A continuation of the exposition of the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the…

We may as occasions require publicly testify that good persuasion which we have concerning ¹the Spiritual condition of others, and that unto themselves. Our Apostle here acquaints these Hebrews with his good persuasion concerning them; and likewise in all his Epistles he still declares his hopes and confidence of their blessed Interest in Christ, unto whom he wrote; and spares not to give them all the Titles which really belong only to Elect Believers. Now as this is not to be done lightly, not in a way of flattering Compliance, not but upon just and firm grounds from Scripture, least of all to give Countenance unto any to continue in an evil way or practice; yet in three cases it is warrantable and requisite, (1) When it is done for their due encouragement. Gracious persons through their Temptations, Fears, and sense of sin, yea whole Churches upon occasion of Trials, Distresses, and Back-slidings among them, may so be cast down and despond, as to be discouraged in their Duties and Progress. In this case it is not only lawful but expedient, yea necessary that we should testify unto them that good persuasion which we have concerning their state and condition with the grounds thereof, as the Apostle doth in this place. So in like case testified our Saviour himself concerning, and unto the Church of Smyrna; I know thy Poverty, what thou complainest of, and art ready to sink under, but thou art rich, Rev. 2. (2) It may and ought to be done for their Just Vindication. The Disciples and Churches of Christ may be falsely accused and charged, and yet it may be with so much probability or at least appearance of evil, as that they may greatly suffer in their Just Reputation, whereby the holy Name of the Lord Christ is also dishonoured. He who falsely accuseth all the Brethren before God continually, wants not Instruments to fix Calumnies upon them among men here below. In such a case it is our indispensable Duty to testify our good persuasion concerning them, be they Persons or Churches who are so traduced. And if we do it not, we have a Copartnership in the guilt of their Enemies false Accusations. (3) When we have any necessary Duty to discharge towards them, which this testification of our persuasion concerning them may render more effectual, or prevent it having another end, than what we aim at, or remove any prejudice out of its way.

We may as occasions require publickly testifie that good perswasion which we have concerning