A12190:77
The returning backslider, or, A commentary upon the whole XIIII. chapter of the prophecy…The returning backslider, or, A commentarie upon the whole XIIII. chapter of the prophecy…
The returning backslider, or, A commentary upon the whole XIIII. chapter of the prophecy of the prophet Hosea Wherein is showed the large extent of Gods free mercy, even unto the most miserable forlorn and wretched sinners that may be, upon their humiliation and repentance. Preached by that learned and judicious divine, Dr. Sibbs, late preacher to the honourable society of Gray's Inn, and master of Katherine Hall in Cambridge. Published by his own permission before his death.The returning backslider, or, A commentarie upon the whole XIIII. chapter of the prophecy of the prophet Hosea Wherein is shewed the large extent of Gods free mercy, even unto the most miserable forlorne and wretched sinners that may be, upon their humiliation and repentance. Preached by that learned and judicious divine, Dr. Sibbs, late preacher to the honourable society of Grayes Inne, and master of Katherine Hall in Cambridge. Published by his owne permission before his death.
London: printed by George for George Edwards, 1639
THE RETURNING BACKSLIDER. › Sermon 1THE RETVRNING BACKSLIDER. › Sermon 1
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.
These Israelites were but a rude people; and had not so good means to thrive in grace, as Judah had: Therefore, he prompts them here with such words as they might use to God in ⟨p. 16⟩their returning. [Take with you words,] whereby we see how gracious God is unto us, in using such helps for our recovery, and pitying us more then we pity our selves. Is not this a sufficient warrant and invitation to return, when the party offended who is the superior,1 desires, entreats, and sues unto the offending, guilty inferior, to be reconciled.
These Israelites were but a rude people; and had not so good meanes to thrive in grace, as Iudah had: Therefore, hee prompts them here with such words as they might use to God in ⟨p. 16⟩their returning. [Take with you words,] whereby we see how gratious God is unto us, in using such helps for our recovery, and pittying us more then we pitty our selves. Is not this a sufficient warrant and invitation to returne, when the party offended who is the superiour,1 desires, intreates, and sues unto the offending, guilty inferiour, to be reconciled.
- 12 Cor. 5.
1But this is not all, he further showeth his willingness in teaching us who are ignorant of the way; in what manner and with what expressions we should return to the Lord. He giveth us not only words and tells us what we shall say, but also giveth his Spirit so effectually therewith, as that they shall not be lifeless and dead words, but (as Rom, 8.26.) with unexpressible sighs and groans unto God; who heareth the requests of his own Spirit. Christ likewise teacheth us how to pray, we have words dictated, and a spirit of Prayer poured upon us. As if a great Person should dictate and frame a Petition for one who were afraid to speak unto him. Such is Gods graciousness, and so ready is he in Jesus Christ to receive sinners unto mercy.