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Introduction by Samuel Clarke
The Introduction Containing Some Observations upon the Excellency and Use of the Promises,
and Directions for the righ Application of them.
Besides the many other evidences the Holy Scripture carries in it of a Divine Original, there are especially remarkable the Sublimity, Excellency and Reasonableness of the Doctrine it teaches; the Wisdom, Holiness, and Perfection of the Rules of Life it lays down and the Strength and Efficacy of those Sanctions, with which it enforces its Precepts. As the Threatening's have the greatest Tendency to strike an Awe upon the Mind, and to lay a powerful Restraint upon every irregular Inclination, so the Promises are of such a Nature as most strongly to excite to, and give the greatest Encouragement in, a Course of Piety and universal Holiness. It is therefore with the highest Reason the Apostle says of them, That there are given unto us exceeding great and precious Promises, that by these we might be Partakers of the Divine Nature, having escaped the Corruption that is in the World through Lust, 2Pet. 1:4.
They are great and excellent; whether we consider the Nature and Variety of the Blessings contained in them, or their happy influence upon the Mind.
They contain Blessings of all Sorts, of the most excellent Nature, and suited to every Circumstance. As Man is made up of Body as well as Spirit, and the Necessities of this present Life must be provided for, as well as his Happiness secured in the next; in the Promises abundant Care is taken of both, and Provision is made for the Peace, Comfort, and Welfare of the Christian, both in this, and in the other World.
He is assured of the several Necessaries and Conveniences of this Life, in such a measure, as Infinite Wisdom sees best for him. And since we are exposed to various Troubles and Calamities, there are many Promises made with relation to them; either that we shall be preserved from those Afflictions, or, if it be necessary we should be exercised with them, that we shall be powerfully supported under them, and in the best Time and Way, delivered from them, after that they have been made to answer the most excellent Ends upon us.
Nor is it easy to say, what a vast Variety of Consolations are provided for our Relief in those Trials. But, however valuable, considering the Circumstances of our present State, the Promises relating to Temporal Enjoyments and Afflictions, may be, they are not to be compared with the Excellency and Glory of those Spiritual and Eternal Blessings, with which we are blessed in Christ Jesus, and of which we have the most clear, full and express Promises in the Gospel.
Therein, how great, how particular a Regard is had to the Condition of fallen, sinful Man! What Care is taken to ease the
Conscience under the Burden of Guilt, and the Apprehensions of Divine Wrath,by the most gracious Promises of Pardon and Mercy!
What Assurances given of Reconciliation and Acceptance with God, through the Blood and Intercession of the Redeemer!
To what glorious Privileges and high Honours is the Christian advanced! Such
as, The Adoption of Children, A kind Regard to all his Prayers, The Ministry of Angels, and An Interest in the Grace, Love and Fellowship of God the Father, and of his Eternal Son and Spirit.
In the Promises is contained all that Grace which is requisite to refine and enable our Natures, to enlighten our Understandings, to regulate our Wills, and purify our Affections; to preserve us from Sin, and all the Contrivances and Snares of the Devil and the World, and to exalt us to the highest Perfection of Holiness and Happiness.
The manner in which these Blessings are promised, still further adds to their Value. They are not expressed in general or ambiguous Terms, but with the greatest Clearness and Perspicuity. God would not leave his People at an Uncertainty, concerning his kind Intentions towards them. If the Meaning of a Promise seems doubtful in one Place, it is abundantly cleared up in several others. Nor is it only here and there in some few Passages, or in a cold and reserved Manner, that God has signified his good Will; but, upon the Account of our Dullness and Slowness to believe what God has promised. he has both made use of the strongest Words and Phrases that Language could furnish out, and has over and over, in great Variety of Expression, often repeated the Assurances of his Favour.
He has contrived his Promises so as to meet with all our Objections, and remove all our Doubts and Fears; And herein he has been pleased to shew an Affection, Tenderness, and Condescension, which could not be expected from an earthly Prince to his Subjects, much less from the Great and Glorious Majesty of Heaven and Earth to sinful Dust and Ashes.
But what doth in the highest Degree enhance the Worth and Excellency of the Promises, is the Evidences we have that they shall
certainly be made good; since, as the Apostle argues, Heb. 6:17, 18, we have for them both the Word and Oath of that God who cannot lie, that so we might have strong Consolation,who have fled for Refuge,to lay hold upon the Hope that is set before us.
And of the Covenant thus confirmed, Christ the Son of God is made Surety, Heb. 7:22, having ratified it by his own Blood. And that all the Ever blessed Trinity might concur in establishing our Faith upon the strongest Foundation, the Holy Spirit of God witnesses the Truth of the Promises, by his miraculous Operations, when first poured fort upon the Apostles, and by his sanctifying Influences upon the Hearts of all true Christians, both then and ever-since. Hereby he inspires into them a lively Hope, and furnishes them with well-grounded Evidences of their Interest in the Promises; and their Hope makes them not ashamed, because the Love of God is shed abroad in their Hearts by the Holy Ghost, which is given unto them, Rom. 5:5.
The Promises therefore of the Gospel being of so excellent a Nature, and confirmed to us by such Authority and Evidence, cannot but have very great and happy Influences upon the Mind, when seriously attended to, and applied with Faith; especially as they are the Means by which the Spirit of God carries on his Work upon the Soul. They are the strongest Arguments to persuade the Sinner to turn to God, the greatest Encouragement to a humble, believing Dependance upon the Grace of Christ in the Gospel, and the most powerful Motives to sincere and universal Obedience: Since by them we are assured, that every penitent Sinner shall find the most gracious Acceptance; that from the Grace of Christ we shall derive sufficient Strength and Capacity for every Duty; and that in keeping God's Commands there is great Reward. So that would we but duly consider the several Promises made to every Performance of Duty,what a Spur would this be to quicken our slow Pace in the Ways of Holiness! What an Encouragement to be steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the Work of the Lord. forasmuch as we know
that our Labour is not in vain in the Lord, 1Cor. 15:58.
A Fixed, constant Attention to the Promises, and a firm Belief of them, would prevent Solicitude and Anxiety about the Concerns of this Life. It would keep the Mind quiet and composed in every Change, and support and keep up our sinking Spirits under the several Troubles of Life.
In the multitude of my Thoughts within me, thy Comforts delight my Soul, Ps. 94:19. Christians deprive themselves of their most solid Comforts by their Unbelief and Forgetfulness of God's Promises. For there is no Extremity so great, but there are Promises suitable to it, and abundantly sufficient for our Relief in it.
A thorough Acquaintance with the Promises would be of the greatest Advantage in Prayer. With what Comfort may the Christian address himself to God in Christ, when he considers the repeated Assurances that his Prayers shall be heard? With how much satisfaction may he offer up the several Desires of his Heart, when he reflects upon the Texts wherein those very Mercies are promised? And with what Fervor of Spirit, and Strength of Faith, may he enforce his Prayers, by pleading the several gracious Promises, which are expressly to his Case?
Further, Great Assistance and Encouragement may the Christian derive in his Spiritual Warfare, when he takes a View of the many Promises of Grace and Strength to mortify Sin, and to resist the Devil; of Success and a final Victory in his Conflicts with the Enemies of his Salvation; and of an incorruptible Crown of Glory, to be given him as the Reward of his Firmness, Constancy, and Perseverance.
A great deal more may be said, but that I would not too much enlarge this Introduction, to shew of what excellent Use the Promises would be if duly attended to, to promote all the Exercises of the Divine Life, and inspire into a good Man Comfort and Joy in every State of Life.
That the Christian might have before him, in one View, the many great and precious Promises scattered up and down in Scripture, and in such a Method as easily to find what is suitable to his Case, I have drawn up the following Collection.
The Occasion indeed, of my first entering upon it, was to assist some Young Persons, who very commendably and to their great Advantage, are employed in improving themselves, and one another, in the Knowledge of the Scriptures; one of their Exercises being to Treasure up in their Memories, and question one another upon the Promises, under their several Heads. At first I intended to put together a small Number, upon some principal Subjects; but, upon searching the Scriptures more and more Texts still offering themselves, which I thought equally to my purpose, this Collection at length grew so large, that the taking so many Copies as were wanted, would have been a tedious Work; For which Reason, and in hopes it might serve the same useful End to others, I at last gave way to its being made public. Since I completed it, I have examined some other Collections I have met with, and have added out of them those few texts, which I had not before observed; So that, I believe, this is the
fullest Collection of the kind of any extant, at least that I have seen.
I have endeavored to put them together in such a Method as might be easiest and fittest for common Use. I have not increased the Heads to so great a Variety of Particulars as some may expect; both because too many Divisions rather confound than assist the Memory; and also the applying of the Promises to cases too particular, would have too much confined their Use, when capable of a more extensive Application. If any therefore want the Promises for some Case they don't find mentioned, they may meet with them under some more general Head, within which that Case is comprehended. And for the same Reason, some of the Promises may seem not so properly to belong to the Head under which they are ranged; but as they are near a-kin to it, I chose rather to put them together, than to multiply Heads. There are also other Texts, which some may think should have been placed elsewhere; For instance, some of the Promises under the Head of Temporal Blessings, are by some understood in a Figurative Sense of Spiritual, and so on the contrary. I have taken them in the Sense that appeared to me most agreeable to the Design of the Spirit of God; though sometimes, where I thought the Words were capable of both Senses, I have written them in both Places.
