A12190:906
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
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.
Thirdly a desire to grow in grace and to become better and better is a sign of uprightness:1 Christian Righteousness, as it sees still need, so it still desires more grace and less sin, because he who hath a true heart, seeth both the want and worth of grace, and feeleth his want. A man feels not the want of Faith, Humility, and Love, till he have it in some sort, as it is said Philip. 3.15. As many as are perfect are thus minded, to wit so many as are upright, all is one.
Thirdly a desire to grow in grace and to become better and better is a signe of uprightnes:1 Christian Righteousnes, as it sees still need, so it still desires more grace and lesse sin, because hee who hath a true heart, seeth both the want and worth of grace, and feeleth his want. A man feeles not the want of Faith, Humility, and Love, till he have it in some sort, as it is said Philip. 3.15. As many as are perfect are thus minded, to wit so many as are upright, all is one.
- 1A desire to grow in Grace.
1Lastly, this just uprightness is known by love of the Brethren: By this we know we are translated from death to life, because we love the Brethren. Contrary to which is that disposition which envieth at all things which suites not with their humours,2 as James speaketh of those who prefer men and have their persons ⟨p. 453⟩