Commentary Upon Lamentations, Chapter 2

Commentary Upon Lamentations · Chapter 2

p. 56The second Chapter.

HOw, &c.] i. in what wonderful maner and by what strange meanes, [hath the Lord darkned] i. couered with blacknesse of all calamities, [the daughter of Sion] i. his people whom he had established as mount Sion [in his wrath] i. in his anger against them, for their sinnes [and hath cast downe from heauen] i. ouerthrowne from the highest degree of excellencie [vntounto the earth] i. to the basest estate of misery [the beautie of Israel] i. the glorious estate wherein he had planted his people Israel [and remembred not] i. had no regarde nor respect [vntounto his footestoole] i. his temple and the exercises of religion therein, which his owne hand had appointed: the same phrase is vsed to the same purpose, Psal. 99. 5. and Psal. 132. 7.

Doctrine. [How] it is our duties to striue with our selues 1to be affected with the miseries of Gods people; for the reasons and vse hereof, see Chap. 1. verse. 1. doct. 2.

Doctrine. [how] the question sheweth, that the chastisementes and corrections that God laieth vponupon his Church, are 2most wonderfull, the causes whereof are past finding out of his wisest children: this made the Prophet Dauid to iudge amisse hereof, Psalm. 73. 13. 14. and Habacuc to reason with the Lord Chap. 1. 13. The reason is, because, first, the Lorde will in his owne seruants, declare his anger against sinne: secondly, he seeth afflictions the best meanes to frame them to his obedience: thirdly, his waies are beyond the reach of flesh and bloud. The vse is, first, to teach vsus to learne by the consideration p. 57hereof (as Dauid did Psal. 73. 16. 17) to reforme our iudgements, and not to iustifie and condemne any by that befalleth them in this life: Secondly, in greatest plagues to acknowledge the righteousnes of God, by reason of our sinnes deseruing the same: Thirdly, not to set our affections vponupon this life, fraught with so many miseries, but to long for a better, and to reioyce in afflictions which doe frame vsus thereunto.

Doctrine. [darkned the daughter of Sion, &c. and cast 3downe, &c.] God spareth not to sinite his deerest children, when they sinne against him: the whole storie of Israel in generall and Dauid in particular giueth example hereof. The reason is, first, that the Lord might declare himselfe an aduersary to sinne in all men without partialitie: Secondly, that he might reduce his seruants from running on headlong to hell with the wicked. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to magnifie the righteousnesse of God, as in all his workes generally, so in the afflictions of his Church particularly: secondly, not to perswade our selues to looke for any earthly peace (seeing the promises of this life are conditionall) though we be the children of Abraham by faith, but to prepare our selues for continuall calamities one in the necke of another.

Doctrine. [from heauen vntounto the earth] the higher that 4God aduaunceth any, the greater is their punishment in the day of their visitation for their sinnes, Deut. 28. thoroughout. The reason is, because, first, to whome much is giuen of them must much be required: secondly, according to the priuiledges abused, so is the sinnes of those that hauehave them greater and moe in number. The vse is to teach vsus, not to thinke our selues to hauehave any freedome to sinne, because we be greater then others, but that our punishments shall be the more intollerable, if our obedience answer not to our prerogatiues that we hauehave aboue others.

Doctrine. [footestoole] the most beautifull thing in this worlde is base in respect of the Maiestie and glorie of the 5Lord. The reason is, because, he is infinitely glorious, and all things here are most subiect to corruption, and basenesse. p. 58The vse is to teach vsus, not to rest on any thing that here we can enioy; but to vse them (according to Gods commaundement) as meanes to encrease vsus in the feare, and direct vsus in the true worship of his glorious maiestie.

Doctrine. [footestoole] Gods anger against sinne, moueth 6him to destroy the things that he commaunded (for his own seruice) when they are abused by men. The reason is, because, he cannot indure the dishonour of his name thereby. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that sinne (especially of such as professe Gods name) is most odious and ougly in his sight: secondly, to take heede that wee vse the outward meanes of Gods seruice with all reuerence, and profit rightly by them to the increase of all godlinesse in vsus, else shall they be taken from vsus.

[The Lord hath destroyed] i with his mighty hand from heauen he hath ouerthrowne [and hath not spared] i. shewed Verse. 2.no fauour or mercy in it [all the habitations of Iaacob] i. all those goodly dwellings that he had seated them in [he hath throwne downe in his wrath] i. in his anger for sinne hee hath laide euen with the ground [all the strong holdes of the daughter of Iudah] i. all those towers, bulwarkes and castles that the people of the Iewes had prepared for their defence [hee hath cast them downe to the ground] i. not shaken them a little and so left them standing, but vtterly defaced and wasted them [he hath polluted the kingdome and the princes thereof] i. he hath taken al priuiledges from them, and giuen the whole people of all degrees into the hands of the wicked Nations to be prophanely vsed at their pleasure.

Doctrine. [the Lord hath, &c.] It is the hand of God that taketh away the flourishing estate of a kingdome, Dan. 4. 29 1The reason is, because, the power to doe so great a thing is in his hands alone. The cause that moueth the Lord thereunto is, the sinne of the Princes and people thereof. Examples, Egypt, Achabs house, Iehu his race, whole Israel and Iudah; so is it in the flourishing of particular persons. The vse is, first, to declare vntounto vsus the omnipotent power of God, that we may tremble at it, so did Daniel teach Nabuchadnezzar, Dan. 4. p. 5922. &c. Secondly, to teach vsus the righteousnesse of God, that dealeth not like a tyrant but vprightly, that we may honour him in all things; so did Iob: 1. 21. &c. Thirdly, to let vsus see the odiousnesse of sinne, that causeth God to ouerturne the most glorious things in the world, and therefore that we must detest it, and warre against it all the dayes of our life.

Doctrine. [not spared] as God is full of mercy in his long 2suffering, so is his anger vnappeaseable when it breaketh out against the sonnes of men for their sinnes, Ierem. 4. 4. Examples hereof, the olde world, Sodome and Gomorrah, Israel, and the seuen Churches mentioned in the Reuelation. The reason is, because he vseth not to execute his iudgements till no meanes of his mercy will preuaile. The vse is to teach vsus, that we despise not his iudgements, nor abuse his mercies, but tremble at the one, and be drawne to well dooing by the other.

Doctrine. [habitations] God depriueth vsus of a great blessing, 3when he taketh from vsus our dwelling places. The reason is, because of the great commodities and contentment that come vntounto vsus thereby, when we enioy them peaceably; as eueryevery mans experience can teach him in particular. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to be humbled when God taketh such a blessing from vsus: Secondly, whilest wee peaceably enioye the same, to vse it to the furtherance of Gods glory, and to prayse God daily for the comfortable vse thereof.

Doctrine. [not spared] there is no assurance of worldly possessions 4and peace, but in the fauour of God. The reason is, because, first, he ruleth and disposeth al things at his pleasure: secondly, in his anger hee vseth to ouerthrow these things. The vse is, first, to reproue the vaine and godlesse opinion of them that thinke the greatest worldly safetie to be, in being furthest from zeale in religion: secondly, to teach vsus, first, to seeke the kingdome of God and his righteousnesse, so shall all other things goe well with vsus, Matth. 6. 33.

Doctrine. [strong holds] God ouerthroweth the greatest strength that man can erect, euen at his pleasure. The reason 5is, because there is no strength but of him and from him. The p. 60vse is to teach vsus, neuer to trust in our owne valour, but so to vse all good meanes of our defence, as still we relye vponupon the Lord for strength and successe thereby.

Doctrine. [in his wrath] it is a marke of Gods wrath to be depriued of strength, courage, or any other necessarie gifte, 6when we stand in need of them. The reason is, because, it is a signe that his hand is not with vsus to giuegive vsus that blessing by them, which we looked for, or heretofore hauehave had in them. The vse is, to teach vsus, in all things that wee take in hand to beg of God, both the thing it selfe, and also the meanes of accomplishing the same.

Doctrine. [of the daughter of Iudah] It is the sinne of the Church, that causeth the Lord to spoyle the same of any 7blessing that she hath heretofore enioyed. The reason is, because, in her obedience he hath promised to blesse her, Deut. 28. 2. and in her disobedience, to take his blessings from her, Deut. 28. 15. The vse is to teach vsus, when we are depriued of any blessing, not to fret against the wicked (Gods roddes) that are the instruments thereof: but to acknowledge our owne sinnes, that caused the Lord to set them on worke to spoyle vsus, and by repentance to seeke reconciliation with him, so shall we enioy his blessings againe, or otherwise contentment.

Doctrine. [strong holdes] these being taken away in Gods anger teacheth vsus this doctrine. It is the good blessing of 8God, to hauehave a kingdome to hauehave strong holdes, munitions, &c. for a defence against their enemies. The reason is, because they be the meanes that vsually he blesseth to procure outward safetie. The vse is, to teach vsus, carefully to prepare them against the time of trouble, yet neuer to rest in them, but to depend vponupon Gods blessing alone.

