Alexander Henderson's Sermons | Conclusion after the Communion

Date: Tue Jul 7 15:03:31 2026 +0200

a/src/0007.pm b/src/0007.pm index 6a2dbb5..e97b6e8 100644 --- a/src/0007.pm +++ b/src/0007.pm @@ -12,57 +12,57 @@ word of that which lies next unto my text, which I was handling to you.

When the apostle has taught these people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requests known to God, and tells them that upon that they shall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, ◊it{"furthermore."}◊footnote{◊it{Furthermore}, Το λοιπὸν} And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is still more to say; for it is never enough said, that is not enough learned. And what says the apostle then: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely," etc, "think on these things: and those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, do." So that, if you will ask what is the duty that is now required of you, I answer that it is required of you to do all, whatsoever is the will of God. And all these things be rendered to us in two sorts: First, as appertaining to God, that is, in truth in our speeches, and to be just in our actions. Secondly, we must also strive to carry ourselves honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the apostle's own practice, for he says, in ◊ref{Acts.24.16}, "In this I am exercised always to keep a good conscience toward God, and toward men." And, indeed, this is the best exercise that ever man gave himself to: and this was the apostle's exercise; it was his study. Never any of your clergymen◊footnote{The name ◊it{clergyman} is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.} studied any point they were to teach better, either in philosophy or divinity, than he did this point, how to honor God, and how to keep a good conscience toward men.

Beloved, it would be a good thing for you to study to walk with God, and to have this sentence always written into your hearts, "All my ways are before thee, O Lord;" and to learn to watch always over your ways, and be always and often trying yourselves. For when we watch all our best, some enemies will enter; and the best heart that is, and these that watches most circumspectly, they will find that many enemies enters in upon them, and that they are greatly defiled; and therefore we must set to to purge and cleanse ourselves often. If we could set ourselves to watch, to try, and to purge always, it would be good for us; and one of these we ought to be always exercised in. And if we were exercised in this, then whenever death should come and arrest us, or Christ should call us to judgment, we would make them welcome, as being prepared for them; and there is no way to be so, but for us to endeavor to walk as in the sight of God.

And, beloved, I must exhort you that you take heed to yourselves what you do, and that there be no defection, or falling away, among you from what you have done. For, then, what will others who behold you say but this, When St. Andrews, where the clergy of the kingdom is, goes on into such a course, why may not we follow it? And, therefore, as you have been a bad example to others in former times, in drawing back from the truth, strive now if you can be foremost in bringing them to the profession of the truth again; and be, as it is written, in ◊ref{Jer.50.8}, like the he-goats going before the flocks, to draw others on to it, and not to be hinderers of them. And withal, there is one particular that I would have you to take heed unto, and that is, that you deal not wickedly against the covenant of God; that when you have once entered in a covenant with God, that you depart not from it again. The prophet Daniel, he chooses this same very word.◊footnote{◊ref{Dan.11.32}, "And such as ◊it{do wickedly against the covenant} shall he corrupt by flatteries," etc}

There has been great business about our covenant, and we cannot get men satisfied concerning it. First of all, they would had it destroyed, and no @@ -84,8 +84,8 @@ thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we shall take ourselves to generals again. This were a grief that we had condemned the Service Book and the Book of Canons, as smelling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that you should be tempted to the subscribing of this new covenant by the commandment of authority, see that you do it not, but stand by your covenant that you have already subscribed and sworn, and◊footnote{A page or two are here wanting, being the last of the St. Andrews Sermons, which seem at one time, as stated in the Preface, to have formed a separate Collection.} ...

Date: Tue Jul 7 15:03:07 2026 +0200

a/src/0007.pm b/src/0007.pm index 0c8bb1a..6a2dbb5 100644 --- a/src/0007.pm +++ b/src/0007.pm @@ -1,93 +1,91 @@ #lang pollen

We have to regret, beloved, that when our hearts should be present, and should be lifted up, to the praise and honourhonor of God, and to the comfort of our own souls, that then we should find them to be blind, senseless, and unbelieving, in the receiving of spiritual things: when we look unto them, ofttimes we find them astray off these things; and when they are present, we cannot get them lifted up as they ought to be. And yet nevertheless of all this, we must not leave off the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but an honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgivingthanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.◊footnote{Mr David Forret preached "the Sermone of thanksgeving."}thanksgiving."} Only a word of that which lies next unto my text, which I was handling to you.

When the Apostleapostle has taught these people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeistsrequests known to God, and tellethtells them that upon that they shall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, ◊it{"furthermore."}◊footnote{◊it{Furthermore}, Το λοιπὸν} And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is ayestill more to say; for it is never enough said, that is not enough learned. And what says the apostle then: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely," etc, "think on these things: and those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, do." So that, if yeyou will ask what is the duty that is now required of you, I answer that it is required of you foto do all, whatsoever is the will of God. And all these things be rendered to us in two sorts: First, as appertaining to God, that is, in truth in our speeches, and to be just in our actions. Secondly, we must also strive to carry ourselves honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the Apostle'sapostle's own practice, for he says, in ◊ref{Acts.24.16}, "In this I am exercised always to keep a good conscience toward God, and toward men." And, indeed, this is the best exercise that ever man gave himself to: and this was the Apostle'sapostle's exercise; it was his study. Never any of your clergymen◊footnote{The name ◊it{clergyman} is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.} studied any point they were to teach better, either in Philosophyphilosophy or Divinity,divinity, than he did this point, how to honourhonor God, and how to keep a good conscience toward men.

Beloved, it werewould be a good thing for you that ye wouldto study to walk with God, and to have this sentence always written into your hearts, "All my ways are before thee, O Lord;" and to learn to watch always over your ways, and be always and often trying yourselves. For when we watch all our best, some enemies will enter; and the best heart that is, and these that watches most circumspectly, they will find that many enemies enters in upon them, and that they are greatly defiled; and therefore we must set to to purge and cleanse ourselves often. If we could set ourselves to watch, to try, and to purge always, it werewould be good for us; and one of these we ought to be always exercised in. And if we were exercised in this, then whenever death should come and arreistarrest us, or Christ should call us to judgment, we would make them welcome, as being prepared for them; and there is no way to be so, but for us to endeavourendeavor to walk as in the sight of God.

