconsiderhowmanyhathbeen spoiled as it were by these caterpillars; for I compare wanderingvainthoughtsinprayeruntoCcaterpillarsthatareuponthetrees;andweseethatifstormyrainyweathercomesthecaterpillarswill fall;andonewouldthinkthattheseblusteringstormsandthehandofGodthathathbeenout againstus, shouldhave cleansedour thoughts and souls fromthesecaterpillarsthathavebeenuponourduties,butmanydutieshavebeen spoiled; yet thou mayest say, that through God's mercy such amorninginmycloset,theLordhathpreservedaprayertohimself,andIhavegottenpoweroverthisvainheartofmine,blessGodforthis,andsothe Spirit ofGodwill bemore ready to come in and help thee anothertime;butthusmuchshallsufficetospeaktothis,that'sthesecondthing,wemustgiveupourselveswhollytothisduty.

ThethirdthingforthesanctifyingofGod'snameinprayeristhis,theremustbethebreathingsoftheSpiritofGod,otherwiseGod'snameisnotsanctified; that in Rom. 8. 26. is clear for this, likewise the Spirit alsohelpethour infirmities, forweknownotwhatweshouldpray forasweought,but theSpiritHimselfmaketh intercession foruswithgroaningswhich cannot be uttered; if any of you should say how canwe sanctifyGod'sname,wearepoorandweak,wecandolittle?Mark,itissaidhere,thattheSpirithelpethourinfirmitiestopray,andthewordisexceedingemphatic in the original; in your books tis but merely helping our

infirmities,butthemeaningofthewordis,inthesetwothings,theSpirithelps;thatis,lookhowamanthatistakingupaheavypieceoftimberatoneend,healonecannotgetitup,buttherecomesanotherandtakesitupattheotherendandsohelpshim;Thewordsignifiessuchakindofhelping, aswhenaman takes a thing at theother end, or on theotherside,onestandingtheoneway,andtheotherstandingtheotherway,oronetakinguponeend,andtheothertheotherend,thatisthemeaningofit;hehelpsour infirmities, thepoorsoul ispullingandtuggingwith itsownheart,and findshisheartheavyanddull, likea log inaditch,andhavenotmanyofyoufoundyourheartsso?butnowthenwhenyouaretuggingwith your hearts, andwould fain lift up your hearts to God inprayer, there comes the Spirit of God at the other end, and takes theheaviestendof theburdenandhelpsyouto lift itup; ifachildwereatoneendofthelog,andthatwerebutlight,andtheotherendveryheavy,ifonecomeandtakeuptheheaviestend,a littlestrengthwillserve forthelighterend;sotheSpiritcomesandtakesuptheheavierendinduty,andsohelpsour infirmities;helps together,and then theotherword istheSpirit;thatistogetherwiththeactingofthegracesoftheSpiritinourhearts,youmustnotsayso;Alas!,whatcanIdo?itmustbetheSpiritofGodthatmustdoall;itistrue,hedothall.

First,hegivesconvertingandhabitualgrace,andassistingandactuatinggrace;butnowwhentheSpirithathwroughtgracesoas toconvert theheart, and hath given habitual grace in thy heart, why then when theSpirit comes to assist it, doth expect that thou shouldest stir up all thegiftsandgracesoftheSpirit,andtheverystrengthofthybody;theSpiritof God expects that thou shouldest act to the uttermost thou art able,whatpowerhathbeengiven theebyGod, andwhen thouart in acting,then theSpirit comesandhelps togetherwithus;noting thatweare toputforthwhatstrengthwehave,andthusGod'snamewillbesanctified,when aswe putting forth the graces of the Spirit in us, then the Spiritcomes and helps; and what comes from us now, comes from thebreathingsoftheHoly-Spiritinus,andthenGodwhoknowsthemeaningof the Spirit, will know now the meaning of our sighs and groans;thereforewhenthouartgoingtoprayer,thouarttoeyetheSpiritofGod;thouartbytheeyeoffaithtolookupontheSpiritofGod,andtocastthysoulupon theassistanceof theSpiritofGod, thouart to lookupon the

