Page:Saint's duty in evil times (5).pdf/9

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In Evil Times.
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of faith; but take notice, it is true saving faith; it is neither historical, temporary, nor the faith of miracles; but it is saving faith, whereby Christ is only received and rested upon; it is faith as an instrument apprehending the object, Christ: It is that (I say) which taketh you in.

But for your more clear uptaking whereof, consider what is requisite in true saving faith. First, A deep sight and sense of your lost condition, that ye are destroyed, liable to the wrath of God, and all the curses in the law. Secondly, A sense of this, that there is nothing in you or that ye can do, that will help you, it is beyond all created power to recover you, and so, not all seeking to establish a self-righteousness, it is, 'Come unto me ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.' Thirdly, A right sense of the all sufficiency that is in Jesus Christ, and his excellency drawing the heart out after him, as all the desire of the soul, and so closing with him. Therefore, ye who remain senseless of your lost condition, have a care; ye are not yet in these chambers.

But that it may be made clear unto you, consider moreover, if ye would enter into these chambers; First, ye must close with Christ alone, there must nothing have a share in the meritorious cause in bringing you there, but himself only; ye must not lay part of the weight upon him, and part on yourselves and your duties: No, no, he must either have it all on his back, or else he will have none of it, therefore take heed to yourselves. Secondly, You must close with full Christ, as Prophet, Priest and King; as a Prophet to teach you his will; he must be your schoolmaster; as Priest, through whose sacrifice only, the Father must accept you, and who continually makes intercession at his right hand for you; and as King, to sway a sceptre in your souls to rule you according to his own law