And, beloved, I must exhort you that yeyou take heed to yourselves what yeyou do, and that there be no defection, or falling away, among you from what yeyou have done. For, then, what will others who behold you say but this, When SainctSt. Andrews, where the clergy of the kingdom is, goes on into such a course, why may not we follow it? And, therefore, as yeyou have been a bad example to others in former times, in drawing back from the truth, strive now if veyou can be foremost in bringing them to the profession of the truth again; and be, as it is written, in ◊ref{Jer.50.8}, like the he-goats going before the flocks, to draw others on to it, and not to be hinderers of them. And withal, there is one particular that I would have you to take heed unto, and that is, that yeyou deal not wickedly against the Covenantcovenant of God; that when yeyou have once entered in a covenant with God, that yeyou depart not from it again. The prophet Daniel, he chooses this same very word.◊footnote{◊ref{Dan.11.32}, "And such as ◊it{do wickedly against the Covenant}covenant} shall he corrupt by flatteries," etc}

There has been great business about our Covenant,covenant, and we cannot get men satisfied concerning it. First of all, they would had it destroyed, and no subscribed copies thereof to be kept.◊footnote{ Seekept.◊footnote{See the Author's "Reasons against the rendering of our sworn CovenentCovenant and subscribed Confession of faith," which, says Baillie, i, p. 34, put the Commissioner from all hope of obtaining any such proposition.} Then when they could not get that done, they would hadhave some special clauses put out of it.◊footnote{i.e. The clauses for mutual defence,defense, which were the main ground of offence and alarm to the King and his government.} Then when that could not prevail, they would hadhave us making a declaration close against the meaning thereof.◊footnote{"The Commissioner also would have them agree to a declaration of this clause of his forming; but this all did refuse," Baillie i. 87.} And then, last of all, the enemies brought in another Covenant among us, as their last and deepest policy, to see whom they can draw away thereby from it.◊footnote{The "King's Covenant," or Covenant of 1580.} And therefore, however others deal with this Covenantcovenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that yeyou deal not wickedly with it,it. It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we shall take ourselves to generals again. This were a rueinggrief that we had condemned the Service-bookService Book and the Book of Canons, as smelling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that yeyou should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenantcovenant by the commandment of authority, see that yeyou do it not, but stand by your Covenantcovenant that yeyou have already subscribed and sworn, and◊footnote{A page or two are here wanting, being the last of the St. Andrews Sermons, which seem at one time, as stated in the Preface, to have formed a separate Collection.} ...

Date: Tue Jun 2 10:39:15 2026 -0300

a/src/0007.pm b/src/0007.pm index 38cae7b..0c8bb1a 100644 --- a/src/0007.pm +++ b/src/0007.pm @@ -68,7 +68,7 @@ Covenant} shall he corrupt by flatteries," etc}

Date: Fri Oct 31 09:13:48 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.pm b/src/0007.pm index e713f57..38cae7b 100644 --- a/src/0007.pm +++ b/src/0007.pm @@ -10,7 +10,7 @@ leave off the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but an honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.◊footnote{Mr David Forret preached "the Sermone of thanksgeving."} Only a word of that whilkwhich lies next unto my text, whilkwhich I was handling to you.

When the Apostle has taught these people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God,

Date: Thu Oct 30 14:50:55 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.pm b/src/0007.pm index 5c7dc3b..e713f57 100644 --- a/src/0007.pm +++ b/src/0007.pm @@ -6,13 +6,13 @@ souls, that then we should find them to be blind, senseless, and unbelieving, in the receiving of spiritual things: when we look unto them, ofttimes we find them astray off these things; and when they are present, we cannot get them lifted up as they ought to be. And yet nevertheless of all this, we must not leave off the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but ◊scottish{ane#an|one}an honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.◊footnote{Mr David Forret preached "the Sermone of thanksgeving."} Only a word of that whilk lies next unto my text, whilk I was handling to you.

When the Apostle has taught ◊scottish{thir#these|those}these people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them that upon that they shall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says,

Date: Thu Oct 30 11:03:09 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.pm b/src/0007.pm index 247a84f..5c7dc3b 100644 --- a/src/0007.pm +++ b/src/0007.pm @@ -4,17 +4,17 @@ We have to regret, beloved, that when our hearts should be present, and should be lifted up, to the praise and honour of God, and to the comfort of our own souls, that then we should find them to be blind, senseless, and unbelieving, in the receiving of spiritual things: when we look unto them, ofttimes we find them astray affoff these things; and when they are present, we cannot get them lifted up as they ought to be. And yet nevertheless of all this, we must not leave affoff the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but ane◊scottish{ane#an|one} honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.◊footnote{Mr David Forret preached "the Sermone of thanksgeving."} Only a word of that whilk lies next unto my text, whilk I was handling to you.

When the Apostle has taught thir◊scottish{thir#these|those} people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them that upon that they sallshall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, ◊it{"furthermore."}◊footnote{◊it{Furthermore}, Το λοιπὸν} And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is aye more to @@ -61,7 +61,7 @@ bringing them to the profession of the truth again; and be, as it is written, ◊ref{Jer.50.8}, like the he-goats going before the flocks, to draw others on to it, and not to be hinderers of them. And withal, there is one particular that I would have you to take heed unto, and that is, that ye deal not wickedly against the Covenant of God; that when ye have anesonce entered in a covenant with God, that ye depart not from it again. The prophet Daniel, he chooses this same very word.◊footnote{◊ref{Dan.11.32}, "And such as ◊it{do wickedly against the Covenant} shall he corrupt by flatteries," etc} @@ -83,7 +83,7 @@ can draw away thereby from it.◊footnote{The "King's Covenant," or Covenant of 1580.} And therefore, however others deal with this Covenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that ye deal not wickedly with it, It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we sallshall take ourselves to generals again. This were a rueing that we had condemned the Service-book and the Book of Canons, as smelling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that ye should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenant by the

