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'Tis indeed granted, that carelessness of making provision of necessaries for clothing their new-born Infants is the fault of a few in our Age; wherein under the notion of clouts (or clothtrenchers) things of the greatest value by some of mean quality are found out to such an height of curiosity sometimes, as appears not very consonant to the simplicity and humility of the Gospel. 'Twere, I confess, Ostrich-like to suffer these sure pledges of nature to be without conveniences, or to expose them, (like some of the ancient Greeks) as they are sometimes in this great City, at the doors in the street: but to make them Peacock-like to surpass in finery above their rank can be no symptom of humility; and then too, when the Parents would have it thought, they engage them to forsake all the pomps and vanities of the world. But this may respect the next duty, viz. (2.) To give the Child nourishment, when it appears in the world, for the preservation of it's natural life; and to seek that it may be spiritually alive, Parents should use the best means nature and grace do prompt to them. For the former, that breast-milk is ordinarily the most proper aliment Nature teacheth; as also for the most part that the Mother's is most agreeable: likewise that she is obliged to nurse her own Babe (whatever softnesses many delicate Dames do now cherish) the Scriptures, as well as Principles of Reason, do evince: unless she be excused in some few instances; as in case of necessity; or greater charity; namely, when the impediment to her giving suck is natural disability, a really great weakness, or an affliction with a disease, which might be transmitted with the milk, or in case of the public concerns of a Kingdom, for securing of succession in the Royal Throne: or &c. For natural instinct, which is seen in these springing fontinels, the breasts(h), unto this end, for giving that food better digested unto the child when come out, with which it was fed in the womb, hath reason super-added in man. As marriage to him (especially under the Christian constitution) becomes ⟨p. 411⟩an ordinance of God, which in the mixture of other creatures is merely natural*.
'Tis indeed granted, that carelessness of making provision of necessaries for clothing their new-born Infants is the fault of a few in our Age; wherein under the notion of clouts (or clothtrenchers) things of the greatest value by some of mean quality are found out to such an height of curiosity sometimes, as appears not very consonant to the simplicity and humility of the Gospel. 'Twere, I confess, Ostrich-like to suffer these sure pledges of nature to be without conveniences, or to expose them, (like some of the ancient Greeks) as they are sometimes in this great City, at the doors in the street: but to make them Peacock-like to surpass in finery above their rank can be no symptome of humility; and then too, when the Parents would have it thought, they engage them to forsake all the pomps and vanities of the vvorld. But this may respect the next duty, viz. (2.) To give the Child nourishment, when it appears in the world, for the preservation of it's natural life; and to seek that it may be spiritually alive, Parents should use the best means nature and grace do prompt to them. For the former, that breast-milk is ordinarily the most proper aliment Nature teacheth; as also for the most part that the Mother's is most agreeable: likewise that she is oblig'd to nurse her own Babe (whatever softnesses many delicate Dames do now cherish) the Scriptures, as well as Principles of Reason, do evince: unless she be excus'd in some few instances; as in case of necessity; or greater charity; namely, when the impediment to her giving suck is natural disability, a really great weakness, or an affliction with a disease, which might be transmitted with the milk, or in case of the publick concerns of a Kingdom, for securing of succession in the Royal Throne: or &c. For natural instinct, which is seen in these springing fontinels, the breasts
, unto this end, for giving that food better digested unto the child vvhen come out, vvith vvhich it vvas fed in the vvomb, hath reason super-added in man. As marriage to him (especially under the Christian constitution) becomes
⟨p. 411⟩
an ordinance of God, vvhich in the mixture of other creatures is merely natural
Now to pervert the end and designation of Nature, with the necessities thereof, is in effect to violate those reasonable inducements, which do oblige conscience in that which is comely, and not to correspond with the design of justice, charity, and sobriety. A matter certainly very inaccountable for those, who are bound seriously to think on (so as to do) whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: or if there be any other virtue(i). Certainly the thing can be no disparagement to them of the best quality, but a credit, only because it agrees not with the modern mode of the Italian and French; amongst whom, the great ones often suckle their Children upon vile women, and sometimes upon Strumpets, whose manners are drawn in with their milk. Chrysostom *thought it a reproach that any women should blush to be Nurses, who were become Mothers. The Spartan law was, that the Noblest, even the Kings wives should nurse the first child. Historians †show Queens have done it. The Noblest amongst the ancient Romans and Germans did it. And one of the Caesars thought it a prodigy in those days, that a Roman Lady refused to suckle her own Infant, and yet gave suck to a Puppy, that her milk might be more artificially dried up. But I fear the wantonness and pride of some Mothers, and the ill-nature of some Fathers, who love their ease and quiet, may render this discourse unpleasing to them: yet had I time to enlarge, for that reason it would be the more necessary in the cases not excepted. However, the blessed Virgin giving Jesus milk from the bottles of his own filling, may commend it with reputation enough to any Christian Mother, who seriously desires to practise the choice lesson of Self-denial. For the Scriptures consonant to the common principles of right reason, do either take this Duty for granted (where no just exceptions) of Mothers nursing their own Children for a ruled case; as in the Father of the faithful's wife Sarah(k), who was a very honourable woman, and others(l); or else they give us examples of Mothers who were commendable patterns, as were Hannah(m), the Virgin Mary(n), David's Mother(o), and that affectionate one who stood before Solomon to plead for her child(p);
Now to pervert the end and designation of Nature, with the necessities thereof, is in effect to violate those reasonable inducements, which do oblige conscience in that vvhich is comly, and not to correspond with the design of justice, charity, and sohriety. A matter certainly very inaccountable for those, who are bound seriously to think on (so as to do) whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report: or if there be any other vertue(i). Certainly the thing can be no disparagement to them of the best quality, but a credit, only because it agrees not with the modern mode of the Italian and French; amongst whom, the great ones often suckle their Children upon vile women, and sometimes upon Strumpets, whose manners are drawn in with their milk. Chrysostom *thought it a reproach that any women should blush to be Nurses, who were become Mothers. The Spartan law was, that the Noblest, even the Kings wives should nurse the first child. Historians †shew Queens have done it. The Noblest amongst the ancient Romans and Germans did it. And one of the Caesars thought it a prodigie in those days, that a Roman Lady refused to suckle her own Infant, and yet gave suck to a Puppy, that her milk might be more artificially dried up. But I fear the wantonness and pride of some Mothers, and the ill-nature of some Fathers, who love their ease and quiet, may render this discourse unpleasing to them: yet had I time to enlarge, for that reason it would be the more necessary in the cases not excepted. However, the blessed Virgin giving Jesus milk from the bottles of his own filling, may commend it with reputation enough to any Christian Mother, who seriously desires to practise the choice lesson of Self-denial. For the Scriptures consonant to the common prinicples of right reason, do either take this Duty for granted (where no just exceptions) of Mothers nursing their own Children for a ruled case; as in the Father of the faithful's wife Sarah(k), who was a very honourable woman, and others(l); or else they give us examples of Mothers who were commendable patterns, as were Hannah(m), the Virgin Mary(n)
