The Revelation of Revelations, 2nd Edition
(continued)
[ Chap. XXIII. — continued. ]
But now the Holy Ghost brings in Charity, as Distinct and more Excellent. [Margin Note: A Description of the Flame of the Holy Spirit, as sensibly and bodily felt.] The Holy Inspirator thus Opened it: “That Charity is of that high Extraction, and so purely descended; the Composition of its Birth, being all Matter of Incorruptibleness; that no defiled thing can ever enter it. Its consistency is an invisible Body, as thin as Air, as piercing as a Flame; an all-moving acting vigorous Spirit of Power and Life; that can go in and out, as an invisible Breath. Which no mortal Eye can see: only its force may be felt, as a Seraphick Heat; that burns as a Refiners Fire in our Corporality, to the end that it may tinge it with the Holy Ghost’s property”.
This is the true and faithful delineation of this perfect thing, call’d by the Apostle, Charity. Where-ever this comes, it makes all imperfect things flee from before it; which cannot answer unto it. But it strengthens and confirms every springing weak Plant, that is sown by the Spirit: and fetches them also up, which have lain as Buried under Ground. It is the King-flower of the whole Paradisical Spring, that protects the whole; transmuting all into one entire Body of Love: that doth extend and give forth it self in all Spiritual Bountifulness; according to its high Nature and Property. It is not shut up to it self, upon any consideration; as to what it possesseth and enjoys. For it holds no Self-Propriety; whatever its Lot is. As to Worldly Possessions, they are as Free and Common, to the Disciples that are of the same Descent and Birth with himself. This Love cannot with-hold from any of their Necessities, what is in its possession; for it seeks not its own. Then it hath also a virtual Power, (as being made to inherit the best of Riches and Substance of the everlasting Kingdom) to convey and freely distribute of this inexhaustable Treasury, to the impoverished in Soul: and to relieve them that are in great Distress. Which Power can pass in, as an high Spiritual Balsam, to heal the Wounded, who are under the striking of the Scorpion-Sting of the Serpent. For this Love is a ministering Flame, that can go in, where holy Passiveness and Humility are as the open-Door for its access: and there cherish and feed it with what its present degree doth require. Charity is furnished with all Sorts and Stores: It is God’s Steward upon Earth, whom he dare trust with the Care of his Household; who are in spiritual Hunger and Nakedness. It is a most infallible truth, that God will appoint such holy Overseers in his new-born Church, as shall recover the Apostolical Spirit and Power, that hath been lost out of the Earth: and it shall rise as a most bright Morning-Star, and multiply it self into a Generation, that will be all lovely; in which God may see himself.
For which end, the Kingdom and Dominion is already come into Some, and prospers to this expected degree, treasuring up now for a full Bank, in store against that Day, in which our Son of Man will again appear in the Heavens; for the delivering up the Kingdom to the Father, that so God (who is Love) may be all in all. But in order to the accomplishing of this last and finishing Mystery, there shall arise a Melchizedeck Priesthood: which shall know the way into the Holiest of all. Concerning which, we shall come in our Course to declare, after this Subject is finished; for it springs out of Love’s Root in us. For this is the most clear and undeniable witness of Truth, when Light of Revelation, and Life of Enjoyment meet together, then Declaration carries Power and Authority with it.
But to return to the present Thing: What can be said sufficiently of it, that so (if possible) the reign of Love may come to spread it self, as a Net to gather in, for the Priestly Kingdom? Why some other Motives may be further urged, as These; Would you be always in a serene, quiet and peaceable Frame and Constitution of Mind; so as to fear no vicissitude, no working-Cross, or Turbulency towards you; whether from Gentiles, Barbarians or Israelites? All of these can give nothing of Disturbance, where Charity is predominant. And why so? This is very marvellous, never to be perplexed, and never to be put out of Harmony!
Objection. But how can this agree? When as our most perfect Pattern was said to be troubled, and his Soul was sorrowful unto Death; as also, that Afflictions are not joyous for the present?
First, We will Answer this main Objection, as to Christ our Lord in his Agonies: You must know, that all This was on this side of his Resurrection. [Observe that:] And it was to show, that he had the sensible Passions of our Humanity; and that he was on our behalf to feel a sinless Grief and Sorrow; and to be really touched with these kind of Infirmities. Or else how could he make Provision through, and by Love’s Conquest; if he had not been in Temptation, and in Encounter with all Despite and Defamations? But yet he maintained his own Peace (which was the Fruit of Love) through all: and was reconciled to all the cross-Dispensations, that met him in the World. For it was this perfect Love that carried him through to bear and suffer all things: and this was for our Example and Encouragement, to express, during the time of his human Minority, those sensible Dolours {griefs or sorrows} and Passions. But he comes off a victorious Champion, and tells us, That he had overcome: and assureth us, That in him we shall have a most fixed and firm Peace, though in the World exercised with Tribulation.
So from hence it is to be admitted and allowed, that in the time of our Minority, before Love is in its perfect degree risen; it cannot be otherwise expected, but we may be liable to Grief, Sorrow, Commotion, Fears, and Jealousies: and so up and down in an uncertain Motion, tossed to and fro in our Minds, and all this because Love is but little, weak, and low of Stature. It is not got up into the Throne of Dominion, so as to govern all by the Law of Love. Yet such are not to be hopeless, or of doubtful Mind; as desponding ever to see the Resurrection of Love, so as to possess its peaceable Immunities.
[Margin Note: May 23, 1680.]
KNow, whoever you be; that are made willing to venture the loss of all for to arrive at this Pearl of Charity, that you shall most surely find it: and great rejoycing there will be at the finding of this lost Groat. Indeed for this the House of the Soul must be first throughly searched: and the great Opposite, which is, the natural Self-Love must be swept out. Yet what is it that we are required to set down by the loss of, but what is Dust, Rubbish, Filth and Dross: and to have our Hearts emptied and cleansed of all of this kind; that so the King of Love may enter in with his full Train, wherein we may know nothing but Concord and high Tranquility, with a springing Treasury of all Goodness? Wherefore let all Holy and pure Minds be stirred up to wait for the dropping Dews, which fall from the one eternal Element, to bring this Plant of Love’s Kingdom forward; even unto its full height of Perfection: and be tender of its first Buddings; for it hath many subtle Enemies, both at home and abroad. It is the Heir, and therefore is conspired against: for can but the envious Spirits find out where its Birth doth spring, they will attempt to kill it whilst it is but an Infant. [Margin Note from the 1st Edition: That is, Love’s Infancy, before it grows strong.] For which cause it must be hid in the Clefts of the Eternal Rock, there to be fed and nourished with its own Nature-Milk, and Honey of Love: till it become strong and able to encounter and overcome all its Opposites; that it may reign alone, as Monarch of the Soul.
My Friends, who-ever ye be that shall read this experimental Writing, know assuredly, that if you can but find this burning Star of Love risen: Nay, if you can but feel the Glowings and Enkindlings of Heat in the Center of your Hearts, it is more to be valued than all other spiritual Gifts, Powers, and divine Ornaments, which pertain to the new Creation. And if so, then it must carry the Preeminency over these: then we may boldly set at nought, despise, contemn and trample down all Mortal Dominions, and all of Sensual Loves, Joys and Delights; promoted, and held fast, by such as give no place to this Rising Birth of Purifying Love. For you must know, it is such a Sacred and Celestial Seed, coming immediately from the Heart of the Deity, as cannot admit any thing of defilement or pollution to abide with it. It soon leaves the Soul, if it take but in what cannot agree with, or abide the burning touch of this Altar-Coal.
But here it may be asked, What is this LOVE, which is so highly exalted above all Heavenly and Earthly things? Sure there must be some rare transcending Quality in it, not commonly known, that makes you press it so vehemently.
Truly, well I may: yet not I; but the Essential Love it self. Which doth move me to open and reveal the wonderful and hidden Mystery of it: Which happily hath not been understood, (as Now) by Breaking up the Fountain of it; that so it may plentifully run forth. For giving the Light of the Knowledge of It, doth but make way for the very substantial Body it self, to arise sensibly in its flaming Quality. Which is felt in whomsoever its Birth is found.
Take this further Account of it, that it is known for to be the most holy and pure Generation of the Immaculate Virgin of God. For whom is prepared a Virgin-Womb, for high and suitable Contaction: that so this might be but One; and the choice and undefiled one of her that brings it forth. It will not now at Christ’s second Birth be, as it was at his first. Then his Visage was marred more than any of his Likeness; a Man of Sorrows, and acquainted with Griefs; there was no Form or Comeliness in him: which made him to be set at naught, and greatly despised, though without Sin or Guile. But being found a Sufferer under it, he therefore could not be exalted till he had slain the Enmity, and wrought out Victory: And thus He hath his first Birth in us; which must precede his second. But there is a vast difference between Christ’s first and second Coming. Many Ages are passed, wherein the Saints have only known the Birth of Christ in them after this weak, suffering, dying and reproachful State.
The Apostles, themselves, upon whom the Holy Ghost was poured forth after a most signal manner, by which Christ gave witness in them of his Victory and Exaltation, enabling them to work Miraculously; yet notwithstanding they were not got beyond the suffering Birth of Christ in themselves: for they only had the Revelation and Fore-sight of his appearing in Power and great Glory; Pointing to it, and Reckoning of it. But they departed this Life, and did not see the sign of the Son of Man to take up in them for a visible Reign and Kingdom, that might redeem them out of all Tribulation: and so it hath continued until this Day. Nay, yet there is not to be found a Generation so prepared and made ready for the second coming of Christ, as was in that day. Which might make us doubt, whether the coming of Christ be so nigh: because this Birth of Love is so hardly found in any, risen up to an absolute Dominion; which is a sure Introduction to the Omnipotent Reign of Christ, in this visible Earth, within the inward Properties of the Love-Flock.
But you will say, The Apostles, and those that were Converted by their Ministry, were all in the Dispensation of Love, and were in expectation of having the Kingdom restored to Israel in their day; and what was the reason then that Christ’s second Birth did not rise in them?
To which I Answer, That it was thought meet by the Father of Wisdom, that all of that Christ-like Generation should drink of their Lord’s suffering and dying Cup: as he often hinted unto them, when Personally with them; though they had a general Spirit of Prophecy concerning his Glorious Reign, in which he would appear in his Saints. And then again, it may be demur’d upon, Whether those Elders themselves had completed their own Regeneration; and were so perfectly arrived to the Throne-Dominion of Love, to set down as fixed Overcomers thereupon, no more to descend from that exalted Degree. St. Paul, Peter and John that were most eminent amongst them, seemed to have somewhat more in their Eye, than what they had got up to: and so were still hard upon their Race, making after it. However; though it may be concluded, that they had gotten the Start, and were much before any that are known in this day: yet it seems that hitherto Love’s Womb hath been shut up from bringing forth Children of the Resurrection; at least to any that is manifestly known. But for this we may have good hope, that if indeed it be Born in any one, and made strong to maintain its Right and Superiority over the whole inward Creation, ruling as God. By whom it is certainly avouched, that a Virgin [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: Virgin Spirit] shall be given to such, for eternal Generation; who shall be able to raise, and quicken the Holy Grain of Love, that lieth as dead, even in those that are number’d in Christ’s Fold: that so Love may see her Off-spring to multiply exceedingly unto all perfect Purity. Such an holy Congregation and Society being once raised to reign upon Love’s Throne together, they will be as so many raised Banners, which will be terrible to the Nations, which stand without the circle of Love.
Now by all this we see what hath hitherto put a stop, and caused the Lord to delay his coming: and will still, till perfect Love be come, to burn up every Image in the Mind, that is not engraved by God’s own Finger. It’s certainly to be concluded, that Charity is the golden Wash and the Baptizing Pool, out of which Souls do come all Ruddy and White, Clear and Bright; to whom the Lord may say, My Dove, my fair One, my Undefiled, come away: the Love-Scarlet-Dye hath washed thy Blackness away, so that now thou art all fair in my Eye.
This is a Prophecy which hath now in some its fulfilling, and will have more abundantly, as this Spirit of burning Love takes possession of Hearts. And then the very Face of God will be the Covering, by which we shall see and know, what before we were ignorant of, our own pure Love-Nativity: which was fore-known in Christ, before the World of Wrath and Bitterness did shew it self. And thus by the first and second Birth of Christ in us, all will come to be restored to a glorious new Creation: where Love shall dye no more, nor Sin live; which brought in Curse and Sorrow, and estranged God from us.
Now is not all this a most persuasive Motive, to the Love-Flock, where-ever scattered, that God intends to bring them to this Love-band of Perfection; that so we may know one another as God’s enkindled Sparks, encreasing to Flames; which are to consume all Envy and Wrath, as Stubble and Dross? The Trumpet sounds from Mount-Zion, and waxeth louder and louder: We daily hear it; from which we have declared the most excellent things concerning the Eternal Love-Fellowship, in God’s own Clearness, in which no spot of Darkness is to be found.
Obj. You will say, Where are such to be found, according to this degree, which you have here described? All visible Churches and Societies are far too light, when weighed with this golden Grain, and Shekel of the Eternal Sanctuary.
Answ. We know it to be so from the all-piercing Eye, which doth try all degrees of Love: And it may be universally bewailed, that so much superficial, formal and dead Love is found both to God and to one another. Hence we do not wonder that the Bridegroom makes no more haste; his Bride wanting as yet her full Vesture or Robe of pure Charity, without which she can never be said to be ready. For this is to be all her Glory, both Within and Without, and to adorn her for her love and delight.
[Margin Note: May 24, 1680.]
Therefore all Preeminence and Honour give to Love, taking all care to nourish it up in God: and there abound in it towards one another. This high, pure and mystical Unity of Love hath been yet very little understood; and less practiced: that Heaven-born Society is much scattered. Where is Love’s paved Habitation to be found, in which fervent Charity doth wholly act and move, loving and admiring, as God appears and looks forth through the Lattice of Humanity in each one? Oh! how should it draw out, and open the Springs of Love, as God himself, who is the Spirit and Life of Love, which moveth and riseth in holy Souls! And therefore it becomes us to be tender of it; not to grieve it or quench it in one another, for that may cause it to sink and dye away in our selves: and then the very Ark of our strength declines with it.
Upon which consideration, O ye Heaven-born, out of the Womb of Eternal Love, where-ever dispersed, let your Gatherings be to this lifted-up Standard, where Love’s Kingdom is known, and possessed in all Peace, Joy and Tranquillity. The Trumpet from Mount-Zion doth sound, to call you away from all worldly, drossy, perishing Loves; even from all which are not Supersensual and Celestial; Nay, further from all luke-warm superficial Love, towards what Celestial is; since Love’s workings must be fervent, strong and immutable, for the making us meet for the Rising and Abiding Powers of the Holy Ghost to work from.
All which Power will be brought out of the fiery Furnace of Love. For the great and mighty things that are to give Testimony of Christ’s Kingdom in his Saints being come; It will surely open from this Center. Now, who-ever ye are that feel the touch of this Celestial Fire-Stone, send forth your warming Sparks to set one another in an holy Flame; know your own Mother’s Children; hide not your selves from them; be no longer Strangers toward them; find them out from North to South; revive yet once again the Apostolical Knot and Band of unfeigned Love, that may fore-run the Bridegroom’s return to dwell amongst us: that so we may no longer Fast and Mourn; but be ever feasted with Love’s multiplying Blessings from the Fountain-Deity. Even so confirm it, O Lord Jesus accordingly!
[Margin Note: See more of this in the Fountain of Gardens, by the same Author, Vol. III. Part II. p.239.]
