The Doctrine of Justification by Faith

General Considerations previously necessary unto the Explanation of the Doctrine of Justification.

That we may treat of the Doctrine of Justification usefully unto its proper Ends, which are the Glory of God in Christ, with the peace and furtherance of the Obedience of Believers, some things are previously to be considered, which we must have respect unto in the whole process of our Discourse. And among others that might be insisted on to the same purpose, these that ensue are not to be omitted.

THat we may treat of the Doctrine of Justification usefully unto its proper Ends, which are the Glory of God in Christ, with the peace and furtherance of the Obedience of Believers, some things are previously to be considered, which we must have respect unto in the whole process of our Discourse. And among others that might be insisted on to the same purpose, these that ensue are not to be omitted.

1. The first Enquiry in this matter in a way of Duty, is after the proper Relief of the Conscience of a sinner, pressed and perplexed with a sense of the Guilt of sin. For Justification is the way and means whereby such a person doth obtain acceptance before God, with a Right and Title unto an heavenly Inheritance. And nothing is pleadable in this cause, but what a man would speak unto his own Conscience in that state, or unto the Conscience of another, when he is anxious under that Enquiry. Wherefore, The Person under consideration, that is, who is to be Justified, is one who in himself is [Greek or Hebrew] Rom. 4.5. Ungodly; and thereon [Greek or Hebrew]; Chap. 3.19. guilty before God; that is, obnoxious, subject, liable [Greek or Hebrew], Chap. 1.32; to the righteous sentential Judgment of God; that he who committeth sin, who is in any way guilty of it, is worthy of Death. Hereupon such