more zealous of the 1traditions of my fathers. 2 Chron. 19:7 2 And I went up by revelation, and declared unto

more zealous of the 1traditions of my fathers. 2 Chron. 19:7 2 And I went up by revelation, and declared unto

galatians 1:14 1206

the Church of God extremely, and wasted it, 14 And profited in the Jewish religion above many of my companions of mine own nation, and was much more zealous of the 1traditions of my fathers. 15 But when it pleased God (which had 1separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace.) 16 To reveal his Son 1in me, that I should preach him eamong the Gentiles immediately, 2I communicated not with 3flesh and blood: 17 Neither came I again to Jerusalem to them which were Apostles before me, but I went into Arabia, and turned again unto Damascus. 18 Then after three years I came again to Jerusalem, to visit Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. 19 And none other of the Apostles saw I, save James the Lord's brother. 20 Now the things which I write unto you, behold, I witness 1before God, that I lie not. 21 After that, I went into the coasts of Syria and Cilicia: for I was unknown by face unto the Churches of Judea which were in Christ. 22 But they had heard only some say, He which persecuted us in time past, now preacheth the 1faith which before he destroyed. 23 And they glorified God for me. 2 1 That the Apostles did nothing disagree from his Gospel, 3 he declareth by the example of Titus being uncircumcised, 11 and also by his . . . the same against Peter's dissimulation. 17 And so he passeth to the handling of our free justification by Christ, etc.

1 Then 1fourteen years after, I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took with me Titus also. 2 And I went up by revelation, and declared unto them that Gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but particularly to them that were the chief, lest by any means I should run, or had run 1in vain: 3 But neither yet Titus which was with me, though he were a Grecian, was compelled to be circumcised, 4 To wit, for the 1false brethren which were craftily sent in, and crept in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage. 5 To whom we gave not place by 1subjection for an hour, that the 2truth of the Gospel might continue with

e Eph. 3:8

chapter 2

a Deut. 10:17

2 Chron. 19:7 Job 34:19 Acts 10:34 Rom. 2:11

Eph. 6:9 Col. 3:25 1 Pet. 1:17

3you. 6 But by them which seemed to be great, I was not taught (whatsoever they were in time passed, I am nothing the better: aGod accepteth no man's person) for they that are the chief, did add nothing to me above that I had. 7 But contrariwise, when they saw that the Gospel over the 1uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the Gospel over the circumcision was unto Peter: 8 (For he that was mighty by Peter in the Apostleship over the circumcision, was also mighty by me toward the Gentiles.) 9 And when James, and Cephas, and John, knew of the grace that was given unto me, which are 1counted to be pillars, they gave to me and to Barnabas the right 2hands of fellowship, that we should preach unto the Gentiles, and they unto the circumcision,

1:14 1 He calleth them the traditions of his Fathers, because he was not only a Pharisee himself, but also had a Pharisee to his father. 1:15 1 He speaketh of God's everlasting predestination, whereby he appointed him to be an Apostle, whereof he maketh three degrees, the everlasting counsel of God, his appointing from his mother's womb, and his calling: here is no mention at all, we see, of works foreseen. 1:16 1 To me, and this is a kind of speech which the Hebrews use, whereby this is given us to understand, that this gift cometh from God. 2 Because it might be objected, that indeed he was called of Christ in the way, but afterwards was instructed of the Apostles and others, whose names (as I said before) the false apostles abused to destroy his Apostleship, as though he delivered another Gospel than the true Apostles did, and as though he were not of their number, which are to be credited without exception: therefore Paul answereth, that he began straightway after his calling to preach the Gospel at Damas­ cus and in Arabia, and was not from that time in Jerusalem but only fifteen days, where he saw only Peter and James, and afterwards, he began to teach in Syria and Cilicia, with the consent and approbation of the Churches of the Jews, which knew him only by name, so far off was it, that he was there instructed of men. 3 With any man in the world. 1:20 1 This is a kind of an oath. 1:22 1 The doctrine of faith. 2:1 1 Now he showeth how he agreeth with the Apostles with

whom he granteth that he conferred touching his Gospel which he taught among the Gentiles, fourteen years after his conversion, and they allowed it in such sort, that they constrained not his fellow Titus to be circumcised, although some tormented themselves therein, which traitorously laid wait against him, but in vain: neither did they add the least iota that might be to the doctrine which he had preached, but contrariwise they gave to him and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship and acknowledged them as Apostles appointed of the Lord to the Gentiles. 2:2 1 Unfruitfully, for as touching his doctrine, Paul doubted not of it, but because there were certain reports cast abroad of him, that he was of another opinion than the rest of the Apostles were, which thing might have hindered the course of the Gospel, therefore he labored to remedy this sore. 2:4 1 Which by deceit, and counterfeit holiness crept in amongst the faithful. 2:5 1 By submitting ourselves to them, and betraying our own liberty. 2 The true and sincere doctrine of the Gospel, which remained safe from being corrupt with any of these men's false doctrines. 3 Under the Galatians' name, he understandeth all nations. 2:7 1 Among the Gentiles, as Peter had to preach it among the Jews. 2:9 1 Whom alone and only, these men count for pillars of the Church, and whose name they abuse to deceive you. 2 They gave us their hand in token that we agreed wholly in the doctrine of the Gospel.

1207 galatians 3:1

flesh shall be justified. 17 b,1If then while 2we seek to be made righteous by Christ, we ourselves are found sinners, is Christ therefore the minister of sin? God forbid. 18 For if I build again the things that I have destroyed, I make myself a trespasser. 19 For I through the Law am dead to the 1Law, that I might live unto God. 20 I am crucified with Christ, but I live, yet not 1I anymore, but Christ liveth in me: and in that I now live in the 2flesh, I live by the faith in the Son of God, who hath loved me, and given himself for me. 21 1I do not abrogate the grace of God: for if righteousness be by the Law, then Christ died without a 2cause. 3 1 He rebuketh them, for suffering themselves to be drawn from the grace of free justification in Christ, most lively set out unto them. 6 He bringeth in Abraham's example, 10 declaring the effects, 21 and causes of the giving of the Law.

10 Warning only that we should remember the poor: which thing also I was diligent to do. 11 ¶ And when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to his 1face: for he was to be condemned. 12 1For before that certain came from James, he ate with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. 13 And the other Jews played the hypocrites likewise with him, insomuch that Barnabas was 1led away with them by that their hypocrisy. 14 But when I saw, that they went not the 1right way to the 2truth of the Gospel, I said unto Peter before all men, If thou being a Jew, livest as the Gentiles, and not like the Jews, why 3constrainest thou the Gentiles to do like the Jews? 15 1We which are Jews 2by nature, and not 3sinners of the Gentiles, 16 Know that a man is not justified by the works of the Law, but by the faith 1of Jesus Christ, even we, I say, have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the Law, because that by the works of the Law, 2no

b Rom. 3:19

1 1O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, to whom Jesus Christ before was described in your 2sight,

2:11 1 Before all men. 2:12 1 Another most vehement proof of his Apostleship, and also of that doctrine, which he had delivered concerning free justification by faith only because that for this thing only he reprehended Peter at Antioch, who offended herein, in that for a few Jews' sakes which came from Jerusalem he played the Jew, and offended the Gentiles which had believed. 2:13 1 By example rather than by judgment. 2:14 1 Word for word, with a right foot which he setteth against halt­ ing and dissembling which is backward. 2 He calleth the truth of the Gospel both the doctrine itself, and also the use of doctrine, which we call the practice. 3 He saith they were constrained, which played the Jews by Peter's example. 2:15 1 The second part of this Epistle, the state whereof is this: we are justified by faith in Christ Jesus without the works of the Law: which thing he propoundeth in such sort, that first of all he meeteth with an objection, (for I also saith he am a Jew, that no man may say against me, that I am an enemy to the Law) and afterward, he confirmeth it by the express witness of David. 2 Although we be Jews, yet we preach justification by faith because we know undoubtedly, that no man can be justified by the Law. 3 So the Jews called the Gentiles, because they were strangers from God's covenant. 2:16 1 In Jesus Christ. 2 No man, and in this word (flesh) there is a great vehemence, whereby is meant that the nature of man is utterly corrupt. 2:17 1 Before he goeth any further, he meeteth with their objection, which abhorred this doctrine of free justification by faith, because say they, men are by this means withdrawn from the study of good works. And in this sort is the objection, If sinners should be justified through Christ by faith without the Law Christ should approve sin­ ners, and should as it were exhort them thereunto by his ministry. Paul answereth that this consequence is false, because that Christ

destroyeth sin in the believers: For so saith he do men flee unto Christ, through the terror and fear of the Law that being quit from the curse of the Law and justified, they may be saved by him, that together therewithall, he beginneth in them by little and little, that strength and power of his which destroyeth sin: to the end that this old man being abolished by the virtue of Christ crucified, Christ may live in them, and they may consecrate themselves to God. Therefore if any man give himself to sin after he hath received the Gospel, let him not accuse Christ nor the Gospel, but himself, for that he destroy­ eth the work of God in himself. 2 He goeth from justification to sanctification, which is another benefit we receive by Christ, if we lay hold on him by faith. 2:19 1 The Law that terrifieth the conscience, bringeth us to Christ, and he only causeth us to die to the Law indeed, because that by making us righteous, he taketh away from us the terror of con­ science, and by sanctifying us, causeth through the mortifying of lust in us, that it cannot take such occasion to sin by the restraint which the Law maketh, as it did before, Rom. 7:10-11. 2:20 1 The same that I was before. 2 In this mortal body. 2:21 1 The second argument taken of an absurdity: If men may be justified by the Law, then was it not necessary for Christ to die. 2 For there was no cause why he should do so. 3:1 1 The third reason or argument taken of those gifts of the holy Ghost, wherewith they were endued from heaven after they had heard and believed the Gospel by Paul's ministry: which seeing they were so evident to all men's eyes, that they were as it were lively images, wherein they might behold the truth of the doctrine of the Gospel, no less than if they had beheld with their eyes Christ himself crucified, in whose only death they ought to have their trust, he marvelleth how it could be that they could be so bewitched by the false apostles. 2 Christ was laid before you, so notably and so plainly, that you had his lively image as it were represented before your eyes, as if he had been crucified before you.

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and among you crucified? 2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the 1Spirit by the works of the Law, or by the hearing of 2faith preached? 3 1Are ye so foolish, that after ye have begun in the Spirit, ye would now be made perfect by the 2flesh? 4 1Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if so be it be even in vain. 5 1He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it through the works of the Law, or by the hearing of faith preached? 6 1Yea rather as 2Abraham believed God, and it was aimputed to him for righteousness. 7 1Know ye therefore, that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. 8 1For the Scripture foreseeing, that God would justify the Gentiles through faith, preached before the Gospel unto Abraham, saying, b,2In thee shall all

the Gentiles be 3blessed. 9 1So then they which be of faith, are blessed with 2faithful Abraham. 10 1For as many as are of the works of the Law, are under the curse: 2For it is written, cCursed is every man that continueth not in all things, which are written in the book of the Law, to do them. 11 1And that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident: dfor the just shall live by faith. 12 1And the Law is not of faith: but ethe man that shall do those things, shall live in them. 13 1Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law, made a curse for us, (2for it is written, f,3Cursed is everyone that hangeth on tree.) 14 1That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. 15 1Brethren, I speak as 2men do: gthough it be

chapter 3

a Gen. 15:6

Rom. 4:3 James 2:23

b Gen. 12:3

Acts 3:25

c Deut. 27:26

d Hab. 2:4

Rom. 1:17 Heb. 10:10

e Lev. 18:5

f Lev. 21:13

g Heb. 9:17

3:2 1 Those spiritual graces and gifts, which were a seal as it were to the Galatians, that the Gospel which was preached to them was true. 2 Of the doctrine of faith. 3:3 1 The fourth argument mixed with [the former] and it is double, If the Law is to be joined with faith, this were not to go forward, but back­ ward, seeing that those spiritual gifts which were bestowed upon you, are more excellent than any that could proceed from yourselves. And moreover, it should follow, that the Law is better than Christ, because it should perfect and bring to end that which Christ began only. 2 By the (flesh) he meaneth the ceremonies of the Law, against which he setteth the Spirit, that is, the spiritual working of the Gospel. 3:4 1 An exhortation by manner of upbraiding, that they do not in vain suffer so many conflicts. 3:5 1 He repeateth the third argument which was taken of the effects, because he had interlaced certain other arguments by the way. 3:6 1 The first argument which is of great force, and hath three grounds, The first, That Abraham was justified by faith, to wit, by free imputation of righteousness according to the promise apprehended by faith, as Moses doth most plainly witness. 2 See Rom. 4. 3:7 1 The second, that the sons of Abraham must be esteemed and accounted of by faith. 3:8 1 The third, that all people that believe, are without exception, comprehended in the promise of the blessing. 2 A proof of the first and second grounds, out of the words of Moses. 3 Blessing in this place, signifieth the free promise by faith. 3:9 1 The conclusion of the fifth argument: Therefore as Abraham is blessed by faith, so are all his children (that is to say, all the Gentiles that believe) blessed, that is to say, freely justified. 2 With faithful Abraham, and not by faithful Abraham, to give us to understand that the blessing cometh not from Abraham, but from him, by whom Abraham and all his posterity is blessed. 3:10 1 The sixth argument, the conclusion whereof is also in the for­ mer verse taken of contraries, thus, They are accursed which are of the works of the Law, that is to say, which value their [righteousness] by the performance of the Law. Therefore they are blessed which are of faith, that is, they which have righteousness by faith. 2 A proof of the former sentence or proposition: and the proposition of this argument is this: Cursed is he that fulfilleth not the whole Law. 3:11 1 The second proposition with the conclusion: But no man ful­

fill­eth the Law. Therefore no man is justified by the Law, or else, which seek righteousness by the works of the Law. And there is annexed also this manner of proof of the second proposition, to wit, Righteousness and life are attributed to faith, Therefore no man fulfilleth the Law. 3:12 1 Here is a reason shown of the former consequence: Because the law promiseth life to all that keep it, and therefore if it be kept, it justifieth and giveth life. But the Scripture attributing righteousness and life to faith, taketh it from the Law, seeing that faith justifieth by imputation, and the Law by the performing of the work. 3:13 1 A preventing of an objection: How then can they be blessed, whom the Law pronounceth to be accursed? Because Christ sustained the curse which the Law laid upon us, that we might be quit from it. 2 A proof of the answer by the testimony of Moses. 3 Christ was accursed for us, because he bare the curse that was due to us, to make us partakers of his righteousness. 3:14 1 A conclusion of all that was said before in the handling of the fifth and sixth reasons, to wit, that both the Gentiles are made partak­ ers of the free blessing of Abraham in Christ, and also that the Jews themselves, of whose number the Apostle counteth himself to be, cannot obtain that promised grace of the Gospel, which he calleth the Spirit, but only by faith. And the Apostle doth severally apply the conclusion, both to the one and the other, preparing himself a way, to the next argument, whereby he declareth, that the one only seed of Abraham, which is made of all peoples can no otherwise be joined and grow up together, but by faith in Christ. 3:15 1 He putteth forth two general [rules] before the next argu­ ment, which is the seventh in order: That one is, that it is not lawful to break covenants and contracts which are justly made and according to Law amongst men, neither may anything be added unto them: The other is, that God did so make a covenant with Abraham, that he would gather together his children which consist both of Jews and Gentiles into one body (as appeareth by that which hath been said before.) For he did not say, that he would be the God of Abraham and of his seeds, (which things notwithstanding should have been said, if he had many and divers seeds, as the Gentiles apart and the Jews apart,) but that he would be the God of Abraham, and of his seed, as of one. 2 I will use an example which is common among you, that you may be ashamed you give not so much to God's covenants, as you do to man's.

1209 galatians 3:26

but a man's covenant, when it is 3confirmed, yet no man doth abrogate it, or addeth anything thereto, 16 Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, and to the seeds, as speaking of many: but, And to thy seed, as of one, 1which is 2Christ. 17 1And this I say, that the covenant that was confirmed afore of God 2in respect of Christ, the 3Law which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. 18 1For if the 2inheritance be of the Law, it is no more by the promise, but God gave it freely unto Abraham by promise. 19 1Wherefore then serveth the Law? It was added because of the 2transgressions, 3till the seed came, unto the which the promise was made: 4and it was 5ordained by 6Angels in the hand of a Mediator.

20 Now a Mediator is not a Mediator of one: 1but God is one. 21 1Is the Law then against the promises of God? God forbid: For if there had been a Law given which could have given life, surely righteousness should have been by the Law. 22 But the 1Scripture hath hconcluded 2all under sin, that the 3promise by the faith of Jesus Christ should be given to them that believe. 23 1But before faith came, we were kept under the Law, as under a garrison, and shut up unto 2that faith, which should afterward be revealed. 24 Wherefore the Law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ, that we might be made righteous by faith. 25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. 26 1For ye are all the sons of God by faith, in

h Rom. 3:9

3 Authentical, as we call it. 3:16 1 He putteth forth the sum of the seventh argument, to wit, that both the Jews and the Gentiles grow together into one body of the seed of Abraham, in Christ only, so that all are one in Christ, as it is afterward declared, verse 21. 2 Paul speaketh not of Christ's person, but of two peoples, which grew together in one, in Christ. 3:17 1 The eighth argument taken of comparison, thus: If a man's covenant (being authentical) be firm and strong, much more God's covenant. Therefore the Law was not given to abrogate the promise made to Abraham, which had respect to Christ, that is to say, the end whereof did hang of Christ. 2 Which tendeth to Christ. 3 An enlarging of that argument, thus: Moreover and besides that the promise is of itself firm and strong, it was also confirmed with the prescription of long time, to wit, of 430 years, so that it could in no wise be broken. 3:18 1 An objection: We grant that the promise was not abrogated by the covenant of the Law, and therefore we join the Law with the promise. Nay, saith the Apostle, these two cannot stand together, to wit, that the inheritance should both be given by the Law and also by promise, for the promise is free: whereby it followeth, that the Law was not given to justify, for by that means the promise should be broken. 2 By this word (inheritance) is meant the right of the seed, which is, that God should be our God, that is to say, that by virtue of the covenant that was made with faithful Abraham, we that be faithful, might by that means be blessed of God as well as he. 3:19 1 An objection which riseth of the former answer: If the inheri­ tance be not by the Law (at the least in part) then why was the Law given, after that the promise was made? Therefore saith the Apostle, to reprove men of sin, and so teach them to look unto Christ, in whom at length that promise of saving all people together should be fulfilled, and not that the Law was given to justify men. 2 That men might understand, by discovering of their sins, by the only grace of God, which he revealed to Abraham, and that in Christ. 3 Until the partition wall was broken down, and that full seed sprang up, framed of two peoples, both of Jews and Gentiles: for by this word Seed, we may not understand, Christ alone by himself, but coupled and joined together with his body. 4 A confirmation of the former answer taken from the manner and form of giving the Law: for it was given by Angels, striking a great

terror into all, and by Moses a Mediator coming between. Now they that are one, need no Mediator, but they that are twain at the least, and that are at variance one with another. Therefore the Law itself and the Mediator, were witnesses of the wrath of God, and not that God would by this means reconcile men to himself, and abolish the promise, or add the Law unto the promise. 5 Commanded and given, or proclaimed. 6 By the service and ministry. 3:20 1 A taking away of an objection, lest any man might say, that sometimes by consent of the parties which have made a covenant, something is added to the covenant, or the former covenants are broken. This, saith the Apostle, cometh to pass in God, who is always one, and the selfsame, and like himself. 3:21 1 The conclusion uttered by a manner of asking a question, and it is the same that was uttered before, verse 17, but proceeding of another rule: so that the argument is new, and is this: God is always like unto himself: Therefore the Law was not given to abolish the promises. But it should abolish them if it gave life, for by that means it should justify, and therefore it should abolish that justification which was promised to Abraham and to his seed by faith. Nay it was rather given to bring to light the guiltiness of all men, to the end that all believers fleeing to Christ promised, might be freely justified in him. 3:22 1 By this word, Scripture, he meaneth the Law. 2 All men, and whatsoever cometh from man. 3 In every one of these words, there lieth an argument against the merits of works, for all these words, promise, faith, Christ, might be given, to believers, are against merits, and not one of them can stand with deserving works. 3:23 1 Now there followeth another handling of the second part of this Epistle: the state whereof is this: Although the Law (that is, the whole government of God's house according to the Law) [does] not justify, is it therefore to be abolished, seeing that Abraham himself was circum­ cised, and his posterity held still the use of Moses' Law? Paul affirmeth that it ought to be abolished, because it was instituted for that end and purpose, that is should be as it were a schoolmaster and keeper to the people of God, until the promise appeared in deed, that is to say, Christ, and the Gospel manifestly published with great efficacy of the Spirit. 2 The cause why we were kept under the Law, is set down here. 3:26 1 Because age changeth not the condition of servants, he addeth that we are free by condition, and therefore, seeing we are out of our childhood, we have no more need of a keeper and Schoolmaster.

galatians 3:27 1210

Christ Jesus. 27 1For all ye that are 2baptized into Christ, have 3put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Grecian: there is neither bond nor free: there is neither male nor female: for ye are all 1one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs by promise. 4 1 Being delivered from the bondage of the Law, 4 by Christ's coming, who is the end thereof, 9 it is very absurd to slide back to beggarly ceremonies: 13 He calleth them again therefore to the purity of the doctrine of the Gospel, 21 confirming his discourse with a fine allegory.

under the Law, 5 That he might redeem them which were under the Law, that we amight receive the 1adoption of the sons. 6 1And because ye are sons, God hath 2sent forth the 3Spirit of his Son into your hearts, which crieth, Abba, Father. 7 Wherefore, thou art no more a 1servant, but a son: now if thou be a son, thou art also the 2heir of God through Christ. 8 1But even then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them, which by nature are not gods: 9 But now seeing ye know God, yea, rather are known of God, how turn ye again unto impotent and 1beggarly rudiments, whereunto as from the beginning ye will be in bondage 2again? 10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. 11 I am in fear of you, lest I have bestowed on you labor in vain. 12 1Be ye as I (for I am even as you) brethren, I beseech you: ye have not hurt me at all. 13 And ye know, how through 1infirmity of the

chapter 4

a Rom. 8:15

1 Then 1I say, that the heir as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be Lord of all, 2 But is under tutors and governors, 1until the time appointed of the Father. 3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the 1rudiments of the world. 4 1But when the 2fullness of time was come, God sent forth his Son made of a 3woman, and made

3:27 1 Using a general particle, lest the Jews at the least should not think themselves bound with the band of the Law, he pronounceth that Baptism is common to all believers, because it is a pledge of our delivery in Christ, as well to the Jews as to the Grecians, that by this means all may be truly one in Christ, that is to say, that promised seed to Abraham and inheritors of everlasting life. 2 He setteth Baptism secretly against circumcision, which the false apostles so much bragged of. 3 The Church must put on Christ, as it were a garment, and be cov­ ered with him, that it may be thoroughly holy, and without blame. 3:28 1 You are all as one: and so in this great knot and conjunction signified. 4:1 1 He declareth that by another double similitude, which he said before concerning the keeper and schoolmaster. For he saith, that the Law, (that is, the whole government of God's house according to the Law) was as it were a tutor or overseer appointed for a time, until such time as that protection and overseeing which was but for a time, being ended, we should at length come to be at our own liberty, and should live as children, and not as servants. Moreover, he showeth by the way, that that governance of the Law, was as it were an ABC, and as certain principles in comparison of the doctrine of the Gospel. 4:2 1 This is added, because he that is always under a tutor or gover­ nor, may hardly be counted a freeman. 4:3 1 The Law is called rudiments, because that by the Law God instructed his Church as it were by rudiments, and afterward poured out his holy Spirit most plentifully in the time of the Gospel. 4:4 1 He uttereth and declareth many things at once, to wit, that this tutorship was ended at his time, that curious men may leave to ask, why that schoolmastership lasted so long. And moreover, that we are not sons by nature, but by adoption, and that in that Son of God, who therefore took upon him our flesh, that we might be made his brethren. 2 The time is said to be full, when all parts of it are past and ended, and therefore Christ could not have come either sooner or later. 3 He calleth Mary a woman, in respect of the sex, and not as the word is used in a contrary sense to a virgin still.

