§. 146. Of flying for refuge to Gods promise.
THe parties here specially intended for partaking of the forementioned end of Gods confirming his promise by Oath, are thus described, Who have fled 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…∣fuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us.
This phrase, fled for refuge is the interpretation of a 1.1 one Greek word: which is a compound. The b 1.2 simple verb signifieth to flye, Matth. 2. 13. This com∣pound is onely twice used in the New Testament: here, and Acts 14. 6. It carry•…•…th emphasis, and that in a double respect.
- 1. As it intendeth safety, and is translated, fly for refuge.
- 2. As it intendeth diligence and speed, and may be translated, fly with speed.
In the former sense it sheweth, that they reap strong comfort from Gods promise, who make it their refuge. They who fled to the City of refuge, there rested quiet* 1.3 and secure; and feared not what their adversary could do against them, Num. 35. 12, 15. In this respect David oft stileth God, his hiding place, Psal. 32. 7. and 119. 114.
This will be a meanes to root out all confidence in our selves, or other creatures, and rest on God alone and his word. For he that fled to the City of refuge, there aboad, and went not out of it, Num. 35. 25, 26.
- 1. This excludes all proud, self-conceited justiciaries from strong consolation.
- 2. This teacheth us to acquaint our selves with our own guilt and emp•…•…inesse, that thereby we may be moved to flye for refuge to Gods word. Till we see that, we shall never do this.