Doctrine. [polluted] the more that God honoureth vsus 9with his blessings, the greater shall be our dishonour, if we abuse them, when he entreth into iudgement with vsus for the same: for the reasons, and vse hereof, see vers, 1. Doctr. 4.

[He hath cut off in his fierce wrath] i. he hath vtterly taken Verse. 3.away in his exceeding displeasure [all the horne of Israel] p. 61i. all the strength and beautie of his people [he hath drawne backe his right hand] i. he hath withdrawne his power and assistance [from before the enemie] i. from standing by vsus (as in former times) against our aduersaries [and he burneth in Iaacob like a flame of fire] i. he doth declare his displeasure among his people, as clearely as a flame of fire that is easily discerned [he deuoureth rounde about] i. in all places and corners his consuming hand appeareth.

Doctrine. [horne] Strength and honour are in the Lords 1disposition, to be giuen, continued or taken away at his pleasure. The reason is, because he is the author of all things. The vse is, to teach vsus, whilest wee enioye any part thereof, to acknowledge it to come from him, to honour him therewithal, and to take patiently the remoouing thereof from vsus when it shall please him.

Doctrine. [drawne backe] when Gods fauour is towards vsus, it is our shield against our enemies; but when he meaneth 2to punish vsus, he leaueth vsus vntounto our selues: so dealt hee often with Israel, Iudges 2. 14. The reason is, because, none can hurt vsus, whilest hee that is the strongest is on our sides; but when hee is against vsus, we are of nostrength. The vse is, to teach vsus, aboue all things to pray continually, that aboue all other crosses, he would neuer take his louing countenance from vsus.

Doctrine. [flame of fier, &c. round about] though Gods iustice be seuere against sinne in all men, yet is it most manifest 3in his Church, hauing sinned against him. The reason is, because, first, all mens eyes are most vppon Gods Church. Secondly, God dooth declare himselfe more in, and for his Church then all the world besides.

[He hath bent his bowe like an enemie] i. he hath prepared Verse 4.his armour as enemies doe, that meane to destroy [hee is appointed with his right hand as an enemie] i. he is ready with his power and strength as one that professeth enimity [and hath slaine all that was pleasant to the eye] i. hee hath destroyed the young men, and all the flower of the people [in the tabernacle of the daughter of Sion] i. in the middest of his people [he p. 62hath powred out his wrath like fire] i. he hath abundantly and most vehemently declared his heauie displeasure.

Doctrine. [he hath &c.] Where God is angrie, there is nothing 1to be looked for but destruction, and ill successe in all things. The reason is, because, first, his power is no way to be matched. Secondly, his will is made hote by the sinne of the parties that anger him. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, alwaies to walke in reuerent obedience vntounto him, least wee procure his displeasure against vsus. Secondly, when any part of his anger breaketh foorth against vsus, to seeke to appease him by true repentance.

Doctrine. [his bowe like] God punisheth sinne in his children in this world as seuerely as if they were reprobates: 2Examples hereof, Iob, Dauid, yea and whole Israel. The reason is, first, to declare that he is not partiall, but hateth sinne in those whom he most of all loueth. Secondly, that it may appeare what great wrath remaineth for the vngodly, 1. Pet. 4. 17. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to admire and praise Gods righteousnesse. Secondly, to accept willingly his punishments laid vponupon vsus, knowing it to be the lot of Gods people at all times.

Doctrine. [like an enemie] yet not one indeed. Doctrine. Though God shew al outward signes of enimitie against his 3Church, yet is his louelove euerlasting thereunto. The reason is, because he is no chaungeling, but loueth vntounto the end, Iohn 13. 1. The vse is, first, to declare vntounto vsus Gods exceeding louelove to his Church. Secondly, to giuegive vsus comfort in our distresses; which is attained vntounto by recounting Gods former fauours shewed vntounto vsus.

Doctrine. [and shew] Gods anger is neuerin vaine, but effecteth punishment vponupon them with whom he is angrie. 4The reason is, because all things serue to accomplish his wil, and nothing can resist it. The vse is, to teach vsus, to take heed that we doe not offend him, seeing we cannot escape his punishing hand.

Doctrine. [pleasant] God regardeth not the most pretious things that are amongst the sonnes of men, in respect of declaring p. 635his iustice against sinne. The reason is, because all things serue to his glorie, and to the clearing of his equitie among his creatures. The vse is, to teach vsus, to regard well doing, and to shun the transgression of his lawes aboue al earthly things.

[The Lord was as an enemie] i. in all respects he declared Verse 5.himselfe to deale extreamely as enemies doe [he hath deuoured Israel] i. he hath vtterly made hauocke of the Nation of his people [he hath deuoured all his palaces] i. he hath thrown downe all those goodly buildings and dwelling places that were throughout al Iudea [he hath destroyed his strong holds] i. he hath rased downe al those bulwarkes and fortresses that he had builded for defence [and hath increased in the daughter of Iudah sorrow and heauinesse] i. he hath giuen his people iust cause to increase in all kinde of griefes, euen adding sorrow vntounto sorrowe: for both the Hebrew words come from one roote, and signifie one thing.

Doctrine. This often repeating of one thing in diuers 1termes, teacheth vsus this doctrine: It is a hard thing to perswade Gods people rightly to iudge of, and be affected with the afflictions that are vponupon them. The reason is, because, first, the waies of God are high beyond the reach of the sons of men. Secondly, we are naturally of a blind and dull disposition, with much adoe brought vntounto any good thing. The vse is, to teach vsus, to labour against our owne peruersenesse, vsing all the meanes that God hath appoynted to make vsus rightly affected with his plagues vponupon vsus, or vponupon others our brethren.

Doctrine. [deuoured Israel] God hath no neede of any 2people, but all hauehave neede of him. The reason is, because, all are his, Psal. 50. 12. and he is able of stones to raise vp children vntounto Abraham, Math. 3. 9. The vse is, to teach vsus, neuer to flatter our selues as the Iewes did, with, the Law shall not depart from the Priest: for it is a vaine confidence, and can doe vsus no good, but much harme.

Doctrine. [increased] God will increase his plagues vponupon 3his children, where sinne without repentance is increased.

p. 64The reason is, because, he punisheth to the end to bring thē to repentance, whereunto if more easie stripes bring them not, he will lay on his stripes the more heauilie. The vse is, to teach vsus, neuer to think our selues safe from afflictions (when God beginneth to correct vsus) vntill we be soundly conuerted from our sinfull waies.

Doctrine. [sorrow] God giueth many causes of sorrowe when he punisheth his people. The reason is because, first, 4he giueth a token that he is displeased, which is cause of greatest griefe vntounto Gods children. Secondly, his punishments doe vsually crosse our affections in the things that they are most set vponupon. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to labour with our selues, that wee may bee affected with the crosses that are vponupon vsus. Secondly, to seeke to him alone for succour in the time of our sorrowe.

[For he hath taken away the hedge thereof, as of a garden] i. he hath layd it open vntounto the spoyle, by remouing his protection Verse 6.from it, so as it cannot but be spoyled as a garden that hath no hedge [he hath destroyed the place of his assemblie] i. he hath throwne downe those places, where his people were wont to meete for the exercises of religion, the Temple and the Synagogues [The Lord vtterly forgetteth the feasts and Sabbaths in Sion] i. he seemeth to think vponupon no such thing, as to cause his people to celebrate the appoynted times dedicated to his seruice [and hath despised in the indignation of his wrath] i in his heauie displeasure he hath declared himselfe not to regard [the King and the Priest] i. the gouernours of the Common wealth and teachers of the Church, which were not onelyonly a signe of his fauour, but also the meanes of bodilie and spirituall comfort vntounto all the people.

Doctrine. [hedge thereof] It is the Lord alone that giueth safety vntounto his church, or layeth his people open to spoylers, 1Isay. 5. 5, 6. Psal. 80. 12, 13. The reason is, because, all power is in his hands, to saue or destroy at his pleasure, Dan. 5. 18, 19 The vse is, to teach vsus, to depend wholly vponupon him, seeking alwaies when he shaketh his rod ouer vsus, reconciliation with him, by true and vnfained repentance.

p. 65Doctrine. [place of his assemblies] The Temple being the 2most holie place in the world and yet destroyed, teacheth this doctrine; No place on earth hath any holinesse in it, or promise of continuance, farther then it is holily vsed. The reason is, because God regardeth no place further then to serue to that holy vse, whereunto he hath appointed it. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that the place maketh not men holy or prophane, but men the place: this confuteth Iudaisme in tying holinesse to the temple, and poperie thinking great holinesse to be in this and that place. Secondly that when we come to the places of Gods worship, there is nothing that can profite vsus without the right vse of them.

