The truly blessed man

1. They judge of evil and good by their senses. They know no other happiness but what consists in gratifying of their carnal appetite, which is become sensual. What pleaseth their carnal eye, ear, and ⟨p. 474⟩palate, that they call good, and what is displeasing to them, they call evil: and herein they do no• advance one step beyond the horse and mule, for beasts do just so; and if they acted according to Rules of understanding they would ascend higher. They submit to the vilest servitude of sin, because by it they give content to their senses; thus it is said of Issachar; Gen. 49 14, 15.

2. Hence they have only regard to the body or outward man, in their judgment of things. If that be provided for, and have ease and content, they think all is well: they consider not that they have an immortal Soul, on the welfare whereof their happiness doth depend. If then they can have wealth, health, peace, plenty, they are as happy as can be: and the readiest way to obtain that, is the greatest wisdom in their esteem, and what obstructs it they note it folly for them to engage in it. This was his opinion, Luk. 12.19. And he is called a Fool for it, Verse 20. And this is to act just like a brute, who hath only a bodily life to preserve.

2. Hence they have only regard to the body or outward man, in their judgment of things. If that be provided for, and have ease and content, they think all is well: they consider not that they have an immortal Soul, on the welfare whereof their happiness doth depend. If then they can have wealth, health, peace, plenty, they are as happy as can be: and the readiest way to obtain that, is the greatest wisdom in their esteem, and what obstructs it they note it folly for them to engage in it. This was his opinion,