A discourse concerning meekness and quietness of spirit to which is added, A sermon…

If we ••uire (as we are commanded to do) what it […] that gives occasion of Reflection upon Religion, we shall find that the Imprudences of those that profess it, give some occasion, but their Immoralities much more.

If we ••uire (as we are commanded to do) what it 〈…〉 that gives occasion of Reflection upon Religion, we shall find that the Imprudences of those that profess it, give some occasion, but their Immoralities much more.

1. The Imprudences of Christians often turn to the Reproach of Christianity. There may be such over-doing even in Well-doing, as may prove undoing. When more stress is laid than ought to be upon some instances of Religion, to the jostling out of others, and the Exercises of Devotion are either mis-timed, or mis-placed, or […]oportion'd, Religion is hereby mis-represented, or looked upon to disadvantage. Rash and indiscreet Zeal may give occasion to those who seek occasion to speak against all religious Zeal.¹ Therefore walk in Wisdom towards them that are without. Religion is a most sweet and pleasant and amiable thing: Let not us by our Indiscretion make it a Task to our selves, and a Terror to others. The more the Children of God are Children of Wisdom, the more they justify it,² and its ways. Christian Prudence is very much the beauty and strength of Christian Piety. Though it will secure the welfare of our own Souls if we walk in our Integrity, yet it is necessary for the preserving of the Credit of our Profession,³ that we walk in Wisdom, that Wisdom of the Prudent which is to understand his way, ⁴that Wisdom which is profitable to direct. And if any Man lack this Wisdom, let him