A09339:3032
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.
Christian. I have had faith.
Christian. I haue had faith.
Satan. Thou never hadst true faith: for in time past, when according to thine opinion thou didst believe, then thou hadst nothing but a shadow of faith and a foolish imagination, which all hypocrites have.
Sathan. Thou neuer hadst true faith: for in time past, when according to thine opinion thou didst beleeue, then thou hadst nothing but a shadow of faith and a foolish imagination, which all hypocrites haue.
Christian. 1I will put my trust in God for ever, and his former mercies shewmed me heretofore strengthen me now in this my weakness. 1 He created me when I was nothing. 2 He created me a man, when he might have made me an ugly toad. 3 He made me of comely body, and of good discretion, whereas he might have made me ugly, and deformed, frantic and mad. 4 I was borne in the days of knowledge, when I might have bin borne in the time of ignorance and superstition. 5 I was borne of Christian parents, but God might have given me either Turks or Jews, or some other savage people for my parents. 6 I might have perished in my mothers womb, but he hath preserved me, and provided for me by his providence even unto this hour. 7 Soon after my birth, God might have cast me into hell, but contrariwise I was baptized, and so received the seal of his blessed covenant. 8 I have had by Gods goodness some sorrow for my sins past, and have called on him, in hope and confidence that he would hear me. 9 God might have concealed his word from me, but I have heard the plentiful preaching of it: I understand it, and have received comfort by it. 10 Lastly, at this time God might pour his full wrath on me: which he doth not, but mercifully maketh me to feel mine own wants, that I might be humbled, and give all glory unto him for his blessings. Wherefore, there is no cause why I should be disquieted: but I will trust still in the Lord, and depend on him, as I have done.