Date: Tue Oct 14 16:55:42 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.poly.pm b/src/0007.pm similarity index 100% rename from src/0007.poly.pm rename to src/0007.pm

Date: Mon Oct 6 18:52:21 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.poly.pm b/src/0007.poly.pm index 0ada272..247a84f 100644 --- a/src/0007.poly.pm +++ b/src/0007.poly.pm @@ -16,7 +16,7 @@ When the Apostle has taught thir people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them that upon that they sall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, "◊it{furthermore}."◊footnote{◊it{Furthermore},◊it{"furthermore."}◊footnote{◊it{Furthermore}, Το λοιπὸν} And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is aye more to say; for it is never enough said, that is not enough learned. And what says the apostle then: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest,

Date: Mon Oct 6 18:52:03 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.poly.pm b/src/0007.poly.pm index a235292..0ada272 100644 --- a/src/0007.poly.pm +++ b/src/0007.poly.pm @@ -31,7 +31,7 @@ honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the Apostle's own practice, for he says, ◊ref{Acts.24.16}, "In this I am exercised always to keep a good conscience toward God, and toward men." And, indeed, this is the best exercise that ever man gave himself to: and this was the Apostle's exercise; it was his study. Never any of your clergymeng◊footnote{Theclergymen◊footnote{The name ◊it{clergyman} is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.} studied any point they were to teach better, either in Philosophy or Divinity, than he did this point, how to honour God,

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:46:48 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.poly.pm b/src/0007.poly.pm index 3a9ab23..a235292 100644 --- a/src/0007.poly.pm +++ b/src/0007.poly.pm @@ -81,13 +81,13 @@ all did refuse," Baillie i. 87.} And then, last of all, the enemies brought in another Covenant among us, as their last and deepest policy, to see whom they can draw away thereby from it.◊footnote{The "King's Covenant," or Covenant of 1580.} And therefore, however others deal with this Covenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that ye deal not mckedlywickedly with it, It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we sall take ourselves to generals again. This were a rueing that we had condemned the Service-book and the Book of Canons, as smelling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that ye should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenant by the commandment of authority, see that ye do it not, but stand by your Covenant that ye have already subsc11bedsubscribed and sworn, and◊footnote{A page or two are here wanting, being the last of the St. Andrews Sermons, which seem at one time, as stated in the Preface, to have formed a separate Collection.} ...

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:44:11 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.poly.pm b/src/0007.poly.pm index e8a114a..3a9ab23 100644 --- a/src/0007.poly.pm +++ b/src/0007.poly.pm @@ -4,51 +4,52 @@ We have to regret, beloved, that when our hearts should be present, and should be lifted up, to the praise and honour of God, and to the comfort of our own souls, that then we should find them to be blind, senseless, and unbelieving, in the receiving of spiritual things: when we look unto them, ofttimes we find them astray aff these things; and when they are present, we cannot get them lifted up as they ought to be. And yet nevertheless of all this, we must not leave aff the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but ane honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.◊footnote{Mr David Forret preached "the Sermone of thanksgeving."} Only a word of that whilk lies next unto my text, whilk I was handling to you.

When the Apostle has taught thir people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them that upon that they sall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, "◊it{furthermore}."◊footnote{◊it{Furthermore}, Το λοιπὸν} And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is aye more to say; for it is never enough said, that is not enough learned. And what says the apostle then: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely," etc, "think on these things: and those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, do." So that, if ye will ask what is the duty that is now required of you, I answer that it is required of you fo do all, whatsoever is the will of God. And all these things be rendered to us in two sorts: First, as appertaining to God, that is, in truth in our speeches, and to be just in our actions. Secondly, we must also strive to carry ourselves honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the Apostle's own practice, for he says, ◊ref{Acts.24.16}, "In this I am exercised always to keep a good conscience toward God, and toward men." And, indeed, this is the best exercise that ever man gave himself to: and this was the Apostle's exercise; it was his study. Never any of your clergymeng◊footnote{The name ◊it{clergyman} is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.} studied any point they were to teach better, either in Philosophy or Divinity, than he did this point, how to honour God, and how to keep a good conscience toward men.

Beloved, it were a good thing for you that ye would study to walk with God, and to have this sentence always written into your hearts, "All my ways are before thee, O Lord;" and to learn to watch always over your ways, and be always and often trying yourselves. For when we watch all our best, some enemies will enter; and the best heart that is, and these that watches most circumspectly, they will find that many enemies enters in upon them, and that they are greatly defiled; and therefore we must set to to purge and cleanse ourselves often. If we could set ourselves to watch, to try, and to purge always, it were good for us; and one of these we ought to be always exercised in. And if we were exercised in this, then whenever death should come and arreist us, or Christ should call us to judgment, we would make them welcome, as being prepared for them; and there is no way to be so, but for us to endeavour to walk as in the sight of God.

And, beloved, I must exhort you that ye take heed to yourselves what ye do, and that there be no defection, or falling away, among you from what ye have done. @@ -57,24 +58,29 @@ where the clergy of the kingdom is, goes on into such a course, why may not we follow it? And, therefore, as ye have been a bad example to others in former times, in drawing back from the truth, strive now if ve can be foremost in bringing them to the profession of the truth again; and be, as it is written, ◊ref{Jer.50.8}, like the he-goats going before the flocks, to draw others on to it, and not to be hinderers of them. And withal, there is one particular that I would have you to take heed unto, and that is, that ye deal not wickedly against the Covenant of God; that when ye have anes entered in a covenant with God, that ye depart not from it again. The prophet Daniel, he chooses this same very word.◊footnote{◊ref{Dan.11.32}, "And such as ◊it{do wickedly against the Covenant} shall he corrupt by flatteries," etc}

