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

The Analysis.

For conclusion of the whole Epistle, to the foregoing exhortations there is added one general one, which doth most nearly belong to the scope of the Apostle, to wit, that notwithstanding all opposition, difficulty, and temptation, they should constantly persist and go forward in that grace, which they had received. Now this care is described, 1 by two duties, which belong to the due manner thereof, soberness, and vigilancy. 2. The necessity of these duties is showed by the grievous danger, to which otherwise they should be exposed. And this danger is set forth by the efficient cause thereof, the Devil, of whom the Apostle makes a description to that purpose: 1 By the opposition and enmity which he hath against us; in respect whereof he is called, our adversary or enemy. 2. By the manner and degree of that enmity, that it is joined with cruelty, as of a roaring Lion. 3. That besides this cruelty there is over and above in him very great diligence and greediness to do us hurt, in these words: seeking whom he may devour. Now the Apostle gives us warning, that we must not yield to this enemy and danger which he threatens us, but resist it, verse 9 at the beginning, which is nothing else, but not to suffer our selves to be removed by his temptations from the grace of God: and the chief means of this resistance he shows to consist in the steadfastness of our faith: which faith may in this respect be wonderfully confirmed by the example of our brethren in the world, who have experience of the like afflictions and temptations of Satan. Agreeable to this exhortation he adds a prayer verse 10. Because the success of all our endeavours depends upon the grace and blessing of God: And in this prayer he beseecheth God to strengthen the faithful, and make them perfect in all grace, at the end of the verse, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. The arguments whereby he confirms their faith that they shall obtain this petition, are two: 1. The all-sufficiency of the grace of God in it self, in which respect this title is given unto God, that he is the God of all grace. 2. The communicating of this grace in the calling of the ⟨p. 119⟩faithful, in these words: who hath called you: the grace of which calling is showed, first, by the end and scope, that it is, to partake of the eternal glory of God. Secondly, by the principal cause, in Christ Jesus.