when a man speakes out of certaine judgement and communion of affection.
This is gathered herehence, that Peter makes way for his exhortation, in that he was a witnesse of the sufferings of Christ, and so had a certaine knowledge of those things which belong unto Christ, and that he was partaker of the same glory; and therefore he was affected after the same manner himselfe, as he desired they should be.
Reason 1. Because knowledge gives ability and authority, and communion of affection addes zeale and charity to the exhortation. 2. Because these two will take away those objections, which usually hinder the efficacy of the exhortation; namely, either that he gives his judgement of things that he doth not know, or else at least he is an unexperienced man, of whom it may rightly be said, If thou wert here, thou wouldest thinke otherwise. Use. This may serve to direct us to get knowledge of those things which we exhort others unto, and affections also answerable thereunto. Doct. 3. Men should be exhorted in a speciall manner unto those duties, which belong unto their proper or particular functions or callings.
This is gathered from verse 2. where the shepherds are exhorted to feed the flock.
Reason 1. Because every mans particular function is that condition wherein God hath placed him to advance his glory. 2. Because a mans faithfulnesse is most of all made triall of in that condition. 3. Because the duties of our generall calling should be exercised in every Christians particular condition. Vse. This may serve to admonish every one to take greatest care of those duties which are proper to his calling or condition. Doct. 4. It is the proper duty of a Shepherd, to feed the flock that is committed to his charge.
This is gathered from verse 2.
Reason 1. Because the shepherds are appointed for the edi-
