Tag Archives: Paul Bayne

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Seventeen

09 Thursday Apr 2020

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The previous post in this series may be found here: http://wp.me/p1S7fR-24t

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: DIRECTIONS FOR THE WEAK CHRISTIAN

Now that a believer is defined, the godly life described, and the helps thereto adjoined, it remains in the next place to direct the weak Christian in the right use of means. For those duties of godliness are not left to men sometimes to be practiced and at other times neglected; nor are means to be only used generally but not particularly; means must be used daily and throughout each day.  This does not mean that one must do the same things every day, but rather that all evil should be avoided every day; and such good done every day as in our calling and life shall be occasioned.

Daily Intake of God’s Word

First, therefore, the believer must have direction for his life every day out of God’s Word. 1 Peter 1:17, 4:2; Hebrews 3:14, Luke 1:75.

a. The Scripture commends us to a certain course of walk in with God and a particular direction of our lives. Psalm 119:9, Proverbs 10:9, Galatians 6:16.  This must be kept and daily followed by us. Proverbs 21:14, 1 Timothy 5:10, Psalm 119:97, Psalm 91:15, Acts 24:16 & 24:7, Psalm 145:2. Therefore, Christians must be guided by some daily directions in the leading of their lives.

b.  Furthermore, many parts of a daily direction as will sufficiently direct a man are found enjoined in the Word of God; these instructions are be used daily. In prosperity, James 5:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:19, James 2:23. In afflictions, James 1:5; 2 Chronicles 20:34; Lamentations 3:27, Psalm 32:6, 2 Samuel 15:26, Luke 9:23, Deuteronomy 33:12, Matthew 26:41. Among the helps for prayer, Psalm 55:16, Psalm 119:164, Proverbs 6:22. For watchfulness, Psalm 119:97. For reading, Joshua 1:8. And as for public hearing, Proverbs 8:33, Acts 2:46.

c. Besides, if we consider the danger that follows the neglecting of this direction, by taking unlawful liberty, that there will be reason to stir us up to embrace this truth; for, first we are caught presently with the deceitfulness of sin some way or other. Matthew 26:41, Hebrews 3:13, 2 Timothy 4:5, Proverbs 28:13.

God Corrects

Secondly, God himself though he keeps his children from many evils while they desire it, yet if they be secure, he leaves them to themselves does punish their sin as he does other men’s. 2 Samuel 7:1,; 2 Chronicles 16:9, Proverbs 10:9, Psalm 89:3. And we all know that Satan watches for any opportunity to hurt us. Matthew 13:44, Matthew12:44.

Rise When You Fall

That this daily direction is the best means to keep us well – while we are well—and to raise us up when we fall.

Daily Care

That the very Ten Commandments teach us daily exercise. Three commandments make mention of particular days; and the commandments are generally applicable on all days.

No Time to be Careless

God has forbidden us to consider any day’s time for which we may be careless. Galatians 4:10, Colossians 2:16, Hebrews 5:8.

Our Citizenship is in Heaven

And lastly, that our whole daily conversation must be in heaven Philippians 1:27 & 3:20.

Take Care

Therefore, as a man that has a long journey to travel will not count it sufficient to merely notice whether he is going east or west, but rather will take particular note of the way; so ought we to learn wisdom since we have a long pilgrimage. We must not content ourselves with generalities, but rather we must pay attention to the particular means – which may help us forward in the kingdom of heaven.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: THE CHRISTIAN LIFE MUST BE LIVED EVERY DAY

Now it follows to show what is daily direction is. It is to gather together certain rules are God’s Word, that which we may be enabled every day according to the will of God with sound peace.

There are the following of such direction as they will and constant effort to please God in all things every day as long as we are to the peace of our own conscience and glorifying of God. And the description is to be observed:

That it is called an endeavor only, because perfection is neither required of God nor to be looked for in the best Christians. Thus such places as, Psalm 119:1, Luke 11:28, which to require perfection are to be expounded by those that speak of endeavor, such as, Chronicles 28:7, Hosea 6:3, acts 24:16. But this is an inseparable fear of the fear of God, and must be in our hearts continually.

That this endeavor must be hearty, not constrained or hollow, but constant, that we faint not, but hold out therein.

