The parable of the prodigal. Containing, The riotous prodigal, or The sinners aversion from…

2. This consequent confession, which follows the expressions or ¹testimonies of pardoning mercy hath these qualities. 1. It is an acknowledging of sin, with more compunction of spirit: Sight of pardon doth not only open our lips, but our eyes, and fetcheth forth not only words but tears; the heart doth break out, when mercy breaks forth: The heart never confesseth sin with more filial grief, then when it apprehends sin, much sin discharged with a paternal love: the wind breaks the clouds, but the Sun melts them most into showers, so &c. 2. It is an acknowledging of ⟨p. 196⟩sin, with more indignation: The greater mercy makes a penitent ²to be the sharper Judg; the more God is now pleased with him, the more is he displeased with himself, for sinning against him. When God remembered his Covenant, Ezek. 16. 60. then did the penitential Israelites remember their ways with shame. v. 61. And when he made it known to them, that he was pacified towards them, then were they confounded, and never opened their mouths more, v. 63. 3. It is an acknowledging of sin with more ³aggravation: Servile confessions are usually more deceitful and partial; as Adam did acknowledge his sin, but puts it on Eve; no confessions are so free and full, as such which arise from the apprehension of mercies. David got his pardon for a great transgression; but then ho• exact is he in the distinct accusation of himself, and humble acknowledgement of his sin, in all the articles and circumstances of it? Psal. 51. 4. It is an acknowledgement of sin, with more detestation. Evidence of pardon produceth two ⁴effects: One is, more ardent affection of love to God; Another is (which necessarily follows) a deeper hatred of sin, which opposed so gracious a goodness. All that good which God mentions in the Covenant,