The harmony of the divine attributes in the contrivance and accomplishment of man's redemption…

All Virtues are of the same descent and family, though in respect of the matter about which they are conversant, and their exercise they are different, Some are heroical, some are humble, and the lowest being conducted by Love to God in the meanest offices, shall have an eternal Reward. In short, Piety is the principle and chief ingredient of Righteousness and Charity to Men. For since God is the Author of our common Nature, and the relations whereby we are united one to another, 'tis necessary that a regard to him should be the first, and have an influence upon all other Duties.

All Vertues are of the same descent and family, though in respect of the matter about which they are conversant, and their exercise they are different, Some are heroical, some are humble, and the lowest being conducted by Love to God in the meanest offices, shall have an eternal Reward. In short, Piety is the principle and chief ingredient of Righteousness and Charity to Men. For since God is the Author of our common Nature, and the relations whereby we are united one to another, 'tis necessary that a regard to him should be the first, and have an influence upon all other Duties.

I shall further consider some particular Precepts, which the Gospel doth especially enforce upon us, and the Reasons of them.

1. That concerning Humility, the peculiar Grace of Christians, so becoming our state as Creatures ⟨p. 322⟩and Sinners, the parent and nurse of other Graces, that preserves in us the light of Faith, and the heat of Love; that procures Modesty in Prosperity, and Patience in Adversity; that is the root of Gratitude and Obedience, and is so lovely in God's eyes, that He gives Grace to the Humble: This our Saviour makes a necessary qualification in all those who shall enter into his Kingdom; Except ye be converted and become as little children,