A discourse of conscience wherein is set down the nature, properties, and differences thereofA discourse of conscience wherein is set downe the nature, properties, and differences thereof

And though men be bound in conscience to keep their promises: yet this hinders not but ⟨p. 83⟩that there is and may be a good and lawful use of Indentures and obligations. For the bond of conscience is between man and God: but the bond of an obligation is only between man and man. Abraham when he bought a purchase of Ephron the Hi•••te, he payed his money and made it sure before witness, Gen. 23. vers. 17.

And though men be bound in conscience to keepe their promises: yet this hinders not but ⟨p. 83⟩that there is and may be a good and lawfull use of Indentures and obligations. For the bonde of conscience is betweene man and God: but the bonde of an obligation is onely betweene man and man. Abraham when hee bought a purchase of Ephron the Hi•••te, hee payed his money and made it sure before witnesse, Gen. 23. vers. 17.

Here we must consider the general sin of this age, which is to speak deceitfully every one to his neighbour. It is an hard thing to find a man that will stand to his word and lawful promise. It is a rule of Machi•vell that a man may practise many things against his faith, against charity, and humanity, and religion: and that it is not necessary to have these virtues, but to counterfeit and dissemble them. But let all such as fear God, make conscience of their word, because they are bound so to do: and hereby they shall resemble their heavenly father who is true in all his promises; and they shall also bring forth a notable fruit of the spirit, Galat. 5. vers. 22