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

IN this part of the chapter, there is contained an exhortation to persist and go forward in the grace of God; which is the Scope of the whole Epistle, as was showed before: Now this duty is described in general in the 13. verse, and afterwards ⟨p. 21⟩is set forth, and pressed by divers arguments in the verses following. From the description of the grace before proposed, there is as it were a conclusion drawn, which is inferred by a necessary connection and consequence from the nature of that grace, as it was before described; which evidently appears by the conjunction Wherefore; and that is the reason why in all the parts of this exhortation, as they are distinctly propounded, there is a singular respect had to some part of the description that went before, wherein the nature of that grace was explained. The duty therefore to which the Apostle doth exhort, is described. First by the cause and principal part thereof; which is a lively hope, of which there was mention made before in the third verse. Secondly, By the singular object of this hope, in beholding whereof it should be confirmed and strengthened; which is that grace? that is now in some measure brought unto the faithful, but shall hereafter be communicated more fully and perfectly; in these words: Hope for that Grace, which is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; which part of the description, is taken from the end of the 7. verse. 3. By the adjunct of constancy and perseverance, which is especially aimed at in the whole Epistle, as the chief scope thereof; in these words: hope to the end. 4. There is added also the manner and means of performing this duty, when he tells us, that it should be done courageously and readily, with sobriety and watchfulness, in these words: Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober. This exhortation is set forth and pressed by divers arguments; the first of which is taken from regeneration or effectual calling, whereby all the faithful are made the Sons of God, which reason is taken from the 5. verse, where mention is made of the regeneration of the faithful, by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ: because by this regeneration or calling, the faithful are translated from the state of sin, into the state of grace: therefore this reason is given in both respects; both that they should renounce their former sins, verse 14.

IN this part of the chapter, there is contein'd an exhortation to persist and goe forward in the grace of God; which is the Scope of the whole Epistle, as was shewed before: Now this duty is described in generall in the 13. verse, and afterwards