or afford us such Texts as by consequence do infer it, as in Jacob's blessing(q), and a contrary curse on others(r), the charge to Manoah's wife to avoid things hurtful to her milk(s) considering her constitution, and the climate she lived in: the Apostle gives it as the character of good women, that they have nursed up Children(t), as Moses his Mother did him, awaiting Providence to perform this natural office to her own child; and was not, as the weeping Prophet laments some in his time, worse than Sea-monsters, like Ostriches of the wilderness(u). I do not remember in holy Writ that any Mother put forth her own child to suck: and though there be mention made of Rebekah's nurse(w), and others(x), yet in all probability they were common dry-nurses, or nurse-keeping women, such as had skill to be about Child-bearing women, fit to ⟨p. 412⟩advise and attend them. Be sure Rebekah had no child till about twenty years after she was married: and if she, or any, had milch-nurses, it may be their own Mothers might die in Child-bed, or not be able to perform their office. But Naomi, when old and past Child-bearing, became a dry-nurse unto Ruth's child, being assistant to her daughter at her lying-in(y). When though there be some pain in suckling, (however less I suppose in following the natural way of laying the child to) yet there is also a pleasure and benefit, which may well sweeten, and usually compensate in ordinary cases. The careful Father should contribute his endeavours to promote all this, and accommodate his wife in the nursery with all convenient requisites to preserve the temporal life of the child. But then there is also a care with reference to the spiritual life of the child to attend this, which Christian Parents are obliged to by dedicating of their Infant seed unto the Lord, according to his appointment for the solemn enrolling of his Disciples(z): which matriculation of a child should not be unseasonably delayed, but performed in a due Christian manner; sith obedience in the Lord (a)will be required of it, as soon as it is able to do any thing; which implies that as Hannah dedicated her Samuel to the Lord in covenant under the Old Testament dispensation(b):
or afford us such Texts as by consequence do infer it, as in Jacob's blessing(q), and a contrary curse on others(r), the charge to Manoah's wife to avoid things hurtful to her milk(s) considering her constitution, and the climate she liv'd in: the Apostle gives it as the character of good women, that they have nurs'd up Children(t), as Moses his Mother did him, awaiting Providence to perform this natural office to her own child; and was not, as the weeping Prophet laments some in his time, worse than Sea-monsters, like Ostriches of the wilderness(u). I do not remember in holy Writ that any Mother put forth her own child to suck: and though there be mention made of Rebekah's nurse(w), and others(x), yet in all probability they were common dry-nurses, or nurse-keeping women, such as had skill to be about Child-bearing women, fit to ⟨p. 412⟩advise and attend them. Be sure Rebekah had no child till about twenty years after she was married: and if she, or any, had milch-nurses, it may be their own Mothers might die in Child-bed, or not be able to perform their office. But Naomi, when old and past Child-bearing, became a dry-nurse unto Ruth's child, being assistant to her daughter at her lying-in(y). When though there be some pain in suckling, (however less I suppose in following the natural way of laying the child to) yet there is also a pleasure and benefit, which may well sweeten, and usually compensate in ordinary cases. The careful Father should contribute his endeavours to promote all this, and accommodate his wife in the nursery with all convenient requisites to preserve the temporal life of the child. But then there is also a care with reference to the spiritual life of the child to attend this, which Christian Parents are oblig'd to by dedicating of their Infant seed unto the Lord, according to his appointment for the solemn enrolling of his Disciples
so it is to be devoted to the Lord, and consecrated to his use, as he hath instituted under the New Testament dispensation, and that is a solemn enrolment by Baptism amongst Christians, who by this Rite are signally declared to be in covenant with him, his Disciples, and Members of his spiritual household(c), who in that relation are to yield obedience unto their Parents, in him, and as unto him. How else can we so easily imagine that Christian Children should be obliged to obey their Parents in the Lord, but as they are by their Parents (who have most right to them) devoted to his service? I confess I cannot understand. Now it is highly reasonable that they who have been instruments to bring a stain upon their Children(d), should also be as instrumental as they can, even as Believers under the Old Testament were, to bring them unto God in the use of the means he hath now prescribed, to get them washed with the blood of sprinkling, by giving them unto God in the Covenant, as they then did(e). For undoubtedly under this gracious dispensation there is no abridgement of any privilege to the Infant-seed of Believers, which they before enjoyed, so that they should not now be brought to the Lord, that he may own and bless them; and the promises be pleaded on their behalf whose Parents are heirs(f), for as much as the Father's right to the promises gives the Children some kind of right to the same inheritance(g), yea, the promise and precept do answer each other as a deed and its counterpart. There was no need of particularizing every subject to be baptized, any other than those who were discipled; it being so well known who had the Covenant-seal by the common practice of the Jews under the former dispensation of the Covenant. And now the Lord Jesus Christ in commissioning his Ministers to disciple and baptize all Nations (then all in them discipled) chiefly designed to instruct them, in what manner and form they should baptize those that belong to his ⟨p. 413⟩Kingdom, viz. into the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, which had not been before used, but now upon the discharging of Circumcision, was every where to be observed. Thus Christian Parents are at first to contribute their endeavours toward their Children's spiritual life.
so it is to be devoted to the Lord, and consecrated to his use, as he hath instituted under the New Testament dispensation, and that is a solemn enrollment by Baptism amongst Christians, who by this Rite are signally declared to be in covenant with him, his Disciples, and Members of his spiritual houshold(c), who in that relation are to yield obedience unto their Parents, in him, and as unto him. How else can we so easily imagine that Christian Children should be oblig'd to obey their Parents in the Lord, but as they are by their Parents (who have most right to them) devoted to his service? I confess I cannot understand. Now it is highly reasonable that they who have been instruments to bring a stain upon their Children(d), should also be as instrumental as they can, even as Believers under the Old Testament were, to bring them unto God in the use of the means he hath now prescribed, to get them washed with the blood of sprinkling, by giving them unto God in the Covenant, as they then did(e). For undoubtedly under this gracious dispensation there is no abridgment of any priviledg to the Infant-seed of Believers, which they before enjoy'd, so that they should not now be brought to the Lord, that he may own and bless them; and the promises be pleaded on their behalf whose Parents are heirs(f), for as much as the Father's right to the promises gives the Children some kind of right to the same inheritance(g), yea, the promise and precept do answer each other as a deed and its counterpart. There was no need of particularizing every subject to be baptized, any other than those vvho vvere discipled; it being so vvell known who had the Covenant-seal by the common practice of the Jews under the former dispensation of the Covenant. And now the Lord Jesus Christ in commissioning his Ministers to disciple and baptize all Nations (then all in them discipled) chiefly designed to instruct them, in what manner and form they should baptize those that belong to his ⟨p. 413⟩Kingdom, viz. into the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, which had not been before used, but now upon the discharging of Circumcision, was every where to be observ'd. Thus Christian Parents are at first to contribute their endeavours toward their Childrens spiritual life.
