The Morning exercise [at] Cri[ppleg]ate, or, Several cases of conscience practically resolved

Posit. 5 5. There may also possibly be a relapse, or falling a new into the same act of sin through humane infirmity, as Abraham twice denying his wife, the Disciples twice contending for supremacy. And as I will not say how oft thy brother trespassing, and repenting is to be forgiven, not to seven, but to seventy times seven so I cannot say how oft through infirmity a sinner trespassing, and returning with repentance may be forgiven, Gods mercies and thoughts being so far above mans.

Posit. 6 6. The Christian may as to his own sense be reduced to a very sad and low state. 1. He is poor in spirit, he mourns, he hungers, thirsts, pants, doubts, dislikes all. 2. He judgeth of himself as (under present prevailency of corruption) Carnal, sold under sin, a forced slave to it, Rom. 7.14. 3. As if nothing had been done yet, and all was to do, he begs, O God, create a new heart in me, Psal. 51. 4. He may be apt to conclude against himself, I never did yet truly believe or repent; and which is worse with Thomas, I never shall believe. 5. In this case he lies bound as Peter, ¹and can't help himself till the Angel comes and ⟨p. 77⟩strikes off the bands, and opens the iron-gate. 6. And as to comfort he may be at an utter loss, walk in darkness, Isaiah 50.10. judge himself cut off, Ezek. 37.11. his hope perished, Lam. 3.18. God hiding his face, Satan showing his teeth, casting forth a flood, and shooting in a peal of fiery darts, Curse God and dye. Thou art mine as sure as death, as sure of damnation, as I my self. Then how doth a poor soul mourn! I am forsaken and quite cast out of sight, I am as a bottle in the smoke (of hell) like a broken vessel, or fire-band reserved for hell, as possible for this Venice-glass said that distressed Gentlewoman Mrs. Honywood, not to be broken when it falls on the ground; as for me to escape the damnation of hell. God can do much saith he, but doth he show wonders among the dead,