Whereto it tends, viz, to please God in all things. Luke 16:13, Colossians 1, Hebrews 13:18.

Lastly, that this must be daily and continued to the end. Acts 24:16, Proverbs 4:26, Acts 26:7 2 Corinthians 1:13.

The Ncessary Parts of Daily Directions are These Eight.

1. First every day we should be humbled for our sins, as through due examination of our lives by the law of God we shall see them. Psalm 5:3, Ephesians 4:26; Job 1:5.

2. Every day we ought to be raised up in assured hope of forgiveness: of them by the promises of God in Christ; this is never separated from the former, Acts 2:38, Hosea 14:2-3. The words “this day” in the Lord’s Prayer teach us at least this much.

3. Every day we ought to prepare our hearts to seek the Lord still and keep them fit ndnd willing thereto. Hebrews 3:12, Deuteronomy 5:29, Proverbs 4:8.

4. Every day we must strongly and resolutely arm ourselves against all evil and sin, fearing most of all to is offend God.

5. Every day we must nourish our fear and love of God and joy in him more than in anything and endeavor to please him in all duties as occasion shall be offered. 2 Thessalonians 3:5.

6. Every day our thanks be for benefits received and still certainly hoped for. Lamentations 3:23, Psalm 118:7, Psalm 103:3, 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

7. Every day we ought to watch and pray for steadfastness and constancy in all these Ephesians 1:17.

8. Every day hold and keep our peace with God, and so lie down with it. 2 Corinthians 1:12, Philippians 4:4, 1. Thessalonians 5:16.

These are all necessary, as without which we can never be safe, we could never taste of true joy. But here are two extremes to be avoided in conceiving [thinking about] of them.

First, that we think it not sufficient to regard these duties, some one time in the day; for we must have this present with us, and our hearts seasoned with them throughout the day. Second, that we do not take occasions from hence to shake off our callings, or to neglect any part of them. For in our ordinary and meanest [least important] works, we may and must serve God by doing them in faith, not for carnal respect only: and avoiding the common sins that profane ones join with them.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, chapters 1-13 (revised)

13 Tuesday Oct 2015

Posted by in Biblical Counseling, Mortification, Paul Baynes

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This is a biblical counseling text from the 17th century.

Here’s what I’ve been working on. I’ll put this up as a pdf with formatting and such when it is completed (at present the bolds, italics, et cetera will not show up in the post). The original text from 1637 is 244 pages long. Below, you will find the first 76 pages. The formatting, chapter headings and such have been added. I have also slightly modernized the text (rather than “speaketh” I have “speaks”).

 

 

Brief Directions Onto a Godly Life:
Wherein every Christian is furnished with most necessary helps for the furthering of him in a godly course here upon earth, that he so may attain eternal happiness.

Written by Mr. Paul Bayne, minister of God’s Word,
to Mr. Nicholas Jordane, his brother.
London
Printed by A.G. for I.N. and are to be sold by Samuel Enderby
at the Starre in Pope’s Head Alley, 1637

The Epistle Dedicatory
To the right worshipful, Mr. Nicholas Jordane, Esquire, and one of his Majesty’s Justices of the Peace and Quorum, in the County of Suffolk’s,
Sir,
It has been an ancient custom to reserve some lively representation of worthy friends deceased, to thereby continue the remembrance of their virtues, persons, and love. This holy treatise ensuing has served you to that purpose, and that very fitly; for herein you have a true representation and remembrance of your most worthy and loving brother, especially of the most noble and worthy part of it, I mean of his excellent understanding of the mystery of godliness, his most zealous and earnest will and desire of all men’s practice of godliness; and a sincere love unto you in particular, unto whom he primarily directed these directions onto a godly life; which as they do lively express that he had put on the new man, created and renewed in knowledge, righteousness and true holiness. So it is most worthy of our reservation, both in the remembrance in imitation of him. Yea, I confidently affirm, that this faithful remembrance is most worthy and fit always to be carried about us, and daily to be looked upon by us: for it will help us well to put on that new man, and to be conformable to our head Jesus Christ, and to walk before the Lord in holiness and righteousness all the days of our life. For there is this difference between those former corporeal images of earthly bodies and this that men with too much love and use of them, easily fell into superstitious wickedness; but this the more it is loved and used of man, the more will all wickedness be rooted out of their hearts, and the more will they glorify God by a holy life and conversation [conversation means the sum total of on’s conduct] having received this holy treatise at your worship’s hands to publish unto to the world, I am bold to return it unto you for safeguard, both that the world may know unto whom it is obliged for so excellent a monument, as also for the great benefit that shall be reaped thereby. So, Sir, accounting it a wise part in him that cannot speak well, to say but little; I commend you and this treatise to God’s grace which is able to build us up further, even to do wondrously above all that we can ask or think.
Your Worship’s humbly at command,
N.N.

