§. 46. Of all of all sorts subject to trials.
TO commend Gods dealing with his children so as hath been set forth, by affli∣cting them, the extent thereof is thus set out, for what Son is he whom the Fa∣ther chasteneth not. The manner of bringing in this extent, with this causal particle, for, sheweth that it is a proof of the point. The proof is taken from the constant course thereof: That which is done to every child, none excepted, must needs be needfull, and useful. Experience of the good it doth where it is used, moves a wise Father impartially to use it towards every childe.
The phrase may either be comparatively used, in reference to earthly parents: or simply, to our heavenly Father.
In the former reference thus: as earthly parents correct their children, so doth God all his.
In the latter reference thus: God doth impartially deal with all his children. There is none at all whom he suffereth to passe through this world without chastise∣ments.
Yet to adde the more force to this assertion, he sets it down interrogatively, thus, what Son, &c. Hereby the Apostle doth challenge all to give an instance of the con∣trary: as if he had said, shew me the child of God, who hath been freed from all man∣ner of afflictions. Nay tell me, if you have read of any such in the records of truth.
It is therefore most evident, that afflictions are the common condition of all Gods children.
See more hereof in the Whole Armour of God, Treat. 2. Part 5. on Eph. 6. 15. §. 12.
Hereupon it becomes every child of God to prepare for trials, and to treasure up consolations and encouragements tending thereunto.