A25478:1266
A supplement to The Morning-exercise at Cripple-Gate, or, Several more cases of conscience practically…
A supplement to The Morning-exercise at Cripple-Gate, or, Several more cases of conscience practically resolved by sundry ministers
London: printed for Thomas Cockerill, 1676
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.
And next I shall show what frame of spirit is requisite to such a day, without which all these duties may be externally performed, and yet the fast not accepted.1 For as the Apostle saith of Circumcision, It is that of the heart, and of the spirit, so is that fasting that is well pleasing to God. There may be confession, supplication, renewing the Covenant, Thanksgiving, Alms-deeds, and yet if there be wanting a suitable frame of heart, all this may be but as a body without the soul, or matter without form, that may have praise with men, but none with God.
And next I shall shew what frame of spirit is requisite to such a day, without which all these duties may be externally performed, and yet the fast not accepted.1 For as the Apostle saith of Circumcision, It is that of the heart, and of the spirit, so is that fasting that is well pleasing to God. There may be confession, supplication, renewing the Covenant, Thanksgiving, Alms-deeds, and yet if there be wanting a suitable frame of heart, all this may be but as a body without the soul, or matter without form, that may have praise with men, but none with God.
- 1Rom. 2. ult.
Now this frame of soul consists in, 1. Self-debasement. 2. Godly sorrow. 3. Filial fear. 4. Ingenuous shame. 5. Inward purity. 6. Evangelical faith and hope.
I shall speak briefly to them all.