1 Peter

Therefore heaven is called entering into the joy of our Lord (Matthew 25:21). The seeing of God, the loving of God, and being beloved of God, will cause a jubilation of spirit, and create such holy raptures of joy in the saints, as is unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8).…

Quest. To what has Christ redeemed us? Resp. He has redeemed us to a glorious inheritance (1 Peter 1:4): To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that fades not away, reserved in heaven for you. 1. To an inheritance.] Christ has not only redeemed us out of prison, but…

Christ's life, says Chrysostom, was brighter than the sunbeams. Let us be like him in this (1 Peter 1:16). Be holy in all manner of conversation.

Resp. By law, and by love: 1. He rules by law. It is one of the Iura Regalia, the flowers of the crown, to enact laws; Christ as King makes laws, and by his laws he rules: the law of faith, Believe in the Lord Jesus; the law of sanctity (1 Peter 1:15), Be holy in all manner of c…

Quest. From what does God call men? Resp. 1. From sin; he calls them from their ignorance and unbelief (1 Peter 1:14). By nature the understanding is enveloped with darkness, God calls men from darkness to light (Ephesians 5:8), as if one should be called out of a dungeon to beh…

Question 1. How many ways may a Christian be said to grow in grace? Response 1. He grows Vigore, in the exercise of grace; his lamps are burning and shining; therefore we read of a lively hope (1 Peter 1:3). Here is the activity of grace; the Church prays for the blowing of the…

In Deo quadam dulcedine delectatur anima immo rapitur; the love of God drops such infinite suavity into the soul as is unspeakable and full of glory. If there be so much delight in God, when we see him only by faith (1 Peter 1:8), what will the joy of vision be when we shall see…

The apostles seldom speak of the new creation, but they join some thankful praises with it. 1 Peter 1:3: Blessed be God, who according to his abundant mercy has begotten us again to a lively hope. Colossians 1:12: Giving thanks to the Father, who has made us meet for the inherit…

May you not set up your Ebenezer? God has kept your grace hitherto as a spark in the main ocean, and is not he able still to keep your grace, (1 Peter 1:5). We are kept by the power of God, etc.

We were all involved in guilt, none of us could plead, Not Guilty; and being guilty we lay under a sentence of death; now that the judge himself should find out a way to justify us, and the creditor himself contrive a way to have the debt paid, and not distress the debtor; this…

1 Peter 1:2. Grace to you, and peace be multiplied. Having spoken of the first fruit of sanctification, assurance, I proceed to the second, namely peace — peace be multiplied.

1 Peter 1:5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith to salvation. The fifth and last fruit of sanctification is perseverance in grace.

1 Peter 1:5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith to salvation. Use 1. See the excellency of grace, it perseveres: Other things are but [in non-Latin alphabet], for a season; health and riches are sweet, but they are but for a season, but grace is a blossom of eternity.

Or how should God wipe away the tears from their eyes in heaven, if on earth they shed none? Doubtless God sees there is need that his children should be sometimes in the House of Bondage (1 Peter 1:6). [reconstructed: in non-Latin alphabet], If need be, you are in heaviness.

Such as scoff at holiness shall be cast out of heaven. Use 2. of Exhortation: Is God so infinitely holy, then let us endeavor to imitate God in holiness (1 Peter 1:16): "Be holy for I am holy." There's a twofold holiness: a holiness of equality, and a holiness of similitude.

3. Nor could any angel in Heaven be the author of Scripture. Because 1. the angels pry and search into the abyss of gospel mysteries (1 Peter 1:12), which implies their nescience of some parts of Scripture; and sure they cannot be authors of that book which themselves do not ful…

He has a perfect idea of wisdom in himself: He knows the fittest means to bring about his own designs; the angels light at his lamp. In particular, this is one branch of his wisdom, that he knows what is best for us: An earthly parent knows not in some intricate cases how to adv…

Weeds grow of themselves, flowers are planted. Sanctification is a flower of the Spirit's planting, therefore it is called, the Sanctification of the Spirit (1 Peter 1:2). 2. Sanctification is an intrinsic thing; it lies chiefly in the heart.

In the creation there was but speaking a word (Psalm 148:5). In the redeeming us there was shedding of blood (1 Peter 1:18-19). The creation was the work of God's fingers (Psalm 8:3).

Only the pure in heart shall see God. Get your souls inlaid and enameled with holiness (1 Peter 1:16). It is not enough that we cease to do evil (which is all the evidence some have to show) — this is to lose heaven by short shooting; but we must be inwardly sanctified.

To have a chaste body, but an unclean soul, is like a fair face with bad lungs; or a gilt chimney-piece, that is all soot within. (1 Peter 1:16) Be you holy, for I am holy. The soul cannot be lovely to God, till it has Christ's image stamped upon it, which image consists in righ…

It is of divine inspiration (2 Timothy 3:16). The oracles of Scripture must be surer to us than a voice from heaven (1 Peter 1:18). Unbelief enervates the virtue of Scripture, and renders it ineffectual.

It is better, because it is surer; it is made in Christ, and cannot be reversed; Christ has engaged his strength to keep every believer. In the first covenant we had à posse stare, a power of standing: in the second we have à non posse cadere, an impossibility of falling finally…

(2.) Faith. Faith ends in salvation (1 Peter 1:9). Receiving the end of your faith, salvation.

We may as well quarrel with the works of creation, as the works of providence. 3. Consideration, which may make us humbly to submit to God's will is, that there is a necessity of affliction (1 Peter 1:6): (If need be) you are in grief. It is needful some things be kept in brine.

Saint Paul who had a vision of glory, and Saint John who was carried away in the Spirit, and saw the holy Jerusalem descending out of heaven, having the glory of God in it (Revelation 21:11), how did the world after appear in an eclipse to them. (2.) The meditation of the heaven…

1. That he offered himself a sacrifice to God, to make atonement for our sins, and that in his death and sufferings (Isaiah 53:10): "When you shall make his soul an offering for sin" (John 1:29): "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world" (Ephesians 5:2): "Chr…

Chap. 3:4. For every house is builded by some man, but he that built all things is God. 1 Pet. 1:11. Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signifie. Chap. 3:18, 19. But Christ also has once suffered for sinners, being put to death in t…

And hereby it came to pass that the obedience of Christ was of greater worth by far, than the obedience of all the world could have been, because he was a divine Person that did it. And from hence it came to pass that there was enough in it to merit for a great many, even a whol…

(2) John 20:21, 22, 23; Galatians 1:1; Ephesians 2:20; Revelation 21:14; Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5, 7. (3) Matthew 28:18, 19, 20; 2 Corinthians 11:28; Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 1:2; Colossians 4:17. (4) 1 Corinthians 12:28, 29, 30.

The first way is unlawful, and destructive both of the office and duty of a Pastor. For as Elders are ordained in, and to the Churches respectively that they are to take care of (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5), and their office power consists in a relation to the Church that they are se…

(2) 1 Timothy 3:5; Colossians 4:17; 2 Corinthians 10:4, 8. (3) 1 Timothy 4:11; Titus 2:15; 1 Peter 1:2, 3, 4, 5. Explication.

