The right method for a settled peace of conscience, and spiritual comfort in 32…

1. I conceive that it is not possible for any Minister punctually to set down a discernible difference between the least measure of True saving Grace, and the highest degree ⟨p. 121⟩of common Grace; and to say, Just here it is that they part, or by this you may discern them. I do but say, I think so, because other men may know far more then I do: But I will say it as certain, that I am not able to do it, for my own part. This much I can tell, that the least degree of Grace that is saving doth determine the soul for God and Christ, against the world and flesh that stand as Competitors; and so where Christs interest prevaileth in the least measure, there is the least measure of saving Grace: As when you are weighing two things in the balance, and at last make it so near even weight, that one end is turned and no more: so when you are considering whether to be for Christ or for the flesh and the world, and your Will is but even a very little Determined to Christ, and preferreth him; this is the least measure of saving Grace. But then how a poor soul should discern this prevalent choice and determination of it self, is all the Question. For there is nothing more easy and common then for men to think verily, that they prefer Christ above the creature, as long as no temptation doth assault them, nor sensual objects stand up in any considerable strength to entice them: Nay wicked men do truly, oft times, purpose to obey Christ before the flesh, and to take him for their Lord, merely ⟨p. 122⟩in the general, when they do not know or consider the quality of his Laws; that they are so strict and spiritual and contrary to the flesh, and hazardous to their worldly hopes and seeming-happiness: But when it comes to particulars, and God saith, Now deny thy self, and thy friend, and thy goods, and thy life for my sake, alas, it was never his Resolution to do it; nor will he be persuaded to it. But he that said to God who sends him to labour in his Vineyard, I go Sir, when he comes to find the unpleasingness of the Work, he goes not, or never sets a hand to it. So that it is evident that it is no true saving Resolution or Willingness, which prevaileth not for actual Obedience. Now here comes in the unresolvable Doubt, What is the least Measure of Obedience that will prove a man truly Willing and Resolved, or to have truly Accepted of Christ for his Lord?