men, and is judged of all, a Gal. 1:11 I write unto you, are the commandments of the
1185 1 Corinthians 15:5
not, will they not say, that ye are out of your wits? 24 But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is rebuked of all men, and is judged of all, 25 And so are the secrets of his heart made manifest, and so he will fall down on his face and worship God, and say plainly that God is in you indeed. 26 1What is to be done then, brethren? when ye come together, according as every one of you hath a Psalm, or hath doctrine, or hath a tongue, or hath revelation, or hath interpretation, let all things be done unto edifying. 27 1If any man speak a strange tongue, let it be by two, or at the most, by three, and that by course, and let one interpret. 28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the Church, which speaketh languages, and let him speak to himself, and to God. 29 1Let the Prophets speak, two or three, and let the others judge. 30 And if anything be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. 31 For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may have comfort. 32 And the 1spirits of the Prophets are subject to the Prophets. 33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as we see in all the Churches of the Saints. 34 c,1Let your women keep silence in the Churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak: but they ought to be subject, as also dthe Law saith. 35 And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the Church. 36 1Came the word of God out from you? either
came it unto you only? 37 If any man think himself to be a Prophet, or 1spiritual, let him acknowledge, that the things that I write unto you, are the commandments of the Lord. 38 1And if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39 1Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak languages. 40 Let all things be done honestly, and by order. 15 1 The Gospel that Paul preached. 3 The death and resurrection of Christ. 8 Paul saw Christ. 9 He had persecuted that Church, whereof afterward he was made a minister. 12 Christ first rose again, and we all shall rise by him. 26 The last enemy, death. 29 To be baptized for dead. 32 At Ephesus Paul fought with beasts. 35 How the dead are raised. 45 The first Adam. The last Adam, 47 The first and second man. 51 We shall all be changed, we shall not all sleep. 55 Death's sting. 57 Victory. 58 Constancy and steadfastness.
c 1 Tim. 2:12
d Gen. 3:16
chapter 15
a Gal. 1:11
b Isa. 53:5 1 Pet. 2:24
c Jonah 2:1
d John 20:19
1 Moreover a,1brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which ye have also received, and wherein ye 2continue, 2 And whereby ye are saved, if ye keep in memory, after what manner I preached it unto you, 1except ye have believed in vain. 3 For first of all, I delivered unto you that which I received, how that Christ died for our sins, according to the bScriptures, 4 And that he was buried, and that he arose the third day, according to the cScriptures, 5 dAnd that he was seen of Cephas, then of the 1twelve.
14:26 1 The conclusion: The edifying of the Congregation is a rule and square of the right use of all spiritual gifts. 14:27 1 The manner how to use the gift of tongues. It may be lawful for one or two, or at the most three, to use the gift of tongues, one after another in an assembly, so that there be some to expound the same: but if there are none to expound, let him that hath that gift, speak to himself alone. 14:29 1 The manner of prophesying: Let two or three propound, and let the other judge of that that is propoundeth, whether it be agree able to the word of God or no: If in this examination the Lord give any man nought to speak, let them give him leave to speak. Let every man be admitted to prophesy, severally and in his order, so far forth as it is required for the edifying of the Church. Let them be content to be subject to each other's judgment. 14:32 1 The doctrine which the Prophets bring which are inspired with God's Spirit. 14:34 1 Women are commanded to be silent in public assemblies, and they are commanded to ask of their husbands at home. 14:36 1 A general conclusion of the treatise of the right use of spiri tual gifts in assemblies: with a sharp reprehension, lest the Corinthi ans might alone seem to themselves to be wise. 14:37 1 Skillful in knowing and judging spiritual things.
14:38 1 The Church ought not to care for such as be stubbornly ignorant, and will not abide to be taught, but to go forward notwith standing in those things which are right. 14:39 1 Prophecy ought simply to be retained and kept in Congre gations, the gift of tongues is not to be forbidden, but all things must be done orderly. 15:1 1 The sixth treatise of this Epistle, concerning the resurrec tion: and he useth a transition, or passing over from one matter to another, showing first that he bringeth no new thing, to the end that the Corinthians might understand that they had begun to swerve from the right course: and next that he goeth not about to entreat of a trifling matter, but of another chief point of the Gospel, which if it be taken away, their faith must needs come to nought. And so at the length he beginneth this treatise at Christ's resurrection, which is the ground and foundation of ours, and confirmeth it first by the testimony of the Scriptures, and by the witness of the Apostles, and of more than five hundred brethren, and last of all his own. 2 In the profession whereof you continue yet. 15:2 1 Which is very absurd, and cannot be, but that they believe, must reap the fruit of faith. 15:5 1 Of those twelve picked and chosen Apostles, which were commonly called twelve, though Judas was put out of the number.
1 corinthians 15:6 1186
6 After that, he was seen of more than five hundred brethren at 1once: whereof many remain unto this present, and some also are asleep. 7 After that, he was seen of James: then of all the Apostles. 8 e,1And last of all he was seen also of me, as of one born out of due time. 9 fFor I am the least of the Apostles, which am not meet to be called an Apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God. 10 gBut by the grace of God I am that I am: and his grace which is in me, was not in vain: but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which is with me. 11 Wherefore, whether it were I, or they, so we preach, and so have ye believed. 12 ¶ 1Now if it be preached, that Christ is risen from the dead, how say some among you, that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 1For if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14 1And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.
15 And we are found also false witnesses of God: for we have testified of God, that he hath raised up Christ: whom he hath not raised up, if so be the dead be not raised. 16 1For if the dead be not raised, then is Christ not raised. 17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain: 1ye are 2yet in your sins. 18 1And so they which are asleep in Christ, are perished. 19 1If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most miserable. 20 1But now is Christ risen from the dead, 2and was made the h,3firstfruits of them that slept. 21 1For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be 1made alive. 23 1But every man in his iown order: the firstfruits is Christ, afterward, they that are of Christ, at his coming shall rise again. 24 1Then shall be the 2end, when he hath delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father, when he hath
e Acts 9:5
f Eph. 3:8
g Eph. 3:7
h Col. 1:18
Rev. 1:5
i 1 Thess. 4:13
15:6 1 Not fewer all times, but together and at one instant. 15:8 1 He maintaineth by the way, the authority of his Apostleship, which was requisite to be in good credit among the Corinthians, that this Epistle might be of force and weight amongst them. In the mean season he compareth himself to such sort after a certain divine art with certain others, that he maketh himself inferior to them all. 15:12 1 The first argument to prove that there is a resurrection from the dead: Christ is risen again, therefore the dead shall rise again. 15:13 1 The second by an absurdity, If there is no resurrection of the dead, then is not Christ risen again. 15:14 1 The proof of that absurdity by other absurdities: If Christ be not risen again, the preaching of the Gospel is in vain, and the credit that you gave unto it is vain, and we are liars. 15:16 1 He repeateth the same argument taken of an absurdity, purpos ing to show how faith is in vain if the resurrection of Christ be taken away. 15:17 1 First, seeing death is the punishment of sin, in vain should we believe that our sins were forgiven us, if they remain: but they do remain, if Christ rose not from death. 2 They are yet in their sins, which are not sanctified, nor have obtained remission of their sins. 15:18 1 Secondly, unless that this be certain that Christ rose again, all they which died in Christ, are perished. So then what profit cometh of faith? 15:19 1 The third argument, which is also taken from an absurdity: for unless there be another life, wherein such as trust and believe in Christ shall be blessed, they were the most miserable of all creatures, because in this life they are the most miserable. 15:20 1 A conclusion of the former argument: Therefore Christ is risen again. 2 He putteth the last conclusion for the first proposition of the argument that followeth. Christ is risen again, Therefore shall we the faithful (for of them he speaketh) rise again: Then followeth the first reason of this consequent: for Christ is set forth unto us, to be considered of, not as a private man apart and by himself, but as the firstfruits: And he taketh that which was known, to all men, to wit, that the whole heap is sanctified in the firstfruits.
3 He alludeth to the firstfruits of corn, the offering whereof sancti fied the rest of the fruits. 15:21 1 Another confirmation of the same consequent: for Christ is to be considered as opposite to Adam, that as from one man Adam, sin came over all, so from one man Christ, life cometh unto all: that is to say, that all the faithful, as they die, because by nature they were born of Adam, so because in Christ they are made the children of God by grace, they are quickened and restored to life by him. 15:22 1 Shall rise by the virtue of Christ. 15:23 1 He doeth two things together: for he showeth that the res urrection is in such sort common to Christ with all his members, that notwithstanding he far passeth them, both in time (for he was the first that rose again from the dead) and also in honor, because that from him and in him is all our life and glory. Then by this occasion he passeth in the next argument. 15:24 1 The fourth argument, wherewith also he confirmeth the oth ers, hath a most sure ground, to wit, because that God must reign. And this is the manner of his reign, that the Father will be showed to be King in his Son who was made man, to whom all things are made subject (the promiser only except) to the end that the Father may afterward tri umph in his Son the conqueror. And he maketh two parts of this reign and dominion of the Son, wherein the Father's glory consisteth: to wit, the overcoming of his enemies (whereof some must be deprived of all power, as Satan and all the wicked, be they never so proud and mighty, and others must be utterly abolished as death) and a plain and full delivery of the godly from all enemies, that by this means God may fully set forth the body of the Church, cleaving fast to their head Christ, his kingdom and glory as a king in his subjects. Moreover he putteth the first degree of this kingdom in the resurrection of the Son, who is the head: and the perfection, in the full conjunction of the members with the head, which shall be in the latter day. Now all these tend to this purpose, to show that unless the dead do rise again, neither the Father can be King above all, neither Christ be Lord of all: for neither should the power of Satan and death be overcome, nor the glory of God be full in his Son, nor his Son in his members. 2 The shutting up and finishing of all things.
1187 1 Corinthians 15:41
put down 3all rule, and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign jtill he hath put all his enemies 1under his feet. 26 The 1last enemy that shall be destroyed, is death. 27 kFor he hath put down all things under his feet. (And when he saith that all things are subdued to him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put down all things under him.) 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, 1then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him, that did subdue all things under him, that 2God may be all in all. 29 1Else what shall they do which are baptized 2for dead? if the dead rise not at all, why are they then baptized for dead? 30 1Why are we also in jeopardy every hour? 31 By your 1rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 32 1If I have fought with beasts at Ephesus 2after the manner of men, what advantageth it me, if the dead be not raised up? l,3let us 4eat and drink: for tomorrow we shall die.