Holy-Ghost,asappointedbytheFatherandtheSontothatoffice,tobeahelpertohispoorservantsinthedutiesofworship,andespeciallyinthatgreatdutyofprayer;nowuponthereadingofthistext,andhavingitthusopened,thisisonegoodhelpfortheeinprayer;readthistext,andthenexercisethyfaithuponit;LordhastthounotsaidthatthySpirithelpsourinfirmities,whenweknownotwhattoprayfor,norhowtoprayforanything aswe ought? but the Spirit will come, now Lordmake good thiswordofthinetomysoulatthistime,andletmehavethebreathingsoftheSpiritofGodinme;alasthebreathsofmen,ifitcomefromgiftsandparts,Iknowthouwiltneverregardit,excepttherebethebreathingsofthe Holy-Ghost in me in prayer; now, if you would know whether theSpiritofGoddothcomeinorno,youmayknowitbythis;theSpiritofGod carriesuntoGod, and itmakes theprayer sweet anddelightful, somuchoftheSpiritofGodasisthere,itcomestothesoulintheduty,andit leavesasavorbehind it;agracioussavoir isalways leftbehind,whentheSpiritofGodcomestobreath;OthebreathoftheSpiritofGodisasweetbreath,anditmakesprayerssweet;itnevercomesintothesoulbutafterithathdoneanyworkitcamefor,itleavesasweetscent,afterthat,thesoulfindsasweetnessinthatprayer;nowmanyofyouhavebeeninthemorningatprayer,butIappealtoyou;whatsweetsavoroftheSpiritofGodisleftbehind?CertainlyiftheSpirithathbeenthereitislikecivilthatisputintoalittlebox,thoughyoushouldtakeoutthecivit,yettherewillbeasweetsavorleftbehind;sothoughtheSpiritofGod,inrespectofthe present assistance, withdraws Himself, yet it leaves a sweet savorbehind.

Thefourththingis,purityofheart;pureheartandhands,inHeb.10.22.Rev.5.8.havingeveryoneofthemharps,andgoldenvialsfullofodorswhicharetheprayersofsaints;mark,theprayersofthesaintsareodorsingoldenvials,thegoldenvialsImaycomparetotheheart;theheartsofthesaintsmustbeasgoldenvials,andthentheirprayerswillbeasodors;in1Tim.2.8.theHoly-Ghostgivingdirectionshowweshouldpray,itiswiththisqualification,Iwillthereforethatmenprayeverywhereliftingup holy hands without wrath and doubting; the outward conversationmust be pure, and the heart pure; in Job 22. 26. mark whats saidconcerningthatholyman; there'sapromisemadetohimfor the liftingupofhisfacetoGod,puttingawayiniquityfromhistabernacle,thatby

puttingawayevil fromourtabernacles,andsofromourhearts,wemaybeabletoliftupourheartswithjoytogo;andthatsthefifththing,purityofheartandhands.

Thesixththingis,intruth,whenwecometocalluponGod,wemustcalluponhimintruth,Psal.145.18.theLordisnighuntoall,toallthatcallupon him in truth; youwill saywhat is themeaning of that? to that Ianswer;

First,theremustbeinwarddispositionsanswerabletotheexpressions;asforinstance,whenIcometoexpressthegreatnessofthemajestyofGod,thenImusthaveaninwarddispositionsuitabletothisexpression,ImusthaveafearandreverenceoftheinfinitemajestyofGod.

Secondly, when I come to confess my sin, to judgemyself for my sin,theremustbeaninwarddispositionsuitabletosuchaconfession;Ohowmany men and women will come and speak great things againstthemselves for their sins, and judge themselves for their sins, and yetthere is no suchdisposition in their hearts suitable to theirwords; youshallhavesomeinprayingwithothers,theywillbeameanstobreaktheheartsofothers, theywill so follow their sin;and take such shameandconfusionuponthemselvesfortheirsin,andyetGodknowstheirheartsnotstirredallthiswhile;andthentheywillcalluponGodforpardonofsin,andforpoweragainsttheirsin,andyetGodknowsthattheirheartsdoclosewith their sin,andare loath topartwith their sin in themeantime, this is falseness of heart; when the inward disposition is notanswerabletooutwardexpressions;Ibeseechyoumybrethrenconsiderof the prayers you havemade, and especially you that praymuchwithothers, lookwhatexpressionsyouhavemade,andseewhethertherebeanswerabledispositionstotheexpressionsyouhavemade,andhowthattheLorddothremembereveryexpressionthatyouhavemade.