There has been great business about our Covenant, and we cannot get men satisfied concerning it. First of all, they would had it destroyed, and no subscribed copies thereof to be keeped.◊footnote{ See the Author's "Reasons against the rendering of our sworn Covenent and subscribed Confession of faith," which, says Baillie, i, p. 34, put the Commissioner from all hope of obtaining any such proposition.} Then when they could not get that done, they would had some special clauses put out of it.◊footnote{i.e. The clauses for mutual defence, which were the main ground of offence and alarm to the King and his government.} Then when that could not prevail, they would had us making a declaration close against the meaning thereof.◊footnote{"The Commissioner also would have them agree to a declaration of this clause of his forming; but this all did refuse," Baillie i. 87.} And then, last of all, the enemies brought in another Covenant among us, as their last and deepest policy, to see whom they can draw away thereby from it.◊footnote{The "King's Covenant," or Covenant of 1580.} And therefore, however others deal with this Covenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that ye deal not mckedly with it, It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we sall take @@ -82,5 +88,6 @@ ourselves to generals again. This were a rueing that we had condemned the Service-book and the Book of Canons, as smelling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that ye should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenant by the commandment of authority, see that ye do it not, but stand by your Covenant that ye have already subsc11bed and sworn, and◊footnote{A page or two are here wanting, being the last of the St. Andrews Sermons, which seem at one time, as stated in the Preface, to have formed a separate Collection.} ...

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:43:42 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.poly.pm b/src/0007.poly.pm index 9fa4746..e8a114a 100644 --- a/src/0007.poly.pm +++ b/src/0007.poly.pm @@ -5,78 +5,39 @@ be lifted up, to the praise and honour of God, and to the comfort of our own souls, that then we should find them to be blind, senseless, and unbelieving, in the receiving of spiritual things: when we look unto them, ofttimes we find them astray aff these things; and

* Verse 8.

t This « Conclusion'' appears to be, not the conclusion of the foregoing discourse, but the conclusion after the celebration of the Supper. The discourse is formally closed with the preceding words, «" Through Jesus Christ, To whom, &c."

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/86/mode/1up)

--- Page 86 ---

86 CONCLUSION.

when they are present, we cannot get them lifted up as they ought to be. And yet nevertheless of all this, we must not leave aff the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but ane honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.*noon.◊footnote{Mr David Forret preached "the Sermone of thanksgeving."} Only a word of that whilk lies next unto my text, whilk I was handling to you.

When the Apostle has taught thir people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them that upon that they sall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, ¢ furthermore."+"◊it{furthermore}."◊footnote{◊it{Furthermore}, Το λοιπὸν} And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is aye more to say; for it is never enough said, that is not enough learned. And what says the apostle then ¢ Whatsoeverthen: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely," &c, ¢ thinketc, "think on these things: and those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, do." So that, if ye will ask what is the duty that is now required of you, I answer that it is required of you fo do all, whatsoever is the will of God. And all these things be rendered to us in two sorts: First, as appertaining to God, that is, in truth in our speeches, and to be just in our actions. Secondly, we must also strive to carry ourselves honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the Apostle's own practice, for he says, Acts xxiv.,} ¢ In◊ref{Acts.24.16}, "In this I am exercised always to keep a good conscience toward God, and toward men." And, indeed, this is the best exercise that ever man gave himself to: and this was the Apostle's exercise; it was his study. Never any of your clergymeng§clergymeng◊footnote{The name ◊it{clergyman} is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.} studied any point they were to teach

* Mr David Forret preached "the Sermone of thanksgeving."

t Furthermore, To hoiwov.

t Verse 16.

§ The name c/ergyman is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/87/mode/1up)

--- Page 87 ---

CONCLUSION. 87

better, either in Philosophy or Divinity, than he did this point, how to honour God, and how to keep a good conscience toward men.

Beloved, it were a good thing for you that ye would study to walk with God, and to have this sentence always written into your hearts, ‘" All"All my ways are before thee, O Lord;" and to learn to watch always over your ways, and be always and often trying yourselves. For when we watch all our best, some enemies will enter; and the best heart that is, and these that watches most @@ -85,7 +46,7 @@ they are greatly defiled; and therefore we must set to to purge and cleanse ourselves often. If we could set ourselves to watch, to try, and to purge always, it were good for us; and one of these we ought to be always exercised in. And if we were exercised in this, then whenever death should come and arreist us, or Christ should call us tcto judgment, we would make them welcome, as being prepared for them; and there is no way to be so, but for us to endeavour to walk as in the sight of God.

@@ -96,35 +57,24 @@ where the clergy of the kingdom is, goes on into such a course, why may not we follow it? And, therefore, as ye have been a bad example to others in former times, in drawing back from the truth, strive now if ve can be foremost in bringing them to the profession of the truth again; and be, as it is written, Jer. l.,*◊ref{Jer.50.8}, like the he-goats going before the flocks, to draw others on to it, and not to be hinderers of them. And withal, there is one particular that I would have you to take heed unto, and that is, that ye deal not wickedly against the Covenant of God; that when ye have anes entered in a covenant with God, that ye depart not from it again. The prophet Daniel, he chooses this same very word.+

& Verse 8, t Dan. xi. 32, " Andword.◊footnote{◊ref{Dan.11.32}, "And such as do◊it{do wickedly against the CovenantCovenant} shall he corrupt by flatteries," &c.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/88/mode/1up)

--- Page 88 ---

88 CONCLUSION.etc}

There has been great business about our Covenant, and we cannot get men satisfied concerning it. First of all, they would had it destroyed, and no subscribed copies thereof to be keeped.*keeped.◊footnote} See the Author's "Reasons against the rendering of our sworn Covenent and subscribed Confession of faith," which, says Baillie, i, p. 34, put the Commissioner from all hope of obtaining any such proposition.} Then when they could not get that done, they would had some special clauses put out of it.+it.◊footnote{i.e. The clauses for mutual defence, which were the main ground of offence and alarm to the King and his government.} Then when that could not prevail, they would had us making a declaration close against the meaning thereof.}thereof.◊footnote{"The Commissioner also would have them agree to a declaration of this clause of his forming; but this all did refuse," Baillie i. 87.} And then, last of all, the enemies brought in another Covenant among us, as their last and deepest policy, to see whom they can draw away thereby from it.§it.◊footnote{The "King's Covenant," or Covenant of 1580.} And therefore, however others deal with this Covenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that ye deal not mckedly with it, It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we sall take @@ -132,62 +82,5 @@ ourselves to generals again. This were a rueing that we had condemned the Service-book and the Book of Canons, as smelling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that ye should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenant by the commandment of authority, see that ye do it not, but stand by your Covenant that ye have already subsc11bed and sworn, and || g * 5

* See the Author's ¢ Reasons against the rendering of our sworn Covenent and subscribed Confession of faith," which, says Bailli 3 1, p. 04, put the Commissioner from all hope of obtaining any such pr oposmon

t i.e. The clauses for mutual defence, which were the main ground of offence and alarm to the King and his government.

