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DOCT. That the business of mans salvation was transacted upon Cove∣nant-terms,* 1.1 betwixt the Father and the Son; from all Eter∣nity.
I would not here be mistaken, as though I were now to treat of the Covenant of Grace; made in Christ betwixt God and us; it is not the Covenant of Grace, but of Redemption I am now to speak to; which differs from the Covenant of grace both in regard of the foederates, in this 'tis God the Father, and Jesus Christ that mutually Covenant; in that it's God and man; they differ also in the preceptive part, in this it is required of Christ that he should shed his blood, in that it is required of us, that we believe; they also differ in their promises, in this God promises to Christ a name above every name, ample Domi∣nion from Sea to Sea; in that to us grace and glory: so that these are two distinct Covenants.
The substance of this Covenant of Redemption is Dialogue-wise exprest to us in Esa. 49. where (as Divines have well ob∣served) Christ begins at the first and second verse,* 1.2 and shews his Commission, telling his Father, how he had both called and prepared him for the work of Redemption: the Lord hath called me from the womb — he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword, and made me a polished shaft, &c. q. d. by reason of that super-abundant measure of the spirit of wisdom and power wherewith I am anointed and filled; my Doctrine shall as a sword, pierce the hearts of sinners; yea, like an arrow drawn to the head, strike point blank into souls, standing at a great distance from God and Godliness.
Having told God how ready and fit he was for his service, will know of him what reward he shall have for his work, for he resolves his blood shall not be sold at low and cheap rates: hereupon vers. 3. the Father offers him the elect of Israel for his reward; biding Low at first (as they that make bargains use to do) and only offers him that small remnant, still intending to bid higher: but Christ will not be satisfied with these, he va∣lues his blood higher than so; therefore in vers. 4. he is brought