Doctrine. [place of, &c.] God is angry with his owne ordinances, 3and laieth a cursse vponupon them for the sinnes of those that abuse them, Psalm. 74. 5. 6. 7. and 78. 95. 60. 61. Isay 1. 13. and 6. 10. The reason is, because God ordeined these things to bring vsus to holinesse, which if they doe not, they increase our wickednesse, 2. Cor. 2. 15. 16. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, how monstrous sinne is, that peruerteth so holy things from their proper vse: Secondly, to be carefull aboue all things to vse the exercises of religion aright, and to take them in hand with trembling and feare.

Doctrine. [destroyed the place, &c. feasts and Sabbaoths] 4The Church of God on earth, is not alwaies visible and apparant to the eyes of men, Reuel. 12. 14. The reason is, because the exercises of Religion and places thereof (which are the visible notes of a Church) are often ouerthrowne, and the Church dispersed. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that the Papists erre in making perpetuall visibilitie a note of Gods true Church: secondly, not to renounce the trueth, though the Church bee ouerthrowne; for God will in his good time restore her againe, as euer he hath done.

Doctrine. [despised] when God will afflict a people, hee 5will spoyle them of the meanes of their peace and comfort, Isay …. 1. to the 5. The reason is, because, vsually wee rest too much in the outward meanes. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, not to trust to any outward meanes but in God alone, who p. 66blesseth them to those that vse them aright: Secondly, to be assured that when he depriueth vsus of them, his decree is gone out against vsus to punish vsus: thirdly, to labour by repentance to preuent the plagues threatned to come vponupon vsus.

Doctrine. [King] It is a grieuous plague of God for a people 6to be spoyled of their rulers (especially being good ones) Iudges 2. 7. 11. and 19. 1. 2. and to enioy them is a great blessing, Isay 49. 23. The reason is, because, all desolation commeth with the losse of them, Isay 3. 5. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to praise God for his blessings that wee hauehave enioyed that way. Secondly, to pray daily for our Prince and rulers, that vnderunder them we may leade a religious and peaceable life, 1. Tim. 2. 2.

Doctrine. [Priest] It is the heauiest iudgement that Gods Church can hauehave falling vponupon her in this life, to be depriued 7of that holy ministery which should build her in true religion, Psal. 74. 9. Mich. 2. 6. The reason is, because, the enioying thereof bringeth such comfort, as maketh all other afflictions easie to be borne, Psalm. 84. 10. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, when we enioy it, to reioyce therein especially, and praise God for it. Secondly, if we want it, to seeke it where it is to be had, 2. Chron. 11. 16. &c. Thirdly, where we hauehave it in corruption, to seeke the reformation thereof, eueryevery man in his place, keeping within the boundes of his calling.

[The Lord hath for saken his altar] hee hath reiected the Verse 7.place of their daily sacrifices [he hath abhorred his sanctuary] i. he cannot endure the place where heretofore he was especially worshipped [he hath giuen the walles and her palaces into the hands of the enemie] i. he hath giuen both the strong and the delightfull places ouer to them that hate his people, [they hauehave made a noyse] i. with great triumph they hauehave showted and cried [in the house of God] i in the place that was consecrated to Gods seruice, and appoynted only for Gods people to come into [as in the day of solemnitie] i. euen as in the solemne feasts when the people sounded out Gods prayses.

Doctrine. [the Lord hath] This often repetition teacheth p. 671this doctrine. It is the duety of Gods people to labour their affections, that they may be rightly touched with the losse of the cutward exercises of religion. The reason is, because, first, naturally we are not moued with it, thinking it a small matter. Secondly, it should be our greatest desire to enioy the same, Psal. 27. 4. and 84. 10. and 132. 5. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, the corruption of our nature that maketh so smal account of so incomparable a blessing. Secondly, to trie our selues what measure of religion we hauehave in vsus, by the measure of desire we hauehave to enioy, and sorrowe when wee lose the exercises of religion.

Doctrine. [abhorred his] When GOD is angrie with his people, he wil take from them the outward signes of his fauour. 2The reason is, because he would vse all meanes to humble them, and bring them to repentance. The vse is, to teach vsus, to acknowledge his hand against vsus for our sinnes, whensoeuer he taketh any of his blessings from vsus, and to learne thereby more true and sound repentance.

Doctrine. [he hath giuen] When Gods people growe obstinate 3in their sinnes, he spoyleth them of all those things wherein they trust. The reason is, because he would take away all meanes of impenitencie. The vsus is, to teach vsus, the moe blessings that God taketh from vsus, to assure our selues, that we are the further from that we should be, and therefore to increase in true repentance.

Doctrine. [sanctuary, &c. walles] When the Church is 4spoyled, the Common-wealth cannot goe free. The reason is, because the members of the Church are alwayes part of the Common-wealth. Secondly, the Common-wealth hath no promise from GOD to bee wel, but by the promise made to the Church. The vse is, to teach vsus, so carefull as we are to hauehave the Common wealth flourish, to be as diligent to seeke the prosperitie of the Church.

Doctrine. [he hath giuen] The wicked could neuer preuaile 5against the godly but that God giueth them into their hands; for the reasons and vse hereof, see chap. 1. verse 5. doctr. 4.

p. 68Doctrine. [make a noyse] God giueth the wicked (for the 6sinnes of his people) occasion to blaspheme his name, and to deride his holy ordinances. The reason is, that he may therby prouoke his seruants vntounto a detestation of their owne sins, which gaue occasion thereof. The vse is, to teach vsus, to bee humbled and grieued, when we see or heare the rage of the wicked, not onelyonly for that Gods name is dishououred, and his lawes violated: but also for that our disobedience hath been a cause of their sinnes.

[The Lord hath determined] i. decreed and appointed [to destroy the wall of the daughter of Sion] i. to ouerthrow the Verse 8.defence of Ierusalem [he stretched out a line] i. laid out in particular the maner and certaintie of her ouerthrow: so 2. Kin. 21. 13. Isay. 24. 11. [he hath not withdrawne his hand from destroying] i. he continueth vntil hee hauehave made a final destruction [he causeth the rampart and the wall to mourne] i. giueth cause of mourning to the sencelesie creatures: a figuratiue speech [they were destroyed together] i. by a sodain vehement destruction.

Doctrine. [generally] In that Ierusalem is destroyed as well as other places, we learne this doctrine: No priuiledge 1can free the impenitent sinners from the plagues that God meaneth to bring vponupon them, though they perswade themselues otherwise, Ierem. 7. 4. The reason is, because hee is righteous, and iudgeth without respect of persons, Rom. 2. 9. 11. 12. The vse is, to teach vsus, neuer to stand vponupon our birth, friends, riches, multitude, strength, or any other priuiledge whatsoeuer, to excuse or defend vsus in our sinnes withall; for none of them shall shielde vsus against Gods mightie hand.

Doctrine. [determined] The ruines of kingdomes and strong cities come to pasle only by the immutable decree of 2God; and not by fortune, mans power, pollicie, or any other thing, Dan. 4. 22. 1. Sam. 15. 26. 28. The reason is, because, there is no power in any of his creatures, but so farre as he giueth it thereunto. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, not to thinke our selues able to doe any thing, but to craue the p. 69Lords assistance, whether wee be employed in the defence of our countrey, or in a lawfull quarrell against any forreine nation.

Doctrine [His Line] the Lorde dooth both decree his iudgements, and also determine the measure of them, Dan. 4 29. 3The reason is, because he dealeth iustly in all things. The vse is, to teach vsus, patiently to endure those afflictions that God shall lay vponupon vsus at any time, being assured of this, that he in wisdome disposeth them, and will not suffer them to growe in greatnes or continuance beyond that which he seeth meete.

Doctrine. [wall to mourne] the dumbe and sencelesse creatures doe mourne according to their kinde, when we are punished 4in them for our sinnes, Rom. 8. 22. The reason is, because, they suffer things contrary to their kinde, by reason of our sinnes. The vse is, to teach vsus, that if wee mourne not when wee feele Gods hand vponupon vsus for our sinnes, wee are more blockish then the sencelesse creatures.

Doctrine. [rampart, &c.] the sinne of men bringeth strongest 5things to nothing, when God calleth them to an account. Example hereof Babel, Isay 13. 19. 20. The reason is, because nothing can withstand Gods iustice, which is set on worke by sinne, to destroy vsus. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, how horrible a thing sinne is, that bringeth such confusion into the world: Secondly, not to trust in any outward things be they neuer so strong.

Doctrine. [together] Gods hand preuaileth as easily against 6the strongest and most, as the weakest and fewest. The reason is, because, all humaine strength is nothing to him. The vse is, to teach vsus, to tremble at his mighty power, and to magnifie him in the consideration thereof.

[Her gates are sunke to the ground] those strong gates that Verse 9.should hauehave kept out the enemie, are fallen downe, or sunke into the bowels of the earth, and thereby free passage into the Citie is giuen vntounto the aduersaries [he hath destroyed and broken her barres] i. hee hath taken all strength from the gates, that should hauehave fortified them being shaken [her p. 70Kings and her Princes are among the gentiles] i. the chiefe of her people are constrained to liue among the heathen that are enemies to religion [the lawe is no more] they hauehave no ordinary exercises of religion among them [neither do her Prophets receiue any vision from the Lord] they hauehave no more extraordinary reuclations, to tell them the will of God.