{Transcriber’s Note: which refers to an additional seven paragraphs on the same subject, also dated May 24, 1680
For continuity of thought, this text from the Diary is inserted below for the convenience of the Reader.}THE Wretched Self-Love in its now Degenerated Birth, has eaten out, and made God’s Love to dye away. But here I met with a Cry, and Eccho in my Ear, saying, What is yet then further to be done, to raise up this perfect Degree of Love, as it was in its primacy Day, before Cain did it slay? For sure I am, the Friends of the Bridegroom will not stick at any price, so as they may purchase this great Prize. It is a well fitted saying of our Lord, for this our purpose, Old Bottles cannot bear, nor contain this strong high-Spirited Wine of Love. Upon which Similitude, the Holy One doth give out his own Spiritual Meaning, which in that Day could not be born otherwise, than Parabolically. The throughout New Speed was not so readily received or understood. How many Generations hath it been a driving on, and to this Day not wrought through? Well, but it is to be done, and where, and how shall it come to be perfected? The Place is here in this visible Region, upon the fallen relapsed Inhabitants in it: For Generations shall not always and for ever pass away, before they do obtain the perfect Thing, that may them make again Angelical. Next it is here to be made out, how shall this come to pass? For this a trying Question is put not by me, but by the Lamb that sitteth upon Love’s Throne, to such, who are in vehement Thirst to drink of this Wine of Love, that is refined from all Dregs and Lees, that doth quench the vigorous Spirit of it: The Question is this, whether or no, ye be made wholly free and consonant in your Wills, To have the Old Bottles all broken away, which are of so course, vile, and earthly a Matter, that though it may be plaistered {plastered} over with a finer Mettal; yet brickle {brittle}and unstable, and not able to endure the Probation, without cracks and flaws, upon the Trial-making. Such as this, is the matter and consistency of our first Birth, in the mixed part of Good and Evil: Leaking Vessels, that cannot hold out the virtual Juice of the Spirit. Upon which Consideration, let it not seem Grievous to any, that would contain the Love-inspiring Wine, for to yield and offer up these old Forms of Nature. Wherein all the Evil seducing Spirits had their goings in and out, so bringing in the infecting Leprosie; that cannot be got out, but by Breaking down the Walls of the Soul’s House, that so it may come to make its naked escape out thence.
Obj. But here another Question may arise upon the other, as thus: Admit that holy Souls are made sensible, how the Case is with them, as imprison’d in an earthen Pitcher, that is black and all deformed, how may this New thing be effected? We here do not mean only the outward form of Flesh, but the earthly Thoughts of the Cogitative Mind: Therein lieth the Leprosie that spoileth and infecteth. If there were but Soundness in that, the other would be no impediment, though an Image of Mortality.
But now to come to such, as are made all free and willing to have their Old Bottles made new, How may it be accomplished? Seeing the earthly Essence is an inherent Essence, which clings so fast to the Eternal Spirit, that it knows not how to get free from it. It grows up with it, from the first enkindling of Life: else it had been an easie Cure, if the Sin of Earthliness had not open’d it self, from the very Birth of the Soul; and if it had not been nourished, and brought up therein, during its Minority among such like as are found in a lapsed Life. So as it hath been as an universal Perswasion, that it must continue as unavoidable, till the Body breaks away by Death. And so by this false thing received in, the Sin of Earthliness hath been indulged.
But we are now made to know another more sound and Everlasting Gospel, by which Sin with its Earthliness, must come unto its final End, as incredible as it seems to be. And in such Souls as do disgust, and abnegate that very earthly Life-Being, when any Relicks of the earthly Sinfulness is stirring. For where-ever such a perfect Enmity unto it be found, this is one sure Ground of its rooting out. But this is not all: This does but make way for the Greater, as we have known in our particular Case, that for some Years together have been in the continual War and struggle against the earthly Worldliness of this Terrene Principle, with an irreconcilableness to the Nature of it. Yet this would not do, until the Alabaster Box of the Love Ointment was broken up, and did run all free, and thereby the Heavenly Life of Love conquer’d the Earthly, its contrariety. This is indeed a full curing Balsam, that makes the Strivings to cease; changing Corruptibility into Incorruptibility.
A very worthy Instance, for the confirming of this Experience, is that Woman mention’d in the Gospel, at which the Righteous Pharisees noted her for a great Sinner, questioning the Lord’s Spirit of discerning; saying, If this Man was a Prophet, he would have known what manner of Woman this is that toucheth him. But the Lord Christ soon quell’d, and answer’d this their Suspicion, and Misjudgment concerning her. Who well knew, that Love had constrain’d her to come in unto him, as believing her Soul’s Cure, would be effected thereby. The very melting Power of Love dissolved her very Soul, that she poured it out, as she visibly did the Ointment. So that the Lord was indeed touch’d with the Flame of her strong scented Ointment of Love, being so exceedingly affected, and well pleased therewithal, as to prefer and own it above and before all the Festival Entertainment of Simon the great Pharisee. And therefore he at once remitted all her Sins, because she loved much: So reciprocally the Anointing Scent was felt in his Blood for cleansing, that her Love might always spring in a pure degree. So as now herefrom, it may be truly asserted, that nothing is so strong and forcible to rid, and work out the grand Trouble of the Soul’s Joy and Peace, (which is the Sin and the Earthliness) as the abounding of Love’s outflowings.
But it may be said, This doth not Answer the great Query, how it is with those that are made all willing to have their old Bottles broken to pieces, for the vehement desire they have to be fill’d with this Love-Wine.
It is true, many may seek and strive, and yet not obtain it. Now, what is to be done in such a Case? Why, true it is, Love cannot be a forced thing. It is a free begotten Spirit, according to the Will and Pleasure of the Deity; we must Concenter it there. But then we may find out its Birth, if we do search diligently in Love’s Originality within our selves; for we live, move, and have our Eternal Spiritual Being from it. And for as much as the first Matter and Ground of it lies deep, and secret in the Root-Essence of the Soul, therefrom it is to be rais’d up, and that some times by its own Life, as its own Operator: which drives out into a sweet pleasant Inflammation, which is felt, and does feed the Soul’s Spirit as it retires into it. Avoiding all the Hellish Smoke of all Anguish and Bitterness, and of all worldly choaking Smothers, and chilling Damps, which make this pure thing, after its Rising to sink down again, and then great loss and suffering is known: When Love is kept down, all the Babylonish Kingdom gets up, with the Hellish, and they make great Confusion. Therefore receive this Counsel from Christ, who is grown up an Elder in us in the Love: Observe first, and judge it absolutely expedient to retain Christ the Essential Love, as the only Good and Excellency, ever in the Eye of the Heart. Beholding and seeing that infinite, amiable Goodness, that is all provoking unto Love, stirring up all Motives hereunto. Which are so numerous in the Love Deity, that we need not suffer Famine, or be starved for want of Matter to feed upon. Not only consider’d, as a great Almighty, Magnificent God, as abstracted in himself out of Eternal Nature, but as introduced into it, and as he hath reveal’d him self in our natural Humanity, in which all of Love is manifested, to multiply into manifold Vertues and Glories, covering a multitude of Sins: So as when Inquisition is made, there shall be none found; for Love will drown all of them. ~~ {End of insert}
{Transcriber’s Note: The insert may be found in PTW’s online transcription of J.L.’s A Fountain of Gardens, Vol. III, Part TWO. [File 3 of 4], journal-entry dated May 24, 1680.}OH God! inspire with thy Love-Fire,
That we may abide with th’ Angelick Quire,
The Lamb’s Trump doth sound to call us up,
To drink of this Love-flaming Cup:
Whose Spirit doth so sweetly burn,
As Mortals into Seraphims to turn:
Is not this the transforming Thing,
Which to a God-like Being us will bring?Oh Charity! What can be said of thee,
Thou that proceedest from the Deity?
Henceforth I must proclaim thy Fame
To all that bear thy living Name.
Who would not be in love with Love also,
Whose force is greater than the greatest Foe?
How doth it expel all Fears; that they fly,
Because of sweet Peace and Serenity?LOVE born of God, Heir to all His Goods,
Steward of his House giving out Food:
Is not this the One only excellent thing,
Which will fetch out the Serpent’s Sting?
Nay, more than this I clearly see,
Love will enter the secret of the Deity.
Where ye will see Love a burning Lamp,
Upwards flying, never chok’d or dampt.Wind we our Angels up to God above,
Where we may drink our fill of Love,
And feast on those fat, and pleasant things,
That are within the Gardening Springs,
Where th’ everlasting Gates do open stand,
For such as are united in Love’s Band:
Come, enter then as Chariot-burning Flame,
Into that Holy Place which known is by Name.We feel Love like a bubling Spring,
Which makes us the new Song ever Sing.
All Praises we will give to Elohim,
Who rideth on the Seraphim:
Floods of Joy, with Celestial Praise,
Shall now out-flow to the Ancient of Days;
For while we feel, and taste Love’s Fire,
It doth extinguish all earthly Desire.Let Love stream forth as a Shower,
Let it flow forth in Life and Power;
This is the thing that is most pure,
That can all of our Diseases fully cure.
Oh! let the Kingdom of this Love come,
That we may reign with God the Son
In everlasting Love’s sweet Harmony,
Hereby conquering all of the Enmity.Love is the Lamb’s pure Virgin-Bride:
She is all Fair and Comely in his sight.
So sweet, so mild, so ravishing in his Eye,
That in his Love-imbraces she must lie:
And there possess such pure Celestial Joy,
As none can know, or come to annoy.
A Bed of Rest must here for her be found,
That make Love’s Trumpet ever sound.
The Same by Another Hand: With some
Alteration.COme Holy Ghost, sweet Heavenly Dove,
Thou sweetest mild, and yet most Powerful Love,
Come and Inspire
With Thy Love-Fire,
Come and Inflame our Hearts,
That we may bear our Parts
In Praises High, with the Angelick Quire.How sweetly does the Virgin-Trumpet sound,
The Trump of Love that calms the Earth around?
Softning obdurate Hearts; It melts the Rocks,
And into Fertile soft and moistn’d Glebe, {soil or field}
Dissolves the Stony Ground.
It speaks in Fire; and Thorns that tear the Flocks,
Or choak the Heavenly Seed, are but its Fuel found.How sweetly does it Call? Invite us up,
To drink of this Love-Flaming Cup;
Whose quick Invigorating Spirits burn
So strongly, so divinely in the Soul,
Thro’ Spirit, Body, thro’ the whole;
That Mortals into Seraphims are turn’d.
This is the only true Transforming thing,
That to a God-like being, that to Deiformity will bring.O Charity! What can be said of Thee?
O Love! Whence art Thou? From the Deity.
How loudly then must I proclaim,
Love’s Everlasting Origine and Fame?
To all that wait to bear the Great Elchaiah’s Name.
The Name of Life, and Resurrection-Power,
Glory, Dominion, Riches, Triumphs, Joys:
At last the Suffering Spouses Dow’r.O Love! who would not be in Love with Thee?
O Love! we sure must own thy Deity,
For sure I am, that He is Thee.
With thee, in what blest Safety shall we dwell,
Who hast Omnipotence thy Foes to expell.
Scatter’d by thy Perfection high:
All Fears from ev’ry side around Thee fly.
They cannot bear
Thy Blisful Shrine so near;
The Temple of sweet Peace, and Blest Serenity:
Where ev’ry Soul Rejoices,
And all harmonious Voices.
For Service high of Praise combine in Thee,
In perfect Love-concordant Unity.Love Born of God, is Heir of all His Goods,
As Steward of his House, it gives out Food:
Indulgent Mother to her Off-spring;
She feeds ‘em with that Quintessential thing,
That fetches out all Venom of the Serpent Sting.
Nothing can enter God but Love,
And that most Free.
From whence we prove,
That Love can Rend the Vail, and in the Holiest move,
And touch the secret Centre of the Deity.
Whence its Originating Fires ascend
Eternal, Inextinguishable, without Bound or End.O ye Superior Angels of our Souls,
Wind up, wind up above this Earth’s Controul:
Let us live, and fix above,
Where we may drink our fill of Love.
Feast on those Fat and pleasant things,
That are within the Gard’ning Springs,
Where th’ Everlasting Gates wide open stand,
To the Indeared-United in Love’s Band.
Ascend, Ascend ye Guardian Seraphs Dear.
We follow to Love’s Element and Sphere;
We follow as in Burning-Chariot Flames,
Into that Holy, Holy, Holy Known,
But too August to Name.Love, Love we feel, that like a Bubling Spring,
Uprising from the Center of the Heart,
Rivers of Pleasures ev’ry way imparts;
And teaches us the Nuptial Song to Sing.Hence Praises Naturally Ascend,
Constant and Vigorous without End
To the mighty Elohim,
Who Rides upon the Seraphim:
Full Tides of Joy, mingling with flowing Praise,
Flow and Reflow to th’ Ancient of Daies.
For while we taste and feel Love’s sacred Fire,
We are in Heaven, and swallow’d up in God,
Forget the Earth, and ev’ry low Desire.Still let thy Love stream forth in mighty Showers,
Still let it flow in its Life-giving Powers.
This is the only thing most pure,
That satiates the Heavenly new Desire,
As it the old Inferiour Cures.
O let the Kingdom of this Love be known,
That we may Reign with God, in Jesus Throne.
In everlasting Love’s sweet Harmony;
Love Reconciling Discord, slaying Enmity.Love is the Lamb’s pure Virgin-Bride;
She is all Fair and comely in his Sight;
So sweet, so mild, so ravishing in his Eye,
That in his Love-Embraces she must lie:
Possessing there such pure Celestial Joy,
As none without can know, or come to annoy.
Here the † Throne-Chariot-Love pav’d Bed is found,
Of Heavenly State Divine Magnificent,
In Glories Triumphs Joys unspeakable:
From whence around,
By Angels blown Divinely Sweet, and loud,
Love’s Golden Trumpets Ever, ever sound,
Slinging the Joyful Tydings far and wide,
The Heavens with Echo’s clear Resounding,
And from the Earth the Joy Rebounding;
The Marriage of the Lamb is come:
The Bride
Prepar’d, Adorn’d, Enthron’d,
Her Blessed Nuptial Crown’d,
And Love’s All-Conquering and Triumphant Power,
Ore All-Imperial own’d.† Cant. 3. 9,10. The Word in the Original signifies also a Bed. And in the Spiritual part
aptly denotes, the Triumphal Procession.
[Margin Notes: June 10, 1680.
The State of the Priesthood of the Order of Melchisdeck.]HAving passed through Love’s Region and Dominion, we are come to set forth (according to the Gift still bestowed upon us) the Glorious State of the everlasting Priesthood of Christ; carried on in his most holy Temple-Body and Heavenly Sanctuary, which is framed for it by the Love-Power and Wisdom of the Most-High. Who will have a Kingdom of Priests elected, and set apart for this purpose, To draw near in full assurance of acceptance with him in all their holy Offerings; each one from their consecrated Tabernacle, to minister to the mighty JEHOVAH. For the which is required a special Ordination, which none can be capable of, but such as first are all purified in the burning Spirit of Love: that so they may become Holy, Merciful and Compassionate, to Intercede for the Ignorant, and such as are turn’d aside from the tract of the just and perfect One. Now then, to be called and anointed of God to this holy Function, is the greatest spiritual Dignity and Honour, that can be conferred upon the Love-Flock: it excels both the Prophetical and Kingly Dominion. All which intrinsically indeed do agree together: only the Priestly Office doth out-shine the other in Glory; being the last and finishing Ministration, which shall reconcile us and gather into Unity, with the most holy and ever blessed Trinity; where fixation within the Temple-Body of the Holy Ghost shall evermore be enjoyed.
Now in order to the revealing, and making out this high and peculiar Priesthood, it is expedient I should declare, in what a living figure it appeared to me; or rather to somewhat which was raised up to be as a clear burning Lamp of Love, which was capable of this great and marvelous sight, which did open from the very God-head Being, In whose Body of Light and Glory this Priesthood in the Heavens was clearly manifested to my Eye-sight: which is the ground work I shall go upon; according to the express Pattern, which the great Melchizedeck Priest hath set open, and made teachable, for the benefit and service of that Holy and Royal Tribe that shall hereunto be numbered. For in the present Age, the most Precious have their Call to come out from what is Vile: And hence it is Plain, there can be no bearing part in this peculiar and Royal Priesthood, till there be a Departing; not only from what is Temporary and Soul-cankering against the Love, which is the minding of Earthly Things; but also from all Superficial Holiness, and the more Refin’d Religious Dress, where the Viper of Sinful Hypocrisy hath had a fair Covering in every Changeable Ministration spread over it: So that there be an entering even into Love’s Substantiality it self.
The Vision of the Heavenly Tabernacle.
I Was carried in Spirit, where I saw a light Flaming Glory unfolding, and opening it self still larger and more conspicuous: and in the midst of it an Abyssal Deep; from whence there was a working flowing Source, in a restless Motion, flashing up transparent Matter, so sparklingly glorious for Colours, as if all manner of precious Stones had been commixed in the Matter. Then did appear numerous Persons gathered to the Glory of this flowing Source, from the Virtue and Power that rose out of the Deep, which was as the Resurrection of pure Heavenly Bodies, bright and clear, that stood there to receive, and drink in, from this Abyssal Deep. Then was it asked by that translated Spirit that saw all this, What was to be understood by all this? And it was Answered, It is the flowing Source of the Deity, that is ever generating forth, for begetting, and renewing what is like to its own Being. And the sparkling Matter that so continually flashed out, was to consecrate the Heavenly Order of Kingly Priests; which would be the very Tabernacle-Glory upon them. For this Priestly Kingdom, under the highest degree of anointing are for to be: And who-ever can purely and abstractedly come up, and lie near the flowing of this Abyssal Deep, such are under the Ordination for Kingly Priests; and so near to God, as nothing shall to them be denyed, for which they shall interceed. For great Power, they will have within their own commands; for they are Spirited very high, by daily drinking in of this Deified Matter.
