A09339:2571
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.
II.
This knowledge is only general and imperfect, much like the ruins of a Princes palace: it is not sufficient to direct him in doing of a good work. For example, he knoweth that there is a God, and that this God must be worshipped: come to particulars, who God is? what a one he is? how he must be worshipped? Here his knowledge faileth him, and he is altogether uncertain what to do to please God.
This knowledge is only generall and imperfect, much like the ruines of a Princes pallace: it is not sufficient to direct him in doing of a good work. For example, he knoweth that there is a God, and that this God must be worshipped: come to particulars, who God is? what a one he is? how he must be worshipped? Here his knowledge faileth him, and he is altogither vncertain what to doe to please God.
III.
By reason of this knowledge, the Reprobate doeth give consent, and in his heart subscribeth to the equity of Gods law; as may appear by the saying of Medea: Video meliora probóque; deteriora sequor. That is, I know what is best to be done, and like it; yet I do the worst. This approbation in the Reprobate cometh from constraint; and is joined with a disliking of the law: in the elect being called, the b