The Grace and Duty of Being Spiritually Minded

Especially, will this Consideration prevail on them, when they suppose that the Credit and Honour of the way which they profess, in competition with others, depends much on their Reputation as to their strictness, in Duties of Devotion. For then, will they not only be diligent in themselves, but zealous in drawing others unto the same Observances. These two Principles their own Reputation, and that of their Sect, constituted the Life and Soul of Pharisaism of old. According as the Minds of men are influenced with these Apprehensions, so will a love unto, and a delight in those Duties whereby their Reputation is attained, thrive and grow in them.

I am far from apprehending that any Men are, (at least I speak not of them who are) such vile Hypocrites, as to do all that they do in Religion to be seen and praised of Men, being influenced in all public Duties thereby, which some among the Pharisees were given up unto. But I speak of them who being under the Convictions and Motives before mentioned, do also yet give admittance unto this corrupt end of desire of Reputation, or the Praise of Men. For every such end being admitted and prevalent in the Mind, will universally influence the Affections unto a delight in those Duties, whereby that end may be attained, until the Person with whom it is so, be habituated unto them with great Satisfaction.

I am far from apprehending that any Men are, (at least I speak not of them who are) such vile Hypocrites, as to do all that they do in Religion to be seen and praised of Men, being influenced in all publick Duties thereby, which some among the Pharisees were given up unto. But I speak of them who being under the Convictions and Motives before mentioned, do also yet give admittance unto this corrupt end of desire of Reputation, or the Praise of Men. For every such end being admitted and prevalent in the Mind, will universally influence the Affections unto a delight in those Duties, whereby that end may be attained, until the Person with whom it is so, be habituated unto them with great Satisfaction.