Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/64

 either to speake against our persons or our professions.

Doct. 7: Good workes alone doe stop the mouthes of the wicked.

This is gathered from the 12. v: at the middle.

Reas. 1. Because men, especially unbeleevers, cannot judge of us, but by the works which they see.

2. Because the sincerity of our religion properly appeares in our works.

Vse. This may serve to exhort us, alwayes to endeavour to bring forth good works.

Doct. 8. The good works of the faithfull make others also to glorifie God.

This is gathered from the 12. v. at the end. So M. 5.16.

Reas. 1. Because by this meanes they are convinced of the truth of our religion, whose author is God.

2. Because thereby they are drawne also to embrace the same religion, and to cleave unto God.

3. Because they are moved and stirred up to give God thanks, for those things that were the meanes of their conversion.

Vse. This may serve to exhort us, to use this argument to stir up our selves to the practise of good works, because they make not only for our owne salvation, but for the glory of God also.

Doct. 9. We must looke for a day of visitation, that men may glorifie God therein.

This is gathered from the 12. v. at the end. But the day of visitation may be understood either in judgement, or in grace and mercy. Here it is to be understood of the grace of God. So Luke 1.68.

Reas. Because without grace there is no inclination in the heart of man to glorifie God. The tree must be good, that shall bring forth good fruit; Men doe not gather grapes of thornes, or figges of thistles, Matth. 7.16.17.

Vse. This may serve to admonish us, to use all patience and meeknesse towards the wicked, alwayes provided, that we doe not faile in our duty to seeke their conversion.

2. Tim. 2.25.