33 1Be not deceived: evil speakings corrupt good manners. 34 Awake to live righteously, and sin not: for some have not the knowledge of God, I speak this to your shame. 35 1But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body come they forth? 36 1O fool, that which thou sowest, is not quickened, except it die. 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare corn as it falleth, of wheat, or of some other. 38 1But God giveth it a body at his pleasure, even to every seed his own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh, but there is one flesh of men, and another flesh of beasts, and another of fishes, and another of birds: 40 There are also heavenly bodies, and earthly bodies: but the glory of the heavenly is one, and the glory of the earthly is another. 41 There is another glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars:
j Ps. 110:1
Acts 2:34 Heb. 1:13 Heb. 10:13
k Ps. 8:6 Heb. 2:8
l Isa. 22:13
3 All his enemies which shall be spoiled of all the power they have. 15:25 1 Christ is considered here, as he appeared in the form of a servant, in which respect he ruleth the Church as head, and that because this power was given him of his Father. 15:26 1 The shutting up of the argument, which is taken from the whole to the part: for if all his enemies shall be put under his feet, then must it needs be that death also shall be subdued under him. 15:28 1 Not because the Son was not subject to his Father before, but because his body, that is to say, the Church which is here in dis tress, and not yet wholly partaker of his glory, is not yet fully perfect, and also because the bodies of the saints which be in the graves shall not be glorified until the resurrection: but Christ as he is God, hath us subject to him as his Father hath, but as he is Priest, he is subject to his father together with us. Augustine, book 1, chap. 8, of the Trinity. 2 By this high kind of speech, is set forth an incomprehensible glory which floweth from God, and shall fill all of us, as we are joined together with our head, but yet so, that our head shall always reserve his preeminence. 15:29 1 The fifth argument taken of the end of Baptism, to wit, because that they which are baptized, are baptized for dead, that is to say, that they may have a remedy against death because that Baptism is a token of regeneration. 2 They that are baptized, to this end and purpose, that death may be put out in them, or to rise again from the dead, whereof baptism is a seal. 15:30 1 The sixth argument: Unless there be a resurrection of the dead, why should the Apostles so daily cast themselves into danger of so many deaths? 15:31 1 As though he said, I die daily, as all the miseries I suffer can well witness, which I may truly boast of, that I have suffered amongst you. 15:32 1 The taking away of an objection: but thou Paul, didst ambi tiously, as commonly men are wont to do, when thou didst fight
with beasts at Ephesus: That is very like, saith Paul, for what could that advantage me, were it not for the glory of eternal life which I hope for? 2 Not upon any godly motion, nor casting mine eyes upon God, but carried away with vain glory, or a certain headiness. 3 The seventh argument which dependeth upon the last: if there be no resurrection of the dead, why do we give ourselves to anything else, save to eating and drinking? 4 These are speeches that Epicureans use. 15:33 1 The conclusion with a sharp exhortation, that they take heed of the naughty company of certain: from whence he showeth that this mischief sprang: warning them to be wise with sobriety unto righteousness. 15:35 1 Now that he hath proved the resurrection, he discovereth their doltishness, in that they scoffingly demanded, how it could be that the dead should rise again, and if they did rise again, they asked mockingly, what manner of bodies they should have. Therefore he sendeth these fellows which seemed to themselves to be marvelous wise and witty, to be instructed of poor rude husbandmen. 15:36 1 Thou mightest have learned either of these, saith Paul, by daily experience: for seeds are sown, and rot, and yet notwithstand ing so far it is off, that they perish, that contrarywise they grow up far more beautiful: and whereas they are sown naked and dry, they spring up green from death by the virtue of God: and doth it seem incredible to thee that our bodies should rise from corruption, and that endued with a far more excellent quality? 15:38 1 We see a diversity both in one and the selfsame thing which hath now one form and then another, and yet keepeth its own kind, as it is evident in a grain which is sown bare, but springeth up far after another sort: and also in divers kinds of one selfsame sort, as amongst beasts: and also among things of divers sorts, as the heav enly bodies and the earthly bodies: which also differ very much one from another. Therefore there is no cause why we should reject either the resurrection of the bodies, or changing of them into a better state, as a thing impossible, or strange.
1 corinthians 15:42 1188
not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In 1a moment, in the twinkling of an eye at the last ntrumpet: for the trumpet shall blow, and the dead shall be raised up incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption: and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible hath put on incorruption, and this mortal hath put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying, that is written, oDeath is swallowed up into victory. 55 O death where is thy sting? O grave where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin: and the strength of sin is the Law. 57 pBut thanks be unto God, which hath given us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 1Therefore my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, abundant always in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the 2Lord. 16 1 He exhorteth them to help the poor brethren of Jerusalem: 10 Then he commendeth Timothy, 13 and so with a friendly exhortation, 19 and commendations, endeth the Epistle.
for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 1So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is 2sown in corruption, and is raised in incorruption. 43 It is sown in 1dishonor, and is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness, and is raised in 2power. 44 1It is sown a natural body, and is raised a spiritual body: there is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45 1As it is also written, The 2first man mAdam was made a living soul: and the last Adam was made a 3quickening spirit. 46 1Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual: but that which is natural, and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, 1earthly: the second man is the Lord from 2heaven. 48 1As is the earthly, such are they that are earthly: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have born the 1image of the earthly, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly. 50 1This say I, brethren, that 2flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 1Behold, I show you a 2secret thing, We shall
m Gen. 2:7
n Matt. 24:31
1 Thess. 4:16
o Hos. 13:14
Heb. 2:4
p 1 John 5:5
15:42 1 He maketh three manner of qualities of the bodies being raised: Incorruption, to wit, because they shall be sound, and alto gether of a nature that cannot be corrupt: Glory, because they shall be adorned with beauty and honor: Power, because they shall con tinue everlasting without meat, drink, and all other helps, without which this frail life cannot keep itself from corruption. 2 Is buried, and man is hid as seed in the ground. 15:43 1 Void of honor, void of glory, and beauty. 2 Freed from the former weakness, whereas it is subject to such alteration and change, that it cannot maintain itself without meat and drink, and such otherlike helps. 15:44 1 He showeth perfectly in one word, this change of the quality of the body by the resurrection, when he saith, that of a natural body, it shall become a spiritual body, which two qualities being clean different, the one from the other, he straightway expoundeth and setteth forth diligently. 15:45 1 That is called a natural body, which is quickened and main tained by a living soul only, such as Adam was, of whom all we are born naturally: and that is said to be a spiritual, which together with the soul is quickened with a far more excellent virtue: to wit, with the Spirit of God, which descendeth from Christ the second Adam unto us. 2 Adam is called the first man, because he is the root as it were from which we spring: and Christ is the latter man: because he is the beginning of all them that are spiritual, and in him we are all comprehended. 3 Christ is called a Spirit, by reason of that most excellent nature, that is to say, God who dwelleth in him bodily, as Adam is called a living soul, by reason of the soul which is the best part in him. 15:46 1 Secondly he willeth the order of this double state or qual ity to be observed, that the natural was first, Adam being created of the clay of the earth: and the spiritual followed and came upon
it, to wit, when the Lord being sent from heaven, endued our flesh which was prepared and made fit for him, with the fulness of the Godhead. 15:47 1 Wallowing in dirt, and wholly given to an earthly nature. 2 The Lord is said to come down from heaven by that kind of speech, whereby that which is proper to one is touched of another. 15:48 1 He applieth both the earthly naturalness of Adam (if I may so say) to our bodies, so long as they are naturally conversant on earth, to wit, in this life, and in the grave: and also the spirituality of Christ to the same our bodies, after that they are risen again: and he saith, that that goeth before and this shall follow. 15:49 1 Not a vain and false image, but such an one as had the truth with it indeed. 15:50 1 The conclusion: We cannot be partakers of the glory of God, unless we put off all that gross and filthy nature of our bodies subject to corruption, that the same body may be adorned with incorrupt ible glory. 2 Flesh and blood are taken here for a living body, which cannot attain to incorruption, unless it put off corruption. 15:51 1 He goeth further, declaring that it shall come to pass that they which shall be found alive in the latterday, shall not descend into that corruption of the grave, but shall be renewed with a sudden change, which change is very requisite: and that the certain enjoying of the benefit and victory of Christ, is deferred unto that latter time. 2 A thing that hath been hid, and never known hitherto, and there fore worthy that you give good care unto it. 15:52 1 He showeth us that the time shall be very short. 15:58 1 An exhortation taken from the profit that ensueth, that seeing they understand that the glory of the other life is laid up for faithful workmen, they continue and stand fast in the truth of the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead. 2 Through the Lord's help and goodness working in us.
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1 Concerning 1the gathering for the Saints, as I have ordained in the Churches of Galatia, so do ye also. 2 Every 1first day of the week, let every one of you put aside by himself, and lay up as God hath 2prospered him, that then there be no gatherings when I come. 3 And when I am come, whomsoever ye shall allow by 1letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. 4 1And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me. 5 Now I will come unto you, after I have gone through Macedonia (for I will pass through Macedonia.) 6 And it may be that I will abide, yea, or winter with you, that ye may bring me on my way, whithersoever I go. 7 For I will not see you now in my passage, but I trust to abide a while with you, if the Lord permit. 8 And I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. 9 For a great door and 1effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries. 10 ¶ Now if Timothy come, see that he be 1without fear with you: for he worketh the work of the Lord, even as I do. 11 Let no man therefore despise him: but convey him forth 1in peace, that he may come unto me: for I looked for him with the brethren. 12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but
his mind was not at all to come at this time: howbeit he will come when he shall have convenient time. 13 ¶ Watch ye: stand fast in the faith: quit you like men, and be strong. 14 Let all your things be done in love. 15 Now brethren, I beseech you (ye know the house of 1Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have 2given themselves to minister unto the Saints.) 16 That ye be 1obedient even unto such, and to all that help with us and labor. 17 I am glad of the coming of Stephanas, and Fortunatus, and Achaicus: for they have supplied the want of you. 18 For they have comforted my 1spirit and yours: 2acknowledge therefore such men. 19 The Churches of Asia salute you: Aquila and Priscilla with the Church that is in their house, salute you greatly in the Lord. 20 All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an aholy kiss. 21 The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand. 22 If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be had in execration 1maran-atha. 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. 24 My love be with you all in Christ Jesus, Amen.
chapter 16
a Rom. 16:16
1 Cor. 3:2 1 Pet. 3:14
The first Epistle to the Corinthians, written from Philippi, and sent by Stephanas,
and Fortunatus, and Achaicus, and Timothy.
16:1 1 Collections in old time were made by the Apostles appoint ment the first day of the week, on which day the manner was then to assemble themselves. 16:2 1 Which in times past was called Sunday, but now is called the Lord's day. 2 That every man bestow, according to the ability that God hath blessed him with. 16:3 1 Which you shall give them to carry. 16:4 1 The residue of the Epistle is spent in writing of familiar mat ters, yet so that all things be referred to his purposed mark, that is to say, to the glory of God, and the edifying of the Corinthians. 16:9 1 Very fit and convenient to do great things by. 16:10 1 Without any just occasion of fear.
16:11 1 Safe and sound, and that with all kinds of courtesy. 16:15 1 Stephanas is the name of a man and not of a woman. 2 Given themselves wholly to the ministry. 16:16 1 That you honor and reverence them, be obedient to them and be content to be ruled by them, as meet as you should, seeing they have bestowed themselves, and their goods to help you withall. 16:18 1 Mine heart. 2 Take them for such men as they are indeed. 16:22 1 By these words, are betokened the [secret] kind of curse and excommunication that was amongst the Jews: and the words are as much as to say, as our Lord cometh: So that his meaning may be this, Let him be accursed even to the coming of the Lord, that is to say, to his death's day, even for ever.
