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

This is the Sense: for method of discourse, many things inherently natural to these words, have been pretractated on just occasion, Verses twelve and thirteen. I am loath to fall into a coincidence of argument, and therefore willingly abridge my self of some necessary matter. But to rest content with what is behind, and to give you the gleanings of the former vintage: there are some scattering grapes, which well pressed may afford you a cup of good wine. First, the Apostle moves them to embrace his doctrine, because he is old, and hath but a short time to tarry amongst them. Then he comforts them, that he will strive to leave an impression of his Doctrine behind him in their hearts.

This is the Sense: for method of discourse, many things inherently naturall to these words, have beene pretractated on just occasion, Verses twelve and thirteene. I am loath to fall into a coincidence of argument, and therefore willingly abridge my selfe of some necessary matter. But to rest content with what is behinde, and to give you the gleanings of the former vintage: there are some scattering grapes, which well pressed may afford you a cup of good wine. First, the Apostle moves them to embrace his doctrine, because he is old, and hath but a short time to tarry amongst them. Then he comforts them, that he will strive to leave an impression of his Doctrine behinde him in their hearts.

The grave exhortations of old age are to be ponderously received. There is somewhat in the Person, that procures attention to the Doctrine. A reverend Bishop is heard Tanquam Pater Ecclesiae, as a Father of the Church, saith Augustine: his speech may be Brevis, sed gravis; short, but effectual; leaving a deep impression in the hearers. Saint Johns short Sermon in his old age, [Little children, l••e one another.] so warmed his Disciples hearts with the fire of charity: that their head was turned into a Limbeck, and did distil down water at their eyes. The same weight of doctrine doth not feel so weighty in a young mans mouth, as in the gravity of reverend old age. Not that the truth of God depends on the regard of persons: but because mens affections sooner melt at his speech that is stuffed with experience; than at theirs who only aver the theoretical truth. But for us, whether he be a young Timothy, or an old Peter, that tells us the truth in Christ; the Spirit of God work in our hearts a faithful obedience!