m 
 
Sold by 
 
 C. J. STEWART, 
 
 LI Kino William St. 
 
 W. Strand, London. 
 
 PRINCETON, N. J. **' 
 
 Collection of Puritan Literature. 
 
 Division 'T~.^T^.'T7" 
 
 Section !.Q I (P I 
 
 Number 
 
ANALYTICALL 
 
 EXPOSITION 
 
 Of both the Epiflles of the Apoflle 
 
 PETER, 
 
 Illuftrated by Doftrinesout of 
 
 every Text. 
 
 And applyed by their Ufes, for a further 
 progreffe in Holineffe. 
 
 By the Revered and faithfull Minifter of God^ 
 
 William Jmes, D. D. and late of Cbrifts 
 
 C oiled ge in Cambridge* 
 
 A ■ 
 
 LONDON, 
 
 Printed by E ( G. for lohn Rothxvell, at the Sunnc 
 
 in Pauls Church-yard. 1641. 
 
I 
 
 
 
A Cfannttntary upon the firft Epiftje of Peter. 
 
 I Pr^er 1, 2, c£r. 
 
 Verfe i. Ptf*r an tApoftle of left* Chrift, to thtfirangeri 
 featured throughout Po»tus 9 gaUi«>Cappadocia, Afia, 
 
 and Bithyma ; 
 Verfe 2. Eletl, according to the foreknowledge of God the Fa- 
 
 tber 9 through fanBifcation of the Spirit unto obedience, 
 
 trdfprinkliKgofthebloodoflefusChrifti grace unto 
 
 you, and peace be multipljed. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 He Scope of this Epiftle is to exhort the 
 faithfull to continue Itedfaft In that grace 
 of God wherein they ftood, as it is expie£ 
 ly let downe, chap. 5. verfii*. Butbecaule 
 that grace of God is considered in a two- 
 fold refpeft ; either as it doth put a man 
 into the ft ate of grace , and fo it equally 
 belongs unto all the faithfull; or as it doth direct the faith- 
 full in the performing of their duties towards others, accor- 
 ding to that fpeciall condition wherein they are placed: 
 therefore in the firft place the Apoftle exhorts them to hold 
 faft that grace, becaufe it belongs to the ft ate of the regenerate 
 man : from the beginning or the Epiftle to the 1 ; verfe of 
 the 2 chap, and then he commends and perfwades them un- 
 to that fpeciall £race, which doth in the firft place direcl: fub- 
 jefts in their obedience towards the Migiftrates 3 to the 1 8 
 
 A verH 
 
A Commentary upon the firft Epiftle of Peter* 
 
 verf. Servants in obedience towards their Matters, to the end 
 of the chapter. Wives in their fubje&ion to their husbands, 
 from the beginning of the third chapter to the (event h verfc. 
 Husbawfs in their duty towards their wives, verf q. Brethren 
 in their duty towards their brethren, verf.8. The affli&ed to- 
 wards their perfecutors, from the 9 verf to the beginning of 
 the 5 chap. The Elders towards their Churches, from the be- 
 ginning of the 5chap.tothe5.verG The younger towards 
 their elders, at the beginning of the 5. verfc and finally, all 
 both towards others and towards themselves, totheioverH 
 where the whole foregoing exhortation is turned into a (hort 
 prayer which ferves for a forcible conclufionofthewhjle 
 Epiftle. 
 
 To the Epiftle it felfe there belong two common ad/un&r. 
 *An Jnfcription verH 1,2 . A Sttbfcrif>tion,m the t(hree laft. In 
 the lnfcription there is contained,according to the ufuall man- 
 ner of Epiftles, a holyfa/utation y mewing firft, by whom this 
 Epiftle was written , Secondly, to whom, thirdly, with what 
 minde or affection it was written unto them; which is fee 
 forth by that pious wifh, wherein he wifheth unto them the 
 greateft good, Grace and Teace. In t'he perfon writing, and 
 the good wifhed there are all things the fame with thole that 
 are fpoken of in the fecond Epiftle. But the defcription of the 
 perfons to whom it was written, is fomething fuller here 
 then there ; now they are described, firft by their outward 
 condition., grangers fcattercd throughout c Pontus } zsf'jia^ Cjala- 
 tia^Cappadoih. Secondly, by their inward fpirituaJI condi- 
 tion, which is fct forth, 1. by thefundamentallcaufeoHc, 
 Eltffion 3 to wit, of God, 2. by the final! caufe, Santtifi 'cation.. 
 3. by the fiibfervient caufe Reconciliation, to wit, conferred in 
 obedience and fyrinkling efthebloodofjefus Chrift: which three 
 caufes of our fanftification are fet forth by the three perfons 
 of the Deity, to whom as to the authors thereof they are di- 
 stinctly afcribed, Ele&ion to God the Father, San&ification 
 to the holy Spirit, Reconciliation to JeftsChrift. By the 
 fir angers fcattered, to whom this Epiftle is chiefly directed, 
 wearetoundeiftand the Jewes, together with the other Ifrae- 
 Ktes, who did imbi ace the faith. For James, John and Veter^ 
 difcharged their Apoftlefhip amongft the circumcifed Ifrae- 
 
 lites, 
 
A Comment Ary upon the firfl Epifije of Peter* 
 
 Ikes, Ga/,2 8,9. Therefore as lames doth exprcfly direct hi« 
 * Epiftle to the twelve Tribes fcattered,fo here alfo by the fame 
 reafon, by the ftrangers fcattered we arc to underftand the 
 twelve Tribes fcattered. 
 
 By the foreknowledge ofGod^ according to which the fiith- 
 full are herefaid tobef/"#, we arc to underftand election it 
 felfe 5 as it is in God, Rom.&ig. and by election the fame aft 
 of God, as it Is terminated in the faithfull, and put in executi- 
 on by effectual vocation. 
 
 By fanEiif cation of the Spirit t we arc to underftand the whole 
 (pirituall change of our condicion,even unto perfect holinefle 
 and glory, becaufe fanctification is themeanesoffalvation 
 unto which wc are chofen, z Tbeff,2. 1 j. 
 
 *By obedUnce and fprinkling of the blood of £brift wc are to 
 underftand the whole worke of Redemption , together with 
 the application thereof unto juftification and reconciliation 
 with God, Ephef 1.6.7. 
 
 The Doctrines that we may draw from this arc theft. 
 Doct. i» The beginning and fount aine of all our happine^e 
 and confolation confifis in this^ that we are the cleft ofCjocL 
 
 This is gathered from hence, that the Apoftlepurpofing 
 in this description to make mention of thofe things that did 
 mod of all pertaine to the confolation of the faithfull, puts 
 election in the firft place, 1 Thef. 1 .4. 
 
 Reafon I. Bceaufe all our happinefle comes wholly from 
 God, who is the author andfountaineofallgood: now it 
 comes from him not by the way of nature, but of counfell and 
 fice election, and Co it proceeds from election it felfe. 
 
 2. Becaufe all his lperiall bleflmgs which belong unto our 
 falvation, depend upon election, Sphefli.^. 
 
 Vfe. This may fervc to exhort us to ufe all diligence to 
 make our election certaine and fure. 2 Peter no. 
 
 Doct. 2. There is no other caufe or reafon to he given of 
 our eleEUon unto falvation^ but enlj the good pleafure of God, 
 
 This is drawne from thofe words : SlcEl according to the 
 foreknowledge of God'.jLor if there were any caufe extra Deum^ 
 out of God , that could poflibly be difcerned by the eye or 
 fenfe of men , it is moft likely that the Apoftle would have 
 
 A 2 named 
 
4 A Commentary upon theprft Epifile of Peter. 
 
 named that, as being more knowne and difcemable, and fb 
 more properly belonging to that confolation and congratu- 
 lation which he propoled to himlelfe. 
 
 Reafon l . Becaule the counlels and decrees of God do not 
 depend upon thole things that are extra Deum^wixhout God, 
 but they depend upon Gods decrees : for the decrees are fi; it, 
 and they laft. 
 
 2. Becaule othcrwile all the gloryof our ele&ton and fal- 
 vation fhould not wholly be afcribed unto God , and con(e- 
 quently all praife and thankfgiving mould not be due unto 
 him alone* 
 
 3. Because if our election did depend upon our felvesjwho 
 are weake and changeable every houre, ourelettionalfoit 
 felfe would be changeable and uncertaine , and Lb woukt af- 
 ford us no (bund confolation. 
 
 Vfe i. This may (erve to refute thole, that make Gods 
 election to depend upon our faith and perfeverance, as acaule 
 or condition requifite. 
 
 2. T« exhort us to acknowledge this wonderfull grace of 
 
 God towards us, and to give him all the praifeand glory of 
 
 it, both in the inward defires of our hearts 5 andthejoyfull 
 
 profeflion of our tongues, and our lives anfwerable thereunto. 
 
 Doct. J. truefanBificatisn is a certaine fruit ofetettion. 
 
 This is gathered from theft words ; Eletttoja,nttificAtion r 
 Spbff.l.^ 
 
 Jjleafcn i. Becaufc fan&incation is a certaine effecYand 
 figne of the lingular love of Chrift, Ephef^\%^6. Now this 
 lingular love, which hath relpeft to fpirituall blelfings, doth 
 nothing differ from election, as touchingthe thing it felfe. 
 
 2. Becaule ian&ification i?, as it were, a&ualj election .• 
 for as by the ele&ion of God, theheiresoflalvationaredi- 
 ftinguUhed from others in God himfelfe j or in his intention 
 and counfell; Co alio by regeneration and fanctification are 
 they diuinguilhcd from others in themfelve?.«For tofanBife^ 
 according to the generall fignification of the word , is to let 
 apart to fomc ule. 
 
 3. Becaule fanftification, although it be imperfec\, yet it 
 h that fa 1 vat ion and life begun unto which we are elefted. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may (erve to refute thole men that make fanfti- 
 
 ficati 
 
 on 
 
A Commentary nponjkefirjl EpijUe of Peter, 
 
 fication the common poflelfion of thole that are not eleft. 
 
 2. To comfort all thoie that are partakers of true fan&ifi- 
 cation .• becaufe thereby they may the more allured of their 
 election. 
 
 5. To exhort us to be very carefull to encreale our fan&i- 
 fication. 
 
 Du»5r. 4. The mediation of ffirift^and reconciliation Made 
 for us in bint^is the only meanes whereby the force of our e/effion 
 if derived unto us 3 and our fanttificationandfalvationupro~ 
 pagated. 
 
 This is gathered from thole words : by obedience andfprink^ 
 ling, 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe God made Ch rift our Mediator , nei- 
 ther is these any other name under heaven whereby we may 
 be laved. 
 
 2. Becaufe God made him the Mediator of our cedempti- 
 on by vertue of his ele&ion : for thole whom God cletVd, he 
 gave unto Chrilt to be redeemed and faved 3 /«>&» 17. 6. John 
 6. 37. 
 
 3. Becaufe Ghrift is the lecondAdam, the Father, the 
 head of all thole that are elefted and to be faved : therefore 
 as life natural! was derived unto all men firft from Adam, fo 
 alio from Ghrift, and in him is all life fpirkuall communica- 
 (cd unto us. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may fcrve to refute the Papifts and others 
 which have choien to themlelves other meanes and media- 
 tors extra ftriftum, belides Chritr, and have departed from 
 that way of Glvation which the cternallele&ion ofGod hath 
 prelc ibed. 
 
 2. Tv exhort us to put our whole truft and confidence in 
 Ghrift alone, and daily to feeke after a neerer and neerer uni- 
 on with him. 
 
 Do&. 5* Irtthttchaineofottrfa/vatiavy the beginning is 
 ■from God the father ', the diffenfation of it is through bis Some 
 lefns Chrijr^ the application of it is through the Holy Ghoft. 
 
 This is intimated in that folemne benediction which the 
 Church received from the Apoftle. 
 
 Reafon,- Recaufe this order of operation doth beft agree 
 with the order of fubfifting, which the Scripture attributes 
 to the Divine pcrlbns. Vfe U 
 
A Commentary npm thefrft Epiftleaf Peter* 
 
 Vfe i. This may fervetoadmonifbus, bynomeanestoput 
 a (under thole operations which God hath joyned together: 
 Now this < hey doe, which do either divide Chrift from electi- 
 on, or election from Chrift, or the election ©f the Father and 
 Chrift from the fanttificationofthe holy Ghoft, promifing 
 to themfelves falvation , either by vertue of election, or of 
 Ghrift, when they have not the leaft part of the falsification 
 of the holy Ghoft. 
 
 2. To comfort all the true faithfull, which do joynethefe 
 things together : becaufe they can want nothing to falvati- 
 on, which is not abundantly provided for them in that co- 
 operation of God the Father, Sonne, and holy Ghoft. 
 
 Verfe J. Bhfied be the God and Father of our Lord leftts £hrift, 
 which according to his Abundant mercy , hath begotten 
 its againe unto a lively hope y by the refurreflion oflefus 
 Chr ill from the dead, 
 
 Verfc 4. To an inheritance incorruptible^ andundefiled^ and that 
 fadcth not away, referveain heaven f or y ok. 
 
 Verfe 5 • Who are keft by the power of (yod through faith unto 
 fklv*tion % ready to be revealed in the lafi time. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 BEc»ufe the Apoftlcs fcope in the generall and former part 
 of this Epiftle, was to commend unto the faithfull that 
 true grace of God wherein they ftood, therefore he doth firft 
 defcribc that grace, verf. 354,5. 
 
 2. By the effect of it s towit,/<?/, and rtjoycing^ which re- 
 dounds unto all the faithfull from the partaking of this grace, 
 from the 6 verf. to the 10. 
 
 3* He doth illuftrate it and confirme it by that teftimony, 
 which the Prophets gave unto this grace, verf, 10,1 I, 12. 
 
 4. From thence he drawes an exhortation to holinefle an- 
 fwerable to this grace, from the 1 3 verf. to the end of the fir ft 
 chap. The meanes of which hoiincfle he fhewes to be the re- 
 ligious receiving of the word of God, verf. i, 2, 3. of the fe- 
 cund chapter. The chiefe object of which word he fliewes to 
 
 be 
 
A Comment try npon thefirft Epiftle of Peter 4 
 
 be Chrift, from the 4 vcr£ to the 13. where is the generall 
 end of this inftitution. 
 
 The defcription, verf. 3,4 5. of the ftateofthis grace fa 
 placed in regeneration or effe&uall calling, in thefe words: 
 hath begotten us againe ; which regeneration is defcribed, 
 
 1. by the principall efficient caufe thereof, which is fet down 
 to be, Cj od the Father of our Lord lefus (^hrt ft. 2. By the im- 
 pulfwe caufe thereof, tbemercjofgod^ which is described by 
 the quantity of it, abundant. 3. By the immediate effeft 
 thereof a lively h*pe : the Angular cairfe whereof is (hewed 
 to be the refurreZlion of Qoritt from the dead. 4. By the re- 
 mote and laftefFeft thereof, which is laid hold on alfo, and in 
 fbme fore pofleffed by that hope, that is, falvation and life 
 everlafting. verf. 4. Betwixt which effeft and its caufe he af- 
 firmes that there is a very ccrtaine connexion, when he faith, 
 that that inheritance is refervedin heaven fur all the regenerate ; 
 and he gives a moft certaine reafon of his connexion, verf. 5. 
 which hefhewes to confifts in three things. 1. Inthe power 
 of God , whereby the regenerate are kept unto falvati an. 
 
 2. In their faith, whereby they adhere to this power of God. 
 
 3. in the eternall degree of God, whereby he hath both pro- 
 vided this falvation for all the regenerate, and appointed a 
 certaine time, wherein to beftow it upon them. 
 
 But this defcription of Gods grace is not {imply and barely 
 propofed by the Apoftle, but after fuch a manner as is agree- 
 able to the nature of the thing, that is, with thankfgivingand 
 glorifying of the name of God, in that he hath vouchfafed to 
 beftow fo great a grace upon miferable (inners, in that ft ft 
 word, Bkpd be God. 
 
 The Doctrines drawne from this. 
 Do&. I. Ihe ft ate of grace depends upon and ftovees from 
 efetluall calling. 
 
 This is gathered from hence, that the Apoftle fpeaking of 
 the grace wherein the faithfull ftood, begins with regenerati- 
 on, by which is underftood effe&uall calling. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe by our true calling we have union with 
 Chiift the fountaine of all grace. 
 
 2. Becaufe in this regeneration there is begotten in us a 
 principle of fpirituall life, which is nothing elfe but the grace 
 
 of 
 
A Commentary upon thefrfi Eptftletf Peter. 
 
 of God, or the power and gtf c of grace qaickning our (bulef . 
 
 5. Becaufe from ihis union which we have by Deing made 
 partakers of fpirkuall life, there doth certainly and immedi- 
 ately follow a communion with the Father in all ipir i tuall 
 bleflings, and consequently a change of our condition from 
 that which before it was, to wit, linne and death, to that 
 wbereuuto we are called, grac e and life. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to exhort w to ufe all diligence to 
 make our calling lure, becaufe without it we have no entrance 
 to the ftate of grace. 
 
 2. To comfort all thofe that endeavour to obey Gods call; 
 fpr all of them have (as it were) the door of Gods grace ope- 
 ned un o them. 
 
 Doffcr. 2 . God regenerates us^ as the Father of our Lord le- 
 fts Chrift, 
 
 Reafon 1. becaufe in Chrift our Redeemer, and ioour 
 redemption performed by him , he laid the foundation of all 
 our restoring to falvation. 
 
 2. 7?ecaufe he made Chrift that great Shepherd , that 
 fhould gather his fheepe, that is, the eleel: into his fold, by ef- 
 fectual! calling and regeneration. Heb. 1 3.20. lohn 10. 1 6. 
 
 3. becaufe through Chrift and his name men are called 
 and regenerated by God, 2 Cor. 5, 18,1 9,20. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to Informe #*, that in all thofe things 
 that belong unto our falvation, we ought alwayes to looke 
 upon God in Chrift, and confequently alwayes to call upon 
 and praife Gud in Chrift. The folemne title, and as it were 
 ftile of God, that was u fed in the celebrating of his name, was 
 not alwayes one and the fame from the beginning of the 
 world, but diverie : firft, he was called by Melchizedeck^ the 
 m oft high Cjodtpofleffour of heaven and earthy Cjen.j^.ig. After- 
 wards by reafon of that lingular covenant .which he made 
 with Abraham and his pofterky, he began to be called the 
 Godofes4brabam, Ifaac^andlxcob : then againe, after that 
 wonderfull deliverance of his people out ot Egypt , for the 
 memory of that thing there was added to his title , The God 
 which brought the children of J fraol out of the land of Egypt^out 
 of the honff of bondage : fo alfb in the Pi ophet, after his delive- 
 rance of them from the Babylonifh captivity, he was called 
 
 The 
 
A CommtntdYjufon the fir ft Epiftle of Peter* 
 The Lord which brought up his people out of the North country^ 
 Ier.z 3.7^8. But now under the New Teftament, and the Sunnc 
 being rilen, all his other workes and benefit! being obfeui'd 
 by the comming of Chrift , this title is moil congruous and 
 lbiemne, God the F other of our Lord lefus Qhrifi t a£V. i, 3» 
 £pbef,i.$i 
 
 D0&.3. A wonderful! great mercy ofQoddppeares in our rege- 
 neration* - 
 
 Reafon u Becaufe he frees us from the greateft mifery,and 
 makes us partakers of the greateft good. 
 
 2. Becaufe he doth this of his meeregoodnefie, not only 
 without our deferts, but even contrary to our deferts ; when 
 we did not Co much as leek or wifh for any fuch benefits to our 
 leives, but were altogether aliens from God , and enemies to 
 him. 
 
 Vfe x. This may ferve to exhort us to attribute all to the 
 mercy of God alone, and to raiicup our minds to the admi- 
 ration of it. 
 
 2. To be heartily anVted with thefe mercies of God , and 
 to be flirred up to glorifie him, Rom. 12 . 1. 
 
 Dodt* 4* Re feneration brings men a lively hope of 'eternaU 
 life. 
 
 Reafon 1. Bccaufe we are called and regenerated to (alvation 
 and eternal! glory, 1 Pet.^.xo. 
 
 2 Becaufe we have the covenant and promifc of this thing 
 confirmed to us in cur very calling. 
 
 Becaufe the Spirit wherewith we are quickned, lifts up our 
 minds, and makes that hope to be lively. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferveto exhort us, highly to prize our 
 calling and regeneration* 
 
 3 2* To endeavour by all meancs to cherifh and increafe this 
 hope in our (elves, and to take heed that it be not dead or 
 languiming, but lively, quick, and operative. 
 
 Do&. 5. The livclirteffc of our hope depends uponthc refur- 
 fttyion oflejus Chrift from the dead. 
 
 Reafon u Becaufe by the re&rre&ion of Chrift, it ap- 
 peals that death was fubdued & overcome by him, and God 
 vvasappeafed in him; for other wife, had he becne overcome 
 by death, he would have becne perpetually kept under it, 
 
 B 2. Becaufe 
 
10 A Commentary upon the firft Epiflk of Peter, 
 
 a. Becaufe Chrift rofc, as the firlt fruits of all the regene- 
 rate, 1 Cor, i 5,20. and the firft borne from the dead, Co/.*. 8. 
 tApcc,i.%* 
 
 Zffe% This may ftrve to exhort us , for the confirmation 
 and quickning of our hope 3 to put before our eyes the relurre- 
 £tion of Chrift. 
 
 Boil. 6, That falvation which rve hope for, isacelefiiall 
 and incorruptible inheritance^ Ver[ % 4. 
 
 Rea/on 1 . ft comes from God our Father to us his regene- 
 rate and adopted fonnes, as worldly inheritances ufe to come 
 from fathers to their children. 
 
 2. Becaufe it is not obtained by buying or any other fuch 
 like meanes of our owne 5 but it comes by the will and tefta- 
 mentofour heavenly Father. Now as for thefe reafon", it is 
 rightly called an inheritance; Co alfo in the nature of it it hath 
 this excellency above all other inheritances, that it i celefti- 
 all and immortall .* In which refpeft it doth not only excell 
 worldly pofleflions , but alfo even that very condition of life 
 which Adam bad before the fall. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may fervetoadmoniftius, not tomfferour 
 hearts at any time to cleave to the things of this world, or to 
 depend upon them, becaufe our inheritance is not terreftriall, 
 or of this world, but celettiall and incorruptible. 
 
 2. To exhort U4 to walke askbecogimethchofethat are 
 called to €0 great an inheritance. For this is it which the Am- 
 poule meanes, when he ufaally admonifheth us to walke ac- 
 cording to our calling, and when he prayes, that God would 
 enlighten the eyes of our mindes , and grant us to know what 
 isthe hope of his calling.& what the riches, Ephef.t,i8. as if 
 that they that did cleerly fte this and meditate upon it, could 
 not faulter or faile in any duty. 
 
 Doct. 7. The exceeding great power ofCjoA^ his fidelity 
 andconftancie, doth mak*. this inheritance firme andfure unto us. 
 
 This is gathered out of the 5. verfe, and you miy fee it 
 prov'd, Eph,l»j^, 
 
 Reafin 1 .Becaufe God doth powerfully perform all things, 
 whatsoever hee hath decreed and promifed. 2. B:cau(eall 
 the whole bnfinefie of our falvation depends upon theomni- 
 potency of God : • for the enemies of our falvation, and ths 
 
 difficulties 
 
A Commentary upon the firjl Epifile of Peter* s I 
 
 difficulties of k arc io great, that no other power is able to 
 ftibdue them. 
 
 Vfe i. 1 his may fcrve to refute thoCe, that will have our 
 (alvation to depend upon the frailty of our will : they deny 
 that God doth powerfully worke in us to faJ vation,when not- 
 withstanding the Scripture doth expreffely affirme it* Eph. i. 
 19. <^"3. i& 20. 2. For comfort ; for when wee have (uc ha 
 Keeper as is omnipotent, wee have no caufe to feare that any 
 thing prelent or to come mould ever fruftrate out hope,or de- 
 prive us ot our expe&ed folvation. J. To exhort #/, to depend 
 upon that power of God by true faith, as it is in the text, i 
 
 Do6t.8. Thefefp'uritudl blejfings of god t Jbould never bee 
 mentioned or thought upon byns^ without a pious de fire to blejfe 
 Go J for them* 
 
 This is gathered from that word Btejfed. SoJE/^.1.3.12 
 3 Cor. 1.3. 
 
 Vfc. This may Cervctoreprove that fluggiflhrrefle and Lufce- 
 warmneffeof ours, which is oftentimes fo great, that wee are 
 no otherwife affe&ed when we fpeak, heare* or thinke of theft 
 things, then when we are talking of common things : yea, we 
 are fcarce Co much moved,as we uie to be then,when we fpeak 
 of any worldly profit, which doth delight us. 
 
 Ver(e6. Wherein ye greatly rejoyce : though now fr afeafon(if 
 
 need be) ye are in heavinejfe through manifold temptations* 
 7 That the triaU of your faith 9 being much more precious then 
 
 of Gold that perijheth , though it be tried with pre , might 
 
 bee found unto praife^ and honour , and glory , at the appear 
 
 ring oflejtti Chrift. 
 %. Whom having not feene^ye love$ in whom >> though now ye fee^ 
 
 him not 9 yet beleevingye rejoyce with joy unfpeakgble and full 
 
 of glory. 
 9. Receiving the end of your faith 9 even the f alvation of your 
 
 Souks. 
 
 GRacc is here let forth by the effect and adjuncT: there- 
 of, which he makes to confift in the greateft joy, in thofe 
 words, wherein ye re Joyce. Now this joy is amplified by thole 
 
 B 2 manifold 
 
1 4 A Commentary upon the fir ft Epjflk of peter* 
 
 manifold affli&ions and temptations ^ti.tuutually tmk ' 
 men fad rather then joyfuil, in the other p at of the 6, verity 
 Where the amplification per difcretnm axiomafcy a di fcrct ax- 
 iom 5 is to be conceived after this manner. Although by reafun 
 of manifold afflictions and temptations ye arc exceeding hea- 
 vy, yet fo great is the excellency of this grace wherein yee 
 ftand, thatthefeaiHidionsarenohinderancctoyuu, becauli 
 ye rejoycein ihat grace with great joy. 
 
 Now that afflictions ffaould not take away fpiritual! joy 
 from the faithful.], he fhewes, hr it,from the nature of thole af- 
 fli&i >ns,wherewith the faithfull are wont to be vexed.2.Fromi 
 the nature of that grace, which produceth fphituall joy. 
 The heavinefle of afflictions is diminished, i. By the adj'unft 
 of duration, that they are butfor afeafon, 2. Bythear^jimft 
 of profit, that they bring fruit & utility ; and for no other 
 caufe doc they befall them, in the(e words : if need be* 5. By 
 the Angular end and ufe of afBiftions, by which alfo their 
 profit is (hewed, to wit, that they ferve for the triall of their 
 faith ; which triall of faith is fet forth by a fimilie, anil that of 
 a lefler, the triall of Gold* 4. By the erTeft of it,which hpraife, 
 honour andglorj at the appearing ofleftu Chrift* 
 
 The nature of grace he fhewes to be fuch,as that it cm over- 
 come all affli&ions : the reafbn whereof he makes to be this, 
 becaufe it joynes us with Chrift, without the helpcofthe 
 outw;T J ftnfes, and fo both againft and above fenfc, it lifts up 
 the mind to the greateft joy vcrfc 8. of which )oy hee decla- 
 reth firft the adjuncts of \t,unfpeakableawi full of glory ^ and af- 
 terwards the caufe or argument that moves or (tirrcs up iiich 
 joy in the fajthfalJ, to wit, that by their faith they arc made 
 furer of the Calvation of then toZ/jwhich is the end and fcope 
 ofthepverfe* 
 
 The ©oftrines drawnejience. 
 |*< Doc*r. I. hy and fpiritftall rejoycing arifeth from the fenfe 
 I and participation of fpirituall grace* 
 
 This is gathered from thofe words: Wherein ye reicyc*. For 
 exahstio, rt)oy&t\% is a vehement aft of joy, as tis intimated 
 injihe end of the 8. verfe. 
 
 ^ Reafer, 1 . Becaufe it is the nature of joy, for the mind to 
 
 -delight 
 
A Commentary nptfttthefirji Epiftk ofhter. 1 $ 
 
 delight it (elfe with the pofTefiion of (ome folid good; now 
 there ii tioe good that can be Compared cum Summa bone* 
 with that chtefe £o->ef and cternall happine?; & this we begin 
 ' to have poflcfltan ofin having pofltmon of laving grace; and 
 the compleat and rullpofleffion of it is laid hold on and made 
 iure by faith and hope; and hence it is that fpiritua*! joy is 
 properly the fruit of hope. f?eh$.6» Rorr. 5. 2. Yet not- 
 withstanding this is Co to be underused, as that wee muft not 
 exclude all thoie from the ftateof grace,which have not thi« joy 
 Ibmetimes ; becaufe this joy depends upon the fence of grace; 
 now (btnetimes they have not the fence of grace, that are ei- 
 ther hindered by ignorance, or fbme grievous temptation, 
 that they cannot be lennble of that which they have. 
 
 Vfr* ?. This may ferve to refute thoie carnal! men, who 
 fuppofe the practice of religion to bee full of fadnefle and hea- 
 vineue, without any joy or delight ; when indeed the joy of 
 thofe men is nothing die but madheffe, Ecelef* 2.2. and is 
 changed at length into the greateft Forrow : but true and io- 
 lid jcy is the priviledge of all the godly, becaufe they alone 
 have true caufe of joy, and that joy (hall never be taken from 
 them. 
 
 2. To exhort us to faife up our mindes to the exercise oF 
 this joy, for thereunto wt are called^ that we fhould alwayes 
 rejoycein the Lord, Phil. 4. 4. An example hereof we have in 
 the EunnchjWho went forward in his way with joy,after that 
 by baptrfme he was made fiire ofthe grace of God, Afts 8.39. 
 t)oc>* 2. Manifold effect* ions may well ft anb with this joy. 
 Keafon 1. Becaufe although afflictions may make us fomc« 
 what heavie, yet that heavineffe is not in the higheft degree, 
 that it (hould wholly poflefle andaverwhelmeourmindes, 
 but it is mitigated and overcome by fpirituall joy. 
 
 2. Becaufe the affliftwns themfelves are turned into matter 
 of joy and rejoychig, lames 1.2. Raw 5»3» 
 
 Vfe* This may ierve to admonifh us not fo much to feare 
 theaffli&ions of this world, or at any time fo to lye downe 
 them, as to caft orTall our joy. 
 
 Do&. 3. AffliBions are turned into matter of re joycing, 
 •when there is fuch ufe made ej 'them , as that our faith avd every 
 trace isftirred up andmcreafedhy them* 
 
 B3 This 
 
$g, A Commentary upon the firji Epifile of Peter* 
 
 This is gathered from the feventh Verfe. 
 Reafon i. Becaufe we make great gaine by thetriallof 
 r *our faith, much more then can be gotten by the triall of gold, 
 as it is in the Text. 
 
 2. Becaufe faith by this triall becomes the ftronger by 
 reafon of affliftions,, and doth more firmely expect praife, ho- 
 nour and glory in Chrift , as it is in the Text. 
 
 Vje . This may ferve to admonifl} us t to make it our primary 
 
 • and chiefeft care not to faint in our faith and other graces, 
 
 when we are in the midft of affii&ions, as thofe that have but 
 
 a temporary faith are wont to do, but to labour to profit by 
 
 them* 
 
 Daft. 4. Thi* joy doth not depend upon the fight or vi fib le 
 prefmee of Chrift. 
 
 This is gathered from the eighth Verfe. 
 Reafon i. Becaufe faith and hope is properly of thofe 
 things that are not feene, Rorn.%. 24. Hcb.l 1. 1. Now this joy 
 1 arifeth from faith and hope, as it is in the Text. 
 
 1. Becaufe we rejoyce either in the a&uall pofTeffion, or in 
 the certainty of the pofTeftlon of the things we love. Now 
 Chrift having not yet fecne we love, as it is in the Text. 
 
 Vjc. This may ferve to exhort us , while we live here by 
 faith, Co to walke, rejoyce, and live,as if we did behold Chrift 
 with our eyes : For blefled are all they which have not feen 
 and yet havebeleevcd, Iohn 20.29. 
 
 Doft. 5. This joy is unfycakable and full of glory. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe both the thing it felfe wherein wc re- 
 joyce, and the operation of the Spirit in raifing our mindes 
 unto it, is more divine, then caD poflibly be conceived, much 
 lefTe exprefled by us. 
 
 Vfi* 1. This may ferve to admonifl} us not to be too curious 
 in the fearching after and declaring of thofe things that are 
 unutterable. 
 
 2. To exhort us to apply our (bules to the fenfe and exer- 
 cife of this grace, becaufe they have a divine and glorious na- 
 ture. 
 
 Doft. 6. By this joy we begin to loo\eforthe end of our 
 faith^ even the falvation of our foules. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe this fpirituall joy is a glorious beginning 
 
 of 
 
A Commentary upon thefirft Epiftle of ?etcr< 1 5 
 
 of our glory, and Co of our falvation through Chrift. 
 
 Vf(* This may ferve to exhort us , highly to prize this fpi- 
 rituall joy , and by all meanes to be careful! to ftirre up and 
 cherifh it in our felves. 
 
 Verfe IO. Of which falvation the Trophets have enquired and 
 fearchzd diligently^ who propheftedofthe qrace thatfhould 
 come unto jou^ 
 'Verfe 1 1 . Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of 
 Chrift which was in them didftgnijie, when it teftified be- 
 forehand the fufferings cf(fhrift, and the glory that pjould 
 follow, 
 Vet fe 1 2. Vnto whom it was revealed^ that not unto thewfelves^ 
 hut wito us they did'neinifter the things which are now re- 
 ported unto you by them that have preached the Gofpell un- 
 to you , with the Holy Ghoft fent downefrom Heaven^ 
 which things the nAvgels defire to loolee intc 
 
 TO confirme and illuftrate the grace and falvation. that 
 hath hirherto beene fpoken of^ the Apoftle in thefe ver- 
 fes brings the teftimony of the Prophets ; which is fee 
 forth, 1. By the principall object thereof, which is nothing 
 tKe but this felfefame falvation and grace , who ein the faith- 
 full Chriftians now ftand, in thefe words : of which falvation 
 thatfhould come unto us they prophefted, a. By the manner how 
 they were impioyed about this object $ They did it with great 
 care and diligent heed,in thefe woi'ds 5 f/?ej enquired and fe arch- 
 ed diligently. 3. By the lingular description of that objeft 
 whereabout they were impioyed, verf. 11. and the manner 
 how. The object, to wit, falvation and grace before fpoken 
 of, is defcribed by the efficient caufe thereof, namely , the me- 
 diation of Chrift, confifting of two parts, his humiliation 
 and exaltation at the end of the verfe. And the manner how 
 the Prophets are faid to have been impioyed about this caufe 
 of our falvation, eonfifted in two things : 1 . That they did 
 not only defire to know the very thing it felfe, but alio the ve- 
 ry moment of time wherein it fhould be rcveal'd , in thefe 
 words, what t or what manner of time* 2. That it did not de- 
 pend 
 
16 A Commentary upon tbefirftEpiftle of Peter* 
 
 pend upon various anduncertaineconje&ures, but they did 
 religioufly ask counfell of the Spirit of Chrift, that was pre- 
 sent with them, as of one that did foreknow and could foce- 
 tell of all things that mould happen, in thefc words, the Spirit 
 ofChrift which yeas in them, that unified beforehand, did fig- 
 nife. 
 
 The teftimony it felfe of the Prophets is propolcd in the 
 1 2 vcrlc, to wit,that this grace and falvation was to be revealed 
 at that very time wherein it appeared, and no other : which 
 telthnony of the Prophets is alio fet forth by the like tcftimo- 
 nies of the Apoftlcs and Angels. The fimilitudc that is be- 
 twixt the Apoules and the Prophets is (hewed herein ; that as 
 the Prophets prophefied of thefe things by the Spirit of 
 Chriftythat was in them, that foretold it ; Co the Apottles de- 
 clared the feme things by the holy Ghofi fent downe from Hea- 
 ven* The fimilitude that is betwixt the Angels and the Pro- 
 phets is (hewed herein ; that as the Prophets enquired and 
 fearcheft diligently concerning this falvation ; Co alio the An- 
 gels did defire to look into it, all and each of which make ve- 
 ry much for the letting forth of this grace. 
 
 The Dottrines drawnc from hence arc thefe. 
 Do& l.The chief e fart ofthefrofhefies of all the true Pro- 
 phets that have beenefrom the beginning of the world, was concer- 
 ning the grace and falvation that Should come by Iefus Chrifi our 
 Lord and Saviour ; 
 
 This is gathered fi om the tenth Verfc.Thc like you may 
 {eCftsftts 3.18,20. and 7-52- 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe the falvation of the Church in all ages 
 depended upon ChriitNowit was the office of the Prophet* 
 to dircft the Church in the feeking of their falvation. 
 
 2. All the Prophets Were Minilters of Chriit 3 and were led 
 by his Spirit, Verfe 11. and therefore ought to lecke his ho- 
 nour. 
 
 3« Becaufe after this manner were mens mindes to be pre- 
 pared by degrees for the rcceivkigof Chrift that was to come: 
 for what isfaid oilokn the But>tift y doth in fomcibrt belong 
 unto all the Prophets 3 that they did prepare the wayes of the 
 Lord. 
 
 Vfc 1. This may ferve for Information , to confirme and 
 
 ciLMifh 
 
A Commentary upon the fir ft Epiftle of Peter* 1 7 
 
 eihblifh the true faith , not only againft the Heathens and 
 Jewes, but alf> againft the Pap ills themfelves, who (ay that 
 this true do&tine of the grace revealed in Jefus Chrift, is a 
 new do& ine, and never heard of before thefe times ; for Wc 
 acknowledge no other grace, but that which thofe Prophets 
 aiwayes prophefted of trom the beginning of the world. 
 
 2. To exhort /*/, continually to meditate upon this grace 
 our felves, and as occasion (hall (erve, to (hew it forth unto ou- 
 tliers, with all freencfie and reaciinefieofminde ; fortius 
 doth become us much rather then thofe, that lived fo lor g 
 before the comming of Chrift, and beheld him only afar off. 
 Doft. 2. Thofe ancient Prophets did not only prophefie of 
 thisprace^ but they didalfo enquire and fc arch diligently into it* 
 This is gathered from the Came word?. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becau(e it feem'd unto them , as indeed it is , a. 
 very great my ftery of godlinefle, iTim. 3. 16. therefore they 
 law that they muft u(e the very ucmoft ot their endeavours, to 
 come to fome measure of the knowledge of that which did 
 lye hid therein, both for their o*ne comfort and the edifica- 
 tion of theChurch. 
 
 3 Becaule this truth was propoied unto them in a more 
 ebfeure manner under types and fhadowes,ib that they could 
 not look into the thing it fclfe without great care and labour. 
 
 Vfe 1 . This may (erve for information, hereby we may un- 
 derstand what manner of men the true Prophets of God were 
 heretofore/ they did not utter words without fenfc, or un- 
 demanding, or care-taking of thofe things that did lye be- 
 fore them, as the diabolical! Prophets of the Heathens were 
 wont to do in their ftiry ; but they did wholly apply tbeir 
 minds to what they did. 
 
 2. To exhort us therefore to lay aiide all (loth and iluggifti- 
 nefle, and to u(e all care and diligence in the er quiring and 
 fearching after thefe divine things: for this induftry is much 
 more rcquifite for us,then it was for them, to whom the holy 
 Ghoft did immediately dictate all thing?. 
 
 Doft 3. The foundation cf all thin greet and falvation^lies 
 in the humiliation and exaltation of our Lordlefus Chrift. 
 This is gathered from the eleventh Verfe. 
 
 Reafon* Becaufe the whole mediation of Chrift, whereby 
 
 C our 
 
A Commentary upon thefirji Epiftle rfPeter. 
 
 our falvation is procured,is contained in thole two partf. 
 
 Vfe I. This may fcrve to exhort rts, alwayes to joyne thole 
 two things together, in the fceking of our falvation : for they 
 are in their owne nature (o conjoy ned , that if they mould be 
 fepai ated, our faith and hope would be made altogether void. 
 This u the rock of offence at which thejewes did, and to this 
 day do (tumble, in that they look for outward glory and ma- 
 jefty in their Menus, even without any (iiffering or humiliati- 
 on going before. 
 
 2. To exhort us alwayes in all things to build upon this 
 foundation. 
 
 Doft . 4. Not only the effence itfelfe of this my fiery is ufu- 
 ally enquired after by the godly , but even all the circttmfiances 
 thereof as far forth as they may be comprehended. 
 
 This is gathered from thofe words : fearching what or what 
 manner of time. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe in this myfterie there is nothing of (6 
 (mall confequence, as that it may be neglected without lofle 
 to our (elves. 
 
 2. becaufe love is careful to enquire into al things that per- 
 tainc to the thing beloved, though otherwise they may feeme 
 to be very fmall. 
 
 Vfe, This may fetve to admonifb us^ not to think it enough 
 to have fbmeconfufed knowledge of the common principles 
 of the Gofpell , but to exercife our (elves to come to a more 
 full and diftinft knowledge of every grace of God. 
 
 Do£r. 5. es4Il thefe things were alwayes declared only by 
 the Spirit offfhrifl that was in the "Prophets, 
 
 This is gathered from the eleventh Verfe. 
 Reafon, Becaufe as no man knowes the things of man, but 
 the Spirit of man,fo no man knowes the things of Chrirc, but 
 the Spirit oiChriftp 1 C CY 2,,f » 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve for information , hereby we may 
 confirme our fe Ives in the truth ofChrifts divine nature, be- 
 caufe the Spirit of God which (pake in the Prophets from the 
 beginning, is here cxprefly called the Spirit of Chriff. 
 
 2. To exhort *w, to depend upon Chrift, and from his Spirit 
 to feek for all light in fearching the Scripturcs,and inquiring 
 after divine thing?. 
 
 Dofc. 
 
A Commentary upon the firfi Epiflle of Peter, 1 9 
 
 Dodr. C* Although faving grace was the fame y that was in 
 the Church from the beginning oftheworld^ yet notwithstanding 
 great is our prerogative in this grace above the Prothtts , and 
 1 thofe to whom they prophefied before the comming offhrijt* 
 
 This is gathered from the twelfth Verle, Not unto them- 
 felves, but unto us they didminifter, 
 
 Reafon 1. It is by reaton of that clearer light which ac- 
 companied the comming of the Sunne , and continues from 
 that time. 
 
 2. By reafon of the greater efficacy of the holy Gkoft, as 
 it is in the text. 
 
 3. By reafon of the larger communication of this grace, 
 which is now extended unto all Nations. 
 
 Vf* t. This may fcrve for to comfort us, becaufewedos 
 abound in this grace, our hearts ought to be ftrengthened a- 
 gainfr ail terrours* 
 
 2. To exhort us, that as this grace doth abound, €0 mould 
 our thankfulnefle alfo abound in all prattile of piety ; for he 
 that hath received much, oi him is much required. 
 
 Doft. 7. So great is the excellency of the grace and falva- 
 tion offered unto us by ^hrifi^ that even the Angels themfelves 
 defire to lookg into if, 
 
 This-is gathered out of thofe words, which things the *An« 
 gelsdefire to took^htc So f T$m,%. 16. you may fee it proved. 
 
 Reafon, Becaufe there are fome things in this myitcrie, 
 which the Angels themfelvesare yet ignorant of, LMatth.24. 
 36. into thole things they defire to look, that they may know 
 thcm.'into other things that they do know they defire alfb to 
 looke that they may delight themfelves in beholding the glo- 
 ry of God, as it were in a glade. 
 
 Vj(» This may Cerveto admonijhus, never to be weary of 
 fearching into theft holy ray fterie6, whether it be in hearing 
 the Word of God in publick, or in reading and meditating 
 upon it in private* 
 
 C 2 Vetfc 
 
2 o A Commentary upon thefift Eptfle of Peter* 
 
 Verfe 1 5. Wherefore gird up the loynes of your minde, befober, 
 and hope to the- end t for the grace that is to be brought unto 
 you at the revelation ofjefus thrift : 
 
 Verfe 14. As ob. dknt ckildreri^notf ajkioning your felves accor- 
 ding to the former lufts in your ignorance : 
 
 Verfe l 5. But as he which hath calledyou is holy,fo be ye holy in 
 all manner ofconverfation 5 
 
 Verfe 1 6. r Becanfe it is written, *Beye holy 9 for 1 am holy* 
 
 Veife 17. tstnd if ye cdll on the Father y wbo without refpet~l of 
 perfons judgeth according to every mans workg , pajfe the 
 time ofy our fo)ournirg here in fear e* 
 
 Verfe 1 8. For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed 
 with corruptible things, as filver and gold, from your vaine 
 converfation received by tradition from your fathers, 
 
 Verfe 1 p. "Bui with the precious blood of (fbrift, as of a Lamb e 
 without bltmijh, and without fhot, 
 
 Verfe 20. Who verily was fore-ordained before the foundation 
 of the world, but was manifefl inthefe la/t times foryou, 
 
 Verfe 21, Whoby lyimdobeleeveinGodthatraifcdhimupfrom 
 the dead and gave him glory , that your faith and hope might 
 be in God* 
 
 Verfe 22. Seeing- yee have purified your fou/es in obeying the 
 truth through the Spirit. untounfeined love of the brethren^ 
 fee that ye love one another with a pure heart, fervently, 
 
 Verfe 23. 'Being borne aq^aine, not of corruptible feed, but of in- 
 corruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abide th 
 for ever*. 
 
 Verfe 24. FeraHflffouasgraffe, and all the glory of man-as the 
 flower ofgrajfe :. thegrajfe withereth, and the flower there- 
 of falleth away j 
 
 Verfe 25 . But the word of the Lordendureth for ever : and this 
 is the word which by the G of petl is preached unto you, 
 
 IN this part of the chapter,therc is contcin'd an exhortation 
 to perfift and goe forward in the grace of God j which is 
 the .Scope of the whole Epiftlejas was fhewed before .- Now 
 thisdutyisdefcribcdingenerallinthe 13. verfc 5 and after- 
 wards 
 
A Commentary upon the fir ft Epiftle of Peter. 
 wards is fet forth,, and prefied by divers arguments in the ver- 
 fes following. From the defrripiion of the grace before pro- 
 poied. there is as it were a conclnfion drawne, which is infer- 
 ' red by anecelTiry connexion and c >nfecjuence from the na- 
 tu. e of that grace, as it was before dcfciibed : which evident- 
 ly appeares by the con)un&\on JVben fore ; and that is the 
 reafon why in all the parts of this exhoitati n, as they 
 are distinctly propounded, there is a lingular refpefl had to 
 fbms part of the description chat went be fore, wherein the na- 
 ture or that grace was explained. The duty therefore to 
 Which the Apoftle doth exhort, isdefcribcJ. Firil by the 
 caufe and principall part thereof; which is a I '-cr/j hop^ 
 ef which there was mention made before in the third verie. 
 Secondly, By the lingular ob}:& of this hope, in beholding 
 whereof it iliould be confirmed and ilrengtrncd $ which 
 is true grace ? that is now in tome measure brought unto 
 the faithfull, but fh.dl hereafter be communicated more 
 fully and perfectly 5 in thefc words : Hope for that Gre.cc^ 
 n hich U to be brought nntoywat the rcveUiioM ofjiftu Qjirift • 
 which pirtotthe deicription, is taken from the endoi the 
 7» verfe* 3. By the adjimft of cpnltancy andperfcverancc, 
 which is efpeciilly aim'd at in the whole Ep Itle, as the 
 chicfefcopc thereof j inthele words ; hope to the end* 4. There 
 is added alio the manner and meanes of performing th>s duty, 
 when he tells U5 , that it mould be doneconragioiifly and rea- 
 dily, withfbbriety and watchfulneffr, in theic words : Gird 
 upthelo'wtsofyour mind, be fobcr, "I his exhortation is fee 
 forth and prefled by divers arguments ; the firit of which 
 is taken from rcoen-ir&tion or efre£tuall calling, whereby 
 all the faithfull are tmde the bonnes of God, which rea- 
 ibn is taken from the 5.ver(e, where mention is made of the 
 regeneration of the fiithfuiJ, by the God and Father of our L^rd 
 JefttfCbrifl .• becanfe by this regeneration or calling, the 
 faichfuli aretraoflrted from the ft ate of fin, intothcibteof 
 gr^ce : therefore this reafon is given in both refpetts ; both 
 that they ftirnJd renounce their former fames, eifei^*. and 
 that they fhouid conforme themfelves to the bolioeiTc of that 
 calling; wherewith they are called. verfei5. ^'bich is urged 
 and enforced by a double argument : the firft is taken from 
 
 C 3 the 
 
 ai 
 
5S A Commentary upon thefirfi Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 the likenefTe ? that ought to be betwixt the perfn calling and 
 the pci fons called, as the Scripture it felfe in the old Teft. wit- 
 nelTtth, verfe 15. 16. The fccond is taken from the ieverity 
 of Gods judgement, which they can by no meanes efc.ipe, 
 that call God then Father, and yet dishonour his name, verle 
 17. The fecondargumenc of the exhortation, is taken from 
 redemption, and the meanes and end thereof, verfe iS. 19. Of 
 which there was mention made before at the end ofverfej. 
 and verfe 1 ! . Becaufe the confideration of this redemption 
 obtained by Jeftis Chrtit, and of Chi ift himfefre, is very ne- 
 cciTary andcffettuall to admohifli, andftir up the faithful], to 
 take care of their duty : therefore the Apottle ltayes awhile 
 upon the defenption of Chrift, as he was from all eternity 
 fore-ordained to performe the office of amediatour, at the 
 beginning of the 20.verfe,and as he was manifeft in time ; verfe 
 20. 2 1. which is taken ftom verfe 11. la. 
 
 The third argument is taken (romfanclificatio^ as it flowes 
 from the regeneration oi the ipirit, and from the word of 
 God, which are the proper caules thereof, verfe 22. 3. 4. 5. 
 whereby the way that part of Chrittian duty is commended, 
 that hath refpedt to the nmtnallloveofthefaithfull amongft 
 themfelves, verfe 22. becaule all the faithful! by regenerati- 
 on, are made partakers ofthe fame (piritu ill life 5 butyctthe 
 chiefeft argument, whereby we are exhorted to conftancy in 
 that and every other grace, is taken from the incorruptible na- 
 ture ofthe word, whereby we are regenerated, and conse- 
 quently of regeneration it ielfejwhich isfet forth by a compa- 
 nion of things that are unlike it. Verfe 23, 24, 2 5. 
 
 The DOCTRINES ariimg here ncc are thefe. 
 
 Doft. I. The Confederation of the grace of God that is 
 brought unto us in Chrift$ fbould fiir us up to the practice of 
 Viety.. 
 
 I his is gathered from the connexion, which is intimated 
 *n that particle. Wherefore^ verfe 1 3. 
 
 Reaf. i . Becaule the end of Grace is to free us from fin, 
 and to make us conformable to the image of God, Luc. 1. 74. 
 75. 2 Becaule by that meanes it is very fitting for us, to 
 teach and further ns in that practice. Tit, 2. 1 1. 1 2. 3. Bc- 
 
 caufe 
 
A GommtnUry upon thefirft Epjftle of Mer, 3 3 
 
 cauft it cannot be truly learned by us 5 unlefle it wcrke this in 
 us,E^.4.2 0.i,23.,4. 
 
 Vfe\. This rmy Cerve to eondemme thoie that turnethe 
 grace o^ G Jti into wantonnes (fah 5.13*2. To exhort us toiue 
 all care to make this grace effectual! in our hearts ; that it may 
 bring forth great fruits of Piety. 
 
 Do&. 2. The foundation of found b:/ : ne(fe &s firmely to hope 
 for that grace that fkall be revealed at the ctmming of Iefus 
 Chrift our Lord. 
 
 This is gathered from the 13. verfe. So ¥hil.^2o.Tit, 2.13. 
 Reaf.\. Becauft this hope is the perfe&ion of that where- 
 in our fpirituall life doth confift. 2. Becaufe this expectati- 
 on reprefents the reward unto us, by contemplating, where- 
 upon we are made immoveable and abounding intheworke 
 of the Lord. 1. Cor. 15. 58. Heb. 6. 11. 3. 2?ecaufc this 
 hope begets patience, whereby with ftrong confolationit 
 doth overcome all the difficulties, that are wont to befall men 
 in the courfe of Godlinefle. He h, 6.12.18.19, 
 
 Vfc* iVis may ferve to exhort us, to have a care to lay this 
 foundation veryfurein our hearts, and daily to confirmed 
 more and more. 
 
 Do6h 3. To keepe this hopefrme and lively, wejbouldcou- 
 ragioujly gird up our f elves that rre might be prepared \andrc 'aiy to 
 per for me all t hofe things that tend thereunto. 
 
 This is githered from thole words : gird up the loines of your 
 mind ;for this is it 5 that is fignified by the habit of a man,that 
 hath his loines girt in Scripture, that he is prepared and rea- 
 dy to performe his duty. Lttc, 12.35. 
 
 Reaf, 1 . Secaufe the difficultly to retaine this hope is ve- 
 ry great, in fo much,that it cannot be kept without earned en- 
 deavour. 2. 3?ccaufe in fpirituall duties our loines are too 
 flick, that is, the floth of (in, and infirmity hath taken hold of 
 all our faculties Heb.12, 12. 
 
 Vfe% This may fcrve toadmonijhm^ bynomeanestoyeeld 
 to the floth and fluggifhneffe of our corrupt nature, but to 
 drive againft it as much as we can, and laying afide every 
 weight,and the floth that doth befet us a to runne the race that 
 is fet before us, Heb. 1 2 , r. 
 
 Dod* 4. Sobriety in the ttfe of the things of this life^ dotlf 
 
 very 
 
24 A Commentary upon fhefirfl Epifik of Peter. 
 
 very much conduce to the furtherance of this endeavour . 
 This is gathered from this word, Bj fcber and hope. 
 
 Re of. 7?ec2u(e the love and immoderate life of the things 
 ofthis world, doth (o burden the foule, and glue it to the 
 . earth, that it cannot lift up it ftlfe to feeke after heavenly- 
 things 
 
 -Vfe % This may ferve toadmonifh ^not toaddi& our minds 
 to any worldly thing, but here to u(e this world 3 and not abufe 
 it. i^r.7.31. 
 
 Doft. V. The ft ate of adoption, whereby tve are wade the 
 formes ofGodtpiouldftir us up to the praffife ofholinejf. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : As obedient Childrer* 
 Rfafi i. tfecauie Children fhould beare the image of 
 their Father : Now the image of God conlifts inholincfie 
 and righteoufhefle. 2. />ecaule it is the duty of Children 3 
 readily and of their ov/ne accord to apply ihemiclvestothe 
 will of theii Father. Now the will of God isourfanctiixa- 
 tion« 1 rty.4.3. this is it vhac isuvimatcd in that title, 
 where the faithfull are called dediem C lire,\ 
 
 Vfu 1 . T'his may ferve to condemne thoxe,th it with the wic- 
 ked Jewes fay, they are the Children of Abraham and of 
 God, when notwithstanding, they doe the worKcs of the De- 
 \>ill,Iohn 8, 41 » 2.4.1 hhv 3.8.10. 2. Toexb-.rt «.f, in all 
 things to make it appears, that we are the title ionnes of God, 
 by obedience unto his will, and our pracrhc of hoUnefle : for 
 unleflewe beare the thalh'ementsot the Lord, that by them 
 we may be made partakers of his holinefle, hereby we fliew 
 that;wearebaftards,and nortjue tonres. Heb. 12.8. 10. 
 
 Doft. 6. Thisfiiiall obed:ence i and the fajbiommr four [elves 
 a, cordir.g to the former lufls ofourfms^ cannot ft a rid together. 
 
 This is gathered from the oppolition, that is made betwixt 
 thefe two, verle 14. where the one being jffirmed, that we 
 are obedient Children,the other is denyed 3 that we mould not 
 lalhion our felves according td our lulls. 
 
 Reaf. 1. BcchuCq they,which by regeneration are made 
 the Children of God, arc new creatures, havea new nature 
 and new affections, fo that they have wholy renounced their 
 former natureand affections: and for this very cau& they are 
 called in the Text, former lufts^ or, which were before. 
 
 2. Be- 
 
A Commentary upon the fir ft Epifile of Peter, 2 5 
 
 2. Becaufe the former lufts of finne do wholly withdraw 
 us from the will of God, which we ought to obey. 
 
 3. Becaufe the former lufts of finne are fiich, that all that 
 , are come to the knowledge of the truth, may beafham'dof 
 
 them; this is intimated in the Text, where they are called 
 lufts which were in ottr ignorance : becaufe they cannot endure 
 the light. 
 
 Vfc i . 1 his may ferve to condemne th«(e,that profeffe them- 
 selves the children of God,and call upon Gad as their Father, 
 & yet follow the fame courfe of life that the children of this 
 world do. 
 
 2. To exhort us, not to conforme our (elves to this world, 
 R om* 1 2. 2. where there is a reafon alio given of this exhorta- 
 tion, in the 1 Verfe, becaufe if we do this we cannot prefene 
 our felves to God as a living facrifice, acceptable unto him. 
 So2 7Vw,2.ip. 
 
 Do&. 7. The calling of the fahhfull doth necejfarilj require 
 holinejfeinthem. 
 
 This is gathered from Verfe 1 5, 16 . 
 
 Reafon 1 . Becaufe holinefle is one of the chiefe ends of this 
 calling, therefore it is ufually called in the Scriptures a holy 
 calling>2T/tt?.i.p. 
 
 2. Becaufe God which calleth us is moft holy, and he cals 
 us to have communion with him in holinefle , as it is in the 
 Text. 
 
 3. Becaufe the calling it (elfe is in it sown nature a (etting 
 of a man apart from the common and corrupt ufe or the 
 world to a facred ufe; and therefore it is a consecration or 
 dedication of men unto holinefle. 
 
 Vfe 1* This may ferve to rebuke and condemne thofe , that 
 feek for nothing by their Chriftian calling, but justification 
 and blifle, and in the meane time altogether neglect the care 
 toliveholily. 
 
 2. T-.< exhort us 9 in all our conversion to endeavour to be 
 holys as it is in the Text ; 'Be ye holy in all manner ofconverfa- 
 tion ; that is, fo walke, as it becommcth the call ng , where- 
 with ye are called. 
 
 Do&. 8. The feverity of gods judgement ffiouldjlirr* us up 
 to theprattije of piety, 
 
 D This 
 
26 A Comment try upon thefirft EpiftU tfPcl*. 
 
 This is gathered from Verfe 17. 
 Reafon 1. Beciufe God in executing his judgements is no 
 refpe&cr of perfons, as it il in the Text. Now the name and 
 proieflton of the faith, is nothing elle, buttheperfonofthe 
 Christian j as circumciiion and the piofetTion of thelavv" was 
 the perfon of the lew : Such a protefiion therefore without 
 found holinefTe cannot ftand before Gods Tribunal!. 
 
 2. Becaufe God doth in fome fort more (cverely require 
 holinefTe of thofe that by their calling draw neere unto God, 
 & call him Father, as it is in the Text, then he doth of others, 
 Levi; .TO 3. / will befanttifiedin them that come nigh me* 
 Vfe, This may ferve to aimonijh tu not to cofen our lelves 
 j in relying wholly upon the outward profeffion of faith , but 
 to appeare before God alwayes with feare and reverence,as it 
 is in the Text : becaufe our God is a confuming fire, Heb, 
 12. 29. 
 
 Doft- 9. The confideratitn of our redemption /bau/d be A 
 Jlrong; Argument to fir up in ouf hearts a dtfire ofholinejfr. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe we arc redeemed from all our vaine con- 
 vei fation. although it be commended unto us by the ufe and 
 tradition of our Fathers, Ver£ 18. I herefore for a man to 
 follow fuch fafhions , after that he is come to the knowledge 
 of redemption^ nothing elfe, but to oppofe himfelfe againlt 
 bis owne redemption , and as much as in him lies , to make 
 it void and of none er£fr. 
 
 2. Becauie by this redemption we are bought to be the Ser- 
 vants or God, 1 CV.5.20.& 7.* 3. So that we ought no lon- 
 ger to ferve fin" e, nor the world, nor to live according to our 
 owne will and pleafure : but according to the will of God and 
 our Puedeemer. 
 
 3. Becaufe the price wherewith we are redeemed \ is of fo 
 great worth, that it doth farre furparJe all the raoft precious 
 things of.this world : therefore there ought to be made an 
 excellent ufe thereof ; and yet notwithstanding only thofe 
 that endeavour to be ho!y,make any eiteeme of it,Vcrf 1 8 : 19. 
 
 r e 1 . This may ferve tc tmiem*$ rhofe that by their life 
 difbonour Chrift, and put their Redeemer to an open fhame, 
 Heb.6,6. they doe as it were tread under foot his blood, that 
 was the price of ourredemption,and count it an unholy thing 
 Heb,io,2p. 2. To 
 
A Commentary upon the firfi Epiftle of Peter. 2 7 
 
 X To exhort us, as often as wc think of our redemption, 
 ('which we ought to.do very oft J fb often mould wc thinke 
 that there are as it were coales of fire heaped upon our heads, 
 1 wherewith we fliould be inflamed to this holinefle. 
 
 Doft» 10. That n>e majgaine profit and benefit by the con- 
 f deration of our redemption^ we Jhould diligent Ij meditate upon 
 Chrifis predefiination , his incarnation , humiliation, and glo- 
 rification. 
 
 This is gathered from Verfe 20, 2 1. 
 Reafon I. Becaufe by this meanes alone is the breadth,and 
 length, and depth, and height of Gods love in Chrift made 
 manifeft, Ephef.$.i%. 
 
 2 . Becaufe by this meanes alone doe we come to know, 
 what a great worke, and of how great difficulty it was, to de- 
 liver men from their finnes. 
 
 3. Becaufe by this alfb we may eafily gather, how fit and 
 juft it is , that we fliould live unto God and Chrift in all ho- 
 linefle, which is the fcopeof this Text. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonijb us not to pafle over this 
 myfterie (lightly in our thoughts and meditations,but to con- 
 tinue in contemplation thereapon, that fo we may, as it were, 
 fuck therehence the juice of true godlinefle. 
 
 Dott. 1 1 . The proper and immediate ufe of all our contem* 
 plat ion upon Chrift t and our redemption obtained by hint, k,to con* 
 firme our faith and hope in God. 
 
 This is gathered from Verfe 21, at the end. 
 \Reafon 1. Becaufe the end of Chrifts mediation is, that 
 through him we Qjould believe in God, as it is here affirmed. 
 
 2. Becaufe Chrift left us an example of putting our faith 
 and hope in God ; for he in his way perfectly performed it, 
 and by that meanes attained the higheft glory. 
 
 3. Becaufe for our fakes and for our good was that glory 
 given unto Chrift, which our faith and hope look and feeke 
 after, 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to exhort */, al wayes to look unto Ie- 
 ius Chrift the author and finifher of our faith, Heb.12.2. and 
 by looking unto him to quicken our faith and hope. 
 
 Doft. 12. The calling of the faithfuU hath the purification 
 if the foulc \omedmth it* 
 
 ^ D2 This 
 
3 g A Commentary upon thefirfi Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 This is gathered from the beginning of the 2 2 Verfc. So 
 Z Tet. 2. 20. Hence ic is that the warning or baptifme repre- 
 sents thut grace which is given in their calling : Now this 
 purification and warning., which is communicated in their 
 calling, and ngnified by baptifme, is not by jultification on- 
 ly, which confifts in the imputing thereot unto remiflion of 
 iinnes, but alio by lanctification and the reallclenfing ofthe 
 foule, 1 £V.&if. Tit,% 5. And this fan&ification is chiefly re- 
 ferred to the foule as to its proper object. 
 
 Reafou 1. Becaufe outward purification and fan&ification 
 is nothing worth at all D if it be divided from the inward : for 
 this was the hypocrifie ofthe Scribes and Pharifees ? that are 
 faid to have made clean the outiide of the cup and ofthe plat- 
 ter 9 when within they were full of extortion andexcefle, 
 
 2. Becaufe the operation of the Spirit begins at the foule, 
 and from the foule is derived to the outward man : for as all 
 pollution proceeds firft out ofthe heart, Matth* 1 5. 1 9, Co alio 
 purification. 
 
 3. Becaule if the foule be onc^ purified within 5 outward 
 purity will follow ofits owne accord., ./W4/M. 23 26 
 
 4. Becaufe this purity doth more properly conlift in the af- 
 fection & intention ofthe lbule,then in the outward praftile ; 
 for the fame outward works may be done by impure men; 
 but the faithull differ from all impure hypocrites by their in- 
 ward diipofitions and affecYionr. 
 
 5. Becaufe the faithfull themlelves are oftentimes fuftained 
 and receive comfort by the purity which they have within in 
 their will and purpofe, though they cannot produce it into 
 aft according to their defire, Rom.j. 2125-. 
 
 Vfe I. This may ferve to condemne thofe that are whited 
 over with the name of Chriftians, but never look after the pu- 
 rity of their foules : and thetefore they may be rightly called 
 whited wals 3 (^^23.7. and whited Sepulchres, M.n 23.27. 
 
 2. To exhort us to ufe rhe utmolt of our endeavours to pu- 
 rifie our fouls, that they may be made the temples ofthe holy 
 Ghoft. 
 
 Dv.ft. 13. This purification is wrought by the hearing of 
 the word^ & the ejfcftuall operation ofthe holy Ghoft by the word. 
 
 This 
 
A Commentary upon the firft Epiftle of Peter* 2? 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : in obeying the truth 
 through the Spirit. Where the word of God 3 especially of the 
 Gofpell, is called thetruth 3 partly for that excellency of truth 
 ' that it hath above all other fa) ings or writings, and partly 
 beca'i e by vertueofthetruthorfoithfulnefleof thofepronn- 
 (es which are contained in the word, this purification is 
 wrought, together with all thofe fpiiituall blefllngs.that per- 
 taine to the consolation and ialvation of the faithful]- 
 
 Reafort 1. ffecauleche word together with the Spirit doth 
 reveale unto m, that rruepu - ity wh ch is plealing and accep- 
 table to G jd. whereof we are ignoran . 
 
 2. He Mile ; h? word together with the Spirit is the oracle 
 or power ot Go 1 unto Salvation, and confequently is able to 
 beget every giace in us 
 
 3. Becauleiaith ftirifus the hearts ofthefaithfull,/4#.r 15. 
 9 and faith comes by hearing of the word, Rom t io.ij. 
 
 V(e i. Th**s may Serve to refute the herefies of thoSe,which 
 either hvld that there is ftich power in the ftrei gch of nature, 
 that menmay fan6tific;thfsnrelvesat their own rree will and 
 plcafure, or. which comes all to one rmintaine that the out- 
 ward preaching of the word is fufficient without the power- 
 full operation "of the Spirit. 
 
 2. To exhort u^ firft, to hearken diligently unto the word 
 ofGod$ Secondly, not to reft our Selvesfathfied in the bare 
 letter of the word but alwayes to crave the gi ace ot God and 
 the operation of his Spirit : thirdly, in theufeofthe word 
 through the Spi; it to feck the purification of our (bules. 
 
 Do£fc. 14. The eff B andfigne of a purified fouls, isapure^ 
 ftneere^ andfervmt love of 'the faithfully as of brethren, 
 
 Th s is gathered from the(e words : unto love of the 
 brethren. 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe hatred, envie, wrath, Strife, enmities, 
 and Such like affections, especially , when they reflect upon 
 theg >od. are Ton ie oft hole fi thy pollution? of the nVfh, from 
 wbiehthefouleoftrK faith d is puiified, Gal.y\$. n Q. 
 
 2. Bt-cauie the purification of our Snules makes us to love 
 put ity in others, and no man can take delight in the purity of 
 others, unleffc he be in fomemeafwre thurified himSclfe. 
 
 3, Becaufe in the mutuall love ot the faithful! divers ope- 
 
 rations 
 
3© A Commentary upm thefrft Epiftle of Peter* 
 
 rations are exercifed, to the performing whereof, their foules 
 are in a fpeciall manner purified and fanftified,as doing good, 
 bearing with infirmities, edificationof the Church, and glo- 
 rifying the name of the Lord. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to condemne thole, that (hew them- 
 felves great enemies to godly men: they may rightly be cal- 
 led Cainites , for they have gone in the way of fain , with 
 thole to whom the woe is denounced by Ittde.VerCe 12. 
 
 2. To exhort us by all meanes to endeavour to gaine this 
 brotherly love of the godly : wherein there is required, Firft, 
 fincerity, that it mould be without hypocrifie or fimulation, 
 fo that it (hold not be in words ov injkew^s the Apoftle fpeaks, 
 but in heart. Secondly, that it mould be not only from the 
 heart, but from a pure heart ; bccauie there is a kinde of love 
 that is in force fort fincere, but yet it is impure, whiles that it 
 doth either negieft the chiefeft good or elfe ufcth fuch means 
 to procure lome good as are contrary thereunto t as if a man 
 to deliver his brother from danger, mould perfwade him to 
 deny the truth, or to diflemble, Thirdly, That it mould be 
 fervent , becaufe the afTe&ion ought to be ftt in the higheft 
 degree upon thole objects, where there is found to be the 
 chiefeft reafbn to ftirre it up. 
 
 Do6t. 15. Regeneration^ that is common to all the faith- 
 fall) is a flrong argument to provoke them to love one another. 
 
 This is gathered from the end of vcrfe 22. and the begin- 
 ning of the 23.where this rcalon is given,why they (hould love 
 one another, becaule they are borne againe. 
 
 Reaf becaule by this regeneration all the faithfull are 
 brethren, begotten by the fame Father, of the fame b!ood,and 
 partakers of the fame ipirit. 
 
 Vfi» This may ferve to exhort us 9 to be mind full all this ar- 
 gument, and to give it roome and power in our hearts, fo 
 that we may upon occafion fay as Abraham did, gen* 13. 8. 
 Let there be noftrife bctweene me and thee ; for we are brethren : 
 and to admonilh others alio in thofe words ofMofes %Acl. 7. 
 26 . Sirs 9 Te are brethren : Why doe ye wrong one another ? 
 
 Doc?. 16. The word of God is the incorruptible feed or prin- 
 ciple of this regeneration. 
 
 This 7 gathered from the 23. verlc, 
 
 Reaf. 1. 
 
A Commentary upon thefrft Epiftle */ Peter* g r 
 
 Reaf. i . 7ecau(e it is the word of God, (as it is in the 
 Text}) which liveth and abideth for ever j whole nature ic i e- 
 fembleth in this, that the operation thereof is not momentany 
 , or temporary, but it abideth for ever, l . JBecauic to fpeake 
 properly, it is the word ofeternall life, John 6. 68. for the 
 end and ufe thereof is, to bring men to eternal I life. 3. 7>e- 
 caufe where it is once truly received, it never faileth. John 4. 
 14. 
 
 Vfc* 1. This may fasetorefute the errour of thole, which 
 hold that they that are truly regenerated, ufually fall away 
 from the grace of God, and fo are borne againe and againe,af- 
 ter they have bcene regenerate : This is contrary, not only to 
 the promile and covenant of God, that he will keepc the 
 faithfull, that they mail not depart from him ler. 32. 40. and 
 to that comfort which Chrift gives his members, that no man 
 fhall pluck them out of his hand, John ic. 28. 2?ut alio to the 
 operation of the fpirit in the hearts of the faithfull, and to the 
 nature of the life it felfe, that is communicated unto them, 
 which is incorruptible and eternall, as it is in the Text. 
 
 2. To comfort ul againft all thofe feares and terrours, tha& 
 may arife from the conlideration of our own infirmities j for 
 although of our felves we are continually falling to corrupti- 
 on, yet there is fomething borne in us, if we be truly faith- 
 full, which is incorruptible and (hall abide unto eternall 
 life. 
 
