Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/58

 Reason 1. Because this offence is the cause of their infidelity. 2. Because it doth not produce a bare unbeliefe only, but unbeliefe with contempt, so that they doe infinitely wrong Christ. Vse. This may serve to admonish us, to beware that we doe not in any thing stumble at the word of God, or conceive any thing in our mindes, whereby we may be in the least respect alienated from it. Doct. 26. The infidelity and confusion of the wicked doth not fall out by chance, but according as God had most certainly fore-ordained it.

This is gathered from these words: whereunto also they are appointed.

Reason 1. Because God is both the King and Lord of all living creatures, so that nothing can happen unto them contrary to his will. 2. Because there can be no cause of their infidelity imagined, which God did not foresee, or which he could not have hindred. 3. Because we also which do believe, were aliens from the faith as well as they; neither did we make that difference betwixt our selves and them, but God: Vse. This may serve to direct us, that the infidelity of any others whatsoever, may not deface our faith, we must give God the glory in the dispensation of his grace, and appointing of things according to his counsell, whose wayes are past finding out. Doct. 27. We should often call to mind that dignity, whereunto we are called in Christ, and that, by comparing of it to that misery wherein all unbelievers are plunged.

This is gathered from that repetition, Verse 9. which is used comparatively by the dissimilitude that is betwixt it and the condition of unbelievers, before described, as it is intimated in that word But.

Reason 1. Because we are called to spirituall joy, which is chiefely increased by this meanes.

2. Because it belongs to the thanks which we ought to give unto God.