He doth not simply say, They had need, but ye are become such as have need. Hereby he implieth, that God had afforded them sufficient means to be as strong 〈◊〉〈◊〉: but they had made themselves to be as children. Thus this word is used Iam. 2. 4, 11. Yea this very word is used in the verse before this Text, but thus translated, Ye 〈◊〉〈◊〉. It implieth, that the fault was in themselves: they brought upon themselves that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fitnesse, to be fed with strong meat.
This negative, and not of strong meat, is to be taken comparatively; as if he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 said, Ye have need of milk rather then of strong meat: or else the word need 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be taken for fit or meet, thus, Ye are such as milk, not strong meat is sit for: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as may be fit to have the principles of a Catechism delivered to you: but not (or rather then) deep Doctrines of Divinity. That this is his meaning is clear by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 own exposition of this phrase in the two next verses.
By this comparison it appears, that Gods word is to be dispensed according to bearers capacities. See § 62.
The end of dispensing Gods Word is to edifie, 1 Cor. 14, 12, 26. But this is the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 way to edifie people. Children best thrive with milk, and grown men with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 meat Wise School-masters will observe the capacities of their Scholars, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 instruct them. Should not Ministers much more?
- 1. Contrary to this Direction is an affectation of strong lines (as obscure preaching is called.) Many so preach as none can understand them: it is well if 〈◊〉〈◊〉 can understand themselves. Such were as good be silent: For as good never a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as never the better. They think they shall be accounted deep Scholars; but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 it must be by such as know not what a Scholar is.
- 2. They transgresse the fore-said Direction, who put no difference betwixt A•…•…ditors and Places: but preach the same things in populous Assemblies and 〈◊〉〈◊〉-villages, that they doe in Universities, or Assemblies of Divines: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their Sermons with unknown tongues, humane testimonies, obscure com∣parisons, and curious School-points; as if the Doctrine of the sacred Scripture were too plain.
- 3. It will be the wisdom of Ministers to distinguish betwixt persons and pla∣ces: and carefully to observe what may be fitted for them with whom they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in present to doe; especially for the meaner sort. It is better in this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to stoop too low, then to soar too high. It is better to feed men with 〈◊〉〈◊〉, then to choke children with strong meat. Minde not high things, but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to men of low estate, Rom. 12. 16. Note Pauls example in this case, 1 Cor. 14. 18, 19.