In this Vision there was no formal Temple, Tabernacle or Altar to be seen, [Margin Note: For the Kingdom was here delivered up, and God became all in all.] but God in his Virtual Power, Light Purity, filled the numerous company that made up the Priestly Body, which was termed the God-head Fraternity. No particular Christ here I did see, but as he was said to be the Head and the Power that made them shine as so many burning Lamps before the Throne of the Father’s all-piercing Eye of Glory. There were Degrees amongst this Holy Priestly fellowship, some in a higher, others in a lower order; But the Testimony of Truth, Love and Purity did open through all, as one entire Ark of the Heavenly Body compacted together, sounding forth New and Wonderful Lauds and Praises, different from all others, who in the Heavenly Places did Worship the Lord God Almighty.
THis was a lively express and manifestation of the Everlasting and Unchangeable Priesthood, which the Holy Ghost will build up; and appear All in it: And therefore he is come before-hand to open the Scene of it; and to give Rules to direct in the Way, which leads thereunto; according to this substantial ground which opens from the Central Eternity, from whence all perfect things must spring out again, in this faded and corrupted Region. For which a most Holy and Royal Priesthood is ordained, that is to be the Salt of the Earth, to send forth their seasoning for Life, where Putrefaction unto Death hath reigned.
Now we shall proceed and give forth, what thus hath run in as a Fountain, sending forth its Springs. It is then assured to us by an irreversible Covenant, that a Kingly Priesthood shall in this latter day stand upon the Earth. An Election and Call from the Holy Ghost is going out for to effect the same; who only knows where the true born Nazarites are, and where the sanctified in the Water of Life do lie. Who will be brought out as baptized Ones, into this Holy Priestly Order: so that it may be evident to all, to know who they are, and to acknowledge their Priestly Royalty, each one in their various order and degree for Power and Eminency. For which there are several Rules, Characters and holy Missions, that will make out where all these pure, clear, lively Stones are connexed together, for a ruling and governing Priesthood in this visible Earth.
These that are of the Election hereunto, may yet be hid amongst the Stuff of Babylon’s Confusion. A David may be keeping of Sheep, an Elisha Plowing with a yoke of Oxen; till a special Ordination come forth for Anointing them to a more high, worthy and honourable Employ, in which the business will be only to have to do with God: And therefore are they set apart, and sanctified only for that use, ceasing from all thronging Cares, and secular Services, and withdrawing from all defiling things of this kind. Whoever feel the touch of the Life-coal, that sets the only Matter of the Soul’s eternal Essence on burning, they will soon find what separation is made: and can henceforth no more savour the low, vulgar, gross and Earthly Concerns. From all which this Priestly Function doth set them free, as Called and Anointed they are by the most Holy One, that is the Head of this separated Congregation. Therefore it is but meet that the Body should answer hereunto: that as our great High-Priest is passed into the Heavens, being found perfect, separate from Sin and Sinners; so likewise may all appertaining to this Heavenly Order, be known in their pure Consecration. For the Spring of the Spirit will rise from within, to cleanse every Instrument that must be used about the Tabernacle-Service; because God will have nothing to come near Him, but what hath Holiness engraved upon it. Which doth imply a coming out of what is Common and Defiling: that nothing of this Corrupting Nature may be found amongst the Priestly Tribe. For these are designed and appointed to deal with God in all weighty Spiritual Matters, belonging to the Restoration, and that may erect the New Jerusalem-State in this very World. Therefore there is to be an extraordinary Call of the Holy Ghost, for the impowering and fitting out Instruments hereunto. For else it will be impossible to carry on this Evangelical Ministration in such an Evil Region, where the Cry and Plea of mortal Necessities are continually heard; so making it a lawful Imposition upon the very Illuminated Saints to puddle about Earthly things; by which indeed the way unto the most Holy hath been blocked up. No open Face of God could through this muddy glass be seen; as being the dark side of the Cloud which keeps from God, by many removes and distances. Therefore an healing Balsam, for this continual bleeding Wound, the great and merciful High-Priest hath sent down, even the victorious reconciling Crown, of the Priestly Anointing, which is in very truth his Essential Deity: which riseth as a Fountain of Purity, overspreading the whole Humanity; and Consecrates it for both Tabernacle, Ark and Altar; in which the Holy Ghost officiates, and accomplisheth the whole Divine Service.
Now for whatever Soul and Spirit shall be thus taken up, and arrested upon God’s account, to serve and minister about the Heavenly and most excellent things, which belong to the Everlasting Priesthood; it is not to be thought that the Most Holy will allow or permit, such to prophane what he hath Sanctified; or the Living to be entombed with the Dead; or the high scented Oyl which springs from the Holy Ghost to let in the noisome Putrefactions from the loathed Kedar, where all unclean Spirits do dwell. Here is an absolute Command to have no touch, nor intermedling withal, so as to ensnare, or come into hazard of breaking the consecrated Vows. For it is a true saying of that great Saint, That we in this consideration do cease to be our own. We cannot according to the Law of the Spirit dispose of our selves; no, not for an hour or day, from our Lord and Master’s Employ and Business; further than as good and faithful Stewards, we can give a satisfying account, according to those Spiritual Circumstances, we are bound in, unto him. The great and mighty King loveth to see all his Priestly Train and Attendants still about Him, in such an Holy Order, and Heavenly Posture, as they may be ready to be sent forth upon the most eminent Services. Who can find employment enough for his Subjects, and Ministering Spirits; and who takes it as a great dishonour, to have this Holy Order suffer their high profession to be brought into contempt, by their running into the Cloud, and thickest of vain rudimental things. Nay, more than this, the Restriction extends so to the Ordained and Called ones, upon whom the Anointing hath been poured forth, for the most Holy Incense-Offering; as they cannot be at liberty to fall in with those very lawful and necessary Concerns, which appertain to the feeding and cloathing of the Body; but if herein at any time they be engaged, the Spiritual part suffers hurt, because it acts out of its own Sphere, and Divine Property. Which should stand in Faith’s Essentiality; where all our motions should be accompanied with the Principle of Faith, in the Priestly Ministration: for the supplying what is Needful to the true Temple-Worshippers; whereunto keeping, and walking with God in a perfect way, in fulfilling all Sanctuary-Institutions, such are as Lilies to spring and grow without toil or care. The blessings of the Deep shall upon such evermore abound, and flow in, while there is an abiding in the Faith hereof; giving God full credit, and running all fully upon His Account, in this Case.
The Truth is, the Lord stands engaged to provide all Sufficiency for his Servants, whom he hath called from all other low inferior Services and Employs, being himself in Covenant with the Priesthood of his own Ordination. Holy Paul makes use of it from the unchangeable Law, that runs from Shadows and figurative Services, till it comes to the Life and Substance. Do you not know (saith he) that they which minister about Holy things, live of the things of the Temple, and they which wait at the Altar, are partakers with it; They have a right hereunto, according to a Law of divine Institution. But the Proprietors of these worldly Goods, do not hold themselves obliged hereunto; but do engross and take up all: and if they let go any thing, it is rather by constraint, than a free and voluntary Offering. But we are not to search too deep into this Matter; for Faultiness may be found among our own Tribe, that be within the circle of the Priestly Covenant: in whom much Remissness and Shortness hath been found, as to the ministering to the Necessities of the true dedicated Nazarites. But we hope to see another Power and Spirit, that shall bear Rule, which shall make the fast clasped Proprietors to become all-free and open-handed, according to the fore-going Prophecy, that the Churl {miser} shall be made liberal, yea, so as to reckon nothing to be his own.
But here it may well be Asked, What is it that must come to loosen from this Self-bottom, so as to unhinge this strong Gate, that hath kept out from the Land of eternal Store and Blessing, whereof Abraham’s Seed in the Faith are Heirs?
This doth in part Answer the Question, which may produce the great Change in narrow Spirits, which is the Gift of the Faith of the operation of God, which openeth from the Springs of Love, which are spread abroad by the Holy Ghost; and kept as a live Coal that can multiply it self into a strong and vehement flame of Love. Which is the cherishing Root that makes Faith become all Fruitful, beyond all exteriour sense and sight; by resting and confiding in the creating Fiat: which can call those things that are not, to be; and make a Something of Nothing. This we may call the Riches of Faith, that can make an Increase where no visible Matter appeareth. This is no common Faith, it is no where found, but where the Holy Ghost hath planted himself for a Blessing and growing Revenue. Who ever shall receive of this Gift, and taste the Power of it, will soon cease to grasp and love earthly and perishing Things. They will be constrained to offer, and consecrate all that may be for the service and use of the Holy, Royal, Melchizedeck-Priesthood. And though at this instant of time, little of this Spirit and Power doth appear in the World. Yet know of a Truth from the Witness of Jesus, that the long circling Motion of the Holy Anointing, which hath yet but scattered his sparks of Light, is now in very deed upon the out-breaking Day of Life: that so what has only been in sweet Love-movings, and transient passing Powers, that have in the very Altar-waiters themselves ceased; shall come to be fixed in such a manner, as they shall be able to say now again, Behold, come and see, the burning Ghostly Body is Risen, that will turn all uncertain Motion into a Fixed Act of all flowing generating Powers! But this the Lord hath shewed me, will be first appropriated to the High-Priestly Order, that can pass beyond the Vail; whom the Holy of Holiest stands open unto. For there are different Degrees, States and Orders in this last and new erected Priesthood, in which the Holy Ghost will appear to be All. Which according to our received Instruction, I shall define, and give a description of; and shew how it may be known, who are the Called and Chosen of God hereunto. For each one ordained hereunto, will have the Foundation-Seal, which is the Priestly-Mark; that shall be the known Character, which no one shall obliterate, or deny. And as to the outward visible Sex of Corporeal Males; there shall be no distinction: Of which the typical changeable Priesthood did consist in its day. All of this is broken away; for Signs, Figures and Forms in this Ministration do fly away like a Cloud. Male and Female are alike consider’d in This; therefore the Holy Ghost doth include both in One, swallowing up all in the Newness, Strength, Power and Glory of his own springing New Birth; according as it is witnessed, Neither Male nor Female, but all one in Christ the Lord, the quickening Spirit. Therein is the true Evidence, that will shew forth it self, according to their grown up measure and degrees. For Persons here signifie Little; Wisdom, Purity and Power in the Spirit is all: this God respecteth in his Priestly Offerings.
Now we must know these Priests do consist of three Ranks and Orders, as constituted and ordained, and set a part under the great and mighty High Priest: who yet continues in his Mediating Kingdom, till the whole be finished; and so come to be perfected in Him, for mutual Glorification with Him.
[Margin Note: The First Rank of the Priesthood.]
THE first and lower Rank, which may be considered in Dedication, are those of the Priesthood, who yet be conscious of Sin and Transgression, committed under the first Covenant, according to the Similitude of Adam’s Transgression, running from that putrefied Line. Now there is a necessity for these to come to the diverse Washings, Separations, Atonings, Blood-sprinklings; and to present a whole Burnt Offering: The Goat must dye; the Life-putrefying-Blood of Sin expire in, and upon, the Altar-Flames. For no cessation is to be of this kind, till the very Body of Sin be consumed: For while any thing of Sin do still rise in its acting Motion, there are required new Renovations, and fresh Atonings and Purifications, and Blood-sprinklings, till the One Offering do come it self to be offered once for all. [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: that so they may be qualified to come within Mount-Zion’s circle, where no Sin-offering is needed, but in order unto the rising up to the successive degrees of the Melchizedeck Order, the whole Burnt-offering is required; the Goat must dye, and the sinful infected Life must expire amidst the Altar-Flames: For a continual Offering of this kind must be, till the whole Body of Sin be consumed; for whilst any thing of that abides and works in its circling Motion, there are required new and fresh Atonings, Pacifications and Blood-sprinkling, till the one Offering comes it self to be offered up once for all, which acquits from all Sin, and makes meet & prepared Vessels, to come in to the first degree of Purity, whose Consciences being purged there from all consciousness of Sin, may come up with boldness and full assurance of Faith, in that anointing which is shed forth to cleanse from all Sin,]
[Margin Note: The Second Rank of the Priesthood.]
The second Rank belonging to the Melchizedeck-Order are those, whose Consciences are purged from all dead and unprofitable Works; in whom Christ is come to offer himself as a Spotless and Immaculate Lamb, shedding out his Life-Blood, for the All-thorough Sanctification, and obliterating of Sins: Hereby reconciling and making all Scores and Reckonings Even, as in reference to God the most Holy One, the Justifier of those, who are thus made partakers of Christ in his Prophetical and Priestly Purity: For where-ever the Lord comes to offer himself up through the Eternal Spirit, by his own Body, in his Consecrated Priests, they have no more guilt or consciousness of Sin: but through the one Offering, he hath perfected them; and they are always, carrying and bearing the living Testimony of his Risen and Spiritual Body, to act forth according to its own Sanctified Nature, and kind, for the Comeliness and Glory of this most high and holy Ministration. All of which makes way for the bringing up to the last Step of the All Priestly Throne, to set with Christ in the Heavenly Places, at the right hand of the Majesty on high.
[Margin Note: The Third Rank of the Priesthood.]
Which leads unto the Third Degree of this most holy and separated Order, who are herein become the Tabernacle, Ark, and Altar, and the most inward Holy Place. Where the Anointed Christ hath so poured forth himself, as he is to be known in them, as in no other. But God the Holy Ghost officiating, accomplisheth the most perfect and holy Services, as in the Person of the great High Priest. They who have so perfected Holiness, can appear in the open face of the most separated Place: where none else must appear, but such as are Consecrated into this high Priestly Order, as the Son of God, evermore to be faithful over the whole Priestly Household, that are yet but come up unto an inferior Order. But who is it, that is able to see at first glance, into this high exalted degree of a high Priestly Profession? It is so great, and so wonderful, as it makes the light of all other fore-going Appearances, and Ministrations to look dim, and dark upon it. For it excelleth all, as much as the Substance doth the Shadow.
Now as the Type and Shadow hereof shall vanish, and the true and perfect Lively thing it self, shall come to shew its open face in Power and great Glory; we shall then conclude and say, Christ, the same yesterday, to day, and for ever, according to the Melchizedeck Priestly Order, that is again restored, to the ancient Dignity; of the beginning of which no account can be given, neither of its end; for it is Everlasting. The Praise-Offerings hence shall never cease to be given to Him, who shall change the old Scene of things in this vile and wicked Earth; and in it renew a most precious and royal Priesthood: Whereby all shall come to learn to know the Lord in it, and to manifest his Glory.
These now are called up into God, and made Partakers with their Melchizedeck-Head, both in his Prophetical, Kingly, and Priestly Office; being fully Consecrated and Perfected in his own Body in Them; which alone perfecteth all them that are made perfect. For as under the Levitical Ordinances prescribed by God, it was appointed for the Priests only to bear the Ark: so under this New-Covenant Ministration, none but the Spiritually Consecrated Priests, that are of this supream Order, can bear the Living Testimony of Christ’s Risen and Spiritual Body, [ Margin Note: Which Body is the Ark of the Living Presence.] which goes forth with great Power where-ever it comes, to make Rocks break, and Islands flee away, and Waters to divide. [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: all which makes way for the bringing up to the last step of the all Priestly Throne, to sit down with Christ in heavenly Places at the Right-hand of the Majesty on high, where we are to consider those, who of this holy, high and separated Order, are here become the Tabernacle, Ark and Altar, and the most inward holy place, where Christ the anointed hath so poured forth himself, that he is to be known in them as no other than God the holy Ghost, officiating and accomplishing the most holy Service, as in the Person of the great high Priest, who having perfected Holiness, comes in the open Face of the most inward separated place, where God is manifest, and no Spirit nor Soul can ever come to know, or meet God but here, according as we have it from the Mouth of the Lord himself, who told Moses, That here in this holy place he would commune with him, and appear in his Glory. But alas! Who is able to see at first glance into this high exalted degree, of an high Priestly Calling? It is so great and wonderful, that it makes the Light of all fore-going Ministrations to look dark and dim, as far excelling all, as the Substance doth the Shadow. But before we proceed to set forth this third and last degree, that brings so into God, let us consider further of the two lower Orders, which to this Priesthood do belong, what their Qualifications are, and from whence called out?] But let us look and view yet more deep into this God-head Function, from the first and lowest degree to the last, and highest.