And for this temporal life, further they are also to provide food(h), and raiment(i), and to allow fit and honest recreation for their Children (k)to keep them in health; and physic when they are sick(l) equity and necessity oblige to it, with a solicitous care to preserve their lives from dangers, as much as may be in their power(m), and to see according to their quality and calling, that they be accommodated with conveniences for body and mind(n). Hence another particular of Parental care is (3.) Education of their Children; which is a very comprehensive Duty, begins early, and lasts till their Children be emancipated. Our Apostle in another Epistle(o), reduceth this to two heads, 1. Nurture, and 2. Admonition of the Lord. Some conceive the former doth more respect manners or civility: the later Doctrine or piety: though 'tis not necessary to take them so restrictively. [1.] Christian Parents are charged to educate or bring up their Children in nurture, 8i. e. such a kind of domestic learning as befitteth a child, according to that of the Wise man(p), Train up a child in the way he should go: Sow the seed, and then expect the fruit: the first impressions are like to abide, though at the very first not understood. The Rule it seems is, Teach a child: neither can any one learn that perfectly, which he begins late to learn, said the Orator*. Parents should timely inure their Children to good behaviour, before they degenerate more; they should consult their temper, observe their ingenuity and humour, to find out their inclinations, and fit them for the service of their generation in such a particular Calling as may be found most suitable to them. And this nurturing of them is to be effected by giving them 1. Teaching examples, 2. Rules of morality, and 3. Moderate Chastisements. 1. Teaching examples; by which those who converse much with little ones may perceive, they are capable of receiving good or harm before they are able to understand other instructions. Christian Parents should be wary then, as to their own deportment,11 before their little ones, that it may not be as a spotted, but a clear glass: When they daily observe their Parents to perform actions decently, and with a grace(q), it hath a great force to form their manners.
And for this temporal life, further they are also to provide food(h), and rayment(i), and to allow fit and honest recreation for their Children (k)to keep them in health; and physick when they are sick(l) equity and necessity oblige to it, with a solicitous care to preserve their lives from dangers, as much as may be in their power(m), and to see according to their quality and calling, that they be accommodated with conveniencies for body and mind(n). Hence another particular of Parental care is (3.) Education of their Children; which is a very comprehensive Duty, begins early, and lasts till their Children be emancipated. Our Apostle in another Epistle(o), reduceth this to two heads, 1. Nurture, and 2. Admonition of the Lord. Some conceive the former doth more respect manners or civility: the later Doctrine or piety: though 'tis not necessary to take them so restrictively. [1.] Christian Parents are charg'd to educate or bring up their Childrin in nurture, 8i. e. such a kind of domestick learning as befitteth a child, according to that of the Wise man(p), Train up a child in the way he should go: Sow the seed, and then expect the fruit: the first impressions are like to abide, though at the very first not understood. The Rule it seems is, Teach a child: neither can any one learn that perfectly, which he begins late to learn, said the Oratour*. Parents should timely inure their Children to good behaviour, before they degenerate more; they should consult their temper, observe their ingenuity and humour, to find out their inclinations, and fit them for the service of their generation in such a particular Calling as may be found most suitable to them. And this nurturing of them is to be effected by giving them 1. Teaching examples, 2. Rules of morality, and 3. Moderate Chastisements. 1. Teaching examples; by which those who converse much with little ones may perceive, they are capable of receiving good or harm before they are able to understand other instructions. Christian Parents should be wary then, as to their own deportment,
Seeing their Parents in all Family duties to express reverence by their countenance, gesture, and pronunciation, every one taking their place according to their quality and degree, this doth early instill a silent deportment, and a kind of devotion into these little ones, before they can reach the reason of it. So that really, Christian Parents are concerned for this purpose to stand in awe† as much of their little Children, as of any in the world; lest, because of that love these bear to those from whom they do descend, judging what they do to be right, they should come to have their judgment perverted by their ill precedents. Hence it was, that the ancient Romans did with the greatest diligence possibly take care to manage all their affairs in the presence of their Children with ⟨p. 414⟩all modesty and discretion. And it became a proverbial saying, that the Temperance of the Parent was the greatest precept to the Children. And indeed after, when they come to further use of Reason (I must pack up things together) good or bad examples of parents have a very powerful influence upon Children, as well as others, to breed them to a good or bad behaviour. The young Cock crows as he hears the old one. In blessing or cursing, playing and blaspheming, we may perceive Children, even before they can speak perfectly, or go strongly, forward enough to learn somewhat agreeable to what they hear and see. As Titus then was in all things to show himself a pattern of good works(r), so should Parents in their Families(s). We find in Scripture that a decorum in actions hath greatly affected lookers on(t), which evinceth, that in the eye of their Children Parents ought to be very cautelous, not only in refraining sinful words and actions; but also such things as are indifferent in their own nature, yet prove stumbling blocks, being in some circumstances in a tendency to sin, or such as have at least an appearance of evil in them to their Children's weaker apprehensions in such a conjuncture: So likewise they should forbear the repetition of their own youthful failings with any kind of delight; and take special heed they do not so much as seem to make a mock of sin (u)in table-talk and company: yea, and they should beware of making promises to others, or to their Children, which they never intend to perform, or at least neglect to make good in due circumstances;
Seeing their Parents in all Family duties to express reverence by their countenance, gesture, and pronunciation, every one taking their place according to their quality and degree, this doth early instill a silent deportment, and a kind of devotion into these little ones, before they can reach the reason of it. So that really, Christian Parents are concern'd for this purpose to stand in awe† as much of their little Children, as of any in the world; lest, because of that love these bear to those from whom they do descend, judging what they do to be right, they should come to have their judgment perverted by their ill precedents. Hence it was, that the ancient Romans did with the greatest diligence possibly take care to manage all their affairs in the presence of their Children with ⟨p. 414⟩all modesty and discretion. And it became a proverbial saying, that the Temperance of the Parent was the greatest precept to the Children. And indeed after, when they come to further use of Reason (I must pack up things together) good or bad examples of parents have a very powerful influence upon Children, as well as others, to breed them to a good or bad behaviour. The young Cock crows as he hears the old one. In blessing or cursing, playing and blaspheming, vve may perceive Children, even before they can speak perfectly, or go strongly, forward enough to learn somewhat agreeable to what they hear and see. As Titus then was in all things to shew himself a pattern of good works(r), so should Parents in their Families(s). We find in Scripture that a decorum in actions hath greatly affected lookers on(t), which evinceth, that in the eye of their Children Parents ought to be very cautelous, not only in refraining sinful words and actions; but also such things as are indifferent in their own nature, yet prove stumbling blocks, being in some circumstances in a tendency to sin, or such as have at least an appearance of evil in them to their Childrens weaker apprehensions in such a conjuncture: So likewise they should forbear the repetition of their own youthful failings with any kind of delight; and take special heed they do not so much as seem to make a mock of sin (u)in table-talk and company: yea, and they should beware of making promises to others, or to their Children, which they never intend to perform, or at least neglect to make good in due circumstances;
for let me tell you, though it be but in light and trivial matters (wherein yet a child may have as strong affections, as a plodding man to gain a great estate) it will interpretatively be a teaching them to lye, or be unfaithful, which natural pravity will easily promote. Not only speeches, but gestures, fashions, and all kind of habits are soon learned by example, because man is of all creatures the most mimical or apt to imitate, especially what affects him in those he esteems; this being a kind of adjunct to Reason: we know the little Children had learned to mock the Prophet to their cost; Go up thou Bald-pate, Go up thou Bald-pate(w). As many men are known by their Associates they much converse with and delight in, who yet carry it so smoothly, they are not otherwise discovered; and so are the ill-manners of some Parents by some of their Children. Wherefore all should observe a good decorum, lest they should give occasion to any of their Children to say as that evil one, who told his Father‖, If I have done ill, I learned it of you. It much behoves Parents to do all things so, that they may not make themselves cheap and despicable(x), and cannot but be advantageous to a child's education, to have his Parents keep a good port in all things: which put Pliny † into that pathetic exclamation in one of his Epistles,4 O! you are an happy young man, who have him above all to imitate, to whom nature would have you be most like. 2. Rules of morality, or necessary documents of civility, which teach due respect to every one. These are requisite to the formation and culture of manners, that Children may learn how to behave themselves to Domestics, to those that are elder and younger, to Ministers of the Gospel, to School-masters, to Equals, Acquaintance, ⟨p. 415⟩Friends, Strangers, in all places, on all occasions, at home, abroad, in the School, in the Church; business, recreations; company, solitude, in secret, public; in mourning, joy; under benefits, injuries, in praise, dispraise; flatteries, reproaches, jests, serious matters; various and uncertain changes of affairs, wherein special Rules cannot be prescribed to reach every case, but general precepts which may engage evermore to things lawful and honest: and instruct them with their distance and relation.
