Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/239

 they also that have in some sort clean escaped from those that live in errour, as it is in the text.

Doct. 4. The chiefe lust of the flesh, whereby men are wont to be seduced, is the love of carnall liberty.

This is gathered from the beginning of verse 19. So Psalme 2. 3. Reason 1. Because the flesh alwayes seeketh its peace and quietnesse, which it cannot enjoy, but by giving it selfe over unto the lusts thereof; and hence it is that carnall men account the command of God and his Word, a yoke, aud strong cords, and bands, &c. 2. Because in liberty there is some kinde of shew of that dignity and excellency, whereof all the sons of Adam are most desirous ever since they drank in that poyson of the Serpent, Ye shall be like Gods. 3. Because it hath a false shadow of that Christian liberty, whereunto we are called, Iohn 8.32,33,34. Hence it is, that the cursed sect of Libertines, which under a shew of liberty overthrowes all religion, findeth many well-wishers thereunto, even amongst those that are Christians in name. Vse 1. This may serve to condemne those, that alwayes follow after liberty of what kind soever it be. For Christians are the servants of righteousnesse, although they be free from sin, Rom.6.18. 2. To admonish us, to represse and restraine in our selves this carnall desire of liberty, 1 Cor.9.27. Doct. 5. They that most labour for this carnall liberty, are the most wretched servants of sin.

This is gathered from these words; they are the servants of corruption. So Rom.6.20.

Reason 1. Because they are overcome and led captive by sinne.

2. Because they give up themselves wholly to obey sinne, Rom.6.16:19.

3. Because they remain in this bondage, although it be the worst of all, with a kind of pleasure; so that they are the servants of sin more, then those are the servants of men, that are gally-slaves: for these mens minds alwayes wish for liberty, but the others are very well pleased in their most servile condition.