A Body of Divinity, Vol. 4 (of 4): Wherein the doctrines of the Christian religion are explained and defended, being the substance of several lectures on the Assembly's Larger CatechismRidgley, Thomas
Religion
A Body of Divinity, Vol. 4 (of 4): Wherein the doctrines of the Christian religion are explained and defended, being the substance of several lectures on the Assembly's Larger Catechism
(2.) When we have made choice of a lawful calling, we are to manage it
in such a way, that we may expect the blessing of God, in order to the
promoting our wealth and outward estate. Accordingly,
[1.] Let us pursue and manage it with right and warrantable ends, to
wit, the glory of God; and, in subordination thereunto, our providing
for ourselves and families, that we may be in a capacity of doing good
to others, and serving the interest of Christ in our day and generation.
[2.] Let us take heed that our secular employments do not rob God of
that time, which ought to be devoted to his worship; and that our hearts
be not alienated from him, so that while we are labouring for the world,
we should live without God therein.
[3.] Let us take heed that we do not launch out too far, or run too
great hazards in trade, resolving that we will be suddenly rich or poor,
which may tend to the ruin of our own families, as well as others, 1
Tim. vi. 9.
[4.] Let us bear disappointments in our callings, with patience and
submission to the will of God, without murmuring or repining at his wise
and sovereign dispensations of providence herein.
II. This Commandment obliges us to promote the wealth and outward estate
of our neighbour. This we are to do, by exercising strict justice in our
contracts and dealings with all men; and by relieving the wants and
necessities of those who stand in need of our charity.
1. As to what respects the exercise of justice in our dealings.
(1.) We must take heed, that we do not exact upon, or take unreasonable
profit of those whom we deal with, arising from the ignorance of some,
and the necessities of others, Jer. iii. 15. Neither, must we use any
methods to supplant and ruin others, against the laws of trade, by
selling goods at a cheaper rate than any one can afford them, thereby
doing damage to ourselves with a design to ruin them, who are less able
to bear such a loss.
(2.) Those goods, which we know to be faulty, are not, by false arts, or
deceitful words, to be sold, as though they were not so, Amos viii. 6.
And, on the other hand, the buyer is not to take advantage of the
ignorance of the seller, as it sometimes happens; neither is he to
pretend that it is worth less than he really thinks it to be, Prov. xx.
14.
(3.) Nothing is to be diminished in weight or measure, from what was
bought, worse goods to be delivered than what were purchased, Amos vii.
5. nor the _balances to be falsified by deceit_, Deut. xxv. 13, 14, 15.
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