4:5 1 The adoption of the sons of God, is from everlasting, but is revealed and showed in the time appointed for it. 4:6 1 He showeth that we are in such sort free and set at liberty, that in the mean season we must be governed by the Spirit of Christ, which reigning in our hearts, may teach us the true service of the Father. But this is not to serve, but rather to enjoy true liberality, as it cometh sons and heirs. 2 By that that followeth he gathereth that that went before: for if we have his spirit, we are his sons, and if we are his sons, then are we free. 3 The holy Ghost, who is both of the Father and of the Son: but there is a peculiar reason why he is called the Spirit of the Son, to wit, because the holy Ghost sealeth up our adoption in Christ, and maketh us a full assurance of it. 4:7 1 The word, servant, is not taken here for one that liveth in sin, which is proper to the infidels, but for one that is yet under the cer­ emonies of the Law, which is proper to the Jews. 2 Partaker of this blessing. 4:8 1 He applieth the former doctrine to the Galatians, with a pecu­ liar reprehension: for in comparison of them, the Jews might have pretended some excuse as men that were born and brought up in that service of the Law. But seeing the Galatians were taken and called out of idolatry to Christian liberty: what pretence might they have to go back to those impotent and beggarly rudiments? 4:9 1 They are called impotent and beggarly ceremonies, being con­ sidered apart by themselves without Christ: and again, for that by that means they gave good testimony that they were beggars in Christ, when as notwithstanding, for men, to fall back from Christ to ceremo­ nies, is nothing else, but to cast away riches, and to follow beggarly. 2 By going backward. 4:12 1 He mitigateth and qualifieth those things wherein he might have seemed to have spoken somewhat sharply, very artificially and divinely, declaring his good will towards them in such sort, that the Galatians could not but either be utterly desperate when they read these things, or acknowledge their own lightness with tears, and desire pardon. 4:13 1 Many afflictions.

1211 galatians 4:31

flesh, I preached the Gospel unto you at the first. 14 And the 1trial of me which was in my flesh, ye despised not, neither abhorred: but ye received me as an Angel of God, yea, as 2Christ Jesus. 15 1What was then your felicity? for I bear you record, that if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them unto me. 16 Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? 17 They are jealous over you 1amiss: yea, they would exclude you, 2that ye should altogether love them. 18 But it is a good thing to love 1earnestly always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you, 19 My little children, of whom I travail in birth again, until Christ be formed in you. 20 And I would I were with you now, that I might 1change my voice: for I am in doubt of you. 21 1Tell me, ye that 2will be under the Law, do ye not hear the Law? 22 For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, bone by a servant, and cone by a free woman. 23 But he which was of the servant, was born after

the 1flesh: and he which was of the free woman, was born by 2promise. 24 By the which things another thing is meant: for 1these mothers are the 2two Testaments, the one which is Hagar of mount 3Sinai, which gendereth unto bondage. 25 (For Hagar or Sinai is a mountain in Arabia, and it 1answered to Jerusalem which now is) and 2she is in bondage with her children. 26 But Jerusalem, which is 1above, is free: which is the mother of us all. 27 1For it is written, dRejoice thou barren that bearest no children: break forth, and cry, thou that travailest not: for the 2desolate hath many more children, than she which hath an husband. 28 eTherefore, brethren, we are after the 1manner of Isaac, children of the 2promise. 29 But as then he that was born after the 1flesh, persecuted him that was born after the 2Spirit, even so it is now. 30 But what saith the Scripture? fPut out the servant and her son: for the son of the servant shall not be heir with the son of the free woman. 31 1Then brethren, we are not children of the servant, but of the free woman.

b Gen. 16:15

c Gen. 21:1

d Isa. 54:1

e Rom. 8:9

f Gen. 21:10

4:14 1 Those daily troubles wherewith the Lord tried me amongst you. 2 For my ministry's sake. 4:15 1 What a talk was there abroad in the world amongst men, how happy you were? 4:17 1 For they are jealous over you for their own commodity. 2 That they may convey all your love from me to themselves. 4:18 1 He setteth his own true and good love, which he earnestly bent towards them, against the naughty vicious love of the false apostles. 4:20 1 Use other words among you. 4:21 1 Because the false apostles always urged this, that unless the Gentiles were circumcised, Christ could profit them nothing at all, and this dissension of them which believed of the circumcision against them which believed of the uncircumcision, was full of offense: the Apostle, after divers arguments whereby he hath refuted their error, bringeth forth an allegory, wherein he saith the holy Ghost did shadow not unto us, all these mysteries: to wit, that it should come to pass, that two sorts of sons should have Abraham a father com­ mon to them both, but not with like success: for as Abraham begat Ishmael, by the common course of nature, of Hagar his bondmaid and a stranger, and begat Isaac of Sarah a free woman by the virtue of the promise and by grace only, and the first was not only not heir, but also persecuted the heir: So there are two covenants, and as it were two sons born to Abraham of those two covenants, as it were of two mothers. The one was made in Sinai, without the land of promise according to which covenant Abraham's children according to the flesh were begotten: to wit, the Jews which seek righteousness by that covenant, that is, by the Law: but they are not heirs, nay they shall at length be cast out of the house, as they that persecute the true heirs. The other was made in that high Jerusalem or in Zion (to wit, by the sacrifice of Christ) which begetteth children of promise, to wit, believers by the virtue of the holy Ghost which children (as

Abraham) do rest themselves in the free promise, and they only by the right of children shall be partakers of the father's inheritance, and those servants shall be shut out. 2 That desire so greatly. 4:23 1 As all men are, and by the common course of nature. 2 By virtue of the promise, which Abraham laid hold on for himself and his true seed, for otherwise Abraham and Sarah were past beget­ ting and bearing children. 4:24 1 These do represent and shadow forth. 2 They are called two covenants, one of the old Testament, and another of the New: which were not two indeed, but in respect of the times, and the diversity of the government. 3 He maketh mention of Sinai, because that covenant was made in that mountain, of which mountain Hagar was a shadow. 4:25 1 Look how the case standeth betwixt Hagar and her children, even so standeth it between Jerusalem and hers. 2 That is, Sinai. 4:26 1 Which is excellent, and of great account. 4:27 1 He showeth that in this allegory, he hath followed the steps of Isaiah, who foretold that the Church should be made and consist of the children of barren Sarah, that is to say, of them which only spiritually should be made Ahraham's children by faith, rather than of fruitful Hagar, even then foreshowing the casting off of the Jews, and calling of the Gentiles. 2 She that is destroyed and wasted. 4:28 1 After the manner of Isaac who is the first begotten of the heavenly Jerusalem, as Israel is of the slavish Synagogue. 2 That seed, unto which the promise belongeth. 4:29 1 By the common course of nature. 2 By the virtue of God's promise and after a spiritual manner. 4:31 1 The conclusion of the former allegory, that we by no means procure and call back again the slavery of the Law, seeing that the children of the bondmaid shall not be heirs.

galatians 5:1 1212 5 1 Having declared that we came of the free woman, he showeth the price of that freedom, 13 and how we should use the same, 16 that we may obey the Spirit, 19 and resist the flesh.

10 1I have trust in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you, shall bear his condemnation, whosoever he be. 11 1And brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? Then is the slander of the cross abolished. 12 1Would to God they were even cut off which do 2disquiet you. 13 For brethren, ye have been called unto liberty: 1only use not your liberty as an occasion unto the flesh, but by love serve one another. 14 1For 2all the Law is fulfilled in one word, which is this, dThou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. 15 1If ye bite and devour one another, take heed lest ye be consumed one of another. 16 1Then I say, eWalk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lusts of the flesh. 17 For the 1flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary one to another, so that ye cannot do the same things that ye would. 18 And if ye be led by the Spirit, ye are not under the Law.

chapter 5

a Acts 15:1

b 1 Cor. 1:17

c 1 Cor. 5:6

d Lev. 19:18

Matt. 22:39 Mark 12:31

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 2 a,1Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be 2circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing. 3 For I testify again to every man, which is circumcised, that he is bound to keep the whole Law. 4 Ye are b,1abolished from Christ: whosoever are 2justified by the Law, ye are fallen from grace. 5 1For we through the 2Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness through faith. 6 1For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, neither 2uncircumcision, 3but 4faith which worketh by love. 7 1Ye did run well: who did let you, that ye did not obey the truth? 8 1It is not the persuasion of 2him that calleth you. 9 c,1A little leaven doth leaven the whole lump.

Rom. 13:9 James 2:8

e Rom. 13:14

1 Pet. 2:11

5:2 1 Another obtestation wherein he plainly witnesseth that jus­ tification of works, and justification of faith cannot stand together, because no man can be justified by the Law, but he that doth fully and perfectly fulfill it. And he taketh the example of circumcision, because it was the ground of all the service of the Law, and was chiefly urged of the false Apostles. 2 Circumcision is in other places called the seal of righteousness, but here we must have consideration of the circumstance of the Baptism come in place of circumcision. And moreover Paul reason­ eth according to the opinion that his enemies had of it, which made circumcision a piece of their salvation. 5:4 1 That is, as he himself expoundeth it afterwards, ye are fallen from grace. 2 That is, seek to be justified by the Law, for in deed no man is justified by the Law. 5:5 1 He privily compareth the new people with the old: for it is cer­ tain that they also did ground all their hope of justification and life in faith and not in circumcision, but so, that their faith was wrapped in the external and ceremonial worship: but our faith is bare and con­ tent with spiritual worship. 2 Through the Spirit, which engendereth faith. 5:6 1 He addeth a reason for that now circumcision is abolished, seeing that Christ is exhibited unto us with full plenty of spiritual circumcision. 2 He maketh mention also of uncircumcision, lest the Gentiles should please themselves in it, as the Jews do in circumcision. 3 The taking away of an objection: If all that worship of the Law be taken away, wherein then shall we exercise ourselves? In charity, saith Paul: for faith, whereof we speak, cannot be idle, nay it bringeth forth daily fruits of charity. 4 So is true faith distinguished from counterfeit faith: for charity is not joined to faith as a fellow cause, to help forward our justification with faith. 5:7 1 Again he chideth the Galatians, but with an admiration, and therewithall a praise of their former race, to the end that he may make them more ashamed. 5:8 1 He playeth the part of an Apostle with them, and useth his

authority, denying that that doctrine can come from God which is contrary to his. 2 Of God. 5:9 1 He addeth this, that he may not seem to contend upon a trifle, warning them diligently (by a similitude which he borroweth of leaven, as Christ himself also did) not to suffer the purity of the Apos­ tolical doctrine, to be infected with the least corruption that may be. 5:10 1 He mitigateth the former reprehension, casting the fault upon the false Apostles, against whom he denounceth the horrible judg­ ment of God. 5:11 1 He willeth them to consider how that he seeketh not his own profit in this matter, seeing that he could eschew the hatred of men, if he would join Judaism with Christianity. 5:12 1 An example of a true Pastor inflamed with the zeal of God's glory and love of his flock. 2 For they that preach the Law, cause men's consciences always to tremble. 5:13 1 The third part of this Epistle, showing that the right use of Christian liberty consisteth in this, that being delivered from the slav­ ery of sin and the flesh, and being obedient to the Spirit, we should serve unto one another's salvation through love. 5:14 1 He propoundeth the love of our neighbor, as a mark where­ unto all Christians ought to refer all their actions, and thereunto he citeth the testimony of the Law. 2 This particle (All) must be restrained to the second table. 5:15 1 An exhortation to the duties of charity, by the profit that ensueth thereof, because that no men provide worse for themselves, than they that hate one another. 5:16 1 He acknowledgeth the great weakness of the godly, for that they are but in part regenerate: but he willeth them to remember that they are endued with the Spirit of God, which hath delivered them from the slavery of sin, and so of the Law so far forth as it is the virtue of sin, that they should not give themselves to lusts. 5:17 1 For the flesh dwelleth even in the regenerate man, but the Spirit reigneth although not without great strife, as is largely set forth, Rom. 7.

1213 galatians 6:11

19 1Moreover the works of the flesh are manifest, which are adultery, fornication, uncleanness, wantonness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, debate, emulations, wrath, contentions, seditions, heresies, 21 Envy, murders, drunkenness, gluttony, and such like, whereof I tell you before, as I also have told you before, that they which do such things, shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the 1fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperancy: 1against such there is no law. 24 For they that are Christ's, have crucified the flesh with the affections and the lusts. 25 If we 1live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26 1Let us not be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another, envying one another. 6 1 Now he entreateth particularly of charity toward such as offend, 6 toward the Minsters of the word, 10 and those that are of the household of faith: 12 Not like unto such who have a counterfeit zeal of the Law, 13 glorying in the mangling of the flesh, 14 and not in the cross of Christ.

offense, ye which are 3spiritual, 4restore such one with the 5spirit of meekness, 6considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2 1Bear ye one another's burden, and so fulfill the 2Law of Christ. 3 For if any man seem to himself, that he is somewhat, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself in his imagination. 4 But let every man prove his own work: and then shall he have rejoicing in himself only and not in another. 5 a,1For every man shall bear his own burden. 6 1Let him that is taught in the word, make him that hath taught him, partaker of 2all his bgoods. 7 1Be not deceived: God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8 For he that soweth to his 1flesh, shall of the flesh reap corruption: but he that soweth to the spirit, shall of the spirit reap life everlasting. 9 c,1Let us not therefore be weary of well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. 10 1While we have therefore time, let us do good unto all men, but especially unto them, which are of the household of faith. 11 ¶ 1Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand.

chapter 6

a 1 Cor. 3:18

b 1 Cor. 9:7

c 2 Thess. 3:13

1 Brethren, 1If a man be 2suddenly taken in any

5:19 1 He setteth out that particularly, which he spake generally, reckoning up some chief effects of the flesh, and opposing them to the fruits of the Spirit, that no man may pretend ignorance. 5:22 1 Therefore, they are not the fruits of free will, but so far forth as our will is made free by grace. 5:23 1 Lest that any man should object, that Paul played the Sophister, as one who urging the Spirit, urgeth nothing but that which the Law commandeth, he showeth that he requireth not that liberal and outward obedience, but spiritual, which proceedeth not from the Law, but from the Spirit of Christ, which doth beget us again, and must and ought to be the ruler and guider of life. 5:25 1 If we be indeed endued with the quickening Spirit, which causeth us to die to sin, and live to God, let us show it in our deeds, that is, by holiness of life. 5:26 1 He addeth peculiar exhortations according as he knew the Gala­ tians subject to divers vices: and first of all he warneth them to take heed of ambition, which vice hath two fellows, backbiting and envy, out of which two it cannot be but many contentions must needs arise. 6:1 1 He condemneth importunate rigor, because that brotherly reprehensions ought to be moderated and tempered by the spirit of meekness. 2 Through the malice of the flesh and the devil. 3 Which are upholden by the virtue of God's Spirit. 4 Labor to fill up that that is wanting in him. 5 This is a kind of speech which the Hebrews use, giving to under­ stand thereby, that all good gifts come from God. 6 He toucheth the fore: for they commonly are most severe judges, which forget their own infirmities. 6:2 1 He showeth that this is the end of reprehensions, to raise up our brother which is fallen, and not proudly to oppress him. There­ fore everyone must seek to have commendation of his own life by approving of himself, and not by reprehending others.

2 Christ, in plain and flat words, calleth the commandment of char­ ity, his commandment. 6:5 1 A reason wherefore men ought to have the greatest eye upon themselves, because that every man shall be judged before God accord­ ing to his own life, and not by comparing himself with other men. 6:6 1 It is meet that masters should be sound by their scholars, so far forth as they are able. 2 Of whatsoever he hath, according to his ability. 6:7 1 He commendeth liberality towards the poor, and first of all chideth them which were not ashamed to pretend this and that, and all because they would not help their neighbors, as though they could deceive God: and afterward compareth alms to a spiritual sow­ ing, which shall have a most plentiful harvest, so that it shall be very profitable: and compareth covetous niggardliness to a carnal sowing, whereof nothing can be gathered but such things as fade away, and perish by and by. 6:8 1 To the commodities of this present life. 6:9 1 Against such as are liberal at the beginning, but continue not, because the harvest seemeth to be deferred very long, as though the seed time and the harvest were at one instant. 6:10 1 They that are of the household of faith, that is, such as are joined with us in the profession of one selfsame religion, ought to be preferred before all others, yet so notwithstanding that our liberality extends to all. 6:11 1 The fourth and last part of the Epistle, wherein he returneth to his principal end and purpose: to wit, that the Galatians should not suffer themselves to be led out of the way by the false apostles: and he pointeth out those false apostles in their colors, reproving them of ambition, as men that do not that which they do, for any affec­ tion and zeal they have to the Law, but only for this purpose, that they may purchase themselves favor amongst their own sort, by the circumcision of the Galatians.

galatians 6:12 1214

12 As many as desire to make a 1fair show in the 2flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised, only because they would not suffer persecution for the 3cross of Christ. 13 For they themselves which are circumcised keep not the Law, but desire to have you circumcised, that they might rejoice in 1your flesh. 14 1But God forbid that I should 2rejoice, but in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, whereby the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. 16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace shall be upon them, and mercy, and upon the 1Israel of God. 17 1From henceforth let no man put me to business: for I bear, in my body the 2marks of the 3Lord Jesus. 18 1Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your 2spirit, Amen.

¶ Unto the Galatians written from Rome.

6:12 1 He setteth a far show against the truth. 2 In keeping of ceremonies. 3 For the preaching of him that was crucified. 6:13 1 That they have entangled you in Judaism, and yet he harpeth on the form of circumcision. 6:14 1 He sticketh not to compare himself with them, showing that on the contrary part he rejoiceth in those afflictions which he suffer­ eth for Christ's sake, and as he is despised of the world, so doth he in like sort esteem the world as naught: which is the true circumcision of a true Israelite. 2 When Paul useth this word in good sense of part, it signifieth to rest a man's self wholly in a thing, and to content himself therewith. 6:16 1 Upon the true Israel, whose praise is of God and not of men,

Rom. 2:19. 6:17 1 Continuing still in the same metaphor, he opposeth his mis­ eries and the marks of those stripes which he bare for Christ's sake, against the scar of the outward circumcision, as a true mark of his Apostleship. 2 Marks which are burnt into a man's flesh, as they used in old times, to mark their servants that had run away from them. 3 For it importeth much, whose marks we bear: for the cause maketh the Martyr, and not the punishment. 6:18 1 Taking his farewell of them, he wisheth them grace, and the Spirit against the deceits of the false apostles, who labored to beat those outward things into their brains. 2 With your minds and hearts.

T h e e p i s t l e o f

pa u l T o t h e e p h e s i a n s

1 1 After the salutation, 4 he entreateth of the free election of God, 5 and adoption. 7, 13 from whence man's salvation floweth, as from the true and natural fountain: and because so high a mystery cannot be understood, 16 he prayeth that the full, 20 knowledge of Christ, may by God be reavealed unto the Ephesians.

foundation of the world, 3that we 4should 5be holy, and without blame 6before him in love: 5 1Who hath predestinated us, to be adopted through Jesus Christ 2in himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. 6 1To the 2praise of the glory of his grace, 3wherewith he hath made us freely accepted in his beloved. 7 1By whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins, according to his rich grace: 8 1,2Whereby he hath been abundant toward us in 3all wisdom and understanding, 9 And hath opened unto us the 1mystery of his will 2according to his good pleasure, which he hath purposed in him,

chapter 1

a 1 Cor. 1:2

b 1 Cor. 1:3

1 Pet. 1:3

1 Paul 1an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the aSaints, which are at Ephesus, and to the 2faithful in Christ Jesus: 2 Grace be with you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 b,1Blessed be God, 2and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 3which hath blessed us, with 4all spiritual blessing in 5heavenly things in 6Christ, 4 1As he hath chosen us in 2him, before the

1:1 1 The inscription and salutation, whereof we have spoken in the former Epistles. 2 This is the definition of the Saints, showing what they are. 1:3 1 The first part of the Epistle, wherein he handleth all the parts of our salvation, propounding the example of the Ephesians, and using divers exhortations, and beginning after his manner with thanksgiving. 2 The efficient cause of our salvation is God, not considered con­ fusedly and generally, but as the father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 3 The next final cause, and in respect of us, is our salvation, all things being bestowed upon us which are necessary to our salvation, which kind of blessings is heavenly and proper to the elect. 4 With all kind of gracious and bountiful goodness which is heav­ enly indeed, and from God only. 5 Which God our Father gave us from his high throne from above: or because the Saints have those gifts bestowed on them, which belong properly to the citizens of heaven. 6 The matter of our salvation is Christ, in whom only we are endued with spiritual blessing and unto salvation. 1:4 1 He declareth the efficient cause, or by what means God the Father saveth us in his Son: Because saith he, he chose us from ever­ lasting in his Son. 2 To be adopted in him. 3 He expoundeth the next final cause, which he maketh double, to wit, sanctification and justification, whereof he will speak hereafter. And hereby also two things are to be noted, to wit, that holiness of life cannot be separated from the grace of election: and again what pureness forever is in us, is the gift of God, who hath freely of his mercy chosen us. 4 Then God did not choose us, because we were, or otherwise should have been holy, but to the end we should be holy.

