A discourse concerning old-age tending to the instruction, caution and comfort of aged persons…

And here let all Aged persons beware of the Rock of Carnal Security and Presumption. Some of those that have lived long, are prone to rely upon their very Age as an Argument of Gods favour: Whereas Old-age will save no man. It may be a means of Salvation in a large sense, in affording you Space of Repentance: And it will be an aggravation of your impenitence, in case you have such space, and yet not grace to repent: But otherwise it can make no ⟨p. 320⟩argument for your salvation; for God hath said, that the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed, Isa. 65. 20.

And here let all Aged persons beware of the Rock of Carnal Security and Presumption. Some of those that have lived long, are prone to rely upon their very Age as an Argument of Gods favour: Whereas Old-age will save no man. It may be a means of Salvation in a large sence, in affording you Space of Repentance: And it will be an aggravation of your impenitence, in case you have such space, and yet not grace to repent: But otherwise it can make no ⟨p. 320⟩argument for your salvation; for God hath said, that the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed, Isa. 65. 20.

And Others that have been serious and serviceable in their days, may perhaps presume upon what they have been or have done, as if they might be justified thereby; or else that they need to take no further pains about their own Salvation or others good; whereas in the morning we must sow our seed, and not withhold our hand in the evening; for we know not whether shall prosper, either this or that; or whether they both shall be alike good: Which S. Hierom applies to this matter; Say not, saith he, I have been diligent while I was able; I may rest my self in mine Old-age; for thou knowest not, whether shall more please and honour God in thy Youth, or in thine Age