For the First, that Degree is yet but under the daily Renovations, and Offerings in order to the full expiation of Sin: who being here found faithful, and always abounding herein, in order to a higher Ministration; the first shall come to be among the Highest and Last of this Ordination; all being Consecrated unto a Priestly Kingdom.
Wherefore they must patiently continue for a Season [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: The first Rank is of those afore-mentioned, who have been] under the Altar-Purifyings, and divers Washings, and Blood-sprinklings, and Perfuming Oils; with the offering up the Spiritual Incense, and the Heave-Offerings of Dedication, before the LORD, the Holy One. By which they in the end are made perfect and clean, and become such who have no more Consciousness of Guilt [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: Sin]; for as much as the Fountain-Spring of the Life-Blood stands to them ever open, in order to the expelling of every Defiled Thing. Now great is the Advantage that this very lower Rank hath; and great is their Dignity: in as much as All that are made Partakers of CHRIST, in Him are become Mediators in the New Covenant. [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: for the Fountain-spring of the Life-Blood stands ever open, Christ in his bubbling Spirit, by which he maintains a sinless Purity, of which sort God chuseth and ordains his Tabernacle-Ministers, who are made meet to officiate about the holy things, offering up the holy Incense and Heave-offerings, keeping all the Laws and charge of the Sanctuary, presenting only what is consecrated unto the Lord, in order to the expelling of every defiled thing. Now great is the Dignity of this very lowest degree, forasmuch as they are made partakers of Christ, and in him are become Mediators, of the New Covenant.] And as These have obtained to a Degree of Participation of his Nature, by the Purification of their Spirits, and Souls, in this Order: so are they made meet hereby to officiate about the Holy Things, and Minister in his Tabernacle; according to their present Lot and Rank. Since great Force and Strength hath been found here, by so much as He is made a Surety in us of the Faultless Covenant, or Testament. [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: wherein great strength is found; inasmuch as Christ in Spirit is made the surety of this faultless Testament,] Which gives them great Boldness to plead for the Remission of Sins, in the Behalf of Others; though they themselves may yet remain in the Sinful Imperfect State, but are sincerely pressing after the utmost Degree of Purity, through Christ in his Bubling Spirit in them, endeavouring to keep all the Laws and charge of the Sanctuary, and to present only what is Consecrated unto the LORD. Who being ready, and free, thus to intercede from the pure unfeighned Love on their Behalf, may come up to be the Highest also in this Divine Function. [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: which gives great boldness, to plead for Remission of Sins, in the behalf of others, who yet remain in the sinful imperfect state, who being ready and free to intercede, from the pure unfeigned Love on their behalf, may come up to be the highest also in this divine Function.] Hence we are encouraged to sue out without delay, the obliterating of all Iniquities and Transgressions; so as to stand altogether Clear and Guiltless, through this Covenant, in its Life-Blood sprinkled on us, that may be the Testator in us, and for us; purifying all the Vessels and Instruments, for the Godhead-Service, in the Separated and Dedicated Ones. Who take not this Honour upon themselves; but are Chosen and Anointed by God hereunto: And thus having got over, and finished their Course here; they are called up higher, even to an entrance within the Vail, for all Freedom and Inquiry.
The Priest’s Lips shall then both utter and preserve Knowledge: and that from the Oracle of the Holy Ghost. Oh! how freely will the burning Oil run into them that are Sanctified, in whom this Covenant-Blood hath been sprinkled and offered up? These are the Godly Ones of the second Order and Degree, that are primarily set apart; (yea only) for great JEHOVAH’s use: They are not to stir out from his presence; none are here to go out, that have the Crown of the Anointing Oil, which is the very Santification of the Holy Ghost; but are ever to wait in their perfect God-like Order, setting no defiling thing before their Eye. For this high Order can admit of no divided Service: No necessity here must be pleaded to serve the Mammon-Gods of this World. Whosoever are so come into this second Degree and Order, they are no more to look back into any of the Customs or Trafficks, and pudling Immersements of this World. Which though lawful to others; yet is not so to those, who are of this separated Order. God the most high Purity, will have none come near unto him, that belongs to this World’s Drudgery. The smell of Esau’s Garment, the Hunter of this Earth, sends forth but an ill savour: which the Holy Ghost can have no Communion withal. [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: Now to mention the Service and Office of the second Order, who are such as take not this Honour unto themselves, but are chosen, anointed and separated, by the heavenly Ordination; these are those who are set apart for God’s Sanctuary to be pitched in the midst of them, out of which they are not to depart, because the Crown of the anointing Oyl hath been poured forth upon them, which is no less than the Sanctification in the holy Ghost. Here waiting in their perfect God-like Order, who can set no defiled thing before their Eye;]
Wherefore David speaks after this manner, Thou hast set the Godly Man apart for thy self. For GOD appropriates all that are of the Priestly Order unto Himself; forbidding them to be Servants to Men: [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: nothing of a divided Service is here to be pleaded for.] There is here no going back to Bury the Dead, or to be polluted [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: defiled] with them. And it was the Blessing which Moses pronounced upon the Tribe of Levi: Let thy Urim and thy Thummim be with thy Holy One; who said of his Father and Mother, I have not seen them; neither did he acknowledge his own Brethren; nor know his own Children; signifying that there was a coming out from, and forgetting of whatsoever was of a Mortal Birth; and all External Bonds and Obligations. It is like God’s taking up of Enoch; a Cessation from all Worldly Being and Conversation: He walked with God, and was not; which manner of Life is to be Revived in this separate Order. [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: God will have none come near him, that shall look back to the Customs, Traffick and Immercements of this World, though lawful to others, yet not to these that are under this anointing; for God who is the most high Purity, soon smells an Esau-hunter, and a worldly Demas, with whom the Holy Ghost can have no communion.] For there is no Communion betwixt the Spirit of God, and the Spirit of this World; nor betwixt a Paul and a Demas. The Lord Christ will not make any to officiate under him, in the Holy Priestly Ministration, till they be separated as afore is declared, from these Gross and Servile Things.
But here now follows an Objection; How such shall be provided for, that must discharge themselves from all secular Callings, having no Propriety in the common Mammon, stock and store, and yet have Bodies which stand in need of Temporal things? What way do you propose for their outward Subsistence?
As to this, we refer you to what the Almighty Provider and Overseer hath settled as a standing Rule, throughout the holy Priestly Generation, that God himself is to be their Portion and Inheritance; and therefore they were to have no Inheritance with their Brethren; For the Sacrifices of the Lord God of Israel made by Fire, are given them for their Portion. How is that to be understood? Thus, they which wait at the Altar, are to receive of the Gifts of the Altar, which none other hath right to partake of.
There is a further meaning in this, than what we have License yet to declare, only thus much we may glance out in this gloomy Day, that there is a Vein which runs under Ground, within the holy Place, that to the Priest’s Revenue doth belong; the Vulture’s Eye hath it not descryed {discovered}; neither can any Artificer among the Sons of Men this Golden Mine find, the everlasting precious Rock a covering is upon it, and still will be, till the third Rank of this high Priestly Order into Manifestation shall be brought, in the Conquest and sealing Power of the Holy Ghost, and then you will see what force Aaron the High-Priest’s Rod hath to rule and pierce this long hidden Vein, from whence will flow forth an inexhausted Treasury. Gold and Silver in this time will be of little regard, the Ingrossers of which tormented will be, when they shall see their Coyn out of date. For the great Melchizedeck will the absolute Monarch be, and a new Coyn shall stamp, which shall currently pass through all the Earth. But be this Secret what in Wisdom’s Glass we have seen: it is not yet our time any thing further to disclose. But let us go on to the highest degree in this Tabernacle, in the holiest of Beings to pitch, improving all present advantages herefor, in a pure Nazarite dedication. This only observe, If we feel in our selves such an impulsive Power from the holy Spirit, strongly carrying out hereunto, this will be a sign of a divine Ordination, and Call hereunto. We need nothing of Man’s Approbation {approval} or Installation to this holy Mechizedeck-Order, in which Christ is to be known the same yesterday, to day, and forever, carrying on this everlasting Priesthood, from his own eternal Loins, in the spiritual Generation, of which no account can be given, we being chosen of him hereunto before the Foundation of the World. Which is not to vanish away, but that way may be made for the New Creation, which shall consist of these three degrees of Kingly Priests. However, let all be cautioned not to presume to thrust themselves into this sacred Function, before the Melchizedeck-King in his true Eternal spiritual Birth, do spring in the Soul, where true Regeneration, and pure and high Illuminations have passed before, in way of preparation for this Priestly-Star’s rising. Therefore what manner of Abnegation and holy Separation is hereunto required? This One Service and Work is to be followed and minded. Whoever are entered into this most high and holy Profession, must cease from all other rudimental earthly Services. The Temple-Service is to be managed by clean and sanctified Vessels, set apart for that use.
Now here it will be convenient to shew the Necessity of having all things ministered to such in their Attendance, by those who endowed are with these worldly Goods. There is an Obligation lies in special manner upon all true Israelites, to bring their Gifts to those who are called out from amongst them, to serve at the Altar, for whom Provision should be made for their necessary supply, that they may have nothing of Care or Incumbrance upon them in their first entering hereupon; all which is a most acceptable Offering, if any shall freely communicate upon this consideration; which may not of this kind be always required. For as this royal Priesthood gets up to their all-powerful Degrees, and princely Dignities, they will have no need of any creaturely Contributions; for to them the Door of all Heavenly Store shall stand open, from whence they shall not only have to answer their own Requirings, but also those of the whole oppressed and groaning Creation. Wherefore, what more acceptable for the present Distress can there be, than to promote and help forward this Priestly Dedication, which may bring so great a Blessing upon the Earth?
But it may be objected, How shall we know infallibly, such who under this Nazarite Vow and holy Anointing are, that we may minister to them of our Substance; there being at this day so many rising Stars, which the Serpent’s Tail hath plucked down to the Earth?
Know that it is a principal Gift to have an impartial Spirit of discerning in this matter, before the Holy Ghost comes to give the undeniable Witness; now to know them whilst they are in their Minority and suffering State, going on in the process of Christ, who himself was questioned and doubted of sometimes, by them who were daily conversant with him. And the same Spirit of Incredulity and suspicious Fear may have a great Predominancy now among Christ’s Disciples, as not discerning the Lord returned in Spirit; though yet in weakness of Flesh; for the abolishing of the Sin, and Curse of it. Whereas while this is but a doing, in order to the holy Priesthood entering upon; all aid, support and encouragement ought to be administered by those who are in more enlargement, as to these outward things: and they are to lay aside all Jealousie, Fear and Suspicion; for it is much better to be found in the excelling Spirit of Charity, which hopeth and believeth the best of things, and thinketh no Evil. And yet doth not this take away right and sound Judgment, but that they may discern, who the Lords true Anointed Ones are. There are several Characters by which they may be known, before they reach to the high priestly Mark: We will just mention one or two, as the fore-running ground-work.
In the first place, They are Crucified to all mortal and temporal Things, that would invite and steal away the Mind, and weaken the strength of Love to God; they are perfectly unhinged and loosened from all of this kind, which is so great a Sorcery and Witchcraft: by which Millions of Souls have been bound down, so that they could never expect this Resurrection-state for to reach it.
A second Character is this, That as they are become dead to all the evil appearance of things, so in some respect to the shew and seeming Godliness, and formal state of the first Temple-building, with all its Ceremonial Ministrations, which can never make the Comers thereunto perfect. Till these be removed, no place is for the Temple-Body and Tabernacle of God to come down, from whence the everlasting burning-Incense, and Praise-offerings are to ascend.
Now from these two Branches numerous Fruits of the Spirit will spring, by which you may know the high Priestly Off-spring, who must needs appear as bright and terrible as an Army with Banners, eschewing {abstaining or avoiding} and denying all of the changeable state of things, whether considered in the Heavenly Constellation, or in the earthly Retinue, nor staying in any State or Ministration, till got up to dwell in the munition of Rocks, where neither Water nor Bread shall ever fail.
This and much more might be enlarged upon, as the first Buddings out of the Priestly Lilies, which are to grow without care and toil, and therefore all-worthy to be cared for; and if there shall be a carelessness or neglect of this Duty, as to the present Season, wherein outward things may be used for the promoting of this high Priestly Fraternity, if no open Heart herefor shall be found, God will not fail to bring them in by some other way: and shut out the earthly Proprietors, that may overslip their Day, in that they have omitted to consecrate their principal Substances, to the use and service of this holy Flock, through which their blessing would have been. For the Lord, who is King of the whole Creation, observes well who bring their free-will Offerings of this kind. Let not this seem as a bare tinkling Sound; for the weight of a God is in it. Who will certainly flow in through this rising Priesthood, with such fruitful Powers and Gifts, as they may be able to bless many with the Blessings from the Holy Ghost. And know the Temple-Body is herefor raising, the golden Nail is fixing, wherein the Soveraignity of a Kingly Priesthood in this approaching time and age, is coming to be established. The Lion out of Zion is roaring, to gather in his Priestly Prey. Blessed are they who are come to know the Thunder of his Power, and do it obey, taking hold of that Horn that is filled with the Priestly Oyl. Which may give the true separating Mark to the elect Sheep. The time being far spent in the hopeful expectation, for all these great things to be fulfilled; no other thing will now suffice, after all this Light and Revelation, but to be found the living Epistles (which is the sure engraving) of the Holy Ghost. As it was said, that the writing of the Law was by the finger of God: even so, yet once more again, God will copy out himself, not in a dead Draught, but in a lively acting Power. For this end, a strong gust of Wind from the third Heaven doth blow, to open this fair Rose and Lily, which is yet in its bud; and although long it hath been hid, and kept under by the Thicket of wild Plants, yet now the devouring Love-Flame is come forth to kindle upon them, that this holy thing may come to stand single and alone, from every twisting Briar and Thorn, that hath shaded and over-topped this sprout of Life: which is to run up unto the high Throne of the everlasting Priestly Dominion, where all Boldness and Freedom is to enter the most holy Place; and what is that but the most secret Tabernacle of the most High, wherein all pleasant Joy and Rest in Love-Communion is known? Can we but come to put on this Priestly Robe, Admittance then we may have to speak with God at any time. But who is it that can be priviledg’d for such an immediate Access, but such as wear the pure Ephod, and the most holy Breastplate, where is that Urim and Thummim, the shut-up Oracle, all that open to such doth stand. Through which alone God’s Mind is well understood.
Of such Qualifications as these, is that third and top stature of the Melchizedeck-Priesthood, in which the Ark of the Testimony doth open, that all difficult Points will decide, either in reference to God or to Man. This is that last and wonderful Ministration, beyond which nothing is to be looked for; for it brings fallen Man back again, to what he was designed, before this visible Creation was brought forth. May it not be permitted us to say, and that not without good Authority, That fallen Man is to be restored to a degree above the Angels? For unto which of the Angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And, Let all the Angels of God worship him. What is here appropriated to Christ, the same appertains to all that are of his Life-Line begotten, from the same incorruptible Word, to the same joynt Pre-eminence. At which the fallen Angels, to this day, great Indignation have, and therefore they are so busie and active in this present proving Time, watching to beguile, tempt and supplant all of this Priestly Crown, as those do well know, who to any good degree of this new springing Birth are come. They have a Thousand Wiles and subtil Baits to tempt withal, from this present World, by which they have great advantage to bind us still under their Power; striving to keep the Creature still in Enmity, with themselves, to God their Creator, by introducing still of their poysonous Sting, which is become the bitter Root of Sin: which the Holy Ghost can only pluck away, and heal again the infected part. For what but a Spirit can enter into that deadly thing for Cure and Restoration? Against which all the fallen Angels do greatly war and struggle; for they would still keep in their Scorpion Sting. But the Love-Compassion of the everlasting Father hath made such Provision, as to have it drawn out, where a Foundation building is laid for an holy royal Priesthood. The Soveraign Ointment is all compounded and made ready for the perfecting this Cure, at which all evil Angels, whether visible or invisible, who in the earthly sinful Principle do remain, may envy and be in pain, but no power have to hurt, or thrust in their Leviathan Hook, to wound again; such a defensive Virtue there is found in this boiling Oyntment, which works it self to such an height of Spirit, as no malignity of sin is able to abide with it: So penetrating it is, that it throws out every black Moat, that from this low blustering Region is blown in upon it. And thus the Holy Ghost is become the true working bubling Spring, that maintains a divine clearness with wonder, in which God, by the Holy Ghost, will make himself manifest in a more full and perfect manner, than what ever in former Ages hath been witnessed. Where-ever this powerful and piercing Anointing shall first work through, it will do no less than produce those creating Powers, that shall another World renew. God yet once more is to move himself in this Mystery, from which such a Conflagration is expected, that nothing more of the old Earth or Heavens shall remain. For there is a Day that must burn as an Oven: blessed are those in whom it shall have its enkindling, wherein all dead fruitless Works shall be burnt up, which makes room for the seven governing Powers of the Holy Ghost to go forth, whether in the Arch-Angelick-Trumpet-Sounds, or Lightning-Voices, Earthquakes, Bindings, Loosings, Shuttings, Openings, working on this and on that hand, as unperceiveable; yet all things effecting through the impregnable motion of this invisible Operator. Of this sort will be the New Heavenly Hosts, that created are again by the Holy Ghost, all lively sparkling Stones, that are in their invisible Nature, as fiery Flames that can go hither and thither, to act according to the Will of the great Elohim.
