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§. 25. Of the Resolution of, and Observations from, Heb. 11. 6.
But without Faith it is impossible to please him: For he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a Rewarder of them that diligent∣ly seek him.
THis declareth the benefit of Faith. This is,
- 1. Propounded.
- 2. Confirmed.
In propounding of it, there is set down,
- 1. The matter wherein that benefit consisteth, that is, to please God.
- 2. The necessity of the means for attaining that benefit. This is set down in two negatives, Without it, it is impossible.
The Confirmation is taken from the reward of Faith. For attaining hereunto, two acts of Faith are set down.
- 1. To believe, that God is God. This is amplified two waies.
- 1. By the person that so believes, He that cometh unto God.
- 2. By the necessity of it, in this word, MUST.
- 2. To believe that God is a Rewarder. This is amplified by the object, or persons whom he rewardeth, them that diligently seek him.
Doctrines.
- I. By Faith men please God. This is here taken for granted.
- II. There is a necessity of using warrantable means. It is impossible otherwise to prevail.
- III. Men have access to God. This is here taken for granted under this phrase, He that cometh to God.
- IV. God is to be believed to be as he is. This phrase, That he is, intends as much.
- V. It is no arbitrary matter to believe in God aright. A must is put upon it. It is a bounden duty.
- VI. God is the Rewarder. This must be believed.
- VII. God rewardeth such as seek him. This is here plainly expressed.
- VIII. God must be sought out. The Emphasis of the Greek word implyes as much. We must do our uttermost in seeking him till we find him.
- IX. Men may aim at reward in approaching to God. For he that cometh to God must believe that he is a Rewarder.