Many other Texts also might be ranged under different Heads; for Example, either in the First Part, among the Blessings promised; or in the Second, containing the Graces and Duties to which Promises are made; and sometimes under either of those Heads, which being nearly related, follow one the other; as the Head of Sanctifying Grace in general, and Converting Grace. If therefore what you look for be not in one Place, you may expect to find it in the other. For which Purpose the References in the will be useful; for I have generally endeavored to avoid Repetitions. Sometimes, indeed, the same Text may be met with in different Places, but then it is applied to different Purposes; as when several Blessings or Duties are comprised in one, as Prov. 22:4.
Though all the Scriptures here collected under the Name of Promises are useful for the Comfort and Encouragement of Christians in the Cases specified; yet they are expressed in different Forms. Some contain direct Promises and Assurances of such and such Blessings.
Of these, some are made to all in general, according to the Rules and Limitations of the Gospel; as Ps. 84:11,and Ps.34:9, 10. But others are addressed to Particular good Men in Scripture, which yet every Christian may take Comfort in. So that Promise made to Joshua, Chap.1:5,I will not fail thee nor forsake thee, is by the Apostle applied to Christians in general, Heb. 13:6.
In the same manner, Promises made to particular Churches, are applicable to the Church of God in general; as those in the Old Testament to the Jewish Church, Is. 27:3, and Zech. 2:5, and those to the Churches in the New Testament, Phil. 4:19, Rom. 16:20, and many more. The Rule in both these Cases, is That whatsoever Promises are made in Scripture to Particular Persons, in Cases, and for Reasons, that equally concern other good Men, they are applicable to the Comfort of all, and may be
pleaded with Faith in Prayer. The Words of the Apostle afford a sufficient Foundation for this Observation, Rom. 15:4, Whatsoever Things were written aforetime, were written for our Learning, that we through Patience and Comfort of the Scriptures might have Hope.
The Promises also made in particular Cases to Persons in Scripture,
may be applied to the Encouragement of others, so far as the Case
and Circumstances agree, though not absolutely, and in their whole
Extent. Thus the Promise made to Solomon (2 Chron. 1:11, 13.) of
Wisdom, and also of Riches and Honour, beyond all that were before
him, because he asked of God Wisdom rather than Riches, & c., is
applicable to Solomon only, in its whole extent; but yet gives
Encouragement to every good Man to hope, that if he seek of God
Wisdom above all other Things, he shall obtain a large Measure of it,
according to what his Station requires, and also so much of other
worldly Advantages as God sees best for him, according to those
more general Promises, Prov. 8:17, 18. In the same manner the
Promises made by Christ to his Apostles of the Holy Spirit, to teach
them all Things, and bring all Things he had said to them to
remembrance, John 14:26, and to guide them into all Truth, Chap.
16:13, though they are not to be apply'd to others in the same degree
as to the other Apostles, who were by the Spirit extraordinarily
inspir'd and instructed in the whole Revelation of the Gospel, and
infallibly secured from Error, this being peculiar to their Character as
Apostles; yet they encourage all other Christians to expect from the
Spirit all that Illumination, Instruction, and Guidance which is
necessary for them in their several Circumstances, upon the diligent
Use of all appointed Means, so that they shall be preserved from all
dangerous and fatal Mistakes and Errors, according to those
Promises, 1John 2:20, 27; Ps. 25:12, and others; Divine Guidance
[Ps. 13:3; 73:24; Is. 49:10, 11; 61:8; Deut. 32:10, 11; Is. 30:21] and
Promises of a Blessing [Ps. 65:4; 68:24; 84:4, 10, 11; 89:15, 16; 92:13;
Song of Solomon 2:3], made to good men in general.
Besides those Scriptures that run in the Form of Promises, there are
others which are Observations or Declarations of the Blessings that
generally attend the several Exercises of Piety and Holiness; as Ps.
111:5 and Prov. 18:10, and most of those collected out of the
Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. But as these are Observations made
under the Inspiration of the Spirit of God, they give the same
Encouragement to expect the Blessings mentioned in them, as if they
were in the Form of Promises.
Some of the Texts do only express the Experiences of good Men in
Scripture, or their Expectations from God; as Ps. 16:6, Ps. 23
throughout, and Ps. 71:20. Of which Scriptures the same may be said
as of those above. That as Holy Men therein spake under the
Direction of the Spirit of God, and what they say of themselves is
recorded for our Instruction and Comfort, consequently other good
Men may assure themselves, in like Circumstances, of the like
Favour and Mercy. Thus, whereas the Psalmist expresses his
Confidence in God's Help against all his Enemies, Ps. 118:6, the
Apostle applies it to all Christians, Heb. 13:6. So that we may boldly
say, The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what Man can do
unto me.
Some of the Texts are Petitions put up by Christ for his Church; as
those taken out of John 17. These give the same Encouragement as
the Promises do; for we are assured that whatever Christ asks for his
People, is certainly granted.
The same may be said, in some Degree, of the Prayers put up by
other Saints in Scripture, for themselves and others; especially the
Prophetical Prayers, Gen. 49, Deut. 32, and in other Places. Since
those Prayers were deliver'd under the Inspiration of the Spirit, we
know they were agreeable to the Will of God; and so far as
Circumstances are the same, all other good Men may hope to be
heard in asking the same Blessings of God. But of this Sort I've taken
but few, both because it is more difficult rightly and with Judgment
to apply them, and lest I should too much swell this Collection.
The Blessings promised, are either of a Temporal, or of a Spiritual
and Eternal Nature; It may be necessary to lay down some Rules, to
direct the serious Christian in the right Application of these different
Sorts of Promises.
As to the Promises of Temporal Blessings, and those that relate to
Temporal Evils, it is acknowledged by all, they are not to be
understood Absolutely or Universally, but with the Limitation, as far
as may be for God's Glory, and our Good; both which are, in effect,
One. Nor will these Limitations lessen their Value, with any thinking,
serious Person. For all outward Things are of such a Nature, as to be
capable of being either good or evil to us, as Circumstances vary.
Riches, though in some Circumstances they may be very useful and
valuable, in which Case God will bestow them according to the
Tenour of his Promises; yet in others they may be, and often prove,
very pernicious: No wise Man, in that Case, would desire them. Thus
Afflictions, in some Instances, may be of the greatest Advantage to
us. Then they are Mercies: The inflicting them is a Token of Favour,
and the preventing them would be a Judgment, instead of fulfilling a
Promise. Now it must be allowed, that of all these Circumstances, the
Infinitely Wise and Good God is the best Judge; since he has before
him, in one View, the whole Compass of every Case, in all its
Circumstances, and is more concern'd and watchful for our Good
than we can be ourselves. The Promises therefore relating to these
Things, should not lie by neglected; but we should fix our Faith upon
them for the Mercies we want, with a firm Dependance upon the
Power and Faithfulness of God, though with an entire Submission to
his superior Wisdom, to choose what is best for us. I verily believe
Christians often deprive themselves even of Temporal Favours from
God for want of a more frequent, stedfast Exercise of Faith upon the
Promises relating to these Things. They either ask not, or not in
Faith, and therefore receive nothing from God, Jam. 1:6, 7. Or, they
desire and ask but not for right Ends (to take Notice of another
Limitation hinted at by the same Apostle, Jam. 5:3,) not for God's
Honour, but to consume it upon their Lusts; and so they ask amiss,
and therefore receive not. This Collection therefore will give great
Assistance to the Faith of Christians when they observe how full and
express the Promises are, and how suitable to their several
Exigencies, even in Things concerning this Life.
It may be objected to many of the Texts that they are taken out of the
Old Testament, and were Promises made to the Jews under a
Dispensation, wherein a greater Stress is laid upon Temporal
Blessings, than under the Gospel; and consequently, that Christians
can't expect so much from those Promises.
I answer, That it is true, the Gospel has a much greater Tendency to
draw our Affections from, and lessen our Regard to Outward Felicity
and Prosperity, than the Law, since it has brought in a better Hope,
and gives more clear Discoveries and more full Assurances of
Spiritual and Eternal Blessings, and recommends these as our main
Concern: And therefore our Desires and Expectations of Temporal
Blessings ought to be very moderate, and bear no Proportion with
our Concern for Spiritual. But yet, that Christians may take Comfort
in, and apply to themselves the Promises of the Old Testament, and
in Things relating to this Life, is evident from that Declaration of the
Apostle, 1Timothy 5:8, Godliness is profitable unto all Things,
having Promise of the Life that now is, and of that which is to come.
Where the Apostle affirms, not only that Godliness is profitable to
this, as well as another Life, but that it has Promises relating to both;
by which it is probable he meant those of the Old Testament, a great
part of the New being not then committed to Writing, or not
published among the Churches. Besides, as was observed before, the
Promises made in the Old Testament the Apostle applies to
Christians, and that upon the Principle above-mentioned, Rom. 15:4.
An Instance of which we have, among others, in his pressing
Obedience to Parents on Christians, Eph. 6:2, 3, from the Temporal
Promise annex'd to the Fifth Commandment, deliver'd to the Jews.
To which may be added, That there are many Promises of Temporal
Blessings to be found in the Gospel, as full and as expressive as those
in the Old Testament, as will appear upon the Perusal of this Collection.
