1 Peter 5:12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother to you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting… I. In that the apostle testifieth by sound arguments that they were in the right way, note that IT IS NEEDFUL FOR EVERYONE TO KNOW AND BE WELL ASSURED OF THE RELIGION HE PROFESSETH, THAT IT IS THE TRUTH OF GOD, for there be many religions, yet but one truth; miss that, and perish. We must not go by guess in our religion. 1. This rebukes those that take occasion, because there be so many religions, therefore they will meddle with none, but take their ease and tarry till all agree. 2. It rebukes those that profess a religion, as all do, but know not whether it be truth or not, and have no ground from the Word for the same. 3. As it is our duty to testify and prove our religion, so it is yours to know and acknowledge it, that if an angel should come and inform you otherwise, you might not give ear to him. II. THEY THAT KNOW THE TRUTH OUGHT SO HIGHLY TO ESTEEM IT, AND BE SO THANKFUL TO GOD FOR IT, AS THEY NEVER SUFFER THEMSELVES TO BE REMOVED THEREFROM, whether for hope of gain or fear of trouble, etc. We must buy the truth, nor sell it. III. In that the apostle takes such care with those that now stood in the truth to hold them therein, note that IT IS A HARD MATTER FOR THOSE TO HOLD OUT STEADFAST THAT HAVE BEGUN TO DO WELL, for our heart is deceitful, the devil is subtle and strong, and there are also many seducers, many baits, many discouragements, etc. IV. In that his Epistle consists in testifying by sound reasons for the confirmation of their judgments, and then of the exhortation for the whetting on of their affections, note that BOTH PARTS ARE NECESSARY TO PREACHING, THE ONE STILL TO ACCOMPANY THE OTHER. People must make use and account of both, regard doctrine for knowledge, and suffer exhortation for practice. (John Rogers.) Parallel Verses KJV: By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand. |
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