+ ¢« The Commissioner also would have them agree to a declaration of this clause of his forming; but this all did refuse," Baillie 1. 87.

§ The « King's Covenant," or Covenant of 1580.

| Aand◊footnote{A page or two are here wanting, being the last of the St. Andrews Sermons, which seem at one time, as stated in the Preface, to have formed a separate Collection.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/89/mode/1up)

--- Page 89 ---

ON THE SABBATH BEFORE THE COMMUNION, APRYLE. 8, 1638.

[ At this point begin the Discourses preached at Leuchars, in Henderson's own Church, and to his own flock. The first is a Sermon on Heb. xi. 28, one of a series on the same chapter, which follow in this volume. It was preached on April 8, 1638, the Sabbath before the Communion. To this Communion a special interest attaches, as being the first that was observed in Henderson's congregation since the renewing of the Covenant. In® the services connected with it, it is but natural to expect that pretty frequent allusion should be made to that important event, and this we find to be the case, not merely on the day of the Communion itself, but on this, the Sabbath which preceded it. In the Preface which follows, we find these words,---¢ We have lately renewed the Confession of our Faith, and that in a solemn manner; before the eyes of many witnesses we have entered in a Covenant with God;" and in the Sermon which succeeds it, we find the preacher saying, ¢ We have in a very special manner shortly been renewing our Covenant with God, and now," he adds, ¢ we are to receive and put to the seal to the Covenant."" The Sermon is preceded by two Prefaces and two Prayers, and is followed by a third Prayer considerably longer than either of the two first. This was the forenoon's work. The afternoon's work consisted of a Sermon on Heb. xi. 29, the verse following that preached on in the forenoon, preceded by a Preface and a Prayer, and followed by another Prayer. This was the whole work, forenoon and afternoon, of what commonly we call ¢the preparation Sabbath." Next follow the services ot the Communion Sabbath itself, and after these, those of the Sabbath after the Communion; the whole forming a collection the interest and value of which can hardly be over-estimated. ]

[ForENOON. ] PREFACE.

In this especially is our case deplorable and lamentable, and indeed worthy to be lamented, that God has not given unto us understanding minds and stirred up hearts clearly toCollection.} ...

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:25:24 2025 -0300

a/src/0007.poly.pm b/src/0007.poly.pm index 7852f47..9fa4746 100644 --- a/src/0007.poly.pm +++ b/src/0007.poly.pm @@ -1,223 +1,193 @@ #lang pollen

We have to regret, beloved, that when our hearts should be present, and should be lifted up, to the praise and hon- ourhonour of God, and to the comfort of our own souls, that then we should find them to be blind, senseless, and unbelieving, in the receiving of spiritual things :things: when we look unto them, ofttimes we find them astray aff these things; and

* Verse 8.

t This « Conclusion’’Conclusion'' appears to be, not the conclusion of the fore- goingforegoing discourse, but the conclusion after the celebration of the Supper. The discourse is formally closed with the preceding words, «“«" Through Jesus Christ, To whom, &c.”&c."

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/86/mode/1up)

--- Page 86 ---

86 CONCLUSION.

86 CONCLUSION.when they are present, we cannot get them lifted up as they ought to be. And yet nevertheless of all this, we must not leave aff the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but ane honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.* Only a word of that whilk lies next unto my text, whilk I was handling to you.

when they are present, we cannot getWhen the Apostle has taught thir people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them lifted up asthat upon that they oughtsall have the peace of God to be.possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, ¢ furthermore."+ And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet nevertheless of all this, we mustthere is aye more to say; for it is never enough said, that is not leave affenough learned. And what says the work, because we findapostle then ¢ Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely," &c, ¢ think on these things: and those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, do." So that, if ye will ask what is the duty that is now required of you, I answer that it tois required of you fo do all, whatsoever is the will of God. And all these things be so; ay, if we have but ane honest purpose, letrendered to usbe going on in doingtwo sorts: First, as we can. I will not go nowappertaining to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which isGod, that is, in truth in our speeches, and to be declaredjust in our actions. Secondly, we must also strive to you after noon.* Onlycarry ourselves honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the Apostle's own practice, for he says, Acts xxiv.,} ¢ In this I am exercised always to keep a word ofgood conscience toward God, and toward men." And, indeed, this is the best exercise that whilk lies next unto my text, whilk Iever man gave himself to: and this was the Apostle's exercise; it was handlinghis study. Never any of your clergymeng§ studied any point they were to you.teach

When the Apostle has taught thir people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them that upon that they sall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, ¢ furthermore.”+ And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is aye more to say ; for it is never enough said, that is not enough learned. And what says the apostle then ¢ Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely,” &c, ¢ think on these things : and those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, do.” So that, if ye will ask what is the duty that is now required of you, I answer that it is required of you fo do all, whatsoever is the will of God. And all these things be rendered to us in two sorts: First, as appertain- ing to God, that is, in truth in our speeches, and to be just in our actions. Secondly, we must also strive to carry our- selves honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the Apostle’s own practice, for he says, Acts xxiv.,} ¢ In this I am exercised always to keep a good con- science toward God, and toward men.” And, indeed, this is the best exercise that ever man gave himself to : and this was the Apostle’s exercise ; it was his study. Never any of your clergymeng§ studied any point they were to teach* Mr David Forret preached “the"the Sermone of thanksgeving.”thanksgeving."

t Furthermore, To hoiwov.

t Verse 16.