T h e s e c o n d e p i s t l e o f pa u l
T o t h e c o r i n t h i a n s
1 1 He beginneth with the praise of afflictions, 8 declaring what he hath sufferred in Asia, 10 and how happily God assisted him. 17 He saith it was not upon any lightness, that he came not, according to his promise.
suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope is steadfast concerning you, in as much as we know, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation. 8 1For brethren, we would not have you ignorant of our affliction, which came unto us in Asia, how we were pressed out of measure passing strength, so that we altogether 2doubted even of life. 9 Yea, we received the sentence of death in 1ourselves, because we should not rest in ourselves, but in God, which raised the dead. 10 Who delivered us from so 1great a death, and doth deliver us: in whom we trust, that yet hereafter he will deliver us. 11 b,1So that ye labor together in prayer for us, 2that for the gift bestowed upon us for many, thanks may be given by many persons for us. 12 1For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly 2pureness, and not in fleshly wisdom, but by the 3grace of God we have had our conversation in the world, and most
chapter 1
a Eph. 1:3
1 Pet. 1:3
c Rom. 15:30
1 PAUL 1an Apostle of JESUS Christ, by the will of God, and our brother Timothy, to the Church of God, which is at Corinth, with all the Saints, which are in all Achaia: 2 Grace be with you, and peace from God, our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 a,1,2Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of 3mercies, and the God of all comfort, 4 Which comforteth us in all our tribulation, 1that we may be able to comfort them which are in any affliction by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. 5 For as the 1sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation aboundeth through Christ. 6 1And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is 2wrought in the enduring of the same sufferings, which we also
1:1 1 See the declaration of such salutations in the former Epistles. 1:3 1 He beginneth after his manner with thanksgiving, which not withstanding (otherwise than he was wont) he applieth to himself: beginning his Epistle with the setting forth of the dignity of his Apos tleship, constrained (as it should seem) by their importunity, which took an occasion to despise him by reason of his miseries. But he answereth that he is not so afflicted, but that his comforts do exceed his afflictions, showing the ground of them, even the mercy of God the Father in Jesus Christ. 2 To him be praise and glory given. 3 Most merciful. 1:4 1 The Lord doth comfort us to this end and purpose, that we may so much the more surely comfort others. 1:5 1 The miseries which we suffer for Christ, or which Christ suffer eth in us. 1:6 1 He denieth that either his afflictions wherewith he was often afflicted, or the consolations which he received of God, may justly be despised, seeing that the Corinthians both might and ought to take great occasion to be confirmed by either of them. 2 Although salvation be given us freely, yet because there is a way appointed us wherewith we must come to it, which is the race of an innocent and upright life, which we must run, therefore we are said to work our salvation, Philippians 2:12. And because it is God only that of his free good will worketh all things in us, therefore is he said to work the salvation in us by those selfsame things by which we
must pass to everlasting life, after that we have once overcome all encumbrances. 1:8 1 He witnesseth that he is not only not ashamed of his afflictions, but that he desireth also to have all men know the greatness of them, and also his delivery from them, although it be not yet perfect. 2 I know not at all what to do, neither did I see by man's help which way to save my life. 1:9 1 I was resolved within myself to die. 1:10 1 From these great dangers. 1:11 1 That he may not seem to boast himself, he attributeth all to God, and therewith also confesseth that he attributeth much to the prayers of the faithful. 2 The end of the afflictions of the Saints, is the glory of God, and therefore they ought to be precious unto us. 1:12 1 Secondly he putteth away another slander, to wit, that he was a light man, and such a one as was not lightly to be credited, seeing that he promised to come unto them, and came not. And first he speaks of the simplicity of his mind, and sincerity, which they know both by his voice when he was present, and they ought to acknowl edge it also in his letters, being absent: and moreover he protesteth that he will never be otherwise. 2 With clearness, and holy and true plainness of mind, as God him self can witness. 3 Trusting to that very wisdom, which God of his free goodness hath given me from heaven.
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of all to youwards. 13 For we write 1none other things unto you, than that ye read or else that ye acknowledge, and I trust ye shall acknowledge unto the 2end. 14 Even as ye have acknowledged us partly, that we are your 1rejoicing, even as ye are ours, in the 2day of our Lord Jesus. 15 And in this confidence was I minded first to come unto you, that ye might have had a 1double grace, 16 And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia, unto you, and to be led forth toward Judea of you. 17 1When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or mind I those things which I mind, according to the 2flesh, that with me should be, 3Yea, yea, and Nay, nay? 18 1Yea, God is 2faithful, that our word toward you, was not Yea, and Nay? 19 1For the Son of God Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, that is, by me, and Silvanus, and Timothy, 2was not Yea, and Nay: but in 3him it was Yea. 20 1For all the promises of God in him are Yea, and are in 2him Amen, unto the glory of God through 3us. 21 1And it is God which established us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us.
22 Who hath also sealed us, and hath given the 1earnest of the Spirit in our hearts. 23 1Now, I call God for a record unto my 2soul, that to spare you, I came not as yet unto Corinth. 24 1Not that we have dominion over your faith, but we are helpers of your 2joy: for by faith ye stand. 2 1 He excuseth his not coming unto them, 2 and privily reprehendeth them: 4 He showeth that such is his affection towards them, 5 that he never rejoiceth but when they are merry. 6 Perceiving the adulterer (whom he commanded to be delivered up to Satan) to repent, he requesteth that they forgive him. 13 He mentioneth his going into Macedonia.
1 But I determined thus in myself, that I would not come again to you in 1heaviness. 2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that should make me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me? 3 And I wrote this same thing unto you, lest when I came, I should take heaviness of them of whom I ought to rejoice: this 1confidence have I in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all. 4 For in great affliction, and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears: not that ye should be made sorry, but that ye might perceive the love which I have, specially unto you. 5 1And if any hath caused sorrow, the same hath
1:13 1 He saith he writeth barely and simply: for he that writeth in colored sort, is rightly said to write otherwise than we read: and this he saith the Corinthians shall know and like of very well. 2 Perfectly. 1:14 1 Paul's rejoicing in the Lord was, that he had won the Corin thians: and they themselves rejoiced that such an Apostle was their instructor, and taught them so purely and sincerely. 2 When he shall sit as judge. 1:15 1 Another benefit. 1:17 1 He putteth away their slander and false report by denying it, and first of all in that divers went about to persuade the Corinthians, that in the preaching of the Gospel, Paul agreed not to himself: for this was the matter and the case. 2 As men do, which will rashly promise anything, and change their purpose at every turning of an hand. 3 That I should say and unsay a thing? 1:18 1 He calleth God to witness, and for judge of his constancy in preaching and teaching one selfsame Gospel. 2 True, and of whose faithfulness it [were] horrible wickedness to doubt. 1:19 1 He joineth also with himself, his fellows as witnesses, with whom he fully consented in teaching one selfsame thing, to wit, one selfsame Christ. 2 Was not divers and wavering. 3 That is in God. 1:20 1 Last of all he declareth the sum of his doctrine, to wit, that all the promises of salvation are sure and ratified in Christ. 2 Christ is set also forth to exhibit and fulfill them all most assur edly, and without all doubt. 3 Through our ministry.
1:21 1 He attributeth the praise of this constancy, only to the grace of God, through the holy Ghost, and therewithall concludeth that they cannot doubt of his faith, and his fellows, without doing injury to the Spirit of God, seeing that they themselves do know all this to be true. 1:22 1 An earnest, is, whatsoever is given to confirm a promise. 1:23 1 Now coming to the matter, he sweareth, that he did not only, not lightly alter his purpose of coming to them, but rather that he came not unto them for this cause, that he might not be constrained to deal more sharply, with them being present, than he would. 2 Against myself and to the danger of mine own life. 1:24 1 He removeth all suspicion of arrogance, declaring that he speaketh not as a Lord unto them, but as a servant, appointed of God to comfort them. 2 He setteth the joy and peace of conscience, which God is author of, against tyrannous fear, and therewithall showeth the end of the Gospel. 2:1 1 Causing grief amongst you, which he should have done if he had come to them before they had repented them. 2:3 1 For I trusted that you would take that out of the way forewith, which you knew I was discontented with, considering how you are persuaded that my joy is your joy. 2:5 1 He passeth to another part of this Epistle: which notwithstand ing is put amongst the first, whereunto he returneth afterward, and he handleth the releasing and unloosing of the incestuous per son, because he seemed to have given sufficient testimony of his repentance: showing the true use of excommunication, to wit, that it proceed not of hatred, but of love, and so ends lest if we keep no measure, we serve Satan the devil.
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not made 2me sorry, but 3partly (lest I should more 4charge him) you all. 6 It is sufficient unto the same man, that he was rebuked of many. 7 So that now contrariwise ye ought rather to 1forgive him, and comfort him, lest the same should be swallowed up with overmuch heaviness. 8 Wherefore, I pray you, that you would 1confirm your love towards him. 9 For this cause also did I write: that I might know the proof of you, whether ye would be obedient in all things. 10 To whom ye forgive anything, I forgive also: for verily if I forgave anything, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the 1sight of Christ, 11 Lest Satan should circumvent us: for we are not ignorant of his 1enterprises. 12 ¶ 1Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's Gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord, 13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother, but took my leave of them, and went away into Macedonia. 14 Now thanks be unto God, which always maketh us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the 1savor of his knowledge by us in every place. 15 1For we are unto God the sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them which perish. 16 To the one we are the savor of death, unto death,
and to the other the savor of life, unto life: 1and who is sufficient for these things? 17 aFor we are not as many, which make 1merchandise of the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God in the sight of God speak we in Christ. 3 1 He desireth no other commendation, 3 than their continuing in the faith. 6 He is a minister not of the letter, but of the Spirit. 8 He showeth the difference of the Law, and the Gospel, 13 that the brightness of the Law doth rather dim the sight than lighten it: 18 But the Gospel doth make manifest God's countenance unto us.
chapter 2
a 2 Cor. 4:2
1 Do we begin to praise ourselves again? or need we as some others, Epistles of recommendation unto you, or letters of recommendation from you? 2 Ye are our epistle, written in our hearts, which is understood and read of all men, 3 In that ye are 1manifest, to be the Epistle of Christ, 2ministered by us, and written, not with ink, but with the Spirit of the 3living God, 4not in tables of stone, but in fleshly tables of the heart. 4 And such 1trust have we through Christ to God: 5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves, to think anything, as of ourselves: but our 1sufficiency is of God, 6 1Who also hath made us able ministers of the New Testament, not of the 2letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life.
2:5 2 As if he said, All that sorrow is so clean wiped away, as though he had never felt it. 3 As for me (saith Paul) I have no more to do with him. 4 Lest I should overcharge him, who is burdened enough of him self, which I would be glad were taken from him. 2:7 1 That whereas before you punished him sharply, you would now forgive him. 2:8 1 That at my entreaty, you would declare by the consent of the whole Church, that you take him again for a brother. 2:10 1 Truly and from the heart. 2:11 1 Of his mischievous counsel and devilish will. 2:12 1 He returneth to the confirmation of his Apostleship, and bringeth forth the testimonies, both of his labor, and also of God's blessing. 2:14 1 He alludeth to the anointing of the Priests, and the incense of the sacrifices. 2:15 1 He denieth that ought should be taken away from the dig nity of his Apostleship, because they saw evidently that it was not received with like success in every place, nay rather very many rejected and detested him, seeing that he preacheth Christ, not only as a Savior of them that believe, but also as a Judge of them that condemn him. 2:16 1 Again, he putteth away all suspicion of arrogance, attributing all things that he did, to the virtue of God, whom he serveth sincerely, and without all dishonest affection: whereof he maketh them wit nesses even to verse 6 of the next chapter. 2:17 1 We do not handle it craftily and covetously, or less sincerely than we ought: and he useth a metaphor which is taken from huck sters, which used to play the false harlots with whatsoever cometh
into their hands. 3:3 1 The Apostle frameth his speech wisely, that by little and little he may come from the commendation of the person, to the mat ter itself. 2 Which I took pains to write as it were. 3 By the way he setteth the virtue of God, against the ink where with Epistles are commonly written, to show that it was wrought by God. 4 He alludeth by the way, to the comparison of the outward minis try of the Priesthood of Levi, with the ministry of the Gospel, and the Apostolic ministry, which he handleth afterward more fully. 3:4 1 This boldness we show, and thus gloriously may we boast of the worthiness and fruit of our ministry. 3:5 1 In that we are fit and meet to make other men partakers of so great a grace. 3:6 1 He amplifieth his ministry and his fellows: that is to say, the ministry of the Gospel, comparing it with the ministry of the Law, which he considereth in the person of Moses, by whom the Law was given: against whom he setteth Christ the author of the Gos pel. Now this comparison is taken from the very substance of the ministry. The Law is as it were a writing of itself dead, and without efficacy: but the Gospel, or new covenant, is as it were the very virtue of God itself, in renewing, justifying, and saving men. The Law propoundeth death, accusing all men of unrighteousness: The Gospel offereth and giveth righteousness and life. The governance of the Law served for a time to the promise: The Gospel remaineth to the end of the world. Therefore what is the glory of that in com parison of the majesty of this? 2 Not of the Law, but of the Gospel.