Thirdly,wemustcalluponGodintruth;thatis,conscionablytoperformtheengagementsofprayer,prayerputsanengagementupon theheart;now those that call upon him in truth are conscionable to perform theengagements; as now, do I pray for any good thing, I am engaged toendeavour in the use of allmeans for the attaining of the good thing?whenyouconfessasin,why,youareengagedbythatmeanstoendeavour

allyourmightagainstthatsin;andwhenyouprayformygrace,youareengagedtomakeuseofallmeansyoucanfortheattainingofthatgrace;and then besides, in prayer there is much profession unto God of oursincerity and uprightness, and of our willingness to be at his dispose,perform these engagements that thoumakest to God in prayer; if Godshould present to us all our professions that we have made to him inprayer,andtellushowwehavecomeshortofthem,itwouldmakeusbeinshameandconfusioninourownthoughts.

Another thing inprayermust be faith; praywithoutdoubting as in theformerScripture,theprayeroffaithprevailsmuch;James1.6,7.amanthatwavereth and doubtethmust not think to obtain anything ofGod.ButIshouldhaveopenedwhatthatfaithisthatweshouldhaveinprayer,wemusthavefaithtobelievethatthethingthatwedopleasethGod,andfaith in God's promises, and faith in God's providence, this should beexercisedinthetimeofourprayers;Andthereforeafterwehavedone,togoawaybelieving,asHannah in1Sam.1. 18.wereadofher, thataftershehadbeenprayingshewentaway,and lookednomoresad; the textfaith,notingthatafterwehavebeenpouringforthoursoulstoGod,weshouldbelieveandexercisefaithandnotgoinasdroopingawayaseverwedid.

Object.Youwillsay,yea,ifweknewcertainlythatGodwillhearus.

Answ. The way to be assured that God will hear you, is by castingyourselvesuponGod,howcanyouknowthathewillhear,butbyrestinguponhim? I have beenwithGod, and I have been doing the duty of apoorcreature,andforthesuccessIleaveittoGod,andthereforeitmustbeewithfaith.

ButIhavesomanysinsmixedwithmyprayers,howcanIbelieve?

YouhaveanexcellentScriptureforthattohelpasoul,toexercisefaithinprayer,notwithstandingtherehathbeenmanyinfirmities;inPsal.65.2,3. O thou that hearest prayers, unto thee all flesh shall come; Thouhearestprayers,butIhaveagreatmanysinsthathinders;no,mark,whatthoughiniquityprevailsagainstme,asforourtransgressions,thoushaltpurge themaway?Omakeuseof thisScripture, thoughyou remember

not other things; yet you that have dejected hearts and are afraid thatGod will not hear your prayers, see what the text saith, Thou hearestprayerLord,butwillnotmysinshinder?nosaithDavid,iniquityprevailsagainst me, as for our transgressions thou shalt purge them away;exercise faith in this; andknow thatGoddothnothearprayerbecausethou art not sinful, because of thy worthiness, but merely for his freegrace.

Anotherholydispositioninprayershouldbethis; thesoulshouldcomewith a holy freedom, with the Spirit of adoption to God, crying AbbaFather;ifthoucomesttoGodmerelyastoajudge,thoughitstrue,thosethatdonotknowthatGodlovesthem,yetareboundascreaturestopray,butthoucanstneversanctifythenameofGod,tillthouhastachild-likespirit, the Spirit of adoption; the Lord loves to have his children comewithfreedomofspirittohimselfinprayer,tocomeaschildren,andnotto comewithdejected countenances, anddiscouragedhearts; but comefreely toopen thyheart toGod, as any childwouldopenhisheart to agraciousandlovingFather.

Anotherdispositionisfervencyinprayer;theeffectualferventprayerofarighteousman availethmuch, and thatwill be ameans to help againstvainthoughtstoo,aswhenthehoneyisscaldinghotthentheflieswillnotcome to it; if thy heart were as it were scalding hot in prayer thouwouldestnothavesuchvainthoughts.