PART ONE: The trouble of this world is sin; redemption by God in Jesus Christ is the only solution. Therefore, our chief goal must be to obtain that salvation by faith. We must distinguish true faith from false – and then lay hold upon the grace to be had in full assurance of God’s love for us. For such faith “is the root and ground of a godly life.”

CHAPTER ONE: OUR PROBLEM IS SIN
The trouble of humanity is sin. Redemption in Christ is the only answer. However, not all have true faith which lays hold on redemption. At times the trouble lies with poor pastors who do not do their job. Some trouble lies with the people who will not hear with faith.

Sure it is, that it was not thus with mankind in the beginning as now it is.

Continue reading →

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Twenty-Seven

28 Friday Nov 2014

Posted by in Biblical Counseling, Paul Baynes, Sanctification

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CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN: A LIFE OF GODLINESS

Against the former directions many things may be objected by both carnal cavillers and so by weak Christians.

Response to Those Who Cavil

Of the first sort is that there needs be no other directions to be prescribed besides God’s Word. To which there needs no other answer but that by this same reasoning all preaching is needless – which if it [the preaching] be as it should is out of Scripture.

The Aid of Christians

But there is great need of such directions as this to be penned, by reason of the great weakness which are in Christians, some being slow of capacity, others short of memory, others very soon unsettled for want of a good direction, [some] are ashamed or willing to open their griefs [to others], or else have no fit man to show them onto: so that besides other great harm which follows the want of direction, they are deprived of much communion with the Lord, and the comfort that arises from it.

Is This Too Much to Ask?

It is further objected, that no such direction can be observed daily.

But if it were impossible, why does the prophet call them blessed that follow such a course (Psalm 1:2) and affirms so much of himself (Psalm 119:97).

Many such examples also we have among us, even in this age, who do not make themselves strangers onto God, to hear from him, or to send on to him now and then; but to walk within daily as all are commanded to do. Nay, many there are who of experience have found this way not only possible, but easy to them and full of comfort — who should indeed be patterns for other (for the best professors are the best teachers): Neither can any idle professor look for such ease and comfort is the painful Christian [the Christian who uses great effort] that has been taught by long experience.

The Godly Life Does not Destroy Pleasure

It will be said that howsoever it be possible, yet it is very toilsome and inconvenient, depriving men of pleasure and hindering labor.

But the truth is there is no pleasure our comfort in the world like onto it: that is the sentence of the Holy Ghost. Psalm 119:99-100; Proverbs 8:11. Neither is this meant of serving God at [only limited] times, but continually, even all the day long. Psalm 119:10, 23, 97.

And whosoever has any knowledge and experience by practice, what reward there is in serving God, does justify this to be true: For why also should so many Christians part with all sinful pleasures which they might enjoy with others, and spend so much time and pain in God’s service, if it were so irksome?

It is not indeed a pleasure to all; but [only] to the upright in heart; it is the only delight, Though in this life there be some resistance; nay, it [godliness] seasons and sweetens all earthly liberties, also making them truly pleasant to the godly (which two others are mixed either with burdensome tediousness for hidden poison).

Godliness Does not Hinder Work

Neither would this hinder his labor and thrift; for all good thrift, Christian gaining and lawful prospering in this world, you arise from hence. Even when a man goes to the work of his calling [his labor or profession] he’s calling with a mind at peace with God, commending his affairs to God’s providence, aims at his [God’s] glory, looks at his [God’s] promise, and so waits for a blessing: And for lack of this, many in great toil and pain find no success nor blessing of God. And others that seem to prosper have their wealth but is Judas had his sop, and the Israelites their quails, to become their bane and poison.

