Clavis cantici, or, An exposition of the Song of Solomon

The invitation she gives him, is, Come my Beloved; Come, is a word much used betwixt Christ and the believer, and is a kindly word. He saith, Come, Chap. 2. 10. and now she useth the same word; Her putting up this desire, expresseth a desire of communion and nearness with him, and also much affection, and is the language both of the Spirit and the Bride, who saith, Come, Rev. 22. 17. Here it imports a petition, pressing for a greater degree of communion, which, by comparing this with the former words, may be gathered; for, she possessed it in a good measure for the time, and yet here she saith, Come. First, considering this invitation in it self, we may observe, That communion with Christ is the one, principal and common suit of the believer, wherein he is never satisfied till it be perfected. Next, comparing these words with the preceding, Obs. 1. The more that Christ be manifested to his people, the more near they be admitted to him, and the better that their frame be, and the more clear they be anent their interest in him, the greater will their desire be of more near communion with him. 2. Clearness of interest in him, when it's solid, is a ground to press for his fellowship, and still it presseth the person who hath it to pursue after more full manifestations of Christ. Again, considering these words as they respect his promise, vers. 8. I said (saith he) I will go up to ⟨p. 406⟩the Palm tree, &c. Now she having heard it, layeth hold on this promise, and is not long in saying, Come. Obs. 1. That believers should improve the promises they have, for attaining what is promised in them, and should not suffer promises to lye by them not made use of. 2. What is promised to a believer may, and should be prayed for, by them, 3. Believers in their prayers and suits to Christ, would have a special respect to the promises, not only to conform their desires to them, but to ground them upon them. 4. The more tender believers be in their frame, they will the more carefully gather up all Christ's words and promises, and strengthen their faith thereby in their dealing with him.

The invitation she gives him, is, Come my Beloved; Come, is a word much used betwixt Christ and the believer, and is a kindly word. He saith, Come, Chap. 2. 10. and now she useth the same word; Her putting up this desire, expresseth a desire of communion and neernesse with him, and also much affection, and is the language both of the Spirit and the Bride, who saith, Come,