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§. 114. Of the Resolution of, and Observations from,
Heb. 12. 21.
By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph, and worship∣ed, leaning upon the top of his staff.
THe sum of this verse, is, Faith's proof.
The proof is drawn from a double effect.
The former hath respect to men; which was Blessing them.
The latter hath respect to God; which was a Worshipping of him.
The former is illustrated by the parties, and by the time.
The parties were, he that blessed, Iacob; and they who were blessed, The sons of Ioseph.
The time was, when he was a dying.
The other effect of worshipping, is amplified by his manner of doing it, Thus, leaning upon the top of his staff.
Doctrines.
- I. A Grand-father must be as carefull of the children of his son, as of his own. So was Iacob. See §. 111.
- II. Gods goodness extends it self to the children of his Saints. This is here exem∣plified in the example of Ioseph. See §. 111.
- III. It is an honour to be the parent of children under Gods Covenant. For honours sake is Ioseph here mentioned, in reference to such sons. See §. 111.
- IV. Parents may and must bless their children. Iacob is here accounted as a pa∣rent. See §. 111.
- V. Approach of death is a season to seek the good of posterity. This phrase, when he was dying, intends as much. See §. 112.
- VI. Saints are ready on all occasions to worship God. Instance Iacob. See §. 113.
- VII. Inward devotion must be accompanyed with an answerable composition of bo∣dy. Thus did Iacob manifest his. See §. 113.