A09339:1425
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
AN EXPOSITION OF THE CREED. I believe in God. &c.AN EXPOSITION OF THE CREED. I beleeue in God. &c.
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.
And thus much for the duties Now follow the consolation•. Although by reason of the fall of man we can have but little comfort now: yet the creation doth confirm the unspeakable providence of God over his creatures, but especially over man, in that the Lord created him the sixth day: and so before he was made prepared for him a Paradise for his dwelling place, and all creatures for his use and comfort. And if he were thus careful for us when we were not, then no doubt he will be much more careful for us at this present, in which we live and have being. Nay, mark further, since the fall man eats and drinks in quantity a great deal, which in common reason should rather kill him, then turn to the strength and nourishment of his body: yet herein doth the wonderful power of the Creator most notably appear, who hath made mans stomach as a limbeck or still to digest all meats that are hole-some for his nourishment and preservation.
And thus much for the duties Now follow the consolation•. Although by reason of the fall of man we can haue but little comfort now: yet the creation doth confirme the vnspeakable prouidence of God ouer his creatures, but especially ouer man, in that the Lord created him the sixth day: and so before he was made prepared for him a Paradise for his dwelling place, and all creatures for his vse and comfort. And if he were thus carefull for vs when we were not, then no doubt he will be much more carefull for vs at this present, in which we liue and haue beeing. Nay, marke further, since the fall man eates and drinkes in quantitie a great deale, which in common reason should rather kill him, then turne to the strength and nourishment of his bodie: yet herein doth the wonderfull power of the Creatour most notably appeare, who hath made mans stomacke as a lymbecke or still to digest all meates that are hole-some for his nourishment and preseruation.
And thus much for the Creation. Now in these words, maker of heaven and earth] is more to be understood then the work of creation, namely Gods providence in governing all things created, as he appointed in his eternal decree•