Q. But when was he manifested in the flesh? A. In respect of his manifestation in the flesh, he was given in the fullness of time in these latter days (1 Peter 1:20; Galatians 4:4; 1 Timothy 2:6). Q. What is the effect and benefit of his mediatorship?

Q. Do you mean then that a true believer can never totally nor finally fall away, but shall persevere in grace to the end? A. Yes, I mean so indeed; this perseverance of believers in the state of grace being plainly and plenteously taught in the holy Scriptures (1 Peter 1:5; Luk…

Q. What ought to be the life of them that are in Christ? A. A course of holy obedience, and service to God all the days of their life (Luke 1:74, 75; 1 Peter 1:14, 15, 16, 17; Titus 3:8; Ephesians 2:10). Q. What is the general rule of obedience?

Q. When were all these things decreed by God? A. Before the world was created, even from everlasting (1 Corinthians 2:7; Ephesians 1:4; 3:11; 1 Peter 1:20; 2 Timothy 1:9). Q. What was the cause of God's decrees?

First, this is certain: there is no grace God tries more than this grace of faith. Therefore in 1 Peter 1:7: 'You are in heaviness through manifold trials, that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold which perishes though it is tried in the fire, might be…

God out of a temporary anger chastising them for a moment, as with a temporary favor he shines upon the other. That as they for a season rejoice in that light (John 5:35), so God's dearest children may be for a season in much heaviness (as the apostle speaks, 1 Peter 1:6) and wa…

But God's name and his Son's name, rested upon, will never fail you. Lean on these — not by halves in distress — but trust perfectly, as the apostle says (1 Peter 1:13), on that mercy you hear is in God, upon that grace revealed. That is: throw and cast your whole soul, your who…

If God uses his children thus, 'Curse God and die,' says Job's wife, as the foolish men and women of the world do. Fourth, pass your sojourning here in fear and serve him with fear (1 Peter 1:17), for 'even our God is a consuming fire' (Hebrews 12). Keep your heart in awe with t…

Moreover he distinguishes the decree into two acts: foreknowledge, whereby he does acknowledge some men for his own, before the rest; and predestination, whereby he has determined from eternity to make them like to Christ. In like manner Peter teaches (1 Peter 1:2), where he say…

Where we see this end of temptation set down, To manifest the gift of patience wrought in the heart. And Saint Peter says to the Church of God, That they were in heaviness through manifold temptations, that the trial of their faith being much more precious than gold that perishe…

Now, his will herein he brings thus to pass; All must be perfected in Christ: But he will not have Christ to come and suffer, till the fullness of time came, in these last days, Hebrews 1:2 (as the Apostle speaks) that the believers living in these last days, might have time of…

Secondly, the state of the Elect in heaven, is not only sure, but everlasting; that is, without end: Psalm 37:18. the Inheritance of holy men is perpetual: And therefore Saint Peter, 1 Peter 1:4, says, that the inheritance reserved in heaven for us is immortal, and not fading aw…

3. Let us consider the signification of the Passover. For the Paschal Lamb was a sign of Christ the true Lamb of God, shadowing out diverse things worthy our observation: as first the Lamb; for the Passover was to be a Lamb of a year old, without spot or blemish: which signified…

And that holds the Gospel faith: namely, that they believe in a crucified, dead, and risen Jesus (through whom they obtain remission of sins) whom God has exalted to be Lord, and Christ, namely eternal King, Priest, and Prophet, and head of the body of his Church (Ephesians 1:22…

And this should teach us with what diligence, with what reverence, with what subjection of soul, and resignation of our understandings to the will and wisdom of God, all divine revelations are to be inquired into. So dealt in this matter the holy men and prophets of old (1 Peter…

(2) The Lord Christ intercedes that this faith may never fail, or be utterly lost (John 17:8, 11, 15, &c.). (3) The power of God is engaged in the preservation of it (2 Peter 1:3; 1 Peter 1:5; Ephesians 1:19, 20). (4) The promises of the covenant are expressly multiplied to this…

The common course of reading the Scripture, nor the common help of expositors, who for the most part go in the same track, and scarce venture one step beyond those that are gone before them, will not suffice, if we intend a discovery of these hid treasures. This diligent search…

Hence are the doctrines concerning them called parables and dark sayings (Psalm 78:2). Neither did the prophets themselves see into the depth of their own predictions (1 Peter 1:11, 12). Hence the believing Church waited with earnest expectation, until the day should break, and…

They can only teach you what to believe, Christ teaches how to believe. 2. Christ gives us a taste of the word; ministers may set the food of the word before you, and carve it out to you, but it is only Christ causes you to taste it (1 Peter 2:3): If so be you have tasted, the L…

The life that I live in the flesh, is by the faith of the Son of God. 2. There is appetite (1 Peter 2:7). As new born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word.

Theodosius thought it a greater honor to be a servant of Christ than the head of an empire. Servire est Regnare — Christ's servants are called vessels of honor (2 Timothy 2:21), and a royal nation (1 Peter 2:9). Serving of Christ ennobles us with dignity: it's a greater honor to…

Why does a man lay out cost on ground, manure and water it, but that it may grow? The sincere milk of the Word is that we may grow thereby (1 Peter 2:2). The table of the Lord is on purpose for our spiritual nourishment and increase of grace.

It is true they cannot add to his glory, but they may exalt it; they cannot raise him in heaven, but they may raise him in the esteem of others. God has adopted the saints into his family, and made them a royal priesthood that they should show forth the praises of him who has ca…

The word preached is a savor of death; it is not healing, but hardening. In fact, Christ himself is accidentally a rock of offense (1 Peter 2:7). The wicked stumble at a Savior, and suck death from the tree of life.

The Word's teaching, and the Spirit's leading agree together. Fourth Sign: If we are adopted we have an entire love to all God's children (1 Peter 2:17). Love the brotherhood.

Resp. If we can resolve two queries: 1. Have we high appreciations of Jesus Christ? (1 Peter 2:7). To you that believe he is precious, Christ is [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], all made up of beauties and delights; our praises fall short of his worth, and is like spreading canvas u…

Quest. Well then, how shall we know it is a true faith? Resp. By the noble effects: 1. Faith is a Christ-prizing grace, it puts a high valuation upon Christ (1 Peter 2:7). To you that believe he is precious.

Those stones which are cut out for a building are first hewn and squared. The godly are called, [reconstructed: in non-Latin alphabet], living stones (1 Peter 2:5). And God does first hew and polish them by affliction, that they may be fit for the heavenly building.

Deny not Caesar his civil right, nor God his religious worship: let your loyalty be mixed with piety; here he showed the wisdom of the serpent. And would you see Christ's innocency? (1 Peter 2:22): There was no guile found in his mouth; who when he was reviled, reviled not again…

8. If God be our Father, let us love all that are his children; (Psalm 133:1) How pleasant is it for brothers to dwell together in unity. It is compared to ointment (verse 2) for the sweet fragrance of it: (1 Peter 2:17) Love the brotherhood. Idem est motus animae in imaginem &…

A man may have gifts to admiration, he may speak as an angel dropped out of heaven, yet may be carnal in spiritual things, his services do not come from a renewed principle, nor is he carried upon the wings of delight in duty. A sanctified soul worships God in the Spirit (1 Pete…

We should go to the word for a medicine to cure us; as Naaman the Syrian went to Jordan to be healed of his leprosy. (1 Peter 2:2) Desire the sincere milk of the word, that you may grow thereby. Come to the word to be changed into the similitude of it.

