A89737:355
The orthodox evangelist. Or A treatise wherein many great evangelical truths (not a few…
The orthodox evangelist. Or A treatise wherein many great evangelical truths (not a few whereof are much opposed and eclipsed in this perilous hour of the passion of the Gospel) are briefly discussed, cleared, and confirmed: as a further help, for the begetting, and establishing of the faith which is in Jesus. As also the state of the blessed, where; of the condition of their souls from the instant of their dissolution: and of their persons after their resurrection. By John Norton, teacher of the church at Ipswich in New England.The orthodox evangelist. Or A treatise wherein many great evangelical truths (not a few whereof are much opposed and eclipsed in this perillous hour of the passion of the Gospel) are briefly discussed, cleared, and confirmed: as a further help, for the begeting, and establishing of the faith which is in Jesus. As also the state of the blessed, where; of the condition of their souls from the instant of their dissolution: and of their persons after their resurrection. By John Norton, teacher of the church at Ipswich in New England.
London: printed by John Macock for Henry Cripps, 1654
Title page typeset from the transcription.
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Again,1 Observe the aptness of these requests to the times wherein he prayed, when Religion was scandalized by loose Christians, and carnal doctrines were obtruded upon the Church; In times of defection from God, and wrong to the Truth, there is great need of mercy, peace and love. Of mercy, that we may be kept from the snares of Satan: Christians, whence is it that any of us stand? that we are found faithful? 'Tis because we have obtained mercy: They would deceive, if it were possible, the very Elect, Mar. 24.24. Why is it not possible to deceive the Elect as well as others? of what mould are they made? wherein do they differ from other men? I answer, Elective grace and mercy interposeth; 'tis not for any power in themselves, but because Mercy hath singled them out, and chosen them for a distinct people unto God. And we need peace and inward consolations, that we may the better digest the misery of the times; and love, that we may be of one mind, and stand together in the defence of the Truth.
Again,1 Observe the aptness of these requests to the times wherein he prayed, when Religion was scandalized by loose Christians, and carnal doctrines were obtruded upon the Church; In times of defection from God, and wrong to the Truth, there is great need of mercy, peace and love. Of mercy, that we may be kept from the snares of Satan: Christians, whence is it that any of us stand? that we are found faithful? 'Tis because we have obtained mercy: They would dec•ive, if it were possible, the very Elect, Mar. 24.24. Why is it not possible to deceive the Elect as well as others? of what mould are they made? wherein do they differ from other men? I answer, Elective grace and mercy interposeth; 'tis not for any power in themselves, but because Mercy hath singled them out, and chosen them for a distinct people unto God. And we need peace and inward consolations, that we may the better digest the misery of the times; and love, that we may be of one mind, and stand together in the defence of the Truth.
- 1Observat. 3.