May 12th, 1694

A Flower from the Paradisiacal ground hath appeared, the Nature and property of which
is never to fade or die, for its descent is from on high, which is the Lord,
the quickening Spirit from Eternity.

    This is the Plant that hath put forth itself distinct from the outward nature in me. Well known it is by its pleasant scent, qualifying with fragrant love so very sweet and mild that it harmonizes the soul to the degree that it feels no other life than a spiritual Deity. That is the Root which feeds this rosy flower of the mind with a certain kind of balsamic virtue so that its beauty is always of a blushing freshness.

    Now herein lies the greatest of all mysteries, that under the covert of a mortal human form, such an anointed cherub should live there and move as having the fire-sparkling eye that pierces into the heavens, there to view and see what is of its own kind and property, transplanted into that upper region. For it is known to me that spirits, pure and separate from this gross earth may be both with Christ the Head and with His body of saints who are in the heights of glory.⁽¹¹⁾

    Yet mutual greeting and conversation may be allowed as springing from one eternal root and ground, coupled together in Love's golden chain of everlasting unity.

    But it is given to me to understand that such saints which are yet in the body (that is, yet corporeal), must be highly spirited and much estranged from themselves, as considered in an outward creaturely life, for that part must be silenced and shut up whenever the soul, in this body, would hold a communion or a spiritual conference with the kingly Shepherd and that upper fold.

    Now from hence it is to be concluded that they must be high-graduated souls that are privileged to come up here to this heavenly court. Every spirit, according to its growth and attainment, so will it be ranked with such as are from above, each one joined to its like in heavenly places. For so it will be whilst in the body of time, and when therefrom separated (Oh my friends, whoever comes to know this!), they will little care for any other society but what is above, for Christ is being glorified. He mightily doth draw pure spirits to be with Him as their most proper center and dwelling place.

    The body of sin and flesh hath been indeed a great impediment to such heavenly-minded souls that would be in this liberty of mind for a spiritual flight. But the millstone of this earth doth bind and keep them down so as they cannot ascend.

    The question then is, "what must be done to get free in order to hold this most desirable correspondence with GOD and CHRIST and all the heavenly family?"

    I can give no other direction than what I, myself have been taught in, and in some degree have put into practice so as whereby I have found this all-secret pass (or way) for my spirit to enter and abide in the inward tabernacle of God's delightful presence. This is as a foregoing pledge of what I may hope and expect to take up in when this my body shall break away.

    Therefore, that I might excite all holy, well-minded souls that are such lovers of their Christ-life that they would not be bereaved of His company during the time allotted to live in this outward body, then let them observe the rules I give as my experience.

    First, lay aside all vexations, worldly matters that are unmanageable and weighty upon the mind, take in nothing that is not absolutely necessary, be contented with little of the world that you may have more of God.

    And if thou art possessed of plenty in these outward things, be sure to give a proof of thy alienation from them by giving them all up as an offering to the Temple-builders. This shall promote and furnish the inward sanctuary, which the Holy, spiritually-minded souls are to make up. Therefore be encouraged in that it may be thus with such as do possess and enjoy the things of this world more plentifully.

    And let them bless God that they have such a prize put into their hands with which to honor God and propagate the revelation of His kingdom by supporting such as God has endowed and filled with the spirit of wisdom, revelation and prophecy, with all purity of conversation.

    I am sure it would be a most sweet-scented sacrifice to God if there could be any found that were thus so largely and well disposed in mind, so that a sequestration and dedication of devout spirits might be maintained for fulfilling the will of God here on earth as it is in heaven, echoing the saints in the upper world in loving, praising and admiring, paying all homage and temple worship in God, to God and to the Lamb.

    I have been, and still am, of the same mind that if such an holy convocation could be brought together in perfect accord and oneness of spirit, a great witness would be given of it and mighty things would succeed upon it. But woe, and alas (and may therefore a wailing be taken up), that the pure spring of life in souls hath been stifled and choked by the earth.

    I have made it my sorrowful observation how deeply buried in the earthly life the greater part of creation is in their several ranks and degrees. The higher order⁽¹²⁾ in this world hath all advantage by fullness of all desirable things that this world can afford, and therefore have opportunity to attend the high and heavenly calling since they can subsist and live without the toil and labor which others are necessarily employed in.

    Therefore let the great and rich ones of this temporal state know, it is incumbent upon them, and God expects no less, that they principally honor God with their substance, and seeing God hath given them such liberty and command of their own time, to highly prize it and make sure to themselves the Pearl of the Kingdom. In doing so, that treasure may go along with them into the heavenly world when they must leave all that belongs to the outward.

    Now I have a word given me also for the lower ranks, that indeed may have a more lawful plea for want of time and liberty, being engaged in business that must give a livelihood, and therefore they cannot be so much at leisure to wait the motions of the heavens.

    To this, the Spirit of Christ gives this caution and counsel -- "Take heed lest the cares for the bodily part do not eat out the life and spirit, and so bereave it of all that is spiritual food and clothing for the soul, and so being put by and excluded from commencing degrees of the heavenly vocation and calling, lose all benefit of conversation in heavenly places."

    Therefore be watchful and suffer not the outward to unseat the inward. Put but one grain of faith into thy stock of outward things and eye God therein, and the blessing of increase shall come on thee, for the just shall live both spiritually and temporally by His faith.

