Two treatises· I. Of the nature and practise of repentance. II. Of the combat…Tvvo treatises· I. Of the nature and practise of repentance. II. Of the combat…
Two treatises· I. Of the nature and practise of repentance. II. Of the combat of the flesh and spirit.Tvvo treatises· I. Of the nature and practise of repentance. II. Of the combat of the flesh and spirit.
William Perkins 1558–1602Cambridge: printed by John Legate printer to the University of Cambridge. 1593., 1593Cambridge: printed by Iohn Legate printer to the Vniversitie of Cambridge. 1593., 1593
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.
IN the practise of Repentance four special duties are required. The first is a diligent and serious examination of the conscience by the Laws & commandments of God, for all manner of sins both original and actual. Example of the1 children of Israel. Wherefore is the living man sorrowful? man suffereth for his sin: let us search & try our ways, & turn again to the Lord. Of David. I considered 2my ways, & turned my feet to thy testimonies.
IN the practise of Repentance foure speciall duties are required. The first is a diligent and serious examination of the consciēce by the Lawes & commandementes of God, for all manner of sinnes both originall and actuall. Example of the1 children of Israel. Wherefore is the living man sorowfull? man suffereth for his sinne: let vs search & trie our wayes, & turne againe to the Lorde. Of David. I considered 2my wayes, & turned my feete to thy testimonies.
Touching Original sin, this must be well remembered, that one man hath not one part only of original sin, and another man an other: one man this corruption, another that: but every man as he received from Adam the whole nature of man: so also he received original sin wholly. And therefore every man, (not one excepted, saving Christ who was extraordinarily sanctified by the holy ghost in the womb of the virgin) hath in him from his parents the corruption and seed of all sin, which is a natural disposition & proneness to commit any sin whatsoever. Take a view and consider all the horrible sins that be practised in any part of the world, either against the first or second table: whatsoever they are, the spawn and seed of them all is even in that man that is thought to be best disposed by nature. Some may say, that experience shows the contrary; because among men that want all manner of religion some are more civill & orderly: some again more lewdly disposed. I answer, that this comes to pass, not because some men are by nature less wicked then others: but because God, by his providence
⟨p. 19⟩
doth limit and restrain mens corruption more or less, which he doth for the good of mankind. For if men might be wholly left to themselves, corruption would so exceedingly break out into all manner of sins, that there should be no living in the world.
Touching Originall sinne, this must be well remembred, that one man hath not one part onely of originall sinne, and another man an other: one man this corruption, another that: but every man as he received from Adam the whole nature of man: so also he received originall sinne wholly. And therefore every man, (not one excepted, saving Christ who was extraordinarily sanctified by the holy ghost in the womb of the virgin) hath in him from his parents the corruption and seede of all sinne, which is a naturall disposition & pronesse to commit any sinne whatsoeuer. Take a view and consider all the horrible sinnes that be practised in any part of the world, either against the first or second table: whatsoeuer they are, the spawne and seede of them all is euen in that man that is thought to be best disposed by nature. Some may say, that experiēce shewes the contrary; because among men that want all maner of religion some are more civill & orderly: some againe more lewdly disposed. I answere, that this comes to passe, not because some men are by nature lesse wicked then others: but because God, by his providence ⟨p. 19⟩doth limit and restraine mens corruption more or lesse, which he doth for the good of mankind. For if men might be wholly left to themselves, corruption woulde so exceedingly breake out into all maner of sinnes, that there should be no living in the world.
Touching actual sins, they shall be found by examination to be innumerable as the hairs of a mans head, & as the sands by the sea shore: if any will but search themselves a little by the ten commandments of the Decalogue, for all their sinful thoughts, words, and deeds against God and man.
Touching actuall sinnes, they shalbe found by examinatiō to be innumerable as the haires of a mans head, & as the sands by the sea shore: if any will but search themselves a litle by the ten commandements of the Decalogue, for all their sinful thoughts, words, and deeds against God and man.
A DIRECTION FOR EXAmination of the conscience.
I. COME. Thou shalt have none other gods, &c.
He breaks this commandment,
That knows not the true God, Jer. 4. 22.
That denies God in his hart, by denying his presence, justice, mercy, &c. Ps. 14. 1.
That hates God, and shows it by disobedience. Exod. 20. 5. Rom. 1. 30.
