This is gathered from the connexion of this exhortation with that which went before. For when the Apostle had before exhorted to constancy in grace, and to obedience, in holinesse, and to brotherly love; by a reason also taken in the last place from the worde of God, whereby as of incorruptible seed all the faithfull are regenerated, here in the beginning of this Chapter, he commends unto us the right use of that word, as the proper and only meanes to perfect all those things.
Reas. 1. Because the word is the instrument chosen by God and sanctified to that use. 1 Cor. 1.21.2. Because the word, especially of the Gospell, is the ministration of the Spirit, who is the authour and finisher of every grace. 2 Cor. 3. 6.8. 3. Because the word shewes us the good and perfect will of God. Rom. 12. 2. 4. Because it furnisheth a man unto every good worke. 2. Tim. 3. 17. Vse. 1. This may serve to refute some fanatick hereticks, that neglect the word of God and looke for immediate revelations, and dreame of a greater perfection then is contained in the word. 2. To exhort us, to give diligent heed unto the word of God in all things, untill we come to the end of perfection in heaven. 2. Pet. 1. 19. Doct. 2. If we meane to use the word of God aright, wee must have our minds ready and willing to lay aside all those vices that are contrary to the power of the word.
This is gathered from the 1. verse. Where five remarkeable vices are propounded, to be laid aside, denyed, and mortified, before the word can have its due effect in our hearts.
Reas. 1. Because as the matter, if it be not fitly prepared, cannot receive the forme; neither can the field, if it be not manured, cherish the seed to bring forth fruit: So neither can the heart of man, if it be not subdued by repentance, receive the word of God with profit. 2. Because such a purpose to forsake all that is contrary to the word of God, is the first beginning of that saving operation, which the word of God doth make, wheresoever it begins to be received, and whereby it makes way for it selfe, to perfect all operations.