    We have instances of what the spirit of faith hath produced when God hath been confided in. It hath produced a thousand-fold more than all the study of the head and labor of the hands. And as this Lily of Faith shall get up (grow), and free itself from the twisting strings of sense which hath bound it, Solomon, in all his glory shall not be compared unto this sprouting Lily-Day of the heirs of faith.

    They who shall be born into this faith need not be thoughtful for any temporal thing, for all blessings will be brought in abundance. Therefore labor not so much for that perishing mammon, but rather for that white stone of pure faith that fed many thousands with bread.

    Remembering the Lord's doctrine -- "Take no thought what to eat or drink or wherewith to be clothed." The Lord knew that by the Spirit and power of faith, there should be a support and supply of all necessary things.⁽¹³⁾

    But it may be said, "This kind of faith is yet but very rarely in anyone sprung up." Well, grant it so to be for the present, yet it is a truth there is such a faith that hath been and shall most surely be revived again in them who are willing to die to all that which hath choked and stifled and bound this Lily of Faith down.

    Now to proceed on to the second rule for direction of such spiritually-minded souls as do desire to be well-acquainted with a life in God and therein to rest. As the first rule was to discharge and quit all unnecessary clogs and weights exteriorly, so is it done also here, but more interiorly. This is done by taking all care to clear away from the heart and mind the scum that boils up from corruptible nature, from whence a multiplicity of imaginations are generated so that no stop can be put to them except as the spring of the Holy Ghost doth open and drown that chaffy dust which defiles the temple body.

    Now this skill the soul must learn of the Holy Spirit, that as fast as the puddled-matter of this kind arises in the mind, so immediately dowse and bathe thyself in the springing pool (of the Holy Ghost), wherefrom the water of life doth bubble up. That is our healing, and it is as near us as the other contrary source. And thus we may keep our hearts all pure and clearer reserved to be the most holy sanctuary for the priestly spirit to minister in and to make ready a holy separated place for God and Christ to manifest themselves in us.

    Upon this account was the Holy Ghost promised and also given, to prepare and make straight the crooked ways internally, for Christ to take up His spiritual humanity in a pure mind. As John the Baptist went before to prepare, and declare Him to be the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, that by John's ministry a reformation and repentance unto life might be given. But all this was short of the Spirit's ministry (as John confessed) which is now come to be revealed. Christ being glorified in a body all spiritual, He cannot come to join Himself with any soul except where this Holy Spirit abides beforehand, to refine and purge the floor of the heart.

    This is the office of the Spirit. Now hence do we see ourselves bound to treat this Holy Messenger kindly. It is an infinitely valuable Gift. Oh, therefore prize Him at a high rate, for by Him and through Him we have all knowledge and intelligence from our Father's house and all of that heavenly family. We should never know anything of that state of life which is after death but as this good Friend, the Holy Unction, makes out from the treasury of God's manifold Wisdom.

    Therefore, who would not for so great a benefit keep their minds all vacant and pure, for such a Comforter to abide with them who can tell us of things that are yet to come as to the present time and eternity, and this He does and will do still for those that love and delight in His company.

    I must say, and leave it for a living testimony behind me, that had it not been for this precious sealing gift⁽¹⁴⁾ of this Holy Spirit, I must have spent my days in gloominess and sadness, in sorrow and misery. But by the received Gift of this Spirit, my age of time hath been passed away with much peace, pleasure and joy, though often thronged in upon by this world's annoyances which could never depress me while I could but keep the Spirit with me. For He had always more new things to bring out of His store to quiet and pacify that which at any time was ruffled and so much disquieted in me.

    This I have only made mention of to provoke such or as many as may read this treatise and seriously ponder it in the true Spirit; then will they know from whence this is written and prize it greatly and wisely make provision for this self-same bright, enlightening Star to spring out from their hearts, who will prepare the way for Christ the King to reign till He hath put down all that can be called sin, for to this end is the Holy Ghost given and still giving, but in various measures and degrees: some one portion, others double and treble, according as a dedication and preparation of soul is found, where most stillness and privacy for a divine contemplative life is fixed. There this Holy Guest will frequently visit, whereby it doth well inform and acquaint the devout soul with what is doing and transacting in the heavenly country and royal city which the majesty of God doth enlighten with His glory.

    The discourse the Spirit may maintain with us about this upper world's affairs, will mightily hold us and wind up our minds so as we shall fear to let them down into this defiling world, lest it should raise a cloud of interposition between the heavens and us, as too sorrowful it hath often been known. Therefore, watch and pray and cease not to keep upon your guard always.

    But now it may be said, "This is a glorious and high privilege to receive of this Spirit which brings out of God's treasury things new and old, but the way to obtain this Gift is very costly,⁽¹⁵⁾ for the rules prescribed carry out to such a self-abnegation and denunciation of a creaturely life in flesh and carnal sense that it is very rarely that any are able to obtain and retain this precious and holy anointing whereby we come to know the secret and deep things of God."

