The Doctrine of Justification by Faith

Wherefore both the persons are represented, As seeking to be justified, for so our Saviour expresseth the issue of their address unto God for that purpose; the one was justified, the other was not.

The Plea of the Pharisee unto this end consists of two parts. (1.) That he had fulfilled the condition whereon he might be justified. He makes no mention of any merit, either of congruity, or condignity. Only whereas there were two parts of Gods Covenant then with the Church, the one with respect unto the Moral, the other with respect unto the Ceremonial Law, he pleads the observation of the condition of it in both parts, which he showeth in instances of both kinds, only he adds, the way that he took to further him in this obedience, somewhat beyond what was enjoined, namely, That he fasted twice in the week. For when Men begin to seek ⟨p. 436⟩for Righteousness, and Justification by Works, they quickly think their best reserve lies in doing something extraordinary more then other Men, and more indeed then is required of them. This brought forth all the Pharisaical Austerities in the Papacy. Nor can it be said, That all this signified nothing, because he was an Hypocrite and a Boaster; for it will be replied, That it should seem all are so who seek for Justification by Works: For our Saviour only represents one that doth so; neither are these things laid in Bar against his Justification, but only that he exalted himself in trusting unto his own Righteousness. (2.) In an ascription of all that he did unto God. God, I thank thee: Although he did all this, yet he owned the aid and assistance of God by his Grace in it all. He esteemed himself much to differ from other Men, but ascribed it not unto himself, that so he did. All the Righteousness and Holiness which he laid claim unto, he ascribed unto the benignity and goodness of God. Wherefore he neither pleaded any merit in his Works, nor any Works performed in his own strength, without the aid of Grace. All that he pretends is, That by the Grace of God he had fulfilled the Condition of the Covenant, and thereon expected to be justified. And what ever words Men shall be pleased to make use of in their Vocal Prayers, God interprets their minds, according to what they trust in, as unto their Justification before him. And if some Men will be true unto their own Principles, this is the Prayer which, Mutatis mutandis, they ought to make.