The reasons of the Christian religion the first part, of godliness, proving by natural…

§. 1. And first, when I look throughout the world, I find, that though all the evidence aforesaid for the necessity of a holy virtuous life, be unquestionable in naturâ rerum, yet most of the world observe it not, or discern but little of it, nor much regard the light without; or the secret witness of their consciences within.

Natural light or evidence is so unsuccessful in the world, that it loudly telleth us, something is yet wanting, what ever it is. We can discern what it is which is necessary to man's happiness: but we can hardly discern whether de facto any considerable number (at best) do by the teaching of nature alone attain it. When we enquire into the Writings of the best of the Philosophers, we find so little evidence of real holiness, that is, of the foresaid Resignation, Subjection, and Love to God as God, that it leaveth us much in doubt whether indeed they were holy themselves or not, and whether they made the Knowledge, Love, Obedience and Praise of God, the end and business of their lives. However, there is too great evidence, that the world lieth in darkness and wickedness, ⟨p. 193⟩where there is no more than natural light.

§. 2. I find therefore that the discovery of the will of God, concerning our duty and our end, called, The Law of Nature, is a matter of very great difficulty, to them that have no supernatural light to help them.