To the Right Worshipful, Sir Edward Denny Knight

It is a conclusion of our religion worthy to be considered: that Christ alone is our Mediator, Justifier, Propitiator, Savior, by works and merits which he himself wrought within himself, and not by any works or merits which he works in us by his Spirit. The Scripture says this much in express words. Justified freely by the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Romans 3:24). He has by himself purged our sins (Hebrews 1:3). He was made sin for us that we should be made the righteousness of God in him (2 Corinthians 5:21). In him you are complete (Colossians 3:10). By his own blood he entered once into the holy place, and obtained eternal redemption (Hebrews 9:12). Again Christ is said to purge our consciences from dead works by his blood: because he offered himself by his eternal Spirit without spot to his Father (verse 14). And common reason tells us as much. For if men be mystically united to Christ, and by this union receive the Spirit of Christ, and by the Spirit do good works, and consequently merit eternal life, they are then become partners with Christ, and are received into fellowship with him in the work of man's redemption. Whereas he in the act of our reconciliation with God, admits neither deputy nor partner.

This conclusion being thus of infallible truth, it serves greatly to exalt the grace of God, to abase nature, and to beat down the pride of all Justiciary persons and religions. And for the further explaining of it, serves this treatise following: which I present to your Worship. And the reason of my doing is this. I remember, almost two years ago, in speech you entered into commendations of that golden text (Philippians 3:7), and with that gave signification of your desire, that something might be set down, whereby you might be brought to a further understanding of that place of Scripture. Therefore to satisfy your desire, I have here penned a short exposition of it. And I have further presumed to publish it in your name, desiring it may be a testimony of a thankful mind, for your love and favor towards me.

Thus wishing to your Worship continuance and increase of love to the holy word of God, I take my leave. January 20, 1601.

Your Worship's in all duty to command, W. Perkins.