 3. To exhort us to cany our felves aniwerable in allChri- 
 ftkn duties, that is, tobeconftant and incorruptible in per- 
 forming them : and this is it at which the Apoftle doth efpe- 
 cially aime at in this place, when he ftirres up the faithfull to 
 a fervent and conftant love one of another, by this argument, 
 becaufe they are borne againe by the incorruptible word. 
 
 DocV 17. The condition tvherein the faithfull are put by 
 this incorruptible regeneration of the word, isfarre more excellent 
 then all the glory of this ivorld. 
 
 This is gathered from verfc 24^25. where there is a compa- 
 rifon made betwixt, fleflb, grafle, the flower of grade, and the 
 glory of man, on the one fide, and the word ofGodonthe 
 other j not as the word is considered in it felfe , but as it is re- 
 ceived by the faithfull, and tranflates them into the kingdome 
 of God. Reafon 
 
22 A Commentary upon tftefirfl Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Reofon. Becaaie as ii is in the text, there is nothing in all 
 the world but vanity , t hat quickly falleth away .• whereas the 
 word of God endureth for ever. 
 
 Vf* j. This may (crve to exhort w to make more precious 
 account of the word of God and of his k'ngdome, then ot all 
 the world, and that not only inrefpecT of our (elves, but of 
 others alfo ; as the Apoftle doth in this place extoll the word 
 of God and the condition of the regenerate above all the 
 things ofthe world, that by this confideration among others 
 he might move the faithful! to efteeme of others, that are re- 
 generate, more highly, and to love them more fervently, then 
 all the things of the world. 
 
 2. To comfoit us, in that God of i^is bounty and grace hath 
 advanced us to fsch a dignity, 
 
 Do&» 18. fV» opight to have a fingular reffcUunto this, 
 dignity and excellency w th" word of God^as it is preached unto 
 us by the Qofp'll. 
 
 This is gathered from the 22 verfe at the end. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the lame word of God is preached unto 
 us , that is So much commended by the Prophets, Apo- 
 ftlcs, and by Chrift himtelfe, as it is in the Text , thts is that 
 word, 
 
 2. Becaufe it makes much unto our (alvation,as it is preach- 
 ed unto us. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifk us, not to fatisfie our (elves 
 with tome generalleiteemeoftheword, as many are wont to 
 doc, that are weary of the word that is preached unto them, 
 and loathing it do rejeft it ; but rchgioufly and reverently to 
 receive the word that is preached unto us^ as the eternall word 
 of God. 
 
 Chapter II. 
 
A Comment ay) upon the fir jl Epiflle of Peter* 3 3 
 
 Chapter II. 
 
 Verfe 1. fVhertfore laying ajide all malice, and alt guile ', and. 
 
 hypocrifies 9 and envies, andevill fpeakjngs^ 
 Verfe 2. *s4s new borne babes^ defire the fincere milke of the 
 
 rvjrdy that ye may grow thereby* 
 Verfe 3. Iffo be ye have tafted that the Lord is gracious. 
 Verfe 4. To whom comminq as unto a living flone, difallowed 
 
 indeed of mm ^ but chofen ofCjod, and precious \ 
 Ve»fe 5- TV alfo as lively fl ones are built up afpirituall houfe^art 
 
 holy Fricflhoodj to offer up fpiritualljacrifice^ acceptable to 
 
 God by lefus Chrijl. 
 Verfe 6. Wherefore it is contained in the Scripture, Behold, I lay 
 
 inSion a chief e corner ft one ^ els El ^precious, and he that be- 
 
 leevcth on him fh all not be confounded, 
 Verfe 7. Vnto you therefore which believe he is precious, but un- 
 to them which be djj "obedient , the ft one which the builders 
 
 difallowed j he fame is made the head of the corner, 
 Verfe 8. tAndaftoneofftumbling^andarockjfoffence^evento 
 
 them which fiumble at the word } being difobedient , where- 
 
 unto alfo they are appointed. 
 Verfe 9. But ye are a chofen generation, a rcyallTriefthood^ an 
 
 holy nation^ a peculiar people, that yefoouldjhew forth the 
 
 fraifies of him, who hath called you out ofdarknejfe into his 
 
 marvellous light I 
 Verfe 10. Which in time paft were not a people, but are now the 
 
 people ofGodycvhich had not obtained mercy, but now have 
 
 obtained mercy, 
 
 I He fame exhortation that the Apoftle had be- 
 fore propofed , he doth here againc repeat 
 and prefle, and that notfimply and barely, 
 but by that principle and meanes , whereof: 
 there may and ought to be very good ufe 
 made.For by occaii >n of thofe chings,which 
 he had lately fpoken of the word of God, he ftirre. up a1! the 
 
 E faithfull 
 
34 d Commentary upon thefirft Epiftle of Peter, 
 
 faithfull to the right ufe of this word , by whofe hclpe they 
 might perfift and grow in that grace, wherein they flood. 
 The occafion and connexion of this exhortation with the 
 words going before is intimated in that phrafe or particle, 
 jvherefsre. The exhortation it felfe is to a defire or love of the 
 word of God, which he had before commended, verfe 2. 
 Which exhortation he doth fo lay downe 9 that in the firtt 
 place he ftuwes, that the vices whichare contrary to this du- 
 ty, mult be 1 iid afide, and taken heed of which are five: malice^ 
 quile^ hypocrifies, envies, evill-fpeakwgs^ verfe I . And in the 
 fecond place he gives reafbns agreeable thereunto, to ftirreus 
 up unto this duty, (to wit, a d eli re of the word.) Thefirft 
 reafon is taken, from the ufe or effeft of this word in refpect 
 of them, that it makes much for the edification of the faith- 
 ful! ; and this Ufe is allegorically fet forth, verfe 2 where the 
 regenerate faithfull are compared to infmts newly borne, and 
 the word to finceremilfce ; and the edification which is made 
 by ihe word, is compared to that a&»on , which infants ob- 
 taine by the nie of wholefbme milk p . The lecoud reafon is ta- 
 ken, by a continuation of the fame allegory, from the objrft 
 of the word, which he propoled tobetafted, and that is God 
 himielfeand our Saviour Jems Chrift : whole perfection and 
 ft neile for edification is declared. Verfe 3. where he is faid to 
 be gracious : and is 1 onfirmed alio by the experience and te- 
 stimony of all the faith.uU, who are faid to have tafled this 
 gracioufneffe , ibid, if fo be jee have tafied that the Lord is 
 praciou- . 
 
 In the explication of this affeftion, that ought to be fet up- 
 on our Lo'.djefus Chrift, as the primary object of this word, 
 the Apoftle continues from V rie 4 to the 1 1. Where in the 
 firft place the ah\6tion and duty it felfe o^comming unto 
 ChrUl, and adhering unto him by faith, is propoled, verfe 4. 
 To whvm camming* And then the reafon of thisdnty is allego- 
 rically declared, to wit,, that Chrift is the foundation of the 
 fpintuall building thar liveth for ever. Ibid, as unto a living 
 fione ; and the faithfull are the parts of the building, or of the 
 fpirituJl houfe that is to be built upon this foundation at 
 the beginning ofverie 5. And he doth further illuftrate both 
 parts of chis reafon. The fir ft, concerning the foundation or 
 
A Commentary upon the frft Epiftle of Peter. 3 <j 
 
 fubjeft, he doth declare by divers arguments j when he faith 
 that it was difaliowed or" men, but yet chofen of God, and 
 precious, verfe 4. The fecond, concerning thepaitsofthe 
 ' building that are joyned toit> hettath j-lluftrate & urge from 
 the effects, which are allegorically alfo let forth, to wit, that 
 by th's comming unto Chrift, as unto the foundation , the 
 faithfull are not only made a fpirituall houfe, as the temple 
 wherein facrifices acceptable to God are offered up, but they 
 fliall alfo be the Prielts that (hall ofFerup fpirituall facrifices, 
 acceptable to God through Iefus Chrift, verfe 5. This that 
 hath beene fpokerr of the faving effect of Chrift, as our Savi- 
 our; which redounds unto all che faithfull, the Apoftle doth 
 confirme by the tcftimony of Scripture, verfe 6. Which tefti- 
 mony he doth explaine and apply by the contrary affections 
 and manners, how contrary forts of men carry thcmfelves 
 towards Chrift, that is, the believers, and the unbelievers: To 
 the believers Chrift is faid to be precious, verfe 7. at the be- 
 ginning, becaufe they put their whole truft and con6dencc in 
 Chrift, and confequently give him the honour of the true 
 Mefllas and Saviour : but to the unbelievers he is a ftonc of 
 ftumbling, and a rock of offence, verfe 7,8. Becaufe being of- 
 fended at his humility they do not receive him as their Savi- 
 our : whofe infidelity he doth illuftrateby the antecedent de- 
 cree of God, whereby it was ordained, verfe 8. at the end. 
 Whcremto alfo they are appointed. As on the contrary the con- 
 dition of the faithfull is illuftrated. Firft, by the fecret electi- 
 on of God, that was the canfe thereof, verfe 9. at the begin- 
 ning. Secondly, by the dignity which they obtaine by faith 
 by vertue of this election, to wit, that they are a royallTriefi- 
 hood 9 an holy nationhoods peculiar people. Thirdly, by the end 
 and u(e of this dignity to which they are called, which is, to 
 fhew forth the praife of God, verfe 9. at the end. Fourthly, 
 by comparing the ftate that 1 sunlike it, wherein they were 
 before their calling, to this ftate of excellency and dignity 
 whereinto they are now put by their calliing unto faith in 
 Chrift, verfe 10. 
 
 The Doctrines aaifing from hence are thefe. 
 Doft. I . The right ufc of the word of God is the proper 
 nuanes to increafe grace, 
 
 E 2 This 
 
2 6 A Commentary upon the frfi Eptftle of Peter* 
 
 This is gathered from the connexion of. this exhor» 
 tationwidi that which went before. For when the Apoftlc 
 had before exhorted toconftancy in grace, and to obedience, 
 in hoiinefle, and to brotherly love j by a reafbn alfo taken 
 in the lait place from the worde or God, whereby as of 
 incorruptible feed all the faithfull are regenerated, here in 
 the beginning of this Chapter, he commends unto us 
 the right ufe of that word D as the proper and only meanes 
 to perfect all thofe things. 
 
 Reef i. .Becaufe the word is the inftrument chofenby 
 God and fanctiried to that ufe. i Cor, 1.21.2. 7?ecaufe the 
 word, efpecially of the Gofpell,is the miniltration of the Spi- 
 rit, who is the authour and finifher of every grace. 2 Cor. 3. 
 6.8. 3. became the word fliewes us the good and perfect 
 willofGod. Rom, 12.2. 
 
 4. Becaufe it furnifheth a man unto every good worke, 
 2. Tim. 3. 17. 
 
 Vfc 1. This may (erve to refute fbme fanatick heretlcks, 
 that neglect the word of God and looke for immediate reve- 
 lation?, and dreameol a greater perfection then is contained 
 in the word. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to give diligent heed unto the word of 
 God in all things, untill we come to theendofperfeftionia 
 heaven. 2. Tct* 1. 19. 
 
 Dodt. 2. If we rwane to ufe the word of God aright y wee 
 mufi have our minds ready and willing to lay afide all thofe vices 
 that are contrary to the power of the word. 
 
 This is gathered from the 1. verfe. Where five remarkea- 
 ble vices are propounded, tobe!aidafide,denyed, and morti- 
 fied, before the word can have its due effect in our hearts. « 
 Reaf. 1. Eec.ufe as the matter, if it be not fitly prepared, 
 cannot receive the forme ; neither can the field, if it be not 
 manured, cherifh the feed to bring forth fiuit : So neither- 
 can the heart of man, if it be not fubdued by repentance, re- 
 ceive the word of God with profit. 2. Becaufe fuch a pur- 
 pofe to forfake all that is contrary to the word of God, is the 
 firft beginning of that faving operation, which the word of 
 God doth make, wherefoever it Begins to be received, and 
 whereby it makes way for it felfe, to perfect all operations. 
 
 Vfc. 1. 
 
A Commentary upon the fir ft Epiftk of Peter, 3 7 
 
 Vfc 1 , This may fcrve to c mdemne thofe, that will be hea- 
 rers of the word of God, but fo, that they will notforfakc 
 their accuftomed finncs. 2. To admonijh us 9 not to take this 
 thought and purpofc into our minds in thegenera)l,and once 
 only at our firftconverdon ; but upon all eccafions, ferioufly 
 to renew this pur pofe. cfpecially when we prepare our (elves 
 to heare the wo r d of God. 
 
 Doft. 3. We mufi lay ajide thefe vices not in part only^ hut 
 wholly. 
 This is gathered r ro:ri the word, all. 
 
 Reaf. 1. Becaufe repentance is not true and unfdined, in* 
 lefTe it abhor the very nature of finne; it nuift with one 
 and the (ame kind of hatred hate all kind of finne. 2. Becaufe 
 a man may eafily deceive himfelfe, whiles he thinks that he 
 hath laid aiide fonie vice, if he doth not deteft all appearance 
 of it,what Specious (hew foever it may f eeme to have* 
 
 Vje. This may ferve to inflruU us, ferioufly to examine our 
 hearts, leaft through fome deceitfuinefle thereof, there (hould 
 lurkeforne vice, whereofwethinke our ielvestobe tree. 
 
 Do&. 4» W: ft.wt.U h*ve afingalar care tolay afide thofe 
 vices ^ thjt are contrary to thofe duties, to which roe are in a (feci all 
 manner called •, and to that difj>o'itio>t^ which is efpecialty required 
 in Qhriftians, that they may profit by the word of(jod» 
 
 Th\s is gathered herence, that the Apoftle, when in the 
 laft place, he had exhorted unto unfained love of the brethren 
 ' atthe2i. verfe of the former Chapter, doth here marke out 
 thofe viceSjthataremoftofall contrary to this love 5 &when 
 he would commend the fimplicitie ofinfants, as a difpofition 
 requifke to receive the wo<d of God with profit, he calls afide 
 thofe vices which are dite&ly oppofed to that fimplkity. 
 
 Doft. 5* Tomaie agoodufeofthiword^befidesthe'laying 
 afide of thofe evillajfeclions y that we fpa'k? of before, it is required 
 that wejhouldfiirre up that good affetti on in our hearts^ which is 
 called appetite or defire. 
 
 This is gathered from the 2. verfe. Now this defire is ex- 
 prefled in other places of the .Scripture, by a fpirituall hunger 
 and third, lfai. 55.1. Apocii, 6> And the degree thereofis 
 fetdowne,that it mould bethehigheft* ?fal. 119, Jo. 81.82. 
 Jfhich containes in it, 1. a high efteemeof. Gods word'*? faL 
 
 E 1 ii9> 
 
3 8 A Commentary upon iheprfi Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 119. 2. 2. An earneft endeavour, anfwerable thereunto, to 
 ufe it and enjoy it. Iohn 6. 27. 3. A delight, whereby We 
 are well pleated in the fweetneiTe thereof, Pfal. 1 1 9, 1 03. 
 
 /?>*/". 1. Becauie the word isabfolutely neceffiry (for us; 
 without it we cannot live ; for it is our milk or fpirituall food, 
 as it is in the text, 2. Becauie we alwayeswant fomething 
 that may begotten : this is alio fignified in the text, when we 
 are called new borne babes 5 whereby it is intimated that our 
 imperfection is fo great, that by reafon or it, we fhould ear- 
 neitly defire thehclpeoftheword. 3. Becauie theexcllen- 
 cy and perfection of the u crd is fo great, that it fhould of it 
 felfe delight us, though we ftood inuo need or it our felves ; 
 this is alio intimated in the text, when thereis mention made 
 of the fincerity of the word,and of the goodnefie of God that 
 appeaies therein. 
 
 Vft»i. This mayferve tocondemne thatfatiety and loa- 
 thing of the word, that appearestoo evidently in too too ma- 
 ny. 
 
 2. To admonijb #x,not to fufFer our affections to be taken up 
 with the things or this world, thereby toleflen that defire, 
 which we mould have to the word of God. 3. To exhort us, 
 to ufe the urmoft of our endeavours to ftir up and increafe 
 thefe pious affections in our (elver. 
 
 Dodt. 6. This affettion and defire that wee ought to have 
 to Gods wordy (houlci have refpeEl to the fincerity thereof. 
 
 This is gathered from x.hdLt,deJire thefincere milke of the word: 
 that is, the nature it fclfe of the word and of the things pro- 
 pofed therein, as they are pure, and affoord nourifhmentnt 
 lor our Soales . 
 
 Rcaf. 1 . Becauie otherwise we doe not defire the word, as 
 it is the word of life, or the bread of life, or the milke of life, 
 as it is in the text, but as we doe apprehend it under (bme car- 
 nallfhew. 2. Becauie this defire alone proceeds from (piritu- 
 all life, which feekes after that in the word that tends unto 
 life, which is intimated alfointhc text by the limilitude of 
 infants, that naturally defire their mothers milke, 
 
 Vfe. i . This may lerve to reprove thoft minifters that fal- 
 fifie the word of God by their owne mixturesand devices,and 
 obtrude upon him an adulterate word, in ftead ofthe fimple 
 
 and 
 
A Commentary upon thefrfi Epsftle of Peter* o g 
 
 and fincere word. 2. To Mdmonijb the hearers not to (uffer - 
 their affeftions to be carried either cowards the perfon of the 
 (peafcer, or towards the manner ^jf his (peaking, much lefle 
 .towards thofe ftrange forgings which many ufe in their (pea- 
 king, but fincerely to (eeke for the fincerity of the word. 
 
 3. To exhort us, highly to prize this fincerity of the word, 
 and to endeavour all that we can to preferve it as well in our 
 (elves as in the Church. 
 
 Doft. 7* 'Then and not before^doe we nfe the fincere word 
 of God aright^ when we grow thereby. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words: that ye may grow thereby. 
 This is fignified in all thole places ofScripture, where the 
 end of the word is made to be the edification of the faithfull: 
 for to edifie is to promote the ftru&ureof the edifice, to a grea- 
 ter perfection, after that the foundation is already laid. 1 his 
 is exprefied alfb Eph. 4. 1 6. 
 
 Reaf. 1. BecauCe we are imperfecT:, like as infants that are 
 newly borne : now we are perfected, when the word of God 
 dwells richly in 113, fiUJf, 3.16. 2. Becaufe the word it felfe 
 in its owne nature alwaves tends and leads to perfeftion : for 
 it istheperfeft willofGod, Kom. 12. 2. 
 
 Vfe* !• This may &rvc to reprove thole, who, when for the 
 time they ought to be teachers, doe yet remaine unskilful I and 
 infants, Htb. $. 1 2. 1 3. 2. Toalmonifh as^never (b to reft (a- 
 tisfied with that which we have attained, as if there were no- 
 thing more to be gotten ; for although we have all other 
 tilings, yet it is required, that we fhould increase more and 
 more in k, I. Th-f./\. 1. 10. 3. To ir. forme us r hereby we 
 may uuderftand, that the word of God is neceiTarilv to beu- 
 (ed, not onlv by the ignorant and unskilfull, but alio by all 
 thole that doe yet want fome thing, and doe defire to increase 
 that which they have. 4. ToinftruBu*^ to examine our (elves 
 by this rnarke, whether we ule the word of God aright or no? 
 Dodt. 8. In the Gofpc/l there appeares fneh gracioufheffe 
 andgoodnrffeofCfod^ that it fibres up all the faithfully toan£ar- 
 nefi defire therf f. 
 
 This is gathered from the 3. verle, that the Lord is gracious I 
 Where by Godv/e are to underftand Ghrift, as it appears by 
 the following words : by gratioufoejfe we are to underftand 
 
 tbac 
 
40 A Commentary upon the fir fl Epiftk of Peter* 
 
 that grace which is revealed In the Gofpell, as it evidently ap- 
 peares by the connexion of this verfc, with that which went 
 before. So T/V. 3. 4. 
 
 Reaf. 1. Becaule this glorious grace of God, wheh brings 
 falvation.unto men by Chrift, is the fubj\cT matter and argu- 
 ment of the Gofpell. 
 
 2. Because God beftowes this grace upon us ? being alto- 
 gether unworthy of it, enemiestohim, ind feeking no fuch 
 thing of him : for after fuch a manner is this grace befto wed 
 upon us, as that from the beginning to the end, the whole bu- 
 fincfle dependsupon the meere goodnefle of God. 
 
 ffe, 1. This may ferve to informs *#, to- judge of the quality 
 and quantity of the goodnefle and gracioufnefle ol Chrift, no 
 other way but by the word of the Gofpell ; for we mult not 
 imagine, as many life to doe, that through the gracioufnefle 
 of God, it (hall be well with us, though we continue in our 
 finnes without repentance and turning to God : no fiich gra- 
 cioumefle is revealed in the Gofpell. 2. Toivftrutf us^ al- 
 wayes to admire the riches and bounty of Chrlfts grace, that 
 is revealed in the Gofpel!. 3. 7o exhort us, earnefily to de- 
 fire, to take delight, and to rejoyce in hearing and meditating 
 upon Gods word. /*/«/. 27. 4. 8C65.4. & up. 103. in this 
 refpect is the ufe of the word of the Gofpell compared to the 
 banquet of a King, wherein all things are full of Sweetnefle 
 and delight. Luke 14. 16. 17. 
 
 Duct- p. This goodnefle of Chrift in the G off ell ufropofed 
 to pu to be tufted. 
 
 This is gathered from theie words : Iffo be ye have taftej. 
 So Pfal. 34. 8. Tafteaadfee. That is, we mould Co lay hold 
 upon it by faith, that we may have an inward fenle, and expe- 
 rience of the vertue and power thereof. 
 
 Reaf, 1. Becaule in the Gofpell, we are called toft ha 
 neere union and communion w ith Chrift,tha t he is m«ade un- 
 tousour ipirituall bread and food, So to be tailed and eaten 
 by faith, that he turnes to our fpirituall nourimment. 2. Be- 
 caule our comfort depends upon this, if wee perceive in our 
 lelves the favour of Chrift, as it were the favour of life unto 
 life. 2 Cor, 2* 15. 16. 3. ifecaufe the power of Chrift in 
 drawing our foules unto himlelfe, for the molt part confifts 
 
 in 
 
A Comment dry upon the firfi Epiftle of Peter. 4 1 
 
 in this, that we have his goodnefle and love, to be tatted, as it 
 were, Cjal. 2. 20. 2 Cor. 5*14. 
 
 Vje 1. This may fervcr* reprove thofe 9 that doe not u(e the 
 • word of God, as food to be tafted and eaten, but for cuftome 
 and fro forma faftiion-fake only , or at leatt account it a thing 
 to be underfiood and diiputed of only ; but not to be tailed. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to ule all care and diligence to preferve this 
 tafte of the goodnefle of Chriu" in the Gof pell ; for this is pro- 
 per to the regenerate, as itappearesinthetext : andcon(e- 
 quently it is a figne of fdvation. Some indeed that are not 
 regenerate are faid to tafte of the heavenly gift , of the good 
 word of God, and the powers of the world to come, Htl\6,^ t 
 5. but this comes to pafle, firft, by Come fpecull operation of 
 Gods Spirit, whereby fuch men are enlightned above the 
 common fort of unregenerate men. Secondly, this is but for 
 a little while, it it not conftantly . Thirdly, in the unregene- 
 rate it is but a fudden motion of the minde, it is not a rooted 
 affetYion. Fourthly, it is either of grace only to come, which 
 is apprehended alfo,but by a humane and uncertaine hope ; or 
 elfc it is a preemption without ground .* but the tafte of the 
 faithf ull is of grace,not only to come, but al fo prefent, with a 
 divine affurance wrought by the operation of the holy Ghoft, 
 and found faith and repentance. 
 
 Do&« 10. The regenerate lathe beginning* although they 
 be truly faithfutt. jet thej have but a little tafte sfgodtgoodncjfe, 
 thtj do not fully comprehend it* 
 
 This is gathered from the fame words. 
 Reafon. 1. Becaufe they are new borne babes, and there- 
 fore weake. 
 
 2. Becaufe God ufeth to bring his children by degrees un- 
 to perfection ; lb that at firft they do perceive buta part or the 
 firft fruits of his goodnefle, and afterwards they have the 
 whole, as it were died abroad in their hearts. 
 
 3. Becaufe in the beginning they want that experience, 
 whereby the goodnefle of God afterwards is made wore per- 
 fectly knowne unto them. 
 
 4. Becaufe oftentimes they are alfb (bmewhat negligent ; 
 whereby it comes to pafle, that they do not ufe the meanes of 
 grace with that affection as they oughr,as it is intimated in the 
 
 F text 
 
* 7 A Commentary upon thefrft Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 text, when they are iVirred up to a more fervent delire of the 
 word of God. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve/> confoUtion agnnft thofefeares 
 that arife fomctimes in the fojlesofthe godly, tor that ihey 
 have bat a little meafure of peace joy, and the like fruits of the 
 Spirit, whereby men perceive the goodnefle or God towards 
 them: for they muft underibnd that the faithfull do ufually 
 perceive but a little meafure of this grace at the beginning. 
 
 2. For exhortation, Co much the more to long for the ttate 
 of perfection, and not torert inthefc fmall beginnings. 
 
 Do&. II. That tafie of the grace of God which we either 
 now have, or formerly had, jhould ftirr e us up todeftre andfeekc 
 after the fame more and more* 
 
 This is gathered from the connexion of thefe words with 
 thofe that went before. 
 
 Reafon i. Bccaufe to that end is there a tafte of this grace 
 given, to ftirre up the appetite. 
 
 2 Becaufe the goodnefle of God it fclfe is in a manner con- 
 temned and vilified, if it be neglefted, after it hath beene once 
 tafted : & therefore in this refpeft they finne more grievoufly, 
 who when they have tailed thisgraceof God s do little cfteem 
 of it, then they, who out of ignorance make no reckoning of 
 it at all. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to reprove thofe that have left their 
 firfUove 5 t/4/>0f.J.4. 
 
 2. To exhort us, in meditating upon the goodnefle of God 
 inChrift, and from the fenfe and experience that God hath 
 given us of it heretofore , to inflame our mindes with an ear- 
 ned defire to have a fuller mea/hre of this grace 3 and to that 
 purpofe religioufty to ufeall meancs, whereby it is ufiully 
 communicated unto men. 
 
 Doft. 12. The primary duty cfffhriHians, thereby it it 
 tdfo that they are made Ghriftians, is to come unto (fhrifl. 
 
 This is gathered out of the fourth vcrfe. Now to come un- 
 to Ghriftyis nothing elfe but to believe in him. So lohn 6.35. 
 He that comes unto me, and he that bckeves in me, are made all 
 one. So lohn 5-40. To come unto Chrift, to receive £hrifi, and 
 to believe in him, are one and the fame. And He b. 10.22. We 
 aiefaid t£ draw neere by an aflurance of taith. 
 
 Re of on 
 
A Commentary upon thfirft Epiftle of Peter* 43 
 
 Keafon i. Becaufe our faivation depends upon that union 
 which we have with Chrift ; whence it is a]fo, that wc are 
 faid to come unto Chrift, that we may have lifc,2^« 5*40. : 
 
 2. Becauie by nature we are ftrangersand farTemotc from 
 Chrift, and (alvation obtained by him, yea and after that we 
 are called unto Chrift, we are not Co perfectly conjoyned. 
 
 3. Becaufe all Chriftian piety is nothing el(e,but a conti- 
 nuation and renovation of this accefie unto Chrift, and by 
 Chrift unto God. In the hearingofthe word we come unto 
 Ghrift, as our Teacher ; in our prayers we come unto him as 
 our advocate j in the adminiftrationofthe Lords Supper we 
 come unto him as the Authour of a Kingly manage feair, Mat. 
 22. And all other duties do fo depend upon thefe , that looke 
 how wc approve our fe'ves in theft, fuch muft we needs be in 
 the others alio. 
 
 4. Becaufe Chrift cals and invites us efpecially unto this,to 
 come unto him, Matth. 1 1.28. Jotin 7.37. 
 
 Vfe u This may fcrve to convince all thole of death and of 
 finne, that have either no knowledge of Chri ft at all, or doe 
 not endeavour accofdingto that knowledge which they have, 
 to come unto him, and partake of his grace. 
 
 2. To refute thePaplfts and (uch like 3 that draw mena- 
 way from Chrift to the holy Angela, to the Pope, and to 
 ttiemfelves. 
 
 3. To exhort u?, alwayes to (it Chrift before u9, as our 
 marke and (cope, PhiL%$.&e. 
 
 D ~>ft. 1 3« We Mtijt com: unto Chrift 44 unto d living ft one: 
 This is gathered from Verfe 4. Now Chrift is callecl aftwe 
 for that firme power, whereby he doth mftaine and bearc up 
 the edifice of the whole Church Zach.4. 7. And he is called, 
 a living ftone^ becaufe that power whereby he doth beare up 
 the Church is quickning, and communicates fpirituall and e- 
 ternall life to the whole edifice, John 5.26. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe by finne we were bereft of all life both 
 the principle and foundation of life, nor can itbereftored 
 unto us any other way but in Chrift. 
 
 2. Becaufe unleile we come unto Chrift underrhis relati- 
 on,we do not imbrace him as he was ordained by God,and is 
 propofed unto us j and confequently we do not held the true 
 Chrift, but a feined and imaginary one. F 2 3. Be- 
 
44 A Commentary upon thejfrftEpiftle ofPcitr. 
 
 3. Becaufe our faith cannot reft fatisfied bat in him that 
 hath fliisftrong power to quit ken D for faith feekes life from 
 a firmc and undecewing principle. 
 
 Vfe 1 . This may fervc to refute that blafphemy of the Pa- 
 pifts, who will have the Pope, a dead ftone 5 to be that rock or 
 ftone 3 whereupon the Church is built. For Taer, under the 
 pretence of whole name the Pope challengeth this to himielfc 
 never exhorted the fas th full to come to him as unto a living 
 ftone, but unto Chrift only. And therefore Peter himfelfe in 
 thefe words cxplaines unto us., what was the minde of Chrift, 
 Mau\6*\%. when he (aid : Thou art Teter, and upon this rockj 
 vpillbuildmy Church ,that is,upon this living ftone whom Peter 
 at that time confefled to be the Son of the living God,that is, 
 the living ftone. Now Peter and the Apoftles together with 
 the Prophets may be called the foundation of the Church by 
 a Metonymy of the adjunct for the lubjeft ; becaufe they laid 
 and preached Chrift as the true foundation, JLphef. 2. 2 0,21. 
 but the Popes can in no other refpeft challenge this unto 
 themfelves., but as they are ftones of offence and ruine. 
 
 a. To inftruft us, wholly to depend upon Chrift, and to 
 put all our confidence in him. 
 
 3. To exhort us, with all joy and rejoycing to helpe for- 
 ward the building of the Church upon Chrift, fheutingand 
 crying out, as it is in the Prophet Zachary , Grace, grace un- 
 to him. 
 
 Doft. 14. Chrifi is refufed by men 3 -when they mil not 
 tome unto him as unto a living ft one. 
 
 This is gathered from the fourth Verfe. SoTfalme 118. 
 22«andZ.#%*.34. 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe he hath not that outward Majeftie and 
 pompe wherewith naturall men are taken. If ay 53.3. 1 Cor. 1. 
 22,23. 
 
 2. Becaufe men by nature are blinde, 10 that they cannot 
 perceive their owne mifery extra feriftumyOUt of Chrift 3 nor 
 that falvation which is offered in Chrift, 1 fir. 2. 14. 
 
 3. Becaufe they too much love themfelves, and put truft 
 in themfelves, fo that they cannot endure that doctrine of 
 Chrift , whereby they are called to deny and torfake them- 
 felves, and to put their confidence in Chiift alone. 
 
A Commentary tyon tkefirfi Eptftle if Peter, * 5, 
 
 Vfe 1. This may (erve toinformeus, that we (hould at- 
 tribute nothing to the world in thofe things which belong 
 unto Chrift. 
 
 2. To admonifh us 3 not to trouble our mindes, for that the 
 world is averfe from Chrift and true faith. 
 
 3. To exhort us, patiently to beare it, if we be refufed and 
 fcorned by men 5 for the (ervant is not greater then his 
 Mafter. 
 
 4. Toinftru& us to beware that we do not communicate 
 in theleaft refpeft with the world in refufing of Chrift. 
 
 Doit. 15. Chrift was chofen and ordained by God, that be 
 jhould be exceeding precious unto tu* 
 
 This is gathered from the fourth ver'e. Now we mud un- 
 derftand this (b,as that we comprehend both the predeftina- 
 tion of Chrift, and the (ending of him into the world, and his 
 un&ion, together with all thole teftimonics,which were given 
 by God unto this myfterie. 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe the love and mercy of God is Co great 
 towards us : for lb God loved the world, that he gave his 
 Sonne, &c.M#3«i6. 
 
 2. becaufe in the obedience of Chrift God is well pleafed, 
 Matth.^.iy, 
 
 3. Becaufe Chrift hath perfected and finifhed all thole 
 thingF, which belong to ourfalvationand the glory of God. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may itvittoenformeus^ that we ought to be 
 afliired of this, that howfbever the world oppofeth it felfe 
 againft Chrift, yet Chr>it (hall prcvaile and raigne for ever, 
 becaufe he is chofen of God. 
 
 2. To comfort all the faithfull, that beleeve and put their 
 confidence in Chrift , becaufe they beleeve in him that was 
 chofen of God, to lave them. 
 
 3. To exhort us, in all our pra&ile throughout the whole 
 courfe of our lives, to make it appcare , that Chrift is more 
 precious to us, then all the things in the world, thih 3. 8. 
 ProvS. 10,11. 
 
 Do£t. 16. The faithful! are living members of the fame 
 buildings "whereof Chrift is the foundation. 
 
 This is gathered from the beginning of the «J. verte. 
 Reafon x. Becaufe Chrift together with all the faithfull 
 makes one my fticall body , 1 fir . 1 2. 1 2 , 2 . Be- 
 
ifi A Commwtary upon the fir f Eptjile of Peter. 
 
 1. Becaufe being compa&ed in this body, they partake of 
 the very lite of Ghtift, S/hef,^. i<J. 
 
 3. Becaufe they (hew forth this life or power in bringing 
 forth tiuits anfwcrable thereunto, Uhn 15.5,' 6. 
 
 Vfe 1. I his may lervc to comfort us , when we rightly e- 
 fteeme of the dignity of this condition, itwill ftfengthen our 
 mindes againlt all the troubles that can befall us therein. 
 
 2. To exhort us, fo to carry ourfelvesasitbecommeth 
 thofe, that are called to partake of the life of Chrift. 
 
 Doffc. 17. *Bj that union which all the faitbfitll have -with 
 Chrifiy they are ma.hjpirittmll temples^ Priefts^ and facrifices ac- 
 ceptable to God, 
 
 This is gathered from the 5 verfe. 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe God is in an efpeciall manner prefent 
 with them, and dwels in them by his Spirit and grace , as in 
 his Temple, 2 fir.6. 1 6* 
 
 2. Becaufe By the fame fpirit he makes them fit and ready 
 to performe thofe duties, that are more acceptable unto him, 
 then were ever any externall facrifices, P/i/aw 51.18,19. Heb. 
 13. 16. 
 
 $. Becaufe in performing thefe duties before God they do 
 ofFcFand dedicate themfelves wholly unto God. 
 
 Vfe I. This may ferve toadmonilhus, to have a care ac- 
 cordingly not to defile the Temple of God, 1 Con 3. \6 3 17. 
 . that our Pricfthood doth not dishonour .God., and that our 
 Sacrifices be not lame, and maimed, and fuch as are not ac- 
 ceptable unto God. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to addift our felves wholly to Gods glo- 
 ry and hisworfliip; for God will be fan&ificd in thofe that 
 draw neere him, Levit.i 0.3. 
 
 3. To refute the Papifts,that rob Ghrifl ians of this honour, 
 and obtrude carnall Temples, prieft hoods, and facrifices up- 
 
 . on God and men in ftead of fpirituall. 
 
 D *ct. 18. Thofe duties which tve perform* in Chrifl are ac- 
 ceptable unto G id by Christ. 
 
 I his is gathered from the 5 vcrfe,at the end. But they are 
 acceptable not as merits,but as facrifices of praife and thanks- 
 giving, as it h intimated in the Text.. 
 Reafon 1. B.caufe by Chrift our perfbns are reconciled 
 
 unto 
 
A Commentary upon thefirfl Epiftle of Peter. 47 
 
 unto God, and received into the number of thole whom God 
 approves and by whom he delights to be worfhipped. 
 £ 2. B-caufe ChrUt covers our infirmities. 
 ' 3. Becaufe by his intcrcdlion our duties arc commended 
 unto God. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to comfort us, even when we looke 
 uuou our owne infirmities , and theuwvorthincn'eoralluur 
 performances. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to go cheerefully about the duties of pie- 
 ty, becaufe our worke fhall noc be in vaine Li the Lord, 1 Cor. 
 
 15.58. 
 
 Docl. ip« The fame Chrifl was afcer the fame manner a 
 Saviour in the OldTeft&ment^ as he is in the New, 
 Thisis gathered from the fixth Verfc. 
 
 Reafcn 1. Hecaufc he was a Lambe fliine from the foun- 
 dation of the world ; accoidingto the decree, promite, and 
 acceptance of God, and according to the faith and hope ot 
 the godly, dpocA^.S. 
 
 2. Becaufe the Guholick Church is but one, confiding of 
 all thefaithfull from the beginning of the world, Beb. 12.23. 
 
 Vie 1. This may fer /e to refute thofe, that make the peo- 
 ple of I frael either to have beene altogether carnall, or to have 
 beenefaved by the obfervation of the Law. 
 
 2. To exhort us to flye unto Chi i& } and to put our confi- 
 dence in him, in whom all the faithfull from the creation of 
 the world did put their truft, and by whom they were laved. 
 Doift. 2 o. Chrift is as it were the corner ftonc ia the bnil- 
 din<f of the (fhurch. 
 
 That is, he doth con joy ne, uphold and direct all the parts 
 of the building, or membersof the Church* 
 
 Reafon 1 . Becaufe he is the beginning or foundation of the 
 Church. 
 
 2. Becaufe he unites thofe people that Were before farre di- 
 vided, the Jewes and Gentiles. 
 
 3. Becaufe he is the rule or line of direction in all the build- 
 ing that tends to falvation. 
 
 Vfe I. This may fervc to refute the blafphemy of thePa- 
 pifts, whereby they make the Pope the head of the Ghurchj 
 and to that purpofe w reft this very title and words thereunto. 
 
 2. To 
 
4# A Commentary upon thefirft Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 2. To inftru& us, wholly to depend upon Chrift for t!*c 
 direction of our louleg to everlafting life. 
 
 Do&. 21. There is nothing at all that canbe compared with 
 Chrift our Saviour for dignity y uje s and excellency. 
 
 Tins is gathered from theft titles, dell andpreckm. 
 Reafon i. For the dignity of his per fon. 
 i. For the effe&ualnefle of his operation, in farisfa&ion, 
 merit, and application of thole things which belong unto 
 our ialvatlor < 
 
 3. For the excellency of thofe benefits which redound un- 
 to the Church by him. 
 
 Vfc This may fervetoadmoniraus, to have no common 
 conceit of Chrift , or to reft in a vulgar efteerae of him, buc 
 earneftly to endeavour to conceive of him fo> as his dignity 
 and excellency dothdeferve. 
 
 DoCt. 22 . No man that truly beleeveth in Chrift, fhall ever 
 be confounded, his expectation Jhall 'not be fruftrated^ his de fire 
 and confidence Jhall not be in vainc 
 
 Reafon 1. BecauCe Chrift was appointed byGod by a cer- 
 tainc and immutable decree to be the Saviour ot all thofe that 
 beleeve in him. 
 
 2. Bccaufe ail power is given unto him both in heaven and 
 earth. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to comfort us againft thofe feares and 
 doubts that might weaken our faith. 
 
 Deft. 23. Thefaithfull Are not only delivered from mifery^ 
 hut Are alio highly honoured by Chrift, 
 
 This is gathered from the feventh verfe at the beginning, 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe they are made partakers of Chrifts ho- 
 nour, for in him they are made fbnnei of God, heircs of the 
 e eilaftiiigkingdcme,fpirituaU Priefts and King?. 
 
 Vfe i» This may ferve to reprove our blindnefie and dul- 
 neflc, that cannot difcerne and efteeme of this honour as wee 
 ought, brik are fet upon the honours of this world more then 
 is fitting. 
 
 2. To exhort us , pioufly and ferioufly to glory in Chrift 
 and the honour which we have in him, though for his lake 
 the wicked world reproach m. 
 
 Doft.34. 
 
A Comment iiryupoit the fit ft Epiftlc ofPtter^ 4? 
 
 Do&. 24. As Chrift is unto the nnbeleevers hdnouf and 
 fahtttion^fo he is unto the unbeleevers confufion and perditifn. 
 
 This is gathered out of the (eventh Vcrfe, YfaL 1 1 8.22. 4/aj 
 ' 8. 1 4tLM4tth.21.42, 
 
 But this fimilitude doth not hold in all things. For firft, 
 the proper end of Chrift our Saviour was to fave man, not to 
 deftroy him. Secondly, Chrift is the caufe of faith in the be- 
 lecvers, but he is not the caufe of unbeliefc in theunbeleevers, 
 though fomething of Chrift may be the occafion of their un- 
 beliefe ; like as his humiliation was both unto the lewes and 
 many of the Gentiles. Thirdly, Chrift merited falvation for 
 the believers, and not they themselves; but the unbelievers 
 merit their owne perdition, and not Chrift: but yet Chrift 
 is truly (aid to be confufion and perdition to the unbelievers, 
 1 As they take offence at him, and fo runne headlong into 
 their owne deftruftion. 2. As he doth juftly punifh their infi- 
 delity and impiety, as he is the juft Iudgeofail the world. 
 . Reafon 1. Becaufe thofe unbelievers to whom Chrift is of- 
 fered, in contemning his goodnefle , doe directly as it were 
 provoke him to uft the greateft feverity npon them. 
 
 2. Becaufe by this meanes alone is the glory of God and 
 of Chrift preferved, when his enemies are put under his feet. 
 
 Vfe % . This may ferve to admonifh us to beware of all infi- 
 delity. 
 
 2. To exhort us, when we compare our beliefe with the 
 mifery of unbelievers, to learneto be thankfull unto God and 
 to give him the glory of it in Iefus Chrift: forthefcendsis 
 this amplification made in the text. 
 
 Dott. 25. Men come unto this confufion and perdition by 
 Jiuwbling at theDottrine oftheGofpe/I. 
 
 This is gathered from the 8 Verfe. Now men ftumble at 
 •the word of the Gofpell, when they apprehend the Gofpell 
 tobe ftch, that they owe no aflent and fubje&on thereunto : 
 fo the lewes were offended at the infirmity of Chrift cru- 
 cified, i£V. 1.23. andtheGreekesatthe'foolifhnefleof that 
 word which bringcth falvation, Ibid. For the lewes, like as 
 the Papifts, with many others, are offended, for that the Go- 
 fpell requires them to deny their owne righteouGiefie and 
 workcs, and to feeke to be juftified by Chrift, Rom.^2> 
 
 €r Reafon 
 
50 A Commentary *pon thcfrjtEpiftl* tfVcHf. 
 
 Rttftn x. Bccaufe this offence is the caufe of tkeir infi- 
 delity'. 
 
 a. Bccaufe it doth not produce a bare unbeliefe only, but 
 unbeliefe with contempt, To that they doc infinitely wrong 
 Chrift. 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to admonifh us, to beware that we doe 
 net in any thing (tumble at the word ot God, or conceive any 
 thing in our minde j , whereby we may be in the lean" refpeci 
 alienated from it. 
 
 Do£t* 1&* The infidelity and ctnfufnn of the wicked doth 
 net fall cm by chance, but according as Qod had mo ft certainly 
 fare-cr<Uined it* 
 
 This is gathered from theft words e whereunto alfo they art 
 affnnted, 
 
 Keafon i. Became God is both the King and Lord of all 
 living creatures, fo that nothing can happen unto them con- 
 trary to his will* 
 
 x Becauie there can be no caule of their infidelity imagi- 
 ned, which God did not forefce, or which he could not have 
 hindred. 
 
 3. Bccaufe we alfo which do believe, were aliens from the 
 faith as well as they ; neither did we make that difference be- 
 twixt our fel ves and them, but God : 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to dircft us,that the infidelity of any o- 
 thers whatfoever,may not defaceour faith,we muft give God 
 the glory in the difpen fation of his grace, and appointing of 
 things according to his cotmfcll, whofe wayes are pari find- 
 ing out. 
 
 Doc). 37. Wtfattdd often caM to mirJ that dipnitjjvheretttito 
 we are called in Chrifi, and that, by comparing of it to that mifery 
 wherein all ttnkt&rvirs arsplmftd. 
 
 This is gathered from that repetition, Verfc 5>. which w 
 ufed comparatively by the dilfanilitude that is betwixt it and 
 the condition of unbelievers, beforc defer ibed, as it is intima- 
 ted in that word: But . 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe we arc called to fpirkuall )oy, which is 
 chkfely increased by thi s rneanes. 
 
 2. Becaufe it belongs to the thanks which we ought to give 
 unto God. 
 
 3. Becaufe 
 
A Ctmmentary upon the firft EpijUe offHer. 51 
 
 3. Becaufe it makes us cheerefull in the performing of all 
 duties, that we may be worthy of Co excellent a calling. 
 
 Vfe. This may fervc to exhort us, to make this contcmpla- 
 * tion familiar unto us. 
 
 Do6t. 2$. The erd of ot*r callings to fixvt forth the praifcs 
 ofQody that h&th called tu. 
 
 This is gathered from the ninth verfe,that is,that we mould 
 render unto God the glory which hec hath mewed unto us. 
 1. In the inward thoughts and affections of our heart. 2 . In 
 the outward profeflion of words. 5. In our adions through- 
 out the whole conversion of our lives. This is to fan&irle 
 GodjJ/ir8.i$. 
 
 Reafon u Becaufe this is that glory which may redound 
 unto God from us, or from our calling. 
 
 2. Becaufe our calling it (elfe tends thereunto, that we 
 mould turne unto God, feekc God, gl orifie God* 
 
 3. Becaufe this is very profitable for us. 
 
 Vfe 1 . This may ferve to refute thofe, thatuke care of no- 
 thing leflc: they mew that they are not yet partakers of effe- 
 ctual! calling. 
 
 2. To ftirre us up more and more to fulfill this duty. 
 Doft. 29. That ftate into which ventre trmfatedij mr 
 calling, is a ft at e vfmarvetlous fight* 
 
 This is gathered from the p Verfeat theend, t»h* a .S.Now 
 ic is called //V£r 3 both for the Hlumi nation of the mind,which 
 it brings ; and for the comfort of heart, which we receive 
 thereby : and it is called marvellous^ becaufe it farre furpafTeth 
 all worldly knowledge, and whatfoevcr the naturall man can 
 conceive. 
 
 Vfe. This may ftrve to us, to carry our (elves anfwerable 
 t i this light, and to walke in it, not according to the common 
 faftiion, bnt marvelloufly. 
 
 Do&. 3 o. It is verjyroftdb'lefor us alnajes toaompare our 
 preftnt hnpyj ctmilitionjft>ith the mijerjthat ispaftt 
 This is gathered from the tenth verle. 
 Rexfw 1. Becaufe contraria juxta, fe pojitamaglf eUtcef- 
 ctnt^ contraries being put one by another, make each other to 
 appeare more cleerely. 
 
 2. Becauie it tends to our humiliation. 
 
 G 2 $♦ becaufe 
 
- a A Commentary upon the firft Epiftle ofTeter. 
 
 3. Becaufe it makes us to coirmi(erat;e others, and to fhew 
 meekenefle towards them. Tit.$. 23.4. 
 
 4. becaufe it makes us to be the more thankfull unto God. 
 x. Tim* 1. 12. 13. 
 
 77k This may fcrvctoadmonijh us y never to forget that mi- 
 fery which did hangover our heads., 
 
 Verfe. I I. D earely beloved^ I befeech you, as ftr angers and pil- 
 grims, abftaine from ftefhly lufts^ which warre again ft the 
 Settle, Having jour conver fatten hone ft among the Gentiles* 
 
 Verfe. 12. That whereas they [peaks airainftyou^ ai 'evill doers, 
 they may by your good workes which they ftjall behold, glorific 
 God in the day ofvifitation. 
 
 The Analyfif. 
 
 HEre the Apoftle doth in generall exhort to lead fuch a 
 life as. is anfwerable to that happy condition, which 
 was fpoken of before : Now this life coniifts of two parts : 
 The one isabftinencc from evill, abftaine from flejhly lufts 5 the 
 other is, to foliow that which is good, havingyeur cexverfati- 
 mhoneft. The firft of which he doth pcrfwade them unto 
 by an argument taken 1. From the difagreement that is be- 
 twixt the Godly, and the flcftily Ms of this world in refpecl 
 of their fcate and condition, becaufe in this world, they arp 
 Grangers and Pilgrims, and therefore they ought not to fee 
 their hearts and dcfires upon this world, but upon another. 
 2. From the danger that hangs over them, from the defires of 
 this world, becaufe they tend to the deftruttion of their 
 fbules, in thefe words, which warre againft the Soulc The ft- 
 cond part together with the former, he doth, perfwade thern 
 unto, by an argument taken from thofe witnefles which they 
 ought to haveregard of in their converfation ; among the Gen." 
 tiles > by whofe teftimony hec fliewes there will a twofold be- 
 nefit arife from their honeft converfation. 
 
 1. That they will ceafe to fpeake againft them as evill doer?. 
 
 2. That in beholding their good workes, they will not on- 
 ly give them an honeft teftimony, but they will alfo glorifie 
 God for them $ which benefit is (hewed by the adjunct of 
 
 time 
 
A Commentary upon thefirft Epifhle of Peter. 53 
 
 time, wherein it flicuH be expcfted, towir, inthed.iyofvijt- 
 t.ition : Now this whole exhortation, that it might be "the 
 moreeffe&iiull, and the more acceptable unto them, is ftt 
 • forth with a double affecVon, in the manner of proposing it ; 
 of love or charity, in that title which is given unto them, 
 D ear elj 'beloved ;. and of humility, in that he doth not fo 
 much commad the(e things, as intreat them, Ibefeechyou. 
 
 The.Dottrines arifing hcrehence. 
 DocV I* *s4H the fiithfuU are grangers ah d pilgrims in 
 this world. 
 
 Kmf. 1. Becaufe their father, and their countrey is not 
 here, but in heaven. 
 
 2. Becauft they doe not defire to ftay long here. 
 
 3. Becaufe their wealth and their friends are not in this 
 world. 
 
 4. Because the world accounts them ftrangers, and that 
 becaufe their converfation is not according to the fafliion of 
 the world. 
 
 Vfr. i. This mayierve to aHmonijh ta 9 not to place our in- 
 heritance or our treafurc in the things of this World. 
 
 2. To exhort hs, to lift up our hearts alwayes towards our 
 heavenly countrey $ and to gaine all thoft things, that may 
 helpe us forward and further us in our journey thereunto, 
 
 Doft. 2 . All the fait hfu/l ought to abflainefrom the l«Jfs of 
 •ftheflefi.. 
 
 But by this phraft arefignified not only the inclinations 
 of the body, but all thofe that belong to the old man : for 
 there isfomething to be fanftified even in the very (pint of 
 our minds, 1 Thef. 5. 23. and therefore fbme luft of the flefh is 
 feated in the fpirit ; but theft lufts are in generall (aid to be of 
 the flcuYbecauft they are mod of all manifefted in thofe things 
 which belong to the body and the flefli : for mod men care for 
 and looke after nothing elft almoft buc thoft things that be- 
 long to this prefent life. 
 
 Rtaf. 1. Becaufe the flefli together with the Iufls thereof 
 was crucified with Chriftv 
 
 2. Becaufe alithefaithfull in their baptifme and by their 
 profeffion have denyed theflefh. 
 
 G 3 3* #c- 
 
^ A Commentary u$>* thtfirft Epijlte of Peter* 
 
 }. Becaufe our lufts are deceitfull. Eph,$.ri. 
 
 Becaufc they lead unto death. Galat . 6 . 8. Rom. 8. 6. 1 5. 
 Vfe. This may ferve w dimonijh ut, above all things to ap- 
 ply our (elves unto this ftudy, 
 
 Doft. J The lufts oft he ficjbwarred£di*ft the foule. 
 Reaf* I. Becaafe they fpoile the perfe&ion ofthe (bule, 
 which confifts in the image of God. 
 
 2. Becaufc they doe either quench or grieve the holy Spi- 
 rit, upon whom tie comfort of the foule doth depend. Eph.4* 
 90. i.Thejf. 5. I 9. 
 
 3. Becaufc they caufe the Death of the foule, and lead 
 thereunto. 
 
 Vfe* I. This may ferve to direft $ts^ alwayes to thinke upon 
 our (pirituall warfare, and accordingly in all things to carry 
 our (elves, as it becommeth the good Souldiers of Chrift. 
 
 2. to admonijb «/, to take fpeciall heed of thofe enemies 
 which we have within our (elves 5 thole enemies that are with- 
 out can doe us no hurt, if thofe that are within have not po- 
 wer over us, and (b doc as it were give us up into their hand? . 
 
 DocV 4. Todbfldintfiromjlejhlj lufts, u the way to make 
 ettr converfation honrft, 
 
 Reaf 1. becaufc all flithyneflc proceeds from the lufts of 
 the flefti. 
 
 a. 2?ecaufe tAie true honour and honefty of a man confifts 
 in that fpirituall victory which he hath over hfmfcrfe. 
 
 3. 'Secaufe by overcomming the lufts ofthefleflh, the way 
 ismadeeafle to all vermes and good dutie?. 
 
 ZSfe I . This may ferve to refute andreprove thofe men, that 
 (le^efor honour and dignity by pampering the flcfli, & obey- 
 ing the lufts thereof. 
 
 2. To exhort m^ cheerfully to oppole our felves again ft the 
 lufts of the Mi, for this very caufej becaafcitisamoftho- 
 neft thirg. 
 
 Do£t$. The fj.it Hfttfl fljoitllhxve a cart to livehoneftljjict only 
 e.mi-tvft the fdithfufijbut dlfo amon&ft the HftbeleevpifG entiles \ 
 
 This ts gath-rcd from thefe wordy, amcttg tfje gentiles^ 
 Whxh notwith (Ian ding we muft fo undcrftand, that we doc 
 not follow afltbofe things that feemehoneft unto them, nor 
 omit thofe things that doe dffpieafe them ; but only that we 
 
 (hew 
 
A Commentary uptm tbtfirfi Epiftk of Wettr. ^ 
 
 ihcw forth a true evidence of our piety, love and righteouf- 
 nefleinour conversation. 
 
 Then againe, that thereby their consciences may be con- 
 vinced, that the way, which we goe, is in that refpeel at leaft 
 praife- worthy, and to be approved. 
 
 Rtdf. This we ought to doe. l. For God* fake and hit 
 
 glo»7- 
 s. For our owne fakes and our own© comfort. 
 
 3. For the unbclccvers lake, to draw them unto true piety. 
 
 Vfc* This may fewe to refute and reprove thole, that under 
 colour of contemning fame, contemne vcrtue. 
 
 Doft. 6". It i* the property ofunbeleevers^ U feekg eccaji- 
 •n to fpeakt Mgainji thefdithfitll^ tu if they were w iclerd. 
 
 This is gathered from the 1 2. vcrfe, at the beginning. Now 
 there are two kinds of fuch obloquies. 1 . When they fpeakc 
 all manner ofevill for Chriftslake, for faith and righteouf* 
 neflc fake, cap. 4.V. 1 4. Math. 5, 1 1. 2. When they find fome 
 occafion in the defects of the fait hfull , and obfervc fomething 
 in their lives, which they may juftly taxe. This alfo admits 
 of a two fold difference ; for fouu times fuch is the impiety of 
 thofethat profeiTe the true faith, that it gives fcandall to the 
 tinbcleevers, Rom. 2. 24. and fometimes they take occafion 
 from tlie infirmities that are incident to die faithfull, to con* 
 demne their profeffion. 
 
 Reef, 1. Jecanfe there is an inveterate enmity betwixt the 
 children of the light, and the children of darknefle. 
 
 *. 2?eeaufe in this refpeft men flatter themfelves, and in 
 fome fort iceme better and happier, when they make others, 
 that would (ecme better, either to be like themfclves, or worfe 
 then themlelves. 
 
 3. 1?ccau(e by this meanesthey teeme to bring fome pre- 
 judice againft the very doftrincot piety, which the wicked 
 hate. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admowjb w 9 i. To take Ipeciall 
 heed, that we hav* no communion with unbeleevers, in this 
 malic loufnefle, that is, that we doe not willingly feeke or take 
 occafon to fpeake againft the Godly ; for this is a certainc 
 marke of impiety. 
 
 X To beware alfo,that we give no occafion tothe wicked, 
 
 either 
 
5# A Commentary upon thefirft Epiftle of Peter* ,_ 
 
 cither to (peake againft bur perfons or our profefllon?. 
 
 Daft» 7.' Good woffyt ahne doe flop the mouthes of the 
 wicked. 
 
 This is gathered from the 12. v: at the middle. 
 Reaf. 1. Becaufc men, efpccially unbeleevers, cannot 
 Judge ofus, but by the works which they fee* 
 
 2. Becaufe the fincerity of our religion properly appeal cs 
 in our works. > 
 
 Vfe. This may ftive to exhort us 9 alwayes to endeavour to 
 bring forth good work?. 
 
 Do ft. 8. the good work* of the faithfullrnake others alfo 
 tog/orifie Cjod. 
 
 This is gathered from the 12. v. at the end. So M. J. 16. 
 Reaf. 1. 2?ecaufe by this meanes they arc convinced of the 
 truth of our religion, whole author is God. 
 
 2. Secaufe thereby they are drawnc alfo to embrace the 
 lame religion, and to cleave unto God. 
 
 3. *2?ecaufe they are moved and ftirred up to give God 
 thanks, for thofe things that were the meanes of their conver- 
 fion. 
 
 Vfe* This may (erve to exhort «*, to ufe this argument to 
 ftir up our felves to thepra&ife of good- Works, becaufethey 
 make not only for our owne falvation, but for the glory of 
 pod alfo. < 
 
 Doftl 9. We mufi lookefor a day ofvifttation^ that men 
 may ghri fie God therein* 
 
 This is gathered from the 12. v. at the end. J?uttheday of 
 vifitation may be underftood either in judgement^ or in grace 
 andmercy. Here it is to be underftood of the grace of God* 
 So Luke i.62. 
 
 •Rcaf. 2? ecauife without grace there is no inclination in the 
 heart of man^o glorifie God. The tree mult be good, that 
 (hall bring forth good fruit } Men doc not gather grapes of 
 thorncs, or fig^es of thirties, Matth. 7. 16. 17. 
 
 Vfc* This may ftrvc to adntonipj us, to ufe all patience and 
 mcekneflTe toward^ the wicked ,al way es provided, that we doe 
 not faile in our duty to leeke their conversion. 2. Tim. 3.25. 
 
 Verfe.15. 
 
ACotHtoMurjuponthcfirftEpiftU tf Peter* $7 
 
 Verfe. 1 3. Submit yourfelves therefore to every ordinaneeofman 
 
 for the Lords fake 5 -whether it be to the Ki»g 9 ** fupreme; 
 Verfc. 1 4. Or unto CJovermurs,af unto them that ore fern by him* 9 . 
 
 for the punijhmsut of eviti doers, And for the praifi of them 
 
 that do vodL 
 Verfe. 15. Forfo is the will of God, th<tt with -w:ll doing ye m,ty 
 
 put tofiltnce the ignorance offooli(h mev, 
 Verfe. 1 6. As free, and not uftng your liber tj for a cloake of max 
 
 licioufncjfe, but at the fervants of God, 
 Verfe. 1 7. Honour all mer.* Love the brotherhood. FeareGod. 
 
 Honour the King. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN thefe words the Apoftle fheweth that particular part of 
 obedience, which did in a fpechll manner pertainc to the 
 honefty of the faithfull among the Gentiles, that is, (ubje£ti- 
 onto the Magistrates, which fbme at that time did begin to 
 caftoff, as not agreeing with Christian liberty. Now this 
 fubjeftion he doth. 1. Generally command and direft us un- 
 to, to pcrforme it for religion fake towards God, v. 1 3*2. By 
 a dlftributipn of the objeft, to wit, that we ought to performe 
 it,notonly to the King and the fupremc Magiftrate, butalfb 
 to the governours that are fent by him. v. 13. 14. 3. He doth 
 perfwade us thereunto, 1. From the end of this ordinance $ 
 to wit, that it is to reprcffe and punifh the eyill doers, and to 
 preferve and cherifh the good v. 1 4. at the end. 2. From the 
 efficient caufe, or command of God, v. 15. 3. From the end 
 and benefit of performing this fubjeftion, to wit, to flop the 
 mouthes of the enemies, who are defcribed by their ignorance 
 and their foolifhnefie, v. 15. 4. He removes an objection 
 that might be made againft it, about Ghriftian liberty, v. 16*. 
 Where he diftinguiftieth betwixt faigned liberty, which is 
 joyncd with malicioufncfle ; and true liberty, that makes 
 men to be addicted unto the lerviceofGod : Now that this 
 fiibjcftion to (iiperiGurs belongs to the fervice of Godj he 
 fhewes v. 17. by a fhort repetition of thofe precepts, that be- 
 long to this and the like duties. 
 
 Here a QudUon may be made. 
 
 H SZ*efl. 
 
58 A Commentary upon thefirfl Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Q»efl. Why is the Magiiiracy called an ordinance of 
 man v. 1 3. feting all powers a?e ordained of God, and every 
 power is the ordinance of God, Rem. 1 3 1. 2 
 
 Anfa. The fuperiority of power, or government it ftlfe is 
 Brnpty and absolutely commanded by God, and in that re- 
 fpect is called the ordinance of God • but this or that fpeciall 
 manner of power or government is not determined by Gad, 
 but by men j aad is therefore called an ordinance of man, which 
 as touching the nature of it, may alfo be called an ordinance of 
 god: And this is the difference betwixt an Ecclefiaftical! and 
 a civili office. An Ecclefiafticall office is not legitimate, if it 
 be not directly determined by God himfelfe 3 and consequent- 
 ly cannot be changed by men •• but this or that civili office 
 may be made & changed by men. And the realbn of the dif- 
 ference is this, becaufe God and Chrift alone hath dominion 
 and power in fpirituall matters ; but in civili matters men are 
 alfo Gods, though not abfolute. 
 
 The Doctrines ariling from this. 
 Doct. I. The duties of righteoufajfe towards men, doe 
 much commend our religion towards Cjod. 
 
 This is gathered from the connexion of thefe words with 
 the foregoing words 3 in that particle therefore,So lames 1 . 27. 
 &eaf. 1. Becaufe they are the effects of religion ; Now the 
 vertue of the cauft doth alwayes appeare in the effect. 
 
 2 . Becauft they are more obvious to the fight of man, then 
 religion it felfe, which is the caufe thereof. 
 
 3. Becaufe they draw mens minds to approve of that reli- 
 gion whence they proceed. 
 
 Vfc This may ierve to exhort w, for religion fake to apply 
 our {el ves to theft duties. 
 
 D06L 2. We mufi performe civiU fubjetlion to our civili 
 jMagiflratesfor the Lords fake* 
 
 This is gathered from the 1 3. v. 
 Reaf. 1 . Becauft by thefe meanes the Lord preftrveth the 
 focieties of men. 
 
 2. Becaufe theft Governments are the meanes to advance 
 Gods glory, at leaft Co farre forth as they tend to pcrfbrme 
 fbme part of the will of God. 
 y Becauft in their owne nature and of themfelves they 
 
 make 
 
A Commentary upon the firjt Epifik of Peter. 5 9 
 
 make for the good and againft the bad. v. 14. 
 
 Vfe. 1 . This may ferve to refute the Anabaptifts and others, 
 who for confidence (ske will not be fubjeft to the Magifimte. 
 2. To admonifb us, never Co to fubjeft our (elves unto m<si,as 
 that for their fakes we fhould negled our duty towards God, 
 becaufe we ought to be fubjeft unto thera 4or the Lords fake, 
 and therefore a farre greater fiibje&ion is due unto the Lord, 
 then unto them. 
 
 D06L 3. By the fe duties the good will of Gcd is obfervedy 
 awithcfoolifhnefte of wicked men is put tofilence* 
 This is gathered from v. 1 5 . 
 Reaf* 1 .Becaufe we ferve God^when for conference fake to- 
 wards God, we are fubjeft unco men $ therefore we fulfill the 
 will of God. 
 
 2. Becaufe we doe that before men.which they doe ufually 
 praife moft, and fb we remove all occafion of offence. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to exhort us, fomuch the more care- 
 fully to apply our felvcs to fuch duties. 
 
 Doft. 4. Chriftian liberty is not contrary to that fubjetliott^ 
 which we owe either unto Cj odor man. 
 
 This is gathered from v. \6» 
 Reaf, I. Becaufe by it we are freed from finne, but not 
 from that duty, which is contrary unto finne. 
 
 2. Becaufe Ghriftian liberty confifts properly in fpirituall 
 things, and not in corporall ; for although we are fubje& unto 
 God alone in fpirituall things, yet in corporall things we owe 
 fubje&ion unto men alfb. 
 
 3. Becaufe for that end did we receive this liberty, that we 
 might more freely and readily pcrforme thofe things, which 
 we owe unto God and men. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve tocondemne thofe, that ufe Ghriftian 
 Ifoerty for a cloake of malicioufnefie, as.it is in the text. 
 
 Do&. 5« We are to take ex aft: notice of the difference of our 
 duty towards men, towards our brethren^ towards Goa\ and to* 
 wards the Magifirates. 
 
 T his is gathered from v. 17. 
 R>«f Becaufe great is th<* difference of the grounds or rea- 
 fons whereupon thefeoVties depend, as it is intimated in the 
 text ; but we mult make confeience of our duty in all, 
 
 H 2 fTe% 
 
6o 
 
 A Commentary upon the firfi Epijlk of Peter* 
 
 Yfe. This may ferve to reprove thofe, that doc any way fever 
 or disjoyne thefc dudes, to wit, foch as fecme to feare God, 
 but doe not love or honour men ; or fuch as feeme to honour 
 men, but doe not feare God at all. 
 
 Ver£ 1 8. Servants, be fubjeEi to your mafitrs with all feare, not 
 
 only to the good and gentle, but alfo to thefroward, 
 Vcrfe 19. For this is thankworthy, if a man for confidence toward 
 
 God endure grief e, fuffering wrong fuly .. 
 Vcrfe 20. for what glory is it, if when ye be buffetted for your 
 faults ye Jhall take it patiently ? but if when ye doe we 11, and 
 f tiff er for it, ye take it patiently p , this is acceptable with God.. 
 Verle. 2 1* For even hereunto were you called : becaufe Chrijl 
 alfofujfered for us, leaving us an example, that ye jhojdd 
 follow hisfteps, 
 V« 22. Who did not ftnne, neither ivas guile found in his mouth ? 
 V. 23. Who when he was reviled, reviled not againe ;whenhse 
 fuffered, he threaded not, but committed hknfelte to him, 
 thatjudgeth righteoujly, 
 V. 24. Who his owne felfe bare our fnnes in his owne body 
 on the tree, that we being dead tofinnes,fijould live unto 
 right eoufnefe, by whofeftripes ye were healed. 
 V.2^.Forje were as Jheep going aftray,but are new returned unto 
 the Jbepheard and Bijhop ofyourfoulcs. 
 
 The tsfnalyfis* 
 
 H Ere the Apoftle makes afpeciall exhortation about the 
 duty of ftrvants to their matters ; and this duty he doth 
 I. As it were define by a fpeciall kind of fubje&ion wherein it 
 confiftf. Befubjett with all fear r. 2. He doth illuftrateit by 
 a diftribution of the objector the matters, to whom this (ub- 
 je&ion is due ; not only to the good and gentle, but aljo to thcfro- 
 ward. 3. He proves that this fubjeftion is to be made to both 
 forts, by an argument taken from the ad jun&s thereof, grace 
 andglory,thatip,(7odspraifing and approving of it, which 
 accompanies the lubjeftion that is made unto wicked matters 
 verfe 19* For thishthank^wort^y. The rcafon of which con- 
 
 iequence 
 
A Commentary upon thefirfi Epifile of Peter. 6% 
 
 fequcncc is fct forth, r. By adefcfiption of that iubje&ion 
 which is due unto wicked Matters, to wit, that it hapatunt 
 /tiff ring of wrong for conscience towards God v. i<?.- 2. By a 
 companion that is made betwixt thofe that iurTer;uftIy, and 
 thole that fuffer unjuftly, which he (hevves to be unlike, in 
 that the former can looke for no glory from their iuffering% 
 but the latter may expeel great glory ^verfe 2C. In the fecond 
 place, he proves the fame duty from that relation which ari- 
 ieth from our general! calling, becaufe we are thereunto cat- 
 led, that we mould patiently fuffer the injuries of the world: 
 and this he confirrnes by the example of Chrift ; towhofe 
 imitation we are called : for he fhewes two ends of thefuffe- 
 ring of Chrift j oncwastodyeforus, that is, to expiate our 
 nnneSj which is the primary end. The othtr was, to leave us 
 an example to imitate;, vcrfe ji. which is thefecondary 
 end. Now a fpeciall part of this fecondary end was, that 
 when he was without finne v. 22. Yet he patiently fuffered 
 all kinds ofreproachts and afSic\ions 3 T. 23. And the prima- 
 ry end of Chrifts fuffering?, which was to redeem* us from 
 fin, is upon this occafion alfo declared r. 24. 25. Becaufe 
 t herehence alfo may be drawne a power full argument,to per- 
 fwade us to imitate Chrift in doing righteoufly, and fufFering 
 unjuftly : And this is declared, 1. From the nature of 
 Chrifts death, that it was a faerifice for our fins to take away 
 the guilt of them ; 2. From the end of this propitiation, 
 which is the death of finne, and the life of rightcoufnefle.And 
 hereof there is an illuftratisnmadeby comparing that condi- 
 tion, which went before our converfion» with that condition 
 which followes it 9 vcrfe the laft. 
 
 The Do&rines drawne here-hence . 
 Dott. I. They that are in the loweft condition , flionldbj 
 their good workes glorifie God in that conditior* 
 
 This is gathered from the connexion of the 18 Verfe with 
 the 1 1 and 1 2. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becawfe fervants alfo are called to liberty and 
 glory in Chrift, neither is there any difference , as touching 
 life fpirituall, betwixt the freeman and the femnt, 1 £V. 
 7. 22. 
 
 H 5 2. Becaufe 
 
g 2 A Commentary ufon theprft Epiftle offtttr. 
 
 2t Becaufe there is the fame reward for fcrvants and free- 
 men. 
 
 3. Becaufe the fervile condition hath a proper occafion 
 and meanes to glorifie God,which other conditions have noti 
 like as other conditions have their occafions & meanes, which 
 the fervile hath not. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to comfort us, in regard that no man 
 is excluded from having a part in this honour, that hath a part 
 in advancing the glory of God. 
 
 2. To exhort all, both Servants and all other (bits of men, 
 to endeavour to promote Gods glory : for if fervant6 ought to 
 do this ; much more ought free matters, and thofc that are in 
 any place of dignity. 
 
 DocT. 2. Servants, 1 the end that thy may glorifie Cjcd in 
 their fervile condition , mvfi befttbjeU to their Majiers with all 
 feare. 
 
 Reafen 1. becaufe fubjc&ion to another mans will is pro- 
 perly that wherein fervice confifts ; and therefore all they that 
 arc bound as Servants, are bound to fubje&ion. 
 