Doctrine. [gates barres] when God punisheth his people, he wil especially destroy those things wherein they put most 1confidence. The reason is, because, such confidence doth vsually keepe vsus from true humiliation and repentance. The vse is, to teach vsus, to take heede of growing secure, by trusting too much vntounto outward things: for if we do, God will vtterly depriue vsus of them.

Doctrine. [Kings] when God meaneth thorowly to afflict a people, he will spoyle them of the meanes of their peace 2and comfort: for the reasons and vse hereof, see verse 6. Doctrine 5.

Doctrine. [are among the gentiles] when God by punishments sheweth his anger against a people, hee specially plagueth 3their Princes and Rulers. The reason is, because, vsually their hands are deepest in the sinne; either in not ruling them aright, or neglecting to see them well instructed; or else in giuing them ill example. The vse is, to teach vsus, that God is righteous in his iudgements, and spareth not any in respect of their persons.

Doctrine. [among the Gentiles] It is a grieuous punishment 4vntounto the godly to liue with, or to serue them that are wicked, Psal. 120. 4. 5. The reason is, because they shall see and heare many things that be iust cause of griefe vntounto them. Secondly, they may not freely speake to the praise of God without rebukes or skornes. The vse is, to teach vsus, being free from this plague, to praise God for it, or being afflicted with it, to crie to God for the amendment of it.

Doctrine. [Law no more] It is a fearefull iudgement to hauehave the ministerie of the word that heretofore we enioyed, 5taken away from vsus, Psalm. 74. 9. Mark▪ 6. 10. 11. The reason is, because, it is the greatest meanes of comfort, and the want p. 71of it, the readiest way to the decay of all religion in vsus. The vse is, to teach vsus, aboue all things in this life, to labour that we may hauehave the continuall benefit of it, whatsoeuer else we hauehave with it.

[The Elders of the daughter of Sion] i. the wisest and Verse 10.grauest of the people [sit vponupon the ground and keepe silence] i. are throwne downe to grow in sorrow thereby and vtterly destitute of all counsell [they hauehave cast vp dust vponupon their heads] i. they shew the greatest signes of amazednesse and sorrow that can be deuised [they hauehave girded themselues with sackecloth] i. they shew by their attyre how they are confounded and ashamed [the virgins of Ierusalem] i. the daintiest and nicest of all the people, the maidens [hang downe their heads to the ground] i. they which vsually looke vp and doe make much of their beautie, doe now looke downe as though they were ashamed of themselues.

Doctrine. [the Elders] the wisest of Gods seruants are at their wittes end, or fall into despaire if they be depriued of 1their hope, in the promise of Gods assistance, Psal. 119. 92. The reason is, because, first, mans wisdome is not able to support vsus in troubles: Secondly, if God be not with vsus in our distresses to comfort vsus, he is against vsus to punish vsus, and then he being the strongest, must preuaile. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, what an exceeding blessing it is, to hauehave the Lords comfortable presence with vsus in our troubles: Secondly, to shew vsus our owne weakenesse, if he leaue vsus to ourselues, that by the consideration thereof, we may be humbled.

Doctrine. [sit on the ground] bodily exercises doe profit 2to further lamentations in the day of heauinesse, but are no part of Gods seruice in themselues. The reason is, first, because God is a spirit, and his worship must be spirituall, Iohn 4. 24. &c. Secondly, God by his spirite affirmeth such things not to profit in that kinde, 1. Tim. 4. 8. The vse is, to teach vsus, by all outward actions to be led on to spirituall worship, else we abuse them.

Doctrine. [keepe silence] the extremitie of Gods iudgements 3doe for the time ouer-whelme Gods dearest children, p. 72in the greatest measure of griefe that can be in this life, Psal. 6. …. and 22. 1. The reason is, because, first, they are vsed to feele great comfort. Secondly, they cannot beare the waight of Gods heauie hand, because of their weaknesse. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, not to condemne them that seeme to be in a desperate case. Secondly, neuer to despaire, though we our selues fall into the heauiest condition that may be.

Doctrine. [Virgins] The most daintie ones are made to 4stoop when Gods hand is heauie vponupon them for their sinnes. The reason is, because their daintinesse cannot shield them from the crosse, but rather maketh them the more vnable to beare it, when it commeth. The vse is, to teach vsus, not to delight too much in the profits or pleasures of this world when wee enioy them, seeing they cannot helpe vsus in the day of trouble.

[Mine eyes doe faile with teares] i. I weepe in such abundance, that mine eyes are consumed therewith [my bowels Verse 11.are bemudded] i. see Chap. 1. vers. 20. [my liuer is powred vponupon the earth] i. mine inward parts are molten and fall from me, [for the destruction of the daughter of my people] i. at the consideration of those miseries, of breakings in pieces (for so the Hebrew word signifieth) which the Church of God (my brethren) doe suffer [because the infants and the sucklings] i. all degrees euen to the tender babes [are ouerwhelmed in the streetes] i. are couered with calamities in the sight of all men.

Doctrine. [mine eyes] The true Ministers of God doe take 1the miseries of the Church to heart, in the greatest measure: Examples hereof are, Moses, the Prophets, Christ, and his Apostles. The reason is, because, first, God hath giuen them charge ouer them, and made them shepherds to see to them. Secondly, they know, or should know, best Gods anger for sinne, and the transgressions of the Church. Thirdly, they must giuegive accompt for them that are committed to their charge. Fourthly, they know how deare the Church is vntounto God. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that good Ministers are an exceeding blessing vntounto the Church, and ill ones the greatest p. 73curse that can be. Secondly, the Ministers should hauehave great knowledge in the Scriptures. Thirdly, they should be most godly and religious aboue all others. Fourthly, the miserie of our age is great, which hath so many in the places of Ministers, that either know not their duetie to their flockes, or regard nothing but the fleese to feed their owne bellies.

Doctrine. [faile with teares] in the Prophesie 9. 1. he was 2amazed to foresee this, but could not weepe, because the plague was not then come: which teacheth vsus this doctrine, The iudgements of God doe neuer thoroughly affect vsus, till we feele them. The reason is, because, till it come, we hope it may bee altogether kept away. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, how hard our hearts be, that we may labour the more with them. Secondly, that sharpe afflictions are necessarie for vsus, to make vsus the more pliable to Gods will.

Doctrine. [faile] with continuall lamentation, because 3the plague was continuall, teaching vsus this doctrine. Our sorrowe, humiliation, earnest prayer, and all other meanes of extraordinarie calling vponupon God, must increase in vsus, so long as Gods heauie hand is vponupon vsus. The reason is, because God doth it, first, to humble vsus thoroughly. Secondly, to trie our patience and hope in him. The vse is, first, to reproue them that thinke once or a little calling vponupon God sufficient. Secondly, to teach vsus not to be wearie of such exercises, (which fault by Sathans subtiltie and our owne corruption doth easilie creepe in vponupon vsus in such cases) but to continue calling vponupon him, howsoeuer it goe with vsus, Iob. 13. 15. Luk. 18. 1. &c.

Doctrine. [bowels bemudded] hartie sorrowe for spirituall 4miseries distempereth the whole bodie: so was it with Dauid, Iob, and Christ himselfe. The reason is, because the bodie is (or should be) seruant to the soule. The vse is, to teach vsus, that in our sorrowes in affliction for sinne, we are farre short from that we should be, vntill we come to this measure.

Doctrine. [liuer powred out] The sorrowes of the soule (if 5they be extreame) will easilie consume the bodie. The reason is, because the bodie receiueth his cheerefulnesse or heauinesse p. 74from the disposition of the soule. The vse is, to teach vsus, so to labour against the hardnesse of heart, as we be not ouercome with the contrary, for Sathan will vse all his sleightes, to hauehave vsus in the one extremitie or the other.

Doctrine. [for the destruction] a liuely member is grieued 6with the hurt of the body, or any member thereof. The reason is, because of that fellow-feeling which the spirit of God vniteth his people one to another withall. The vse is, first, to reproue them that regard no more so that they and theirs be safe, as being farre from liuely members: Secondly, to teach vsus, to enquire after the estate of others, and mourne with them that are in misery, so did that good Courtier Nehemiah. 1. 2. 4.

Doctrine. [daughter of my] the ministers of God should hauehave a tender affection to the members of the Church, as a 7man hath to his daughter. The reason is, because they are (or should be) their spirituall fathers, begetting them (or at the least) nourishing them with the word of truth in Christ Iesus, 1. Cor. 4. 15. 1. Pet. 1. 3. 4. The vse is, first, to reproue them (as being farre from ministers fitted to that worke) who in a proud maner doe disdaine to vse kindely the sheep of Christ Iesus. Secondly, to teach all that be ministers to labour more and more with themselues to bee thus louingly affected, which will appeare by their diligence in publique teaching, and priuate perswasion vntounto knowledge and obedience.