⟨p. 20⟩That do not fear God and stand in awe of him.
That fear men or other creatures more then God. Matth. 10. 31. Apoc. 21. 8.
That live in open sins securely, not fearing Gods word or judgements. 1. Thess. 5, 6, 7.
That is sorrowful for his sins only in respect of the punishment. 2. Cor. 7. 10.
That fears God by mens traditions. Isa. 29. 13.
That do not believe Gods word but call the Canonical scripture in question.
That despairs of Gods mercy.
That hath a dead faith without works. Jam. 2.
That puts faith in the devil and his works, as seekers to wizards do.
That loves the creatures, as riches & honour, and his own filthy pleasures more then God. Ephes. 5. 5.
That puts confidence in his strength, wisdom, riches, physicians. 2. Chron. 16. 9, 11.
That is impatient under the cross. Mat. 10. 38.
That tempts God. Matth. 4. 7.
That seeks for the things of this life, more then for Gods kingdom. Matth. 6. 33.
That murmurs against God. 1. Cor. 10. 10.
⟨p. 21⟩That disputes and holds there is no God.
That holds and maintains opinions against the ancient faith set down in the writings of the Prophets and Apostles. As did the Manichees, Donatists, Arians, Anabaptists, &c.
That so holds one religion, as he is ready to follow another. 1. King. 18. 21.
That is full of presumption of Gods mercy. Isa. 7. 12.
That falls away from the known trueth. 2. Pet. 2. 20.
That adds to Canonical scripture. Deut. 12. last ver.
II. COME. Thou shalt make to thy self no graven Image. &c.
He breaks this commandment,
That represents God in an image. Exod. 32. 6, 8.
That worships God in or at images, as crucifixes, and such like, 2. King. 18. 4.
That kneels down before an image.
That is bodily present at Mass keeping his ⟨p. 22⟩heart to God, 1. Cor. 8. 9.
That retains the monuments of idolatry. Exod. 23. 13.
That marrieth with infidels or such like. Gen. 6. 2.
That makes leagues of amity with such. 2. Chron. 19. 1.
That worships God according to his own fantasy. Col. 2. 23.
That worships God with lip-service. Isa. 29.
A DIRECTION FOR EXAmination of the conscience.
I. COM. Thou shalt have none other gods, &c.
He breakes this commandement,
THat knowes not the true God, Ier. 4. 22.
That denies God in his hart, by denying his presence, iustice, mercy, &c. Ps. 14. 1.
That hates God, and shewes it by disobedience. Exod. 20. 5. Rom. 1. 30.
⟨p. 20⟩That doe not feare God and stand in awe of him.
That feare men or other creatures more then God. Matth. 10. 31. Apoc. 21. 8.
That liue in open sinnes securely, not fearing Gods worde or iudgements. 1. Thess. 5, 6, 7.
That is sorrowfull for his sinnes onely in respect of the punishment. 2. Cor. 7. 10.
That feares God by mens traditions. Isa. 29. 13.
That doe not beleeue Gods word but call the Canonicall scripture in question.
That despaires of Gods mercie.
That hath a dead faith without works. Iam. 2.
That puts faith in the devill and his workes, as seekers to wisardes doe.
That loues the creatures, as riches & honour, and his owne filthy pleasures more then God. Ephes. 5. 5.
That puts confidence in his strength, wisdom, riches, phisitions. 2. Chron. 16. 9, 11.
That is impatient under the crosse. Mat. 10. 38.
That temptes God. Matth. 4. 7.
That seekes for the things of this life, more then for Gods kingdome. Matth. 6. 33.
That murmures against God.
13
That hath the power of godliness but denies the force of it, 2. Tim. 3. 5.
That gives Gods worship to creatures, as Saints and Angels. Psal. 115. 8.
That refuseth to hear the preaching of the Gospel. Luk. 14. 19.
That negligently worships God. Rev. 3. 16.
That omits invocation of Gods name. Isai. 64. 7.
That hears sermons but when he is reproved, rails, and rages, and profits nothing, Amos. 5. 10.
That changes the worship of God in whole or in part. Deut. 12. 32.
That makes either open or secret league with ⟨p. 23⟩the devil, Psal. 58
That useth witchcraft, sorcery, or enchantments, Deut. 18. 11. Lev. 19. 26.
That consults with wizards. Lev. 20. 6.