    True it is, this jewel will not be found in common earthly ground; there are several measures, as I have mentioned, for they that have no degree of this Spirit of Christ cannot be His. But if there be so much of this light as doth check and reprove of sin and it be obeyed, then the Spirit will manifestly multiply for counsel and comfort and go on to reveal Himself clearer as He finds the heart giving up to be His peculiar place of residence. This is so that He may keep all in a sanctified order in preparation for more extraordinary things to be communicated. For the Spirit rises higher and higher as the soul is emptied of its own self.

    It may be queried, "But is there any in this age of time who can give any instance of their being baptized with the Holy Ghost, as in the Apostles' days?"

    Yea surely, the succession of which hath been witnessed by some or other in every age since, although not in the same manner as with cloven tongues and rushing winds. This visible demonstration of the Spirit was to have its day and so pass away,⁽¹⁶⁾ and now operates in a more intrinsical manner and method in vessels fitted out thereunto.

    Therefore what was done visibly is now more invisible, inspiring and opening as a glowing flame in the heart, lying there as a live burning coal, which is known to us to be the true baptizing of the Holy Ghost which is in present feeling, and whenever it is in its highest penetrating power, it may act forth itself in miraculous deeds and works as the present occasion may call for. This has been known and experienced by some in this age.

    Then again, another evidence of the Spirit is internal gusts and breaths of divine air by which the soul is often mounted up upon the wing of this word or breath of the Spirit and so gets up to the heavens, entering into the celestial globe of eternity while its outward physical body remains in time. This is known to some.

    For there was an outward personal going up to the visible Jerusalem to eat the Feast of the Passover, which was a type of that great Day of the Feast which is now kept in the New Jerusalem above, where the Lord Christ in His spiritual humanity doth appear, keeping up the solemnity of that spiritual feast with the body of His saints there and sometimes doth admit of pure Spirits that yet in the body of visible flesh are to come up for to view the stately order and government of that feast and to taste thereof. This is the true eating of the supper of the Lamb and drinking the royal wine of the New Testament with Christ in His Kingdom, which puts an end to all symbolical ceremonies.⁽¹⁷⁾

    Blessing, joy and glory we may pronounce to all which are called and invited to come up to feed upon this Pascal Lamb. They will never care nor desire to go out here to take up in lower⁽¹⁸⁾ administrations, for this is the sum and substance of all, to feed upon the quintessential body and pure blood of the grape, that as often as it presses itself out, it fills again for a continual emptying forth, so that none that is come up here may thirst any more.

    This is the true Feast of Tabernacles which I have here described to you, for no one can go up here without putting on his Tabernacle-Body,⁽¹⁹⁾ which is the flaming heart of the Holy Ghost.

    But now methinks I hear some say at the reading of this , "Oh! You have mentioned a high and lofty state which is as a new thing that hath not been declared, as that in this present life there should be found any to ascend to the New-Jerusalem, to feast and worship God there." "This," you will say, "belongs to the Enochian Life, but that age of the world is not yet come so as to know a translated state."

    We grant it, that it is not common, only peculiar to some that in Enoch's Spirit are raised to walk with God and so are taken up in the Spirit wholly. But we may hope this day of the Spirit is coming on whereby it shall be known more universally, in the which angelical spirits shall ascend,⁽²⁰⁾ and that divine principle shall open that now hath been so long shut up. Then you will know a new state of living that you never knew before,⁽²¹⁾ for it will turn the love of all mortal things out of the heart's-door. This will in very deed be known.

    Seeing we have thus far proceeded in opening this divine mystery we shall not stop here but go on to reveal and communicate to such as desire to be fellow-travelers with me to this Holy City, the New Jerusalem, the track having been shown unto me, not by vision only, as in past times. In my printed book of Divine Revelations,⁽²²⁾ there you may see what I had by way of vision, printed in 1683, but now the Spirit hath moved itself in another degree to bring forth vision into an essential fruition, which certifies that scripture, They shall go from strength to strength, each one appearing before God in Zion. Ps.84:7.

    Now this I find is to be taken in a two-fold sense as to that part which is to appear before God in Zion. The first is while yet in the physical body. The second is, when stepped out of it, so as no more to return to it again (death). Now hence I ( yet not I, but the Spirit of my Jesus) shall lead you on to the first part, knowing well the way and has taken the measures thereof by the measuring line in the hand of an angel, unaccountable to any but the travelers thereto.

    Some heads and propositions I shall lay down in order hereunto, that our fellow-travelers may not fail to find sure footing;

    The First is, What preparation or qualification will be requisite for such intended travelers.

    Secondly, What kind or manner of way.

    Thirdly, The several stages or rests by the way.

    Fourthly, Their arrival to this City of God.

    And Fifthly, The welcome and entertainment the travelers meet with there from all the great assembly of Mount Zion (the court of God).

    First then, it is to be considered what this traveller must be; not a gross, tangible body, but a Spirit that must thus take up Enoch's walks, separated and translated from a terrestrial life to a celestial. This is our spiritual-traveler's first alteration (an earthly creature turned into a spiritual).

    And now we come to enter upon the way which looks, at first glimpse, as the valley of Baca that opens the floodgate of tears, and being now so environed with the light of the Spirit that hath discovered to it an inward and outward deformity, degraded of its angelical image by the root of sin springing in nature, so that this mourning and sorrow is not to be repented of.

