the sinner, that Christ is his; and that he shall have life and salvation
my God in the tenor of that covenant, and I am one of thy people, from henceforth and for ever.
T. BOSTON.
SUBSTANCE OF THE GOSPEL TRUTHS, FOR WHICH MR. BOSTON MADE HIS NOBLE STAND, IN THE CASE OF THE MARROW OF MODERN DIVINITY
1. IT is the duty of all that hear the gospel, upon the revelation of Christ therein, without looking for any previous qualification in themselves, instantly to believe in him for salvation, both from sin and wrath, that only by so doing, will persons be enabled in a gospel manner to forsake sin—that it is inconsistent with the method of gospel grace, and absolutely impossible, for a man to forsake his sins, in a way of gospel repentance, (which kind of forsaking only can please God), till the Spirit determine him to come to Christ as a Prince and Saviour exalted to give repentance and remission of sins.
2. That though there is no universal atonement, yet in the word there is a warrant given to offer Christ to all mankind, whether elect or reprobate, and a warrant to all freely to receive him, however great sinners they are, or have been.
3. That in justifying faith, there is a real persuasion in the heart of the sinner, that Christ is his; and that he shall have life and salvation by him, and that whatever Christ did for the redemption of mankind, he did it for him in particular; which persuasion is founded (not upon the uptaking of one's real regeneration, as the reflex assurance is, but) upon the promise of Christ in the gospel, made to sinners of Adam's family as such; and so there is resting upon him alone, for the whole of salvation.
4. That the gospel strictly taken, is only a declaration and promise, containing glad tidings of a Saviour, and all grace, mercy and salvation in him to sinners—that all precepts, particularly those enjoining faith and repentance, belong to the law—that as believers,