That wears Amulets or Characters about his neck, and puts confidence in them.
That hinders schools of religion and good learning.
That seeks not (within the compass of his calling) the good estate of Gods Church: but seeks his own things. Psal. 132. 3, 4.
III. COME. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord, &c.
He breaks this commandment,
That doth unreverently use Gods titles in his talk. Phil. 2. 10.
That swears to do a thing lawful & good, and yet doth it not. Mat. 5. 23.
That swears rashly. Jerem. 4. 2.
That useth customable swearing in his common talk. Matt. 5. 37.
That blasphemes the name of God. Levit. 24. 16.
⟨p. 24⟩That swears falsely. Joh. 8. 44.
That swears against piety and honesty.
That useth cursing and banning.
That finds fault with the creatures of God, 1. Cor. 10. 3.
That swears by the creatures. Mat. 5. 34, 35.
That useth lots in sporting. Pro. 16. 33. & 18. 18.
That makes and useth charms of herbs and other things. Deut, 18. 11.
That makes jests of the sentences and phrases of scripture. Isa. 66. 2.
That useth figure casting. Isa. 47. 13.
That doth lightly regard Gods judgements. Heb. 3. 16.
That living dissolutely in religion, makes Gods name evil spoken of. 2. Sam. 12. 13. 1. Pet. 3. 15.
That makes a vow of continency or of any thing not in his power.
That makes a lawful vow and keeps it not. Deut. 23. 21.
That receives blessings from God, and is not thankful. Luc. 17. 8.
That teacheth the truth but doth not practise it. Mat. 23. 2.
⟨p. 25⟩IIII. COME. Remember the Sabbath day to &c.
He breaks this commandment,
That labours in the servile works of his ordinary calling. Nehem. 13. 15.
That travels abroad on his ordinary business, Exod. 16. 24.
13
That hath the power of godlinesse but denies the force of it, 2. Tim. 3. 5.
That gives Gods worshippe to creatures, as Saintes and Angels. Psal. 115. 8.
That refuseth to heare the preaching of the Gospell. Luk. 14. 19.
That negligently worships God. Rev. 3. 16.
That omits invocation of Gods name. Isai. 64. 7.
That heares sermons but when he is reprooved, railes, and rages, and profits nothing, Amos. 5. 10.
That changes the worship of God in whole or in part. Deut. 12. 32.
That makes either open or secret league with ⟨p. 23⟩the devill, Psal. 58
That useth witchcraft, sorcery, or inchantments, Deut. 18. 11. Lev. 19. 26.
That consults with wisards. Lev. 20. 6.
That weares Amulets or Characters about his necke, and puts confidence in them.
That hinders schooles of religion and good learning.
That seekes not (within the compasse of his calling) the good estate of Gods Church: but seekes his owne things. Psal. 132. 3, 4.
III. COM. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord, &c.
He breakes this commandement,
THat doth unreuerently use Gods titles in his talke. Phil. 2. 10.
That sweares to doe a thing lawfull & good, and yet doth it not. Mat. 5. 23.
That sweares rashly. Ierem. 4. 2.
That useth customable swearing in his common talke.
That keeps fairs and markets on this day. Nehe. 13. 15.
That works harvest work on this day. Exod. 34. 21.
That useth sports and recreations causing distraction. 1. Cor. 10. 7.
That spends the day in idleness. Isa. 58. 13.
That keeps the Sabbath only in outward fashion. Isa. 1. 13.
That profanes it by gluttony and drunkenness.
That gives servants liberty to do what they list.
That brings not his family to the congregation to hear Gods word, and to receive the sacraments.
⟨p. 26⟩That sanctifies not the Sabbath in his family privately.
V. COME. Honour thy father, &c.
He breaks this commandment,
That mocks or reviles, or beats his superiors, Gen. 9. 22.
That disobeys their lawful commandments, Rom. •▪ 30▪
That is unthankful to parents, and will not •elieve them if need be. 2. Tim. 3. 3.
That disobeys God to obey them. Act. 4. 19.
That exalts him self above the magistrate. 2. Thess. 2. 9.
That serves his master with eye-service. Coloss. 3, 22.
That governs his family and those which are under him negligently. 1. Tim. 3. 4.
That is slack in punishing faults. 1. Sam. 2. 22.
That is too rigorous in speeches and punishments. Eph. 6. 9.
