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. Concerning these Vows, we say; That the Breach of them is a very great Sin, and doth much more aggravate Sin, where it is, than where it is not: So that the Sins of Christians against Baptism, Communions, Oaths in Covenants, Secret Engagements, Resolutions, and Promises to God, are much greater than the Sins of others. Hence the Lord chargeth Israel with Covenant-Breaking, by virtue of their Circumcision which they had received as a Seal thereof, and aggravateth all their Sins by that, and looketh on them in that Respect, as singularly sinful, Deut. 29.24. Jer. 22.8. &c. which could not so well be, if there were not some Peculiarity in that Obligation. Our Baptism, doubtless, is no less binding unto us, nor the Breach of our Baptismal Vows less sinful, Col. 2.11, 12. Neither can there be any reason given, Why the Breach of an Oath to man, should be charged on a Person, as a Sin and Infamy; and the Breach of an Oath to God, not be much more charged so. Oh! Take notice then, ye who sin willingly, who Drink, Swear, omit Prayer; Let your minds wander, and study not Holiness in good earnest, that your sins have these Aggravations to make them horrible, infamous, and inexcusable, 1. There is manifest Perjury against the Oath of God, which even according to the Pharisees Doctrine, Matth. 15.33. was Abominable: Thou shalt not (say they) Forswear thy self, but shalt pay or perform thy Oath to the Lord. 2. There is unfaithful dealing, and Abominable Treachery, to break under trust, and to keep no Engagement to Him. 3. There is not only Perjury, and Treachery simply; but towards God, which is more, and draweth a great deal deeper, than towards any other. It's Dreadful to deal Unfaithfully, Treacherously, and Perjuriously ⟨p. 150⟩with Him. 4. All this is in things that are very equitable and much for your own good, which maketh no small aggravation. 5. This is done not only against promises, but against many promises, and many other bands. 6. That its often and in many things that you sin against these promises. 7. That sin is little resented or laid to heart on this consideration, and as so aggravated.