§ The name c/ergyman is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/87/mode/1up)

--- Page 87 ---

CONCLUSION. 87

CONCLUSION. 87better, either in Philosophy or Divinity, than he did this point, how to honour God, and how to keep a good conscience toward men.

better, either in Philosophy or Divinity, than he did this point, howBeloved, it were a good thing for you that ye would study to honourwalk with God, andhow to keep ahave this sentence always written into your hearts, ‘" All my ways are before thee, O Lord;" and to learn to watch always over your ways, and be always and often trying yourselves. For when we watch all our best, some enemies will enter; and the best heart that is, and these that watches most circumspectly, they will find that many enemies enters in upon them, and that they are greatly defiled; and therefore we must set to to purge and cleanse ourselves often. If we could set ourselves to watch, to try, and to purge always, it were good con- science toward men.for us; and one of these we ought to be always exercised in. And if we were exercised in this, then whenever death should come and arreist us, or Christ should call us tc judgment, we would make them welcome, as being prepared for them; and there is no way to be so, but for us to endeavour to walk as in the sight of God.

Beloved, it were a good thing forAnd, beloved, I must exhort you that ye would study to walk with God, and to have this sentence always written into your hearts, ‘“ All my ways are before thee, O Lord ;” and to learntake heed to watch always over your ways,yourselves what ye do, and that there be always and often trying yourselves. For when we watch all our best, some enemiesno defection, or falling away, among you from what ye have done. For, then, what will enter ; andothers who behold you say but this, When Sainct Andrews, where the best heart thatclergy of the kingdom is, and these that watches most circumspectly, they will find that many enemies enters in upon them, and that they are greatly defiled ; and thereforegoes on into such a course, why may not we must setfollow it? And, therefore, as ye have been a bad example to others in former times, in drawing back from the truth, strive now if ve can be foremost in bringing them to purgethe profession of the truth again; and cleanse ourselves often. If we could set ourselves to watch,be, as it is written, Jer. l.,* like the he-goats going before the flocks, to try, anddraw others on to purge always, it were good for us ;it, and one of these we oughtnot to be always exercised in.hinderers of them. And if we were exercised in this, then whenever death should come and arreist us, or Christ should call us tc judgment, we would make them welcome, as being prepared for them ; andwithal, there is no way to be so, but for us to endeavourone particular that I would have you to walk as intake heed unto, and that is, that ye deal not wickedly against the sightCovenant of God.God; that when ye have anes entered in a covenant with God, that ye depart not from it again. The prophet Daniel, he chooses this same very word.+

And, beloved, I must exhort you that ye take heed to yourselves what ye do, and that there be no defection, or falling away, among you from what ye have done. For, then, what will others who behold you say but this, When Sainct Andrews, where the clergy of the kingdom is, goes on into such a course, why may not we follow it? And, therefore, as ye have been a bad example to others in former times, in drawing back from the truth, strive now if ve can be foremost in bringing them to the profession of the truth again; and be, as it is written, Jer. l.,* like the he-goats going before the flocks, to draw others on to it, and not to be hinderers of them. And withal, there is one particular that I would have you to take heed unto, and that is, that ye deal not wickedly against the Covenant of God; that when ye have anes entered in a covenant with God, that ye depart not from it again. The prophet Daniel, he chooses this same very word.+& Verse 8, t Dan. xi. 32, “" And such as do wickedly against the Covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries,”flatteries," &c.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/88/mode/1up)

--- Page 88 ---

88 CONCLUSION.

88 CONCLUSION.There has been great business about our Covenant, and we cannot get men satisfied concerning it. First of all, they would had it destroyed, and no subscribed copies thereof to be keeped.* Then when they could not get that done, they would had some special clauses put out of it.+ Then when that could not prevail, they would had us making a declaration close against the meaning thereof.} And then, last of all, the enemies brought in another Covenant among us, as their last and deepest policy, to see whom they can draw away thereby from it.§ And therefore, however others deal with this Covenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that ye deal not mckedly with it, It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we sall take ourselves to generals again. This were a rueing that we had condemned the Service-book and the Book of Canons, as smelling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that ye should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenant by the commandment of authority, see that ye do it not, but stand by your Covenant that ye have already subsc11bed and sworn, and || g * 5

There has been great business about our Covenant, and we cannot get men satisfied concerning it. First of all, they would had it destroyed, and no subscribed copies thereof to be keeped.* Then when they could not get that done, they would had some special clauses put out of it.+ Then when that could not prevail, they would had us making a declaration close* See the Author's ¢ Reasons against the meaning thereof.} And then, lastrendering ofall, the enemies brought in another Cove- nant among us, as their last and deepest policy, to see whom they can draw away thereby from it.§ And therefore, however others deal with this Covenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that ye deal not mckedly with it, It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we sall take ourselves to generals again. This were a rueing that we had con- demned the Service-booksworn Covenent and subscribed Confession of faith," which, says Bailli 3 1, p. 04, put the Book of Canons, as smel- ling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that ye should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenant by the commandment of authority, see that ye do it not, but stand by your Covenant that ye have already subsc11bed and sworn, and || g * 5Commissioner from all hope of obtaining any such pr oposmon

* Seet i.e. The clauses for mutual defence, which were the Author’s ¢ Reasons against the renderingmain ground of our sworn Cove- nentoffence and subscribed Confession of faith,” which, says Bailli 3 1, p. 04, putalarm to the Commissioner from all hope of obtaining any such pr oposmonKing and his government.

t i.e.+ ¢« The clauses for mutual defence, which were the main ground of offence and alarmCommissioner also would have them agree to the King anda declaration of this clause of his government.forming; but this all did refuse," Baillie 1. 87.

+ ¢«§ The Commissioner also would have them agree to a declaration« King's Covenant," or Covenant of this clause of his forming ; but this all did refuse,” Baillie 1. 87.1580.

§ The « King’s Covenant,” or Covenant of 1580.| A page or two are here wanting, being the last of the St. Andrews Sermons, which seem at one time, as stated in the Preface, to have formed a separate Collection.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/89/mode/1up)

--- Page 89 ---

ON THE SABBATH BEFORE THE COMMUNION, APRYLE. 8, 1638.

