verse 1. or at least that they are ashamed, as it is chap. 3. v. 16. Yet there are others which take occasion thereby to blaspheme, chiefely, because the godly by abstaining from those lusts and courses, which they highly esteeme, seeme seriously to reprove them, as well in their deeds as their words.
Reason 1. Because all they that do evill hate the light. 2. Because such a separation in conversation of life is as it were a condemning of those from whom separation is made out of conscience and religion. 3. Because wicked men being blinded with anger and hatred, and judgeing of others by themselves, doe imagine that this separation is usually made in hypocrisie, & simulation, not out of conscience and religion. Vse. This may serve to comfort and strengthen our soules against the temptations and troubles which may arise unto us from such mens blasphemies. Doct. 8. God will require an account from men for all such blasphemies, either in this life, or at the last judgement.
This is gathered from verse 5.
Reason 1. Because his Majestie is wronged more in these blasphemies, then in most of the other sinnes. 2. Because those sinnes are most hainous, and come neerest to the sinne against the Holy Ghost. 3. Because they directly tend to the hinderance of the kingdome of God, and the righteousnesse thereof. Vse 1. This may serve to admonish us, to take heed of all those, that do any way partake in such a sinne. 2. To comfort us because God revengeth such injuries, we should commit them unto him. Doct. 9. God keepes a just account of those things that are done to the faithfull, not only while they live, but also after their death.
For in that sense is he said to be ready to judge the quick and the dead, where by the quick and the dead the faithfull are most properly understood, as appeares by verse 6.
Reason 1. Because God alwayes lives, and his word and covenant lives.
2. Because it stands upon Gods glory, to defend the cause also of his servants that are dead, and to revenge their injuries.
