Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/106

 Vse. This may serve to exhort us, to labour for charity. Doct. 5. Hospitality is one of the principall acts of charity.

This is gathered from verse 9. So Rom. 12.13. Heb. 13.2.

Reason 1. Because in hospitality we do not only communicate our goods unto our brethren, but our selves also by a familiar conversation. 2. Because it is more acceptable unto others to receive a little upon such an occasion, then in any other respect to receive much, because the seasonablenesse and courteousnesse makes that which is given to be the better accepted. 3. Because by this meanes friendship is more increased then by other bountifull expences. Use. This may serve to reprove the mercilesse mindes and conditions of men, for luxury and covetousnesse hath quite taken away all hospitality. Doct. 6. The duties of this kind should be performed without grudging.

This is gathered from verse 9.

Reason 1. Because God loveth a ready and cheerefull giver, 2 Cor. 9.7. 2. Because grudging makes the benefit unacceptable to him that receives it. 3. Because grudging is as it were a repenting for doing the duty, and so makes it void and of no effect. Vse. The use hereof is, that in doing good we should watch over our mindes, that they be rightly and fitly disposed. Doct. 7. It is an office of charity to minister unto others the gifts which we have received, of what kinde soever they be.

This is gathered from verse 10.

Reason 1. Because the gifts of God do in their nature tend unto the glory of God in promoting the good of men.

2. Because to this end are all the gifts of God committed unto us, as stewards of the grace of God, as it is in the text.

3. Because this very thing doth the communion of Saints require, to the believing and exercising whereof are all Christians called.

Use 1. This may serve to comfort us, in that there is no faithfull Christian, but hath some gift, whereby he may minister something unto others.