The Doctrine of Repentance

Let me speak my mind freely, none will find it more difficult to repent than Hypocrites; they have so juggled in Religion, ⟨p. 91⟩that their treacherous hearts know not how to repent. Hypocrisy is harder to cure than Frenzy^*. The Hypocrites Imposthume in his heart seldom breaks. If it be not too late, seek yet to God for mercy.

Let me speak my mind freely, none will find it more difficult to repent than Hypocrites; they have so jugled in Religion, ⟨p. 91⟩that their treacherous hearts know not how to repent. Hypocrisie is harder to cure than Phrensie^*. The Hypocrites Imposthume in his heart seldom breaks. If it be not too late, seek yet to God for mercy.

1. *Difficilius curatur quàm insania.

Such as are guilty of prevailing Hypocrisy, let them fear and tremble, their condition is sinful and sad. 1. Sinful, because they do not embrace Religion out of choice, but design; they do not love it, only paint it. 2. Sad, and that upon a double account. 1. Because this art of deceit cannot hold long^*. He who hangs out a sign, but hath not the commodity of grace in his heart, must needs break at last. 2. Because Gods anger will fall heavier upon Hypocrites, they dishonour God more, and take away the Gospels good name; therefore the Lord reserves the most deadly Arrows in his quiver to shoot at them. If Heathens be damned, Hypocrites shall be double-damned. Hell is called the place of Hypocrites,