A09339:1204
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
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.
I. The Elect alone, and all they that are elect, not only may be, but also in ⟨p. 177⟩Gods good time, are sure of election in Christ to eternal life. 1. Corinth. 2.12. 2. Cor. 13.5. II. They have not this knowledge from the first causes of Election, but rather from the last effects thereof: and they are especially two: The testimony of Gods spirit, and the works of Sanctification. 2. Pet. 1. 10. Romans 8.16. III. If any doubt of this testimony, it will appear unto them, whether it come from the Spirit of God, or their own carnal presumption: First, by a full persuasion which they shall have; for the holy Ghost will not barely say it, but persuadeth such, that they are the children of God, the which the flesh can not in any wise do. Secondly, by the manner of persuasion: for the holy Ghost draweth not reasons •rom the works, or worthiness of man, but from Gods favour and love: and this kind of persuasion is far different from that which Satan useth. Thirdly, by the effects of that testimony. For if the persuasion arise from presumption, it is a dead persuasion: but contrarily, it is most lively and stirring, if it come from the holy Ghost. For such as are persuaded that they are elected, and adopted children of GOD, they will love god, they will trust in him, and they will call upon him with their whole heart. IV. If the testimony of Gods spirit be not so powerful in the elect, then may they judge of their election, by that other effect of the holy ghost; namely, Sanctification: like as we use to judge by heat that there is fire, when we cannot see the flame it self. V. And of all the effects of sanctification, these are most notable. I. To feel our wants, and in the bitterness of heart to bewail the offence of GOD in every sin. II. To strive against the flesh, that is, to resist, and to hate the ungodly motions thereof, and with grief to think them burdenous & troublesome. III. To desire earnestly and vehemently the grace of God, and merit of Christ to obtain eternal life. IV. When it is obtained, to account it a most precious jewel.