A treatise of Mr. Cottons clearing certain doubts concerning predestination together with an examination…A treatise of Mr. Cottons clearing certaine doubts concerning predestination together with an examination…

Secondly the glory of Christ is very ambiguous, both in respect of his person, as whether it be spoken of him in respect of his Godhead, or of his manhood; and it is nothing sit these should be confounded: as also in respect of the word glory it self; for it is to be doubted (as before I said) whether it be spoken in conformity to the glory of the Father, or in conformity to our glory. And out of such a mass of confusion what satisfaction can be expected in any distinct and particular truth? 3. I see no reason why the glory of Christ only should be considered as the means of advancing the glory of God the Father. I conceive the glory of God is as much seen in the abasing of his Son, as in his exaltation; and if this very abasing of himself be called his glory, as indeed it may; for even on the cross he spoiled principalities and powers, and made a show of them openly, and triumphed over them, Col. 2. then this discourse shall labour with a new equivocation. In like sort, Is nothing but our glory a fit means to advance the glory of Christ, and of God? Is not God glorified as well in the martyrdom of his Saints? This is my confidence (saith Paul) that God shall be glorified in my body, whether by life or by death, Philip. 1. yea and Christ also; Even when we bear about us the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus might also be made manifest in our bodies. 2 Cor. 4. 10 If our glory also be extended unto martyrdom, this is a very sore equivocation, especially considering how the scripture doth distinguish them: first to suffer, then to enter into glory, Luk. 24. 26. and if we suffer with him, we shall also reign with him, 2 Tim. 2. 12. 4. But as it lieth, let us discuss it as well as we can. Therefore I say, first, Gods glory is not only last in execution, but first also; even from the very first creation, even then when the stars of the morning praised him, and all the Sons of God rejoiced, Job 38. 7. And I will deal plainly, and show what glory of his was manifested herein, to wit, the glory of his power,