A26892:8527
A Christian Directory
A Christian directory, or, A sum of practical theology and cases of conscience directing Christians how to use their knowledge and faith, how to improve all helps and means, and to perform all duties, how to overcome temptations, and to escape or mortify every sin : in four parts ... / by Richard Baxter.A Christian directory, or, A summ of practical theologie and cases of conscience directing Christians how to use their knowledge and faith, how to improve all helps and means, and to perform all duties, how to overcome temptations, and to escape or mortifie every sin : in four parts ... / by Richard Baxter.
London: printed by Robert White for Nevill Simmons, 1673
Title page typeset from the transcription.
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.
§. 38. Direct. 16. Make not use of Civil quarrels to lay an odium upon religion. It is ordinary with1 ungodly malicious men, to labour to turn the displeasure of Rulers, against men of integrity; and if there be any broils or Civil Wars, to snatch any pretence how false soever to call them Traitors and Enemies to Government. If it be but because they are against a Usurper, or because some Fanatic persons (whom they oppose,) have behaved themselves rebelliously or disobediently; a holy life (which is the greatest friend to Loyalty) must be blamed for all; And all is but to gratify the Devil in driving poor souls from God and holiness.
§. 38. Direct. 16. Make not use of Civil quarrels to lay an odium upon religion. It is ordinary with1 ungodly malicious men, to labour to turn the displeasure of Rulers, against men of integrity; and if there be any broiles or Civil Wars, to snatch any pretence how false soever to call them Traytors and Enemies to Government. If it be but because they are against a Usurper, or because some Fanatick persons (whom they oppose,) have behaved themselves rebelliously or disobediently; a holy life (which is the greatest friend to Loyalty) must be blamed for all; And all is but to gratifie the Devil in driving poor souls from God and holiness.
- 1Direct. 16.
§. 39. Direct. 17. When you think it your duty to speak of the faults of men that profess a Godly life, 1lay the blame only on the person, but speak as much and more in commendations of Godliness it self; and commend that which is good in them, while you discommend that which is evil. Is their Praying bad? ⟨p. 87⟩