The Christian-man's calling: or, A treatise of making religion ones business. Wherein the nature…

CHAP. IX The complaint continued that this Calling is so much neglected, when superstition and sin are embraced, and diligently followed.

CHAP. IX The •omplaint continued that this Calling is so much neglected, when superstition and sin are embraced, and diligently followed.

Secondly, How do men make Superstition and Idolatry their business. Though they are careless ⟨p. 83⟩about Divine institutions, yet they are zealous for humane traditions. How zealous were the Pharisees for the inventions of their Elders. They called them Mashlamathath, Completions or Perfections; esteeming them both helpful to the observation of the Law of God, and also to the perfection of it. Superstitious persons do naturally think that their postures, gestures, ceremonies, and additions do render the Worship of God more comely and more complete; but truly such embrace a cloud instead of Juno, worship the shadow of Christ, whilst the Prince himself goeth unsaluted. Men are exceeding prone to, and earnest for such vain and false ways and worship; partly because its pleasing to corrupt spirits, who naturally love a fair show in the flesh. A pompous holiness, suits best with a proud heart; partly because these traditions were received from their Ancestors; and as Austin observed in his time; Men were resolved right or wrong to be followers of their Fathers. (Suitable to which Cicero said, I will never forsake that way of Divine service which I have received from my Fore-fathers, for any mans pleasure, or by any mans persuasion) No not though Christ himself dyed to redeem them from their vain conversations, received by tradition from their Fathers, 1 Pet. 1.18, 19. hence, though they are so backward where God Commands, yet they are forward when men command. What an outcry doth Micah make for his Idol? What a privy search doth Laban make for his Image? Gideon, must dye for throwing down the Alter of Baal. ⟨p. 83⟩