B02626:776
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. It appeareth indeed, that errors be infinite, and objections innumerable, and that there is no end of mens cavilling against Gods sacred truth. It is good for us therefore to be thoroughly settled in the truth, that we be not entangled or snared with any cavils or sophistications whatsoever. And I do verily think (notwithstanding ⟨p. 316⟩all his objections, and exceptions) that he doth in his conscience desire, with Balaam, to dye the death of the righteous, and to be as one of them whom he seemeth to despise.
Phil. It appeareth indeed, that errours be infinite, and objections innumerable, and that there is no end of mens cavilling against Gods sacred truth. It is good for us therefore to be thorowly settled in the truth, that we be not entangled or snared with any cavils or sophistications whatsoever. And I doe verily thinke (notwithstanding ⟨p. 316⟩all his objections, and exceptions) that he doth in his conscience desire, with Balaam, to dye the death of the righteous, and to be as one of them whom he seemeth to despise.
Theol. I am so persuaded too. For this is the triumph that virtue hath over vice, that where she is most hated, there she is often desired and wished for. And this is the great punishment that God bringeth upon the wicked; Virtutem ut videant, intabescantque relicta, as saith the Poet; That they shall see virtue, and pine away, having no power to follow it.
Theol. I am so perswaded too. For this is the triumph that vertue hath over vice, that where she is most hated, there she is often desired and wished for. And this is the great punishment that God bringeth upon the wicked; Virtutem ut videant, intabescantque relicta, as saith the Poet; That they shall see vertue, and pine away, having no power to follow it.