Doctrine. [infants, &c. ouerwhelmed] there is no outward thing so much cause of sorrowe, as the miseries laide vponupon 8our children in our sight. The reason is, because naturally we pittie young children more then others. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, whensoeuer any such afflictions are vponupon vsus, to consider how detestable a thing sinne is, which causeth the Lord to punish it in our tender young infants: Secondly, so desirous as we are to seeke the good of our Children in this life, to be so carefull to shunne sinne, and to walke in the obedience to Gods commaundements, Ier. 32. 39.

Doctrine. [in the streets] the punishments that God layeth vponupon his children are vsually in the sight of others. The p. 759reason is, because hee will shew his glory in all his workes, Iohn 9. 3. Luke 13. 3. 1. Cor. 10. 11. The vse is to teach vsus, first, to profit by all the punishments that we reade of here, or see to bee laide vponupon others. Secondly, to perswade others to make profit of those afflictions which we our selues doe feele.

[They hauehave said] i. the young children asked [to their mother] i. of their mothers that should feed them [where is wheat Verse. 12.and wine] i. our necessarie foode to refresh vsus [when they were ouerwhelmed] i. throwne downe with miseries [as the slaine in the Citie] i. euen as those that by the sword hauehave their life taken from them [while their soule powred out it selfe] i. whilest their breath went out of their bodies, that the cause of their death might be the more manifest [into their mothers bosome] i. as it were giuing them their liues againe, seeing they yeeld them no foode to preserue them aliue.

Doctrine. [where is] It is the greatest griefe that can be, 1to hauehave them whome we would gladly pleasure, seeke that at our hands which we cannot help them vntounto. The reason is, because it crosseth both our affections, and theirs, who are deare vntounto vsus. The vse is, to humble vsus, when it is our share; because God sheweth vsus, that he is angrie with vsus, in denying vsus power to doe that good which we would gladly doe.

Doctrine. [when they were] when GOD would hauehave vsus 2profit by any work of his, he will let vsus see the true cause of it. The reason is, because, else we are so dull and blinde, that we cannot discerne it rightly. The vse is, first, to mourne when we perceiue our selues vnable or vn willing to search out the workes of the Lord: secondly, to ascribe all punishments to his iustice for sinne, and all blessings to his mere mercy; so shall we be sure to iudge rightly in the generall.

Doctrine. [mothers bosome] the griefe that is seene with 3the eye, is the heauiest vntounto vsus of all other things that fall vponupon our friends. The reason is, because, the sight is the sharpest of the senses, and carieth things with deepest impression into the heart. The vse is, to teach vsus, when we beholde the miseries of others, to be especially grieued therewithall.

p. 76Doctrine. When God meaneth to humble vsus, he will vse most effectuall meanes to bring it to passe. The reason is, because 4he knoweth that our dulnesse and hardnesse of heart is not else mollified. The vse is, to declare vntounto vsus his exceeding louelove to vsus, that vseth all the meanes that he may, to doe vsus good.

[What thing shall I take to witnesse for thee] i. what example Verse. 13.may I set before thine eyes [what thing shall I compare to thee] i. where unto shall I liken thee in this thy miserie [O virgin daughter Sion] i. O people of God most deare vntounto mee, whose case I highly tender [that I may comfort thee] i. that I may doe thee good [for thy breach is great as the sea] i. thy miseries are large, deep, and violent, for so is the breach, that the sea maketh into the bankes thereof [who can heale thee] i. what meanes in the world can doe thee good? As if he should say, in all likelihood thou art in a desperate case, past alhelp, being such a mirrour of Gods heauy iudgement, as neuer was before thee.

Doctrine. [what thing] It is the greatest griefe that can 1be, to fall into a trouble that hath not been laide vponupon others before. The reason is, because it easeth griefe, to thinke that others hauehave been in the like case, whereas by the contrarie it is aggrauated. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, in all our troubles to search out whether the godly hauehave felt the like, and to be comforted by it; this is vsuall in the scriptures: Secondly, though we cannot finde an example like ours; yet is it no cause of despayre, seeing it was the case of Gods people in this place.

Doctrine. [shall I] Gods ministers must be studious in the word, to finde out eueryevery thing that may fit the Churches 2present condition, Isay. 504. Mat. 13. 52. The reason is, because the neede of the Church in generall, and of each member in particular, is such, now for doctrine, then for reprofe, otherwhile for instruction, and after that for comfort, as (oftentimes) if the ministers lips doe not preserue knowledge presently to fit that turne, the opertunitie passeth, and great harme commeth thereby. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that all p. 77ministers must be learned, wise, & godly, else they cannot do this duety in any tollerable measure: secondly, it is a duety of great waight and care to bee a minister: and therefore they that make insufficient ones, and those that accept of the calling being not qualified thereunto, doe commit a great sinne against God, and against his Church, and against their owne soules.

Doctrine. [that I may comfort thee] and yet it was as heauie 3a speech as could be vttered: whereby we learne two doctrines. First, hardest speeches from the mouth of the minister, be often most profitable, yea euen to the afflicted, if they be not sufficiently humbled. The reason is, because, our sinnes are like a festred sore, that needeth sharp corrosiues, or like a disease sticking fast in the partes of the body, that needeth a strong purgation. The vse is, to teach vsus, that it is a necessary part of a ministers office, to rake in the consciences and launch the depth of the heartes of his hearers.

Doctrine. [that I may comfort thee] the second doctrine. 4That minister loueth vsus best, that dealeth most plainely with vsus. The reason is, because plaine reproof doth vsus more good, (if we hauehave grace to take it aright) then smooth speeches can doe. The vse is, to teach vsus, to be contented with such a ministerie, yea to desire it, if we would be sound Christians.

Doctrine. [as the seoe] the visible estate of the Church of 5God may come to bee of a desperate condition, eueryevery way vexed more and more. The reason is, because God vseth to shew his mighty power in deliuering it from such a straight. The vse is, to teach vsus, not to be dismaied when it doth come to such an exigencie, but to learne to be humbled by it.

Doctrine. [who can heale thee] as if he should say, there is 6no help for thee, but from God alone: doctrine, God often afflicteth his people, vntill they be brought to see euidently that there is no help for them, but in him alone. The reason is, because else we ascribe some part of our deliuerance to the second causes. The vse is to teach vsus, in any extremitie, neuer to rest vponupon men (howsoeuer we may vse them as instruments) but vponupon God alone.

p. 78Doctrine. [O virgine, &c.] In all our reprofes we must labour 7to let it appeare, that they proceede from a louelove in vsus, and a care of their good, whome we doe reproue. The reason is, because else shal we hauehave no comfort in it, if they hate vsus for it, nor they profit by it, though they take it well, seeing they will iudge it to come from malice. The vse is, to teach vsus, before we reprooue, to examine our hearts, and to finde them vpright, or else to lay our hands vponupon our mouthes.

[Thy Prophets] i. those that professe to be thy guides and Verse 14.instructours, vponupon whome thou hast relyed [hauehave looked out vaine and vnsauorie things for thee] i. things that hauehave neither substance nor taste of goodnesse in them: as for example, peace, and plentie, when God threatned them the contrarie, Ierem. 28. 2. [and they hauehave not discouered thine iniquitie] i. they hauehave not plainely told thee of thy sinnes, and conuinced thee of them [to turne away thy captiuitie] i. to bring thee to repentance, that thou mightest hauehave preuented Gods iudgements [but hauehave looked out for thee] i. hauehave solemnelie (as in the name of the Lord) taught thee [heauie prophecies of vaine things] i. matters hard for thee to beare, and yet such as shall doe thee no good; such was their perswasion to warre against the Chaldeans to the vttermost [and causes of banishment] i. the obedience whereunto was the readiest way to bring you out of your land, and from all the blessings which you did there enioy.

Doctrine. [Prophets] False teachers are as grieuous a plague, as can be laide vponupon a people. The reason is, because 1they bring with them ineuitable destruction, Matth. 15. 14. in which respect God commaunded that they should dye the death, Deut. 13. 5. and 18. 20. they are discerned by teaching things contrarie to the reuealed will of God, Matth. 24. 11. 24. and 2. Pet. 2. 1. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that that people is in a fearefull case, which hauehave such thrust vponupon them, and true Pastors taken from them. Secondly, to trie the spirits, 1. Iohn 4. 1. which we cannot doe, except we be skilfull in the worde of God, which is the touchstone of this triall. Thirdly, it is not sufficient that our teacher be a learned p. 79man, for he may also be a false Prophet.

