A53671:58
A brief instruction in the worship of God, and discipline of the churches of…
A brief instruction in the worship of God, and discipline of the churches of the New Testament, by way of question and answer with an explication and confirmation of those answers.
London : s.n., 1667
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.
Lastly, Whereas great opposition lies oftentimes against the Churches obedience unto God in this matter, and much persecution befalls it on that account, great weariness also being apt from the remainders of unbelief, carnal wisdom, indwelling sin, weakness of the flesh, in Believers themselves to arise in the course thereof, and many temptations also beset them on every hand, to turn them aside from the way of truth and holiness, constancy and perseverance in the due and orderly celebration of all the Ordinances of the Gospel belongs unto this duty. And this perseverance respecteth both the things themselves, and the manner of their performance, both which are of the highest concernment for us diligently to attend unto.
Lastly, Whereas great opposition lyes oftentimes against the Churches obedience unto God in this matter, and much persecution befalls it on that account, great weariness also being apt from the remainders of unbelief, carnall wisdom, indwelling sin, weakness of the flesh, in Believers themselves to arise in the course thereof, and many temptations also beset them on every hand, to turn them aside from the way of truth and holiness, constancy and perseverance in the due and orderly celebration of all the Ordinances of the Gospel belongs unto this duty. And this perseverance respecteth both the things themselves, and the manner of their performance, both which are of the highest concernment for us diligently to attend unto.
First, As to the things themselves; herein do we principally glorify God, and give due honour unto Jesus Christ, when we abide in our professed subjection unto him, and observance of his commands, ⟨p. 33⟩against difficulties, oppositions and persecutions. This he taketh notice of, Rev. 2.13. Thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful Martyr, who was slain among you where Satan dwelleth. And this he requireth of us indispensably if we will be his Disciples, or ever hope to obtain the reward,