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7 If then the ministration of death written with letters 1and engraven in stones, was 2glorious, so that the children of Israel could not behold the face of Moses, for the glory of his countenance (which glory is gone away.) 8 How shall not the 1ministration of the Spirit be more glorious? 9 For if the ministry of condemnation was glorious, much more doth the ministration of 1righteousness exceed in glory. 10 For even that which was glorified, was not glorified in this point, that is, as touching the exceeding glory. 11 For if that they should be 1abolished, was glorious, much more shall that which remaineth be glorious. 12 1Seeing then that we have such trust, we use great boldness of speech. 13 a,1And we are not as Moses, which put a veil upon his face, that the children of Israel should not look unto the 2end of that which should be abolished. 14 Therefore their minds are hardened: for until this day remaineth the same covering untaken away in the reading of the old Testament, which veil in Christ is put away. 15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the veil is laid over their hearts.
16 Nevertheless when their heart shall be turned to the Lord, the veil shall be taken away. 17 Now the 1Lord is the bSpirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 18 1But we all behold as in a mirror the glory of the Lord with open face, and are changed into the same image, from glory to glory, as by the Spirit of the Lord. 4 1 He showeth that he hath so labored in preaching the Gospel, 4 That such are even blinded of Satan, who do not perceive the brightness thereof, 7 that the same is carried in earthen vessels, 10 who are subject to many miseries: 16 and therefore he exhorteth them by his own example to be courageous, 17 and condemn this present life.
chapter 3
a Exod. 34:34
b Job 4:14
1 Therefore, 1seeing that we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we 2faint not: 2 But have cast from us the 1cloaks of shame, and walk not in craftiness, neither handle we the word of God 2deceitfully: but in declaration of the truth we approve ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 3 1If the Gospel be then hid, it is hid to them that are lost. 4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds, that is, of the infidels, that the 1light of the glorious Gospel of Christ, which is the 2image of God, should not shine unto them.
3:7 1 Imprinted and engraven: so that by this place we may plainly perceive, that the Apostle speaketh not of the ceremonies of the Law, but even of the ten commandments. 2 This word Glory, betokeneth a brightness, and a majesty, which was bodily in Moses, but spiritually in Christ. 3:8 1 Whereby God offereth, yea and giveth the Spirit, not as a dead thing, but a quickening Spirit, working life. 3:9 1 To wit, of Christ, which being imputed to us as our own, we are not only not condemned, but also we are crowned as righteous. 3:11 1 The Law, yea, and the ten commandments themselves, together with Moses, is abolished, if we consider the ministry of Moses apart by itself. 3:12 1 He showeth wherein standeth this glory of the preaching of the Gospel, to wit, in that that it setteth forth plainly and evidently, that which the Law showeth darkly, for it sent them that heard it to be healed of Christ, which was to come, after it had wounded them. 3:13 1 He expoundeth by the way the allegory of Moses' covering, which was a token of the darkness and weakness that is in men, which were rather dulled by the bright shining of the Law, then light ened, which covering was taken away by the coming of Christ, who lighteneth the hearts, and turneth them to the Lord, that we may be brought from the slavery of this blindness, and set in the liberty of the light, by the virtue of Christ's Spirit. 2 Into the very bottom of Moses' ministry. 3:17 1 Christ is that spirit which taketh away that covering, by working in our hearts, whereunto also the Law itself called us, though in vain, because it speaketh to dead men, until the spirit quickeneth us. 3:18 1 Going forwards in the allegory of the covering, he compar eth the Gospel to a glass, which although it be most bright and
sparkling, yet doth it not only not dazzle their eyes, which look in it, as the law doth, but also transformeth them with its beams, so that they also be partakers of the glory and shining of it, to lighten oth ers: as Christ said unto his, You are the light of the world, whereas he himself was the only light. We are also commanded in another place, to shine as candles before the world, because we are partak ers of God's Spirit. But Paul speaketh here properly, of the ministers of the Gospel, as it appeareth both by that that goeth before, and that that cometh after, and that, setting them his own example and his fellows. 4:1 1 Now he plainly witnesseth that both he and his fellows (through the mercy of God) do their vocation and duty uprightly and sincerely, neglecting all dangers. 2 Though we are broken in pieces with miseries and calamities, yet we yield not. 4:2 1 Subtlety, and all kinds of deceit, which men hunt after, as it were dens and lurking holes, to cover their shameless dealings withall. 2 This is it that in the former Chapter he called, making merchan dise of the word of God. 4:3 1 An objection: Many hear the Gospel, and yet are no more light ened thereby than by the preaching of the Law. He answereth, The fault is in the men themselves, whose eyes Satan plucketh out, who ruleth in this world. And yet notwithstanding doth he and his fellows set forth the most clear light of the Gospel to be seen and beholden, seeing that Christ whom only they preach, is he in whom only God will be known, and as it were seen. 4:4 1 The light of plain and lightsome preaching, which telleth forth the glory of Christ. 2 In whom the Father setteth forth himself to be seen and beholden.
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5 1For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your servants for 2Jesus' sake. 6 For God a,1that commanded the light to shine out of darkness, is he which hath shined in our hearts, to give the 2light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 1But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, 2that the excellency of that power might be of God, and not of us. 8 We are afflicted on every side, yet are we not in distress: we are in doubt, but yet we despair not. 9 We are persecuted, but not forsaken: cast down, but we perish not. 10 1Everywhere we bear about in our body the 2dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus might also be made manifest in our bodies. 11 For we which 1live, are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our 2mortal flesh. 12 1So then death worketh in us, and life in you. 13 1And because we have the same 2spirit of faith, according as it is written, bI believed, and therefore have I spoken, we also believe, and therefore speak, 14 Knowing that he which hath raised up the
Lord Jesus, shall raise us up also by Jesus, and shall set us with you. 15 1For all things are for your sakes, 2that that most plenteous grace by the thanksgiving of many, may redound to the praise of God. 16 Therefore we faint not, 1but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is 2renewed daily. 17 For our 1light affliction which is but for a moment, causeth unto us a far most excellent and an eternal weight of 2glory: 18 While we look not on the things which are seen, but on the things which are not seen for the things which are seen, are temporal: but the things which are not seen, are eternal. 5 1 He continueth in the same argument, 5 touching the certain hope of salvation 7 through faith, 12 not to praise himself, 14 seeing he hath God and his Church before his eyes, 17 and esteemeth nothing, but newness of life in Christ.
chapter 4
a Gen. 1:3
b Ps. 116:10
1 For 1we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle be destroyed, we have a building given of God, that is, an house not made with hands, but eternal in the heavens. 2 For therefore we sigh, desiring to be 1clothed
4:5 1 He removeth according to his accustomed manner, all sus picion of ambition: avouching that he teacheth faithfully, but as a servant, and witnessing that all this light which he and his fellows give to others, proceedeth from the Lord. 2 To preach this selfsame Jesus to you. 4:6 1 Which made only with his word. 2 That being lightened of God, we should in like sort give that light to others. 4:7 1 He taketh away a stumbling block, by which was darkened, amongst some, the bright shining of the ministry of the Gospel, to wit, because the Apostles were the most miserable of all men, Paul answereth that he and his fellows are as it were earthen vessels, but yet there is in them a most precious treasure. 2 He bringeth marvelous reasons, why the Lord doth so afflict his chiefest servants, to the end saith he that all men may perceive that they stand not by any man's virtue, but by the singular virtue of God, in that they die a thousand times, but never perish. 4:10 1 An amplification of the former sentence, wherein he compar eth his afflictions to a daily death, and the virtue of the Spirit of God in Christ, to life, which oppresseth that death. 2 So Paul calleth that miserable estate and condition, that the faithful, but especially the minsters, are in. 4:11 1 Which live, that life, to wit, by the Spirit of Christ, amongst so many and so great miseries. 2 Subject to that miserable condition. 4:12 1 A very cunning conclusion: as if he would say, Therefore to be short, we die, that you may live by our death, for that they ven tured into all those dangers for the building of the Church's sake, and they ceased not to confirm all the faithful with the examples of their patience. 4:13 1 He declareth the former sentence, showing that he and his fellows die in a sort to purchase life to others, but yet notwithstand ing they are partakers of the same life with them: because they them
selves do first believe that, which they propound to others to believe, to wit, that they also shall be saved together with them in Christ. 2 The same faith by the inspiration of the same Spirit. 4:15 1 He showeth how this constancy is preserved in them, to wit, because they respect God's glory, and the salvation of the Churches committed unto them. 2 When it shall please God to deliver me, and restore me to you, that exceeding benefit which shall be poured upon me, shall in like sort redound to the glory of God, by the thanksgiving of many. 4:16 1 He addeth as it were a triumphant song, how that he is out wardly afflicted, but inwardly he profiteth daily: and passeth not at all for all the miseries that may be sustained in this life, in comparison of that most constant and eternal glory. 2 Gathereth new strength, that the outward man be not overcome with the miseries which come freshly one upon the neck of another, being maintained and upholden with the strength of the inward man. 4:17 1 Afflictions are not called light, as though they were light of themselves, but because they pass away quickly, when as indeed our whole life is of no long continuance. 2 Which remaineth forever firm and stable, and can never be shaken. 5:1 1 Taking occasion by the former comparison, he compareth this miserable body, as it is in this life, to a frail and brickle tabernacle, against which he setteth the heavenly Tabernacle, so terming that sure and everlasting condition of this same body glorified in heaven, insomuch, saith he, that we are not only not addicted to this taber nacle, but also do with sobs and sighs desire rather that tabernacle. And so this place also concerning the glory to come, is put within the treatise of the dignity of the ministry, as the other was, whereof we spake in the beginning of the second Chapter. 5:2 1 He calleth the glory of immortality, which we shall be as it were clothed with, a garment.