This is now the Thing that we are day by day looking out for, and its all-powerful springing; all other flourishings in the very Courts of Holiness, in the use and exercise of divine Ordinances and solemn Convocations, are not to be staid in, even though they seem to be as the goodly Tents of Jacob. God, the Holy Ghost comes to move higher, from his own essential creating Word, by which he makes New Heavens, that shall for Ever remain, and no more subject be to vanishing. It will be the last and greatest proving to the Saints themselves, to have their Heavens not only shaken, but melted all away. Which may be compared to an out spreading Garden of various Flowers, which look pleasant and delightful, but they are what must fade and dye; so these Garnishings are not to be trusted to, for as Grass they will wither: Something else that is stable and durable I am taught and made to look for, which is nothing less than the Creating Word of the Holy Ghost; that may be as a New Coyning Mint, that will an everlasting Treasure renew, which the Sun and Moon of these visible Heavens must bow unto. All the Glory of Flesh rejected is, when pure Breath and Spirit, in a Body of Air, shall, as out of the Valley of dry Bones appear: and move, as a Celestial Wheel, both upward and downward, carrying and bearing up as an Anointed Cherub; that may mount and ascend, and face the supreme Glory of the Lord Almighty.
This is the high Adoption, that the Spirit in the Living Creatures, doth move from the earthly Center up straight forward, being circled about with the unfadeable Body of the immutable Heavens. To whom the Heaven of Heavens will open, and descend to take in such Royal clothed Priests, that have put off their changeable Heavens, and are all clothed with substantial Power. If any one ask, How this shall be, and when? We can only direct you to wait at the High Priest’s Gate. By whom our inlet is, into all of these high inconceivable working Powers in the Holy Ghost: which will the separating Description make, and shew by real Evidence, who it is, that from Men and the Earth are in truth all-fully redeemed.
Before we can give over this subject, we are to make known, for the Priestly Election sake, that they may be strengthened, supported and encouraged in their process, the knowledge of those special Royalties, which to them do belong: it having been specified what are the high Qualifications of this high Priesthood. Who must no more look down towards the creeping things of this Earth; for here we must consider the Enochian translation, these Priests being designed for the company of God, the most holy separated Being. For there is a real taking into God to be experienced, and a ceasing from the Life of Sin. Now for the bringing up hereunto, there must be a passing through All, until the Holiest of all be entered into.
BUT now come we to describe what this Holy Function stands chargeable withal; as also the Dignity, Power and Pre-eminences which do attend it. Every High-Priest, taken from Men, is ordained in things pertaining to God, that he may offer Gifts and Sacrifices for SIN. This is a Charge, which to this New Covenant Priesthood doth still belong. For who are so meet to deal with God, and to make Intercession, as the Pure and Merciful; who have themselves been encompassed with Infirmity, and passed through divers Temptations? Who but These can know how to have Compassion of the Ignorant, and Knowing also, such that have turned aside from the Sanctuary of God’s presence and from His Walks, and thereby have lost their peace and joy? Now therefore God hath as well provided in this case, Priests and Mediators on the Earth: as he hath provided that great High-Priest, who is entered into the Heavens. For the self-same Prevalency and Power will be found in, and amongst this holy and undefiled Priesthood; because where-ever Christ in his spiritual Body is present, with the all-breathing Power of the Holy Ghost, it implies great Efficacy in every Oblation and Prayer, which in their behalf shall be put up. Thus a Spirit of Attoning is appropriated unto the Melchizedeck-Priesthood: from whom more fruitful Powers must branch forth; for further service in their Place and Office.
There is also an Absolving Commission given, That whosoever’s Sins they remit, they are from all Guilt discharged: as pronouncing it in the Person and Power of him, to whom the Holy Ghost was given without Measure; and who after his Resurrection breathed forth this Power upon his Disciples, That whatever they bound on Earth, should be bound in Heaven: [Margin Note: Mat.18. v. 18. John 20. v. 23] Hereby communicating his Priestly Power and Authority, that as he, the Son of Man, had power to forgive sins, so might they also have on Earth after his Departure, to carry on their Apostolical Dispensation. Which only lasted for a while: and being lost, a feigned Form was set up in stead of it; without any Sealing Effects of Spirit or Power.
Thus the Shadow hath held up, without any living presence, in Babel. Which boasts a Key; which never could open, nor give Enlargement to those who were bound in the Cords of Iniquity. For how should they, who are not purified themselves, help or succour their Brethren? And though this true thing hath been abused by the Arrogant and Self-exalting Spirit, that with this Priestly Robe covers all manner of Filth and Uncleanness, all of which will come to bear its shame, and have its Overthrow, as this True and Royal Priesthood shall rise in Power in the true Tabernacle, where the Holy Ghost will present the Priestly Offerings. And this is That, which upon sure grounds, we know is now reviving again; the most Holy will bring forth his Priestly Unction, which will take the Chair, that so this holy Ordination may take place in great Soveraignity. The holy and just One hath reserved his last and most wonderful sealing Testimony, for to go forth from the Unity of an holy Priestly Spirit, which is so far perfected, as to stand no more in need of Offerings for Sin, because he who santifieth, and they who are sanctified, are made All one in this Ministration. [Margin note: That is, by Incorporation with CHRIST, their Sinless Life, all purely acting in them.] For if they come not to this State, they cannot be of this High Priestly Order, because to it a KEY is given, which must open all the twelve Gates before-mentioned.
And without all Controversie, great is that Power that shall be here concentred: for our Exalted Christ, who is passed higher than the Heavens, hath recovered Power to Transfer Himself in his divine Purity, and excellent Might, unto this elected Priesthood, which shall be visible here on Earth. This is the true Mount Zion: from whence Decrees, Laws, Judgments and holy Statutes shall go forth from the Urim and Thummim; sound Knowledge and Understanding, and the Certainty of the words of Truth hence shall proceed. So that it will be a most sure and safe Oracle in all difficult Soul-cases, and to determine all Doubts and Difficulties; for of Old, the Israel of God would not venture upon any Concern, nor attempt any Design, without having first enquired at the Priest’s Mouth. Who only was to give forth the Mind of God, (which will now be again renewed,) for those who are not admitted to this high Calling of the holy Priesthood; for such Honour these Saints shall have above the Lower Ranks: as being not ordained by Man, nor after the Law of a carnal Commandment; but by the impressed Seal of the mighty God. Here need no Epistles of Commendation, the Powers of this Priestly Dignity will be sufficient Orators to recommend them. For great Signs and Wonders will be acted forth when the Temple-Body of the Holy Ghost shall come down, and open it self in the Priestly Ministration. Every Branch from this will have its multiplying Fruits, for the Praise-Offering of the Sanctuary.
I shall now declare what the Testimony of Truth hath spoken in me, which is this, That whatever God IS, or CAN, Work, Act, or Do; the Same will appear in, and amongst this Holy Priestly Order. Visions, Proverbs, and Similitudes must cease, which as leading Stars have been under the Son’s Ministration, to this last Ministration of the Holy Ghost. This being the Fullness of Time, in which the Father will shew himself plainly; without any Figures or Shadows; in the substantial Body of Power, uncessantly flowing: from which the New Creation must bud out in a fresh Glory; and all of the Old must fade and dye away.
But here it may be Objected, Where are there any to be found of this Royal Priesthood, who may give forth a Sealing Evidence in this present time? They have indeed been long predicted of, but we would fain {gladly or willingly} see Some really instated in this High Order.
For Answer to this, I say, there may possibly be some, who are advanced to a good degree of this High State; and who have passed through the first and second Order. All which is an Inward, Secret, Purifying Work from Sin; an holy Ground being made ready for the Righteous Branch, in its Lily Beauty to spring. This may be, and no great noise hereof made; For where CHRIST is come to offer Himself once for all, the next thing that follows, is the coming of the HOLY GHOST to reign all in all. And therefore we will believe, and hope, there may at present be Some under this peculiar Ordination; though dispersed and unknown: who are all-ready to enter upon the third Degree; which is that of the Spiritual Rule and Authority. But it is no less than a perfect Regeneration that bringeth to This Gate: whoever enters Here, must first have shaken hands with all worldly Conversation; no more touching any Dead thing. Wherefore this state is not easily attained: it cannot be arrived to by any, but by such who are more eminently touched by Love, and Anointed for this Holy Melchizedeck-Order. Of their calling to which, none shall ever have cause to Repent; for great are the Royalties and Immunities that will follow, according as hath been declared.
A Prophecy concerning a New Disciplehood.
THE Spirit of Prophecy spake thus to me expressly, as the Close of this Subject, saying, I will chuse a Disciplehood to be raised yet upon the Earth again, who shall know me in my inward spiritual Figure: as in former time I was known in a visible Humanity; by Voice and Shape. But now I am come to appear, and walk upon invisible Earth; where none but the spiritual Man understands my Speech, or sees my transformed Shape. To such who my chosen Disciples are, I will familiarly Appear. For, behold, I upon a new Election am, who the Alpha and Omega is, to call together such whose Names are found in the Crown-Number Roll, one by one; till to the hundred and forty four Thousand: for the increase and manifestation of this most Holy Priesthood: Blessed are they that shall be the first Foundation-Pillars hereof, so saith the Yea and Amen. For this will be the Virgin Church, upon whom no Spot or Wrinkle shall be found; or if found faulty, I cannot be their Priestly Head. Since the Case is clean alter’d of what it was in the day of my visible Corporeity, which was the first dawning of my Day, in which the mixed and imperfect things among my Disciplehood, could not so suddenly fly away. Therefore a suffering state was to succeed after Me, that so Sin, by its daily Dyings might expire. Which among my old Disciplehood, in that Age, great effect did take; but yet they deceasing, before reaching to the full and perfect date of what was to be the Churches Primitive State; now something greater and more perfect is to be revealed, after so long and cloudy a Night of Apostacy. Where there has been a going back, instead of going forward. But there is a Star that shall arise out of the same light Orb, whereof it shall be said, “Behold, Wisdom’s Day through dark Clouds doth appear, out of whose Virgin Womb bright Stars of Glory generated are, innumerably, to make up that Temple-Church, all fair and christalline, terrible as an Army with Banners, that shall display my Strength and Power.” This is the Trumpet-sound of the Lord Christ’s Spirit, to such who of this high and holy Order are; that they may now break away from their Iron Yokes, and be unbound from all Terrestrial things, for to come to be received into this new Disciplehood, and therein with the Lord to have all freedom of Speech. Oh! where shall we find any that shall be ready for this high and spiritual degree, all they have, and are, to resign; that so as fixed Pillars for this first born Church they may come to be? {or...Oh! where shall we find any that shall be ready to resign all they have, and all they are, for this high and spiritual degree, so that they may come to be as fixed Pillars for this first born Church?} Lord JESU, it is Thy golden Crook, that must take hold (I see) for such a Priestly Ministry and Disciplehood to be gathered in, according to Thy Word.
I shall, before I Conclude, answer some Queries that may arise in the Minds of some, as they read these Prophetical Revelations; who may require some further satisfaction concerning the Truth of these things.
[Margin Note: Objection 1.]
THE first Objection that meets me, asks, How, and after what Manner, are these great and deep Mysteries revealed, and made known? For we are in doubt whether any since the Apostles days can have so pure and clean a Discovery of the Mind of God, by way of Vision or Revelation.
[Margin Note: The Manner of Divine Revelation.]
As to this, I answer; The thing is weighty, and it may be allowed of to search and follow this Query close and home: for too many there be that are Pretenders to the Gift of Prophecy and Revelation; whereby they put a cheat upon themselves and others, and bring themselves under that Wo of taking up the Lord’s Spirit for their covering; which is the greatest of all Evils [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: to be under a spiritual Fraud]. Therefore I say, let every one search, try and examine, from what ground and spirit they come forth as the Oracles of God, to give his Mind out: For assuredly they will be called to a severe Account by the Spirit of Truth.
Now as to this, I will assure thee (O Querior) whoever thou art, it was my great fear and jealousie, even upon my first Entrance into this Ministration; and I was made well aware of the wiles and subtilties of Satan, that was ready enough to mingle his Deceits with Truth: but divine Wisdom was my Counsellor and Cautioner, and her Spirit became the Conduct to Truth, and the Separator; she still throwing out what would not bear the touch of the burning Stone, which Wisdom had placed in the Center of my Heart; by which a wonderful Light of Manifestation did spring, for the knowledge of the Truth, in the deep Essentiality of it. The Way, Method, Measure and Rules of it, as experienced by me, I shall demonstrate, for the service and benefit of such as are true Seekers, and fervent Lovers of Truth: and shew how they may come to know the true Revelation of the Spirit of Christ, from those mixed Spirits that are apt to inject their Motions, and so make muddy the pure Springs of Revelation. For know, it is a nice and difficult matter to know the Spirit’s speech and voice in his Day, since Christ the Lord’s Ascending, than what it was before, when as the Word of the Lord came expressly to the Patriarchs and Prophets, Articulately, and by immediate Voice. God was heretofore very familiar in way of Speech, as with Abraham, Moses, and so to the Prophets, till Christ’s time; but now in these last days he speaks to us by the Spirit of his Son, which is the Spirit of Truth and Comforter: that is the Spirit we are to try; and to be proved by; whether or no he is come into us, as a Spirit of Prophecy and Revelation. Which you shall know, first by way of Preparation of the inward Mind; for the speaking Word or Oracle of God must have a most holy separated place, distinct and apart from the outward Man. For there is to be prepared an inward Temple-Body; else no expectation of the Holy Ghost, without a suitable Body prepared for him, as the living Ark, in which the Oracle of Truth may open, and shew the Records of the Heavens.
[Margin Note: Objection 2.]
But it may be further queried, How can this Temple-Body be raised up, and kept so spiritually, as to be distinct and separated from the mortal body, with all its senses and earthly Motions?
[Margin Note: Rules for Preservation against the Mixture of Spirits.]
I Answer; Herein indeed lieth the great Mystery of all Mysteries, how to keep the Spirit of the Outward Birth, with all his infecting Multiplicities, from rushing into the inward Court, where the Soul and God are to be in private Counsel together. Since if there be a breaking in of the troubled Sea of Thoughts, this is that which Adulterates the pure revealed things, and brings a false covering upon them; therefore I shall give these following Rules, as they were given me by the Holy Anointing. When I first sought this Priviledge, of divine Inspiration, I was counseled, as to the outward state of things, To avoid, as much as I could, the choaking intangling Cares of this Life, and also to sequester my self from all worldly Conversation, and give up Spirit, Soul and Body in pure dedication. The which I can say, in my measure I have been obedient to: and have found good things, as to the spiritual part, have accrued thereby; which I shall have no cause to repent of, let my losses be what they can be, as to the worldly lot of things. Now the next Rule, which is more Interior and Evangelical: As to the inward and holy place of the Mind, for this take more special care; and keep the outward Birth at a distance from the superior and inward birth; call in your heavenly guard upon it; enter into no Parley with the outward Man of Reason, concerning spiritual matters; for you will find him a false Prophet, and no way consonant to this Ministration the Soul is waiting upon; therefore you are to watch, and be in a defensive Posture, against all invasions of this kind.
