A learned and very useful commentary on the whole epistle to the Hebrews wherein every word and particle in the original is explained ... : being the substance of thirty years Wednesdayes lectures at Black-fryers, London / by that holy and learned divine Wiliam Gouge ... : before which is prefixed a narrative of his life and death : whereunto is added two alphabeticall tables ...

§. 34. Of generall doctrines intended to particular Persons.

THe particular application of the former point of well bearing afflictions unto* 1.1 one particular Person in the singular number and vocative case thus, My Son, giveth evidence, that generall doctrines are intended to every one in particular.

We heard before, §. 31. that what was spoken to people of one age was intended to all ages: Here it is farther shewed, that that which is common to many is inten∣ded to every one; as if it had been in speciall directed to every one. Thus Christ by name enjoynes that duty to Peter, which belongeth to all Ministers, Ioh. 21. 15. These indefinite phrases, If any man thirst, John 7. 37. All ye that labour, Matth. 1•…•…. 28. Whosoever will, Rev. 22. 17. do intend as much. For this end Sacraments are applyed to particular persons.

• 1. This manifesteth the impartiall respect of God to all.
• 2. It giveth proof of Gods Wisedome, in leaving every one that receiveth not the word, without excuse. God speaks to every one in particular, why then shall any put away from him that salvation, which in and by the word is offered unto him.

This shewes what good ground of faith every one hath.

It is in this respect an incitation to every one to apply to himself what he heareth out of Gods Word. The power, the life of preaching consisteth herein.

The premising of this title, My Son, before the following disswasion, giveth* 1.2 instance that disswasions, and other kind of instructions, are to be sweetned with mild insinuations. See Chap. 3. v. 12. §. 121.

Notes

• * 1.1

  General points to be applied by every one.
• * 1.2

  Insinuations of meeknesse.