A39669:2391
The Method of Grace
The method of grace, in bringing home the eternal redemption contrived by the Father, and accomplished by the Son through the effectual application of the spirit unto God's elect, being the second part of Gospel redemption : wherein the great mystery of our union and communion with Christ is opened and applied, unbelievers invited, false pretenders convicted, every mans claim to Christ examined, and the misery of Christless persons discovered and bewailed / by John Flavell ...The method of grace, in bringing home the eternal redemption contrived by the Father, and accomplished by the Son through the effectual application of the spirit unto God's elect, being the second part of Gospel redemption : wherein the great mysterie of our union and communion with Christ is opened and applied, unbelievers invited, false pretenders convicted, every mans claim to Christ examined, and the misery of Christless persons discovered and bewailed / by John Flavell ...
London: printed by M. White for Francis Tyton, 1681
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.
Thirdly, Diligence in the work of God is an excellent help to the improvement of grace. For though gracious habits are not acquired, yet they are greatly improved by frequent acts. To him that hath shall be given, Mat. 25. 29. It is a good note of Luther, Fides pinguescit oper•us, Faith is made fat by obedience.
Fourthly, Diligence in the work of God is the direct way to the assurance of the love of God, 2 Pet. 15. 10. This path leads you into heaven upon earth.
Fifthly, Diligence in obedience is a great security against backsliding: Small remissions in duty, and little neglects increase by degrees unto great Apostasies, you may see how that disease is bred, by the method prescribed for its cure, Rev. 2. 5. Do thy first works.