A short treatise

Expos. 12. By the style of Scripture, we understand not the external superficies of words, but the whole order, character, frame, and comprehension, which fitly agreeth to the dignity of the speaker, & nature of the argument, and is tempered according to the capacity and condition of them for whose sakes it was written. Indeed every Prophet and Apostle almost, had a peculiar style; Isaiah is eloquent, sweet, and more adorned; Solomon accurate, Jeremiah vehement, and more rough; Amos simple, but all are divine. These things declare the majesty of the style: 1. The titles that the author of holy Scripture doth justly challenge unto himself, which import independence of nature, Exod. 3. 14. supereminencie of power and sovereignty, Psal. 50. 1. 2. excellency both of properties & works, Gen. 17. 1. Esa. 42. 5. and 40 12▪ 26. 2. The manner used in teaching, commanding, promising, and threatening. Things above reason, hidden mysteries, such as exceed all humane capacity, are unfolded, without all argumentation or furniture of persuasion, 1. Cor. 2. 7. and we are required to understand and believe ⟨p. 17⟩them, relying upon the truth and credit of the revealer. In giving the law, no proem is used, but, Thus saith the Lord; no conclusion, but, The Lord hath spoken. Exod. 20. 1. 2. Commandments of which no reason can be rendered, are enjoined. Gen. 2. 17. and that which a natural man would account foolishness, is peremptorily and with great security required, Joh. 3. 36. 1. Cor. 1. 23. 24. no argument being brought to persuade, or confirm the equity of those commands, but only the will of the Commander. Promises above likelihood are made, to assure of performance; no reason is alleged, but, I the Lord have spoken,