Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/115

 Reason 1. Because it is easie for him to preserve our soules, as it was heretofore to make them: and in this respect he is called in the text, God the Creator not the Preserver. 2. Because it stands upon his glory to do this. 3. Because the fidelity and truth of his promises requires as much. This may serve to comfort us in all straits and adversities: Let them commend their soules under a faithfull Creator, saith the Apostle. Chapter V.  Verse 1. The Elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an Elder, and a witnesse of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed.

Verse 2. Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly: not for filthy lucre, but of a ready minde.

Verse 3. [Footnote: Neither as being Lords over Gods heritage: but being ensamples to the flock:]

Verse 4. And when the chiefe Shepheard shall appeare, ye shall receive a crowne of glory that fadeth not away.

The Analysis.

Here is a speciall exhortation propounded towards the Elders, that they should performe their duty and office in a holy manner. The duty in generall is set downe to be, to feed the flock, whereof they were made overseers, by a diligent oversight and care of them, verse 2. at the beginning. And withall it is described by 3 conditions that are in a speciall manner required therein, which are set forth by a dehortation from the three contrary vices, that are opposed to those three conditions.

1. The first condition is, willingly to feed the flock; the contrary vice whereunto is, to do it by constraint. 2. To do it readily and freely: the contrary vice unto this, is, to seeke after filthy lucre thereby. 3. Not only in doctrine, but in