A practical exposition of the Lord's-Prayer

Yea, but if this be for the Elects sake only, and to convey that Power to them, to what use doth it stand to others? If the Elect did dwell alone, and were a distinct Community among themselves, the Objection were plausible; but they are hidden among others: Therefore Reprobates are called obiter, by the by, as others are called according to purpose; and therefore they have the Benefit of the common Call, and the common Offer. The World stands for the Elects sake, yet others have the Benefit of the World, and worldly Things. So the Word is preached for the Elects sake, yet others have the Benefit of an external Call. The Sun shines, tho blind ⟨p. 292⟩Men see it not. The Rain falls upon Rocks and Mountains, as well as fruitful Valleys: So God may suffer these Exhortations to light upon wicked Men. And again, as to them, it is for their Conviction, it is to bridle their Corruptions; it is at least a means to civilize them, and keep them from growing worse: Therefore such kind of Doctrines and Persuasions restrain their Wickedness. Therefore it stands well enough with the Wisdom of the Law-giver, to call upon Men, and invite them, with Promises and Threatenings, to Repentance.

Yea, but if this be for the Elects sake only, and to convey that Power to them, to what use doth it stand to others? If the Elect did dwell alone, and were a distinct Community among themselves, the Objection were plausible; but they are hidden among others: Therefore Reprobates are called obiter, by the by, as others are called according to purpose; and therefore they have the Benefit of the common Call, and the common Offer. The World stands for the Elects sake, yet others have the Benefit of the World, and worldly Things. So the Word is preached for the Elects sake, yet others have the Benefit of an external Call. The Sun shines, tho blind ⟨p. 292⟩Men see it not. The Rain falls upon Rocks and Mountains, as well as fruitful Valleys: So God may suffer these Exhortations to light upon wicked Men. And again, as to them, it is for their Conviction, it is to bridle their Corruptions; it is at least a means to civilize them, and keep them from growing worse: Therefore such kind of Doctrines and Persuasions restrain their Wickedness. Therefore it stands well enough with the Wisdom of the Law-giver, to call upon Men, and invite them, with Promises and Threatnings, to Repentance.