Meditations and Discourses on the Glory of Christ

2. THERE is in all men, a corrupt, natural darkness; or such a depravation of their minds by nature, as that they cannot discern this Glory of Christ in a due manner. Hence the Light shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not, John. 1. 5. For the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned, 1 Cor. 2. 14. Hence it is that although Christ be preached among us continually, yet there are very few who discern any Glory or Beauty in him, for which he should be desired, as the Prophet complains, Isa. 53. 1, 2. But I speak not of this natural darkness in general. But even these persons have their minds filled with prejudices against the Gospel and darkened as unto the Glory of Christ according as corrupt lusts and affections are prevalent in them, see Joh. 1. 44. chap. 12. 43. Hence is the difference that is among the common hearers of the word. For although no man can do any thing of himself for the receiving of Christ, and the beholding of his Glory, without the especial aid of the Grace of God, Mat. 11. 24. John. 6. 44, 45; Yet some may make more opposition unto believing, and lay more hindrances in their own way, than others; which is done by their lusts and corruptions.

2. THERE is in all men, a corrupt, natural darkness; or such a depravation of their minds by nature, as that they cannot discern this Glory of Christ in a due manner. Hence the Light shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not, John. 1. 5. For the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned, 1 Cor. 2. 14