  • Godliness Does not Hinder Society
  • As causeless also is there fear who say that the following of this direction would break off all society and friendship among men. For [a life of godliness] would break off none but evil fellowship –such as it were to be wished were abandoned [by] all society of Christians, which if it seems strange, it will be only to such as the apostle Peter speaks of his first epistle, 4:4 (the “Gentiles” who think it strange that Christians no longer participate in public wicked actions).
  • Encouragement to Weak Christians
  • But it is fit to satisfy the doubts which weak Christians are likely to propound.
  • First, how they may attain and keep this course? For the answer whereas, thus much:
  1. There must be an earnest desire wrought by the consideration of the necessity of it.
  2. There must be a strife against untowardness and sloth.
  3. All earthly affections must be moderated and not clog us.
  4. There must in faith be expectation of fruit far above the labor.
  5. It will be good that the first the doubts which arise be imparted to others of experience; and that the preceding be marked [carefully considered] that those things which are lacking may be supplied, and good things continued. This if we do, the matter will not seem so difficult and tedious on to us. Neither our lawful callings any hindrances onto this Christian course.For holy exercises and lawful business, a heavenly mind and earthly dealing may very well stand together.
  • Some are also troubled with the crosses that they shall meet withal in the world.
  • But they need not be troubled so is to go back, but rather to set forward thereby.
  • Conclusion
  • The end of all this is that such as received the gospel and that have not been careful thus daily and perpetually to walk with God:
  • If it was of ignorance, they must not be discouraged, but only show that ignorance was the case, by amending now upon knowledge.
  • If it was of evil conscience against their knowledge, their sin is the greater, especially if they have fallen from the first live. Therefore time it is that they should return and seek peace with God, maintaining the same by carefully watching over themselves throughout the day, that the offend in nothing.

Finis.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter 26

27 Thursday Nov 2014

Posted by in Biblical Counseling, Paul Baynes, Sanctification

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  • CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX: THE PRIVILEGE OF GROWTH IN GRACE
  • Now beside all the former privileges severally, there is one that respects them all of great price [one that is worth more than all the others] that is the increase and growing up [maturation of] all those graces for God gives [more] than they would have sometimes [at anytime]expected or asked. Colossians 1:9.
  • An example whereof we may see in Moses, if we compare his later times with this former; [it is the same with] the Apostles. This privilege, if it be duly considered adds great courage and yields much comfort to God’s children: when they shall know that this grace is offered that by God, even that like plants should grow and increase in God’s house; and as the sun, they should shine more and more until midday.
  • And how so ever the devil raises many occasions of fainting, flesh, deadness of spirit, and earthly mindedness, neglecting of means, etc., yet may we not be discouraged, but press forward, depending on God’s promise, and following his direction.
  • The Encouragement of Perseverance
  • As he that makes a good beginning shall increase and grow in goodness, so he that increases daily shall make a good end at length: for all believers shall continue to the end in a good and godly course. Psalm 37:37, Philippians 1:6, Job 6:39 & 10: 28. Which as it is in itself a great privilege, so is it greater that God makes it known to his children, and draws their hearts to believe the same. 1 Peter 4:5, 1 John 5:1-3, 1 Thessalonians 5:9.
  • This is a treasure invaluable, mightily reviving the hearts of God’s children, and encouraging them with cheerfulness to follow the godly life, and all means of proceeding in it. For they which take occasion from this doctrine to wax slothful, worldly, idle vain & etc., they know not what it means, but pervert that which they know not – to their own destruction.
  • The truth and certainty of this privilege is not to be doubted of, though we see good men after death to show small tokens of grace and have a happy departure. For there may be many impediments. And howsoever it may seem, yet this is certain, of a good life comes a good death. Psalm 37:37. Sometime indeed for correction of some sin, or for example [to others], the Lord may send such a death as is less comfortable: as in 1 Kings 13:24, of the prophet that was sent to Jeroboam. Yea, sometimes a good Christian may offer violence to himself, not knowing what he does; yet being formerly of a holy and unrebukable conversation, he is not to be judged according to that one action, however unwarrantable and dangerous soever in itself.
  • Much less ought persecution seem so grevious as that it could not stand with a good estate and final perseverance, especially seeing we have much encouragement to the suffering of it, by examples, promises, and predictions in holy Scripture.
  • This perseverance then being so precious, and yet so certain, let us then nourish the hope of it in ourselves daily by keeping in us a willingness to die.
  • Frequently meditate on the vanity of this world, and all that is therein. Colossians 3:1. By holding fast our rejoicing in Christ. 1 Corinthians 5:31.By mortifying of sin and keeping our hearts from the love of it. Colossians 3:5.
  • Teaching ourselves to bear small afflictions, and so to deny yourselves that we may the better undergo greater when they shall be sent.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter 25