Kings place judges, as cherubims about the throne, for distribution of justice. These political fathers are to be honored: Honor the King (1 Peter 2:17). And this honor is to be shown by a civil respect to their persons, and a cheerful submission to their laws, so far as they ag…

Error is as damnable as vice. (1 Peter 2:1) There shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, denying the Lord, that bought them. (3.) That infect souls, namely by their scandalous lives.

When people do not mind what God speaks to them in his Word, God does as little mind what they say to him in prayer. 2. If you would have the Word preached effectual, come with a holy appetite to the Word (1 Peter 2:2). The thirsting soul is the thriving soul.

I shall in this brief and hasty discourse, add only one consideration more about the death of Christ to confirm the truth pleaded for. And that is that he is said in dying for sinners, to bear their sins (Isaiah 53:11), he shall bear their iniquities, v. 12, he bare the sins of…

Seventhly, that this love was the same in Father and Son, acted distinctly in the manner that shall be afterwards declared; so vain are the pretences of men who from the love of the Father in this matter, would argue against the love of the Son; or on the contrary. Eighthly, tha…

Isa. 6:1, 2, 3. I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up and his train filled the temple; above it stood the Seraphims, each one had six wings, with twain he covered his face, with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did flye: and one cryed to anoth…

From where also is that prayer of the Apostle for the blessing of God upon the Church, in the use of them (Ephesians 3:16, 17, 18): "That he will grant you according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inward man, that Christ may dwell…

Quest. 19. What is an instituted Church of the Gospel? A society of persons, called out of the world, or their natural worldly state, by the administration of the Word and Spirit, to the obedience of the faith, or the knowledge and worship of God in Christ, joined together in an…

Besides the Church is an house, a Temple, the house of God (1 Timothy 3:15), the house of Christ (Hebrews 3:6), the Temple of God (Ephesians 2:21, 22). Believers singly considered are stones, living stones (1 Peter 2:5). Now how shall these living stones come to be an house, a T…

Quest. 42. To whom is the power and administration of this Discipline committed by Jesus Christ? Answ. As to the authority to be exerted in it in the things wherein the whole Church is concerned, to the Elders; as to trial, judgment and consent in, and to its exercise to the who…

(1) 1 Philippians 10, chapter 2:15; 1 Corinthians 10:32; 1 Thessalonians 2:11, 12; Titus 2:10. (2) John 6:15; Acts 26:18; 1 Peter 2:9; 2 Corinthians 4:3, 4, 6. (3) 1 Timothy 1:19, 20; 2 Timothy 4:3, 4; Titus 1:13; Jude 3.

He knows all the several ranks and classes of men in the state of grace, and according to their ranks, with what sort of temptations to encounter them. For men's temptations are various and manifold (1 Peter 2:6), even as the gifts and operations of the Spirit are (1 Corinthians…

Thirdly, they bring blessings upon a place, by their example: for, when men shall see godly persons, walking before them in the fear of God, and making conscience of all manner of sin, it is a special means to cause others to turn from their wicked ways, to newness of life. And…

Pilgrims take but little delight in their journeys, because they think themselves not at home. This is Saint Peters argument: Dearly beloved, as strangers and pilgrims abstain from fleshly lusts which fight against the soul, 1 Peter 2.11. For, too much delight in fleshly pleasur…

1. Whose foundation was the living stone, who has life in himself, Jesus the Christ (1 Corinthians 3:11). Seeing other foundation no man can lay, save that is laid, Jesus the Christ (1 Peter 2:4). For there is salvation in none other (Acts 4:12).

We must be dead to the first husband, before we can be married to another. To works of creation there needs no preparation; the almighty power of God calls them to be his people, that were not his people (1 Peter 2:10). And by calling them to be so, he makes them to be so (Roman…

It is against the dignity of Christ, which has qualified his Saints with a proportionable measure of the gifts of the Spirit, for prayer or praise (1 Corinthians 14:15, 16), in making their gifts needless and useless, when they can serve themselves with books, and formes, withou…

(3.) In the effectual illumination of the minds of them that do believe, enabling them spiritually to discern the mysteries so revealed, every one according to the measure of his gift and grace. See concerning it, 1 Peter 2:9; Ephesians 3:17, 18, 19; Chap. 5:8. Fourthly, there b…

We render it sometimes naughtiness (James 1:22), sometimes, malice or maliciousness (1 Peter 1:16), all manner of evil with deceitful guile. Therefore [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] is he that is free from all evil, fraud or sin; the same absolutely with that of the Apostle Peter (…

(1) God's owning of them to be his in a peculiar manner, according to the tenor and promise of this Covenant, and dealing with them accordingly. [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] (1 Peter 2:5). A peculiar people.

This I have before sufficiently proved. So Christ bare the sins of many; and so the signification of this word is determined and limited by the Apostle Peter, by whom alone it is used on the same occasion (1 Peter 2:24): [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], who himself bare our sins in…

But in the latter sense they cannot be so. It is Christ himself, and he only, who is so the Foundation as to bear the weight, and to support the whole Building of the Church of God (Isaiah 28:16; Matthew 16:18; 1 Corinthians 3:10, 11; Ephesians 1:20, 21, 22; 1 Peter 2:4, 5). He…

And in this case this patient long-suffering works three ways. (1) By committing our whole cause to God; as it did in Christ (1 Peter 2:23). (2) By patient waiting for the pleading of our cause under a sense of our own sin, and an acknowledgement of the righteousness of God (Mic…

And it was ordinarily in the primitive times, accompanied with excellent graces and privileges. For, (1.) God usually gave them hereon great joy and exultation with peace in their own minds (1 Peter 2:9). Has translated us out of darkness into his marvellous light.

But yet the expression is such as argues a nearer conjunction or concurrence between those two things, their illumination, and these days of affliction; the one followed as it were immediately on the other. This enlightening was that work of God's grace mentioned (1 Peter 2:9).…

The inheritance of the saints in light. And the state which men are thereby brought into, is so called in opposition to the darkness that is in the world without it (1 Peter 2:9). The world without the Gospel is the kingdom of Satan; [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] (1 John 5:19).

But yet it was so sanctified by the perfection of grace, and fortified by the fulness of the Spirit dwelling therein, as that it was not possible it should be touched with the least taint or guilt of sin. And this also was absolutely necessary to the work whereunto it was design…

And this is manifested in the effects of his wisdom and love in his mediation. For hereby do we declare and show forth [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], the virtues of him who has called us (1 Peter 2:9), or the efficacious power of the mediation of Christ, which these fruits are the…

He is wonderful (Isaiah 9:6): it is his name; and as is his name, so is he: not only in himself; but in some measure, in the eyes of those that are his. See also 1 Peter 2:7. To such as believe, he is precious: and unless when they slumber, and neglect him, he is more and more s…

But the misery is, our minds are full of darkness: we walk in the thick, dark shades of our natural blindness, until God call us out of it: and though the light shine in the word, and in the dispensation of it, never so brightly, our darkness comprehendeth it not, as (John 1:5).…

Shall not Flowers be sweeter than Weeds? You must be A peculiar People, 1 Peter 2.9. Not only peculiar in regard of dignity, but deportment.

