Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/134

 the third and fourth verse. In the salutation there are those three things expressed, which are in every action; namely, the agent, the action it selfe, and the object of it. For so is there the person saluting, the persons saluted, and the salutation it selfe. The person saluting is described, first, by his name adjoyned. Secondly, by his office adjoyned, and that both generall, that he is a servant of Jesus Christ, and speciall, that he is an Apostle of his. The persons saluted are described by a speciall adjunct, which is in stead of the forme, namely, by faith: which faith is set forth, first, by a comparison of the like, that it is like precious with the faith of the Apostles. 2. By the principall efficient cause, God and Jesus Christ. 3. By the meanes thereof, viz. righteousnesse. The confirmation of the salutation containes, 1. the good that is wished, which consists of two parts, Grace, and peace. 2. The degree and quality of this good, be multiplyed. 3. The helping cause of this multiplication of good, which is the knowledge of God and Iesus Christ. This is the Analysis. As for the person, he hath a double respect. For he is here considered as the Author of the Epistle, and also as the Author of the Salutation: in the former respect we have these Doctrines. Doct. 1. The very names of Christs famous Disciples, were heretofore of great force for the confirmation and advancement of the truth in the Church.

For to that end did the Apostles usually set downe their names in the Epistles, which they wrote unto the Churches.

Vse. This may bee for exhortation, that we also according to our abilities should labour so farre with those amongst whom we live, that our names may be like precious ointment, and may make something for the edification of others. 2. It may serve to reprove those, which so carry themselves, that they are a disgrace to godlinesse, and to the Church. In the latter respect the person yeelds us this observation. Doct. 2. The salutation of the Apostles and Ministers of God is more highly to be prized.

Reason. Because it is not only a good and godly prayer, as are the salutations of all the faithfull, but it is also a ministeri