A treatise of the necessity of humane learning for a Gospel-preacher shewing the use of I. Languages, II. Rhetoric, III. Logic, IV. Natural philosophy, V. Moral philosophy, VI. History, VII. Chronology, VIII. Arithmetic, IX. Geometry, X. Astronomy, XI. Geography, and the benefits of learning in all ages : also this question is determined, whether grace be essential to a minister of the Gospel? / by Edward Reyner ...

SECT. IX. Of History as useful to know the Examples of men.

THirdly, For knowing and improving the examples of men, their vertues and vices. By Historical relations we have the benefit of others good examples, and the comfort of their experiences; which may be improved (as well as the various passages of God's providence, both mer∣cies and judgements) by the Ministers of the Gospel, to the exciting or supporting of others, as occasion is offered. And since men are so apt to be led by examples, he that is a good Historian hath a great ad∣vantage for the drawing and working upon others; to make an apt application of stories and examples, (providential and personal) which is often much moving and taking with the auditors.

This use of History approacheth very near Christ's way of teaching by Parables; in many of which, there is as it were an application of an Historical passage to di∣vine and spiritual purposes.

Histories are Pictures or Glasses, * 1.1 (saith one) wherein we may discern both what is good and bad, and what we may expect

as a reward either of our vertues or vices; —and it is very profitable to be acquaint∣ed with the Histories of the Bible, and to make use of them. Our Savior and Paul approve this by their practice, Mat. 12.3, 5. Have ye not read, saith Christ. 1 Cor. 10.1, &c. I would not that ye should be ig∣norant, saith Paul] scil. of the Old Testa∣ment-stories. So also practised James, Peter, Jude, John, as appears in their Epistles.—There was never any man of note for wisdom, who was a stranger in story.

Lege Historiam ne flas Historia, saith one. Read History that you may not be made an History.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Mr. Part in Rom. 11.2.