§. 61. Of the kindes of Gods righteousness.
THe word here translated, a 1.1 unrighteous, is in other places translated unjust, as Matth. 5. 45. Luk. 16. 11. 1 Cor. 6. 1. For righteousness and justice are ordi∣narily taken for the same thing.
The notation of the Greek word is taken from b 1.2 right, in that righteousness or justice, consisteth in giving to every one that which is his right: The c 1.3 Philoso∣pher taketh the notation from a word that signifieth two parts, or a dividing of things in two parts: whereby is intended the same thing, that there should be given to one, that part which belongeth to him, and to the other, that which of right he ought to have. See more hereof Chap. 1. vers. 9. §. 114.
From this notation, we may infer that righteousness or justice is an equall deal∣ing. In reference to God, his righteousness is the integrity, or equity of all his counsels, words and actions.
This is manifested two wayes.* 1.4
- 1. Generally, in ordering all things most equally. In this respect Moses thus saith of him, His work is perfect: for all his wayes are judgement: a God of truth, and with∣out iniquity: just and right is l. e, Deut. 32. 4. This may be called Gods disposing justice, or righteousness.
- 2. Particularly, in giving reward, or taking revenge; and this may be called di∣stributive justice. Of both these it is thus said, God will render to every man accord∣ing to his deeds, Rom. 2. 6. This the Apostle saith, is a righteous thing with God, •…•… Thes. 1. 6. This kinde of righteousness is most agreeable to the foresaid notation.
That kinde of Gods righteousnes which consisteth in giving reward, is here espe∣cially meant.
The ground and cause of Gods giving reward, is not onely grace and mercy, but also justice and righteousness: but that in reference to his promise, whereby he hath bound himself. For it is a point of justice or righteousness to keep ones word. Thus Gods righteousness is his faithfulness. Therefore these two Epithites, faith∣full, just, are joyned together, as they are applied to God, 1 Iohn 1. 9.
This then is the intent of the Apostle, that he may be well perswaded of these Hebrewes in regard of their love to God and man, because God, who hath promi∣sed to recompence such, is faithfull and righteous.