A09339:1444
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.
The especial providence is that, which God showeth & exerciseth towards his Church and chosen people,1 in gathering and guiding them, and in preserving them by his mighty power against the gates of hell. And therefore Gods Church here upon earth is called the kingdom of grace, in which he shows not only a general power over his creatures, but withal the special operation of his spirit in bowing and bending the hearts of men to his will.
The e•peciall prouidence is that, which God sheweth & exerciseth towards his Church and •hosen people,1 in gathering and guiding them, and in preseruing them by his mightie power against the gates of hell. And therfore Gods Church here vpon earth is called the kingdome of grace, in which he shewes not onely a generall power ouer his creatures, but withall the speciall operation of his spirit in bowing and bending the hearts of men to his will.
- 1Isa. 43.•. Zach. •.8.
Thus much concerning the doctrine of Gods providence. Now follows the duties. First, seeing there is a providence of God over every thing that is, we are hereby taught to take good heed of the transgression of the least of Gods commandments. If men were persuaded that the Prince had an eye every where, doubtless many subjects in England would walk more obediently to the laws of the land then they do: and durst in no wise work such villainies as are daily practised. Well, howsoever it is with earthly princes, yet this all-seeing-presence is least wanting in God: he hath an eye every where: wheresoever thou art, there God beholdeth thee, as David saith,