    While in this first beginning-way, the soul will have many enemies to encounter withal and temptations from within and without, and the more assaults will come to rend away and leave the walks of this evil world and to betake itself to this new and living way. But let not our fellow-travelers be discouraged, but gird up and go forward. This day's journey will have its end, though it may go heavily on, this first day. The second will be more lightsome and refreshing if it but holds out this probation (trial) and wrestles it out as Jacob did.

    Then the angels of God will meet the weary traveler and accompany it throughout its way.

    There are seven angels (or they may be called seven Spirits) that are appointed to be the guard of the traveling soul while in this dangerous way. I shall name them, as I myself have found them a fortitude of strength in all my journey on to this very day; so it may be to the undertakers that will precisely keep to this perfect way.

    The first of these seven qualifying Spirits and Powers for a guard is holy, passive patience. This is an absolutely necessary companion in this way. No holding out without the endowment of a patient mind that may hold out against all contradictions and what will make offer to pull down from this high and heavenly walk.

    The second is deep or meek humility (keeping low and humble) that secures the traveler, for God hath great respect for a soul that walks softly and steadily.

    The third qualification (or angel) is a lively hope, which is as an eye within the soul carrying a prospect of the heavenly Zion that mightily strengthens it and bears it up.

    Fourthly, a super-celestial wisdom that directs, manages and governs the soul as to the fittest times and seasons for journeying on; that is, when to stop and when to remove on forward as the matter shall require.

    The fifth is the Spirit of faith. This is a most excellent companion that carries through all difficulties, because it is the evidence of objects, of things in the heavens, not visibly seen. It is wings that makes the soul fly so high that nothing of the crawling earthworms can reach to molest or hurt it.

    The sixth divine power that attends the traveler is the live coal of flaming love that so vehemently longs to arrive to the visional fruition of God and Christ with all the glorified train of blessed and perfect spirits. This love-gale is so mighty strong that it makes the soul pull up and run swiftly in this race.

    Seventhly, that which doth most complete this holy guard is impregnable strength and power, for if God did not take care to fortify the traveling soul with His own invincible strength, there would be no possibility of reaching this mark of the New-Jerusalem-State. But Christ the Lord takes good care and will not fail to provide walls of defense for accomplishing this heavenly journey, for Christ the Lord longs more to see the soul-traveler safely landed in his own bosom of love than the soul's desire is to appear before Him. So by this mutual love- agreement the everlasting knot of marriage union will be tied when once it is arrived at.

    Now then, by this time you see what the company is that will support the soul in its travels, but the chief of all is Christ in Spirit, that walks in this holy qualified soul as in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks.

    The second proposition is: what stages or rests that may be allowed the weary traveler to take up in a while, which are three.

    This second day's journey is more easy and refreshing, the walks give a sweet smell from the evangelical promises, giving assurance by the atoning blood of the covenant that all guilt of sin is obliterated, whereby the soul is encouraged and comforted.

    But from this it passes on to a second rest which is the record and seal of the Spirit. That which was now from the general promises (literal) is not to be stayed in. Christ in flesh withdraws and will be known no more in that figure but in the All-filling power and presence of Spirit, whereby the soul shall know Him in herself, so He does then become salvation to the purpose.

    No outward application of Christ has the beneficial effect of a Christ within who pours in His saving name as ointment, which performs the cure of the lapsed state of the soul, because an inward disease must have an inborn medicine that may penetrate through the inward parts that all may be made whole.⁽²³⁾

    This is the intended redemption by Christ, and nothing less will set the soul to rights again so as to give it boldness to come to appear before that great assembly of perfected spirits in Mount Zion's Kingdom.

    As the traveler passes through this country, there are various delightful entertainments, ministering angels and spirits that meet the soul in this divine principle.

    There also are the Sharon's walks, adorned with the spicy beds that give forth their ravishing odors.

    This sometimes opens in the soul with sweet tastes and refreshing draughts, for the Godhead diffuses Itself through all of that climate so as many spirits are made vigorous and joyful, knowing nothing but an all-filling sweetness, all calm and still in the mind, free from the terrifying cares and burnings of this world (though in it), yet forgotten by it, at least during the time it is round beset with this light and heavenly Paradise, so that the soul is afraid to be disturbed as to the lower descent into mortal things again.

    Now we come to the third particular, which is the last remove that brings one up to that Mount Zion which is mentioned in Hebrews 12:22.

    Thus the unwearied soul goes on from strength to strength and is now come to the fourth particular.

    That is to the arrival to appear before God in Zion.

    This is a high and glorious arrival. This is a rest never to be divested of. Now the everlasting gates do open to receive the faithful traveler that hath held out its probation state.⁽²⁴⁾

    It further remains to give you an account (as the fifth particular), of the traveler's welcome up there.

    The first appearance is the angelical order that stands before the throne, who are commanded to usher in the arrived, bringing forth the royal robe, which is all pure and light without spot of the fallen night. This gives the soul a holy boldness to appear in that new world or principal of light which becomes all manifest; so Christ, the Kingly Priest, appears to the soul and, as a Bridegroom, greets it with such a kind of love-gratulations as follows:

    "My Bride and Spouse, I joy to see thy soul in My righteousness and that thou hast passed through a dangerous, evil, tempting world, and hast escaped with that tender life of Mine (in thee) by which thou art come up a conqueror here, and now behold and view the glory of My kingdom which the Father hath placed Me in and over all principalities, powers and dominions, both in the heights above and in the earth below, so as I can give to whom I will to possess with Me, joy for joy and glory for glory with Me. As I have received of My Father, so freely I give to thee, and as many as from an evil world shall break and get away and in a pure naked spirit in love's flame thus ascend.

