Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/72

 2. To exhort us to have a great care that we make conscience of this duty, because it doth most neerely belong to our calling.

Doct. 7. Christs actions are a most perfect example for our duty and calling.

This is gathered from Verse 21.

Reason 1. Because Christ is unto us an example given by God, as it were the praxis of Divinity and rule of living well. 2. Because he hath no imperfection at all, such as may be found in all mens examples. 3. Because the Spirit of Christ makes us to be conformable unto his image. Vse. This may serve to direct us, that beholding Christ as it were in a glasse, we may be as it were changed into the same image from glory to glory, 2 Cor. 3.18. Doct. 8. The Chiefest manner of imitating Christ in enduring afflictions, consists in this, that we commit our cause unto God.

This is gathered from verse 23, at the end.

Reason. Because this is the rule of patience in such cases, not to revenge our selves, but to commit the whole businesse unto the Lord, and to rest well contented and pleased in his will. Vse. This may serve to admonish us, never to please our own carnall will, but to subject our selves wholly to the good will of God. Doct. 9. Christ by his death did not only leave us an example of our lives, but also expiated our sinnes, and procured for us such power, whereby we may imitate him in living well.

This is gathered from verse 24.

Reason 1. Because after the same manner are we restored in Christ, as we were lost in Adam, which was not by imitation and example only, Rom. 5.

2. Because Christ ought to be a sacrifice to pacifie God towards us, which is not done by example.

3. Because an example would have nothing at all profited those that were dead in sinne and hated of God.

Vse 1. This may serve to refute the Socinians and others, which feine that the redemption of Christ consists in doctrine and example only.