for let me tell you, though it be but in light and trivial matters (wherein yet a child may have as strong affections, as a plodding man to gain a great estate) it will interpretatively be a teaching them to lye, or be unfaithful, which natural pravity will easily promote. Not only speeches, but gestures, fashions, and all kind of habits are soon learned by example, because man is of all creatures the most mimical or apt to imitate, especially what affects him in those he esteems; this being a kind of adjunct to Reason: we know the little Children had learned to mock the Prophet to their cost; Go up thou Bald-pate, Go up thou Bald-pate(w). As many men are known by their Associates they much converse with and delight in, who yet carry it so smoothly, they are not otherwise discovered; and so are the ill-manners of some Parents by some of their Children. Wherefore all should observe a good decorum, lest they should give occasion to any of their Children to say as that evil one, who told his Father‖, If I have done ill, I learn'd it of you. It much behoves Parents to do all things so, that they may not make themselves cheap and despicable(x), and cannot but be advantageous to a child's education, to have his Parents keep a good port in all things: which put Pliny † into that pathetick exclamation in one of his Epistles,4 O! you are an happy young man, who have him above all to imitate, to whom nature would have you be most like. 2. Rules of morality, or necessary documents of civility, which teach due respect to every one. These are requisite to the formation and culture of manners, that Children may learn how to behave themselves to Domesticks, to those that are elder and younger, to Ministers of the Gospel, to School-masters, to Equals, Acquaintance, ⟨p. 415⟩Friends, Strangers, in all places, on all occasions, at home, abroad, in the School, in the Church; business, recreations; company, solitude, in secret, publique; in mourning, joy; under benefits, injuries, in praise, dispraise; flatteries, reproaches, jests, serious matters; various and uncertain changes of affairs, wherein special Rules cannot be prescribed to reach every case, but general precepts which may engage evermore to things lawful and honest: and instruct them with their distance and relation.
For all which Humility is most to be commended to Children, as the great ornament of those in a state of subjection(y), though they be unacquainted with special modes and punctilios. Hence it is good to teach that Rule of our Saviour's, when he observed persons without any consideration of their own rank to choose out the chief places at entertainment; viz. Sit not down in the highest Room, lest it be the place of one more honourable(z): Agreeing with the Old Law(a), Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God. And those of the Wise man(b), Stand not in the place of great men; it is better it be said to thee, come up hither, than that thou shouldst be put lower; be not contentious; disclose not secrets; speak as becometh, boast not, be temperate in diet, weary not thy neighbour with thy company; be not rude and foolish before those in mourning, be charitable, &c. to that purpose Solomon. It is expected that Parents give prudent precepts to inform their Children how to speak and act in a decent, orderly manner, with a becoming grace in their circumstances(c); to use words and titles of respect and honour to their Superiors and Equals; as he in the Gospel, I go Sir(d). And likewise a decent silence, suitable gestures, attention, modest looks, and bowing: which though they may seem trivial, yet the neglect of them will argue much rudeness, irreverence, and indecency; whereas Christian Children should learn to do all things well(e); yea, and to outdo any mere moralists in such civilities as are really material, decent, and not fantastical. Parents should further give their Children such rudiments early, as are indeed instructive to prepare them for a particular vocation, or course of life agreeable to their temper and quality. Here somewhat might be said of that; sith man is born to trouble, or labour (f)in some special service, as they in the Scriptures have done(g). But I must not stay (yet shall touch of Parents placing their Children into employments anon). The late Books about the Gentleman's Calling, and the Lady's Calling, and Education, will show after, and with others*, the benefit of these for those Children of the best, as well as meanest condition,‖ whether males or females: where it may be observed, that different Rules in some particulars for the education of Boys and Girls are to be given by discreet Parents†.
For all which Humility is most to be commended to Children, as the great ornament of those in a state of subjection(y), though they be unacquainted with special modes and puntilios. Hence it is good to teach that Rule of our Saviour's, when he observ'd persons without any consideration of their own rank to choose out the chief places at entertainment; viz. Sit not down in the highest Room, lest it be the place of one more honourable(z): Agreeing with the Old Law(a), Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God. And those of the Wise man(b), Stand not in the place of great men; it is better it be said to thee, come up hither, than that thou shouldst be put lower; be not contentious; disclose not secrets; speak as becometh, boast not, be temperate in diet, weary not thy neighbour with thy company; be not rude and foolish before those in mourning, be charitable, &c. to that purpose Solomon. It is expected that Parents give prudent precepts to inform their Children how to speak and act in a decent, orderly manner, with a becoming grace in their circumstances(c); to use words and titles of respect and honour to their Superiors and Equals; as he in the Gospel, I go Sir(d). And likewise a decent silence, suitable gestures, attention, modest looks, and bowing: which though they may seem trivial, yet the neglect of them will argue much rudeness, irreverence, and indecency; whereas Christian Children should learn to do all things well(e); yea, and to outdo any mere moralists in such civilities as are really material, decent, and not fantastical. Parents should further give their Children such rudiments early, as are indeed instructive to prepare them for a particular vocation, or course of life agreeable to their temper and quality. Here somewhat might be said of that; sith man is born to trouble, or labour (f)in some special service, as they in the Scriptures have done(g)
God, who is severe against idleness, expects all should employ their talents in such a professed way of life, as he vvill approve of. In order hereunto, and for the attaining of the best gifts(h), great care is to be took, and ingenious devices may be used to get Children imbued with the principles of learning, and abilities to read, write, &c. But I must haste on: Yet here I cannot but disallow the indoctrinating of Children with superstitious notions, which nuzzle them ⟨p. 416⟩up in vulgar errors that lead unto unbelief; the affrighting of them with silly tales of Bugbears, stories of Hobgoblins and Fairies, &c. profane and old wives Fables, not tending to godliness(i), which occasion needless and groundless fears, that afterwards, when they should have more brains, are not easily corrected, or not without great difficulty removed. And in my opinion, the teaching of Children to beat inanimate Creatures is not to be allowed; both because it disposeth their weak understandings to misapprehensions of things, and also teacheth them to inflict punishment in some instances, when ordinarily they themselves do rather in some little proportion deserve it; and then it stirs up in them a spirit of revenge; whereas God hath appropriated vengeance to himself as universal Judge(k): And we smile at a little dog for snarling at a stone, yet see not the evil of making level and distorted conceptions in Children, which may occasion a spiteful heart(l), a disposition very displeasing to God. 3. Moderate chastisements to accompany the notices of good carriage. Correction in a due manner, and also suitable rewards for well-doing, are necessary to check rudeness, and encourage an ingenuous deportment. As good documents do put in wisdom: so due corrections do drive out folly(m). A child is not to be left to himself, lest he bring the Parent to shame; when a rod and reproof may give wisdom to prevent it(n). Therefore God bids(o), Correct thy Son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight to thy Soul. Elsewhere(p), Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beat him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and deliver his Soul from hell. Here is not only a precept, but promise of good fruit upon discharge of the duty in a right manner:
God, who is severe against idleness, expects all should employ their talents in such a professed way of life, as he vvill approve of. In order hereunto, and for the attaining of the best gifts(h), great care is to be took, and ingenious devices may be used to get Children imbued with the principles of learning, and abilities to read, write, &c. But I must haste on: Yet here I cannot but disallow the indoctrinating of Children with superstitious notions, vvhich nuzzle them ⟨p. 416⟩up in vulgar errors that lead unto unbelief; the affrighting of them vvith silly tales of Bugbears, stories of Hobgoblins and Fairies, &c. profane and old wives Fables, not tending to godliness(i), which occasion needless and groundless fears, that afterwards, when they should have more brains, are not easily corrected, or not without great difficulty remov'd. And in my opinion, the teaching of Children to beat inanimate Creatures is not to be allow'd; both because it disposeth their weak understandings to misapprehensions of things, and also teacheth them to inflict punishment in some instances, when ordinarily they themselves do rather in some little proportion deserve it; and then it stirs up in them a spirit of revenge; whereas God hath appropriated vengeance to himself as universal Judge(k): And we smile at a little dog for snarling at a stone, yet see not the evil of making level and distorted conceptions in Children, which may occasion a spiteful heart(l), a disposition very displeasing to God. 3. Moderate chastisements to accompany the notices of good carriage. Correction in a due manner, and also suitable rewards for well-doing, are necessary to check rudeness, and encourage an ingenuous deportment. As good documents do put in wisdom: so due corrections do drive out folly(m). A child is not to be left to himself, lest he bring the Parent to shame; when a rod and reproof may give wisdom to prevent it(n). Therefore God bids(o), Correct thy Son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight to thy Soul. Elsewhere
but it should be sued out by Prayer(q), the rather because the neglect of this duty is very dangerous to root and branch, parent and child(r): yea, and the greater need there is of Parents Prayer here, lest they should fall into the extreme, which my Text emphatically forbids. Christian Parents, whose Children are to obey them in the Lord, are concerned to chastise in the fear of God; and therefore to seek that this appointment of his may be sanctified(s), being joined with instruction, that it may be prevalent by the blessing of God in Christ, whom the Heathen Philosophers have no regard to. And here further, Parents are concerned to use much Christian prudence, that their Children may understand 1. That they are from a Principle of love for their Children amendment and welfare necessitated to this sharp work(t), which God hath enjoined them in just circumstances, as he himself chasteneth whom he loveth(u). And therefore, if they should spare the rod through fondness, God, who knows the heart and affections best, might censure them for hating their children(w), whom they would not have been so severe with, if they could have reformed them at a cheaper rate. Hence 2. That it is their children's folly, not their own passion, which hath engaged them in this smarting exercise, wherein overmuch heat would be like an over-hot medicine, that scalds rather than cures. Some Parents are apt to go beyond just measures, and to chastise for their own pleasure(x): but they must learn of God to aim at their ⟨p. 417⟩children's profit, and not correct them but upon good reason. Even Plutarch could determine that punishment should never be inflicted for flesh-pleasing. Parents should not take the rod to vent their own anger, but to subdue their children's sin; which a man may not suffer upon his neighbour, without rebuke, lest he be guilty of hating him in his heart(y); then certainly not upon his child, whom he is obliged, not only to admonish verbally, but chastise really: but first he should do as God did with our first Parents, convict him of his nakedness(z), i. e. show him the evil of his lying, railing, idleness, or &c. faults, he is chargeable with, as opposite to the Word of God(a), and prejudicial to his own Soul(b), and that he is made to smart for the cure of this evil. Which 3. Parents may let their children know, they dare not suffer to remain longer uncorrected:
but it should be sued out by Prayer(q), the rather because the neglect of this duty is very dangerous to root and branch, parent and child(r): yea, and the greater need there is of Parents Prayer here, lest they should fall into the extreme, which my Text emphatically forbids. Christian Parents, whose Children are to obey them in the Lord, are concern'd to chastise in the fear of God; and therefore to seek that this appointment of his may be sanctified(s), being joyned with instruction, that it may be prevalent by the blessing of God in Christ, whom the Heathen Philosophers have no regard to. And here further, Parents are concern'd to use much Christian prudence, that their Children may understand 1. That they are from a Principle of love for their Children amendment and welfare necessitated to this sharp work(t), which God hath enjoyn'd them in just circumstances, as he himself chasteneth whom he loveth(u). And therefore, if they should spare the rod through fondness, God, who knows the heart and affections best, might censure them for hating their children(w), whom they would not have been so severe with, if they could have reform'd them at a cheaper rate. Hence 2. That it is their childrens folly, not their own passion, which hath engag'd them in this smarting exercise, wherein overmuch heat would be like an over-hot medicine, that scalds rather than cures. Some Parents are apt to go beyond just measures, and to chastise for their own pleasure(x): but they must learn of God to aim at their ⟨p. 417⟩childrens profit, and not correct them but upon good reason. Even Plutarch could determine that punishment should never be inflicted for flesh-pleasing. Parents should not take the rod to vent their own anger, but to subdue their childrens sin; which a man may not suffer upon his neighbour, without rebuke, lest he be guilty of hating him in his heart(y); then certainly not upon his child, whom he is oblig'd, not only to admonish verbally, but chastise really: but first he should do as God did with our first Parents, convict him of his nakedness
sith delays may prove dangerous to the Patient, if the rod be withheld(c). The festering wound may rankle, and come to a gangrene, if not lanced in due time. Parents love is seen in chastening betimes(d), both in respect of the age of the child, and of its fault. If it be not too soon for children to sin, it should not be thought too soon for Parents to correct, and that seasonably, before the sin grow strong, get head and sprout forth. The child should be taken while there is hope(e). The twig may be bent whiles it is young, and the sin mortified, if nipped in the bud. God we find hath been very severe in remarking the first violations of his Statutes: as for gathering sticks on the Sabbath day(f), and Aaron's sons offering strange fire(g): so Parents should timely curb the first exorbitances of their children. Hence 4. They should let them see they are resolved after serious deliberation not to be diverted by the pullings and passions of their unhumbled children from inflicting due punishment, sith the Wise man chargeth, Let not thy Soul spare for his crying(h), so that they may not remain fearless: yet it must then be in compassion, that they may conceive, as the Father of Heaven is afflicted in the affliction of his(i), so are they in the affliction of their children; and as the Lord doth it in measure, though he will not suffer them to go unpunished(k),so do they. My Text bounds the correction, that it may not exceed a just proportion, to the discouraging of children, whose different tempers, as well as different faults, are to be considered, so as no more be laid upon them than they are able to bear(l). There should therefore be a special care took, that the chastisement be no other than what is meet. Physicians endeavour to apportion the Dose they give to the strength of the Patient, and the peccant humour they would correct. There must be a rational consideration of the age, sex, and disposition of the child, the nature and circumstances of the fault, and what satisfaction is offered by the delinquent upon ingenuous confession, or possibly some interposition of another; so that the offended Parent may keep up his authority, be victorious in his chastisements, and come off with honour and good hopes of the child's amendment:
