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…

2 Man by nature is devoted beyond measure to his natural corruption, so as what he wills, that he wills with his whole strength; so loath are men to part with their corrupt practises, that skin for skin, and all that a man hath, will he give rather then forgo any part of that which he is by natural apprehension bent unto. Hence the Scripture terms the sins that a man is more specially inclined unto, his right eye, his right hand, then which, what is not a man more willing to lose? hereupon the heart of man seeks, and having by seeking found such a righteousness, as wherein it may be something with God, and yet retain his own self-liking sins, by all means embraceth this form of service of God, takes great contentment in this; and such a one is this formal righteousness, which makes a fair show, promising great matters both unto others, and our own seduced hearts; and in this do men willingly rest, as that which gives a dispensation unto some partial sins, and yet carries a goodly appearance amongst men. This formal service of God will bring whole rivers of outward service, even the first borne of his body, for the sin of his soul, so be it he may retain his own will.

2 Man by nature is devoted beyond measure to his naturall corruption, so as what hee wils, that he wils with his whole strength; so loath are men to part with their corrupt practises, that skinne for skinne, and all that a man hath, will he give rather then forgoe any part of that which he is by naturall apprehension bent unto. Hence the Scripture tearmes the sinnes that a man is more specially inclined unto, his right eye, his right hand, then which, what is not a man more willing to lose? hereupon the heart of man seekes, and having by seeking found such a righteousnesse, as wherein it may be something with God, and yet retaine his owne selfe-liking sinnes, by all meanes embraceth this forme of service of God, takes great con•entment in this; and such a one is this formall righteousnesse, which makes a faire shew, promising great matters both unto others, and our owne seduced hearts; and in this doe men willingly rest, as that which gives a dispensation unto some partiall sinnes, and yet carries a goodly appearance amongst men. This formall service of God will bring whole rivers of outward service, even the first borne of his body, for the sinne of his soule, so be it he may retaine his owne will.