 2. 2?ecaufe the fubjecTion of a fervantisfuch , that it doth 
 neceflarily command a feare to difpleafe, not only in that re- 
 ipecl:, becaufe in every duty, both towards God and man, we 
 mould feare to offend by doing amifle , but alfb in refpeft of 
 that lingular power , which matters have to punifh their Ser- 
 vants. This is that feare, which we ufually call fervile, which 
 is not to be difliked in Servants, though in the children of 
 God there be another feare required over and above , which 
 ariieth from love. 
 
 Vfe. This may fervetoadmonifh, flrft. Servants and fub- 
 }t£b, not to Separate feare from Subjection. Secondly, all men 
 to fnbje&themfelvestoGcd with all feare, as it becommeth 
 fervar»t c . 
 
 D.^$. 3' We ctfght to per forme our dtttj, even unto wickjd 
 men and frorcard. 
 
 This is gathered from the 18 Verfe. 
 
 Reriftw i. 7?ecanfe the ground of our duty doth not con- 
 lift in the .^oodneffe or nan^htinefTe of men, but in that obli- 
 gation which the law ofGod impofethuponus, which may 
 confifl with the rtaughtinene of mer. 
 
 J. Becaufe 
 
A Comment try upon thefirfl Epiftle of Peter, 63 
 
 3. 3?ccaufe in performing this duty , wee ferve God and 
 Chrift, and lhall receive a reward from him, Ephsf. 6.$,6,j,2. 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to reprove tho(e, that direft their du- 
 ties according to the perfbne of the men with whom they 
 have to doe. 
 
 DocT. 4. We ought to doe our duty for confcience toward 
 Cody though we are wrong fully afflicted by men. 
 This is gathered from Verfe 19. 
 
 Reafon 1. Sccaufe confcience alwaycs lookes to the judge, 
 ment of God and not to the qualuies and judgements of men. 
 
 2. 2?ecaufe the confcience is by this meanes conitant, im- 
 mutable, and alwayes likeitfelfe, howfoever mens judge- 
 ments may alter. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to direct us in all our a&bns to have a 
 fpeciall re(pe£t to the conscience. 
 
 Doft. 5. It is thank^yvorthy^andnvefballrtceive glory from 
 God^ ifwefuffer wrongfully », and notjuftly. 
 
 This is gathered from the 19 and 2 o verfes. 
 
 Reafon. 1. Becaufe this is proper and peculiar toChriftians, 
 as is thelove of our enemies, Matth 5.44,45. 
 
 2. *Z?ccaufe by this meanes ye give grcac glory unto God, 
 when we fuffer the bictereu" things out of confcience toward 
 him* 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us, cheerefully to fet our 
 (elves to the performing of thefe duties. 
 
 Do£t. 6. The calling of (fhrift'tms doth in a fpeciall man- 
 ner lead to the patient fuffering ofaffliclions. 
 
 This is gathered from the 21 verfe, at the beginning. 
 
 Reafon i. 2?ecaufe they are called unto glory by the en- 
 during of all kindes of afflictions, as by the way that leadeth 
 thereunto, cap. 5 'Verfc 10. 
 
 2. Becaufe they are called to overcome their enemies and 
 cvill doers by well-doing, and if it be poffible to winne them 
 thereby, Matth.^.^, R0m.12.21. 
 
 3. iecaufe they are called to imitate Chrift, as it is in the 
 text. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to admonUhus, not to imitate or 
 follow the men of the world in thefe thing?, becaufe we have 
 another manner of calling. 
 
 2. To 
 
64 4 ^mwtntAry upon thtjirft Bpiftle tf Peter* 
 
 2. To exhort us to have a great care that we make cor&i* 
 ence of this duty , becaufe it doth moft neerely belong to our 
 calling. 
 
 Doclv 7. (^hriftsaSliens are amoft perfect example for our, 
 duty and calling. 
 
 This is gathered from Verfjb 2 1. 
 Reafon 1. /?ecau(c Chrift is unto us an example given by 
 God, as it were the praxis of Divinity and rule of living well. 
 
 2. 2?ecaufe he hath no imperfeftion at all, fuch as may be 
 found in «11 mens examples. 
 
 3. becaufe the Spirit of Chrift makes us to be conforma- 
 ble unto his image. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to direft us, that beholding Chrift as it 
 were in a glaffe, we maybe as it were changed into the fame 
 image from glory to glory, 2 Cor.$. 18. 
 
 Deft. 8. The Chief eft manner of imitatmg Chrift in en- 
 during afjliSlions 9 confitts in this , that we commit our caufe unto 
 God* 
 
 This is gathered from vcrfe 23, 3t the end. 
 
 Reafon, 2?ecanfe this is the rule of patience in fuch cafes, 
 not to revenge our felves , but to commit the whole bufincfle 
 unto the Lord, and to reft well contented and pleated in his 
 will. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh u»,never to plcafe our own 
 carnall will, but to fubpcTour felves wholly to the good will 
 of Gad. 
 
 Do&. p. Chrift by his death did not only leave us an exam- 
 ple of our lives 1 but alfo expiated our fiitnes , an^ procured form 
 fuch power, whereby w? may imitate him in living well* 
 This is gathered from verfe 24. 
 
 Reafon 1 . Becaufe after the fame manner are we reftored in 
 Chrift, as we were loft in ts4dam t which Was not by imitation 
 and example only, Rotr* 5 . 
 
 2, Becaufe Chrift ought ro be a facrifice to pacific God 
 towards us, which is not done by example. 
 
 3. Becaufe an example would have nothing at all profited 
 thofe thit were dead in finne and hated of God. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to refute the Socinians and others, 
 which feine that the redemption of Chrift confifts in doctrine 
 and example only. 2. To 
 
A Commentary upon the fir ft Epiiile ofPettr* 6 5 
 
 2. To direft us, alwayes to joynethefe two together, re- 
 demption- and the example of Chrift. 
 
 Do£b 10. Without (fhrift we are nothing elfe but fheepe 
 • going aflray and loft. 
 
 This is gathered from the Iaft verie. 
 Reafon. Becaufe upon him alone depends our falvation and 
 the dire&ion of our live?. 
 
 Vfc. This may fcrve to admonilh us, not to leave Chrift Co 
 much as in the leaft thing, but to cleave rafter and fafter, unto 
 him. 
 
 Chapter III. 
 
 Verle I. Likewife yes< wives be infubjetliontpyourownehuf- 
 
 bands t that if any obey not the word^ they alfo may without 
 
 the word be wenne by the conver fatten of the wives* 
 Verle 2. While thy behold your chafie converfation coupled with 
 
 feare : 
 Verfc 3. Whofe adorning^ let it not be that outward adorning of 
 
 flatting the haire t and of wearing ofgold^ or of putting on of 
 
 apparelL 
 Vcrfc 4. But let it be the hidden man of 'the hearty in that which 
 
 ts not corruptible •, even the ornament of a meeke and quiet 
 fpirit^which is in the fight of God of great price. 
 Verfe 5 . For after, this manner in the old time y the holy women 
 
 aljo who tr lifted in God^ adorned themfelves 9 being infubje- 
 
 &ion unto their owne husbands. 
 Verle 6. Even as Sara obeyed Abraham^ ailing him Lord, whofe 
 
 daughters yee are as long 04yee do well, and are not afraid 
 
 with any amazement* 
 _ Verfe 7. Likewife ye husbands dwell with them according to the 
 
 knowledge of God, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the 
 
 weaker vejfelt, and at being heires together of the grace of 
 
 life that your prayers be not kindred, 
 
 I The 
 
 /" 
 
66 A Commmtary upon th»firft Epiftfe of Peter* 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 EietheApoftlc inftru&s Wives and Husbands in' 
 thole particular duties which belongunto their 
 eonjugallfociety. And he lets downe the duty 
 of wives in the fint place, becaufe that comes 
 nearelt unto thofe duties which hee had lately fp >ken of, 
 namely, the duty of fabje&s towards their Maturates, and of 
 fervar.ts towards their Mailers. For that which is here in gt> 
 n a ull prcfcribed unto wives 3 is their fubjcftion to their hui- 
 bands, Verfe I. BiinfubjeBion to yonr owne husbands. Which 
 fubjcftion he doth afterwards explaine by ccrtaine adjuncts 
 or properties, which do in a peculiar manner belong to the 
 fubjetYion of wives, and notto the fubjeftonof fervants and 
 (iibje ^s. Thefirft of thele properties i>, conjugall feare D ver^2. 
 The fecOnd is chaftity of convention, in the fame verle. The 
 third is, meck'nefle and mildneflTe, verfe 4. And he doth per- 
 fwade them unto this lubje&ton together with the properties 
 thereof. 1 . By an argument taken from the effe&s and fruit, 
 which by the grace or God might follow thereupon ; for it is 
 a meanes tending to the conversion of their husbands, if they 
 obey not the Gofpell, verfe 1. 2. He commends and illu- 
 ftrates it by a comparifon which he makes betwixt that pious 
 f ubjedtion, & that adorning which women u(e to make great 
 account of, verfe 3,4. where he fhewes that outward adorning 
 to be nothing worth in Gods fighr. 3. Hee doth perfwade 
 them unto it by the example ot thofe holy women , which 
 God did approve of in old tirrie, verfe 5. And in particular by 
 the example ofSara^ and her obedience unto esfbraham^ verfe 
 6. Of whole example he gives a fpeciall reafon ; becaufeas 
 Abraham was the father of all the faithful!, Co Sara in lomc 
 fort might be called the mother of all holy women. The du- 
 ty of husbands he fets down 1, in general], in their husband- 
 like govcrnement, which he cals a dwelling with their wives 
 according to knowledge, which knowledge and understand- 
 ing is the ground of direction, and therefore is more required 
 in a man, then in a weman. 2. In the fpeciall manner of this 
 governement ; to wit, that it ihouid be joy ned with the honour 
 
 of 
 
A Commentary up on the firfiEpi file of Vtter. 6j 
 
 of the wife, in bearing with her infirmities , which he doth 
 perfwadethem unto by an argument taken, i. from that fib- 
 ciety and equality which is betwixtthe husbanctand the wife, 
 in refpect of the grace of life, as it is here called. 2. From the 
 great dilcommodity, which will follow upon the negleft of 
 this duty, for by their domellicall differences and diflcmions 
 theirdomefticall prayers alio arc hundred, Verfe 7. 
 The Doctrines arifing here-hence. 
 
 Doit. I. There is the like duty offub)eUs^fervants, wives , 
 and husbands. 
 
 This is gathered from that particle, Likewifeye wives, verfe 
 I. and Likewifeye husbands^ verfe 7. Not, that there is the 
 fame kindeofduty in all thefc in all refpe&s, but that there is 
 the fame kinde of obligation, whereby every one is bound to 
 doe his owne duty. . 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe it is the fame Law-giver andthefame 
 law that commands every man his duty. 
 
 2. Becaufe the difparity of the condition makes no dispa- 
 rity in the obligation, which is the formality of the duty; but 
 only in thofe things, to which the obligation binds us, which 
 is the materiality of the duty. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to admonifh us , not to caft ofFfrom 
 our (elves thole things which we eitherreadeorhearetobe 
 commanded men of another condition, but alwayes to confi- 
 der, that qttamvis rton adfxmilia^ tamen fimiliter^ though we are 
 not tyed to the like duties, yet we are in the like manner tyed 
 to our own duties : when fervants are commanded any thing, 
 then matters mould think, that they likewise are commanded 
 fomcthing ; when wives are commanded any thing, then hus- 
 bands (hould think that they likewise ; and when husbands 
 are commanded any thing, then wives (hould think 5 that they 
 likewife. 
 
 DocT. 2 It it the duty of wives to bcfubjcB to their husbands. 
 This is gathered from verfe 1 . See Co/of. 3. 18. Ephef.5,2 2, 
 23,24. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the husband is the head of the wife, 
 Ephef.iy.13: 1 Cor* 1 1.3. 
 
 2. Becaufe there can be no order kept in a family 3 except all 
 the reft be fubie& to the father of the family. 
 
 I % Vfc 
 
£8 A Commentary upon the prfi Epiftie of Peter. 
 
 Vfe. This may feive to reprove thofe wives that a^eundu- 
 tifull and will not be fut>je<5t ; and thofe husbands alfo D who 
 by their owne fault lofe this authority and dignity, and are 
 thcmfelvcs the caufes that their owne power is leffened and 
 diminished. 
 
 Do&. 3. The eonverfation of wivesJboHldbefitch^thatit 
 fhwldtvinne their husbands to approve of the true religion* 
 This is gathered from verfe 1. 
 
 Renfcn 1. Bccaufe all ihould 5 as much as they can 3 co-ope- 
 rate with God for the conversion of men. 
 
 2. BeCaufe this generall Chriftian duty is in a fpeciall man- 
 tier determined and intended in refpeft of thofe, with whom 
 we have a neerer communion. 
 
 3. Becaufe love,which doth in a lingular manner belong to 
 man and wife, requires that they mould defire and feek for one- 
 anothcrs greateft good. 
 
 Vfc* This may ferve to reprove thofe, which in wedlock fa 
 Jive,that they have no care at all,either to advance Gods glo- 
 ry, or to further their own falvation, in that ftafe : and they 
 aie to be condemned much more , which lb carry themfelves 
 in that ftate, that they doe more and more alienate their hus- 
 bands from true religion and piety either touching the do- 
 ctrine, or touching. the pradVifeofit. And if this belongs to 
 wives toward their husbands, much more will h belong to 
 husbands toward their wive? . 
 
 DocT. 4. (fonjugall chajiity fhould be joy ned with feare. 
 This is gathered from verfe 3, 
 Reafoyt. Becaufe not only is impurity to'bc fhunned, but 
 alfb all fufpicion of imr rarity , or ofaminde inclining there- 
 unto. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may lervetosdmonifhmanand wife^ tomun 
 all tbofe courfes, that may any way be any blemifh to their 
 chaftity, though it be but in mew or appearance. 
 
 2, To adraoniih all Ghriftians, to preferve their fpirituall 
 chaftity with Chrift.and God, with all feare. 
 
 Do&; 5. It is not the onfti>ArdtidQrni*i> r but theinward i 
 thae we fliould make Account ef . 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 3^. 
 Rtafcn 1. Becaufe the outward adorning belongs to the 
 
 vanity 
 
A Commentary upon thefirft Epiflle of Peter. 6o 
 
 vanity of this world, but the inward is fpiritualllife it felfe. 
 For Chrift and grace is called the inward adorning of the 
 v heart or nrinde, becaufe it makes a man amiable and com- 
 mends him in the light ofthofe which eftecme and prize it. 
 
 a. Becaufe only men look after the outward adorning, and 
 and thole none of the graver fort neither ; but God himfclfe 
 lookes after the imvard,.as it is in verfe 4. 
 
 3. 2?ecau(e the outward adorning is not durable, but the 
 inward- is incorruptible, as it is in vcrle 4. which is net corrup- 
 tible^ and 2 £or.q..i$» 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonim us , every day more and 
 
 more to renounce this outward and worldly adorning,and to 
 
 looke to the inward and true adorning of the mind and foulc. 
 
 D'odh 6. Meckgncfie and mildeneffeoffpirit in women jt& in 
 
 all others talfo , is an adorning that is precious inthe fight of Cjod. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 4. 
 
 Reafon 1. -ffecaufe many filthy unbefceming things,which 
 arlle from anger and perturbation gf the minde, arc removed 
 by fiich a difpofition . 
 
 2. becaufe fucha difpofition is very apttopleafe,and all 
 men defire that others mould be well pleafcd with their be- 
 haviour. 
 
 Vfe i. Thi« may ferve to refute thofe, which affeft a kind 
 of glory and honour by their fiercenefle andimpatiency. 
 
 2. To exhort uSjnot only for civility fake,but alfo for con* 
 fcience toward God to endeavour to get fuch a difpofition. 
 
 D0&. 7. Every manjhouldfeeke for examples offuch ver- 
 tues out of Scripture ,and apply them unto himfelfe according to his 
 mvne proper condition. 
 
 For women have holy women propofed unto them for ex* 
 amples, verfe 5. So have men holy men. 
 
 Do&» 8. In weighing of examples we fheuld have the chief- 
 eft regard to thefe that, are mo ft commended in Script ureo 
 
 This is gathered from thofe words, Abraham^ Sara, and the 
 Uhe^ verfe 6. 
 
 Do&. p. Then and net before are ws the children of fuch 
 . holy ones^ by a true imitation of them, when we dofo perfift in well 
 doings that no t err our or any ether temptation it able to remove us 
 from this ourpnrpofe andrefelution. 
 
 This 
 
70 A Commentary upon the firfi Epiftle of Pete n 
 
 This is gathered from the 6. vei (e at the end. For this is 
 propofed in Sara to be chiefly imitated by women, thatdut 
 of her duty, ftie followed Abraham in all his journey, n©r 
 could any tcFrour keepe her back. 
 
 Doft. 10. Husbands fooutt Uktwife doe their duty , as well 
 as the wives doe theirs. 
 
 This is gathered from vcrfe 7. 
 Reaf, 1. Becaufe there is the fame obligation of Gods 
 law on both fides. 
 
 2. Becaufe there is a mutuall relation betwixt thefe duties, 
 that one doth neceflarily require the other. 
 
 3. Becaufe the duty of husbands to their wives, and of 
 wives to their husbands is almoft the fame, but that the wife 
 is to doe her part with fubje&ion, and it is the husbands pare 
 to rule. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonijb #/, not rigidly to exz£t the 
 duty of others, and in the meane time to neglecT: our owne. 
 
 Doft. II. ft be/ongs unto men to exceH in knowledge and 
 understanding. 
 This is gathered from thole words : according to knowledge, 
 
 ReaJ, 1. Becaufe by nature they have a kind of perfection 
 above women in thole things which belong unto know- 
 ledge, whereupon the woman is in this place called the wea- 
 ker vefTell. ; 
 
 a. Becaufe by their duty they fhould be the heads of their 
 wives, to dircft and governe them. 
 
 3. Becaufe they have greater meanes to gaine knowledge ; 
 for as it is not lawfull for women to fpeake in the Church 5 
 ib neither have they any thing to doe in other exercifes, 
 whereby mens wits are ripened. 
 
 VJe, This may ferve to reprove thofe men, that either 
 through drunkennefle, or floth, or the negleft of divine 
 things, or through too much care of earthly things, doe not 
 only come behind women, but children alfb in (bund know- 
 ledge and understanding. 
 
 DocT:. 12. It is the husbands part to be meek* unto their 
 wiveSp and not to put them infeare, 
 
 Reaf, 1 . Becaufe they are not fervants, but companions^ 
 
 2. Be* 
 
I ACommsntary upon the fir ft Epiftle of Peter, y I 
 
 2. Becaufe their conjugall love mould (hew it fclfe in all 
 fuch duties. 
 
 - Vfe, This may kxvets admanifb as well husbands as wives 
 to beware of harfnnefTe and bitterneffe. 
 
 Doft. 13. 7*W </#/v which we owe unto all the coheires of 
 grace and life eternally fhsuld direct and governs our particular 
 duties towards ourfuperiours, i*if?riours and e quails. 
 
 Reaf I. Becaufe that is the principall duty 5 to which aft 
 the reft are fubordinate. 
 
 1. Becaufe that love doth virtually at leaft containe in it all 
 vermes* 
 
 3. Becaufe the dignity which redounds from the relation 
 to grace and eternall life, makes all thole that are partakers of 
 that grace, in fomc fort equall, and therefore reftraines con- 
 tempt, oppofaion, and all kinds of injuries. 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve todireil us, in all parts of our conver- 
 
 fation with Chriftian men, to have chieferegard to this duty* 
 
 Doft. 14 ^Allour converfation, as well in pub li que m in 
 
 private, fhouldbe fo ordered, that it fl/ould not hinder ; hut rather 
 
 further our Prayers. 
 
 This is gathered from the laft words* 
 
 Reaf. 1. Becaufe otherwile we fliould wrong God him- 
 felfe, in violating his honour. 
 
 3. Becaufe we mould diminish at leaft our greateft comfort* 
 which depends upon our prayers. 
 
 Vfe , This may icrve to admonip} ut, to take heed therefore, 
 not only of the grofTer fort of fins, but alfo of contentions, 
 injuries, perturbations, and all thole vanities, by which we 
 are made unfit to call upon the name of God aright. 
 
 Verie 8. Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compaffien^one of 
 another, love as brethren^ bepittifull, be courteous* 
 
 V. f* Not rendring evillfor evill, or railing for railing : but cm- 
 trariwife blefjeng, knowing that ye are thereunto calkd, that 
 ye fhould inherit a bleffwg. 
 
 The 
 
72 d Commentary upon the fir ft Epiftle ef Peter. 
 
 Ihe Anal)fs. 
 
 T* 
 
 [e Apofthdoth in thefe two vedes briefely comprehend 
 thole duties, which belong unto all foits of men. For 
 becaufeit would.be too long particularly to aefcribe all the 
 particular vertues, nor can there be iuch a doctrine delivered, 
 that ftiould direit * every particular man in his duty, * fingules 
 qua fingulos i as fuch a particular man, as before it was delive- 
 red touching matters and fervants, wives and husbands, there- 
 fore he doth here commend tome generall duties unto all, 
 from which all particular ones will eafiiy follow. And the 
 firft of thefe is Concord. i. Mutuall fympathy. 3. Bro- 
 therly love. 4. Pitty. 5. Courteoufnefle. 6. Chriftian Pa- 
 tience, whereby we doe not only forbcare to curie thole that 
 curie us, bat alio blefle them ; of which laft duty, as being the 
 difficulteft of all,he gives a fpeciall reafon,which is taken from 
 che end of our calling, whereby we come to the pofleffion of 
 all bletfings, and as much as in us lyes, ought we to commu- 
 nicate it unto others. 
 
 The Doctrines arifingherchence^ 
 Doft. 1. Concord is a vertue^ which all Chrifiians (hottld 
 mightily labour for. 
 
 R»af. 1. Becaufe God hath endued all thole, that are truly 
 faithfull, with one and the (ame Spirit, and therefore with 
 one heart as it were. For they have received a new heart of 
 one and the (ame making and nature. 
 
 2. Becaule they propofe unto themfelves one and the fame 
 end,and they (hould goe one and the fame way untothat end. 
 
 3. Becaufe if there be any difference in other things, which 
 doe not belong unto that way, they are not fogreat, as that 
 they fliouldcaufe anydilcord : For there may be fome dif- 
 ference of opinions in many things without any difcord or 
 alienation of mens minds. And if there be fome difference a- 
 foout thole things, which doe belongunto that way, a bearing 
 one with another, when they doe both earneftly defire the 
 truth., will preferve concord (afe and found betwixt thoft 
 
 which 
 
( A Commentary upon the firfl Epiftle ef Peter. J$ 
 
 which are true GhriAians, according to that afthe Apdftle 
 
 y Vfe* This may fcrve to reprove thofe, which for light caufes 
 are eltranged from their brethren, and turne the (mailed dii> 
 ference, even the lea ft controVerfie into dilcord. And how ma- 
 ny are guilty of this fault^and how clotely it tticks unto them, 
 may evidently appear* by this, that they cannotlay alide their 
 anger and hatred, no not for Gods fake, for Chrift fake, and 
 their owne Glvation fake. And this we may lee in too too' 
 many, when thcyforbeare to come to the Lords Supper by 
 reafon of thofe contentions, which they maintaine betwixt 
 themfelves and their neighbours ; for they doe thereby (hew 
 that they cannot pray unto God to forgive them their trefc 
 paries, as they forgive others that trefpafleagainft them, and 
 therefore they feeme to love diicord more then God himieire, 
 and their owne ialvatior. 
 
 Do&. 2 . There fhould he a fympathy fretwixt Ckriftia/tf* 
 
 By which word is fignified not onlyafellow-feeangofone 
 arotheis troubles, but aUo of one anothers good, i Cor* 
 it. 26' 
 
 Reaf. 1. 2?ecaufe they are members of one body, and all 
 the members looke unto the good or the whole. 
 
 2. Becaule the evill or good of one member, doth in fome 
 fort redound unto the reft of the members, by that necre uni- 
 on and communion, which is betwixt them. 
 
 3. Becaufe the confent and concord of their wills com- 
 mands this, that whereof one doth rejoyce or grieve, the ci- 
 ther alfo fhould repyce and gi ieve. 
 
 Vfe. This may Cerve to reprove t htt Stoical! hard neffe, which 
 hath taken hold of mens minds, whereby it comes to pafle 
 that they are no way lenfible of the condition of others. 
 
 Doft. 3. 'Brotherly love is moreover areatly to be tmbra- 
 ced-vehich unto concordant Sympathy addes a wllalfo and ended" 
 vow to doe qyodmto others as unto our brethren. 
 Reef. 1 Becaufewe are brethren. 
 
 2. becaufe love is the character otChriftian brotherhood. 
 
 3. becaufe love is the bond of perfection and the meanes 
 of Chriltian edification. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort tu to the exercifc of chip grace. 
 
74 A Commentary upon the firft Epifile of Peter. 
 
 Doft. 4. To ottr lovc&e fhonldjoymwrej^ n hicb lookes on- 
 ly unto the feed that is to be done. 
 
 Redf* i. Becaufe true love is by this meanes made moftrna- 
 nifeft, when it is (hewed untothofe which cannot give us 
 thankes. 
 
 2. Becanfe in this we doe imit te our heavenly father, 
 who is the Father of mercies. 
 
 3. Becaule the fame benefit is greater, when it is beftowed 
 upon one that is In mifery, then when it is beftowed upon a- 
 nother. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to reprove thole, which feetr.e to love 
 fuch men only, from whom they may expett fomething. 
 
 D- &. 5. Together with our love and mercy rvefjouldjoyne 
 conrteoufntffe. 
 
 Reaf. i.Becaufe true love and mercy proceeding from the 
 enlargement of the heart, fits and difpofeth the whole man 
 for the doing of good. 
 
 2. becaule a benefit beftowed in a rough and harm man- 
 ner, doth in fome fort ceafe to be a bcnefir. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us^ more and more to lay *-« 
 fide all feverity, and to have a. care to beautifie that good 
 which we doe, in the manner of doing it. 
 
 Do'ft. 6* Christians foouldnot render evillfjr evilly er rat- 
 line for railing. 
 
 This is gathered out of the 9. vei'fe. So Rem* 12. 17. and 
 M*t/h. 5. 3?. 
 
 Reaf. 1, JBecaufc the railing or ill-doing of another., doth 
 not loofe the bond, or take away the duty of our lovw. 
 
 2. 2?ecau£ this is to be overcome of evii J. Rom. \ a. 2J. 
 
 3. 2?ccaufe this derogates from Gods fidelity, and takes 
 that, which belongs unto him, out of his hands, Rom. 12. ip. 
 Trev.72. 23. 
 
 Vfe. This may Cerve to reprove thoCe men, that areeafily 
 provoked, and when they are provoked by any injury, thinke 
 that they may doe any thing, and Co give themfelves liberty 
 toexerciie all kind of revenge : and that they doe not this 
 ftom the hatred offinne, but from too n.uch love of them- 
 felves, it doth fufficienrly appcare by this, that when more 
 hajnous and grievous offences are committed againftGod, 
 
 and 
 
j A Commentary ttponthefirfiEpiftle of Tettr* ' 75 
 
 , and the fame wrongs done unto others; they can heareit and 
 behold k 3 and never be troubled at it. 
 
 Docfh 7. it is the duty offtriftians to blejfe thofethat curfe 
 "a>'d wrong them. 
 
 This is gathered from the 9. v. at the middle. So Matth. 5. 
 44. and Rom* 12. 14. 
 
 Reef. 1. i?ecaufe love and mercy doth in a fpeciall manner 
 require this duty of thofe, which by fuch like fiuiws make 
 thcmfelves obnoxious unto curfing. 
 
 2. *2?ecaufe we mould overcome evillwith good. Rom* 
 12.21. 
 3. tfecaufcwe (hould imitate our heavenly Father. Matth* 
 
 5« 45' 
 Vfc. This may fave to exhort us to ufe our felves unto this 
 
 perfection. 
 
 Do6>. 8. The remembrance of 'our callings that it tends un- 
 to bleffng^fbouldftir us up to blejfe others. 
 
 This is gathered from v. 9. at the latter end. 
 
 Keaf. I. Becaufc that which we have freely received from 
 the blefling of God 9 we mould, as much as in us lies, freely 
 and liberally give. Matth, 10. 8. 
 
 2. B;:caufe by this meanes we cxereife and pcrfeft our own* 
 calling. 
 
 3. Becaufe by this meanes we (hew forth and advance the 
 glory of God, that beftowed this benefit upon us. 
 
 VJe, This may (ewe for direction, very often to medicate up- 
 on our calling, and that to this end, that we may be made 
 the more ready and fit for Chriftian duties. 
 
 Verft. 10. For he that toiK love life, and fee good day es a let him 
 
 refraine his tongue from evill, and hu lips that they fpeake 
 
 no guile: 
 Verle. 1 1 , Let him efchew evil/, and doe good, let himfeehe peace 
 
 andenfue it* 
 Verfe. For the eyes of the Lord are ftt over the righteous, and his 
 
 eares are open unto their prayers : %but the face of the Lordn 
 
 againfi them that doe evil', 
 
 K 2 the 
 
y6 A Commentary upon thefirfi Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 The Analyjis. 
 
 IN thefe three verfes , the Apoftle proves by the teftimony of 
 Scripture, that which he had fpoken in the laft place, to 
 wit, that Go dly men (hall inherit a blefling. In which tefti- 
 mony there isinthefirft place the blefling fetdowne, which 
 all dt' ire, He that will love life^ and fee good day es. 2 . The pie- 
 ty of thole, to whom this blefling is promifed, is fynecdochi- 
 cally declared by adiftributionofthe fubjeifts, as it is in the 
 (peech, v» lo. or in the deeds and conversation of life v. ir. 
 3. The connexion of <. he blefling, with this piety is confir- 
 med by the moft powerfiill caufe thereof, namely, the provi- 
 dence of God, watching over the Godly for their good,ver(e 
 12. at the beginning. Which is illuftrated by a contrary ef- 
 fect of the fame providence toward thofe that doe evill, name- 
 ly, that he watcheth over thofe alwayes for evills, v. 12. at the 
 end. 
 
 The Doctrines arifing herehence. 
 Doct. l. It is common unto all men, infomefort to defire 
 blejfwg and bappineffr* 
 
 For therefore doth he in this place, ufe a common argu- 
 ment to ftirre up all to the practice of piety. 
 Reaf.i* Becaufe * omnia appetunt bonumjW things defire their 
 own good 5 & in fbme fort too that which they apprehend as 
 fummum bowm^xhe chiefeft good. 
 
 2. Becaufe all nature tends unto its owne perfection, and 
 this perfection is happinefle. 
 
 3. Becaufe the nature of happinefle isfach, that if the un- 
 det Handing doth in any manner comprehend it, the will can- 
 not but in feme meafiire defire it, becaufe it is in all refpects 
 defireable . 
 
 Vfe. r. Let us not therefore reft contented with a confu- 
 ted defire of happinefle, but endeavour and labour to ftirre up 
 and to increafe in our (elves the true, genuine and effectuall de- 
 fire thereof. 
 
 2. For dire&ion 3 not to corrupt this defire that is appro- 
 ved of God, or to choake it with worldly defires, but to goe 
 forward and increafe it daily according to that rule, which is 
 given unto us from God. 
 
 Doct. j. 
 
A Commentary upon thefirfl Epiftle of Peter* 77 
 
 ; Doft 2 . Trtte and f olid pietj is the only way to attainc unto 
 
 thefe blefings . 
 \ Reaf 1 . Becaufe God hath promised it to the Godly alone. 
 ' 2. Becaufe piety in its owne nature leadeth to God, and 
 joy nes us with God s who is the f ountaine of all good. 
 
 3, Becaufe piety it felfe hath that perfection joyned with it, 
 namely, peace of confcicnce and found confolation, which is 
 a great part of happinefle. 
 
 Vfc* 1.. This may ferve to convince thofe of folly and mad- 
 nefle, that would be happy ^ but will not be Godly. 
 
 a. To direttus, to kindle in our hearts an earned endea- i 
 vour to be godly by the expectation of this happinefle, and to 
 gaine unto our fclves an aflurance of it. 
 
 Dott. 3. The providence of Cjod alone y makes for the furthe- 
 rance of this piety \and the confirmation of this happinejfe. 
 This is gathered from v. 1 2. 
 Reaf. 1. Becaufe God by his providence doth fulfill and 
 perfe&all hispromifes. 
 
 2. Becaufe the fame providence lookes over and takes care 
 for theparticolar neccflities of the Godly. 
 
 3 Becaufe he takes fpeciall notice of all their defiresand 
 prayers, as it is in the text. 
 
 Vfe, This may Cerveto exhort us 3 to build up our felves in a. . 
 true and lively faith of this providence. 
 
 Verfe. 13. And who is he that mil harmey OH) ifye be followers of 
 
 that which is Good f 
 Verfe. 14. But and if ye fuffer any xhingfor righteoufneffe fak*, 
 
 happy are ye, and be not afraid of their terrour, neither be 
 
 troubled.* 
 Verfe. I 5. But fanUifie the Lord God in jour heart s> and bee 
 
 ready alwayes to give ananfwer to every man that asketh 
 
 youareafonofthe hope that is inyou? with m:ekzne§e and 
 
 feare, havinga good conference: 
 Verfe. 1 6,That whereas theyfpeake evill ofyoa, as ofevill doers? 
 they mzj be ajhamedthat falfely accufeyour good convcrja- 
 
 tion in (fhrift* 
 
 K 3 The 
 
78 A Commentary upon ibefirfl Epiflle of Peter. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 I Hat which the Apoftle had before propofcd concerning 
 the praftife of piety , he doth there perfwadethenYunto 
 by an argument taken , I. from the erTeft thereof, that by this 
 meanes men arc freed and delivered from thofe harmes,which 
 the wicked feek occafion, to bring upon them, v. 1 3. 2. From 
 the happineltc adjoyned 3 becaufe no afflictions that are fuf- 
 fered for righteoufnefie and godlinefTe fake , are able to ex- 
 clude that, verfe 14. at the beginning. 3. He (hewes the right 
 manner of undergoing afflictions , fo that happincfle may 
 follow thereupon, which confifts 1. in the laying afideof 
 that feare and perturbation , which ullially mens mindes are 
 troubled with in their afflictions, in thefe words, be not afraid 
 of their terrour. 2. In that confidence and relyance of our 
 hearts upon God, whereby his name is ianclified, and by ver- 
 tue whereof that immoderate feare may belaidafide. And 
 this confidence is let forth by its proper effe<5t, which confifts 
 in couragious and ready confeftion of the faith; of which 
 confeffion he lets downe two properties, namely, meckexefle 
 and feare or reverence, and moreover he fbewes the helping 
 and preferving caufe thereof, namely, a good confeience, and 
 the effect alfo which it will workc in others, verfe 16. to wif, 
 that it will make their enemies With (name to leave offtheir 
 fpcaking evill of them. 
 
 But here-hence arifeth a queftion. 
 
 Queft. How can this be made good, which the Apoftle 
 iaith, that no man (hall harme the godly ? Verfe 1 3. 
 
 Anfxver i. 3?ecaufe the nature ofgodlinefie and goodnefle 
 tends thereunto, to winne the minds of all men , and to take 
 cffall ill-will. 
 
 2. Becaufe often times alfo it hath this erTeft, that taking 
 away all pretence and occafion of unrighteoulneffe, it doth 
 in fome meafure mollifie the enemies minds , except they be 
 quite and cleane lavage and furicufly mad. 
 
 3. Becaufe nemo propri'e Uditnr niji afeipfo, no body is pro- 
 perly hurr but by himfelfeand his own fault jhe therefore that 
 efcheweth evill and doeth good, cannot properly be laid to 
 
 be 
 
{ A Commentary upon thefirft Epifile of Peter* ?$ 
 
 flbe hurt by others, though they do earneftly defire and endea- 
 vour to do it* 
 
 The Doctrines arifingherehence. 
 Do&. i. Chrifiians Jhould be emulators and followers of 
 that which is good. 
 
 This is gathered from vtrCei^ 
 r Reafon i. i?ecaufe they are called to the imitation of Gods 
 goodnefie ; Be ye holy a* Jam ho/y : beyeperfeft as your Fattier 
 is per feci, 
 
 s. Becaufe they are begotten again unto the im?ge of God, 
 and mould daily more and more be fafhioned thereunto. 
 
 3. becaufe there is nothing befides that is worthy of our 
 ferious imitation. 
 
 Vfe. This may krve to exhort us, to lift up our mindes, and 
 betake our felves to this holy and divine emulation. 
 
 Dott. 2o They that are followers of that which is good are 
 free J from harme. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 13. 
 Reafon 1 . 2?ecaufe ifCjod be for us, who can be againft m ? 
 2. becaufe wicked mens minds alfo are oftentimes overcome 
 by the goodnefle of the good : as Sfau was moved by the ob- 
 fequioufhefle oflacob. 
 
 3. 2?ecaufc the greater* good cannot be taken away from 
 thofe that labour for true godlinefie. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to comfort us againft all dangers which 
 may befall us by following that which is good. 
 
 Doft> 3. To fujfer afflictions for right eoufneffe fake doth 
 net hinder^ but farther our happinejfe. 
 
 This is gathered fromVerfe 14. So Matth, ?. xo. 
 ReafoH 1 .Becaufe fuch affliftions make us conformable unto 
 Chrift in the fellowship of his ujfferings, P&//.3. 10. 
 
 2. Becaufe it is a fingular part of that obedience and holi- 
 nefle, which tends unto happinefie. 
 
 3. Becaufe God hath promifed bountifully to reward it. 
 Vfe. This may ferve to comfort us, againft all the evils 
 
 which mJy befall us for righteoufneiTe fake and a good con- 
 science. 
 
 Do St. 4. We muft lay aftds the fare of 'all dangers where- 
 with our mind may be troubled. 
 
 This 
 
o3 A Commentary upon the firftEpi fife of Peter. 
 
 This is gathered from the fame veife at the end. 
 Rea/on I. Becaufe luch ieare is contrary unto faith and <t 
 fore confidence. 
 
 2. Becaufeit hath no other ufe, but to hinder us in doing of 
 our duty. 
 
 3. Becaufe it is contrary to the honour of God and the 
 Worthineffe of a good caufe. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us. not to give place to 
 fuchpufillanimity and faint-heartedncfle. 
 
 Doci. 5« fVe fbouldftrengthcn our hearts againft all feare y 
 by jutting our truft in Cjod, 
 
 Rea/on 1. Becaufe there is nothing elfe whereby we can 
 overcome all feares and terrou; s. 
 
 2. Becaufe God hath taken this upon himfelfe, and com- 
 manded us to commit our caufe unto him. 
 
 3. Becaufe by this truft and confidence God is made the 
 ftrength of our (bules. 
 
 Vj<. This may (erve to exhort us, truly to put our truft in 
 God» 
 
 Do&. 6* By this truft and confidence wefaviUifie God in our 
 hearts. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 1 $* 
 Reafon i. Becaufe thereby we acknowledge him to be a 
 holy God, that is, a God ot perfett power, mercy, truth and 
 fidelity. 
 
 2. Becaufe by t^e effe&uall acknowledgement^)! this holi- 
 ncflc we give unto him that glory which is due unto his name 
 from our heart?. 
 
 3, becaufe thereby we advance his glory amongft others. 
 as well in our actions as in our piofeffions. 
 
 Vfe, This may fcrve to exhort us,wholly to rely upon him. 
 
 Doft. J. fVe fkould fantlifie God not only in our hearts , but 
 with our mouths alfb^ and in our prof r£i on. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : Be ready alwayes to give 
 an anfxotr. So Rottvio.l o. 
 
 Rcafou i. Becaufe we (hould glorifie God not only in our 
 fpirit, but in our body alfo, 1 Cor.6,20. 
 
 * 2. Becaufe we mould advance Gods glory ,not only in our 
 felves, but amongft others alio. 
 
 5. Becaufe 
 
I ACOtHMHltfytyMihefhfiEpifrk ef Peter. 8 1 
 
 I i. Becaufe out of the abundance of the heart the mouth 
 fpeaketh : we cannot therefore fan&ifie God with all our 
 heart, unlefle we are ready todothefamelikewifewithour 
 mouth. 
 
 Vfe r. This may ferve to reprove thofe,which boaft of the 
 (inccrity of their heart, and in the meane time take no care for 
 the holinefle of their heart and word?. 
 
 2 . To exhort us to prepare our ft Ives for this duty, Ephrf, 
 
 4- 2p. 
 
 Do&. 8. AU ChriflUnsJhwld be ready nrt only to profeffe 
 the trttfhj but alfo to give a good reafon oftheirprcfejjton. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : to give an anfaer to eve- 
 ry man that asknhjou a reafen of the hope that is in you. And this 
 is not to be understood of all truth, but of the truth of religi- 
 on 5 nor of all thefe things neither, which do any way pertain 
 unto religion, but of the very fubftance of faith, hope, and re- 
 ligion, as it is in the text : a reafon of the hope that is in you : 
 nor is it either a natural! reafon that is required, or fiich a 
 kinde of reafon that may (top the mouths of every gainfayerj 
 for this all are not able to do, nor doth it belong unto all $ but 
 fbrue foreground out of Gods word, whereupon our faith 
 and hope fhould be built and ftrengthened agaioif all kinde of 
 temptations. Now here arifeth a queft ion. 
 
 Quef}. Whether fuch a reafon is to be given to every one 
 that asketh, or no ? 
 
 Anfw, No not abfolutely to every one, becaufe we are not 
 to give it to Dogs and Swine, (that is, to uncleane perfbns) 
 without a neceffary caufe, but to every one that asketh us, fb 
 that our profeffion or anfwer may probably at leaft turn to the 
 glory of God, as it is in the text, tofanUife God. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us, 1 ferioufly to ftudy onr 
 religion,to underftand the grounds thereof. 2 Freely and in- 
 gcnioufly to declare and defend it upon a good occafion. 
 
 DocT. 9. Our prafeffion of religion ffjonldbe with meekene^e 
 in refpeftofmeHy andtvithfeare in refpetl of God, 
 
 Reafor, Becaufe by meekenefle we do good amongft men, 
 and the feare of God will ftirrc us up to do our duty,and keep 
 us within the bounds and limits thereof! 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to reprove thofe, which keepe no me; - 
 fure in their words and acYions. L DoS.. 
 
g 3 4 CmmmUry upon Wit pffi Eptfik offeter. 
 
 Dodt. 10. A good confeience is very neceffary as well in the 
 fanclification of Gods name, us in the profeffion of his religion^ { 
 
 That is, a conference bearing us witnefle, both of the grace 
 of God towards us in Chrift, and of the hncere defire and en- 
 deavour of our hearts topleafe God in all things. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe without (uch a confeience, our faith, 
 confidence, fortitude, and liberty* doth languish and decay. 
 
 2. Becaufe fuch a confeience freeth us from all that bur- 
 then, wherewith otherwife we fhould be oppreffed, and terri- 
 fied, and affrighted from doing our duty. 
 
 3. Becaufe it ftirreth us up to all the duties of piety ; for 
 without the care of performing them, a good confeience can 
 afford us no comfort. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us to have a care of our con- 
 (cience, to ktepe it pure before God and men. 
 
 The 17 verfe is all one with the 20 verfe of the 2 chapter. 
 
 Verfe 1 7. For it is better ^ if the will of God be fo, thatyefujfer 
 
 for well-doing, then for evill-doing, 
 Verfe l8* For Chrift alfo hath once fuff *red for finnes , the p ft 
 for the unjuft, that he might bring us to God 3 being put to 
 death in theflejh, but quicknedby the Spirit . 
 Verfe 19. By which alfo he went , and preached unto the Spirits 
 
 in prifon. 
 Verfe 2 0. Which fontetimes were difobeditnt , when once the 
 long-fujfering ofCjodwait'din the d*jes ofNoah 9 while the 
 Arke was a preparing • whjeinfew (that ts 9 eight J feules 
 werefaved by water. 
 Verfe 21. The like figure whereunto 9 even baptifme z doth alfo 
 nowfaveus^ (not the putting away of the filth of the fie fhjbut 
 theanfwer of a good confeience toward God) by the refurre- 
 Uion oflefus (^hrift. 
 Verfe 22. Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of 
 God^ tAngels> and Authorities, and powers 9 being wadefub- 
 je$ unto him* 
 
 The 
 
j ACtmmcmayyHtonthejirftEpiflhofnur* 85 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN this part of the chapter, the Apoftle urgeth that exhorta- 
 tion which he had before propofed concerning an endea- 
 vour to do well, even unto thoft that wrong us. And this he 
 doth perfwade them unto, i, by a companion which he 
 makes betwixt thofe which fuffer for evill doing : which 
 comparifon although it may feeme to be of a greater or leffer 
 good, when it is (aid, It is better to fuffer for well doings yet it 
 is indeed a diffimilitude, which is intimated by this psiW/y ex- 
 tenuation, as appeares by the 19 and 20 verfe of the fecond 
 chapter. For it is thank-worthy and it will turne to our glo- 
 ry, if we fuffer for well-doing ; not fb, if it be for evill doing. 
 2, He confirmes this by the example of Chrift, verfe 18, who 
 though he did moft juftly, yet fuffered unjuftly ; which ex- 
 ample he fhewes to be of great force , by the end of his diffe- 
 ring ; becaule therefore he fuffered, that he might bring us 
 the fame way unto God ; which that he doth now effectually 
 doe, he fhewes by the caufe thereof, to wit, life and glory, 
 which he aflumed unto himfelfe by his divine Spirit after his 
 fuffering. And to (hew that that effeft, namely, the bringing 
 of men unto God, doth proceed from this caufe, to wit, the 
 Spirit of Chrift, the Apoftle makes a comparifon of the like, 
 betwixt thoft things which the Spirit of Chrift did hereto- 
 fore in the dayes of AW?, and thole things which he doth 
 now fince the comming of Chrift in the Hem. Heretofore he 
 preached the way of falvation, and patiently waited for the 
 performance of obedience, upon the difbbedicnt he infli&ed 
 condigne punifhment, and a few that were obedient he laved 
 in the Arke : (0 now alfo he preacheth the way of falvation, 
 he waits for obedience, and by Baptifme, as it were a figure 
 like unto the old Arke, he (aves thofe that are obedient and 
 have a good confeience before God, and that by the glorious 
 life and power which he hath in heaven fince the time of his 
 refurreftion, verfe 21, 22. All which things tend hereunto, 
 that we mould hold faft a good confeience, even when we are 
 evill intreated ; becaufe it is better as he faid before, verfe 17. 
 and hath now (hewed as well by the example of Chrift, as by 
 
 L 2 his 
 
$a A Comment try upon the firft Epiftle ofVeter. 
 
 his cffe&uall difpenfation throughout all agt9,as it is, verO 8, 
 1 9. of which we may fee more, if wc look hack to chap.2,ver. 
 2 1. to the end. All the other thing? almoft are explained in 
 the anfwer to'BeHarmine^ about Chiilts descending into hell. 
 The Do&rines atifing here-hence; 
 Doft. I. h was the Spirit of thrift, which preached here- 
 t of ore from the beginning of the world by the Prophets and men «f 
 God, before I hat he appeared in theflejh. 
 This is gathered from verfe i p. 
 Reafcn i. Becaufe the per (on o* Chrift was the fame from 
 everhfting in the unity of the Divine Eflence, fo that whatio- 
 ever the Spirit of God did 3 that alfo may the Spirit of Chriit 
 be truly uid to have donr. 
 
 2. Becaufe Ghrift was the Mediator of mankinde from the 
 beginning of the world, in vertue and force ; therefore what- 
 foever the S- irit did., which belonged to the furtherances? 
 the Churches fafety, all that he did by vertueofChriftsmc* 
 diatioiij and that no leffe then fince his corr.ming in the flefh. 
 Vfe i. This may fervetoinltruftusinthetruthofChrifts 
 divine nature 
 
 2. To comfort us and urengtrfen our faith,in that we have 
 the fame Teacher, which inftiu&ed the Church from the be- 
 ginning of the world,and brought ittofalvation 5 and con- 
 icqtiently we imbrace the fame religion, as touching the fcb~ 
 liancc-of itjthat all the faithful! imbraccd from the beginning 
 ot the uorl^. 
 
 3. To admonifli us, never to rejeft or make light account 
 of thofe things which are preached unto us out of Gods 
 word, becaufe it is the Spirit of Chrilt, which preachethunto 
 us thofe things, like as he preached unto others from the be- 
 ginning of the world. 
 
 Docl - . 2. Thej which do not obey thf preaching of Chrijls 
 Spirit -j wilfully bring upon themf 'Ives ever lafiing damnation. 
 This is gathered from verfe 1920. 
 Reafon 1 . becaufe in negkcYing the preaching of the Go- 
 fpel!, they negledY and refufe the only meanes that can keepe 
 them from damnation, and bring them unto falvation. 
 
 2. Becaufe they doe greatly difkoacur Chrift and hi$- 
 Spirit. 
 
 Vfe. 
 
A Commentary ufotithefirfi Eprftle ef Peter. 8 5 
 
 Vfc* This may fcrve to admoniffius, alwayes, when we 
 1 come to the hearing of Gods word, to endeavour to have cir- 
 cumcifed eares and hearts,, ready and willing to yeeld all obe- 
 dience thereunto. 
 
 Daft. 5. God ftfeth much patience and long-fnffering towards 
 the difobedient. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 20.- 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe by this meanes Gods clemency and 
 mercy is manifested. 
 
 2. Becaufe by this patience of God all are invited,and ma- 
 ny are drawne unto the obedience of faith. 
 
 5. Becaufe this patience makes thofe that are ftubbornely 
 difobedient altogether inexcufable, and Co -juftifics God in his 
 juft judgements. 
 
 Vje 1. This may ferve to direct us, to give the glory of 
 this patience unto God , when we fee finners to go unpuni- 
 shed for a time. 
 
 2. To admonifh us not to abufe this patience of God, but 
 to make it a meanes for the amendment of our lives , and our 
 own falvation, Rom.i.\. 
 
 DocT. 4» fn the defhnclion of the difobedient, God hath a 
 Jbeciafl eye over the faithfully tofave them from the deftrutlion. 
 This is gathered from verfe 2 o. 
 Reafon I . Becaufe he difpoteth his judgements according 
 to his ccrtaine and perfect counfell, not rafhly or confufedly, 
 therefore he paflettaover whom he pleafeth. 
 
 2. Becaufe the punifhments of finne mould not fall alike ' 
 upon the godly and wicked, for then he would not be a |uft 
 difpoferofthem. 
 
 3. Becaufe it (lands upon Gods glory to fave thofe that flye 
 unto him, as he promrfed them in his covenant. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to comfort us, in the time of publiclc 
 calamities, wherein God revengeth the wickedneffeofmen. 
 Dott. 5. Cjod doth often times preferve thofe that are hi* , 
 tartly by the fame me ones wherby he deftroyeth others. 
 
 For it is faid that the Arke faved Noah and thofe feven fouls 
 in the waters and by the waters.The fame water that drown- 
 ed others, by lifting up the Arke on high, was the meanes of 
 their preservation. So leremy was delivered by the Babyloni- 
 ans , by whom the Iewes were oppreffed. Reafon 
 
86 A CewPtenUry iqm thefirft Epiftle tf Peter* 
 
 Reafox. Becaufe God can ufe the fams inftrument top-re- 
 duce divers and contrary effefts, and when he doth this, his 
 glory is che more manifefted; becaufe thereby it appeares that 
 the effeft doth not depend upon the inftrument , but upon 
 God : nor doth this come to pafle rafhly, or by chance, but is 
 ordered and directed by Gods certaine counfel/. 
 
 Vfe. Th is may ferve to direel us, in the time of danger not 
 to looke fa much upon the meanes which God ufeth , as to 
 depend upon Godhimfelfc, who can turne any meanes unto 
 the good ot thofe that are his. 
 
 Doft. 6. 'Baptifme is fuch a meanes of our fpirituall fal- 
 vation , at the water of the flood together with the lArkty 
 was heretofore ofthecorporallfaftty of Noah and his family. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe J I. It is called the Antitype 
 of that water,not becaufe the water was the type of Baptifme, 
 and Baptifme the exemplar of it, but becaufe there is a typi- 
 call reprefentativc fimilirude betwixt thefe two waters. And 
 the fimilitude confifts herein, that as the water of the flood 
 lifted up the Arke and laved Noah and his family in the de- 
 ftruction of the reft, fbbaptiuneftrengthning our faith, and 
 lifting up our fbules unto God reconciled in Chiift, (avesus 
 in the mortification of our finnes. 
 
 Reafoff. Becaufe it is Gods inftitution. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to reprove thofe, which make little 
 efteecne of baptifme. 
 
 2. To direcT us, to fceke this right and proper ufe of bap- 
 tifme together with it and by it , and to apply it unto our 
 felves to our comfort. 
 
 Do&. 7. The outward baptifme doth not faveus of it felfr 9 
 but the inward. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe « 1 . Not the putting away of 
 the filth oftheflejby but theanfwer of a goodconfeience* 
 
 Rtfafen i. Becaufe outward baptifme is common to the 
 hypocrites as well as to the faithful!* 
 
 2, becaufe it comes not unto the fbule. 
 
 3. Becaufe it hath no laving power in it felfe. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to admonifti us, not to put too much 
 truft and confidence in the outward Sacraments, or to relye 
 thereupon,that we are baptized and partake of the Lords Sup- 
 
 P« 9 
 
A Commentary upon the fir ft Epi/He of Peter* %j 
 
 per, but alwayes to feeke the fpirituall grace of the Sacra- 
 ments. 
 
 DjcTv 8. *A fingular effect and jigne of the inward bap- 
 tifme and ejfetluall grace^ is the anfwer of a good confcicnce to- 
 ward God* 
 
 For when the Apoftle meant to oppofe inward 'Eaptifhae 
 unco outward, in deed of the inward he puts the anfwer of a 
 good confcience, as the proper effcft thereof , by which it 
 may be perceived and knowru.Now by the anfwer of a good 
 confcience is meant all that confidence wV.'ch we have before 
 God of his reconciliation, which cbiefely appeares in our 
 prayers, and in a pious confeflion of the faith, and a holy care 
 of obedience. 
 
 Retf.i. Becaufe then are we properly (aid tobefaved, at 
 leaft according to our apprehenfion, when our conferences 
 are freed from the guilt and bondage of fin. 
 
 2. Becanfe the peace of a good confcience is part of our 
 glorification. 
 
 3. Becaufe fuch a confcience makes us to goe on conftant- 
 ly in the way of Salvation. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to direct «*, to make it our chiefeft care 
 to keepe a good confcience toward God. 
 
 Doft. 9. Such a confcience and our falvation d->th in afpecial/ 
 manner depend upon Chrijis refurretlion. 
 
 Redf. l» Becaufe intherefurre&ionofChrirt, Godsfen- 
 tence was declared, abfolving us in him from "11 finne and 
 death. Rom. 4.25. 
 
 2. Becaufe Chrift being raifed from the dead . did power- 
 fully accomplifh that, which he merited by his death. Rim.%, 
 
 34- 
 
 3. 2?ecaufe our conferences are lifted upwards untoChrift 
 
 fitting in heaven. 
 
 Vfe, Thjpmay ferve to diretl tts t to fix the eyes of our faith 
 upon Ghrift, as he was raifed from the dead. 
 
 Doft. 10. Since the time of Chrifts refurretlion, great is 
 his glory and power in heaven. 
 
 This is gathered from the laft rerfe. 
 Reafon. 1. l?ecaufe the time of his humiliation and empty- 
 ing of himfelfe was finiflicd before. 
 
 2 Be- 
 
88 A CemtMntAt] upon thefirfi Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 2. Becaufeit was fir, that he which in Angular obedience 
 was mightily humbled , fhculd afterwards be exalted un- 
 to great glory ♦ 
 
 3. Bccaufe this glory and power is neceflarily required, 
 that Chiift might finifh all things, which belong to the fal- 
 vation of the Church. 
 
 Vfe* This may fervc to comfort ui^ againft ail dangers and 
 fejtres, feeing we have fuch a Saviour in heaven. 
 
 T77TTTTTTTYTVTTTTTTT77TT7^YtO 
 
 Chap. IV. 
 
 Ver£ 1. For as much then as £V*/? hath fufered for us in the 
 flejk) arme your felves likewife with the fame mind : for 
 that he that hath fufered in the fiefi, hath ceafed from finite: 
 
 Verfe. 2. That he no longer jhould live the reft of his time in the 
 fiejh 9 to the lufts of men, but to the will of God. 
 
 Verfe 3. For the time fafi of our life^ may fujfice ns to have 
 -wrought the will of the Gentiles 9 .when we walked in lafcivi- 
 oufnefc lufts ^ excejfe of wine, revelling*) banquettings^ and 
 abominable idolatries 
 
 Verfe a. wherein they thinks it ft range 9 that you run not with 
 them to the fame excejfe ofriot 9 fpeaki»g cvill ofjou : 
 
 Verfe 5. Who fhall give account to bim t that is ready to judge 
 the quickjtndthe dead* 
 
 Verfe 6. For } for this caufe was the Goffcll preached alfe to them 
 that are dead, that thej might be judged according to men in 
 the fte/h, but live according to God in the Spirit* 
 
 The Analjfis* 
 
 jHe Apoftle having fet before us the example of 
 Chrift, in this place he concludes therehence ; that 
 which he propofed to be concluded chap. 3. v. 17. 
 and before that v. 11. thatis, thatallGhrittians 
 fhould efchew eviil, & follow that which is good. 
 And this conclusion he layesdowne in fuch manner, that if a 
 
 due 
 
A Comment jT) upon thefi'fl E fifth of Peter. 89 
 
 due proportion be obfcived betwixt Chrift as cur example, 
 and Chriftian* that are regenerated, and renewed according 
 t j his image,he (taws it doth ncceffuily depend upon & flow 
 from the ex imple of Chrilt. Hi concludes with fuch a Syl- 
 1 ogiime, as this : 
 
 All Chr'ft'uws fyouldb? armed with the fame mixd, concerning 
 fmne andrighteoufn^e i au Chrift himfelfe was : 
 
 But Chrift having/fijfjred in the flefo ceafedfremftnne 3 and 
 lived in thefpirit unto Qod : 
 
 Therefore a/1 Chrift ians fliouldbewholy bent t and end. avour all 
 that they canto ceafe from fmne or the In ft s of men, and live 
 unto (]od^ or the will of God. 
 Both the proposition & Aflumptionarein v. 1 The conclusi- 
 on in v. 2. The conclusion is illuftrated by a cemparifbn made 
 betwixt the time paft, and that which is to come ; or betwixt 
 that kind of life, which men are wont to lead before their 
 calling, and that, which they mould lead after they are called. 
 
 For the time paft he affirmcs,that we lived according to the 
 manner of the Gentilesin all the lufts ofthe fleuV.j. And for 
 the time to come, he denies that we fhould follow thofe lufts, 
 but that we (hould live unto the will of God. v. 2. and the 
 beginning of the 3. It may fuffce Hi &c. where he intimates 
 a reafbn alfo, why we mould now leave off fuch courfes, 
 namely j Becaufe we have too much offended God already in 
 the time paft, and if we fhould abufc his mercy and patience 
 any longer ,we could expeft nothing elfe but the revelation of 
 hisjuft anger and indignation, to our eternall confufion. 
 The fame conclufion and Comparifbn is farther illuftrated by 
 anticipation of an obje&ion and difficulty, which might take 
 off our defires and endeavours to change our lives, and live 
 contrary to the fafhion of others. And the objection is this , 
 that it will feeme ftrange unto many ; and for this very caufe 
 will they revile us, and fpeake evill of religion it felfe, verlc 
 4. Theanfweris, that this is not cur fault, but theirs ; and 
 they (hall give an account for it unto God at the day of judge- 
 ment, vei fc 5. Which judgement is fet forth by a diftribution 
 ofthe objected upon occafion of that diftribution he makes 
 a new argument to remove the fore-named difficulty out of 
 our minds ; namely ,becaufe the Gospel 1 had the fame end,and 
 
 M the 
 
^o A Commentary upon the fir ft Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 the fame effect amongft the faithfuil that art* now dead ; t# 
 wit, that they being condemned by men, did patiently beare 
 that condemnation, and lived according to God in the 
 fpirit, vcrfe 6. 
 
 The DocTi ines arifing herchence. 
 DotV I. We Jheuld all arme our /elves with fuch mcditatU 
 *»/, as the contemplation ofChrifis death ajFotrds as. 
 This is gathered from v. I. 
 Retf. i. Becaufe we are thereunto called, that We fliould 
 be matte conformable unto Chrift, 
 
 2. Becaufe Chrifts death, c* Chrift crucified is a briefeE- 
 pitomeofall laving knowledge, I Cor, 2.2, 
 
 3. Becaufe by fuch meditations we doe more and more 
 put on Chrift, and by his power are our minds ftrengthened 
 and fore-armed, as with a compleat armour, againft all kind 
 of temptations, and in this refp^tt is this phr aie^ arme your 
 felves^ufed in the text. 
 
 Vfe u This m-iyfervetoadmonifhus, toarmeourmindes 
 daily with godly and Chrifiian meditations, that fo we may 
 not be expofed to the danger of temptations unarmed and 
 naked; in the bearing of a blow, or fuffering any violence, 
 there is great difference betwixt a man that is armed, and one 
 that is not armed. 
 
 2. To dircft us, in our meditations chiefely to contem- 
 plate upon Chrift, and thofe things wh'xh pertainc unto his 
 death and reiurreftion. 
 
 Dift. 2. He that hath true communion yeiih £hrift^k..th 
 cea fed from finnc , and by meditation thereupon doth daily more 
 and mere ceafefrom it. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 1, at the end. 
 
 Reaftm 1. Becaufe our communion withChriftisby the 
 Sri- it of Chrift, which mak s us conformable to his death 
 and re'urreTion, Rom. 6. throughout the whole Chapter. 
 
 2. Beerrjie in our converfion unto Chrift, there is alwayes 
 included an aVerfion from hnne by ferious repentance. 
 
 3. Becaufe fuch meditations are the ordinary meanes 
 whereby the wbrke of the Spirit is perfc&ed, and our repen- 
 tance renewed and furthered, 
 
 w 
 
A Commentary upon the firft Epiflle of Peter. 9 1 
 
 Vfe I. 1 his may ferve to reprove thofc,that profile Chiiil 
 in word, but in their deeds doe not ceafe from finne. 
 
 2. I o direct us, to prefle fuch fyllogiunes and reafonings 
 upon our confciences, Ro?r.6. 
 
 Do6t. 3« He that ceafith fxom ftnne , doth not live to the 
 luHs ofmen^ but t« the will of God, ' 
 This is gathered from verfe 2. 
 Reafon i . Becaufe the lufts of linfull men are in themfelves : 
 finnes, and leade unto finne. 
 
 2. .tfecaufe thefe lufts fight againft the fbule, and we in our 
 conversion have bound our felves to fight againft then). 
 
 3. Because the will of God is the on»y rule of our life, 
 which is altogether contrary to the lufts of the flefh. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to direct us in the triall of our ftate 
 and condition. For looke how our life is fincerely directed 
 inrefpeft of the lufts of men, and the will of God, io may we 
 certainely judge our felves to be either in the ftate of finne, or 
 in the ftate of grace. 
 
 Doft. 4. It feemes more then enough to the faithful! , that 
 before their converfwn they fo long followed the lufts of the flefh, 
 andfafhions of the world. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 3. 
 
 Reafon I. 2?ecaufe they are afhamed with a holy fhameof 
 thofe courfes, Rom. 6. 21. 
 
 2. Becaufe they receive no benefit by thcm,but repentance. 
 
 3. Becaufe they fee that it was Gods great mercy ,that they 
 were at length delivered from them , and from the death 
 which they bring, in the fame Chapter. 
 
 4. Becaufe the reft of their time feemes but a little unto 
 them, inrefpeft of the duty which they have to do,in feeking 
 and glorifying God. 
 
 Vfe i. This mayfervetocondemnethofe 3 which deferre 
 and put off the time of amending their lives, as if they had 
 not yet finned enough. 
 
 2. To admonifh uSj to redeeme the time , and fpend it in 
 advancing of Gods glory, and our own falvation. 
 
 Do&. 5» tAmong^ all the viciotu In (Is and courfes of the 
 n-orldy luxury is one of the chief eft ^ whereby men walke in fafewi- 
 w r neffe 3 (xceffe of wine andbanqttetings. 
 
 M 2 Reafon 
 
o j A CctHmwtary ufon 1 he frfi Epfik of Peter. 
 
 Reafcn i. Z?ecaufe in thefe men do molt of all p amper the 
 fltfh, and have no regard at 2II unto the foule. 
 
 :. Becaufe by thefe the lbulc is drowned, as it were in the 
 } lediuresof the riefb,fo that it cannot lift up icfclf UutoGod,. 
 and to divine things. 
 
 3. Becaufe thele make way for the devil, and all devil.fli 
 f nnes; and thereupon abominable idolatry feecnes to be jt.>yn- 
 e«d with the m in the text becaufe by them many were brought 
 to be pefent at idolatious fealis, and 10 to honour the idol3 
 themfelves, though in t heir conferences they made no recko- 
 ning of them. 
 
 Vfr. This may ferve to admonith us , to beware of thele 
 wkked courfes. 
 
 Doct. 6. It ft ernes very Jl 'range to the men of the world y 
 that the godly fjottldrefafe to life after that manner s as they live, 
 Rea/on I. Becaufe they think there is a kinde of happineffe 
 in that kinde of life, which for any man to dill. ke, they can- 
 not but wonder 2 1 ir. 
 
 2. Becaufe as long as they are ca: nail, they cannot 1 ightly 
 difecrne thofe fpirituallieafons, which make thefaithriill to 
 abhorre ftch convcrfation. 
 
 ;. becaufe they meafuiing others by themfelves, thir.fce 
 that all men do greedily deiire ftch kinde of plea lure*. 
 
 J'Jr. Th.s may ferve to adrronilh the flthfull, 1. Not to 
 thinke that they do live lb, as their calling or profelfion doth 
 require, imlefle they dofofarreetlnnge thcmielvesfrom the 
 common courfes of woildly men, that they makethemto 
 wonder at them. 2. Not to be troubled at Itch opinions o£ 
 men, tut to take their d.flike, as a token oi Gods good lining 
 and approbation. 
 
 Doer. 7. By ihU clienationcf mindes y which ari r eib from 
 the difference tf ihe conversation^ betwixt the beleevers and the 
 yr,b leevers^ tfe regenerate and the mire generate , it oftentim s 
 ccmci to pajfe, that theuxregenrratefpeakeevil/ofiheirxthof 
 OJ.. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 5 at the end. For although 
 f&mc 2 re. fo taken with the fplendcur of piety whLh fhines 
 forth in the goaly, that they glorihe Gcd, as it is chap. 2. \e r . 
 1 2. and it becomes a ar.eanes of winning them, as it is chap. r. 
 
 verie 
 
A Commentary upon thejtrfi Ep/file of Peter* q 3 
 
 verfe 1. or at leaft that they areafhamed^as it is chap.?. v.i<5» 
 Yet there are others which take occsfion thereby to blaf- 
 pheme, chiefly, becjulc the godly by abstaining from thofe 
 hits and courles, which they h ghly efteeme, feeme (eriouily 
 to reprove them, as well in their deeds as their worcV. 
 Reafon I. Becauie all they that do evill hate the light. 
 
 2. Becaufe fuch a reparation in ccnverfation oflife is as it 
 were a condemning ofthoiefrom whom leparatien is made 
 out of confcience and religion. 
 
 3. Becaufe wicked men being blinded with anger and ha- 
 tred, and judgeing of others by themfelves, d<e imagine that 
 this reparation is ufually made in hypocrifie, & fimulation,not 
 out of confcience and religion, 
 
 Vfr. This may fcrve to comfort and ftrengt hen our foulcs 
 againft the temptations and troubles which may arife unto 
 us from fuch mens blafphcmies. 
 
 Do<5t. 8. God will require an account from men for all 
 fuch blafpbemiefy either in this life^ or at the I aft judgement. 
 This is gathered from verfe 5. 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe his Majeftie is wronged moreinthefe 
 blafphemies, then in moft of the other finnes. 
 
 2. becaufe thole finnes are moll hainous, and come neereft 
 tc the linncagainlt the Holy GhoP. 
 
 3. ifecaufe they dire&ly tend to the hinderancc of the 
 kingdome of 6bd,and the righteoufnefle thereof. 
 
 yfe u This may lerve to admonilh us 3 to take heed of all 
 thofe, that do any way partake in fuch a foine. 
 
 2. To comfort us.- becaufe God revengeth luch in juries, 
 wethould commit them unto him. 
 
 Docl . 9- God keepes ajuft account of thofe things that are 
 done to the faithfull, not only while they live , but alfo after their 
 death* 
 
 For in that tenfe is he laid to be ready to )ndge the efuick^ 
 and the dead^ where by the quick and the dead the faithfull are 
 moft properly understood, as appearcs by verle 6. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe God alwayes lives, and his word and 
 covenant lives. 
 
 2. becaufe it ftands upon Gods glory, to defend the caule 
 alfo of his fervants thdt are dead, and to revenge their injuries. 
 
 3. becaufe 
 
94 A Commentary upon the firft Epiftle cf Peter. 
 
 3. 2?ecau(e oftentimes the iniquity of the wicked is not 
 come to its full meafure, before the death of Gods children 
 whom t hey have vexed. 
 
 Vfc 1. This may ferve to comfort us, as well in life as in 
 death. 
 
 2: To admonifh us not to judgeraflhly of Gods wayesin 
 his patience and long-flifFering; but to compofc our mindes 
 to a patient waiting for the wiflied event. 
 
 Do&. 10. The condition ef the fait hfull now living, and 
 ofthofe that lived heretofore in all ages, is wholly ahke^ as touching 
 the fubflance of it. 
 
 This is gathered from vcrfe 6. compared with the verfe 
 fore-going. 
 
 &ea. JSecaute God is the fame, & faith is the fame; & on the 
 contrary fide alfo.the devill and the world are like themfelves. 
 
 Vfc* This may ferve to direft us, not to give way to too 
 much complaining of the prelent age, as if there had never 
 beene the like before ; but couragioufly to go forward in do- 
 ing our duty, that we may do that in our times according to 
 our ability, which other faithful! men did in their time -, who 
 as it is fa ! d oWavid^ *Acls 1 3. 36. after they had in their age 
 ferved the will of God, fell on fleepe in the Lord. 
 
 Dodo 11. The jhort compendium of our whole Chriflian 
 life, tSyfo to receive the GofpeUjhat renouncing theflefi wefijould 
 in that rcfpeU be judged according to men, and live according to 
 God in the Spirit. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 6* 
 
 Reafon* 2?ecaufe therein confifts all divinity. 
 
 Vfc, This may ferve to dire& us> to make triall of our con- 
 dition by this rule. 
 
 Verfe 
 
A Cpfumentaryuponthefirfl Epifik of Peter, n$ 
 
 Vcrfe 7. But the end of all things is at hand : beye therefore fi- 
 ber , and watch unto prayer. 
 
 Verfe 8. And above all things have fervent charity among y oar 
 felves :for charity fbill cover the multitude of jinxes. 
 
 Vcrfe 9. Vfe hofpkality one to another •, without grudging* 
 
 Verie 10. As every mm hath received the gift, even fominifter 
 the fame one to another, as good fteivards of the manifold 
 grace of Cod. 
 
