Section 568
II. The next thing to be enquired into, is, what is meant by his bed; and there is a variety of opinions concerning it
The Targum understands by it, the temple: R. Sol. Jarchi, the tabernacle of the congregation; in both which the priests" and Levites watched and kept guard: R. Alshech, the congregation of Israel. Some[3692] think that the temple of Christ's body is here intended, in which "the fullness of the Godhead dwells;" and which was guarded and protected from the fury and malice of Herod and others, by angels, who were continually ascending and descending on him: others[3693] the hearts Of believers, in which Christ condescends to dwell; which are kept by his power, and guarded by that "peace of his which passeth all understanding. Some[3694] have been of opinion, that Christ himself is this bed: others[3695] that it is his cross: and others[3696] that the happiness of the saints in glory is here meant; who, dying in the Lord, "enter into peace, and rest in their beds;" which are those mansions that are prepared and reserved for them in heaven. Though others[3697] think that the scriptures are this bed; in hearing and reading of which, souls are often begotten again; they are written for the comfort of God's children, being opened, are made very useful to them, where they frequently meet with Christ, and have communion with him: these, notwithstanding the cunning and malice of wicked men, have been safely kept and strangely preserved by the providence of God; as the doctrines of them have been strenuously maintained and defended against heretics by the ministers of the gospel. But I am rather inclined to think, that by this bed, we are to understand the church of Christ:"[3698] it is here Christ dwells; this is his resting-place; here souls are begotten and born again; and here he grants to his people nearness of access unto him, sweet familiarity, and delightful fellowship with him. Now this may he said to be his bed, because the Father has given it to him, and he has purchased it with his own blood; as also, because it is of his own making. But,