3. Because it makes us cheerefull in the performing of all duties, that we may be worthy of so excellent a calling.
Vse. This may serve to exhort us, to make this contemplation familiar unto us. Doct. 28. The end of our calling, is to shew forth the praises of God, that hath called us.
This is gathered from the ninth verse, that is, that we should render unto God the glory which hee hath shewed unto us. 1. In the inward thoughts and affections of our heart. 2. In the outward profession of words. 3. In our actions throughout the whole conversation of our lives. This is to sanctifie God, Isay 8.13.
Reason 1. Because this is that glory which may redound unto God from us, or from our calling. 2. Because our calling it selfe tends thereunto, that we should turne unto God, seeke God, glorifie God. 3. Because this is very profitable for us. Use 1. This may serve to refute those, that take care of nothing lesse: they shew that they are not yet partakers of effectuall calling. 2. To stirre us up more and more to fulfill this duty. Doct. 29. That state into which we are translated by our calling, is a state of marvellous light.
This is gathered from the 9 Verse at the end, Iohn 1.8. Now it is called light, both for the illumination of the mind, which it brings; and for the comfort of heart, which we receive thereby: and it is called marvellous, because it farre surpasseth all worldly knowledge, and whatsoever the naturall man can conceive.
Vse. This may serve to us, to carry our selves answerable to this light, and to walke in it, not according to the common fashion, but marvellously. Doct. 30. It is very profitable for us alwayes to compare our present happy condition, with the misery that is past.
This is gathered from the tenth verse.
Reason 1. Because contraria juxta se posita magis elucescunt, contraries being put one by another, make each other to appeare more cleerely.
2. Because it tends to our humiliation.