5 Being clothed with Christ's righteousness. 6 Truly and sincerely. 1:5 1 Another plainer exposition of the efficient cause, and also of eternal election, whereby God is saith to have chosen us in Christ, to wit, because it pleased him to appoint us out when we were not yet born, whom he would make to be his children by Jesus Christ: so that there is no reason here of our election to be sought, but in the free mercy of God, neither is faith which God foresaw, the cause of predestination, but the effect. 2 God respecteth nothing, either that present is, or that is to come, but himself only. 1:6 1 The uttermost and chiefest final cause is the glory of God the Father, who saveth us freely in his Son. 2 That as his bountiful goodness deserveth all praise, so also it should be set forth and published. 3 Another final cause more near, is our justification, while that he freely accounteth us for just in his Son. 1:7 1 An expounding of the material cause, how we are made acceptable to God in Christ, for it is he only, whose sacrifice by the mercy of God is imputed unto us, for the forgiveness of sin. 1:8 1 Now he cometh at length to the formal cause, that is to say, to vocation or preaching of the Gospel, whereby God executeth that eternal counsel of our free reconciliation and salvation in Christ. And putting in place of the Gospel all wisdom and understanding, he showeth how excellent it is. 2 By which gracious goodness and bountifulness. 3 In perfect and sound wisdom. 1:9 1 For unless the Lord had opened unto us that mystery, we could never have so much as dreamed of it ourselves. 2 Not only the election, but also the vocation proceedeth of meer grace.

ephesians 1:10 1216

10 1That in the dispensation of the fullness of the times, he might 2gather together in one all things, both which are in heaven, and which are in earth, even in Christ: 11 1In whom also we are chosen when we were predestinated according to the purpose of him, which worketh 2all things after the counsel of his own will, 12 That we, which 1first trusted in Christ, should be unto the praise of his glory: 13 1In whom also ye have trusted, after that ye heard the 2word of truth, even the Gospel of your salvation, wherein also after that ye believed, ye were 3sealed with the holy 4Spirit of promise, 14 Which is the earnest of our inheritance, for the 1redemption of that liberty purchased unto the praise of his glory. 15 1Therefore also after that I heard of the faith, which ye have in the Lord Jesus, and love toward all the Saints, 16 I cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers,

17 1That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, that Father of 2glory, might give unto you the Spirit of wisdom, and revelation through the 3knowledge of him, 18 That the eyes of your understanding may be lightened, that ye may know what the 1hope is of his calling, and what the riches of his glorious inheritance is in the Saints, 19 1And what is the exceeding greatness of his power toward us, which believe, caccording to the working of his mighty power, 20 1Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his 2right hand in the heavenly places, 21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and domination, and every 1Name, that is named, not in this world only, but also in that that is to come, 22 1And hath made all things subject under his feet, and hath given him over all things to be the 2head to the Church, 23 Which is his body, even the 1fullness of him that filleth all in all things.

c Eph. 3:7

Col. 2:12

1:10 1 The Father exhibiteth and gave Christ, who is the head of all the elect unto the world, at that time which was convenient, accord­ ing as he most wisely disposed all times from everlasting. And Christ is he in whom all the elect from the beginning of the world, (other­ wise wandering and separated from God) are gathered together: of which some were then in heaven when he came into the earth, (to wit, such as by faith in him to come, were gathered together) and others being found upon the earth, were gathered together of him, and the rest are daily gathered together. 2 The faithful are said to be gathered together in Christ, because they are joined together with him through faith, and become as it were one man. 1:11 1 He applieth severally the benefit of vocation to the believing Jews, going back to the very fountain, that even they also may not attribute their salvation neither to themselves, nor to their stock, nor to any other thing, but to the only grace and mercy of God, both because they were called, and also because they were first called. 2 All things are attributed to the grace of God without exception, and yet for all that, we are not stocks, for he giveth us grace both to will and to be able to do those things that are good, Phil. 2:13. 1:12 1 He speaketh of the Jews. 1:13 1 Now he maketh the Ephesians (or rather all the Gentiles) equal to the Jews, because that notwithstanding they came last, yet being called by the same Gospel, they embraced it by faith, and were sealed up with the same spirit, which is the pledge of election, until the inheritance itself be seen, that in them also also the glory of God might shine forth, and be manifested. 2 That word which is truth indeed, because it cometh from God. 3 This is a borrowed kind of speech taken of a seal, which being put to anything, maketh a difference between those things that are authentical, and others that are not. 4 With that Spirit, which bringeth not the Law, but the promise of free adoption. 1:14 1 Full and perfect. 1:15 1 He returneth to the former gratulation, concluding two things together of those things that went before: the first is, that all good things come to us from God the Father in Christ, and by Christ, that for

them he may be praised of us. The second is that all those things (which he bringeth to two heads, to wit, faith and charity) are increased in us by certain degrees, so that we must desire increase of his grace from whom we have the beginning, and of whom we hope for the end. 1:17 1 The causes of faith are God the Father lightening our minds with his holy spirit, that we may embrace Christ opened unto us in the Gospel, to the obtaining of everlasting life, and the setting forth of God's glory. 2 Full of majesty. 3 For it is not enough for us to have known God once, but we must know him every day more and more. 1:18 1 What blessings they are which he calleth you to hope for whom he calleth to Christ. 1:19 1 The excellency of faith is declared by the effects, because the mighty power of God is set forth and shown therein. 1:20 1 The Apostle willeth us to behold in our most glorious Christ with the eye of faith, that most excellent power and glory of God, whereof all the faithful are partakers, although it be as yet very dark in us, by reason of the ignominy of the cross and the weakness of the flesh. 2 To be set on God's right hand, is to be partaker of the sovereignty which he hath over all creatures. 1:21 1 Everything whatsoever it be, or above all things be they of never such power or excellency. 1:22 1 That we should not think that that excellent glory of Christ is a thing wherewith we have nought to do, he witnesseth, that he was appointed of God the Father the head of all the Church, and there­ fore the body must be joined to his head, which otherwise should be a maimed thing without the members: which notwithstanding is not of necessity (seeing that the Church is rather quickeneth and sustained by the only virtue of Christ, so far off is it, that he needeth the fullness thereof) but of the infinite goodwill and pleasure of God, who vouchsafeth to join us to his Son. 2 Insomuch that there is nothing but is subject to him. 1:23 1 For the love of Christ is so great toward the Church, that though he do fully satisfy all with all things, yet he esteemeth himself but a maimed and unperfect head, unless he have the Church joined to him as his body.

1217 ephesians 2:14 2 1 The better to set out the grace of Christ, he useth a comparison, calling them to mind, 5 that they were altogether castaways and aliants, 8 that they are saved by grace, 13 and brought near, 16 by reconciliation through Christ, 17 published by the Gospel.

exceeding riches of his grace through his kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by 1grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, 9 1Not of works, lest any man should boast himself. 10 For we are 1his workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath ordained, that we should walk in them. 11 1Wherefore remember that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, and 2called uncircumcision of them, which are 3called circumcision in the flesh, made with hands, 12 That ye were, I say, at that time 1without Christ, and were 2aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and were bstrangers from the covenants of promise, and had no hope, and were without God in the world. 13 1But now in Christ Jesus, ye which once were far off, are made near by the blood of Christ. 14 1For he is our peace, which hath made of both one, and hath broken the stop of the partition

chapter 2

a Col. 2:13

b Rom. 9:4

1 And a,1you hath he quickened, that were 2dead in 3trespasses and sins, 2 1Wherein, in times past ye walked, 2according to the course of this world, and 3after the prince that ruleth in the air, even the spirit, that now 4worketh in the 5children of disobedience, 3 1Among whom we also had our conversation in time past in the lusts of our 2flesh, in fulfilling the will of the flesh, and of the mind, and 3were by nature the 4children of wrath, as well as 5others. 4 1But God which is rich in mercy, through his great love wherewith he loved us, 5 Even when we were dead by sins, hath quickened us together in Christ, by whose grace ye are saved, 6 And hath raised us up 1together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 That he might show in the ages to come the

2:1 1 He declareth again the greatness of God's good will, by com­ paring that miserable state wherein we are born, with that dignity whereunto we are advanced by God the Father in Christ. So he describeth that condition in such sort, that he saith, that touching spiritual motions we are not only born half dead, but wholly and altogether dead. 2 See Rom. 6:2. So then he calleth them dead, which are not regen­ erate: for as the immortality of them which are damned, is no life, so this knitting together of body and soul is properly no life, but death in them which are not ruled by the Spirit of God. 3 He showeth the cause of death, to wit, sins. 2:2 1 He proveth by the effects that all were spiritually dead. 2 He proveth this evil to be universal, insomuch as all are slaves of Satan. 3 At the pleasure of the prince. 4 Men are therefore slaves to Satan, because they are willingly rebellious against God. 5 They are called the children of disobedience, which are given to disobedience. 2:3 1 After that he hath severally condemned the Gentiles, he con­ fesseth that the Jews, amongst whom he numbereth himself, are not a whit better. 2 By the name of flesh in the first place, he meaneth the whole man, which he divideth into two parts: into the flesh, which is the part that the Philosophers term without reason, and into the thought, which they call reasonable: so that he leaveth nothing in man half dead, but concludeth that the whole man is of nature the son of wrath. 3 The conclusion: All men are born subject to the wrath and curse of God. 4 Men are said to be children of wrath passively, that is to say, guilty of everlasting death by the judgment of God, who is angry with them. 5 Profane people which knew not God. 2:4 1 Now hereof followeth another member of the comparison, declaring our excellency, to wit, that by the virtue of Christ we are delivered from that death, and made partakers of eternal life, to the end that at length we may reign with him. And by divers and sundry

means he beateth this into their heads, that the efficient cause of this benefit is the free mercy of God: and Christ himself is the material cause: and faith is the instrument which also is the free gift of God: and the end is God's glory. 2:6 1 To wit, as he addeth afterward in Christ, for as yet this is not fulfilled in us, but only in our head, by whose spirit we have begun to die to sin, and live to God, until that work be fully brought to an end: but yet the hope is certain, for we are as sure of that we look for: as we are of that we have received already. 2:8 1 So then, Grace, that is to say, the gift of God, and faith, do stand one with another, to which two these are contrary, To be saved by ourselves, or by our works. Therefore what mean they which would join together things of so contrary nature? 2:9 1 He taketh away expressly and namely from our works the praise of justification, seeing that the good works themselves are the effects of grace in us. 2:10 1 He speaketh here of grace, and not of nature: therefore be the works never so good, look what they are, they are it of grace. 2:11 1 Applying the former doctrine to the Gentiles, he showeth that they were not only as the Jews, by nature, but also after an especial sort, strangers and without God: and therefore they ought so much the rather remember that same so great a benefit of God. 2 You were called no otherwise than Gentiles, that all the world might witness of your uncleanness. 3 Of the Jews which were known from you by the mark of circum­ cision, the mark of the covenant. 2:12 1 He beginneth first with Christ, who was the end of all the promises. 2 You had no right or title, to the common wealth of Israel. 2:13 1 Christ is the only bond of the Jews and Gentiles, whereby they be reconciled to God. 2:14 1 As by the ceremonies and worship appointed by the Law, the Jews were divided from the Gentiles, so now Christ, having broken down the partition wall, joineth them both together, both in himself, and betwixt themselves, and to God. Whereby it followeth, that who­ soever established the ceremonies of the Law, maketh the grace of Christ void and of none effect.

ephesians 2:15 1218

wall, 15 cIn abrogating through his flesh the hatred, that is, the Law of commandments which standeth in ordinances, for to make of twain one new man in himself, so making peace, 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in 1one body by his cross, and 2slay hatred thereby, 17 1And came, and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were near. 18 For 1through him we both have an entrance unto the Father by one Spirit. 19 1Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners: but citizens with the Saints, and of the household of God. 20 1And are built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the 2chief cornerstone, 21 In whom all the building 1coupled together, groweth unto an holy Temple in the Lord. 22 In whom ye also are built together to be the habitation of God by the Spirit. 3 1 He declareth that therefore he suffered many things of the Jews, 3 because he preached the mystery touching the salvation of the Gentiles, 8 at God's commandment. 13 After he desired the Ephesians not to faint for his afflictions. 14 And for this cause he prayeth unto God, 18 that they may understand the great love of Christ.

3 That is, that God by revelation hath showed this mystery unto me (as I wrote above in few words, 4 Whereby when ye read, ye may know mine understanding in the mystery of Christ) 5 Which in 1other ages was not opened unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy Apostles and Prophets by the Spirit, 6 That the Gentiles should be inheritors also, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the Gospel, 7 Whereof I am made a minister by the gift of the grace of God given unto me through the effectual working of his power. 8 Even unto me the least of all Saints is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles, the unsearchable riches of Christ, 9 And to make clear unto all men what the fellowship of the mystery is, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who hath created all things by Jesus Christ, 10 1To the intent, that now unto principalities and powers in heavenly places, might be known by the Church the 2manifold wisdom of God, 11 According to the 1eternal purpose, which he wrought in Christ Jesus our Lord: 12 By whom we have boldness and entrance with confidence, by faith in him. 13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for your sakes, which is your glory. 14 1For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 (Of whom is named the whole 1family in heaven

c Col. 2:14

1 For 1this cause, I Paul am the 2prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles. 2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God, which is given me to youward,

2:16 1 He alludeth to the sacrifices of the Law, which represented that true and only sacrifice. 2 For he destroyed death by death, and fastened it as it were to the cross. 2:17 1 The preaching of the Gospel is an effectual instrument of this grace, common as well to the Jews as to the Gentiles. 2:18 1 Christ is the gate as it were, by whom we come to the Father, and the holy Ghost is as it were our lodes man who leadeth us. 2:19 1 The conclusion: The Gentiles are taken into the fellowship of salvation. And he describeth the excellency of the Church, calling it the city and house of God. 2:20 1 The Lord committed the doctrine of salvation, first to the Prophets, and then to the Apostles, the end whereof and matter as it were and substance, is Christ. Therefore that is indeed the true and Catholic Church, which is builded upon Christ by the Prophets and Apostles, as a spiritual temple consecrated to God. 2 That is, the head of the building, for the foundations are as it were the heads of the buildings. 2:21 1 So that God is the workman not only of the foundation, but also of the whole building. 3:1 1 He maintaineth his Apostleship against the offense of the cross, whereon also he taketh an argument to confirm himself, affirming that he was not only appointed an Apostle by the mercy of God, but was also particularly appointed to the Gentiles, to call them on every side to salvation: because God had so determined it from the

beginning, although he deferred a great while the manifestation of that his counsel. 2 These words, The prisoner of Jesus Christ, are taken passively, that is to say I Paul am cast into prison for maintaining the glory of Christ. 3:5 1 He meaneth not that none knew the calling of the Gentiles before, but because very few knew of it, and they that did know it, as the Prophets, had it revealed unto them very darkly, and under figures. 3:10 1 The unlooked for calling of the Gentiles, was as it were a glass to the heavenly Angels, wherin they might behold the marvellous wisdom of God. 2 God never had but one way only, to save men by: but it had div­ ers fashions and forms. 3:11 1 Which was before all beginnings. 3:14 1 He teacheth by his own example, that the efficacy of the doc­ trine dependeth upon the grace of God, and therefore we ought to join prayers with the preaching and hearing of the word: which are needful not only to them which are younglings in religion, but even to the oldest also, that they growing up more and more by faith in Christ, being confirmed with all spiritual gifts, may be grounded and rooted in the knowledge of that immeasurable love, wherewith God the Father hath loved us in Christ, seeing that the whole family, whereof part is already received into heaven, and part is yet here on earth, dependeth upon that adoption of the heavenly Father, in his only Son. 3:15 1 All that whole people which hath but one household Father, and that is the Church which is adopted in Christ.

1219 ephesians 4:12

and in earth) 16 That he might grant you according to the 1riches of his glory, that ye may be strengthened by his Spirit in the 2inner man, 17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith: 18 That ye, being rooted and grounded in 1love, may be able to comprehend with all Saints, 2what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height: 19 And to know the 1love of Christ, which 2passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled with all 3fullness of God. 20 1Unto him therefore that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21 Be praise in the Church by Christ Jesus, throughout all generations forever, Amen. 4 These three last Chapters contain precepts of manners. 1 He exhorteth them to mutual love. 7 Sundry gifts are therefore bestowed of God, 16 that the Church may be built up. 18 He calleth them from the vanity of infidels, 25 from lying, 29 and from filthy talk.

2 1With all humbleness of mind, and meekness, with 2long suffering, supporting one another through love, 3 1Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 1There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your vocation. 5 There is one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism. 6 One God and Father of all, which is 1above all, and 2through all, and 3in you all. 7 1But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the 2gift of Christ. 8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended upon high, he led 1captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. 9 (Now, in that he ascended, what is it but that he had also descended first into the 1lowest parts of the earth? 10 He that descended, is even the same that ascended, far above all heavens, that he might 1fill 2all things.) 11 1He therefore gave some to be 2Apostles, and some 3Prophets, and some 4Evangelists, and some 5Pastors, and Teachers, 12 1For the repairing of the Saints, for the work of the ministry, and for the edification of the 2body

1 I therefore, 1being prisoner in the Lord, pray you that ye walk worthy of the 2vocation whereunto ye are called,

3:16 1 According to the greatness of his mercy. 2 See Rom. 7:22. 3:18 1 Wherewith God loveth us, which is the root of our election. 2 How perfect that work of Christ is in every part. 3:19 1 Which God hath showeth us in Christ. 2 Which passeth all the capacity of man's wit, to comprehend it fully in his mind: for otherwise who so hath the Spirit of God, per­ ceiveth so much (according to the measure that God hath given him) as is sufficient to salvation. 3 So that we have abundantly in us, whatsoever things are required to make us perfect with God. 3:20 1 He breaketh forth into a thanksgiving, whereby the Ephesians also may be confirmed to hope for anything of God. 4:1 1 Another part of the Epistle containing precepts of Christian life, the sum whereof is this, that every man behave himself as it is meet for so excellent grace of God. 2 By this is meant the general calling of the faithful, which is this, to be holy, as our God is holy. 4:2 1 Secondly, he commendeth meekness of the mind, which is shown forth by bearing one with another. 2 See Matt. 18:25. 4:3 1 Thirdly, he requireth perfect agreement, but yet such as is knit with the band of the holy Ghost. 4:4 1 An argument of great weight, for an earnest entertaining of brotherly love and charity one with another, because we are made one body as it were of one God, and Father, by one Spirit, worshipping one Lord with one faith, and consecrated to him with one Baptism, and hope for one selfsame glory, whereunto we are called. Therefore whosoever breaketh charity, breaketh all these things asunder. 4:6 1 Who only hath the chief authority over the Church. 2 Who only poureth forth his providence, through all the members of the Church.