Then again take a further Caution concerning a more fine, more subtil sort of Imaginariness, which comes in the appearance of spirituality. Here lieth the greatest danger for mistake; when seeming good Motions do rise and spring, and yet but from the Astral Kingdom: but they are sometimes so divine as you can hardly discern them from the true teaching of the holy Anointing. There are Spirits that will put on such a Priestly dress, like those that rose up against Moses, the Lord’s infallible Prophet, saying, Are not we spiritual, and therefore may we not be admitted into the secret of God with you, and there give our Verdict as from the Oracle of God? Thus we are in danger to be encompassed with Spirits so finely clothed, as would think much to be refused. But where the Urim and Thummim of sound judgment in such is come, that can only discern, and taste Spirits of all sorts of Qualities, Natures and Degrees. For I well know, a Mind may be replenished with knowledge and understanding of divine Mysteries, from the outward Tongues and Sciences, receiv’d and taken in; and yet have been kept a stranger to the flowing Springs of Wisdom and Revelation Within: from whence alone the certainty of the true Prophet is to be known. Therefore let every one look to it, what they speak, teach or write; for it will pass through the inward ground for trial, where the fiery Region will prove it.
[Margin Note: The Most Certain Way of true Revelation .]
BUT now I shall come to describe the true and more certain way of divine Openings and Revelations. Know then, where Holy Consecrations and special Separations, as the foregoing Preparation have been to this high Ministration, those are such as may come to feel in themselves the one essential Birth of Life to spring: which is not to be catched in by verbal Comprehension, Knowledge or Understanding. No such thing. But the Spirit of Truth and Revelation openeth himself in the fiery Essence of the Soul, in a sweet silent stillness, where out all thoughts are excluded; then doth the light Ray of the Deity rise, and overshadow and fill the Temple of the Mind with Light and Glory; then will the Soul sink away deeper and deeper into the Abyssal Being. Where the greatest of Wisdom’s secrets are to be known. When the Spirit of the Soul can, after this manner steal and slide away from *Time and Mortal Day; then open stands that Gate that giveth entrance to behold the glorified Beings, and to hear the Language of that Light World, which none else can hear but they that are got out of the noise of all other hearings, into that still and silent Deep. Where most pleasant joyful Voices and Sounds are heard, which enter in through the several Organs, as a fiery Breath: and nothing of vocal Words is either required or needed there. [*Note - a Verse: How blind to Time, must that Eye be, Who sees the Glories of Eternity? Sure those who Heaven most desire, They from all of the Earth do most retire.] Now then by this you may judge, that pure and unadulterated Revelation and Vision of a true sight, is not so quickly rushed into; nor easily attained: It is a great and peculiar Gift; and also requires great watchfulness, and attendance upon it, if any would enjoy and hold it incorruptedly. And that there may be no Deceit in this Matter, when you come to try your Own and Other Spirits, take this Observation further with you, If any one brings out a Prophecy or Revelation, take notice what Defensive Power, and Guard it hath upon it. The beloved John, when he had all those Visions and Revelations, gives an account how they were seen and heard by him; for saith he, I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day (and a good proof there was of it) as much as if he had said, That it was neither Mans nor Mortals Day that did rise and inclose upon him; but the one everlasting Day, or Ancient of Days, in whose Light he had the glorious Prospect of Heavenly Things themselves. Thus he was in the Spirit, which was his Defensive Power and Guard, to keep out all other trifling Spirits.
Observe this further, it is a much different thing for the Mind and Spirit of the Soul to be caught [Deleted 1st Edition text reads: and taken] up into the Spirit pure and abstractedly; for then it is secured from mixtures: but when the holy Spirit is come only into the Propertys of our Souls, giving forth lustrous Light and Revelation, and inspeaking fluently; yet it is hazardable to be twisted about from the self-promoting Essence, that is ready and apt to dash in upon the Divine Inspiring, as soon as it shall arise from its own Central Deep. This I speak knowingly; having traced through the deep Meanders, before I arrived to know the true and certain Way of Revelation: by which now I am put out of doubt concerning the true Oracle speaking in the Center of the Soul, as to my own particular; through watching thereunto with Heedfulness, for the keeping out of all fluttering Spirits, that have both their Birth and Nourishment from the Astral and Elementary Region; and that can go in and out for our proving, till we are got beyond their Kingdom. Now indeed when the Spirit of the Soul meets with such a pull up into the Spirit, as the beloved Disciple had, then it is out of all fears: But this is very Rare; they are Heaven’s high Favourites, that do frequently meet with such transportations. The other is more Common; and frequent to Saints that lovers and enjoyers, are of That Ministration, for whose sakes I have been impulsed to open these Secret Things: that they may exiled be to put on their impregnable strength of Defence, for the preserving this Great Immunity, as the choicest of all of God’s favours; and that Incorruptedly, as from the pure spring of the Spirit. Then you will find every Faculty of the Soul tinged with the fiery Glance of the Holy Ghost; as you may see by the dark and hard body of Iron: Which being inclosed with Fire, is so penetrated therewith; as it becomes as it were one and the same Fire flame. But you must keep, and feed it there as the Salamander, which always liveth in the Fire. After this manner doth the Holy Ghost, with his invisible flaming Body, penetrate through the Spirit of the Soul; that it is encompassed with Light, as the Angel, which is said to be (Rev. 19.17.) standing in the Sun, or, all appearing as the very Sun of Glory. Therefore highly valuable it is, for any Saint to get such a clothing of the Spirit upon them. For nothing of Adam’s weak or impotent Nakedness can here be seen; but all glory, strength and power will be your Habitation. Therefore are gifts to be much set by and desired; and not slighted or despised.
Now having given a plain and experimental Account of this nice and difficult Point, which I hope may have reached to the satisfaction of the doubtful; I shall now, by virtue of an Heavenly Commission given me from the Lord, give counsel and caution, to three sorts and degrees of Persons.
[Margin Note: The First Caution
To the Disputers and Infidels.]The First of this is to them that do question, Whether there be any Spirit of Prophecy or Revelation, given forth since the Apostles deceased? as believing all dyed with them. This would be a sad and deplorable thing, if God should since that Age have cut off the spring of Revelation from its original, so that the Sheep and Lambs of Christ’s Flock should no more expect to be fed from the fresh springing Pastures, where no footing hath been: or to drink of those flowing Rivers of Life, that renew daily from the Fountain of the Godhead. Let such but call to mind and consider those many Scripture-Prophecies, and Promises, concerning the continuation of this Gift unto the very end of time; both in the Old and New Testament: I shall mention only some of the latter; John 14. 16, 17, 18, 21. 2Cor.4. 6, 13. 1Cor.2. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. John 3. 27. Eph.1. 17,18,19. Heb.8. 9, 10, 11. 1John 2. 27,28. Many more than these Scriptures could I call up for Confirmation of the continued Run of the Spirit throughout all Ages; Christ by his Spirit comforting us, saying, Lo, he would be with His to the end of the World. Now, as from the Lord, I beseech you, not to Ecclipse the Light of the Day-Star (2Pet.1. 19.) in your own Souls, nor quench the Spirit, nor despise Prophecying: then may the Witness of Jesus rise in you, to confirm This most glorious Ministration, as a burning Lamp of Revelation.
[Margin Note: The Second Caution
To the Initiated in the First Priestly Order.]A word of Love-caution is to another sort of Persons, who are entered into This Ministration, in its first degree, and are under the Spirits discipline and teaching: To such the Word of Counsel, from the Father of Spirits, is this, That they keep precisely to the Rules and Laws of the Spirit. For there will be expected from such a more shining and singular Conversation, shewed forth in a self-denying Life; by dying to all of those mortal things, and sensual enjoyments, that strangle and choke the fiery Breath of the Holy Spirit; to stop it from enkindling further, and deeper in the Soulish Essence: that so there may be a coming up to a mighty Increase in the nature of Christ, and Fruitfulness in the love and unity of the Spirit; having all tenderness to support, love and cherish each Olive Plant, that springeth out of this Eden-Garden. Which is watered by the holy Mists and dropping Dews of the Divine Spirit.
[Margin Note: The Third Caution
To the Illuminated of the Second Order.]Now to the third sort: This Word of Wisdom and Counsel doth greet them, whom we discern to be of a high and lofty Stature, having shot forth their Branches in great lustre and glory; as having got beyond all declarative Revelations and Teachings; not receiving or needing any but what their own center of Light will supply them withal; and so here-from inclining to slight what lies in bank and store, with their fellow-Labourers for this same Treasure. To such this word is sent, that they carry it in great humility, and lowliness of Mind; preferring each ones Gift before, or as their own; maintaining all sweet and lovely Fellowship, with those of lower or higher degrees, in mutual Concord and Harmony; for the maintaining a holy Fraternity, and spiritual Neighbourhood. Although each Saint may have a full Provision, and plentiful Portion of Spirit in themselves, so as they have no dependence on another; yet Love is freely communicative, and disperseth it self in great variety. So as what one Saint is gifted and furnished with, the other may want {lack} of that sort and kind: and so an Heavenly Traffick and Correspondence may be maintained; feeding and feasting with each other, on the various Fruits, as all springing from one Stock and Tree of Life. For it is experienced, that much increase of the holy Anointing hath flown forth, by the converse and declaration of divine Inspirations, from one Saint to another: the which hath begotten a new and spiritual Generation, as in former Ages, so in This; sending forth divine sparks of Light and Love, for the gathering in of the holy Priestly Train, that are to make up the Temple-Glory. Till the which shall come to be compleated, there will be all need of this holy inspiring Breath to be breathed from one to another, whether by vocal Voice, Inspeaking or Converse, according as the holy Spirit shall go forth in its various Operations; for the edifying of the Body of Love, for a holy Convocation to the Lord.
IN the hopeful Expectation of which, I have been driven to disclose these great and deep Secrets, being assured, That this Generation shall not pass away before there shall be a fulfilling of what hath been revealed, and Prophecyed of, in this little Tract. And blessed are they that shall have their lot and portion herein. There is a rich Bank yet behind, from whence the oily Springs do fill, that may be emptied forth, when Vessels are made more fine, and ready hereof to take in. For the which we shall wait, and seek to find some such to partake of that rich and weighty Prize, that yet lieth in the secret and eternal Mine. For there is a Valley deep, under which, the Water of Life doth lie, that will bring forth the fruitful Olive Plants; that shall be there fed and nourished Hiddenly: till of a strong and full grown stature in Spirit and Power they may come for to be. Then will they shew themselves to the true Israel of God universally: and the Priestly Kingdom may come for to spread and flourish every where, in Power and great Glory, sealed with the Mission of the Holy Ghost; acting and going forth in signal miraculous working Powers, for confirmation of the truth of this Dispensation, in such a way as none shall resist, nor any dark Magician shall be able to counterfeit. For so strong and impregnable is the Foundation of this Temple-body of Glory, that neither Dragon, Beast, or false Prophet shall be able it to undermine; it being built and compacted together, of Precious Saphire Stones, transparent for Beauty and Glory; the Jasper Stone being both Foundation and Covering thereon. Then will the shout of a King be heard in the Land of Salvation.
Oh! ye holy and elected of God, where-ever you have been hid, appear, if you have put on your Anointed Shield, promote and help forward this Royal Priesthood, wherein the lively express of the Holy Ghost is to be manifested. Oh! that some such might be known, that hereto do give themselves, and mind no other thing, as the Lord’s approved Work-men, that may come to build up the inward Priestly Temple, whose Furniture and Glory shall be the Gifts and Powers of the Holy Ghost. And now, what have I more to do, but to wait in hope, that the pure flaming Spirit may henceforth go forth to gather in this Priestly Host: who, as in a wreathed Chain of Love united may be inseparably; that so we may come to take our degrees of Prophets, Priests and Kings, for the making good what hath been in this Treatise Revealed. Which though in the form of a dead Letter: yet, O God, as the Author hereof did in the writing meet with a mighty flow of thy Anointing Presence; so let the same out-flowing Spring accompany such, whom thou hast ordained to be taken into this Holy Priestly Order: to which give thy Amen, O great High Priest, to whom the Glory hereof doth belong.
*Even so let that Kingdom come into this World, that shall consist of Kings, Priests, and Prophets. With all such Righteous Plants, let the whole Earth be planted, for Joy and Praise to Him who is the Ancient of Days. Hallelujah to him who is KING of Kings. [* Note: This was Printed in the First Edition of this Book; but in the Manuscript Copy is not found.]
[Deleted 1st Edition text reads: T H E E N D. ]
A Resolution of some Questions Sent to the Author,
while this Book was Reprinting.Q. 1. Whether in the DIARY, Part I. Page 251 & 252, also 378. Oct. 5. (in the English Edition) may not also be understood the Outward Babylon? {Transcriber’s Note: Page 251 & 252 refers to a journal-entry dated, June 1, 1676 [p.251-253] which may be found in PTW’s online transcription of A Fountain of Gardens, Vol. I, File 3 of 4, at the beginning; Page 378 refers to a journal-entry dated October 5, 1676 [p.376-330] which may be found in File 4 of 4, near the beginning.}
Answ. It may be so: yet not without all Limitation. For the Spiritual Babylon is that which is primarily to be Receded from: and the Outward or Corporeal only in a Secondary Relation to the former. And it is to be noted, that we are at all times call’d to come out of the first: but we ought diligently to Inquire, when we are to depart out of the last; that so we may not attempt a Separation from it before the set time be expired, for our Captivity and Servitude under it. Thus it was not lawful for the Jews to depart out of Literal Babylon, to return home into their Country, before the Expiration of the appointed Term for their Captivity: and before a Solemn and Authoritative Alarm for so Doing; both by Prophetical Messages, and Providential Encouragements. A Diligent Observation is therefore needful in this Case, both of the Times, Circumstances, and Divine Calls, whether Publick or Private: For which consider what is Written, Pag. 378.
Q. 2. What manner of Vow and Solemn Engagement was it, (which is refer’d to on Aug. 30. 1676. P. 328.) whereby the Author was not free to come to her own Brother? And, Whether any one may not (according to P. 329.) receive an Advancement in his Office, or an Addition of his Salary, if he cannot without it maintain the Peace of his Family; without incurring the Charge of Bowing the Knees before Pharoah and the King of Babel? {Transcriber’s Note: This Question refers to a journal-entry dated, August 30, 1676 [p.327-330] which may be found in PTW’s online transcription of A Fountain of Gardens, Vol. I, File 3 of 4.}
Answ. As to the First: The Vow which the Author was then under, it was a Solemn giving away her Right, as to the disposal of Her self, with respect to all Temporal Advantages, whether of Honour or Interest; upon a Divine Impulse, and Call, for that Purpose which she had. This Vow and Engagement had also been Accepted; and confirm’d as by an Earnest given from God, in his answering to the Contents of it: so that she was not now Her own; but the Lords, that is, by way of more special Dedication: being by Him more eminently favour’d, and admitted into the Prophetical Ministry. And still more particularly, this Engagement was under a Limitation, with regard to another Person, who was entered with her into the same Vow and Covenant. From whom Consequently it was render’d Impossible for her to separate, without a notorious Breach of the Same, so as to go from him to her Brother; he living besides about an Hundred Miles remote from London, where she was Engag’d, and Fix’d, by this Spiritual Contract with her elect Friend, for most Holy and Worthy Ends: whereby all Correspondence and Commerce in the Spirit had been {would have been} absolutely broken off, had she but condescended to this Offer and Invitation made her from her own Brother (who was a Gentleman of an Handsome Estate) to live with him. This was indeed a very close Temptation from the Spirit of the World, at a time when her outward Difficulties and Necessities were extream: and being Transacted through her nearest Relations, the Violence of it had been altogether Irresistible; without a special Assistance of the Divine Grace to strengthen her eminently in the Faith, and in the Abandon of the World.
As to the Second, it is Answer’d: That a Christian may, under some Circumstances, for the External Peace and Welfare of his Family, suffer himself to be Advanc’d in the World; without being therefore said to bow his Knees before Pharoah, or the Spirit of the World. But that under other Circumstances, and Engagements it is positively Unlawful, and even Idolatrous, so to do. Wherefore the Circumstances ought diligently always to be attended to; and the very Root of Covetousness carefully to be avoided. Which is certainly in a true and exact Sense call’d Idolatry: and here accordingly Represented by Bowing of the Knee to, or worshipping, the Worldly Spirit; which is call’d by manifold Names, and set forth under various Types.