 Verfe 1 1 . Jf any man fpeake, let him fpeake as the Oracles of 
 Cjod^ if any man minifter^ let him do it as of the ability which 
 Cjodgiveth, that God in all things may be glorified through 
 Iefus fflrifty to whom be fraife and dominion for ever 9 and 
 ever 9 Amen, 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 FRom the laft difcourfe about the judgement of God, the 
 Apoftlc takes occafion to preffe his exhortation to the 
 duties of piety, by that very argument. Firft therefore he 
 layes downe that third argument for a ground, that the laft 
 judgement., the end of all things, is at hand ; and thereupon 
 concludes that we muft feiioufly and diligently apply our 
 felves to the duties of piety. And thefe duties he fets downe 
 by an indu&ion of the principall parts, 1 Prayer, with the 
 adjuncts and helping caufes thereof, to wit, temperance and 
 £bbriety 3 verfe 7. 2. Mutaall charity, verfe 8. which he fets 
 forth, 1. By the lingular care, wherewith we mould labour 
 for it above other vertues, in tfreie wprds : above all things ,and 
 then by the degree, wherein we mould have it, and exercife k 
 im this word, fervent: of which exhortation he gives a rea- 
 ibn alfb-from the eflkft, for charity covers a multitude of /inner, 
 3. To charity he joynes hofpitality, verfe 9. as it were a fpe- 
 ciali aft of charity, whereof he fhewes the due manner how it 
 fhould be ufed, that it fhould be without grudging, that is, vo- 
 luntary, not by conftrainr. 4. A mutual! communication of 
 all the gifts or'Ood, verfe 10. And the reafon of this duty is 
 taken partly from die nature of the gift in refpeel: of the au- 
 thor 
 
$6 A Commtntary Hpen thefirfl Epijile tf Peter. 
 
 t Iior thereof, that it is the grace of God, and partly from that 
 relation, which they that have received the gift, have unto 
 fuch a grace, to wir, that they are not matters, but (rewards of 
 it. And of this communication he propounds two chiefe 
 kinds, which he defcribes and pet (wades them unto, verfe i x. 
 The firft is communication in fpeech, or in the word of God, 
 the defcription and rule whereof is, that it fhould be confor- 
 mable to the nature of Gods word. The fecond is communi- 
 cation in our abilities and wealth , the defcription and rule 
 whereof is common to both, together with all the foregoing 
 exhortations, taken from the end and benefit of them, that 
 god ift alt things may be glorified ; which glorification of God 
 is let forth by a prefent declaration of it; to whom be praife 
 for ever and ever, ^Amsn. 
 
 The Doftrines drawne here hence. 
 Dott. I. 'the end of all things is at hand. 
 This is gathered from verfe 7. Now this may be under- 
 stood, 1. of the end ofallmen, that live together, becaufe a 
 generation ofrren (bone palfeth away, and fb the end of a 11 
 thofe is properly faid to be at hand. 2. Itmayalfobythe 
 fame reafon be underftood of the finall condition of all thofe: 
 becaufe looke how every one dyes , fo (hall he continue for 
 ever, either happy or wretched. 3. It may alfo in fome fort 
 be underftood of the end of the world. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe thefe are the laft ages, after which there 
 is no comming of Chrift to be expe&ed, but unto judgement, 
 nor any change of worfhip, but upon the confirmation of 
 all thing?. 
 
 2. Becaufe the Lord doth not delay the promife of his 
 comming , but prepares all things for himfelfe, and in their 
 order fhewes forth the judgements of that day which is ap- 
 proaching. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us, not to think with the 
 evill fervant that the comming of the Lord is farre ofFbut cer- 
 tainly to look for it, and accordingly to prepare our felves 
 for that day, Matth.24.44.46, 
 
 Do&. 2. For the preparing of our felves aright again fl the 
 comming of the Lord 9 it u chief) <rcquired 3 that we jhottld pray 
 continually. 
 
 This 
 
A Commentary upon the firft Epifik offeter. ft 
 
 This is gathered from verfc 7. 
 Reafon i. 2?ecaufe in our prayers we do ftirre up our faith, 
 hope, and defire touching thofe good things, which the Lord 
 will impart unto us at his comming. 
 
 2. Becaufe by our prayers we do turne afide and remove 
 thofe evils from our (elves, which make his comming dread- 
 full unto finners : for by flying unto Gods mercy, we do flyc 
 both from our finnes, and from his wrath. 
 Vfe* This may ferve to exhort us, to be diligent in prayer. 
 Doft. 3. Temperance and fobriety fhould be pyned-mth our 
 prayers. 
 
 This is alfo gathered from verfe 7. It is the fame which is 
 (aid every where, TVatch and fray. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe theeffaftuall consideration thereof,that 
 the end of all things is at hand^ makes us to love this world 
 thcleflc, and fo to ufe it j as rirjftt6 abufe it, that if, fbberly 
 and temperately, 1CV.7.31. , 
 
 2. Becaufe theft are the raeanes whereby our priyers are 
 helped and furthered ; therefore it is iaidinthetex%£*/fl- 
 ber and watch unto prayer. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us, to make conference of 
 doing our duty in prayer. 
 
 Do&> 4 tAbove all things jvejhould labour for brotherly 
 love, that it may be fine ere and fervent. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 8. Not that charity towards 
 men is more excellent then faith hope and love towards God, 
 bat becaufe it is the chiefeft of thofe things which belong un- 
 to men, and fhould be preferred before all thofe rtiings,which 
 might any way hinder it. 
 
 Reafon i. becaufe love is the famme of the whole hw,and 
 fo containes in it all other duties, 
 
 2. Becaule charity covers a multitude of finnes, as it is in 
 the text : among f men themfelves , that they ftirre not up anger 
 hatred, And contention, Trov. 1 o. I 2. 
 
 2. Becaufe charity alio doth in fbme fort cover a multitude 
 of our finnes before God, to wit, that they procure notthe 
 revenge of his anger. For thfe it doth, as a figne and argu- 
 ment, whereby we are the more aflured of the forgiveneffe of 
 our fins, becaufe we forgive others their offences, A/itf.6, 15 * 
 
 N Vfi 
 
-g A Cemmeniary itfon t he ft ft Epfik of Peter. 
 
 yj?. This may ferve to exhort us, to labour for char'ty. 
 T)o6c* 5» HeffuMifi is one ofihefrincipall 4cls of charity. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 9. So &>«• 12.13 H^.13.2. 
 
 Kcafcn 1. Becaule in holpitality we do not only commu- 
 nicate our goods unto oil brethren, butourielvesalfobya 
 fami iar conversion. 
 
 3. Becaufe it is more acceptable unto others to receive a- 
 little upon (uch an occafion, then in any other retped to re- 
 ceive much, becaufe the feafonablenefle and couiteoufhefle 
 makes that which is given to be the better accepted. 
 
 3. Becaufe by this meanes friendship is more increafed then 
 by ot htr bountifull expences. 
 
 Ztfe. I his may ferve to reprove the mercilefle mindes and 
 conditions of men, for luxury and covetoufneffe hath quite 
 taken away all hofpitality. 
 
 Dv &. 6. The duties of :il?is klndfiould b epr forme dwixk- 
 out (tru-iffing. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 9. 
 Rrafon j. Becau(c God loveth a ready and cheerefull gi- 
 ver, 2 C or -9'7; 
 
 2. became grudging makes the benefit unacceptable to 
 him that receives it. 
 
 3. Becaufe grudging is as it were a repenting for doing the 
 duty, and fo makes it void and of no effect. 
 
 Vft, The ufe hei eof i^jthat in doing good we fhould watch 
 over our mindes, that they be rightly and fitly diipofed. 
 
 D0&. 7. It is ah effice of charity to minifter unto ethers the' 
 gifts Tvhkh tve have receive d 9 of what kinds jot ver thej be* 
 This is gathered from verfe 1 c. 
 Keafon 1. becaufe the gifts of God do in their nature tend 
 unto the glory of God in promoting the good of men. 
 
 2. Becaufe to this end arc all the gifts ot God committed 
 unto us, as ftewards of the grace of God, as it is in the text. 
 
 3. becaufe this very thing doth the communion of Saints 
 require, to the believing and exercifing whereof are all Chri- 
 stians called. 
 
 ^Vfe 1. This may ferve to comfort us, in that there is no 
 faithfullChriftian, but hath fome gift, whereby he may mi- 
 ni tier fomethingunto others. 
 
 3. To 
 
A Commentary upon thefi) ft Epifile of Peter* go 
 
 2. To exhort us, every one to ule that gift which he hatb 4 
 to the good of others. 
 
 Do&. 8. Ih txer cifing tbofe g'fts , which belong to the 
 freshing or dtdaration of Gods veord^ our chiefs care Jhwld be,fo 
 to carry ourjclves us becomes the word of CfoJ, 
 
 This is gathered from verle 1 1 at the beginning. 
 Reafon i. Becaufe every action rightly ordered mould 
 have a jutt proportion to its objeft. 
 
 2i Becauie 16 great is the dignity of Gods word 3 that with- 
 out fiich a care it cannot be kept fafe, without wronging of it. 
 
 3. Becauie all the power of our fpeech concerning Gods 
 word is loll, if it take not its whole ftrcagth from the word it 
 felfe. 
 
 Vfc, This may(erveto admonifti , not only the Preach- 
 ers, that they handle the word of God holily, faithfully, and 
 gravely, but alio all hearers, that they judge aright of the Ser- 
 mon, and make diitin&ion betwixt thofe Preachers, which 
 ipeake as the Oracles of God, and others, which fpcafce as a 
 humane fpeech or oration; and that they tfaemfelves alio, if 
 upon occafion they mould treat of the word of God in pri- 
 vate, mould doe it holily, gravely, and reverently, as it be- 
 comes the word of God to be handled. 
 
 D0& ?. Hethatwithhuwealthminiftrethtotheneceffities 
 of 'other /, fbonld da it according to the abilitj which he haih recei- 
 ved of Cjod. 
 
 This is gathered from vecfe 1 1 , that is, he muft do it not 
 by eonftraint, fparingly, and flowly, but wi(th a ready and 
 chceiefull affection, to his power, and beyond his power vo- 
 luntarily, 2 CV.8. 3. 
 
 Reafon x« becauie this communicating is as it were a facri- 
 ficc, wherewith God is well pleated, He b, \ 3. 1 6. 
 
 2. Becauie from this fowing we may expect a great har- 
 veft, of Gods blefling, 2 £V.p.6. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to admoni{hus,nottoperforme(uch 
 duties according to the fafhion and cuftome of the world, as 
 if their example were our rule, but according to the ability 
 which God hath afforded us. 
 
 Dodc. 10. God is to be glorified in all things* 
 As the ApoftIe5iAr.1O.3i, 
 
 N 2 Resf.u 
 
%t A Cmm&ary ufon the firft Mpiftk of Peter. 
 
 Reafi i. becaufe the glory of God is the end of all things. 
 2. Becaufe our aftions are not religious, but to farre forth 
 as they are directed to that end. 
 
 5. becaufe God will glorifie tbote which glorifie hin£ 
 Vfe» This may ferve to admonihh us, not to imagine that 
 our duty in glorifying God is reftrained to the publick wor- 
 ship, as many u(c to do , but to have a care of this duty in ail 
 things* 
 
 Do$. II. Cjod is to be glorified by IefusChrifi* 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe in the name.andb? the ^ower of Chrift 
 we do all the good that we do, C0/.3. 17. 
 
 a. 2?ecaufe we (hould reprefent that which we doe, before 
 God by Chrift. 
 
 3. Becaufe we cannot glorifie God by any other rneane?, 
 but by following the exampfe of Chrift., and observing his 
 duc"trine. 
 
 Wfci This may {erve to direct us, that Chrift mould be all 
 in all unto us. 
 
 Doc*. 1 2. fVe floutd befo difpe fed towards Gad in Chrift^ 
 that wejhoxldnever thinkjof his glory without an elevation of the 
 heart po confeffe Grsd^ which we Jbottld clxrijb and-wcreafc. 
 
 This is gathered from that doxolone, to ivhcm beyrdfe and 
 dominion for ever and ever, lAmex. For the ApGftle breakes 
 forth into this declaration of Gods glory , being as it were 
 forced thereunto by the meditation of that ditty,which he 
 had now propounded,to glorifie God. 
 
 Reafcn 1 . Becaufe thereby appeares our inward difpofiti- 
 on to the performing of that duty. 
 2. 2?ecaufe it is the beginning of the deed. 
 5. Z?ecauie God mould raigne in our hearts, that we might 
 not fo much upon deliberation, as naturally, be ftirred up, 
 and moved towards him,to the declaration of all thole things 
 which may make for his glory. 
 
 Vfe*. this may lerve to reprove the common ftupidity of 
 men, who are nothing at all moved with thole things, which 
 do molt merely belong to the glory of Gods name. 
 
 Verfe 
 
A Ctmnxnttry upon tbefirfi Epijlk of Peter* \ o I 
 
 Verfe 12. B * clove d^thinkg it not Ji range concerning the fiery tri- 
 aU t which is to try you, as though fome Jf range thing happe- 
 ned unto you* 
 
 Verfe 1 J. TSutrepyce, in as much as ye are partakers ofQhrifis 
 fuferings^ that when his glory Jhall be revealed^ye may be 
 gladalfo with exceeding yjy. 
 
 Verfe 14. If ye be reproached fot the name •fChrifl, happy are 
 ]*■> ft 7 " tb* Spirit of glary ', and of God, rrftetb upon you \ 0% 
 their part he is evifl fpok^n of, but on your part he is glorified. 
 
 Verfe 15. *# ftt let none ofyoufvf rasa murderer, or as a thiefi 9 
 or as an evill doer^ or as a bufie-body^ in other mens matters. 
 
 Verfe l& Tet if any man fuffer as a(fhriflt&yt^ let him not hi 
 afhamed^ but let him glorifie Cjodon this behalf, 
 
 Verfe 17. For the time is come that judgement mufi bstrtn at tht 
 houfe ofQod:and if it fir fi begin at us^ whatjball the end be 
 •*■ of them that obey not the Gojptll of God f 
 
 Verfe 18. iAnd if the righteous fcarcely befaved 3 where jhaH 
 the ungodly andthefinner apfeare ? 
 
 Verfe 1 9. Wherefore^ let them that fuffer according to the will of 
 God 9 commit the peeping of their foules to him in welldoings 
 as nnto ufaithfull (freator* 
 
 The Analyfts. 
 
 *THe Apoftle doth here repeate that exhortation., , to fuffer 
 perfecution aright 3 which he had heretofore ufed againe 
 and againe j becaufe this exhortation was very neceflary, and 
 Containes in it the primary (cope of the Epiftle. But in this 
 place he repeates it as a pre-occupation or anticipation of an 
 objection or difficulty, which might be made againft the fore- 
 going exhortation, wherein he perfwaded them to a conftant 
 care of all the duties of piety. For they to whom this Epiltle 
 Was to come, might thus thinke with themfelves, that by this 
 profeflion and pra&ife of piety molt grievous perfections are 
 like to befall them 3 and that contrary to their expe&ation, 
 and therefore they are not tobcrequefted by walking in the 
 fcme way to heape fo great evils uponthemfelves.Of thefe per- 
 fections 
 
IO j A C&mmmtary upon the fir $ Epijlle of Peter* 
 
 (editions therefore the Apoftle warncs them. I. In general J, 
 that it fhould hot feei-ne any new or ftrange thing to any 
 Ghriftian, thereby to be troubled at it, which he (hewer, 
 i. From their proper end, that they are as it were fire to try 
 the faith, fincerity and cceftancy ofthefaithfull,verfei2.' 
 *. From the fimilitude that is betwixt the faithfull and CJurft 
 in fu&ring afflic\ions,in which reipeft they fhould be (b fane 
 from being troubled at it, that they mould re joy ce, which is 
 contrary to perturbation. The realbn of which confluence 
 is taken from the effect, to wit, becaufe by differing afflictions 
 after this manner the faithfull come to partake of glory and 
 eternall joy with Chrift. 3. From the bleflednefle which is 
 adjoyned unto it, in refpeft of the communion of the holy 
 Spirit, who when he is blafphemed by the persecutors, is pre- 
 fent with thofe that fuffer, and is glorified by them, verfe 14. 
 2?ut that this which the Apoftle hath (poken, may be rightly 
 underftood, he telsthem, that this cannot be meant of every 
 affliction, but of that alone which a man furTers for the name 
 of Chrift, verfe J 4. as it is explained, verfe 15,1 & when a man 
 fuffers not for his owne deferts, but meerely as, or becaufe he 
 is a Chriftian : from which confideration the conchifion 
 which he laid downe before is effectually deduced, verfe 1 6, 
 to wit, that in that refpett he mould not be afharaed, or (b 
 troubled, as M he were afhamed of the name of Chrift, but 
 therefore to glorifie God. 4. From the ruling caufe which 
 orders and governes fiich events , namely, the will of God, 
 whereby he hath appointed a certainetime to exercife judge- 
 ment in his houfe or Church, verfe 17. at the beginning. For 
 that which is there fpoken of the time of judgement, is after- 
 wards referred to the will of God, verfc 1 9. 5. To the fame 
 purpofe is the condition of the faithfull fee forth by compa- 
 ring the condition of the unbeliever verfe 17, 18. which is 
 declared by fiich a connexion ; If the condition of the faith- 
 full be fo hard, the condition of the unbelievers muft be alto- 
 gether intolerable ; whence he doth clofely intimare, that we 
 muft neither en vie the unbelieving perfecutors , or revolt 
 from the faith by reafon of perfecutions. From all thefe 
 things the primary conclufion is fpecially inferred, verfe 1 9, 
 that the faithfull in luffering afflictions would arme them- 
 
 felves 
 
A Commentary up&n the fir ft Epiftk of Peter. 1 03 
 
 felvcs with true confidence., againft all the perturbations and 
 temptations which may arifc unto them from afflictions. 
 The Doftrines drawne herehence« 
 Do&. 1. Affliliions and perfections fhould not fetme 
 4 new or ft range thing unto Chrift ians. 
 This is gathered from verfe 12. 
 R-afoa 1. Becaufc they were foretold by Chrift and his 
 Apottles. 
 
 2. Becaufc Chrift himfelfe and his chicfc Difciples were 
 aCed after (he lame manner. 
 
 3. "Secaufe fuch is the difpofition of the world D that we 
 muit alwayescxpeft fuch things from it. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonith us not to be troubled at 
 thete things, as it is in the text. 
 
 Dod. 2. The end and ufe of affliliions is for the triall of 
 Chriftians. 
 
 This is gathered from the fame verfe. See the lame do&rine 
 Chap. i. verfe 7. 
 
 Do£t 3. The faith fuR in Coring affliBions and per [ecu- 
 tions are partakers ofQhriftsfufferings. 
 This is gathered from verfe rj. 
 
 Reafon i* 2?ecaufe when they fuffer for the name of Chrift, 
 Chrift fuffers in them, according to that of the Lord , Saul, 
 Saul^ why perfecuteft thou met 
 
 2. 'Secaufe they are made conformable unto Chrifts death 9 
 Thil.$. 10. 
 
 Vfe* Thil may ferve to comfort us,bccawfc therein we have 
 matter of rejoycing, as it is in the text. 
 
 Do&. 4* From thefe affliliions ,if fte fuffer them joyfully, 
 roe have a fure argument of our et email joy and glory to come 
 hereafter. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 13. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe they that afe partakers of Chrifts death, 
 arc partakers alfo of his refurre&ion and cverlafting life, Rom. 
 8.17. 2 £V. 4. 11. 
 
 2. 5ecaufe that joy which we have in afflictions 9 is the 
 irft fruits of our eternall joy and glory. 
 
 Vf«. This may ftrve to admonifh us to learne to fuffer joy- 
 fully for the name of Chrift, lames 1.2. A Us 5.41. 
 
 Doft. 
 
1 04 A Commentary upon the frfi EptjMe of? Her. 
 
 Do&. 5» The reproaches which the faith} : tiH fttffer for rod* 
 linejfe fake, are to be reckoned amongfi thofe perfections, which 
 they fitffer for the name of Christ* 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 14. 
 Reafon 1. becaufe they tend to the dishonouring and dis- 
 gracing of us. 
 
 2. Becaufe they (hew that the mindes of the authors of 
 them are as ready to bring greater evils upon us, if occafion 
 fhould fcrvc* 
 
 3. Becaufe reproaches doe worke more Upon fome mens 
 minds then reall injuries. 
 
 Vje. Thismayfervetoadmonifb, 1 all men, to take heed 
 that they have no communion with the wickechvorld in fcof- 
 fing at any part of true piety. »; The godly, to have a if eciall 
 care, that they be not moved at fiich reproaches, but to beare 
 them with the fame patience, that they ought to beare other 
 perfections* 
 
 Doct. 4. Jn theft re f roaches which the godly fuffer fir the 
 name ofQhrift , the Spirit ofg§d is in afpeciall manner blofphe- 
 meden the one fide t and glorified on the other* 
 This is gathered from verfe 14. 
 
 Reafon, Becaufe looke how farre forth the faithful! 
 make profeftlon of true piety , fo farre forth are they the 
 temples of the holy Ohoft : therefore when in that refpeft 
 they are reproached, the holy Ghofl is evill fpoken of : and 
 when they hold fait and adorn their profeflion notwithstand- 
 ing thefe reproaches, the fame Spirit which is evill fpoken of 
 by the reproachers, is glorified by them. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve for terror to thofe that do reproach 
 others. 
 
 And 2. For comfort to thofe that are reproached. 
 
 Thofe things which are in the I J verfe, were handled be- 
 fore cap*2. & 3* 
 
 Doft. 7. (jod hath certttine and appointed times to execute 
 his judgements. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 17 at the beginning. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the patience and long-fufFering of Gdd 
 muft have their time. 
 
 2. Becaufe there is a time alfo required, that men may fill 
 up the meafure of their finncs, 5. Becaufe 
 
JCvMtoentay upontkefirji Fpijtie afTeter. 105 
 
 3. Ikcaufc there arecertaine opportunities of time, Where- 
 in Gods judgements areexecuted with greater benefit , riven 
 they could be at other times^ ' toil ■ 
 
 PJei'This 'may fcrve to admonifh M,n.o£to cono'enine 
 'God a hy way dither' of flownefic or rafhridfiftftft re%'ft;Qf his 
 judgements, but to icit well fatisficd in his moft wile orde- 
 ring of all thing.". 
 
 Doc"t. 8. Judgement doth .often begin, at the ho »fe of \Go4 s 
 that is, at the Church* ■ 
 
 This is gathered from the fame place* 1 [ .£ 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the finnes of tbofe, which profefieGods 
 n:ime 3 do in a fpeciall manner wrong Gods name and his ho- 
 nour , and therefore the more they offend God , the more 
 Ought they to be puniihed. 
 
 2* Becaufe Gods chiefe care i?y to p&rinVhis Church by 
 fuch chaltifementr, 
 
 3. Becaufe God oftentimes ufeth the unbelievers as his in- 
 ftruments to correft his Church j they mult therefore be firft 
 tolerated, th«t they may accomplish Gods conn fell, and af- 
 terwards puni(hed 3 becalife they have dohefo wickedly. 
 
 Vfc This riiay ferve to direct us, not to be troubled fa 
 minde , when we fee the Church affiled be fore and above 
 other people, but to acknowledge Gods divine ordering 
 of it. 
 
 Do&% 9 -The judgement which Cjod exercifeth upon his 
 Church, is a tnufi cert due argument of the moflr fever e and hea* ie 
 judgement that fhall in its due time come upon tricked men and 
 unbeleevers. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 17,18, So /<?>\2 5.29. 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe God dcalcs with his Church as a Far- 
 ther, but he will deale with others^as a Judge. 
 
 2. Towards the Church in themidft of judgement he re- 
 members mercy, but towards the wicked and unbeleevers he 
 exerciteth revenge. 
 
 3. Becaufe to 1 the beleevcrs judgement worketh together 
 for good 3 but in the unbelievers it hatfrrio fuch mitigation. > 
 
 Vfe 1. This may be. for comfort t,o the faithfull in their 
 afflictions. 
 
 2 . For terrour to the unbeleevers in their per (editions and 
 ' carnallfecurity. O Doc>. 
 
A Commentary ttpon ihefrfi Epftk of Peter. 
 
 Doft. 10. They that fnpr for the name of Chrifl^ dofr§- 
 petty Jriffer ace cr ding to the W&. of God* 
 
 This is gathered from vcrfc i p. compared with ver. 1 4 1 d. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe their finncs oftentimes are not the cau- 
 fes of thefe afflictions, but the will of God to make triall of 
 them. 
 
 2. Becaufe it is the revealed will of God, that fuchaffli- 
 cYions are the lot of the faithfull, and the way by which they 
 tifually come to the kingdome of God. 
 
 3. Becaufe this (uttering of fuchalfli&ioiisijpart ofour 
 obedience to the revealed will of God. 
 
 Vfc. This may ferve to comfort us againft the trouble of 
 thefe affli&ions. 
 
 Doft. 1 1. They which fuffcr in this manner, may com- 
 mend their fenles unto GoL 
 
 This is gathered from the fame verfe. 
 
 Reafon 1. j?ccaufe when they fufler for the name of God, 
 God doth in fomefort furTer with them, and therefore their 
 caufcisGodscaufe. 1 
 
 2. .Becaufe in that duty which we performeuBto God, as 
 his fervants, we may expeel: protection from hinji, as our 
 Mutter. 
 
 5, Becaufe while we are expofed unto danger for Gods 
 fake, God cannot but take care of us. ' ., 
 
 Vfc- This is.a life of confolation, and it is expiated and fet 
 forth by the ApoiUeP^/, 1. 7m'.i.i2. 
 
 DoC-1. 12. Theyfeottldd) this by well doiag. 
 
 This is gathered from the lams verfe. So Rom.i. 
 
 Reafon 1 . Becaufe they cannot futrer for the name of Chrift 
 but as theyfuffer for welldoing. fo 
 
 2# Becaufe they cannQtcprderye the liberty of their confi- 
 dence, but by a good confeience, that is 3 by -wed] doing. 
 
 3. becaufe to commend an evill caufennto God 3 is D to 
 make God as it were the Patron of evill. 
 
 Vfc* This may ferve to admoni(htrs 5 .£o take heed, that we 
 doe not deprive our ielve? of this g£eat,,priviledge by evill 
 doinf. 
 
 Doft. 13: Godisafaithfttllprotetteranddefinderofthofe 
 that c ommevd their fouUs unto him* 
 
 Q Reafon 1, 
 
A Comment ary ufon thefirftEpifile of 'Peter* 99 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe it is eafie for him to preferve our ibules, 
 as it was heretofore to make them : and in this refpe& he i$ 
 called in the text, God the Creator not the Treferver, 
 
 2 . 2?ecaule it ftands upon his glory to do this. 
 
 y Becaufe the fidelity and truth of his promifes requires 
 as much. 
 
 This may ferve to comfort us in all (traits and adve-rfities r 
 Let them commend their foules under a fait hi ? ptll Creator: (aith 
 thcApoftle. 
 
 Chapter V. 
 
 Verfe I. the Elders which are among you I exhort^ vohoamalfo 
 
 an Elder y andawitnejfeofthefujferingsofCkrifty andalfo 
 
 a partaker of the glory that /hall be revealed, 
 Verle 2 . Feed the flockjfC-od- which is among you^ taking the 0- 
 
 ver fight thereof \ not by conftraint^ but willingly : not for fil- 
 
 tlrj lucre^ but of a ready minde, 
 Vcrfe 3. Neither as being Lords over Gods heritage', but being 
 
 enfamples to the flock: 
 Verfe 4. And when the chief e Shepheardjhall appear e , yejhatl 
 
 receive a crowne of glory thatfk'deth not away* 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 j Ere is a fpeciall exhortation propounded towards 
 the Elders, that they mould performe their duty 
 and office in a holy manner. The duty in gene- 
 rail is fet downc to be, to feed the fl > ck, whereof 
 they were made overfeers, by a diligent overf ghr. and care of 
 them, ver(e 2. at the beginning. And withall it is detained 
 by 3 conditions that are in a (peciall manner required there- 
 in, which are fet forth by a dehortation from the three 
 contrary vices, that are oppofed to thofe three conditions. 
 I. The firft condition is, willingly to feed the flock ; the 
 contrary vice whereuntois, to do it by conftraint. 2. To do 
 it readily and freely : the contrary vice unto this, is, to fecke 
 after fifthy lucre thereby. 3. Not only in doctrine, but in 
 
 O a . example 
 
j c 8 A Comment dry upon tht firft Epijlk of Peter. 
 
 example of lite to go before the Churchr; the contrary vice 
 where unto is, to Lord it over the Church. This duty being 
 thus declared and defcribed, they are perfwaded unto it by 
 the rewardthat is adjoyned, whichfor that caufc all fauhfull 
 [hepherds do receive^ veri'e 4- at the end. Which reward is fet 
 foith both by the internall nature ofk, that it isacrowrteof 
 glory that fadethnot away j and by the authoijr ar.d g ve of 
 it, to wit, that the chiefe Shepherd our LordJsiiisChriil, 
 wH give it; and alfo by the time of this giving of it, when 
 tkcxaiei'e Shepherd ihull appe lrc^thatis, at the ial* day of 
 judgement. N >w thi* exhortation., that it might be the more 
 eftc^u \il, and might worke the more upon them, is u ge i and 
 fet forth by the per f on c^ Peter ^ who was the miniih ing caufe 
 there- if, *«. From tU«-pAiicyai)c|feilow(bipofchef<ime.^U'' 
 tfoM.-Pptr arj Elder prayed the other E;ders to do their du- 
 ty. 2» From the knowledge which he had andthetertimo- 
 ny which' he could give of the aiflictions ot Chrhi, which he 
 ffcrffered for ^he Church, the remembrance whereof mould ftir 
 op^ all (hepnerds to a diligent cat e of the Church. k jw From 
 jJfeAatfkaMg expectation which he had of the glory to comej 
 which glory he promifeth to ail (hepherds in the name ot the 
 'chieieihepherd. 
 
 The Da&rines drawtie hcrehence. 
 
 Dofr. 1. Thrfe exhortations ■ aremtf effeBuall which are 
 propounded in an humble, manner. 
 
 This is gathered fr <m verfe 1. where the Apoftle praye?, 
 not command^ in humility and charity SoT hil. j.p. 1 Tin e 
 5.1 He prayesth Eiders alfo as a fellow Eidcr s althcu^ he 
 Was placed in a higher degree, as Apoftlc. 
 
 Rea/on 1. Because by this manner of doing it appeared 
 that he which exhortb doth not aime at hU'owne good, but 
 the good of another. 
 
 2. Becaufe by this manner of doingh is zeale me wes it fdfe 
 to be the purer. 
 
 3. Becaufe he, to whom fuch an exhortation is made, is 
 feonuiired thereby, and lo takes it theea(ier and better. 
 
 Vfe» This may ferve to direftus, in all our exhortations 
 and admonition? to have refpeft unto this. 
 
 Do ft, 2. It m*k£* the exhortation the more effcttuatty 
 
 rvhen 
 
A Commentary upon thefirji EpiJHe of Peter « t a 
 
 when a manfpeal^es snt of cert nine Jzdgemsnt and communion of 
 ajf-ftion. 
 
 This is gathered herehcnce, that 7VA?>- mikes way for his 
 exh jrution , in chat he was a witnefF? or the furK-rings of 
 Chriit, and fo had a certainc kn-uvicdge of thofc things 
 vvhicli beluig unto Chrilt, and th t he was partaker of the 
 fame glory ; and therefore he was afTe ^ed after the fame man- 
 ner himl lte,as he defired they fhould be. 
 ' Reaf on i. 8ec aule knowledge gives ability and authority, 
 and communion of affection addes. zealc and charity to the 
 exhorutioi;. 
 
 2. Became theft two will take away thofe obj tVions, 
 which ufually hinder the efficacy of the exhortation j name- 
 ly, either that he gives his judgement of things that he doth 
 not know, or ellc at lealt he is an unexperienced mnj,of whom 
 it nny rightly be faid, Jf thou vperthere^ihonwoiildc ft think* 
 otherwifr. 
 
 ZJf, This may ferve to direct us to get knowledge of thofe 
 things which we ixhort others unto, and affections alfoan- 
 fwei able thereunto. 
 
 Doft. 3. Men Jbould be exhorted in a fpeciall wanner unto 
 thofe AurieSy which bdongmto their proper or particular fttnUi* 
 9ns or calttngt. 
 
 This is gathered fromverfe 2« where the fhepherds are ex- 
 horted to feed the fljtk. 
 
 Keafon i. tfecaufe every maris particular tuncVion is that 
 condi ion wherein God hath placed him to advance his 
 glory. 
 
 2. Became a' man* faithfulneflc h moit of all made triull 
 of in that conditio . 
 
 3. Beeaufe the duties of our generall calling mould be exer- 
 cised in every Chriltims partial. arconditi n. 
 
 Vft* This may ferve to a imon.lh every oi.etotafregrcateft * 
 ere ot thofe duties which arepro^ei tohiscaiLngorcon- 
 dition* 
 
 D >&. 4. It is the proper duty of a Shepherd^ tofeedihe 
 fiockjhat is committed to his ch irge* 
 1 his is gathe-ed from vcrfe *. 
 &taj on 1. Becaufc the theuhcids are appointed for the cdi- 
 
 fioauuo 
 
101 A Commentary npm the jiff Epifile of Peter.. 
 
 fication of the Church: now to feed is nothing elfe, but Co 
 life all meanes that arc appointed by God to procure the edifi- 
 cation of the Church. 
 
 a. Becaufe Paftors are properly given to the faithfull that 
 are converted, who as new borne babes ftipuld be nourished 
 and brought up with milke and food, untill they come to per- 
 fection. 
 
 3. Becaufe the overfeers of the Church mould take mod 
 care of thofe things, that are moft neceflary for the Church ; 
 but it is moft neceflary for the faithfull being imperfect , to 
 have their fpirituall life preferved and increafcd by feeding. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to admonifli, 1 The Minifters not to 
 thinke that it is a light or common duty that lies upon them, 
 but that the very life of the Church doth in fbme fort depend 
 upon their labour and Miniftery , and therefore fo to carry 
 themfelvcs, as befits and becomes Co great a duty. 
 
 2 . The peop!e 3 not to expeft from their Minifters vain and 
 light things which might tickle their eares , but to come to a 
 Sermon as to the Lords Table , and feeke for fpirituall food 
 to feed their foules unto everlaft ing life. 
 
 DocT. 5. Paftors Jhmld ferforme their duties willingly, 
 not by constraint* 
 
 This is gathered from the fame verfe. Now by conftraint 
 is meant that forcing which proceeds from outward things, 
 whereby a man performes the part of a Minifter in fomc fort, 
 either to avoid poverty, or difgrace and infamy , or the cen- 
 flire of others. 
 
 Reafan 1. £ecaufe that which is done by Conftraint,comes 
 not from the heart as from an inward principle, nor from the 
 Spirit fan&ify ing ; and therefore it is not a duty pleafing and 
 acceptable unto God. 
 
 2. Because that which comes not from the heart, and is 
 not done willingly , is done only perfunctorily and for fafhion 
 fake, nc t with that diligence and care which God requires. 
 
 3. Becaufe that which proceeds not from the heart and the 
 deereft affection of the fbule, doth not udially worke upon 
 other mens mindes, and therefore is not effe&uall to the edifi- 
 cation of the Church, which is the end of the Miniftery. 
 
 Vje. 1 his Should adtnoniih us, to look not only to the un- 
 demanding 
 
A Commtntaty up$n thefirfi Epiflle efPeter. 1 03 
 
 derftanding, but alfo to the difpoiition of the will and heart 
 in the Minifters of the Church. 
 
 Do&. 6. They Jhonlddo the fame of a ready mi»de 9 not for 
 lucre. 
 
 Now by lucre is meant all kinde of worldly profit, which 
 men acquire unto themfelves, either in doing the thing, or in 
 getting fame, or in gaining friends, and the like. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe that which depends upon lucre or fome 
 (tich likeend, muft neeefTarily be applyed thereunto, and this 
 is to corrupt the word of Ood, 2 Cor. 2. j ). 
 
 1. Becaufe that which depends upon mutable things, that 
 alfb it felfe is mutable and inconftant. 
 
 3. Bscaufe he which feeketh after lucre, is not a Minifter 
 of God, but of Mammon. 
 
 Vfe. This may fervetoadmonifh, 1 The Minifters, not 
 to follow after lucre. 2. The people not to fuffcr their Mi- 
 nifters to be tempted by poverty, and Co to be the lefle cheerc- 
 full and ready in performing their duty, He b. 13.17. 
 
 -, Do&. 7. the ajfettation of Lor Mint -Jfc Jb >ott Id be far from 
 Chrifis Minifiers. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 3. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe they arc called to meerc fervke, not to 
 Lordlinefle. 
 
 3. Becaufe Chrift himfelfe, whofe Minifters they are, did 
 purpofely live amongft men as one that ferveth,that he might " 
 leave an example unto thofe that (hould minifter unto others 
 in his name, Luke 22.27. 
 
 3. Becaufe the worke wherein they are imployed , is not 
 fubjeft to the command and authority of men. For men can- 
 not command religio»,but only perfwade unto it. 
 
 4, 2?ecaufe the Lordlinefife of Minifters alienates mens 
 mindes from their teftimony, becaufe they neither willingly 
 fubje&themfelves to fuch as affett LordlineflTe, and they fup- 
 pofe too that thole men* whom they fee to ftudy their owne 
 glory and power, do neither look after the glory of God,nor 
 the good of the Church. 
 
 Vf» This may ferveto admonifh all Minifters, to take heed 
 not only of all afFeftation, but alfb all fhew of Lordhnefle. 
 Now thefe men have a fhew oi LordlineflTe, 1 That would 
 
 have 
 
X 1 2 A Cowmniary kpq the fir ft fyifth of Peter * 
 
 have others in Tome fort to depend upon their authority. 
 .2. Thofe that prefcribe fomeihing as neccffary to be believed 
 or done, which is not taken out of Gods word. $»Thofe that 
 expound the will of God it fclfe too imperioufly , having no 
 regard to the intirmiry of thofe with whom they have to doe. 
 Daft. 8. Ministers fhoulA go before the people not only in 
 dottrine, but in example al[c% 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 3. 
 Reafon I. becaufe, they are called to feed the flock with all 
 their itrerrgthj and therefore they fhouldedjfle the Church 
 not only by their words, but by their deeds alfb* 
 
 2. Becaufe a wicked life doth either utterly deftroy their 
 preaching, or at lead much weaken it. 
 
 3. Becaufe a good example is ofa lingular force, in that it 
 fheweth that that very thing may be done, which he preach- 
 eth mould be done, 
 
 4. Becaufe it takes away all prejudice out of mens minds, 
 and all fulpicion of affe&ing LordlineflTe and vame glory, 
 when they lee Minifters ferioufly to do that, which they pro- 
 pound and perfwade others to do. . " 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to exhort, firft, the Minifters, to la- 
 bour to leade an exemplary li^e. Secondly, the peopIe,to imi- 
 tate the good life of their Minifters , for therefore are they 
 propofed as examples. The common vices contrary to this 
 duty, are: 1. That many obferve thofe things only in their 
 Minifters, which they may carpe at or calumniate, and not 
 thofe things which they fhould take notice of, with intention 
 to imitate them. 2. That many imagine that there is a fpeci- 
 all kinde of holineffe belonging to Minifters, which others 
 are not bound to labour for. 3. That many excuse their wic- 
 ked conrfes by this pretence, that they are Lay-men , not Ec- 
 clefiafticall or Clergy-men. 
 
 Doft. 9. LMiniflersJhouldexpeZl the juft reward of their 
 labour andcare> not from men^ hut from Chrifi, 
 This is gathered from verfe 4. 
 
 Reafon 1 . becaufe Chrift is the chiefe (hepherd,and Lord 
 of the fl. ck, as it is in the text. 
 
 2. Becaufe they muft expe& many injuries from men, and 
 thofe good things which .doe happen , are not iiich , or fo 
 
 highly 
 
A Commentary upon the firfi Epifile of Peter. 1 1 2 
 
 highly to be efteernedof, as that they fhould depend upon 
 them. 
 
 3. Bccauie they will labour to pleafe him mou\from whom 
 they expeft their reward. Now they mould pleafe Chrift, 
 rot men. ^ 
 
 V[e, This may fcrve to comfort gedly Minifters againft 
 thofe troubles, which they finde men to make againft them. 
 Doft. 10. Their reward is a crowne of eternaH glory, 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe glory is the reward of the faithfull for 
 all kinde of obedience towards God: Now in the Mimftery 
 there is a fpeciall kinde of obedience. 
 
 2. Becaufe thofe that did drive or ranne lawfully in a race, 
 there was wont to be a Crowne fet before them ; lb for thofe 
 that carry themfelves well in the exercife of tbe Miniftery, 
 befides the glory common to all the Saints, there is a fpeciall 
 kinde of addition prepared, which is like as it were a crown. 
 Vfe, This may ferve to exhort Minifters, couragioufly to 
 contemne all temporary ignominy and difgrace for this 
 Crowne of eternall glory. 
 
 Do&. 1 1. This (\owne of glory fhall be fully given At 
 Chrifis [econdcomming to judgement. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us,patiently to perfevere 
 unto the end. 
 
 Verfe 5. Liktwife ye younger y [ubmit your [elves unto the elder: 
 yea, all of you be fubjeft one to another^ and be clothedroith 
 ■ humility : for God rejifieth the proud, and giveth grace tt 
 the humble, 
 
 Verfe 6, Humble your [elves therefore under the mighty hand of 
 God} that he may exalt you in due time, 
 
 Verfe 7. C*$ tn & *Uj 0Hr C4re H f on him, for he carethforyou* 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 TPHe Apoftle having in the former verfcs defcribed the duty 
 
 of the Elders towards the Church or the younger <btt,and 
 
 perfwaded them unto it, he doth tricre-hence cone udsthe 
 
 duty of the youngee towards the elders by a comparing of 
 
 P things 
 
j , 4 A Cemmcniary upon thefrfl Epfile of Peter. 
 
 things that are alike unto it, as the firti word of che 5 verfe 
 fhewes unto us, Likewife, This duty is in generall pointed 
 out by fubje&ion, which is fet forth by the other duty, that 
 is due not only to the Elders, but alfo to all the members of 
 the Church, by reafon of that nature which it hath common 
 with the former ; and it is alfo called fubjc&ion in thofe 
 Words, yca % all of you befubjeH cnete another* Now this fubje- 
 ftion as well unto the Elders as unto all,is firft defcribed what 
 kinde of fubje&ion it ought to be, to wit, not only outward, 
 but proceeding from the inward fcbje&ion of the foule unto 
 God, be clothed with humility. And that it is meant of humi- 
 lity towards God may be gathered from verfe 6, Secondly, 
 He doth perfwade them alio unto this humility ; 1 . Becaufe 
 it is an ornament of the minde ; that by the way. 2. From 
 Gods blefling ad joy ned, which followes thereupon, God gives 
 grace unto the humble t which is illuftrated by Gods curfecon- 
 trary thereunto, that fals upon the proud, God re/ifteth the 
 proud. Thirdly, he doth urge and prefle them unto this fub- 
 jeftion towards God, verfe 6. Humble your [elves therefore, 
 and he ihewes the proper reafon of this fubjeSion, which is 
 the mighty hand or omnipotency ol God : and withall hee 
 CXplaines that reafon, which he had before propounded con- 
 cci ning the blefllng and grace of God towards the humbIe 5 to 
 wit.that by that grace they (hall be exalted: the time of which 
 exaltation is marked our, that it fliall be in due time, that hee 
 may (XsJtycu in due time In thc2aft place by anticipation of 
 a dole, but weighty objection, whereby this fubje&ion is u- 
 lually made very difficult, he fhewes the true manner thereof, 
 to wit, that it mould be joyned with that confidence , which 
 cads all care upon God, Co that no feare or worldly care can 
 hinder this fubjc&ion, which confidence he doth perfwade 
 them unto by that eflfecluall providence which God hath over 
 the faithfull for their good, verfc 7, at the end. For he careth 
 for you. 
 
 The doctrines arKing herehence. 
 
 Do&. I. there is. the like duty of the people towards their 
 ^JPaflorSy as there is of the Paftors towards the people-. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 5 at the beginning* Like-wife ye 
 younger. Now by the younger in this place is chicfcly meant 
 
 the 
 
A Comment urj upon the fir ft Epiflle of Peter* 115 
 
 the flock, which depends upon the Paftors, becaufe the Pa- 
 ftors and Presbyters were for themoft partchofen ofthofe 
 that were elder in age, and therefore the greateft part of the 
 flock confided of younger?. Now their duty is faid to be 
 like, not for that it is in the fame kinde, that the people fhould 
 guide their Paftors, as the Paftors do gu dethe people,but be- 
 caufe there is the like reafon of both their duties. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the fame God and Lord both of Paftors 
 & people, hath impofed and prefcribed to both their duties. 
 
 2. becaufe that relation which is betwixt the Paftor and 
 people, requires a mutuall intercourfe of duty . # • ' 
 
 3. Becaufe the Paftors labour and care is made void, if the 
 people do not in fome fort anfwer the fame. 
 
 4. Becaufe the Paftors care and labour, tending to the fal- 
 vation of the people, deferves it. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to reprove thofe that are very curi- 
 ous and rigid in exacting their Paftors duty , when in the 
 meane time they are nothing carefull of their own dude. 
 
 Doft. 2. The duty of people towards their Tafiors cenftfts 
 chiefly infubjeEiion. 
 
 Reafon 1 . 2?ecaufe their Paftors are (et over them in Gods 
 name. 
 
 2. Becaufe faithful! Paftors propound nothing elfe to 
 themfelves to obferve, but the will of God, whereunto fub- 
 je&ion and obedience muft neceflarily be yeelded. 
 
 3. Becaufe in the calling of their Paftors, they did either 
 exprefly or covertly at leaft promife this very thing* 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to reprove thofe that come unto Ser- 
 mons, as Judges, to play the Criticks, not to fubject them- 
 felves to the will of God, and fuch as caft off all difcipline as 
 an intolerable yoke. 
 
 Do<5t 3. There is a kindoffutyeftion alfo due unto all Chri- 
 stians* 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words , Be yee allfiibjeti one to 
 another, 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe as occafion fhall ferve, we fhould hum- 
 ble our felves to performe the meaneft offices unto our bre- 
 thren. 
 
 2. becaufe we fhould fubmit our felves unto the private ad- 
 monitions of our brethren. P 2 3. Be- 
 
1 1 6 A Commentary upon the firji Bptftle $f Peter. 
 
 3. 2>ecaufe wc mould with all patience bcare all the infir- 
 mities of ou;' brethren. 
 
 Vf( . This may ferve to reprove the arrogancy and pride of 
 men, which cannot endure any fuch Cub} eftion. 
 Doft. 4. Humility is a great ornament* 
 Reafon I, tfecaule humility is a lingular vertue, and in 
 fome fort the foundation of all the reft. 
 
 a. Becaufe it makes us acceptable unto godly men, to 
 whom in th's regard we are made more profitable. 
 
 3. Becauleit doth greatly commend us in the fight of GW, 
 when for his Take we are lubjeft not only to our fuperiours 
 and equals, but alfo to thofe oi the loweft degree. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to refute all chofe, that feeke for ho- 
 nour and reputation by arrogancy ; and fhunne humility as ic 
 were a vile debafing of a mans felfe. 
 Doft. 5. (Jodreffieth the prottd. 
 Reafon x. Becaufe the proud refill the will of God. 
 
 2. 2?ecaufe they feeke unfitting things , or at leaft not after 
 a duemanrer. 
 
 3. Becaufe whatfoever proceeds from pride, turnestothc 
 difhonour of God, to whom all fubjeftion is due. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to condemne proud men. 
 
 Doft. 6* God fiveth grace to the bumble. 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the promife of grace was made to hu- 
 mility. 
 
 2. becaufe hux/ility isthedifpofingandflttingofaman 
 for to receive grace. 
 
 3. Becaufe only the humble men have a worthy efteeme of 
 Gods grace. 
 
 Vfr. This may ferve to exhort us, greatly to labour for hu- 
 mility. 
 
 Doft. 7. The ftrength andporverofGodfhouldflirreusuf 
 to fubjeclion towards him. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 6 at the beginning. 
 Reafon f . Becaufe it were madnefTc to refill the Almighty. 
 2. Becaufe Gods omnipotencic is the protection of thole 
 that humble themfelves before him. 
 
 Vfr* This may ferve to admonilh us not to fuffer our felves 
 fo much as in thought to be led away from our obedience to- 
 wards 
 
A Commentary upon thefirftEpifik tfTetek^ j • j j 
 
 wards God, but from che medication of Gods omnipotency 
 and our own infirm ty to increafe daily more and more in hu- 
 mility. 
 
 Doft. 8. God will exalt tbs humble indue time* 
 This Is gathered from verfe 6 at the end. 
 
 [Reafon i. B».caufe glory is the reward of obedience. 
 
 2. Becaufe they glorifie God, and therefore God will ex- 
 alt them according to his promife, Tbofe that honour me 9 I mil 
 honour. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to direft us, to feek for true exaltation 
 by humilitie and fubraifllon. 
 
 Do&. p. they that humble themfelves before God , may 
 fafly 3 and alfo Jbould caft all their care upon God, 
 This is gathered from verfe 7. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe this i§ Gods covenant , that he will be 
 alwayes all-fufficient unco them that walke before him. 
 
 2. Becaufe Go i by a lingular care and providence watcheth 
 over thofe that have a care of his glory, & feek his kingdome, 
 as it is in the text, He carethforyou* 
 
 x Vfe. This may ferve to comfort all the godly , becaufe 
 God hach freed them from all care 5 and they fhould imbrace 
 this libertic by true faith, and putting their truft in him, and 
 apply it to themfelves. 
 
 Verfe 8. Tie fober^ be vigilant : becaufe jour adverfarythe'De- 
 vill 9 as a rearing Lion walketh about ^feehmg rvhom -he may 
 bkvoure : 
 
 Verfe 9. Whom refiftftedfajlintbe faith, knomngthat the jam* 
 affliftions are accomflijbcd in your brethren that are in the 
 world. 
 
 Verfe 10. But the God of aU grace, who hath called us into his 
 et email glory by Chrifi Iefui^ after that ye have fuffered 
 a while, make you perj r ec~l, fi 'ablifb^ftrengthen, fettle you. 
 
 Verfe 1 1. To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. 
 
 n/fmen. 
 
 The 
 
118 A Cmmntary upett tptprp EpiJUe 0} Peter* 
 
 I 
 
 The. Analyfis. 
 
 FOr conclufioh of the whole Epiftle* to the foregoing Ex- 
 hortations there is fdjded one generall one , which doth 
 moft neerely belong to the fcope of the Apoftle, to wit, that 
 notwithstanding all opposition, difficulty, and temptation, 
 they (hould conftantly perfift and go forward in that grace, 
 which they had received. Now this care is defcribed, i by 
 two duties, which belong to the due manner thereof, fober- 
 neffc, and vigilancy. l» The neceflity of theft duties is (hew- 
 ed by the grievous danger, to whieh otherwift they mould be 
 expofed. And this danger is fet forth by the efficient caufe 
 thereof, the Devill, of whom the Apoftle makes a defcripti- 
 on to that pnrpofe .- i By the opposition and enmity which 
 he hath againft us ; in refpeel whereof he is called, our adver- 
 fary or enemy. 2. By the manner and degree of that enmitie, 
 that it is joyned with cruelty, as of a rowing Lion. 3. That 
 befides this cruelty there is over and above in him very great 
 diligence and greedineiTe to do us hurt, in theft words : feek? 
 ingwbomhemay devoure. Now the Apoftle gives us warning, 
 that we muft not yeeld to this enemy and danger which he 
 threatens us, but refift it, verfc 9 at the beginning , which is 
 nothing elft, but not to fuffer our ftlves to be removed by his 
 temptations from the grace of God : and the chiefe meanes 
 of this refinance he (hewes to confift in the ftedfaftnefle of our 
 faith ; which faith may in this refpeel: be wonderfully con- 
 firmed by the example of our brethren in the world,who have 
 experience of the like afflictions and temptations of Sathan. 
 Agreeable to this exhortation he addes a prayer verft io. Bt- 
 cauft the fuccefle of all our endeavours depends, upon the 
 .grace and blefling of God : And in this prayer he beftecheth 
 God to ftrengthen the faithfull, and make them perfect in all 
 grace,at the end of the verfe, make you ferfeEl i ft*bUJb :i flrengtb- 
 en, fettle you. The arguments whereby he confirfnes their 
 faith that they (hall obtaine this petition, afe two : 1. The 
 alKufficiencie of the grace of God in it ftlfe, in which refpeft 
 this title is given unto God, that he is the God of all grace. 
 2. The communicating of this grace in the calling of the 
 
 faithfull 
 
A Commentary up an the fir ft Epiftk efPettr. up 
 
 fakhfull, in thcfe words : who bath calledyou : the grace of 
 which Calling is (hewed, firft, by the end a nd fcopc, that it is, 
 to partake of the eternall glorie-of God. Secondly, by the 
 ptincipall caufe, in Chrifl Iefw. Thirdly, by the condition 
 that goes before the accomplishment of this calling, and pro- 
 perly belongs to this exhortation of the Apoftle untoconftan- 
 cic in afflictions, to wit, becaufe we are fo called^unto eternall 
 glorie, that in the meane time we muft fuffer afflictions, after 
 that'ye have fuffered a while. In the laft place tipdn^occafion 
 of this prayer he addes a rtligibus doxolog?e 3 glorifyin^ Gfed, 
 verfe it. wherein is contained both the lait end of that pacti- 
 on, and a confirm ition ofthe fame that it fhall be heard j at 
 alfo an iridfreft exhortation to the faithfull, to bend ail their 
 care ^hereunto,, to: glorifie Gods name really and effectual .ly» 
 by perflating in the grace of God. CI 
 
 The Dottrinesarifinghere-hence.' 
 
 Doft. I- We kadneed to watch continually i *Be vigilant, 
 Reafon i. Becaufe finne and danger doth naturally fteale 
 upon us, if we do not refift it. 
 
 2. Becaufe we cannot do ou*-duty withorit diligent care 
 and labour, and therein confifts the manner of watching. 
 
 3. 2?ecaufe if we could avoid danger,& obtain out defires, 
 if we did not feeke it with care and diligence , it would be no 
 praife to us, nor peace of confcierrcc. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to directuf, to imitatewatchmen, 
 which watch and ward to keepe the Citie ; the like diligence 
 mould we ule in keeping our foules, to examine all that goes 
 in and out, our thoughts affe&ions, words,and aftions, toge- 
 ther with the occasions of them, what they are, whence they 
 came, and whither they tend. 
 
 Doft. 2. That roe may watch as we ought to d», it is requi- 
 red that we Jbould be fober. 
 
 Now by foberncfle is meant the moderation of our affecti- 
 ons touching all worldly things. 
 
 Reafon i. /?ecaufe the cares of this world do fo burthen 
 the foule, that they leave no place for fpirituall cares. - 
 
 2. Becaufe the care of the world doth draw and diffract 
 the minder fo that although it doth not altogether exclude 
 religion; yet it doth diminifh and weaken it. 
 
 3. Becaufe 
 
■ l20 A Commentary uponthefirft EpiftteofPettr. 
 
 3. Bccaufc under the fhewof Tome worldly profit,pleafure, 
 or honour 3 we do oftentimes admit of thofe things,which be- 
 tray and deltroy out foules, 
 
 Vfc Thi$ may ferve to adrnonifh us not to drown our felves 
 in the tfiings of this world, but Co to ufe the world, as if weu- 
 
 feditnot, i C or -7*3 l * 
 
 Doft. 3. We have fitch affiritaatlenemj^ that we had need 
 to watch and ward continually againft him, 
 Reafon 1. Secaufe he is full of fpirituall malice and craft. 
 
 1. Becaufe his diligence is anfwerable to his malice. 
 
 3. becaufe he is moft cruell, fceking not to bring (bme 
 (ball inconvenience upon us, but our utter deftruft on . 
 
 yje. This may ferve to adrnonifh us, never to be fecure, but 
 day and night to be mindfull of that danger wherein we are, 
 Doft. 4. We mttfl coaragiottfiy refijt the DevilL 
 I his is gathered from verfe 9. 
 Reafon 1. becaufe he is fuch an enemy, that we can make 
 no peace or league with him. 
 
 2. tfecaufe they which yeeld unto the devill give them- 
 felves up into his hands, as being overcome. 
 
 3. "Secaule the courage of our minde to refill is a great pare 
 of fpirituall victory. 
 
 Vfe, This may fcrve to exhort us, to ftrengthen our mindes 
 in all things to make this reiiftence. 
 
 Doclt. 5. Thechiefepowerofrefifling t confiftsinaftedfaft 
 faith* 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words, Whom reffi ftedfaft in 
 the faith* 
 
 Reafon 1 . 2?ecau(e faith layes hold upon Chrift who over- 
 came the devill, and inhimtbeylay hold of victory itfelfe. 
 
 2. becaufe faith laies hold of the truth of all thepromifes, 
 whereby the foule is invincibly fortified. 
 
 3. becaufe faith, feeing it is the foundation of all grace, if 
 it be ftirred up and ftrengthened, it continues and ftrengthens 
 alfo all the other vertue?. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to direct us, to have a ipeciallcareto 
 raife and build up our faith. 
 
 Doft. 6, The examples of other heleevers dot make much 
 for the confirmation *f our faith in afflitlions & ether temp at ions » 
 
 Reaf$» 
 
A Commentary upon thefirft Epiflle of Peter* I a * 
 
 Reafon i. Becauft thereby Jtappeares that fachcouflitts 
 are not contrarie to faith and pietie. 
 
 2. Becauft therehence we have a cloud ofwitnefles, to 
 ftievsr, that at length we mall obtarne the vi&orie by faith. 
 
 Vfc* This may ftrve to direft us, to ftablifli our mindes 
 more and more by fuch meditations. 
 
 D©&. j* AH thofe things which we defire , either for ettr 
 felves or for ethers untofalvationy we twtjl asks of(joi* 
 
 This is gathered from verft io, compared with the Forego- 
 ing verft. For all thofe things which the Apoftlehad before 
 required of the faithful!, he doth now at the end ofthe Epiftlc 
 in their name crave of God, and he askesitwithdifcretion* 
 as appcares by that particle, But as if he mould have faid> 
 Although all theft things which I have propofed unto you 
 by way of admonition, exhortation, ana confolation , are 
 duties which you ought neceflarily to do , yet it is not to be 
 expe&ed, that you (hold accomplish it by your own ftrength: 
 I do therefore call upon God, (which you likewift mould al- 
 wayes do ) that he would increaft his grace more and more in 
 you, whereby you may receive both to will and to do all theft 
 things* 
 
 Reafon I. Becauft of our ft Ives we caii doe nothing that is 
 good. 
 
 2. Becauft in fuch like purpofts and endeavours we are let* 
 ted and hindred by divers temptations, and fuch as arc mod 
 ftrong through our kfirmitie. 
 
 3. becauft all our fpiritualiUfe proceeds from God, and 
 of him mould we aske it. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may (erve to admonifii us, not to reft in good 
 purpofes and intentions , but alwayes to fcekefor grace from 
 God, to accomplish the fame happily. 
 
 2-, To d i reft us,when we reade, heare, and meditate upon 
 Gods word, to water it, as it were, with our prayers, that ie 
 may be fruitfull. 
 
 Note, By fuch conclurions of the Apoftles , wherein 
 they do clofe up their Doftrine with prayer, theMinitters c- 
 fpecially are warned and admoniflied, after their Sermons to 
 defire God to give both themfclves and the people grace to 
 
 CL obfervc 
 
I a y A Commentary upon the firft Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 obferve thofe things,which they have learned in the Sermon : 
 and others alfo are admonifhed diligently and earneftly to 
 fcek the fame, both in publick with the Minifter, and in pri- 
 vate by themfelves. 
 
 Do&. 8. fVeftand in need of manifold grace. 
 
 As it is fet forth by divers words in the text : Make perfect, 
 ftahl'tjhy ftrengthen^ fettle 5 which may be thus diitinguiftaed, 
 that te make ferfetl is to adde thofe degrees of grace., which 
 are yet wanting : to flablijh^ is to protect and defend from 
 temptations and dangers : toftrengthen is togive inward pow- 
 er and ftrength : and t$ fettle } is to fatten the root it fctfeof 
 grace more and more. 
 
 Reafon I. 2?ecaufe all tho(c good things which we have;, 
 we have but in part. 
 
 2. Becaufe we are affaultcd by continual! temptations, and 
 are over and above prone to revolr. 
 
 3. Becauft great and manifold is that perfection, whercun- 
 to we are called. 
 
 Vf* This mayfervetoadmonithus, not to reft in the be- 
 ginning?, but by much prayer to aske much grace of God* 
 
 Dotfl. 9. God is the fountains and author of 'all grace. 
 
 For this title is given unto God in this place , becaufe it is 
 moft agreeable to thepeticion for manifold grace. For Holy 
 Men in their prayers lay holdof that inGod, and propoie 
 thofe titles of God unto themfelves.. which mike molt for the 
 furtherance of thofe prayers which they make. 
 
 Reafon i« *Z?ecaufe God hath in himfelfe infinite riches of 
 grace. 
 
 2 .Became grace is not given but by grace, and not for any 
 merit of our own. 
 
 3. Z?ecaufe every degree and all kinde of grace is revealed 
 and exhibited unto us by God in the Gofpell. 
 
 Vfe 1, This may ferve to dirett us tobuildupourfelves 
 m this beliefe of Gods grace. 
 
 2. To admonifh us, not Co to reftiri that grace which we 
 lave received, as if there were nothing farther to be looked 
 
 after 
 
A Commentary upon the fitft Epiflk of Peter. \ 3 g 
 
 after, becaufe God is God not of this or that particular grace, 
 but of all grace, 
 
 D. £b , 1 0. The ch'ufe effeU efthisgrace t which is in */, £ 
 our calling* 
 
 R'afox r* tfecaufe before our calling we lye in (inne and 
 (pirituall deatrn 
 
 2. Becaufe by our calling wc come to the hope of etern ill 
 glory; who hath called you into his eternal! glory, as it is in the 
 text, 
 
 3, Becaufe in our calling wee are ingrafted into Jeflm 
 Chrilt, that by him we are brought unto this glory, who 
 hath called joh unto eternall glory in Iefm Chrift, as it is in the 
 text. . - I, I . ^ 
 
 Vfe i. This may (erve to admonim us, to labour to make 
 our eflfe&uall calling more and more fare. • 
 
 2. To exhort us, to give God all the thankes for this cal- 
 ling, and to leade a life anfwerable thereunto, which (eemes to 
 be aimed at in the text,wuthat for this eternall glory where- 
 unto we are called, we ftould contcmne all worldly things, 
 whether good or evill. 
 
 Doft. 11. The fujferings of this life are not repugnant t* 
 the comfort of this glory. 
 
 Reafm 1. 2?ecaufe wefufferbutawhile: for although the 
 time of affliction may feeme long, yet it is but fhort, if it be 
 compared either with eternall death, which the wicked (hall 
 differ, and we have deferved j or with eternall glory where- 
 unto we are called. 
 
 2» Becaufe thefe afflictions are the way, whereby accord- 
 ing to Gods wil we come unto glory. 
 
 3. Becaufe glory it felfe appeares the more glorious for 
 the afflictions going before. 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to comfort us againft all the (uiFerings 
 of this life. 
 
 Do&. 12. For this grace of God we fhould give all glo* 
 ry unto God. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 11. 
 
 Qjl Reafon 1. 
 
12 A J Commentary ufon the firft % fifth rfTettr* 
 
 JLeaftn i. Becaufe therein confifts our thankfulnefTc. 
 2. 2?ecau(c therein alfoeonnft* the perfection of the work 
 of grace. 
 
 Vf<> This may ferve to admonifh us, not to give place to 
 luke-warsienefle, but to make (uch high reckoning of the 
 fiving grace of God, that upon every mentioning thereof our 
 mindes fhould be ftirrcd up fmcercly toglorifiethenameof 
 God, and alwayes endeavour fo to do. 
 
 
 . 
 
 ' 
 
 iThe end of* the firft Epiftle* 
 
A Commentary npon the SeeottdEpiftk of PeUr< 
 
 A BRIEFE ANALYSIS 
 
 of the Second Epiftle Generall of 
 iint-l J -E' T E R. 
 
 jn — li - - . 
 
 
 — — _ 
 
 1 
 
 - 
 
 Chap. I. 
 
 Verfe i. Simon Peter \ a Servant-^ and ah ^pofile of Iefus 
 £hrift 9 to them that have obtained like precious faith with 
 us, through the righteoufneffe of Cjod, and of our Saviour 
 Iefus Chrifi* 
 
 Vcrft 2» Grace and peace be multiplied unto you^throughtht 
 v_i ^k$QT»ledgejf(jM % andofjefus our Lord. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 Uch kinde of writings, as well Ethnick or pro- 
 fane, as facred, are uiiially divided into three 
 parts, whereof the firft is, the Superfcription, 
 Salutation, and Preface, z. The Epiftle it 
 felfe. 3. The Subfcription or Conclufion. 
 But more accurately me thinks, we may fay, 
 that the preface and conclufion are only adjuncts of the Epi« 
 ftfe, .which depend upon the Epiftleit ielfc, and areaKbufe- 
 full thereunto. But in this Epiftle only one of the(e adjuncts 
 is uftd, namely , the Preface. For there is no fubfeription 
 made, or any (uch concluiion, as is ufed in the Epiftles of 
 Tauly and in the firft of Teter. The Preface is contained in 
 foure verfes, and it coniifts of two parts, a falutation , and a 
 confirmation of the falutation : that in the two firft, this in 
 
 the 
 
 i»s 
 
I s6 A Commentary apt* the Second Eftftk of Peter* 
 
 the third and fourth verfe. In the falutation there are tfaofe 
 three things exprefleJ, which are in every aftion ; namely ,the 
 agenr,the a&ion it Celfe, and the objf&of it. For Co is there 
 theperibniaiuting, theperfons (alutcd, and the falutation it 
 fclfe. The per Ion faluting is defcribed, firft, by his name ad- 
 joyned. Secondly, by his office adjoyned, and that both ge- 
 nerally that he is a fervant of Jefus Chrift, and fpcciall, that he 
 is an Apoftle of hi?. The perfons fainted are defcribed by a 
 fpeciall adjunct, whichisinftead oftheforme 9i namely^ by 
 faith ; which faith is fet forth, firft,byacomparifon oTthe 
 like, that it is like precious with the faith of the Apoftles. 
 
 2. By the principall efficient caufe, God and Jefus Chrift. 
 
 3. 'By the meanes thereof, out* righteoufnefle. The confir- 
 mation of the falutation containes, 1. the good that is wiffi- 
 ed, which confifts of two parts, Grace^ and peace, 2. The de- 
 gree and quality of this good, bemttltifljed. 3. The helping 
 caufc of this multiplication of good, which 'is the ■kgon* 
 ledge of God and lefus Chrift. 
 
 This is the Analyfi?. 
 
 As for the perfon 9 he hath a double refpeft. For he is here 
 considered as the Author of the Epiftle 3 and alio as the Author 
 of the Salutation : in the former refpeclwehavethefe Do- 
 ctrines. 
 
 DocT. I. The very names of Chrift s famous Difciples, 
 were heretofore of great force for the confirmation and advance 
 mem of the truth in the Church. 
 
 For to that end did the Apoftles ufaally ietdowne their 
 names in tncEpiftles, which they wrote unto the Churches. 
 
 Vfe. This may bee for exhortation, that we alfo accord- 
 ing to our abilities mould labour Co farre with thofe amongft 
 whom welive,that our names may be like precious ointment, 
 "and may make (bmething for the edification of others. 
 
 2. It may ferve to reprove thofe,Which Co carry themfelves, 
 that they aieaxlifgraceto godHnefie,and to the Church. 
 
 In the latter refpeft thcperfbnyeeldsusthisobfervation. 
 Doct. 2. The falutation of the ^Apoftles and Mini fiers of 
 God is more highly to be prized. 
 
 Keafon. Becauie it is not only a good and godly prayer, as 
 are the falutations of all the faithful!, but it is alfo a minifteri- 
 
 all 
 
A Comment try upon the Second Efiftlt ef Peter* \iy 
 
 all application of the good things which Go J communicates 
 unto us by them. For it proceeds not only from a pious af- 
 fecYton, but from their lingular office and duty. 
 
 yp. This may lerve to admonim us, not to negleft or con- 
 tcmne fuch bleftings,whether they be publick or private. 
 
 D0&. 3. Jt is an honour able title, ifAnunberiqUtljAnd 
 defer veil y called a few Ant of Q 'odor Chrift* 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe the ch'iettft men in the Church of God 
 alwayes gloried in this title 5 not only the Apoftles and Pro- 
 phets, but alio Kings and Princes, as we fee in t)*vid. 
 
 Ypi This may ferve to comfort poore Ghriftiam that have 
 no titles whereof to boaft. For if they be the fervants of God 
 and Chrift : t hey have no eaufe to envic othew,orto complain 
 of their owne condition. Now that it may be knowiae who 
 are the fervants of God , we niuft know that there are two 
 things, as it weleeifentialltbafervant, 1. To depend upon 
 his Matters will and pleafure, for direftion in hisworke. 
 2. To referre all that he hath to the ufe and profit of his Ma- 
 tter, not to his owne* So alfo every faichfullfervantofGod, 
 1 depends wholly upon G xl for the dir*&ion of his life, not 
 upon himfelfe and his owne counfell, nor upon the examples 
 and cuftomes of the world, much lelTe upon the fuggeftions 
 of thcflefhandthedevill. 2. He refcrres himfelfe and all that 
 he hath to advance and fct forth the glory of God. 
 
 Doel. 4> Thofefervants of Chrift which are caKedtsfpO'* 
 ftlsS) hjve the cbiefrft authority in the Qhurch of (Jed* ■ 
 
 For that is the reafon why Tetcr faith that he is an Apoftle 
 of Jefus Chrift. All the faithfullare Chrift9 fervants, but 
 they are not Apoftlesreven the ordinary Minifters themfelves, 
 although in a large fenfe they may be called Apoftles and Em- 
 balTadours of Chrift, yet not irrthat fenfe as Veter^ Vaul^ and 
 thehke are called. For the word Aptftle^ in this and the like 
 places, figniftes not only an EmbalTage, but a lingular privi- 
 ledge or prerogative in that embalTige. Now the priviledge 
 of the Apoftles above other Minifters confifts in thele foure 
 things: FiiftjInthemanneroftheembafTage,^/^' that they 
 were called neither of men, nor by men but immediately of 
 Chrift.- Secondly, in the office impoled upon them by vertue 
 of this embaiTige, viz, that t.hey were c i fly (cm to plant 
 
 Churches* 
 
1 28 A-Gommenurj upon the Second Effiftte of Peter* 
 
 Churches, to teed and build them up. Thirdly, in the object 
 whereabout their labour mould be imployed, •z/fc that they 
 were fent noc to any one Church , but to divers, and for the 
 cororerfion or the whole world. Fourthly, in their gifts and 
 aflittance of the Spirit, which alwayes accompanied this their 
 etnbaflage, viz,, becaufe in executing this their office, as well 
 in preaching as in writing, they were freed from all errour. 
 As in the Creation of the world God fir ft made light, and af- 
 terwards (et (bmelight9 in the Firmament of Heaven to give 
 light upon the Earth : So alio in the re-creation and reftituti- 
 on of the world, God firft gave light in Chrift himfelfe, who 
 was the Sonne of Righteoufnefle, as he is called in Scripture, 
 and afterwards ordained the Apoftles , as great lights , to 
 bring this light upon the Earth. And this is it which our Sa- 
 viour faith unto them 2 Te are the light of the world. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to exhort us 3 to give God thanks,that 
 he hath not left us in darknefle, to wander at uncertainties, 
 but hath (et up theft mining lights for us,by whofe meanes we 
 might be directed unto heaven. 
 
 a. To admonilh us,to observe alfb and believe thofc things 
 which they have prelcribed us. For We muft receive the wri- 
 tings of the Apoftles after the fame manner, as we mould re- 
 ceive Chrift himfelfe, if he were with us on earth. 
 
