A09364:111
The first part of The cases of conscience Wherein specially, three main questions concerning…The first part of The cases of conscience Wherein specially, three maine questions concerning…
The first part of The cases of conscience Wherein specially, three main questions concerning man, simply considered in himself, are propounded and resolved, according to the word of God. Taught and delivered, by M. William Perkins in his Holy-day lectures, by himself revised before his death, and now published for the benefit of the Church.The first part of The cases of conscience Wherein specially, three maine questions concerning man, simply considered in himselfe, are propounded and resolued, according to the word of God. Taught and deliuered, by M. William Perkins in his Holy-day lectures, by himselfe revised before his death, and now published for the benefit of the Church.
Cambridge: printed by John Legat, 1604Cambridge: printed by Iohn Legat, 1604
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 first place is Rom. 8. 16. And the spirit of God testifieth together with our spirits, that we are the sons of God. In these words are two testimonies of our adoption set down; the Spirit of God dwelling in us, & testifying unto us, that we are Gods children: and our Spirit, that is, our conscience, sanctified and renewed by the holy Ghost.
The first place is Rom. 8. 16. And the spirit of God testifieth together with our spirits, that we are the sonnes of God. In these words are two testimonies of our adoption set downe; the Spirit of God dwelling in vs, & testifying vnto vs, that we are Gods children: and our Spirit, that is, our conscience, sanctified and renewed by the holy Ghost.
Here put the case, that the testimony of the ⟨p. 66⟩spirit be wanting: then I answer, that the other testimony, the sanctification of the heart, will suffice to assure us. We know it sufficiently to be true, and not painted fire, if there be hear, though there be no flame.
Here put the case, that the testimonie of the ⟨p. 66⟩spirit be wanting: then I answer, that the other testimonie, the sanctification of the heart, will suffice to assure vs. VVe know it sufficiētly to be true, and not painted fire, if there be heare, though there be no flame.
Put the case again, that the testimony of the spirit be wanting, and our sanctification be uncertain unto us, how then may we be assured? The answer is, that we must then have recourse to the first beginnings, and motions of sanctification, which are these. First, to feel our inward corruptions. Secondly, to be displeased with our selves for them. Thirdly, to begin to hate sin. Fourthly, to grieve so oft as we fall and offend God. Fifthly, to avoid the occasions of sin. Sixthly, to endeavour to do our duty, and to use good means. Seventhly, to desire to sin no more. And lastly, to pray to God for his grace. Where these and the like motions are, there is the spirit of God, whence they proceed: and sanctification is begun. One apple is sufficient to manifest the life of the tree, and one good and constant motion of grace, is sufficient to manifest sanctification. Again, it may be demanded, what must be done, if both be wanting? Answ. Men must not despair, but use good means, and in time they shall be assured.