ON THE SABBATH BEFORE THE COMMUNION, APRYLE.[ At this point begin the Discourses preached at Leuchars, in Henderson's own Church, and to his own flock. The first is a Sermon on Heb. xi. 28, one of a series on the same chapter, which follow in this volume. It was preached on April 8, 1638.1638, the Sabbath before the Communion. To this Communion a special interest attaches, as being the first that was observed in Henderson's congregation since the renewing of the Covenant. In® the services connected with it, it is but natural to expect that pretty frequent allusion should be made to that important event, and this we find to be the case, not merely on the day of the Communion itself, but on this, the Sabbath which preceded it. In the Preface which follows, we find these words,---¢ We have lately renewed the Confession of our Faith, and that in a solemn manner; before the eyes of many witnesses we have entered in a Covenant with God;" and in the Sermon which succeeds it, we find the preacher saying, ¢ We have in a very special manner shortly been renewing our Covenant with God, and now," he adds, ¢ we are to receive and put to the seal to the Covenant."" The Sermon is preceded by two Prefaces and two Prayers, and is followed by a third Prayer considerably longer than either of the two first. This was the forenoon's work. The afternoon's work consisted of a Sermon on Heb. xi. 29, the verse following that preached on in the forenoon, preceded by a Preface and a Prayer, and followed by another Prayer. This was the whole work, forenoon and afternoon, of what commonly we call ¢the preparation Sabbath." Next follow the services ot the Communion Sabbath itself, and after these, those of the Sabbath after the Communion; the whole forming a collection the interest and value of which can hardly be over-estimated. ]

[ At this point begin the Discourses preached at Leuchars, in Henderson’s own Church, and to his own flock. The first is a Sermon on Heb. xi. 28, one of a series on the same chapter, which follow in this volume. It was preached on April 8, 1638, the Sabbath before the Communion. To this Communion a special interest attaches, as being the first that was observed in Henderson’s congregation since the renewing of the Cove- nant. In® the services connected with it, it is but natural to expect that pretty frequent allusion should be made to that important event, and this we find to be the case, not merely on the day of the Communion itself, but on this, the Sabbath which preceded it. In the Preface which follows, we find these words,—¢ We have lately renewed the Con- fession of our Faith, and that in a solemn manner; before the eyes of many witnesses we have entered in a Covenant with God ;” and in the Sermon which succeeds it, we find the preacher saying, ¢ We have in a very special manner shortly been renewing our Covenant with God, and now,” he adds, ¢ we are to receive and put to the seal to the Covenant.”” The Sermon is preceded by two Prefaces and two Prayers, and is followed by a third Prayer considerably longer than either of the two first. This was the forenoon’s work. The afternoon’s work consisted of a Sermon on Heb. xi. 29, the verse following that preached on in the forenoon, preceded by a Preface and a Prayer, and followed by another Prayer. This was the whole work, forenoon and afternoon, of what commonly we call ¢the preparation Sabbath.” Next follow the services ot the Communion Sabbath itself, and after these, those of the Sabbath after the Communion ; the whole forming a collection the interest and value of which can hardly be over-estimated.[ForENOON. ] PREFACE.

[ForENOON. ] PREFACE.In this especially is our case deplorable and lamentable, and indeed worthy to be lamented, that God has not given unto us understanding minds and stirred up hearts clearly to

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:24:48 2025 -0300

a/vault/0007 Conclusion after the Communion.md b/src/0007.poly.pm similarity index 85% copy from vault/0007 Conclusion after the Communion.md copy to src/0007.poly.pm index 7650415..7852f47 100644 --- a/vault/0007 Conclusion after the Communion.md +++ b/src/0007.poly.pm @@ -1,40 +1,4 @@ - [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/85/mode/1up)

--- Page 85 ---

CONCLUSION. 85

the world knows not ; and it is only through Christ that he reveals to them the secret of their election, or any other secret. And Ps. xxxiv.,* David says, ¢ Taste and see how gracious the Lord is:” there, ye see, the children of God get a taste of his goodness throucrh Christ. And in the Canticles the spouse says to Clll‘lSt “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth;” and in another place, ¢ Let him embrace me with his right arm,” &c. Think ye that these, and such other things, are spoken of, and are not to be found? No, but all of them are sensible to the Christian soul ; and they are not problems, but realities. But, what- ever thou findeth of these, see that it be through the testi- mony of God’s Spirit, bearing witness to thy spirit, and that it cometh through Christ : and then thou sall get that hid- den manna ; it sall always spring up to thee, like a whole- some well to refresh thee, and not as a rotten pool to poison thee : thou sall get that white stone with that new name written in it, whilk none knows but these who has it.

And therefore, since that this is the very thing that our Lord is, holding out unto us in this sacrament, and is offering Christ unto us, through whom we have them all, let us go unto it now to get all these. Especially let us go to it, that we may get this peace of conscience, whilk passes under- standing, that so our hearts and minds may be guarded thereby, through Jesus Christ, To whom, &c.

ConcrusioN. f#lang pollen

We have to regret, beloved, that when our hearts should be present, and should be lifted up, to the praise and hon- @@ -257,6 +221,3 @@ PREFACE. In this especially is our case deplorable and lamentable, and indeed worthy to be lamented, that God has not given unto us understanding minds and stirred up hearts clearly to

Date: Tue Dec 3 21:44:10 2024 -0400

a/vault/0007 Conclusion after the Communion.md b/vault/0007 Conclusion after the Communion.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..7650415 --- /dev/null +++ b/vault/0007 Conclusion after the Communion.md @@ -0,0 +1,262 @@ - [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/85/mode/1up)

--- Page 85 ---

CONCLUSION. 85

ConcrusioN. f

We have to regret, beloved, that when our hearts should be present, and should be lifted up, to the praise and hon- our of God, and to the comfort of our own souls, that then we should find them to be blind, senseless, and unbelieving, in the receiving of spiritual things : when we look unto them, ofttimes we find them astray aff these things; and

* Verse 8.

t This « Conclusion’’ appears to be, not the conclusion of the fore- going discourse, but the conclusion after the celebration of the Supper. The discourse is formally closed with the preceding words, «“ Through Jesus Christ, To whom, &c.”