sith delays may prove dangerous to the Patient, if the rod be withheld(c). The festering wound may rankle, and come to a gangrene, if not lanced in due time. Parents love is seen in chastening betimes(d), both in respect of the age of the child, and of its fault. If it be not too soon for children to sin, it should not be thought too soon for Parents to correct, and that seasonably, before the sin grow strong, get head and sprout forth. The child should be taken while there is hope(e). The twigg may be bent whiles it is young, and the sin mortified, if nipt in the bud. God we find hath been very severe in remarking the first violations of his Statutes: as for gathering sticks on the Sabbath day(f), and Aaron's sons offering strange fire(g): so Parents should timely curb the first exorbitances of their children. Hence 4. They should let them see they are resolv'd after serious deliberation not to be diverted by the pullings and passions of their unhumbled children from inflicting due punishment, fith the Wise man chargeth, Let not thy Soul spare for his crying(h), so that they may not remain fearless: yet it must then be in compassion, that they may conceive, as the Father of Heaven is afflicted in the affliction of his(i), so are they in the affliction of their children; and as the Lord doth it in measure, though he will not suffer them to go unpunished(k),so do they. My Text bounds the correction, that it may not exceed a just proportion, to the discouraging of children, whose different tempers, as well as different faults, are to be consider'd, so as no more be laid upon them than they are able to bear(l). There should therefore be a special care took, that the chastisement be no other than what is meet. Physicians endeavour to apportion the Dose they give to the strength of the Patient, and the peccant humour they would correct. There must be a rational consideration of the age, sex, and disposition of the child, the nature and circumstances of the fault, and what satifaction is offer'd by the delinquent upon ingenuous confession, or possibly some interposition of another; so that the offended Parent may keep up his authority, be victorious in his chastisements, and come off with honour and good hopes of the child's amendment:
For a Parent should be ever ready to forgive, and to connive often at smaller failings, wherein there is no manifest sin against God, in confidence of gaining the child's affections by tenderness and kind forbearance ⟨p. 418⟩towards the things that are most desirable. This pleasing policy is, they say, much in request at this day in Japan‖, where Parents do educate their children with a great deal of softness, very rarely punishing them with stripes, though they follow their diligent informations with frequent admonitions. And they tell us among the Grecians, the best means the Mother used, if a Boy was stubborn in committing a fault, to persuade him to leave it, was to show him her breasts, as the most powerful motive she had†. But the Fathers, it seems, amongst them were more sharp: and therefore Prometheus in Menander is said to be tied like a Boy to the racks, where he prettily pleads his cause, as if his punishment had not been proportioned to his fault, but he had been too hardly dealt with. Be sure our Apostle, both in my Text, and to the Ephesians, is altogether against any discouraging chastisement, and requires moderation: Thus for nurture, the first branch of Education. The [2.] is in the admonition of the Lord, without which the former will not be effectually prosperous. This, according to the notation of the original word(m), is a putting of things into their Children's minds, an informing of the judgment in, and pressing upon the will and affections, the principles of the Christian institution, warning them to take heed of deviating from these principles, which they are obliged to live up to, and is the principal thing in the educating of Christian Children. So that Parents are mostly concerned to get the fear of God planted in their Children's tender souls, that they may know and love, trust in, and obey their Maker, Redeemer and Sanctifier, and have timely preservatives against the corruptions of an untoward generation. Under this, we may speak of Parental Instruction and Watchfulness. 1. Instruction, which is a timely instilling of conscientious principles, and seeds of Religion into Children, taking them a part, and engaging them to receive the most necessary points, as it were drop by drop, here a little, and there a little(n), according to their narrow capacities, in a free and familiar Conference;
For a Parent should be ever ready to forgive, and to connive often at smaller failings, wherein there is no manifest sin against God, in confidence of gaining the child's affections by tenderness and kind forbearance ⟨p. 418⟩towards the things that are most desirable. This pleasing policie is, they say, much in request at this day in Japan‖, where Parents do educate their children with a great deal of softness, very rarely punishing them with stripes, though they follow their diligent informations with frequent admonttions. And they tell us among the Grecians, the best means the Mother used, if a Boy was stubborn in committing a fault, to perswade him to leave it, was to shew him her breasts, as the most powerful motive she had†. But the Fathers, it seems, amongst them were more sharp: and therefore Prometheus in Menander is said to be tyed like a Boy to the racks, where he prettily pleads his cause, as if his punishment had not been proportioned to his fault, but he had been too hardly dealt with. Be sure our Apostle, both in my Text, and to the Ephesians, is altogether against any discouraging chastisement, and requires moderation: Thus for nurture, the first branch of Education. The [2.] is in the admonition of the Lord, without vvhich the former will not be effectually prosperous. This, according to the notation of the original word(m), is a putting of things into their Childrens minds, an informing of the judgment in, and pressing upon the will and affections, the principles of the Christian institution, vvarning them to take heed of deviating from these principles, vvhich they are oblig'd to live up to, and is the principal thing in the educating of Christian Children. So that Parents are mostly concern'd to get the fear of God planted in their Childrens tender souls, that they may know and love, trust in, and obey their Maker, Redeemer and Sanctifier, and have timely preservatives against the corruptions of an untoward generation. Under this, we may speak of Parental Instruction and Watchfulness. 1. Instruction, which is a timely instilling of conscientious principles, and seeds of Religon into Children, taking them a part, and engaging them to receive the most necessary points, as it vvere drop by drop, here a little, and there a little(n), according to their narrow capacities, in a free and familiar Conference;
‖Varen. Descript. Regn. Japoriae c. xv.
†[Greek or Hebrew]. Schol. in Scrip. [Greek or Hebrew].〈non-Latin alphabet〉. Schol. in Scrip. 〈non-Latin alphabet〉.
by putting Questions to them, and teaching them how to give Answers; and by putting them upon asking Questions, and returning short and clear Answers thereunto, not only concerning the Word, but Works of God, whose Spirit alone makes all efficacious. The Lord hath most strictly enjoined this by Moses(o), charging Parents to keep their souls diligently, and not to let the things God hath done to slip out of their hearts all their days, but teach their Sons, and their Sons, who in after time did thankfully acknowledge the benefit of this instruction(p): We have heard with our ears, O God, our Fathers have told us, the works that thou didst in their days, in the times of old. And for the Words and Ordinances of God; they are commanded not only to have them in their own hearts(q), but to teach them diligently unto their children, (as one who whets and sharpens a thing that is blunt)(r) by talking of them, when they sit down in their house, when they walk by the way, when they lye down, and when they rise up, and elsewhere(s); nor only so, but by Rites(t), and setting up visible and extraordinary monuments (u)whereby Children might take occasion to ask the meaning of them, and so Parents might acquaint them with the Ordinances ⟨p. 419⟩of God(w). No doubt but religious Parents have been careful to observe this, for the transmitting of pure Religion. Adam had taught his Sons to sacrifice, as well as trained them up to business, though one of them did not worship God in an acceptable manner(x). He had acquainted them it seems with the fundamental promise concerning remission of sin, which the Apostle saith could not be without shedding of blood(y), represented in the instituted Sacrifice, which Cain wanted faith to offer acceptably, as Abel did, giving credit to the divine institution, and behaving himself sincerely in this solemn worship as he was instructed. Noah also taught his Children, though one of them did not observe the instructions(z). But we have Abraham the Father of the faithful expressly commended with a special approbation of God for effectually instructing, i. e. training or catechizing his children and servants after his example to keep the way of the Lord(a). And therefore they are called his initiated ones, or [Greek or Hebrew], whom the Rabbins say†, he did no less instruct in the divine precepts and their observation, than train up to war.
