§. 135. Of the ground of mans dying but once.
THe ground of mans dying but once, is thus expressed, a 1.1 It is appointed; The Greek word doth properly signifie to lay aside, or to lay up. So it is used, Luk. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 10. Col. 1. 5. 2 Tim. 4. 8. Now because what God determineth before hand, is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a thing laid up firm and sure, it is here applyed to Gods decree; He hath set it down, as an inviolable law.
This law or decree of God is to be extended, both to the condition it self, that men 〈◊〉〈◊〉 die: and also to the limitation thereof, but once.
Some make the ground hereof to arise from nature, which consisteth of contra∣ry qualities that destroy each other. But that destructive contrariety was not in mans primary nature as God made it: it came from sin. That decree therefore is of God, as a punishment of sin.
- 1. This demonstrates an inviolable necessity of the former points, cencerning mans subjection once to death. The law of the Medes and Persians which altereth not (D•…•…. 6. 12.) is not so firm, as this appointment or decree.
- 2. This teacheth us to make a vertue of necessity: which is willingly and com∣fortably to yield to that which cannot be avoided. Malefactors by light of nature, are taught to make this use of necessity: namely, quietly to submit themselve to exe∣•…•…on. That we may do it with the greater comfort, let us acquaint our selves •…•…ith the end and benefits of death to believers; whereof see before §. 133.