An analytical exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter illustratedAn analyticall exposition of both the epistles of the Apostle Peter illustrated

The Apostle having in the former verses described the duty of the Elders towards the Church or the younger sort, and persuaded them unto it, he doth there-hence conclude the duty of the younger towards the elders by a comparing of ⟨p. 114⟩things that are alike unto it, as the first word of the 5 verse shows unto us, Likewise. This duty is in general pointed out by subjection, which is set forth by the other duty, that is due not only to the Elders, but also to all the members of the Church, by reason of that nature which it hath common with the former; and it is also called subjection in those words, yea, all of you be subject one to another. Now this subjection as well unto the Elders as unto all, is first described what kind of subjection it ought to be, to wit, not only outward, but proceeding from the inward subjection of the soul unto God, be clothed with humility. And that it is meant of humility towards God may be gathered from verse 6. Secondly, He doth persuade them also unto this humility: 1. Because it is an ornament of the mind; that by the way. 2. From Gods blessing adjoined, which follows thereupon, God gives grace unto the humble, which is illustrated by Gods curse contrary thereunto, that falls upon the proud, God resisteth the proud. Thirdly, he doth urge and press them unto this subjection towards God, verse 6. Humble your selves therefore; and he shows the proper reason of this subjection, which is the mighty hand or omnipotency of God: and withal he explains that reason, which he had before propounded concerning the blessing and grace of God towards the humble, to wit, that by that grace they shall be exalted: the time of which exaltation is marked out, that it shall be in due time, that he may exalt you in due time. In the last place by anticipation of a close, but weighty objection, whereby this subjection is usually made very difficult, he shows the true manner thereof, to wit, that it should be joined with that confidence, which casts all care upon God, so that no fear or worldly care can hinder this subjection, which confidence he doth persuade them unto by that effectual providence which God hath over the faithful for their good, verse 7, at the end, For he careth for you.

THe Apostle having in the former verses described the duty of the Elders towards the Church or the younger sort, and perswaded them unto it, he doth there-hence conclude the duty of the younger towards the elders by a comparing of ⟨p. 114⟩