    "Ask now (Oh Spouse of Mine), what it is that I should further do for thee. I give thee liberty to ask most free, for thou hast found favor both with the Father and Me."

    Whereupon the arrived traveler worships and bows before the throne of God and the Lamb, and in great humility doth make this reply, saying in the language of the Spirit:

    "Oh my Lord! I am come up to this degree, but I am sensible it is all of benign grace and love from my God and Father and Thy Spirit, Oh Lord Christ, in whom my conduct and guardian strength hath been this my journey. One great proof I have had of a mighty strong guard with continual supply from Thy fountain heart, or else I had fainted and failed by the way.

    "The consideration of it makes such a deep impression upon me that I am at a loss and know not wherewith to pay my debt-offering of thanksgiving unto Thee, my God and King. Only accept of what I have, which is beyond all sounds of words that are too finite to express praises for such boundless goodness, which my spirit hath tasted so largely.

    "Hence it is now that I do study to offer that unto thee which hath been refined and purified by the Spirit of love-burning given from Thee unto me.

    "This then which is of Thine Own receive, for I joy to pass it all away as my true Thanksgiving-Offering unto Thee. No part shall I keep back from Thee, had I ten thousand immaculate lives to give up to Thee, all would be too little to run their strength of love into Thee who hath wrought out so great a redemption for me.

    "And now, my Lord, seeing I am thus far admitted into Thy presence and liberty to ask a favor of Thee, for thou knowest well what occasion I may have thereof, being yet in the region of time where obvious I am to assaults and temptations manifold. Albeit illuminated in good degree of light in Thee, yet subject to drawings down by spirits from this world and the astral kingdom that may pervert by mingling with the super-celestial part of the heart, knowing and observing in my day what miscarriages among great enlightened saints have been, who as bright stars hath shined, and then again, under a cloud have been.

    "Therefore, O my Lord (assuming these things) I am in fear and humility and dare not trust myself at any time, lest I should slip out of the right way. Therefore, this is my principle request to thee, that thy Spirit may be my constant overseer, guide and teacher as immediate from the Father and fountain of wisdom flowing from thee. Then shall there be no errings from the truth."⁽²⁵⁾

    This is the one absolute needful request, for we all stand upon a nice point, and if the petition of Solomon was so grateful to God in His day, then I in no wise do doubt (Oh my Lord) to ask of thee, the Spirit of Truth which, (promised by Thee) may never cease to be the oracle fixed in me and all that do desire to be led rightly. For it is already by Thee given as a caution to beware of transformed lights that do pretend to the right, yet Thou only art the True Light springing from within essentially. And as Thou hast been this record in me, Oh multiply of this Spirit of Wisdom and true revelation yet more fully, so that what remains yet of thy council and mind to be further declared and known, may still (as an enlightening beam) pass through me and with them also who mutually shall be found in Enoch's Walks with their faces toward Zion (the Court of Thy All-filling Majesty).

    Oh! Evermore find room and place for me and all of Thine that love thy appearance. To see Thee as thou art will surely change us into the same similitude of likeness unto Thee, for so it becomes each one that still would keep their way open and free for conversation with all the privileges that shall be given forth to the dilating kingdom with the Holy Ghost as the sure pledge of all those perfections that may agree with oneness of life and spirit with thee, My Lord. Thus I have offered my requests and do commit myself to Thy disposing in all earthly matters and things.

    Here follows the kind and courteous reply of the soul's Immanuel.

    "All hail, with Love, Peace and Goodwill to the Virgin Spouse who is in Spirit come up here to make request for that which so much is in congruity with the Father's heart and mine.

    "This answer therefore receive, that this thy petition shall be fulfilled on My Spirit's part, who shall not fail to open in thee what hath lain under seals of secrecy. Do thou but attend Him and He will attend thee and whoever shall watch in their hearts His movings. For He is the bright Morning Star who is to be the Conductor and Leader of My little flock, now in My personal absence from this lower world where the evil tempting Tree doth in all souls spring. Therefore, great need they have, I know, of this My anointed shield that may be a defense upon every onset of perverting spirits of which all are in danger while in this body elementary.

    "Therefore, I have provided this Spirit of Truth to be with thee for Counsel and Comfort, also to guard thee up to Me, where thou mayest know and see by this glass of the Spirit what I am doing, and making ready for the present and future day (when unclothed of the garment of mortality also). But for the present, come and see and taste of the heavenly fare and powers and joys of My kingdom. The Spring of Life and Love shall rise so high as to drink thy spirit up.

    "Thus with Me thou shalt feast and sup and never to go away empty, which shall be such an encouraging motive as will make thee to bend all thy force still in Spirit to be with Me, thy Lover, in My secret pavilion where thou mayest have liberty of discourse with Me in those weighty affairs that do pertain unto the New Jerusalem State. So then (Oh Spouse of mine), if this thy entertainment is, thou wilt fly as a spark of light to the body, that is, the body and fullness of all light. These are the sweetmeats I shall leave with my espoused ones to feed upon for a refreshing support till a further day shall break (through the shadow of death) which shall consummate the everlasting marriage feast with Me, thy Christ and living Head, with all the Royal Society and with myriads of angels that shall sound their trumpets of joy at the Lamb and Bride's Nuptial day and marriage feast." So end these honey drops from the mouth of our dear Immanuel.

