Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/56

 2. To instruct us, wholly to depend upon Christ for the direction of our soules to everlasting life.

Doct. 21. There is nothing at all that can be compared with Christ our Saviour for dignity, use, and excellency.

This is gathered from these titles, elect and precious.

Reason 1. For the dignity of his person. 2. For the effectualnesse of his operation, in satisfaction, merit, and application of those things which belong unto our salvation. 3. For the excellency of those benefits which redound unto the Church by him. Vse. This may serve to admonish us, to have no common conceit of Christ, or to rest in a vulgar esteeme of him, but earnestly to endeavour to conceive of him so, as his dignity and excellency doth deserve. Doct. 22. No man that truly beleeveth in Christ, shall ever be confounded, his expectation shall not be frustrated, his desire and confidence shall not be in vaine.

Reason 1. Because Christ was appointed by God by a certaine and immutable decree to be the Saviour of all those that beleeve in him. 2. Because all power is given unto him both in heaven and earth. Vse. This may serve to comfort us against those feares and doubts that might weaken our faith. Doct. 23. The faithfull are not only delivered from misery, but are also highly honoured by Christ.

This is gathered from the seventh verse at the beginning.

Reason. Because they are made partakers of Christs honour, for in him they are made sonnes of God, heires of the everlasting kingdome, spirituall Priests and Kings.

Vse 1. This may serve to reprove our blindnesse and dulnesse, that cannot discerne and esteeme of this honour as wee ought, but are set upon the honours of this world more then is fitting.

2. To exhort us, piously and seriously to glory in Christ and the honour which we have in him, though for his sake the wicked world reproach us.