Some important truths about conversion, delivered in sundry sermons, / by Increase Mather, D.D.…

2. Christ knocketh by his Works. There is a secret voice of the Lord to the Soul in every Providence, though few hear it, few understand it. As now by mercies, Rom. 2.4. The goodness of God leadeth thee to Repentance. It should be so, this is Gods end in bestowing mercies and good things upon the Sons of men; it is thereby to awaken and to stir them up to Repentance, that the Lord and they might come together. That Preservation, Provision, Protection, which the Lord in his gracious Providence is pleased to afford unto ⟨p. 94⟩sinners. Those common mercies which he bestows upon the vilest of men, Food, and Raiment, Health, Wealth, nay, every meals meat, and every nights rest and sleep, by all the Lord is knocking and calling upon men, that they would learn to know, & love, and serve him, that giveth all good unto them; as it is said, Prov. 18.10. A mans gift maketh room for him; eve• so Christ seeks for a room in the heart, by the gifts which he bestoweth, and is therefore most worthy to be received with the highest entertainment.

2. Christ knocketh by his Works. There is a secret voice of the Lord to the Soul in every Providence, though few hear it, few understand it. As now by mercies, Rom. 2.4. The goodness of God leadeth thee to Repentance. It should be so, this is Gods end in bestowing mercies and good things upon the Sons of men; it is thereby to awaken and to stir them up to Repentance, that the Lord and they might come together. That Preservation, Provision, Protection, which the Lord in his gracious Providence is pleased to afford unto ⟨p. 94⟩sinners. Those common mercies which he bestows upon the vilest of men, Food, and Rayment, Health, Wealth, nay, every meals meat, and every nights rest and sleep, by all the Lord is knocking and calling upon men, that they would learn to know, & love, and serve him, that giveth all good unto them; as it is said,