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with our house, which is from 2heaven. 3 1Because that if we be clothed, we shall not be found anaked. 4 For indeed we that are in this tabernacle, sigh and are burdened because we would not be unclothed, but would be clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. 5 And he that hath 1created us for this thing, is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. 6 1Therefore we are always 2bold, though we know that while we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord. 7 (For we walk by 1faith, and not by sight.) 8 Nevertheless, we are 1bold, and love rather to remove out of the body, and to dwell with the Lord. 9 Wherefore also we 1covet, that both dwelling at home, and removing from home, we may be acceptable to him. 10 b,1For we must all 2appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that every man may receive the things which are done in his body, according to that he hath
done, whether it be good or evil. 11 1Knowing therefore that 2terror of the Lord, we persuade men, and we are made manifest unto God, and I trust also that we are made manifest in your consciences. 12 1For we praise not ourselves again unto you, but give you an occasion to rejoice of us that ye may have to answer against them, which rejoice in the 2face, and not in the heart. 13 1For whether we be out of our wit, we are it to God: or whether we be in our right mind, we are it unto you. 14 1For that love of Christ 2constraineth us, 15 Because we thus judge, that if 1one be dead for all, then were all dead, and he died for all, that they which live, should not henceforth 2live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. 16 1Wherefore, henceforth know we no man after the flesh, 2yea though we had known Christ after the flesh, yet not henceforth know we him no more. 17 1Therefore if any man be in Christ, let him be a
chapter 5
a Rev. 16:15
b Rom. 14:10
2 Heavenly, not that the substance of it is heavenly, but for the glory of it. 5:3 1 An exposition of the former saying: We do not without cause, desire to be clad with the heavenly house, that is, with that ever lasting and immortal glory, as with a garment: for when we depart hence, we shall not remain naked, having once cast off the covering of this body, but we shall take our bodies again, which shall put on as it were another garment besides: and therefore we sigh not for the weariness of this life, but for the desire of a better life. Neither is this desire in vain, for we are made to that life, the pledge whereof we have, even the Spirit of adoption. 5:5 1 He meaneth that first creation, to give us to understand, that our bodies were made to this end, that they should be clothed with heavenly immortality. 5:6 1 He inferreth upon that sentence which went next before, thus, Therefore, seeing that we know by the Spirit, that we are strangers so long as we are here, we patiently suffer this tarriance (for we are now so with God, that we behold him but by faith, and are therefore now absent from him) but so that we aspire and have a longing always to him: therefore also we behave ourselves so, that we may be acceptable to him, both while we live here, and when we go from hence to him. 2 He calleth them (bold) which are always resolved with a quiet and settled mind to suffer what dangers soever, nothing doubting, but their end shall be happy. 5:7 1 Faith of those things which we hope for, and not having God presently in our view. 5:8 1 And yet we are in such sort bold and do so pass on our pilgrim age with a valiant and quiet mind, that yet notwithstanding, we had rather depart hence to the Lord. 5:9 1 And seeing it is so, we strive to live so, that both in this our pilgrimage here we may please him, and that at length we may be received home to him. 5:10 1 That no man might think it to pertain to all, which he spoke of that heavenly glory, he addeth, that every one shall first render an account of his pilgrimage, after that he is departed from hence. 2 We must all appear personally, and inquiry shall be made of us,
that all may see, how we have lived. 5:11 1 Now he passeth over, and taking occasion of the former sen tence, returneth to 4:16, confirming his own sincerity and his fellows'. 2 That terrible judgment. 5:12 1 He removeth all suspicion of pride, by a new reason, because it is behoovable, not for his part, but for theirs, that his Apostleship be counted sincere against the vain ostentation of a few others. 2 In outward disguising, and that colored show of man's wisdom and eloquence, and not in true godliness, which is sealed in the heart. 5:13 1 The meaning is: Even when I am mad (as some men think of me) while I seem as a fool to boast myself, I do it for your profit, no less than when I preach the Gospel simply unto you. 5:14 1 He goeth forward in putting away all suspicion of desire of estimation and boasting: for the love of Christ, saith he, compelleth us hereunto, that seeing he died for us all, which were dead when as we lived to ourselves (that is, while we were yet given to these earthly affections) we in like sort should consecrate our whole life which we have received of him, to him (to wit) being endued with the holy Ghost to this end and purpose, that we should meditate upon noth ing but that which is heavenly. 2 Possesseth us wholly. 5:15 1 He speaketh here of sanctification, whereby it cometh to pass that Christ liveth in us. 2 See Romans, chapters 6 and 7. 5:16 1 He showeth what it is, not to live to ourselves, but to Christ, to wit, to know no man according to the flesh, that is to say, to be so conversant amongst men, as not to care for those worldly and carnal things, as they do which respect a man's stock, his country, form, glory, riches, and such like, wherein men commonly dote, and weary themselves. 2 An amplification: This is, saith he, so true, that we do not now think carnally of Christ himself, who hath now left the world, and therefore must be considered of us spiritually. 5:17 1 An exhortation for every man which is renewed with the spirit of Christ, to meditate heavenly things, and not earthly.
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that our ministry should not be reprehended. 4 But in all things we 1approve ourselves as bthe ministers of God, 2in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses. 5 In stripes, in prisons, in 1tumults, in labors, 6 1By watchings, by fastings, by purity, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, 7 By the 1word of truth, by the 2power of God, by the 3armor of righteousness on the right hand, and on the left, 8 By honor, and dishonor, by evil report, and good report, as deceivers, and yet true: 9 As unknown, and yet known: as dying, and behold, we live, as chastened, and yet not killed: 10 As sorrowing, and yet always rejoicing: as poor, and yet making many rich: as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. 11 1O Corinthians, our mouth is 2open unto you, our heart is made large. 12 Ye are not 1kept strait in us, but ye are kept strait in your own 2bowels. 13 Now for the same recompense, I speak as to my children, Be you also enlarged. 14 1Be not unequally yoked with the infidels: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrigh-
2new creature. cOld things are passed away: behold, all things are become new. 18 1And all things are of God, which hath reconciled us unto himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given unto us the ministry of reconciliation. 19 For God was in Christ, and reconciled the world to himself, not imputing their sins unto them, and hath 1committed to us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then are we ambassadors for Christ: as though God did beseech you through us, we pray you in Christ's stead, that ye be reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be 1sin for us, which 2knew no sin, that we should be made the 3righteousness of God in him. 6 1 He exhorteth them to lead their lives as it becometh Christians, 5 neither to be dismayed in tribulations, 9 nor puffed up with glory: 14 to avoid all uncleanness, 16 considering that they are the temples of the living God.
c Isa. 43:19
Rev. 21:5
chapter 6
a Isa. 49:8
b 1 Cor. 4:1
1 So 1we therefore as workers together beseech you, that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 1For he saith, aI have heard thee in a time 2accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold now the accepted time, behold now the day of salvation. 3 1We give no occasion of offence in anything,
5:17 2 As a thing made anew of God, for though a man be not newly created when God giveth him the spirit of regeneration, but only his qualities are changed, yet notwithstanding it pleased the holy Ghost to speak so, to teach us, that we must attribute all things to the glory of God: not that we are as stocks or blocks: but because God creates in us, both the will to will well, and the power to do well. 5:18 1 He commendeth the excellency of the ministry of the Gospel, both by the authority of God himself, who is the author of that minis try, and also by the excellency of the doctrine of it: for it announceth atonement with God, by free forgiveness of our sins, and justifica tion offered unto us in Christ, and that so lovingly and liberally, that God himself doth after a sort pray men by the mouth of his ministers, to have consideration of themselves, and not to despise so great a benefit. And when he so saith, he plainly reprehendeth them which falsely challenged to themselves the name of pastors. 5:19 1 Used our labor and travail. 5:21 1 A sinner, not in himself, but by imputation of the guilt of all our sins to him. 2 Who was clean void of sin. 3 Righteous before God, and that with righteousness which is not essential to us, but being essential in Christ, God imputeth it to us through faith. 6:1 1 Men do not only need the ministry of the Gospel, before they have received grace, that they may be partakers of it, but also after they have received grace, that they may continue in it. 6:2 1 In that that grace is offered, it is of the grace of God, who hath appointed times and seasons to all things, that we may take occasion when it is offered. 2 Which I of my free mercy and love towards you, . . . appointed, at which time God poured out that his marvelous love upon us. 6:3 1 He showeth the Corinthians a pattern of a true minister, in his own example, and Timothy and Silvanus, to the end, that (as he pur
posed from the beginning) he might procure authority to himself and his like. 6:4 1 Declare and show indeed. 2 He first of all reckoneth up those things which are neither always in the ministers, nor without exception, unless it be according to the affection of the mind, patience only except, which also is one of the virtues which ought to be always in a good minister. 6:5 1 In tossing to and fro, finding no place of rest and quietness. 6:6 1 Secondly, he reckoneth up such virtues as are necessary, and ought always to be in them, and whereby as by good armor, all lets and hindrances may be overcome. 6:7 1 Preaching of the Gospel. 2 Power to work miracles, and to bring under the wicked. 3 Uprightness. 6:11 1 Going about to rebuke them, he saith first, that he dealeth with them sincerely and with an open and plain heart, and there withall complaineth that they do not the like in loving again their Father. 2 The opening of the mouth and heart, betokeneth a most earnest affection in him that speaketh, as it fareth commonly with them that are in some great joy. 6:12 1 You are in mine heart, as in an house, and that no narrow or strait house, for I have opened my whole heart to you, but you are inwardly straitlaced to me-ward. 2 After the manner of the Hebrews, he calleth those tender affec tions which rest in the heart, bowels. 6:14 1 Now he rebuked them boldly, for that they became fellows with infidels in outward idolatry, as though it were a thing indifferent. And this is the fourth part of this Epistle, the conclusion whereof is, that such as the Lord has vouchsafed the name of his children, must keep themselves pure, not only in mind, but also in body, that they may wholly be holy unto the Lord.
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teousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what 1part hath the believer with the infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the Temple of God with idols? cfor ye are the Temple of the 1living God: as God hath said, dI will 2dwell among them, and walk there: and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 eWherefore come out from among them, and separate yourselves, saith the Lord, and touch none unclean thing, and I will receive you. 18 fAnd I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 7 1 Lest by overmuch urging them he should dismay their tender minds, 2 he proveth that all that he said, 4 proceeded of the great good will he bare unto them: 8 and therefore they should not be offended, that he made them sorry, 10 and brought them to repentance not to be repented of.
when he told us your great desire, your mourning, your fervent mind to me-ward, so that I rejoiced much more. 8 1For though I made you sorry with a letter, I repent not, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same Epistle made you sorry, though it were but for a season. 9 I now rejoice, not that ye were sorry, but that ye sorrowed to 1repentance: for ye sorrowed godly, so that in nothing ye were hurt by us. 10 For 1godly sorrow causeth repentance unto salvation, not to be repented of: but the worldly sorrow causeth death. 11 For behold, this thing that ye have been godly sorry, what great care hath it wrought in you: yea, what clearing of yourselves: yea, what indignation: yea, what fear: yea, how great desire: yea, what a zeal: yea, what revenge: in all things ye have showed yourselves, that ye are pure in this matter. 12 Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did not it for his cause that had done the wrong, neither for his cause that had the injury, but that our care toward you in the 1sight of God might appear unto you. 13 Therefore we were comforted, because ye were comforted: but rather we rejoiced much more for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all. 14 For if that I have boasted anything to him of you, I have not been ashamed: but as I have spoken unto you all things in truth, even so our boasting unto Titus was true. 15 And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, when he remembereth the obedience of you all, and how with fear and trembling ye received him. 16 I rejoice therefore that I may put my confidence in you in all things. 8 1 He exhorteth them by the example of the Macedonians, 9 and also even of Christ himself, 14 to be
c 1 Cor. 3:16
1 Cor. 6:19
d Lev. 26:11
e Isa. 52:11
f Jer. 31:1
1 Seeing then we have these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the 1flesh and spirit, and finish our sanctification in the fear of God. 2 1,2Receive us: we have done wrong to no man: we have corrupted no man: we have defrauded no man. 3 I speak it not to your 1condemnation: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts, to die and live together. 4 I use great boldness of speech toward you: I rejoice greatly in you: I am filled with comfort, and am exceeding joyous in all our tribulation. 5 For when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side, fightings without, and terrors within. 6 But God, that comforteth the 1abject, comforted us at the 2coming of Titus: 7 And not by his coming only, but also by the consolation wherewith he was comforted of you,
6:15 1 What can there be between them? 6:16 1 He setteth the living God against idols. 2 God dwelleth with us, because Christ is become God with us. 7:1 1 Both of body and soul, that by this means the sanctification may be perfect, consisting in both the parts thereof. 7:2 1 He returneth again from that admonition to his own person, opposing the testimonies both of his faithfulness and also of his con tinual good will towards them. 2 Let me have some place amongst you, that I may teach you. 7:3 1 To condemn you of unkindness or treachery. 7:6 1 Whose hearts are cast down, and are very far spent. 2 With those things which Titus told me of you at his coming, to wit, how fruitfully you read over my letters, moreover and besides that, I am exceedingly refreshed with his presence. 7:8 1 An objection: But thou hast handled us roughly. The Apostle answereth that he used not this toughness without grief. And he
addeth moreover, that he is also glad now that he drove them to that sorrow, although it was against his will, since it was so profit able unto them: for there is a sorrow not only praiseworthy, but also necessary, to wit, whereby repentance groweth by certain degrees, for the which repentance he praiseth them highly. And this is the fifth part of this Epistle. 7:9 1 Insomuch that that sorrow did you much good toward the amending of your lewdness and sins. 7:10 1 Godly sorrow is when we are not terrified with the fear of punishment, but because we feel we have offended God our most merciful Father: contrary to this, there is another sorrow, that only feareth punishment, or when a man is vexed for the loss of some worldly goods: the fruit of the first, repentance, and the fruit of the second, is desperation, unless the Lord helps speedily. 7:12 1 It was not colored nor counterfeit, but such as I dare stand to before God.