27 Thursday Nov 2014

Posted by in Biblical Counseling, Paul Baynes, Sanctifictation

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CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE: HOW THE LORD SUSTAINS US IN VARIOUS STATES OF LIFE

  • Another great privilege is but the Lord teaches his how to carry themselves and keep their integrity in all estates of life.
  • Perseverance in Prosperity:
  • As first, in peace and prosperity, when a man has riches, honor, health, friends, delights, and pleasures. This is a slippery estate in which no man of himself can stand, and therefore is an occasion of falling to most men. But God teaches his to stand in this slippery place.
  • First, when he causes the doctrine of contentment, sobriety, and the contempt of this world to be taught, then he draws their are hearts inwardly to attend onto it, believe it, love and practice. Besides this, God causes them oft to set before their eyes the daily changes of all things under the Sun. And by the oft and deep consideration of these things as they observe them, their lusts are appalled, and pride of life is greatly abated. Psalm 102:22.
  • So that by these means, the Lord so frames his, that they desire no more, no longer than their heavenly father sees expedient: to use these outward things, as if they use them not; and yet so to use them as that they may be helps to themselves and others in the way of godliness.
  • All which is not so to be understood as if every believer had this grace, but that God has bequeathed, and does offer this to all, though only they have it, which do esteem it and seek for it, and faith at God’s hands.
  • Perseverance in Afflictions
  • So likewise in regard of afflictions, the prerogative of God’s children is great. First, he holds many tribulations from them, which otherwise by their sins they do pluck upon themselves. Psalm 32:10-11. This must needs be so, because afflictions spring from sin, and therefore where sin is greater or lesser, the afflictions will be proportional.
  • The truth of it — that they may be free from many troubles — is plain, because so many do fill themselves with inward troubles of mind and conscience, by giving place to their unbridled affections, which breed many perturbations, and by taking license to themselves in things which are not seemly. They bring also many outward troubles upon themselves by their sins, as shame, poverty, diseases, evil children, etc. All which may often be avoided by the grace of God, if sin were taken heed of and resisted, and if by labor in watchfulness the unruly heart were subdued.
  • Whereby the way, we may observe how unwise they do, who shun the sincere practice of religion, that they may be freed from troubles, when religion does free a man from so many.
  • God Delivers His From Many Troubles
  • As the faithful are freed wholly from troubles, so when they are [troubles], God delivers them out of many, when as the wicked remain in theirs. Proverbs 11:8. Examples both of the Church in general and of the faithful in particular are sufficiently known to all that know anything in the Scripture. All which are recorded, not to show only that the faithful have been delivered out of trouble (for that were no singular thing, but common for the wicked) but that they are delivered in the fatherly love of God: as appears by the means which they used, as prayer, fasting, etc. This the wicked have never, but always the godly.
  • Objection: The Fathers had particular promises to them for their deliverance, but so have not we.
  • Answer: In the main and chiefest things, God has spoken is plainly and fully to us as to them. We may always assure ourselves that God has a most tender and fatherly care over us, and that he will show the same in the time of our need, either by delivering us if he sees it good and expedient, or else by giving us that grace which shall be sufficient for us. The not teaching or not believing of this doctrine causes much uncheerfulness and discontentment in our troubles, as grudging against God, unlawful shifting, carnal fears, etc. Whereas, if it were otherwise, much heavenly comfort might be reaped in our lives, which now is wanting.
  • When it pleases the Lord to lay any afflictions upon his, they may assure themselves it is for their good. Which persuasion if it be settled, and the contrary power of carnal reason checked and suppressed, we have wisdom to look for afflictions daily, and be ready to receive from God thankfully meekly — this wisdom must be sought for from God. James 1:5-6.