 3. To refute the Pope, who brags that he is an Apoftle, 
 and hath Apoftolicall authority, (whereupon alfb he cals his 
 (eat at Rome, Apoftolicall,) when as he hath not 10 much as 
 one of thole conditions, which are neceflarily required to 
 make an Apoftle* 
 
 Hitherto of the pet fon (aluting. It followes now to (peak 
 of the perfons falutcd, where we have thele Doftrines. 
 
 Do£t. 1. The AyoftL-s wrote not pr&perly to the unbelie- 
 vers^ but to the £hurch. 
 
 For fo here and elfewhcre are they delcribed to whom the 
 Epiftles are fent. 
 
 Reafon. becaufe the preaching of the Gofpell , not the 
 writing, is the effedtuajl meanes of converfion. The writing 
 and reading do more properly lerve for the confirmation and 
 edification of thole that are converted 3 then for the firft con- 
 yerfion. 
 
 Vfe. 
 
A Commentary *pon the SecondEpiftk of Peter. \ \ 29 
 
 Vfe. Thit may fare to cxhoit, firft of all, that they wil! 
 principally apply themfelvestmto Sermon?. Secondly s thofe 
 that nave received fome benefit by Sermons, thatth«y would 
 alfo diligently apply themfelves to the reading of the Scrip- 
 ture, that they might more and more confirme and edifie 
 them (elves. 
 
 DocY. 2. Faith if the prober marke of 'difference , whereby 
 theChurzhhdiftifi<rmfitdf/*d& 'all other focieties. 
 
 For therefore are the ChilHans here defcribed by faith, 
 that they may be diftinguimed from all other men : and the 
 fame which in other Epiftlesare wont to be called the efe&jthe 
 called, the Churches of God, thofe which are in God the Fr- 
 riier, ; and in Jefus Chrift, arc in this place barely called the 
 faithful!. 
 
 '°CJP. a This may fervetoadmonifhus, ifwewll'l make our 
 calling and the condition of our falvation fare, then to la- 
 bour efpecially to obtains faith, and alfo to increafe it more 
 and more. 
 
 Doft. 3. The faith of Chrift ions is a rmft precious pr<^ 
 pjftm 
 
 Therefore it is here called precious faith ; and in the for- 
 mer Epiftle,Chap.l.v.7. faith is faid to btmore precious then 
 gold that perifhetf:. 
 
 VJe i. This may ferve to exhort usy to make more account 
 of faith then of all worldly things , according to that of 
 Chrift : What Jkall it profit a man to gaineihe whole world, and 
 lofe his ownefonle, or faith f 
 
 2. To comfort poore Chrifthns which have no poffefli* 
 onsin this world. For if they have true faith, they have that 
 which is more excellent then filver and gold. 
 
 DocT. 4. The faith of common Chrift ians is as precious as 
 was the faith of the Apoftles, 
 
 Which it not to be'tmderftobd of the degree or quantity,but 
 of the nature or quality. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe the faith.of all ChtiftianJlayes hold of the 
 fame good, viz. Chrift and his benefits* Hereupon 'Paul cafe 
 it common faith : for as one that is fick of the Falfie, that ta- 
 keth fome precious thing with a ftiaktng hand, dothpofflfle 
 it as well as the other, that is ftr ong ; fo the faithful], though 
 
 R they 
 
1 20 A Commentary upen the Second Efiftk of Peter. 
 
 they be weake, it they do truly lay hold of Ghrift , have him 
 to be their Saviour as well as they that are molt ftrong* 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to comfort ^eakeChriftians; for if 
 they have true faith 9 though it be but like a graine of Muftard 
 feed, they have the fame comfort that the Apoftles themfelves 
 had. It they be truly knit unto Chrilt, though it be but with 
 a (lender thred as it were, yet they hold Ghrift as well as they 
 that are tyed unto him with the itrongeft cords : which yet 
 is not fo to be taken, as if we were not to feeke for a ftronger 
 2nd tar it faith; for although the weake pofiefle the fame good 
 that the ltrong do, yet they have not the fame fruit and bene- 
 fit ofthispGiTeflfion. 
 
 Docl:. 5. The caufe of this precious faith is not in any man 9 
 hit in therighteoufnejfe cfGod and Chrift* 
 
 Now by righteoufnefle is not meant any recompenceof 
 defert 5 but the faithfulneflfe and truth of the promiies, which 
 depend upon the meere goodntffe oi God. And thefe promi- 
 fes made unto Abraham\\\\vXt\ re, that his feed mould be as 
 the itarres of heaven, and the fand of the Sea, cut of al! .nati- 
 ons j and they were afterwards often repeated by the Pro- 
 phets. 
 
 life 1. This may (crve to refute thole,, tnatafciibe it unto 
 mans free will ; fo that firft they make the calling of the faith- 
 full to be uncertaine, as if the promifesof God could be made 
 void; and then they take away the glory it felfe of mans con- 
 version from G >d, and give it unto man. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to give God thankes,for this fo incompa* 
 rable a good. 
 
 The Doctrines thatarife from v. 2. 
 Docl". I. AH fplntuall good things , are contained in thefe 
 two words, Grace and peac 
 
 For by Grace is meant both the free favour of God, and al- 
 io the application and manifelration thereof in the hearts of 
 the faithfulljby the operation of the holy Ghoft, in the word 
 and Sacrament?.. And by peace is meant quiet nefle of mind, 
 which. is thefiuit of grace. So that Grace is the fir ft benefit, 
 and Peace tbejaft* And therefore all benefits that pafle be- 
 tweene are »n> luded th-.rein, as in two excretes. Hereupon 
 in all theEpifties almoltthe Acoftles prayer and (adulation 
 
 is 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epifile of Peter, 
 is contained in thele two : ToTimothy and Titus, headdcs 
 mercy alio, Cjrace, mercy and peace* But that is only an ap- 
 plication of the lame thing, which is figniried by grace, and 
 lor a peculiar rcatbnis added in thole Epiftles., becaufeTV- 
 mothy and Titm wanted a fpeciall kind of grace, in relpeft of 
 ths fervice, which :hey did undergoe in the Churches, in re- 
 gard of their age, atidthofe divers temptations, whereunto 
 they were obnoxious in that Service. In the old Tdlament 
 peace onely was ufually wiftied in their (Mutations, without 
 any mention of Grace ; but yet grace alfo at that time was 
 underliood : 2?ut in the time of the new Teftamenr, which is 
 the time of grace, and wherein all things are more fully deli- 
 vered, it was moil: fitting, that grace fhould be named in fuch 
 1 ke 1 alutations. 
 
 Vfc, This may Ceiveto exhort and direct #/, above all things 
 to with grace and Chriftian peace unto aJlthofe, to whom 
 we are well-wifhers. 
 
 DocT:. 1 1 . The dt fires of the faithfttll are chiefly for thofe 
 /pirituall good things ^ Grace and peace, 
 
 KeaCon, TheReafonoftheColle&ion is this, becaulethc 
 Apoftle in this beginning of the Epiftle, labours to get the 
 good will of thofe to whom he writes, by (hewing the prayer 
 that he had made for them : Now he could not effect this, if 
 his prayer were not according to their defirejf or if hefliould 
 havewifhed any of thole things, that they cared not for, 
 fuch a wifh would have done no good with them. 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to exhort us all, to examine our (el vea 
 according to this rule. For if wee make no reckoningat all, 
 of the meanes and inftruments of grace, but doe rejeft or de- 
 fpile thole, that labour moft to procure this grace and peace 
 for us, we have caufe to feare, that we are yet farre from the 
 nature, and difpofition of true belecvers. 
 
 Doft. 3. They which have gone farthefi in faith and grace, 
 have yet need of grace* 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that the Apottte wiiheth grace 
 unto thofe, that have obtained like precious faith, with the A- 
 poftles themfelves. 
 
 V(e. 1 . This may ferve to refute the Pa pifts of theit merits. 
 
 2. To exhort us to humility, and continuall prayer for the 
 
 grace of God. R z Do&# 
 
 131 
 
j 3 2 d Commentary upon the Second Epiftle &f Peter. 
 
 Do&. 4. Without Cjrace f there is no true peace. 
 
 Grace is the caufe and foundation of peace , peace the ef- 
 feft and fruit of grace ; it is the inheritance, which Chrift left 
 unto his difciples alone, Iobn 14. 27. Ifay 48. laft. For this 
 peace is not an external! and worldly peace, but fpirituall and 
 internall. Before we are partakers of grace, we are called in 
 Scripture, Cj As enemies ^ fo thatwedoe wage akindofwarre 
 againft God himfelfe, and therefore alfo again ft th« Angels 
 ofGcd, and ether of his creatures. Now by grace, and by 
 it alone is peace made. 
 
 Vfc This may lerve to refute andreprove the folly of thofe 
 men, which fo pleafe themlelves, in that outward quietnefTe 
 which they enjoy, when in the meane time, they are utterly 
 void and ignorant of the grace of God. 
 
 Do&. 5* We mnft fecke not only for grace anhpeace^ but 
 alfo for great abundance cf it. 
 
 This is gathered from that word, Cjrace attdptdce be ntulti- 
 flyed. For the good things of that grace aYeiach, that they 
 cannot be too much: in this there is no finning in excefle. 
 Hence it is that the ApoftlejFW/alwayesexhorcs.the faith- 
 full, and prayes alio that the faithfttfl may abound more and 
 more in all grace. And to the >Ep^ans he propofeth the 
 breadth, and leRgch^and depths and height of this grace,that 
 thpy may W rooted and grounded in it, Chap. 3. verfe 18. 
 
 ■Vfe 1 i This may lerve to refhte and condemne thofe, that 
 fo reft in fihe^refent grace which they have, or feeme to have,, 
 that they looke for no more. Such do thofe men fee me to be, 
 .that thinke they know enough, bele^ve enough, love enough, 
 ■See. A hd, therefore they neglecYboth the publick and the pri- 
 vate meanss, whereby they might be farther edified. The fiate 
 of a Chriit;an in this life it? a ftate of building, not perfection: 
 therefore as he would (lew himfelfe to be a foolifh builder, 
 that mould reft in the middle ofhisworke, and not make up 
 the perfeft ftru&ure, fo alfo in a Chriftian life. 
 
 ia To* exhort us to ftirre up our felves, and labour for more 
 abuhdint gitace and peace. 
 
 ^Argument 1. The firft argument may be taken from the 
 
 natUFe of grace and peace, which is fuch, that he that hath 
 
 ojice 1 to&ed the Iweetneflfe- 'thereof, cannot but deme a fuller 
 
 ' ^ draught 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epftle of Peter, j o 5 
 
 draught of it, liV.2.23. Defirethejinceremilkei&c. 
 
 Argument 2- From the imperfedt. degree, that we have 
 yet attained : We are for the mod part, as new borne babes, 
 as the Apoftle fpeakes in the fame place. 
 
 ^Argument 3. From the will of God, to whom nothing 
 is more acceptable, then that we mould feeke for plenty of his 
 grace, Ifuy 55.2. Trov.p. 
 
 Argument 4. From the finne or guilt, which followes 
 the negleft of that duty. For as amongrt men, if one mould kt 
 before us moft preciou? wares,and mould commend the:*n,and 
 alfo offer them freely unto us, he could not bat take it ill, if 
 we mould rcfufe them : fo much more may we think that 
 Gods anger is incenfed towards thofe,trut neglect and defpife 
 the riches of this grace, that he hath £et before them and com- 
 mended unto them. 
 
 D )$'. 6. Cjdd is the only author of grace and peace* 
 This is gathered from 1 Peter 5. 1 o. 
 God is called the author of all grace. Hence by a kinde of 
 appropriation he is called the God of graces in another place 
 he is called the Father of mercies^ and God of all confolationst^nd 
 grace alfo in this fignification i s called the grace of God ; fo 
 alfo of peace we finde in Scriptures, that God is called the god 
 $f peace^ and true peace is every where called the peace of God. 
 Vfe r. This may ferve to refute all the Papifts, that mani- 
 Feft the contrary both in their words and pra&ife. For they 
 are wont to call the blefled Virgin the CMother of grace : (o 
 alfo they runne unto her and to other Saints, as if they were 
 the authors of grace and peace. 
 
 2. To inftruft and confirme us in this truth , that the be- 
 llowing of grace and peace depends upon the meere good will 
 and picafure of God. For when God is called the Godefg-ace^ 
 it is meant alfo that he is the Lord of grace , who can accord- 
 ing to his good pleafure give it to whom he will, and deny it 
 to whom he will. This is gathered from 1 Thejf. 5. 23. and 
 2 Theff.%. 16. for he that in the former place is called the God 
 ef peace , in the latter is called the Lord of peace. Therefore 
 when we fee that grace & peace is granted unto fome, & de- 
 nied unto others, we mould reft fatisiied in the good will of 
 God, according to the example of Ghrift, Matt h A Q. For by 
 fo doing we give glory to God 3 as is evident, 3. To 
 
134 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter * 
 
 3. To exhort us 5 to pray unto this great God to give us 
 grace and peace. 
 
 D0&. 7. fefus Chrift is the beginning of all grace and feme* 
 
 God is the firft and principal! author, and Co alio Chrift, . 
 as he is God : but as he is God and man, our Mediatcur.fb he 
 is the beginning ordained by God, as the head, from whom 
 all grace is to be derived unto his members, as into the veflels 
 of grace j Co that God is as it were the firft and principal! 
 fountaine, Chrift as thelecondary fountaine, in whom is hid 
 all grace that is to be given unto the faithfully and the raithfull 
 themselves are the veflels that draw and receive this grace, 
 which runnes into them from theft fountaines, and the word 
 and Sacraments areas the channels. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to informe us of the manner, how we 
 mould leeke for grace, viz, that we fhould alwayes go unto 
 God in Chrift, becaufe extra Chriftum, out of Chrift , he is 
 unto finners not a God of grace and peace, but of vengeance^ 
 and a continuing fii e» 
 
 Doft. 8. True faith is the infl rumen e all caufe of grace and 
 feace, and of the multiplying of both 9 whereby it is derived un- 
 to us, 
 
 Reafon, Becaufe by knowledge in this place is meant faith. 
 For it is not meant a bare knowledge, but fbmething more, 
 which followes this knowledge , therefore it is not called 
 yp4fi; 3 but evlyt&tis, that is, an acknowledging. 2. Thereby 
 is meant an effe&uall knowledge, iuch as there is no other 
 taught us in the Scriptures, but faith. Now faith is fignified 
 by the name of knowledge,bccaufe by the hearing and know- 
 ledge of the word it is ufually begotten in us. And faith is 
 called the inftrument of grace D not as it is in God himfclfej 
 willing, intending, and ordaining (pirituall good things unto 
 us, for (o grace is the caufe of faith ; but as the fenfe, fruit and 
 knowledge of this grace is communicated unto us. For faith 
 is ib the fruit and effect of grace, that it hath the firft place, 
 and is the inftrumentall caufe of all following grace.And this 
 efficacy it hath in refpeft of the obje£t,which it Iayes hold of, 
 Jefus Chrift y becaufe as we faid before, he is the beginning of 
 all grace, lb that as Adam was the beginning of nature and 
 the corruption thereof; and that relation which we have unto 
 
 Adam 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftk of Peter. 135 
 
 Adam by naturall generation, makes us partakers both of his 
 nature and corruption: fo Chriit was made the beginning of 
 life fpirituall, and grace, and that relation of faith which we 
 have unto ChrirT; in our regeneration, makes us partakers both 
 of the life and grace which is in Chriit. 
 
 Vf(. This may ferve to exhort us, 1. To have a fpeciall care 
 of our fakir, ihve would not be deftitute of all the grace and 
 peace of Go:'. This is it which the Apoftle faith elfewhere, 
 above all, take the fhxeld of faith y that is, above all things gee 
 faith, E'phf.6. 1 6. This is it which is often prcrTed, By faith 
 we are faved, by faith wsfi and , by faith we obtaine the viclory 9 
 &c. i.Tolabourallofortheincreafeoffaith^fwedelire the 
 increase of grace and peace. For grace is multiplyed by the 
 multiplying of faith, and the knowledge of God. As in a 
 houfe, which is<inlightned by the Sunne , the more the win- 
 dowes ftand open, the more it is filled with light : fo alfo in 
 us, the more our faith is increafed,the more is grace and peace 
 increafed in us. Let that therefore be our daily prayer, which 
 was Ghrilts Difciples, Lord incr cafe our faith. 
 
 Vcrfe 3. According as his Divine power hath given unto ut all 
 things that pertaine unta life and godlinejfe , trough the 
 knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and venue. 
 
 The Analyfis* 
 
 HTHe fcope of the Apoftle in this verfe istoconfirmethe 
 faith of Chriftiansxouching the multiplying of grace and 
 peace through the knowledge of God, which hehadwiftied 
 unto them in the former verfe. And the argument is taken 
 from the comparing of things alike, as that particle, Accord' 
 ingas y intimates unto us/The things compared arc. 1. The gi- 
 ving of peace and grace; and 2. The con (equent multiplying 
 of them. And of thefe he (hewes that there is the fame reafbn, 
 both in refpeft of the principall caufe, and the lefle princi- 
 pal! or inftrumentall caufe; fb that the whole argument runs 
 after this manner 5 if God and our Lordlefus (fhrift will give 
 unto hs grace and peace through the knowledge if him t then will 
 
 he 
 
1 3 6 A Commentary upon the Second Epiflte of Peter . 
 
 he alfo multiply unto us the fame gifts by the fame : 'But the for- 
 mer is true : Therefore the latter. The Afiumption is contained 
 in verfe 3. And it is not barely fctdowne, butwithanillu- 
 ftrauon, although headdes fome things to conflrme the ifca- 
 fon it lelfe and our faith. For in (lead oi grace andpeace the 
 Apoftle here puts things necefTary unto life andgodlineffe.^ and 
 in the fecond place glory and vert ue : like as by life ''and glory 
 he meanes the fame thing, that he did before by peac <?,though 
 in a different refpeft : fo alio by gcdlinejfe and venue he means 
 the fame thing that he did before by graces Thepnncipall 
 caufe oft his gifting he explains by the power which he hath, 
 which he cals divine $ the inftrumentall he expiaines by the 
 object thereof, namely, Chrift. For he argues from a lingular 
 efFect, which doth mod of all pertainetothethingit fclfe, 
 namely to our calling, glory andvertuc. 
 The Do&rines arifing herehence. 
 Doft. I. Life and glory are contained in Chriflian peace*. 
 
 For the condition, that Chnftians are made partakers of 
 by peace,is called life in refpect of that inward and permanent 
 principle of the molt perfeft operations ," wherein confifts 
 mans felicity, which is given unto all the faithfull. And it is 
 called glory in refpeft of the compleat happinelle , which 
 flowes from that principle , and {hall in its due time alfo ap- 
 peare with outward fplendour. 
 
 Z/fe 1. This may ierve to informe and inftruft us, not to 
 think meanely or contemptibly of the condition of faithfull 
 Chriftians, but to judge aright according to the nature of the 
 thing, viz. that the only life and chieleft glory is proper 
 to them. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to prefcrve faith, grace, andChriftiari 
 peace before all worldly things, yea, before this prefent life it 
 felfe, and the glory thereof, becaufe by our faith we (hall ob- 
 taine a farre more perfect life and glory, according to that of 
 Chrift, He that lofeth lets life^ Jhallfinde andobtaineafarre bet* 
 ter life* 
 
 Doft. 2. (fhrijlian grace brings with it godlinejfe and 
 1/ertue. 
 
 For the fame thing is called grace, which is the effeft of 
 Gods favour j it is called gsdlineffe, as it hath God for its ob- 
 ject 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Fpiftte of Peter* 1 37 
 
 jecl : and it is called vcrtue, as it perfe&s a man in operation. 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to inftiu& us, nottoboattofthe 
 grace of God , unlelTe we (hew it by our godlincfle and vcr- 
 tue. 
 
 2. To reprove and condemne thofe, that either out of pre- 
 sumption or reined mutilation, do enner feparare grace trom 
 godlinefle or grace from vertue, or vef tue trom either* 
 
 Dofr.3. All things ncceftary unto life andgodUmjfe aregi* 
 venby Cjodunto tht faithfulU 
 
 Now to make a girt perfect 3 things are required. 1 . That 
 the gift which is given be made the receivers, or his to whom 
 it is laid to be given 5 for othe. wife it is not a gift, or a thing 
 adu.slly given, but potentially only. 2. That ,t be made his 
 abfolutely or irrevocably, not conditionally, that the gift it 
 felte mould depend upon a condition. 3. Tisat the giver be 
 moved for no other caufe to give, but to fhewandexercife 
 his bounty and liberality . the more perfectly andpuiely 
 thefe conditions are found in any gift , the more perfect and 
 pure is the gift. Now all thefe do molt exactly agree to thofe 
 gilts of G< d, which pertaine unto lireand godlineffe. As for 
 example, Chrift is faid to be given for us, and alio given unto 
 us: the holy Ghoft hath that name as it were appropriated 
 unto him, that he is the gift of God : faith and repeatance are 
 exptcfly called the gift of God. 
 
 Vie 1. This may ferve £0 inftru&as, againft the error of 
 thofe, that will not take fuch like good things as a gitt , but 
 teach us that we muft (eeke for them by our own merits 5 for 
 as the Apoitle faith, If of grace^hfn not fa rvorkes y for othe r mie 
 grace were not grace : fo may we alio lav; if r »f gift, then not 
 by workcSjforotherwile the gift would be no-gift. 
 
 a. To admoniflu us, throughout our whole life to (eeke for 
 fuch good things after that mani eras is agreeable to their na- 
 ture, that is, to ask, pray, and triplicate tor them, &'. • And 
 in the fecond place to uie all our endeav -ur to (hew our felves 
 thankfullunto God for ftich divine gifts. 
 
 4. Hee gives thefe fftrttnall gifts unto us by his Divine 
 Power: 
 
 His 'Divine Power hath given unto us all things , as it is in 
 the text : the like hereunto is that ia the firft Epiftle, c.i. v.5. 
 
 S Te 
 
A Commentary ufen the Second EpifilerfPeftfi 
 
 Ye are kept by the power of God through faith untofalvation. And 
 Ghrift tcls lis, Matth, 1?. 26, With men this is unpoffible^ but 
 with God all things are poffible : where we are exprefly taught, 
 that falvation and fpintiull good things are given u: to us by 
 the power of God, to whom all things are poflible 3 that is,his 
 omnipotence .ftr.31.35, Thus faith the Lord, -which giveth the 
 Sunne, &c, 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe fuch a power is neceffarily required to 
 bring this to pafle, by reafon of thofe ftrong impediments, 
 which withlhnd and crofle this worke. For io Chilli telsus, 
 that the Devill as a ftrong man holds his palace, till a ftronger 
 then he comes tfpon him and overcomes him,and takes from him all 
 his armour wherein he trufted, Luke 1 1.2 1,2 2. This is alio ful- 
 ly explained by the Apoftle, £phtf.q.*%. When he aft ended up 
 on high 3 he ledcapt ivitj captive, and gave gifts unto men. W here 
 he (heweB that gifts are given unto us by that very power, 
 whereby captivity is led captive. It is exprefly (aid Ephef.i, 
 1 9. that it is the exceeding greatnejfe ofCjods power , which work? 
 rth in tu by the might of his power, and Verfe 20. the fame power 
 whereby Chrift watrai fed from the dead, 
 
 Vfe I. This may ferve to refute the Remonftrants and fuch 
 like men, that deny faith to be begotten in us, and our con- 
 verfion to be wrought by Gods almighty power. For they 
 make grace only morally perfwading, that may be refilled, 
 impotent, and confequently unerFecUiall. 
 
 2. To comfort the weake and all the faithfull, in that they 
 have no reafon too much to feare the gates of hell, becaule 
 they have the gates of heaven making with them : although 
 they maft wreftle not only againlt fleflb and blood., but againft 
 principalities and the powers of the world, &c. Ephfi tf . 1 2. 
 Yet they have a divine power, farre beyond all thofe enemies, 
 to uphold them in this wreftling. 
 
 5. To exhort us, 1. To behave our felvesftoutly, and fhew 
 our felves men in thecaufe ot God, aniwerable to fo Divine a 
 Power, as he is ready to afford unto us. 2. To give God 
 thankes, that hath not h(t us in our owne infirmities to be 
 fxpoftd as a prey unto our enemies, but by his divine power 
 helpes our infirmities. 
 
 Do<Jr. 5. This 'Divine Power is the power of Chrift him- 
 felfc Vfe 
 
A tommzMar) upon the SecondEpiftle of Peter* r 3 9 
 
 Vfe I. This may fcrve to confirme our faith, touching 
 Ghrifts divine nature. For the divine power is not.feparatcd 
 from the divine nature* 
 
 2. To comfort us, that he who (b loved us, that he gave 
 himfelfe for us.hach fuch Sufficient ftrengtb to perfeft our Sal- 
 vation. He ufeth this argument to comfort his Difciples. 
 /0/w 10.28,29.30. 
 
 Doft. 6* Chrifi gives us theft things by his divine power, 
 when he doth ejfettually callus, through the knowledge of him that 
 calleth us, 
 
 Vfe* This may (erve to exhort us, to apply our (elves with 
 feare and reverence unto the meanes of our calling, becaule 
 Chrifts divine power is (hewed therein. 
 
 Dod. 7. The conft deration of the end where unto we are cal- 
 led in Chrifi 3 Jhould build us up in faith 3 hope 9 andallthofe things 
 which pertaine unto life andgodlinejf. 
 
 Therefore the ApoiHe here puts us in minde, that he hath 
 called us to glory and vertue; foin the former Epiftle,c. 5. 
 V. I®. who hath called us unto his eternall glory ^ &c* To that 
 purpoic the Apoftle Bphef.\,\%. earneitly prayes for the £- 
 f he fans, that theejes of their under/landing may be enlightnedfo 
 know what is the hope of his 'calling, and what the riches^ &c» 
 Now this confideration is of great force for thele reafons. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaule it is an argument confirming our fa'th, 
 whileft we thus thinke with our felves: If God hath called 
 us unto glory, then there is no doubt, but that he will in due 
 time bring us unto glory, and in the meane time keepe us in 
 the w iy that leadeth thereunto. 
 
 2. Became it is an argument whereby we are (Hired up to 
 labour for vertue, whileft we thus thinke with our felves : if 
 we are called unto glory and vertue, we muft not carry our 
 felves Sordidly and bafely, defiling our Selves with the pollu- 
 tions of the flefli,like Swine wallowing in the mire , but as it 
 becomes fuch a calling. 
 
 DocT. 8. There is the fame reafon cfth-'s calling and the 
 frfl gift of 'grate b that there is of the multiplying of all grace and 
 peace % 
 
 For they are alike free, they do depend alike upoa the di- 
 
 S> 2 vine 
 
14© A Commentary upon the Seco nd Epiflle of Peter, 
 
 vine power, they are alwayes kn'u and linked together : this 
 followes from the connexion of verfe 3. with the iecond. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to comfort us, as it is fee forth, Phil. &, 
 6. That he which hath begun a good work* in us, will perforate it 
 untilltheeUjofChrift* 
 
 Verfe 4. Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious 
 prontifes, that by theft you might be partakers of the divine 
 nature, having efcaped the corruption that is in the world, 
 through lufi» 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 fTPHe Apoftle had before confirmed his prayer and the hope 
 ; of the faithfull, touching the multiplying of grace and 
 peace, by the comparing of things alike, that is, from the gi- 
 ving of all things which are oeceflary unto life & godlinefie. 
 Now he confirmes and proves the afTumptionalfo, touching 
 the giving of things neceflfary to life and godlineflfn And the 
 argument is taken from theteftimonyofGod,thatis, from 
 Gods promifes; for his promiie is a teftimony of the good 
 that he will beftow. Now while the Apoitle difputes rrom 
 the promifes to the gifts pi omifed s hediiputes from the teiti- 
 mony to the things teftified, which kindc of argumentation 
 hedothdifheiently intimate, when he puts the things promi- 
 fed in ftead of the promife. An1 the things promifed are thus 
 explained 5 1. In general!, by two adjuncts, that they are ex- 
 cecdir.g great and precious 3 that is, neither concerning fraall 
 things , or things of little moment , nor concerning things 
 tha* we have nothing to do with , or are little to bee (teemed 
 by us, but things of exceeding great weight, and of exceeding 
 great price. 2. In fpeciall, by thofeeffe.&s, which are con- 
 tained in the(e things promifed j and they are two. Firft, A 
 lifting up ofthe faithfu'l to perfection, which is explained by 
 a likeneffe unto the divine nature. Secondly, A freeing of 
 them from corruption, which is fet forth by the fub jectand 
 the cauie thereof. I he (ubjeft is the world, the caufe isluft or 
 cortcupifcence. 
 
 The 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epifik if Peter* \±x 
 
 The Do&rine arifing herehence. 
 
 Dod. 1 . Gods promifes carry in them the vertue of 'a gift » 
 Reafox, Becaufe they make the thing promiied certainly to 
 belong unto thofe, to whom it iipromi led. For although it 
 be noc yeta&ually in their poflcllion, yet it is that power that 
 is certainly produced into aft. Thccauleis, i. The truth of 
 God that patomifeth. 2. The Divine Power which accompa- 
 nied Godspromrfc$,wherof mention was made in the former 
 verfe. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to refute thofe that make Gods pro- 
 mifes wholly to depend upon mans will. 
 
 t» To comfort all the faithfuil, that they may be of good 
 courage, and have a firme hope in the good things that are 
 promiied by God. 
 
 Doft. 2. Gods promifeiare of "things exceeding great. 
 Hence it is that the Scripture often fpeakes of the wondrous 
 thing&of Gods word, PfaU 1 1 9.18. And it evidently appears 
 by the things themfelveSj if they are well weighed and confi- 
 dered ; whether we look unto the divine properties which 
 breake forth in the things promiied, or their divine effe&s. 
 For wonderfull is the mercy, and power, and providence 
 whereupon they depend ; and the effe&s alio are wonderfull, 
 for many of them are men, that they do 10 tranfcend mans 
 capacity , that they feeme unto many utterly unpoflible and 
 incredible ; as the refurre&ion* immortality, and life ever-* 
 lading. 
 
 Vfe i. This may fervetocondemnctheftupidityofthofc, 
 that are nothing moved or taken with thefc things that are 
 fo great and wonderfull. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to labour and drive in our prayers with 
 Davids that our eyes may be more and more opened, to be a- 
 ble to tee he wonderfull nature of them. 
 
 Doft. 3. C/ods promifes are as precious unto ut t as thej art 
 grext in themfelves. 
 
 So they arc diftinguifhed : for if God had promifed that 
 he would make another World , yet fo , as that ic fhould no- 
 thing pertaine, unto us 5 this indeed had been an exceeding 
 great promife, but nothing precious unto us ; but when he 
 fo promifed a world to come 3 wherein immortality and 
 
 glQAt 
 
1 4.2 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter* 
 
 great glory (hall dwell, as that we fhould pofleffe it, this pro- 
 mise is as precious as it is great. Hence it is, that in the Scrip- 
 tures the testimonies of God are extolled , whole promises 
 are exceeding great above all riches, T/4/.119. 14. Above 
 gold and {ilver, and all precious things, a6 we often read in 
 the Pfalmes and Proverbs* 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to ex hort us 9 both in judgement, 
 affeftion and all our endeavours , to carry our (elves anfwer- 
 able to thefe divine promifes , as to the molt precious thing 
 that is , as we are admonifhed , Prov»2. 4. Tofeeke them as 
 filver, andfearch for 'them as for bid trea/kres* AndTrov* 8. 
 10. to receive tbem 9 and not filver , e£r. And to be more de- 
 lighted with thefe then with the fweeteft gifts, to get theft 
 promifes at any price , how great ibever , though we fell all 
 that we have. , as it is in the parable of the Merchant , who 
 found a precious Jewell. 
 
 2.T0 comfort tholeChriftians that are poore in ipirit 5 evenin 
 t his prefent world;for though they have nothing excellent in 
 thefe outward things ,yet they have thole exceeding great & 
 , precious things provided byGod for therrv They arc in this 
 like unto that heire,of whom Taul makes mention 3 G r «/.4 , r. 
 Do£fc. 4*Bj venue of thefe promifes we are made partakers 
 of the divine nature. 
 
 Now by nature is not meant the eflence of God, but thoie 
 -perfections , whereof wc have a rcprefentation made by 
 the Spirit Epifi* 1. c>2.v.g. They are called the vertues of 
 God , and in their places 5 it is called the life of God, 
 the Image of God, and the Spirit of God. And this nature 
 is communicated by vertue of the promises \ because the pro- 
 mile of the Gofpell in this differs from the Law, for the Law 
 confidered in it felfe is a killing Letter , and the miniftration 
 of death in refpeft of finners , but the Gofpell is the mini* 
 ftration of the quickning Spirits * Cor.% 6 7.8. 
 
 Reafor. Bccaufe the Spirit of God together with the .Gof- 
 pell worketh our falvation. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve todireft us , to examine our fclves 
 whether the promiies of God have teene effe&uall in us yet 
 or no ? for if we have nothing in us above naturall men , or 
 onr corrupt nature , wee are yet Grangers to the promifes 
 of God. 5 .To 
 
A Commentary up en the Second Epffle of Peter* 1 43 
 
 2. To reprove thole , that are wont to fay , when they 
 are ftirred up to Cbriftian duties , that they are not Saints or 
 Angels , but flefh and blood , and therefore cannot either 
 abftaine from common vices, or come neere unto a heaven- 
 ly lite. ForChriftians beiides and above that nature, which 
 they have from AUm i are made partakers alfo of a divine na- 
 ture , whereby they are able to doe all things through him 
 that ttrengtheneth them, namely Chrift, Phi/. 4.13. 
 
 3. To exhort us, to labour with all diligence , that the 
 grace of God may be unto us like a fecond nature, as fome 
 (kyo£C*ft ome * And f° fa W 'M b e D w ben we performe the 
 workes of grace and new obedience, not by conftraint or un- 
 willingly , as many u(e to doe , but with delight and cheer- 
 fulnefTe , as it we were carried hereunto by the inclination of 
 nature.as the fire is upward. 
 
 Docl* $ • The corruption ofpnnc is contrary both to this na~ 
 ture^andGods promifes, 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe the prefencc of the divine nature and the 
 vertue of the promifes drives out this corruption, as heat 
 doth cold, & as light difpells darkened 1 T-et.i. 14,1 5,2 Pete 
 
 2*20.77f.2.II. 12. 
 
 Vfe*l* This may &rve to condemne thofc, that will joyne 
 together thefe things that are fb inconfiftent and repugnanr 
 and contrary to God himfclte 5 that is , thofe that joyne the 
 profeflion of Religion with molt corrupt praftife. 
 
 2 . To exhort us, if we believe the promifes of God , and 
 love the divine nature to our own falvation, then to efchew 
 all theft corruptions. Thus much the Apoftle iatimates, 
 when he faith : Having efcaped the corruption , as if a flying 
 away were required , and that quickly, as it were from a fire, 
 w hereh we are almoft burned, or from a plague that rageth 
 in our houfes, 1 Feu 2. 1 1. 2 ^Vr.4.1. Having received mercy ^ 
 let us net faint, &c, and Chap* J.v, I. 
 
 Doft. 6. This corruption offinne hares rule in the world. 
 
 This is gathered herehence, becaufe this is the true descrip- 
 tion of corruption made by the Apoftle. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve ro exhort us, 1 not to love the world 
 too much. T his ufe the Apoftle makes of it, 1 Iohn 2. 1 $. t.Not 
 to fafnion our (elves according to this world, Rom,i2.z. 
 
 D0&7. 
 
144 ' 6*»M* e **tary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Duft . 7. Lftji is the ejfentiall caufe of this corruption t which 
 is in the world. 
 
 For it is not from the fabrick of heaven and earth, nor in 
 any c seated iubitance, but in the naughty affe&ions and di£- 
 politionSj, together with the actions flowing therchence, Co 
 that every man carries this world in his owne bowel?. And 
 the reafon why this wickedncflfe is figniflcd by concupKcence 
 orluit, is: 
 
 Report I. Becaufein mans converfion to worldly and un- 
 l.wfull things, linne is more manifeft then in a fimple aver (ion 
 from God. 
 
 2. Becufe this defire of unlawfull things is mo# contrary 
 to that affeftion, which we fcould have towards God, and 
 divine and heavenly things. 
 
 Vje* This may tcrve to exhort us, to ufe great diligence to 
 fubdue and root out our own iufts and concupifcence. 
 
 Verfe 5« *s£nd befides this, giving all diligence^ aide to jour 
 faith 3 vertx*; and to vertut knowledge ; 
 
 Verfe 6,» And to knowledge continence j and to continence , pati- 
 ence} and to patience, godlineff ; 
 
 Verfe 7. And to godlinep) brotherly kjttdnejfe* and to brotherly 
 kindnejfe, charity. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 Now the Apoftle comes unto that which he chiefly aimed 
 at in this Epiftle ? and the (cope of the Epiltle is (hewed 
 exprcfly, Chap.3.ver(e 1. namely, to ftirre up the pure mindes of 
 the faithfully by way ofremembrance* and verfe the Iaft , more 
 diftinftly, that they Jhould grow in grace, and in the knowledge of 
 our Lord lefts forif. This lame thing he propofeth in thefe 
 veries, 5,6,7. and confirmes it in the reft of the Chapter, and 
 in the two following Chapters, he vindicates it from thoie 
 things which crofTe this purpoie, namely, the feducings of 
 falfe teachers, chap. 2. and the derifions of prophane feoffors, 
 chap^. Now his fcope and purpofe, as it is cxplaincdin thefe 
 three vcrfes, is, to exhort the faithfull 3 to apply themfelves 
 
 wholly 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiflk of Peter* 145 
 
 wholly to thoft duties that are anfwerable to the faith, which 
 they have obtained and do profeiTe. And thofc duties are ftt 
 forth; 1. By the common conditions and all the properties 
 of the vertue and duty; and 2. By the fpecies or kindesof 
 ve.tues and duties. The common conditions and properties 
 of vertue are foure, which are ufually called cardinal] vertues, 
 Iufiice, Trudence, Temperance, and Fortitud*. Juftice is here 
 fignified by the name of vertue, becauft it doth moft neerely 
 belong to the efficacy of vertue, tobeaccordingto the rule, 
 which is generall juftice. Prudence is fignified by knowledge, 
 becauft prudence and Chriftianwifdomeconfiftsin thepra- 
 fticall knowledge of Gods will. Temperance is called con- 
 tinence, becauft this is generall temperance^ if a man contains 
 himfelfe or abftaines from thofc intifements, whereby he may 
 be withdrawne from his duty. Fortitude is meant here by 
 patience, becauft this is true Chriftian fortitude, patiently to 
 fuffer all afflictions , and to pcrfift in his duty notwlthftand- 
 ing all affliftions. Theft are fuch conditions, that they mould 
 be in every duty» which if they be,thcy make every duty com- 
 pleat ; nor can any of them be away, without huitingof 
 the vertue and duty. The kindes of duties are two : godlinejfe, 
 which containes the duties of the firft table ; and charity, 
 which belongs unto the fecond table : which charity is de- 
 termined by a fpeciall manner, whileft it is called alio brother-' 
 ly Jove, whereby we love thole, that are joy ned in the fame 
 faith with us. Concerning theft duties the Apoftle propoftth 
 firft the common aft, that we fhould uft in them, namely ad- 
 ding, as he faith, adie ; Secondly ,The manner how we (hould 
 uft this aft, namely, giving all diligence : where both the man- 
 ner and the degree is (hewed ; the manner, is diligence, the de- 
 gree, is all diligence. Thirdly, the end and fcope of the aft and 
 duty in theft words, be/ides this, or hereunto, that is, to that 
 end of which hee had fpoken before, viz, that wee. might be 
 made partakers of the Divine Nature,and have grace and peace 
 rnultiplyed. 
 
 The Doftrines arifing herehence. 
 Doct. I. Our endeavours ntujb be jojned to our prayers, 
 and to the operation of Gods grace* 
 This is gathered herehence, that the Apoftle faith, we 
 
 T muft 
 
ffi - A Cemnitnt&ry upon the Second Eptjtle of Peter. 
 
 rnuft labour for that very thing which he wifhed unto us, and 
 fo propofed unto u»to be prayed for, and which he faid the 
 *'. grace of God did worke in us. 
 
 Our endeavours muft be joyned unto our prayers. 
 Reafon i. Becaule otherwife we cannot have a fincere de- 
 fire in our prayers, without which our prayers are in vaine 5 
 for what we fincerely defire, that alfo we do alwayes labour 
 to attaine. 
 
 2. Becaufe our prayers themfelves do bind us to (uch an 
 endeavour. For in every prayer there is a promifc and vow, 
 wherein we promifeunto God that we will feeke that which 
 we aske of him : fo that to aske any thing of God without 
 fuch an endeavour, is not only to take Gods name in vaine, 
 but alfo plainly to mock his Ma/eftie. 
 
 Our endeavours alio muft.be joy ned with the grace of God, 
 becaule grace tends thereunto , both to afford us ftrength to 
 endeavour, and alfo to ftirre usup to exercife that ftrength. 
 
 Vfe 1 ., This may ferve to reprove thole flothfull men, 
 which wifh for many things, and after their manner alfo ask 
 them of God, but yet will not move fo much as their finger to 
 obtaine them * thefe men are like that flothfull man, that the 
 wife man defcribeSjTVw. 22,13. and ellewhere, where the 
 flothfull man curries hishandinhis bofomc, &c. 
 
 2. To exhort us, daily to bemindfull of this obligation, 
 ivhen we pray unto God for, the forgivenefle of our linnes, for 
 deliverance trom temptations, for newnefTe of life, or any o- 
 ther thing, let us conftantly alfoufe our endeavours to attaine 
 thefe ends. 
 
 Doft. 2. O ur endeavour s mnfl alwayes tend to the increafe 
 of the grace which ns have received. 
 
 This is gathered therehence , that the iiimme of our duty 
 cohfifts in adding : the reafons arc divers ; 
 
 Reafon, I. Becaule that is imperfect which we have : while 
 we remaine in this life, we are in a ftate of progreiTc and edify- 
 ing ; not of reft or perfection, Ephefa.i2 i i 3. 
 
 2, Becaufe that w hich we have received, is given unto us to 
 be an earneft, a pledge, and the firft fruits of that which we 
 yet looke and leek for. 
 3* becaufe it cannot be, that we Ihould rightly efteeme the 
 
 grace 
 
A Comment ay} upon the SecoudEpiflle &f Peter, j a- 
 
 grace that we have received, if we do not labour Coateaine the 
 higheft degree thereof but reft contented with the benefit that 
 wc have received, and never look tor any more of chat kinde. 
 4« Becaule wc cannot keepe that which wc have r eceived, if 
 we doc not labour to increafe it ; for as the vitall heat doth 
 -alwayes either increafe or decreaf e , and he that goes up a fan- 
 dy-hill, mult ftill labour co gee up,or elie he will Aide downc; 
 (bit is in a Ghriftian life. 
 
 5. Becaufe we (hould do chat unto Godj which we would 
 have God doe unto us ; for we would have God alwayes adde 
 unco thofe benefits and bleflings which he beftoweth upon u§» 
 wc therefore (hould likewife adde unto thofe duties which 
 we performe unto him. 
 
 Vfe. 1 . This may ferve to condemns thofe, thac reft (atis- 
 fied with that which they have, and never feeke farther , and 
 much more thofe, that by dimini(hingandlofing,wafteand 
 confamc that which they had, tsfpoc. 2. 4. This may be ex- 
 plained by the parable of the talents. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to exercife a holy kinde of covetoufheflc 
 in thefe fpirituall chings ; for as covetous men joy nchoufe to 
 houlc, field to field, If ay 5.8. fo (hould we alfo joy ne faith to 
 faith, obedience to obedience, charity to charity* 
 
 Doft. 3. We muff nfe our endeavours aboptt thefe ffiritnali 
 things with all diligence* 
 
 Now by all diligence is meant, 1. The greateft heedful nefle 
 ofcheminde. 2.Thegreaceftearneftneu*eofthewill. 3. The 
 greateft care, thac is intimated by that phrafe, whereby wee 
 are commanded, to feeke the kingdoms of God and the righteouf- 
 nefjfc thereof For when Chrift had told them, Mauh,6.^u 
 that they (hould not becarefull what they (hould eat, or whaC 
 they (hould drink, hecxplaines this care y verfe 32, 33. by the 
 phrafe oi feeking. 4. A diligence in the ufe ofthemcanes, 
 whereby we may come to attaine that which wc defire. And 
 the reafons why we (hould ufc this diligence about fpirituall 
 things, are 3 
 
 Reafon 1. The dignity and excellency of thefe things a- 
 above all earthly things > which worldly men are fo buiie 
 about. 
 
 2. The difficulty 5 for in their nature they are above our 
 
 T 2 ftrengtb, 
 
1 48 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Orength,and there are many impediments altb,as well inward 
 as outward, which we cannot overcome, but by ufing all di- 
 ligence. 
 
 3. The neceflity of theft thing8,without which we are mi- 
 ls rablc wretches. 
 
 *Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove the floth full and flug- 
 p 3 ifh Ghriftians,that are foremilk, to cold and luke-warme at • 
 leaft in thefe things, which require fogrc* diligence. Heie 
 appeares the croflenefle of mans difpontion : for when God 
 hath forbidden us, to be ovei -carefuil about worldly things, 
 becauk all thefe things fhould be added unto us without fuch 
 care ; and hath commanded us, to be diligent and carefuil a- 
 bout (pirituall things, becaufe we (hall never be partakers of 
 them without diligence 5 we on the contrary are carefuil and 
 diligent about the world, and neglect Heaven. 
 
 3 . To exhort us, by all meanes daily to ftir up our (elves, 
 and to provoke one another to this fo neceffary diligence. 
 
 Doft. 4. Frith is the fount aine andbeginning of all ChrU 1 
 ftian vertur. 
 
 This is gathered frqm the text. Bscaufe faith is here laid as. 
 the foundation upon which all venues are to he built. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe without faith no mancanpleateGod. 
 unto everlafting life, and therefore the very vertues of unbelie- 
 vers, although they bcpleafinguntoGod in themfclves, e- 
 fpecially if a compa : ifon be made betwixt them and vices 5 yet 
 they are not pleating unto God unto falvation, or (uch a? that 
 they may expect a fpirituall reward from God ; and therefore 
 if a comparifbn be made betwixt them and the vertues of the 
 faithfully they may not unfitly be called, fyltndida peccat a,g\o~ 
 riou* finnes. 
 
 2* Bccaafo-to the making up of vertue there is required not 
 only good matter and forme, but alto the beginning and end.- 
 Now in a heart deftituto of faith there is notthe beginning of 
 Chriftian vertue, and from the defect of this beginning there 
 follovvcs alfo a deleft, both in theend, and in the fornv. The 
 manner how faith produceth vertue, is, U In regard of the 
 objeft which itlayesholdof, because all grace and Vertue is 
 derived from Chrili. 2. In regard of the effect, bcc.iufc faith 
 purities the heart of man, and Co nukes it fit for fuch operati- 
 ons 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter* I^e 
 
 ons and difpofitiour . 3. Becaufe faith it feJfe is an iaipu'fivc 
 argument, moving ns to labour for vertue. 
 
 V(e i . This may fervc to reprove thole imprudent builders, 
 that negleft faith and feckc for vertue, as if they would build 
 the route of the h> ufe.and n*>tlay the foundation* 
 
 2. To exhort us, to have great care of faith, becaufe all vcr- 
 tues depend upon it. 
 
 Duft. 5» Vertue is the glory of faith. 
 
 This is gatheied therehence, that it is (aid,it muft be added 
 to faith as fomethmg belonging to the perfection thereof. 
 Now it is not an eflentiall perfe&ion, butcomplementallj 
 not intern ill properly, but externally 
 
 Reafan 1. Becaufc faith without vertue is not a Iiving,bat 
 a dead faith* 
 
 2 . Becaufe vertue is the end of faith. 
 
 3. Becaufe it is the adorning thereof. 
 
 Zffe 1. This may (erve to reprove tbofe 3 that boaft of faith 
 and ncgleft vertue, fuch were many even in the Apoftles time, 
 as appeares by the Epiftle of lam.-s, 
 
 2. To exhort us, to give all diligence, to adde vertue to 
 faith. 
 
 Do&. 6 . The -perfeRfan ofatrtite defends upon knoreledf** 
 
 This is gathered from that ; To vertue adde knowledg , By 
 knowledge we meane, not Co much that intelle&uall vertue, 
 which is properly called fcientia, knowledge, as underftand- 
 ing^ wildome, and prudence, all which are ngniricd in the 
 Scriptures by the right knoT»l<-ig* of Gods w/7/.N jw this Know- 
 ledge is neceffary unto venue borh in gencrall and particular* 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe virtus eft habitus tUUivus^ vertue is an 
 habit pertaining to ele&ion, or hath good elcftion j -yned 
 With it. Now to this election it ivrequi' ed, t hat a man (hoald 
 rightly know the end, and alio the meanes thai lead unto the 
 end, and the manner alio how he may come to the end by 
 thofc meanes. 
 
 2. Because aftioyies virtutum verfantur in particularism, 
 the attionsof vertues are in part«cuUr«,and therefoie it is not 
 fufficient to ju^ge aught ol" g >od ahd t villi' r gene, all, unlefle 
 that judgement be alio applyedco pauicuUt actions, accord- 
 ing to their circumltances. 
 
1 5 o A Cmtt&ntary npm the Secsnd Epiftle tf Peter. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to reprove thofe, that pleafethem- 
 (elves in their ignorance, as if ignorance weie the mother of 
 devotion, ox of any vertue, whereas it is the greateft enemy to 
 vprtuej and the mother of all profaneneffe, efpecially it it be 
 voluntary, as Peter ftiewes, Epin\2. Chap 3. verfe 5 Where 
 he gives a reaibn of their great wicked ntfle , becaufe thofe 
 (coffers of whom he fpeaks, were willingly ignorant of thofe 
 things which pertaine unto true godlineile. 
 
 i. To exhort us, to fceke for knowledge , and when wee 
 have gotten it, to apply Kalfo to the increafe of vertue. For 
 vertue without knowledge is blinde, and knowledge without 
 vertue is vaine. 
 
 Duct 7. Continence or temperance is the perfection of 
 knowledge. 
 
 Now by continence and temperance we meane a modera- 
 tion, whereby all lufts are fupprefled that might allure or 
 , withdraw, us to any thing that is contrary to vertue and 
 knowledge. 
 
 Reajon 1. Bccaufe knowledge tends to luch a moderation 
 and gosernement of the afk&ions. 
 
 2. Bccaufe knowledge it felfe cannot fubfift without this 
 moderation. For unlefTc the affections ai e directed by know- 
 ledge, knowledge it felre is corrupted by the affections: hence 
 it is, that many errours and herelies oftentimes take their 
 rife and beginning from evill manners and afft&ions, Ephef. 
 4. 18. 
 .Vfe 1. This may ferre ro reprove thofe, that are puffed up 
 with knowledge, when in the meane time they (hew by their 
 intemperance that they know nothing yet, as they ought to 
 know, 1 Cou%i 1,2, 
 
 2. To exhortus, to ufe all our knowledge to the governe- 
 nient of our afft&ions and manners. 
 
 Doft. 8. patience mujl be joyned with continence to the 
 perfetlion of vertue 
 
 By patience we meane that grace whereby we continue and 
 perfift in well-doing, although we are croffed by many grie- 
 vous things. Therefore it includes in it patience, conftancy, 
 and ftablenefleofminde,orChriftian fortitude. Continence 
 irrengthens vertue againft alluring intifements, and patience 
 
 againft 
 
A Commentary upm the Second Epiftk ef Peter. 15 
 
 againft alladverfity, fo that vertue is quite perfected, if it tfc 
 grounded on faith, dire&cd by knowledge, and ftrengthened 
 on the one fide by continence, andon the other fide by pa- 
 tience. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove the lightneife and in- 
 conftancy of men, who indeed profcfle themlelvss to befm- 
 dious of vertue, and yet can beare no thing, to keep e vertue 
 whole and intire. 1 oT « 
 
 2» To exhort all good menj to prepare themfeiVestjobeare 
 all afflictions for vertue fake and' a good conference. 
 
 Doft p. Cjotilinefie is the chkj c e and mofi nseeffarj of \iH 
 vertues. 
 
 By godlineffe we meane true religion towards God , and a 
 minde wholly given to the true worfhipof God. 
 
 Reafbn 1. Becaufe it hath the nobleitobjeft, that is, 1 God 
 himfelfe. 
 
 2. Becaufe it doth moft of all perfect all other vertues, 
 whiles it refers them and all their afts to a divine beginning, 
 and a divine end. For godlinefle fubje&s the minde to God 
 in all things, fo that it ackriowledgeth God to be the author 
 of all good, from whom every good and 'perf : ecl gift commetb 9 AT\d 
 makes him the chiefeft good and the laft end to whom allour 
 aftions are to be directed. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove thofe, that'atcrrbntefc 
 much to fome morall and humane vertues, that they preferre 
 them before godlinefle. 
 
 2. To exhort us, continually to exercifc our felves both 
 in publick and ih private, to increafe this godlinefle in our 
 mindes. 
 
 DocT. 10. With Godlineffc towards God we fhoxldjoyne love 
 toward-: our neighbour. 
 
 JLeafon. Becaufe godlinefle it felfe commands and begets 
 this love. For we love our neighbour with Ghriflian love, 
 when we love him for Gods fake r not for our own s or any 
 worldly refpeft. Now godlinefle produceth this lovetowards 
 our neighbour, 1 Becaufe it teacheth us to obey Gods Cora- 
 mandement, who hath commanded us to love our neigh- 
 bour. 2 Becaufe it teacheth us to love the image of God, and 
 every gift of God in our neighbour* 3 Becaufe it brings us to 
 
 imitate 
 
I < 2 A Commentary upon we Second Eptjue cjTele r. 
 
 imitate God himfelfe in the communicating of good. There- 
 fore godlinefTe, which is feparated from charity , is not true 
 godlinefle; and that charity which is (eparated from godli- 
 nefTe, is not true charity , but either hypocrifie, or (bme hu- 
 mane civility. 
 
 VJe i. This may ferve to exhort us, to (hew and adorne our 
 godlinefTe towards God, by our love towards our neighbour. 
 
 2. To reprove thoft, that make (hew of much godlinefle 
 towards God, when in the meane time they take all occafions 
 to wrong their neighbours,' if fc be they might by any means 
 advantage themfelves thereby. 
 
 Doft. II* This love Jhould be extended unto aHmen t but 
 chiefly to be ufed towards the brethren* 
 
 For fo they are diftincTIy let downe, verfe 7, 'Brotherly 
 kindneffe and charity. Both of thefe is proper and peculiar to 
 Chriftians. For the Ghriftian alone loves all, even his ene- 
 mies, and he alone al(b loves the brethren, thatis,thehou(e«i 
 hold of faith. We (hould love all, i. As they are partakers 
 of the fame natural! good with us. 2. As they zre capable al- 
 io of the fame fpirituall good. And we mould love the faith- 
 full al(b, as they are partakers of the lame (pirituallgood 
 with us. 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to exhort us,to edifie our (elves in this 
 charity, which is the charafter of Chriftianity. 
 
 Verft 8. For if thefe things be inyou^ and abound^ they make 
 y oh that ye Jkall neither be barren nor unfruitfull in the 
 knowledge of our Lordleftts forif* 
 
 The Analyfk 
 
 HEre the Apoftle begins to confirme the exhortation, 
 which he had before made, to addevertue to faith, and 
 knowledge, &c. And he confirmes it by a twofold argument; 
 1. The firft is taken from the benefit which is joyncd to thefe 
 vermes, whereunto he exhorts them. 2. The fecond from the 
 difprofit, which followes the privation orabfenceofthem. 
 The firft is laid downe, vcrfe 8. the fecond verfe 9. The bene- 
 fit 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epifile ofVettr. 
 fit propofcdis contained in theft words, they make you that ye 
 /ball neither be barren nor unfruitfull : where by a negation is 
 meant the contrary affirmation, namely* that by theft ver- 
 tues they (hall be quick and active, arid alfo fruitful] 5 which 
 benefits are explained by the primary efficient caute, which is 
 the knowledge of our Lord JelusChrilt; and the ftcondary 
 cauie, which are the vertues themftlves whereunto he exhorts 
 them. And theft vcttues he explaines according to that way 
 which he had intimated before in the exhortation, touching 
 the manner, and touching the degree: touching the manner, 
 that they bein yow t touching the degree, that thef abiund. 
 The Doctrines arifingherehence. 
 
 Do&. 1 . There arefpritua.il benefits Arifirgfrom vertues 9 
 ■whereby the faithful/ are ftirred up to labour for vcrtue. 
 
 This is gathered from the fcope of this verft, and from the 
 connexion which it hath with the former exhortation. Theft 
 benefits are iuch, that they cannot be underftood by carnall 
 and worldly men ; but the faithfull do not only underftand 
 them, but alfo feeke for them with great and continuall dili- 
 gence. Otherwife this argument which the Apoflleuftth to 
 the faithfull, would have beene altogether unefFeftuall. But 
 theft benefits are fuch, that they make men rich, not in this 
 world,but in the Lord,i Tim.6. 18. Luke 1 2.2 r. 
 
 Vfe. This may ftrve to reprove thoft earthly men, which 
 are not moved with fuch arguments, but covet the gaine 5 pro- 
 fits, and pleafures of this life, and favour not thoft things that 
 belong to the kingdome of God. 
 
 Doft. 2» Jt is a great benefit to the faithfully and fo they 
 efieeme it^ if they can be ready to do good works* 
 
 This is gathered from that, they make you that yefb all not be 
 barren , that is, not idle or flothfull in the prof eflion of re- 
 ligion. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe it is the greateft mifery for men to be 
 reprobate unto good workes. 
 
 s. Becaufe by this readineflc to do good , the faithfull 
 come to obtaine their defires. 
 
 3. Becaufe by this meancsthelife fpirituall is cxerciftd and 
 increaftd. For as all life is the beginning of operation, and 
 tends unto operation, fo alfo is it increased by operations. 
 
 U 4. Becauft 
 
 »5? 
 
j -, A Commentary upon the Second Epftk offetet, 
 
 4. Bccaufe the glory of God, wherein confilts the ehiefeft 
 good, and mans happinefle, is by this mejnes advanced. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove thofcfoolifh and floth- 
 full Chriftians, that neglect their owne proper good, or rather 
 do not under ftand what that is wherein it conlifts. 
 
 2* To exhort us, by all meanes to make our (elves ready to 
 do good, and therefore according to the minde of the Apo- 
 ftle in this place, to get all vertue, that we maj not be barren in 
 the kgeyvledge of Chrift. 
 
 Do&. 3. Good rvorkes Are fruits th&t the fahhfull fhould 
 continually bring forth. 
 
 This is gathered thereherice, that fruitfnlneiTe is both re- 
 quired and promifed in this place. It is required therein,that 
 the Apoftle intimates, that this is neceffary for the faithful/, 
 to be fruitful!. It is prcmifed thereby, that it is made as a be- 
 nefit ariiing from vertueS. Good worses arc called fruits by a 
 metaphor, for the hkeneffe that they have unto the fruits of 
 trees and plants. Now in naturall fruit many things are con- 
 sidered, which according to tta Scripture muftbeapplyed 
 unto good workes* r. That it be fomething agreeable to the 
 nature of the feed fromwhichicari'feth. 2. Thai it hath not 
 only fome good in it, but alfo perfections ; hence flowers - and 
 leaves are not wont to be called fruits, although they come 
 from the fame feed that the fruits do, and be the laft two that 
 comes forth, and hath in it that perfection, that it is the end 
 both of the feed, and all other things that arifc from the feed 
 before the fruit. 3. It is required alfo, efpecially in thofe 
 that arife from good husbandry, that there be ibmething that 
 is.def red and expected and will be acceptable to the husband- 
 man, and mailer, or owner. All thefe things in the Scriptures 
 are to beapplyed unto good works, J. That they be agreeable 
 to the word of God, which is the feed, as it is in the Parables, 
 Matth. 1 3. Marke 4. of the good feed : and good workes dif- 
 fer from tares, as grapes differ from wilde grapes, ffaj 5.? » 
 2. That they have good nclfe in them. For bad workes nei- 
 ther are properly fi uits according to Scripture , unledc it be 
 with an addition, «>/// fruits. Nor do they bring any fruit to 
 their .m\\izs*iRom.6 21. They mult alfo have perfection in 
 their kinde : for as the feeds which are (aid in the parable to 
 
 arife, 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiflfe of Peter. y^ 
 
 arile, perhaps unto the care, yet becaule they did not come to 
 juft perfe&ion, are laid to have brought forth no fruits : Co al- 
 fo Ghriltiaos, which have only the flowers and leaves of pro- 
 feflion, and not the folid workv^s of godlinefle, are accounted 
 by God unfruitfull and barren plants. 3. Our workesallb 
 muft anfwer the expc&ationofGod, and that care which he 
 hath taken in manuring our fbules, I/ay 5.2. Luke 13. 6", 7. & 
 10.10. Although in all thefe things our good workes and 
 fruits are alike, yet one thing may be observed, wherein they 
 are unlike ; namely, that whereas the profit of naturall fruits 
 iswonttorcturne to the husbandman and matter, the profit 
 of thefe fruits redounds properly to thole that beare them, 
 Rom, 6. 12. Although hence alio fomething redounds untp 
 God our mafter, #0^15.8. 
 
 Vfe 1 . This may ferve to condemne thole, that bring forth 
 no fruit, Matthew 3.10. John i$\2. Luke 13. 7. Much more 
 are they to be condemned, that are like unto the curfed 
 ground, and in fteed of fruits bring forth thorncs and briers, 
 Hebr,6$. f Deut.$ 142. 
 
 2. To exhort us, by all meanes to labour to bring forth 
 goocj fruits, and fo alfo that they may beanfwerableunto 
 thole meanes which God ufed towards us, to make us fruit- 
 ful!, according to Gods expeftation,and in that fcafon where- 
 in God expefts them, and in that meafure alfo which he ex- 
 pe&s, of fome thirty v of fome Ikty, and of fome an hundred 
 fold. 
 
 Doft. 4 Without thefe fruits the knowledge of God is un- 
 profitable 
 
 For it is as it were choaked with thornes , or withered 
 away. 
 
 Vfe» This may ferve to admonifh us, to be fo much the 
 more carefull to bring forth fruit, that we may not heapeup 
 this finne of barrenneflfe unto the other, by making the word 
 of God void and of no erTeft. 
 
 Doft. 5. That we muy be fruit full^vertuesmufl not onl) 
 be in Hit but alfo abound in us. 
 
 They are in us when we have gotten a habit of them 5 they 
 abound, when we do ferioufly and diligently endeavour to 
 make that habit more peifed. 
 
 U 2 Verfe 
 
{$6 A Commentary upon the Second Eprjile of Peter. 
 
 Verfe p. But he that lacketh thefe things y is blinde^ and cannot 
 feefarre cjf, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his 
 old (tnnes* 
 
 The Analyfi?. 
 
 HTHis is the fecond argument whereby the exhortation of 
 the Apoftle is confirmed ; and it is taken from thedifpro- 
 fits that befall all thofe that are ftrangers to thefe vermes -And 
 the(e difprofits are contrary to thofe profits whereof mention 
 W&* made in the former ver(e. For the Apoftle would fay that 
 they which have not thefe vertues , are quite barren and un- 
 fruitfull. But he ddth not barely exprefle this/but fets it forth 
 by thecaufes thereof. And the caufes are two, blindnefleand 
 forgetf ulnefTc. For he that is blindc, rnuft needs be barren and 
 linfruitfull, and unfit to do thofe buffneiTesefpecially, which 
 require the eye fight : and he that forgets the benefit which 
 he hath received, it is no wonder, if he bring forth no fruit 
 worthy of that benefit. Their forgetful ncfle is let forth by the 
 objeft or benefit which they fhould remember, that is, their 
 purification from their old finnes. By blindneiTe in this 
 place is meant, not the privation of their corporall fight, or 
 of their natural! u'nderftanding , but of that fpirituall perfe- 
 ction, whereby we come to the laving knowledge of thole 
 things that pertaine to the kingdome of God,and our eternall 
 life. By thofe things that zrefarre off, arc meant things truly 
 fpiiitiull. which as touching their nature and condition, arc 
 3S fane off from carnal 1 men as heaven is from earth. 
 The Doftiines aiifing here-lience. 
 Do&. ft ftAll that are dejiitute of vcrtue are ffiritually 
 blinde. 
 
 Theyareblindein atwofoldrefpeeT. I. In refpeft of that 
 rjatU'allblindrfeiTe, wherein all the fonrie* ofy^w are born, 
 like that man that was blinde from his birth, Iohn$~i. And 
 fecondly, in refpe& of another adventitious blind nefle, which 
 they have brought upon themfelves by their finnes, through 
 the juft judgement of God blinding thofe that will not fee, 
 
 like 
 
ACommnUYytyontfo Secend Epiflk ef Peter* i*j t 
 
 like that forcerer, ABs 15. 11. upon whom the hand of the 
 Lord ieemes to have beene, to blinde him. The former blind- 
 ncfTe goes before as the caufe, z$z, the negleft of vertue ; the 
 other followes as the effeft. And both or them appsares by 
 thofe fignes that corporal) blindnefledoth. 
 
 Reafen 1. Beeaufe thofe men know not the fpeciall way 
 wherein they (hould g< ■■ 
 
 2. They cannot fee tho(e ftumbling-blocks that lye in the 
 Way,but continually (tumble and fall. 
 
 3. They cannot fo much as difcerne the colours of thofe 
 things which they handle, and therefore as k is, Ifay 5.20. 
 Ihey call evitlgood^ and good, evilly &c. And one. thing there 
 is that addes to their mifery more then is in thofe that are 
 corporally blinde; namely, that they feekc riot fit guides to 
 Ieade them, as it is faidof the forcerer, that he <\\<\^Atts 13. 
 11. for cither they truft wholly to themfelves, beeaufe they 
 doe not know that they are blinde, Apoc.^.iy. orelfethey 
 follow fome blinde guide, fo that both fall into the ditch. 
 
 ' Vfe 1. This may ferve to admonilh us, to acknowledge 
 ourfpirituallblindrefle, and to labour to get out of it. Fork 
 is in every one of us either in whole or in part* Wefhould 
 therefore thinke with our felves how great a mifery it is to 
 continue in perpetuill darknetle and in a mod thick myft. 
 Ghrift wept over Jerufalem for this theif blindnefie. 
 
 2. To exhort us earneftly to pray unto God.who can open 
 the eyes of our minde. The blinde man, Luke 18. 38. never 
 ceafed to cry out, faying, Ufus thou Sonne of David have mer- 
 cj en mt, and when Ghrift asked him , what he would hat 
 he mould do unto him, he defired nothing elfe , but that he 
 might receive his light, verfe 4 1. So alio in fpiri tuall blind- 
 neffe, although a great part of it was cmi ed in David^ yet we 
 fee that he c r, mtantly prayes unto God, to open his eyes, 
 Pfa&iifyiti. Soalfothe Apoftlelaith, that he ceafed not to 
 pray for the faithful!, that the eyes of their undei Minding 
 might be cnlightraed, £fhefi\.i%. This is the coun fell of the 
 holy Ghoir, and of Chrift, &if«ts>'$, 1 8. 
 
 3 To inltrtift us,never to think that we have received fight, 
 untill we find.- in our felves this Ltudy and labour to abound 
 in vertue. 
 
 Doft. 
 
158 «* Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Do#. 2. The forgetting of gods benefits is a great will 
 and /inne, and brings mifery along with it. 
 
 For it is here attributed unto thole, that are Grangers unto 
 vertue, not only as a finne, but alio as a great difprofit, and is 
 oppofed to that fruitfulnefle wherein the happinefle of the 
 faitbfull doth confift. It is a (inne, becaufe it container in- 
 gratitude in it, and that not the leaft degree of ingratitude ; for 
 though a man be windfall of the benefit which he hath recei- 
 ved, purposing to be thankfull for it, yet if he doth not render 
 thankes, he is faid to be ungratefull ; yea, and though he doth 
 render thankes, if he doth it coldly, and doth not endeavour 
 to anfwer the merits of him that beftowed this benefit upon 
 him, and the dignity of the benefit 3 he is not yet free from 
 this vice; but if he doth quite forget the benefit which he hath 
 received, then he is rightly faid to be as it were twice un- 
 gratefull. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve toadmoniuS us, to beware of this kinde 
 of ingratitude, and not to think our (elves ungratefull then 
 only, when we do repay evill for good, but alfo when we doe 
 any way forget the benefit which we have received. 
 
 Doft. J. God accounts him for get full of the b em fits -which 
 he hath received^ that is not effectually mindfull ofthem^ that t's 9 
 that dath net fo remember them, as to live anfwerably. 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that fruitfulnefTe and forget- 
 fulnefle are oppofed. For they are made immediately con- 
 traries* fo that there is no medium bet,weenc them. Deut. 32. 
 18. 1 he Ifraelites arc faid to have forgotten God for that 
 reafbn only, becaufe they had forfaken tfye true worfhip of 
 God, and his due obedience, as it isexplained^verfe 15. So 
 Tfal.i 06.1 3. where they are faid to have forgotten God and 
 his wotkes,as often as they murmured aeainfl him, although 
 there is no doubt but if they had beene asKed, they could have 
 cafily related the whole hiftory of thofe things that God 
 had done for them in Egypt. After the like manner are the 
 words of Chrift to be underttood, when heaskedhis Difci- 
 plcs,ivhcthcr they had forgotten the miracle of the five loaves 
 and two fjihes, intimating that it was a manifeil token of their 
 forget toluene, that they were at that time fo troubled about 
 bread. 
 
 Vfe 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftk of Peter. 1 59 
 
 Vfe. r. This may fcrve to admonifh us, not to reft fatisfi- 
 ed with fuch a memory as confifts in bare contemplation, 
 which God accounts forgctmlneflc. 
 
 2. To exhort us, by all meanes to ftudy this art of me* 
 mory. 
 
 Which that we may the better do, let us obfcrv« theft 
 Rules. 
 
 Rule 1. That we do not flightly paffe over the thought of 
 theft things, but look narrowly into the natures and circum- 
 ftances of them. For the more plainly we come to underftand 
 them, the more firmcly do we retaine them. 
 
 Rale *. That having come to fuch a cleare knowledge of 
 them, we fliould alib call them to minde, fo as to eonlider 
 the efficacy of them j for the more they worke upon the affe- 
 ctions , the lkongcr is the impremon upon the memory : 
 thence is it, that children are wont to remember many things, 
 which others forget, becauft they nfc to admire all things as 
 new and ftrange; and wes alfo doe not eafily forget thofe 
 things which we admire, as being things wherewith we are 
 much taken, P/al. 1 1 p. 1 6. / will delight my /fife in thyfiatntes^ 
 there is the affection - and I will not forget thy vtord^ there is the 
 memory flowing from the affection. 
 
 Rule 3. That we mould alwayes carry a memoriall with 
 us, whereby the memory of theft things may be. kept.iV#»^. 
 16.40. This is a memorial! * Now our memoriall is the word 
 of God chiefly, which in that refpett we mould daily read 
 and meditate upon. 
 
 Doft. 4. Our purification from ftnns is 4 benefit nevjr to 
 be forgot tcr* 
 
 Reafon j. Becaufe it is very great in it ftlfe and its owne 
 nature, fteing by it we are freed from the guilt and dominion 
 of finne, from the curft of the law, from the anger of God 
 and eternall death. 
 
