Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/230

 This is gathered therehence, Having eyes full, &c. Reason 1. Because out of the abundance of the heart all our faculties, and all the instruments of operations receive impressions answerable unto the heart. 2. Because sin, or temptation unto sin is admitted into the heart it selfe by the outward senses, as by channels or gates; so that the eyes and such like corporeall instruments are filled two wayes, both in the ingresse and the egresse of sin: Whence it comes to passe, that as the gates of a great City use to be fuller then the other parts of the City, by reason of the frequent ingresse and egresse of people, so also are the eyes of such like men. Use 1. This may serve to instruct us, to see and bewaile the miserable condition, whereunto men are obnoxious by reason of sin; because they have no part clean or void of sin. 2. To admonish us, to use all care to cleanse our selves, and all our faculties and parts both of body and mind from such uncleannesse. Doct. 7. The uncleannesse of the body is oftentimes joyned with impurity of religion.

This is gathered from these words; adultery. Reason 1. Because the hindring cause or that which keeps it off is removed, namely, pure religion. 2. Because this is the just judgement of God, Rom. 1.26. 3. Because by reason of these carnall affections men do withdraw themselves from piety, or impugne it. Vse. This may serve to admonish us, so much the more religiously to imbrace purity in religion. Doct. 8. In such men covetousnesse is oftentimes joyned with their impiety.

This is gathered from these words, covetous practises.

Reason. Because that doth chiefly pertaine to the rule and sway which the devill exerciseth over his servants, 1 Iohn 2.16 2. Because by covetousnesse they seek those things that serve to nourish their impurity of life. Vse. This may serve for a generall admonition, to abstaine even from the least sins, if we would not admit of others also. Doct. 9. The exercising of the heart unto such sins, doth very much strengthen and increase them.