A27044:156
A sermon preached at the funeral of that faithful minister of Christ, Mr. John…
A sermon preached at the funeral of that faithful minister of Christ, Mr. John Corbet with his true and exemplary character / by Richard Baxter.
London: printed for Thomas Parkhurst, 1680
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.
It is not for want of Love or Power that he lets us tumble on our beds in pain, or lie under slanderers or persecutors rage. He that with a word could make the World, with a word can save us from all this. But if we suffer not, how shall suffering-graces be exercised, faith, patience, self-denial, and hope? Is not grace better than ease or life? How shall we get the benefit of suffering, if we feel it not? How shall grace and divine strength be manifested to our selves and others?
Quest. What is it that Grace is sufficient for?
Ans. 1. Not to set us up above the frailties of humanity and mortality; nor to raise us to the joy that souls in heaven have. 2. Not to every one alike, but in our several measures: some fear pain and death more than others: some have greater patience and joy, and long to depart and be with Christ.
But to all the faithful it shall suffice, 1. To keep them from revolting from Christ, and repenting of their choice and hope. 2. To save them from charging God foolishly, as if he did them wrong. 3. It shall keep them from damning despair. When Satan sifteth them, Christs intercession shall keep their faith from failing: Grace shall humble them, and save them from sin, and the flesh and world: they shall cast soul and body upon Christ, and trust him in hope in their several degrees. And those that have been more believing, heavenly and fruitful than the rest, are likest to have the greatest peace and comfort, especially in their greatest need.