3 Who only is joined together with us in Christ. 4:7 1 He teacheth us, that we indeed are all one body, and that all good gifts proceed from Christ only, who reigneth in heaven hav­ ing mightily conquered all his enemies (from whence he heapeth all gifts upon his Church:) but yet notwithstanding these gifts are diversely and sundry ways divided according to his will and pleasure, and therefore every man ought to be content with that measure that God hath given him, and to bestow it to the common profit of the whole body. 2 Which Christ hath given. 4:8 1 A multitude of captives. 4:9 1 Down to the earth, which is the lowest part of the world. 4:10 1 Fill with his gifts. 2 The Church. 4:11 1 First of all he reckoneth up the Ecclesiastical functions, which are partly extraordinary and for a season, as Apostles, Proph­ ets, Evangelists, and partly ordinary and perpetual, as Pastors and Doctors. 2 The Apostles were those twelve, unto whom Paul was after­ ward added, whose office was to plant Churches throughout all the world. 3 The Prophet's office was one of the chiefest, which were men of marvellous wisdom, and some of them could foretell things to come. 4 These the Apostles used as fellows in the execution of their office, being not able to answer all places themselves. 5 Pastors are they which govern the Church, and Teachers are they which govern the Schools. 4:12 1 He showeth the end of Ecclesiastical functions, to wit, that by the ministry of men all the Saints may so grow up together, that they may make one mystical body of Christ. 2 The Church.

ephesians 4:13 1220

of Christ, 13 1Till we all meet together (in the 2unity of faith and that acknowledging of the Son of God) unto a perfect man, and unto the measure of the 3age the fullness of Christ, 14 1That we henceforth be no more children, 2wavering and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the 3deceit of men, and with craftiness, whereby they lay in 4wait to deceive. 15 1But let us follow the truth in love, and in all things, grow up into him, which is the head, that is, Christ. 16 By whom all the body being coupled and knit together by every joint, for the furniture thereof (according to the 1effectual power, which is in the measure of every part) receiveth 2increase of the body, unto the edifying of itself in 3love. 17 1This I say therefore and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as aother Gentiles walk, in 2vanity of their mind. 18 Having their understanding darkened, and

being strangers from the 1life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart: 19 Which being 1past feeling, have given themselves unto wantonness, to work all uncleanness, even with 2greediness. 20 1But ye have not so learned Christ, 21 If so be ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, 1as the truth is in Jesus, 22 bThat is, that ye cast off, concerning the conversation in time past, 1that old man, which is corrupt through the deceivable lusts, 23 And be renewed in the 1spirit of your mind, 24 And put on the new man, which 1after God is created unto 2righteousness, and 3true holiness. 25 1Wherefore cast off lying, and speak every man truth unto his neighbor: for we are members one of another. 26 1Be 2angry, but sin not: let not the sun go down 3upon your wrath, 27 Neither give place to the devil.

chapter 4

a Rom. 1:21

b Col. 3:8

4:13 1 The use of this ministry is perpetual so long as we are in this world, that is, until that time that having put off the flesh, and thor­ oughly and perfectly agreeing betwixt ourselves, we shall be joined with Christ our head. Which thing is done by that knowledge of the Son of God increasing in us, and he himself by little and little grow­ ing up in us until we come to be a perfect man, which shall be in the world to come, when God shall be all in all. 2 In that most near conjunction which is knit and fastened together by faith. 3 Christ is said to grow up to full age, not in himself, but in us. 4:14 1 Betwixt our childhood (that is to say, a very weak state, while as we do yet altogether waiver) and our perfect age, which we shall have at length in another world, there is a mean, to wit, our youth, and steady going forward to perfection. 2 He compareth them which rest not themselves upon the word of God, to little boats which are tossed hither and thither with the doctrines of men, as it were with contrary winds, and therewithall forewarneth them that it cometh to pass not only by the lightness of man's brain, but also by the craftiness of certain, which make as it were an art of it. 3 With those uncertain chances which toss men to and fro. 4 By the deceit of those men which are very well practised in deceiving of others. 4:15 1 By earnest affection of the truth and love, we grow up into Christ: for he (being effectual by the ministry of his word, which as the vital spirit doth so quicken the whole body, that it nourisheth all the limbs thereof according to the measure and proportion of each one) quickeneth and cherisheth his Church, which consisteth of div­ ers functions, as of divers members, and preserveth the proportion of every one. And thereof it followeth that neither this body can live without Christ, neither can any man grow up spiritually, which sepa­ rateth himself from the other members. 4:16 1 Of Christ, who in manner of the soul, quickeneth all the members. 2 Such increase as is meet the body should have. 3 Charity is the knitting of the limbs together. 4:17 1 He descendeth to the fruits of Christian doctrine, and rea­ soneth first upon the principles of manners and actions, setting down a most grave comparison between the children of God, and

them which are not regenerate. For in these men, all the powers of the mind are corrupted and their mind is given to vanity, and their senses are darkened with most gross mistiness, and their affections are so accustomed by little and little to wickedness, that at length they run headlong into all uncleanness, being utterly destitute of all judgment. 2 If the noblest parts of the soul be corrupt, what is man but cor­ ruption only? 4:18 1 Whereby God liveth in them. 4:19 1 Void of all judgment. 2 They strove to pass one another as though there had been some gain to be gotten by it. 4:20 1 Here followeth the contrary part touching men which are regenerate by the true and lively knowledge of Christ, which have other principles of their doings far different, to wit, holy and honest desires, and a mind clean changed by the virtue of the holy Ghost, from whence proceed also like effects, as a just and holy life indeed. 4:21 1 As they have learned which acknowledge Christ indeed, and in good earnest. 4:22 1 Yourselves. 4:23 1 Where there ought to have been the greatest force of reason, there is the greatest corruption of all which wasteth all things. 4:24 1 After the image of God. 2 The effect and end of the new creation. 3 Not fained nor counterfeit. 4:25 1 He commendeth severally certain peculiar Christian virtues, and first of all he requireth truth (that is to say, sincere manners) con­ demning all deceit and dissembling, because we are born one for another. 4:26 1 He teacheth us to bridle our anger in such sort, that although it be not, yet that it break not out, and that it be straightway quenched before we sleep, lest Satan taking occasion to give us evil counsel through the wicked counselor, destroy us. 2 If it so fall out, that you be angry, yet sin not: that is, bridle your anger, and do not wickedly put that in execution, which you have wickedly conceived. 3 Let not the night come upon you in your anger, that is, make atonement quickly for all matters.

1221 ephesians 5:17

28 1Let him that stole, steal no more: but let him rather labor, and work with his hands the thing which is 2good, that he may have to give unto him that needeth. 29 1Let no 2corrupt communication proceed out of your mouths: but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister 3grace unto the hearers. 30 1And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, by whom ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and anger, and wrath, crying, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all maliciousness. 32 Be ye courteous one to another, and tender hearted, freely forgiving one another, 1even as God for Christ's sake, freely forgave you. 5 3 Lest, in those vices which he reprehended, they should set light by his admonitions, 5 he terrifieth them by denouncing severe judgment, 8 and stirreth them forward: 15 Then he defendeth from general lessons of manners, 22 to the particular duties of wives, 25 and husbands.

neither 1jesting, which are things not comely, but rather giving of thanks. 5 1For this ye know, that no whoremonger, neither unclean person, nor covetous person, which is an 2idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ, and of God. 6 cLet no man deceive you with vain words: for, for such things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 1Be not therefore companions with them. 8 For ye were once darkness, but are now 1light in the Lord: walk as children of light. 9 (For the fruit of the 1Spirit is in all goodness, and righteousness, and truth.) 10 Approving that which is pleasing to the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but even 1reprove them rather. 12 For it is shame even to speak of the things which are done of them in secret. 13 But all things when they are reproved of the light, are manifest: for it is light that maketh all things manifest. 14 Wherefore 1he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and stand up from the 2dead, and Christ shall give thee light. 15 1Take heed therefore that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as dwise, 16 1Redeeming the season: for the 2days are evil. 17 eWherefore, be ye not unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

chapter 5

a John 13:14

John 15:12

b Eph. 4:29

Col. 3:5 1 Thess. 2:17

c Matt. 24:4

Mark 13:5 Luke 21:8 2 Thess. 2:3

d Col. 4:5

e Rom. 12:2

1 Thess. 4:3

1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children, 2 aAnd walk in love, even as Christ hath loved us, and hath given himself for us, to be an offering and a sacrifice of a sweet smelling savor to God. 3 b,1But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as it becometh Saints, 4 Neither filthiness, neither foolish talking,

4:28 1 He descendeth from the heart to the hands condemning theft: and because that men which give themselves to this wicked­ ness use to pretend poverty, he showeth that labor is a good remedy against poverty, which God blesseth in such sort that they which labor have always some overplus to help others so far is it from this, that they are constrained to steal other men's goods. 2 By laboring in things that are holy, and profitable to his neighbor. 4:29 1 He bridleth the tongue also, teaching us so to temper our talk, that our hearer's mind be not only not destroyed, but also instructed. 2 Word for word, rotten. 3 By grace he meaneth that, whereby men may profit to the going on forward godliness and love. 4:30 1 A general precept against all excess of affections which dwell in the part of the mind, which they call, Angry, and he setteth against them the contrary means. And useth a most vehement preface, how we ought to take heed that we grieve not the holy Spirit of God through our immoderateness and intemperance, who dwelleth in us to this end, to moderate all our affections. 4:32 1 An argument taken from the example of Christ, most grave and vehement, both for pardoning of those injuries which have been done unto us by our greatest enemies, and much more for having consideration of the miserable, and using moderation and gentle behavior towards all men. 5:3 1 Now he cometh to another kind of affections, which is in that part of the mind, which men call covetous or desirous: and he repre­ hended fornication, covetousness, and jesting, very sharply. 5:4 1 Jests which men cast one at another: that no lightness be seen, nor evil example given, nor any offense moved by evil words

or backbiting. 5:5 1 Because these sins are such that the most part of men count them not for sins, he awaketh the godly, to the end they should so much the more take heed to themselves from them, as most hurtful plagues. 2 A bondslave to idolatry, for the covetous man thinketh that his life standeth in his goods. 5:7 1 Because we are not so ready to anything as to follow evil exam­ ples, therefore the Apostle warneth the godly to remember always that the others are but as it were darkness, and that they themselves are as it were light. And therefore the others commit all villany (as men are wont in the dark) but they ought not only not to follow their examples, but also (as the property of the light is) reprove their dark­ ness, and to walk so (having Christ that true light going before them) as it becometh wise men. 5:8 1 The faithful are called light, both because they have the true light in them which lighteneth them, and also because they give light to others, insomuch, that their honest conversation reproveth the life of wicked men. 5:9 1 By whose force we are made light in the Lord. 5:11 1 Make them open to all the world, by your good life. 5:14 1 The Scripture, or God in the Scripture. 2 He speaketh of the death of sin. 5:15 1 The worse and more corrupt that the manners of this world are, the more watchful ought we to be against all occasions, and respect nothing but the will of God. 5:16 1 This is a metaphor taken from the merchants: who prefer the least profit that may be, before all their pleasures. 2 The times are troublesome and sharp.

ephesians 5:18 1222

18 1And be not drunk with wine, wherein is 2excess: but be fulfilled with the Spirit, 19 Speaking unto yourselves in Psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord in your 1hearts, 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God even the Father, in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, 21 1Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. 22 ¶ f,1Wives, submit yourselves unto your husbands, 2as unto the Lord. 23 g,1For the husband is the wife's head, even as Christ is the head of the Church, 2and the same is the Savior of his body. 24 1Therefore as the Church is in subjection to Christ, even so let the wives be to their husbands in everything. 25 ¶ h,1Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the Church, and gave himself for it, 26 1That he might 2sanctify it, and cleanse it by the washing of water through the 3word, 27 That he might make it unto himself a glorious Church, 1not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blame.

28 1So ought men to love their wives, as their own bodies: he that loveth his wife, loveth himself. 29 For no man ever yet hated his 1own flesh, but nourished and cherisheth it, even as the Lord doth the Church. 30 For we are members of his body, 1of his flesh, and of his bones. 31 iFor this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall 1cleave to his wife, and they twain shall be one flesh. 32 1This is a great secret, but I speak concerning Christ, and concerning the Church. 33 1Therefore everyone of you, do ye so: let everyone love his wife, even as himself, and let the wife see that she fear her husband. 6 1 He showeth the duties of children, 5 servants, 9 and masters: 10 Then he speaketh of the fierce battle that the faithful have, 12 and what weapons we must use in the same: 21 In the end he commendeth Tychicus.

f Col. 3:18

Titus 2:5 1 Pet. 3:1

g 1 Cor. 11:3

h Col. 3:19

i Gen. 2:14

Matt. 19:5 Mark 10:7 1 Cor. 6:16

chapter 6

a Col. 3:20

b Exod. 20:12

Deut. 5:16 Matt. 15:4 Mark 7:10

1 Children, a,1obey your parents 2in the 3Lord: 4for this is right. 2 b,1Honor thy father and mother (2which is the first commandment with 3promise)

5:18 1 He setteth the sober and holy assemblies of the faithful, against the dissolute bankers of the unfaithful, in which the praises of the only Lord must ring, be it in prosperity or adversity. 2 All kind of riot, joined with all manner of filthiness and shamefulness. 5:19 1 With an earnest affection of the heart, and not with the tongue only. 5:21 1 A short repetition of the end whereunto all things ought to be referred, to serve one another for God's sake. 5:22 1 Now he descendeth to a family, dividing orderly all the parts of a family. And he saith that the duty of wives consisteth herein, to be obedient to their husbands. 2 The first argument, for they cannot be disobedient to their husbands, but they must resist God also, who is the author of this subjection. 5:23 1 A declaration of the former saying: Because God hath made the man head of the woman in matrimony, as Christ is the head of the Church. 2 Another argument: Because the good estate of the wife depend­ eth of the man, so that this submission is not only just, but also very profitable: as also the salvation of the Church is of Christ, although far otherwise. 5:24 1 The conclusion of the wives' duty towards their husbands. 5:25 1 The husbands' duty towards their wives, is to love them as themselves, of which love, the love of Christ toward his Church is a lively pattern. 5:26 1 Because many men pretend the infirmities of their wives to excuse their own hardness and cruelty, the Apostle willeth us to mark what man­ ner of Church Christ gat, when he joined it to himself, and how he doth not only not loathe all her filth and uncleanness, but ceaseth not to wipe the same away with his cleanness, until he have wholly purged it. 2 Make it holy. 3 Through the promise of free justification and sanctification in Christ, received by faith. 5:27 1 The Church, as it is considered in itself, shall not be without wrinkle, before it come to the mark it shooteth at: for while it is in this life, it runneth in a race: but if it be considered in Christ, it is clean

and without wrinkle. 5:28 1 Another argument: Every man loveth himself, even of nature: therefore he striveth against nature that loveth not his wife: he proveth the consequent, first by the mystical knitting of Christ and the Church together, and then by the ordinance of God, who saith, that man and wife are as one, that is, not to be divided. 5:29 1 His own body. 5:30 1 He alludeth to the making of the woman, which signifieth our coupling together with Christ, which is wrought by faith, but is sealed by the Sacrament of the Supper. 5:31 1 See Matt. 19:5 5:32 1 That no man might dream of natural conjunction or knit­ ting of Christ and his Church together (such as the husbands and the wives is) he showeth that it is secret, to wit, spiritual and such as far differeth from the common capacity of man: as which consisteth by the virtue of the Spirit, and not of the flesh by faith, and by no natural band. 5:33 1 The conclusion both of the husband's duty toward his wife, and of the wife's toward her husband. 6:1 1 He cometh to another part of a family, and showeth that the duty of the children toward their parents, consisteth in obedience unto them. 2 The first argument: because God hath so appointed: whereupon it followeth also, that children are so far forth bound to obey their parents, as they may not swerve from the true worship of God. 3 For the Lord is author of all fatherhood, and therefore we must yield such obedience as he will have us. 4 The second argument: because this obedience is most just. 6:2 1 A proof of the first argument. 2 The third argument, taken of the profit that ensueth thereby: because the Lord vouchsafed this commandment amongst the rest, of a special blessing. 3 With a special promise: for otherwise the second commandment hath a promise of mercy to a thousand generations, but that promise is general.

1223 ephesians 6:24

3 That it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest live long on earth. 4 1And ye, fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in instruction and 2information of the Lord. 5 c,1Servants, be obedient unto them that are your masters, 2according to the flesh, with 3fear and trembling in singleness of your hearts, as unto Christ, 6 Not with service to the eye, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, 1doing the will of God from the heart. 7 With good will, serving the 1Lord, and not men. 8 1And know ye that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, that same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free, 9 1And ye masters, do the same things unto them, putting away threatening: and know that even your master also is in heaven, neither is there d,2respect of person with him. 10 ¶ 1Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the assaults of the devil. 12 1For we wrestle not against flesh and 2blood, but against e,3principalities, against powers, and against the worldly governors, the princes of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness, which are in the high places. 13 1For this cause take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to resist in the 2evil day,

and having finished all things, stand fast. 14 Stand therefore, and your loins girded about with verity, and having on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 And your feet shod with the 1preparation of the Gospel of peace. 16 Above all, take the shield of Faith, wherewith ye may quench all the fiery darts of the wicked, 17 And take the helmet of Salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray always with all manner prayer and supplication in the 1spirit: and watch thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all Saints, 19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly to publish the secret of the Gospel, 20 Whereof I am the ambassador in bonds, that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. 21 ¶ 1But that ye may also know mine affairs, and what I do, Tychicus my dear brother and faithful minister in the Lord, shall show you of all things. 22 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose, that ye might know mine affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts. 23 Peace be with the brethren, and love with faith from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all them which love our Lord Jesus Christ, to their 1immortality, Amen.

c Col. 3:22

Titus 2:9 1 Pet. 2:18

d Deut. 10:17

2 Chron. 16:7 Job 34:19 Acts 10:34 Rom. 2:11

Gal. 2:6 Col. 3:25 1 Pet. 1:17

e Eph. 2:2

¶ Written from Rome unto the Ephesians,

and sent by Tychicus.

6:4 1 It is the duty of fathers to use their fatherly authority moder­ ately, and to God's glory. 2 Such information and precepts, as being taken out of God's book are holy and acceptable to him. 6:5 1 Now he ascendeth to the third part of a family, to wit, to the duty both of the masters and of the servants. And he showeth that the duty of servants consisteth in a hearty love and reverence to their master. 2 He mitigateth the sharpness of service, in that they are spiritually free, notwithstanding the same, and yet that spiritual freedom taketh not away corporal service, insomuch that they cannot be Christ's, unless they serve their masters willingly and faithfully, so far forth as they may with safe conscience. 3 With careful reverence: for slavish fear is not allowable, much less in Christian servants. 6:6 1 To cut off occasion of all pretences, he teacheth us that it is God's will that some are either born or made servants, and therefore they must respect God's will, although their service be never so hard. 6:7 1 Being moved with a reverence so Godward, as though ye served God himself. 6:8 1 Although they serve unkind and cruel masters, yet the obedi­ ence of servants is no less acceptable to God, than the obedience of them that are free. 6:9 1 It is the duty of masters to use the authority that they have over their servants modestly, and holily, seeing that they in another respect have a common master, which is in heaven, who will judge both the bond and the free. 2 Either of freedom or bondage. 6:10 1 He concludeth the other part of this Epistle with a grave

exhortation, that all be ready, and fight constantly, trusting to spiri­ tual weapons, until their enemies be clean put to flight. And first of all, he warneth us to take the armor of God, whereby only our enemy may be dispatched. 6:12 1 Secondly he declareth that our chiefest and mightiest enemies are invisible, that we may not think that our chiefest conflict is with men. 2 Against men, which are of a frail and brittle nature, against which are set spiritual subtleties, more mighty than the other by a thousand parts. 3 He giveth these names to the evil angels, reason of the effects which they work: not that they are able to do the same of them­ selves, but because God giveth them the bridle. 6:13 1 He showeth that these enemies are put to flight with the only armor of God, to wit, with uprightness of conscience, a godly and holy life, knowledge of the Gospel, faith, and to be short, with the word of God, and using daily earnest prayer for the health of the Church, and especially, for the constance of the true, godly, and val­ iant ministers of the word. 2 See Eph. 5:16. 6:15 1 That the preparation of the Gospel may be as it were shoes to you: and it is very fitly called the Gospel of peace, for that, seeing we have to go to God through most dangerous ranks of enemies, this may encourage us to go on manfully, in that we know by the doctrine of the Gospel, that we take our journey to God, who is at peace with us. 6:18 1 That holy prayers may proceed from the holy Spirit. 6:21 1 A familiar and very amiable declaration of his state, together with a solemn prayer, wherewith Paul is wont to end his Epistles. 6:24 1 To life everlasting.

T h e e p i s t l e o f

pa u l T o t h e p h i l i p p i a n s

1 3 Having testified his godly and tender affection towards the Philippians, 12 he entreateth of himself and his bands: 22 And pricketh them forward by his own example, 27 and exhorteth them to unity, 28 and patience.

10 That ye may allow those things which are best, that ye may be pure, and without offense, until the day of Christ, 11 Filled with the 1fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God. 12 ¶ 1I would ye understood, brethren, that the things which have come unto me, are turned rather to the furthering of the Gospel, 13 So that my bands 1in Christ are famous throughout all the 2judgment hall, and in all other places. 14 Insomuch that many of the brethren in the Lord are boldened through my bands, and dare more frankly speak the 1Word. 15 Some preach Christ even through envy and strife, and some also of good will. 16 The one part preacheth Christ of contention, and not 1purely, supposing to add more affliction to my bands. 17 But the others of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the Gospel. 18 1What then: yet Christ is preached all manner ways, whether it be under a 2pretence, or sincerely: and I therein joy: yea, and will joy. 19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and by the help of the Spirit

1 Paul 1and Timothy the servants of JESUS CHRIST, to all the Saints in Christ Jesus, which are at Philippi, with the 2Bishops, and Deacons: 2 Grace be with you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ: 3 I thank my God, having you in perfect memory, 4 (Always in all my prayers for all you, praying with gladness) 5 Because of the 1fellowship which ye have in the Gospel, from the 2first day unto now. 6 And I am persuaded of this same thing, that he that hath begun this good work in you, will perform it until the 1day of Jesus Christ, 7 As it becometh me so to judge of you all, because I have you in remembrance, that both in my 1bands, and in my defense, and confirmation of the Gospel you all were partakers of my 2grace. 8 1For God is my record, how I long after you all from the very heart root in Jesus Christ. 9 1And this I pray that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge, and in all judgment,

1:1 1 The mark whereat he shooteth in this Epistle, is to confirm the Philippians by all means possible, not only not to faint, but also to go forward. And first of all, he commendeth their former doings, to exhort them to go forward: which thing he sayeth, he hopeth fully they will do, and that by the testimony of their lively charity, but in the mean season he referreth all things to the grace of God. 2 By the Bishops are meant both the Pastors, which have the dis­ pensation of the word and the Elders, that govern: and by Deacons are meant those that were stewards of the treasury of the Church and had to look unto the poor. 1:5 1 Because that you also are made partakers of the Gospel. 2 Ever since I knew you. 1:6 1 The Spirit of God will not forsake you unto the very latter end, until your mortal bodies shall appear before the judgment of Christ, to be glorified. 1:7 1 A true proof of a true knitting together with Christ. 2 He calleth his bands, grace, as though he had received some singular benefit. 1:8 1 He declareth his good will towards them, therewithall showing by what means chiefly they may be confirmed, to wit, by continual prayer. 1:9 1 He showeth what thing we ought chiefly desire, to wit, first of

all, that we may increase in the true knowledge of God (so that we may be able to discern things that differ one from another) and also in charity, that even to the end we may give ourselves to good works indeed, to the glory of God by Jesus Christ. 1:11 1 If righteousness be the tree, and good works the fruits, then must the papists needs be deceived, when they say that works are the cause of righteousness. 1:12 1 He preventeth the offense that might come by his persecu­ tion, whereby divers took occasion to disgrace his Apostleship. To whom he answereth, that God hath blesseth his imprisonment in such wise, that he is by that means become more famous, and the dignity of the Gospel by this occasion is greatly enlarged, although not with like affection in all men, yet indeed. 1:13 1 For Christ's sake. 2 In the Emperor's court. 1:14 1 The Gospel is called the Word, to set forth the excellence of it. 1:16 1 Not with a pure mind: for otherwise their doctrine was pure. 1:18 1 He showeth by setting forth his own example, that the end of our affliction is true joy: and that through the virtue of the Spirit of Christ, which he giveth to them that ask it. 2 Under a goodly color and show: for they made Christ a cloak for their ambition and envy.

