The Christians two chief lessons viz. self-denial, and self-trial. As also the privilege of…The Christians tvvo chiefe lessons viz. selfe-deniall, and selfe-tryall. As also the priviledge of…

¹2. Apostates, and Back-sliders, Psal. 78.9. The Children of Ephraim being harnessed and carrying bows, turned them back in the day of battle▪ so men forsake Christ being armed with bows, that is, with GODS Ordinances; They follow Christ so far as they may keep company with ease, liberty, and their old lusts; they will follow Christ to the Cross; and if he will come down from the Cross, they will follow him; like Dema• they will follow Christ so long as their pleasure lasts, Matth. 8.19.² one came to Christ and said▪ I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest; wilt thou saith Christ; then thou must fare as thou findest; the birds have nests, and the Foxes holes, but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head; and when he heard this, he went his way, we hear no more of him. So many now a days seem to be great Professors, but when times are dangerous, then farewell all profession. Men indent with the Gospel, and if the word pitch them higher, then they say as they John 6.60.³ this is a hard saying, who can abide it? What so strict? To be pinioned to so nice courses? What never take up a gay fashion, but always creep into a corner, to deny a mans self, with a company of ⟨p. 31⟩leather coat Christians, and to walk by such a strict rule? oh this is a hard saying. But they can follow their fashions, and courses of the world, and yet would be Christians, and followers of Christ. Christians? away with them; show me but one footstep of Christ in their courses; sure he never went that way. Show me that ever Christ swore faith and troth, show me where Christ said, you must not be pure and singular: but must shun the Puritan Cut. It was meat and drink to him to do his fathers will; and thou art weary of it. Now thou art an Apostate, and not a follower of Christ.