Doctrine. [thy] they that refuse to receiue the true ministers, 2God will giuegive them ouer to be seduced by false teachers and to beleeue lies, 2. Chron. 36. 15. Pro. 1. 24. &c. 2. Thess. 2. 10. 11. 12. The reason is, because, it is Gods righteous iudgement to punish disobedience, with that which is embraced instead of his commaundement, Rom. 1. 28. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that the great contempt of Gods word and true ministers in this land (without exceeding repentance) must needes be punished with all kinde of illusions, as Poperie, &c. which iudgement we see to hauehave gotten a great hand already: Secondly, if wee looke to bee freed from his iudgement, that we yeeld to the whole trueth (so farre as it is reuealed vntounto vsus) both in iudgement and practise. Thirdly, that true teachers of Gods word being disgraced, are not to be dismayed, though hyrelings and time-seruers be receiued in their steades, seeing it was the lot of the Prophets, Christ, and his Apostles.

Doctrine. [vaine and vnsauorie] It is a certaine note of a false Prophet, to speake such things in the name of the Lord, 3as are vntrue, or misalleadged to please the carnall desires of the people, Iere. 14. 13. 14. 15. 23. throughout. The reason is, because whom God sendeth, them he furnisheth with the word of truth: but Sathan putteth a lying spirit in the mouth of them that he stirreth vp to be seducers. The vse is, to teach vsus, to take heede we be not seduced by such: they are discerned by these and such like speeches. All is well, we are the most reformed Church that was since the Apostles times; many are too precise; mē may take liberty of pastimes on the Lords Sabbaoth; it is a small fault or none to sweare by faith, &c. all men that will professe in name to be Christians, are to be receiued vntounto the Sacraments, and such like.

Doctrine. [not discouered] It is not sufficient for a true minister, not to flatter, &c. but he must also discouer the peoples 4sinnes vntounto them, by particular ripping vp of sinne, and applying it to the consciences of his hearers, so did the true teachers euer, Ezech. 13. 4. and 1. Kings 18. 18. Matth. 3. 7. p. 80Luke 3. 8. &c. Matth. 14. 4. The reason is, because, if the doctrine be onelyonly generall, men will misapplie it, and alwaies turne it vponupon others, saying, he touched such a man, and such a man to day, &c. The vse is, first, to reprooue those teachers that doe not deale sharpely, either for feare of displeasure, or because themselues are some way infamously guiltie. Secondly, to reproue those hearers, as men not led by the spirit of God, that cannot endure particular reproofe, but will set themselues against the reproouers, vexing them by all meanes.

Doctrine. [to turne away] the onelyonly way to auoyde Gods 5plagues, is gladly to suffer our selues bitterly to be reproued by Gods ministers. The reason is, because it is the meanes that God hath appointed to bring vsus to the sight of our sinnes, and so to true repentance. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that they who cannot endure this course, can looke for nothing but Gods heauie hand, to be eueryevery way stretched out against them: Secondly, if we looke for Gods fauour, to vse all meanes that we may hauehave such teachers.

Doctrine. [causes of banishment] the falsehood that is 6taught by false Prophets, and beleeued by a seduced people, is the cause of all Gods punishments that light vponupon them. The reason is, because the teaching and beleeuing of error, is the fountaine of all those sinnes, for which God vsually punisheth the sonnes of men. The vse is, first, to reprooue the false opinion of the wicked, that charge true ministers and their doctrine to be cause hereof, 1. King. 18. 17. &c. Secondly, to teach vsus, so desirous as we are to escape Gods iudgements, to be so carefull to teach, beleeue, and liue according to the truth of God.

[All that passe by the way] i. all sortes of infidels and enemies Verse 15.[clap their hands at thee] i. make a wonderment to behold thee [they hisse and wagge the head vponupon the daughter of Ierusalem] i. they scorne and deride the people of God, 1. Kings 9. 8. and 2. Kings 19. 21. [saying, is this the Citie that men call the perfection of beautie] i. is this, whose walles are broken downe, whose houses are burned, whose people are p. 81slaine and famished, that Citie that was said to want nothing that might increase her renown [& the ioy of the whole earth] i. where nothing was wanting that might delight any man.

Doctrine. [all that passe by] God is woont to whippe his 1children for their sinnes, by the multitude of vnbeleeuers that hate the trueth, I say 10. 5. 6. Iere. 25. 9. Exod. 1. 13. 14. Examples hereof are many in al ages. The reason is, because, first, they will not doe that worke of God negligently, and so shall we be the more affected with it, and the better humbled: Secondly, God will thereby keepe his people from familiaritie with the wicked: Thirdly, that his louelove to vsus may appeare, in burning the rodde vponupon our repentance. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that it is the lot of the godly to be punished by the wicked: so was Christ, so were the Prophets, and Apostles, thē let vs'look for it, & not murmur at it, nor shrinke from the trueth for it: secondly, that sin is a most ougly thing in Gods sight, that causeth him to deale so seuerely with his deerest childrē: thirdly, that we take heed of being in league with the wicked, for they are our enemies & must scourge vsus.

Doctrine. [clappe their hands] it is a propertie of a wicked heart, to insult ouer the distressed, whome we should pittie 2and relieuc, Psal. 35. 15. &c. and 79. 4. so did Nabal, 1. Sam. 25. 10. 11. so did Shemi 2. Sam 16. 7. 8. so dealt they with Christ, Matth. 27. 39. &c. The reason is, because they doe not thinke that euer the like can fall vponupon themselues. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, the vilenesse of our nature, that hath no more remorse in it towards them in miserie: Secondly, to looke for no better from the hands of prophane persons: thirdly, to praise God that giueth a pittifull heart vntounto his seruants, euen towards their enemies, Psal. 35. 13. 14.

Doctrine. [they hisse and wagge, &c. saying] the wicked seeing 3the godly afflicted, take occasion thereby to blaspheme God and his trueth, Psalm. 74. 10. 18. and 2. Kings 18. 30. 35. and 19. 1. 2. &c. The reason is, because they thinke, first, that they shall neuer flourish againe: secondly, that they are the greatest sinners, because they are most punished. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, not to condemne men, or p. 82their religion, because of their afflictions. Secondly, that seeing the wicked doe vsuallie reuile the Lord and his trueth, when they abuse vsus, therefore let vsus patiently beare it, knowing that he, whose cause it is, will reuenge it.

Doctrine. [perfection of beautie and ioy] there only is true ioy and excellencie, where Gods trueth is rightly preached, 4and his name called vponupon, Psalm. 50. 2. Isay. 23. Ezech. 47. 8. 9. 12. The reason is, because they are the vsuall signes of Gods fauourable presence. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to take heed that we be not drawne from the vse of these things for louelove of peace, riches, libertie, or life it selfe; seeing they be the chiefe, and all other nothing without them. Secondly, to bewaile the losse thereof whensoeuer we be depriued of them, aboue the losse of any other thing in this life.

[All thine enemies] i. all sortes of people that hate thee, [doe open their mouth against thee] i. speake largely and freely Verse 16.to thy dishonhur [they hisse and gnash their teeth] i. they mock and disdaine thee [saying, wee hauehave deuoured it] i. we hauehave now made the Iewes past euer being a Nation againe, [certainely, this is the day we looked for] i. wee hauehave long hoped and laboured to see this day [we hauehave found and seene it] i. we hauehave now at the length attained vntounto it.

Doctrine. [all thine enemies] the wicked will ioyne together 1to vexe the godly, though otherwise they be enemies one to another, Psal. 2. 2. Examples hereof Luk. 23. 12. The reason is, because they hate nothing, neither any persons so much, as the truth and the professors thereof. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that the greatest part of men shall alwaies be against the godly, and therefore let vsus not be carried with the multitude: Secondly, not to trust the friendship of the wicked.

Doctrine. [opened their mouth] it is a speciall property of the wicked, to rayle at the godly, Matth. 5. 11. 12. 2The reason is alleadged by our Sauiour Christ, Matth. 12. 34. The vse is, to teach vsus, how to discerne of a wicked man, and to take his reuilings patiently: Secondly, to take heede that wee bee not tainted with so vile a faulte, as p. 83God hath made a marke of a wicked man.

Doctrine. [we hauehave deuoured, &c.] the wicked bee often 3so inflamed with malice against the godly, as nothing will satisfie them but their blood, Pro. 1. 11. 16. &c. Psal. 79. 2. 3. The reason is, because they think to hauehave rest when they are dead, which they cannot hauehave whilest they see them liue, Esth. 3. 5. &c. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that bloodie cruelty being the property of the wicked, we must labour to be farre from that disposition: Secondly, to looke for all mischiefe from the wicked that they can accomplish against vsus.

Doctrine. [this is the day] in that once they did beare 4great shew of friendship to them, and now so cruelly deale with them, we learne this doctrine. Though the wicked doe alwaies hate the godly, yet they will often dissemble friendship, and shew forth their malice onelyonly, when they hauehave opportunitie thereunto, Psalm. 5. 9. Amos. 1. 9. The reason is, because they are wise in their owne generation, and can wait their best aduantage. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, neuer to trust the faire shew of a prophane man, but so to behaue our selues, as we be still aware of him: Secondly, that it is necessary the godly should now and then fall into troubles, that their dissembling friends may be discouered.

