§. 6. Of many types setting out many mysteries.
For there was a Tabernacle made, the first wherein was the Candlestick, and the Table, and the shew-bread, which is called the Sanctuary.
IN this verse the Apostle beginneth to exemplifie the two generall points, which he had noted in the former verse: namely, the Sanctuary, where ordinances of di∣vine service were performed, and then the ordinances them-selves.
The place is here in generall stiled a Tabernacle. Of this word Tabernacle, S•…•…e Chap. 8. v. 2. §. 5. Of it there were two speciall parts wherein ordinances of divine service were observed: One was called the holy place, which is here translated th•…•… Sanctuary. The other was called the Holiest of all, v. 3.
Quest. Why doth he rather speak of the Tabernacle, which was made in Mose•…•…* 1.1 time, and continued only to Solomons time: rather then of the Temple, which was of the same fashion, and made to the same use: and far more glorious and lasting: and might be the better remembred.
Answ. He speaks of legall rites which were made by Moses, according to Gods appointment, Chap. 8. v. 5. and in that respect it was more pertin•…•…nt to the Apo∣stles purpose.
The former part of the Tabernacle is here stiled the first, for they entered into that first. Thorough it they entered into the other.
This first Tabernacle was an especiall type of Christs body: as hath been shewed* 1.2 Chap. 8. v. 2. §. 5.
This and the other types following give proof that there are many distinct my∣steries of religion whereof God would have his people to take notice. This was one end of setting out divine mysteries in external and visible types, that thereby people may take occasion to enquire after the meaning of them: and so come in some mea∣sure to understand the mysteries contained under them.
- 1. Hereby the manifold wisdome of God is more clearly discerned.
- 2. Peoples understanding was much helped.
- 3. Their faith was greatly strengthned.
- 4. Their hope was exceedingly supported.
Hereby their folly is discovered, who think that a generall knowledge is sufficient: namely, that there is a God: that he is to be served: but care not to enquire into the particular wayes and meanes of serving him acceptably: and of trusting in him to salvation.
The severall types of the law, were as severall mysteries of religion: instead of them we now have Catechismes, Common places, Institutions, Bodies of divini•…•…y, Principles, Epitomes, Compendiums, Enchiridions, and other like means of in∣structing the people distinctly in the severall mysteries of godlinesse. It will be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 wisdome well to use them all.