Nor do I think the Case of Good Men under the Law so different from
that of Christians with relation to Outward Blessings as some may
apprehend. It is plain, those Promises were not to them absolute or
universal, but to be understood with the same limitations as now;
and that in those Times, as well as since, the Righteous were
frequently exercis'd with severe Afflictions, and the Wicked had
many Times a greater Share of Outward Prosperity than even the
best of Men; the want of a due Attention to which was the Reason of
the heavy Censures Job met with from his Friends. The Sentences
therefore which in Job, in the Proverbs, and in other Places, express
the Earthly Advantages attending Righteousness in its several
Branches, and the ill Consequences of Vice are not to be look'd upon
as universal Positions, but rather as Observations of the proper
Tendency of Virtue and Vice, and their natural Connection with such
and such Benefits and Mischiefs, though liable to some Exceptions in
particular Cases, as most general Observations and Maxims are. And
there is now the same Connection established by God in the Course
of Things between Moral Good and Evil; and several Advantages and
Mischiefs, though subject to such Variations as God, in his wise
Providence, sees fit to make from his more settled Rules.
As to the Promises of Spiritual and Eternal Blessings, they are to be
apply'd according to the Tenour of the Gospel. It is to Faith,
Repentance, Love, and sincere Obedience, that the Promises in
general are made of Pardon, Grace, and Glory; as appears from a
great Multitude of Texts here collected. And indeed, without these
Dispositions, none can justly lay claim to any of the Temporal
Promises. But because, in many Cases, a serious Person may be
doubtful whether he is converted or not, whether there be in him
that Faith, Repentance, and Holiness, which may be a Proof that he
is in a State of Favour with God, and so entitled to those Promises, I
observe, That as there is a Difference between Grace begun, in its
first Exercises, and when it is arrived to a confirm'd Habit, so many
of the Promises are made to the first Beginnings and Exercises of
Grace, in praying and seeking after God, in the Use of appointed
Means, in turning from Sin and coming to Christ. Thus the Promises
of a new Heart are made to those who enquire after God, Ezek.
36:26, 37, of Wisdom to them that search for it, Prov. 2:4, 5, of the
Spirit to them that ask it, Luke 11:13, and of Rest in Christ to them
that being weary and heavy laden, come to him, Matt. 11:28. Which
therefore every one who finds in himself those Beginnings of Grace,
may apply them to himself, as an Encouragement to go on.
It is also to be observed, That the other Promises of Divine
Influences, of the Increase of Grace, of Preservation from sin, of
Grace to persevere to the End, & c., and so of everlasting Life and
Glory, tho' every sincere Christian may apply them, and depend upon
them, yet they all suppose the diligent Use of all the Means of Grace,
Watchfulness, a constant Application to, and Dependance upon, the
Strength of Christ, and the Grace of his Holy Spirit, and a sincere
Regard to all the other Duties of the Gospel; as appears from John
15:4, 10, and many other Passages to be found in this Collection,
especially in the latter Part.
To obtain the Comfort of the Promises in the Second Part, every one
must see that they be in a good Degree possess'd of the Graces, and
that they diligently perform the Duties, to which the Promises are
made; and that from a Principle of Faith in Christ, and Love to God,
express'd in an habitual Care and Endeavour to please him. For,
whatever Duty we do, without a real Regard to God therein,
depending upon Christ for Acceptance, in whom all the Promises are
Yea and Amen, we can expect no Reward from Him.
God may justly reject such a Claim, with, Did ye it all to me? And for
the same Reason, the observing of some Duties, while we knowingly
allow ourselves in Acts of Disobedience to other Commands, will not
support our Claim to the Promises; because, if we acted with a
sincere Respect to God, we should shew the same Regard to all his
known laws, Jam. 2:10, 11.
As a Christian ought to be concerned not only for himself, but for the
whole Church of God, and the Interest of Christ's Kingdom here on
Earth, I thought it very necessary to lay before him what the
Scripture affords for the raising of his Hopes, and encouraging his
Prayers upon those important Subjects. And this is the Design of that
Collection of Texts in the Appendix. But this I found more difficult
than any other Part whatsoever. For, in searching the Scripture upon
those Subjects, I met with so many Passages that had a relation to
the State of the Church, that a compleat Collection of them was
inconsistent with my intended Brevity; and many of the Prophecies
were so difficult to be understood, that it could not be expected that
the Generality of Christians should know how to make use of them. I
have, however, endeavoured to avoid both these Inconveniences, by
selecting those Texts which are most full to my purpose, and most
easy to be apprehended by an attentive Reader; hoping that those
Scriptures being here laid together, which treat of the same Subject,
they would mutually illustrate and explain one another.
I am sensible that many of the Texts I have brought, which foretell
the Enlargement and Glory of the Church, have already had, in some
Degree, their Accomplishment, in the Conversion of the Gentiles to
the Christian Faith; but upon a thorough Consideration of several of
the Prophecies concerning the spreading of the Gospel throughout all
Nations, the Subjection of all Kings to the Authority of Christ, and
the Glorious State of the Church in the latter Days, as Ps. 86:9, Is.
66:18, Dan. 7:27, Zech. 14:9, &c., it appears to me, there's still to be
expected a fuller Accomplishment of them, than has yet been. But
which have been already fulfilled, and which still remain to be so, I
leave to every one's Judgment, upon considering and comparing the
Texts.
Some of the Texts I have applied to the Church in general, are by
some Interpreters understood of the Church of the Jews, when
converted to Christ in the latter Ages of the World; as in Is. 4:3, 27:6;
Is. 60 and 62. Nor do I deny, but it is probable, that People is more
immediately pointed at in those Prophecies. But as the Gentile and
Jewish Church will then be one, there will be a Communication of
Privileges and Glory; and, consequently, in whatever Measures the
Spirit of God is poured out, and the Glory of God manifested among
the Jews, when converted, the Gentile Church will enjoy their Share
of the Benefit: For, if the Fall of them be the Riches of the World, and
the Diminishing of them the Riches of the Gentiles, How much more
their Fulness? Rom. 11:12.
As to the Conversion of the Jews, it has indeed been the Opinion of
many learned Men, that nothing more is to be expected, than what
has already been done in the several, but especially the first Ages of
Christianity; but I don't see what Sense can be made of the Eleventh
Chapter to the Romans, but upon the Supposition of a further and
more general Conversion of the Jews, even of that Part of the Jewish
Nation which were then cut off from the true Church for their
infidelity: And as the Apostle applies to this Purpose a Passage
quoted out of one of the Prophets, it seems to me to serve as a Key
for the right understanding of a great Number of Places in the
Prophets concerning the State of the Jews in the latter Days; a great
Part of which I have therefore collected, or referr'd to in the last
Section. I know, indeed, those Prophecies are suppos'd by Grotius,
and other learned Commentators, to have been fulfill'd by the Return
of the Jews from the Babylonish Captivity, the Favour they obtain'd
from several Princes, and the Victories gain'd by the Maccabees over
the Enemies of the Jews. And perhaps the Foretelling of those
remarkable Events, was in part the Design of at least some of those
Prophecies. But they must be allow'd also to have had a further View,
if we consider the low, afflicted, and persecuted State of the Jewish
Nation most part of the Time after their Return to their own Land,
under the Persian, Grecian, and at length the Roman Empire, and
the Corruptions and Disorders that crept into, and at last quite over
run their Church; of which Dr. Prideaux has given a very full
Account, in his excellent History. Now this no way agrees with those
sublime and lively Descriptions of the Peace, Prosperity, Holiness,
and flourishing Condition, both of their Church and State, foretold in
those Prophecies; as particularly in Jer. 30:9, 16, Ezek. 34:28, and
36:11, Joel 3:17, 20, &c. Besides that, in many of those Prophecies,
the Latter Days, or the Days of the Messiah, are expressly pointed at,
as the Time of their Accomplishment. This has therefore led many to
apply all those Passages to the Gentile Church, which they suppose to
be spoken of under Names and Characters proper to the Jewish
Church as being typified by it. But whoever will carefully observe the
Connection of the several Parts of those Prophecies, must
acknowledge that the Jewish Nation is in some of the Verses plainly
spoken of, and that in other Verses of the same Context, the
Promises of Conversion and Restoration to their own Land, are made
to the very same Persons; of which see Instances in the Chapters
above-mention'd, and in Hos. 2 and 3.
There are many indeed of those who expect a more general
Conversion of the Jews, that yet will not admit of their Restoration to
their own Land, but suppose they shall be, upon their Conversion,
embodied with the several Nations among which they live. But in
those Prophecies concerning them, which evidently refer to the
Gospel Times, there are several Passages which speak so fully and
positively of their Return to their own Country, and that Jerusalem
shall be rebuilt and reinhabited by them, that it seems to me
impossible to understand them in any other than the literal Sense,
without doing them great Violence; as Jer. 32:41 and 33:16, Ezek.
36:11, 24, 28; 37:25, Zech. 12:6; 14:11 &c. It is beyond my present
Design, and the Compass of this Introduction, to give all the Reasons
that incline me to these Sentiments: They that please to search
further into the Matter, may consult Doctor Whitby, and other
learned Writers. I shall conclude what I have to say upon this Head,
with recommending it to Christians to make use of these Texts to
raise their Hopes and Expectations of those future happy Times,
when the Gospel shall be preach'd more universally throughout the
World, the Christian Church receive a vast Accession by the calling of
the Jews, and the Coming in of the Fulness of the Gentiles; and
Holiness, Peace, and Love, shall flourish, probably in a greater
measure than ever, at least since the Apostles' Times. Let this be the
Subject of their daily and most fervent Prayers, and these Promises
be made use of as Pleas to enforce their Petitions, and support their
Faith.