After the Sop the Devil enters. 4. Christ himself works for hurt to desperate sinners; he is [...], a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense, 1 Peter 2.7. He is so accidentally and occasionally, through the pravity of men's hearts; instead of believing in him, they are offend…

Yes, undoubtedly. And yet this is the spiritual madness that takes place everywhere among men: for God has prepared for us two houses, one is this our body which we bear about us, which is a house of clay, as Job says (Job 4:19), "We dwell in houses of clay whose foundation is d…

And those who look on the things spoken of all church members of old, as that they were saints by calling, lively stones in the house of God, justified and sanctified, separate from the world, etc., as those which were in them, and did indeed belong to them, but even deride the…

Christ is a treasure, but a hid treasure. But a gracious soul has the veil taken off, he sees the amazing excellencies of Christ (1 Peter 2:7). To you that believe he is precious, his merits, graces, benefits are precious: a righteous man has Christ's eye-salve to see his tried…

A faithful servant would not willingly offend his Master, and therefore would fain know what is his will: they plead with God, and search themselves (Romans 12:2), and all to know his pleasure; and not only to know it, but to do it, otherwise they are worthy of many stripes by C…

The dove is the emblem of meekness; 'tis sine Felle, without gall; we should be as doves for meekness, we must avoid unruly passion, which is brevis Insania, a short frenzy; we must be without the gall of bitterness and revenge; we must be of mild spirits, praying for our enemie…

Whereas it was in your heart to build a house to my name, you did well that it was in your heart. God punishes intentional wickedness, and crowns intentional goodness; you did well that it was in your heart: God takes notice of the least scintilla, the least spark of grace in hi…

2. Sanctification is an intrinsic thing; it lies chiefly in the heart. It is called the adorning the hidden man of the heart (1 Peter 3:4). The dew wets the leaf, the sap is hid in the root; the religion of some consists only in externals, but Sanctification is deeply rooted in…

Wives submit yourselves to your own husbands as to the Lord. It is observable the Holy Ghost passes by Sarah's failings; he does not mention her unbelief; but he takes notice of that which was good in her, her reverence and obedience to her husband (1 Peter 3:6). Sarah obeyed Ab…

Q. Why else may we not pray for the dead? A. Because such prayers cannot avail at all, but are altogether vain (1 Peter 3:19; Hebrews 9:27). Q. For whom else must we not pray?

And then examine whether it is a true ground or not. As the apostle bids us give a reason for our faith (1 Peter 3:15), so ask of your soul the reason for its doubting. Thus David in Psalm 42:5: 'Why are you cast down, O my soul?'

This is that very thing which we say: this is the language of the Apostles and of the Church, which therefore we may use without the least suspicion of blasphemy. But to the former testimonies I will add one place out of Peter, 1 Peter 3:17: It is better (if the will of God be s…

And therefore Peter exhorts the Christians to have their conversation honest among the Gentiles; that they which speak evil of them as of evil doers, might by their good works which they should see, glorify God in the day of their visitation. 1 Peter 2:12. And he bids godly wive…

He must curse, that has absolute power and authority to inflict the same, when he will. But we are not absolute Lords over any man, or any creature; and therefore we must remember Saint Peter's lesson, 1 Peter 3:9, We must not render evil for evil, nor rebuke for rebuke; But con…

The Ark of Noah and our baptism, are figures correspondent one to the other: that, that Noah's Ark was to them, Baptism is to us. Thus teaches Saint Peter, 1 Peter 3:20-21. To the Ark of Noah the figure which now saves us, even Baptism agrees.

For the preventing whereof, the Apostle here, or rather the Holy Ghost by him teaches us, that true faith and salvation by the Messiah, belongs to Sarah, as well as Abraham; to women as well as to men. And Saint Peter also most plainly (1 Peter 3:7) teaches us, that they are hei…

Seeing the same wrath is fallen on them (as was on the Jews, for killing the Lord Jesus and their own Prophets, 1 Thessalonians 2:14, 15, 16,) seeing they crucifie Christ in his members, that contend for the faith of Jesus the Christ (as Paul did, Acts 9). Now so many as shall g…

2. As to the use of these Holies, they were [in non-Latin alphabet] is sometimes used for [in non-Latin alphabet], that which is signified by the Type; and this we commonly call the Antitype. So is the word used by the Apostle Peter (1 Peter 3:21). The substance of what is typif…

2. He did this once; [in non-Latin alphabet] which is opposed to [in non-Latin alphabet], often. The Apostle uses this word on this occasion, ver. 28; Chap. 10. 2. So (1 Peter 3:18). So he does [in non-Latin alphabet], once for all, Chap. 10. 10.

But yet there is no doubt an especial respect to those great outward enormities which they lived in during their Judaism, even after the manner of the Gentiles. For such the Apostle Peter writing to these Hebrews describes their conversation to have been (1 Peter 3:3), as we sho…

Salvation (Hebrews 1:14). The grace of life (1 Peter 3:7). Eternal life (Titus 3:7).

(5) Wherever there is mention made elsewhere in the Scripture of the Holy Spirit, or the Eternal Spirit, or the Spirit absolutely with reference to any actings of the Person of Christ, or on it, either the Holy Spirit, or his own Divine Nature is intended. See Isaiah 61:1, 2; Ro…

This at first view would seem to refer to the outward administration of the ordinance of Baptism required of all, antecedently to their orderly conjunction to a church-state in the causes of it; and so it is carried by many expositors. But, (1.) The Apostle Peter tells us that s…

The will of God is twofold; (1.) the will of his purpose and good pleasure, the eternal act of his counsel, which is accompanied with infinite wisdom concerning all things that shall come to pass; (2.) the will of his command presenting to us our duty, or what it is that he requ…

To these Noah had been a preacher of righteousness (2 Peter 2:5). In his ministry did the Spirit of Christ strive with them, until God affirmed it should do so no more (Genesis 6:3), but they were disobedient and barren (1 Peter 3:19, 20). And this issued in those provoking sins…

Faith and Fear go hand in hand; Faith keeps the heart cheerful, Fear keeps the heart serious; Faith keeps the heart from sinking in despair, Fear keeps it from floating in presumption; all the Graces display themselves in their beauty: Hope is the Helmet, 1 Thessalonians 5.8. Me…

Then he answered, I believe in God the father, etc. And thus did every one of years make profession of his faith: and it is likely that Peter alluded to this, saying the stipulation or answer of a good conscience makes request to God (1 Peter 3:21). The second cause is, however…

What is required in particular, that any of them may be meet to be joined to such a Church, we shall afterwards enquire. 7. It is generally said, that out of the Church there is no salvation; and the truth hereof is testified to in the Scriptures (Acts 2:47; 1 Peter 3:20, 21; Ma…

2. That whereas regeneration is expresly required in the Gospel, to give a right and privilege to an entrance into the Church or Kingdom of Christ, whereby that kingdom of his is distinguished from all other kingdoms in and of the world, to an interest wherein never any such thi…

How are they at peace with God and all his creatures? I answer, The privileges of Christ's kingdom are spiritual; whatever troubleth the saints, nothing can harm them (1 Peter 3:13), they may harm the man, but not the Christian: All things are at peace with them, because they ar…