2 corinthians 8:1 1198
12 1For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. 13 1Neither is it that other men should be eased and you grieved: But upon 2like condition, at this time your abundance supplieth their lack: 14 That also their abundance may be for your lack, that there may be equality. 15 As it is written, aHe that gathered much, had nothing over, and he that gathered little, had not the less. 16 1And thanks be unto God, which had put in the heart of Titus the same care for you. 17 Because he accepted the exhortation, yea, he was so careful that of his own accord he went unto you. 18 And we have sent also with him the brother, whose praise is 1in the Gospel throughout all the Churches. 19 (And not so only, but is also chosen of the Churches to be a fellow in our journey, concerning this 1grace that is ministered by us unto the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your prompt mind.) 20 Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this 1abundance that is ministered by us, 21 bProviding for honest things, not only before the Lord, but also before men. 22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have ofttimes proved to be diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, for the great confidence, which I have in you. 23 Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my fellow and helper to you-ward: or of our 1brethren, they are messengers of the Churches, and the 2glory of
liberal towards the saints: 16 for which purpose, he showeth that Titus, 18 and another brother came unto them.
chapter 8
a Exod. 16:18
b Rom. 12:17
1 We 1do you also to wit, brethren, of the 2grace of God bestowed upon the Churches of Macedonia. 2 Because in 1great trial of affliction their joy abounded, and their most extreme poverty abounded unto their rich liberality. 3 For to their power (I bear record) yea, and beyond their power they were 1willing. 4 And prayed us with great instance that we would receive the 1grace, and fellowship of the ministering which is toward the Saints. 5 1And this they did, not as we looked for: but gave their own selves, first to the Lord, and after unto us by the will of God, 6 That we should exhort Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also accomplish the same grace among you also. 7 Therefore, as ye abound in everything, in faith and word, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love towards us, even so see that ye abound in this grace also. 8 1This say I not by commandment, but because of the 2diligence of others: therefore prove I the 3naturalness of your love. 9 1For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that he being rich, for your sakes became poor, that ye through his poverty might be made rich. 10 1And I show my mind herein: for this is expedient for you, which have begun not to do only, but also to 2will, a year ago. 11 Now therefore perform to do it also, that as there was a readiness to will, even so ye may perform it of that which ye have.
8:1 1 The sixth part of this epistle containing divers exhortations to stir up the Corinthians to liberality, wherewith the poverty of the Church of Jerusalem might be holpen in time convenient. And first of all he setteth out before them the example of the Churches of Mace donia, which otherwise were brought by great misery to extreme poverty, to the end that they should follow them. 2 The benefit that God bestowed upon the Churches. 8:2 1 For those manifold afflictions wherewith the Lord tried them, did not only not quail their joyful readiness, but also made it much more excellent, and famous. 8:3 1 Of their own accord they were liberal. 8:4 1 He calleth that, Grace, that other men would have called a bur den. And this verse is to be expounded by the sixth verse. 8:5 1 He amplifieth the forwardness of the Macedonians, in this, that they also desired Paul to stir up the Corinthians to accomplish the giving of alms, by sending again of Titus unto them. 8:8 1 Thirdly he warneth them that they deceive not their expecta tion which they have conceived of them. 2 At the request of the Macedonians. 3 Then appeareth the naturalness of our love, when as in deed and that frankly and freely we help our brethren, even for Christ's sake. 8:9 1 The fourth argument taken from the example of Christ.
8:10 1 He taketh good heed that he seem not to wrest it out of them by constraint, for unless it be voluntary, God doth not accept it. 2 Not only to do, but also to do willingly: for he noteth out a ready willingness without any enforcement by any other men; much less came it of ambition and vainglory. 8:12 1 Against such as use to excuse themselves, because they are not rich, as though it were only proper to rich men to help the poor. 8:13 1 Christian liberality is mutual, that proportion may be ob- served. 2 That like as now in your abundance you help others, which are poor, with some part of your goods, so should others in like sort bestow some of theirs upon you. 8:16 1 He commendeth Titus and his two companions for many causes, both that their credit might not be suspected, as though he had sent them slyly to spoil the Churches, and also that they might be so much the readier to contribute. 8:18 1 In the preaching of the Gospel. 8:19 1 These alms which are bestowed for the relief of the Church of Jerusalem. 8:20 1 In this plentiful liberality of the Churches, which is committed to our trust. 8:23 1 Titus's two companions. 2 By whom the glory of Christ is set forth.
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Christ. 24 Wherefore show toward them, and before the 1Churches the proof of your love, and of the rejoicing that we have of you. 9 1 Why, albeit he think well of their ready wills, 3 yet earnestly exhorteth them, 4 he yieldeth a reason: 6 He compareth alms to seed sowing, 10 which God doth repay with great gain.
a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all 1grace to abound toward you, that ye always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound in 2every good work, 9 (bAs it is written, He hath sparsed abroad and hath given to the poor: his benevolence remaineth for 1ever. 10 Also he that findeth seed to the sower, will minister likewise bread for food, and multiply your seed, and increase the 1fruits of your benevolence.) 11 That on all parts ye may be made rich unto all liberality, which causeth through us thanksgiving unto God. 12 1For the ministration of this service not only supplieth the necessities of the Saints, but also abundantly causeth many to give thanks to God, 13 (Which by the 1experiment of this ministration praise God for your 2voluntary submission to the Gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution to them, and to all men.) 14 And in their prayer for you, to long after you greatly, for the abundant grace of God in you. 15 1Thanks therefore be unto God for his unspeakable gift. 10 2 He showeth with what confidence, 4 with what weapons, 6 and with what revenge he is armed against the cavillations of the wicked, 7 and that, when he is present, his deeds have no less power, 11 than his words have force when he is absent.
chapter 9
a Rom. 12:8
b Ps. 112:9
1 For 1as touching the ministering to the Saints, it is superfluous for me to write unto you. 2 For I know your readiness of mind, whereof I boast myself of you unto them of Macedonia, and say, that Achaia was prepared a year ago, and your zeal hath provoked many. 3 Now have I sent the brethren, lest our rejoicing over you should be in vain in this behalf, that ye (as I have said) be ready. 4 Lest if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we may not say, you) should be ashamed in this my 1constant boasting. 5 Wherefore, I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren to come before unto you, and to finish your benevolence appointed afore, that it might be ready, and come as of benevolence, and not as of 1niggardliness. 6 1This yet remember, that he which soweth sparingly, shall reap also sparingly, and he that soweth liberally, shall reap also liberally. 7 As every man 1wisheth in his heart, so let him give, not a,2grudgingly, or of 3necessity: for God loveth
1 Now 1I Paul myself beseech you by the meek-
8:24 1 All Churches shall be witnesses of this your godly dealing, in whose presence you are, for so much as you see the messengers whom they have chosen by all their consents, and sent them unto you. 9:1 1 He wisely meeteth with the suspicion which the Corinthians might conceive, as though the Apostle in urging them so carefully, should doubt of their good will. Therefore he witnesseth that he doeth it not to teach them that they ought to help the Saints, see ing that he had become surety for them to the Macedonians, but only to stir them up which were running of themselves to the end that all things might both be in a better readiness, and also be more plentiful. 9:4 1 The word which he useth, signifieth such a stayedness and settledness of mind, as cannot be moved with any terror or fear. 9:5 1 As from covetous men. 9:6 1 Alms must be given neither niggardly, nor with a loathful mind, or hardly: But as frank and free alms is compared to a sowing which hath a most plentiful harvest of most abundant blessing following it. 9:7 1 Determineth and appointeth freely with himself. 2 With a sparing and niggardly heart. 3 Against his will, as loath to be evil reported of. 9:8 1 All God's bountiful liberality. 2 To help others by all means possible, in doing them good in their necessities. 9:9 1 Is everlasting: Now David speaketh of a man that feareth God, and loveth his neighbor, who shall never want (saith he) to give to others.
9:10 1 There is none so good an inheritance to the godly, as boun tifulness is. 9:12 1 Another excellent and double fruit of liberality towards the Saints, is this: that it giveth occasion to praise God, and that our faith is also thereby made manifest. 9:13 1 By this proof of your liberality in this helping and succoring of them. 2 In showing with one consent, that you acknowledge that only Gospel which you have willingly submitted yourselves unto, declar ing thereby, that you agree with the Church of Jerusalem. 9:15 1 Lest by his great commendation and praise, the Corinthians should be puffed up, he shutteth up this exhortation, with this excla mation. 10:1 1 He returneth to the defense of his Apostleship, but so that he useth this authority therein: for he warneth them earnestly and gravely, using also terrible threatenings to show themselves such as are apt to be instructed. And he refelleth certain proud men which made no better accompt of him, than of a bragging Thraso, in that he used to be sharp against them when he was absent, because they saw no great majesty in him after the manner of men, and besides, had proved his lenity, notwithstanding that in his absence, he had written to them sharply. Therefore first of all he professeth that he was gentle and moderate, but after the example of Christ: but if they continue, still to despise his gentleness, he protesteth unto them that he will show indeed how far they are deceived, which make that accompt of the office of an Apostle, that they do of worldly offices, that is, according to the outward appearance.
