The Analysis.
In these verses is contained an application of the doctrine, that was before propounded concerning the Lords comming, to the use and edification of the faithfull. Now this application is made by an exhortation to piety and holinesse, which is first of all propounded, v.11. Secondly, confirmed by the doctrine that was before proposed concerning the manner of the Lords comming, v.12, 13. Thirdly, it is againe repeated and pressed, v.14. Fourthly it is againe confirmed by the doctrine that was before proposed concerning the patience and long-suffering of God, v.15.begin. which is in this place confirmed by the testimony of the Apostle Paul: whose testimony is illustrated, 1 Thereby, that he was frequent in such testimonies, v.16.begin. 2 By a preoccupation, whereby the faithfull are admonished not rashly to wrest any thing that Paul spake concerning such things, to a contrary sense, because although he spake some things that are hard to be understood, yet they are such that they are not wont to be wrested, but by some perverse men, who wrest the other Scriptures also unto their own destruction. From all these he inferres in the last place a conclusion both of the fore-going exhortation, and also of the whole Epistle, which is, to have a care to be stedfast, v.17. and to labour for growth, v.18. The end whereof is shewed to be the glory of Christ in that doxology, wherewith the whole Epistle is closed up. The Doctrines arising herehence. Doct. 1. All Scripture must be applyed unto a practicall use, that it may advance holinesse and piety.
This is gathered from v.11. Now not only in this place is this order of instruction observed, but in all the Epistles and Sermons that are propounded in Scripture.
Reason 1. Because the end of all Theologicall doctrine is to live well.
2. Because a bare apprehension and speculation of the truth, and a meere assent thereunto, is nothing worth, if it be separated from the practise. For this is found in some sort in the devils themselves.