[The Lord hath done that which hee had purposed] i. the Verse 17.Lord hath brought to passe all that hee had decreed to doe vntounto thee [hee hath fulfilled his worde] i. accomplished his threatnings [that he had commaunded of olde time] i. which he had commaunded his Prophets to teach, and his whole Church to make vse of, as namely, Leuit. 26. 24. [hee hath throwne downe and not spared] i. eueryevery where ouerthrowne and shewed no fauour in it [he hath caused thine enemy to reioyce ouer thee] i. satisfied their desire vponupon thee to the full, [and set vp the horne of thine aduersaries] i. giuen them that hate thee great strength and might.

Doctrine. [the Lord hath done] i. It is the hand of GOD 1that worketh all the afflictions which fall vponupon his Church. This doctrine wee had often before, the bookes of Ioshua, Iudges and Kings are full of examples of it. The reason is, p. 84because, first, he is almightie, and doth all things. Secondly, he loueth his people, and letteth nothing betide them, but that which seemeth good vntounto him. Thirdly, hee hath the commandement of all creatures. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to learne to feare, and obey him especially, in whose fauour nothing can hurt vsus. Secondly, that in all afflictions we looke vntounto him that striketh, and examine our selues what cause wee hauehave giuen him. Thirdly, to seeke reconciliation with him by true repentance, so shall the meanes that are against vsus, be imployed for vsus.

Doctrine. [that he purposed] EueryEvery thing that the Lord 2determineth shall stand, and come to passe, whosoeuer be against it. The reason is, because he is so powerfull and constant, that nothing can alter him, or disswade him. Obiection: How is he then sayd so often to repent? Answere, that is not in his purposes, but in the performance of his promises, and his threatnings, which are alwaies vttered with condition. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that his promises and his fauourable assistance (wee beleeuing therein) shall alwaies stand by vsus, to assist vsus in all distresses. Secondly, that the iudgements threatned in the word against the impenitent, shall certainly light vponupon them.

Doctrine. [fulfilled his word] i. Gods purposes (so farre as they are for vsus to knowe) are reuealed in the word, and no 3where els to bee sought. The reason is, because it is called his will, according whereunto if any man speake not, it is because there is no trueth in him. The vse is, first, to reproue them that say, who can tell Gods will? Secondly, to teach vsus, with all diligence to search the Scriptures, and to rest only thereupon, seeing it is the certaine will of God.

Doctrine. [his word] So much of Gods purposes as men may take knowledge of, or enquire after, is reuealed in the 4written worde of GOD. The reason is, because the secret things belong vntounto the Lord (as the saith by Moses, Deut.) and those that be reuealed to vsus and our children. The vse is, first, to reproue the Anabaptists that looke for reuelations besides the word. Secondly, to teach vsus, that we neuer purpose p. 85well, but when we hauehave our warrant from the word.

Doctrine. [commaunded] God setteth nothing downe in 5his word, but that he will hauehave taught by his Ministers, and learned by his people. The reason is, because, whatsoeuer is written, is written for our learning, Rom. 15. 4. The vse is, to teach vsus, that no part of the Scripture is needlesse to bee knowne, or a storie onelyonly and no more to bee made of it, but of necessarie and profitable vse to eueryevery particular Christian.

Doctrine. [of oldtime] GOD often deferreth the performance 6of his promises, and threatnings, till they seeme either to be forgotten, or in reason neuer like to come to passe, and yet they are accomplished in their time. The reason is, because, first, he will thereby trie the cōstancie and patience of his children. Secondly, that he might suffer with long patience the vessels ordained to destruction, Rom. 9. 22. The vse is, to teach vsus, neither to despaire of the promises, nor thinke the threatnings shall neuer be accomplished, but to make as certaine accompt of them, as if they were present, seeing nothing thereof shall fall to the ground.

Doctrine. [throwne downe and not spared] as God is full of 7merciemercy in his long suffering: so is his anger vnappeaseable, when it breaketh out against the sonnes of men for their sinnes: for the reasons and vse hereof, see vers. 2. Doct. 2.

Doctrine. [he hath caused the enemie] The aduersaries of 8Gods children can doe nothing against them, till God arme them thereunto: for the reasons and vse hereof, see Chap. 1. vers. 5. Doct. 4.

Doctrine. [reioyce] It is the propertie of the wicked, to 9triumph exceedingly, when they hauehave any hand against the godly: for the reasons and vse hereof, see vers. 15. Doct. 2.

Doctrine. [set vp] GOD often suppresseth the godlie in 10this life, and aduaunceth the wicked: for the reasons and vse hereof, see Chap. 1. verse 5. doct. 2.

[Their heart crieth against the Lorde] i. they set their Verse 18.whole power to deuise blasphemie against God; for so it must be translated, and interpreted, referring it to the aduersaries, p. 86and making it a reason to cause the Church to pray, in hope to be heard: see the Anyticall table [O wall] i. O all people within the wall; a figuratiue speech [of the daughter of Sion] i. the Children of Gods Church [Let teares runne downe like ariuer day and night] i. weep continually, in great aboundance [take thee no rest] i. giuegive not ouer [neither let the apple of thine eye cease] i. Let thine eyes neuer stay from sending out teares.

Doctrine. [against the Lord] whatsoeuer the wicked doe 1against the godly, it is done indeed against the Lord himselfe, Matth. 25. 40. Acts 9. 4. The reason is, because, first, God esteemeth them as the apple of his eye, Zacha. 2. 8. being one with him in Christ, Iohn 17. 20. Secondly, the wicked doe all of hatred to our religion, and not for our sinnes. Thirdly, they are set on worke in desire to satisfie their owne affections, to the exceeding breach of Gods lawes. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that they shall be sure not to prosper: so it was said and done in the like case, 2. Kings 19. 32. well it may be that they shall preuaile, till our sinnes bee throughly punished, but no longer: Secondly, to pray feruently for patience, and to hope for deliuerance in Gods good time.

Doctrine. [O wall] in speaking to the wall when he meaneth to speake to them, we learne this doctrine. The senselesse 2creatures are often more moued, when God sheweth his anger, then we are. The reason is, because, first, there is no corruption in them, but by our sinnes: secondly, wee are made by sinne more blockish then any creature besides. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, to be ashamed, and humbled, that are so vntoward: secondly, to assure our selues that no excuse will serue, seeing the dumbe and senselesse creatures shall beare witnesse against vsus, Isay 1. 2. Deut. 32. 1. Mich. 6. 1. 2. &c. Thirdly, to take great paines with our selues, to labour our affections to goodnesse; otherwise wee shall profit but a little.

Doctrine. [wall] when the aduersaries impugne the truth, all the members of the Church ought to crie vntounto God earnestly. 3The reason is, because, Gods glory ought to be deare p. 87vntounto all: Secondly, it concerneth all that looke for any portion in the trueth: Thirdly, the Spirit that giueth sympathie to eueryevery member of the bodie, and to all betweene them and the head, perswadeth and directeth thereunto. The vse is, to teach vsus, to take to hart the case of the whole Church more, then our owne, and Gods glory most of all, so did Moses Exod. 32. 32. and Paule Rom. 9. 3. &c.

Doctrine. [let teares] grieuous affliction ought to bring 4vsus to exceeding sorrow for sinne. The reason is, because grieuous punishments doe argue the heynousnes of our offences. The vse is, to teach vsus, the more wee are punished, the more earnestly to labour with our owne hearts to increase lamentation in them.

Doctrine. [no rest] wee must not bee weary of vsing the 5meanes of continuall repentance. The reason is, because we doe sinne continually. The vse is, to teach vsus, that true repentance standeth not in a fit of sorrow or prayer, and so an end: but in a continuall performance of those dueties, eueryevery day in better maner then other.

Doctrine. [neither let] he that will doe his duetie in Gods 6seruice aright, must not giuegive place to his owne affections. The reason is, because they must be subdued in spirituall exercises, else they either taint, or wholie defile all that is taken in hand. The vse is, to teach vsus, to trie our selues how much we hauehave profited in godlinesse, by examining what rule wee hauehave ouer our affections.

[Arise, crie in the night] i. when others sleepe, declare and Verse 19.shew forth thy lamentations [in the beginning of the watches] i. in the quiet of the night, when men are in a deepe sleepe, that so thou maist hauehave the lesse disturbance [power out thine heart like water before the face of the Lord] i. vtter vntounto the Lord thine whole heart in greatest aboundance [lift vp thine hands towards him] i. declare by all signes thy desire to bee heard [for the life of thy young children] i. to see if hee will spare thy tender babes [that are ouerwhelmed with hunger in the corners of all thy streetes] i. that are starued and so dye in eueryevery place of the Citie.

p. 88Doctrine. [night &c. watches] we must vse all the meanes we may, to fit vsus to prayer, and to helpe vsus to continue in it 1without disturbance. The reason is, because els we performe it very vntowardly, such is the difficultie of it, & our corruption. The vse is, to teach vsus, not to enter rashlie vponupon so high an action, but with all circumspection and watchfulnesse ouer our owne corruptions, and Sathans sleights.