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also in deed, when we are present. 12 1For we 2dare not make ourselves of the number, or to compare ourselves to them, which praise themselves: but they understand not that they measure themselves with 3themselves, and 4compare themselves with themselves. 13 But we will not rejoice of things, which are not within our 1measure, abut according to the measure of the line, whereof God hath distributed unto us a measure to attain even unto you. 14 For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we had not attained unto you: for even to you also have we come in preaching the Gospel of Christ. 15 Not boasting of things which are 1without our measure: that is, of other men's labors: and we hope, when your faith shall increase, to be magnified by you according to your line abundantly, 16 And to preach the Gospel in those regions which are beyond you: not to rejoice in 1another man's line: that is, in the things that are prepared already. 17 b,1But let him that rejoiceth, rejoice in the Lord. 18 For he that praiseth himself, is not allowed, but he whom the Lord praiseth. 11 2 He testifieth that for the great loves sake he beareth to the Corinthians, he is compelled 5 to utter his own praises: 9 and that he bestowed his labor on them without any reward, 13 that the false apostles should not surpass him in anything, 22 whom he far excelled in those things which are praiseworthy indeed.
ness, and 2gentleness of Christ, which when I am present among you am base, but am bold toward you being absent: 2 And this I require you, that I need not to be bold when I am present, with that same confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which esteem us as though we walked 1according to the flesh. 3 1Nevertheless, though we walk in the flesh, yet we do not war after the flesh. 4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not 1carnal, but mighty through 2God, to cast down holds.) 5 Casting down the imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, 1and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ, 6 And having ready the vengeance against all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. 7 1Look ye on things after the 2appearance? If any man trust in himself that he is Christ's, let him consider this again of 3himself, that as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's. 8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should have no shame. 9 This I say, that I may not seem as it were to fear you with letters. 10 For the letters, saith 1he, are sore and strong, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech is of no value. 11 Let such one think this, that such as we are in word by letters, when we are absent, such will we be
chapter 10
a Eph. 4:7
b Jer. 9:24 1 Cor. 1:31
1 Would 1to God, ye could suffer a little my
10:1 2 That nature which is inclined to mercy, rather than to rigor of justice. 10:2 1 As though I had no other aid and help than that which out wardly I seem to have: and therefore Paul setteth his flesh, that is, his weak condition and state, against his spiritual and Apostolic dignity. 10:3 1 Secondly he witnesseth, that although he be like unto other men, yet he cometh furnished with that strength, which no holds of man can match, whether they resist by craft and deceit, or by force and might, because he warrioreth with divine weapons. 10:4 1 Are not such as men get them authority withall one of another, and do great acts. 2 Stand upon that infinite power of God. 10:5 1 An amplification of this spiritual virtue, which in such sort conquereth the enemies be they never so crafty and mighty, that it bringeth some of them by repentance unto Christ, and justly reveng eth others, that are stubbornly obstinate, separating them from the others which suffer themselves to be ruled. 10:7 1 He beateth into their heads that same matter, with great weight of words and sentences. 2 Do ye judge of things according to the outward show. 3 Not being told of it by me. 10:10 1 He noteth out someone that was the seeds man of this speech. 10:12 1 Being constrained to refel the foolish brags of certain ambi tious men, he witnesseth, that they are able to bring nothing, but that they falsely persuade themselves of themselves: and as for him
self, although he brags of excellent things, yet he will not pass the bounds which God hath measured him out, according whereunto he came even unto them in preaching the Gospel of Christ, and trusteth that he shall go further, when they have so profited that he shall not need to tarry any longer amongst them to instruct them. And hereunto is added an amplification, in that he never succeeded other men in their labors. 2 This is spoken after a taunting sort. 3 Upon a vain persuasion that they have of themselves, they take upon them they care not what. 4 They condemn all others, and measure all their doings only by themselves. 10:13 1 Of those things which God hath not measured to me. 10:15 1 As though God had divided the whole world among the Apostles, to be husbanded. 10:16 1 In countries which other men have prepared and hus banded with the preaching of the Gospel. 10:17 1 He somewhat mitigateth that which he spake of himself and therewith also prepareth the Corinthians to hear other things, witnessing that he seeketh nothing else but to approve himself to God, whose glory he only seeketh. 11:1 1 He granteth that after a sort he playeth the fool in this vaunt ing of things, but he addeth that he doeth it against his will, for their profit because he seeth them deceived by certain vain and crafty men, through the craft and subtlety of Satan.
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foolishness, and indeed, ye suffer me. 2 For I am jealous over you, with 1godly jealousy: for I have prepared you for one husband, to 2present you as a pure virgin to Christ: 3 But I fear lest as the aserpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be 1corrupt from the simplicity that is in 2Christ: 4 1For if he that cometh, preacheth 2another Jesus whom we have not preached: or if ye receive another spirit whom ye have not received: either another Gospel which ye have not received, ye might well have suffered him. 5 Verily I suppose that I was not inferior to the very chief Apostles. 6 1And though I be 2rude in speaking, yet I am not so in knowledge, but among you we have been made manifest to the uttermost, in all things. 7 1Have I committed an offence, because I abased myself, that ye might be exalted, and because I preached to you the Gospel of God freely? 8 I robbed other Churches, and took wages of them to do you service. 9 And when I was present with you, and had need, bI was not slothful to the hindrance of any man: for that which was lacking unto me, the brethren which came from Macedonia, supplied, and in all things I kept, 1and will keep myself, that I should not be grievous unto you. 10 The 1truth of Christ is in me, that this rejoicing
shall not be 2shut up against me in the regions of Achaia. 11 Wherefore? because I love you not? God knoweth. 12 But what I do, that will I do, that I may cut away occasion from them which desire occasion, that they might be found like unto us in that wherein they 1rejoice. 13 1For such false apostles are deceitful workers, and transform themselves into the Apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel: for Satan himself is transformed into an Angel of 1light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing, though his ministers transform themselves, as though they were the ministers of righteousness, whose end shall be according to their works. 16 1I say again, Let no man think that I am foolish, or else take me even as a fool, that I also may boast myself a little. 17 That I speak, I speak it not after the Lord: but as it were foolishly, in this my great boasting. 18 Seeing that many rejoice after [the] flesh, I will rejoice also. 19 For ye suffer fools gladly, because that ye are wise. 20 1For ye suffer, even if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take your goods, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.
chapter 11
a Gen. 3:4
b 2 Cor. 12:13
11:2 1 He speaketh as a woer, but yet as one that seeketh them not for himself, but for God. 2 To marry you together. 11:3 1 This place is to be marked against them which loathe that plain and pure simplicity of the Scriptures, in comparison of the col ors and paintings of man's eloquence. 2 Which is meet for them that are in Christ. 11:4 1 He showeth that they deceive themselves, if they look to receive of any other man, either a more excellent Gospel, or more excellent gifts of the holy Ghost. 2 A more perfect doctrine of Jesus Christ. 11:6 1 He refuteth the slanders of those Thrasoes. I grant, saith he, that I am not so eloquent an Orator, but yet they cannot take away the knowledge of the Gospel from me, whereof you have had good proof, and that every manner of way. 2 Paul lacked not the kind of eloquence which is meet for a man, and fit for the Gospel, but he willingly wanted that painted kind of speech, which too many nowadays hunt after and follow. 11:7 1 Another slander, to wit, that he was a rascal, and lived by the labor of his own hands. But herein, saith the Apostle, what can you lay against me, but that I was content to take any pains for your sakes, and when I lacked, to travail for my living with mine own hands in part, and partly also when poverty constrained me, I chose rather otherwise to seek my sustenance, than to be any burden to you, although I preached the Gospel unto you? 11:9 1 An amplification: so far is he from being ashamed of this act, that he hath also resolved with himself to do no otherwise hereafter amongst them, to the intent that it may always be truly said, that he taught in Achaia for nothing: not that he disdaineth the Corinthians,
but that these Thrasoes may never find the occasion which they have already sought for, and he in the mean season may set something before them to follow, that at length they may truly say, that they are like to Paul. 11:10 1 This is a form of an oath, as if he said, let me not be thought to have any truth in me. 2 Shall be always open to me. 11:12 1 Paul's adversaries sought all occasions they could, to be equal to him. And therefore seeing they had rather eat up the Corin thians, than preach to them for nothing, they sought another occa sion, to wit, to make Paul to take something: which thing if he had done, then hoped they by that means to be equal to him: for they made such a show of zeal and knowledge, and set it forth with such a glossing kind of eloquence, that some of them even despised Paul: but he showeth that all this is nothing but colors and painting. 11:13 1 Now at length he pointeth out these fellows in their colors, forewarning that it will come to pass, that they will at length betray themselves, what countenance soever they make of zeal that they have to God's glory. 11:14 1 By light is meant the heavenly glory, whereof the Angels are partakers. 11:16 1 He goeth forward boldly, and using a vehement Irony of kind of taunting, desireth the Corinthians to pardon him, if for a time he contend as a fool before them being wise, with those jolly fellows touching those eternal things, to wit, touching his stock, his ances tors and valiant acts. 11:20 1 Before he cometh to the matter, he toucheth the Corinthians, who persuading themselves to very wise men, did not mark in the mean season that those false apostles abused their simplicity for advantage.
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21 I speak as concerning the 1reproach: as though that we had been 2weak: but wherein any man is bold (I speak foolishly) I am bold also. 22 They are Hebrews, cso am I: they are Israelites, so am I: they are the seed of Abraham, so am I. 23 They are the ministers of Christ (I speak as a fool) I am 1more: in labors more abundant: in stripes above measure: in prison more plenteously: in 2death oft. 24 Of the Jews 1five times received I forty stripes save one. 25 I was 1thrice dbeaten with rods: I was eonce stoned: I suffered thrice fshipwreck: night and day have I been in the deep sea. 26 In journeying I was often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of mine own nation, in perils among the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren, 27 In weariness and 1painfulness, in watching often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and in nakedness. 28 1Beside the things which are outward, I am cumbered daily, and have the care of all the Churches. 29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is offended, and I burn not? 30 1If I must needs rejoice, I will rejoice of mine infirmities. 31 The God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.
32 In gDamascus the governor of the people under King Aretas, laid watch in the city of the Damascenes, and would have caught me. 33 But at a window was I let down in a basket through the wall, and escaped his hands. 12 1 He doth even unwillingly make rehearsal, 3 of the heavenly visions, 4 that were revealed unto him, 6 for which though he might indeed glory, yet he will not, 10 being privy of his own infirmities: 11 but they drive him to this kind of folly, 20 in that they give ear to certain vainglorious persons, who draw them from Christ.
c Phil. 3:5
d Acts 16:23
e Acts 14:19
f Acts 27:14
g Acts 9:24
1 It 1is not expedient for me no doubt to rejoice: for I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I know a man 1in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether he were in the body, I cannot tell, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth) which was taken up into the 2third heaven. 3 And I know such a man (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth.) 4 How that he was taken up into 1Paradise, and heard words which 2cannot be spoken, which are not 3possible for man to utter. 5 1Of such a man will I rejoice: of myself will I not rejoice, except it be of mine infirmities. 6 For though I would rejoice, I should not be a fool, for I will say the truth: but I refrain, lest any man should think of me above that he seeth in me, or that he heareth of me. 7 1And lest I should be exalted out of measure
11:21 1 As if he said, in respect of that reproach which they do unto you (I speak it) which surely is as evil as if they did beat you. 2 Paul is called weak, in that he seemeth to the Corinthians a vile and abject man, a beggarly artificer, a most wretched and miserable idiot, whereas notwithstanding therein God's mighty power was made manifest. 11:23 1 Paul being honorable indeed, defendeth his ministry openly, not for his own sake, but because he saw his doctrine come into haz ard. 2 In danger of present death. 11:24 1 He alludeth to that that is written, Deut. 25:3, and moreover this place showeth us, that Paul suffered many things which Luke passed over. 11:25 1 Of the Roman Magistrates. 11:27 1 Painfulness is a troublesome sickness, as when a man who is weary and would rest, he is constrained to fall to new labor. 11:28 1 He addeth this in conclusion further, that the Corinthians might be ashamed to despise him, upon whose care almost all Churches depended, as it was plainly seen by experience. 11:30 1 He turneth that against the adversaries, which they objected against him: as if he should say, They allege my calamities, to take away my authority from me: but if I would boast myself, I would take no better argument: and God himself is my witness that I devise and forge nothing. 12:1 1 He goeth forward in his purpose, and because those brag ging mates boasted of revelations, he reckoneth up those things
which lift him up above the common capacity of men: but he useth a preface, and excuseth himself advisedly. 12:2 1 I speak this in Christ, that is, be it spoken without vainglory, for I seek nothing but Christ Jesus only. 2 Into the highest heaven: for we need not to dispute subtly upon the word (Third) but yet this place is to be marked against them which would make heaven to [be] everywhere. 12:4 1 So the Grecians name that which we call a park, that is to say, a place where trees are planted, and wild beasts kept, by which name they that translated the old Testament out of the Hebrew into Greek, called the garden Eden, whereunto Adam was put straight after his creation, as a most delicate and pleasant place. And hereunto grew it, that that blessed seat of the glory of God is called by that name. 2 Which no man is able to utter. 3 Which the Saints themselves are not by any means able to express, because it is God himself. Thus doth Clement Alexandria expound this place, Strom. 5. 12:5 1 To remove all suspicion of ambition he witnesseth that he braggeth not of those things as his own, but as out of himself, and yet notwithstanding faineth nothing, lest by this occasion other men should attribute more unto him than indeed he is: and therefore he had rather glory in his miseries. 12:7 1 An excellent doctrine: why God will have even his best ser vants to be vexed of Satan and by all kinds of temptations, to wit, lest they should be too much puffed up, and also that they may be made perfect by that continual exercise.
