In presence, by words or gesture. This phrase, When ye come into an house, sa∣lute it, (Matth. 10. 12.) implieth a wishing well unto it: for it is thus ex∣pounded, Into whatsoever house you enter, first say, Peace be to this house, Luk. 10. 5.
By gesture one salutes another, when they kiss one another, 2 Cor. 13. 12. 1 Thess. 5. 26. or stretch out their hands and arms one towards another: or bow the knee, or put off the hat, or use other like gestures, according to the cu∣stom of the Country. These were such greetings as the Pharisees affected, Matth. 23. 7.
In absence one salutes another by message or writing. By message, when one is sent to another for that purpose: By writing, in a Letter or other∣wise.
Here the Apostle salutes in and by a Letter.
This doth justifie and commend the like practice amongst Christians: and that not only in absence, as here: but also in presence, as in other places.
As they who salute testifie their good will to others, so they that are saluted may take notice thereof: and thereby be moved, as occasion is offered to give testimo∣ny of their good will also.
Mutuall amity is hereby continued and increased.
Christians also do hereby grace their profession. Their spirits also are thus the more quickned to call upon God one for another: and likewise to praise God in one anothers behalf: So as Christianity doth not take away common duties of courtesie.