SECT. XI. For excellency of reward.
FOR to begin with the reward that is at the end propounded to Man, which though it be the last in fruition and execution, yet is it the first in his intention: If we con∣sider the institution of the Jewish Religion by the hand of Moses, and the plain or express covenant of the Law, we shall find nothing there promised save the welfare and happiness of this life: as namely, a fruitful Land, abun∣dance of Corn and Victual, victory over their Enemies, soundness of Body, length of Days, the comfortable blessing of a hopeful Issue, and surviving Posterity, and the like. For if there be any thing beyond, it is involved in dark shadows, or must be collected by wise and difficult reasoning: Which indeed was the cause why many (in particular the Sad∣ducees, who professed themselves to be fol∣lowers and observers of Moses his Law,) had no hope of enjoying any happiness after this life.
As for the Grecians, who received their