A discourse of the saving grace of God

We need not wonder, if those of this Persuasion should satisfy themselves, and would have others satisfied with such a ⟨p. 64⟩Morality; their Principles do afford, and can require nothing better. But whether the Acts of it be those gracious Acts▪ those Fruits of the Spirit, those good works, which the Scripture so much calls for, and makes the Way to Salvation; let those consider who are concerned indeed in the Way to Salvation.

We need not wonder, if those of this Perswasion should satisfie themselves, and would have others satisfied with such a ⟨p. 64⟩Morality; their Principles do afford, and can require nothing better. But whether the Acts of it be those gracious Acts▪ those Fruits of the Spirit, those good works, which the Scripture so much calls for, and makes the Way to Salvation; let those consider who are concerned indeed in the Way to Salvation.

T••y charge their Opposers, for not pressing Moral Duties. If they mean thereby Practical Christianity, there are none in the World press it more. But we are not for a Pagan, but a Christian Morality; and think it not advisable to press external Acts alone, without minding the Principle and Root, from whence all that is truly Christian must spring. We count it absurd and preposterous to look for Fruits where there is no Root, for gracious Acts where Grace is not planted in the Heart. They may deck a May-pole with as many Garlands as they please, and set off a Mast with Flags and Streamers; but they will never thereby make them Fruit-trees. The Lord will condemn those who bring not forth good Fruit; and those also who lead them in a way, where they are never like to be truly fruitful, without better conduct.

T••y charge their Opposers, for not pressing Moral Duties. If they mean thereby Practical Christianity, there are none in the World press it more. But we are not for a Pagan, but a Christian Morality; and think it not adviseable to press external Acts alone, without minding the Principle and Root, from whence all that is truely Christian must spring. We count it absurd and preposterous to look for Fruits where there is no Root, for gracious Acts where Grace is not planted in the Heart. They may deck a May-pole with as many Garlands as they please, and set off a Mast with Flags and Streamers; but they will never thereby make them Fruit-trees. The Lord will condemn those who bring not forth good Fruit; and those also who lead them in a way, where they are never like to be truely fruitfull, without better conduct.