Works are to be done in respect of God: that his commandments may be obeyed — 1 John 5:12; that his will may be done — 1 Thessalonians 4:3; that we may show ourselves to be obedient children to God our Father — 1 Peter 1:14; that we may show ourselves thankful for our redemption…

3. Keep down your vain heart by this consideration: that God values no man a jot the more for these things. God values no man by outward excellencies but by inward graces; they are the internal ornaments of the spirit which are of great price in God's eyes (1 Peter 3:4). He desp…

Thus David was not satisfied with having the word of God hid in his heart, but says, I will speak of your testimonies before Kings, and will not be ashamed (Psalm 119:46), and (which makes the argument more forcible) the Kings of his time were Pagans, both strangers and open ene…

There are bounds of divine patience. The long suffering of God for a time waits for repentance (1 Peter 3:20; 2 Peter 3:9). But there is a time, when it does only endure vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction (Romans 9:22), which is commonly after a long continuance in known s…

This a ruling Elder ought to do by virtue of his calling, and with authority (1 Thessalonians 5:12). Private Christians ought in charity to instruct the ignorant (John 4:29; Acts 18:26), to exhort the negligent (Hebrews 3:15 & 10:24, 25), to comfort the afflicted (1 Thessalonian…

Genesis 6:8, 9: "Noah was a just man, blameless in his generations, and he walked continually according to God"; and also ver. 1 of ch. 7: "I have seen that you are righteous before Me in this age." Moreover, honorable mention of him is made — in a manner consistent with this te…

13. And the wife which has an unbelieving husband, which is content to dwell with her, let her not forsake him. 1 Peter 3:7. Likewise let the men dwell together, as becometh them that have knowledge, giving honor to the woman's vessel, as to the weaker, that when as you be heirs…

Also lifting up of the hands and eyes, &c. (Psalm 123:1, 141:2). For even as a husband looks that he alone should not only have the heart, but also the reverent and loving behaviour of the body (1 Peter 3:6; Genesis 26:6), so the Lord requires these, both as testimonies of our s…

Answer: That is denied, he died for them as they were sinners, but as within the pale and under the covering of the fair and sweet shadow of eternally choosing love, otherwise, if Christ died for sinners as sinners; he died for all sinners; and for those that are finally obstina…

So when we read of him fulfilling all or any part of righteousness, let us take his mind in also, to be that the law might be fulfilled in us (as it follows there), who were then represented in him, and so the fulfilling of it is accounted ours. Let us behold him in his lifetime…

And when was that done, or to be done, but at his Resurrection? So the phrase in Timothy imports, if you compare it with another in Peter, (1 Peter 3:18), Being put to death in the flesh, [and quickened in (or by) the spirit.] Paul, he says, [Justified in the spirit;] Peter, he…

These two latter that remain here in the text (Christ's sitting at God's right hand and his interceding for us) are brought in here by the Apostle as those which have a redundant force and prevalence in them for the non-condemnation of the elect, that although the two former abu…

There are four things in easiness to be entreated. First, easy to be pleased (1 Peter 3:18), anything that you do about them, is pleasing to them, that is a point of gentleness; and a gracious man in whom is the life and power of godliness, he is easy to be pleased. If you go ab…

And this practice must be enlarged to all his works without exception, to his judgments, as well as to his works of mercy. Therefore we are commanded in persecution to sanctify God in our hearts (1 Peter 3:17). And Moses, because he failed in the doing of this duty, was barred t…

The sixth: in all things we do or suffer, we must depend on the goodness, providence, and mercy of God, for the success of our labors, and for ease or deliverance out of misery. This is to live by faith: and, as Peter says (1 Peter 3:17), to sanctify God in our hearts. The last:…

And that we may be able to suffer for the name of God, we must pray for this gift at God's hand. For power to suffer is the gift of God (Philippians 1:29): and we must observe the commandment of God, not to fear the terrors of men (Revelation 2:10; 1 Peter 3:14). And for this ca…

Answer. The words were uttered by Sara, but they were afterward approved by God (Genesis 21:12), and thus they are the voice of scripture. Objection 2. Sara is commended for her subjection to Abraham (1 Peter 3:6), yet here she speaks imperiously, "Cast out the bondwoman." Answe…

I answer, the outward baptism is nothing without the inward. Not the washing of the flesh, but the stipulation of a good conscience saves (1 Peter 3:18). Circumcision is profitable, if you keep the law (Romans 2:25).

Meekness is, the settling, or quieting of the mind, freeing it from perturbation, especially in repressing the revengeful affection. A meek and quiet spirit are joined together (1 Peter 3:4). A notable example hereof we have in Moses, who being provoked, instead of anger, showed…

For Isaiah stirs us up to covet after this latter; and teaches us to be assured that those with whom God is appeased, shall enjoy a peace that is blessed and happy indeed. Thus he sets integrity before them for the object of their desires, that so they may attain that peace whic…

And so Peter says, "Who is he that will harm you, if you be followers of that which is good?" (1 Peter 3:13). Yet, in consequence of the unbridled wickedness of the world, it too frequently happens, that good men, through a zeal of righteousness, arouse against them the resentme…

Though the report of the last judgment is now widely circulated, and though there are a few persons who have been taught by God to perceive that Christ will come as a Judge in due time, yet it is proper that those persons should be aroused by this extraordinary kindness of God,…

For not only does he abstain from revenge, but pleads with God the Father for the salvation of those by whom he is most cruelly tormented. It would have been a great matter not to think of rendering evil for evil, (1 Peter 3:9;) as Peter, when he exhorts us to patience by the ex…

And therefore although the skill and wisdom mentioned differed not in the kind of it from that which others attained by industry; yet he received it by an immediate Afflatus or Inspiration of the Holy Ghost, as to that degree at least, which he was made Partaker of. Sect. 27 Las…

For the Nature of thing▪ is different and distinct from the Means, and Evidences or Pledges of them. But such only is Baptism, with the Profession of the Doctrine of it, as is acknowledged by all who have Treated of the Nature of that Sacrament. (2.) The Apostle Peter really sta…

Here are two ends of life specified, 1. The glorifying of God. 2. The enjoying of God. First, I begin with the first, the glorifying of God (1 Peter 4:11): That God in all things may be glorified; the glory of God is a silver thread which must run through all our actions (1 Cori…

Affliction on the godly is like bruising of spices which are more sweet and fragrant: Affliction on the wicked is like stamping of weeds with a pestle, which makes them more unsavory. Use 1. It shows us that we are not to wonder to see Israel in the House of Bondage (1 Peter 4:1…

Our [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], our fellowship is with the Father. 3. That he may bring more glory to God (1 Peter 4:11; Philippians 1:20). That Christ may be magnified.

Some here present are in their youth, others in the flower of their age, others have gray hairs, the almond tree blossoms, and perhaps they have been very regardless of their souls or Heaven. Time spent unprofitably is not time lived, but time lost; if there be any such here who…

A gracious soul makes God his center, as Joab when he had taken Rabbah sent for King David, that he might carry away the glory of the victory (2 Samuel 12:27). So when a gracious soul has done any duty, he desires that the glory of all may be given to God (1 Peter 4:11): That in…

Stars are nevertheless glorious, though they have ugly names given them, as the Bear, and the Dragon. A saint's reproaches are like a soldier's scars, honorable (1 Peter 4:14). If you are reproached for the name of Christ, a Spirit of God, and of glory rests upon you.

