Hagio-mimesis The imitation of the saints

Our Consciences: we stand in need of the impartial Testimony of an awakened conscience, to accuse or excuse us according to our fidelity or neglect in this duty of so great concernment. Moreover it will cost us much prayer, meditation, often reflection upon our selves, watchful observation, self-denial, mortification, &c. Yea, much labour and pains even of the outward man much fasting, striving, wrestling, and watchfulness, to carry on this great important duty, of imitating the Saints. Surely a slothful, lazy professor, will never ⟨p. 26⟩make any earnings in so curious and laborious a work as this is.

Our Consciences: we stand in need of the impartial Testimony of an awakened conscience, to accuse or excuse us according to our fidelity or neglect in this duty of so great concernment. Moreover it will cost us much prayer, medita•ion, often reflection upon our selves, watchfull observation, self-denial, mortification, &c. Yea, much labour and pains even of the outward man much fasting, striving, wrestling, and watchfulness, to carry on this great important duty, of imitating the Saints. Surely a slothful, lazy professor, will never ⟨p. 26⟩make any earnings in so curious and laborious a work as this is.

That's h ghly observable in the Text; That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through f•ith and patience, &c. Sloth, and Imitation of the Saint are inconsistent.

It is a matter of great labour and diligence to be a follower of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and all the rest of the Heroes od Worthies of God, in their faith, and patience, and other Graces: A delicate short spirited professor will never carry on this spiritual and blessed trade to any purpose; therefore says the Apostle (hee) We desire that every one of you do show the same diligence, &c. All the strength and industry you have, will be little enough to lay out in this arduous and excellent design.