A saint or a brute the certain necessity and excellency of holiness, &c. ...…

1. Note here that [the nearest Natural Relations (as Brothers and Sisters, yea, Parents and Children) are not always of one mind or way in the matters of their salvation.] Greater difference may be between them, then this between Martha and Mary in the Text. They may rise up against each other, and seek each others lives, as Christ foretold, Mark 13. 12. And therefore Father, Mother, Brother Sister, and all are to be denied for Christ (that I say not hated, as Christ saith, Luke 14. 26.) when they stand in opposition to him. The same parentage and education made not Esau and Jacob of a disposition, or of one mind or way: nor Isaac and Ismael: nor Shem and Ham: not would restrain Cain, the first man born into the world, from cruel murdering his brother, upon a difference about their Religions, caused by his own ungodly mind; even because his own works were evil, and his brothers righteous and acceptable to God, 1 John 3. 12. And therefore Parents must patiently submit (having done their duty) if even the children of their bodies should prove reprobates: And Brothers and Sisters must submit, if these in so near a relation be Cast-aways: God hath not promised that all our kindred shall be saved. Rejoice that you are not your selves forsaken; and be glad that any and so many are sanctified, though further from you in the flesh; and love them in their more excellent relation to Christ and you.

1. Note here that [the neerest Natural Relations (as Brothers and Sisters, yea, Parents and Children) are not alwayes of one mind or way in the matters of their salvation.] Greater difference may be between them, then this between Martha and Mary in the Text. They may rise up against each other, and seek each others lives, as Christ foretold, Mark 13. 12. And therefore Father, Mother, Brother Sister, and all are to be denyed for Christ (that I say not hated, as Christ saith, Luke 14. 26.) when they stand in opposition to him. The same parentage and education made not Esau and Jacob of a disposition, or of one mind or way: nor Isaac and Ismael: nor Sem and Cham: not would restrain Cain, the first man born into the world, from cruel murdering his brother, upon a difference about their Religions, caused by his own ungodly mind; even because his own works were evil, and his brothers righteous and acceptable to God,