    Now by all this which hath been declared, you may see the blessed issue of an unwearied and faithful traveler to the City of our God, which may invite and allure such as have not yet set their foot in this way, and for them which have, to make the same progress which will requite a thousand times over the loss and pains here sustained in the way.

    Oh ye that are friends and lovers of this way and would arrive to be fellow citizens in the court above with God and Christ and the numerous company of spirits, pure and glorious there, give me leave before I conclude to commend these following motives for encouragement to set forward and go swiftly on in this path of life.

    The First Motive is a full assurance of all love-acceptance with dear embraces and most free communications, all veils and bars taken away. Thy Lord Christ upon this mount will show Himself and talk with thee as God did with Moses. Only thou must put off thy shoes because it is holy ground you will walk upon. As much as to say, come here, all bare, pure and clear. Leave all at the foot of the mount that would contract of the world's earthly dust.

    Then shall you know, hear and see that which is so ravishing for the feeding of all your divine senses, that you will say, "It is good to Tabernacle here." And so it may be permitted for so long time as you can abide clothed with the transfigured robe of the Spirit of Christ. That will be but at certain times and seasons, but it will be enough to know such a thing as this and yet be in the physical body.

    Now then the Second Motive is that hereby one is made acquainted with this heavenly country before one quite leaves the mortality of this lower world. It is a high and extraordinary privilege to see and know its place and company beforehand, for our Lord Christ is very free to show unto the spiritual-minded the principalities and dominions and powers of His Kingdom and to give a good assurance of being joint heirs with Him of the same glory as you may see from John 17 and Romans 8. All this to confirm what in every succeeding age may be as a fresh sealed evidence given forth by the most Holy Spirit.

    Oh, who would not be among the number of these sealed ones? Surely it is worth forsaking and denying whatever of this temporal state of life that may be an impediment to and hinder holding correspondence with the Lord and the citizens of that heavenly country.

    Now One More Motive is this, that by putting on this habit of the Spirit whereby it may be furnished with somewhat of those ancient gifts and powers which went forth from the Lord Christ and the Apostles in their day, which will most certainly be renewed as a forerunner and evidence that the reign of Christ upon the earth in His saints is drawing very near, for more mighty and miraculous powers than existed in their day must be given in this day as a harbinger to that which is now coming on.

    The great Day of Christ's Appearance in the world draws near and to this end such deep and inward things are revealed beforehand to make ready an espoused Bride that may be found all fair and clear without blemish, for it is just such a Church which Christ must have prepared to entertain Him upon this earth. Of this I have enlarged upon in my other published treatise.

    Therefore as many as this Day are big with an expectation of Christ appearing in His Kingdom, to all such lovers and waiters for it, let me commend that of the apostle Paul's I Thessalonians 5:23, "That you may be found accomplished with all spiritual gifts and virtues and to be found of Him blameless." Such qualified souls might hasten His coming for it is not the cry of "Lo here or there," to which He will appear, but to those whom He hath by His Spirit quickened and raised up in His own inward spiritual body; to them He will first appear and so go forth as an enlightning everywhere.

    Many are gazing to see Him without, but who are they that watch in all pureness of heart and mind within, which will be the quickest way to bring Him down, Who shall be (in very deed in this last age) the desire of all nations?

    Question: But here meets me a query: "What shall become of the foolish virgins that are found asleep and of other ranks and sorts that are dead and buried in trespasses and sins when this last trumpet shall sound for His appearance?"

    Indeed it will be no desirable Day for such as these who lived without a God and Christ and are altogether strangers to this heavenly country, having loved and embraced this present world and made it their god. Indeed a present woe is to them, while joy unspeakable to the lifting up of the head of as many as are redeemed out of the earth. Their blissful day is come which they have long awaited and they do fly as doves to Christ their Life.

    But somewhat more I have had revealed unto me as to those multitude of souls that have gone out of this life in an evil and unregenerate state, still going in a desperate adventure, not caring what shall become of that immortal spark of their souls. How direful and bewailing will it be that they have delayed and wasted away the time in which they might have gained the privileges and love immunities which have been mentioned here. Had they but improved their own talent the increase would have been manifold to present joy here and much more when time with them should be no more. Let me tell them their loss and suffering is so great and the anguish of their souls so deep as no tongue can express it.

    Therefore to those yet living, let the warning trumpet sound, both to those that are in part regenerated and to them that have as yet begun nothing of it. Oh! Are you not to be excluded from God's face and thrust out from the kingly Shepherd's fold while you must painfully gaze upon them that lived in the same tempting region with you, and having overcome, are as conquerors set down with Christ the Lord upon His throne while you are bid to depart into a prison-house of utter darkness.

    It is admitted that there shall be an eventual deliverance at the end of all generations and ages (as all are graciously brought into restoration in Christ), yet how many years may you abide in these purging and trying furnaces ere that day come? One day (here, while in the body) would have set forward your work more than years in those centers where you are to be confined.⁽²⁶⁾ Therefore, let this be an acceptable and seasonable work to all of this sort who are so careless of their soul's happiness concerning the present and future state of blessedness.

