The application of redemption

[…] is only one Plea here Objected, that carries¹ any appearance of likelihood with it, gathered out of Eccles. 12. 10. where it is said, The Preacher sought to find out acceptable words, and that that was written, was upright, even words of truth: Was it Solomons Care directed by the Spirit, to study pleasing words to affect his Hearers? Should not his practice be a pattern to all to imitate him in like expressions? Dare any affirm but that he did what he ought? And shall any be so careless or presumptuous as not to endeavour to follow that course recorded with so much Commendation by the Holy Ghost?

〈…〉 is only one Plea here Objected, that carries¹ any appearance of likelihood with it, gathered out of Eccles. 12. 10. where it is said, The Preacher sought to find out acceptable words, and that that was written, was upright, even words of truth: Was it Solomons Care directed by the Spirit, to study pleasing words to affect his Hearers? Should not his practice be a pattern to all to imitate him in like expressions? Dare any affirm but that he did what he ought? And shall any be so careless or presumptuous as not to endeavor to follow that course recorded with so much Commendation by the Holy Ghost?

1. 1Object.

I yield willingly to all the Truths which the Text¹ holds out unto us; but it shall appear that nothing can from thence by just consequence be Collected, that will cross, but rather confirm, and that undoubtedly what hath been affirmed before. That the Writings of men should be sound, their Speeches acceptable, is granted; but when are they? how shall they be judged to be such? That's the Doubt: which once Cleared, the Objection will be Answered fully: Words then must be judged acceptable, not by the foolish fancies, corrupt and carnal humours of men, but from the warrant they have from the scripture, and the work they have in the hearts of the Hearers for their good, as the 11. vers. of