Seven sermons on several select subjects preached

SERMON III.

John 16 33. These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace: In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

THESE words were spoken by our blessed Saviour not long before his suffering. The Chapters foregoing are full of spiritual sweetness: This blessed Sun of Righteousness did it seems shine more glorious and bright a little before his setting. Our Saviour Christ, he was now about to leave the world, and go ⟨p. 48⟩to his Father; and therefore having endeavoured to comfort the hearts of his Apostles and Disciples, he knew they would be sorrowful; therefore the more he endeavours to comfort them; and this is the great Cordial he gives them before his death: These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. Christ foretold that Sufferings would befall his Apostles and Disciples: In the world, saith he, ye shall have tribulation: the Greek word for tribulation, it is a metaphor that alludes to Grapes that are squeezed in the Wine press till the blood of the Grapes comes out: So saith Christ, In the world ye shall have tribulation: You shall be put into the Wine-press, and perhaps the blood of the Grape may be pressed out. Tribulation it is the Saints Diet-drink; it is bitter, but it is wholesome▪ All that God doth in afflicting his Children, it is but to make them better, and to try them, and make them white, Dan. 10. v. 12. Is it not far better to swim through ⟨p. 49⟩