A51848:184
Several discourses tending to promote peace & holiness among Christians to which are added,…
Several discourses tending to promote peace & holiness among Christians to which are added, three other distinct sermons / by Dr. Manton.
London: printed for Jonathan Robinson, 1685
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.
2. For the Degree: The Heart doth delight in Christ above all other Things: As to the sensitive Expression, in the lively stirring of Joy, we may to appearance be more affected with outward Benefits; because fleshly Objects do more work upon our fleshly senses, as carrying a greater suitableness to them. Religion is a grave severe thing, not seen so much in actual Transports, as in the habitual complacency, and well-pleasedness of the Mind: yet in solemn Duties, th•re may be as ⟨p. 108⟩great Ravishment of Soul; Psalm. 6. 35. My Soul shall be ravished as with Marrow and Fatness; and my Mouth shall praise thee with joyful Lips. When they feel the Love of God shed abroad in their Hearts, they are in effect transported with it, more than with all the Delicates and Banquets of the World, and cannot hold from praising God: But generally it must be measured by our solid complacency, and judicious esteem: What we prize most, and would least want, and would not forgo for all other things; so the Saints rejoice in God and Christ, more than in any worldly Matter whatsoever. Psalm. 73. 25. Whom have I in Heaven but thee? and there is none upon Earth that I desire besides thee. Psal. 119. 14. I have rejoiced in the way of thy Testimonies, as much as in all Riches. Psal. 4. 6, 7. There be many that say, Who will show us any good? Lord lift thou up the light of thy Countenance upon us; That hast put Gladness in my Heart, more than in the time that their Corn and their Wine increased. Psalm. 63. 3. Because thy loving Kindness is better than Life, my Lips shall praise thee. This is that which they love most, and keep best, and are most loth to want. This is that which ⟨p. 109⟩giveth a value to Life it self; and without which, that which is most precious and desirable, is little or nothing worth; and giveth them more comfort, then what is most comfortable in this World; and is the most cheerful Employment for their Thoughts to think upon. This is delight in Christ.