The Scripture directory for church-officers and people, or, A practical commentary upon the whole…

First, It lieth in a more explicit and distinct instruction about the principles of Religion already received. For there is no vessel that receiveth all this heavenly liquor at first. Apollo himself was an eloquent man, and potent in the Scriptures, yet he that watered others, did once need watering himself; Priscilla and Aquila did further instruct him in the ways of God, Act. 18 26. As the Sun doth not come to the vertical point immediately, but by degrees; so neither do a Church, or people presently arrive to the fullness of knowledge in the things of Christ, but they still grow in more understanding. Thus the Apostle prayeth, Eph. 1. for the Ephesians already converted and enlightened, that they might have the Spirit of revelation and wisdom, and may be able still further to know the depth and breadth of Gods love in Christ: And the Apostle Peter commends Believers, that they did still give heed to the Scripture, till the day-star did arise in their hearts, 2 Pet. 1.19 Oh then, Who can bewail the imperfect and defective knowledge that is every where? The eyes that should have grown clearer and clearer, are become blinder and blinder: You consider not, that much more even about the very principles of Religion is yet to be understood, then most do understand. The Heathen even dying would still desire to learn and know more; how much rather should Believers, seeing the objects to be known are so heavenly, spiritual and necessary. The Philosopher thought a little natural knowledge about the Heavens, better then a great deal of knowledge about the nature of sublunary things: how much then is the supernatural knowledge of heavenly things in a practical way to be esteemed, which will bring us to life everlasting? Know then it's your great duty to come up to more understanding in Religion: Shall a David that had more knowledge then his Teachers, pray yet to have his eyes opened? Psal. 119. What fervent and earnest prayers should thou then have, that thou die not, and be damned in ignorance?

First, It lieth in a more explicite and distinct instruction about the principles of Religion already received. For there is no vessel that receiveth all this heavenly liqour at first. Apollo himself was an eloquent man, and potent in the Scriptures, yet he that watered others, did once need watering himself; Priscilla and Aquila did further instruct him in the wayes of God,