Page:An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter, illustrated by doctrines out of every text .. (IA analyticalexposi00ames).pdf/90

 Doct. 10. A good conscience is very necessary as well in the sanctification of Gods name, as in the profession of his religion.

That is, a conscience bearing us witnesse, both of the grace of God towards us in Christ, and of the sincere desire and endeavour of our hearts to please God in all things.

Reason 1. Because without such a conscience, our faith, confidence, fortitude, and liberty, doth languish and decay. 2. Because such a conscience freeth us from all that burthen, wherewith otherwise we should be oppressed, and terrified, and affrighted from doing our duty. 3. Because it stirreth us up to all the duties of piety; for without the care of performing them, a good conscience can afford us no comfort. Vse. This may serve to exhort us to have a care of our conscience, to keepe it pure before God and men. The 17 verse is all one with the 20 verse of the 2 chapter. Verse 17. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer or well-doing, then for evill-doing.

Verse 18. For Christ also hath once suffered for sinnes, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickned by the Spirit.

Verse 19. By which also he went, and preached unto the Spirits in prison.

Verse 20. Which sometimes were disobedient, when once the long-suffering of God waited in the dayes of Noah, while the Arke was a preparing; wherein few (that is, eight) soules were saved by water.

Verse 21. The like figure whereunto, even baptisme, doth also now save us, (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Iesus Christ.

Verse 22. Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God, Angels, and authorities, and powers, being made subject unto him.