1225 philippians 2:11

2 1 He exhorteth them above all things, 3 to humility, 6 and that by the example of Christ. 19 He promiseth to send Timothy shortly unto them, 26 and excuseth the long tarrying of Epaphroditus.

of Jesus Christ, 20 1As I fervently look for, and hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all confidence, as always, so now Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life or by death. 21 For Christ is to me both in life and in death advantage. 22 1And whether to live in the 2flesh were profitable for me, and what to choose I know not. 23 For I am distressed between both, desiring to be loosed and to be with Christ, which is best of all. 24 Nevertheless, to abide in the flesh, is more needful for you. 25 And this am I sure of, that I shall abide, and with you all continue, for your furtherance and joy of your faith, 26 That ye may more abundantly rejoice in Jesus Christ for me, by my coming to you again. 27 1Only let your conversation be as it becometh the Gospel of Christ, that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your matters, that ye 2continue in one spirit, and in one mind, fighting together through the faith of the Gospel. 28 1And in nothing fear your adversaries, which is to them a token of perdition, and to you of salvation, and that of God. 29 1For unto you it is given for Christ, that not only ye should believe in him, but also suffer for his sake, 30 1Having the same fight, which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

1 1If there be therefore any consolation in 2Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any 3compassion and mercy, 2 Fulfill my joy, that ye be like minded, having the

1same love, being of one accord, and of one judgment, 3 That nothing be done through contention or vainglory, but that in meekness of mind every man esteem others better than himself. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of other men. 5 1Let the same mind be in you that was even in Christ Jesus, 6 Who being in the 1form of God, 2thought it no robbery to be 3equal with God: 7 But he made himself of 1no reputation, and took on him the 2form of a servant, and was made like unto men, and was found in shape as a man. 8 He humbled himself, and became obedient unto the death, even the death of the cross. 9 1Wherefore God hath also highly exalted him, and given him a 2name above every name. 10 That at the Name of Jesus should 1every knee bow, both of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth. 11 And that 1every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is the Lord, unto the glory of God the Father.

1:20 1 We must continue even to the end, with great confidence, having nothing before our eyes but Christ's glory only, whether we live or die. 1:22 1 An example of a true shepherd, who maketh more acount how he may profit his sheep, than he doth of any commodity of his own whatsoever. 2 To live in this mortal body. 1:27 1 Having set down those things before, in manner of a Preface, he descendeth now to exhortations, warning them first of all, to consent both in doctrine and mind, and afterward, that being thus knit together with those common bands, they continue through the strength of faith to bear all adversity in such sort, that they admit nothing unworthy the profession of the Gospel. 2 The word signifieth, to stand fast, and it is proper to wrestlers, that stand fast, and shrink not a foot. 1:28 1 We ought not to be discouraged, but rather encouraged by the persecutions which the enemies of the Gospel imagine and practice against us: seeing that they are certain witnesses from God himself, both of our salvation, and of the destruction of the wicked. 1:29 1 He proveth that his saying, that persecution is a token of our salvation, because it is a gift of God to suffer for Christ, which gift he bestoweth upon his own, as he doth the gift of faith. 1:30 1 Now he showeth for what purpose he made mention of his afflictions. 2:1 1 A most earnest request to remove all those things, whereby that great and special consent and agreement is commonly broken, to wit, contention and pride, whereby it cometh to pass, that they

separate themselves one from another. 2 Any Christian comfort. 3 If any feeling of inward love. 2:2 1 Like love. 2:5 1 He setteth before them a most perfect example of all modesty and sweet conversation, Christ Jesus, whom we ought to follow with all our might: who abased himself so far for our sakes, although he be above all, that he took upon him the form of a servant, to wit, our flesh willingly, subject to all infirmities, even to the death of the cross. 2:6 1 Such as God himself is, and therefore God, for there is none in all parts like to God, but God himself. 2 Christ, that glorious and everlasting God, knew that he might rightfully and lawfully not appear in the base flesh of man, but remain with majesty meet for God: yet he chose rather to debase himself. 3 If the Son be equal to the Father, then is there of necessity an equality, which Arrius, that Heretic, denieth: and if the Son be com­ pared with the Father, then is there a distinction of persons, which Sabellius, that heretic, denieth. 2:7 1 He brought himself from all things, as it were to nothing. 2 By taking our manhood upon him. 2:9 1 He showeth the most glorious event of Christ's submission, to teach us, that modesty is the true way to true praise and glory. 2 Dignity and renown, and the matter with it. 2:10 1 All creatures shall at length be subject to Christ. 2:11 1 Every nation.

philippians 2:12 1226

12 1Wherefore my beloved, as ye have always obeyed me, not as in my presence only, but now much more in mine absence, so 2make an end of your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 1For it is God which worketh in you both 2the will and the deed, even of his good pleasure. 14 1Do all things without amurmuring and reasonings, 15 1That ye may be blameless, and pure, and the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a naughty and crooked nation, among whom ye shine as blights in the world, 16 Holding forth the 1word of life, 2that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither have labored in vain. 17 Yea, and though I be offered up upon the 1sacrifice, and service of your faith, I am glad, and rejoice with you all. 18 For the same cause also be ye glad, and rejoice with me. 19 1And I trust in the Lord Jesus, to send cTimothy shortly unto you, that I also may be of 2good comfort, when I know your state. 20 For I have no man like-minded, who will faithfully care for your matters. 21 dFor 1all seek their own, and not that which is Jesus Christ's. 22 But ye know the proof of him, that as a son with the father, he hath served with me in the Gospel. 23 Him therefore I hope to send as soon as I know how it will go with me,

24 And I trust in the Lord, that I also myself shall come shortly. 25 But I supposed it necessary to send my brother Epaphroditus unto you my companion in labor, and fellow soldier, even your messenger, and he that ministered unto me such things as I wanted. 26 For he longed after all you, and was full of heaviness, because ye had heard that he had been sick. 27 And no doubt he was sick, very near unto death: but God had mercy on him, and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28 I sent him therefore the more diligently, that when ye should see him again, ye might rejoice, and I might be the less sorrowful. 29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and make much of such: 30 Because that for the 1work of Christ he was near unto death, and regarded not his life, to fulfill that service which was lacking on your part toward me. 3 2 He refuteth the vain boastings of the false apostles, 7 and setteth Christ against them. 10 He setteth out the force and nature of faith, 15 that laying all things aside, they may be partakers of the Cross of Christ, 18 the enemies whereof, he noteth out.

chapter 2

a 1 Pet. 4:9

b Matt. 5:14

c Acts 16:1

d 1 Cor. 10:24

1 Moreover, 1my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. 2It grieveth me not to write the 3same things to you, and for you it is a sure thing. 2 Beware of dogs: beware of evil workers: beware of the 1concision. 3 1For we are the circumcision, which worship

2:12 1 The conclusion: We must go on to salvation with humility and submission, by the way of our vocation. 2 He is said to make an end of his salvation, which runneth in the race of righteousness. 2:13 1 A most sure and grounded argument against pride, for that we have nothing in us praiseworthy but it cometh of the free gift of God, and is without us, for we have no ability or power, so much as to will well (much less to do well) but only of the free mercy of God. 2 Why then, we are not stocks, but yet we do not will well of nature, but only because God hath made of our naughty will a good will. 2:14 1 He describeth modesty by the contrary effects of pride, teach­ ing us, that it is far both from all malicious, and close or inward hatred and also from open contentions and brawlings. 2:15 1 To be short, he requireth a life without fault, and pure, that being lightened with the word of God, they may shine in the dark­ ness of this world. 2:16 1 The Gospel is called the word of life, because of the effects which it worketh. 2 Again he pricketh them forward, setting before them his true Apostolic care that he had of them, comforting them moreover, to the end they should not be sorry for the greatness of his afflictions, no not although he should die to make perfect their oblation with his blood, as it were with a drink offering. 2:17 1 As if he said, I brought you Philippians to Christ, my desire is that you present yourselves a lively sacrifice to him, and then shall it not grieve me to be offered up as a drink offering, to accomplish this your spiritual offering.

2:19 1 Moreover he confirmeth their minds both by sending back Epaphroditus unto them, whose fidelity towards them, and great pains in helping him, he commendeth: and also promising to send Timothy shortly unto them, by whose presence they shall receive great commodity, and hoping also to come himself shortly unto them, if God wills. 2 May be confirmed in my joy of mind. 2:21 1 The most part. 2:30 1 He calleth it here the work of Christ, to visit Christ, being poor and in bands in the person of Paul. 3:1 1 A conclusion of those things which have been before said, to wit, that they go forward cheerfully in the Lord. 2 A preface to the next admonition that followeth, to take good heed and beware of false apostles, which join Circumcision with Christ, (that is to say, justification by works, with free justification by faith) and beat into men's heads the ceremonies which are abolished: for true exercises of godliness and charity. And he calleth them dogs as profane barkers, and evil workmen, because they neglected true works and did not teach the true use of them. To be short, he calleth them Concision, because in urging Circumcision, they cut off them­ selves and others from the Church. 3 Which you have oftentimes heard of me. 3:2 1 He alludeth to Circumcision, of the name whereof while they boasted, they cut asunder the Church. 3:3 1 He showeth that we ought to use true circumcision, to wit, the circumcision of the heart, that cutting off all wicked affections by the virtue of Christ, we may serve God in purity of life.

1227 philippians 4:1

God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence 2in the flesh: 4 1Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, much more I, 5 Circumcised the eighth day, of the kindred of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, aan Hebrew of the Hebrews, bby the Law a Pharisee. 6 Concerning zeal, I persecuted the Church: touching the righteousness which is in the Law, I was unrebukeable. 7 But the things that were 1vantage unto me, the same I counted loss for Christ's sake. 8 Yea, doubtless I think 1all things but loss for the excellent knowledge sake of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have counted all things loss, and do judge them to be dung, that I might 2win Christ, 9 And might be found in 1him, that is, 2not having mine own righteousness, which is of the Law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, even the righteousness which is of God through faith, 10 1That I may 2know him, and the virtue of his resurrection, and the 3fellowship of his afflictions, and be made conformable unto his death, 11 If by any means I might attain unto the 1resurrection of the dead: 12 Not as though I had already attained to it, either were already perfect: but I follow, if that I may comprehend that for whose sake also I am 1comprehended of Christ Jesus.

13 Brethren, I count not myself, that I have attained to it, but one thing I do: I forget that which is behind, and endeavor myself unto that which is before, 14 And follow hard toward the mark, for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 1Let us therefore as many as be 2perfect, be thus minded: and if ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even the same unto you. 16 Nevertheless, in that whereunto we are come, let us proceed by one rule, that we may mind one thing. 17 Brethren, be followers of me, and look on them, which walk so, as ye have us for an example. 18 c,1 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose 1end is damnation, whose God is their belly, and whose 2glory is to their shame, which mind earthly things. 20 1But our conversation is in heaven, from whence also we look for the dSavior, even the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working, whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself. 4 1 From particular exhortations, 4 he cometh to general. 10 He saith that he took such joy in their readiness to liberality, 12 that he will patiently bear the want.

chapter 3

a 2 Cor. 11:22

b Acts 23:6

c Rom. 16:17

d 1 Cor. 1:7

Titus 2:13

1 Therefore, 1my brethren, beloved and longed for, my joy and my 2crown, so continue in the 3Lord,

2 In outward things, which pertain nothing to the soul. 3:4 1 He doubteth not to prefer himself even according to the flesh, before those perverse hote urgers of the Law, that all men may know that he doth with good judgment of mind, lightly esteem all those outward things: forsomuch as he lacketh nothing which hath Christ, nay, the confidence of our works cannot stand with the free justifica­ tion in Christ by faith. 3:7 1 Which is accounted for vantage. 3:8 1 He shutteth out all works, as well those that go before, as those that come after faith. 2 That in their place I might get Christ, and of a poor man become rich: so far off am I from losing anything. 3:9 1 In Christ: for they that are found without Christ, are subject to condemnation. 2 That is, to be in Christ, to be found not in a man's own righteous­ ness, but clothed with the righteousness of Christ imputed to him. 3:10 1 This is the end of righteousness by faith touching us, that by the virtue of his resurrection we may scape from death. 2 That I may feel him indeed, and have a trial of him. 3 The way to that eternal salvation is to follow Christ's steps, by afflictions and persecutions, until we come to Christ himself, who is our mark whereat we shoot, and receive that reward whereunto God calleth us in him. And the Apostle setteth these true exercises of godliness against those vain ceremonies of the Law, wherein the false apostles put the sum of godliness. 3:11 1 To life everlasting, which followeth the resurrection of the Saints. 3:12 1 For we run not, but so far forth, as we are laid hold on of Christ, that is, as God giveth us strength, and showeth us the way.

3:15 1 The conclusion of this exhortation standing upon three mem­ bers: The one is, that such as have profited in the truth of this doc­ trine, should continue in it. The second is, that if there be any which are yet ignorant and understand not these things, and doubt of the abolishing of the Law, they should cause no trouble, and should be gently born withall, until they also be instructed of the Lord. The third is, that they esteem the false apostles by their fruits: wherein he doubteth not to set forth himself for an example. 2 He said before that he was not perfect. So that in this place he calleth them perfect, which have somewhat profited in the knowl­ edge of Christ and the Gospel, whom he setteth against the rude and ignorant, as he expoundeth himself in the next verse following. 3:18 1 He painteth out the false apostles in their colors, not upon malice or ambition, but with sorrow and tears, to wit, because that being ene­ mies of the Gospel (for that is joined with affliction) they regard nothing else, but the commodities of this life: that is to say, that flowing in peace, and quietness, and all worldly pleasures, they may live in great estima­ tion amongst men, whose miserable end he forewarned them of. 3:19 1 Reward. 2 Which they hunt after at men's hands. 3:20 1 He setteth against these fellows, true pastors which neglect earthly things, and aspire to heaven only, where they know, that even in their bodies they shall be clothed with that eternal glory, by the virtue of God. 4:1 1 A rehearsal of the conclusion: That they manfully continue, until they have gotten the victory, trusting to the Lord's strength. 2 My honor. 3 In that concord, whereof the Lord is the band.

philippians 4:2 1228

ye beloved. 2 1I pray Euodia, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of one accord in the Lord. 3 Yea, and I beseech thee, faithful yokefellow, help those women, which labored with me in the Gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellow laborers, whose names are in the a,1book of life. 4 1Rejoice in the 2Lord always, again I say, rejoice. 5 1Let your 2patient mind be known unto all men. 3The Lord is at hand. 6 1Be nothing careful, but in all things let your requests be showed unto God in prayer and supplication with 2giving of thanks. 7 And the 1peace of God which passeth all understanding, shall preserve your 2hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 8 1Furthermore, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things 2are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are worthy love, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, or if there be any praise, think on these things. 9 Which ye have both learned and received, and heard, and seen in me: those things do, and the God of peace shall be with you. 10 1Now I rejoice also in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care for me springeth afresh, wherein notwithstanding ye were careful, but ye lacked opportunity. 11 I speak not because of 1want: for I have learned in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

12 And I can be 1abased, and I can abound: everywhere in all things I am 2instructed, both to be full, and to be hungry, and to abound, and to have want. 13 I am able to do all things through the help of Christ, which strengtheneth me. 14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate to mine affliction. 15 1And ye Philippians know also that in the 2beginning of the Gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no Church communicated with me, concerning the matter of giving and receiving, but ye only. 16 For even when I was in Thessalonica, ye sent once, and afterward again for my necessity. 17 1Not that I desire a gift: but I desire the fruit which may further your reckoning. 18 Now I have received all, and have plenty: I was even filled, after that I had received of Epaphroditus that which came from you, an 1odor that smelleth sweet, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasant to God. 19 And my God shall fulfill all your necessities through his riches with glory in Jesus Christ. 20 Unto God even our Father be praise for evermore, Amen. 21 Salute all the Saints in Christ Jesus. The brethren, which are with me, greet you. 22 All the Saints salute you, and most of all they which are of 1Caesar's household. 23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, Amen.

chapter 4

a Rev. 3:5

Rev. 10:8 Rev. 21:27

¶Written to the Philippians from Rome,

and sent by Epaphroditus.

4:2 1 He also calleth on some by name, partly, because they needed private exhortation, and partly also to stir up others, to be more prompt and ready. 4:3 1 God is said after the manner of men, to have a book, wherein the names of his elect are written, to whom he will give everlasting life. Ezekiel calleth it the writing of the house of Israel, and the secret of the Lord, Ezek. 13:9. 4:4 1 He addeth particular exhortations: and the first is, that the joy of the Philippians be not hindered by any afflictions that the wicked imagine and work against them. 2 So is the joy of the world distinguisheth from our joy. 4:5 1 The second is not taking all things in good part, they behave themselves moderately with all men. 2 Your quiet and settled mind. 3 The taking away of an objection: We must not be disquieted through impatience, seeing that God is at hand to give us remedy in time against all our miseries. 4:6 1 The third is, that we be not too careful for anything, but with sure confidence give God thanks, and crave of him whatsoever we have need of, that with a quiet conscience we may wholly and with all our hearts submit ourselves to him. 2 So David began very oft with tears, but ended with thanksgiving. 4:7 1 That great quietness of mind, which God only giveth in Christ. 2 He divideth the mind into the heart, that is, into that part which is the seat of the will and affections, and into the higher part, whereby we understand and reason of matters. 4:8 1 A general conclusion, that as they have been taught both in

word and example, so they frame their lives to the rule of all holiness and righteousness. 2 Whatsoever things are such as do beautify and set you out with a holy gravity. 4:10 1 He witnesseth that their liberality was acceptable to him, wherewith they did help him in his extreme poverty: but yet so moderating his words, that he might declare himself void of all sus­ picion of dishonesty, and that he hath a mind contented both with prosperity and adversity, and to be short, that he reposeth himself in the only will of God. 4:11 1 As though I passed for my want. 4:12 1 He useth a general word, and yet he speaketh but of one kind of cross, which is poverty, for commonly poverty bringeth all kinds of discommodity with it. 2 This is a metaphor taken from holy things or sacrifices, for our life is like a sacrifice. 4:15 1 He witnesseth that he remembereth also their former ben­ efits, and again putteth away sinistrous suspicion of immoderate desire, in that that he received nought of any else. 2 At that beginning when I preached the Gospel amongst you. 4:17 1 He witnesseth again, that he alloweth well of their benefit not so much for his own sake as for theirs, because they gave it not so much to him, as they offered it to God as a sacrifice, whereof the Lord himself will not be forgetful. 4:18 1 He alludeth to the sweet smelling savors that were offered in the old Law. 4:22 1 Such as belong to the Emperor Nero.

T h e e p i s t l e o f

pa u l T o t h e c o l o s s i a n s

1 1 After the salutation, 4 he praiseth them the more, to make them attentive unto him. 7 He reporteth the testimony of the doctrine which they heard of Epaphras. 13 He magnifieth God's grace towards them, 20 and showeth that all the parts of our salvation consist in Christ alone.

