A09339:2397
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.
1. The Coherence.
IT might seem to some, that this petition is superfluous, for what need he care for temptations, that hath the pardon of his sins? but our Saviour did not teach us thus to pray without special reason. 1. Because forgiveness of ⟨p. 556⟩sins, and grievous temptations be inseparable companions in this life: which thing we find to be true, both in Gods word and in Christian experience: for there is no man in this world so beaten, and buffeted with temptations, as the penitent sinner that cries most bitterly for the pardon of his sins. This is the estate that few men in the world are acquainted with. For many are never troubled with temptation, but live in all peace and quietness both in body and soul. Luk. 11.21. When the strong man armed keeps his hold, the things that he possesseth are in peace. Whereby is signified, that the wicked of the world being possessed of Satan, are not a whit molested by him with any temptations: neither need he trouble them, seeing he hath them at commandment to do what he will. But when a man once begins to make conscience of sin, and to sue unto the Lord for pardon of his offences, and still continues in dislike of sin and Satan: then the enemy bestirs him, and useth all means to bring that man to confusion: he offereth all manner of temptations to molest him, & never affords this poor sinner any rest. Hereupon, for fear of being overcome, he must pray continually unto the Lord, that he may not be lead into temptation.
IT might seeme to some, that this petition is superfluous, for what neede hee care for temptations, that hath the pardon of his sinnes? but our Sauiour did not teach vs thus to pray without speciall reason. 1. Because forgiuenesse of