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through the abundance of revelations, there was given unto me a 2prick in the flesh, the messenger of 3Satan to buffet me, because I should not be exalted out of measure. 8 For this thing I besought the Lord 1thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect through weakness. 1Very gladly therefore will I rejoice rather in mine infirmities, that the power of Christ may 2dwell in me. 10 Therefore I take 1pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in anguish for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 11 I was a fool to boast myself: ye have compelled me: 1for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing was I inferior unto the very chief Apostles, though I be nothing. 12 The 1signs of an Apostle were wrought among you with all patience, with signs, and wonders and great works. 13 For what is it, wherein ye were inferiors unto other Churches, aexcept that I have not been 1slothful to your hindrance? forgive me this wrong. 14 Behold, the third time I am ready to come unto you, and yet will I not be slothful to your hindrance: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the fathers, but the fathers for the children. 15 And I will most gladly bestow, and will be bestowed for your souls: though the more I love you, the less I am loved. 16 1But be it that I charged you not: yet for as much as I was crafty, I took you with guile.
17 Did I pill you by any of them whom I sent unto you? 18 I have desired Titus, and with him I have sent a brother: did Titus pill you of any things? walked we not in the selfsame spirit? walked we not in the same steps? 19 1Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in 2Christ. But we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. 20 1For I fear lest when I come, I shall not find you such as I would: and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: and lest there be strife, envying, wrath, contentions, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, and discord. 21 I fear lest when I come again, my God abase me among you, and I shall bewail many of them which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness, and fornication, and wantonness which they have committed. 13 1 Coming the third time, 2 he denounceth the sharper vengeance toward them, 4 who have a perfect trial of the power of Christ in his Apostleship: 7 At length he prayeth for their repentance, 11 And wisheth them prosperity.
chapter 12
a 2 Cor. 11:9
chapter 13
a Deut. 19:17
Matt. 18:16
John 8:17 Heb. 10:28
1 Lo this is the third time that I come unto you. aIn the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word stand. 2 I told you before, and tell you before: as though I had been present the second time, so write I now being absent to them, which heretofore have sinned, and to all others, that if I come again, I will not spare, 3 1Seeing that ye seek experience of Christ, that speaketh in me, which toward you is not weak, but
2 He meaneth concupiscence, that sticketh fast in us, as it were a prick, insomuch that it constrained Paul himself being regenerate, to cry out, I do not that good that I would, etc. And he calleth it a prick, by a borrowed kind of speech taken from thorns, or stumps, which are very dangerous and hurtful for the feet, if a man walks through woods that are cut down. 3 Which setteth those lusts on fire. 12:8 1 Oft. 12:9 1 He concludeth, that he will only see his miseries against the vain brags of the false apostles, and therewith also excuseth himself, for that by their importunity, he was constrained to speak so much of these things as he did: to wit, because that if his Apostleship were subverted his doctrine must needs fall. 2 That I might feel the virtue of Christ more and more: For the weaker that our tabernacles are, the more doth Christ's virtue appear in them. 12:10 1 I do not only take them patiently and with a good heart, but also I take great pleasure in them. 12:11 1 Again he maketh the Corinthians witnesses of those things whereby God had sealed his Apostleship amongst them, and again he desireth by certain arguments, how far he is from all covetous
ness, and also how he is affectioned towards them. 12:12 1 The arguments whereby it may well appear, that I am indeed an Apostle of Jesus Christ. 12:13 1 I was not slothful in getting my living with mine own hands, that I might not be burdensome to you. 12:16 1 He putteth away another most grievous slander, to wit, that he did subtly and by others, make his gain and profit of them. 12:19 1 He concludeth, that he writeth not these things unto them, as though he needed to defend himself, for he is guilty of nothing: but because it is behoovable for them to doubt nothing of his fidelity who instructed them. 2 As it becometh him to speak truly and sincerely, that professeth himself to be in Christ, that is to say, to be a Christian. 12:20 1 Having confirmed his authority unto them, he rebuketh them sharply, and threateneth them also like an Apostle, showing that he will not spare them hereafter, unless they repent, seeing that this is the third time that he hath warned them. 13:3 1 A most sharp reprehension, for that, while they despise the Apostle's admonitions, they tempt Christ's own patience: and also while they condemn him as wretched and miserable, they lay noth ing herein against him, which is not common to him with Christ.
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is 2mighty in you. 4 For though he was crucified concerning 1his infirmity, yet liveth he through the power of God. And we no doubt are weak in him, but we shall live with him, through the power of God toward you. 5 b,1Prove yourselves whether ye are in the faith: examine yourselves: know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? 6 1But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates. 7 Now I pray unto God that ye do none evil, not that we should seem approved, but that ye should do that which is honest: though we be as 1reprobates. 8 For we cannot do anything against the truth, but for the truth.
9 For we are glad when we are weak, and that ye are strong: this also we wish for, even your 1perfection. 10 Therefore write I these things being absent, lest when I am present, I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me, to edification, and not to destruction. 11 1Finally brethren, fare ye well: be perfect: be of good comfort: be of one mind: live in peace, and the God of love and peace shall be with you. 12 1Greet one another with an choly kiss. All the Saints salute you. 13 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the holy Ghost be with you all, Amen.
b 1 Cor. 11:28
c 1 Cor. 16:20
¶ The second Epistle to the Corinthians, written from Philippi, a city in Macedonia,
and sent by Titus and Lucas.
13:3 2 And will be most mighty to be revenged of you, when need shall be. 13:4 1 As touching that base form of a servant which he took upon him when he abased himself. 13:5 1 He confirmeth that which he spake of the virtue of God appearing in his ministry, and he gathereth by the mutual rela tion between the people's faith and the minister's preaching, that they must either reverence his Apostleship, upon whose doctrine their faith is grounded, or they must condemn them selves of infidelity, and must confess themselves not to be of Christ's body. 13:6 1 He mitigateth that sharpness, trusting that they will show
themselves towards their faithful Apostle, apt and willingly to be taught: adding this moreover, that he passeth not for his own fame and estimation, so that he may serve to their salvation, which is the only mark that he shooteth at. 13:7 1 In men's judgment. 13:9 1 That all things may be in good order amongst you, and the members of the Church restored into their place, which have been shaken and out of place. 13:11 1 A brief exhortation, but yet such an one as comprehendeth all the parts of a Christian man's life. 13:12 1 He saluteth them familiarly, and in conclusion wisheth well unto them.
T h e e p i s t l e o f t h e a p o s t l e
pa u l T o t h e g a l a t i a n s
1 1 Straight after the salutation, 6 He reprehendeth the Galatians for revolting, 9 from his Gospel, 15 which he received from God, 17 before he had communicated with any of the Apostles.
7 1Which is not another Gospel, save that there be some which trouble you, and intend to 2pervert the Gospel of Christ. 8 But though that we, or an Angel from heaven preach unto you otherwise than that which we have preached unto you, let him be 1accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach unto you otherwise than that ye have received, let him be accursed. 10 1For now preach I 2man's doctrine, or God's? or go I about to please men? for if I should yet please men, I were not the servant of Christ. 11 c,1Now I certify you, brethren, that the Gospel which was preached of me, was not after man. 12 For neither received I it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the 1revelation of Jesus Christ. 13 1For ye have heard of my conversation in time past, in the Jewish religion, how that dI persecuted
chapter 1
a Titus 1:3
b Luke 1:74
c 1 Cor. 15:1
d Acts 9:8
1 Paul 1an Apostle (not 2of men, neither by 3man, abut by 4Jesus Christ, and God the Father which hath raised him from the dead.) 2 And all the brethren which are with me unto the Churches of Galatia: 3 Grace be with you, and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, 4 1Which gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us bfrom this present evil 2world according to the will of God even our Father, 5 To whom be glory forever and ever, Amen. 6 1I marvel that ye are so soon 2removed away unto another Gospel, from him that had called you in the grace of Christ,
1:1 1 A salutation comprehending in few words, the sum of the Apostle's doctrine, and also besides straightway from the beginning, showing the gravity meet for the authority of an Apostle, which he had to maintain against the false apostles. 2 He showeth who is the author of the minister generally: for herein the whole ministry agreeth, that whether they be Apostles, or Shepherds, or Doctors, they are appointed of God. 3 He toucheth the instrumental cause: for this is a peculiar pre rogative to the Apostles, to be called immediately from Christ. 4 Christ no doubt is man, but he is God also, and head of the Church, and in this respect to be exempted out of the number of men. 1:4 1 The sum of the true Gospel is this, that Christ by his only offer ing, saveth us being chosen out from the world, by the free decree of God the Father. 2 Out of that [most] corrupt state which is without Christ. 1:6 1 The first part of the Epistle wherein he witnesseth that he is an Apostle, nothing inferior to those chief disciples of Christ, and wholly agreeing with them, whose names the false apostles did abuse. And he beginneth with chiding, reproving them of lightness for that they have ear so easily unto them which perverted them and drew them away to a new Gospel. 2 He useth the passive voice, to cast the fault upon the false apos tles, and he useth the time that now is, to give them to understand, that it was not already done, but in doing. 1:7 1 He warneth them in time to remember that there are not many Gospels, and therefore whatsoever these false apostles pre tend which had the Law, Moses and the Fathers in their mouths, yet they are in deed so many corruptions of the true Gospel, insomuch that he himself, yea, and the very Angels themselves, (and therefore much more these false apostles) ought to be holden accursed, if they
go about to change the least iota that may be in the Gospel, that he delivered to them before. 2 For there is nothing more contrary to faith or free justification, than justification by the Law, or by our deserving. 1:8 1 See Rom. 9:3. 1:10 1 A confirmation taken both from the nature of the doctrine itself, and also from that manner which he useth in teaching: for nei ther saith he, did I teach those things which pleased men as these men do which put part of salvation in external things, and works of the Law, neither went I about to procure any man's favor. And there fore the matter itself showeth that that doctrine which I delivered unto you, is heavenly. 2 He toucheth the false apostles who had nothing but men in their mouths, and he, though he would derogate nothing from the Apostles, preacheth God and not men. 1:11 1 A second argument to prove that this doctrine is heavenly, because he had it from heaven, from Jesus Christ himself, without any man's help, wherein he excelleth them whom Christ taught here on earth after the manner of men. 1:12 1 This place is to be understood of an extraordinary revela tion, for otherwise the Son alone revealed his Gospel by his Spirit, although by the ministry of men, which Paul shutteth out here. 1:13 1 He proveth that he was extraordinarily taught of Christ himself, by the history of his former life, which the Galatians themselves know well enough: for saith he, it is well known in what school I was brought up, even from a child, to wit, amongst the deadly enemies of the Gos pel. And no man may cavil and say that I was a scholar of the Pharisees in name only and not in deed, no man is ignorant, how that I excelled in Pharisaism, and was suddenly made of a Pharisee, an Apostle of the Gentiles, so that I had no space to be instructed of men.