Doctrine. [heart] Our prayers must be feruent, or they will not be regarded. The reason is, because, God is of such 2maiestie, as he looketh for all earnestnesse in our petitions. The vse is, first, to reproue the common manner of praying with lip labour onelyonly, as a matter highly offensiue in the sight of the Lord. Secondly, it teacheth vsus neuer to vndertake that great action, but with all carefull preparation and diligent attention vntounto it.

Doctrine. [young children] in that one of the miseries, 3which is most patheticall, is named, we learne this doctrine. Gods Ministers must vse the most forcible reasons that can be deuised, to perswade vntounto godlinesse. The reason is, because all the meanes that can bee vsed, are scarce sufficient to perswade vsus, such is our dulnesse. The vse is, to teach vsus, that Ministers ought to be men of great skill, and dexteritie in perswading, els they shall doe little good.

[Behold O Lord and consider to whom thou hast done this] Verse 20.i. O Lord regard thoroughly our great miseries, and weigh with thy selfe that thou hast not done thus to the heathen that know not thy name, but to thine owne people [shall the women] i. shall the most compassionate, and the most quezie stomached [eate their fruite] i. feede vponupon their owne children [children of a span long] i. being most tender and little, [shall the Priest and the Prophet] i. the ordinarie Ministers, and those that are extraordinarilie raised vp by thine owne hand [be slaine in the Sanctuary of the Lord] i. be killed in that place dedicated to holie vses, where they doe dispense thine owne ordinances?

Doctrine. [O Lord] they were in a desperate case, and yet pray for helpe, whereby wee learne this doctrine. The onelyonly p. 891way of remedie in our greatest miseries, is to call vponupon GOD in feruent praier. The reason is, because, first, it declareth that we are humbled, and our pride broken, in confessing no power to bee in our selues, and seeking helpe else where. Secondly, he is of greatest power, and none els can helpe vsus. Thirdly, he will hauehave all the glorie of our deliuerance, Psal. 50. 15. The vse is, first, to reproue many sorts of offenders, as Atheists, that doe not acknowledge Gods hand in their miseries; Idolaters, that seeke helpe of others, then God himselfe; Infidels, that seeke to Sorcerers or Witches; those that relie so much vponupon men, & those that pray coldly or careleslie. Secondly, that we must not giuegive ouer prayer, though our caseseemeth most desperate, but be the more earnest therin.

Doctrine. [behold and consider] by this vehement kinde of speech wee learne this doctrine: In right prayer vntounto God, 2the frame of our words must be according to our affection. The reason is, because, the heart chiefly doth pray, and sendeth out words according to the abundance of it, els is there hypocrisie. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, that vehement words in ordinary prayer is vaine, and not in due time. Secondly, that dulnesse of affection in ordinarie prayer or lip labour at any time, is a great fault, seeing the words must be according to the heart. Thirdly, to labour our affections before we begin, and in the action of prayer, that the mouth may speake from the abundance of the heart, and therefore to take heed of vsing a set prayer too much, lest it growe to a meere liplabour.

Doctrine. [to whom] The chiefest reason to moue the Lord 3to pitie vsus, is the remembrance of his couenant of merciemercy in Christ Iesus. The reason is, because it is the ground of our faith, without the benefite whereof we are enemies to God, and he to vsus. The vse is, to teach vsus, to labour to approue our selues the children of God, (by professing Christ aright, beleeuing stedfastlie in him, and liuing as becommeth the members of his bodie) els are our prayers abominable in his sight.

Doctrine. [shall the women eate] Gods wrath ouerturneth p. 904the course of nature in thē against whom it is bent. The reason is, because it bringeth his curse which ouerturneth all, as it did man, woman, earth, serpent, &c. Gen. 3. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, the horror of sinne, and fearefulnesse of Gods wrath vponupon it: Secondly, to pray to God neuer to giuegive vsus ouer to our heartes lusts, which is the heauiest iudgement that can befall vsus.

Doctrine. [children] there is sufficient cause and matter 5in all the infants of Gods people, why God should in his iustice destroy them. The reason is, because they are conceiued and borne in sinne, Psal 51. 5. The vse is, to teach vsus, first, what cause we hauehave to be humbled, that are infinitely more sinfull then infants: Secondly, to magnifie Gods exceeding merciemercy that (notwithstanding our manifolde sinnes) doth not destroy vsus.

Doctrine. [shall the Priest, &c.] Crueltie exercised by the 6hands of the wicked vponupon children and ministers, is a speciall meanes to moue God to heare vsus, when we pray for them. The reason is, because he hath promised speciall protection vntounto them, and threatned seuerely to reuenge their wrongs. The vse is, to teach vsus, especially to take heed that we doe them no harme, but doe them what good we can.

Doctrine. [in the sanctuarie] there is no Priuiledge of place 7that can free vsus from punishment, when we sinne against the Lord. The reason is, because, no place hath freedome to sinne in it: Secondly, no place had euer any priuiledges promised to it, but vponupon condition of obedience. The vse is, first, to reproue the Papists, that thinke Gods promises tyed vntounto Rome, notwithstanding the disobedience and rebellion of them that dwell therein: secondly, to teach vsus, neuer to couer our sinnes vnderunder the pretence of any priuiledge; for it will not serue to keepe vsus from Gods hand, in the day of his anger.

[The young and the olde lay on the ground in the streetes] i. Verse. 21.all, of all conditions, lay slaine in the open places [my virgins and my young men are falne by the sworde] i. those that men are most loath to kill, and those that are strongest to defend p. 91themselues, are cruellie killed [thou hast slaine in the day of thy wrath] i. thou hast set thy selfe to destroy, in exceeding measure when thou wast angrie [thou hast killed and not spared] i. thou hast made hauocke of thy people, and shewed no maner of pitie.

Doctrine. [young and olde] when God punisherh a people 1for sinne, he spareth neither age nor sex. The reason is, because, first, vsually they are first incorrigible, as was this people the Iewes, 2. Chron. 36. 16. 17. &c. Secondly, God respecteth no persons, Rom. 2. 11. 12. Iob. 34. 19. The vse is, to teach vsus, that seeing no excuse, either of ignorance, youth, age, birth, or any such priuiledge will serue our turne, therefore we should seriously and without delay turne vntounto the Lord.

Doctrine. [in the streetes] it is a signe of Gods anger vponupon 2a people, when they want decent buriall, Psal. 79. 3. The reason is, because it is a good blessing of God to hauehave it, and the godly hauehave carefully sought it. Gen 23. 4. and 49. 29. Obiection. How is it a blessing, seeing the godly often want it, as Reuel. 11. 8. 9 &c. Answere. It is a temporall blessing, which God in his anger for sinne denying to his people, counteruaileth with a spirituall blessing of greater value.

Doctrine. [my virgins] the wicked will doe most barbarous 3things, when God bridleth them not. The reason is, because Sathan doth often bring them to be past natural affection, Rom. 1. 30. The vse is, to teach vsus, if we desire not to bee annoyed by the vngodly, to pray vntounto the Lord that hee would restraine their rage.

Doctrine. [not spared] as God is full of mercy in his long 4suffering, so is his anger vnappeasable when it breaketh out against the sonnes of men: for the reason, and vse hereof, see vers. 2. Doct. 2.

[Thou hast called as in a solemne feast] i. Thou hast from Verse 22.all places, in great aboundance (as people are called to some great assemblie) called together at once against me [my terrors round about me] i. my griefes and feares are on eueryevery side [so that in the day of the Lords wrath none escaped nor remained] p. 92i. when God shewed his anger vponupon me, all were destroyed [those that I hauehave nourished and brought vp] i. my tender children that I hauehave cared for, from the wombe [hath mine enemie consumed] i. are cruellie destroyed by such as hate me, and therefore shewed no pittie vponupon them.

Doctrine. [thou hast called] God raiseth vp the wickedest, and imployeth them to punish his own seruants, when they 1sinne, Isay 5. 26. 8. 7. The reason is, because they are the roddes that God▪ vsually correcteth his children withall. Obiection. Doth God then raise vp their malice? Answere. not as it is wicked, but as it is an earnest affection, which is good as it is from God, but most euill in them. The vse is, to teach vsus, to feare the Lord, and walke carefully in his waies, least he raise the wicked against vsus to consume vsus.

Doctrine. [none escaped] none can escape Gods punishments, 2whome he meaneth to punish. The reason is, because his power and mighty hand is eueiy where, Psalm. 139. 7. &c. The vse is, to teach vsus, with all reuerence and feare to walke humblie before him, that we may hauehave his fauourable protection to shield vsus.

Doctrine. [those that hauehave, &c.] the children of impenitent sinners, are often taken away, and prosper not to their 2comfort. The reason is, because in Gods displeasure all things are accursed vntounto vsus, Deut. 28. 15. &c. The vse is, to teach vsus, in all things that we take in hand, and wherein wee desire to hauehave comfort, to praye alwaies vntounto the Lord to blesse them vntounto vsus.