PHILirriANS CHAP. Ill, VER. 16. 119
VERSE 16. Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk Inj the same rule.
The word ' nevertheless,' some read it * only ' (m), as if it were a con- dition. But it implies both a precept and a condition, shewing that those that look for revelation of farther knowledge and goodness they must walk according to that measure of knowledge they have. The word * rule * implies in general the Scripture, more particularly a company of sound truths concerning faith, love, and hope. There is a great Bible, which is the whole word of God. The little Bible is the grounds of religion ; and these are not only to be understood in the book, but comprehended and invested in our understanding and affections ; and according to these we must walk. Truth is no guide to us, being only in the book, but as it is seated in the heart.
Doct. But let us come to some observations. First, we may learn that God out of his goodness hath left to his church a ride of faith and manners. There is a rule whereby men must walk, otherwise should we be in a laby- rinth of errors continually, havmg no other light but this torchlight of nature to guide us in this thick darkness wherein we are by nature.
The properties of this rule are divers. First, It is a. fixed and unchange- able rule ; and therefore we must bring all to it, not it to all.
Secondly, This rule is a perspicuous and clear rule. ' Thy word is a lantern to my steps, and a light to my paths.'
Thirdly, This rule is homogencal. All things therein are spiritual, all holy, all pure ; and therefore, when the question is about religion, we must have recourse thereto as the only absolute complete rule. And therefore we must know this rule and then be led by it ; for the word ' rule ' implies that there must be a thing to be ruled, else what needs rule, or to what use should it serve ? An instrument is in vain without use. It is true, many men make religion and Scripture but a mere object of discourse. But their example ought to be no rule to us. If we look to be saved, it must be by walking according to this rule ; and therefore a Christian life is no licentious life. Though he be freed from the law, yet must he serve God day and night. Therefore it is that the Christian prospers not nor thrives in this world, because he will not lie, nor swear, nor have a broad conscience, as the children of this world have, that take all occasion and scope to be rich. But a Christian Hves by rule. He hath little, and it is blessed to him ; for he looks at riches and profits of another kind.
In the second place, we ynay observe that a Cliristian walketh by this ride. He thinks it not sufficient to take a step, but keeps a right course stedfastly onward.
But how may this be done ? may some men say.
1. I answer: Let us use the means; as first, let us treasure up the word in our consciences. Let us get the rule within us ; get the articles of faith and assurance of the promises, and let this be betimes while we are young. It is the ordinary cry, The Scriptures are heard,"" they cannot understand them. But what is the reason '? They are bred up in earthly businesses, and are stuffed with them so as they find no place for the word ; and it is a miracle to see men thus brought up to live by this rule.
2. Secondly, When we have once treasured up the knowledge of these things, iue must learn to apply them upon several occasions; for where no
» Qu. ' hard ' ?— Ed.
120 EXPOSITION OF
practice is, there knowledge is idle, and makes us worthy of more stripes. Many have general truths in their minds, but coming to apply them, they find a great want. David knew adultery was a sin, and Peter knew it was dangerous for a man to rely on himself, yet how foully did they fall.
3. Thirdh', Let iis compare our eocpcrience vnth our rule. We shall find there is nothing therein but is fulfilled ; that there is no suffering but for some sin or other ; and that besides heaven hereafter, God rewards par- ticular obedience here with paricular rewards ; and particular sin with particular corrections. We shall know that his judgments are not scare- crows. The work of the wicked is accursed, but it shall go well with the righteous ; and by this means we shall be encouraged to good and scared from bad courses.
4. Fourthlj^ Be inqnisitire and watclifal over our j)articnlar steps. Take and hear admonitions and instructions, and be inquisitive after them. Those that are otherwise minded, no marvel if they, like libertines, spurn against all instruction and advice, and accordingly feel the smart of their ways before they see it.
5. Fifthly, Get a xconderful jccdousy over our hearts. We often offend in thoughts and desires, which God, the searcher of the heart, looks into ; and we must therefore be jealous of idle thoughts and words, not only of others, for so a hypocrite may be.