Though this Collection has cost me not a little Time and Pains, I
think it very well bestowed, not only upon the Account of the
Advantage I have myself received from the Study of the Promises,
and the Assistance I still expect from this Book for my private
Thoughts and Composures for the Pulpit, by having it continually
before me; but also in Hopes it may be useful to others in several
Respects, for promoting the Holiness and Comfort of Christians.
Here they have before them, in one View, the Riches of the Covenant
of Grace: Here are all the strongest Arguments to persuade to real
Religion, to recommend every Duty, and to support in every afflicted
and perplexed Case. This Book may be very useful to assist in Prayer,
both for the Reasons before-mentioned, and also because from hence
one may be furnished with Variety of proper Matter and Expression
upon all the Cases we are concerned to represent to God. And as the
Study of these Promises would be to the Advantage of all sorts of
Persons, it might be a very useful and easy Exercise for Children to
be employ'd in learning some of the plainest Texts under those
Heads which are most proper for them, and to question one another
upon them, being instructed by their Teachers in their Sense and
Use. In this Way the Directors of the Education of Children in the
Charity Schools, may make this Book serve good Purposes, for the
Instruction and Improvement of their Children in the Knowledge of
the Scriptures. And I know of no better Way of enriching the Minds
of Children with useful and solid Knowledge, than by making them
well acquainted with the Scriptures themselves, those pure unmixed,
Fountains of excellent and Divine Wisdom, and treasuring up in
their Memories a great Number of select Scriptures most suited to
their Capacity and Use. For this End, I have frequently thought of
making some proper Collections, particularly for the Benefit of the
Charity School at St. Albaus, and of all other Children, whose Parents
or Teachers shall think fit to make use of them; which perhaps, * I
may hereafter finish, if this meets with Acceptance.
[*Note: I had laid aside this Design upon finding that there was a
Variety of such Collections already published. But as some Friends,
to whom I have a great Regard, think something of that Nature more
suited to the Instruction of Children is wanting, and therefore have
put me lately upon it, I am now drawing up a small Collection for the
Press.]
If we would reap the Comfort and Benefit of these Promises, it is not
enough that we have them by us, or now and then look into them;
but we must thoroughly acquaint ourselves with them, store them up
in our Memories, and be often meditating upon them, that they may
be ready for Use when we most want them. And whatever Pains we
may be at on this Account, the Pleasure and Advantage we shall
receive will be a sufficient Recompence: For these are pleasant
Words, that are as a Honey-comb; sweet to the Soul, and Health to
the Bones, Prov. 16:24, and therefore well deserve to be bound upon
our Fingers, and written upon the Table of our Hearts, Prov. 7:3.
And would serious Christians make the Promises the frequent
Subject of their Conversation together, and at the same Time take
notice of the several Instances wherein they have been made good to
themselves, and others within their Observation, it would both
impress them upon their Memories, and very much increase their
Force and Influence upon their Hearts.
But Care must be taken to understand them in their true Sense, and
rightly to apply them. Mistaken Apprehensions of Scripture, have
often been the Cause of People deceiving themselves with
ungrounded Comforts and Expectations; or, at least, they have not
built their Comforts upon proper Texts, though they may have had
sufficient Foundation for them in other Places. The comparing one
Scripture with another, as they lie together, will be, in many Cases of
great Use to assist in the right understanding of them. And in most
Instances, it will be still a further Advantage to turn to the Place
quoted and consider the Circumstances of the Text, and its
Connection with the Context. This will shew how far there is an
Agreement of your Case with that referr'd to in the Text; and,
consequently, how far the Promise is to be applied, whether
absolutely, and in its whole Extent, or only in some degree, and with
Limitations.
In particular Cases, we may draw Comfort, not only from the
Promises peculiar to that Case, but also from those that are of a more
general Nature. As under Sickness, we may have Relief, not only
from those Scriptures which expressly relate to that Circumstance,
but also from the Promises relating to Trouble in general, and the
Assurances of God's Love, Care, and Readiness to help his People, &
c., which the will easily direct to.
That we may have the Comfort of the Promises, a steady Exercise of
Faith is above all Things necessary. For this Purpose, we must
impress upon our Minds the Power, Goodness, and Faithfulness of
God, and the Experience of good Men in every Age; and by this
Means, and by an attentive Consideration of the Promises, suck at
those Breasts of Consolation till we be satisfied, Is. 66:11. But at the
same Time our Eyes must be fixed upon the LORD Jesus Christ, as
the only Foundation of our Hopes, in and through whom alone all
the Promises are made good to us; and upon the Holy Spirit the
Comforter, that through his powerful Influences we may rightly
understand and apply, firmly believe, and clearly discover the
Excellency of the Promises, and so taste that the LORD is gracious.
CONSTANTLY plead the Promises with God in Prayer. He has
thereby bound himself to his People, as with a Note under his Hand.
Go with it therefore to God, firmly depending upon his Faithfulness;
He will acknowledge his own Handwriting, and answer your
Demands accordingly. Rest yourself therefore upon God, and wait
patiently for him, being assured he'll not be unmindful of his
Promise; but leave it to his infinite Wisdom to fulfil it, in that Way,
and at that Time, he sees best.
ut remember, The Promises of God do not discharge from, but
encourage and oblige to, the diligent Use of all proper and lawful
Means. Christ has promised Food and Raiment; but the Slothful and
Careless must not expect the Benefit of that Promise. The same may
be said of the Spiritual Blessings promised. The Soul of the Slothful
desireth, and hath nothing: but the Soul of the Diligent shall be
made fat, Prov. 13:4.
To conclude: Let the Christian live a Life of Faith upon the Promises.
A great Part of the Riches of the Nation at this Day, consists in the
Credit that is given to Notes, Bonds, Assignments, &c., I am sure that
the Riches of the Christian lie chiefly in the Assignments he has
under God's Hand, of the most valuable Blessings both of this and a
better Life. Let him then know how to value these as the truest
Riches, and to make use of them upon all Occasions; he'll find no
Want of any good thing. If he has it not in Hand, he has it in the
Promise ready whenever he needs it. So that he may live entirely free
from Solicitude and anxious Care, committing himself and all his
Concerns, to that God who careth for him.
I am willing to take this Opportunity of recommending it to those
Young Persons, for whose Benefit this Collection was first
undertaken, to persevere in their Endeavours to improve themselves
and one another, in the Knowledge of the Promises, and other Parts
of Scripture, which may be most useful to them, that the Word of
Christ may dwell in them richly in all Wisdom; and to Others,
especially of their Age, to imitate their Example in the same
commendable Way of employing their Time. To how much better
Account will this turn, than the Vanities that ordinarily fill up the
Conversation of Youth, or those wrangling Disputes and
Controversies, which eat out the Heart of serious, practical Religion!
The Advantage which those who have try'd this Course, have reap'd
from it, sufficiently encourages their Perseverance in it. May they,
and all others, who with them delight in and search after the
Treasures of Divine Wisdom in the Scriptures, not only have their
minds beautified and enrich'd with it, but feel its Influence in their
Hearts and Lives. May they be filled with the Knowledge of the Will
of God, in all Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding, that they may
walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every
good Work, and increasing in the Knowledge of God.
Recommendation by Dr. Isaac Watts (1674-1748]The Bible is a book of such transcendent worth, and so happily suited
to all the parts and purposes of the Christian life, that it can never be
too much recommended to the world; every thing that allures the
world to peruse it, is a blessing to mankind. And though it is hard for
our narrow capacities to grasp and take in its several distinguishing
excellences at one view, yet, if we take a separate survey of the
doctrines and duties, the promises and threatenings, the prophecies
and histories, which are contained therein, each of them will afford
us an awful or a delightful prospect, with lessons for special
improvement.
The worthy author of this collection, which I have long known with
esteem and honor, has chosen to reduce all the most useful and
important promises of the Word of God into order, and here set them
before us. These are the most powerful motives of duty; these are the
constant food of a living Christian, as well as his highest cordials in a
fainting hour. And in such a world as this, where duties perpetually
demand our practice, and difficulties and trials are ever surrounding
us, what can we do better than to treasure up the promises in our
hearts, which are the most effectual persuasives to fulfil the one and
sustain the other? Here are laid up the true riches of a Christian, and
his highest hopes on this side of heaven.
The materials which are collected here are all divine, and the
disposition of them is elegant and regular; so that it is an easy matter
to find something suited to the frame of our souls, or our present
wants on every occasion; and that soul who knows what a suitable
promise is worth in an hour of darkness or temptation, will never
think such a work as this, and such a various treasure, can have
sufficient value set upon it.
Those who have little leisure for reading, may find their account in
keeping this book always near them; and with the glance of an eye
they may take in the riches of grace and glory, and derive many a
sweet refreshment from hence, amidst their labors and travels
through this wilderness. It is of excellent use to lie on the table in a
chamber of sickness, and now and then to take a sip of the river of
life, which runs through it in a thousand little rills of peace and joy.
May the Holy Spirit of God, who indited all these promises, and our
blessed Mediator, who, by his ministry and by his blood, has sealed
and confirmed them all, render them every day more and more
powerful and prevalent to draw the hearts of men towards God, and
to fit them for the enjoyment of these words of grace in their
complete accomplishment in glory. Amen.