 To Receive Comfort in Afflictions

Now, if we would take by afflictions, we must first receive that word with full assent, which is found in Romans 8:28, all things work for the best to those who love God. And then consider seriously how great reason there is, that we should yield up ourselves, our wills, and that we have unto God’s will, and think that good for us which God thinks good. For God’s sends afflictions to his children

  • First, that they may have experience of his love in delivering them.
  • Second, that they may have proof of their faith and patience.
  • Third, that they may not be condemned with the world.
  • Fourth, that they may be purged from their sinful dross.
  • Fifth, to wean them from this world. If these things be known and believed by us, we shall find to our exceeding comfort. And though sometimes in trial we may seem to be neglected or forgotten, yet we shall see at length that it is nothing so.
  • Objection: If afflictions shall turn to our good, then we need to take no further thought about them.
  • Answer: The promise does not warrant us to be careless. For we behave ourselves willfully, blockishly, or foolishly in afflictions, they will turn to our great heard vexation. But if we mingle that Scripture with faith, it will cause us to receive all crosses from God as sent in love; not murmuring, but thankfully patiently but also with examination of ourselves, if so be that any sin is brought evil upon us, and then we shall have proof of God’s grace in us, experience of his favor towards us, preservation from many sins, increase of humiliation thankfulness, preparation for the bearing of greater, with some comfort at least in the end, and hope in the midst, which shall not make us ashamed. When we find not this doctrine savory and sweet to us, nor the use of it in our afflictions, let us not charge or challenge the Lord, but consider what we have lost by unbelief.

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter 24

20 Thursday Nov 2014

Posted by in Paul Baynes, Repentance, Spiritual Disciplines

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CHAPTER TWENTY FOUR: THE PRIVILEGES OF THE GODLY: STRENGTH TO AVOID AND RECOVER FROM SIN

  • As for the second, that it is, that the faithful are taught and enabled of God to avoid great faults and reproachful evils, this is plain for Scripture. Proverbs 19:23; Saul 119 10-11. And is seen it the examples Enoch, Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Samuel, David, show; with others who for the time of their dear acquaintance with God, committed not any such heinous press passes, as work common stains lives in the lives of others.
  • By this so excellent and invaluable privilege, the doing of good becomes meat and drink onto the faithful, so that they can serve God even in a good and joyful heart in all things. Deuteronomy 12:18, 28:47. That they mind heavenly things without that tediousness which is seen in others; perform earthly business with heavenly minds; and always rejoice before the Lord.
  • And Still Perfection is not for Now.
  • Not that they have no rebellion; for they find strife always, and are in part led captive by it, that they might not triumph before the victory. Partly that feeling their own weakness, they may more wholly depend on God, and partly that their future victory may appear more glorious. But all this while, though many wounds be received, the Christian is never so vanquished, but that recovering again by the power of God he goes on with steadfast joy.
  • The Liberty of Repentance
  • A further liberty is that if a godly do by any occasion fall from their settled course into any offense, whereby their consciences are wounded and accuse themselves, they may return again on to God, with certain assurance of be received by him. 1 John 2:2. Without this privilege they are were but small encouragement for any Christian, because of our frequent falls.
  • Therefore the Lord does not only permit us to do thus, but calls and waits for it; yes, he is highly offended if we do not do so. Jeremiah 8. And for the effecting of it, he has given charge to the pastors, as in Ezekiel 34:3, and to others, Galatians 6:1. How great a privilege this is, they know full well who have experience of an afflicted conscience, to whom no tidings can be more gladsome than this, if it be rightly applied. It draws from such many thanks and praises, and so brings much honor to God.
  • Not an Encouragement to Sin
  • But this must be warily and wisely received, that we neither take occasion hence to embolden ourselves to sin, or to content ourselves with slight repentance; for God’s mercies must be instantly sought for, and then his favor may not be doubted of, as appears by the example in Ezekiel 10:1.
  • So that here are two extremes are to be avoided, that is, that neither we presume upon slight and shallow repentance, nor languish in desperate and unfruitful sorrow, but in sound humiliation hope steadfastly for pardon and say to our souls as David does Psalm 43:5.
  • The same it is spoken of actual sins must also be understood of dullness, idleness, unprofitable barrenness of heart; and such other corruptions which are wont to quench the work of God’s Spirit and to be the seed of many cursed evils. The Lord’s will is that from hence we should expect faith to give us strength to avoid sin as much as we expect his mercy to forgive sin.

