A09353:1157
A golden chain, or the description of theologyA golden chaine, or the description of theologie
A golden chain, or the description of theology containing the order of the causes of salvation and damnation, according to Gods word. A view of the order whereof, is to be seen in the table annexed. Written in Latin by William Perkins, and translated by an other. Hereunto is adjoined the order which M. Theodore Beza used in comforting troubled consciences.A golden chaine, or the description of theologie containing the order of the causes of saluation and damnation, according to Gods woord. A view of the order wherof, is to be seene in the table annexed. Written in Latine by William Perkins, and translated by an other. Hereunto is adioyned the order which M. Theodore Beza vsed in comforting troubled consciences.
London: printed by Edward Alde, 1591
Chapter 53: Concerning the execution of the decree of Reprobation.
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 fifth degree, is the outward holiness of life for a time, under which, is comprehended the zeal in the profession of Religion, a reverence and fear towards Gods ministers, and amendment of life in many things. Mark 6.20. For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and reverenced him, and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. Acts 8.13. Then Simon himself believed also, and was baptized, and continued with Philip, and wondered when he saw the signs and great miracles which were done. Hose. 6.4. O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, how shall I entreat thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the morning dew, it goeth away.
The fift degree, is the outward holynes of life for a time, vnder which, is comprehended the zeale in the profession of Religion, a reuerence and feare towards Gods ministers, and amendment of life in many thinges. Mark 6.20. For Herod feared Iohn, knowing that he was a iust man and an holy, and reuerenced him, and when he heard him, he did many thinges, and heard him gladly. Actes 8.13. Then Simon himselfe beleeued also, and was baptized, and continued with Philip, and wondred when he saw the signes and great miracles which were done. Hose. 6.4. O Ephraim, what shall I do vnto thee? O Iudah, how shall I entreate thee? for your goodnes is as a morning cloud, and as the morning dew, it goeth away.
The second degree of the execution of Gods ⟨image 159⟩counsel of reprobation, in men of ripe age which are called, is a falling away again, which for the most part is effected and wrought after this manner. First, the reprobate is deceived by some sin. Secondly, his hart is hardened by the same sin. Thirdly, his hart being hardened, it becometh wicked and perverse. Fourthly, then followeth his incredulity and unbelief, whereby he consenteth not to Gods word, when he hath heard & known it. Fifthly, an Apostasy or falling away from faith in Christ, doth immediately follow this unbelief.