Object. VVHy did the Lord give that precept to Adam?
Ans. For the better triall of Adams obedience, it was fit that he should be prohibited to doe that, which in it self was not evill, that Adam abstaining from that which was good, might shew his humanity to his Creator.
Obj. The Apostle saith, that the Law is not given to the righte∣ous man, but unto the disobedient; and Adam in his innocency was just and righteous, and therefore he needed not a law.
Ans. The Law in two respects is not to be given to a just man, as 1. In respect of the negative precept, as to abstaine from Mur∣der, Theft, Adultery, &c. but in regard of the affirmative pre∣cept, to returne them in obedience, and doing of good workes; and so the just man had need of a Law, and so had Adam. 2. A just man need not feare the punishment of the Law, as Paul speaketh in another place concerning the Magistrate (which i•• the speak∣ing, or living Law) who is not to be feared for doing good workes, but evill, Rom. 13. 4. and in this respect so long as Adam lived in his integrity, the punishment in the Law concerned him not.
Obi. Why did the Lord give that precept to Adam which he knew he could not keep?
Ans. I have answered formerly; but further, God gave him a Law which was possible to be kept, and Adam had power to keep it if he would; it was not then Gods fault that gave him Free∣will, but his owne that abused that gift.