CXLV expository sermons upon the whole 17th chapter of the Gospel according to St.…

5. Rejoice, as having an opportunity of the exercise and increase of grace. The horse neigheth at the battle and war-like sounds, as being glad of the occasion. A valiant man delights in the occasions of his activity. The Pilot showeth his skill in times of danger and tempests. Know therefore that when the world hateth thee, God then calls thee out to a spiritual combat, thou art then become a spectacle to God, he beholds what excellent graces thou wilt show forth, what faith, what patience, what fortitude, what heavenly-mindedness. Now if ever there is a time to show thy spiritual might and courage, yea here is not only an occasion to put forth thy graces, but an opportunity to discover thy unfeigned love to God and Christ, to own Christ, when all the people would make him a King is no trial, but to stand to him, when they cried away with him, Crucify him; this is a good evidence, God will then say, Now I know thou lovest me, when these many waters the world throweth on, are not able to quench it, though father hate, though friends hate, though all hate, yet this doth not discourage thee in thy love of God; What a comfortable evidence is this of thy true grace: Nay, in some sense thou dost exceed the Angels in doing Gods will, for though they be zealous and active in obedience to God, yet they meet not with oppositions in their service. They are not subject unto the reproaches and contempts of wicked men of the world, and therefore in this thou art more then an Angel.

5. Rejoyce, as having an opportunity of the exercise and increase of grace. The horse neigheth at the battel and war-like sounds, as being glad of the occasion. A valiant man delights in the occasions of his activity. The Pilot sheweth his skill in times of danger and tempests. Know therefore that when the world hateth thee, God then cals thee out to a spiritual combate, thou art then become a spectacle to God, he beholds what excellent graces thou wilt shew forth, what faith, what patience, what fortitude, what heavenly-mindednesse. Now if ever there is a time to shew thy spiritual might and courage, yea here is not only an occasion to put forth thy graces, but an opportunity to discover thy unfeigned love to God and Christ, to own Christ, when all the people would make him a King is no trial, but to stand to him, when they cried away with him, Crucifie him; this is a good evidence, God will then say, Now I know thou lovest me, when these many waters the world throweth on, are not able to quench it, though father hate, though friends hate, though all hate, yet this doth not discourage thee in thy love of God; What a comfortable evidence is this of thy true grace: Nay, in some sense thou dost exceed the Angels in doing Gods will, for though they be zealous and active in obedience to God, yet they meet not with oppositions in their service. They are not subject unto the reproaches and contempts of wicked men of the world, and therefore in this thou art more then an Angel.