For all judgments must have a relation to some law, which is to be the rule of trial, and according to which the man must be found guilty or not guilty. In order to such a process, it is requisite that there be a case made, and this case referred to, or examined and compared by…

For, says he, whoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father, with the holy angels. Hereby do we keep the commandments of Christ, as his friends (John 1…

Answ. The Office of them that are Teachers, is one and the same among them all; but where there are many in the same Church, it is the will of Christ that they should be peculiarly assigned to such especial work in the discharge of their office power, as their gifts received fro…

Quest. 24. Wherein consists the general duty of the whole Church, and every member thereof in their proper station and condition? Answ. In performing, doing, and keeping inviolate all the commands and institutions of Jesus Christ, walking unblameably and fruitfully in the World,…

Moreover (3) it will render the discharge of the duty of ministers to several precepts and exhortations of the Gospel, for the use, stirring up and exercise of their gifts impossible, and (4) thereby hinder the edification of the Church, the great end of all ordinances and insti…

Q. Who must be judged? A. All the world, both living and dead; and this of all things done in this life, whether they be good or evil (Acts 17:31; 2 Corinthians 5:10; 2 Timothy 4:1; 1 Peter 4:5). Q. In what manner will he come?

First, this very knowledge of it prepares men for such a condition if it should befall them. Therefore, to prepare them for afflictions beforehand, the apostle bids them not think it strange concerning the fiery trial (1 Peter 4:12). For if they are strange to anyone, then if th…

Secondly, the world knows them not, 1 John 3:1 and therefore speaks evil of them, Jude, 10. Thirdly, the wicked measure others by themselves; and therefore despise the godly, that join not with them, 1 Peter 4:3. Lastly, there is a secret enmity between the seed of the wicked, a…

Hence we learn, that it is not always a token of God's wrath, to suffer affliction. If any man or people be laden with crosses, it is no argument, that therefore they are not the children of GOD: for, as Peter says, Judgments begin at God's house, 1 Peter 4:17: and any cross upo…

1. That which we render certain, is in the original only [in non-Latin alphabet]: it does not denote an assured expectation, nor the certainty of the punishment; but only a certain kind of expectation, a kind of fearful expectation. Nor is this spoken in the way of diminution, b…

(4.) That the degree of its exceeding that punishment is inexpressible: of how much sorer? None can declare it, as the Holy Ghost expresses himself when he would intimate to our minds that which we cannot absolutely conceive and apprehend (1 Peter 4:17, 18). But whereas that pun…

Even what wicked men undergo justly for their crimes is what they suffer, as well as what believers undergo for the truth and profession of the Gospel. Materially they are the same (1 Peter 4:14, 15, 16). It is therefore the general name of all the evils, troubles, hardships, di…

The Synod concludes this fourth argument, by adding as follows; namely, Yet it does not necessarily follow, that these persons are immediately fit for the Lord's Supper; the reason rendered, is, Because though in a latitude of expression they are to be accounted believers, or in…

Poverty shall starve our sins; sickness shall make grace more healthful, 2 Corinthians 4.16. Reproach shall cause the Spirit of God, and of Glory to rest upon us, 1 Peter 4.14. [...]; death shall stop the Bottle of Tears, and open the Gate of Paradise.

Now in the third place follow the consolations to God's church and people. First as Saint Peter says, God is a creator, yea a faithful creator (1 Peter 4:19). The properties of a faithful creator are two: 1. He will preserve his creature: no man is so tender over any work as he…

Such as want a principle of grace, faint in the day of adversity they cannot bear a frown from a great man, or digest a reproach: If the bough of a tree be rotten, the least weight hung upon it breaks it. But the righteous has the heart of a lion; he is not startled at the disco…

Some come near, but never enter, as semi-converts and men of a blameless life; these cheapen, but do not buy, and go through with the bargain. Others enter, but with greater difficulty, are scarcely saved (1 Peter 4:18), saved as by fire (1 Corinthians 3:13), they make a hard sh…

For as by this, Christian fellowship has become a flavorless thing, so the attracting beauty that used to shine from the conversations of the saints upon the faces and consciences of the world — which if it did not allure and bring them in love with the ways of God, yet at least…

2. God at this season, forgets not, but full well remembers his relation of being [THEIR CREATOR] both by the new, and also first creation (the new reviving and ingrating the remembrance of the first) [The SOULS which I HAVE MADE] said he in Isaiah. But in our Peter this is more…

2. And as this sin is the punishment of itself, so it is often punished with other sins also, sometimes he gives them up to bodily uncleanness for their spiritual whoredoms (Hosea 4:13): they sacrifice upon the tops of the mountains, and burn incense upon the hills, under oaks a…

6. Sufferings of good men for the truth highly glorify the providence of God. This is a matter of glory and honor: (1 Peter 4:16) If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God on this behalf. They thereby bear a testimony to the highest act of…

There are many talents, yet none like this of life: take therefore the exhortation (Galatians 6), while you have time do good: life is but an acting, you then live when you are doing good: see how many men fall from the tree of life, as leaves in autumn; the candle of the life i…

The study of theology, therefore, is nothing other than the effort, directed according to the norm of the divine word, to promote the saving light and the spiritual gifts in which this heavenly wisdom consists in the mind of the theologian. This Scripture itself teaches us every…

Then saints may fall a swooning at the very sight of the cross in others. And Peter (1 Peter 4:12) says, [illegible], Be not stricken with wonders, or astonished, as at new things and miracles (Acts 17:20) when you are put to a fiery trial. The comforts of the cross are the swee…

Assertion 2. The soul or its faculties are not destroyed in conversion: Peter's will which he had when he was young, was the same when converted, but renewed (John 21:18). The saints that Peter writes to, are not to run to the same excess of riot as of old they worked the will o…

When we see the Lord's hand in all the punishments and judgments that befall us, and we bear it willingly, this is solemnly to worship him, and to be wrought upon as clay in the hand of the potter, and in thus doing we have him. And if the case should be, that we should come to…

Yet if he meet with two or three like himself, they presently begin to kindle one another; and the breath of such Christians, is like bellows, to blow up sparks — savory and sweet expressions of their hearts, and edify themselves by their mutual fellowship one with another. Inde…

It is good to have the Word of God abide in our memories, but chiefly in our hearts by a sound belief and fervent love to the truth. 2. Partly by Resolution (1 Peter 4:1): Arm yourselves with the same mind, namely, that was in Christ. When Satan grew bold and troublesome Christ…

And though they may be very pinching, yet we should still remember that God is good to them that are of a clean heart (Psalm 73:1). God has in himself all-sufficiency, who knows both what we want, and what is fittest for us, and is engaged by his general providence as a faithful…

David adds a seventh in (Psalm 119:164.) Seven times a day will I praise you, which may only denote frequency in the duty: Some of these may seem extraordinary cases: The ordinary seasons the saints have taken have been morning and evening, according to the Jews' sacrifice of a…

Here first we see the proper matter of the Ministry, which is not the word or doctrine of man, but of God. By this the Ministers of the Gospel are taught to handle their doctrine with modesty, and humility, without ostentation, with reverence, and with a consideration of the maj…