    Now a word to those that are in part illuminated but yet stick in the birth and cannot get forth because the earthly and temporal world makes an impasse so that this pure life cannot rise to its perfection and completion. The question is, how will it go with them that get no farther but die thus short of a finished work, as millions of souls do daily pass out of this world without having fully put Christ on for their clothing? Except this is accomplished in us there is no coming to be expressly with Him in the three heavens.⁽²⁷⁾

    In answer to this question, be it known there are provided several mansions and regions by the wise foreseeing gracious God that knew how it would be as to this matter with the greater number of His own created beings even though He had proclaimed a love-redemption to all by Christ, manifested in flesh, to destroy and purge sin out of flesh, which we see is very rarely done in the time of this life. Where one reaches to this mark, a thousand miss it.

    Therefore, for such as were begotten by the eternal Word and are going on in all good willingness in their spiritual progress (dying short of finishing it), they will be allowed to be in a Paradisical region to exercise their spiritual faculties for the effecting of what they were hindered of here in this life, so that they might go on to that state of perfection which shall make them ready for reaching unto the Mount Zion state, that is yet more glorious.

    And though this has not been understood or believed, yet it is a truth that I have received from a good Hand, therefore I am bold to publish it, for all souls must pass through the refining and calcining regions so prepared for their purifying, and according to the measures and degrees they do attain to here in this life of this kind, the less they will have to do in the life to come, which will be much easier.⁽²⁸⁾

    Therefore, it is much upon me to excite to a pressing forward that they may so run as to obtain the resurrection mark while they are in the body, because it will turn to a present account of peace, joy and glory.

    But yet we have somewhat further to declare as to the clearing and vindicating of the infinite and unsearchable love of our God to the whole fallen race,⁽²⁹⁾ as to angels that have had their time to deceive and tempt all mankind, which shall have its period and end, for all must be redeemed and restored to their first estate at the winding up of all the various scenes which were to manifest the wonders of God's wisdom in love, power and righteousness.⁽³⁰⁾

    But you will say, this is only a private revelation! Though it be a private revelation, yet I know from whence it is, and if I were not upon sure ground I should not dare to have declared it, knowing it may stumble many. But I must pass that and must not balk (for the squeamish stomach's sake) at a truth given to me in order to make it known, but with a tenderness bear with such as may have misgivings hereof (for I myself did the same till by divine seeing and hearing I was satisfied on this point). But that you may not be altogether left to my own bare testimony, mind that scripture in Ephesians 1:10. "That in the fullness of time, He might gather together in Christ all things that are in heaven and earth consummated in Him, whom the Father hath sealed for the restitution of what sin had brought into a disorderly confusion."⁽³¹⁾

    There are other scriptures I could bring here which are mentioned elsewhere by me briefly, though not here.

    Oh, my friends! what more joyful tidings can come to our ears than this one everlasting age that shall swallow up all those ages wherein sin and death has reigned with all those miserable effects that have existed ever since the creation of this world? But a new and wonderful design God will bring forth in a new-created state.

     "Behold," saith the Lord, "I will make all things new. The end shall return to its first original state. Let none begrudge that the grace of God be of such a latitude as shall make a complete restoration for all things. For as at the first, there was neither sin nor center to it , so it must be again when the hour of God's judgement shall come to pass a final sentence thereupon. This judgement shall have such an effect as to cast all⁽³²⁾ into that lake and bottomless pit where all of sin and death, sorrow and curse shall become a non-entity. Then shall there be nothing more of those diabolical spirits (who have been God's offenders and the disturbers and tormentors of His creatures). All this in the prophecy of eternity will be known and everlastingly rejoiced in. As a forerunner of this blissful jubilee, the trumpet of the everlasting Gospel of love, peace and reconciliation sounds forth to every creature capable thereof, whether in the flesh and out of the flesh, that are not yet fully redeemed." ⁽³³⁾

    This gospel is not a bare sound to be heard only with ears. It is a Spirit that enters in and gives the power of a resurrection life to the dead that could no way raise themselves, neither in bodies nor out of them (as is found in their several confinements), who will hereby be loosed and set free.

    But it may be asked, "When shall such a general and universal restoration be, as for all apostatized spirits and creatures to be in favor and friendship with their God and Creator again?"⁽³⁴⁾

    Now in answer to this query, as to the time, it is known only to God in the secret cabinet of His council; only it is thus far revealed unto me that it will be at the finishing of the great mystery when all souls will have passed through their purgation in their several degrees that is lacking here. For in all centers are found souls that shall be brought into a purified state by thorough humiliation for all their misdeeds.

    And also, when generating (according to fleshly births) shall cease in this world, then this general redemption will be completed and the mediating office of our great High Priest shall be at an end so that He has nothing more to do but to deliver up the Kingdom thus completed, to His Father. This is so that God may be All-in-all, possessing and satisfying Himself in all of this His New Creation, which will amount to a perpetuity of endless joy from the various wonders and pleasures that will fill up eternity with tuned instruments of praises to the Holy Trinity in their unity, as it was from the beginning.