I. Watts
Newington, Jan. 19, 175
The Introduction Containing Some Observations upon the Excellency and Use of the Promises,
and Directions for the righ Application of them.
Besides the many other evidences the Holy Scripture carries in it of a Divine Original, there are especially remarkable the Sublimity, Excellency and Reasonableness of the Doctrine it teaches; the Wisdom, Holiness, and Perfection of the Rules of Life it lays down and the Strength and Efficacy of those Sanctions, with which it enforces its Precepts. As the Threatening's have the greatest Tendency to strike an Awe upon the Mind, and to lay a powerful Restraint upon every irregular Inclination, so the Promises are of such a Nature as most strongly to excite to, and give the greatest Encouragement in, a Course of Piety and universal Holiness. It is therefore with the highest Reason the Apostle says of them, That there are given unto us exceeding great and precious Promises, that by these we might be Partakers of the Divine Nature, having escaped the Corruption that is in the World through Lust, 2Pet. 1:4.
They are great and excellent; whether we consider the Nature and Variety of the Blessings contained in them, or their happy influence upon the Mind.
They contain Blessings of all Sorts, of the most excellent Nature, and suited to every Circumstance. As Man is made up of Body as well as Spirit, and the Necessities of this present Life must be provided for, as well as his Happiness secured in the next; in the Promises abundant Care is taken of both, and Provision is made for the Peace, Comfort, and Welfare of the Christian, both in this, and in the other World.
He is assured of the several Necessaries and Conveniences of this Life, in such a measure, as Infinite Wisdom sees best for him. And since we are exposed to various Troubles and Calamities, there are many Promises made with relation to them; either that we shall be preserved from those Afflictions, or, if it be necessary we should be exercised with them, that we shall be powerfully supported under them, and in the best Time and Way, delivered from them, after that they have been made to answer the most excellent Ends upon us.
Nor is it easy to say, what a vast Variety of Consolations are provided for our Relief in those Trials. But, however valuable, considering the Circumstances of our present State, the Promises relating to Temporal Enjoyments and Afflictions, may be, they are not to be compared with the Excellency and Glory of those Spiritual and Eternal Blessings, with which we are blessed in Christ Jesus, and of which we have the most clear, full and express Promises in the Gospel.
Therein, how great, how particular a Regard is had to the Condition of fallen, sinful Man! What Care is taken to ease the
Conscience under the Burden of Guilt, and the Apprehensions of Divine Wrath,by the most gracious Promises of Pardon and Mercy!
What Assurances given of Reconciliation and Acceptance with God, through the Blood and Intercession of the Redeemer!
To what glorious Privileges and high Honours is the Christian advanced! Such
as, The Adoption of Children, A kind Regard to all his Prayers, The Ministry of Angels, and An Interest in the Grace, Love and Fellowship of God the Father, and of his Eternal Son and Spirit.
In the Promises is contained all that Grace which is requisite to refine and enable our Natures, to enlighten our Understandings, to regulate our Wills, and purify our Affections; to preserve us from Sin, and all the Contrivances and Snares of the Devil and the World, and to exalt us to the highest Perfection of Holiness and Happiness.
The manner in which these Blessings are promised, still further adds to their Value. They are not expressed in general or ambiguous Terms, but with the greatest Clearness and Perspicuity. God would not leave his People at an Uncertainty, concerning his kind Intentions towards them. If the Meaning of a Promise seems doubtful in one Place, it is abundantly cleared up in several others. Nor is it only here and there in some few Passages, or in a cold and reserved Manner, that God has signified his good Will; but, upon the Account of our Dullness and Slowness to believe what God has promised. he has both made use of the strongest Words and Phrases that Language could furnish out, and has over and over, in great Variety of Expression, often repeated the Assurances of his Favour.
He has contrived his Promises so as to meet with all our Objections, and remove all our Doubts and Fears; And herein he has been pleased to shew an Affection, Tenderness, and Condescension, which could not be expected from an earthly Prince to his Subjects, much less from the Great and Glorious Majesty of Heaven and Earth to sinful Dust and Ashes.
But what doth in the highest Degree enhance the Worth and Excellency of the Promises, is the Evidences we have that they shall
certainly be made good; since, as the Apostle argues, Heb. 6:17, 18, we have for them both the Word and Oath of that God who cannot lie, that so we might have strong Consolation,who have fled for Refuge,to lay hold upon the Hope that is set before us.
And of the Covenant thus confirmed, Christ the Son of God is made Surety, Heb. 7:22, having ratified it by his own Blood. And that all the Ever blessed Trinity might concur in establishing our Faith upon the strongest Foundation, the Holy Spirit of God witnesses the Truth of the Promises, by his miraculous Operations, when first poured fort upon the Apostles, and by his sanctifying Influences upon the Hearts of all true Christians, both then and ever-since. Hereby he inspires into them a lively Hope, and furnishes them with well-grounded Evidences of their Interest in the Promises; and their Hope makes them not ashamed, because the Love of God is shed abroad in their Hearts by the Holy Ghost, which is given unto them, Rom. 5:5.
The Promises therefore of the Gospel being of so excellent a Nature, and confirmed to us by such Authority and Evidence, cannot but have very great and happy Influences upon the Mind, when seriously attended to, and applied with Faith; especially as they are the Means by which the Spirit of God carries on his Work upon the Soul. They are the strongest Arguments to persuade the Sinner to turn to God, the greatest Encouragement to a humble, believing Dependance upon the Grace of Christ in the Gospel, and the most powerful Motives to sincere and universal Obedience: Since by them we are assured, that every penitent Sinner shall find the most gracious Acceptance; that from the Grace of Christ we shall derive sufficient Strength and Capacity for every Duty; and that in keeping God's Commands there is great Reward. So that would we but duly consider the several Promises made to every Performance of Duty,what a Spur would this be to quicken our slow Pace in the Ways of Holiness! What an Encouragement to be steadfast and unmovable, always abounding in the Work of the Lord. forasmuch as we know
that our Labour is not in vain in the Lord, 1Cor. 15:58.
A Fixed, constant Attention to the Promises, and a firm Belief of them, would prevent Solicitude and Anxiety about the Concerns of this Life. It would keep the Mind quiet and composed in every Change, and support and keep up our sinking Spirits under the several Troubles of Life.
In the multitude of my Thoughts within me, thy Comforts delight my Soul, Ps. 94:19. Christians deprive themselves of their most solid Comforts by their Unbelief and Forgetfulness of God's Promises. For there is no Extremity so great, but there are Promises suitable to it, and abundantly sufficient for our Relief in it.
A thorough Acquaintance with the Promises would be of the greatest Advantage in Prayer. With what Comfort may the Christian address himself to God in Christ, when he considers the repeated Assurances that his Prayers shall be heard? With how much satisfaction may he offer up the several Desires of his Heart, when he reflects upon the Texts wherein those very Mercies are promised? And with what Fervor of Spirit, and Strength of Faith, may he enforce his Prayers, by pleading the several gracious Promises, which are expressly to his Case?
Further, Great Assistance and Encouragement may the Christian derive in his Spiritual Warfare, when he takes a View of the many Promises of Grace and Strength to mortify Sin, and to resist the Devil; of Success and a final Victory in his Conflicts with the Enemies of his Salvation; and of an incorruptible Crown of Glory, to be given him as the Reward of his Firmness, Constancy, and Perseverance.
A great deal more may be said, but that I would not too much enlarge this Introduction, to shew of what excellent Use the Promises would be if duly attended to, to promote all the Exercises of the Divine Life, and inspire into a good Man Comfort and Joy in every State of Life.
That the Christian might have before him, in one View, the many great and precious Promises scattered up and down in Scripture, and in such a Method as easily to find what is suitable to his Case, I have drawn up the following Collection.
The Occasion indeed, of my first entering upon it, was to assist some Young Persons, who very commendably and to their great Advantage, are employed in improving themselves, and one another, in the Knowledge of the Scriptures; one of their Exercises being to Treasure up in their Memories, and question one another upon the Promises, under their several Heads. At first I intended to put together a small Number, upon some principal Subjects; but, upon searching the Scriptures more and more Texts still offering themselves, which I thought equally to my purpose, this Collection at length grew so large, that the taking so many Copies as were wanted, would have been a tedious Work; For which Reason, and in hopes it might serve the same useful End to others, I at last gave way to its being made public. Since I completed it, I have examined some other Collections I have met with, and have added out of them those few texts, which I had not before observed; So that, I believe, this is the
fullest Collection of the kind of any extant, at least that I have seen.
I have endeavored to put them together in such a Method as might be easiest and fittest for common Use. I have not increased the Heads to so great a Variety of Particulars as some may expect; both because too many Divisions rather confound than assist the Memory; and also the applying of the Promises to cases too particular, would have too much confined their Use, when capable of a more extensive Application. If any therefore want the Promises for some Case they don't find mentioned, they may meet with them under some more general Head, within which that Case is comprehended. And for the same Reason, some of the Promises may seem not so properly to belong to the Head under which they are ranged; but as they are near a-kin to it, I chose rather to put them together, than to multiply Heads. There are also other Texts, which some may think should have been placed elsewhere; For instance, some of the Promises under the Head of Temporal Blessings, are by some understood in a Figurative Sense of Spiritual, and so on the contrary. I have taken them in the Sense that appeared to me most agreeable to the Design of the Spirit of God; though sometimes, where I thought the Words were capable of both Senses, I have written them in both Places.
