Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/139

 is contained in these two: To Timothy and Titus, he addes mercy also, Grace, mercy and peace. But that is only an application of the same thing, which is signified by grace, and for a peculiar reason is added in those Epistles, because Timothy and Titus wanted a speciall kind of grace, in respect of the service, which they did undergoe in the Churches, in regard of their age, and those divers temptations, whereunto they were obnoxious in that Service. In the old Testament peace onely was usually wished in their salutations, without any mention of Grace; but yet grace also at that time was understood: But in the time of the new Testament, which is the time of grace, and wherein all things are more fully delivered, it was most fitting, that grace should be named in such l ke salutations. Vse. This may serve to exhort and direct us, above all things to wish grace and Christian peace unto all those, to whom we are well-wishers. Doct. 11. The desires of the faithfull are chiefly for those spirituall good things, Grace and peace.

Reason. The Reason of the Collection is this, because the Apostle in this beginning of the Epistle, labours to get the good will of those to whom he writes, by shewing the prayer that he had made for them: Now he could not effect this, if his prayer were not according to their desire; for if he should have wished any of those things, that they cared not for, such a wish would have done no good with them. Vse. This may serve to exhort us all, to examine our selves according to this rule. For if wee make no reckoning at all, of the meanes and instruments of grace, but doe reject or despise those, that labour most to procure this grace and peace for us, we have cause to feare, that we are yet farre from the nature, and disposition of true beleevers. Doct. 3. They which have gone farthest in faith and grace, have yet need of grace.

This is gathered therehence, that the Apostle wisheth grace unto those, that have obtained like precious faith, with the Apostles themselves.

Vse. 1. This may serve to refute the Papists of their merits.

2. To exhort us to humility, and continuall prayer for the grace of God.