A practical exposition of the X. Commandments with a resolution of several momentous questions…A practical exposition of the X. Commandements with a resolution of several momentous questions…

3. When it is laid out for the pleasing of corrupt self, and the making of provision for the Flesh to fulfil its Lusts, Rom. 13.14. Self-love under these considerations is corrupt, and •o be guarded against.

Answ. 2. Self-love, or love to our self, is allowable when qualified with the following properties. 1. When it is subservient and subordinate to higher ends, and can hazard it self, and deny it self for Gods honour, for a public good, yea, and in some cases, out of respect to the good of others also, so a righteous man should, and when at himself, will do much, though with his own hazard, for a Christian friend, for the safety or edification of the Godly, or in defence of ⟨p. 321⟩the interest of Christ. 2. When it is drawn out after spiritual things, and it's on these mostly that pains are taken, as how to grow in grace, to have a good conscience, to have the soul saved, sin mortified, &c. 3. When outward things are desired for the former ends, as when we pray, Give us this day our daily bread, that we may promove these ends, being willing to want them when they may not stand with these ends, & desiring life, means, &c. in so far only, as they may be useful for the attainment of them. As the first self-love marreth duties to God, and thwarteth with them; so the second advanceth them and swayeth strongly, yet sweetly to them.

Answ. 2. Self-love, or love to our self, is allowable when qualified with the following properties. 1. When it is subservient and subordinate to higher ends, and can hazard it self, and deny it self for Gods honour, for a publick good, yea, and in some cases, out of respect to the good of others also, so a righteous man should, and when at himself, will do much, though with his own hazard, for a Christian friend, for the safety or edification of the Godly, or in defence of ⟨p. 321⟩