Many other Texts also might be ranged under different Heads; for Example, either in the First Part, among the Blessings promised; or in the Second, containing the Graces and Duties to which Promises are made; and sometimes under either of those Heads, which being nearly related, follow one the other; as the Head of Sanctifying Grace in general, and Converting Grace. If therefore what you look for be not in one Place, you may expect to find it in the other. For which Purpose the References in the will be useful; for I have generally endeavored to avoid Repetitions. Sometimes, indeed, the same Text may be met with in different Places, but then it is applied to different Purposes; as when several Blessings or Duties are comprised in one, as Prov. 22:4.
Though all the Scriptures here collected under the Name of Promises are useful for the Comfort and Encouragement of Christians in the Cases specified; yet they are expressed in different Forms. Some contain direct Promises and Assurances of such and such Blessings.
Of these, some are made to all in general, according to the Rules and Limitations of the Gospel; as Ps. 84:11,and Ps.34:9, 10. But others are addressed to Particular good Men in Scripture, which yet every Christian may take Comfort in. So that Promise made to Joshua, Chap.1:5,I will not fail thee nor forsake thee, is by the Apostle applied to Christians in general, Heb. 13:6.
In the same manner, Promises made to particular Churches, are applicable to the Church of God in general; as those in the Old Testament to the Jewish Church, Is. 27:3, and Zech. 2:5, and those to the Churches in the New Testament, Phil. 4:19, Rom. 16:20, and many more. The Rule in both these Cases, is That whatsoever Promises are made in Scripture to Particular Persons, in Cases, and for Reasons, that equally concern other good Men, they are applicable to the Comfort of all, and may be
pleaded with Faith in Prayer. The Words of the Apostle afford a sufficient Foundation for this Observation, Rom. 15:4, Whatsoever Things were written aforetime, were written for our Learning, that we through Patience and Comfort of the Scriptures might have Hope.
The Promises also made in particular Cases to Persons in Scripture,
may be applied to the Encouragement of others, so far as the Case
and Circumstances agree, though not absolutely, and in their whole
Extent. Thus the Promise made to Solomon (2 Chron. 1:11, 13.) of
Wisdom, and also of Riches and Honour, beyond all that were before
him, because he asked of God Wisdom rather than Riches, & c., is
applicable to Solomon only, in its whole extent; but yet gives
Encouragement to every good Man to hope, that if he seek of God
Wisdom above all other Things, he shall obtain a large Measure of it,
according to what his Station requires, and also so much of other
worldly Advantages as God sees best for him, according to those
more general Promises, Prov. 8:17, 18. In the same manner the
Promises made by Christ to his Apostles of the Holy Spirit, to teach
them all Things, and bring all Things he had said to them to
remembrance, John 14:26, and to guide them into all Truth, Chap.
16:13, though they are not to be apply'd to others in the same degree
as to the other Apostles, who were by the Spirit extraordinarily
inspir'd and instructed in the whole Revelation of the Gospel, and
infallibly secured from Error, this being peculiar to their Character as
Apostles; yet they encourage all other Christians to expect from the
Spirit all that Illumination, Instruction, and Guidance which is
necessary for them in their several Circumstances, upon the diligent
Use of all appointed Means, so that they shall be preserved from all
dangerous and fatal Mistakes and Errors, according to those
Promises, 1John 2:20, 27; Ps. 25:12, and others; Divine Guidance
[Ps. 13:3; 73:24; Is. 49:10, 11; 61:8; Deut. 32:10, 11; Is. 30:21] and
Promises of a Blessing [Ps. 65:4; 68:24; 84:4, 10, 11; 89:15, 16; 92:13;
Song of Solomon 2:3], made to good men in general.
Besides those Scriptures that run in the Form of Promises, there are
others which are Observations or Declarations of the Blessings that
generally attend the several Exercises of Piety and Holiness; as Ps.
111:5 and Prov. 18:10, and most of those collected out of the
Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. But as these are Observations made
under the Inspiration of the Spirit of God, they give the same
Encouragement to expect the Blessings mentioned in them, as if they
were in the Form of Promises.
Some of the Texts do only express the Experiences of good Men in
Scripture, or their Expectations from God; as Ps. 16:6, Ps. 23
throughout, and Ps. 71:20. Of which Scriptures the same may be said
as of those above. That as Holy Men therein spake under the
Direction of the Spirit of God, and what they say of themselves is
recorded for our Instruction and Comfort, consequently other good
Men may assure themselves, in like Circumstances, of the like
Favour and Mercy. Thus, whereas the Psalmist expresses his
Confidence in God's Help against all his Enemies, Ps. 118:6, the
Apostle applies it to all Christians, Heb. 13:6. So that we may boldly
say, The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what Man can do
unto me.
Some of the Texts are Petitions put up by Christ for his Church; as
those taken out of John 17. These give the same Encouragement as
the Promises do; for we are assured that whatever Christ asks for his
People, is certainly granted.
The same may be said, in some Degree, of the Prayers put up by
other Saints in Scripture, for themselves and others; especially the
Prophetical Prayers, Gen. 49, Deut. 32, and in other Places. Since
those Prayers were deliver'd under the Inspiration of the Spirit, we
know they were agreeable to the Will of God; and so far as
Circumstances are the same, all other good Men may hope to be
heard in asking the same Blessings of God. But of this Sort I've taken
but few, both because it is more difficult rightly and with Judgment
to apply them, and lest I should too much swell this Collection.
The Blessings promised, are either of a Temporal, or of a Spiritual
and Eternal Nature; It may be necessary to lay down some Rules, to
direct the serious Christian in the right Application of these different
Sorts of Promises.
As to the Promises of Temporal Blessings, and those that relate to
Temporal Evils, it is acknowledged by all, they are not to be
understood Absolutely or Universally, but with the Limitation, as far
as may be for God's Glory, and our Good; both which are, in effect,
One. Nor will these Limitations lessen their Value, with any thinking,
serious Person. For all outward Things are of such a Nature, as to be
capable of being either good or evil to us, as Circumstances vary.
Riches, though in some Circumstances they may be very useful and
valuable, in which Case God will bestow them according to the
Tenour of his Promises; yet in others they may be, and often prove,
very pernicious: No wise Man, in that Case, would desire them. Thus
Afflictions, in some Instances, may be of the greatest Advantage to
us. Then they are Mercies: The inflicting them is a Token of Favour,
and the preventing them would be a Judgment, instead of fulfilling a
Promise. Now it must be allowed, that of all these Circumstances, the
Infinitely Wise and Good God is the best Judge; since he has before
him, in one View, the whole Compass of every Case, in all its
Circumstances, and is more concern'd and watchful for our Good
than we can be ourselves. The Promises therefore relating to these
Things, should not lie by neglected; but we should fix our Faith upon
them for the Mercies we want, with a firm Dependance upon the
Power and Faithfulness of God, though with an entire Submission to
his superior Wisdom, to choose what is best for us. I verily believe
Christians often deprive themselves even of Temporal Favours from
God for want of a more frequent, stedfast Exercise of Faith upon the
Promises relating to these Things. They either ask not, or not in
Faith, and therefore receive nothing from God, Jam. 1:6, 7. Or, they
desire and ask but not for right Ends (to take Notice of another
Limitation hinted at by the same Apostle, Jam. 5:3,) not for God's
Honour, but to consume it upon their Lusts; and so they ask amiss,
and therefore receive not. This Collection therefore will give great
Assistance to the Faith of Christians when they observe how full and
express the Promises are, and how suitable to their several
Exigencies, even in Things concerning this Life.
It may be objected to many of the Texts that they are taken out of the
Old Testament, and were Promises made to the Jews under a
Dispensation, wherein a greater Stress is laid upon Temporal
Blessings, than under the Gospel; and consequently, that Christians
can't expect so much from those Promises.
I answer, That it is true, the Gospel has a much greater Tendency to
draw our Affections from, and lessen our Regard to Outward Felicity
and Prosperity, than the Law, since it has brought in a better Hope,
and gives more clear Discoveries and more full Assurances of
Spiritual and Eternal Blessings, and recommends these as our main
Concern: And therefore our Desires and Expectations of Temporal
Blessings ought to be very moderate, and bear no Proportion with
our Concern for Spiritual. But yet, that Christians may take Comfort
in, and apply to themselves the Promises of the Old Testament, and
in Things relating to this Life, is evident from that Declaration of the
Apostle, 1Timothy 5:8, Godliness is profitable unto all Things,
having Promise of the Life that now is, and of that which is to come.
Where the Apostle affirms, not only that Godliness is profitable to
this, as well as another Life, but that it has Promises relating to both;
by which it is probable he meant those of the Old Testament, a great
part of the New being not then committed to Writing, or not
published among the Churches. Besides, as was observed before, the
Promises made in the Old Testament the Apostle applies to
Christians, and that upon the Principle above-mentioned, Rom. 15:4.
An Instance of which we have, among others, in his pressing
Obedience to Parents on Christians, Eph. 6:2, 3, from the Temporal
Promise annex'd to the Fifth Commandment, deliver'd to the Jews.
To which may be added, That there are many Promises of Temporal
Blessings to be found in the Gospel, as full and as expressive as those
in the Old Testament, as will appear upon the Perusal of this Collection.