 2. Becauft it is of great force and efficacy to ftirre us up to 
 labour to be thankfull, and to abound in vertue, as hei e it ap- 
 peares by the manner of arguing , which the Apoftle ufeth. 
 For that cauft alfo Paul, Rom. 1 2.1. and in other places ex- 
 hortcth the faithfull by the mercies of God, 
 
 Vfe t. This may fcrvs tocondemne thofe, that do either 
 
 not 
 
1 60 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter, 
 
 not think at all upon the mercy of God 3 and redemption 
 through Chrift ; or el(e turne it into an occafion of finne. 
 
 a. To exhort us, daily to meditate upon this benefit^ and 
 not to fadsfic our felves, unlefle we are daily ft irred up by this 
 argument to the pracYife of piety. 
 
 Doct. 5 . All the Jinnes from which we are purged in £%r//?, 
 mtfft be accounted old, thatis^eutofufe^forfaiten, dead 9 neverto 
 be taken ftp againe* 
 
 Verfe IO. Wherefore, the rather brethren, give diligence to make 
 
 your calling and election fure : for ifjedothefe things, ye 
 
 Jhall never fall, 
 Verft 1 1 . For fo an entrance /hall he miniftred unto you a- 
 
 bundantly, into the everlafting kingdome of our Lord and 
 
 Saviour Iefus Chrift: 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN thefe words is contained the conclufion of the Apo- 
 ftles exhortation , as it is intimated in the firft word, 
 Wherefore, Now becaafe the conclufion and the queftion 
 muft alwayes be the fame, as touching the thing it fclfe, 
 although they differ in fome refpe&s, there is no doubt but 
 the Apoftle here concludes the fame thing, which he had be- 
 fore, verft 5. propounded to hirafelfeto be concluded, viz. 
 That they Jhould give all diligence to adde to their faith vertue, 
 dec. And as repetitions in the Scripturearenocwonttobe 
 vaine,nor bare, but for the moft part with fome ufury or in- 
 crcafe; Co alfointhis plaee he doth not barely repeat the ex- 
 hortation to labour for vertue, but he doth illuftrate this en- 
 deavour and labour by the proper office thereof, that is, by 
 the confirmation of our calling and election ; fo that he doth 
 both repeat the exhortation, and alfoadde a new argument, 
 and that a moft weighty one, to preflc it the more, after this 
 manner: If by the cxercifeoj ' gocdrcorhes ye make your elcttion 
 and calling fure, then Jhould ye moft of all apply your/elves there- 
 yr.to : but th fot mr is true^ Thrrrforr, The afJumption is laid 
 downe in the ttxt, and proved by a double argument. 1. By 
 
 Kmoving 
 
A Commentary upn the Second Epiftlc of Peter. \S\ 
 
 removing the contrary or Apoftafie, which is moftoppofite 
 to the aflurance of ou- election and calling; and is alike op- 
 pofite alfo to the exercife of vcrtue and good workes, which 
 is (hewed in thefe wo: ds : If ye do thefe thin rs^ye/hall never fall : 
 wherein is (tich a reafon contained, if yc (hall never fall, then 
 ye will have your calling (lire. The fecond argument is taken 
 from the felicity adjoyned , which is fet forth by the proper 
 caufe thereof that is, by the abundant entrance into the ever lad- 
 ing ki*gdome offfhrifl. And this argument ftrengthens both 
 the conclufion and alfo the foregoing argument, after this 
 manner : tfye have abundant entrance into theeverlafling king- 
 dome efChriftt then ye /ball never fall y but holdyour calling- fure 5 
 But if ye labour to be vertuous and to dogoodtvorkes^e/haH have 
 abundant entrance into the everlafiing kingdom* ofChrifl : there- 
 fore if ye labour to be vertuous and to do good workes, ye ft all ne- 
 ver fall) but have your calling fure. But before we confider 
 the conclufion it felfe which the Apoftle layes downe, there 
 comes the manner to be obferved, how he doth propound it, 
 that lb it may worke the deeper. Now the manner is (hewed 
 in that title which he gives unto the faithfull , when he cals 
 them brethren, which is not only a title of good will , but of 
 fome fpeciall and lingular love, fuch as uicth to be betwixt 
 thefe men that are mod neerly joy ned together. 
 
 Obfer. Here we may obfervcingenerall, That our exhor- 
 tations mufi be feafoned with love andgoodwUl; but more Spe- 
 cially it affords us this Obfervation, That there it not a more 
 brotherly office, then to fiirre up and bring thofe that we love, to 
 labour and endeavour to lead a (fhriflian life. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe by this meanes they are delivered from 
 the greater! evils, lames 5 . 20. 
 
 2. Becaufe they arc made partakers of the greateft good ,as 
 it appearej in the text. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to admoni(h us , to take in good 
 part (uch exhortations and admonitions that are given us, 
 whether they be in publick or in private. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to feafbn our exhortations and admoni- 
 tions after this manner , and fo to be more frequent in thefe 
 duties. For oftentimes fae that negleds thefe duties, fhewes 
 that he doth hate his brother and is his enemy ; they being 
 
 X proper 
 
x6 3 A Commentary upon the Second Epijile of Peter, 
 
 proper to brethren,and the neereli and dearcft friends, Levit* 
 i 9 . ij. 
 
 lhc Do&rines ariftng herehence. 
 
 Docl . I . Thf affurance efoxr calling and eldlion it a thing 
 ere at ly to be defir<d* 
 
 This is gathered from the text r becaufe Tetcr in this ex- 
 hortation prciuppofeth fijnie fuch defire in the faitMiifl, and 
 then ttirres them up to a more fervent and earned deuYe of it. 
 
 Reafcn. Bccaufe cur happineffe and all fpirituill goad 
 things are greatly to bedchred, and they depend upon this 
 afTurance of our cdhng and election. Forele&ionistbcfree 
 love of God, whereby iie intends faving grace, of fuperna- 
 turall bleffings unto uc Oar calling is the manifestation of 
 that love by the application of this faving grace. Theaflu. 
 rance of both conlifts, I. in Gods unchangeable purpoie 5 
 iTiw. 2. I p. The foundation of "God fiandethfare. 2. In the 
 cffectuall operation, tvhich thofe bleifings ofGodhavcin 
 us 3 as in that place ofTimothj i that foundation hath thisfeuU 
 that whofoevcr cals on the name of (^hrif^fl)OHld depart from ini- 
 quity. 5. In afiur anc* of faith, conftdence 3 and experimental! 
 knowledge 3 which we come to have both of Gods purpofe 
 towards us, and the efls&uall and faving operation thereof in 
 our hearts. 
 
 Vfe I. This may fene to condemne thofe that have no af- 
 fection at all unto thrfe fpirituall good things, but reft well 
 pleafed in the things of this world. They are like unto the 
 rebellious Ifraelite?, who moredeiired the Onions and Gar- 
 lick of Egypt, then the Milke and Honey of the promised 
 Lard, ortheceleftiall Manna 3 iV#0?£.i 1.5,6. They are farre 
 worfethen the Prodigall Sonne, if they alwayes reft fatisfied 
 with the Swin?s husks, and never defire the bread that is in 
 their fathers houfe, Luk? 1 $. 1 6 . 1 7. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to labour for a fpirituall hunger and 
 thirft after thefe fpiiituall good things : God himfelfe 
 mewesusthebeftmeanes, wlu, when he would itirre up the 
 people ofrfrael to defire the promifed land, forthwith com- 
 mended unto them the riches of the land, wherewith ic did a- 
 bound: Co alio mould we alwayesfet before our eyes.thofe 
 innumerable bleffings, which depend upon our calling and 
 election* Dodc 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epifile of Peter* 1 63 
 
 Doft. 2. It belongs to our duty towak^this our calling and 
 eleUion fttre. 
 
 Cjive diligence Not as they are in the purpofeof God, 
 but as they have an effettuall operation in us, whereby they 
 are certahily manifefted and fealed unto us j and this is the 
 reafon why our calling is fet before election : for although 
 election be cternail in God, and our calling be in time; yet 
 vve come to know oar calling before our election, arid the 
 knowledge of cur election depends upon the cffeSnalnefle of 
 our calling. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe although God himfelie caufeth this, 
 yet he doth it partly by morall perforations and by thofe 
 meanes wherein our endeavour is required. 
 
 2. Becaule there ar? no effects of our calling and election, 
 which arc not alfo our effects, becaufe God makes us to doe 
 them. 
 
 5. Becaufe that very thing which God doth in this kinde, 
 we are in feme fort faid to doe, if we beg it of him by conti- 
 nual! prayer. 
 
 4. Becaufe Gods confirmation of it is fuch,that it requires 
 alfo the like confirmation ofus. God confirmes our cailing 
 and ejection by his promise, his covenant, v acrarnents, oath, 
 and fpirituall pledge : And thefe things do in like manner 
 require ofus our promife, and vow, to cleave unto God, our 
 covenant, faith, and endeavour, and all thofe things whereby 
 we may be confirmed in that communion which we have 
 with God. 
 
 Vie i. This may (erve to comfort us, becaufe the certainty 
 .md aflurance of our calling and election is not only polfible 
 for us to attaine unto, but alfo commanded us; (b that no- 
 thing is more pkafing unto God, then that we ftiould labour 
 to be more and more allured of thefe things: for this is the 
 end both of the promifc and the precept. 
 
 2. To reprove thofe, that either altogether neglect this 
 primary duty of the faithful!, or take fiich flight care of it,that 
 they mnft m eds alwayes waver in their minds touching thofe 
 things whereof they fhould be moft afTured. Dangerous is that 
 doctrine of the Papifts, that holds men* minds alwayes in fu- 
 ipenfe, both in life and death. For in life they accufe this 
 
 X a firmc 
 
j 5 4 A Commentary *fon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 flrme confidence of preemption , and in death they leave 
 wretched men in doubt, how long they lhall be tormented in 
 Purgatory # 
 
 3, To exhort us to this labour and diligence ; and indeed 
 this indeavour is infeparable from a true and lively faith : for 
 look how it is amonglt men ; if one did beleeve that he had an 
 inheritance left him by his Father, or any other, bewonli 
 never be at quiet, till he had gotten it affared unto him , ac- 
 cording to the lawes and eultomtsofthecountrey wherein 
 he lives > Co is it with the faithfull alfo touching thefe fph i- 
 tuall good things. 
 
 Doft. 3. liAll thofe, and tho/e alone , make their eleftion 
 fure^ that make their calling fure, 
 
 Thefe two God hath joyned together, as the Apoftle doth 
 in this place, fo that no man ought or may di^joyne them. 
 Hence eleftion and calling are taken fometimes in the Scrip- 
 tures for one and the fame, as i£V. 1.26,17. that which is 
 called calling, verfe 26. is called ele&ion, vttfcij. There is 
 indeed an outward and ineffectual! calling , which is many 
 times feparated from election, as when it is hid^Many are cal- 
 Ud^ but few are chofen. But etFcftuall and faving calling hath 
 alwayes a fure connexion with eleftion, as Row. 8. 30. and 
 11. 28. 29. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe this calling is nothing elfe but the opera- 
 tion of God, whereby- in time he begins to execute that pur- 
 pofe of eleftion, which he had decreed from everlafting. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove thofe, that are wont to 
 boaftoftheitieleftionandpredcitination, when in themeane 
 time they never looke after their calling or converfion, to de- 
 monstrate it cither to themfelves or others. It is prefumption, 
 whatibever~men fay of their ele&ion, if they are not firft af- 
 fined of their catling. 
 
 2. Toxomiort all the faithfull that are penitent 5 converted, 
 and called, becaufeall thofe may and ought to be fure of their 
 eleftion. 7!~ - 
 
 DocT. 4. An endeavour Jtifafcound in vertm^mytfirtkgml 
 yporkes is the only meanes to/6ake our calling andHtwfb&fure, 
 This is gathered fronrthefe words , Jfye do thefe things, 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe thefe are the proper effects of calling 
 and election. 2. They 
 
A Commentary upon the SecondEpftU ofPeter. 165 
 
 ?. They are the caufesofthat knowledge which weiiave 
 of our calling and election. For the knowledge and affarance 
 of thefe things depends upon the reflex aft of our under- 
 ftanding, whereby we fee in our (elves the markes and fignes 
 of cfFeftuall calling, and confequcntly of eterhall election. 
 Hence this afiurance increaieihand decreafethmus, accor- 
 ding as our endeavour to abound in vertucs, and to do good 
 workes is greater or lefler. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may (erve to refute thofe, that teach that the 
 aflTurance of ele&ion crofleth the pra&ife of piety 5 whereas 
 there is as great an agreement betwixt thefe, as is betwixt the 
 effect and the caufe, which abfolutely agree. 
 
 1. To condemne thofe, that from this doctrine of the aflli- 
 rance of election, take occafion to caft off all care of piety : 
 thefe ate they that the Apoftle fpeaks of, c.3 v. 16. who being 
 unlearned and unftable, trrrft the Scriptures unto their ewnede- 
 ftruElior. Although the election, of. God be fore initfelfe, 
 yet no man is fureofit without the practice of piety. Then 
 againc the certainty of election that is in God 3 makes this 
 certaine , that no man mall ever.be faved by vertue of electi- 
 on:, unlefle there be in him the pra&ife of piety : fuch words 
 or thoHghts are certaine tokens ofa profane (bule, which nei- 
 ther cares for election nor falvation, nor hath any feare of 
 God. For whereas it is alike certaine with God , how long 
 every one of us (hall live in this world, yet there is nonethat 
 cares not for his life, or ufeth not the meanes to live, unlefle 
 he be quite mad : fo from the certainty of election none con- 
 cludes after fiich a manner, unlene he be altogether profane. 
 
 3. To exhort us, to ftirre up our (elves more and more to 
 do thefe things, whereby we (hall receive fo great fruit and 
 benefit. 
 
 Do$. ?. fy labouring to do thefe things we are fore-armed 
 again ft the dangers of all temptations. 
 
 If ye do thefe things ^jejhall never fail* 
 Reafdn 1. Becaufe we are never led into temptation with- 
 out our owne fault, and confequently without the neglect of 
 this duty. 
 
 2. We are never led into temptation , unlefle we have firft 
 tempted God, by forfafcing thofe meanes 3 whereby we might 
 be upheld and preferved. 3. God 
 
-l 66 A Commentary upon tbe Second EptftU of Vet er. 
 
 % God can and will defend thole that flyc unto him, and 
 that fceke him in his w ayes. Hither tend thofe frequent pro- 
 miles, fuch as are Pfal. ij.the lap words, and 7 fa/. i 6.8. 
 
 Doft. 6. The more we are freed, from thefa/s ofJtnne y the 
 more are we a fared of our calling andeldlion* 
 
 This is gathered from the oppofition , which is made be- 
 twixt the aflurance of our calling and our fals. 
 
 Reafon, The reafon is taken from the contrariety $ for like 
 as the more the darknefle is difpelled,the more the light in- 
 creafeth , and on the contraryjfo is it in thefe things 
 
 DocT - . J, Lookwhat progrejfc we make in grace and vertue, 
 fo muebprogreffe do we make inglorj andbappinejje. 
 
 This is gathered from the connexion of trie eleventh verfe 
 with the former 4 the fore* whereof confift? in this , that by 
 adding ver.tue.unto kith, and knowledge unto vertt^ we /hall 
 adde alfo (bmething unto that participation, which we have 
 in the kingdome of God : where it is to be obferved that the 
 fame word is ufed in this eleventh verfe, where he fpeakes of 
 glory, that was ufed, verfe 5* where he fpake of vertue ; there 
 it was i7ux a wy* ff!iTi , hcvei7ri^^Myt3tm7U'. 
 
 Reafin* The reafon is, becaufe as in evill the finne is never 
 fepatated from the punifhment, but in the finneicfelfe there 
 is the fpot orblemifh, which is like unto mifery; fo alio in 
 ,good the obedience and vertue is never fcparated from the re- 
 waid. For it hath alwayes joyned with it that consolation 
 which p^raines to thcreward of happineffe- 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to comfort us againft the afflicti- 
 ons of this life; for although the faithfull receive no reward 
 from this world, by reafon of the iniquity of mcn,but hatred, 
 difgraccj contempt, and persecutions : yet the^.may reft w$H 
 contented in this, that they (hall not only receive an ample 
 reward in the life to come,but alfo they mall receive it in fome 
 fort in this life prefent, A//*tt£. 5- 10.12. & 19.29. 
 
 2. To exhort us t,o labour to i icreafe in piety, for as much 
 as this labour is not in vaine, but bath its wward.even in this 
 prefent world, 1 Cor, \ % Uft. 
 
 DocT: 8 This happinejfe'cmfifls in b ting made partakers 
 of the everZ-tfiinQ- k^rigiome ofG' d% 
 
 ty the h^ngdome of God is meant properly that condition 
 
 inco 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter, ! 67 
 
 into which the faitbfullaretranflatedby thetreffe&uall cal. 
 ling : now feeing there are no degrees of this cond tion, this 
 kingdome is diilinguiihed into the kingdome of grace, and the 
 kingd'Jine ofgtorj. Into the kingdome of grace, because the 
 preaching and miniltery of the Goipe'll is (Hi efficient caufe 
 thereof, therefore the Got pell it felfe "is called in Scripture the 
 kfagdtm: of ' &d, and becaufe the Church is the proper ftib- 
 jctt of this itate and conditi >n , therefore the Church is alto 
 Gilled the kingMme tfGod; and becaufe fpirituaftgraCe hath 
 the chiefe part in this condition, thei cforc that alfo is called 
 the kingdome ofCjod, Rom. 1 4 1 7. but molt properly the con- 
 dition it felfe is the kingdome tfGod. And it is compared to a 
 kingdome rather then to a Democracy or Ariitocracy, or any 
 other fociety. 
 
 Rtafon 1. Becaufe of the dignity and fplendour which It 
 fyath. 
 
 , 2 . Becaufe the rule or governement is in the power of one! 
 For although it is called fometimes the kingdome of God, 
 fometimes the kingdome ofour.LordJefusChrift>as in this 
 place; yet they are not made two Kings as touching the ef- 
 fence, but thereby it is (hewed that he hath a fingular charge 
 in this kingdome. 
 
 3. Becaufe the lawes and edicls of this fociety are altoge- 
 ther Kingly and Monarchical! ; the feales alfo, and all thing* 
 that pertaine to this government, beare the effigies as it were, 
 or image of one King. 
 
 VJe 1. This may ferve to comfort the faithfull.who mould 
 think with them felves, and often call to minde, unto what a 
 great happinefle they are called,- For that which David ftid 
 heretofore, 1 Sam 1 8.2 3, Seemeth it tojon a light thing to be a 
 Kings fonne in law ? that may all the faithful! fay of them- 
 selves in refpeft of this kingdome, that it is not a light thing 
 %o be macle Citi2ens of this kingdome , and efpecially feeing 
 we are poore and vile creatures, the greater will our comfort 
 be,when we confide r the glory and eternity of this kingdome. 
 The glory is mch thAtthekmgiomcs of David and Sotomin, 
 even in the greateft glory th*t ever they had, were but imper- 
 fect reprefentations and (hadowes as it were of thi* kingdome; 
 For they were but types of it. So great is the glory of this 
 
 kju^iome 
 
I SB A Commentary upon the Second Epijile ef Peter. 
 
 kingdome, that all the Citizens and Subjects thereof arc in 
 fome fort Kings, JpocA>6. The eternity is Inch, that neither 
 in whole nor in part is it lyable unto an end, or any eflentiall 
 change. Compare all the kingHomes of the Per/ians, Adedes, 
 and Grecians, all which are abolifhed j this kingdome of God 
 alone continues for ever. 
 
 2. To reprove thofe, that profcfle themfelves Chriftians, 
 and yet live fo as if they were under no lawes, & did acknow- 
 ledge no King. For as this is reckoned as the caufe that tnte 
 Ifraelites did runne into all kind of wickednefle 5 becatife there 
 was no king in Ifrael, but every one did that which was right 
 in his owne eyes. Judges iy,6.& 18. i. So alfo do thefe men as 
 it were proclaime, that they neither acknowledge Chrift nor 
 God for their King, while they do that which ftemes right in 
 their own eyes, not caring whether it do pleafe God , ordit 
 pleafe him. Such men muft expeft that ientence of Chrift, 
 which is laid downe,L»^ 19.27. Thofe mine enemies which 
 would not that 1 fhould reigne over them, bring hither and flay 
 them before me, 
 
 3. Te exhort all to feekethis kingdome of God above all 
 other things, according as Chrift bids us ; firft feeke the king- 
 dome of goci. And not only the happinefte of thole that arc 
 admitted to be partakers of this kingdome, but alfo the mife- 
 ry of all thole that are excluded from it , fhould be an argu- 
 ment to perfwade hereunto: for there are two fpirituall king- 
 domes, and every man muft needs be a fubjeft of one of them : 
 the kingdome of light and the kingdome ofdarknefle ; the 
 kingdome ofrighteouftefle and grace, and the kingdome of 
 finne ; the kingdome of God,and the kingdome of the Devil^ 
 who is called the Prince of this world. All thole that are ex* 
 eluded cut of the kingdome of God, of grace and falvatiou, 
 are nccelTarily included in the kingdome of the Devill, hnnc 
 and darknefle; and defervedly doth this befall all unbclecvers 
 and impenitent men, according to that commination, Dent* 
 28.45. 
 
 Do5. p. The faithful! ntufl feeke not only to have an en- 
 trance into the kingdome of Godfbtit alfo an entrance in a plenti- 
 full and abundant manner* 
 
 Men may be confidered to be in a fourefold condition in 
 
 refpeel: 
 
A Commentary ttpott the Second Epifik of Peter. ify 
 
 refpecl: of the kingdome of God. For feme arc very furre off 
 from it : namely, fuch as the Apoftle fpeaks o^Epbrf. 2. 12. 
 Tkafare without Chrift^ andnvithottt God, aliens from the Com" 
 mon-we/ilth of Ifrael^ ft-'angers from the covenants ofpromife : 
 fuch are all thofe that cither underftand nothing at af!>of thofe 
 things which pertaine unto this kingdome , or el (e nothing 
 care for them, having their consciences feared as it were with 
 a hot iron, as the Apoftle fpeaks, 1 tim,^. 2. Others there arc 
 which come neere unto the kingdome of God, although they 
 are not partakers of it,fuchas that Scribe was of whom Chrift 
 faith, Markj. 1 . 3 4. that he tvas not farre from the kjng&ome of 
 God\ and King Agrippa, AFls26.i2. Others there are that 
 enter into the kingdome of God by faith and repentance, 
 Iohn 3»3» He that is borrse againe feeththe kingdome ofGod } that 
 iSj he enters into *> 5 as it is, verfe 5. But then againe others there 
 are, (with whom alfo in that refpett God is very well plea- 
 fed,) that do not only enter into it, butenterinaplentifull 
 and abundant manner, as in this place. The difference betwixt 
 thefe two laft forts is fuch, as is betwixt thofe that make en- 
 trance only into the borders of a countrey, and thofe that go 
 even into the moft inward parts of it : or as is betwixt thofe 
 that make entrance only into a difcipline, and thofe that have 
 throughly learned, and do exercife the very myfteries thereof. 
 This Doctrine is confirmed, Colof. 3, 1 5, 16. And to that pur- 
 pofe is that in Colof 1.9. 
 
 Reafon 1 . Becaufe thefe fpirituall things are £uch,that they 
 can never exceed meafure: there fs nothing in them tco much. 
 2. They are of fiich a nature, that they do whet and ftirre 
 ap the defire, fo that whofoever hath tafted the fweetnefle of 
 thcm» doth ftill defire to be more and more filled with them, 
 untill he (hall come to the higheft perfection, as we may fee in 
 their examples, who in this refpeft are moft commended in 
 Scripture. 
 
 'Vfi'i: This may fcrve to reprove and condemne thole, 
 to whom the bare profeffion of piety teenies to be enough and 
 too much, that feare left they mould be too godly, that is, left 
 they mould be too happy : this is a certainetoken of a carnall 
 mindc. 
 
 2. Tcexhortus, r. To give Godthanks, that he hath not 
 • > Y only 
 
17© A Commentary upon the Second Epifile of Peter. 
 
 only admitted us into the fuburbs, as it were, and gates of 
 this kingdome, but hath alforeve.iled unto us thofe things 
 which are more inward and (ecret. 2. To be diligent and 
 careful!, that we do not negleft or defpifefb great grace, but 
 day by day earneftly to (hive to make a greater progrtflc in 
 this kingdome, which we (hall do, if we be more diligent and 
 religious in thofc exercifes , whereby this kingdome is ad- 
 vanced. 
 
 Verfe IS. Wherefore I will not be negligent tit put you alwayes 
 in remembrance of thefe things, though ye know them, and 
 be ftablifbedin the prefent truth. 
 
 Vet ft 13. Teatlthinkjtmret as long as I am in this tabernacle, 
 tofiirreyou up, by putting you in remembrance : 
 
 Verfe 14. Knowing that Shortly, I my. ft pat off 't hid my taberna- 
 cle , even as our Lord hfus Chrift hath fhewedme, 
 
 Verfe 15* Moreover, 1 will end?avour,that you may be able af- 
 ter my deceaftjo have thefe things alwayes in rtm mbrance* 
 
 "' 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN the foimer words the Apr-file had given a reafon of his 
 exhortation, why all the faithfull mould unbrace it :.and in 
 t s efe words he give? a reafon of the fame, why he mould u'e 
 itiintothem; which reafon he delivers by way cf anticipa- 
 tion, whereby he meets wichaclofeobjtftionby akin, eof 
 moJelt excufe, or by removing the caule which they might 
 fufpeftjwhy he mould- put them in remembrance of thefe 
 thing?, namely, becaufe he did think they were ignorant arid 
 unliable. Now he fhewes that this was not the caufe, in thefe 
 Words, though ye know them, and be ftablifbcd in the prefent 
 truth. And then \ e brings divers true caufes that inoyed him 
 to make this exhortation unto them. 1. The great profit th; t 
 would redound unto them by the performance of thefe du- 
 ties whereunto he exhorts them. This reafon is intimated in 
 t'latcaufall particle, whereby he joynes thefe words with the 
 roi mer, wherefore, that is, lor thofe benefits fake which you 
 ihail 1 < ccive by this meancs, I thought it my part to pur ycu 
 * in 
 
A Commentary ufon the Second Epiftk of Peter, I j t 
 
 in remembrance of thefe things after this manner. 2. The ft. 
 cond reafon, which depends upon the former, isthedefire 
 and care that he had ro further their good ; this is intimated 
 in theft words,/ will not be negligent' 3 The third reafon is ta- 
 ken from the duty of the Apoftie, becaufe juttice and equity 
 required this of him 3 in thefe words, Ithinkjtmeet* 4. The 
 fourch reafon is- taken from the opportunity of time,whicb he 
 had now, and was not long to continue ; that he had it no^ 
 he fhewes in theft words,** long as lam in this tabernaclrythxt 
 it Was not long to continue, in theft words, Knowing that 
 fhortly Imuft put of this my tabernacle* which he confirmes by 
 the teftimony of jefus Chrift.5. The fifth rrafon is taken from 
 the fruit which this exhortation might bring forth; which 
 is ftt forth by the adjunct of time, that it would be profita- 
 ble unto them , not only while Teter lived, but alfo after his 
 death, after my deceafe to have thefe things alwayes in remem- 
 branc 9 vcrfc 15. 
 
 The Doftrinesarifingherehence. 
 Doft. I • In our exhortations and admonitions \ we mujl not 
 only look? unto /V, that that which we fay bejuft and right Jbut alfo 
 that wefpeak^ it vith a right minde and good intention, and that it 
 may fo appeare alfo unto thofe with whom we have to do% 
 
 This is gathered from the (cope of this text. 
 
 Reafon 1. The fir ft reafon is taken from our duty; for that 
 which is good in it felfe, becomes evill unto us, and our duty 
 is turned into finne, unlefle quodbonum eft bene agamus, we do 
 that which is good after a good and right manner ; as if a 
 man out of anger, hatred, envie, or a defile to difgrace him,or 
 pride, fhould tell his neighbour of any vice , or ltirre him up 
 to do his duty. 
 
 2. From the profit of our neighbour, or the benefit of our 
 adtaonition and exhortation. For it depends oftentimes up- 
 on the mind or manner of doing it, which is chiefly looked 
 unto in fuch like duties ; fo that they do either make way for 
 our neighbours receiving it, or caft an obftacleinthc way to 
 hinder him from receiving it« 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to reprove thofe, that never exhort 
 fither* but for revenge fake, when there if fbme contention 
 and ftrife betwixt themj and then they plea ft thcmftlvcs moft 
 
 Y * i» 
 
tjl A Commentary npon the Sec&nd Epiftle ef Peter. . 
 
 in repfoovmg other mens vices, when they fhould not , and 
 when they fhould, they are altogether filent. 
 
 Dott. 2. We muft put our neighbours in remembrance of 
 thofe 'things which make moft for their gov J. 
 
 This is gathered from that particle, Wherefore* 
 Reafon. Becaufe admonition and exhortation are accord- 
 ing to their nature, workes of charity, and tend unto the good 
 of our neighbour : therefore we fhould ufe it moft unto thofe 
 from whom we may cxpeft moft good. 
 
 Vfe i. This inayferve to reprove thofr, who 9 if their neigh- 
 bours do any thing unfeemely or uncivilly, or to the loffe of 
 their honour, or fome outward profit, doprefentlytake no- 
 tice of it in ihem; but never looke after thofe things that doe 
 moft pertaine to thekingdomeofGod: thofe things indeed 
 fhould not be neglected 3 but thefe thingsmould chiefly be 
 looked after. 
 
 2. To exhort us, in thofe things which pertaine to the 
 kingiome]of God , and the falvation of foules ] to have an 
 efpeciall care of our duty towards our neighbour. Hitherto 
 belongs that which ?eter faith , that he would not be negligent, 
 that is, that he would never lay a(ide the care of thefe things : 
 which although it did in a fpeciall manner pertaine to the du- 
 ty of Pet-.r, an ApolUe, and other Minifters of the word, yet 
 it 13 proportionably to be extended to the comaion duty of 
 all Chrmians, becaufe the rcafons which ftrengthen it,arc for 
 the meft part common. 
 
 Doe\. 3. In juftiee andequitywe -Are bound to put one anc- 
 therin remembrance. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words., 1 thinkjt meet : for al- 
 though it doth not pertain unto that particular juftiee., which 
 conliils in theequality of the thing received and repayed,yet 
 it is called /uftice, becaufe itihath as ftrohgan obligation, as 
 any thing that is due by juftiee, Rom.i.iq. 
 
 Vf. This may ferveto reprove thofe that account it a finne 
 to be negligent in paying debts, but make no account of the 
 negledt of this duty. 
 
 Deft. 4, They that *tre learned and alfo ftablijhedin the 
 truth % do yet Hand in need of admonition sand exhort at ions. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words, though ye know them 
 i and be ftablijhedin theprefent truth. Reafon 1. 
 
Redfon I. Becaufe they art not foleanietJan^ffabfifaied. 
 kit that they may.be yet farther inftru&ed and iholifhed. v 
 
 2. Becau-fe ir 'they had all knowledge and alfe fakfnVyet 
 their .will and affection's muft be by thetemeariesftk-fedup 
 onto their duty. For our williHike'urftba flow artcfdallfcr- 
 vant , to whom h\$ not enough once to heare thecotSh*Hf9j 
 of his matter, but they muft be often told him. Then agaihej 
 if they had not only aMhowledge and faith., buta'Hbamof! 
 ready will and affections,' yet becaufe they arecontinuaMy afc 
 faulted by temptations, they-hay6^ctf6hirtie ,; ot^ei , Meof 
 continual! remembrances and puttings in, iriindito-ftrthgthen 
 them. The fpeech of the Captaine arid' the found of the 
 Trumpet, and fuch like excitements, do put fome courage £• 
 ven info the moft valiant fouldiers. 
 
 Vfe u This may If^c to reptovc t^^fai JbRhWft^*^ 
 that put fudi Confidence in themfelves in their jqwri kft6$3 
 ledge and faith, that they do utterly coatemne foe hkiride of 
 u p i npQ .. sir!T 
 
 ucipca. 
 
 2. To exhort all to be conftant and diligent in the hearfag 
 'of Sermons. For if there be- any that abobnfr in fcnbwlcb^e; 
 and perhaps 1 exceed the' Prckcher^irfefelfe^that tteylanriot 
 be taught any more by him, yet they may be itirredup-byaBK 
 monitions and exhortations, and in that refpe& tbeyffrould 
 alwayes be pretent there; but much more fhouldt'hey,' that 
 ara no t yet learn ed and ftabliflied in the truth. 
 
 §.. Xodireft, as well the Preachers as the hearers, not only 
 to teach the truth, but alfo to bring a word of exBortaeion al- 
 wayes, that is , to apply it to the ufe of the truth which they 
 deliver, and then the hearers, tocomeuntoSermons,nota8 
 
 Daft. 5- fVe muft t*k* hold of the opport*>fity of time, 
 •which we have^ diligently to fxercife fitch Chriftian duties. 
 
 This is gathered from theft words , As twr as I am in this 
 tabernacle. So Cjal. 6.10. John 9.4. & 1 2.35. 
 
 Vi% This may ferve to admonilh us, not to defcrre or pul 
 offthe Mme of our repentance and obedience, a £V.6.a.P aU 
 
 95 7>8. 
 
 Dot. 
 
1^4 4 Comment dry upon the Second Epiftle of Peter, 
 
 Doft. 6. The neerer w come to the end of our fife, the more 
 diligent fhould we be in Qhrifkian duties. 
 
 This is gathered from the words following, Knowing that 
 Jhortly Imuftfut off this tnj tabernacle 
 
 Vfe* This may fervc to exhort us, alwayes to be diligent, 
 for as much as we are never fane from putting off this our ta- 
 bernacle 9 for although we are not cxprefly told,as Peter wa», 
 how foone this mall be, yet we ace told that it (hall not be 
 long ; and it may happen fooner unto us, (hen it did unto 
 Teter^ who wrote this Epiftle. 
 
 Doft. 7. fVefhould labour in our life, thatfome fruit of our 
 life may remaine in the Church after our death* 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 1 5. We cannot all profit the 
 Church by our writings, as Peter did, but yet through Gods 
 grace we may either by Come other workes > or at leaft by our 
 good example leave fbme fweet fmelling favour bchinde us, 
 that may be pleafing and acceptable unto thofe that remaine. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to condemne thofe, that live €0 
 corruptly and wickedly , that even after their death they are 
 a fcandall and offence unto thofe chat knew them. 
 
 2. To exhort us, (and to comfort our felve* in it, ) to carry 
 and behave our (elves pioufly and holily while we live , be- 
 caufe Gods glory is thereby advanced, not only while we 
 live, but alfo after our deceafe. 
 
 Verfe, f 6. For we have not followed cunningly devifed fables 9 
 when we made knojvne unto you the fewer and comming of 
 our Lord lefus Chrifi y but were eye-witnejfes of his Ma* 
 
 Verfe 1 7. For he receivedfrom God the. Father , honour ; andglo* 
 ry t when there came fuch a voice to him from the excellent 
 glory i This U my beloved Sonne jn whom I am well p leafed. 
 
 Verfe 18. t/fnd this voice which came fromheaven % we heard t 
 when we were with him in the holy mount. 
 
 The 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftlt ofPetir. 17 5 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN thefe verfes is contained the reafonand caufeofthofe 
 things, which he had fpoken of before, as it is manifeft by 
 thecaufall particle For. Now he had faid before, 1. That all 
 the fa 5 thfull muft adde vertue unto faith. 2. That he had a juft 
 rcafon why he mould fo fcrioufly ft irre them up unto this du- 
 ty; and in thefe words he (hewes the reafon and cauie qt 
 both, which Is taken from the certainty that is in the things 
 themfelves, and the aiTurance that all the faithfull may have 
 of thofe things that were propofed unto them tobeleeve. The 
 certainty is fet forth firft by fomething unlike it, that is, by 
 cunningly devifed fables. Secondly, by the t^ftimqni^s or the 
 Apoftles, who were both eye-witnetfes., and earc-wn;ncffes 
 Or thefe things. Eye-w r tii:flcs,in thefe words,** were eje-wit~ 
 nfffes of his Mayfly. Eare- witneffes in thefe words , and thir 
 voice roe have hard. The fight and hearing of the Appftles, 
 wherein lies the foundation of therjenjmony.are fetfof$4f4 
 by their objects : The ob je& of their fight was thje naaje||if 
 of Chrift, the object of their hearing was a- voice which came 
 from Heaven concerning Chrift. Secondly by the caufe, 
 which was God the Father, commu licating glory unto 
 Chrift both by word and deed, Vcrfe 17. Thirdly, by the 
 circuroftances of time and place, when we were withhiwy &c. 
 The DuArines ariling herehence. f \ 
 
 *D-ol}. t. (fttnninglj devifed fables are feme times propofed 
 in the Church in feed of the truth of God. 
 
 For thjis is the reafon why the Apoftje cleares himfelfe 
 from all (ufpicion of fuch like fables,becaufe there were many 
 at that time, and many would come afterwards i that wpuld 
 deceive the Church with fuch like fables 8 1 Cor. 2.1. Where 
 Paul faith, that he came not with excellency offpeech^ thereby 
 clofely rebuking fomefalfe Apoftlcs and Preacher who did 
 affeft nothing elfe but a mew of eloquence. So in this place 
 (T Peter makes mention o| fables, by reaibn of fuch impoftors, 
 1 Tim* 1. 4. & 6. 4. 71.vi.-i4. Such were the fables id the 
 Church of Rome^hit are contained in their golden Legends of 
 S« Francis i e J)omimck^ and inuuiflerablc Saints and Virgins, 
 
 with 
 
£y£ ACammifrAryVfMitfo Second Epiftk of Peter* 
 
 with the miracles that were done by them. For fuch like fa- 
 bles were wont to be heretofore, and yet to this day alfo in 
 many places are propofed unto the people in Read of the word 
 of (jod, 
 
 * Vfe I. This may ferve to admonifhtiSj not to receive all 
 things that are propofed, without triall and examination : for 
 fo we may imbrace fables in ftced of the Gof pell. 
 
 2. fo exhort ns,to give God thanks , that we live in thoft 
 Churches, out of which all fadfcold wives fables are wholly 
 removed „ and wherein nothing is propoled but the firicere 
 word of God.- 
 
 Docl:* 2. All thofe profeffors of the faith that donotadde 
 vertne tint a faith ; andallthofe Preachers that do not with kjeale 
 tiMdconfiancjftirre up the faithfull to labour for vertue^ do great* 
 lytUfhonour the ^ofpeH^ as if it were of thefaOie nature with cun* 
 toingly devifed fables. 
 
 This is garnered from the connexion of the te words with 
 tfni words foregoing , which were explained in the Analyfis. 
 frbVthis Is theforce of tfte Apoftles reafon ; If I did Account 
 th* truth of the C&X$di like unto a cunriingly devifed fable, 
 $ £ould not fo eainefHy, and with wch conftancy ftir you up 
 to imbrace and adbrneit; nor could ye receive thole things 
 that we have fpoken of, without an endeavour to abound in 
 vertiie 3 if ye did! not account them like unto cunningly devifed 
 fable*. 
 
 Vfe i. This may-fervetoadrnonifh, i. All Preachers to 
 beware of carcleflenefiTe and negligence in ftirring up the peo- 
 ple unto piety. And 2, All the faithfull alio to beware of 
 luke^ivartrk and unfruitfull profeflion of the faith. Forhei- 
 thef fbftfcem 5 eari-be without animpliclt and vertuall &iaiphe- 
 yfjN"Afe& tfifey* that Co carry themfelves, although they do 
 not iri words; yet they do in their deeds conrefie, and make it 
 to appeare, that they make no more account of the Gofpell, 
 then of atf old wives fable. 
 
 2. Toexhort us/tugive alldiligenceto fanftify, as it-Were^ 
 the GofpeH of Ghrift which we profefle., and to mew it in 
 our lives, that we think farre otherwiieof the natureof i^then 
 the profane multitude doth. 
 
 DoCt. 5. Thefitmme of the Cfofpell corf fs fa declaringthe 
 power and comm'mg ofChrift, This 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle ofPeter, \yj 
 
 This is gathered fi om thefc words, We made knwnennto 
 yon the power and comming of our Lord Icftts £hrifi. For his 
 power hath refpett unto his divine nature, together with the 
 eflk&s thereof, RotK.i.+, And his comming hath refpeft un- 
 to his humane nature, together with the end and benefit of his 
 incarnation. Now if chele two be joyned together, namely, 
 tha: Chrilt came to fave us, and that he came with power, lo 
 thac he had allfufficiency & efficacy at his comming, nothing 
 more can be defircd to comfort the faitfofuIJ. 
 
 Vfc i. This may fervetoadrnonifh, i Preachers, to make 
 the power and comming of ChrW the center as it were of all 
 their Sermons. The Apoftle, I Cor.2,1* Determined to know 
 nothing fave Iefus Cbrift and him crucified fe then alio, 2. the 
 hearers, to have a fpeciall eye unto that in the hearing of Ser- 
 mons, how they may profit in the understanding of this my- 
 ftery. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to fetch all the obedience which we per. 
 forme unto God, from him as from the fountaine. For w rut- 
 foe ver duties flow not from the power and comming of 
 Ghrift,arc not Evangclicall,but are infecled with hypocrilie, 
 or coniift in civility. 
 
 Doft. 4. The certainty of this Go/pell , even as it may be 
 had after the manner of men, is as great as any we can have of any 
 things that are done andfafi. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words ; We havefeene, -we have 
 heard. For it is confirmed by the teftimony of thoft, that fen- 
 fibly perceived itj who by theconretfionofallweremenal 
 lealt worthy to be believed , having no reafon to witnefle any 
 ©therwife then the thing it fclfe vvasjin regard that they could 
 not expeft to receive any profit th; reby from men$ and being 
 fuch as confirmed it unto us, not by the bare teftimony of 
 their words, but alfo with their life and blood .• fo that even 
 after the manner of men we may be as certaine of the Gofpell 
 as we are, that there was fometimes a Monarchy of the Afiy- 
 rians, Grecians, Romans : that there were Captaines, and 
 Knights, of fuch and fuch a countreyj or the like. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferveto reprove and condemne the pervert- 
 nc (fc of men,who eanly belie /e all ©ther things,though there 
 be but weak arguments to confirme it ; but they can lcarcc be 
 brought to receive the Gofpell otfalvation, Z 2.T0 
 
j 78 A Commentary upon tfo Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 2. To exhort us to'ftrengthen our faith with fuch like rea- 
 fons, even to th« full affurance thereof, I loUn 1.3,4* For al- 
 though wc our felves have not (eerie thcfe things, yet we muft 
 as ftrongly and firmely believe them , as if we our felves had 
 fcene them with our eyes, lob* 10.29, This peruines Unto 
 the thankfulnefle which we owe a to God, that he would not' 
 barely declare unto us his will, but alfo confirmed by tefti- 
 nionies,I*^M*2. For this Was one of the fpectall offices of 
 the ApoftIes,.to wiunfle thofe things which they had feeoe 
 ofChrift, i&f&s 1.12. ^232. 
 
 Deft. 5. sA great Mayfly was fenfbtj ferceivedby the 
 zApcflles. • ' 
 
 ■ This is gathered from tbefe words, fVe have fecne his CMa- 
 jefiie. So great was this M ijeft ie,that the Difciples could not 
 beare it, Matth.\y 6. It aftonifhed and amazed Teter, C^Urle 
 
 9- t° . 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to inftruft iis, to conceive by this 
 proofe, how great the glory and Ma jef tie ofChrift is now in 
 Heaven, how great it mall be at the laft day , and how great 
 we alfc (nail be made in the lifeto come. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to have Chrift in high eftirnation? Wc 
 have no caufc to be afhamed of fo great a Ma jeftie 5 according 
 to that cf our Saviour ; If'ivy one be a/bamsd of me iA this adul- 
 terers generation D him will I be aft anted of 'before God and his- 
 Aig;ls. 
 
 !3o c r. 6. This majefi'f was exptrfedin thofe words tfJftih 
 This is my belove'd Sbnrie in whom 1 am'well plea(ed. 
 
 In thife words is contained both the power and com- 
 ming ofChrift, whereof the Apoftlcswitncfled, and wherein 
 is contained the fumme of the Gdfpell, as we faid before. 
 This is gathered from the connexion of the words, which 
 th( (e have with the former, Wetnade bnowne^eb'c. For in the 
 title of Sonne is declared the honour and glory ofChrift, 
 where he is called thumy Sonne: in the title of beloved is (hew- 
 ed the comn irig ofChrift, and the end thereof, namely, to re- 
 concile us unto God, and make us beloved.of him : whence 
 he is called, My b-loved in whom lam we//p/eafed. By the ti- 
 tle of Sonne is chiefly fignified the kingdomc ofChrift, by the 
 title oi beloved in whom I am i&e/l f leafed, is fignified the Piieft- 
 
 hood 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftk ofPe ier. 1 7^ 
 
 hoodofChriu* ; and by the third thing which h added. Mat. 
 17.5. is (ignified his Prophetical! office; hea>eyehim.hnd that 
 whkh is there exprefled, is here underftoodj 10 that there is 
 nothing in Chrilt and the Gofpell which may not fitly be re* 
 duced to thefe few word*. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may fervc to inftruft us, for the building up 
 of our faith, tohavealwaycsinourmindcs that divine voice; 
 for therefore came it twice from Heavcn,oncein the Baptifmc 
 of Chrift, and once in this transfiguntfion which Peter hath 
 reference unto in this place : All the word of God indeed 
 comes from him, but there are tome parts of it which come 
 from him unto men in a more fpeciall manner, that i? a imme- 
 diately. Such was theDecaloguein the Old Teftament: fuch 
 was the voice, Iohn 12. 18. and men was this voice that was 
 twice repeated : Now as we mould magnifie every word of 
 God, fo in a fpeciall manner mould we obferve and take no- 
 tice of fuch words as theft. 
 
 2. Toadmonifhus, to depend upon Chrift alone, and to 
 have recourfeunto him only, in thole things which peitaine 
 unto our fatvatiork 1. Becaufe fuch a teltimony was never 
 given ofany one befides Chrift. a. In this teftimony^ower, 
 honcur, and glory is fo given unto Chrift, that it is denied 
 unto all others: for the demon ftrative particle that, as it is in 
 theoriginail,«u(^ » aVT>iT3c,hath an exclufive vertue,as touch- 
 ing all others 3 excluding all others from being partakers 
 of it. 
 
 Doft. 7. This voice of God did effectually bring honour 
 and glory unto Chrift, 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words 9 Be received from god 
 the Father honour and glory , when there came fuch a voice unto 
 him, 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the teftisnony of God is infallibly true. 
 P- v 2» There is pyned with it omnipotent power , when it is 
 faid to come from the excellent glory. 
 
 •Vfe 1. This may ferve toinftruft us, by faith to relye upon 
 every teftimony of God. For that wfoich God promifeth or 
 any way witnefTeth, is as fure as that which we have already 
 received or do fee brought to pafTe. We may oftentimes doubt 
 of mens words, becaufe theyihave neither pcrfeft truth , nor 
 
 Z. 2 perfeft 
 
j g A CcmmwUry upon Ihe Second Eptjtle ofVeter. 
 
 perfect power : but the excellent glory of God, whereof men- 
 tion is here made, requires far other wife or us. 
 
 a . To exhort us, tor the confirmation of cur faith, to have 
 alwayes in our eyes the excellent glory of God, whereby he 
 can and alfo will do whatfoever he hath f*id. 
 
 Doft. S. Thofe things which genuine uuto the kingdoms 
 ef Chrift) are fo holj^ that they make the place it felfe , wherein 
 thy are declare^ infomefort holy, 
 
 I his is gathered from thefe words : in the holy Alount. For 
 thb Mount was not ho!y,but by this transfiguratiomand this 
 voice that came from heaven, £xod,$,$. Iohn 6.3. 
 
 Vfir 1 . This may lerve to reprove the Cupidity of thofejthat 
 are nothing taken with fuch things as thefe that are fo holy. 
 
 2. To exhort us, reverently and religioufly toprepaieour 
 (elves, and apply our mindes unto holy exerciies,£cW^5. 1 . 
 
 Verfe 19. We have alfo a more fur e word of 'prophefie $ wkereun- 
 to ye do well that ye take heed , as unto a light thatjhincth 
 in a darkjplac 9 u/3till the day dawne^an^thedaj-fiarre arife, 
 in your hearts. -* :•> 
 
 Verlc 20. Knowing this firftjhat no prephefie of 'the Scripture is 
 of any privat e interpretation: 
 
 Verfe 21. For the prophefie came not in old time by t^e will of 
 man : but holy men ofGodfpake as they were movei by the 
 holy Ghofi, 
 
 The Analyfif. 
 
 PEter had before proved the certainty of the Gofpell by 
 the teftfmony of the Apoftles, who wereeye-witnefles 
 and eare-witneffesjof it; now he proves the fame certainty by 
 the teftimony of the word of prophefie ; which he fets forth, 
 1. By the adjunlfc of liability, and that in comparifon to the 
 teftimony of the Apoftles, in refj. eel whereof this word of 
 prophefie is (aid to be more fore. 2. By the duty ailjoyned 
 which is due unto this word of prophefie, namely, a religious 
 heed and attention which (hould be given unto this word. 
 W' h attention is declared, 1. By the end and ufe of this word 
 of prophefie, which is by way of comparifon fet forth by the 
 ufe of a light , 2. by the helping caufe, 3. By the cfteeme 
 
 which 
 
A Commentary upen the Second Epiftlt ofPeter. j8t 
 
 which we fhould have of the Prophefie of Scripture, verfe 2c> 
 2i. namely 3 that it is by the inftintt of the Holy Ghoft; 
 which is fet forth by thole-Propheiies that are contrary there- 
 unto, namely, £uch, as are of private interpretation, or by 
 th-3 will of man. By prophefieis meant, not the foretelling: 
 of thofe things thar depend eipon any naturall caufes, (for fo 
 th'- Aftrologers and Phyfitianscan foretell many things, be- 
 ing skilfull in. the nacurall caufes, ) nor of thofe -things that 
 depend upon the will of any creature (jjpr fo thoie that know 
 other mens counfe-11, m jy foretell many things, probably at 
 leaft)but prophefie is a fore-telling of thofe things, that de- 
 pend only upon the. will of God, and fan be known? by God 
 alone, and thofe to whom he hath revealed it. By the word 
 of Prophefie U meant the Propbeiie of holy Scripture, as ic 
 isexprefly ferdowne, verfeap. whkhisdiitingui(hedin chit 
 refpeft not only from falfe prophe(ies,but alfo from other true 
 ones, which were never in the Canon of the Scripture. 
 The Doctrines riling herehence. 
 
 Doc):. i« The, word of Prof he fie is a more fur e teftimony 
 then the teftimpny of Any men > or of t ho ft things that our fen fes 
 themfehts Can Hye w. 
 
 This is gathered from the com pari fon which is here made 
 betwixt this teftimony and that which went before. But it is 
 faid to. bemorefure, not more true: becaufe that which the 
 Apoftles witnefied, was as; true 5 but their teftimony did not 
 carry with it Co great a confirmation of the truth. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe it appeared not fo much to be a divine 
 teftimony, being not as yet exprefied in the Scriptures. 
 
 2. Becaufe it could not prevaile fo much upon the mindes 
 of the jewesj as the word ojfprophefie, which had now for 
 many ages bin as it were habitually confirmed in their minde . 
 
 3. Becaufe the teftimony" of one that forefaw the truth, hath 
 more divine operation in it, then the teftimony of him that 
 witnefleth what he hath leen or heard being prefent,!^. 5.36, 
 3p.Therearethree degrees of teftimonies, 1 O£lobn. 2,Ofthe 
 workes ofChrift. 3.. Of the Scripture or word of prophefie* 
 The teftimony of works isfaid to be greater then the (teftimo- 
 ny of M», and the teftimony of the Scripture by way of gra- 
 dation is intimated to be greater then both. 
 
 Vfi i. 
 
A Commentary uftiU&e Second Epiftk of Piter. 
 
 ¥fe\. Thte may ferve to inltruft us , in all thole things 
 that pertaine unto faith and our fulvation to depend only up- 
 on the Scriptures, becaufe nothing cart be more fure. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to give God thankes,that he hath not on- 
 ly made knowne unto us his truth, but hath alfo confirmed 
 it by ftrong and fure reafons , and in all refpe&s hith had re- 
 gard to and provided tor the wcaknefTe of our fait h. 
 
 3. To reprove many Chriftians, which' do too much dag- 
 ger and doubt of thefifctruths. For there appeares fach a wa- 
 vering and doubting of the minde, where the life is doubtful! 
 and uncertaine > and is not furely grounded and ordered ac- 
 cording to the rules of Ghrift. -Now we (hould be as fure of 
 theie matters of faith by the Scriptures > asweareofthofe 
 things that we our felves fee now prefent before our eyes ; arid 
 goonasfirmely andconftantly in the way of Ghn ft, as if we 
 did now with our eyes fee Chrift himfelf,andall thofe things 
 that he hath promifed us;or as if we did now heare that voice, 
 Arifeye dead And come to judgement. 
 
 Doft. 2. The ' prophefe of the OldT eftament gtw* antofk 
 fare tefiimony of the power afidcommin£ of Chr'ft. 
 
 This is gathered from the reference which this^ 19 verft 
 hath to verfe 16. S&Luk? i.io.'Atts 5.18,14. & 10.43, 
 
 ReafoKo- 1. The greatneffeof this my ftery, which was fiich, 
 that it nriuft not be (hewed on a (iidden to the world, but, for 
 dignity fake, as it were^ by ftich like meffengers going be- 
 fore. ' ' 
 -a. That it might the more appeare that thele things come 
 from God, who was the only author of fuch like prophe(ie?. 
 
 3. Becaufe the faction ofthe people of God from the be- 
 ginning of the worid depended upon the bekeving of this 
 myfterie. 
 
 Wf* *• This may ferve to inftruft us 5 to confirme our faith 
 more and more by fuch like arguments. 
 
 2. To exhort usjhigWy to efteeme of this my ftetie,becaufe 
 God himfelfe alwayes made fuch reckoning of it, thattie 
 would have his Prophets from the beginning ofthe world to 
 be exercifed in the SVeferatian of iti 
 
 3. To admonifh us, that it mould never feeme tedious un- 
 to usjto heare and meditatcupon thofethings,' which pertain 
 
 unto 
 
A ConfmtnUfy ufon th* sibmd Epiftk efVetir* g$» 
 
 onto this myfterie 3 feeing Goi would have this alwayes prc£ 
 fed by *HhrisProphcts. 
 
 Doft. $ ■ ?r tt w|/? praife-yvorthy in flviftiansalrvayeS to 
 give- 'diligent tie id ttrHo ih> VYcpheftes end the reft of the Scripture] 
 
 Thi,s is gathered from thefe words: TedorreJltb«tfe'+dlte 
 I ced. By taking heed-h meant, i. ' A fea re h- and inquiry after 
 the fen ft of the Scriptures, or the truths that are contained in 
 them. i. An applying of thole truths unto the ends and lifts 
 wrfereuntdthey ftrver 3. A reIig?ous affteYionoftheminde ? 
 whereby the conscience is fubdued unto thole truths as unto 
 the raits of faith and manners i n\>w they do Weltyhat do thus 
 give heed unto the Scriptures. ■' 
 
 Reafen I. Becaufe this obedience plea fethtjod. 
 
 2. Becaufe they provide well for thcmfelves.to bedire&ed 
 unto eternal! -happihtfle. 
 
 Vfe i. This m ry fsrvtf to refute the Papi/Jsjand fome&thef 
 foolifh men, who deny that they do well 5 which give freed 
 unto the Scripture?. 
 
 2. To reprove all profane and worldly men., who take greatf 
 care about their worldly profits, or their carnal! pleasures, 
 but give little or nd heed at all unto the Scriptures. 
 
 3. To exhort us, to ftirre up in dtir felves daily thiscare of 
 attention. 
 
 D j&. 4. Th s. Scripture is a light pnning-unto thefe that re* 
 fiflfottfly (rive heed ttr.toit. 
 
 \ This is gathered from thefe words-, Taks heed-as unto a light 
 th.t Jhinetk. Now it is called a light, 
 Reafon 1. Bscaufe it is cleareand manifeftin it felfe. 
 
 2. Becaufe it makes all other things cleare and manifeiK 
 
 3, Becaufe it enlightens alfo the eyes of our minde, fothat 
 wc are able to beholdthe heavenly myfteries of thekingdome 
 of God. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to refute the Papifts , who tax the 
 Scriptures of obfeurity, 
 
 2. To reprove and condemnethofe, that walk in the rriift 
 of this light, and yet perceive no more of the things of God, 
 then as if they were in darknene. 
 
 3. To exhort us, I. To give God thanks for fo great a be- 
 nefit. For God now dcales with us, as he did heretofore with 
 
 the 
 
I $4 A Commentary upon, the Second Epifile of Peter* 
 
 the Israelites, in whofe dwellings there was light, when in 
 all the landof the Egyptians there was thick darknefle, Exod. 
 10.22 23. 2. To walke in this light, not to fleepe or have 
 fellowship with the workes of darknefle, as it is Sphefans 5. 8. 
 II. 14. 
 
 Doft. $e The whole condition of this our life- hath much 
 darkneffe in it* 
 
 This if gathered from thefe words; A light Jhining in a, 
 darke place. We may fee the explication of thefe words in 
 Calvin. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe without the light of the Scriptures and 
 faith we are nothing but darknefle; feeing therefore this light 
 is communicated unto us but imperfectly in this life, there 
 muft needs be as yet much darknefle. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may fervc to admoniih us, not to puffe up our 
 felves with the opinion of knowledge , but humbly to ac- 
 knowledge pur imperfc&ions. 
 
 2 . To exhort us, fo much the more diligently to give heed 
 unto the light. 
 
 Doc"t. 6, We muft give heed unto the Scriptures , untill a 
 greater light be communicated unto us^ then we can have out of 
 the Scriptures, that is^ untill the lafi etrdofthis life. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words , untill the day dasvne.M- 
 though they were very ftrongly confirmed, verfe 1 2. Yet they 
 muft (till give heed unto the Scriptures. Daniel himfelfe, 
 though a Prophet, gave heed unto the Proprieties of leremy, 
 l Damel i §.'Z. 'Peter himfelfe gave heed unto the Epiilles of 
 Pauly c.3. v. 1 5 . Paul himfelfe had great care of the Parch- 
 mentSjthat is, of the volumes and books of Scripture, % Tim; 
 4. 13. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to refute the Anabaptifts , who fay 
 that the Scriptures are only profitable for novices and young 
 beginners, and not for the fhonger. 
 
 2 To reprove thofe,that reft in that knowledge of the 
 Scriptures, which they have, and feeke no farther. 
 
 Dc&. 7. Very gnat knowledge , light and cleerenejfe flail 
 ~be communicated unto us in the life to come, . 
 
 This is gathered from the companion that is made betwixt 
 the life prefent and the life to come : In the prefent we fcave 
 
A Commentary upon tie Second Epiflk of Peter* \ #5 
 
 a light as it were in a darke place,but in that to come we (hall 
 have full noone as it were, 1 Ccr. 1 3. 1 2. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us earncftly to defire to come 
 unto that perfeclion, and in the mcane time to exercife our 
 felvcs in thofe things that lead thereunto. 
 
 Doc"t. 8. The light of the Scripture prcfitcth nsne but the 
 faithful!. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe wcrds : KnotvinorthU firfi y thn 
 is 5 be!eeving, H^.4.2. No great or noble effect is produced, 
 unleflTethe matter, or theobjecT wherein it lfiould be produ- 
 ced, be prepared before: the feed it (elfe that is caft into the 
 ground, doth not grow, nnlefle the ground be plowed and 
 harrowed. Befides, whereas the Scripture is a te(timony,and 
 the ftrength of the teftimony depends upon the authority of 
 him that witnefleth, the Scripture can be of no force, if the 
 authority of God be not acknowledged in it. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to direft us , when we come to the 
 reading or hearing of the Scriptures , alwayes to lift up our 
 mindes unto God, and ftirre up true faith in our hearts. 
 
 Docl. 9. The fir ft thing to be believed is, that the Scriptures 
 are nttofany inhumane interpretation^ but of divine revelation. 
 This is gathered from theft words : Knowing thufirft^ &c» 
 The Papifts and fome others gather from this place, that 
 the interpretation of Scripture doth not belong unto private 
 men, but unto the Church, that is,the Pope and theCouncels 
 whom he approves of : but in this (enle this place makes 
 moft againft them : for firft it is not here laid that a private 
 man may not interpret the Scriptures , but that he may not 
 make an interpretation of his owne * now by a mans owne 
 interpretation is meant a humane interpretation, that is made 
 by the will of man ; as it evidently appeares by the oppofiti- 
 on,ver(e2i. So that the Prophets themfelves, although they 
 were publick Doftors of the Church , yet if they fhould have 
 faid any thing of themfelves without the revelation of God, 
 that would have beene their owne, that is , a humane inter- 
 pretation: whence alfoit followes that every interpretation 
 of the Tope^ which he takes not from cleare Scripture,or hath 
 it not by fome extraordinary revelation , is his owne in that 
 fenfe as this word is taken in this place. Secondly, By inter' 
 
 A a fretAtion 
 
1 86 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 fretatlon in this place is not meant the interpretation of Scrip- 
 ture,that was before revealed 3 but the revelation it felf 3 as it ap- 
 pears by the 2 1 verf where this interpretation is made to con- 
 fift therein 9 that the Prophets fpaket heir proprieties as thsy 
 were moved by the holy Ghoft. 3 Peter himfelfcwho in the 
 opinion of the Papifts was at that time head of the Church, 
 bids the faithfull here, fearch the Scriptures, he doth not bid 
 them depend upon him, and alwayes look for interpretation. 
 4 He attributes more and greater ftrength unto the Scripture, 
 then to his own teftimony. 5 He cals the Scripture a light, 
 and the condition of the Church a dark place ; the Papifts 
 on the contrary attribute darknefle unto the Scripture, and 
 light and clearneflc unto the Church. 6 He commends the 
 vulgar fort of the faithfull „ that they did take heed unto the 
 Scriptures, in theft words, Te do well. But the Papifts by this 
 interpretaion debarre the faithful! from the reading of the 
 Scripture. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to refute the Papifts , that put the 
 Church before the Scripture, and fay that the firft thing to be 
 believed is, that the Church cannot erre. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to lay this foundation firme and fare in 
 our hearts. 
 
 Doft. 10. The holy Ghojl moved ' thofe men that were authors 
 tf the Scriptures, 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words: As they were moved hj 
 the holy Qheft* 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to inftru&us, by continuall prayer to 
 feck for the aid of the Spirit, for the underftanding of the 
 Scriptures. The Scripture muft be undcrftood by the help of 
 the fame Spirit, by whom it was diftated,as Hiir* Eodemfpi- 
 ritu debet intelligi Scriptura, ojuofuit ditlata. 
 
 Do&. II. The men which the holy Ghaft made ufe ofjo de- 
 liver the Scriptures, were holy men ofCjod. 
 
 HclyJoccauCe they were (an&iSed inwardly,& alfo ftt apart 
 to this moft holy work. Men of God they vcere, becaufe they 
 were called by God to this oflice,and they did declare the will 
 of God, and they did labour alfo to bring men unto Goe*. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to exhort us, to labour to be like unto 
 them, according to our ability, both in holincflc, and in zeale 
 of the Lord. Chap* 
 
A Commentary upon the Second E fifth of Peter* 1 Bf 
 
 mmmmmmf 
 
 Chapter II. 
 
 Verfe T. But there were falfe Trophets alfo among the people^ 
 even as there jhall be falfe teachers amongjou 3 who privily 
 Jhall bring in damnable k rep.es , even denying the Lord that 
 bought them, and bring upon themfelves fwift dejlrutlien. 
 
 Verfe 2. And many JhaH follow their pernicious wayes } by reafon. 
 of whom the way of truth Jhall beevillfpoken of. 
 
 Verfe 3- ^nd through covet oufnejfe Jhak they withfeinednords 
 mak* merchandize ofyeu. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 tftherto the Apoftle propounded an exhortation, 
 land confirmed it alfoin the foregoing Chapter. 
 In the two following Chapters he ftrengthens it, 
 Jby removing the impediments, that might make 
 this exhortation of no effect. And the chief e impediments are 
 falf teachers and profane J coffers: of thefe former he fpeaks Ch. 
 2. Of the latter chap. !•■ The falfe teachers he doth firft, de- 
 fcribe: fecondly, reprove: he defcribes them from the be- 
 ginning to thofe words in verf. 3 . whefe judgement, &c. Then 
 he reproves them , 1 in gencr all in thefe words, that they are 
 damned men ; which he doth afterwards prove, 1 by the ufu- 
 all courfe of Gods juftice, from verfe 4. to the 1 o. 2. By their 
 deferts, whereby they bring upon themfelves the revenging 
 ;uftice of God, from verfe 1 o. to the end of the Chapter. In 
 the defcription of the falfe teachers he makes, 1 Acompari- 
 fon of the like betwixt the fane teachers and thofe that were 
 talfeprophets among the people of I frael partly that hemight 
 joyne together this difcourfe with the former, where he 
 fpake of true Prophets; and partly that he might meet with 
 the fcandall which might arifc by fuch feducers •, and partly 
 
 A a a, that 
 
 
l88 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Vtttr. 
 
 that he might ftirre up the faithfull Co much the more, to be- 
 ware ofthcir feducing. In the firit refpeft, the laft words of 
 the former Chapter , and the iirlr of this Chapter, makefuch 
 adifcreet axiom as this; although there were many Prophets 
 among the People of Ifrael, that were holy men of GoJ 3 and 
 were moved by the Spirit of God in thole things that they 
 fpake ; yet among the fame people alfo there were many fal(e 
 Prophets. This difcretioa is (helved in thefe words : But there 
 ivere. In the Second refpeft theft words make a ccpnUic axi- 
 om thus ? Like as there were falie Prophets among the People 
 of Ifrael, fo alfo (hall there be falle teachers among you. In 
 the third refpecT there is intimated and implicitely contained 
 . fiich a connex axiom as this ; If there (hill be falie teachers 
 among you, like as there were falfe Prophets, among the peo- 
 ple of Iiracl,then muft you be alike careful to beware or thele 
 as the Israelites were warned heretofore to beware of them. 
 After that defcription which is made by way of comparifon, 
 followes an abfolute defcription ; wherein the falfe teachers 
 aredefcribed by their effects. Which eff fts have either an 
 immediate reference unto the falfe teachers th?mfeh*es, or un- 
 to others by them. Thofe that have reference unto the fjjfe 
 teachers themfelves , are i The bringing in of herefies,which 
 are ft t forth by their ad jun£t, that they are damnable^vhereof 
 he gives a reason alfo, uken from the nature of here fies, which 
 is faid to be fuch, that it brings in a denying of the Lord. 2 . The 
 fecond effect is, that they bring upon tbcm^tlvesfirift d ftruBi- 
 $n. In refpeft of others the firil erM is, iluuhty fhall have 
 mtny folhrpers^ who are pointed out by another eifecT: accom- 
 panying this feducing, namely, afpeaking evil/ of the truth , or 
 of the Gcfpsll^ which jhall come to pajfe by their mcanes* The o- 
 ther efteft is the abufe of thofe whom they do feducc for gain; 
 which abufc is ftt forth by the helping caufe, namely by fai- 
 led words. 
 
 The DocTrines arifingherehence. 
 
 Doft. i. There are alwayes falfe prophets And falfe teach" 
 ers in the (fhurch % 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : there were, there fhaU 
 bee. 
 
 Reafon, This comes to pafTe in a threefold refpecl, 1 in re- 
 
 fpeft 
 
k A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. \ 89 
 
 f e&of God. 2. In refpeft of the Devil). 3. In'refpc&of 
 men. Firft, in refpeft of God, and chat 1 that they which 
 are approved in the Church may be made manifefty 1 C«W-I« 
 19. Dr#r. 15.3. *. That the obftinatc wicked may per i(h in 
 their ungodlinefle and cruelty, 27^.2.10,1 i 5 i2. 1 /G^ 
 22.2021,22. Secondly, in refpeft of the Dcvill, becaufehe 
 is alwayestbe father of lyes, and a murtherer, and that envi- 
 ous one, which foweth tares among the goad feed, rbb&y, 
 In refpeft of meri, btcwfc the wifdome of.the fleih is enmity 
 acainlt God and his truth. 
 
 Theufe hereof according to the Apoftles intention is two- 
 
 f% t. To admoniftius, not to be offended, nortobetoo 
 much troubled in minde, when wefeeberefiflsjaarifeinthe 
 Church, but to fay as die Apoftle did, There weyc\ tkre 
 
 2. To.inftrtiaus,Hot to believe every fpint,butto try whe- 
 ther they are of God- if Iobn^u 
 
 Dott. 2. Every ktrefie luth damnation vyn:d with it. 
 This is gathered from thefe words : dawmlleherefies. Some 
 are more-damnable then, others, yet all do in their nature tend 
 to damnation. For all arc contrary unto the way of truth, 
 whereof mention is made,verfe 2. which way alone leads unto 
 life. But there are fome heretics which can by nomeanes 
 confitt with faWationorctcrnall life. Hereupon fuch opini- 
 ons are by a kind of appropriation called herefies in the 
 Church, that is, opinions altogether damnable. For there is 
 a difference to be obfeFved betwixt things raihly fpoken,bare 
 errors in faith, and herefies properly fo called. In the herefies 
 themfelves alfo we muft diftmguifobetwixt the materiality, 
 and the formality of it. Fortorrukeaformallherefie, for 
 which a man is properly called an heretick, there is required 
 befides an crrour in thofe things that pertame unto the fun- 
 damentals of religion, a reliction againtt the cleare light, 
 and obftinacy in that reluclation. 
 
 Vfe This may £kve to condemne thole that under the name 
 of peace and charity, make fo little reckoning of the bringing 
 in of herefies into 'the Church. They would have all things 
 received in and tolierated; which is all one, as it they would 
 
 tor 
 
I pa A Commentary npon the Second Epiftk ofVtter. 
 
 for peace and charity admit of damnation it felfe. For here- 
 lies have-damnation joyned with it. 
 
 2. To admonifh us, i. to take diligent heed that we do 
 not by any means further fuch hereftes. 2. Not rauhly or for 
 a light caufc to pronounce any man an heretick. 3. -As care- 
 fully to beware of herefies, as we mould of damnation. 
 
 Queft. In the reafon which is here given of this property 
 ofhorelieSjthat they are damnable, a queftionis moved,What 
 is meant by denying the Lord ? denying the Lord that bought 
 them* For many gather from this place, that all and every 
 particular man were redeemed by Chrift, becaufc it is here 
 laid that he bought eveathofe wicked hereticks: but it may 
 be anlwcrcd divers wayes. 
 
 Anfrv. 1. That thefe falfe teachers Were members of the 
 vifibleChurch, and therefore, 1. they accounted themfelves 
 fuch as were redeemed by Chrift, and made fhew of that pro- 
 feffion. 2. Men were to account them fuch , as long as they 
 continued in the Church ; and in this refpeft they may be 
 laid to be fuch as were redeemed by Chrift ; like as the Apo- 
 ftles are wont to call whole Churches juftifled, fan&ified, and 
 elecT. There is not the fame reafon therefore of all and every 
 particular man, as there was of thefe. 
 
