The real Christian, or, A treatise of effectual calling wherein the work of God…

It is but a profane spirit, which thinks the holiness, the conversation which God requires in his Word, is only fit for Ministers, that have nothing else to do but sit in their Studies, mind their Books, and contemplate. Yet again, if all sincere hearted Christians, most of which for their natural parts and grace are but ordinary, ⟨p. 325⟩and in comparison of some but weak, involved also in family cares, perplexed with other cares, which unavoidably attend some mens employments, tired with the troubles and labours of their particular Callings, tormented with the thoughts of debts, and how to keep clear with all men, which things those who sit only at their studies, and can choose their company where they please, when they have a mind to go abroad, cannot understand, nor any others but those who are actually in such conditions; If all these Christians (I say) can put in practise all those Rules, which some men of eminent parts and grace have charged upon Christians, as helps to attain that which God hath commanded and enjoined, then, I say, there are better Christians in England than I was aware of, or do ordinarily meet with; yet I meet with many, whom I cannot but judge that they are sincere hearted Christians, and will to Heaven. To argue thus, I can observe all these Rules, therefore other Christians may observe them all, will not follow in practical Divinity. I had much rather be tied to Gods Book, than to some good mens Books, whether ancient or modern, especially in some particular cases of practise; in which I doubt not to say, that some while they go about to take men off from sin, they do but lay a snare for the Devil to make use of, to bring men into sin. When Esau bad Jacob put on, that Jacob, his Wives, Children and Flocks must go Esau's pace, Gen. 33.12, 13, 14. Jacob answers him, My Lord knoweth the Children are tender, and the Flocks and Herds with young are with me, and if men should over-drive them one day all the Flock would dye, &c. Certainly in driving the Lords Flock there is wisdom to be used; there are Children, and those who are with young in his Flock, and to over-drive these, if it doth not produce their death, yet it will cause great discouragement. He that leadeth Joseph like a Flock, Psal. 80.1. leadeth his people, as Jacob led his Flock: Isai. 40.11