Nor do I think the Case of Good Men under the Law so different from
that of Christians with relation to Outward Blessings as some may
apprehend. It is plain, those Promises were not to them absolute or
universal, but to be understood with the same limitations as now;
and that in those Times, as well as since, the Righteous were
frequently exercis'd with severe Afflictions, and the Wicked had
many Times a greater Share of Outward Prosperity than even the
best of Men; the want of a due Attention to which was the Reason of
the heavy Censures Job met with from his Friends. The Sentences
therefore which in Job, in the Proverbs, and in other Places, express
the Earthly Advantages attending Righteousness in its several
Branches, and the ill Consequences of Vice are not to be look'd upon
as universal Positions, but rather as Observations of the proper
Tendency of Virtue and Vice, and their natural Connection with such
and such Benefits and Mischiefs, though liable to some Exceptions in
particular Cases, as most general Observations and Maxims are. And
there is now the same Connection established by God in the Course
of Things between Moral Good and Evil; and several Advantages and
Mischiefs, though subject to such Variations as God, in his wise
Providence, sees fit to make from his more settled Rules.
As to the Promises of Spiritual and Eternal Blessings, they are to be
apply'd according to the Tenour of the Gospel. It is to Faith,
Repentance, Love, and sincere Obedience, that the Promises in
general are made of Pardon, Grace, and Glory; as appears from a
great Multitude of Texts here collected. And indeed, without these
Dispositions, none can justly lay claim to any of the Temporal
Promises. But because, in many Cases, a serious Person may be
doubtful whether he is converted or not, whether there be in him
that Faith, Repentance, and Holiness, which may be a Proof that he
is in a State of Favour with God, and so entitled to those Promises, I
observe, That as there is a Difference between Grace begun, in its
first Exercises, and when it is arrived to a confirm'd Habit, so many
of the Promises are made to the first Beginnings and Exercises of
Grace, in praying and seeking after God, in the Use of appointed
Means, in turning from Sin and coming to Christ. Thus the Promises
of a new Heart are made to those who enquire after God, Ezek.
36:26, 37, of Wisdom to them that search for it, Prov. 2:4, 5, of the
Spirit to them that ask it, Luke 11:13, and of Rest in Christ to them
that being weary and heavy laden, come to him, Matt. 11:28. Which
therefore every one who finds in himself those Beginnings of Grace,
may apply them to himself, as an Encouragement to go on.
It is also to be observed, That the other Promises of Divine
Influences, of the Increase of Grace, of Preservation from sin, of
Grace to persevere to the End, & c., and so of everlasting Life and
Glory, tho' every sincere Christian may apply them, and depend upon
them, yet they all suppose the diligent Use of all the Means of Grace,
Watchfulness, a constant Application to, and Dependance upon, the
Strength of Christ, and the Grace of his Holy Spirit, and a sincere
Regard to all the other Duties of the Gospel; as appears from John
15:4, 10, and many other Passages to be found in this Collection,
especially in the latter Part.
To obtain the Comfort of the Promises in the Second Part, every one
must see that they be in a good Degree possess'd of the Graces, and
that they diligently perform the Duties, to which the Promises are
made; and that from a Principle of Faith in Christ, and Love to God,
express'd in an habitual Care and Endeavour to please him. For,
whatever Duty we do, without a real Regard to God therein,
depending upon Christ for Acceptance, in whom all the Promises are
Yea and Amen, we can expect no Reward from Him.
God may justly reject such a Claim, with, Did ye it all to me? And for
the same Reason, the observing of some Duties, while we knowingly
allow ourselves in Acts of Disobedience to other Commands, will not
support our Claim to the Promises; because, if we acted with a
sincere Respect to God, we should shew the same Regard to all his
known laws, Jam. 2:10, 11.
As a Christian ought to be concerned not only for himself, but for the
whole Church of God, and the Interest of Christ's Kingdom here on
Earth, I thought it very necessary to lay before him what the
Scripture affords for the raising of his Hopes, and encouraging his
Prayers upon those important Subjects. And this is the Design of that
Collection of Texts in the Appendix. But this I found more difficult
than any other Part whatsoever. For, in searching the Scripture upon
those Subjects, I met with so many Passages that had a relation to
the State of the Church, that a compleat Collection of them was
inconsistent with my intended Brevity; and many of the Prophecies
were so difficult to be understood, that it could not be expected that
the Generality of Christians should know how to make use of them. I
have, however, endeavoured to avoid both these Inconveniences, by
selecting those Texts which are most full to my purpose, and most
easy to be apprehended by an attentive Reader; hoping that those
Scriptures being here laid together, which treat of the same Subject,
they would mutually illustrate and explain one another.
I am sensible that many of the Texts I have brought, which foretell
the Enlargement and Glory of the Church, have already had, in some
Degree, their Accomplishment, in the Conversion of the Gentiles to
the Christian Faith; but upon a thorough Consideration of several of
the Prophecies concerning the spreading of the Gospel throughout all
Nations, the Subjection of all Kings to the Authority of Christ, and
the Glorious State of the Church in the latter Days, as Ps. 86:9, Is.
66:18, Dan. 7:27, Zech. 14:9, &c., it appears to me, there's still to be
expected a fuller Accomplishment of them, than has yet been. But
which have been already fulfilled, and which still remain to be so, I
leave to every one's Judgment, upon considering and comparing the
Texts.
Some of the Texts I have applied to the Church in general, are by
some Interpreters understood of the Church of the Jews, when
converted to Christ in the latter Ages of the World; as in Is. 4:3, 27:6;
Is. 60 and 62. Nor do I deny, but it is probable, that People is more
immediately pointed at in those Prophecies. But as the Gentile and
Jewish Church will then be one, there will be a Communication of
Privileges and Glory; and, consequently, in whatever Measures the
Spirit of God is poured out, and the Glory of God manifested among
the Jews, when converted, the Gentile Church will enjoy their Share
of the Benefit: For, if the Fall of them be the Riches of the World, and
the Diminishing of them the Riches of the Gentiles, How much more
their Fulness? Rom. 11:12.
As to the Conversion of the Jews, it has indeed been the Opinion of
many learned Men, that nothing more is to be expected, than what
has already been done in the several, but especially the first Ages of
Christianity; but I don't see what Sense can be made of the Eleventh
Chapter to the Romans, but upon the Supposition of a further and
more general Conversion of the Jews, even of that Part of the Jewish
Nation which were then cut off from the true Church for their
infidelity: And as the Apostle applies to this Purpose a Passage
quoted out of one of the Prophets, it seems to me to serve as a Key
for the right understanding of a great Number of Places in the
Prophets concerning the State of the Jews in the latter Days; a great
Part of which I have therefore collected, or referr'd to in the last
Section. I know, indeed, those Prophecies are suppos'd by Grotius,
and other learned Commentators, to have been fulfill'd by the Return
of the Jews from the Babylonish Captivity, the Favour they obtain'd
from several Princes, and the Victories gain'd by the Maccabees over
the Enemies of the Jews. And perhaps the Foretelling of those
remarkable Events, was in part the Design of at least some of those
Prophecies. But they must be allow'd also to have had a further View,
if we consider the low, afflicted, and persecuted State of the Jewish
Nation most part of the Time after their Return to their own Land,
under the Persian, Grecian, and at length the Roman Empire, and
the Corruptions and Disorders that crept into, and at last quite over
run their Church; of which Dr. Prideaux has given a very full
Account, in his excellent History. Now this no way agrees with those
sublime and lively Descriptions of the Peace, Prosperity, Holiness,
and flourishing Condition, both of their Church and State, foretold in
those Prophecies; as particularly in Jer. 30:9, 16, Ezek. 34:28, and
36:11, Joel 3:17, 20, &c. Besides that, in many of those Prophecies,
the Latter Days, or the Days of the Messiah, are expressly pointed at,
as the Time of their Accomplishment. This has therefore led many to
apply all those Passages to the Gentile Church, which they suppose to
be spoken of under Names and Characters proper to the Jewish
Church as being typified by it. But whoever will carefully observe the
Connection of the several Parts of those Prophecies, must
acknowledge that the Jewish Nation is in some of the Verses plainly
spoken of, and that in other Verses of the same Context, the
Promises of Conversion and Restoration to their own Land, are made
to the very same Persons; of which see Instances in the Chapters
above-mention'd, and in Hos. 2 and 3.
There are many indeed of those who expect a more general
Conversion of the Jews, that yet will not admit of their Restoration to
their own Land, but suppose they shall be, upon their Conversion,
embodied with the several Nations among which they live. But in
those Prophecies concerning them, which evidently refer to the
Gospel Times, there are several Passages which speak so fully and
positively of their Return to their own Country, and that Jerusalem
shall be rebuilt and reinhabited by them, that it seems to me
impossible to understand them in any other than the literal Sense,
without doing them great Violence; as Jer. 32:41 and 33:16, Ezek.
36:11, 24, 28; 37:25, Zech. 12:6; 14:11 &c. It is beyond my present
Design, and the Compass of this Introduction, to give all the Reasons
that incline me to these Sentiments: They that please to search
further into the Matter, may consult Doctor Whitby, and other
learned Writers. I shall conclude what I have to say upon this Head,
with recommending it to Christians to make use of these Texts to
raise their Hopes and Expectations of those future happy Times,
when the Gospel shall be preach'd more universally throughout the
World, the Christian Church receive a vast Accession by the calling of
the Jews, and the Coming in of the Fulness of the Gentiles; and
Holiness, Peace, and Love, shall flourish, probably in a greater
measure than ever, at least since the Apostles' Times. Let this be the
Subject of their daily and most fervent Prayers, and these Promises
be made use of as Pleas to enforce their Petitions, and support their
Faith.
