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

Doct. 3. Good works are fruits that the faithful should continually bring forth.

Doct. 3. Good workes are fruits that the faithfull should continually bring forth.

This is gathered therehence, that fruitfulness is both required and promised in this place. It is required therein, that the Apostle intimates, that this is necessary for the faithful, to be fruitful. It is promised thereby, that it is made as a benefit arising from virtues. Good works are called fruits by a metaphor, for the likeness that they have unto the fruits of trees and plants. Now in natural fruit many things are considered, which according to the Scripture must be applied unto good works. 1. That it be something agreeable to the nature of the seed from which it ariseth. 2. That it hath no only some good in it, but also perfections; hence flowers and leaves are not wont to be called fruits, although they come from the same seed that the fruits do, and be the last two that comes forth, and hath in it that perfection, that it is the end both of the seed, and all other things that arise from the seed before the fruit. 3. It is required also, especially in those that arise from good husbandry, that there be something that is de••red and expected and will be acceptable to the husbandman and master, or owner. All these things in the Scriptures are to be applied unto good works, 1. That they be agreeable to the word of God, which is the seed, as it is in the Parables Matth. 13. Mark 4. of the good seed: and good works differ from •ares, as grapes differ from wild grapes, Isay 5. 2. 2. That they have goodness in them. For bad works neither are properly fruits according to Scripture, unless it be with an addition, evil fruits. Nor do they bring any fruit to their […] Rom. 6 21. They must also have perfection in their kind: for as the seeds which are said in the parable to