L. OF GOSPEL. In vain it shall not be spoken, I know very well. For God hath always given such power to his gospel, That wherever or by whom declared it be, It should redound unto his own honour and glory. God is glorified in those whom he doth elect, God is glorified in those also whom he doth reject. The elect are saved by that in the world they believe; But the other, because no credence they give To the truth, cannot be but blameable, Committing a fault of all faults most damnable. For, _Si ad eos non venissem_, saith Christ our Saviour, If I had not come unto them with the word, this is sure, In far better case the unfaithful had been. For in this one respect they had had no sin. But where the truth is, and yet there contemned, Of Christ his own mouth all such are condemned. Thus the gospel of Christ, be it received or no, Showeth the glory of God, wheresoever it go. PERV. DOC. I were content to abide, and know your pleasure: But for business at this time I have no leisure. L. OF GOSPEL. What leisure ought a man at all times more to have, Than to endeavour both his body and soul for to save? NEW CUS. For that care all other cares we must set aside. PERV. DOC. Say on, then, for patiently I mind to abide. L. OF GOSPEL. Not to hear what is spoken is only sufficient, But to put it in practice with sincere intent Whatsoever is taught us concerning good-doing, Expressing it plainly in our virtuous living. PERV. DOC. Why, what would you have me in living express? L. OF GOSPEL. Even the gospel, which is nothing else, doubtless, But amendment of life and renouncing of sin: With displeasure toward yourself for the faults you were in. PERV. DOC. How shall I displease myself in sin, I would know? L. OF GOSPEL. In considering that nothing bringeth man so low Out of God's favour, as sin: nothing setteth him so high, As loathing the same, and calling to him for his mercy. PERV. DOC. Verily I am sorry for my forepassed demeanour, But that cannot avail me but little, I am sure. L. OF GOSPEL. Why think you so? boldly tell me your mind. PERV. DOC. Because God's mercy is far enough behind. L. OF GOSPEL. God's mercy is at hand, if you repent faithfully. PERV. DOC. I repent my sins, and for them am sorry heartily; But how shall I be sure mercy for to obtain? L. OF GOSPEL. Credit me truly, for my words are not vain, I am Light of the Gospel, and have full authority To pronounce to the penitent forgiveness of iniquity, So that, in asking, you put your assurance to speed: Then no doubt you have obtained mercy indeed. PERV. DOC. This assurance how cometh it, declare, I pray you?