A Practical Commentary on the Epistle of Jude

But now here is an Objection, are Christians always in¹ this frame? What shall we say then to those weak ones that tremble at the thought of it, for want of the assurance of Gods Love, and the best Saints that do not always feel such an actual inclination and strength of desire?

But now here is an Objection, are Christians alwayes in¹ this frame? What shall we say then to those weak ones that tremble at the thought of it, for want of the assurance of Gods Love, and the best Saints that do not alwayes feel such an actual inclination and strength of desire?

1. 1Object.

I answer, the meanest Saint hath some inclination this¹ way, can a man desire that Christ should come into his heart and not come to Judgment? Since comfort and reward is more naturally embraced than duty, the first work of grace is to raise us up to this hope, 1 Pet. 1. 3. but yet sometimes there may be a drowsiness and indisposition, and then, their lamps may not be kept burning, Luc. 12. 35, 36. The wise Virgins stepped as well as the foolish, Matth. 25. oftentimes they find themselves indisposed for his coming by careless carriage, remission of their watch, and scattering their Love to the Creature; yea, much of their old b•ndage may remain through the imperfection of their Love; for his perfect love casteth out fear: A wife desireth her husbands coming home, but it may be all things are not ready, and in so good order as they should be, all Christians desire the coming of Christ, but sometimes they are not so exact and watchful, and therefore their affections are not so lively.