A Practical Treatise Upon Christian Perfection. Repr. [of the 1726 Ed. ]

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1807 edition. Excerpt: ... CHAP. V. A farther Continuation of the same Subject. rHE subject of the two preceding chapters is of such importance, that I cannot leave it without adding some farther considerations upon it. For, notwithstanding the Scriptures are so clear and express on the side of the doctrine there delivered, yet I must expect to encounter the prejudices of men who are settled in other opinions. I know it will still be asked, where can be the impiety of getting or enjoying an estate? Whether it be not honourable, and matter of just praise, to provide an estate for one's family? It will also be asked, what people of birth and fortune are to do with themselves if they are not to live suitably to their estates and qualities? Any one that has taken the trouble to read this treatise, must have found, that the doctrine here taught is none of mine, and that therefore I have no occasion to support it against such questions as these. The same persons may as well ask, why the littlespan of life is made a state of trial and probation, in which men of all conditions are to icork out their salvation with fear and trembling? But, however, to the first question let it be answered: Take no thought, saying, What shall we eat, or what shall we drink, or wherewithal shall ice be clothed; for after all these things do the Gentiles seek. If to be careful and thoughtful about the necessaries of life, be a care that is here forbidden, and that because it is such a care as only becomes heathens; surely, to be careful and thoughtful how to raise an estate, and enrich one's family, is a care that is sufficiently forbidden Christians. And he that can yet think it lawful and creditable to make it the care and design of his life to get an estate, is too blind to be convinced by...