On PETER

Could Peter, unto whom the watchful Cock Was as a Sign, be that abiding Rock, And firm Foundation, whereupon the Lord, According to his never-failing Word, Would build his Church, gainst which the Gates of Hell Should not prevail? For Christ himself would dwell Ev'n in the Midst of her: Can these Things be, And Peter so prevail'd against? For he Did after this yield to th' Infirmity Of Flesh and Blood; and so, for Fear, deny His Lord and Master: Till his Master's Look Pierced his Heart; and yet Compassion took On weeping Peter: But the heav'nly Pow'r Abides, that shew'd him clearly in that Hour, Jesus to be the Son of God, the Christ. Though Gog and Magog study to resist This Rock of Ages, all their Strength shall fail; For against this, Hell-gates shall ne'er prevail: Nor shall the Faith or Hope e'er be confounded, That is on this abiding Basis grounded. Would Man be safe against the storms of Hell? Then build upon this Rock of Israel.