The Doctrine of Justification by Faith

Wherefore Unbelief in its formal nature consists in the want of a spiritual discerning, and Approbation of the way of salvation by Jesus Christ, as an Effect of the infinite Wisdom, Goodness and Love of God. For where these are, the Soul of a convinced sinner cannot but embrace it, and adhere unto it. Hence also all Acquiescence in this Way, and Trust and Confidence in committing the Soul unto it, or unto God in it, and by it, without which whatever is pretended of Believing is but a shadow of Faith, is impossible unto such persons. For they want the foundation whereon alone they can be built. And the consideration hereof doth sufficiently manifest wherein the nature of true Evangelical Faith doth consist.

Wherefore Ʋnbelief in its formal nature consists in the want of a spiritual discerning, and Approbation of the way of salvation by Jesus Christ, as an Effect of the infinite Wisdom, Goodness and Love of God. For where these are, the Soul of a convinced sinner cannot but embrace it, and adhere unto it. Hence also all Acquiescency in this Way, and Trust and Confidence in committing the Soul unto it, or unto God in it, and by it, without which whatever is pretended of Believing is but a shadow of Faith, is impossible unto such persons. For they want the foundation whereon alone they can be built. And the consideration hereof doth sufficiently manifest wherein the nature of true Evangelical Faith doth consist.

2. The Design of God in and by the Gospel with the Work and Office of Faith with respect thereunto, farther confirms the Description given of it. That which God designeth herein in the first place, is not the Justification and Salvation of sinners. His utmost complete End in all his Counsels, is his own Glory; he doth all things for himself, nor can he who is infinite do otherwise. But in an especial manner he expresseth this concerning this way of Salvation by Jesus Christ.

2. The Design of God in and by the Gospel with the Work and Office of Faith with respect thereunto, farther confirms the Description given of it. That which God designeth herein in the first place, is not the Justification and Salvation of sinners. His utmost compleat End in all his Counsels, is his own Glory; he doth all things for himself, nor can he who is infinite do otherwise. But in an especial manner he expresseth this concerning this way of Salvation by Jesus Christ.