Yet this limitation must be added, that the curse was not upon the Godhead of Christ, but only in his flesh, or manhood. For he suffered (says Peter) in the flesh (1 Peter 4:1). Moreover, the soul of Christ was the more principal seat of the curse, as it was the principal seat o…

For if spiritual men must restore them that are fallen, the more a man is endowed with spiritual graces, the more he ought to restore. For the Apostle says, As every man has received a gift, so let him minister it to others (1 Peter 4:10). This duty was practiced by our Savior C…

From the first Chapter hitherto, the Prophet has denounced judgment against the two kingdoms of Judah and Israel: from the beginning of the Chapter following, to the 24th, the Prophet foretells what horrible calamities should befall the enemies of the Church. And thus God judges…

And yet the chief mark that Isaiah aims at in these prophecies, is to show the Jews how dear and precious their salvation was in God's eyes, when they saw that he took their cause into his own hand, and executed vengeance upon the wrongs which had been done them. Now in the begi…

When he says he heard this of the Lord of hosts, it is as it were a seal to ratify the prophecy: for he protests that he brought forth none of his own conjectures, but received them of the Lord himself. Wherein we may note that God's servants ought to be furnished with this assu…

It has been abundantly found to be true in fact, by the experience of the Christian church; that Christ commonly gives, by his Spirit, the greatest, and most joyful evidences to his saints, of their sonship, in those effectual exercises of grace, under trials, which have been sp…

Nay, so ordinary is this with God, that from the observations of their own frames and ways, many Christians have fore-boded and preaged troubles at hand. I do not say, that God never afflicts his people, but for their sin; for he may do it for their tryal, 1 Peter 4:12 Nor do I…

3. Because all you can do for your souls is little enough to save them. I may make use of that expression (1 Peter 4:18): "The righteous shall scarcely be saved." Though I know it may have reference in some sense to outward salvation only, yet I may make use of it to this purpos…

There are some men who suffer as Christians, and some as evildoers — we may suffer either for Christ's sake, or for our own sakes. The distinction is laid down in 1 Peter 4:15-17: "Let none of you suffer as a murderer, as an evildoer, as a thief, as a busybody in other men's mat…

He goes before the Sons of God in sufferings, and therein is also a Leader to them by his example. Christ, says Peter, has suffered for us, leaving us an example that we should follow his steps; that is, be ready and prepared to patience in sufferings when we are called thereunt…

Only upon himself shall you not put forth your hand — you shall not move an inch further, not a hair's breadth further. As our afflictions for the matter of them are by the will of God (as the Apostle speaks, (1 Peter 4:19), 'While you suffer,' says he, 'according to the will of…

When the Holy Ghost would set out the certainty, and dreadfulness of the perishing of ungodly men, he does it by such a kind of expression, wherein there is a deeper sense intimated into the minds of men, than any words can well cloath or declare. 1 Peter 4:17. What shall be the…

Surely there is no way for men to escape, they shall unavoidably perish who neglect so great salvation. So the Holy Ghost sayes, 1 Peter 4:11. What shall be the end of them that obey not the gospel?

If the Saints' glory in Heaven were but for a time, and they were in fear of losing it, it would eclipse and embitter the joys of Heaven, but eternity is written upon their joys. The garland made of flowers of Paradise fades not (1 Peter 5:4). I have read of a river which they c…

When all worldly honor shall lie in the dust, the mace, the star, the robe of ermine, the imperial diadem, then shall the saints' honor remain; not one jewel shall be plucked out of their crown; they shall gain at Death a blessed eternity. If the saints could have but the least…

The eagle that flies high cannot be stung with the serpent: death gives the soul the wing of the eagle, that it flies above all these venomous serpents here below. 5. Temptation: though Satan be a conquered enemy — yet he is a restless enemy (1 Peter 5:8). He walks about; the de…

Second, The best way for Christians to be settled, is to be well grounded. Doctrine 1. That it is the duty of Christians to be settled in the doctrine of faith: It is the Apostle's prayer, (1 Peter 5:10). The God of all grace stablish, strengthen, settle you. That they might not…

Christ makes all his subjects kings (Revelation 2:10): I'll give you a crown of life. This crown will be full of jewels, and it will never fade (1 Peter 5:5). 2. Christ is a King in reference to his enemies, in subduing and conquering them: he pulls down their pride, befools the…

Use 3. of Comfort. As God is a Spirit, so the reward that he gives is spiritual; that is the excellency of it; as the chief blessings he gives us in this life are spiritual blessings (Ephesians 1:3), not gold and silver; he gives Christ, his love; he fills us with grace; so the…

Secondly, if you would be growing Christians, be humble Christians. It is observed in some countries (as in France,) the best and largest grapes which they make their wine of, grow on the lower sort of vines; the humble saints grow most in grace (1 Peter 5:5). God gives grace to…

He is the ancient of days (Daniel 7:9), yet never decays, or waxes old. The joy he gives is eternal, the crown he gives fades not away (1 Peter 5:4). The glorified soul shall be ever solacing itself in God; it shall be feasting on his love, and sunning itself in the light of his…

Christ has sanctified the trouble, and removed the curse. Or rather, he has not only freed believers from misery, but purchased for them a crown of glory and immortality (1 Peter 5:4). When the chief Shepherd shall appear, you shall receive a crown of glory that fades not away.

God lets a poor humble Christian stand, when others of higher parts, and who have higher thoughts of themselves, fall off by apostasy. They are most likely to persevere who God will give most grace to; but he gives grace to the humble (1 Peter 5:5). They are most likely to perse…

1. He will give us peace in trouble: when a storm without, he will make music within: the world can create trouble in peace, but God can create peace in trouble: He will send the Comforter, who as a dove brings an olive branch of peace in his mouth (John 14:16). 2. God will give…

Christian, what does trouble you? You have a God to pardon your sins, to supply your wants: therefore roll your burden on the Lord (1 Peter 5:7). Casting all your care on him.

3. Serving the true God is beneficial; they have great vails here, the hidden manna, inward peace, and a great reward to come. They that serve God, shall have a kingdom when they die (Luke 12:32), and shall wear a crown made of the flowers of paradise (1 Peter 5:4). To serve the…

A crown is the highest ensign of worldly glory; and God has promised a crown of life to them that love him (James 1:12). And it is a never-fading crown (1 Peter 5:4). 4. By our loving God we may know that he loves us (1 John 4:19).

There are three characters. 1. God's covenant people are a humble people (1 Peter 5:5): be clothed with humility. God's people esteem others better than themselves; they shrink into nothing in their own thoughts (Philippians 2:3).

The Roman Emperors have three crowns set upon their heads: the first of iron, the second of silver, the third of gold. So the Lord sets three crowns on his children — grace, comfort, and glory; and this crown is eternal (1 Peter 5:4). You shall receive a crown of glory that fade…

2. The mixing wisdom and innocency, is seen in this; to be humble, but not base: humility is part of the dove's innocency. 1 Peter 5:5: "Be clothed with humility." Saint Paul, though the chief of the apostles, calls himself the least of saints.

Why what shall we be? Every son of God shall have his crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4), and white robes (Revelation 6:11). Robes signify dignity, and white signifies sanctity.

