Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/159

 against all adversity, so that vertue is quite perfected, if it be grounded on faith, directed by knowledge, and strengthened on the one side by continence, and on the other side by patience.

Vse 1. This may serve to reprove the lightnesse and inconstancy of men, who indeed professe themselves to be studious of vertue, and yet can beare no thing, to keepe vertue whole and intire. 2. To exhort all good men, to prepare themselves to beare all afflictions for vertue sake and a good conscience. Doct. 9. Godlinesse is the chiefe and most necessary of all vertues.

By godlinesse we meane true religion towards God, and a minde wholly given to the true worship of God.

Reason 1. Because it hath the noblest object, that is, God himselfe. 2. Because it doth most of all perfect all other vertues, whiles it refers them and all their acts to a divine beginning, and a divine end. For godlinesse subjects the minde to God in all things, so that it acknowledgeth God to be the author of all good, from whom every good and perfect gift commeth, and makes him the chiefest good and the last end to whom all our actions are to be directed. Vse 1. This may serve to reprove those, that attribute so much to some morall and humane vertues, that they preferre them before godlinesse. 2. To exhort us, continually to exercise our selves both in publick and in private, to increase this godlinesse in our mindes. Doct. 10. With Godlinesse towards God we should joyne love towards our neighbour.

Reason. Because godlinesse it selfe commands and begets this love. For we love our neighbour with Christian love, when we love him for Gods sake, not for our own, or any worldly respect. Now godlinesse produceth this love towards our neighbour, 1 Because it teacheth us to obey Gods Commandement, who hath commanded us to love our neighbour. 2 Because it teacheth us to love the image of God, and every gift of God in our neighbour. 3 Because it brings us to