 Anf. 2. He doth not here fpeak of Chrift proper!y,as he is 
 Redeemer, nor of the redemption of his blood , but of that 
 right , whereby mafters chalenge their fervants , as having 
 bought them; which may be thus mewed : 1. Here is no 
 mention of Chrift as being Lord properly, but Mafter. For in 
 the Greek it is Acnrorns^ which is properly, a Mafter in refpefl: 
 of a fervant, not wV®", Lord, And thefe two names are clear- 
 ly diftmguithed, Juie v. 4. where the fame thing is fpokea of 
 the fame falfe teachers : there they are faid to deny their Do- 
 minum & her urn, Lord and mafter; although he may be called 
 their Berus^ Mafier y he is not properly called their Dont'wuj s 
 Lord, Then againe, the Lord is not (aid to have redeemed all 
 men, but only to have bought them: now although the word 
 *yo$<x.'£iip :i to buy, be fometimes ufed in the fame lenle that the 
 other is, yet it is not al wayes fb. 
 
 «^V« 3« The compaiifon here is plainly made betwixt 
 the falfe teachers and the faile Prophets , bewixtthevifible 
 
 Church 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftk of Peter* \ $ \ 
 
 Church and the people of Ifrael; for tI:eLordisfaidtohave 
 bought thole men in the fame (enfe, that he is (aid to have re- 
 deemed and delivered all the people of Ifrael j that is.^as he de- 
 livered them out ot Egypt , and challenged them to himfclfe, 
 in a peculiar manner, that by a folemnc covenant they mould; 
 be his fervants ; fo alfo all thofe that give their names unto the 
 Church, he may in thisrefpeft be (aid to have bought, as a 
 Mafter, that they fhouidferve him forever. To deny the Lord 
 is, not to acknowledge God or Chrift for the Lotd^Mattki o. 
 3 2 j 3 5. to confefle and to deny are made contrary one to ano- 
 ther,. Luks 12. 8,p 4 The reafon is, becaufe it hath oncepro- 
 fefled the name of the Lord,andafterwards departs from that 
 profeflion, it is all one as if he did plainly fay, that he would 
 no longer be a fervant of that Lord. For this denying is two- 
 foldj either verball or reall. A verball denying was in Teter^ 
 reall denying is in all thole thatafcer they have made profefc 
 lion ofthe faith, return unto a profane life, 1 Tim.^ t %. 2 Tim* 
 3,5. The denying in this place is properly meant of a reall de- 
 nying. For the delcription ofthefe men doth rather exprefie 
 their profane courie^then their open renouncing of Chrift. 
 
 Doft. 3. Jt is a damnable impiety to deny Cbrijt either in 
 yvordor deed, 
 
 Reafon I. Becawfe by this means Chrift is greatly difiao- 
 noured ; for men, our lufts, and Sathan himfelfe are preferred 
 before him, Mark%* 3& where the indignity of this (inneis 
 (hewed, that an adulterous and (Infull generation is preferred 
 before Chrift.Chri ft alfo by this raems i8 accufed of iniquity: 
 for no fervant ufaally gocth away from his mafter, if he con- 
 fefleth him to be a juft mafter •, therefore this going away is as 
 it were a profefling that he doth accufe that mafter from whom 
 he goes offomc iniquity* Hereupon was that contefting of the 
 Lord againft his rebellious people,that he was a juft and tight 
 mafter , neither did he give them any cau(e to depart from 
 himjfrr.2 5. cJWiV&.&j. Deat^l.^. 
 
 2. Becauie Chrift thrcatned a moftheavie Judgement againft 
 this fin,when he (aith that he will deny thole menjthat he wit 
 be alhamed oi them before God and his Angels,^^ 8.38. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ierve to condemne, nut only themanifeft 
 Apoftatcs, but alfo all thofe> that with the proteffion of 
 
 godli. fth 
 
1 92 A Commentary n$cu the Second Epifilc ofVeten 
 
 godlinetfe joyne a profane life, or turn afide from that profefc 
 Hon. The finne of thcfc men is more grievous, then of Turks 
 and Infidels, that never gave their names unto Chrift 5 for the 
 neerer any man commethanto God , the more doth he dis- 
 honour his name, if he doth fall back againe. He that hath in 
 (bme fort forfaken Sathan, and given himfelfe up unto God, 
 and afterward forfakes God again, and gives himfelfe up unto 
 Sathan, feems to have Rnown both matters, and advifedly to 
 pronounce that he is the better , whofefervant he would ra- 
 ther be, that is, Sathan. 
 
 2. To admonifh us, 1 . Carefully to beware, not only of 
 the damnable fin it fclfe, but alio of all appearance, and every 
 degree of it,and every occafion that might leade us thereunto. 
 2. If in any refpeci we have turned towards luch like abomi- 
 nation, to recall our (elves betimes, and ferioufly to bewaile 
 our offence j like as Teter did after his denying of Chrift, 
 A£*tihi2o.f$. 
 
 Doft. 4. It is the nature offuckjinr.es to bring deftruclim 
 ?ipon men. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words 5 Iring uponthemfehes 
 deBrttttion, 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe finne in refpecl of the guilt that is joyned 
 with it, hath a kind of power whereby it drawes all evill$ like 
 as faith and prayers obtain every good gift from God. Hence 
 is it , that our fins are faid to cry for vengeance 5 and alfo to 
 draw punifhment unto it a9 it were with ftrong cords, Ifay 5. 
 1 8. For while men draw fin with fuch-like cords, they do al- 
 fo draw the punifhment of finne, which is joyned unto it. 
 
 Vfe io This may ferve to admonifh us , in this refpe&to 
 beware of fin. 
 
 2. To exhort us, by faith, repentance, and prayers, to turn 
 away that deftrudion from us, which our fins would bring 
 upon us. 
 
 . Doft. 5. The eUflruftion which hangs over the heads ef 
 grievous offenders will come fwiftly. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words ; fwift defiruftion. 
 Doft. 6, Men A'e wonderfully prone to imbrace errors. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words ; And many ftall fol- 
 low, 
 
 Reafon. 
 
A Commentary upon the Seed fid Epifile of Peter, 102 
 
 Reafon 1. By reafon of that darknefle, which hath taken 
 hold of mens mindes; thereupon they may be eafily drawne 
 under any (hew or glimps of light. 
 
 2. By reafon of that difpofition which they have , "alien 
 from the truth 5 thereupon they eafily imbrace thole things 
 that are contrary to this truth. 
 
 3. By reafon of that difpofition which they have, agreeing 
 with the nature of errors. For tinners have in themfelvcs the 
 feeds, of all fins, errors and herefics 5 Co that the nat re of cor- 
 rupt man doth as eafily receive errors, as the tinder n* e. 
 
 4. By reafon ofthejuft judgement of God, whereby for 
 the puniihment of other fins they are given over to the power 
 of errors, 2 Thejf. 2.10. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to inflruftus,tofhew the corruption 
 and wretchednefTe of our nature, how hardly are we brought 
 to imbrace the heavenly and Caving truth, when we are carri- 
 ed headlong unto damnable errors. 
 
 2. Toadmonifhus, that itfhould not be an offence unto 
 us, if we fee many given unto errors ; becaufe this was fore- 
 told us by the Apoftle, and it hath a manifeft reafon ; fo that 
 it is not to be wondred at, that many are given unto errors, 
 but that rather, that any one doth believe the truth* 
 
 3. To exhort us, 1 Unto humiliation, in refpeft of this 
 pronenefle unto error, 2 To care and circurafpeftion that wo 
 be not overfwayed by it. And an Argument whereby we may 
 and mould be ftirred up unto this care , we have in the text, 
 whiles they which follow herefics and hereticks , are faid to 
 follow their deftru&ion. For not only the authors of herefics 
 run unto destruction, but alfo their followers, as in the place 
 of the Thejf. before cited. In thofe which perijb, Co that it is a 
 figne of deftrucVion, to be feduced by hereticks. 
 
 Doft. 7. The fruit of 'errors andhereftes ufpeal^ngeviR of 
 the way of truth. 
 This is gathered from thefe words,By reafon of whom the way 
 of truth fball be eviH (poke* cf. By the way of 'truth is meant the 
 Gofpell , or the will of God revealed in the Scripture, which 
 fhewes the true way of falvation. It is faid to be eviUfpo- 
 ken ef, when the dignity thereof is violated, moft proper- 
 ly by reproachfull words. It is faid to be evill fpoken of by 
 
 Bb them, 
 
194 * Commentary vpwihe Second Epijik tpttor. 
 
 thsw, namely^by the author* of the fcerefies and their follow- 
 ers, in a two-fold refpeft, i . When they themielves /peak re- 
 proachfully of it, as the Scribes and Phariiees did of Chrift. 
 2. WhHe they give others occafion to fpeafc reproachfully of 
 it^as the Jewes did unto the Gentiles, Rom. i .2 4«both relpe&s 
 fecmetobemeantherebythefe. for the Greek word </i« Sig- 
 nifies per & propter, by, and by reafbn of. 
 
 Vfe 1. TaismayfervctoinftrH&us, to judge aright of the 
 nature of finne, that never ftaies till it hath brought men to 
 blatphemy againft God^and to (peak evill of the way of God. 
 2. To admonifh us 9 1. For this cauie to withftand the be 
 ginnings of fin> left at length we be brought alfo to blafphe- 
 my againft the holy Ghoft , which Chrift faith is a fin that 
 fhali never be forgiven. 2. To beware alfb of thofe men , that 
 durft openly fpeak cvill of the truth ; amongft the number of 
 whom they are to be put, that daremockandfeoffeatthe 
 name of predeftination and the predominate. 
 
 Do&. 8. They which propagate errors under faire prettnee, 
 do often times feekjheir^wn gaine. 
 
 This is gathered from theft words ; through ccvetoufneffe 
 with faived words : Co«etoufn£iie is commonly the compa- 
 nion of herefies, oftentimes the mother, very often the Nurfe 
 of them, as we may fee in the Papiftf. 
 
 yfe. This may ferve to admonifh us, 1. Not to believe 
 mensfained words. 2. To beware of covetoufnefie, which 
 is the root, as of all evils, (6 alfb of herefies. 
 
 JDoft. p. 'Miferable is the condition ofthofe men that arc ft' 
 ducedhj here ticks ; for they are fold like beafts and cat tell. 
 
 This is gathered fao«i thefe words, they JbaU make ntcrchan- 
 t Az.e ofj/ox. 
 
 
 Verfc 
 
A Commentary upon the Stcmd BpiflktfPafa fft 
 
 — 
 
 Verfc 3, at the end. Whofe judgement new of a longtime Un* 
 vretk not, and their damnation (ItMketh net. ? p &> 
 
 The Anatyfis. 
 
 Hitherto we have feen the defcription of falfk teachers, 
 and thejr fins ' now followesthcir reproofe,. or the pu» 
 niftimentfor their itns 3 that fhall certainly befall ehcrti.' ' i his 
 rfoniramenrisfet forth, i.'Metonymica% 3 bythfecaufe, in 
 that it is called judgement. 2. By the effect i in that it is cal- 
 led damnation. 3. By the adjunft of fwtftnefle artd fpeed, 
 which is (hewed bytheTTegatiorrofthoftthing^hat are op- 
 oofed unto fwiftuefle. Now in generall, lingring or flowneffe 
 is oppofed thereunto; infpeciall, flumbring, which is put 
 as a fpeciesofidlenefleorfiackneffe. This (wiftneffe of the 
 punifhment that fhali befall them, is fet forth by the adjunfl: 
 of time, that it did not now firft of allbegin to make haft, but 
 now of a long time- 
 
 The Doctrines arifing-herebenee. 
 
 Do& . r . Tltepttnijhment offinnefottowe.s after fitmt. 
 
 This is gathered from the connexion of theft words with 
 the words foregoing : there was the defcriptfon of fin 5 and 
 here prefehtly fotfOWes the threatening of punifhment. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifli us, never to think offiny 
 But to adjoyrte alfo the confideration of the punifhment, 
 which is joyned unto fin. , • „ / 
 
 DocT. 2. This fmijhment proceeds front the juft judge- 
 ment of God for that it h here called' judgement. 
 
 For God as Judge of all the earth, pronounceth fentence 
 upon men for their fins, and the execution of that fentence is 4 
 called punifhment. Mow he pronounceth fentence according 
 to right and a moft Holy law, arid thereforethe punifhment 
 which God infli&eth is in a proper fenfe called judgement. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to refute, 1 prophanemen, which 
 think that thofe evils that men fuffer , both publick and pri- 
 vate, come by chance. 2. Thofe that are wont to complaine 
 of the evils which they fuffer, as ifGoddiddealeunjuflly 
 with them, (7^.18.25.^^.32.4. Bb a *. To 
 
i $t 4 €ommtntary *fon the Second Efiftle $f Peter. 
 
 2. To admoniih us, continually to walke in the fcare of 
 the Lord 3 becaufe we live in hi* fight, that exercifeth judge- 
 ment. 
 
 Do&. 3.. T his judgement of God brings damnation upon 
 finners 9 that is, a privation of all good^ which pertaines unto 
 the happinejfe or well-being of man, and the fenfc of *M mifery ^ 
 which makes that very being bitter and unpLafant. 
 
 Vje. This may ferve to admonifti us, withfearetoflyea*; 
 Way from fin, and to feek the face of God. 
 
 Doft, 4. T his damnation comes Jw'tftly upon finners. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe it comes long before their expectation 
 of it. i 
 
 2. Becaufe it is not deferred beyond the time which is 
 moil fit , and appointed by God 3 and in thit refpect it is Cud 
 not to linger. 
 
 3. Becaufeno impediment can hinder it, but it is deferred 
 through Gods mercy and long-fufFering ; in that reaped it is 
 fiid not toflfunber , becaufe flumbring and fleepe bindes the 
 mind, and hinders the aft ions. 
 
 4. Becauie now of a long time before , way is made and 
 prepared for this damnation. 
 
 5. Becaufe the damnation it felfe, although the w icked of- 
 tentimes are not fenfible of it, yet it takes hold of them, and 
 fpiritually wotketh in their minds and conferences. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to condemnethofe, that give them- 
 fe^lvcs wholly unto fin, cither becaufe they think that punifli- 
 mentcommeth flowly^or elfe becaufe they hope to efcape un- 
 punifhed, Ecclf%.io 3 i 1,12. 
 
 . 2* To admonifti us, to make hafte to repent of our finnes 
 not to linger nor dumber. 
 
 Doft. 5, In All thofe.thhgs which pertaipc unto judgement 
 tgainfljtmers, like * s %n *% other *h*»g s i God doth nothing rafhly, 
 but forefeet^premeditateth^ andpreparethdl things. 
 
 This is gathered from the ad juncl of time , Now of a long 
 time* So Ixdcv.4. 
 
 Vcrfe 
 
A Commentary upon the Second EptftU efPetor. \6y 
 
 Vcrfe 4. For if God J "pared not the Angels that finned, but cafl 
 them downe to hell, and delivered them into chaines of dark; 
 nejfe to be referved ttnto judgement* 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 NO«r the Apoftle proves chat which he had before laid 
 downe concerning the punishment that mould bcfilJ 
 falfe teachers. The conclulion of this arguing is , 1 .In gene- 
 rail propounded of all the wicked,v. 9. For there is the confe- 
 quent part of that connex axiom, the antecedent whereqf be- 
 gins v.4.and is fliewed by the connexion/f, as, If Cjod fpared 
 mat the <iAngels^ Sic. Then afterwards in fpeciall, of theft falfe 
 teachers themfelves and their followers, v. 1 cv In the general! 
 conclu(ion,v. 9. he doth not barely let downe the condemna- 
 tion of the wicked, but alfb by a copulate axiom joynei to- 
 gether with it. the deliverance of the godly from that tempta- 
 tion, which arifeth unto them by means of the wicked. And 
 the reafon is, becaufe the Apoftles purpofe was, Co to reprove 
 the wicked, that he might in the mean time comfort the god- 
 ly, and ftrengthen them againft all tbetemptation6,whereun- 
 to they were obnoxious by means of the wicked. In the ante- 
 cedent part of this arguing he lets downe three arguments, 
 which are at fo many examples & judgements of God againfi: 
 the wicked 5 & they may make three fyllogifmes to prove one 
 and the fame conclufion. The firft example is of the Angels 
 that fell, v.4. The fecond is of the old world, v. 5. The third 
 is efSodome and CjomorrbaJThc fyllogifmes are knit together, 
 after this manner : If Cjod fpared not the sAngels^nor the old 
 rrorld^ nor Sodome and Gomorrha^ then he mil not /pare thefe falfe 
 teacher s^nor the like vpiekedmen 1 But the former istrue^ by the 
 tefiimony ofScriftttre,Therefore i &c.TheCe examples in refpect 
 of the generall conclufion, which is let downe, v. 9. are as/jv- 
 eiet unto their genus. But in refpc&of the fpeciall conclufion 
 w* is let down.r.xo.they are as comparata, partly alike,part- 
 ly greater .That wherein they arealikejconfifts therein,as God 
 condemned thofe finners fo alfb will he condemn thefe.Their 
 inequality therein* if God fpared not his moft excellent crea- 
 tures,the Angels,nor the old world,nor thofe citiessthen much 
 leflc will he fpare thefe falfe teachers. The 
 
jog ACmmrtary nfon the Second Bpiflk off iter. 
 
 The Do&rines arifing herehence. 
 DocT. I. The judgements of God which he hath executed 
 from the beginning of the veer Id were ordained to be examples 
 for ut. 
 
 This is evidently gathered from all this arguing of the Apo- 
 ftle, and it is plainly taught us, verle 6. So I CV.io.&they 
 are called fj^*,that is, enfamples ; which appears alfo by verfc 
 1 1 . which fenfe of the words Beza and others have mined 
 
 Reafon. The reafon of this truth is Gods unchangeable na- 
 ture andconftantjuftice, whereby he is alwayes like himfelf, 
 not only inwardly and in himlelfe , but alfo outwardly to- 
 wards us in the difpeniation of his punifhments and rewards, 
 ifwelooktothefubftanceofGod. Hence is it, that by this 
 argument the godly are both confirmed in their hope 3 Ifay 
 5?.i* & pip.io. and affured of the deftruclion of all their cnc-» 
 mies, and of all thole that give themlelves over unto impietyJ 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to inftru&us, fo to read the facred 
 Hiftory, not as we read profane hiftories and fables, either for' 
 delight,or to be informed only in the knowledge of the times, 
 or in things that have bin done ; but alwayes to obierve Gods 
 warnings and apply them unto our ownufc, 
 
 a. To admonifh us, not to deceive our (elves, as if we had a 
 priviledge to fin above other men,or asif God wold not deale 
 to (everely with us, if we mould continue in our (ins, as he did 
 heretofore with thofe whom he deftroyed : * Ohcr mens 
 harrnes mould teach usto beware of the like fins-. In thefiril 
 example we have, flrft, The object of Gods judgement. The 
 ^Angels that finned. Secondly, the manner how he dealt with 
 them, Ifhefpared them not. Thirdly, the degree of this judge- 
 ment; prefcnt, and to come ; prefent, that they were adjudged 
 unto damnation ; and to come, that they wereto be referred 
 unto judgement. The fin of the Angcb is not particularly fet 
 downein the Scriptures, becaule ic doth not fo much pertaine 
 to our edification and falvation,to know their fin,as it doth to 
 know our own fins.But in gcnerall we are taught , that tfiey 
 kept not their firft eftate. Jude v. 6. that is, they left that eftate 
 wherein God had placed them, and afterwards exerciled en- 
 vie, lying, murrher towardstner. We are taught alio thatthe 
 number of thofe that fell was great ; thence it is that the Apo- 
 
 aie 
 
A CommtnUry upon, the Szeend Epsfile of Peter * I 09 
 
 file here Speaks in the plurall number. They ar* faid to have 
 been caft down to hell, i. By realbn of the change of their 
 eilate, becaufe from that wonderfull high condition , which 
 they had received by creation, they were caft downc to the 
 loweitofall. j. By reafon of the change of their place, be- 
 caufe from the place ofblifle, where they were round about 
 the throne of God with the other Angels, they were thruft 
 downe into a lower place fit for fin and mifery : But chat this 
 place is in the loweft parts of the earth, as the Papifts would 
 have it, it cannot be fbewed out of the Scriptures , but rather 
 the contrary : for they are faid to be in the aire, and to rule 
 there, and to go about the earth feekitig todevoure men* This 
 at leaft is plaine out of the Scripture, and it mould fuffice fuch 
 as are not over-eurious •• I. That they fufrer a great change of 
 eftate. 2. That they ate excluded from their firft habitation. 
 3. That they are in that place,where they receive fxnamdam- 
 vii & fen/us, the punifhment of lode, and the punifhment alfo 
 of fenfe. They are faid to be delivered into darknefie, partly 
 in refpeft of fin, partly in relpeft of mifery : for both are fig- 
 nified by dark»ejfe in the Scripture?. They are (aid to be deli- 
 vered into chains, by a metaphor taken from malefa&ors that 
 are condemned, who are kept inprifon bound with chains. 
 Now thete chains arc, 1 A bardningin their fins, a A de- 
 fpaire of all deliverance. 3 A fearful! looking for that mifery 
 whereof mention is made, Heb.io»2j, 4. The providence of 
 God which alwayes watcheth over them, to keep and punifh 
 them. They are (aid to be referved unto judgement, becaufe 
 they are bound Co faft with thefe evils, that they can never e- 
 fcape 5 and yet thefe are but the beginnings of the evils,which 
 they muft farther undergo. 
 
 Do&. 2. There u no dignity that can exempt a fimter from 
 the judgement ofCjod. 
 
 This is gathered from the nature of the Angels. 
 
 Reafon, Becaufe dignity doth not leflen the fin, but aggra- 
 vate it. For he that hath received much, owes much , and of 
 him much is required. 
 
 *Ufe, This may ferve for admonition, that men mould not 
 truft to fuch ftafFes of reed. 
 
 Doft. 3. That [everitj is dptenntojin^ that Jinners fhouU 
 not befpared. This 
 
200 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftie of Peter. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words, Hejfarednot. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe tinners alwayes abule thegoodnefieof 
 God. 
 
 2. They (pare not the glory of God,but themftlves. 
 
 Vfe l . This may ferve to inftruft us, to afcribe it unto the 
 grace and mercy or God, that he hath hitherto fpared us. 
 
 2. To exhort us , not to contemne this long-fiiffering of 
 God, but thereby to be led unto repentance, Rom.2.4. 
 
 Do&. 4. 'Byjinne a, finner is cafi downe from the place and 
 condition which he had before* 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words j cap down to hell. 
 
 Reafon* Becaufc fin is an averfion from God. Now as the 
 communion which we have with God, makes us to afcend in- 
 to a high condition, even into Heaven it felfe, fo that our con- 
 version isin heaven, as it is Fhil.^.to. So al(b averfion from 
 him makes us to descend , even untill we come unto hell it 
 felfe. 
 
 Vfe. This may ftrve to adrnonifli us, not to truft the dcvill, 
 nor our own imaginations,as if we could ever attain any good 
 by finning. For (o our firft parents were deceived, when they 
 thought to make themfelves like unto God by fin , they were 
 made like unto the devill* 
 
 DoQ. 5. The darfyeffe of mifery follows the darknejfe of 
 finne. 
 
 This gathered from thefe words ; delivered them into chaines 
 of darknefie. 
 
 Reafon. Becaule the light is the fame, whereby we are dire- 
 cted, and whereby we arc perfefted ; therefore the privation 
 of perfection and happinefle followes the privation of di- 
 rection . 
 
 Vfe. This may (erve to admonilh us, alwayestowalkin 
 the light, as children of the light, if we defire to avoid utter 
 darknefle. 
 
 Dofr. 6. Sinners are held in Jinne and in their mifery , ash 
 were with bendy. 
 
 This is gathered from that : Chaines. 
 
 Reifon. Becaufe the fins themfelves are the (hares of the de- 
 vill, 2 Tim. %.laft. Law. 1 . 1 4 . There arc other reafon s given of 
 this thing in the Analyfis* 
 
 Vfe 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftk of Peter* 20 1 
 
 Vfe* This may (erve toadmonifluis, betimes to pray for 
 deliverance from our fins, which then we (hall obtain^ when 
 we do flye unto Chrift, who gives deliverance unto the Cap- 
 tives^ Luke 4. 1 8. 
 
 Dofr. 7. The extreamefl punifhment of finnsrs is deferred 
 unto the loft judgement ofCjod* 
 
 Vfe. This may lerve for inftru&ion, that no man mould 
 pleafe himlelfc thcrein,that he (uifers afflictions in this world, 
 as if therefore he mould efcape free in the world to come, 
 which is the miferablc comfort of Come men. 
 
 Verfe 5. And fared not the old worldjbut foved Noah, the eighth 
 perfbn, a Preacher ofrighteoufnejfe^ringing in the flood up- 
 on the tvor Id of the ungodly* 
 
 The Analyfif. 
 
 THe Second and third example of Gods juftice cowards mi- 
 ners are not barely propounded, as the firft was , but arc 
 illuftrated by different examples , or by examples of Gods 
 mercy, which he mewed towards the godly ,w bile he deftroy- 
 ed the wicked. The reafon is, that both parts of the coi clufi- 
 oni which is fct down, verfe ?• might be fitly inferred; where 
 the deliverance of the godly is joyned together with the dc- 
 ftru&ion of the wicked. In the former of thefe examples is 
 fetdowne, 1 The objeft of Gods juftice, materially, the old 
 world^ which is more formally explained by the adjunct of 
 impiety, whence it is called the world f 'the ungodly* 2. This 
 juflice is alfo illuftrated by the inftrument thereof, namely,f A* 
 bringing in of the flood upon the world of the ungodly. The objeft 
 of Gods mercy is made to be Noah with his family : who are 
 dsfcribed, 1 By their fmall number, wherein his family was 
 contained,which is (aid to be eight.! his Peter (hewes, 1 Epift. 
 C.3.V.20. a By the effeft, that he was a Preacher ofrighteouf- 
 nejfe. For the office or duty is not here commended, but the 
 ad or exercUe of this duty. For the duty was common to him 
 with many more, but theexercife of it was proper unto him- 
 
 fcIfe ' ^ ^ 
 
 C c The 
 
202 
 
 A Commentary upon the Second Epijtle of Peter. 
 
 The Doctrines arifing here-hence. 
 
 Doft. I. The multitude of thofe that fmne doth not hinder 
 Gods juftic* from executing his judgements upon them for their 
 finnes* 
 
 This is gathered from this 5 He /pared not the whole world. 
 For as it was with dignity in the Angels, fo it is alfo with the 
 multitude now in the world. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the multitude dcth not leffen, but rather 
 increafe the guilt of finne, and more fill up the meafure there- 
 of, as it is in thoProver be, §>uipeccat exemflo,b^peccat , he 
 that fins with example, fins twice : So he that fins with ma- 
 ny examples, fins often times, if the thing be rightly confide- 
 red. As if a man mould fee another fall in a flippery way, and 
 not take the more heed unto himfelfe therein, but fall into the 
 fame place and after the fame manner, he is much more taxed 
 by men, then if he had fallen alone, or firft of all : fo is it alfo 
 in thefe. 
 
 2. Becaufe the multitude which feemeth unto us a great 
 thing, as if it could withffand Gods artger, is before God like 
 unto water, that fals from a bucket. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us, not to follow a multi- 
 tude to do evil!. And fo much the more neceffary is this ad- 
 monition, becaufe we are all too prone to go in the way of 
 the multitude j which fault alfo we feeme to commit with 
 fome reafon. 
 
 1 . Becaufe that we prefurne that many eyes fee more then 
 one, whence it is that the voice of the people is often taken 
 for the voice of God. 
 
 i. Becaufe the.labour of examination feemes too diffi- 
 cult, and almoft impoffible. 
 
 3. Becaufc that which all men do, nfually goesunpuni- 
 (hed<among men 5 and weconceive the like thing of God. 
 
 4. Becaufe he that doth not follow the multitude, (hall 
 gaine a multitude of enemies, and fuch as hate hirr. 
 
 But the contrary reafon , which is of greater valae then all 
 thofe, is that of Chn^Matth.j. 13. Uroadis the way thai lead- 
 em to d'ftruftien^ and many there be which go in thereat. To the 
 iirfi reaion or cbjeft? on we anfwer; that one eye of a man that 
 feeth, perceives more, thea a thoufand blind eyes. The world 
 
 or 
 
AKommeniarynfonthe SecondEptftle cfVetet, 303 
 
 or the multitude of the world is bltoied j therefore one 
 Chriftian which hath the eye ofhismindinlightneJby the 
 Spirit, and followes the light of Gods word, can fee more 
 then a great multitude of others. To the fecond weanfvver, 
 that the duty of examination lies upon all and every one. And 
 they had need to do it, not only as they arc Chriftians, and 
 as Chrift commands them, to prove all things , and hold faft 
 that which is good, but alfo as they are men : for it is not a ' 
 humane, but a brutifh.thing to follow the multitude of thofe 
 that go before, without judgement. To the third we anfwer, 
 that the wayes ofGodarenotasthewayesofnaen : Men 
 winck at many, either out of ignorance, or impotency 3 or for 
 feare, and the like imperfections which are not incident to 
 God. To the fourth we anlwer , If God be with us, who can 
 be againft us ? 
 
 Do ft. 2. The creatures which are mofi necejfary and profi* 
 table unto ui y by fin are made our enemies and hurt full unto «*., 
 
 This is gathered from the flood of waters, that deftroyed 
 tke old world. Now nothing is mqre neceflary and profitable 
 unto us then water. 
 
 Reafon. Becaule the creatures are the fervants and hoaft of 
 God, and therefore they depend upon his will, and pleafure, 
 and command both for war and peace, Hof.2,1%, 
 
 Vfe 1 . • This may ferve to admonish us , lo much the more 
 to beware of fin. 
 
 2. To inftrutt us, if we would have any true comfort from 
 the creatures, to lay the foundation thereof in our reconcilia- 
 tion with God. 
 
 Doft. 3. God in the mid(t of judgement towards the ungod* 
 ly t is mercifull towards the godly* 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that when he deftroyed the 
 world, he faved Noah 
 
 Reafon, Becaufe God doth not execute judgement accor- 
 ding to the fiercenefle of his anger or fury, a s men oftentimes 
 ufe to do, but according to the counfell of his moft perfeft 
 wifdome. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to inftruft us, not to afcribethofe 
 things unto fortune or chance, which happen unto us or ©.- 
 thers in this kind* 
 
 Cqz 2. To 
 
204 A Comment try upon the Second Epifik of Peter. 
 
 2. To comfort us, becaufe in a world of all dangers and 
 judgements, we may flye unto the mercy of God. 
 
 Dod. 4. There are wont to be but a few godly men in the 
 world. 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that Noah is called the eighth 
 of the godly, or rather he may be called the feventh 3 becaufe 
 Cham was cur fed. 
 
 Reafon 1. In refpeft of God, becaufe he gives this grace 
 but unto a fcvf t that his goodnefle and mercy towards them 
 may appeare the more abundant. 
 
 2» In refpeft of the fecond caufes, and of the nature of the . 
 thing it felfc, becaufe that which is moft difficult, and of the., 
 greateft care and perfection, is not wont to be found but in 
 Pew. The gifts of nature are common unto all $ of art and in? 
 duftry to fewer, but the gifts of grace to fewett of all. There 
 are more good Taylors,then good Phy fitianSj and morc^ood 
 Phyfitians then good Kings. So that that hath the greateft 
 perfection, which is given but to a few* . 
 
 Vfe i» This may ierve to admonifh us, to be Co much the 
 jnore diligent to make our election and calling fure. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to give God than&s, that he hath made 
 us partakers of that happinefle, which he grants but to a few. . 
 Doft. 5. All the godly ', that will be made partakers of gods 
 mercy , mvft be preachers ofrightecufnefa as Noah wot. 
 
 Now righteoufnefle is preached not only in words, but al- 
 io in deeds. For ib it is wont to be faid, The thing it felfe 
 (peakcth, 1 o: the tongue only, Thi[.2. 15,16. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe no man can efcape the revenging juftice of i 
 God, unleffe he labour to follow and advance the rightepufc 
 ixflfe that is prescribed by him. 
 
 Vfe i. This may.ferve to condemne and reprove thofe, 
 that are rather Preachers of unrighteoufnefle, thenofrighte-, 
 oufnefTe. 
 
 2. To exhort us, more and more to Air up our (lives to have 
 a card of this duty. 
 
 Verfe 
 
A C$tfmcntaty upm the Second Epiftk ef Peter. 205 
 
 Vcrfc 6* And turning the Cities ofSodome and gomorrba into 
 ajbes 3 condemned them with an overthrow, making them an 
 enf ample unto thofe that after fhould live ungodly. 
 
 Verfe 7. z/fnddrlheredjujl Lot, vexed with the filthy convtr- 
 fation of the wicked : 
 
 Verfe 8. (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in fee- 
 ing and hearing^ vexed his righteous foult from day to day % 
 with their unlawfull deeds, ) 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN thefe veries is contained the third example, which is di- 
 vided after the fame manner, as the fecond was. For here he 
 (peaks of the judgement of God upon the wicked , and his 
 mercy towards the godly. The object of his judgement are 
 the Cities of Sodome and Gomorrha ; the manner 4 is, by Hre 
 which is intknated in theiVwords,rwtf<r^ into afies.The degree 
 is,in their atter overthrow ; the end and ufc is, to warne thofe 
 that mould after live ungodly. For fuch judgements areen- 
 lamples not of a wicked life , but of the condemnation due 
 hangs over the heads ofthofe that live ungodly 5 and fo they 
 are enfamples to move men, not to do the like ; buttotake 
 heed left if they do after the like maimer, they fuftcr alfo after 
 the like manner. 
 
 The Do&rines arifing herchence. 
 
 D o&. No faciei j of men or policy can hinder the judgement 
 ofGod^ which he will bring upon them for their fins. 
 
 For as in the firft example there was the dignity of the An- 
 gels, in the fecond the multitude of men, fo alfo in this place 
 fociety and policy $ and Cities that were fo noble, 5W?«*and 
 Gomorrha. For they were Cities that were brought into go- 
 vcrnmentj they had Kings, Gen. 142. Ta is Do&rine is pro- 
 pounded, and proved, Trov. 11 21.8c in 1 6.^'x is repeated. 
 
 Reafi/i. Becaule the guilt of fin is not Ieuened, but inereafed 
 by means of (bcieties, if they favour fin nes : for they perv«rt 
 the end whereunto they were ordained. Fo? whereas the end 
 of all locieties is to reftraine finne, and to advance righteouf- 
 nefle, 1 Tim* 2.2, and they on the contrary cherifti fin and im- 
 pugne righteoufnes, they do provoke the anger of God more, 
 
 then 
 
2 ©6 4 Commentary upon the Sec$nd Epiftte tfPtter. 
 
 then if they were not fuch focieties. The fin of thefe Cities is 
 (kidtobe grievous, and crying, Gen. 18.20. 
 
 This may (erve for admonition, that Citizens or Magi- 
 ftrates {hould not truft too much to their wealth/o that there- 
 by they (hould be made the more bold to fin. 
 
 Doclc. 2, The fame judgements of God are executed tyjwn* 
 trary caufes. 
 
 This is gathered therehence , that whereas the old world 
 was deftroyed by water , thole Cities were ovcrthrowne by 
 fire. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve for admonition, that finners mould 
 not therefore think thcmfelves fafe, becaufe they have efcaped 
 one judgement; for when they are fartheft off from one evil, 
 another is ready to falupon them, «•*/#<?/ 5. 19. 
 
 Doft. 3« Sxtreame judgements follow extreame fmsl 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that this was an utter over- 
 throw, becauie that thefe Cities had filled up the meafure of 
 their fins. 
 
 Reafon* The reafon is taken from the proportion, that is 
 betwixt fin andthepunifhmentoffin. 
 
 Vfe* This may fervctoadmoniflius, if we cannot altoge- 
 ther avoid fin, yet with feare and trembling to Chun the pro- 
 grefie and continuance in fin. 
 
 Doft. 4. The j that are unto others examples offw^fljatl he 
 alfo unto them examples ofpuntjhmem. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words ': Making them an en- 
 j ample. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferve to admonifh us, fo much the more to 
 take heed, that we give no fcandal unto others, or to be au ex- 
 ample in fin« 
 
 *• To exhort us to incrcafe in godlinefTc by the examples 
 of Gods judgements upon finners. For that is the ufe and end 
 of them, Amo s 4 12. 
 
 The other part of the Analyfis. 
 
 The object of mercy is Lot 9 who is defcribed, 1 By the 
 adjun£t,that he was righteous. 2 2?y the effeft, that his foule 
 was vexed with the wickedneffe of che ungodly,which is more 
 largely fet forth, v. 8. 1 By the internall caufe,which was his 
 righteoufiiefle. 2 2?y thecXternall cau(e,which was their un- 
 
 godlinefie. 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epi/ik of Peter. 2 07 
 
 godlinefle. 3 By the mean?, wherby the external caufe or the 
 ob/ett did work that ef7eft«And they were the fen{es of bear- 
 ing and feeing. 4 By the occafion, wfikh was his dwelling 
 arnongftthern. 5 By theadjun&oftime, which was conti- 
 nually. 6 "By thedegrec, which wasthe higheft, asif he had 
 beene put upon the rack $ he vexed, in Greek it is «&r«tV« , 
 tormented. ' * •" 
 
 2?efides thofe that are common anto Let with* the exam* 
 
 pie oiNoab, there are thefe Doctrines to be obftrved. 
 Doth *. Men' are Accounted rigftttoHS or unrightebmin 
 the fight of gody notfo much for fame one deed ^ as for the whole 
 courYe of their life. 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that Lot is here called righto 
 enr^ who notwithftariding' is fpoken of in the Scripture to 
 have committed a molt hainaus fin. For thofe that, are (aid to 
 be righteous in the Scriptures , are fo called, either in refpec\ 
 of the imputation of Ghrrttsrighteoufneife, orinrefpe£tof 
 •fome particular *caufe wherein they fhew themferves tighre- 
 teous, or in refpeft of that inherent righteoufnelffe 1 , which, 
 though it be imperfeft , yet is itiincere and pleafingur\to 
 God. 
 
 Vfe. i;'Thi$ may ferve to refute the Papifts and others,who 
 as (bone as they reade that any one is called righteous in the 
 Scriptures , presently conclude that a man may fulfill the 
 whole law, and (land upon his own merits before God* 
 
 2. To comfort the godly, who fometimes fall through in- 
 firmity. For if they continually labour to pleafe God, God 
 in mercy accounts them righteous. 
 
 Doct. 2. There are Jmctimes righteous men found in the 
 vridft of tin ungodly. 
 
 this is gathered therehence, that righteous Lot dwelt a- 
 mongft the Sodomites, 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to refute thofe, that when they finne 
 put the fault upon others with whom they live , as if they 
 could not be godly becaufc others are wicked. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to flrengthen our minds agarnft the Wic* 
 kednefle of the age, and places, or men, amengft whom wc 
 live. For like as that fcrvant deferves well of his Mafter, that 
 flicks clofennto him 3 when all others forfake him 5 fo alfo are t 
 
 they 
 
208 A Commentary upon the Second Epifik ef Peter. 
 
 they moft acceptable unto God, that adhere unto him, when 
 all others not only forfake him, but alfo are againft him $ fo 
 did Noah) Gen. 6.8,p. 
 
 Do&* 3. Thofe that are righteous^ even whiles they live <*« 
 mongfi the ungodly 9 are grieved for their impietj. 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that Lot vexed, &c» So Tfal. 
 1 19. 158 Attsij.\6. 
 
 Reafon. iJecaufe whengodly men do moft of all defire, and 
 take care for to advance the glory of God and the falvation of 
 others, they cannot but be grieved 3 when they fee no recko- 
 ning made of either. 
 
 Vfe I . This may ferve to condemne thofe,that take delight 
 in no company Co much a$ in the company of the ungodly. 
 2. Thole that are not lorry for their own fins, much lefle for 
 other?. 
 
 2. To inftrucViis, to judge of our felves hereby,in that con- 
 version which we have with wicked- men. For i( we are 
 thus wrought upon, when we fee it,then it is a figne of a good 
 conference* 
 
 
 Verfc 9. The Lordknowetb how to deliver the godly, out< oftemf- 
 tations s and to re ferve the unjust unto the day of judgement 
 to be punijhed 9 or fujfering punijhment. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 HTHis is the generall cpnclufion, the premhTes whereof the 
 former examples makeup, and it is difpofed in a copulate 
 axiom, the former part whereof is of the : mercy of God, and 
 the latter of ihisjuftice. Where .<wfi may take notice of the 
 reafon of this order, which may be two-fold. 1 Becaufe in 
 the premhTes he had fpoken of mercy irr the laft place ; there- 
 fore that the connexion might be evident^ he puts it firit in -the 
 Conclufion j arid becaufe he intends to (peak more at large of 
 the wicked afterwards > therefore he mentions Gods juftice 
 towards them in the laft place. 2. The Apoftledothfirftof 
 all conclude the mercy of God towards the godly, becauie it 
 Was his primary intent and purpofe to comfort and ftrength- 
 
 en 
 
A Commentary upon t&e Second Epiftte ofPtter* 200 
 
 en the godly. The obj.ft of Gods mercy is the gocijy. Ttoe 
 aft and effeft thereof is, to deliver them from temptation. 
 The object of his juftice is the wicked. The aft and eiFe& 
 thereof is, to refervethem unto the day of judgement. Where 
 he «ddes the manner how they (hall be rderved , namely fb 5 
 that they (hall in the meane time fufTer punifhment. The cauie 
 and reafon of thclc a&s and effects, as well of his mercy as his 
 juftice, is the wifdome of God, or his knowledge joyaed to- 
 gether with his will ; as that firft word intimates unto us, The 
 Lord knoweth. 
 
 The Doctrines arifing herehence. 
 
 Do&. I. JVe have need of divers arguments to confirme our 
 fahh touching the mercy andjufiice of God. 
 
 This is gathered therchence , that the A poftle was Co care- 
 full to conclude this, and by Co many arguments. 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe faith is not, as knowledge and fenfc is, 
 to have fach a full and evident afiurance, as excludes a^I man- 
 ner of doubting, but it hath fome obfeurity in the object, and 
 Co admits of divers doublings, which muft be removed by 
 iuch-Iike arguments. 
 
 2. The imperfection of our faith, which muft be helped by 
 thefe means. 
 
 3. The multitude of objections and temptations , which 
 fight againft this faith. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove the fecurity and pre- 
 emption of thoie, that feele no want in this kinde, 
 
 2. To admoaifh us, to ufe all diligence,and to fcarch out all 
 the arguments that may be, to ediHe our felves in this faith. 
 
 Doft. 2. They that are truly righteous 9 fo that they are 
 vejfds of the mercy ofGod 9 are alfo godly. 
 
 This is gathered therchence, that here they are called god- 
 ly, who before in the example of Noah and Lot, were called 
 righteous. 
 
 Reafon* Becaufe no righteoufhefTe can be pleafing unto 
 God, which is not referred unto him and his honour 5 now , 
 this is done no other way, but by piety. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us , nottoreftorpleafe 
 our felves in any righteoufneffe , that is feparatcd from true 
 piety towards God. < 
 
 Dd Do&. 
 
% i o A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Doft* 3. The fling of 'every evili of 'punifbment , whereunto 
 men are obnoxious in this life, is temptation. 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that deliverance from tempta- 
 tion is here put for deliverance from all evilh 
 
 Reaon. Becaufe the afflictions or mifcries of this lifefcs- 
 come hurtfull unto us only by that means, and as tfeey are in 
 us occaiions or motives unto (in. For that is the nature of 
 temptation, whereof mention is here made, to induce men un- 
 to (inne. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to admonifh us, to beware of the 
 temptation that is in theevill, more then of the evils them- 
 selves. 
 
 2. To inn* ru& us, to judge aright of the mercy of God to- 
 wards the godly ; for although they are not prefently delive- 
 red from the afflictions themfclves , yet if they be delivered 
 from the temptation of them, they have great experience of 
 Gods mercy towards them. 
 
 Doft. 4 God doth very well know how to per forme all thofe 
 things that he hath either promifed to the godly 9 or threatmd to the 
 wicl^d. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to admonifh us, not to judge of the 
 
 event of thefc t hings , or of the fuccefTe of the godly or the 
 
 . wicked, according to thofe things that we fee , but torcferre 
 
 all thefe things unto the knowledgeand wifciomeof God 5 reft- 
 
 ingupon the beliefe of thofe things which lie hath promifed. 
 
 . 
 
 ■ ■ ■ 1 
 
 Verfe 10. 7? ut chiefly them that walkjtfter the flefb in the Ittfl of 
 um I 'annejfe 9 4ndde/pife government: pre fumptuotts are they, 
 felfe-willed : they are not afraid tofpeakcvill of dignities. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN this verfe is contained the particular conclusion of the 
 formerargumg : becauie he doth particularly apply unto 
 the fahe teachers of that age.that which he had affirmed in ge- 
 nerall of the un juft. verfe $>. Therefore this particular conclu- 
 fion is joy tied with the general J, not by a bare copula, but by 
 a gradation from the leffc to the greater, as it is intimated in 
 
 that 
 
A Commentary upon tie Second Epiflle of Peter- 3 1 1 
 
 that firft x9ord, r But chiefly : &$il hehadfaid, that all the un* 
 juft (hould indeed iuffer punifhment, but thole moft certainly, 
 and moft heavily , that are fuch as the fal(e teachers are here 
 defci ibed to be. N jw they are delcribed both in generall,and 
 in particular. In generall the effeft of their wicked walking, 
 in thok words>thcm that walk!;* Ofwhicheffeft, I hemewes 
 the principall cau(e, which is, tbeflejh. 2 The adminiftring, 
 or next caufe, which is the luff afthefe/b, that is, the vicious 
 motions and inclinations of corrupt nature: which is illuftra- 
 ted by the proper effeft thereof, ttncleannefte > becaufe the mo- 
 tions of the flefli do fpiritually defile the foules of men , fo 
 that it makes them polluted in the fight of God. The parti- 
 cular defcription is by a particular fin, which is, a contempt 
 of lawfull authority : which fin is illuftratcd by its effeft,thac 
 is, that they do contemptuoiifly reproach dignities ; where he 
 fticwes the manner of this effect which is adjoyncd, that they 
 do it boldly and (clfe-willed. 
 
 The Doctrines arifing here-hence. 
 DofcY I. ^Although aUfinners may defervedly feare the 
 judgment of God, yet there arefome that may more eertainly ex- 
 fetl thefeveritj of that judgement. 
 This is gathered from thefe words ; But chiefly them. 
 Reafon. By reafon of that proportion which is kept be- 
 twixt the fins a:.d their puniftiments. Now they that may 
 moft certainly expeft this feverity of judgement, arc fuche- 
 fpecially, as are very much given unto thofe fins, whereby we 
 read in the Scriptures that men have brought upon themfelves 
 fwiftdeftru&ion. 
 
 v/e. This may ferve to admonifh us, moft of all to beware 
 of thofe fins that do moft haften our damnation. 
 
 Doft. 2. There is no one fin fo heinous, as towalkjnthe 
 ytayes of a (inner. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words 5 B*t chief j them that 
 •walke. 
 
 Reafon t. Becaufe the aft of fin doth not fo much condemn 
 
 as the habit of fin 5 like as on the contrary , the habit of any 
 
 vertuc doth much more commend a man, then any particular 
 
 aft, though it be of great note, 
 
 2. Becaufe he that walks in the way of fin , addes impeni- 
 
 Dd 2 tency 
 
212 
 
 4 Commentary upon the Second Epifile of Peter. 
 
 tency unto his fins; now impenitency doth conderfme men 
 more then any (in, becaufe there is no way to cfcape the an- 
 ger of God, but by repentance. 
 
 Vfe I. this may fcrve to condemne thole, that pleafe 
 themfelves therein, that they are not rnurtherers, nor adulte- 
 rers, nor robbers 3 &c. when in the meane time they walk in 
 the way of other fins, who do either contemne the worfhip 
 of God, or neglcft faith, hope, and charity, and are altoge- 
 ther ignorant of the like vertues. 
 
 2. To admoniih us, to take heed unto our felves, by a time- 
 ly and daily repentance, that we walk not in finp., though we 
 cannot abftain from all fin. Sinners are not fo much hatefull 
 unto God, as the workers of fin, and fuch as walk in it. 
 
 Doft. 3» There is in all men while they are in this world ^ 
 feme catife pricking andflirring them up unto fir* 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that the flelh is here put as the 
 beginning of all thofe fin6,whereunto thefe wicked men were 
 given.Now it is called the flcfli, becaufe it doth extend it felfe 
 as largely as the flefh or body of man, being carnal^ .• and fo 
 is in all and every particular man in common and without 
 any exception.Thisis proved firft Gal 5. 17. lames 1.14. Man 
 15.1c. Secondly, it is contirmedalib by reaibn and experi- 
 ence, becauie when there is no outward objedf or perfwafion 
 that can induce us unto Cm , yet we fecle fiic » little (parks ari- 
 fing in our felves 3 that will fet the whole man on fire,if they be 
 not quenched betimes. 
 
 Vfe i. This may feive for inftruclioii, 1 To refute their 
 dreame„ which imagine a perfection in this prefent life, i To 
 refute the Papifts, who fay that concupiscence after Bap- 
 tifme is not formally a fin* For that which of its own nature 
 produceth fin, muft needs have the nature of fin. For •quale 
 tjfittlum, talis caufa^ fuch as the tffett is, fuch is the caufo 
 
 2. To admonifh us, diligently to beware not only of out- 
 ward provocations, that might lead us into temptation, but 
 alfo ot our felves and our own hearts ; lor there lyes our great- 
 er} danger. 
 
 Deft. 4. Sittne doth not confift only in outward wards and 
 deeds, but aljo in the inward luffs anhajfc ftionsfvhkh are contra- 
 ry unto the law of Cjod. 
 
 R-eafon'i. 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle ef Peter.. 2 1 3 
 
 Reafon t. The firft reafon is taken out of the places of 
 Scripture, wherein God is called a Spirit, and is (aid ftp. look 
 mod i*htothe Spirit and heart of mar. 
 
 2. Thcfecondis taken out of thofe places, .where finite 
 
 faid to come from the heart, For Jin can come fro the heart no Mat, *5* l 9 
 other way,but by the means of fuch vicious lulls of the fk-fti. 
 
 3. From the exprefle words of God, .Guu6,^.&l 8,21. 
 
 4. The fame is mewed unto us bf the contraries,, becaufe 
 the inward affections of mcn 3 tliat arefgood, are vtry ple.ifing 
 unto God : Therefore after the like -manner evil) affections 
 and defires mud needs difpleafe him. The. amplification ojf 
 this truth may be taken therehence, that there is no impro- 
 perly in the outward words, anddecjs, but as they depend 
 upon the inward arEe&ion of the. heart. For if it were other- 
 wile, then a man might be compelled unto fin, which is alto- 
 gether untrue, and contrary to common fenfe. 
 
 Vfe,. This may ferve to refute and condemne thoie , that 
 take little or np care at all 3 about their thoughts or inward* af- 
 feftionsjib that they can any way excufe their outward words 
 and deeds. 2. To admonifti us : therefore to watch over our 
 inward affections and thoughts. For this is the property of a 
 trueChriltian. Thole that are out-fide Chriftians, look only 
 unto outward things 5 they that do inwardly and in heart 
 feare God, arc no lefle carefull of their inward thoughts then 
 ehey are of their outward words. 
 
 Doft. 5» Sins of this ktnd^ Hk{ at all others alfo y do defile a max. 
 
 Some fins are laid inafpeci2ll manner to defile a rnan,name- 
 lyfucb, a9 pertain unto the unlawfull copulation of the flefh, 
 and tranfgrefie the tenth Commandemenr. 
 
 Rcaf* Becaufe they do in their nature alfo defile the body 
 and perfon of a mamBut all fins do alfo defile the foul of man, 
 becaufe they leave a blemifh behind them, which makes the 
 foul of the (inner dcformed,and lefle pleafingunto God^Adat, 
 1 5. 20. This is it which was heretofore (ignificd in the Cere- 
 moniall Law by all thofe uncleannefles.feparations, warnings, 
 and purgings , which are fo frequently fpoken of by Moftr, 
 This alfo is that,which is intimated unto us in Baptifme. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to condemn tho(e,that do not only 
 take delight in their fins, but alfo feeme to boaft of them, as if 
 they fhould glory in their own dung. 2. To 
 
2 Ia A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 2. To admonilh us, to lcarne hence more and more to ab« 
 horrc all fin,as a moft filthy and dcteftable thing. Betides that 
 gencrall defiling which is common to all finne, the Apoftle 
 feems here to intimate thatfpeciall defiling, which is in wan- 
 tonnefle, as it appears by v. 1 4. & 18. But ot this we (hall have 
 a fitter opportunity tft fpeak afterwards. 
 
 Doft. 6* Jt is a moft heinous fin to defpife government ', or 
 thefuferiour lattfull power. 
 
 This is confirmed, Roma 3.1,2. 
 Reafon 1. Becaufc they which defpife la wfull power, de- 
 fpife the ordinance ot'God. It is the Apoftlcs reafoninthe 
 feme place. For although God hath prescribed unto men no 
 fpeciall forme of government , yet he hath appointed, that 
 there mould be fomecertaine kind of governing, and fo ap- 
 proves of all power,which is not contrary unto nature, or un- 
 to his revealed will* 
 
 2. Becaufe fuch a contempt is againft the common good, 
 and tends to the disturbance of humane fbciety. 
 
 3. Becaufe it gives occafion to the overflowing of all other 
 fins. For this is the reafon why the authority of (uperiours 
 is eftablimed in theflrft Commandement of the fecond Table, 
 becaufe if that be defpifed or neglected, all the other Com- 
 mandements, not only of the fecond, but alio of the firft ta- 
 ble, are cjuite deftitute of thofc things that mould ftrengthen 
 them, as touching thofe means which men can u ft. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ftrve to refute the Anabaptifts and thofc 
 that tread in the fteps of fuch hcreticks, whiles they maintaine 
 that the civill Magistrate is clean contrary to Chriftian reli- 
 gion- 
 
 2 . To reprove thofe,that although they confefie the pow- 
 er in words, yet in their deeds refift it , nor do they refpeft it 
 farther then it makes for their lulls. 
 
 Do£K 7. The e felt of contempt is t to reproach aman, and 
 fpeakevill of him. 
 
 Reafon. 2?ecaufe reproaches and contumelies come proper- 
 ly from pride, whereby a man thinks himfelf better then ano- 
 ther. For otherwifc he could not reproach another man, 
 but the fame reproach would fall upon himfclfe alfo # Con- 
 tempt is the daughter of pride, and the mother of fuchne- 
 phewes. Vfe'i 
 
A Commentary npon the Sec&nd Epifiie sf Peter, 3 1 « 
 
 Vfi I. This may lcrve to admonifh all Ch. iitians , to ab- 
 ftaine from reproachings and eviil fpeakings.For there is none 
 that dares affirme that it is lawful! for him to defpife his bro- 
 ther. 
 
 2. To admonifh us , to beware of pride and the contempt 
 of others, if we would not break forth into fuch fins> that are 
 Co unworthy of a Chriftian man. 
 
 Jfltteft, Here arifeth a aueftion. Whether we may not fome- 
 times reprove the fins of men fomewhat fharply ? 
 
 Anft*. That this is lawful! is proved by the approved pra- 
 cVife of the Prophets, Apoftles, and ot Chrift himfelfe alfoj 
 -but with theft caution?, i Tnat the fin which we reprove 
 bemanifeft. i Thatthecheckbeibdirc&ed, that it be done 
 to the fin rather then to the man. 3. That there be together 
 with it a manifestation of our charity* 4 That we be not mo- 
 ved unto this vehemency chiefly by our own private injuries, 
 but by the zeale that we bcare unto the glory of God and the 
 falvation of others. 
 
 Doft 8. Amengft thofe circumftttnees of Jinne, mentioned 
 in the textjhere is none -whereby it is mart aggravAted t thenftttlh* 
 fornboldnejfe, andfelfi-willfdHctfe. 
 
 This is gathered from theft words: < PrcfnmftHOHS i ftlfe* 
 •prilled^ &c % 
 
 Reafon 1. Becauft they arc tokens of a will finning with 
 fulliionfent. ' 
 
 3. They are tokens ofaftared con fcience. 
 3 . They are moft contrary unto repentance. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may fcrve to condemne thofe, that account it 
 a great praift unto themftlves 3 that they are bold to commit 
 all kind of villanousafts : they neither feare men , nor God 
 himftlfej as it is faid of the unjuft Judge- in the Got pel. 
 
 2. To admonifh u$, although we cannot wholly abftaine 
 from all fin , yet to take heed that we do not pleafe our feivee 
 in any fin, nor to go on and perfitt ttubbornly, and prefomp- 
 tuouflj ia it* 
 
 Verfe 
 
ai <■> t <4Cwp$iit<ny vpo# the Secepd Epjfiie efTtHr* 
 
 Verfe 11* Where as Aigcls which are greater in power and 
 mighty bring not railing acenfation ttgainfi them before the 
 . Lord,, '■■ | 
 
 The Analysis* 
 
 THat the Apoftle may aggravate that fin , which he had 
 laid to charge ot the faife teachers in the former words.hc 
 makes a companion betwixt them and the Angels,, fuchasis 
 made, verfe £., and the ro. But in .this comparifon there is^ 
 contained a two-fold dif-rfimilitude, namely, of their condi- 
 tion, and their actions. Their condition, becaufe the Angels 
 are high and mighty, but thefe men were of a low mean con- 
 ditioii.Their aclions,bccaufe the Angels abftained from fpeak- 
 ing evill of dignities, but thefe men gave their minds unto it. 
 The former dif-fimilitude is fet forth by a kind of inequality, 
 of greater and lefler , becaufe there is indeed a very great in- 
 equality, but this dif-fimilitude arifeth from the inequality. 
 Both parts of the comparifon are difpofed in a di tercet axiom 
 as it were to this fenfe. Although the Angels do farrc exceed 
 theft dignities in power, yet they do not (peak evill of them ; 
 but thefe men 9 although they be far inferiour unto them in 
 power, yet they fear not to fpeak evill of them. 
 
 Touching the former part of the comparifon two queft jons 
 may be made. 
 
 Steffi, i . In what fenfe the Angels are faid to be greater in 
 power and might ? 
 
 sAnfwcr. The Angels are faid to be greater in power and 
 migbt,not ibmuch in refpeft of thefalfe teachers,as in refpeft 
 of the dignities themfelves, whereof the Apoftle here fpeakf. 
 And the reafon is, not only becaufe they are of a more excel- 
 lent nature then men; but aifo becaufe God hath fet them over 
 men, and commanded them to watch over Governments, 
 Common-wealths, and confequcntly over dignities. Whence 
 they are often called in Scripture Dominions y as Ephefians 
 
 I. 21. 
 
 Qjffi* 2 * How this is true, that they do not bring railing 
 
 accufation 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Bpiflle of Peter* 217 
 
 accufation againft dignities, when Godhtmfelfefometimes 
 fpeaks evill of them , and makes the Angels to execute his 
 malediction ? 
 
 zAnfwer. They are laid to abfaine from fpeaking evill, 
 I Becaufe they do not fpeak evill, but when God commands! 
 them , and therefore it is not their malediction fo much as 
 Gods. 2 Though they do fpeak evill of the men that are fet} 
 in authority, and do evill alfo unto them fometimes, as we fee 
 in the example of Herod^ arid in the Holt of Se nacherib 5 yec 
 they do not fpeak evill ot the dignities them(elves,which Was 
 the fin ofthefc impoitors, of whom the Apoitle fpeaks. 
 The Doftrines ari.ing herehence. 
 
 Doft. I. Their finis the greater ^ who are of d lower condi* 
 & on i tfthfj WJX pro fid and defpife dignities , then if they were fet 
 in a higher degree. 
 
 This is the ground of the ApofUes comparifon. For other- 
 wife it wpnld make nothing to the aggravation of the finneof 
 thefe men. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe his (in is the greater, that is drawn unto 
 fin upon the lighter occafion or fmaller temptation. 
 
 2. B.caufe fuch men are not moved by thofc reasons, that 
 might and mould with-hold them from committing fuch a 
 fin, which other men have not after the fame manner. 
 
 Vf* This may ferve for condemnation 3 to coudemne the 
 fafhion of fome men of che lowed rank, who even in that con-, 
 dicion of lifeaie as proud, and more alfo (bmetimes , then 
 they that are in the higheft degree of dignity and honour* 
 Doft. 2. The Angels are greater in pewr then all men, 
 Vfe. This may ferve for the comfort of the I aithfull, be- 
 caufe God hath given the Angels a fpeciall charge over them, 
 fo that they are faid to pitch their tents about them. 
 
 Doc"t .3. Thefe power full Angels do mofl religioufly ab- 
 Jfainefrorn aHfinne* 
 
 For what is here faid in fpeciall, is to be underftood alfo in 
 general/. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifli us , therefore the more 
 carefully to beware of fin ; both becaufe we arc bound by the 
 Law at leaft as well as they,, ard alfo becaufe othei wife we 
 cannot have thofc good and powerful miniltiing Spiri s to 
 take care of us. Ec Verfe 
 
1 1 8 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle ofPettr. 
 
 Verfe I2. But thefe as natHra.ll bruit beafts , made to be tak? ft 
 And deftrojed^ fftak^ evill of the things that they understand 
 not 5 andjhall utterly perijh in their own corruption. 
 
 The Analyfir. 
 
 THe other part of the comparifon is contained in this 
 verfe, wherein the fin of the falfe teachers defpi!:ngand 
 fpeaking evill of dignities,is aggravated by a new comparifon 
 oi the like, fo that in this verfe there is both a mewing of the' 
 diflimilitute , and alfo a whole fimilitude explained by its 
 parts. The propofition of this fimilitude containes a defcrip- 
 tionof naturall bruit beafts : the Apodofis contains a defcrip- 
 tion of falfe teachers , according to tho(e qualities which 
 they have proportionably with thofc bruit beaft?. Thede- 
 fcription of the bruit beafts contains three things: 1 Their 
 inward nature, which is exprefied by a negation, that they are 
 voidofreafon^ bruits. 2 Their a&s or operations, which are 
 laid to proceed, not from counfell, but from nature, naturall, 
 3 Their end and denTU&ion, that they zxztaken and defrayed. 
 To thefe there are three alfo anfwerable in falfe teachers : 
 1 That they are void of judgement,'/.^ under ft and not. 1 That 
 they are carrycd with a naughty p2flion to fpeak evill, fpeak^ 
 foill of the things 1 hat they underfiand not. 3 That they bring 
 upon themfelves definition ; they fhaUperifhintheir own cor~ 
 rttptian. 
 
 The Do&rinesarifinghererience. 
 Dott. I. Sin, where it reigr.es, tnrncs a man into a bruit 
 bcafl as it were* 
 
 This is fhewed in all thofe places of Scripture, where wic* 
 ked men arc compared unto bruit beafts, either in generall, or 
 in fpeciall, fo Horfes, Mules, Dogs, Swine, Foxes, Wolves, 
 Beares, Lions, &c. Yea, they that are in greateft honour and 
 efteeme in this world, are accounted no otherwise of by God, 
 then as bruit beafts. TheMonarchs, inl>4w>/,arealwayeg 
 compared unto wild beafts ; and the Roman Emperours that 
 ncrfecuted the Church 3 are pointed out in the Apocalyps by 
 
 the 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epijile of Peter. 210 
 
 the name of the Dragon. And the Pope is not only called a 
 beaft, but is dcfcribea! as a very great monltcr among the 
 beafts 3 with (even heads>and ten horncf. 
 
 Vfe i. This may fcrve to condemn thofe a that pleafet hem- 
 felves in their finf. 
 
 2. S o admonifh us, (b much the more to beware of finne, 
 left at length with Nebuchadnezzar we be caftdownefrom 
 the greatest glory to theloweft condition of all. 
 
 Dod. 2 . The fountainc of all this fin andmifery is the want 
 of a right and/piritualljuJrement. 
 
 Vf"» This m*y fcrve to admonira us, diligently therefore 
 to betake our (elves unto prayer, and other means, that are 
 {anftified'by God,for theenlightning of our mind, and keep- 
 iBg it found. 
 
 Dott 3. A fane of fitch a condition, that is, of a man turn* 
 ing to abrttit beafi, is, to follow the paffms of corrupted nature^ 
 without reafon. 
 
 Vfe. This may fcrve to convift and condemne many, that 
 (eeme unto them felves to be excellent men. 
 
 Doft. 4. Such men do corrupt tdfo whatfoever natural 
 geodneffe they have in them* 
 
 This is gathered from this word, corruption,** it is explain- 
 ed, lude r. 10. 
 
 Vfe. This may fcrve to admoDiflius,thereforetohateand 
 dcteft fuch courfes. 
 
 Do&. 5. Such finners are entangled in their finf, and kept 
 unto defrutlion , like as bruit hafts in their fnares 9 wherewith 
 they are taken. 
 
 So 2 Tfw.2. 2 6, Lament. 1. 14. 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us , to flye from all Cor> 
 option j as we would from the foares of cternall death* 
 
 Be 2 Vcrfe 
 
220 
 
 e 
 
 A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Verfe 13. And Jhall receive t he reward of unrighteoufnftfi^ as 
 they that count itpleafure to riot in the day time : Jp&ts they 
 arc and blcmijhes ^[porting thcmfelves with their own dtat- 
 vings while they feaft with yon I 
 
 Verfe 14. Having eyes full of adultery , and that cannot ceaft 
 fromfwy beguiling unjlablefoules ; an heart they bavccxer* 
 fifed with covetous pratlifes, cur fed children* 
 
 The Analyfo. 
 
 AFtcr tint defcription of theft men, which was let down 
 in the three fore-going verfes, here in the beginning of 
 this 13 verfe;, is againe repeated that jjft puniftinent which 
 they muft expect ; they fljall receive the reward of unrighteouf- 
 nij[e t Then he makes a new defcription of the fame men, that 
 they might wax the more fierce if it were poffible. And he de- 
 fcr'tbes them by three chiefe vices, 1 By the luxury, where- 
 unto they gave their minds. 2 By their uncleannefle, 3 By 
 their covetoufneffe. Their luxury is fet forth and aggravated, 
 1 By the adjunct of pleafure. 2 By the adjunct of time, that 
 it was in the day time. 3 By the effect, that they did by this 
 means, as fpots and bicmiftiej, defile not only themlelves, but 
 alfo thofe with whom they were converfant. Of which effect 
 alio he'thewes the caufe in another effect , that deceiving was 
 joynei with this luxury. Their uncfeanncflc.is described, 
 I TSy the helping caufes or mil ruments, in thefe Words.- Ba-. 
 vingeyes full of adultery* 2 'By the adjunct of conftancy, be- 
 caufe they cannot ceafe from fin» 3 By the effect^ beguiling un» 
 flable foules. Their covetoutnefle is explained, 1 By the pri- 
 mary fuhjsct of it, in thefe words, //;* heart, there it was fcat- 
 ed. 2 By the adjunct of cuftome, in thefc words, A heart ex- 
 excijed. Latt of all, the end and fnmme of this defcription is 
 exprelTed,that they are acwrfed children. 
 The.Doctriies a Ling herehence. 
 
 Djft. I. Whennvethink.ofthefinsofwickedmen ) wefhoHld 
 likvpvtft thinly of their punifhwents. 
 
 This is gathered therehence, thai the Apoftle doth ever now 
 and then put in this, while he fpeaks of theie mens iins. 
 
 Reaf. 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter, 221 
 
 Reafon, 1. Becaufe theft two are in Gods purpofe and 
 theirown nature knit together*. j ? , ; ' , 
 
 2. 2?ccaufe the confidcration of fin doth oftentimes mqrg 
 hurt then good, it the confideration oi the punishment be not 
 joyneduntoit. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to condemne thofejthatukedelijp^ 
 only in. the commemoration either of their own, oro§e# 
 mens tins* , ^ .. 
 
 Doft. 2. Profufelnxyryisafigneofanranfmninffecurefyfi 
 
 This is gathered out of the text, and.itisfxpretfy.fet-downj 
 Itiie v. 1 1. 
 
 Redfon, Becm(c luch men do either not thin^^alj^fjthfi 
 judgements of God, or do labour arjeait jto rqmo^e.'lgcn 
 thoughts owt of their minds. , M 
 
 Vfe .1. Tais may ferve to inftcuft us. , nQyQ^a^oiyjt^coj 
 men happy j as themuUitude ufeth to dt > •: fnorabl! T .c 
 .2. T^monifhus tobeware ; of %hxxceuV ; 
 
 Daft. 3. Luxttrj^the more it is Jbewea openly, tjftjgprejt is 
 to be condemned, >;r 
 
 This is gathered from that Epithete, ipthed^timu 
 
 Reafon, Becauic. it is. Co much the farther ofTfrom,m»me,and 
 consequently from repentance. , 
 
 Vfe. this may feryc to condemne .that impu^race, wfoch 
 many men have gotten.- 
 
 • Deft. 4. There, h the great eft danger in thofe fins 9 jrw 
 which the greatefl pleafure and delight arifttf, 
 ^^."Becaufe pJeafore is a.iigne of i peffe$ £abit» 
 
 2. Becaufepleailirc is vcrj hardly left. : ; ; , 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admoniuVus, toteyfareofthofe 
 delights which arife from fin. 
 
 '. D &. 5» Tbej that pUafethemf elves moft intheirftns a do 
 mofi defile and contaminate bath them fe Ives and others. 
 
 t.iis is gathered from thefc wocdsjpottan.dblemj#es i it it is 
 alfo/»^v.i2. .cL.s, 
 
 *8?4/. #ecaufe the more any fin appearsin the Church, the 
 
 greater dishonour doth it-hcin^^ not.onjy. to the (inner him* 
 
 ielfe, but alfo to the whole Church, whereof he is a member. 
 
 D? >&* 6, 1 he tuiwurU membtrs alfe ofmck^dmitHpefull 
 
 tfrnckedntp. 
 
 This 
 
£ n A Commentary *po* the Second Epiftk of Peter* 
 
 This is gathered therehence, Hazing eyrsfuF^ &c. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe out of the abundance of the heart all 
 our faculties, and all the inftruments of operations receive ina- 
 preflions anfwcrablc unto the heart. 
 
 %• B- cautc fin, or temptation unto fin is admitted into the 
 heart it felfe by the outward ftnfcs, as by channels or gates; 
 fo that the eyes and ftich like corporeall inftruments are rilled 
 two wayes, both in the ingrcfle and the egrefle of fin.- Whence 
 itcomestopafle, that as the gates of a great City ufc tooe 
 fuller then the other parts of the City , by reafoa of the fre- 
 quent ingrefle and egrefle of people, (o alfb are the eyes of 
 fuch like men. 
 
 Vfe r. Thismay fcrvetoinftmftus,tofceandbewaJlethe 
 miferable condition, whereunto men are obnoxious by rea- 
 fon offin ; becaufc they have no part clean or void of fin. 
 
 a. To admonifh us, to ufc all care to clean fe our (elves, and 
 all our faculties and parts both of body and mind ffdriJ fuch 
 Uncleanneffe. 
 
 Doft. 7. The uncleannejfe of the body is oftentimes joyned 
 veitb impurity of religion* 
 
 This is gathered from theft words ; adultery. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufc the hindring caufc or that which keeps 
 koffis removed, namely , pure religion. 
 
 2. Becaufc this is the juft judgement of God, Rom.1.26. 
 
 3. Becaufc by reafon of thefc carnall afFe&ions men do 
 withdraw thernfclves from piety, or impugneit. 
 
 Vfe* This may fervc to admonifh us, (b much the more re- 
 ligioufly to imbrace purity in religion. 
 
 Dod:. 8. In fuch men covet oufnejfe is oftentimes joyned 
 with their impiety. 
 