That marrieth without parents consent.
That chooseth his calling without parents ⟨p. 27⟩consent. Num. 30.
That thinks better of himself then of others, Rom. 12. 10.
That despiseth aged persons. Lev. 19. 23.
VI. COME. Thou shalt not kill.
He breaks this commandment,
That bears malice to another. 1. Joh. 3. 15.
That is given to hastiness. Mat. 5. 22.
That useth inward fretting and grudging. Jam. 3. 14.
That is froward of nature, hard to please, Rom. 1. 31.
That is full of rancour and bitterness. Ephes. 4. 31
That derides and scorns others, Genes. 21. 9. Gal. 4. 29.
That useth bitter words and railings, Prover. 12. 18.
That useth contending by words or deeds, Gal. 5. 20.
That useth chiding and crying out. Ephes. 4. 31.
That is given to make complaints of his ⟨p. 28⟩neighbour in all places, Jam. 5. 9.
That is a fighter. Jam. 4. 1.
That hurts or mains his neighbours body. Exod. 21. 24.
That will not forgive an offence. Matth. 5. 23.
That will forgive but not forget.
That doeth fare well him self, but gives not alms to relieve the poor. Luc. 16. 19.
That useth cruelty in punishing malefactors. Deut. 22. 6.
That denies the servants or labourers wages, Jam. 5. 24.
That holds back the pledge. Ezech. 18. 7.
That keepes faires and markets on this day. Nehe. 13. 15.
That workes harvest worke on this day. Exod. 34. 21.
That useth sportes and recreations causing distraction. 1. Cor. 10. 7.
That spendes the day in idlenesse. Isa. 58. 13.
That keepes the Sabbath only in outward fashion. Isa. 1. 13.
That prophanes it by gluttonie and drunkennesse.
That gives servants libertie to doe what they list.
That brings not his family to the congregation to heare Gods word, and to receiue the sacraments.
⟨p. 26⟩That sanctifies not the Sabbath in his family privately.
V. COM. Honour thy fathtr, &c.
He breakes this commandement,
THat mockes or reviles, or beates his superiours, Gen. 9. 22.
That disobeyes their lawfull commaundements, Rom. •▪ 30▪
That is unthankefull to parents, and will not •elieve them if need be. 2. Tim. 3. 3.
That disobeyes God to obey them. Act. 4. 19.
That exaltes him selfe aboue the magistrate. 2. Thess. 2. 9.
That serves his master with eye-service. Coloss. 3, 22.
That governes his family and those which are under him negligently. 1. Tim. 3. 4.
That is slacke in punishing faults. 1. Sam. 2. 22.
That is too rigorous in speeches and punishments. Eph. 6. 9.
That marieth without parents consent.
That chooseth his calling without parents ⟨p. 27⟩
That sells by divers weights and measures.
That removes the land mark. Prov. 22. 18.
That gives his goods upon usury: which is simply to bind a man to return both the principal and the increase. Ezech. 18. 8.
That by his looseness of life is an occasion why other sin.
That moves contention and debate. Rom. 1. 29.
That being a minister teacheth erroneously.
That teacheth slackly. Jerem. 48. 10.
That teacheth not at all. 1. Tim. 3. 2.
⟨p. 29⟩That hinders mens salvation any way. Matt. 23. 13.
That seeks private revenge.
VII. COME. Thou shalt not commit, &c.
He breaks this commandment,
That looks on a woman to lust after her. Mat. 5. 28.
That commits incest. Levit. 18. 22.
That commits Sodomy. 1. Cor. 6. 9.
That commits fornication with married or single, or contracted folks. Deut. 22. 22.
That useth marriage bed intemperately.
That lieth with a menstruous woman, Ezech. 18. 6.
That useth wantonness. 1. Cor. 6. 9.
That useth occasions and provocations to lust. Gal. 5. 9.
That is given to idleness.
That wears wanton and light attire. 1. Tim. 2. 9. 1. Pet. 3. 3.
That useth light talk and reading of love books. 1. Cor. 15. 35.
⟨p. 30⟩That frequents lascivious places. Eph. 5. 3.
That delights in wanton pictures. 1. Thess. 5. 23.
That useth the mixed dancing of men and women, Mar. 6. 22.
That keeps company with light and suspected persons. Pro. 7. 22.