Nexttheremustbeconstancyinprayer;in1Thess.5.17.bythatImeanthisnevertogiveoveruntilwehavethatweprayfor,orsomethingelseinlieuof it; itmaybe thouhastprayed andnothing is comeof it; benotdiscouraged,thouhasttodealwithagreatGod,andthereforeprayagainandagain,andagain,andpraywiththisresolution,well,letGoddowithmewhathewill,IwillaslongasIlivecalluponhim,andifGodshallcastmeawayyetheshallcastmeawaycallinguponhim,asthepoorwomanofCanaanwhenChristcalledherdog,anddiscouragedher,yetstillshewouldpray;Ibutdogsmayhavecrumbs,thatheartisinanillconditionthatisdiscouragedinprayer,becauseitdothnotgetwhatitwould,andthereforetothinkwiththemselvesIhadasgoodnotprayatall,takeheedofanysuchthoughts.

Again, if you would pray to God indeed, so as to sanctify his name inprayer, there should be humility in your hearts so as to be sensible ofyour own unworthiness; I spoke somewhat about being sensible of thedistance betweenGod and us,when I spoke about sanctifying ofGod'snameingeneral.ThelastthatIshallspeakofisthis,whenyouhavedoneall,thisall,thesequalificationswillnotsanctifyGod'sname,exceptallbetenderedupinthenameofJesusChrist,andinthepowerofhismerits;letamanorwomanpraywithasmuchfervency,zeal,constancy,purity,in truthandsincerity;yetexceptheputsupall in thenameofChrist, Isayhecannotbeaccepted;ourspiritualofferingsmustbetenderedupinhisname;butIhavepreachedmuchaboutthat,butnowputallthathathbeensaidtogether,andthisitistopray.

That is,when as I pray understandingly:when I givemyself to prayer:whentherearethebreathingsoftheHolyGhostinmyprayer:whenthereispurityofheartlikeagoldenvial:togetherwithsincerity,whenitisintruthofheart,whenitisinfaith,whenitcomesfromaspiritualadoption,whenitsinfervency,wheninconstancy,reverence,humility,andallputup in thenameof JesusChrist; now amanprays, as it is said of Saul,beholdheprayeth; so Imaysayof those thatare instructed in thisart,beholdtheypray;youseenowthatprayerismorethentoreadinabook,morethentosayafewwords;yeseeitisaveryhardthingtopray,aworkof great difficulty, and nomarvel though we have lost somany of ourprayersaswehavedone;wemustnotchargeprayerandGodwithit,butlook to ourselves (I mean not charge the ordinance of prayer) but thevilenessofourcarriageinourprayers;andletusfortimetocomeknowwhataChristianlifemeanness,itissaidofChristinLuke9.29.thatashewas praying the fashion of his countenance was changed. Oh that's anexcellentthing,thatwhenwehavebeeninourclosetsatprayer,tocomeawaywith our faces shining;my brethren couldwe but pray in such amanner as this is, the very fashion of our countenances would bechanged, asMoses when he came from the presence of God upon theMount, or as Christ that had the fashion of his countenance changed.Prayer,itisthesweeteaseofonesspirit,itsthehelpatadeadlift,itsthegreatordinanceofourcommunionwithGodinthisworld;andthereforeletuslearnthisartofsanctifyingGod'snameinprayer.

Ishallconcludeallinthis,youhaveheardthemysteryofthesanctifyingthenameofGodinworshippingGod;nowIbeseechyou,youthathavebeenalongtimeintheschoolofChrist,asitwereapprenticestoChristtolearnChristianity;beashamedthatyouhaveunderstoodsolittleofthisart insanctifying thenameofGod inprayer; It isanartandamysterythat youmust be instructed in, and you are not Christians till you areinstructed in this, as in an art andmystery:And thatman andwomanthatshallbeinstructedtrulyinthisartandmysteryinsanctifyingGod'snamenowintheworshipingofhim,suchamanandwomanshallbetoalleternitysanctifyingthenameofGodinprayingofhim.ThereisatimecomingwhenallthesaintsmustbeinthepresenceofGod,andbealwayspraisingofhim,andtheyshall thensanctifyGod'snameforever; letusnow learn this art of sanctifying God's name in praying, that we mayeternallysanctifyhisnameinpraisingofhim.

FINIS.

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MONERGISMBOOKS

GospelWorshipbyJeremiahBurroughs,Copyright©2018

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