This is gathered from the beginning of the 22 Verse. So 2 Pet. 2.20. Hence it is that the washing of baptisme represents that grace which is given in their calling: Now this purification and washing, which is communicated in their calling, and signified by baptisme, is not by justification only, which consists in the imputing thereof unto remission of sinnes, but also by sanctification and the reall clensing of the soule, 1 Cor. 6.11. Tit. 3.5. And this sanctification is chiefly referred to the soule as to its proper object. Reason 1. Because outward purification and sanctification is nothing worth at all, if it be divided from the inward: for this was the hypocrisie of the Scribes and Pharisees, that are said to have made clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, when within they were full of extortion and excesse, Matth. 23.15. 2. Because the operation of the Spirit begins at the soule, and from the soule is derived to the outward man: for as all pollution proceeds first out of the heart, Matth. 15.19. so also purification. 3. Because if the soule be once purified within, outward purity will follow of its owne accord, Matth. 23.26. 4. Because this purity doth more properly consist in the affection & intention of the soule, then in the outward practise; for the same outward works may be done by impure men; but the faithull differ from all impure hypocrites by their inward dispositions and affections. 5. Because the faithfull themselves are oftentimes sustained and receive comfort by the purity which they have within in their will and purpose, though they cannot produce it into act according to their desire, Rom. 7.21.25. Use 1. This may serve to condemne those that are whited over with the name of Christians, but never look after the purity of their soules: and therefore they may be rightly called whited wals, Acts. 23.7. and whited Sepulchres, Mat. 23.27. 2. To exhort us to use the utmost of our endeavours to purifie our souls, that they may be made the temples of the holy Ghost. Doct. 13. This purification is wrought by the hearing of the word, & the effectuall operation of the holy Ghost by the word.