That neglects to dispose his children in marriage in convenient time. 1. Cor. 7. 37.
That makes marriages of young children.
That punisheth adultery with small punishments.
That marrieth more wives then one at once. Gen. 2. 24.
That loves his pleasures more then God. 2. Tim. 3. 4.
That takes care to fulfil the lusts of the flesh. Rom. t3. 14.
That maintains and frequents stews. Deut. 23. 17.
That is given to drunkenness and surfeiting, Eph. 5. 18.
That gives himself to wine, sleep, and ease. Prov. 20. 13.
That for the avoiding of fornications marries ⟨p. 31⟩not. 1. Cor. 7. 2.
That puts away his wife for other causes then for fornication, Mat. 19. 9.
VIII. COME. Thou shalt not steal.
He breaks this commandment,
That lives in no calling. 1. Thess 3. 11.
That neglects his calling. Jerem. 48. 10.
That spends his wealth in riot, and provides not for his family. 1. Tim. 5. 8.
That is not content with his estate, but seeks to be rich. 1. Tim. 6. 10.
That sells the goods of the Church, or buys them. Mal. 3. 8.
That sels by divers weights and measures.
That remooves the land marke. Prov. 22. 18.
That gives his goods vpon usurie: which is simply to binde a man to returne both the principall and the increase. Ezech. 18. 8.
That by his loosenesse of life is an occasion why other sinne.
That mooves contention and debate. Rom. 1. 29.
That being a minister teacheth erroneously.
That teacheth slackly. Ierem. 48. 10.
That teacheth not at all. 1. Tim. 3. 2.
⟨p. 29⟩That hinders mens salvation any way. Matt. 23. 13.
That seekes private revenge.
VII. COM. Thou shalt not commit, &c.
He breakes this commandement,
THat lookes on a woman to lust after her. Mat. 5. 28.
That commits incest. Levit. 18. 22.
That commits Sodomie. 1. Cor. 6. 9.
That commits fornication with married or single, or contracted folkes. Deut. 22. 22.
That useth mariage bed intemperately.
That lyeth with a menstruous woman, Ezech. 18. 6.
That useth wantonnes. 1. Cor. 6. 9.
That useth occasions and provocations to lust. Gal. 5. 9.
That is given to idlenesse.
That weares wanton and light attire. 1. Tim. 2. 9. 1. Pet. 3. 3.
That useth light talke and reading of louebookes. 1. Cor. 15. 35.
⟨p. 30⟩
That sells such things as are means to further idolatry, or any other sin.
That useth powdering, starching, blowing, dark shops to set a gloss on his wares and make them more saleable.
That conceals the fault of his wares.
That useth false weights and measures. Levit. 19. 35.
That useth words of deceit, Prov. 20. 14,
⟨p. 32⟩That takes more for his wares then the just price. Matth. 7. 12.
That oppresseth his tenants by racking his rents. Habac. 2. 11.
That useth engrossing of wares.
That raiseth the price, only in consideration of a day of payment.
That either gives or takes bribes. Isa. 1. 33. Psal. 82.
That writes letters of affection in wrong suits.
That holds back things borrowed. Ezech. 18. 7.
That holds back things found or pawned. Levit. 6. 3.
That being lusty lives by begging.
That relieveth such. 2. Thess. 3. 10.
That for gain defends bad causes.
That lays burden on the people without measure. Isa. 1. 23. Ezech. 22. 27.
That spends the Church goods in riot. 1. Tim. 6. 9.
That makes merchandise of Gods word and sacrament. Mich. 3. 11. 2. Cor. 2. last.
That gets goods by gaming.
That gets his living by casting of figures and ⟨p. 33⟩by plays, Eph. 4. 28.
That is rash in surety-ship. Prov. 11. 15. & 17. 18.
That steals mens children to dispose them in marriage. 1. Tim. 1. 10.
That takes by stealth the least pin, though it be for the best end.
That is a receiver of things stolen, and gives consent to the fact any way. Rom. 1. 29.
That useth deceit in bargaining. 1. Thess. 4. 6.
That restores not things evil gotten. Ezech. 33. 15.
That keeps back goods given to the Church. Acts 5. 3.
That waits for a dearth, to sell his things dearer. Amos. 8. 5.
IX. COME. Thou shalt not bear, &c.
He breaks this commandment,
That envies at the prosperity of his neighbour. 1. Tim. 6. 4.