8 1Who hath also declared unto us your love in the 2Spirit. 9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard of it, cease not to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be fulfilled with knowledge of 1his will in all wisdom, and spiritual understanding. 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord, and please him in all things, being fruitful in all good works, and increasing in the knowledge of God, 11 1Strengthened with all might through his glorious power, unto all patience, and longsuffering with 2joyfulness, 12 1Giving thanks unto the 2Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Saints in 3light, 13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom aof his dear Son, 14 1In whom we have redemption through his blood, that is, the forgiveness of sins. 15 1Who is the bimage of the invisible God, 2the first begotten of every creature. 16 cFor by him were all things created which are in heaven, and which are in earth, things visible and invisible: whether they be 1Thrones, or Dominions,

chapter 1

a Matt. 3:17

Matt. 17:5 2 Pet. 1:17

b Heb. 1:3

c John 1:3

1 Paul an Apostle of Jesus Christ, by the 1will of God, and Timothy our brother, 2 To them which are at 1Colosse, Saints and faithful brethren in Christ: Grace be with you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 1We give thanks to God even the 2Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, always praying for you: 4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of your love toward all Saints. 5 For the 1hope's sake, which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye have heard before by the word of truth, which is the Gospel, 6 Which is come unto you, even as it is unto all the world, and is fruitful as it is also among you from the day that ye heard and truly knew the grace of God, 7 As ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellow servant, which is for you a faithful minister of Christ:

1:1 1 By the free bountifulness of God. 1:2 1 Colosse is situated in Phrygia, not far from Hierapolis and Laodi­ cea, on that side that they bend toward Lycia and Pamphylia. 1:3 1 He commendeth the doctrine that was delivered them by Epa­ phras, and their readiness in receiving it. 2 We cannot otherwise consider of God to our salvation, but as he is Christ's Father, in whom we are adopted. 1:5 1 For the glory that is hoped for. 1:8 1 He declareth his good will towards them, telling them that they must not still remain at one stay but go on further both in the knowl­ edge of the Gospel, and also in the true use of it. 2 Your spiritual love, or your love which cometh from the Spirit. 1:9 1 God's will. 1:11 1 The gift of continuance is not of us, but it proceedeth from the virtue of God, which he doth freely give us. 2 It must not be unwilling, and as it were drawn out of us by force, but proceed from a merry and joyful mind. 1:12 1 Having ended the preface, he goeth to the matter itself, that is to say, to an excellent description (although it be but short) of whole Christianity, which is fitly divided into three treatises: for first of all he expoundeth the true doctrine, according to the order of the causes, beginning from this verse to the 24. And from thence he beginneth

to apply the same to the Colossians with divers exhortations to verse 6 of the second Chapter. And last of all in the third place even to the third Chapter, he refuteth the corruption of true doctrine. 2 The efficient cause of our salvation is the only mercy of God the Father, who maketh us meet to be partakers of eternal life, delivering us from the darkness wherein we were born, and bringing us to the light of the knowledge of the glory of his Son. 3 In that glorious and heavenly kingdom. 1:14 1 The matter itself of our salvation, is Christ the Son of God, who hath obtained remission of sins for us by the offering up of himself. 1:15 1 A lively description of the person of Christ, whereby we understand that in him only, God showeth himself to be seen: who was begotten of the Father before anything was made, that is, from everlasting, by whom also all things that are made, were made with­ out any exception, by whom also they do consist, and whose glory they serve. 2 Begotten before anything was made: and therefore the everlast­ ing Son of the everlasting Father. 1:16 1 He setteth forth the Angels with glorious names, that by the comparison of most excellent spirits we may understand how far passing the excellence of Christ, in whom only we have to content ourselves, and let go all Angels.

colossians 1:17 1230

or Principalities, or Powers, all things were created by him, and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things consist. 18 1And he is the head of the body of the Church: he is the beginning, dand the 2first begotten of the dead, that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 eFor it pleased the Father, that in him should 1all fullness dwell. 20 1And through peace made by that blood of that his cross, to reconcile to himself through him, through him, I say, 2all things, both which are in earth, and which are in heaven. 21 1And you which were in times past strangers and enemies, because your minds were set in evil works, hath 2he now also reconciled, 22 In that body of his 1flesh through death, to make you holy and unblameable, and without fault in his sight. 23 1If ye continue, grounded and established in the faith, and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel, whereof ye have heard, and which hath been preached to 2every creature, which is under heaven, 3whereof I Paul am a minister. 24 Now rejoice I in my sufferings 1for you, and

fulfill the 2rest of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh, for his body's sake, which is the Church, 25 1Whereof I am a minister, according to the dispensation of God, which is given me unto youward, to fulfill the word of God, 26 fWhich is the mystery hid since the world began, and from all ages, but now is made manifest to his 1Saints, 27 To whom God 1would make known what is the riches of his glorious mystery among the Gentiles, which riches is Christ in you, the hope of glory, 28 1Whom we preach, admonishing every man, and teaching every man in 2all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. 29 Whereunto I also labor and strive, according to his working which worketh in me mightily. 2 4 He condemneth, as vain, whatsoever is without Christ, 11 entreating specially of circumcision, 16 of abstinence from meats, 18 and of worshipping of Angels. 20 That we are delivered from the traditions of the Law through Christ.

d Rev. 1:5 1 Cor. 15:20

e John 1:14

Col. 2:9

f Rom. 16:25

Eph. 3:9 2 Tim. 1:10 Titus 1:2 1 Pet. 1:20

1 For I 1would ye knew what great fighting I have for your sakes, and for them of Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my 2person in the flesh. 2 1That 2their hearts might be comforted, and

1:18 1 Having gloriously declared the excellent dignity of the person of Christ, he describeth his office and function, to wit, that he is that same to the Church, that the head is to the body, that is to say, the prince and governor of it, and the very beginning of true life, as who rising first from death, he is the Author of eternal life, so that he is above all, in whom only there is most plentiful abundance of all good things, which is poured out upon the Church. 2 Who so rose again that he shall die no more, and who raiseth others from death to life by his power. 1:19 1 Most plentiful abundance of all things pertaining to God. 1:20 1 Now he teacheth how Christ executed that office which his Father joined him, to wit, by suffering the death of the cross (which was joined with the curse of God) according to his decree, that by this sacrifice he might reconcile his Father all men as well them which believed in him to come, and were already under this hope gathered into heaven, as them which should upon the earth believe in him afterwards. And thus is justification described of the Apostle, which is one and the chiefest part of the benefit of Christ. 2 The whole Church. 1:21 1 Sanctification is another work of God in us by Christ, in that that he restored us (which hated God extremely, and were wholly and willingly given to sin) to his gracious favor, in such sort, that he therewithall purifieth us with his holy Spirit, and consecrateth us to righteousness. 2 The Son. 1:22 1 In that fleshly body, to give us to understand that his body was not a fantastical body, but a true body. 1:23 1 This second treatise of this part of the Epistle, wherein he exhorteth the Colossians not to suffer themselves by any means to be moved from this doctrine, showing and declaring that there is nowhere any other true Gospel. 2 To all men: whereby we learn that the Gospel was not shut up within the corners of Judea alone. 3 He purchased authority to this doctrine by his Apostleship, and

taketh a most sure proof thereof, of his afflictions which he suffereth for Christ's Name to instruct the Churches with these examples of patience. 1:24 1 For your profit and commodity. 2 The afflictions of the Church are said to be Christ's afflictions, by reason of that fellowship and knitting together, that the body and the head have the one with the other, not that there is any more need to have the Church redeemed, but that Christ showeth his power in the daily weakness of his, and that for the comfort of the whole body. 1:25 1 He bringeth another proof of his Apostleship, to wit, that God is the author of it, by whom also he was appointed peculiarly Apostle of the Gentiles, to the end that by this means, that same might be fulfilled by him, which the Prophets foretold of the calling of the Gentiles. 1:26 1 Whom he chose to sanctify unto himself in Christ: moreover he sayeth that the mystery of our redemption was hidden since the world began, except it were revealed unto a few, who also were taught it extraordinarily. 1:27 1 This Paul bridleth the curiosity of men. 1:28 1 He protesteth that he doth faithfully execute his Apostleship in every place, bringing men unto Christ only, through the Lord's plentiful blessings of his labors. 2 Perfect and sound wisdom, which is perfect in itself, and shall in the end make them perfect that follow it. 2:1 1 The taking away of an objection, in that that he visited not the Colossians, nor the Laodiceans, he did it not of any negligence but is so much the more careful for them. 2 Me present in body. 2:2 1 He concludeth shortly the sum of the former doctrine, to wit, that the whole sum of true wisdom and most secret knowledge of God, consisteth in Christ only, and that this is the use of it touching men, that they being knit together in love, rest themselves happily in the knowledge of so great a goodness, until they come fully to enjoy it. 2 Whom he never saw.

1231 colossians 2:16

they knit together in love, and in all riches of the 3full assurance of understanding, to know the mystery of God, even the Father, and of Christ: 3 In whom are hid all the treasures of 1wisdom and knowledge. 4 1And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with 2enticing words: 5 aFor though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, rejoicing and beholding your 1order, and your 2steadfast faith in Christ. 6 As ye have therefore 1received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him. 7 Rooted and built in him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving: 8 1Beware lest there be any man that 2spoil you through philosophy, and vain deceit, 3through the traditions of men, 4according to the 5rudiments of the world, 6and not after Christ. 9 1For 2in him 3dwelleth 4all the fullness of the

Godhead 5bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power. 11 1In whom also ye are circumcised with bcircumcision made without hands, by putting off the 2sinful body of the flesh, through the circumcision of Christ, 12 1In that ye are c,2buried with 3him through baptism, 4in whom ye are also raised up together through the faith of the operation of 5God, which raised him from the dead. 13 d,1And you which were dead in sins, 2and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, forgiving you all your trespasses, 14 1And putting out the e,2handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, he even took it out of the way, and fastened it upon the cross, 15 And hath spoiled the 1Principalities, and Powers, and hath 2made a show of them openly, and hath triumphed over them in the 3same cross. 16 1Let no man therefore condemn you in meat

chapter 2

a 1 Cor. 5:3

b Rom. 2:29

c Rom. 6:4

Eph. 1:19

d Eph. 2:1

e Eph. 2:15

3 Of that understanding, which bringeth forth certain and undoubted persuasion in our minds. 2:3 1 There is no true wisdom without Christ. 2:4 1 A passing over to the treatise following against the corruptions of Christianity. 2 With a framed kind of talk made to persuade. 2:5 1 The manner of your Ecclesiastical discipline. 2 Doctrine. 2:6 1 So then Christ hangeth not upon men's traditions. 2:8 1 He bringeth all corruptions to three kinds: The first is that, which resteth of vain and curious speculations, and yet beareth a show of a certain subtle wisdom. 2 This is a word of war, and it is as much as to drive or carry away a spoil or booty. 3 The second which is manifestly superstitious and vain, and stand­ eth only upon custom and fained inspirations. 4 The third kind was of them which joined the rudiments of the world, (that is to say, the ceremonies of the Law) with the Gospel. 5 Principles and rulers, wherewith God ruled his Church, as it were under a schoolmaster. 6 A general confutation of all corruptions is this, that that must needs be a false religion, which addeth anything to Christ. 2:9 1 A reason: Because only Christ God and man, is most perfect, and passeth far above all things, so that whosoever hath him, may require nothing more. 2 By these words, is showed a distinction of the natures. 3 This word (Dwelleth) noteth out unto us the joining together of those natures, so that of God and Man, is one Christ. 4 These words set down most perfect Godhead to be in Christ. 5 The knitting together of God and man, is substantial and essential. 2:11 1 Now he dealeth perfecty against the third kind, that is to say, against them which urged the Jewish religion: and first of all, he denieth that we have need of the Circumcision of the flesh, seeing that without it we are circumcised within, by the virtue of Christ. 2 These many words are used to show what the old man is, whom Paul in other places calleth the body of sin. 2:12 1 The taking away of an objection: we need not so much as the eternal sign which our fathers had, seeing that our baptism is a most effectual pledge and witness, of that inward restoring and renewing.

2 See Rom. 6:4. 3 So then all the force of the matter cometh not from the very deed done, that is to say, it is not the dipping of us into the water by a Minister that maketh us to be buried with Christ, as the Papists say, that even for the very act's sake, we become verily Christians, but it cometh from the virtue of Christ, for the Apostle addeth the resurrec­ tion of Christ and faith. 4 One end of Baptism is the death and burial of the old man, and that by the mighty power of God only, whose virtue we lay hold on by faith, in the death and resurrection of Christ. 5 Through faith which cometh from God. 2:13 1 Another end of Baptism is, that we which were dead in sin, might obtain free remission of sins and eternal life through faith in Christ who died for us. 2 A new argument which lieth in these few words, and it is thus: Uncircumcision was no hindrance to you, why you being justified in Christ should not obtain life therefore you need not circumcision to the argument of salvation. 2:14 1 He speaketh now more generally against the whole service of the Law, and showeth by two reasons that it is abolished: First, to what purpose should he that hath obtained remission of all his sins in Christ require those helps of the Law? Secondly, because that if a man do rightly consider those rites, he shall find that they were so many testimonies of our guiltiness, whereby we manifestly witnessed as it were by our own handwriting that we deserved damnation. Therefore did Christ put out that handwriting by his coming and fastening it to the cross, triumphed over all our enemies, were they never so mighty. Therefore to what end and purpose should we now use those ceremonies, as though we were still guilty of sin, and subject to the tyranny of our enemies? 2 Abolishing the rites and ceremonies. 2:15 1 Satan and his angels. 2 As a conqueror made by a show of those captives, and put them to shame. 3 The cross was as a chariot of triumph. No conqueror could have triumphed so gloriously in his chariot, as Christ did upon the cross. 2:16 1 The conclusion: wherein also he nameth certain kinds, as the difference of days and meats, and proveth by a new argument that we are not bond unto them: to wit, because those things were shad­ ows of Christ to come but we possess him now exhibited unto us.

colossians 2:17 1232

and drink, or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath days, 17 Which are but a shadow of things to come: but the 1body is in Christ. 18 1Let no man at his pleasure bear rule over you by 2humbleness of mind, and worshipping of Angels, 3advancing himself in those things which he never saw, 4,5rashly puffed up with his fleshly mind, 19 1And holdeth not the 2head, whereof all the body furnished and knit together by joints and bands, increaseth with the increasing of 3God. 20 1Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the ordinances of the world, why, 2as though ye lived in the world, are ye burdened with traditions? 21 1As, Touch not, Taste not, Handle not. 22 1Which all perish with the using, 2and are after

the commandments and doctrines of men. 23 1Which things have indeed a show of 2wisdom, in 3voluntary religion and humbleness of mind, and in 4not sparing the body, which are things of no value, since they pertain to the 5filling of the flesh. 3 1 Against earthly exercises, which the false apostles urged, 2 he setteth heavenly: 5 and beginneth with the mortifying of the flesh, 8 whence he draweth particular exhortations, 18 and particular duties which depend on each man's calling.

1 If 1ye then 2be 3risen with Christ, 4seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. 2 Set your affections on things which are above, and not on things which are on the 1earth.

2:17 1 The body as a thing of substance and pith, he setteth against shadows. 2:18 1 He disputeth against the first kind of corruptions, and setteth down the worshipping of Angels for an example: which kind of false religion he confuteth, first this way: because that they which being in such a worship, attribute that unto themselves which is proper only to God, to wit, authority to bind men's consciences with religion, although they seem to bring in these things by humbleness of mind. 2 By a foolish humbleness of mind: for otherwise humbleness is a virtue. For these Angel worshippers blamed such of pride, as would go straight to God, and use no other under means besides Christ. 3 Secondly, because they rashly thrust upon them for oracles, those things which they neither saw nor heard, but devised of themselves. 4 Thirdly, because these things have no other ground, whereupon they are built, but only the opinion of men, which please themselves without all measure in their own duties. 5 Without reason. 2:19 1 The fourth argument, which is of great weight, because they spoil Christ of his dignity, who only is sufficient both to nourish, and also to increase his whole body. 2 Christ. 3 With the increasing which cometh from God. 2:20 1 Now last of all he fighteth against the second kind of cor­ ruptions, that is to say, against mere superstitions, invented of men, which partly deceive the simplicity of some with their craftiness, and partly with very foolish superstitions, and to be laughed at: as when godliness, remission of sins, or any such like virtue is put in some certain kind of meat and such like things, which the inventors of such rites themselves understand not, because indeed it is not. And he useth an argument taken of comparison. If by the death of Christ who establisheth a new covenant with his blood, you be delivered from those external rites wherewith it pleased the Lord to prepare the world, as it were by certain rudiments to that full knowledge of true religion, why would ye be burdened with traditions, I wrote not what, as though ye were citizens of this world, that is to say, as though ye depended upon this life, and earthly things? Now this is the cause why before verse 8 he followed another order than he doth in the confutation: because he showeth thereby what degrees false religions came into the world, to wit, beginning first by curious speculations of the wise after which in process of time succeeded gross superstition, against which mischiefs the Lord set at length that service of the Law, which some abused in like sort: but in the confutation he began with the abolishing of the Law service, that

he might show by comparison, that those false services ought much more to be taken away. 2 As though your felicity stood in these earthly things, and the kingdom of God were not rather spiritual. 2:21 1 An imitation in the person of these superstitious men, rightly expressing their nature and use of speech. 2:22 1 Another argument: The spiritual and inward kingdom of God cannot consist in these outward things, and such as perish with the using. 2 The third argument: Because God is not the author of these tradi­ tions, and therefore they do not bind the conscience. 2:23 1 The taking away of an objection. These things have a goodly show, because men by this means, seem to worship God with a good mind and humble themselves, and neglect the body, which the most part of men curiously pamper up and cherish: but yet notwithstand­ ing the things themselves are of no value, for so much as they pertain not to things that are spiritual and everlasting, but to the nourish­ ment of the flesh. 2 Which seem indeed to be some exquisite thing, and so wise devices as though they came from heaven. 3 Hence sprang the works of supererogation, as the Papists term them, that is to say, needless works, as though men performed more than is commanded them, which was the beginning and the very ground whereon Monks' merits were brought in. 4 A lively description of Monkery. 5 Seeing they stand in meat and drink, wherein the kingdom of God doth not stand. 3:1 1 Another part of this Epistle, wherein he taketh occasion by the reason of those vain exercises, to show the duty of a Christian life: which is an ordinary thing with him after he hath once set down the doctrine itself. 2 Our renewing or new birth, which is wrought in us by being par­ takers of the resurrection of Christ, is the fountain of all holiness, out of which sundry arms or rivers do afterwards flow. 3 For if we be partakers of Christ, we are carried as it were into another life, where we shall need neither meat nor drink, for we shall be like unto the Angels. 4 The end and mark which all the duties of Christian life shoot at, is to enter into the kingdom of heaven, and to give ourselves to those things which lead us thither, that is to true godliness, and not to those outward and corporal things. 3:2 1 So he calleth that show of religion, which he spake of in the former Chapter.

1233 colossians 3:22

3 1For ye are dead, 2and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ which is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. 5 a,1 Mortify therefore your 2members which are on the earth, fornication, uncleanness, the inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness which is idolatry. 6 For the which things' sake the wrath of God 1cometh on the children of disobedience. 7 Wherein ye also walked once, when ye lived in them. 8 But now put ye away even all these things, wrath, anger, maliciousness, cursed speaking, filthy speaking, out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another: 1seeing that ye have put off the old man with his works, 10 And have put on the new, 1which is renewed in 2knowledge after the image of him that created him, 11 1Where is neither Grecian nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond, free: But Christ is all, and in all things. 12 Now therefore as the elect of God, holy and beloved, 1put on the 2bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering:

13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel to another: even as Christ forgave, even so do ye. 14 And above all these things put on love, which is the 1bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God 1rule in your hearts, to the which ye are called in 2one body, and be ye thankful: 16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you plenteously in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing your own selves, in 1Psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with a grace in your hearts to the Lord, 17 bAnd whatsoever ye shall do, in word or deed, do all in the 1Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God even the Father by him. 18 ¶ c,1Wives, submit yourselves unto your husbands, as it is 2comely in the Lord. 19 d,1Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter unto them. 20 ¶ e,1Children, obey your parents in 2all things: for that is well pleasing unto the Lord. 21 1Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. 22 ¶ f,1 Servants, be obedient unto them that are your masters according to the flesh, in all things, not with eye service as men pleasers, but in singleness

chapter 3

a Eph. 5:3

b 1 Cor. 10:31

c Eph. 5:22

d 1 Pet. 3:1

e Eph. 6:1

f Eph. 6:5

Titus 2:9 1 Pet. 2:8

3:3 1 A reason taken of the efficient causes and others: you are dead as touching the flesh, that is, touching the old nature which seeketh after all transitory things, and on the other side, you have begun to live according to the Spirit, therefore give yourselves to spiritual and heavenly, and not to carnal and earthly things. 2 The taking away of an objection: while we are yet in this world, we are subject to many miseries of this life, so that the life that is in us, is as it were hidden: yet notwithstanding we have the beginnings of life and glory, the accomplishment whereof which lieth now in Christ's and in God's hand, shall be assuredly and manifestly per­ formed in that glorious coming of the Lord. 3:5 1 Let not your dead nature be any more effectual in you, but let your living nature be effectual. Now the force of nature is known by the motions. Therefore let the affections of the flesh die in you, and let the contrary motions which are spiritual, live. And he reckoneth up a great long scroll of vices, and their contrary virtues. 2 The motions and lusts that are in us, are in this place very prop­ erly called members, because that the reason and will of man cor­ rupted, doth use them as the body doth his members. 3:6 1 Useth to come. 3:9 1 A definition of our new birth taken of the parts thereof, which are the putting off of the old man, that is to say, of the wickedness which is in us by nature, and the restoring, and repairing of the new man, that is to say, of pureness which is given us by grace: but both of them are but begun in us in this present life, and by certain degrees finished: the one dying in us by little and little, and the other coming to the perfection of another life, by little and little. 3:10 1 Newness of life consisteth in knowledge, which transformeth man to the image of God his maker, that is to say, to the sincerity and pureness of the whole soul. 2 He speaketh of an effectual knowledge. 3:11 1 He telleth them again, that the Gospel doth not respect those

external things, but true justification and sanctification in Christ only, which have many fruits, as he reckoneth them up here: But com­ mendeth two things especially, to wit, godly concord, and continual study of God's word. 3:12 1 So put on, that you never put off. 2 Those most tender affections of exceeding compassion. 3:14 1 Which bindeth and knitteth together all the duties that pass from man to man. 3:15 1 Rule and govern all things. 2 You are joined together into one body through God's goodness, that you might help one another as fellow members. 3:16 1 By Psalms he meaneth all godly songs, which were written upon divers occasions, and by hymns, all such as contain the praise of God, and by spiritual songs, other more peculiar and artificious songs which were also in praise of God, but they were made fuller of music. 3:17 1 Call upon the name of Christ, when you do it, or, do it to Christ's praise and glory. 3:18 1 He goeth from precepts which concern the whole civil life of man, to precepts pertaining to every man's family, and requireth of wives, subjection in the Lord. 2 For those wives do not well, that do not set God in Christ before them in their love, but this Philosophy knoweth not. 3:19 1 He requireth of husbands, that they love their wives, and use them gently. 3:20 1 He requireth of children, that according to God's Command­ ment they be obedient to their parents. 2 In the Lord, and so is it expounded, Eph. 5:19. 3:21 1 Of parents, that they be gentle towards their children. 3:22 1 Of servants that fearing God himself to whom their obedi­ ence is acceptable, they reverently, faithfully, and from the heart, obey their masters.

colossians 3:23 1234

comfort your hearts, 9 With Onesimus a faithful and a beloved brother, who is one of you. They shall show you of all things here. 10 Aristarchus my prison fellow saluteth you, and Marcus, Barnabas's cousin (touching whom ye received commandments: If he come unto you, receive him.) 11 And Jesus which is called Justus, which are of the circumcision. These 1only are my work-fellows unto the 2kingdom of God, which have been unto my consolation. 12 Epaphras the servant of Christ, which is one of you, saluteth you, and always striveth for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect, and full in all the will of God. 13 For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you, and for them of Laodicea, and them of Hierapolis, 14 dLuke the beloved physician greeteth you, and Demas. 15 Salute the brethren which are of Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the Church which is in his house. 16 And when this Epistle is read of you, cause that it be read in the Church of the Laodiceans also, and that ye likewise read the Epistle written from Laodicea, 17 And say to Archippus, Take heed to the ministry, that thou hast received in the Lord, that thou fulfill it. 18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bands. Grace be with you, Amen.

of heart, fearing God. 23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not to men, 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the 1reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. 25 1But he that doeth wrong, shall receive for the wrong that he hath done: and there is no respect of persons. 4 2 He returneth to general exhortations, 3 touching prayer and gracious speech, 7and so endeth with greetings and commendations.

chapter 4

a Luke 18:1 1 Thess. 5:17

b Eph. 6:18 2 Thess. 3:1

c Eph. 5:15

d 2 Tim. 4:11

1 Ye masters, do unto your servants, that which is just and equal, knowing that ye also have a master in heaven. 2 a,1,2Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving, 3 b,1Praying also for us, that God may open unto us the 2door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ: wherefore I am also in bonds, 4 That I may utter it, as it becometh me to speak. 5 ¶ c,1Walk 2wisely toward them that are without, and redeem the 3season. 6 1Let your speech be 2gracious always, and powdered with 3salt, that ye may know how to answer every man. 7 ¶ Tychicus our beloved brother and faithful minister, and fellow servant in the Lord, shall declare unto you my whole state: 8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose that he might know your state, and might

¶ Written from Rome to the Colossians, and

sent by Tychicus, and Onesimus.

