- en the godly. The object of Gods mercy is the godly. The
act and effect thereof is, to deliver them from temptation. The object of his justice is the wicked. The act and effect thereof is, to reserve them unto the day of judgement. Where he addes the manner how they shall be reserved, namely so, that they shall in the meane time suffer punishment. The cause and reason of these acts and effects, as well of his mercy as his justice, is the wisdome of God, or his knowledge joyned together with his will; as that first word intimates unto us, The Lord knoweth.
The Doctrines arising herehence.
Doct. 1. We have need of divers arguments to confirme our faith touching the mercy and justice of God.
This is gathered therehence, that the Apostle was so carefull to conclude this, and by so many arguments.
Reason 1. Because faith is not, as knowledge and sense is, to have such a full and evident assurance, as excludes all manner of doubting, but it hath some obscurity in the object, and so admits of divers doubtings, which must be removed by such-like arguments. 2. The imperfection of our faith, which must be helped by these means. 3. The multitude of objections and temptations, which fight against this faith. Vse 1. This may serve to reprove the security and presumption of those, that feele no want in this kinde. 2. To admonish us, to use all diligence, and to search out all the arguments that may be, to edifie our selves in this faith. Doct. 2. They that are truly righteous, so that they are vessels of the mercy of God, are also godly.
This is gathered therehence, that here they are called godly, who before in the example of Noah and Lot, were called righteous.
Reason. Because no righteousnesse can be pleasing unto God, which is not referred unto him and his honour; now this is done no other way, but by piety.
Vse. This may serve to admonish us, not to rest or please our selves in any righteousnesse, that is separated from true piety towards God.