That seeks only his own good report.
That is suspicious. 1. Cor. 13. 5.
That gives rash or hard sentence against others. Matth. 7. 1.
That takes mens sayings & doings in worse ⟨p. 34⟩part. Matth. 26. 60.
That accuseth one falsely. 1. King. 21.
That maketh or reporteth tales openly or in a whispering manner. Levit. 19. 16.
That receiveth tales, Exod. 23. 1.
That speaks the truth of malice. Psal. 52. 1, 2.
That blazeth abroad mens infirmities. Matth. 18. 17.
That useth quipping and taunting. Eph. 5. 4.
That useth flattery, Prov. 26. 19.
That selles such things as are meanes to further idolatrie, or any other sinne.
That useth powdering, starching, blowing, darke shops to set a glosse on his wares and make them more saleable.
That conceales the fault of his wares.
That useth false weightes and measures. Levit. 19. 35.
That useth wordes of deceit, Prov. 20. 14,
⟨p. 32⟩That takes more for his wares then the iust price. Matth. 7. 12.
That oppresseth his tenants by racking his rents. Habac. 2. 11.
That useth ingrossing of wares.
That raiseth the price, onely in consideration of a day of payment.
That either giues or takes bribes. Isa. 1. 33. Psal. 82.
That writes letters of affectiō in wrong sutes.
That holdes backe things borrowed. Ezech. 18. 7.
That holdes backe things found or pawned. Levit. 6. 3.
That being lustie liues by begging.
That releeveth such. 2. Thess. 3. 10.
That for gaine defendes bad causes.
That layes burden on the people without measure. Isa. 1. 23. Ezech. 22. 27.
That spends the Church goods in riot. 1. Tim. 6. 9.
That makes marchandise of Gods word and sacrament. Mich. 3. 11. 2. Cor. 2. last.
That gets goods by gaming.
That gets his living by casting of figures and ⟨p. 33⟩by playes, Eph. 4. 28.
That is rash in surety-ship.
That lieth though it be for never so good an end Zach. 13. 3.
That defends an evil cause and impugns the contrary.
That writes or spreads libels.
X. COME. Thou shalt not lust.
He breaks this commandment,
That thinks an evil thought against his neighbour though he mean not to do it.
That conceives some inward delight in some evil motion, though he give not consent to practise it.
⟨p. 35⟩SINS DIRECTLY Against the Gospel.
He sins against the Gospel,
That denies either directly or by consequent that Christ is come in the flesh. 1. Joh. 4. 3, 8
That treads under foot the blood of Christ. Hebr. 10. 29.
That believes not the remission of his own sins and acceptation to life everlasting. 1. Joh. 3. 23.
That repents not but hardens himself in all his bad ways. Rom. 2. 4. 5. Jerem. 8. 6.
That lyeth though it be for neuer so good an end Zach. 13. 3.
That defends an euill cause and impugnes the contrary.
That writes or spreds libels.
X. COM. Thou shalt not lust.
He breakes this commandement,
That thinkes an euill thought against his neighbour though he meane not to doe it.
That conceives some inward delight in some euill motion, though he give not consent to practise it.
⟨p. 35⟩SINNES DIRECTLY Against the Gospell.
He sinnes against the Gospell,
That denies either directly or by consequent that Christ is come in the flesh. 1. Ioh. 4. 3, 8
That treads under foote the blood of Christ. Hebr. 10. 29.
That beleeves not the remission of his owne sinnes and acceptation to life everlasting. 1. Ioh. 3. 23.
That repents not but hardens himselfe in all his bad wayes. Rom. 2. 4. 5. Ierem. 8. 6.
Thus much of examination: now follows the second duty, which is confession of sin unto God, which is very necessary. For the right way to have our sins covered before God is, to uncover and acknowledge them unto him. For he will justify us if we condemn our selves, he will pardon us, if we, as being our own enemies, accuse our selves: he forgets our sins if we remember them: when we are vile in our own eyes, we are precious in his: and when we are lost to our selves, we are found of him.
Thus much of examination: now followes the second duty, which is confession of sinne unto God, which is very necessary. For the right way to haue our sinnes covered before God is, to uncover and acknowledge them unto him. For hee will iustifie vs if we condemne our selues, he will pardon us, if we, as being our owne enemies, accuse our selues: he forgets our sinnes if wee remember them: when we are vile in our owne eyes, wee are pretious in his: and when we are lost to our selues, we are found of him.