3:24 1 For that that you shall have duly obeyed your masters, the time shall come, that you shall be made sons of servants, and then shall you know this of a surety, which shall be when you are made partakers of the heavenly inheritance. 3:25 1 He requireth of masters that being mindful how that they themselves also shall render an account before that heavenly Lord and Master, which will revenge wrongful doings without any respect of masters or servants, they show themselves just and upright with equity, unto their servants. 4:2 1 He addeth certain general exhortations and at length endeth his Epistle with divers familiar and godly salutations. 2 Prayers must be continual and earnest.

4:3 1 Such as minister the word, must especially be commended to the prayers of the Church. 2 An open and free mouth to preach the Gospel. 4:5 1 In all parts of our life, we ought to have good consideration even of them which are without the Church. 2 Advisedly and circumspectly. 3 Seek occasion to win them, although you lose of your own by it. 4:6 1 Our speech and talk must be applied to the profit of the hearers. 2 Framed to the profit of your neighbor. 3 Against this is set filthy communication, as Eph. 4:29. 4:11 1 Why then, Peter was not at that time at Rome. 2 In the Gospel.

T h e f i r s t e p i s t l e o f

pa u l T o t h e t h e s s a l o n i a n s

1 1 He therefore beginneth with thanksgiving, 4 to put them in mind that whatsoever was praiseworthy in them, it came of God's goodness: 7 and that they are ensamples unto others.

8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord, not in Macedonia and in Achaia only: but your faith also which is toward God, spread abroad in all quarters, that we need not to speak anything. 9 For 1they themselves show of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, 2and how ye turned to God from idols, to serve the living and true God. 10 And to look for his son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus which delivereth us from 1that wrath to come. 2 1 He declareth how faithfully he preacheth the Gospel unto them, 5 seeking neither gain, 6 nor praise of men: 10 and he proveth the same by their own testimony: 14 that they did courageously bear persecution of their countrymen: 17 that he desireth very much to see them.

chapter 2

a Acts 16:12

1 Paul, and Silvanus, and Timothy, unto the Church of the Thessalonians, which is in God the Father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be with you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 1We give God thanks always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers. 3 1Without ceasing, remembering your effectual faith, and diligent love, and the patience of your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God, even our Father, 4 Knowing, beloved brethren, that ye are 1elect of God. 5 1For our Gospel was not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the holy Ghost, and in 2much assurance, as ye know after what manner we were among you for your sakes. 6 1And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, and received the word in much affliction, with 2joy of the holy Ghost, 7 So that ye were as ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.

1 For 1ye yourselves know, brethren, that our entrance in unto you was not in vain, 2 1But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated at aPhilippi, (as ye know) we were bold in 2our God, to speak unto you the Gospel of God, with much striving. 3 1For our exhortation was not by deceit, nor 2by uncleanness, nor by guile.

1:2 1 An example of a right Christian rejoicing:whereby also we learn, that such as have great gifts in them are in two sorts bridled, to wit, if they consider that they have received all from God, and that continuance must be desired at his hands, whereunto also the whole Epistle exhorteth the Thessalonians. 1:3 1 He commendeth them for three special gifts, effectual faith, continual love, and patient hope: to the end they might be ashamed being endued with such excellent gifts, not to continue in God's election. 1:4 1 Word for word, that your election is of God. 1:5 1 Another reason why they ought in no wise start back but con­ tinue to the end, because they cannot doubt of his doctrine which hath been so many ways confirmed unto them, even from heaven as they themselves did well know. 2 Paul showeth by two things, that there followed very great fruits of his preaching, to wit, by these gifts of the holy Ghost, and that certain assurance which was thoroughly settled in their minds, as appeared by their willing bearing of the cross. 1:6 1 Another reason: Because even to that day, they embraced the

Gospel with great cheerfulness, insomuch that they were an exam­ ple to all their neighbors: so that it should be more shame for them to faint in the mid-race. 2 With joy which cometh from the holy Ghost. 1:9 1 All the believers. 2 It is no true conversion to forsake idols, unless a man therewithall worship the true and living God in Christ the only redeemer. 1:10 1 This word (That) is not put here without cause: and by (wrath) is meant that revenge and punishment, wherewith the Lord will judge the world at length in his terrible wrath. 2:1 1 That which he touched before shortly concerning his Apostle­ ship, he handleth now more at large, and to that end and purpose which we spake of. 2:2 1 The virtues of a true Pastor are freely, and without fear to preach the Gospel, even in the midst of dangers. 2 Through God his gracious help. 2:3 1 To teach pure doctrine faithfully and with a pure heart. 2 By any wicked and naughty kind of dealing.

1 thessalonians 2:4 1236

4 1But as we were 2allowed of God, that the Gospel should be committed unto us, so we speak, not as they that please men, but God, which 3approveth our hearts: 5 Neither yet did we ever use flattering words, as ye know, nor colored covetousness, God is record. 6 1Neither sought we praise of men, neither of you, nor of others, when we might have been 2chargeable, as the Apostles of Christ. 7 But we were 1gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children. 8 1Thus being affectioned toward you, our good will was to have dealt unto you, not the Gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us. 9 1For ye remember, brethren, bour labor and travail: for we labored day and night, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, and preached unto you the Gospel of God. 10 1Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily, and justly, and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe. 11 1As ye know how that we exhorted you, and comforted, and besought every one of you, (as a father his children.) 12 1That ye cwould walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. 13 1For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, that when ye received the word of God, which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word

of men, but as it is indeed the word of God, which also worketh in you that believe. 14 1For brethren, ye are become followers of the Churches of God, which in Judea are in 2Christ Jesus, because ye have also suffered the same things of your own 3country men, even as they have of the Jews, 15 1Who both killed the Lord Jesus and their own Prophets, and have persecuted us away, 2and God they please not, and are contrary to 3all men, 16 And forbid us to preach unto the Gentiles, that they might be saved, to 1fulfill their sins always: for the 2wrath of God is come on them to the utmost. 17 1Forasmuch, brethren, as we 2were kept from you for a season, concerning sight, but not in the heart, we enforced the more to see your face with great desire. 18 Therefore we would have come unto you (I Paul, at least once or twice) but Satan hindered us. 19 For what is our hope or joy, or crown of rejoicing? are not even you it in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? 20 Yea, ye are our glory and joy. 3 1 To show his affection towards them, he sendeth Timothy unto them: 6 He is so moved by the report of their prosperous state, 9 that he cannot give sufficient thanks, 11 and therefore he breaketh out into prayer.

b Acts 20:34

1 Cor. 4:12 2 Thess. 3:8

c Eph. 4:1

Phil. 1:27 Col. 1:10

1 Wherefore since we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to remain at Athens alone,

2:4 1 To approve his conscience to God, being free from all flattery and covetousness. 2 Seeing there is this difference between the judgments of God and the judgments of men, that when men choose, they respect the qualities of those things which stand before them, but God findeth the reason of his counsel only in himself, it followeth, that seeing we are not able to think a good thought, that whomsoever he first chooseth to those holy callings, he maketh them able, and doth not find them able. And therefore in that we are allowed of God, it hang­ eth upon his mercy. 3 Which liketh and alloweth them. 2:6 1 To submit himself even to the basest, to win them, and to eschew all pride. 2 When I might lawfully have lived upon the expenses of the Church. 2:7 1 We were not rough, but easy, and gentle, as a nurse that is nei­ ther ambitious nor covetous, but taketh all pains as patiently, as if she were a mother. 2:8 1 To have the flock that is committed unto him in more estima­ tion than his own life. 2:9 1 To depart with his own rights rather than to be chargeable to his sheep. 2:10 1 To excel others in example of godly life. 2:11 1 To exhort and comfort with a fatherly mind and affection. 2:12 1 To exhort all men diligently and earnestly to lead a godly life. 2:13 1 Having approved his ministry, he commendeth again (to that end and purpose that I spake of) the cheerfulness of the Thessalo­ nians, which was answerable to his diligence in preaching, and their

manly patience. 2:14 1 He confirmeth them in their afflictions which they suffered of their own people, because they were afflicted of their own country­ men: which came as well (saith he) to the Churches of the Jews, as to them: and therefore they ought to take it in good part. 2 Which Christ hath gathered together. 3 Even of them which are of the same country, and the same town that you are of. 2:15 1 He preventeth an offense which might be taken, for that the Jews especially above all others persecuted the Gospel. That is no new thing, sayeth he, seeing they slew Christ himself and his Proph­ ets, and have banished me also. 2 He foretelleth the utter destruction of the Jews, lest any man should be moved by their rebellion. 3 For the Jews would neither enter into the kingdom of God them­ selves, nor suffer others to enter in. 2:16 1 Until the wickedness of theirs which they have by inheritance as it were of their fathers, be grown so great that the measure of their iniquity being filled, God may come forth to wrath. 2 The judgments of God being angry, which indeed appeared shortly after in the destruction of the city of Jerusalem, whither many resorted even out of divers provinces, when it was besieged. 2:17 1 He meeteth with an objection, why he came not to them straightway being in so great misery, I desired oftentimes (saith he) and it lay not in me, but Satan hindered my endeavors, and there­ fore I sent Timothy my faithful companion unto you, because you are most dear to me. 2 Were kept asunder from you, and as it were orphans.

1237 1 thessalonians 4:12

4 1 He exhorteth them 3 to holiness, 9 and brotherly love. 13 He forbiddeth them to sorrow after to manner of infidels. 15 He setteth out the history of our resurrection.

2 aAnd have sent Timothy our brother and minister of God, and our labor fellow in the Gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you touching your faith, 3 That no man should be moved with these afflictions: 1for ye yourselves know, that we are appointed thereunto. 4 For verily when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulations, even as it came to pass, and ye know it. 5 Even for this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent him that I might know of your faith, lest the tempter had tempted you in any sort, and that our labor had been in vain. 6 1But now lately when Timothy came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and love, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring to see us, as we also do you, 7 Therefore brethren, we had consolation in you, in all our affliction and necessity through your faith. 8 For now are we 1alive, if ye stand fast in the Lord. 9 For what thanks can we recompense to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we rejoice for your sakes before our God, 10 Night and day, bpraying exceedingly, that we might see your face, and might 1accomplish that which is lacking in your faith? 11 Now God himself, even our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, guide our journey unto you. 12 1And the Lord increase you, and make you abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: 13 cTo make your hearts stable and unblameable in holiness before God even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his Saints.

chapter 3

a Acts 16:1

b Rom. 1:10

Rom. 15:23

1 And 1furthermore we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that ye 2increase more and more, as ye have received of us, how ye ought to walk, and to please God. 2 For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. 3 a,1For this is the will of God even your 2sanctification, and that ye should abstain from fornication, 4 1That everyone of you should know, how to possess his vessel in holiness and honor, 5 1And not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: 6 b,1That no man oppress or defraud his brother in any matter: for the Lord is avenger of all such things, as we also have told you beforetime, and testified. 7 cFor God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. 8 He therefore that 1despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God who hath even given you his holy Spirit. 9 1But as touching brotherly love, ye need not that I write unto you: dfor ye are taught of God to love one another. 10 Yea, and that thing verily ye do unto all the brethren, which are throughout all Macedonia: but we beseech you brethren, that ye increase more and more, 11 1And that ye study to be quiet, and to meddle with your own business, 2and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you. 12 That ye may behave yourselves honestly toward them that are without, and that nothing be lacking unto you.

c 1 Thess. 5:23

1 Cor. 1:8

chapter 4

a Rom. 12:2

Eph. 5:17

b 1 Cor. 6:8

c 1 Cor. 1:2

d John 13:43

John 15:11

1 John 2:8 1 John 4:22

3:3 1 The will of God, who calleth his on this condition, to bring them to glory by affliction is a most sure remedy against all affliction. 3:6 1 Because they have hitherto gone so well forward, he exhorteth them again to make an end of the rest of the journey, seeing that therein also they shall do him their Apostle a great pleasure. 3:8 1 For now you cannot otherwise think me safe and in good case, unless you go forward in religion and faith. 3:10 1 Paul was constrained through the importunate dealing of the enemies to leave the building which he had scarce begun: And for that cause he had left Silas and Timothy in Macedonia, and when Timothy came to Athens to him, he sent him back again straightway. So that he desireth to see the Thessalonians, that he may thereby thoroughly accomplish their faith and religion, that was as yet imper­ fect. 3:12 1 Another part of the Epistle, wherein he speaketh of the duties of a Christian life. And he showeth that the perfection of a Christian life consisteth in two things, to wit, in charity toward all men, and inward purity of the heart, the accomplishment whereof notwith­ standing is deferred to the next coming of Christ, who will then per­ fect his work by the same grace, wherewith he began it in us. 4:1 1 Divers exhortations, the ground whereof is this, to be mindful

of those things, which they have heard of the Apostle. 2 That ye labor to excel more and more, and daily pass yourselves. 4:3 1 This is the sum of those things, which he delivered them, to dedicate themselves wholly to God. And he condemneth plainly all filthiness through lust, because it is altogether contrary to the will of God. 2 See John 19:17. 4:4 1 Another reason, because it defileth the body. 4:5 1 The third, because the Saints are discerned from them which know not God, by honesty and purity. 4:6 1 Secondly, he reprehendeth all violent oppression and immod­ erate desire, and showeth most severely as the Prophet of God, that God will revenge such wickedness. 4:8 1 These commandments which I gave you. 4:9 1 Thirdly, he requireth a ready mind to all manner of lovingkind­ ness, and exhorteth them to profit more and more in that virtue. 4:11 1 He condemneth unquiet brains, and such as are curious in matters which appertain not unto them. 2 He rebuketh idleness and slothfulness, which vices whosoever are given unto, fall into other wickedness, to the great offense of the Church.

1 thessalonians 4:13 1238

13 ¶ 1I would not brethren, have you ignorant 2concerning them 3which are asleep, that ye sorrow not even as others which have no hope. 14 1For if we believe that Jesus is dead, and is risen, even so them which sleep in 2Jesus, will God 3bring with him. 15 1For this say we unto you by the 2word of the Lord, that 3we which live, and are remaining in the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them which sleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a 1shout, and with the voice of the Archangel, and ewith the trumpet of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then shall we which live and remain, be 1caught up with them also in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore, comfort yourselves one another with these words. 5 1 Condemning the curious searching for the seasons of Christ's coming, 6 he warneth them to be ready daily to receive him: 11 And so giveth them sundry good lessons.

3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety, then shall come upon them sudden destruction, as the travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape. 4 1But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day shall come on you, as it were a thief. 5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, neither of darkness. 6 Therefore let us not sleep as do others, but let us watch and be sober. 7 For they that sleep, sleep in the night, and they that be drunken, are drunken in the night. 8 1But let us which are of the day, be sober, aputting on the breastplate of faith and love, and the hope of salvation for an helmet. 9 1For God hath not appointed us unto wrath, but to obtain salvation by the means of our Lord Jesus Christ. 10 1Which died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. 11 1Wherefore exhort one another, and edify one another, even as ye do. 12 1Now we beseech you brethren, that ye 2acknowledge them which labor among you, and are over you in the 3Lord, and admonish you. 13 That ye have them in singular love for 1their work's sake. 2Be at peace among yourselves.

e 1 Cor. 15:52

chapter 5

a Isa. 59:17

Eph. 6:17

1 But 1of the times and 2seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. 2 For ye yourselves know perfectly, that the day of the Lord shall come, even as a thief in the night.

4:13 1 The third part of the Epistle, which is interlaced among the former exhortations (which he returneth unto afterward) wherein he speaketh of mourning for the dead, and the manner of the resurrec­ tion, and of the latter day. 2 We must take heed that we do not immoderately bewail the dead, that is, as they used to do which think that they are utterly perished. 3 A confirmation: for death is but a sleep of the body (for he speak­ eth of the faithful) until the Lord cometh. 4:14 1 A reason of the confirmation, for seeing that the head is risen, the members also shall rise, and that by the virtue of God. 2 They die in Christ, which continue in faith, whereby they are grafted into Christ, even to the last gasp. 3 Will call their bodies out of their graves, and join their souls to them again. 4:15 1 The manner of the resurrection shall be thus: The bodies of the dead shall be as it were raised out of sleep, at the sound of the trumpet of God, Christ himself shall descend from heaven. The Saints (for he speaketh properly of them) which shall then be found alive together with the dead which shall rise, shall be taken up into the clouds to meet the Lord, and shall be in perpetual glory with him. 2 In the Name of the Lord, as though he himself speaks unto you. 3 He speaketh of these things, as though he should be one of them whom the Lord shall find alive at his coming, because that time is uncertain, and therefore every one of us ought to be in such a readiness, as if the Lord were coming at every moment. 4:16 1 The word which the Apostle useth here, signifieth properly that encouragement which mariners use one to another, when they altogether with one shout put forth their oars and row together. 4:17 1 Suddenly and in the twinkling of an eye.

5:1 1 The day that God hath appointed for his judgment, we know not. But this is sure that it shall come upon men when they look for nothing less. 2 See Acts 1:7. 5:4 1 Returning to exhortations he warneth us which are lightened with the knowledge of God, that it is our duty not to live securely in deliciousness, lest we be suddenly taken in a dead sleep in pleasures, but contrarywise to have an eye to the Lord, and not suffer ourselves to be oppressed with the cares of this world, for that is meet for the darkness of the night, and this for the light. 5:8 1 We must fight with faith and hope, much less ought we lie carelessly snorting. 5:9 1 He pricketh us forward by seeing most certain hope of victory before us. 5:10 1 The death of Christ is a pledge of our victory, for therefore he died, that we might be partakers of his life or virtue, yea even while we live here. 5:11 1 We must not only watch ourselves, but we are also bound to stir up and to confirm one another. 5:12 1 We must have great consideration of them which are appointed to the ministry of the word, and government of the Church by God, and do their duty. 2 That you acknowledge and take them for such as they are, that is to say, men worthy to be greatly accounted of among you. 3 In those things which pertain to God's service: so is the Ecclesias­ tical function distinguished from civil authority, and true shepherds from wolves. 5:13 1 So then, where this cause ceaseth, there must the honor cease. 2 This maintenance of mutual concord, is especially to be looked unto.

1239 1 thessalonians 5:28

14 1We desire you, brethren, admonish them that are 2out of order: comfort the feebleminded: bear with the weak: be patient toward all men. 15 b,1See that none recompense evil for evil unto any man: but ever follow that which is good, both toward yourselves, and toward all men. 16 1Rejoice evermore. 17 cPray continually. 18 In all things, give thanks, for this is the 1will of God in Christ Jesus toward you. 19 1Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not 1prophesying. 21 Try all things, and keep that which is good. 22 1Abstain from all 2appearance of evil.

23 Now the very God of peace 1sanctify you throughout: and I pray God that your whole spirit and soul and body, may be kept blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 d,1,2Faithful is he which calleth you, which will also 3do it. 25 1Brethren, pray for us. 26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. 27 I charge you in the Lord, that this Epistle be read unto all the brethren the Saints. 28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you, Amen.

b Prov. 17:13

Prov. 20:22

Matt. 5:39 Rom. 12:17

1 Pet. 3:9

c Luke 18:1

d 1 Cor. 1:9

¶ The first Epistle unto the Thessalonians

written from Athens.

5:14 1 We must have consideration of every man, and as the disease is, so must the remedy be used. 2 That keep not their rank or standing. 5:15 1 Charity ought not to be overcome with any injuries. 5:16 1 A quiet and appeased mind, is nourisheth with continual prayers, respecting the will of God. 5:18 1 An acceptable thing to God and such as he liketh well of. 5:19 1 The sparks of the Spirit of God that are kindled in us, are nour­ ished by daily hearing the word of God: but true doctrine must be diligently distinguished from false. 5:20 1 The expounding of the word of God. 5:22 1 A general conclusion, that we waiting for the coming of Christ, do give ourselves to pureness both in mind, will, and body, through the grace and strength of the Spirit of God.

2 Whatsoever hath but the very show of evil, abstain from it. 5:23 1 Separate you from the world, and make you holy to himself through his spirit, in Christ in whom only you shall attain unto that true peace. 5:24 1 The good will and power of God is a sure confirmation against all difficulties, whereof we have a sure witness in our vocation. 2 Always one and ever like himself, who performeth in deed what­ soever he promiseth: and an effectual calling is nothing else but a right declaring and true setting forth of God's will: and therefore the salvation of the elect is safe and sure. 3 Who will also make you perfect. 5:25 1 The last part of the Epistle, wherein with most weighty charge, he commendeth both himself and this Epistle unto them.

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 t h e s s a l o n i a n s

1 3 He commendeth the increase of faith and charity, 4 and the patience of the Thessalonians: 6 And describing God's vengeance against such as oppress the godly, 10 he teacheth the godly to wait for the last judgment.