    Thus I have given you a true and single account of what I have seen in my spiritual travels. These I have known and understood by being admitted into that heavenly court at certain times and seasons and shall leave this living testimony to the spiritually-minded to judge. No other than the spiritually-minded can either receive or fathom this deep wisdom of God. I shall only leave this caution and advice as my concluding part.

    The caution is to those who would desire to be of the first resurrection fold of Christ (as I have made mention of here), that they do not grouch and dispute the Holy Spirit away from them by their doubtful jealousy concerning the brightness of its rising in the pure in heart. For thereby they may prevent themselves of this most valuable and precious Gift Who only is the true Intelligence of God's mind and the Breaker- open of the sealed treasures that are of that weighty import. It is to be hoped that a soul that hath found the good and sweetness here will fling all impediments away that hinder its manifestation and operation in the mind.

    But it may be objected, "There are many deluded spirits that pretend they are of God. Therefore there may be sufficient and justifiable reason to admit of a doubtfulness and an inquiry to know the right spirit."

    True it is, this may well be granted. But then, the trying of the spirits must be by such as are of the true spirit of sound judgment and discerning who can themselves give a proof that they live and walk in the spirit of Christ. And that you may know where this is to be found, your anointing, which is poured forth shall render another kind of life than that which can be imitated by a false Magus who may and does go forth with erroneous alarms and empty sounds.

    This is to be much lamented of and mourned for, that at this Day it is found so frequent. But it is that which fulfills the scripture that thus it will be as a forerunner of Christ, the Lord's drawing near, and that the end of the age is upon us. But nevertheless, there is a Spirit of truth that, according to Christ's promise, is and shall be plenteously poured forth in this latter age, though the false and mixed-spirit yet permitted is a design of the adversary to nullify and make void what is from the true Spirit of Christ.⁽³⁵⁾

    But let this not stagger us nor baffle us out of our right to a portion in this blessed Spirit. Let it put you upon an earnest seeking and a most watchful survey of what spirits entertain you to suppress motions so ready and numerous that may signify a mixed thing. All of which, bring earnestly up to the throne in a humble honesty that the Lord in the Spirit may give forth a right judgement of what is pure and of Himself and what is not.

    This I advise, as having been my own experiment, and being found thus tender and fearful of being misguided, you will be sealed or have this witness-seal that shall agree with the record in heaven and the scripture record here upon the earth whereby you will be settled and established upon a sure foundation. In this shaking and perilous time, many shall run to and fro, to the "Lo here," and "Lo there," by which they will be tried.

    But so far as I have been made acquainted with the mind of Christ, I cannot do otherwise than to give my judgement that it is safer for each one to abide in his own lot and pitched tent of the Spirit until the seventh angel shall sound the right and true trumpet. Then shall the right gathering of true eagle Spirits shine forth as the everlasting sun, as the bright body of glory shall appear through all previously obstructing clouds. As this outward sun in our visible firmament is universally seen, so this Son, in the one invisible element, shall enlighten the whole earth from Himself so that as doves, they may fly to their everlasting Sabbath of rest.

    Even so, let us be found waiting for this blessed and glorious appearing of our mighty God and Savior in the which mortality shall be swallowed up of immortality. Even so, come quickly, Lord Jesus (saith the Spirit through the Bride who is making herself ready) to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, where in Spirit I do see beforehand the feast of joy and melody that is prepared.

    Therefore, my last concluding word and prayer is that you may all keep upon your watchtower, and be careful that you let not nothing of this worldly stuff make you fall into a deadly and dangerous sleep and so be prevented of a present possession of those ineffable delights and sweet immunities of which in this little volume is made mention. In the which hope that to whomsoever that this may be written, there may be a caution and excitement to gird up close and remember to keep unspotted from this world so you will have right to eat of the Tree of Life. So farewell.

35. This has ever been the case, that when truth is put forth or a move of God is made in a particular direction, the adversary is consistently allowed to produce an alternative to the truth or a copy of the move of God. This never, never nullifies the truth or movement of God., but rather serves to purify and certify it. It serves also as a purifying agent for those involved and quite effectively winnows and culls those not explicitly elected or called to it. It is all an essential part of the overall design of God Who is over all and in all. In fact, Margaret MacDonald, the young, godly lass from Port Glasgow, Scotland who has been so viciously and wrongly maligned as the originator of the rapture theory has this to say in her prophecy of 1830, which was shanghaied by others and falsely interpreted by them (C. I. Schofield and John Darby), and then propagated by them throughout the world by means of their study Bibles with their attending comments and marginal notes: "This is the fiery trial which is to try us. It will be for the purging and purifying of the real members of the body of Jesus; but Oh, it will be a fiery trial. Every soul will be shaken to the very center. The enemy will try to shake every thing we have believed--but the trial of real faith will be found to honor and praise and glory. Nothing but what is of God will stand. The stony-ground hearers will be made manifest--the love of many will wax cold. I frequently said that night, and often since, now shall the awful sight of a false Christ be seen on this earth, and nothing but the living Christ in us can detect this awful attempt of the enemy to deceive--for it is with all deceivableness of unrighteousness he will work--he will have a counterpart for every part of God's truth, and an imitation for every work of the Spirit. The Spirit must and will be poured out on the church, that she may be purified and filled with God--and just in proportion as the Spirit of God works, so will he--when our Lord anoints men with power, so will he." End of Quote.