- godlinesse. 3 By the means, wherby the external cause or the
object did work that effect. And they were the senses of hearing and seeing. 4 By the occasion, which was his dwelling amongst them. 5 By the adjunct of time, which was continually. 6 By the degree, which was the highest, as if he had beene put upon the rack; he vexed, in Greek it is [Greek: ebasanize], tormented.
Besides those that are common unto Lot with the example of Noah, there are these Doctrines to be observed.
Doct. 1. Men are accounted righteous or unrighteous in the sight of God, not so much for some one deed, as for the whole course of their life.
This is gathered therehence, that Lot is here called righteous, who notwithstanding is spoken of in the Scripture to have committed a most hainous sin. For those that are said to be righteous in the Scriptures, are so called, either in respect of the imputation of Christs righteousnesse, or in respect of some particular cause wherein they shew themselves righteteous, or in respect of that inherent righteousnesse, which, though it be imperfect, yet is it sincere and pleasing unto God.
Vse. 1. This may serve to refute the Papists and others, who as soone as they reade that any one is called righteous in the Scriptures, presently conclude that a man may fulfill the whole law, and stand upon his own merits before God. 2. To comfort the godly, who sometimes fall through infirmity. For if they continually labour to please God, God in mercy accounts them righteous. Doct. 2. There are sometimes righteous men found in the midst of the ungodly.
This is gathered therehence, that righteous Lot dwelt amongst the Sodomites.
Vse 1. This may serve to refute those, that when they sinne put the fault upon others with whom they live, as if they could not be godly because others are wicked.
2. To exhort us, to strengthen our minds against the wickednesse of the age, and places, or men, amongst whom we live. For like as that servant deserves well of his Master, that sticks close unto him, when all others forsake him; so also are
