Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/30

 the likenesse, that ought to be betwixt the person calling and the persons called, as the Scripture it selfe in the old Test. witnesseth, verse 15. 16. The second is taken from the severity of Gods judgement, which they can by no meanes escape, that call God their Father, and yet dishonour his name, verse 17. The second argument of the exhortation, is taken from redemption, and the meanes and end thereof, verse 18. 19. Of which there was mention made before at the end of verse 3. and verse 11. Because the consideration of this redemption obtained by Jesus Christ, and of Christ himselfe, is very necessary and effectuall to admonish, and stir up the faithfull, to take care of their duty: therefore the Apostle stayes a while upon the description of Christ, as he was from all eternity fore-ordained to performe the office of a mediatour, at the beginning of the 20. verse, and as he was manifest in time, verse 20. 21. which is taken from verse 11. 12.

The third argument is taken from sanctification, as it flowes from the regeneration of the spirit, and from the word of God, which are the proper causes thereof, verse 22. 3. 4. 5. whereby the way that part of Christian duty is commended, that hath respect to the mutuall love of the faithfull amongst themselves, verse 22. because all the faithfull by regeneration, are made partakers of the same spirituall life; but yet the chiefest argument, whereby we are exhorted to constancy in that and every other grace, is taken from the incorruptible nature of the word, whereby we are regenerated, and consequently of regeneration it selfe; which is set forth by a comparison of things that are unlike it. Verse 23, 24, 25.

The DOCTRINES arising herence are these.

Doct. 1. The Consideration of the grace of God, that is brought unto us in Christ, should stir us up to the practice of Piety.

This is gathered from the connexion, which is intimated in that particle, Wherefore, verse 13.

Reas. 1. Because the end of Grace is to free us from sin, and to make us conformable to the image of God, Luc. 1.74.75. 2. Because by that meanes it is very fitting for us, to teach and further us in that practice. Tit. 2.11.12. 3. Be-