A09339:1134
A Golden Chain
A golden chain: or The description of theology containing the order of the causes of salvation and damnation, according to Gods word. A view whereof is to be seen in the table annexed. Hereunto is adjoined the order which M. Theodore Beza used in comforting afflicted consciences.A golden chaine: or The description of theologie containing the order of the causes of saluation and damnation, according to Gods word. A view whereof is to be seene in the table annexed. Hereunto is adioyned the order which M. Theodore Beza vsed in comforting afflicted consciences.
Cambridge: printed by John Legat, 1600Cambridge: printed by Iohn Legat, 1600
Chapter 53: Concerning the execution of the decree of Reprobation.
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
The first is, an enlightening of their minds, whereby they are instructed of the holy Ghost to the understanding and knowledge of the word. Heb. 6.4. For it is impossible that they which were once lightened, &c. 2. Pet. 2.20. For if they, after they have escaped from the filthiness of the world, through the knowledge of the Lord, and of the Saviour Jesus Christ, are yet tangled again therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them then the beginning.
The first is, an enlightning of their mindes, whereby they are instructed of the holy Ghost to the vnderstanding and knoweledge of the word. Heb. 6.4. For it is impossible that they which were once lightned, &c. 2. Pet. 2.20. For if they, after they haue escaped from the filthinesse of the world, through the knowledge of the Lord, and of the Sauiour Iesus Christ, are yet tangled againe therein, and ouercome, the latter end is worse with them then the beginning.
The second, is a certain penitency, whereby the Reprobate, I. doth acknowledge his sin. II. Is pricked with the feeling of Gods wrath for sin. III. Is grieved for the punishment of sin. IV. Doth confess his sin. V. Acknowledgeth God to be just in punishing sin. VI. Desireth to be saved. VII. Promiseth repentance in his misery or affliction, in these words, I will sin no more. Math. 27.3. Then when Judas which betrayed him, saw that he was condemned, he repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver, to the chief Priests and Elders. Heb. 12.17. For ye know how that afterward also when h• would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place to repentance, though he sought the blessing with tears.