God has Given us Means to Obtain Help

  • The very helps themselves which God has given to us to further our salvation are great privileges, and so to be accounted.
  • As that by prayer we may have access to God to break our mind, lay open our grief, and that with confidence. And that by watchfulness, we may escape those dangerous snares of Satan, wherein so many are entangled, and that we may in the end of every day make up our accounts with joy, to keep all straight. For onto these, suchlike helps, God has promised a blessing and we must by faith look constantly the same. For there is no fruit of the best helps if we use them not in faith. James 1:6.
  • These are great privileges, that howsoever many through earthliness, sloth, and waywardness, out of their hearts they be not so esteemed, and therefore either not used, or else formally or slightly, yet we should account the more of them: as being so glorious, that the dim eyes of profane persons could not behold. Praise God the more, who makes them so sweet and gainful for us, which on to many are very gall and wormwood.

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/11/18/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-23-2/

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life; Chapter 23

18 Tuesday Nov 2014

Posted by in Assurance, Paul Baynes

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  • CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE: THE PRIVILEGES OF THE GODLY: TO KNOW ONESELF LOVED OF GOD
  • Now therefore because there being so many difficulties in the ways of godliness–and those so hard to pass–and difficult enterprises are always commended by the good that follows them; it is necessary that the great privileges which belong to the godly should be explained.
  • The privileges must be show so that the godly may know their own happiness and strive to enjoy it; the wicked may see what great good things they deprive themselves of; and that all men may see the Christian life may be in better valued, which now of all sorts is too much underprized and so neglected and by some contemned and scorned.
  • I will omit all those benefits which are common to the godly and the wicked (although these are far more sweet and savory to the godly than to others); or, those which are proper to some of the faithful in respect of their callings[1]. I will consider only those which the wicked have no part or portion, and yet all the faithful may possess, one as well (though not so much) as another.
  • These are either such as given us in this life to be enjoyed for our encouragement, or else those which God has in store for us in the life to come.
  • We May Know Ourselves to be Beloved of God
  • The first and chief of them which are given us in this life is that all true Christians may know themselves to be beloved of God, and that they shall be saved. 1 John 3:1, 1 John 5:13. This may be known by better evidence than any man can have of the things he holds in this life. This is not so well know at the first, but after experience has been gathered of the unchangeable love of God toward us, our confidence is increased; yea, the longer we enjoy this privilege, the better we know it; neither can it be so lost wholly or finally.
  • Objection: Some of God’s children after they have been thus persuaded have fallen to doubting again.
  • Answer: True Christians are renewed in part, and therefore some are by subtlety and cunning of Satan brought to the neglect or are careless of using the means whereby faith is confirmed, and so to doubting. And there are other who do too easily give place to distrust, thereby depriving themselves of this great privilege.
  • This privilege is the greater because of the unspeakable glory and everlasting joy which it brings with it, whereas other delights are but fleeting and momentary. Which greatness will easily appear if we well consider the unspeakable woe and horror of such desperate persons as feel the lack of this happiness either here, or in hell.
  • The Special Blessings of Being Known by God
  • After God has vouchsafed the faithful this honor, that they may know the selves to be beloved of him, and that they shall be saved hereafter; he does not them, but is always with them, and has a special care of them above others, nay, when he is angry with others. Romans 5:5; Psalm 30:6-7; Luke 13:34; Deuteronomy 32:10; 1 Timothy 4:10; Matthew 10:30; Psalm 1:3; Psalm 23;1 Samuel 2:3.
  • He esteems them not only as his household servants, but as his friends, John 15:15; his sons and heirs, Romans 8:17; his precious treasure, Exodus 19:5; yes, honors them so far as he calls them and makes them kings, Exodus 19:5. All which is both certain and constant onto the faithful, but it is not so with the wicked. So that by this it appears, that the estate poor child of God, is far better the best of the ugodly; yes, better than themselves sometimes would have asked or thought of.
  • Those who are thus cared for of God, receive grace from him to live according to his will, that at death they may enter into his glory. For he teaches them to be fruitful in good life, but also to avoid foul offenses.
  • As for the first, that is, a holy life whereunto God enables him by his own power, it is a great prerogative in that they need not account Christian life cumbersome, unsavory, heavy, tedious, as many do, but an easy yoke, a light burden, a pleasant race. This is in the Scripture called blessedness. Psalm 1, 84:2; Luke 111:4.
  • Many indeed are, even good people, who in great part go without this privilege; but the cause is that they draw not by faith daily strength from Jesus Christ to subdue their lusts, but trust either to their own strength or and other means, until being frustrated of their desire, they either fallen to great vexation, or else plain security and looseness.
  • For the remedy whereof, they must labor to be steadfast in faith, not yielding onto distrust, to learn to know that God who has taken care of his, will not leave them in their infirmities, but according to his all sufficient power, will succor and deliver them. Which if they once believe (as God requires we should) then shall they see themselves mightily stayed at upheld unto they be set at great liberty, and that it was the devil before held them in fear and bondage.
  • Objection: we dare not believe that God will give us such grace, except first we first overcome our special corruptions.
  • Answer: We have no strength of any such work, but we must obtain it by faith which is also commanded us. John 3:23. And until we do so, we shall be kept from our right by the craft of Satan.

