A29676:398
Apples of gold for young men and women, and a crown of glory for…Apples of gold for young men and vvomen, and a crown of glory for…
Apples of gold for young men and women, and a crown of glory for old men and women. Or, The happiness of being good betimes, and the honour of being an old disciple Clearly and fully discovered, and closely, and faithfully applied. Also the young mans objections answered, and the old mans doubts resolved. By Thomas Brooks preacher of the gospel at Margarets new Fishstreet-hill.Apples of gold for young men and vvomen, and a crown of glory for old men and women. Or, The happiness of being good betimes, and the honour of being an old disciple Clearly and fully discovered, and closely, and faithfully applyed. Also the young mans objections answered, and the old mans doubts resolved. By Thomas Brooks preacher of the gospel at Margarets new Fishstreet-hill.
London: printed by R.I. for John Hancock, 1657
THE Young-Mans Duty AND EXCELLENCY. › Good Couns to Young men
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.
Ah friends! you should do as Joseph in Egypt, of whom the Scriptures saith, Psal. 105.22. (according to the Hebrew phrase) that he tied the Princes of Pharaohs Court about his heart: If ever you would gain by the Saints, you must bind them upon your souls, you must labour to have very near, close, and intimate communion with them. The Jews have a Proverb, ⟨p. 251⟩that two dry sticks put to a green one will kindle it; the best way to be in a flame Godward, Christ-ward, Heavenward, and Holiness-ward, is to be among the dry sticks, the kindle-coals, the Saints, for as live coals kindle those that are dead, so lively Christians will heat and enliven those that are dead God-wards, Christ-wards, Heaven-wards, and holiness-wards. As Iron sharpeneth Iron, so doth the face of a man his friend. Mens wits, 1parts, gifts, and industry, commonly grow more strong, vigorous, and quick, by friendly conference, and communion. And as he that comes where sweet spices and ointments are stirring, carries away a sweet savour with him, so he that converseth with those that are good, shall carry away that goodness and sweetness with him, that shall render him sweet, desirable, and delectable to others. ⟨p. 252⟩Polemon that Augustine speaks of, 2who was all for Wine and play, &c. became a brave man when he came acquainted with the Philosophers School. So many young men, that have been all for Wine and women, for playing and toying, for vanity and folly, have become brave men, precious men, by the company, counsel, and example of those who were gracious. Doctor Taylor the Martyr rejoiced that ever he came into prison, because he came thither to have acquaintance with that Angel of God, John Bradford (as he calls him,) So doubtless many young persons there be that have much cause to rejoice, and for ever to bless the Lord that ever they came acquainted with such and such (who fear the Lord, and who walk in his ways) for the good that they have received by them.
Ah friends! you should do as Joseph in Egypt, of whom the Scriptures saith,