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…

TO THE READER.

The Decay of Religion at this day in the World, is come to such an height, as that it is observed by all who pretend unto any Concernment therein, and Complained of by Many. By Religion we understand the Power of it in the Hearts and Lives of Men, and not any Outward Profession of it only; much less the general pretence that is made unto it, in them by whom its power is openly denied. Neither is it manifest only in the fruits of Sinful security and the flagitious lives of all sorts of men, but begins to be so also in its effects, in the present state of things in the World filled with Misery and Confusion: For the Wrath of God is many ways revealed from Heaven against the ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness: and in many Nations the Visible tokens and demonstrations of it do abound. For, there is in them no peace; to them that go out, nor to them that come in; but great vexation is upon all their Inhabitants. Nation is destroyed of Nation, and City of City; for God doth vex them with all adversity. For whatever may be the thoughts and counsels of men in these things, the Judgements of God are not merely subservient unto their lusts and passions; it is his own controversy with the world for neglect of the Gospel and opposition unto it that he pleadeth in them, neither can our present respite in the enjoyment of outward mercies be any evidence unto us, that we are not the objects of the same displeasure. All men are in the same condition among whom the same sins and the same relapses from the power of religion are found; for God is no Respectre of persons, It is indeed an effect of divine patience, which if abused unto security, will issue in a more fore revenge. In the mean ⟨image 23⟩time the voice of God unto us in all the miseries and desolations we hear of in the world, is, that unless we Repent, we shall all likewise perish. Neither are we altogether left without pregnant warnings among our selves in many severe dispensations of divine providence. And those who are not utterly hardened through the deceitfulness of Sin, may easily see the hand of God lifted up in various intimations of his displeasure. But hitherto it must be acknowledged, and ought to be bewailed, that the Security of the world seems to be unshaken, and the u ndation of Sin not to be stemmed in the least measure.