A39663:965
The Fountain of Life Opened
The fountain of life opened, or, A display of Christ in his essential and mediatorial glory wherein the impetration of our redemption by Jesus Christ is orderly unfolded as it was begun, carried on, and finished by his covenant-transaction, mysterious incarnation, solemn call and dedication ... / by John Flavell ...The fountain of life opened, or, A display of Christ in his essential and mediatorial glory wherein the impetration of our redemption by Jesus Christ is orderly unfolded as it was begun, carryed on, and finished by his covenant-transaction, mysterious incarnation, solemn call and dedication ... / by John Flavell ...
London: printed for Rob. White, 1673
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Fifthly, Lastly, As the complement and perfection of all desirable mercies, he prays that they may be with him, where he is to behold his glory, vers. 24. This is their best and ultimate privilege they are capable of. The end of his coming down from Heaven, and returning thither again. All runs into this to bring many Sons and daughters unto glory. You see Christ asks no trifles, no small things for his people. No mercies, but the best that both worlds afford will suffice him on their behalf.
Fifthly, Lastly, As the complement and perfection of all desireable mercies, he prays that they may be with him, where he is to behold his glory, vers. 24. This is their best and ultimate priviledge they are capable of. The end of his coming down from Heaven, and returning thither again. All runs into this to bring many Sons and daughters unto glory. You see Christ asks no trifles, no small things for his people. No mercies, but the best that both worlds afford will suffice him on their behalf.
Secondly, Let us see how he follows his requests, and with what §2arguments he pleads with the Father for these things. And among others I shall single out six choice ones, which are urged in this Text, or the immediate context.
First Argument is drawn from the joint interest that both himself, and Father, have in the persons for whom he prays. All mine are thine, and thine are mine. vers. 10. As if he should say, Father, behold and consider the persons I pray for, they are not aliens, but children; yea, they are thy children, as well as mine. The very same on whom thou hast set thy eternal love, and in that love hast given them unto me. So that they are both thine, and mine. Great is our interest in them, and interest draws care, and tenderness. Every one cares for his own, provides for, and secures his own. Propriety (even amongst creatures) is fundamental to our labour, care and watchfulness. They would not so much prize life, health, estates, or children, if they were not their own. Lord these are thine own, by many ties, and titles: O therefore keep, comfort, sanctify and save them, for they are thine. What a mighty plea is this? Surely Christians, your Intercessor is skilful in his work, your Advocate wants no eloquence, or ability to plead for you.