by putting Questions to them, and teaching them how to give Answers; and by putting them upon asking Questions, and returning short and clear Answers thereunto, not only concerning the Word, but Works of God, whose Spirit alone makes all efficacious. The Lord hath most strictly enjoyned this by Moses(o), charging Parents to keep their souls diligently, and not to let the things God hath done to slip out of their hearts all their days, but teach their Sons, and their Sons, who in after time did thankfully acknowledg the benefit of this instruction(p): We have heard with our ears, O God, our Fathers have told us, the works that thou didst in their days, in the times of old. And for the Words and Ordinances of God; they are commanded not only to have them in their own hearts(q), but to teach them diligently unto their children, (as one who whets and sharpens a thing that is blunt)(r) by talking of them, when they sit down in their house, when they walk by the way, when they lye down, and when they rise up, and elsewhere(s); nor only so, but by Rites(t), and setting up visible and extraordinary monuments (u)whereby Children might take occasion to ask the meaning of them, and so Parents might acquaint them with the Ordinances ⟨p. 419⟩of God(w). No doubt but religious Parents have been careful to observe this, for the transmitting of pure Religion. Adam had taught his Sons to sacrifice, as well as train'd them up to business, though one of them did not worship God in an acceptable manner(x). He had acquainted them it seems with the fundamental promise concerning remission of sin, which the Apostle saith could not be without shedding of blood(y)
Other memorable instances we have of David(b), who seems kindly to call Children apart, to teach them the fear of the Lord(c), (which Obadiah learned from his youth)(d). So of his Wife Bathsheba(e), and those good Women in the New Testament, Lois and Eunice(f). And other persons there were, who did catechize in all good things(g), i. e. the rudiments of the Gospel; wherein the most excellent Theophilus was catechized or instructed(h), as the Jewish children had been catechized in the Law(i). But this part of Education, viz. Catechizing, being handled at this Exercise in another distinct Query by one well versed in the practic part of this necessary Duty, may fairly give me (who have so much on mine hands) a Supersedeas from enlarging now upon it. Only let it be remembered, that sith Man is born like a wild Ass's colt(k), and the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom(l), Parents are concerned to be industrious, and not be discouraged from teaching their offspring the words and terms of goodness, in confidence they will afterwards comprehend the sense, and practically hold fast the form of sound words(m), (the little Bibles, as Luther used to call orthodox Catechisms) gathered up from the holy Scripture, which it seems Timothy had known from a child(n), a little one indeed; yea and we have some late considerable examples of such little ones*. And therefore Parents themselves, according to their different calls and abilities, taking in convenient help, (and all to forward the Pastor's work) should not through humour, indisposition, laziness, or an over-eager minding of worldly business, neglect this affair of so great importance to the welfare of their Children; but be solicitous to get the seeds sown in their tender hearts, before the weeds of the world grow up therein, and canker the soil. Even according to Natures dictates, Diotima timely instilled such notions of prudence into Socrates, which rendered him famous. And Cato, though he kept a Tutor for his Son, yet was frequent himself in teaching and examining of him in learning, and natural Religion. Much more should Christians; as Theodosius the Great, who was diligent ⟨p. 420⟩in catechizing his Sons Arcadius and Honorius, with the assistance of Arsenius. A notable means was Catechizing to propagate the Reformed Religion, notwithstanding the contagion of Popery, (as Sir Edwin Sandys well observed†) and it will be so, to preserve it:
Other memorable instances we have of David(b), who seems kindly to call Children apart, to teach them the fear of the Lord(c), (which Obadiah learn'd from his youth)(d). So of his Wife Bathsheba(e), and those good Women in the New Testament, Lois and Eunice(f). And other persons there were, who did catechize in all good things(g), i. e. the rudiments of the Gospel; wherein the most excellent Theophilus was catechized or instructed(h), as the Jewish children had been catechized in the Law(i). But this part of Education, viz. Catechziing, being handled at this Exercise in another distinct Query by one well vers'd in the practick part of this necessary Duty, may fairly give me (who have so much on mine hands) a Supersedeas from enlarging now upon it. Only let it be remembred, that sith Man is born like a wild Asse's colt(k), and the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom(l), Parents are concern'd to be industrious, and not be discourag'd from teaching their offspring the words and terms of goodness, in confidence they will afterwards comprehend the sense, and practically hold fast the form of sound words(m), (the little Bibles, as Luther us'd to call orthodox Catechisms) gather'd up from the holy Scripture, which it seems Timothy had known from a child(n), a little one indeed; yea and we have some late considerable examples of such little ones*. And therefore Parents themselves, according to their different calls and abilities, taking in convenient help, (and all to forward the Pastor's work) should not through humour, indisposition, laziness, or an over-eager minding of worldly business, neglect this affair of so great importance to the welfare of their Children; but be solicitous to get the seeds sown in their tender hearts, before the weeds of the world grow up therein, and canker the soyl. Even according to Natures dictates, Diotima timely instill'd such notions of prudence into Socrates, which rendred him famous. And Cato, though he kept a Tutor for his Son, yet was frequent himself in teaching and examining of him in learning, and natural Religion. Much more should Christians; as Theodosius the Great, who was diligent
Especially if Instruction be followed with a 2. particular in Education, and that is Watchfulness or Inspection, which is a daily putting children on exercise, to practise the things wherein they have been instructed, by a prudent oversight of their behaviour. This domestic Episcopacy, or Family discipline, is of singular use for the edification of children. Governors especially should watch unto all things(o). This is the most proper means to preserve the good seed which is sown, from being stolen away, and to guard it, lest the enemy come slyly and sow tares amongst the wheat, which he lays wait to do, if he can take Parents asleep or inobservant(p), when they should be awake in this good government(q), and intent upon it in their household(r); taking special care that in practice their children be found faithful, and not chargeable with riot and unruliness(s). It is not enough to teach children the rudiments of faith, worship and obedience, but to bring them where the Ark is, to the acts of solemn worship, both in the Family and Congregation. Our Saviour's Parents brought him(t), (though he was born without sin, and had not need upon that account as others have:) much more should others, who now are not required to go so far, bring theirs to worship God, according to his appointment; see to their reverend deportment there, examine them afterward, and observe their proficiency: carry a jealous eye and hand over them, as Job did over his(u); and take care there be no connivance at palpable faults, but a seasonable discountenancing of every sin, in the dearest of them(w): no allowance of any practice dissonant to that which is right(x), but a solicitous care that they do not decline and apostatize, or be not seduced from the pure worship of the holy God, and the good ways they have acquainted them with(y). We know Abraham that Father of blessed memory, commanded his children (as was noted before) and there was a positive Law after to command children, upon their lives, to observe and do what God enjoined(z). This belongs to the training up of youth to a good habit, which will not easily be removed(a). They that handle this matter wisely, will find good (b)in their children; and to do it so as to avoid undue lenity and severity, is great prudence:
