Of the Mortification of Sin in Believers

We will suppose then the lust or distemper whose Mortification is inquired after, to be in its self a strong, deeply rooted, habitual Inclination and bent of Will and Affections unto some Actual sin, as to the Matter of it, (though not under that formal Consideration,) always stirring up Imaginations, Thoughts and Contrivances about the Object of it. Hence men are said to have their Hearts set upon Evil, Rom. 13.14. the bent of their Spirits lies towards it, to make provision for the flesh. And a sinful depraved habit (as in many other things, so in this) differs from all natural or moral habits whatever; for whereas they incline ⟨p. 53⟩the Soul gently and suitably to it self, sinful Habits impel with Violence and Impetuousness:¹ whence Lusts are said to fight or wage war against the Soul, 1 Pet. 2.11. to rebel, or rise up in War with that Conduct and Opposition which is usual therein; Rom. 7.23. to lead captive, or effectually captivating upon success in battle: All works of great violence and impetuousness.

We will suppose then the lust or distemper whose Mortification is inquired after, to be in its self a strong, deeply rooted, habitual Inclination and bent of Will and Affections unto some Actual sin, as to the Matter of it, (though not under that formal Consideration,) alwayes stirring up Imaginations, Thoughts and Contrivances about the Object of it. Hence men are said to have their Hearts set upon Evil, Rom. 13.14. the bent of their Spirits lyes towards it, to make provision for the flesh. And a sinfull depraved habit (as in many other things, so in this) differs from all natural or moral habits whatever; for whereas they incline ⟨p. 53⟩the Soul gently and suitably to it self, sinfull Habits impell with Violence and Impetuousness:¹