A commentary or, exposition upon the divine second epistle general, writtenA commentary or, exposition vpon the diuine second epistle generall, written

But it may be objected, that it is wisdom to be silent. Many have surfeited by eating, none by forbearing: many have sinned by speaking, no man by holding his peace. God shall judge many a one Ex ore suo, out of his own mouth. And, Jam. 3.2. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man. Now he that says nothing, offends not in word. But we take not silence in a metaphysical consideration; as a meere privation. Non entis nullae sunt operationes: that which hath no being, hath no working: and he that says nothing, says no harm. But we take it in a legal consideration; as a cursed omission; or neglect of that should have been performed. As he that is bound to work, shall give an account of his idleness: so he that is bound to speak, shall answer for his silence. As the darkness in Egypt, was a darkness that might be felt: so silence in a Preacher, is a silence that will be felt: it shall smart to the quick. There are graces Personal, and graces Ministerial. Personal graces are essential to a Christian, accidental to a Minister; as Faith, Hope, Charity, Temperance, and the like. And these serve especially for the good of the receiver, the person in whom they dwell: in a second degree for the good of others. But Graces ministerial; as Preaching, exhorting, comforting, discerning of errors; confuting them, &c. respect him that hath them in the last place and principally tend to others benefit. 1 Corinthians 12.7. The manifestation of the spirit, is given to every man to profit withal. If we hold our peace, we first wrap our selves in a criminal mischief: because silence directly crosseth our vocation. A silent Preacher implies as harsh a contradiction; as a dark light, a dumb crier. Next in a Penal mischief: and that either of the greatest privation or loss in this life; the tabe and consumption of our graces and gifts. Zach. 11.17. The ⟨p. 252⟩Idol shepherd that leaveth the flock, shall have his arm clean dried up, and his right eye utterly darkened. Matth. 25.28. Take the talent from him. Or of the most grievous position of pain, and vexation of sense for ever; the blood of the lost being required at their hands, so long as there is a seat of Justice in heaven. Therefore saith Paul; vae mihi, si non evangelizavero; Woe unto me if I preach not the Gospel.