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/86/mode/1up)

--- Page 86 ---

86 CONCLUSION.

when they are present, we cannot get them lifted up as they ought to be. And yet nevertheless of all this, we must not leave aff the work, because we find it to be so; ay, if we have but ane honest purpose, let us be going on in doing as we can. I will not go now to anticipate the doctrine of Thanksgiving which is to be declared to you after noon.* Only a word of that whilk lies next unto my text, whilk I was handling to you.

When the Apostle has taught thir people to be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer, with thanksgiving, to make their requeists known to God, and telleth them that upon that they sall have the peace of God to possess their hearts and minds; yet he has some more to say after that, and he says, ¢ furthermore.”+ And this may teach us this far, let the Christian have said what he will, yet there is aye more to say ; for it is never enough said, that is not enough learned. And what says the apostle then ¢ Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely,” &c, ¢ think on these things : and those things which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, do.” So that, if ye will ask what is the duty that is now required of you, I answer that it is required of you fo do all, whatsoever is the will of God. And all these things be rendered to us in two sorts: First, as appertain- ing to God, that is, in truth in our speeches, and to be just in our actions. Secondly, we must also strive to carry our- selves honestly, in love, and in good respect, among men. And this was the Apostle’s own practice, for he says, Acts xxiv.,} ¢ In this I am exercised always to keep a good con- science toward God, and toward men.” And, indeed, this is the best exercise that ever man gave himself to : and this was the Apostle’s exercise ; it was his study. Never any of your clergymeng§ studied any point they were to teach

* Mr David Forret preached “the Sermone of thanksgeving.”

t Furthermore, To hoiwov.

t Verse 16.

§ The name c/ergyman is always applied by Henderson, with significant emphasis, to the adherents of Episcopacy.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/87/mode/1up)

--- Page 87 ---

CONCLUSION. 87

better, either in Philosophy or Divinity, than he did this point, how to honour God, and how to keep a good con- science toward men.

Beloved, it were a good thing for you that ye would study to walk with God, and to have this sentence always written into your hearts, ‘“ All my ways are before thee, O Lord ;” and to learn to watch always over your ways, and be always and often trying yourselves. For when we watch all our best, some enemies will enter ; and the best heart that is, and these that watches most circumspectly, they will find that many enemies enters in upon them, and that they are greatly defiled ; and therefore we must set to to purge and cleanse ourselves often. If we could set ourselves to watch, to try, and to purge always, it were good for us ; and one of these we ought to be always exercised in. And if we were exercised in this, then whenever death should come and arreist us, or Christ should call us tc judgment, we would make them welcome, as being prepared for them ; and there is no way to be so, but for us to endeavour to walk as in the sight of God.

& Verse 8, t Dan. xi. 32, “ And such as do wickedly against the Covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries,” &c.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/88/mode/1up)

--- Page 88 ---

88 CONCLUSION.

There has been great business about our Covenant, and we cannot get men satisfied concerning it. First of all, they would had it destroyed, and no subscribed copies thereof to be keeped.* Then when they could not get that done, they would had some special clauses put out of it.+ Then when that could not prevail, they would had us making a declaration close against the meaning thereof.} And then, last of all, the enemies brought in another Cove- nant among us, as their last and deepest policy, to see whom they can draw away thereby from it.§ And therefore, however others deal with this Covenant of God, I would exhort you to take heed that ye deal not mckedly with it, It is a pitiful thing, albeit there were no other difference but this, that when we have given our oath and set our subscription to particulars, that then we sall take ourselves to generals again. This were a rueing that we had con- demned the Service-book and the Book of Canons, as smel- ling of Popery. And therefore, albeit that ye should be tempted to the subscribing of this new Covenant by the commandment of authority, see that ye do it not, but stand by your Covenant that ye have already subsc11bed and sworn, and || g * 5

* See the Author’s ¢ Reasons against the rendering of our sworn Cove- nent and subscribed Confession of faith,” which, says Bailli 3 1, p. 04, put the Commissioner from all hope of obtaining any such pr oposmon

t i.e. The clauses for mutual defence, which were the main ground of offence and alarm to the King and his government.

+ ¢« The Commissioner also would have them agree to a declaration of this clause of his forming ; but this all did refuse,” Baillie 1. 87.

§ The « King’s Covenant,” or Covenant of 1580.

| A page or two are here wanting, being the last of the St. Andrews Sermons, which seem at one time, as stated in the Preface, to have formed a separate Collection.

- [ ] Completed?

[Link to this page on Archive.org](https://archive.org/details/sermonsprayerspu00hend/page/89/mode/1up)

--- Page 89 ---

ON THE SABBATH BEFORE THE COMMUNION, APRYLE. 8, 1638.

[ForENOON. ] PREFACE.

In this especially is our case deplorable and lamentable, and indeed worthy to be lamented, that God has not given unto us understanding minds and stirred up hearts clearly to

Alexander Henderson’s Sermons

Changes to "Conclusion after the Communion"

Date: Tue Jul 7 15:03:31 2026 +0200

Date: Tue Jul 7 15:03:07 2026 +0200

Date: Tue Jun 2 10:39:15 2026 -0300

Date: Fri Oct 31 09:13:48 2025 -0300

Date: Thu Oct 30 14:50:55 2025 -0300

Date: Thu Oct 30 11:03:09 2025 -0300

Date: Tue Oct 14 16:55:42 2025 -0300

Date: Mon Oct 6 18:52:21 2025 -0300

Date: Mon Oct 6 18:52:03 2025 -0300

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:46:48 2025 -0300

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:44:11 2025 -0300

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:43:42 2025 -0300

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:25:24 2025 -0300

Date: Sat Mar 22 12:24:48 2025 -0300

Date: Tue Dec 3 21:44:10 2024 -0400