Reprobation asserted, or, The doctrine of eternal election & reprobation promiscuously handled in eleven…

First generally, As it concerneth Persons temporary and visibly reprobate, thus: To be reprobate, is to be disapproved, void of Judgement, and rejected, &c. To be disapproved, that is, when the Word condemns them, either as touching the Faith or the Holiness of the Gospel; the which they must needs be, that are void of spiritual and heavenly Judgement in the Mysteries of the Kingdom; a manifest token they are rejected. And hence it is that they are said to be reprobate or void of Judgement concerning the Faith; reprobate or void of Judgement touching every good work; having a reprobate mind, to do those things that ⟨p. 4⟩are not convenient, either as to faith or manners. And hence it is again, that they are also said to be rejected of God, cast away, and the like. 2 Cor. 13.6, 7. 2 Tim. 3.8. Tit. 1.16. Rom. 1.28. Jer. 6.30. 1 Cor. 9.

I call this temporary visible Reprobation, because these appear, and are detected by the Word as such, that are found under the above-named Errors, and so adjudged without the grace of God. Yet it is possible for some of these (however for the present disapproved) through the blessed acts and dispensations of Grace, not only to become visible Saints, but also saved for ever. Who doubts but that he who now by examining himself, concerning Faith, doth find himself, though under Profession, graceless, may after that, he seeing his woeful state, not only cry to God for Mercy, but find Grace, and obtain Mercy to help in time of need? though 'tis true, that for the most part the contrary is fulfilled on them.