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…

The points then are two.

A mans self naturally is a God to his soul. For why else should CHRIST lay this weight on them; as who should say; look to it, for it will crowd into diverse duties, this Pope-like sin will row in every mans boat, it would be universal in every estate; oh this self is in every man, and sways there. Therefore our Saviour gives caution concerning this, to which we are subject. But the last, namely, the gracious self is not so much intended here, though this be too. But especially the three former are here intended, Psal. 12.4. Our tongues are our own, who shall be over Us? the wicked stout it out against God, and vvill have no other God then their own selves. Reproof shall not control them, our tongues are our own. We will hold our old course still; tell us not of swearing, we vvill swear still, Matth. 15.6.¹ The Scribes made Traditions the Rule, and themselves gods; and thereby made the command of God of none effect, that is, Unlorded them, and lorded it over them. Conceits must rule, Jer. 2.31.² We are Lords, ⟨p. 39⟩we will come no more at thee. As who should say, thou thinkest to command us, but thy command shall not prevail; thus they lord it, and vvill be above God and his commands, this is to be a god to himself, 1 Pet. 4.1, 2, 3.³ they walk after the will of the Gentiles, not what God will, but what a Gentiles corrupt heart vvill command, that is done: thus you idle persons, and such as follow pleasures, and Cards, and Dice, on the Sabbath; God forbids you, but you will have them. Wherefore they be your Gods; and unless your vvill be satisfied, you fall out with heaven and earth, and all; this self must be denied.