That confession may be rightly performed, a notable duty is to be put in practise in it: namely, the arraignment of a repentant sinner, whereby he judges himself that he may 1not be judged of the Lord.
That confession may be rightly performed, a notable duety is to be put in practise in it: namely, the arraignment of a repentant sinner, whereby he iudges himselfe that he may 1not be iudged of the Lord.
This arraignment hath three special points in it. For first of all, he must bring himself forth to the bar of Gods judgement. which thing he doeth when he sets himself in the presence of God, as though even now the day of judgement were. As Saint Hierome did, who always thought with himself that he heard this voice sounding in his ears, Rise ye dead and come to judgement.
This arraignment hath three speciall pointes in it. For first of all, hee must bring himselfe forth to the barre of Gods iudgement. which thing hee doeth when he sets himselfe in the presence of God, as though even now the day of iudgement were. As Saint Hierome did, who alwayes thought with himselfe that hee heard this voice sounding in his eares, Rise yee dead and come to iudgement.
Secondly, he must put up an indictment against himself: by accusing him-self before God, by acknowledging his known sins particularly and his unknown generally, without any excuse, or extenuation, or defence, or hiding of the least of them. Example of David. I know mine iniquity and my sin is 1ever before me: against thee, against thee only have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight, &c. behold, I was borne in iniquity, and ⟨p. 37⟩in sin hath my mother conceived me. And,2 I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing: but now, I beseech thee, remove the iniquity of thy servant: for I have done very foolishly. Of Ezra, O my God, I am ashamed & 3confounded to lift up mine eyes unto thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our heads, & our trespass is grown up unto heaven.
Secondly, he must put up an inditement against himselfe: by accusing him-selfe before God, by acknowledging his knowne sinnes particularly and his unknowen generally, without any excuse, or extenuatiō, or defence, or hiding of the least of them. Example of David. I know mine iniquitie and my sinne is 1ever before me: against thee, against thee only have I sinned, and done this evill in thy sight, &c. behold, I was borne in iniquitie, and ⟨p. 37⟩in sinne hath my mother conceived me. And,2 I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing: but now, I beseech thee, remoove the iniquitie of thy servant: for I have done very foolishly. Of Ezra, O my God, I am ashamed & 3confounded to lift up mine eyes vnto thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our heads, & our trespasse is growen vp vnto heaven.
Thirdly, he must with heaviness of heart give sentence against himself, acknowledging that he is worthy of everlasting hell, death, and damnation. As the prodigal child, Father, I have sinned against heaven, & against thee, & am not worthy to be called thy child, And Daniel, We have sinned and committed 1iniquity, & have done wickedly: yea, we have rebelled & have departed from thy precepts, & from thy judgements, &c. O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto thee, & unto us open shame. Of Job, Behold, I am vile, 2what shall I answer thee. I will lay my hand upon my mouth. And, I abhor my self, & I repent in dust & ashes. Of the Publican,3 Who standing a far off, would not lift up so ⟨p. 38⟩much as his eyes to heaven, but smote his breast saying, Lord be merciful to me a sinner.
Thirdly, he must with heavinesse of heart give sentence against himselfe, acknowledging that hee is worthy of everlasting hell, death, and damnation. As the prodigall child, Father, I have sinned against heaven, & against thee, & am not worthy to be called thy child, And Daniel, Wee haue sinned and committed 1iniquitie, & have done wickedly: yea, wee have rebelled & have departed from thy precepts, & from thy iudgements, &c. O Lord, righteousnesse belongeth vnto thee, & vnto vs open shame. Of Iob, Beholde, I am vile, 2what shall I answere thee. I will lay my hande upon my mouth. And, I abhorre my selfe, & I repent in dust & ashes. Of the Publicane,3 Who standing a farre off, woulde not lift up so ⟨p. 38⟩much as his eyes to heaven, but smote his brest saying, Lord be mercifull to me a sinner.
As for confession of sin to men, it is not to be used but in two cases. First, when some1 offence is done to our neighbour: secondly, when ease and comfort is sought for, in trouble of conscience.
As for confession of sinne to men, it is not to be used but in two cases. First, when some1 offence is done to our neighbour: secondly, when ease and comfort is sought for, in trouble of conscience.