Q. 3. What Manner of Little Book is that which is mentioned P.495. lin. ult. {Transcriber’s Note: This Question refers to a journal-entry dated, December 28, 1676 [p.491-502] which may be found in PTW’s online transcription of A Fountain of Gardens, Vol. I, File 4 of 4, near the end.}
Answ. It is the Same, upon the occasion of which the Letter was Written, for the Satisfaction of an Intimate Friend, that had raised some objections against it. It chiefly contains a Narrative of some strange Transactions and Revelations, wherein a young Lady of Quality was Principally Concern’d for the space of about a Dozen Years: and the discussion of the Question about the Continuance of Divine Revelation in the Church since the Apostles Days. It was written, as in Form of a Circular and Apologetical Epistle, Address’d in the first Place to the Lutheran Clergy, by the Late Superintendent of Luenburg, the Celebrated Dr. PETERSEN: so fam’d for what he has suffered on this Account; as well as for his indefatigable Labours in the Publick Testimony which he has born, and still bears, for the Approaching Blessed Kingdom, and for the Triumph of the Divine Love: against the many Learned Adversaries which oppose both. It was Translated into English, and printed at London, in the Year 1695, for John Whitlock, under this Title,
A Letter to some Divines, concerning the Question, Whether God since Christ’s Ascension, doth any more reveal himself to Mankind by the Means of Divine Apparitions? With an exact Account of what God hath bestowed upon a Noble Maid from her Seventh Year until Now.
In which the Condescending Familiarities of Christ with the Soul, may indeed appear to be Beneath the Majesty of God, as was Objected: but that there is a very good Ground to be found for such Condescensions, and Endearments, not only from the Mystical Song of Solomon; but also from many other most Emphatical Passages of Holy Scripture, even as well in the New as in the Old Testament. Which besides is Confirm’d by the Experience of several Holy Souls in this Present Age; as it has been also, more or less, in all the Ages of the Church. And for what herein may otherwise appear to be against the Truth of the Scriptures, it has been sufficiently Consider’d.Q. 4. What manner of Man TAYLOR is in Solomon’s Porch, Pag. 5. line 1.
“The wonderous Taylor now revolves again.”Answ. This was Mr. Edward Taylor, an English Gentleman, who the latter part of his Life liv’d at Dublin in Ireland; retiring from the World, and giving himself up to Contemplation, and to the serious Pursuit after Divine Wisdom: where he Dyed about the Year 1684. His Manuscripts being preserv’d by the Care of a Friend, and brought over into England, there was Printed in London, in the Year 1690, a Book under his Name, bearing this Title,
Jacob Behmen’s Theosophick Philosophy Unfolded; in Diverse Considerations and Demonstrations, shewing the Verity and Utility of the several Doctrines or Propositions contained in the Writings of that Divinely Instructed Author. Also the Principal Treatises of the said Author Abridg’d. And Answers given to the Remainder of the 177 Theosophiical Questions, which were left Unanswered by him, at the time of his Death.
He was a Person of singular Modesty, of a sharp Wit, and of great Eloquence. He lamented much the Rents in Christendom, to the neglect of the Life and Power of Religion: And therefore Lived and Dyed in Communion with the National Church. But the best Taste of the Spirit is to be had from his Excellent Book; and more particularly, from his divine Meditations.Q. 5. Whether a True Philadelphian (according to Pag. 5. in the Diary, Vol.II. June 7.) be obliged to quit all his Offices, Calling, and needful Concerns for the Subsistence of his Family; against the Doctrine of A.B. viz. that every Christian is obliged to Work all the Days of his Life, for the Consummating his Repentance. {Transcriber’s Note: This Question refers to subject matter contained within a journal-entry dated, June 1, (not June 7), 1677 [p.260-263] which may be found in PTW’s online transcription of A Fountain of Gardens, Vol. II, File 3 of 4.}
Answ. This Objection has been several times made to the Author, as against the Laws of Paradise; and has been by her several times Answer’d. Whereupon she has constantly declar’d herself, that it was never her intent to oblige any to give over their Professions and Callings, or to neglect their Necessary Concerns, for the Support either of Themselves, or of their Family; without a special and express Call from God to retire from the World, together with a Faith of Dependance upon the Veracity of the Divine Promises, both as to Temporals & Spirituals. Neither are those who receive such a Call, and who have also Faith to Obey it, thereby excluded from all Labour: but they are oblig’d to Work, every one in their Lot, much more abundantly; till the Days of their Penitence be fully consummated, and they called to enter into the Rest and Joy of their Lord. He is a True Philadelphian that stands in that Lot, without the least Murmuring or Repining at it which the Wisdom of God has appointed to him. But tho’ every one is not oblig’d to forsake the World in a literal sense: yet every one is oblig’d not to be Solicitous for it; and to remember our Lord’s Advice to seek first the Kingdom of God.
Q. 6. Whether or no those Visions, Manifestations, and Ideas, mentioned in the second Part of the Diary, Pag. 210. may be brought into Light? Or, if not, whether they be privately Communicable? {Transcriber’s Note: This Question refers to a journal-entry dated, April 27, 1677 [p.205-217] which may be found in PTW’s online transcription of A Fountain of Gardens, Vol. II, File 2 of 4.}
Answ. For fuller Satisfaction in this Point there need but be Consulted, the Treatise of the Wonders of God’s Creation manifested in the Variety of Eight Worlds, as they were made Known experimentally to the Author. Which Book is but a more large Deduction of this most Remarkable Manifestation upon the 27th of April 1677, given her in Concurrence with her Spiritual Friend; who was sometimes very Wavering as to the Mystery of the Dead therein Declar’d: for whose sake it therefore seems in the first Place to have been given down; (and that after he had Prayed (Pag. 205.) for Resolution of those Difficulties and Objections, which clouded his Spirit, with reference to the Extent of Christ’s Victories. Concerning also the Reservatories here mention’d, there ought to be Consider’d what is since Publish’d by this Author, in her Ascension {Ascent} to the Mount of Vision, Printed A. 1699: and specially the Account §.XVII, concerning the Children’s Kingdom. Besides which the Author has still some other Visional Openings, and Transportations in Spirit, of this Nature, for the more clear elucidating of that saying of our Lord, John 14.2. which do at present lie by her: that may come hereafter to be Communicated to the Publick, when the Eyes of more shall be open’d to look into such sort of Mysteries, for the Glory of the Great Redeemer; and in the mean while she is not unwilling to impart whatever is in her Power, to the sincere and faithful Goodwillers, that may but any wise conduce to the Increase of Spiritual Knowledge, and the Propagation of Love in the Brotherhood. Neither doth she in this Place refer’d to, (which is to be observ’d) confine the Manifestations and Ideal Representations of such Hidden Wonders to her self Alone: but she insinuates that there were several in this Manner specially favour’d by God. For her Words are, “Surely there are SOME standing in the Figure of the Body, whose SPIRITS have rov’d to and fro to see these several Mansions; with Spirits of all sizes and Degrees, &c.” And immediately before she saith: “To SOME it hath been given to see these several Heavens; which upon OTHERS cannot be Imposed, Pag.210. Whence it appears that she did, at least, hint at her Spiritual Companion; and at his Admirable Treatise of the Angelical World, yet unpublished; in which so many Curious and Surprizing Things are found, in relation to the various Heavenly Mansions, bearing an Analogy with Scripture, and specially with the Fabrick of the Temple.
Q. 7. Who is that A.W. (mentioned Vol.II. Pag.520. under December 29.) And, whether she hath Publish’d any Treatise, that one may be aware of such writings? {Transcriber’s Note: This Question refers to a journal-entry dated, December 29, 1677 [p.520-521] which may be found in PTW’s online transcription of A Fountain of Gardens, Vol. II, File 4 of 4 near the end.}
Answ. It was a Person not unacquainted with the Author, being of Sincere Intentions, and one that waited also for the Consolation of Sion: but who being very Precipitate {rash or overhasty}, and often hurry’d away by some External Considerations, was thereby the more subject to Melancholick Delusions, and to the Intrusion of false deceiving Spirits. She was a familiar Acquaintance of the famous Quirinus Kulhman, that not many Years since was Burnt in Muscow; his Companion also being condemn’d to the same Death, but acquitted by great Interest made for him at Court.
Now the Caution that is here given by the Author, on this Occasion, is, that no Manifestations or Prophecyings are to be heeded, which do arise from any other Center than that of the Kingdom of Love, and the Pure Ministration of the Holy Ghost shed abroad in the Heart, and making it Conformable to the Meek Lamb of God: and that there ought to be a constant and careful Guard against Opening the Principle, or Center, of Wrath in the Soul, thereby to give an Entrance to the Subtil Invading Spirits. And for as much as This was still a Lamb of Christ’s Flock, therefore every one ought to be exceeding Watchful against the Enemy; and to secure themselves against his Wiles.
The Following are by another Hand.
Q. 8. What can be the meaning of the Transical Eternal Nothingness, which is mention’d in The Heavenly Cloud. Pag.16. lin.21. Ed. 1701. And, How is the Entering into it to be understood, as the Medium of Knowledge, and Sensation?
Answ. This is what the Mysticks do call their Annihilation; which is nothing else properly but a Suspension, or Inactivity, of the Natural Senses and Reflection; by means of a Superiour Overshadowing, or Illapse {a flowing into}, of the Divine Grace. By which the Soul being possessed as in its most Central Ground, accounts All things as Nothing; yea it self as Nothing; before its Infinite Creator and Fountain, who comprehends all Being, all Essence, and all Existence, in Himself. When there is only a sudden Suspension of the Power of Nature, which endures but for a little while, (as in the Case of Daniel in the Old Testament, and of St. Paul in the New) then is it call’d a Transe, or a Transical Nothingness. But when this Suspension is not thus Transient, but being deeply radicated {rooted or established} in the Souls Eternal Essence, is become Permanent and Habitual, tho’ not so sensible; then is this Mystick Annihilation perfect, and is call’d by this Author also an Eternal Nothingness. Now this Ecstatical and Perpetual Self-Annihilation is That, which is principally to be regarded in the Mystick Death, or Sleep; that is here so Fundamentally Declar’d by the Spirit of This Author. For until we first Throughly know our Selves to be Nothing, we can never be said to be Dead to our Selves, or to our Corrupt Nature. To Know that we Know Nothing, and Are Nothing, in our Selves is the Beginning of all true Knowledge and Wisdom. To Know that we Have Nothing, and Can do Nothing, from our Selves, is but the Beginning of the Operation of Divine Faith in the Soul, from the Omnipotence of Christ; which Operates according to the Degree of that Real Knowledge and Wisdom, which are by Him introduced into the Essence of the Soul, when it is denudated of all former Ideas. This Denudation, or Stripping of all Things, and all Images, is the First and Main Point in the Process of Regeneration, and of Heavenly Illumination. And as without it there can be no certain Sight or Knowledge of any Thing, therefore is it even recommended in the Search after Natural Truths, by the best Masters of Reasoning. For as all Prepossessions against the Truth are agreed to have enter’d through the Senses, what can be a more proper Preparation for the Reception of the Truth, than a Cessation from all Sensitive Motion? And since what has enter’d through the Senses, by a false or imperfect Light, has been confirm’d and rooted in the Intellectual Part of Man; either by Deduction Thence; or by a too Precipitate {rash or overhasty} Assent, without any Examination at all or Deduction; what can be more Reasonable also than a Cessation in this Nobler Part, which has been so Vitiated {impaired or corrupted} with false and vain Conceptions, crowded with a Multitude of preposterous and broken Images, and distorted with weak and incomprehensive Ratiocinations {logical reasonings}? Sure it is here the highest reason for Corrupt Reason to be still: that the Voice of the Undefiled and Eternal Reason of GOD may be heard. The Soft Whispers of the Divine Wisdom cannot possibly be distinguish’d but by the Souls entering into a deep Silence and Rest. Nor can this Unspotted Mirror of the Glory of GOD be ever look’d against by a Squint Eye: that is looking at the same time into a Glass fill’d with ten thousand Spots, while it would yet behold the Divine Ideas in the immaculate Light of Eternity. Wherefore it appears that the Entrance of the Soul into this State of Annihilation, or Spiritual Denudation, is the most proper Medium to attain unto Divine Knowledge, and Divine Sensation. For then only is the Soul Purify’d, both in Intellect and Will, by the Faith of Christ’s Operation in it: so that it Understands and Wills, Knows and Perceives, Sees and Hears, All, according to the Proportion of this Faith, and the Measure of its Life.
Q. 9. What is the Unipotency of the Soul, which is mentioned in The Revelation of Revelations, Chap. 18, Pag. 83. line 1. And, what is to be understood by the Recovery of it?
Answ. This Unipotency is meerly the Omnipotency of CHRIST as in Union with the Spirit of the Soul. For the Human Soul standing united with GOD, in Christ, is thereby clothed with Divine Power: and is Mighty in God to Do whatever it Willeth; because it Willeth nothing but what God Willeth. And then in this Silence of the Soul arises that Faith, which is purely of God’s Operation: and which is most highly Magical and Miraculous, from the Mystical Incarnation of Christ, the Anchor and Author thereof. Wherefore we are told Afterwards (ib. 1. ult. ) that in the WILL is the Highest Magick, when it is united with the WILL of the Highest. Now the Recovery of this Divine Unipotency, which was originally in Lucifer and Adam in their Creation; hence evidently appears to be the Restitution to that Primeval Union, which the Soul while a Virgin stood in with relation to the Divine Being: which is therefore call’d no less than a New Creation. The means of this Recovery is Faith in Christ, as Introducing himself into the Soul’s Essence.
Q. 10. Why is the Spirit of Wisdom still represented as a Virgin, (both in the Diary and other Books: ) And in what Sense is it to be understood, that Her Disciples, or Children, are call’d Virgins?
Answ. There is a Matrix, a Generical Womb, which belongs to each World: and this contains under it every Specifical and Individual Matrix within that World. And whereas there are two Great Kingdoms, Principles, or Worlds, of Light and Darkness, of Life and Death, of Purity and Impurity, of Incorruptibility and Corruptibility, of Love and Wrath, of Unity and Confusion, &c. so are there in each of these a proper Mother, or Matrix, to be Consider’d, as well as a Father; both Worlds and Kingdoms exactly Answering to each other, in a Parallel Contra-distinction. Without this no Generation can be of any kind. God is the Universal Father of all that are born after the Spirit, according to his Image. The Devil also is the Universal Father of as many as are born after This World, according to his Similitude. There is the Seed of GOD; and there is also the Seed of the Devil. There are Children of GOD: and there are also Children of the Devil. There is the First born of GOD; and no less also of the First born of Satan: Christ; and Antichrist. And there is for certain both a Wonder in Heaven, and a Mystery in the Earth, for the perfection of This Twofold Generation. The Heavenly Wonder is the Universal Matrix of Blessed Souls: as the Earthly Mystery is of all Mankind in their present Lapsed State. The One is the Universal Mother of all that are Begotten after the Spirit; the other the Universal Mother of all Flesh: the one unspotted and undefiled; the other all over spotted, and defil’d with the Leprosie of Nature: Both sit as Queens, the one at the Conflux {a flowing together of two or more fluids} of the Superiour Waters, as the other at that of the Inferiour: the one Adorn’d with all Celestial Riches and Glories, being Crown’d with Stars, and wearing a Solar Robe down to her feet; the other with all Terrestrial, being array’d with Purple and Scarlet Colour, and deck’d with Gold, and Precious Stones and Pearls: the one Angelical, having the Wings of the Eagle-Cherub; the other Bestial, riding upon an unclean Beast, the Great Beast of the Degeneration of Mankind: Lastly, the One a Virgin, and of the Heavens Heavenly; but the other an Harlot, and of the Earth Earthly, being the Mother of all the Formations, and Abominations, that have ever been, or ever shall be in the Earth. This Virgin is a Virgin Eternally: as that Harlot is an Harlot *Eternally. [* Not in the Same Sense as the Former, but in a Sense proper to the subject.] This Eternal Virgin can never be deceiv’d; neither doth deceive any Man: that Eternal Harlot is always herself deceived; and doth deceive every Man. For the Spirit of Wisdom, from GOD the Father of all Lights, leads continually into all Truth: and the Spirit of Folly, from the Earthly Imagination, vitiated {impaired or corrupted} by the Father of Lyes, seduces Always into all manner of Error. Which last is Solomon’s Foolish Woman, or the Mistress of Fools: whose Paths are Destruction, and whose Chambers are the Chambers of Death. And as the Human Imagination, under the present Depraved State of the Fall, lying expos’d to all manner of Pollutions, may most fitly be represented as a most Vile and Common Strumpet {prostitute}, tho’ never so finely and richly trick’d up {decorated, adorned fantastically}; and is indeed that Strange and Foolish Woman of Solomon, whose Steps take hold on Hell: So the Pure Intellect, or Mind, which cannot admit into it any Material Images; lying only open to the Immaculate Light of GOD, and the Uncorrupted Ideas of Heavenly Truths, and Beauties, therein contain’d; cannot be better set forth than by a most fair Paradisical Virgin; that is all Glorious within, how mean soever the Outward Appearance may be. And this Virgin, or this pure Essence of the Spirit of the Soul, being thus Irradiated by the Eternal Sun of Truth and Righteousness, says, My Son forget not my Law; which is the Law of Wisdom, and the Law of perfect Reason, whereby all Intellectual Beings arrive to the utmost Felicity and Perfection of their Nature: And it is by Obedience to this Internal (which is also an Eternal) Law, that the Path of the Just Man, who is properly Wisdom’s Child, is made as the Shining Light, which shineth more and more unto the perfect Day; than which nothing can more admirably express the Gradual Augmentation of the Spiritual Light, enlightening the Mind of All that do attend to it by Abstraction {an act or state of being separated, as from the world}, and Recollection {an act of coming back or reuniting, as with God} from all Outward and Imaginary Objects. And thus the Soul by Abstracting from the Imagination, becomes a Virgin (or is Purified from the Flesh:) as by sinking into it the Soul appears before God in the form of a Whore; or an Adulteress (being made Captive to the Flesh.) Hence every true Child and Disciple of Wisdom, being by Holy Abstraction and Spiritual Mindedness set free from the Law of the Flesh, which is the Law of Death, is call’d also a Virgin: and by being brought hereby into the full Liberty of the Law of the Spirit, which is the Law of Life, is made an Immortal Virgin, or an Angelical Virgin.
