§. 42. Of the meaning of these words, Again he limiteth a certain day.
Again he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time: as it is said, To day if you will hear his voice; harden 〈◊〉〈◊〉 your hearts.
THe Apostle doth by this Adverb, a 1.1 Again, adde another Argument to prove that there is another Rest then the Land of Canaan to be sought after.
Of adding proof to proof for confirmation of the same point. See Chap. 1. v. 6. §. 77.
The Argument which here the Apostle useth, is taken from the time, which wa•…•… pressed for seeking after the intended rest. It is thus expressed, He limiteth a cer∣tain day.
The relative, HE, necessarily understood, though not distinctly expressed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Greek, hath reference to the holy Ghost, expresly mentioned, Chap. 3. 7. Where this testimony is first set down.
Thus the ground of the Apostles Argument appears to be of Divine Au∣thority.
The word translated, b 1.2 limiteth, signifieth to bound, or to set limits to a thing. c 1.3 The Noun whence it is derived signifieth a limit or bound, beyond which that which is limited or bounded doth not reach.
The like word in the Plurall number is translated, d 1.4 Coasts (Matth. 2. 16.) and borders, Matth. 4. 13. e 1.5 The Verb here used signifieth to ordain (Acts 17. 31.) and to determine (Acts 11. 29.) It is oft used to set out the eternal and unchangeable Decree of God: as Luk. 22. 22. Act. 2. 23 & 10. 42. Now Gods Decree setteth bo•…•… and limits to every thing.
Here the word is fitly translated, limiteth: for it is a set season that is comp•…•…∣sed under that which is here said to be limited. This season here called f 1.6 a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 day. It is thus indefinitely set down certain, in relation to man, who knoweth 〈◊〉〈◊〉* 1.7 the uttermost extent thereof. For who knoweth how long the light of the Gospel shall be continued to him? Or how long he shall live? Or how long the world shall last? These are the special periods which may be accounted the limits of the day here intended.