That disputes and holdes there is no God.
That holdes and maintaines opinions against the auncient faith set downe in the writings of the Prophets and Apostles. As did the Maniches, Donatistes, Arrians, Anabaptists, &c.
That so holdes one religion, as he is ready to follow another. 1. King. 18. 21.
That is full of presumption of Gods mercy. Isa. 7. 12.
That falles away from the knowen trueth. 2. Pet. 2. 20.
That addes to Canonicall scripture. Deut. 12. last ver.
II. COM. Thou shalt make to thy selfe no graven Image. &c.
He breakes this commandement,
THat represents God in an image. Exod. 32. 6, 8.
That worships God in or at images, as crucifixes, and such like, 2. King. 18. 4.
That kneles downe before an image.
That is bodily present at Masse keeping his
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heart to God, 1. Cor. 8. 9.
That reteines the monuments of idolatrie. Exod. 23. 13.
That marrieth with infidels or such like. Gen. 6. 2.
That makes leagues of amitie with such. 2. Chron. 19. 1.
That worships God according to his owne fantasie. Col. 2. 23.
That worships God with lip-service. Isa. 29.
That sweares falsly. Ioh. 8. 44.
That sweares against pietie and honestie.
That useth cursing and banning.
That findes fault with the creatures of God, 1. Cor. 10. 3.
That sweares by the creatures. Mat. 5. 34, 35.
That useth lots in sporting. Pro. 16. 33. & 18. 18.
That makes and useth charmes of hearbes and other things. Deut, 18. 11.
That makes iestes of the sentences and phrases of scripture. Isa. 66. 2.
That useth figure casting. Isa. 47. 13.
That doth lightly regard Gods iudgements. Heb. 3. 16.
That living dissolutely in religion, makes Gods name evill spoken of. 2. Sam. 12. 13. 1. Pet. 3. 15.
That makes a vowe of continencie or of any thing not in his power.
That makes a lawfull vowe and keepes it not. Deut. 23. 21.
That receives blessings from God, and is not thankfull. Luc. 17. 8.
That teacheth the truth but doth not practise it. Mat. 23. 2.
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IIII. COM. Remember the Sabbath day to &c.
He breakes this commandement,
THat labours in the servile workes of his ordinarie calling. Nehem. 13. 15.
That travels abroad on his ordinary busines, Exod. 16. 24.
neighbour in all places, Iam. 5. 9.
That is a fighter. Iam. 4. 1.
That hurtes or maines his neighbours bodie. Exod. 21. 24.
That will not forgive an offence. Matth. 5. 23.
That will forgiue but not forget.
That doeth fare well him selfe, but giues not almes to relieve the poore. Luc. 16. 19.
That useth cruelty in punishing malefactours. Deut. 22. 6.
That denies the servants or labourers wages, Iam. 5. 24.
That holdes backe the pledge. Ezech. 18. 7.
That frequents lascivious places. Eph. 5. 3.
That delightes in wanton pictures. 1. Thess. 5. 23.
That useth the mixt dansing of men and women, Mar. 6. 22.
That keepes company with light and suspected persons. Pro. 7. 22.
That neglectes to dispose his children in marriage in convenient time. 1. Cor. 7. 37.
That makes mariages of young children.
That punisheth adultery with small punishments.
That marieth more wiues then one at once. Gen. 2. 24.
That loues his pleasures more then God. 2. Tim. 3. 4.
That takes care to fulfill the lustes of the flesh. Rom. t3. 14.
That maintaines and frequents stewes. Deut. 23. 17.
That is giuen to drunkennesse and surfetting, Eph. 5. 18.
That gives himselfe to wine, sleepe, and ease. Prov. 20. 13.
That for the avoiding of fornications maries
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not. 1. Cor. 7. 2.
That puts away his wife for other causes then for fornication, Mat. 19. 9.
VIII. COM. Thou shalt not steale.
He breakes this commandement,
THat liues in no calling. 1. Thess 3. 11.
That neglects his calling. Ierem. 48. 10.
That spends his wealth in riot, and provides not for his familie. 1. Tim. 5. 8.
That is not content with his estate, but seekes to be rich. 1. Tim. 6. 10.
That selles the goods of the Church, or buyes them. Mal. 3. 8.
