A26905:607
The crucifying of the world
The crucifying of the world by the cross of Christ with a preface to the nobles, gentlemen, and all the rich, directing them how they may be richer / by Richard Baxter.
London: printed by R. W. for Nevill Simmons, 1658
The Crucifying of the world, BY The Cross of CHRIST. › Part 1 › Section 21 › Subsection
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.
2. And as for you that truly fear God, I beseech you let the slanders of wicked men awake you to an holy jealousy of your selves. You see what their eye is upon: Take heed then how you walk; you hear what it is that offendeth them. As far as is possible avoid all occasions of such offence. Take heed in your ⟨p. 193⟩bargaining, buying or selling, how you carry your selves toward them, and what you say. If all the actions of your lives were right save one, they will reproach you for that one: If you speak but one rash or unhandsome word, they will forget all the rest, and remember that one, and traduce you, as if all were like that one. See therefore that you walk and speak by line and rule. And remember that it is not an ordinary measure of charity and good works that is expected from you, (according to your abilities) by God and man. If you love those that love you, what Reward have you? do not even the Publicans the same? And if ye salu•e your brethren only, what do you more then others? do not even the Publicans so? But (saith Christ) I say unto you, Love your enemies; bless them that curse you; do good to them that hate you; and pray for them that despitefully use you and persecute you: That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his Sun to rise on the evil and on the good; and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust, Mat. 5. 44, 45, 46, 47. Let your Light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven, Mat. 6. 15. Your actions and words are observed and scanned more then any other mens. For malice is quick-sighted, and of a strong memory: And you are the Light of the world: A City that is set on an hill cannot be hid, Mat. 5. 14. Take heed therefore that you be blameless and harmless, the Sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse Nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life: This will not only stop the mouths of the enemies, but it will also rejoice your Teachers in the day of Christ that they have not run or laboured in vain: Yea if they were offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, they would rejoice with you all,