 This is gathered from theft words, covetous praitifes. 
 Reafon, Becaufc that doth chiefly pertaine to the rule and 
 (way which thedevill exercifethbver his fervants,! lohn 2.16 
 2. Becaufc ,by . covetoufnefle they ftek thofe things that 
 ferve to rtourilh their impurity oflife. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve for a generall admonition, to abftaine 
 even from the leaft fins, if we would not admit of others alio. 
 Do&. 9* The exercifng of the heart unto fuch fins^ doth 
 very much firenethen and increafc them. • 
 
 This 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter* * $| 
 
 This is gathered from that word .* A heart they have exer- 
 cifeJ. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe exercifing a mans felfe unto fin brings in 
 and increafeth the habit. 
 
 2, It is a token that a man takes pleafure in fuch fins. For 
 no man doth willingly excrcife himfelfe in thole things 
 wherein he takes no delight. 
 
 Vf\ This may ferve to admonifh us, according to the 
 counfcll of the Apoftle, I Tim.^.j, to excrcife our felves unto 
 godlinefle, not unto wickednefTe. For as the Apoftlethete 
 faith, verfc S. that bodily exercife'profiteth little ; fo in this 
 comparifon may it belaid;, that the excrcife of fin" h not only 
 unprofitable, but very hurtful!. 
 
 Doft. 10. They that are after this manner accajionted unti 
 their Jins^ are hardnedin them* 
 
 This is gathered from thefc words ; The} cannot ceafefrom 
 finne, 
 
 Reafon* Becaufe by thi* means fin gets great ftrength and 
 dominion. 
 
 2. Becaufe every Way unto repentance is (topped up. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to adnioniOl us , to leave orFotir wic- 
 ked purpofes in time. 
 
 Doft, II* Such men are moft to be detefted. 
 
 This is gathered from theft words : cur fed children. 
 
 R"a'on. Becaufe they tre moft oppofite and contrary unto 
 that which is moft to be loved. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us, to fliew our zeale in fly- 
 ing from fin and finncrs. 
 
 Vcrfe 15. Which have for faken the right way, and are gone A' 
 fray following the way of Balaam thefon ofBofor^who loved 
 the wages ofunrighteoufnejfe^ 
 
 Verft 16. But was rebuked for his iniquity : the dumbe Aj[e 
 freaking with mans voice , for bad the madnejfe of the fro* 
 
 fhet» 
 
 The 
 
224 ^ Commentary upon the Second Epiftle ?f Peter. 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 ■"THe Apofflc h'ere'ftill continues in explaining and illulirat- 
 •*• ing the covet oufnefle ot thefe men by way of a fimilitude, 
 which he makes betweerie-thein and Balaam ihtConoi^BoJor, 
 N-jw the quality wherein they are compared is frru propoun- 
 ded in gei ipra 11, that they followed his way, that is, they imi- 
 tated him in the like manner of doing, and then fet Forth in 
 particular, i By the etfeft, that they . forfook the right way, 
 and wert aftray into by wayes,.that is, into naughty and wic- 
 ked wayes. 2 By the proper caufeofthiseffecl, that they 
 loved the wages of unrighteoufnefle, like as he loved itj that 
 is, for the ddire of filthy lucre tbe.y gave the mfelves over unto 
 impiety and unrighteoufnefle. 3 By the adjunft that fol- 
 lowes upon this effect namely, God* rebuking of him, v.,i6. 
 which 1? let forth by the inftrument,that he roadeufeof to do 
 it,namely,adurabe iVfle. The fitneffe alfo ofthisinftmment 
 as he was made ufe of at that time.is declared by their, inequa- 
 lity, becaufe he (hewes that this A(fe was in Come fort wifer 
 then his Matter. For wh<?nthc .Matter, though he was a Pro- 
 phet, was mad, this Afic By his wifdofnc a? jt were , rebuked 
 and corrected that madnclie. 
 
 §**f*. But : here a ^ueftion may be made concerning this 
 Bdatm the (on of Bo for 7 who is here called a Prophet, and yet 
 is iaid to have finned moft wickedly Whether he were a true 
 Prophet of God, or no I , 
 
 esfnfiv. He was fometime endued with the gift of Prophe- 
 fie that God had communicated unto him,as it appearSjiWw. 
 21. fo 2 }, 24. But in a fpeciall manner in 23. 26. the Lord is 
 (aid to haye/>»f words into his mouthy Co alfo verfe, 20.& cap. 24. 
 2. the Spirit of the Lord 1$ (aid to have come upon lom\ and verfe 
 4. he is Mdtohave heard the words of God. Yet he was not a 
 holy Prophet of God, but as he was given to other vices, and 
 efpecially to CovetoufnefTe^ Co alfo he was skilfull in the Ma- 
 gick art*, by whofe he^pe.' as it is faid Numb. 24. 1 . he tiled to 
 feek fur inchantments. Such an one therefore he was amongft 
 the Prophets, as fntUs was amongft the Apoftles : of which 
 fort alfo the old Prophet that dwelt at 'Bethel^ (eemes to have 
 bc«ne in fome re fpeft* T he 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Eptfile »f Peter, 2 2 $ 
 
 The Do&rines arifing herehsnce. 
 Doth I. The wicked of every Utter age do in tlxir cottrfes 
 imitate thofe wickedmen % that lived before them. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : Following the way of 
 Balaam. 
 
 For theft men did notpropofe Balaam unto themfelves for 
 an example to imitate, but becaufe they went in the fame 
 wayes, therefore they are faid to have followed him. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe that in-bred corruption, from which 
 fiich wicked eourfes are derived, as from their originall foun- 
 tains, is one and the fame. For although it doth not work 
 al wayes and in all altogether after the fame manner, yet when 
 it meets with natures alike , and the like occafions alfo hap- 
 pen, then it is no lefle like it felfe, then an egge is like an egge. 
 
 2. Becaufe the fame teacher of wickednefle, the tempter 
 and old Serpent works effectually in his bond Haves through- 
 out all ages. 
 
 3. Becaufe oftentimes alfo the eourfes fore-going do not 
 only by tradition, but by tranfmhfion as it were alfo beget 
 eourfes like themfelve? • 
 
 Vfe 1, This may ferve to enforme us , not to b* too much 
 troubled at the wickednefle of nae«, that live with us, becaufe 
 there is nothing new under the Sunne in that kinde. 
 
 2. To admonifkus, not to cxpeft any lingular thing from 
 wicked men, while they remaine fuch , above that which wc 
 read of other wicked men before them in ancient time. 
 
 3. To exhort us therefore, to labour to be like the ancient 
 godly men, that are commended in Scripture. 
 
 Do&. 2. This is common to all the wicked, to for fake the 
 right n ay, and go afiray in that which is not good. 
 
 This is gathered from theft words, Which having] "or faken 
 ■the right way are gone afiray. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the right way is in obferving the will 
 of God, or in doing the good works which God hath before 
 ordained that we (hould walk in them, Efhef.i. 1 0. Pfal. 119. 
 i^&c. But wickednefle is another crooked way , which 
 men have found out themfelvesj cleane contrary to the will of 
 God. 
 
 F f 2. Becaufe 
 
2 % 6 A Commentary upon the Second Epifik of Peter. 
 
 2. Bccaufe that is the right way which certainly leadcth 
 unto life, and ecernall happintflfe, Mktth. j. 1 4. but wicked- 
 neffe tendeth unto death, Trov.j. 27. & 8.36. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to admonUh us, diligently to beware 
 of this going aftray, alway es loofeing unto the right way. 
 ' Doct. 3. Covetotifntjfe^where it prevaileth, doth mo ft cer- 
 tainly produce this g*ing aftray from the right way. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : who loved the wages of 
 nnrichteoHfne$e : fo 1 Tim.6.17. He that trufls in uncertaine 
 riches, doth not truft in the living God ; and therefore he 
 cfoth necefiarily follow a new way clean contrary unto that 
 which the true and living God hath (hewed us. 
 
 Reafin, 2?ecaufe a covetous man is obnoxious unto all the 
 temptations of the devill, which have any (hew of gaine ; ib 
 that he accounts gainegodlinefTe, 1 Tim. 6*. 5. 9. and this is it 
 which is meant in the text, they love the wages of 'unrighteouf- 
 nejfe, that is, they fcek lucre, though it be joyned with the 
 grcateft iniquity. 
 
 Vfe if This may ferve toadmonimuj, to take heed there- 
 fore and flye from coveioufnefie, as from the greateft plague 
 and enemy ofgodlinefle, C^f^-S* 
 
 2. To exhort uys, to labour for contentment, 1 Tim. 6.6.2: 
 
 D0&. 4. lAllfHchwickedneffeisrebHkedby God, 
 
 This is gathered from the bf ginning of v. 16. But was re- 
 
 bitked^ &C, 
 
 Rcafon 1. Becaufe the Scripture and law it felfe which is 
 tra^fgrefled by fin, doth therefore rebuke that fin, Rom.j.'j. 
 
 2. The confeienecs of finners do ufually alio check them* 
 Rent.*'! 1 ). 
 
 3. The very creatures do it alfo after their manner, Dtttt* 
 31.28. and if they ihould not in their appointed order iuffi- 
 cientiy rebuke iinners, there mould ibme extraordinary mira- 
 cle be fhewed rather then they mould not be convifted,as we 
 fee here in the example of 'Balaam. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to admonifh us, to apply our minds 
 unto thefe rcbukings of Gcd, and not to be carelefle of them, 
 as defperate men uie to be ; but to yeeld usto them, and (htm 
 all thofe things that are rebuked by God, either in the Scrip- 
 tures, or in our confidences, or in the creatures. 
 
 2. To 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 227 
 
 2. To exhort us, to ufe all diligence to feek and preferve in 
 our felvcs that teftimonyofGod and our conference, which 
 may be for our comfort, and not for our rebuke. 
 
 Doft. 5, Thofe men are extreamly and brutifily mad, 
 that will not be rebukcX or flopped in their impiety, unltfe it be by 
 feme miraculous works 
 
 This is gathered from the end of verfe 16. the dumbe Jffe 
 /peaking wfFhmans voice, forbad the madnejfe of the Prophet, 
 
 Kea/on. Becaufe fuch ni?n are deprived of common fenfe 
 touching fpirituall thing s 4 and are given over unto a reprobate 
 
 fenfe. 
 
 Vfc. This may ftrve to admonifh us, to beware of that 
 hardneflfc of heart, which cannot bekeve God fpeaking in his 
 word 5 and not to give way to that vaine imagination, which 
 Dives m$L his brethren is faid co have maintained, Luke 16, 
 30.and Abrahamvcfutes.vcrfe 3T. • 
 
 Verfe 1 7. Thefc are welles without water, clouds that are carri- 
 ed with a tempeft, towhomthemifiofdarJ^nejfeisreferved 
 
 for ever. 
 
 Verfe 18. For when they fpeak.greatfwellingwords of vanity i 
 they allure through the lufis of 'the flejh, through much wan- 
 tome fe, thofe that were cleane efcapedfrom them who live in 
 errour. 
 
 Verfe 19. While they promife them liberty, they themfches are 
 the fervants of corruption : for of whom a man is overcome, 
 of the fame is he brought in bondage. 
 
 Verfe 20. For,if,*fter they have efcaped the pollutions of the 
 world, through thefyowlcdgc of the Lord and Saviour Jefus 
 Ckrifli they are againe entangled therein , and overcome , 
 the latter end is worfe withthem then the beginning. 
 
 Verfe 21. For it had beene better for them not to have known* 
 the way of right coufneffe, then after they have knowne it, to 
 turnefrom the holy commanitment delivered unto them. 
 
 Verfe 2 2 . 'But it is hapnedunto them according to the true Pro- 
 verbe ; The Dog is turned to his own vomit againe, and the 
 Sow that was wafted to her wallowing in the mire. 
 
 F f 2 The 
 
aa g A Commentary ufcnthe Second EpiftleofPetm 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN theft verfes is contained a refutation of the falle teachers, 
 of whom a description was made before. Now the fumof 
 this refutation confiiU herein, that all thofe things were vain., 
 which they promifedto their difciples or followers. And this 
 is in generall (hewed by thofe comparifons which are made 
 verfel7. Where thefe teachers are faid to be wels as it were, 
 without water, and clouds without raine, becauft they make 
 (hew of many things worthy to be defired, but they performe 
 nothing at all. Upon occafioa of theft fimilitudes , by the 
 way he repeats the punifhment which God had prepared for 
 them, by a continuation of the fame Allegory, namely, that 
 whereas they are wels as it were, or clouds making (hew of 
 fome mift, they (hall at length certainly fin 4 the mirt of eter- 
 nall darknefle. 2 The fame vanity is illuftrated by the impul- 
 sive cauft that moved them to fpread abroad their new opini- 
 ons, which was their fwelling vanity, Verfc 18. in the begin- 
 ning, and by theerTecT thereof, which was their crafty fedu- 
 cing of Ghriftians to g&e themfelvcsovertotheldtsofthe 
 flc(h D at the end of the fame verfc. 3 The fame vanity of their 
 promife9i3fet forth, verftip. at the beginning, by the great 
 diflimiiicude and oppofition that is betwixt them and their 
 promifes. For they promiftd liberty unto others, when they 
 themfelvcs were fervants of corruption. Thence the vanity of 
 their promifts is made manifeft and palpable as it were ; bc- 
 cauft they promiftd that, whereunto they themfelves were 
 grangers, and far remote from it. 4. That which is put in the 
 diffimilitude, namely, that they were ftrvants of corruption, 
 becaufe fome might make a doubt of it, the ApolMcconfirmes 
 it at the end of verfe ip. by the generall definition or defcrip- 
 tion of a ftrvant, or that bondage which he meant, namely, 
 that he is another mans fervant,that is overcome by him. For 
 he that is taken by the enemy in warre , is brought in bon- 
 dage to him, at leaftuntill he bath payed the juft price of his 
 ranfome. 5 The naiftry of this bondage is amplified in re- 
 fpe& of thofe , that have made profeffion of faith and holi- 
 nefle, by comparing things unequall, betwixt that condition, 
 
 whereunto 
 
A ComMntdty upon the Second Epi ft U tfpeter. a 29 
 
 whereunto thty were obnoxious before their calling, and 
 this which they have brought upon themselves by their Apo- 
 ftalie, where the mifery of the latter condition is made greater 
 then the former, verf.20. and the reafon of it is given, verf.21. 
 Becaufe the fin is greater 3 which is committed after and againft 
 the knowledge of the right way, then that which is done 
 through ignorance; which inequality is alfo illustrated by a 
 . comparifon of the like things,that is explained in prpvcrbiall 
 fentcnceSjOfthe Dog and the Sow, verfe 22. 
 
 £t*eft» Here arifeth a Queftion, Whether thofe that were 
 (educed by the falfc teachers, were before true believers ? 
 
 Anfrv, They had that faith which we ufe to call temporary 
 faith, but they were never foundly rooted in faith. This is 
 proved out of the i4verfe, where all thofe that were feduced 
 by thele deceivers arc called wftablc fotdes. For if they had 
 beene by found faith grafted into Chrift , then they mould 
 have been (table and corroborated in him alfo. And whereas 
 they are (aid verfe 18. to have cleane efcapedfrom the rvkkedjhvi 
 was, 1 In refpeft oftheprofeflion which they had made of 
 their true converfion.2.In refpeffc of the aflent,which we muft 
 think tkat they did give inwardly alfo unto the word , by 
 which they were called to this conversion. 3. In refpeft of 
 the change which they had made in their outward carriage. 
 4, In refped of (brae fmall beginning alfo 9 whereby they 
 tended towards holinefTc it felfe. 
 
 The Doctrines arifing herehence. 
 Do6t. 1. The j that go aftraythemfelves from the right way t * 
 
 anhaftje others to go affray, -mhatfoever they make fhcvp of \ they 
 have nothing elfe in tbemj elves or in their err ours but vanity. 
 
 This is gathered out of verfe 1 7. and the beginning of 18. 
 For they are faid in the text to be as it were vanity it felfe , as 
 Solomon faith of all things that are under the Sunne, in refpeft 
 of happineflfe they are vanity of vanities. Now they are faid 
 to be vain, 1 Becaufe they have only a fhew of fome truth or 
 good, not the thing it felfe. 2. Becaufe they make a fhew of 
 communicating fome good unto others, but they do not per- 
 forme it, nor can they .For that is properly called vainc^which 
 is void of that thing which it fhould have , or which is unfit 
 for that ufe and end whereunto it mould ferve. 
 
 . Reafon I. 
 
,2%o A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Veter. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe they have forfaken God, who is the 
 fountainc of all true and folid good. 
 
 2. 2?ecauie they are led by Sathan , who is the father of 
 lyes and of all vanity- 
 
 V(t\ This may fcrve to admoaifhus, to beware therefore of 
 fijeh men, that we be not in any wife deceived by them. For 
 this were to imbracc vanity in ftead of eternall happinefle. 
 
 Do&. 2. let fitch men in their vanity are ttfually mofl 
 puffed up. 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 18. in the beginning. So I £V. 
 8. i. Knowledge pujfeth up. Which if it be true of the know- 
 ledge of things that are true in themfclvs,if they be not known 
 as they ought to be known, as it is explained, verfe 2. Then 
 much more muft we think fopf that knowledge which hath 
 a (hew of fome lingular excellency , when there is no folid 
 good in it at all. 
 
 Reafon. Z?ecaufe fuch men feemc tothemfelvestobewife, 
 not only above the ordinary fort, but alfo above thoft that 
 excell in the Church of God , yea fometimes above the Apo- 
 ftles themfelves and Prophets, and therefore are wont to boaft 
 of fome depths which they have 5 which the holy Ghoit 
 therefore cals the depths of Sathan, zApoc. 2. 2 4. 
 . Vfi. This may ferve to informc us, alwayes to foipecl: thofc 
 men , that are in a wonderfull manner puffed up with their 
 own private conceits of fome part of religion. 
 
 Dodl. 3. That fuch men do oftentimes [educe many , and 
 4*2 have divers followers, it comes to pajfe chiefly thereby , that their 
 
 doflrinc^ either for the matter ofit^or thcm&nner of their teaching, 
 u very agreeable to the carnall lufts of men. 
 .This is gathered from thefe words.- they allure through the 
 
 hflsofthefiejh. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe as the flem doth eafily apply it felfc at all 
 times unto carnall do&rine, by reafon or that communion 
 that is betwixt them; fo cfpeciajly and mod eafily doth ic, 
 when the doctrine is covered with a (hew of religion or truth. 
 
 Vfr. l,his may ferve for admonition , that if we would be 
 fafe from infection and fedncing, wefhould diligently labour 
 for mortification of the fh-fh. For neither are rhey only in 
 danger of feducing that have not yet known the truth , but 
 
 they 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftie of PeJe.r t % ? 
 
 they atfb that have in fome fort clean efcaped from tkofe that 
 live in errour, as it is in the text. 
 
 Deft. 4. The chhft ln(f of the fiefh^ whereby mtn are wont 
 to befedxeed, is the love of carnall liberty* 
 
 This is gathered from the beginning of verfe 1 £.So Tfalnse 
 s. 3. 
 
 Iteafon 1. Becaufe the flelh ahvayes feeketh its peace and 
 ejnietnelfe, which it cannot enjoy, but by giving it felfe over 
 unto the lutts thereof;and hence it is that carnal! men account 
 the command of God and his Word, a yoke.aud itrong cords, 
 and bands, &c. 
 
 2. Becaute in liberty there is fome kinde of fhew of that 
 dignity andexcellency 5 whereof all the fons olAdam are moft 
 defirous ever fince chcy drank in that poyfon of the Serpent, 
 Tejhall be like Cjods. 
 
 3. 2?ecaufe it hath a falfe ftiadow of that Chriftian liberty, 
 wherennto we are called, hhn 8.32,33,34, Hence itis, that 
 the curfed fe&of Libertines, which under a fhew of liberty 
 overthrowes all religion, findeth many well- withers thereun- 
 to, even amongft thofe that are Christians in name. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to condemne thofe, thatalwayes 
 follow after liberty of what kind foever it be. For Chriftians 
 are the (ervantsofrighteoufneffe, although they be free from 
 fin, Rom.6.iS, 
 
 2. To admonifh us, to reprefTe and reftraine in our (elves 
 this carnall defire of liberty, 1 fir. 9.27. 
 
 Doft. 5. They that moft labour for this carnall liberty t are 
 themofl wretched fervants of fin. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words'; they are the fervants of 
 corruption. So Rom. 6.1 o. 
 
 Keafon 1. 'Jecaufc they are overcome and led captive by . 
 finne. 
 
 2. Because they give up thcmlelves wholly to obey finne, 
 Rom.6. 16.19, 
 
 3» 2?ecaufe they remain in this bondage, although it be the 
 worft of all, with a kind of pleafure ; fo that they are the fer- 
 vants of fin more^then thofe are the fervants of men, that are 
 gaily- (laves.* for chc(e mens minds alwayes wiflh for liberty, 
 but the others are very well pleafed in their moft fervile con- 
 dition. Vfe 'n 
 
23 2 * A Commentary upon the Second Epifile of Peter. 
 
 Vfe i. This may ferveto iniorme us, how we mould Hand 
 affected towards fuch men. For although they feem to chem- 
 (elvestobetheonly happy men almoft, yet they are in truth 
 obje&s moft worthy of pity, and not of envie. 
 
 2. To admonifh us, more and more to get out of this bon- 
 dage, by ycelding our felves wholly unto Cod and his righ- 
 ceoutaeffe, Rom.6 . 1 8 3 1 9,2 2 . 
 
 DocY 6» They that are brought into this bondage ■, after 
 that they have made profrjfion and confejfton of the truth , their 
 condition is more deplorable^ then the condition of other (inner s. 
 
 This is gathered from, vei fe 20,21, 
 
 Reafon 1. 2?ccaufe their fin is greater then other mens.For 
 where no law is, there is no fin 5 where the law or the know- 
 ledge of the law is leffe, there the fin is lefle : but where the 
 knowledge of Gods law and his will is greater , there the fin 
 ii made greater and heavier. 
 
 2. 2?ecaufe they do wonderfully dishonour God , while 
 they profeffc themfelvcs to have known his difcipline, and to 
 have had experience of it in Tome meafure 9 and do afterwards 
 rej eft it, and prefer fin before it. 
 
 3. 2?ecaufc the devill the Prince of fin doth more feverely 
 befet thofe, that he hath withdrawne unto himfelfe from the 
 flight as it were, Matth.i 2.45. 
 
 4. 2?ccaufe the anger of God is incenied againft fuch men, 
 Heb*\Q.26 ,2j» 
 
 5. #ecau(e there is (carce any place left for them to re- 
 pent, Heb.6,6* 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh all thofe, that know the 
 way of God , to labour alfb to continue conftantly in the 
 (ame, in all parts of their life and converfation. 
 
 Doft. 7. The fhhinefie of fmnefbonldmakeinentoabhorre 
 A returning to the bondage thereof 
 
 Reafon 1; Becaufe we are called unto purity. 
 
 2. Becaufe we have profefTed an abomination of that impu- 
 rity which is in fin. 
 
 3. Becaufe it is abominable unto God, and makes men a- 
 bominable in his fight. 
 
 Vfe j. This may ferve to condemne thofe, that take delight 
 in this filthinefle, and think they gain credit unto themfelvcs 
 
 thereby 
 
A Commentary upon the SecondEpiftk ofVettr* ^ - 
 
 thereby, by gracing and fetting out their fpeech with oathes, 
 and labour to make their conversation pleafing, by applying 
 themfelves unto the cuftomes and vicious and tilth y courfes of 
 men. 
 
 2. To admoni(h us, to put before our eyes this fflthineffe 
 of fin. So (hall we renew our repentance, and be confirmed in 
 the grace of perfevcrance. 
 
 Chapter III. 
 
 r 
 
 Verfe I. This ficond Spiflle (beloved) I now write unto you^ h 
 
 both which Iftir up your pure minds by way of remembrance :• 
 Verfe 2. that ye may be windfall of the words which were fp9- 
 
 ken before by the holy Triphets, and of the commandement of 
 
 ns the Apofilcs of the Lord and Suviour. 
 
 j 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 |He Apoftle now making hafte to the end of the E« 
 piftle, i Repeats the fcope and aime that he had 
 in writing, in the i & I verfes. 2 He doth again 
 defcribe thofe men, of whom he writes this Epi- 
 ftle, that they fhould beware, verfe 3,4. 3 He re- 
 futes their blafpemies, from verfe 5. to verfe 1 1. 4 He fhewes 
 the ufe and fruit of his do&rine, which all the faithfull mould 
 make of it, from verfe 1 1 to the end. In repeating the end and 
 (cope of the Epiftle he fets it forth and describes it, 1 By the 
 rrennsythztit is a putting in remembrance, 2 By the effeft, that 
 Tt (lirres up, 3 By the objefr, that it was directed unto them, 
 thathadapureminJe. 4 By the means how to obtaiae this 
 efteft, namely, thofe things which were fpoken before by the 
 Prophets, and commanded by the Apoftles,veric2. 5 'By 
 the manner how all thefe things might be made the more effe- 
 ttuall : to which purpofe he ufeth a kinde of illuftration, 
 namely, -that this putting in remembrance was iterated and 
 repeated with an earneft vehemency. This fecond Bpiflle I 
 write^nd that with a fatherly kind of lovc,whichis intimated 
 
 G g in 
 
q 3 4 * Commentary upon the Second Bpiftle of Peter. 
 
 in the title which he gives them, when he cals them befoved. 
 Of the putting in remembrance we fpake before, c. i .v. r 2 1 3. 
 and alfo of ftirring up : Therefore palling ovet them,wc come 
 to the next. 
 
 Do&rines arifing herchence. 
 
 Doft. I. The minds of the faithfull Jhould be indued with 
 parity , and fincerity y that they may receive the divine admonitions 
 as they ought toJ?e received* 
 
 This is gathered from thefc words.- Tftir up your pure minds* 
 Now he doth not fo much commend them by this his tefti- 
 mony, as (he* them, what thing they ought chiefly to la- 
 bour for, that they may receive benefit by this writing. So 
 lames 1.2 1. and this firft E| ift.cap.2. verfc 2. 
 
 Reafon I. 2?ecaufe, as in all things that are of any mo- 
 ment, there is alwayes required fome preparing of the (iibjeft, 
 for example, as in husbandry,plowing and harrowing of the 
 ground : fo and much more aHo is it required that we fhould 
 prepare our hearts to receive the word of God with benefit, 
 Ierem.^,^4 Now there can be no fitter preparation, then by 
 fincerity to lay afidc all thofe things, that arc contrary to the 
 word, and hinder the efficacy thereof. 
 
 2. Recall (e the word of God is fincere, and therefore it re- 
 quires fincerity in thofe that receive it, 1 £///?.c.2.v.2. 
 
 3. j^ecaufe without fincerity nothing at all is done aright. 
 For fincerity is the common afTeclion of obedience. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove thofe , that have no care 
 at all, rightly to difpofe themfelves for to receive the word of 
 God aright. 
 
 2. To exhort u c ,to labour chiefly for this purity of minde . 
 and fincerity of heart. 
 
 Do&. 2. They that have a pure minde, do willingly rrc*ivc 
 andretain thofe things that are propofed unto them out of the Fro- 
 phetsand Apoftles, 
 
 This is gathered from verfc 2. 
 
 Reafon 1. Eecaufc Chrifts (heepe know his voice and fol- 
 low him, John 1 0.27. Now his voice founds in the Prophets 
 and Apoftles. 
 
 2. BecmCe in the Prophets and Apoftles all things agree 
 with fincerity, * 7V.2. 2. P/*/, 19.8,9. 
 
 Vfe 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epifile of Peter* . a 3.5 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to inform* us, to examine ourminda 
 according to this rule ; for they that earenot for the words of 
 the Prophets and Apoftles, have not purity of minde; but 
 they that cleave faft unto them, although it be accompanied 
 with divers infirmities, have alwayes in rcadinefle a aire argu- 
 ment of their fincerity. 
 
 Do&. ^ Tet the very beft have need to be often fiirred up 
 unto thefe duties* 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words ; thisfecond Spifllelnow 
 v rite. 
 So Phi/,$.i, and this Epiftle,c. J..V.10. 1 3. 
 
 DocT:. if. Such admonitions are works ofChrijlian charity. 
 This is gathered from this title, beloved, 
 Reafon i. Becaufe they tend to deliver men from the grea- 
 teft evill 9 and to communicate unto them the greater! good. 
 
 2. becaufe they pertainc unto the communication which 
 is exercifed by charity. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may fcrve to reprove thofe that cannot endure 
 admonitions, and take them for their enemies that ufe them. 
 Gal, 4 16. 7 Tim.*\,%. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to exercife our fclves unto this duty with 
 all charity. 
 
 Verfe 3. Knowing this firft ., that there /hall come in the laH 
 
 dajes^fcoffers^ walking after their ortn lufis^ 
 Verfe 4. Andfajing, Where is thepromife of his comming ? For ' 
 
 fnce the Fathers feR afleepe s all things continue as thej were 
 
 from the beginning of the creation* 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 VPon occafion of the Apoftles teftimony before cited, 
 there is in thefe words a new defcription made of fbme 
 wieked men of whom we muft greatly beware. For in that he 
 faiths that this is firft to be knowne, what thefe wicked men 
 are, of whom he doth admonifh us, he doth thereby mean not 
 only to (hew that this is ncceflfary to be known for the under- 
 ftanding and applying of the Apoftles words with benefit, 
 
 Gg 2 but 
 
236 
 
 A CommmUry ufon the SecMdEpifikef Peter. 
 
 but alfo that this may and ought to be chiefly observed out of 
 the Apoftles words, namely, that there flaall come fuch men 
 in the laft dayes. For Co is this phrafe explained, /»&, v. 1 8. 
 Theft wicked- men are defcnbed in gene -all, 1 By their im- 
 piety towards God, that they art/coffers. 2 By their impu- 
 lity of life and deeds, tlut th'ty walks after their own lufts. 
 Then in fpecial by their arguing,that the wicked fcoffers uftd, 
 to defend their impiety, and to remove the contrary do&rine 
 from themfelves, verfc 4 For in thofc words is expreffed, 
 
 1 their fcoffiog, which was before noted in gcnerall , and 
 
 2 their argument is fet forth, whereby they would perfwade 
 themfelves and others, that they might walk after their own 
 Inn's, without feare or danger ; namely, becauft the commlrg 
 of God, the expectation whereof did deterre men from fuxh 
 a life ishotto be feared, in theft words: Where is tbe-promife 
 oftiisconto'wg > . Now this they confirmed to themfelves and 
 others by a vaine comparing the times that wjnt before with 
 ihoft that were to come j that whereas there was no commiog 
 of the Lord to judge the world ilnce the times of the Father?, 
 and from the creation of the world, there Was no cauft to feare 
 that any fuch thing would happen at the end ofthe World, 
 in thefe words. For Ji nee the Fathers fell ajleepe^ att-thir.^s ccr.- 
 lintie as thy were from the beginning ofthe creaticr.. Now this ■ 
 whole defcription, or rather the thing defcribed, that is, this 
 impiety, is illuftrated by the adj.u.£r of time, wherein chiefly 
 and by a fpecial] kind of eminency or abundance it is found, 
 namely, *">? the Lift dayes. 
 
 The Doftrines arifmg here-hence. 
 Do6t. I. In the redding of the Saiptirrcs we mx(l five fpc~ 
 c'tfift heed unto thofe things ve here of we ha~egreatfift ufe. 
 
 This is gathered fronubeft words." Knowing this fir ft. For 
 the Apoftle would, that for the prefent they mould hrft and 
 chief]/ think ofthofe things, that the Apoftles had fpoken for 
 their preftnt ufe, touching thofc wicked mep. 
 
 Doct. 2 . The Scripture f or et els moft grievotts things of; he 
 Lift dAye r . 
 So 1 Tim 4. 1. 2 Tim.yt, 
 
 Reafon i, For that iniquity doth abound more in the Uft 
 dayes, it is becauft knowledge doth abound, which is held 
 
 under 
 
A Commentary nfmthe Second Epi 'file ef Peter. 227 
 
 under righteoufoefle : that makes the fin the more finfuir, 
 i^.7.13 anddoth more incenfe the wrath of God, Ramans 
 1, 18. 
 
 2. Becaufe the laft ages.by reafou of that depravedncfTe and 
 corruption which hath over-fpread mankind, areas it were 
 the (ink of all the ages that went before , to receive their 
 degs. 
 
 Vfe r. This may ferveto informcus, not to be too much 
 troubled in mind, when we fee as it were an inundation of 
 iniquity and impiety, flowing every where ; becaufe fuch 
 things were forecold us before, Iobn 16.4. 
 
 2. N jt to fafhion our feives to thofe courfes, that are com- 
 mon in this age, but to prepare and aimc our (elves rather a- 
 gainft their contagion. 
 
 Dott. 3. tAmongfi wicked mw they ] are thsivorflofall^ 
 that feoff e At godlin <ff( . 
 
 This is gathered from this vfovd^fc^fcrs, 
 
 Rejfon 1, Becaufe they are not only unbelievers, butdc- 
 fpifersof the faith alfc For fcofring is from contempt* 
 
 2 Becaufe their confeiences are feared as it were with a 
 hot iron 3 that can be wrought upon by no inftm&ion, and 
 therefore they are quite defperate. For they have quenched 
 and choaked even thofe naturall fparks , which are wont to 
 breakout mall mens hearts. 
 
 3. Becaufe they arethechofeninftrumentsofthedevillto 
 turne afide others from godlinefle, and to make the faithfull 
 lervants of God afhamed of it, if it were poffible. For the 
 proper effed of fcoffingis (hame. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferveteadmonifhus, to fhun fuch fcoffers 
 as the monfters and pefts of mankind. 
 
 Doft. 4. Thty that mabttaine wicked opinions in their 
 mir.de ^ are qiven to impurity in their lifr. 
 
 This is gathered therehence, that the fame men are called 
 feoffors, and fuch as yvalkjiftcr their own lufts> 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe the proper caufe, why fuch men do la- 
 bour fo much to caft off all fenfe of religion, is no other, then 
 that they may with all licentioufnefle D give themfelves wholy 
 over to their moft filthy lulls* 
 
 2. Becaufe fuch wicked opinions' or imaginations do let 
 
 loofe 
 
233 A Commentary upon the Second Epifik of Peter* 
 
 loofe the raines to all concupifcence , and therefore are the 
 caufe of increafing that wickednefle, whereof at the firft they 
 were the effeft. 
 
 Vfe I. This may ferve to informe us, not to think that 
 wicked and profane and Atheifticali men do fpeak from any 
 reafon or judgement, when they fcoffe at religion. For they 
 are beafts in their life , and therefore they have alfo beaftly 
 imaginations , which they are wont to bring forth under a 
 (hew of reafon. 
 
 2. To admonifh us, in fhunning profane and blafphemous 
 opinions and imaginations , to beware erpecially of a wicked 
 life, becaufc it makes way for all wicked opinions. 
 
 Do&. V. That is proper to wicked and prophage men 3 in 
 fomefort to deny the camming of the Lord^and his judgement* 
 
 This is gathered from verfe 4 at the beginning. 
 
 Reafon* Becaufe the expectation of judgement is afirong 
 bridle to reftraine and keep in the wickednefle of men, which 
 ungodly and profane men do moft of all defire to (hake off. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admonifh us , by all means to take 
 heed, that we be not any way partakers of that impiety: 
 which comes to pafie not only then when we doutterly deny 
 his comming, but alfo when we do either make any doubt of 
 ir, or apprehend it as a thing far off from u c , or do ineffectu- 
 ally think of it, not edifying our felves in faith and obed ence, 
 Doft. O*. The fallacy wherewith wicked and prof ane men do 
 deceive them/elves^ confifls therein, that they will believe nothing 
 above their fenfes , and do oppofe their fenfeagainfi the teflimony 
 of God, 
 
 This is gathered ver. 4. at the enS-Vorface the Fathers^ &c» 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe they, are fentuallmen, Iude y v.i 9. and are 
 led by fenfe and fenfible things, like as bruit beafts. 
 
 Vfe I. This may ferve for information ; hence we may un- 
 derftand that the contradictions of profane men arc void of 
 all reafbn 3 and therefore are to be contemned with deteftation. 
 Nothing can be more contrary or mad, then to con (lilt with 
 nature about fupernaturall things, and to fetch the judgement 
 of fpiricuall thing? from fenfe. 
 
 2. To admomft) us, not to attribute any thing to our (enfes 
 in matters of faith. For it is all one, as if We mould fcek the 
 judgement of rcsfon ainongft bruit beafts. Verfe 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle if Peter. 339 
 
 Verfe 5. For this they willingly are ignorant of ^that by the word 
 
 ofCjvd the heavens were ofold 3 and the earth ftanding out 
 
 of the water, and in the water ^ 
 Verfe 6: Whereby the world, that then wot , being overflowed 
 
 with water ^erifhed, « 
 Vcrfe 7. But the hsavens and the earth which are now ^ by the 
 
 fame word are kept in ft ore, referved unto fire again ft the day 
 
 of judgement , and perdition of ungodly men* 
 The Analylis. 
 
 IN the refutation of this profane opinion, the Apoftle doth 
 firft reprove the ignorance of theft profane men,verft 5.6,7. 
 Secondly, he doth inftrucT the faithfull touching the com- 
 ming of the Lord in thofc things, that did moft pertaine to 
 the confirmation of them in the truth againft fach temptati- 
 ons that might arife from (uch humane cavillings, vcrfe 8. 9, 
 ic. The Apoftle reproves their ignorance, 1 From the cauft, 
 that it was voluntary or affetted ignorance. 2 From the ob- 
 jetY, namely that truth, which they willingly were ignorant 
 of, and did oppugne. Now that truth which is affirmed con- 
 tradifts that affertion , whereby theft men would confirme 
 therr opinion. For when they hadfaidit, and had brought 
 it for an argument, that all things did continue in the lame e- 
 ftate from the beginning of the creation , the Apoftle denies 
 this, and (hewes the contrary by the hiftory of the flood, v. 6. 
 then by comparing things alike, he gathers t hat the fame alfo 
 is to be expefted concerning the deftru&ion of the world by 
 fire at the comming of the Lord, that was before in Come fort 
 performed by the deltruftion of it in water, v.7. 3 The reafon 
 of this conftquenceis taken from the common caufe of crea* 
 tion,preftrvation,and both deftrucTions of the world,namely 9 
 the word & will of God, v.5.7. 4 He doth illuftrate the con- 
 clusion it ftlfe concerning the deftru&ion of the world by th« 
 end thereof,that it may withall be applyed unto thoft wicked 
 ones,with whom he now dealt,v.7 at theend,whilchecals the 
 day of the Lord the day of judgement , andperdltion of ungodly 
 men. For in thefe words he threatens eternall damnation unto 
 thoft profane men, that denied his comming, w ch muft cer- 
 tainly be expected at the comming of the Lord. The 
 
^q A Commentary upon the Second Epifik ofPttgr* 
 
 The Do&rines arifing herehence. 
 
 Doft. I« It is the property ofvnekedmcn to be willlngiy ig* 
 nor Ant of all things , thai croffe their lufts. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : They willingly are igno- 
 rant of* AH men are ignorant of many things, but the faith- 
 full are not ignorant of thofe things that are neceffary for 
 them unto farvation, nor do they pleafethemfelves in the ig- 
 norance of any truth, much le(Te in the ignorance of thole 
 things that pertaine unto the pradife of religion : nay they 
 do very much lajbour for this knowledge, whereby they may 
 be brought unto eternal! life : but the wicked, although they 
 do very much defire to know other things, yea and are too 
 curious in it, yet they love to be ignorant of thofe things that 
 pertaine to the bridling of their lufts and reproving of their 
 tins. This is that ignorance which is called voluntary and 
 affc&ed. 
 
 Reafon I. Becaufe they affeft thole vices whereunto this 
 knowledge is repugnant. Therefore they efchew knowledge 
 as a thing that is evill unto them, and makes againft them; and 
 affeft ignorance as a thing that is good for them and very 
 well agreeing with them. For he that hath refolved with 
 himfelfe to give his mind unto fin , and to continue therein, 
 feckes to have peace and quietnefle in that condition , and 
 therefore abhorres that truth which convinceth his confer- 
 ence of fin, and fufFers him not to fleep in ir. 
 
 2. Becaufe he is given unto thofe lufts that ftop up the way 
 unto faving knowledge,and hold him enfnared and intangled 
 Co that he cannot freely endeavour and labour for true know- 
 ledge : therefore he affe&s ignorance in this rcfpe& , not lb 
 much in it ielfe.,as in thecaufe of it. 
 
 Vfe I. This may ferve to convince thofe , that pleafe them- 
 felves in the ignorance of holy things, becaufe this is the pro- 
 perty of a wicked man. 
 
 2. To admoniftius, never to (hut our eyes againft the light 
 of the truth. 
 
 3. To exhort us, on the contrary to ufe all our endeavour 
 and give all diligence to gaine knowledge , efpeciaily 
 in thofe thiags that pertaine to our own pra&ife and 
 life. 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 24. 1 
 
 DocT. 2« It makes veric much for the taking away or It fi- 
 ning of our ignorance^ tolookjipon the works of God lhat are p aft , 
 that from them n e may gather the works that are to come. 
 This is gathered from the comparifonthat is here made, v. 
 
 5-^7. 
 Reafon* Becaufe the works of God arc as looking- glaiTes, 
 
 wherein Gods fufficiency and efficiency are propoted unto us 
 
 to behold. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to admonifli us s not to look (lightly 
 upon the works of God, nor to read the hiftories of them as 
 we read humane hiftories, but fo , that we may alwayes be- • 
 hold God in them. 
 
 Doft. J. Thofe publick, workl ofGod^ the creation, prefer- 
 vation^anddtftruBion of the world, firft by water^fecondly byfire 
 are often t» be meditated upon^ and compared one with the other* 
 
 This is gathered from the fame comparison. 
 
 Reafon, Becaufe God hath propofed thofe,as very remark 
 able arguments , to worke fbme fenfe at leaft of religion in 
 mens minds. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us, to exercife our felves in 
 thefe meditations,whi<ch God hath commended unto all forts 
 of men. 
 
 Do&. 4. In all fuch work* of God , that is e fpecially to be 
 confident that they are by the word of God, and do depend there- 
 upon. 
 
 Thisis gathered from verfe 5,7. 
 
 Reafon^ Becaufe we can receive no benefit by meditating 
 upon Gods works , unlefle 'we do behold the perfection of 
 God in them. Now the perfection of God in his works doth 
 very much appeare therein, that all things are done by his - 
 word and according to his will. 
 
 Vfe . This may ferve to admonifti us, to turne our eyes from 
 all fecond caufes, and to acknowledge God and his word In 
 all things. For thence it comes to pafle, 1 hat men often times 
 attribute thofe things unto fortune, which are done by God, 
 becaufe they are ignorant of the power of Gods word. And 
 fuch an oppofition there feems to be in the text, betwixt the 
 words of the wicked, (when they fay that all things conti- 
 nue, making no mentionin the mean time of God, by whole 
 
 H h power 
 
%a% A Commentary »pott the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 power they continue j but rather clofely attributing thiscon- 
 tinuance to fortune or (econd caufes,Jand that aflcrtion of the 
 Apoftle , whereby he aftirmes that the world was at rlrlt by 
 Gods word, and is kept by the fame word .• » 
 
 Dg&. 5« Every confideration of the works of Godfhouli be 
 Apply edto the Comfort efthefaithfuli^ndterrour of the wicked. 
 This i$ gathered from v. 7. at the end* 
 
 Ycrfe 8. Bftt (beloved) be not ignorant of 'this one thing s that 
 one day is with the Lord as a thoufandycares, and a thoufani 
 y cores as one day, 
 
 Verfe 9. The Lord is not flackjoncermng his promt 'fe, (as feme 
 men count ft ackneffe*) but is long-fufferingto us ward , not 
 -filling that any fhould pcrijhj Imt that all Jhould come to re- 
 pentance* 
 
 Verlc 10. But the day of the Lord will corneal a thief e In the 
 nighty in the which the heavens Jhallpajfe away with a great 
 mife^mdthe elements fha.ll melt with fervent heat y the earth 
 
 4lfo, andthc works that are therein fh aE be bmnt uf» 
 
 ■ 
 
 The Analyfk 
 
 IN this other patt of the refutation the Apoftle propoun- 
 ded! unto the godly and faithfullthofe things that might 
 cftablifii and conrirme their hearts in the truth , touching the 
 comming of the Lord. 1 Therefore he perfwadesthem to 
 undemanding and knowledge, contrary to the ignorance of 
 wicked. For whereas he had fpoken before of the wicked, 
 'his thty are willingly ignorant of , now turning to thefaithfull 
 he exhorts them unto the contrary. But be not ynu ignorant of 
 this one thing. 2. He propounds the thing it felfe, which he 
 would have them ina^eciallraannertotrnderftaRdandob- 
 ferve, which concaines two things, t That the prolonging 
 of the Lords comming is not with thatflackrcefle, which 
 mould be a ftumbli ng-block to any man , both becaufe it is 
 not to be judged of according to our fen{e,but by the eternity 
 of God, in refpefi: whereof that fpace of time, which feemtg 
 very long unto us, is but as one day , v. 8. and alio becaufe the 
 
 end 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Efiftle of Peter. ' 343 
 
 end of this prolonging is the converfion and folvation of iln- 
 ners ; and therefore this prolonging proceeds not io much 
 from flickneflcj as from patience, verfe 9. 2 That the manner 
 of his comming, (both becaule it (hall be Hidden, and al& be. 
 caufe it (hail be with ma jelly and great terrour,J is fuch, that ■ 
 it fhould rather make men carefull to prepare them felvcs for 
 it, then to be curious in inquiring about the time it fclfc, or to 
 coraplakie of flacknefTe. 
 The Doctrines ariting herehence. 
 
 DoQc* I. When wicked and prafane men 4rcrepreved t re fa- 
 ted And condemned in Scripture , this is done for the fait hfafl and 
 tietls fakf, rehtfe edification andfftlvat'wn God hath refpetl #nto % 
 even when hefeemts t& fpeakjtntoothers. 
 
 This is gathered from the beginning of verfe 8. where the 
 Apoftlc turning himfelfedire&ly unto the faithfull, thewes 
 that thefe wicked men were refuted for their good. So 1 Iheff* 
 2. 13. lnde } v.20. 1 Tim,6*li. 2 Tin*. 3. 14. 
 
 ■Reafon 1. Becaufe the whole Scripture and all the meanet 
 of falvation do by a fpeciall kind of propriety belong unto 
 the faithfull. 
 
 2. Becaufe Ood will not have his word to pafle without 
 fbme fruit : Now wicked men are oftentimes Co fore-lorne, 
 that no congruous fruit can be expetted in them, but only in 
 the faithfull. 
 
 Vfe I. This may ferve to informe us, to Judge aright of 
 Gods intention in thofe things that he doth about men that 
 are paft all hope and incorrigible. For as the Apoftle faith 
 X)£ Oxen, that God taketh not care for Oxen , but for men ; 
 ib mould we think that God taketh not care fb much for theft 
 befriall men , as for the faithfull and elecl: whom he doth 
 chiefly fpeak unto even when he feemes to fpeak unto others. 
 7. To admonifh us , not to neglect or defpife fuch rebu« 
 kings of the wicked , as if they did nothing belong unto us, 
 but widely to turne it to our own ufe. 
 
 Do6t. 2. The faithful do then profit by the wordofGed^ 
 •which is again ft therrhked^ when they are become much H»lik* the 
 tricked. 
 
 This is gathered therehence , that Whereat the Apoftlc did 
 reprove the wicked of ignorance , he doth row exhort the 
 faithful! to knowledge^rffoi. 1 $• Hfe 3 &f*f* 
 
244 
 
 • A Commentary upon the Second Epiftle of Peter. 
 
 Reaf»n. Becaufc the courfes and fafhk>ns of the wicked.are 
 therefore fet forth unto us, that we might avoid them, 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admorailh us, not to fuffer our felves 
 to be led away by the example of the wicked multitude. For 
 God doth not propofe it as a thing to be followed, but to be 
 fhunned a,nd avoided. • 
 
 Doit. 3. We Jhould in a ftnguUr manner differ froyt the 
 mcked therein, that we judge of the wayes of God not according to 
 the fenfe of the flefb, but according to the nature of god. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words : One day with the Lord, 
 With men it is otherwife. 
 
 fcafon. Becaufe fpirituall things are to be judged of fpiri- 
 tually. Now all the wayes of God are in fome fort fpirituall 
 and divine. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to reprove thofe, that in fuch exami- 
 nations are wont to confult with flefh and blood, and not 
 with the word of God. 
 
 Do6r. 4. The end of all CjoXs wayes , as they have reffetl 
 unto mev> is the repentance andfdvation of the godly. 
 
 This is gathered from v. 9. Now here arifeth a queftion. 
 JUttefi. Whether all and every particular man be meant 
 thereby, when in is faid, that God is not willing that any 
 fhould perjffi, but that all mould come to repentance ? 
 
 nAnfw. The patience of God according to its nature hath 
 that uie and end, to lead all finners unto repentance, Rem.2.4. 
 and in that fenfe might their interpretation be admitted, who 
 underftand thefe words and the likf of all and every particular 
 man.' But that the Apoftle in this place hath fpeciall refe- 
 rence to the elegit appears thereby, that he fpeaking of the 
 beloved of God, verfeS. and reckoning himfelfe amongft the 
 number of us, faith, that God isiong-fufFeringtous-ward, 
 that is, towards thofe beloved, arid is not willing that a-ny 
 fhould pei ifb, that is, any of them : becaufe Gods principall 
 work towards men is the falvation of the faithfull, and there- 
 fore all his wayes tend thereunto, as unto the fcopeand mark 
 whereunto they are directed. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to reprove the madnefTe of thofe men 
 that blame thofe things in God , which make moft for their 
 tlfe and good, as tbefe men do in the flacknefk of the Lords 
 commiDg? a. To 
 
A Commntaiy upon the Second Epifile efptttr. 245 
 
 2. To admonifh us, not to pervert thefe right wayes of 
 God, but alwayes to apply them unto that life wber&unto 
 they tend, that is 3 to the Jurtherance ofour own repentance 
 and falvation. 
 
 Docl. 5. The way cf the Lord, when he commcth to judg- 
 ment, (hall be withfwiftnejfr, majefty and terrour. 
 
 This is gathered from yeric 10. 
 
 ■ Firft, ic (ball be fudden r ,becaufe the houre and day ^hereof 
 
 is not revealed,, and becaufe theinoft part of menexpeclno 
 
 . fuch thing. And it (hall be full of majeiiie and terror, becaufc 
 
 it is the comming of the Lord not.in humility, as his firft com- 
 
 ming was, but in glory. 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to admpnim us,to prep ire pur fejvs ac* 
 cordingly againft this commingofthc Lord. For rius ufc t(ie 
 Apoftle preffeth and exhorteth us unto in the reft of the chap. 
 
 Verfe 1 1 . Seeing then that all thefe things Jhall, be diffolvedjohat 
 manner of perfons ought ye to be in all holy conver fatten ar.d 
 godlinejfe, 
 
 Verfe 1 2. Looking for ; andhafling unto the commingofthe day 
 of God, wherein the heavens being on fire, Jhall be diflolved, 
 and the elements fbali melt with fervent heat ? 
 
 Verfe 1$* Nevertbeleffe, we according to his promife 3 looke for 
 new heavens, and a new earth,wherein dwellethrighteoufnejfe, ■ 
 
 Verjfc 14. Wherej ore^beloved^feeing that yelookjor fuch things^ 
 be diligent jhatyc may be found of him in peace ,without fpot^ 
 and blame leffr. 
 
 Verfe I5« %And account ', that the long fufferingef the Lord is 
 falvation, even as our beloved brother Paul alfo , according 
 to the wifdome given unto him, hath written untoyou. 
 
 Verfe l6» As alfo in all his Epiftles, fpeaking in them of thefe 
 things, in which are fame things hard to be underfiood^ which 
 they that are unlearned, and unjl able, wrefi, as they do alfo 
 the other Scriptures^ unto their own defiruttion, 
 
 Verfe 17. Te therefore beloved, feeing ye know thefe things be- 
 fore, beware left ye alfo being led away with the error of the 
 ypicked, fall from your own fi edj aft neffe. 
 
 Verfe 18. *But grow ingracc 9 andinthetmowledge of our Lord 
 und Saviour Jefus Chrifi : to him be glory ^ both now and for 
 ever \ Amen* The 
 
*4 tf A Commentary npon the Second Epiftk of refer, 
 
 The Analyfis. 
 
 IN thcfe verfes is contained an application of the do^rine, 
 trut was before propounded concerning the Lords com- 
 ming, to the ufe and edification of the faithful!. Now this 
 application is made by anexhortatiOn to piety and holintfle, 
 which is firft of all propounded, v. i-i. Secondly, confirmed 
 by the doctrine that was before propofed concerning the 
 manner of the Lords comming, v. 1 2,1 j. Thirdly, ic is againe 
 repeated arid preflcd,v. 14. Fourthly it h againe confirmed 
 by the, do&rine that was before propofed concerning the pa- 
 tience and long*-fuffcring of God, v. 1 ■>. begin, which is in this 
 place Confirmed by theterttmony of the Apoftle Paul: whofc 
 teftimoily is illuftrated, i Thereby, that he was frequent in 
 fochteftimonies,v.i6. begin. 2 By a preoccupation, where- 
 by the faithful! are admonifhed not rafhiy to wrcft any thing 
 ■that. P*nl fpake concerning fuch things, to a contrary fenfe, 
 becaule although he fpakc foaie things that are hard to be un« 
 derftood, yet they are fuch that they are not wont to be 
 wreftedjbut by fome perverfe men,who wreff the other Scrip- 
 tures alfo unto their own deftru&ion. Fromallthcfehein- 
 ferrcs in the laft place a conclufion both of the fore-going ex- 
 hortation, and alfo of the whole Epiftle, which is, to have a 
 -care to be ftedfeft, v. 17. and to labour for growth, v. 1 8. The 
 end whereof is (hewed to be the glory of Chrift in that doxo- 
 logy, wherewith the whole Epiftle is clofed up. 
 The Doctrines arihVig herehence. 
 
 DocT:. I . All Scripture mufi- be appljed hMoa prMca/l nfe s 
 that it may advance hohnefie And piety. 
 
 This is gathered from v»i 1. Now not only in this place is 
 this order of inftru&ion obfcrved, but in all the Epiftlcs and 
 Sermons that are propounded in Scripture. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe the end of all Theological! do&rine is 
 to live well. 
 
 2. becaufe a bare apprehenfion and (peculation of the 
 truth, and a mcere affent thereunto, is nothing worth, if it be 
 feparated from the pra&ife* For this is found in fbme fortin 
 the devils themfelves. 
 
A Commentary ttpon the Second Epifile &f Peter* % 47 
 
 3 . Bscaufs the temptations of the Dev ill tend chiefly there- 
 unto, that if he cannot hide the truth, yet Co to choak it, that 
 it can bring forth no fruit in the life ; and thereupon he takes 
 oceafion to mock and deride men* 
 
 ZSfe* This may ferve to admohifh us all, tOilafaouribr this 
 both in private and in publike, in preaching, hearing,read- 
 ing, and meditating upon Gods word •, and never think that 
 we know any thing as we ought to know, unlcflc we know it 
 unto piety and holinefle. 
 
 Docl:. 2. Infietjandhoti*effcwcmmft.ap£w*a^&*»£ 
 labour for the bighejl perftftitn* ' 
 
 This is gathered 1 From the queftion , What manner of 
 perfont ought ye to he ? 2 From the plurall number , which ia 
 uCed in the originally *Wfo?«7?,in your conversions, that 
 is, in all piety and holinefle. 
 
 Reafon u Becaufe every degree of piety and holinefle isf as 
 dcfirable in it felfe as the firft is. 
 
 2. Our defire and affection towards the higheit degree of 
 holinefle and piety is a pare of the very firft degree. Foe 
 there is no true holinefle without a defire of perfect holinefle. 
 
 3. becaufe we are called unto perftft hoi inefle,neither caa 
 we lee God without it* 
 
 Vfc. This may ferve to reprove thole, that reft inakiadof 
 bke-warme profeifion, or in a partiajl praftife of piety and 
 holinefle. 
 
 D0&. 3. It makes 9mchfsr the advancing af 'piety* tutook^ 
 fer and haftt* unto theeommwing of the day of the Lord* 
 
 This is gathered from V.i 2,14* So PhiL^io. 
 t- Reafen I. Becaufe it takes off our minds from allthofe 
 ehingSjthat belong unto this preient world. 
 
 2. becaufe ic mafies us to prepare our (elf ci for the world 
 to come, 1 Joh»$. 3 . 
 
 Vfe. This may ferve to exhort us, to raiie up our minds, as 
 much as may be unto this fpirituall looking for the Lord. 
 
 Doft. 4. Our chief efi care touching t^e cemming of the 
 Lord, fbould he, to be found efbhn in peace. 
 
 This is gathered from v. 14 Now by peace is meant that 
 condition which is pleafing unto God and approved of 
 him ; whereupon net the anger, butthe goodnefle and grace 
 
 of 
 
A Commentary upon the SccmdEpifik of Peter. 
 
 of- the Lord is ihewcd in communicating all happineflc, 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe the Lord is looked for, as the (upreme 
 Judge, whofe anger is to beflyed from and avoided 9 and his 
 approbation and good liking greatly to be fought for. 
 ' z» becaufe unlefle peace be then had, afterwards it Cannot 
 be had for ever. 
 
 Vfe. This may fervc to exhort us, while we live here, conti- 
 nually to (eek to confirme our peace with God , and in our 
 own conferences. Now this is done by railing up in our (elves 
 a lively faith anckconfidence, eftablifhing our hearts with all 
 aflurance of (atvation, and following all thofe mean s. where- 
 by our calling and election is made (lire. 
 
 Do&. $. From the long-fuffering of God we mufi gather 
 thofe things which make for the promoting °f°*r peace a*dfkh*~ 
 Hon, 
 
 This is gathered from v. J 5. For when the Apoftle tels us, 
 that we mould account, that the long fufFering of the Lord is 
 (alvation , he means that we mould €0 think wich our (elves 
 and di£pute of thefc things, that we mould gather nothing 
 el(e from thence, but that God aimes at our (alvation , and 
 therefore we alfo mould take great care of it. 
 
 Reafon. Becaufe by thefe meditations wc mould confirme 
 and hicreafe both our faith and our (an&ification. For our 
 reafonings and difputes, when they are rightly direfted either 
 by the word, or by the works of God , as by a third argu- 
 ment, to the Ikengthning of our faith and increafe ofholi- 
 neffe, asunto a conclusion arawae from thence; they are thofe 
 morall means whereby we work out our (alvation with feare 
 and trembling. 
 
 Vfe. This may fcrve to exhort us, to exercife our (elve« 
 more and more in (iic h meditations > for being accuiromed 
 thereunto , from them we mall gather honey and medicine 9 
 whence others fiickpoy (on 5 as we may fee in thisexample, 
 wherefrom the Lords prolonging of his comming the wicked 
 men did conclude thofe things whereby they might confirme 
 their profane opinions ; but the faithfull are taught on the 
 contrary, by the fame argument to conclude thole things, 
 ufrhich make much for their falvation. Sufch is the Apofijes 
 admonition, Kom .6. 1 2. .«. 
 
 Doft. 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epi file of Peter, 2 $ 1 
 
 D ode 6» In the writings of the Apoftles and Prophet s^ Chri- 
 ftians muft have a fpeciatt heed to thofe things^ which do mo ft di- 
 rcQ them tofuch connexions or conclufions. 
 
 This is gathered from vcrfe 1 5. Where Pauls teftimony is 
 cited to confirme 8c illuftrate this connexion, & not to prove 
 other things, which might eafily be proved out of his writings. 
 
 Reafon I. Bccaufc thefe are mod necefliry for us to know* 
 and of perpctuall ufe. 
 
 2. 2?ecau(e that was the wifdome of God communicated 
 Co the Apoftles and Prophets, that they might explaine theft 
 truths unto us moft frequently, and clearly , which is the rea- 
 (bn of that elogy which is given unto Taulin the text, accor- 
 ding to the wifdome given unto him he hath written unto us, 
 
 ffe. This may ferve to reprove thofe, that doe more wil- 
 lingly by far give heed unto thofe things, which do little or 
 nothing at all touch the conscience of a man, or the praAife 
 of his life. The inward inclination and difpofition of a man 
 appeares raanifeftly by thofe things which he doth chiefly 
 heed in his reading and hearing : As if a man be given only to 
 the tongues, he will obferve nothing but the words and phra- 
 fes : If he be a lover of Chronology, he will take notice of no- 
 thing but the things that have beene done, and the moments 
 of time wherein they were done : If he be a Difputer,one that 
 feeketh praife by arguing, he will marke nothing , but thofe 
 things which make for controversies : Co a godly man. al- 
 though he will not neglect other things , which ferve for his 
 ufe, yet he doth chiefly fix his mind upon thole thing?, which 
 do moft directly tend unto godlinefle. 
 
 Doft. 7. 9Ve mnft understand a& thefe things fo^ as if they 
 were dircEllj written unto us. 
 
 This is gathered from thefe words, Hath written unto us. 
 SoH'£r.i2«5« 
 
 Reafon 1. 2?ecau(e fiich was the wifdome of God, which 
 fpake in thefe holy men, that they wrote thofe things which 
 do belong unto us as well as unco thofe that lived at tint time. 
 
 2. ifccaufe God would have the Scripture to be the pub- 
 lick inftrument of the Church, not of one age only, but of all 
 ages. Tlerefore every p tt oficistheruleoflift both to me 
 and thee, as well as untr thofe to whom it was fir ft given. 
 
 Ii Vfel. 
 
250 A Commentary npon the Second Epiflle of Peter. 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to admonifh us,not fo much to med- 
 dle in the Scriptures, as if we were in another mans ground, 
 or in thofe things which belong unto others,and not unto our 
 felves. 
 
 2. To exhort us, to raife up our minds to receive the word 
 of God with a congruous affettion.We may eafily think wich 
 our felves how our minds would be arFe&ed,' if we mould re- 
 ceive a letter that was written by the hand of God in heaven; 
 andcuefteduntousby name, and fent unto us by one of his 
 Angels : after the fame manner mould we be affe&ed in read- 
 ing and hearing the written wofd or God, 
 
 Thi 
 VuhIs Epil>les 3 norof any one whole Epiftle,much leflecf the 
 whole Scripture, (as the Patrons of traditions, and Enemies 
 of Scripture would have it 3 ) bat of lome few thing?. And he 
 feemes to point chiefly at fome of thofe things, which Paul 
 wrote concerning the coruming or the Lord 5 becaufe he fpcaks 
 of that in this place, & therefore it is very likely that he hath 
 reference unto thofe things which aie fpofcen of, .2 Tbtjf. 2.2. 
 
 Reafin I. Becade there arc fome divine myfteries 10 farre 
 remote from us, that in what words fbever they be exprefied, 
 they will alwayes be hard tobeunderftood. 
 
 2. i?ecaufe God would have fome things, that are not of fo 
 generall and neccfljry aufe, out of his lingular wiidome to. 
 be more obfenrely propounded : which feemes to be the pro- 
 per reafon, why thofe 1 hifigs of Antichiiii, 2lijef. 2. were in 
 the Primitive Church hard to be underirood. For God would, 
 fc r juft cauies, that Antichrift mould come , and that mott 
 men mould be ignorant who he was, untill he did come. 
 
 3. God would exercise the induftry and diligence of the 
 faithfull in (earching the Scriptures, and finding out the fenfe 
 and meaning of them, not to deter men from reading them.as 
 the Papifts ufe to do, by wrefting this argument amifle. For 
 'Peter in this place doth not difcourage fo muc h as the comon 
 fort of the faithfull from reading the Scripturs, but rather 
 nirs them up to read all the Epiftles oiTauly although he tels 
 them that there arc Come things in them thatmuft be read wa- 
 rily. Vfe 
 
A Commentary upon the Second Epifik of Peter. 251 
 
 Vfe 1. This may ferve to admonifh us, not to think it Suffi- 
 cient that we know the words ofthe Scripture, but to give all 
 diligence and labour to find out the tmefenfe and meaning 
 of them. & 
 
 2. To comfort us , that we mould not be too much cart 
 down, if we do not fully underhand fome things in the Scrips 
 ture, becaufe we are told that there are fome things hard to be 
 underftood. 
 
 Doft. p. They are unlearned and unftable men^that weft 
 the Scripture to maintaine their impiety. 
 
 For that the Apoftle means , when he faith that they wreft 
 the Scriptures to their own deftru&ion ; not that it is fuch an 
 exceeding dangerous thing to interpret fome place of Scrip- 
 ture otherwife then it mould be, but that it is the property of 
 a very wicked man to argue out ofthe word ofdodagainft 
 God, or againft his will. Now they are called unlearned, not 
 becaufe they have no skill in the tongues or arts , wherein 
 fuch peftifcrous men may fometimes excell ; but becaufe they 
 never effectually learned or were taugta ihoie tnings which 
 pertaine onto religion • And in the like manner are they called 
 unliable, becaufe in that, knowledge of the truth which they 
 had and profefled, they were not grounded and rooted, but 
 as men not grounded nor fetled they are eafily turned from 
 their profeffion. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve for admonition,that the people mould 
 not therefore be deterred from reading the Scriptures, as the 
 Papifts would have it,(who in this very thing fhew thcmfelves 
 to be unlearned and unliable, bceaufe they do mifehievoufly 
 wreft this place, where they are exprefly told, with how great 
 danger it is wont to be done:) but that we mould labour to 
 caft off all ignorance and uofteadfaftnefle , that Co we may be 
 made fit to read the Scriptures with profit. For this is the 
 fcope of the admonition, as the Apoftle ufeth it in this place* 
 Do&. Io. The end and fcope of ail divine information and 
 inflrntlion in refpeSt ofthefaithfuH *V, that they may beftablijhed 
 and grew in that grace which thsy have received. 
 
 This is gathered therchence, that this is the conclufion of 
 this general! Epiftle,as it was of theformerjwhich holds good 
 alio in all other Epiftles and Sermons, inreipecl: of thofe that 
 aicnowfaithfull; Ii 2. Reafon, 
 
 
^54 
 
 A Commentary upon the Second Epfile of refer. 
 /to/.Becaufe by their erTe&ual calling they have fafrh,hope, 
 and charity begotten in them, Co that they have the principle 
 of all grace in them, nor can any thing be wanting befides the 
 c©ntinuation,confirroation, and increafe of the fame grace. 
 
 Doft. 1 1 . To obtaine fiedfafinfa in grace there is required a 
 f ore-knowledge of thofe things that tend to the confirming and 
 lengthening of ear minds. 
 
 This is gathered frem thefc words : Seeing je knorothefe 
 things before* 
 
 Reaf. Becaufe although our ftedfaftnes depends upon God, 
 and the effeatiall operation of his Spirit , as it is in the con- 
 cUifionoftheiPff.5.io. Yet God worketh in us not only 
 by a reall efficacy, but alfo agreeable to an intelligent nature, 
 by teaching and perfwading. Now nothingcan be wrought 
 by this morall way, unleffe knowledge go before , and fo it 
 muft be wrought by knowledge, as it is in the text. 
 
 Vfe I. This may fervc to refute the Papifts,who maintaine 
 ignorance and commend it in the common people : they are 
 lumcienny refuted bj him, from whom they boaftthat they 
 have received the Ghaire, free from all error. For Peter in this 
 place, i Requires knowledge of all the faithful!, yea, and 
 fore-knowledge too of thofe things whereby they might be 
 confirmed againft profane men and falfcteacherr. 2 He pre* 
 fuppofcth that all that were tiuly faithfull to whom this Epi- 
 ftle came, were already endued With this knowledge. 3 He 
 prefuppofctb that his Epittles were fo cleare and fo eaiie to be 
 under flood that all the faithfull which mould read them with 
 godly minds, might underftand outof them, and coniequent- 
 ly out of the Scriptures, thole things, w hereby they being 
 forewarned, might be fore-armed againft thofe fal(e deceivers 
 whereofhe fpake. 
 
 2. To admonifti us, notibto look for our confirmation, 
 and (lengthening from God , as that we fhould in the meane 
 time ncgleft the knowledge of thofe things that tend there« 
 unto, but to u(e all our endeavour both in generall to know 
 thole things that are abfolutely neceffary unto falvation, and 
 in particular, thole things that are neceffary for us in our pra- 
 ftifeupon occafion of any temptation. 
 
 Do&. 1 2. , Tiefides knowledge there is required alfo unto the 
 fiedfaftaeffe of grace a continnall and vigilant heed, This 
 
A Cdmmentay up* the Second Bpiflk rfPeter. a;; 
 
 This is gathered from this word, Beware. 
 
 Reafon i. Becaufe knowledge is unprofitable, if it be not 
 reduced to pra&ife. Now pra&ifc in difficult things cannot 
 be had without care and heed* 
 
 2. Becaufe many are the fallacies wherewith we are affaul- 
 ted, both in the Devill and his inftniments that are without 
 us, and in our felves alio, by reafon of that marvellous deceit- 
 fulnefle of our hearts, fuch as cannot be exprefTed. 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to exhort us, above all to take notice 
 of our felves, and thofe things that tend to the ftrengthnihg 
 and ftablifhing of us in grace. 
 
 Do& 1 3. Itfhonld be an argument to the faithfull to beware 
 of the errors offomtmen^ becanfe they are wich^dmen^ungadlj^ 
 and profane* 
 
 This is gathered from that title, the error of the mcked. 
 
 Reafon, becaufe all thole things that have any agreement 
 with ungodlincfle are to be fhunned and avoided. Now thole 
 things that are in a fpeciall manner approved of by profane 
 men, muft ncceflarily have an agreement wicn proiane ungod- 
 iineffe. 
 
 Vfe, This may ferve to admonifh us,by this means amongft 
 others to ftrengthen our felves againft divers errors, that are 
 moft pleafing to profane men. 
 
 D06Y. 14. Sedfaftnejfe and iter eafe of 'grace Are jo jtted to- 
 gether. 
 
 This is gatheredfrom the connexion of v. i7.with the if. 
 
 Reafon 1. Becaufe like as trees and all plants , and alio li- 
 ving creatures, from which this metaphor is taken, are cor- 
 roborated by growth,while they acquire greater and per &ft- 
 er ftrength , fo alfo do the faithful). 
 
 2. Becaufe the ftedfaftnefle of grace confifts not therein,that 
 it continues in the fame degree, but that it is formed in its na* 
 turc,one property whereof of is,to grow untill it come to per- 
 fection. 
 
 Vje, This may ferve to exhort us, to labour therefore to be 
 fo ftafelifhed, that we may alfo grow and increafe in all grace. 
 DoC%L I 5. They grow ingrace^ that grow in the effcBuall 
 knowledge ofottr Lord and Saviour le[m Cbrift, 
 See Chapter 1. Verfe 2. 
 
 Doft. 
 
2 
 
 i 
 
 54. A fyWQ&WJW ** *k Second Eoiftk of UUr< 
 
 Doer. 1 6» Our em una iejirc m 4// winijLei e 1 in thoft Mngi 
 
 XiDatn [/hrift* 
 
 This is f gatherei from the lad, worcls* 
 
 Ret/on 1. Bccaufe wc arc the (crvants of Chrift bought 
 with his own blood* Now whatsoever the fervants gee or do, 
 turaesto the proper good and benefit of . their Maftcrf. 
 
 1. Becaulc God is absolutely the chiefeft good. 
 
 3. Unlefle we do this, whatsoever wc do, it is not done 
 out of religion. For it is the nature of religion to give the glo- 
 ry unto Grifl- 
 
 Vfe* This may ferve to exhort us, to lift up our minds more 
 and more to maintaine the glory of God in all things, as the 
 Apoftle doth by that doling particle, Amen, 
 
 
 
 '■ 
 
 flgrto 
 
 FINIS. 
 
 .