The mischiefs of self-ignorance and the benefits of self-acquaintance opened in divers sermons at…

14. And it is Ignorance of themselves also that makes men troublers of the State. A man that doth not know himself, is unfit for all society; If he be a Ruler he will forget the Common-good, and instead of Clemency and Justice will violently exercise an imperious Will. If he be a subject, he will be Censuring the actions of his Rulers, when distance and disacquaintance makes him an incompetent Judge. He will think himself •itter to Rule then they, and whatever they •o, he imagineth that he could do it better. And hence come suspicions, and murmurings ⟨p. 40⟩against them, and Corah's censures, [Ye take too much upon you: Are not all the people holy?] Were men acquainted with themselves, their weaknesses, their concernments and their duties, they would rather enquire whether they obey well, then whether their Superiors Rule well; and would think the lowest place to be most suitable to them; and would quiet themselves in the discharge of their own duty, making supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving for all men; for Kings, and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty; for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour.] 1 Tim. 2.1, 2, 3. It would quiet all the seditions, and tumults of the world, if men were well acquainted with themselves.

14. And it is Ignorance of themselves also that makes men troublers of the State. A man that doth not know himself, is unfit for all society; If he be a Ruler he will forget the Common-good, and instead of Clemency and Justice will violently exercise an impe•ious Will. If he be a subject, he will be Censuring the actions of his Rulers, when distance and disacquaintance makes him an •ncompetent Judge. He will think himself •itter to Rule then they, and whatever they •o, he imagineth that he could do it better. And hence come suspitions, and murmurrings ⟨p. 40⟩