A39682:357
A Saint Indeed
A saint indeed: or The great work of a Christian, opened and pressed; from Prov. 4. 23 Being a seasonable and proper expedient for the recovery of the much decayed power of godliness, among the professors of these times. By John Flavell M. of the Gospel.
London: printed by W.R., 1668
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.
1. Quest. What reproach and dishonour shall I pour upon Christ and religion by deserting him at such a time as this? This will proclaim to all the world that how much soever I have boasted of the promises, yet when it comes to the trial, I dare hazard nothing upon the credit of them: and how will this open the mouths of Christs enemies to blaspheme? O better I had never been born then that worthy name should be blasphemed through me! shall I furnish the triumphs of the uncircumcised? shall I make mirth in Hell? O if I did but value the name of Christ as much as many a wicked man values his own name! I would never endure to see it exposed to such contempt will proud dust and ashes venture death, yea Hell, rather then a blot upon their name? and shall I venture nothing to salve the honour and reputation of Christ?
1. Quest. What reproach and dishonour shall I pour upon Christ and religion by deserting him at such a time as this? This will proclaim to all the world that how much soever I have boasted of the promises, yet when it comes to the tryal, I dare hazard nothing upon the credit of them: and how will this open the mouths of Christs enemies to blaspheme? O better I had never been born then that worthy name should be blasphemed through me! shall I furnish the triumphs of the uncircumcised? shall I make mirth in Hell? O if I did but value the name of Christ as much as many a wicked man values his own name! I would never endure to see it exposed to such contempt will proud dust and ashes venture death, yea Hell, rather then a blot upon their name? and shall I venture nothing to salve the honour and reputation of Christ?
2. Quest. Dare I violate my conscience to save my flesh? who shall comfort me when conscience wounds me? What comfort is there in life, liberty, or friends, when peace is taken away from the inner man? when Constantius threatened to cut off Samosatenus his right hand if he would not subscribe somewhat that was against ⟨p. 166⟩his conscience, he held up both his hands to the messenger that was sent, saying, he shall cut off both rather then I will do it: farewell all peace, joy and comfort, from that day forward; ad Zimri peace that slew his master? said Jezebel, so say I here, had Judas peace? had Spira peace? and shall you have peace if you tread in their steps? O consider what you do!