Though this Collection has cost me not a little Time and Pains, I
think it very well bestowed, not only upon the Account of the
Advantage I have myself received from the Study of the Promises,
and the Assistance I still expect from this Book for my private
Thoughts and Composures for the Pulpit, by having it continually
before me; but also in Hopes it may be useful to others in several
Respects, for promoting the Holiness and Comfort of Christians.
Here they have before them, in one View, the Riches of the Covenant
of Grace: Here are all the strongest Arguments to persuade to real
Religion, to recommend every Duty, and to support in every afflicted
and perplexed Case. This Book may be very useful to assist in Prayer,
both for the Reasons before-mentioned, and also because from hence
one may be furnished with Variety of proper Matter and Expression
upon all the Cases we are concerned to represent to God. And as the
Study of these Promises would be to the Advantage of all sorts of
Persons, it might be a very useful and easy Exercise for Children to
be employ'd in learning some of the plainest Texts under those
Heads which are most proper for them, and to question one another
upon them, being instructed by their Teachers in their Sense and
Use. In this Way the Directors of the Education of Children in the
Charity Schools, may make this Book serve good Purposes, for the
Instruction and Improvement of their Children in the Knowledge of
the Scriptures. And I know of no better Way of enriching the Minds
of Children with useful and solid Knowledge, than by making them
well acquainted with the Scriptures themselves, those pure unmixed,
Fountains of excellent and Divine Wisdom, and treasuring up in
their Memories a great Number of select Scriptures most suited to
their Capacity and Use. For this End, I have frequently thought of
making some proper Collections, particularly for the Benefit of the
Charity School at St. Albaus, and of all other Children, whose Parents
or Teachers shall think fit to make use of them; which perhaps, * I
may hereafter finish, if this meets with Acceptance.
[*Note: I had laid aside this Design upon finding that there was a
Variety of such Collections already published. But as some Friends,
to whom I have a great Regard, think something of that Nature more
suited to the Instruction of Children is wanting, and therefore have
put me lately upon it, I am now drawing up a small Collection for the
Press.]
If we would reap the Comfort and Benefit of these Promises, it is not
enough that we have them by us, or now and then look into them;
but we must thoroughly acquaint ourselves with them, store them up
in our Memories, and be often meditating upon them, that they may
be ready for Use when we most want them. And whatever Pains we
may be at on this Account, the Pleasure and Advantage we shall
receive will be a sufficient Recompence: For these are pleasant
Words, that are as a Honey-comb; sweet to the Soul, and Health to
the Bones, Prov. 16:24, and therefore well deserve to be bound upon
our Fingers, and written upon the Table of our Hearts, Prov. 7:3.
And would serious Christians make the Promises the frequent
Subject of their Conversation together, and at the same Time take
notice of the several Instances wherein they have been made good to
themselves, and others within their Observation, it would both
impress them upon their Memories, and very much increase their
Force and Influence upon their Hearts.
But Care must be taken to understand them in their true Sense, and
rightly to apply them. Mistaken Apprehensions of Scripture, have
often been the Cause of People deceiving themselves with
ungrounded Comforts and Expectations; or, at least, they have not
built their Comforts upon proper Texts, though they may have had
sufficient Foundation for them in other Places. The comparing one
Scripture with another, as they lie together, will be, in many Cases of
great Use to assist in the right understanding of them. And in most
Instances, it will be still a further Advantage to turn to the Place
quoted and consider the Circumstances of the Text, and its
Connection with the Context. This will shew how far there is an
Agreement of your Case with that referr'd to in the Text; and,
consequently, how far the Promise is to be applied, whether
absolutely, and in its whole Extent, or only in some degree, and with
Limitations.
In particular Cases, we may draw Comfort, not only from the
Promises peculiar to that Case, but also from those that are of a more
general Nature. As under Sickness, we may have Relief, not only
from those Scriptures which expressly relate to that Circumstance,
but also from the Promises relating to Trouble in general, and the
Assurances of God's Love, Care, and Readiness to help his People, &
c., which the will easily direct to.
That we may have the Comfort of the Promises, a steady Exercise of
Faith is above all Things necessary. For this Purpose, we must
impress upon our Minds the Power, Goodness, and Faithfulness of
God, and the Experience of good Men in every Age; and by this
Means, and by an attentive Consideration of the Promises, suck at
those Breasts of Consolation till we be satisfied, Is. 66:11. But at the
same Time our Eyes must be fixed upon the LORD Jesus Christ, as
the only Foundation of our Hopes, in and through whom alone all
the Promises are made good to us; and upon the Holy Spirit the
Comforter, that through his powerful Influences we may rightly
understand and apply, firmly believe, and clearly discover the
Excellency of the Promises, and so taste that the LORD is gracious.
CONSTANTLY plead the Promises with God in Prayer. He has
thereby bound himself to his People, as with a Note under his Hand.
Go with it therefore to God, firmly depending upon his Faithfulness;
He will acknowledge his own Handwriting, and answer your
Demands accordingly. Rest yourself therefore upon God, and wait
patiently for him, being assured he'll not be unmindful of his
Promise; but leave it to his infinite Wisdom to fulfil it, in that Way,
and at that Time, he sees best.
ut remember, The Promises of God do not discharge from, but
encourage and oblige to, the diligent Use of all proper and lawful
Means. Christ has promised Food and Raiment; but the Slothful and
Careless must not expect the Benefit of that Promise. The same may
be said of the Spiritual Blessings promised. The Soul of the Slothful
desireth, and hath nothing: but the Soul of the Diligent shall be
made fat, Prov. 13:4.
To conclude: Let the Christian live a Life of Faith upon the Promises.
A great Part of the Riches of the Nation at this Day, consists in the
Credit that is given to Notes, Bonds, Assignments, &c., I am sure that
the Riches of the Christian lie chiefly in the Assignments he has
under God's Hand, of the most valuable Blessings both of this and a
better Life. Let him then know how to value these as the truest
Riches, and to make use of them upon all Occasions; he'll find no
Want of any good thing. If he has it not in Hand, he has it in the
Promise ready whenever he needs it. So that he may live entirely free
from Solicitude and anxious Care, committing himself and all his
Concerns, to that God who careth for him.
I am willing to take this Opportunity of recommending it to those
Young Persons, for whose Benefit this Collection was first
undertaken, to persevere in their Endeavours to improve themselves
and one another, in the Knowledge of the Promises, and other Parts
of Scripture, which may be most useful to them, that the Word of
Christ may dwell in them richly in all Wisdom; and to Others,
especially of their Age, to imitate their Example in the same
commendable Way of employing their Time. To how much better
Account will this turn, than the Vanities that ordinarily fill up the
Conversation of Youth, or those wrangling Disputes and
Controversies, which eat out the Heart of serious, practical Religion!
The Advantage which those who have try'd this Course, have reap'd
from it, sufficiently encourages their Perseverance in it. May they,
and all others, who with them delight in and search after the
Treasures of Divine Wisdom in the Scriptures, not only have their
minds beautified and enrich'd with it, but feel its Influence in their
Hearts and Lives. May they be filled with the Knowledge of the Will
of God, in all Wisdom and Spiritual Understanding, that they may
walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every
good Work, and increasing in the Knowledge of God.
Recommendation by Dr. Isaac Watts (1674-1748]The Bible is a book of such transcendent worth, and so happily suited
to all the parts and purposes of the Christian life, that it can never be
too much recommended to the world; every thing that allures the
world to peruse it, is a blessing to mankind. And though it is hard for
our narrow capacities to grasp and take in its several distinguishing
excellences at one view, yet, if we take a separate survey of the
doctrines and duties, the promises and threatenings, the prophecies
and histories, which are contained therein, each of them will afford
us an awful or a delightful prospect, with lessons for special
improvement.
The worthy author of this collection, which I have long known with
esteem and honor, has chosen to reduce all the most useful and
important promises of the Word of God into order, and here set them
before us. These are the most powerful motives of duty; these are the
constant food of a living Christian, as well as his highest cordials in a
fainting hour. And in such a world as this, where duties perpetually
demand our practice, and difficulties and trials are ever surrounding
us, what can we do better than to treasure up the promises in our
hearts, which are the most effectual persuasives to fulfil the one and
sustain the other? Here are laid up the true riches of a Christian, and
his highest hopes on this side of heaven.
The materials which are collected here are all divine, and the
disposition of them is elegant and regular; so that it is an easy matter
to find something suited to the frame of our souls, or our present
wants on every occasion; and that soul who knows what a suitable
promise is worth in an hour of darkness or temptation, will never
think such a work as this, and such a various treasure, can have
sufficient value set upon it.
Those who have little leisure for reading, may find their account in
keeping this book always near them; and with the glance of an eye
they may take in the riches of grace and glory, and derive many a
sweet refreshment from hence, amidst their labors and travels
through this wilderness. It is of excellent use to lie on the table in a
chamber of sickness, and now and then to take a sip of the river of
life, which runs through it in a thousand little rills of peace and joy.
May the Holy Spirit of God, who indited all these promises, and our
blessed Mediator, who, by his ministry and by his blood, has sealed
and confirmed them all, render them every day more and more
powerful and prevalent to draw the hearts of men towards God, and
to fit them for the enjoyment of these words of grace in their
complete accomplishment in glory. Amen.
I. Watts
Newington, Jan. 19, 175