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

2. With respect unto Violence and Persecutions. These also, that Faith which tends to the enjoyment of the Promises, will expose men unto. And they prove great trials, sometimes from their violence and sometimes from their continuance. Some come with the fury of a Storm, as if they would bear down all before them; Such were the Primitive Persecutions, and that at this day in many places under the Papal Power. Others by their long duration in wasting, vexing, consuming Troubles, are designed gradually to wear out the Saints of the most high, Dan. 7. 25. And what havoc hath been made in all Ages by them of the one sort and of the other, is known unto all. The number of Apostates in such seasons hath for the most part exceeded that of Martyrs. And many have insensibly withered and grown utterly weary, under Troubles of a long duration, when they could apprehend no end of them. Here we have need of patient long-suffering, if we intend to inherit the Promises. This is that Grace which calmeth and supporteth the Soul under all these pressures. (1) By keeping and preserving it from darkening, disturbing Affections, and passions of Anger, worldly sorrow, carnal fear, and the inordinate Love of present things. Hereby in patience we possess our Souls, Luke 21. 19. which if disorderly Affections do as it were once carry out of our power, and possess the conduct of them, we shall quickly be at a loss in our Profession. (2) By enabling us to take a sedate prospect of Eternal things, of the good things promised, and their glorious excellency in comparison unto what here we suffer in, 2 Cor. 4. 16, 17, 18. (3) By preserving of us from all irregular ways and attempts for deliverance. For without this Grace we shall choose either not to suffer, and so disinherit our selves of the Promises; or shall not suffer in a due manner unto the Glory of God or our own advantage; or shall turn aside unto unlawful Reliefs.

2. With respect unto Violence and Persecutions. These also, that Faith which tends to the enjoyment of the Promises, will expose men unto. And they prove great trials, sometimes from their violence and sometimes from their continuance. Some come with the fury of a Storm, as if they would bear down all before them; Such were the Primitive Persecutions, and that at this day in many places under the Papal Power. Others by their long duration in wasting, vexing, consuming Troubles, are designed gradually to wear out the Saints of the most high,