Especially if Instruction be follow'd with a 2. particular in Education, and that is Watchfulness or Inspection, which is a dayly putting children on exercise, to practise the things wherein they have been instructed, by a prudent oversight of their behaviour. This domestick Episcopacy, or Family discipline, is of singular use for the edification of children. Governors especially should watch unto al things(o). This is the most proper means to preserve the good seed which is sown, from being stoln away, and to guard it, lest the enemy come slily and sowe tares amongst the wheat, which he lays wait to do, if he can take Parents asleep or inobservant(p), when they should be awake in this good government(q), and intent upon it in their houshold(r); taking special care that in practice their children be found faithful, and not chargeable with riot and unruliness(s). It is not enough to teach children the rudiments of faith, worship and obedience, but to bring them where the Ark is, to the acts of solemn worship, both in the Family and Congregation. Our Saviour's Parents brought him(t), (though he was born without sin, and had not need upon that account as others have:) much more should others, who now are not required to go so far, bring theirs to worship God, according to his appointment; see to their reverend deportment there, examine them afterward, and observe their proficiency: carry a jealous eye and hand over them, as Job did over his(u); and take care there be no connivance at palpable faults, but a seasonable discountenancing of every sin, in the dearest of them(w): no allowance of any practice dissonant to that which is right(x), but a solicitous care that they do not decline and apostatize, or be not seduced from the pure worship of the holy God, and the good ways they have acquainted them with(y)
For it requires an insinuation into their affections, to engage children to love and delight in their duties, by the sweetness of the lips, to increase their learning(c), and encourage their honest endeavours with suitable rewards. And on the other hand, seasonable admonitions and remembrances in case of failures; a frowning on their laziness, and neglects of those offices wherein they should be employed, which will keep them in awe; though this must be done with great skill and wariness, lest it produce a slavish fear, which slothful, disingenuous and low spirits are apt to fall into, and then absurdly to plead(d); yet of the two it is better to fail on this hand, than for a Christian Parent to omit warning of their children, because both Law and Gospel require (as was partly hinted before) ⟨p. 421⟩we should not let sin, either of omission or commission, rest on our neighbour(e), but should warn a brother(f), much more a child, and set him in joint with a spirit of meekness. I grant this duty of daily inspection is very difficult, but it is amiable and excellent: it is of great latitude; for Parents are evermore concerned to be eying of their children, to see they do that which is necessary and comely, both in religious and moral practice, according to what is really best esteemed in civil behaviour. They must continually be watching them, as to their praying, reading, hearing, eating, drinking, playing, visiting, studying, working, sleeping, &c. to see they be not vain or idle, because commonly there is but a little distance in time, betwixt doing of nothing and doing of ill. Children should be exercised with variety; taught to sing Psalms(g), as those good children were, who made that short prayer to our Saviour, Hosanna, in Greek, out of the Psalm(h), [Greek or Hebrew] Save O Lord I beseech thee, viz. blessed Messiah: to pray in secret sometimes by and for themselves; to be constant, timely, and revered at Family duties; to be charitable, respectful to the Ambassadors of Christ; to be attentive to the reading of Chapters, and hearing of Sermons; and thereupon to put Questions, and give some account of their understanding of things, and be not as Parrots, that chatter without knowledge; to be observant of the Lord's days, not left to themselves, to play and do what they list: for as Solomon observeth(i), A child left to himself bringeth his Mother to shame;
For it requires an insinuation into their affections, to engage children to love and delight in their duties, by the sweetness of the lips, to encrease their learning(c), and encourage their honest endeavours with suitable rewards. And on the other hand, seasonable admonitions and remembrances in case of failures; a frowning on their laziness, and neglects of those offices wherein they should be employ'd, which will keep them in awe; though this must be done with great skil and vvariness, lest it produce a slavish fear, which slothful, disingenuous and low spirits are apt to fall into, and then absurdly to plead(d); yet of the two it is better to fail on this hand, than for a Christian Parent to omit warning of their children, because both Law and Gospel require (as vvas partly hinted before) ⟨p. 421⟩vve should not let sin, either of omission or commission, rest on our neighbour(e), but should warn a brother(f), much more a child, and set him in joynt with a spirit of meekness. I grant this duty of dayly inspection is very difficult, but it is amiable and excellent: it is of great latitude; for Parents are evermore concern̄d to be eying of their children, to see they do that which is necessary and comly, both in religious and moral practice, according to what is really best esteem'd in civil behaviour. They must continually be watching them, as to their praying, reading, hearing, eating, drinking, playing, visiting, studying, working, sleeping, &c. to see they be not vain or idle, because commonly there is but a little distance in time, betwixt doing of nothing and doing of ill. Children should be exercised with variety; taught to sing Psalms(g), as those good children vvere, who made that short prayer to our Saviour, Hosanna, in Greek, out of the Psalm(h), 〈non-Latin alphabet〉 Save O Lord I beseech thee, viz. blessed Messiah: to pray in secret sometimes by and for themselves; to be constant, timely, and revered at Family duties; to be charitable, respectful to the Embassadors of Christ; to be attentive to the reading of Chapters, and hearing of Sermons; and thereupon to put Questions, and give some account of their understanding of things, and be not as Parrats, that chatter vvithout knowledg; to be observant of the Lord's days, not left to themselves, to play and do what they list: for as Solomon observeth
will be required of it, as soon as it is able to do any thing; which implies that as Hannah dedicated her Samuel to the Lord in covenant under the Old Testament dispensation
before their little ones, that it may not be as a spotted, but a clear glass: When they dayly observe their Parents to perform actions decently, and with a grace
. But I must not stay (yet shall touch of Parents placing their Children into employments anon). The late Books about the Gentleman's Calling, and the Ladie's Calling, and Education, will shew after, and with others*, the benefit of these for those Children of the best, as well as meanest condition,
whether males or females: where it may be observed, that different Rules in some particulars for the education of Boys and Girls are to be given by discreet Parents
, Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beat him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and deliver his Soul from hell. Here is not only a precept, but promise of good fruit upon discharge of the duty in a right manner:
, and that he is made to smart for the cure of this evil. Which 3. Parents may let their children know, they dare not suffer to remain longer uncorrected:
•
, represented in the instituted Sacrifice, which Cain wanted faith to offer acceptably, as Abel did, giving credit to the divine institution, and behaving himself sincerely in this solemn worship as he was instructed. Noah also taught his Children, though one of them did not observe the instructions
. But we have Abraham the Father of the faithful expresly commended with a special approbation of God for effectually instructing, i. e. training or catechizing his children and servants after his example to keep the way of the Lord
, he did no less instruct in the divine precepts and their observation, than train up to war.
⟨p. 420⟩
in catechizing his Sons Arcadius and Honorius, with the assistance of Arsenius. A notable means was Catechizing to propagate the Reformed Religion, notwithstanding the contagion of Popery, (as Sir Edwyn Sandys well observ'd
*Token and little Book for Children.Token and little Book for Chi•dren.
†Survey of Religion in Europe, 1593. pag. 113. mihi.
. We know Abraham that Father of blessed memory, commanded his children (as was noted before) and there was a positive Law after to command children, upon their lives, to observe and do what God enjoyned
