The Fourth Book Of Moses Called Numbers The Argument For as much as God hath appointed that his Church in this world shall be under the cross, both because they should learn not to put their trust in worldly things, and also feel his comfort, when all other help faileth; he did not straightway bring his people, after their departure out of Egypt, into the land which he had promised them, but led them to and fro for the space of forty years, and kept them in continual exercises before they enjoyed it, to try their faith, and to teach them to forget the world, and to depend on him. Which trial did greatly profit, to discern the wicked and the hypocrites from the faithful and true servants of God, who served him with a pure heart, whereas the others, preferring their carnal affections to God’s glory, and making Religion to serve their purpose, murmured when they lacked to content their lusts, and despised them whom God had appointed rulers over them. By reason whereof they provoked God’s terrible judgments against them, and are set forth as a most notable example for all ages, to beware how they abuse God’s word, prefer their own lusts to his will, or despise his ministers. Notwithstanding, God is ever true in his promise, and governeth his by his holy Spirit, that either they fall not to such inconveniences, or else return to him quickly by true repentance; and therefore he continueth his graces toward them, he giveth them ordinances and instructions, as well for Religion, as outward policy; he preserveth them against all craft and conspiracy, and giveth them manifold victories against their enemies. And to avoid all controversies that might arise, he taketh away the occasions, by dividing among all the tribes, both the land, which they had won, and that also which he had promised, as seemed best to his godly wisdom.
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