Q. 11. Why also is this Spirit of Wisdom everywhere Represented as a Female Virgin, when yet it is expressly said to be a Male, no less than a Female one (as Rev.of Rev. Chap 15. p.55.) And why on the contrary are the Virgins of the Apocalypse Represented as Masculine, not as Female Virgins?
Answ. The Soul which is neither Male, nor Female; or, if you had rather, which is both Male and Female; doth yet Universally take a Female Appellation. So likewise all the Graces and Vertues, with all the Attributes (Communicable and Incommunicable) of the Divine Nature; in which nothing would be more absurd than to imagine any distinction of Sex. Nor is it without all Ground, even in Nature that the Soul is Figuratively Represented rather as a Female, than as a male; since it ought not to be so much Active, as Passive to the Influx of the Divine Being: and must be in subjection to Christ its Head, and Original Life, if ever it recover its true Native State. For the Desire of the Soul is towards her Husband: and he must Rule over her, whoever he be. The Soul that is Espoused to GOD, submits her Desire to God’s Will: and He Rules over her, so that she is hereby made the Kingdom of God; according as an Ancient Father of the Greek Church doth neatly say of the Wife, that she is the Kingdom of the Husband. So on the contrary, the Soul that is Espous’d to Satan, has thereby captivated her Desire in obedience to his Will: and he then domineers over her, so that she is made, by this her voluntary Submission, the Kingdom of the Devil; or the Kingdom of Hell may be said to be come within her, and to her. Accordingly not only that most Mystical Book of the Canticles, as to the Whole of it, with most of the Ancient Prophets, do elegantly express this Female Relation of the Human Soul; but even the Apostles do urge it in their very Argumentative Discourses; and Christ himself in several of his Parables, which contain the Mysteries of the Divine Kingdom, doth suppose it both in an Aggregate Number of Souls, and in each Individual Soul singly. If then the Human Soul (both in an Individual and Aggregate Sense) be represented by the Holy Ghost as under a Female Capacity, with respect to God, and to Christ; certainly nothing could be more Proper than so to represent the Superiour Spirit of the Soul; which bears the nearest Relation to the Deity, as manifested to it in Christ. Wherefore the Spirit of Wisdom as communicated from the Father of Spirits and Lights to the Soul, according to its most Supernal and Central Ground; and Incorporating (if one may so say) with the Soul, for Ghostly and Angelical Generation, is to be Consider’d, rather under a Female, than under a Male Determination. Now when the Soul is made a Virgin by the Inhabitation of the Heavenly Wisdom, then is the Kingdom of God truly in the Soul, Paradise is open’d in its Properties, and being made an Heavenly Virgin by the means of this most Immaculate and Virgin-Spirit, is receiv’d and own’d by CHRIST as his dearest Spouse. And this may in part suffice to shew the Reason of this Appropriation of the Name of a Female Virgin to the Divine Wisdom, as Operating in Man: and with regard to the true Ground and Basis of the Regeneration of Human Nature, laid down in the Scriptures.
But since it is here further Demanded, Why then are the Israelite Virgins, mentioned by St. John in the Revelation not represented as Female Virgins, but as Masculine, being said to be such as were not Defiled with Woman? To this it must be Answer’d, that it is done with a different Respect, and not without a very good Ground; which will easily appear to every one that shall consider the Same. For it is plain, that no more is meant hereby, but the full Restitution of these First Fruits to their Primeval Dignity, or State in Paradise, as before the Fall. This Restoration of Paradise, or the Paradisical State, is well represented to us, by a Translation or Redemption from the Earth; and by being Redeemed, or Separated, from among Men, living here in a Mixt Principle of Generation and Corruption: which is therefore also set forth by an High and Holy Inclosure, oppos’d to Mount Sinai, in the Wilderness, (which typifies out this World) whereto none likewise were to approach near that were defiled with Women. And it would have been most improper to have delineated this Paradisical State Renew’d, by Female Virgins alone: the Male being the First in the First Paradise; for the Male was without the Female, but not the Female without the Male: Or, by Females and Males together, because this would not agree to that Angelical State of the Resurrection, which is declared by our Blessed Lord; in which all Relations of that Kind must utterly cease. Whence it follows, that this Representation could not be but by Masculine Virgins alone: in whom also the Female is included, as well as the Male, according to Universal Prescription; which generally supposes and comprehends the Female with the Male, without making an express determinate mention.
But moreover if it be consider’d what a Masculine Virgin Adam was, before he fell Asleep in Paradise, and before the Separation and Formation of the Woman, through whom the Great Transgression enter’d; there will be manifested the Deepest Ground both for one, and for the other: And there can be no longer any manner of Doubt, either why the Spirit of Wisdom should be Figur’d out (as the Second Eve) like to a Female Virgin; or the Followers of the LAMB (as the Second Adam) in the Regeneration, as Masculine Virgins.
Q. 12. Why in the same Book is Wisdom call’d a Goddess (Chap. 16. Pag.59.) and God’s Bride, (Pag. 56, 60.) and both therein, and also in the Revelation of the Eight Worlds, made to be the Mother of all Angelical Generations; and not only so, but even of Christ too, as to his Eternal Sonship?
Answ. 1. For the same Reason that the Divine Nature is in Scripture frequently attributed to Angels and Princes; from the participation only of some Ray of it; surely much rather may it be Ascrib’d to That which is the express Lustre and Reflexion of the Whole. 2. Neither is the Divine Wisdom positively so call’d; but only relatively, as taken into God’s Bosom, (ibid.) or as the Bride of God. Nay, It is not actually call’d so, even with this very Relation; the Author only Asserts that this may be. Nor may this be, according to the Author, in Any, or in an Absolute Sense; but only in one Limited, that is, in a high and sober sense, as she expresses it.
Now as in GOD there can be (in a Low and Human Sense) neither Male, nor Female; and yet He is the Perfection of Both, and the Head and Fountain of all Variety: so also is this Holy Virgin Nature of Wisdom, neither properly Male, nor properly Female; for she is (as this very Author has before well expressed, Pag.55.) both Male and Female for Angelical Generation. This Virgin therefore being Both, may be equally call’d by Both: And there can be no Absurdity in this Female Denomination of the Divine Being thus Applied, being Legitimated by the Prophetical Writings; but above all the rest most eminently by Solomon. Now what can be more properly call’d God’s Bride, Mate, and Consort, than that which he possessed in the beginning of all his Manifestations, That was by him as a familiar Companion; and was daily his Delight, rejoycing always before him, and sporting in and with the Works of his Creation? Whence this Virgin Undefiled Nature, as beaming forth from God, may not unfitly be termed the Matrix of all Heavenly and Angelical Births: as the Earth is call’d the Mother of all Mortals; and the Celestial Jerusalem the Mother of all the Faithful. And whereas, It is said also to be the Mother of Christ before all Time, hereby is to be understood, that He in his Pre-existent State, (as Subsisting in a Distinct and Organiz’d Form,) was not only Originated from the Fiery and Masculine Tincture, Source or Principle of the Deity; but likewise from the Watery and Feminine, or the meek Essence of the Eternal Water of Life, and Light of Eternity. This is call’d God’s Glance, (Heav.Cloud. p.16. Ed.1701.) or an Ideal Light, or World, glanced forth from the Deity, in which all things are Known, Heard, and Seen in a Supersensual Manner: and Christ is said to be the Son of God, as having in Him the Fulness of the Divine Being, comprehending both these Tinctures or Natures, in a Manifestative Form; and as Eternally Generated through this Divine Glance, and Manifesting Himself through all the Works of Creation.
N.B. But moreover it ought to be Observ’d, that the Author doth Here expressly Condemn such a Deification of Saints, and of the B.V. Mary, which some do Hold, or are thought to Hold: and doth entirely disallow the giving the Title of Queen of Heaven (or Goddess) to any Creature, tho’ never so High, or Blessed; as an Evil and Sinful Thing. And with Relation to the Abuse Committed (or Suppos’d) on this Side, the Sense of the Author is Principally to be here Taken.
Q. 13. What is the Manchild (mention’d in this Book, P. 55.56. whom this Divine Virgin brings forth, to repossess all what Adam lost of the Paradisical and Sionitical Kingdoms?
Answ. It is Christ in us, according to the Author’s Sense in that Place: or a Virtual Participation and Communication of the Divine Nature in Christ; by which a Real and Substantial Birth is formed within us, in Conformity to Him, who is our Head and Prince. So that as Adam was the Head of all the Human Race under the Fall, by Human Generation: Even so is Christ the Head of All under the Restoration, by Divine Generation. And thus only is He in us the Hope of Glory. Now as there is a Growing up to the Measure of His Stature, so will the Glory, and Kingdom be Revealed.
Q. 14. Why is this Divine Virgin said to be both Male and Female, for Angelical Generation?
Answ. The Divine Wisdom is communicated to Man for Angelical Generation: or that he may be Regenerated into an Angel; by the powerful Going forth of the Eternal Word of Wisdom, as a Distinct and Glorious Birth within the Regenerated Man. Wherefore as the Angels are neither Male, nor Female, but Both, (as possessing the Male and Female Tincture United, and Undefiled:) So the Holy and Virgin Nature of God’s Wisdom, which doth Generate Angelically, cannot be properly Male, or properly Female; but must needs be Both in One. Otherwise there could be no Production of Angelical Virgins. There is no Angelical Virgin in whom there is a Separation or Disunion of the Heavenly Fire from the Heavenly Water. Which is well to be heeded.
Q. 15. Why is the Name of Magi, or Magicians, attributed to those of this Angelical Generation, in so many Places of this Author’s Writings?
Answ. The Birth, or Effect, of this Re-introduced Virgin Nature into Man, is term’d MAGIA by this Author; which is otherwise defined by her as the Creating Power of the Holy Ghost. Accordingly a Magician, in this Pure Sense, is one in whom this Angelical Generation is already Perfected; and in whom the Holy Ghost works freely, without any Resistance of the Creature, after an Invisible manner, Creating and Forming all things according to their Perfect and Spiritual Models. A Magus is by Interpretation a Priest in the Persian Tongue: and such an one it here signifies, being immediately Ordained of the Holy Ghost. And this Magical Order of the Priests of the most High God, according to this High Ordination, and Special Unction, is call’d by this Author the Order of Melchizedeck; in conformity to the Royal Priesthood of Christ, the Head of this Order. And for so much as He that Sanctifieth, by entering into the most Holy Inward Place, and they that are Sanctified by Him for this Holy Order, are One; therefore is He alone reputed the Priest, and Mediator between God and Man.
Q. 16. Wherefore is it said, that there may possibly be Some who have passed through the First and Second Orders, without making much Noise, and who are ready to enter into the Third Order of the Priesthood? And, Wherefore is there so much Labour then taken by Some to Publish This, both by Printing and Preaching; when this may be, and no great Noise hereof made? See Chap. XXVIII. Pag. 155.
Answ. It is Asserted by this Author, that the Passage through the Lower Orders of this Priesthood is an Inward and Secret Operation; and that consequently the Persons so Passing may be Secret and Unknown, when they shall be call’d to enter into the High and Royal Order of Melchizedeck; for a more Publick Manifestation of the Reign of the Holy Ghost. But it is not all maintain’d, that every one that is call’d up into this Order must be before perfectly Unknown, or a silent Recluse from the World. And much less it is maintain’d, that it is positively Unlawful for any under the Inferiour Order, to Minister (either Privately, or Publickly) according to the Measure of the Grace which they have Receiv’d. And still even much less can it be Unlawful, if there be not only such a Measure of Special Grace given wherewith to Officiate; but there be also Believ’d to be a Positive Encouragement and Command so to do. Now This, upon Examination, will haply be found to be the Case in Hand.
But furthermore in Answer to this Objection, the Author doth Here expressly Declare, “That though this be to be carried on Silently, and Hiddenly without making a Noise, after the manner of the Conception of John the Baptist, whose Mother hid her self for Five Months, till she knew of a certainty that it was really so, as had been Foretold by the Angel; so it is necessary that this Holy Conception of Christ’s Priestly Birth in us should be secretly kept and nourished in its own Blood-Life, till fully quicken’d it be, and in a good Readiness to Break forth, and to shew it self with the Budding Rod of Power; thereby demonstrating that it is of the Order of the Royal Priesthood: Yet this doth not Prohibit the Forerunning of a Promise, or Prophesy which relates thereunto, even though the same be Publick; for hereby a Ground of Faith is given for the taking hold of such a Prophesy or Promise tending here-unto, whether in General, or in Particular. So that as Elizabeth conceiv’d by Faith; upon this Consideration may the Declaration or Sound go forth first, to lay hold on such prepared Souls, for exciting in them a Faith Answerable. And as it is not said that she conceal’d her self any longer than Five Months, so it is not of necessary obligation for Every one to be Silent, and Retir’d until the Full Term of bringing forth this Mighty Birth, which shall make way for the LORD’s Glorious Appearance. And this indeed will be the Consummation of all these Working Powers in the Divine Mystery, that must give the Signs of his Coming, First in Spirit, and Then in his Glorified Personality. Unto which Blessed Day let us Hasten by all Preparation; through Sanctification, and the Renewing of the Powers of the Holy Ghost. Even so come Lord JESU: Yea come Quickly.”
An Extract out of the Sentiments of a Friend upon this Book,
Written to the High Dutch Translator thereof A.D. 1694.
and afterward inserted in the Theosophical Transactions. Novemb. V. p.253.——— Thus will the Revelation of Revelations of our Lead meet with unlike Readers, because it unfolds deep Mysteries, which no Reason can fathom in its Center. SOPHIA is Known only by, and acquainted with the Children of the Inward Light World; and suffers not her self to be uncloathed by any unregenerated unchaste Heart. She Kisses but her own inward Fire-Ground: for she is God’s chaste Marriage or Bridal Bed. Faith is now a-days not more understood, and known as a Magical Fire, Power, and Husband of SOPHIA; but is looked upon as an Opinion and Imagination. The Beast is taken for the Pope; and not the Soul in her own Self-will. The Seven Heads are taken to be Rome: whereas they point at the Seven Forms of Nature. Satan is made to be the Devil without; who is the Selfishness in us. Hell is the Abyss and Darkness, or the First Principle in Flesh and Blood, and the Worm of the Soul; and it is placed in the Center of the Earth. The Kingdom of Christ is the Supream Government of the Light World over the Soul, when the two Fires unite into One; out of which Sophia flames, and shines in the Light World, and displays her Beams even into the Out-birth, which is expected Outwardly in the World. And thus it is with all the Mysteries of the Revelation of John, and with Lead’s published Declaration upon it. Therefore whosoever is not able to read his own Book with three Leaves, will also not be able to read that with Seven Seals, &c. If God should be pleas’d to intrust any with the Apocalyptical Key, then the Magical Sense would Simply and Nakedly be laid open.———
F I N I S.
