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§. 27. Of Profession.
THe a 1.1 Greek word here used by the Apostle is a compound, and properly sig∣nifieth a consent. In the New Testament it is used for a confession or profession of a thing, 1 Tim. 6. 12, 13. It is also used to set out the Faith or Religion which Christians profess, Heb. 4. 14.
Here it may be taken either for an act on our part, (and thus translated, the Apostle and High-priest whom we confess and profess so to be) or for the subject matter, namely the faith or Religion which we profess. Neither of these cross the other, but may both well stand together. For Christians do on all occasions actually profess that which is the object of their profession.
The former acception of the word sheweth that true Christians do prosess Christ to be their Apostle and High-priest, that is, their instructer and intercessor. They are not ashamed of him, for he is not ashamed of them. See Chap. 2. v. 11. §. 108.
The later, that Christ, as an Apostle and High-priest, is the principall subject of the Christian Religion. He is that foundation whereupon other Articles of the Christian faith are erected, 1 Cor. 3. 10, 11, 12. Act. 4. 12.
The very word Profession, as here used, implieth that Christians openly profes∣sed their faith. Thus the Apostle himself openly professeth his faith saying, This I confess, that after the way which they call heresie, so worship I God, &c. Act. 24. 14. This is that good profession which is commended, and which is testified of * 1.2 Christ himself, 1 Tim. 6. 12, 13. An Apostle prescribeth this as a duty under another like word, namely b 1.3 Apology, translated to give an answer, 1 Pet. 3. 15.
This is set down as an especiall fruit of faith, for with the heart man beleeveth, and with the mouth confession is made, Rom. 10. 10. I beleeved, therefore have I spoken, Psal. 116. 10. We also beleeve, and therefore speak, 2 Cor. 4. 13.
This also is set down as the way to salvation. With the mouth confession is made* 1.4 unto salvation, Rom. 10. 10. How unworthy of their holy profession do they carry themselves, who being in the number of those that profess the true faith, through fear or shame for bear to make open profession of that faith. Some count it a point of wisdom to conceal their faith, and to shew themselves close men, so as none shall know what they are resolved to stand to. Surely this wisdom was never learn∣ed in Christs School. He that was made wise by Gods word, professeth to speak of Gods testimonies even before Kings, and not to be ashamed, Psal. 119. 46. These are like the Laodiceans which were neither cold nor hot: But of all, they were most grievous to Christ, who thereupon threatens to spue them out of his mouth, Rev. 3. 16. At the great day will Christ shew himself to be ashamed of such, Mark 8. 38.