A09339:895
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.
The temptation, is an illusion which the devil casteth into the hearts of godly men: as when he saith, Thou art not of the number of the elect: thou art not justified: thou hast no faith: thou must certainly be condemned for thy sins. Mat. 4.3. Then came to him the tempter, and said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
The temptation, is an illusion which the diuell casteth into the hearts of godly men: as when he saith, Thou art not of the number of the elect: thou art not iustified: thou hast no faith: thou must certenly be condemned for thy sinnes. Mat. 4.3. Then came to him the tempter, and said, If thou be the Sonne of God, command that these stones be made bread.
Helps, which the devil abuseth for the strengthening of such illusions, are these: I. Adversity: as dangers, losses, persecutions, jealousy, grievous offences, &c. Psal. 73.12. Lo, these are the wicked, yet prosper they alway, and increase in riches. 13. Certainly, I have cleansed mine heart in vain, & washed mine hands in innocency. Job. 13.23. How many are mine iniquities & sins? show me my rebellion and my sin. 24. Wherefore hidest thou thy face, and takest me for thine enemy? 25. Wilt thou break a leaf driven to and fro, and wilt thou pursue the dry stubble? II. The remembrance of sins past. Job. 13.26. For thou writest bitter things against me, and makest me to possess the iniquities of my youth. III. A feeling of death even already at hand.
Helpes, which the deuil abuseth for the strengthening of such illusions, are these: I. Aduersitie: as dangers, losses, persecutions, iealousie, grieuous offences, &c.