[1] Privileges which are unique to particular stations of life or particular occupations.

The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/06/11/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-23/

Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter 22

11 Wednesday Jun 2014

Posted by in Biblical Counseling, Discipleship, Paul Baynes, Puritan

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The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/27/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-twenty-one/

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO: CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH HINDER GODLINESS
There is a third kind of difficulty, whereby many believers are hindered from going on in a godly course: all kinds of outward things which themselves are not evil but are made by Satan occasions to hurt to hurt and wound our souls.

Afflictions: though sent of God for our great good, as it is to be seen in Hebrews 12:7 & 11, Psalm 119:71, 1 Corinthians 11:13, James 1:2. Yet afflictions when used by Satan and joined to own corruption make occasions for impatience, fretting, pensiveness, and many other evils. Again which we must arm ourselves before they come, that then our unruly passions may not break out so impatiently[fn.1].

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Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Twenty-One

27 Tuesday May 2014

Posted by in Biblical Counseling, Discipleship, Paul Baynes

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The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/22/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-twenty/

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: UNMORTIFIED AFFECTIONS HINDER GODLINESS

The second kind of general hinderances are the unmortified affections wherewith believers are oppressed. Concerning which in general, it will be profitable for everyone to mark what he is most encumbered and most easily overcome by, and by what occasions he is readiest  drawn to them; that he may the more diligently and wisely labor to prevail against them.

Harmful Affections

Fear and Its Remedy

In particular, one kind is fear and doubt of preserving by means of affliction. This does easily take all the weak ones; therefore the Scripture forewarns of it.  Matthew 10:28, Philippians 1:28, Job 16:33. This, if it does prevail, cannot but enfeeble utterly the powers of their minds; and so withhold the instruments of the body practicing well any kind of duty.

The remedy of it must be sought for in Scripture. Psalm 30:5, 2 Corinthians 4:17, Hebrews 12:1, 2 Corinthians 9:10, James 1:3.

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Paul Baynes, Brief Directions Unto a Godly Life, Chapter Twenty

22 Thursday May 2014

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The previous post in this series may be found here: https://memoirandremains.wordpress.com/2014/05/21/paul-baynes-brief-directions-unto-a-godly-life-chapter-nineteen/

 

CHAPTER TWENTY: HOW THE DEVIL HINDERS GODLINESS

The rules formally described, if they will be followed, to bring a Christian (though not to perfection in this life) yet to such an estate as he shall find rest for his soul daily, which others shall want.[1] Yet because many dangers will be in the way that may hinder the weak, therefore it will be profitable to know the lets and hindrances which may hold us back from peace with God.  By knowing such things, we may learn how to prevent  them before they come and hurt us; or else how to rise from [from] them when we are fallen; or how to turn into the way when by occasion we are gone out of it.

Now the main and chief hindrance is the Devil, with all his force, subtlety, and malice, which combines with our evil hearts — so far if they are unreformed.  And by means of both, all things in the world, though not in their own nature, but by them made occasions for our falling and offending God.

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