B02626:763
The plain mans path-way to heaven
The plain mans path-way to heaven wherein every man may clearly see whether he shall be saved or damned. / Set forth dialogue-wise for the better understanding of the simple, by Arthur Dent, preacher of the word of God at South-Shoobery in Essex.
London: printed by Ja. Young for G. Lathum, 1643
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.
Phil. Which be the causes of election?
Theol. The causes of election are to be found only in God himself. For his eternal election dependeth neither upon man, neither yet upon any thing that is in man, but is purposed in himself, and established in Christ, in whom we are elected. This is fully proved in these words,1 Who hath predestinated us to be adopted through Jesus Christ in himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glory, wherewith he hath made us freely accepted in his beloved. Where we see the Apostle telleth us, that his free grace, and the good pleasure of his will, are the first motives or moving causes of our election.
Theol. The causes of election are to be found onely in God himselfe. For his eternall election dependeth neither upon man, neither yet upon any thing that is in man, but is purposed in himselfe, and established in Christ, in whom we are elected. This is fully proved in these words,1 Who hath predestinated us to be adopted through Jesus Christ in himselfe, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glory, wherewith he hath made us freely accepted in his beloved. Where we see the Apostle telleth us, that his free grace, and the good pleasure of his will, are the first motives or moving causes of our election.
Phil. But the Papists fetch the first motive of election out of mans merits, and fore-seen works. For, say they, God did fore-see who would repent, believe, and do well: and therefore he made choice of them.