A09339:4162
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.
Whereas presumption and the illusion of Satan use as well to tell a man, that he is the child of God, as the true testimony of regenerate conscience, the way to put difference between them is this. I. Presumption is natural and from the very womb, but this testimony of conscience is supernatural. II. Presumption is in them that make no account of the ordinary means of salvation. This testimony comes by the reverent and careful hearing of Gods word. III. Presumption is in them that use not to call on the name of God: but this testimony of conscience is joined with the spirit of adoption which is the spirit of prayer. IV. Presumption is joined with looseness of life, this testimony brings with it always an happy change and alteration. For he which hath a good con science hath also care to keep good conscience in all things. V. Presumption ⟨p. 885⟩is peremptory without doubting: whereas the testimony of conscience is mingled with manifold doubtings, Mark. 9.24. Luk. 17. 5. yea otherwhiles overcharged with them, Psal. 77.7,8. VI. Presumption will give a man the slip in the time of sickness, and in the hour of death; and the testimony of good conscience sticks by him to the end, and even makes him say, Lord remember now •owe I have walked before thee in trueth, and have done that which is acceptable in thy sight. Isa. 38.2.
Whereas presumption and the illusion of Satan vse as wel to tel a man, that he is the child of God, as the true testimonie of regenerate conscience, the way to put difference between them is this. I. Presumption is natural and from the very wombe, but this testimonie of conscience is supernaturall. II. Presumption is in them that make no account of the ordinarie meanes of saluation. This testimonie comes by the reuerent and carefull hearing of Gods worde. III. Presumption is in them that vse not to call on the name of God: but this testimonie of conscience is ioyned with the spirit of adoption which is the spirit of praier. IV. Presumption is ioyned with loosenes of life, this testimonie brings with it alwaies an happy change and alteration. For he which hath a good cō science hath also care to keepe good conscience in all things. V. Presumption