(1.) That starve souls. (1 Peter 5:2) Feed the flock of God which is among you. These feed themselves, and starve the flock: either through non-residing they do not preach, or through insufficiency they cannot.

How does he shoot fiery darts! The Devil is never idle: the Devil is a busy bishop in his diocese, he walks up and down seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). Now is not this a reasonable request, to take but as much care for the saving of your souls as the Devil does for the…

When the Devil tempted our Saviour, he fetched armor and weapons from Scripture: It is written (Matthew 4:4, 7). 3. The Holy Scripture is a panacea, or universal medicine for the soul; it gives a receipt to cure deadness of heart (Psalm 119:50), pride (1 Peter 5:5), infidelity (…

Now that the sea, which is higher than the earth, should not drown the earth, is a wonder of Providence; and the prophet Jonah saw the wonders of God in the deep, when the very fish which did devour him and swallow him, did bring him safe to shore. 2. God's Providence reaches to…

3. The blessed promise annexed to perseverance; the promise is a crown of life (Revelation 2:10). Death is a worm that feeds in the crowns of princes, but behold here a living crown, and a never-fading crown (1 Peter 5:4 and Revelation 2:28). He that overcomes, and keeps my work…

Christ was sensible when he sweated great drops of blood, but there was submission to God's will (Matthew 26:39): Nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will. We are told to humble ourselves under God's hand (1 Peter 5:6), which we cannot do unless we are sensible of it. 2. A C…

Acts 20:17: he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the Church, and said to them; verse 28: take heed therefore to yourselves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the Church of God which he has purchased with his own blood. 1 Peter…

Quest. 23. Who are the ordinary officers or ministers of Christ in the Church to be always continued therein? Answ. Those whom the Scripture calls, pastors and teachers, bishops, elders, and guides (Acts 14:23; Acts 20:17, 18; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11; Philippians 1:1…

(2) Titus 1:7, 8, 9; 2 Timothy 3:2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7. (3) 1 Peter 5:2, 3. (4) Acts 14:23.

Qu. 26. May a person be called to, or be employed in a part only of the office or work of the ministry, or may he hold the relation and exercise the duty of an Elder or Minister to more Churches than one at the same time? Answ. Neither of these have either warrant or president i…

And therefore (2) Whatever they do as Elders in the Church according to rule, they do it not in the name or authority of the Church by which their power is derived to them, nor as members only of the Church by their own consent or covenant, but in the name and authority of Jesus…

For first, they object against them, that they are lay Elders; when those with whom they have to do, deny that distinction of the Church into the Clergy and Laity. For although they allow the distribution of [illegible], into Officers, and the multitude of the Brethren, yet they…

Nor is it a two-fold power or authority that the Elders of the Church have committed to them; one to teach and another to rule, commonly called the power of order, and of jurisdiction; but it is one power of Office, the duties whereof are of several kinds, referred to the two ge…

And for this end was that buffeting by Satan we have so often mentioned (2 Corinthians 12:7): 'to keep him from being exalted above measure.' So also, 'Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God' (1 Peter 5:6) — and if in any other affliction his mighty hand lays hardest on,…

But herein believers wrestle not alone with flesh and blood and the darkness thereof, but do further conflict also with those spiritual wickednesses, the princes of darkness (Ephesians 6:12), about their interest in those heavenly privileges (as the phrase there used may be well…

Thus that Corinthian was in danger of being swallowed up — as the word signifies — with excessive sorrow, when Satan had to do with him (2 Corinthians 2:7). And the same word is again used of the devil: 'seeking whom to swallow up' (1 Peter 5:8). So as Satan inflames other membe…

For faith in God is the greatest enemy to Satan — it quenches all his darts (Ephesians 6:16). By standing steadfast in which, we resist him so that he flees from us (1 Peter 5:9). As therefore faith is that chief work of God and the master-grace (John 6), so despair and doubting…

Nay, rather take Saint Peter's holy counsel. 1 Peter 5:5. Humble yourself under this so mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.

To them therefore here is matter of good advice. Let such a man learn but one promise of God out of the holy Scripture, as this; Seek first the Kingdom of God, and all things else shall be given unto you, Matthew 6:33: or this; Cast all your care on him, for he careth for you, 1…

God has in the Covenant of Grace promised to preserve the faith and love of his people, that they should not perish nor be lost. Therefore having begun a good work, and you having made some good progress in compliance with his grace, he is not unrighteous so as to forget his cov…

And it cannot be denied but that the abuse hereof laid the foundation of all that swelling secular pride, and cursed domination or lordly rule which afterwards pestered the Church. The two things which the Apostle Peter in one place cautions and charges the elders and guides of…

So is our election (Ephesians 1:4, 5), our vocation (1 Corinthians 1:26, 27), our regeneration (John 1:13; James 1:18), our recovery from sin (Hosea 14:4). So is our peace and all our consolation, from where he is called the God of all grace (1 Peter 5:10), and the God of patien…

This the Lord Christ every where warned his disciples of, affirming that those who are not willing to renounce the world, and to take up the Cross, did not belong to him. (2.) For the trial of their faith (1 Peter 5:6, 7). (3.) For the glory and propagation of the Gospel.

As for the opinion of Erasmus, who thinks that in this so heavenly a prayer made to God the father, there should be no mention made of bread, that is, of earthly things, which even the gentiles bestow on their children; it is vain and frivolous. For it is God's will, that we sho…

Let them not debase themselves with earth: An earthly saint, is as great a contradiction as an orthodox heretic. It is called filthy lucre (1 Peter 5:2), because it does so befilthy a person. Earthliness is an enemy to grace.

True grace has an inward propensity to comply with the will of God; there is a law upon their bowels: by-ends work by constraint, and carry the soul contrary to its native inclination; a man would not do such a thing, were it not for such ends. Therefore the Apostle says (1 Pete…

In history therefore are three Babylons mentioned: one is, Babylon of Assyria standing on the river Euphrates, where was the confusion of languages, and where the Jews were in captivity: which Babylon is in Scripture reproached for idolatry and other iniquities. The second Babyl…

If he cannot work without this or that means you did expect your mercy by, it supposes that God has made the creature greater than himself, and more necessary to your well-being than himself is; or else we imagine him false or foolish, as if he had undertaken a task of governmen…

It has four different significations: 1. It notes age; 2. antiquity; 3. venerability; 4. an office. In the first signification, Elder is opposed to younger, as (1 Timothy 5:1) Rebuke not an Elder, but entreat him as a father, and the younger men as brethren, (1 Peter 5:5) Likewi…

Here if [acting in its whole body] denote any power again of the [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] or whole body of the people, or any more than their regular obedience to the lawful commands of the Bishop over them, I shall be able to demonstrate that the words of Ignatius sound noth…

Here is forbidden to walk according to our own judgement and wisdom (Numbers 15:39; Genesis 11:4); also a distrustful care (Matthew 6:25; Luke 12:26). To this, last of all is adjoined humility, when emptying ourselves of all, we give God the whole glory of all good things, which…

And as you gain nothing by your striving with him, so you lose nothing but gain much by your soft stooping and silent submitting to him. If you humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, he shall lift you up (James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:6). Humble yourselves therefore under the might…