Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/242

 in the title which he gives them, when he cals them beloved. Of the putting in remembrance we spake before, c.1.v.12 13. and also of stirring up: Therefore passing over them, we come to the next.

Doctrines arising herehence.

Doct. 1. The minds of the faithfull should be indued with purity, and sincerity, that they may receive the divine admonitions as they ought to be received.

This is gathered from these words: I stir up your pure minds. Now he doth not so much commend them by this his testimony, as shew them, what thing they ought chiefly to labour for, that they may receive benefit by this writing. So Iames 1.21. and this first Epist.cap.2.verse 2. Reason 1. Because, as in all things that are of any moment, there is alwayes required some preparing of the subject, for example, as in husbandry, plowing and harrowing of the ground: so and much more also is it required that we should prepare our hearts to receive the word of God with benefit, Ierem.4.3,4 Now there can be no fitter preparation, then by sincerity to lay aside all those things, that are contrary to the word, and hinder the efficacy thereof. 2. Because the word of God is sincere, and therefore it requires sincerity in those that receive it, 1 Epist.c.2.v.2. 3. Because without sincerity nothing at all is done aright. For sincerity is the common affection of obedience. Vse 1. This may serve to reprove those, that have no care at all, rightly to dispose themselves for to receive the word of God aright. 2. To exhort us, to labour chiefly for this purity of minde, and sincerity of heart. Doct. 2. They that have a pure minde, do willingly receive and retain those things that are proposed unto them out of the Prophets and Apostles.

This is gathered from verse 2.

Reason 1. Because Christs sheepe know his voice and follow him, Iohn 10.27. Now his voice sounds in the Prophets and Apostles.

2. Because in the Prophets and Apostles all things agree with sincerity, 1 Pet.2.2. Psal.19.8,9.