These two God hath joyned together, as the Apostle doth in this place, so that no man ought or may dis-joyne them. Hence election and calling are taken sometimes in the Scriptures for one and the same, as _1 Corinthians 1.26,27._ that which is called _calling_, verse 26. is called _election_, verse 27. There is indeed an outward and ineffectuall calling, which is many times separated from election, as when it is said, _Many are called, but few are chosen_. But effectuall and saving calling hath alwayes a sure connexion with election, as _Romans 8.30._ and _11.28,29._ _Reason._ Because this calling is nothing else but the operation of God, whereby in time he begins to execute that purpose of election, which he had decreed from everlasting. _Vse_ 1. This may serve to reprove those, that are wont to boast of their election and predestination, when in the meane time they never looke after their calling or conversion, to demonstrate it either to themselves or others. It is presumption, whatsoever men say of their election, if they are not first assured of their calling. 2. To comfort all the faithfull that are penitent, converted, and called, because all those may and ought to be sure of their election. Doctrine 4. _An endeavour to abound in vertue, and to do good workes is the only meanes to make our calling and election sure._ This is gathered from the words, _If ye do these things_. _Reason_ 1. Because these are the proper effects of calling and election. 2. They are the causes of that knowledge which we have of our calling and election. For the knowledge and assurance of these things depends upon the reflex act of our understanding, whereby we see in our selves the markes and signes of effectuall calling, and consequently of eternall election. Hence this assurance increaseth and decreaseth in us, according as our endeavour to abound in vertues, and to do good workes is greater or lesser. _Vse_ 1. This may serve to refute those, that teach that the assurance of election crosseth the practise of piety, whereas there is as great an agreement betwixt these, as is betwixt the effect and the cause, which absolutely agree.