8 In flaming fire, rendering vengeance unto them, 1that do not know God, and which obey not unto the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, 9 Which shall be punished with everlasting perdition from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power, 10 When he shall come to be glorified in his Saints, and to be made marvelous in all them that believe (1because our testimony toward you was believed) in that day. 11 1Wherefore, we also pray always for you, that our God may make you worthy of 2this calling, and fulfill 3all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the 4work of faith with power. 12 That the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God, and of the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 2 He showeth that the day of the Lord shall not come, till there be a departure from the faith, 3 and that Antichrist be revealed, 8 whose destruction he setteth out, 15 and thereupon exhorteth to constancy.

chapter 1

a 1 Thess. 1:2

b Jude 6

c 1 Thess. 4:16

1 Paul and Silvanus, and Timothy, unto the Church of the Thessalonians, which is in God our Father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ: 2 Grace be with you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 a,1We ought to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith 2groweth exceedingly, and the love of every one of you toward another, aboundeth, 4 So that we ourselves rejoice of you in the Churches of God, because of your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye suffer. 5 b,1Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for the which ye also suffer. 6 1For it is a righteous thing with God, to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you, 7 And to you which are troubled, rest 1with us, c,2when the Lord Jesus shall show himself from heaven with his mighty Angels,

1 Now 1we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our 2assembling unto him,

1:3 1 The first part of the Epistle, wherein he rejoiceth that through the grace of God, they have manfully sustained all the assaults of their enemies, wherein he confirmeth them moreover showing with what gifts they must chiefly fight, to wit, with faith and charity, which must daily increase. 2 That whereas it grew us before, it doth also receive some increase every day more and more. 1:5 1 He openeth the fountain of all true comfort, to wit, that in afflictions, which we suffer of the wicked for righteousness sake, we may behold as it were in a glass the testimony of that judgment to come, and the end therefore most acceptable to us, and most sharp to his enemies. 1:6 1 A proof: God is just, therefore he will worthily punish the unjust, and will do away the miseries of his people. 1:7 1 He confirmeth them also by the way, by this means, that the condition both of this present state and the state to come, is com­ mon to him with them. 2 A most glorious description of the second coming of Christ, to be set against all the miseries of the godly, and the triumphs of the wicked. 1:8 1 There is no knowledge of God unto salvation, without the Gos­ pel of Christ. 1:10 1 The children of God shall be counted by the faith which they

have in the Gospel, which is preached unto them by the Apostles. 1:11 1 Seeing that we have the mark set before us, it remaineth that we go unto it. And we go to it, by certain degrees of causes: first by the free love and good pleasure of God, by virtue whereof all other inferior causes work: from thence proceedeth the free calling to Christ, and from calling, faith, whereupon followeth both the glorify­ ing of Christ in us, and us in Christ. 2 By (calling) he meaneth not the very act of calling, but that selfsame thing whereunto we are called, which is the glory of that heavenly kingdom. 3 Which he determined long since, only upon his gracious and merciful goodness toward you. 4 So then, faith is an excellent work of God in us: and we see here plainly that the Apostle leaveth nothing to free will, to make it check­ mate with God's working therein, as the Papists dream. 2:1 1 The second part of the Epistle, containing an excellent proph­ ecy of the state of the Church, which shall be from the Apostles' times unto the latter day of judgment. 2 If we think earnestly upon that immeasurable glory, which we shall be partakers of with Christ, it will be an excellent remedy for us against wavering, and impatience, so that neither the glistering of the world shall allure us, nor the dreadful sight of the cross dismay us.

1241 2 thessalonians 2:17

2 1That ye be not suddenly moved from your mind, nor troubled neither by 2spirit, nor by 3word, nor by 4letter, as it were from us, as though the day of Christ were at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means: 1for that day shall not come, except there come a departing first, and that 2that man of sin be disclosed, even the son of perdition. 4 Which is an adversary, and 1exalteth himself against all that is called God, or that is worshipped: 2so that he doth sit as God in the Temple of God, showing himself that he is God. 5 1Remember ye not, that when I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6 And now ye know 1what withholdeth, that he might be revealed in his time. 7 1For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: 2only he which now 3withholdeth, shall let till he be taken out of the way. 8 1And then shall 2that wicked man be revealed, awhom the Lord shall 3consume with the 4Spirit of his mouth, and shall abolish with the brightness of his coming, 9 1Even him whose coming is by the effectual working of Satan, with all power, and signs, and 2lying wonders,

10 And in all deceivableness of unrighteousness, among them that perish, because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. 11 And therefore God shall send them 1strong delusion, that they should believe lies, 12 That all they might be damned which believed not the truth, but 1had pleasure in unrighteousness. 13 1But we ought to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because that God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through 2sanctification of the Spirit, and the 3faith of truth, 14 Whereunto he called you by our 1Gospel, to obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15 1Therefore, brethren, stand fast and keep the instructions, which ye have been taught, either by word, or by our Epistle. 16 Now the same Jesus Christ our Lord, and our God, even the Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, 17 Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every word and good work. 3 1 He desireth them to further the preaching of the Gospel with their prayers, 6 and to withdraw themselves

chapter 2

a Isa. 11:4

2:8 1 That wickedness shall at length be detected by the word of the Lord, and utterly be abolished by Christ's coming. 2 Word for word, that lawless fellow: that is to say, he that shall tread God's law clean underfoot. 3 Bring to nought. 4 With his word: for the true Ministers of the word are as a mouth, whereby the Lord breatheth out that mighty and everlasting word, which shall break his enemies in sunder, as it were an iron rod. 2:9 1 He foretelleth that Satan will bestow all his might and power, and use all false miracles that he can to establish that seat, and that with great success, because the wickedness of the world doeth so deserve it: yet so, that only the unfaithful shall perish through his deceit. 2 Which are partly false, and partly wrought to establish a false­ hood. 2:11 1 A most mighty working to deceive them. 2:12 1 They liked lies so well, that they had pleasure in them which is the greatest madness that may be. 2:13 1 The elect shall stand steadfast and safe from all these mis­ chiefs. Now election is known by these testimonies: Faith is gathered by sanctification: faith, by that that we accord unto the truth: truth by calling through the preaching of the Gospel: from whence we come at length to a certain hope of glorification. 2 To sanctify you. 3 Faith which layeth hold not upon lies, but upon the truth of God, which is the Gospel. 2:14 1 By our preaching. 2:15 1 The conclusion remaineth then, that we continue in the doctrine which was delivered unto us by the mouth and writings of the Apostles, through the free good will of God, which comforteth us with an invincible hope, and also in all godliness our whole life long.

2:2 1 We must take heed of false prophets, especially in this matter, which go about to deceive, and that for the most part, after three sorts: for either they brag of fained prophetical revelations, or they bring conjectures and reasons of their own, or use counterfeit writings. 2 By dreams and fables, which men pretend to be spiritual rev­ elations. 3 Either by word of mouth, or by books written. 4 Either by forged letters, or falsely glossed upon. 2:3 1 The Apostle foretelleth that before the coming of the Lord, there shall be a throne set up clean contrary to Christ's glory, wherein that wicked man shall sit, and transfer all things that appertain to God, to himself, and many shall fall away from God to him. 2 By speaking of one, he pointed out the body of the tyrannous and persecuting Church. 2:4 1 All men know who he is that saith he can shut up heaven and open it at his pleasure, and took upon him to be Lord and master above all Kings and Princes, before whom Kings and Princes fall down and worship, honoring that Antichrist as a god. 2 He foretelleth that Antichrist, (that is, whosoever he be that shall occupy that seat that falleth away from God) shall not reign without the Church, but in the very bosom of the Church. 2:5 1 This prophecy was continually declared to the Ancient Church, but it was neglected of them that followed. 2:6 1 What hindereth and stayeth. 2:7 1 Even in the Apostles' time the first foundations of the Apostoli­ cal seat were laid, but yet so, that they deceived men. 2 He foretelleth that when the empire of Rome is taken away, the seat that falleth away from God shall succeed and shall hold his place, as the old writers, Tertullian, Chrysostomes and Jerome do expound it. 3 He which is now in authority and ruleth all, to wit, the Roman Empire.

2 thessalonians 3:1 1242

we might make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. 10 For even when we were with you, this we warned you of, that if there were any, which would not work, that he should not 1eat. 11 For we hear, that there are some which walk among 1you inordinately, and work not at all, 2but are busybodies. 12 1Therefore them that are such, we warn and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that they work with quietness, and eat their own bread. 13 1And ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. 14 1If any man obey not this our saying in this letter, note him, and have no 2company with him, 3that he may be ashamed. 15 1Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 16 1Now the Lord himself of peace give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. 17 1The salutation of me Paul, with mine own hand, which is the token in every Epistle: so I write, 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all, Amen.

from those, who through idleness, 11 and curiosity pervert good order: 14 Whom he excludeth from the company of the faithful.

chapter 3

a Eph. 6:19

Col. 4:3

b 1 Cor. 11:1

c 1 Thess. 4:11

1 Furthermore, 1brethren, apray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free passage and be glorified, even as it is with you. 2 And that we may be delivered from 1unreasonable and evil men: 2for all men have not faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, which will stablish you, and keep you from 1evil. 4 1And we are persuaded of you through the Lord, that ye both do, and will do the things which we warn you of. 5 1And the Lord guide your hearts to the love of God, and the waiting for of Christ. 6 1We warn you, brethren, in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walked inordinately, and not after the instruction, which he received of us. 7 1For ye yourselves know, bhow ye ought to follow us: cfor we behaved not ourselves inordinately among you, 8 Neither took we bread of any man for nought: but we wrought with labor and travail night and day, because we would not be chargeable to any of you. 9 Not because we have not authority, but that

¶ The second Epistle to the Thessalonians,

written from Athens.

3:1 1 He addeth now consequently according to his manner, div­ ers admonitions: The first of them is, that they make prayers for the increase and free passage of the Gospel, and for the safety of the faithful ministers of the same. 3:2 1 Which have no care of their duty. 2 It is no marvel that the Gospel is hated of so many, seeing that faith is a rare gift of God. Notwithstanding, the Church shall never be destroyed by the multitude of the wicked, because it is grounded and stayed upon the faithful promise of God. 3:3 1 From Satan's snares, or from evil. 3:4 1 The second admonition is, that they follow always the doctrine of the Apostles as a rule for their life. 3:5 1 Thirdly, he diligently and earnestly admonisheth them of two things which are given us by the only grace of God, to wit, of charity, and a watchful mind to the coming of Christ. 3:6 1 Fourthly, he saith, that idle and lazy persons ought not to be relieved of the Church, nay, that they are not to be suffered. 3:7 1 Lest he might seem to deal harshly with them, he setteth forth himself as an example, who besides his travail in preaching labored with his hands, which he saith he was not simply bound to do. 3:10 1 What shall we do then with those idle bellied Monks, and sacrificing Priests? A Monk (saith Socrates, book 8, of his Tripartite his­ tory) which worketh not with hands, is like a thief. 3:11 1 How great a fault idleness is, he declareth by that that God created no man in vain or to no purpose, neither is there any unto

whom he hath not allotted as it were a certain standing and room. Whereupon it followeth, that the order which God hath appointed, is troubled by the idle, yea, broken, which is great sin and wickedness. 2 He reprehendeth a vice which is joined with the former, where­ upon follow an infinite sort of mischiefs: to wit, that there are none more busy in other men's matters than they which neglect their own. 3:12 1 The Lord commandeth, and the Apostles pray in the name of Christ, first that no men be idle, and next, that every man do quietly and carefully see to do his duty in that office and calling wherein the Lord hath placed him. 3:13 1 We must take heed that some men's unworthiness cause us not to be slacker in well doing. 3:14 1 Excommunication is a punishment for the obstinate. 2 We must have no familiarity nor fellowship with the excommu­ nicate. 3 The end of the excommunication is not the destruction, but the salvation of the sinner, that at least through shame he may be driven in repentance. 3:15 1 We must so eschew familiarity with the excommunicate, that we diligently seek all occasions and means that may be to bring them again into the right way. 3:16 1 Prayers are the seals of all exhortations. 3:17 1 The Apostle subscribeth his letters with his own hand, that false letters might not be brought and put in place of true.

T h e f i r s t e p i s t l e o f

pa u l T o t i m o t h y

1 Setting forth a perfect pattern of a true Pastor, whose office especially consisteth in teaching, 4 he warneth him that vain questions set apart, he teach those things, 5 which further charity and faith: 12 and that his authority be not condemned, 14 he showeth what an one he is made through the grace of God.

of faith unfeigned. 6 1From the which things some have erred, and have turned unto vain jangling. 7 1They would be doctors of the Law, and yet understand not what they speak, neither whereof they affirm. 8 1And we know, that the Law is good, if a man use it lawfully. 9 1Knowing this, that the Law is not given unto a

chapter 1

a Rom. 13:10

1 Paul 1an Apostle of Jesus Christ, by the 2commandment of God our Savior, and of our Lord Jesus Christ our hope, 2 Unto Timothy my natural son in the faith: Grace, 1mercy, and peace from God our Father, and from Christ Jesus our Lord. 3 1As I besought thee to abide still in Ephesus, when I departed into Macedonia, so do, that thou mayest warn some, that they teach none other doctrine, 4 1Neither that they give heed to fables and 2genealogies which are endless, which breed questions rather than godly edifying which is by faith. 5 a,1 For the end of the 2commandment is 3love out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and

2righteous man, but unto the lawless and disobedient, to the ungodly, and to 3sinners, to the unholy, and to the profane, to murderers of fathers and mothers, to manslayers, 10 To whoremongers, to buggerers, to menstealers, to liars, to the perjured, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to wholesome doctrine, 11 1Which is according to the glorious Gospel of the blessed God, 2which is committed unto me. 12 1Therefore I thank him which hath made me 2strong, that is, Christ Jesus our Lord: for he counted me faithful, and put me in his service:

1:1 1 First of all, he avoucheth his own free vocation, and also Timo­ thy's, that the one might be confirmed by the other: and therewithal he declareth the sum of the Apostolical doctrine, to wit, the mercy of God in Christ Jesus apprehended by faith, the end whereof is yet hoped for. 2 Or, ordinance. 1:2 1 There is as much difference betwixt mercy and grace, as is betwixt the effect, and the cause: For grace is that free good will of God, whereby he chose us in Christ, and mercy is that free justifica­ tion which followeth it. 1:3 1 This whole Epistle consisteth in admonitions, wherein all the duties of a faithful Pastor are lively set out. And the first admonition is this, that no innovation be made either in the Apostle's doctrine itself, or in the manner of teaching it. 1:4 1 The doctrine is corrupted not only by false opinions, but also by vain and curious speculations: the declaration and utterance whereof can nothing help our faith. 2 He noteth out one kind of vain question. 1:5 1 The second admonition is, that the right use and practice of the doctrine must be joined with the doctrine. And that consisteth in pure charity, and a good conscience, and true faith. 2 Of the Law. 3 There is neither love without a good conscience, nor a good con­ science without faith, nor faith without the word of God. 1:6 1 That which he spake before generally of vain and curious con­ troversies, he applieth to them, which pretending a zeal of the Law,

dwelled upon outward things, and never made an end of babbling of foolish trifles. 1:7 1 There are none more unlearned, and more impudent in usurp­ ing the name of holiness, than foolish sophistical babblers. 1:8 1 The taking away of an objection. He condemneth not the Law, but requireth the right use and practice of it. 1:9 1 He indeed escapeth the curse of the Law, and therefore doth not abhor it, who fleeing and eschewing those things which the Law condemneth, giveth himself with all his heart to observe it: and not he that maketh a vain babbling of outward and curious matters. 2 And such a one is he, whom the Lord hath endued with true doctrine, and with the holy Ghost. 3 To such as make an art as it were of sinning. 1:11 1 He setteth against fond and vain babbling, not only the Law, but the Gospel also, which condemneth not, but greatly commend­ eth the wholesome doctrine contained in the commandments of God, and therefore he calleth it a glorious Gospel, and the Gospel of the blessed God, the virtue whereof these babblers knew not. 2 A reason why neither any other Gospel is to be taught than he hath taught in the Church, neither after any other sort, because there is no other Gospel besides that which God committed to him. 1:12 1 He maintaineth of necessity his Apostleship against some that did carp at his former life, debasing himself, even to hell, to advance Christ's only mercy, wherewith he abolished all those his former doings. 2 Which gave me strength, not only when I had no will to do well, but also when I was wholly given to evil.

1 timothy 1:13 1244

not to blaspheme. 2 He exhorteth them to make public prayers for all men, 4, 5 and that for two causes, 8 and therefore he willeth all men in all places to pray, 9 and declareth in what apparel, 11 and with what modesty, women ought to behave themselves in holy assemblies.

13 When before I was a 1blasphemer, and a persecutor, and an oppressor: but I was received to mercy: for I did it ignorantly through unbelief. 14 But the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant 1with faith and love, which is in Christ Jesus. 15 1This is a 2true saying, and by all means worthy to be received, that bChrist Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 16 Notwithstanding for this cause was I received to mercy, that Jesus Christ should first show on me all long suffering unto the ensample of them, which shall in time to come believe in him unto eternal life. 17 1Now unto the king everlasting, immortal, invisible, unto God 2only wise, be honor, and glory, for ever, and ever, Amen. 18 1This commandment commit I unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies, which went before upon thee, that thou 2by them shouldest fight a good fight, 19 Having 1faith and a good conscience, 2which some have put away, and as concerning faith, have made shipwreck. 20 Of whom is Hymenaeus, and Alexander, c,1whom I have 2delivered unto Satan, that they might 3learn

b Matt. 4:13

Mark 2:17

c 1 Cor. 5:5

chapter 2

a 2 Tim. 1:11

1 I 1Exhort therefore, that first of all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 For Kings, and for all that are in authority, 1that we may lead a quiet and a peaceable life, in all godliness, and 2honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior. 4 1Who will that all men shall be saved, and come unto the acknowledging of the truth. 5 1For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and man, which is the 2man Christ Jesus, 6 Who gave himself a ransom for all men, 1to be that testimony in due time, 7 aWhereunto I am ordained a preacher and an Apostle (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not) even a teacher of the Gentiles in 1faith and verity. 8 1I will therefore that the men pray, everywhere

1:13 1 These are the preparative works which Paul braggeth of. 1:14 1 He proveth this change by the effects, for that, that he that was a profane man, is become a believer: and he that did most outra­ geously persecute Christ, burneth now in love towards him. 1:15 1 He turneth the reproach of the adversaries upon their own head, showing that this singular example of the goodness of God, redoundeth to the commodity of the whole Church. 2 Worthy to be believed. 1:17 1 He breaketh out into an exclamation, even for very zeal of mind, for that he cannot satisfy himself in amplifying the grace of God. 2 See John 17:3. 1:18 1 The conclusion of both the former fatherly admonitions, to wit, that Timothy striving manfully against all lets, being called to the ministry according to many prophecies which went before of him, should both maintain the doctrine which he had received, and keep also a good conscience. 2 By the help of them. 1:19 1 Wholesome and sound doctrine. 2 Whosoever keep not a good conscience, do lose also by little and little the gift of understanding: which he proveth by two most lamentable examples. 1:20 1 Such as fall from God, and his religion, are not to be suffered in the Church, but rather ought to be excommunicated. 2 Cast out of the Church, and so delivered them to Satan. 3 That by their smart they might learn what it is to blaspheme. 2:1 1 Having dispatched those things which pertain to doctrine, he speaketh now in the second place of the other part of the ministry of the word, to wit, of public prayers. And first of all declaring this ques­ tion, for whom we ought to pray: he teacheth that we must pray for all men, and especially for all manner of magistrates, which thing was at that time somewhat doubted of, seeing that kings, yea and the most part of magistrates were at that time enemies of the Church. 2:2 1 An argument taken of the end: to wit, because that magistrates

are appointed to this end, that men might peaceably and quietly live in all godliness and honesty, and therefore must we commend them especially to God, that they may faithfully execute so necessary an office. 2 This word containeth all kind of duty, which is to be used amongst men in all their affairs. 2:3 1 Another argument, why Churches or Congregations ought to pray for all men, without any difference of nation, kind, age, or order: to wit, because the Lord by calling of all sorts, yea, sometimes those that are greatest enemies to the Gospel, will have his Church gathered together after this sort, and therefore prayers to be made for all. 2:5 1 God would not else be manifested to be the only God of all men, unless he would show his goodness in saving of all sorts of men: neither should Christ be seen to be the only mediator between God and all sorts of men, by having taken upon him that nature of man which is common to all men, unless he had satisfied for all sorts of men, and made intercession for all. 2 Christ Jesus which was made man. 2:6 1 A confirmation, because that even to the Gentiles in the secret of salvation now opened and made manifest the Apostle himself being appointed properly to this office, which he doth faithfully and sincerely execute. 2:7 1 Faithfully and sincerely: and by faith he meaneth wholesome and sound doctrine, and by truth, an upright and sincere handling of it. 2:8 1 He hath spoken of the persons for whom we must pray: and now he teacheth that the difference of places is taken away: for in times past, one only nation, and in one certain place, came together to public service: but now Churches or Congregations are gathered together everywhere (orderly and decently) and men come together to serve God publicly with common prayer, neither must we strive for the nation or for the purification of the body, or for the place, but for the mind, to have it clean from all offense, and full of sure trust and confidence.

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2lifting up pure hands without 3wrath, or 4doubting. 9 b,1Likewise also the women, that they array themselves in comely apparel, with shamefastness and modesty, not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly apparel, 10 But (as becometh women that profess the fear of God) with good works. 11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 cI permit not a woman to teach, 1neither to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 1For dAdam was first formed, then Eve. 14 e,1And Adam was not 2deceived, but the woman was deceived, and was in the transgression. 15 1Notwithstanding, through bearing of children she shall be saved, if they continue in faith, and love, and holiness with modesty. 3 2 He setteth out Bishops, 8 and Christian deacons with their wives, 12 children and family, 15 he calleth the Church the house of God.

4 One that can rule his own house honestly, having children under obedience with all honesty. 5 For if any cannot rule his own house, how shall he care for the Church of God? 6 He may not be a young scholar, lest he being puffed up fall into the 1condemnation of the devil. 7 He must also be well reported of, even of them which are without, lest he fall into rebuke, and the snare of the devil. 8 1Likewise must 2Deacons be grave, not double tongued, not given unto much wine, neither to filthy lucre, 9 bHaving the 1mystery of the faith in pure conscience. 10 And let them first be proved, then let them minister, if they be found blameless. 11 1Likewise their wives must be honest, not evil speakers, but sober, and faithful in all things. 12 1Let the Deacons be the husbands of one wife, and such as can rule their children well, and their own households. 13 For they that have ministered well, get themselves a good 1decree, and 2great liberty in the faith, which is in Christ Jesus. 14 1These things write I unto thee, trusting to come very shortly unto thee. 15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest yet know, how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the 1house

b 1 Pet. 3:3

c 1 Cor. 14:34

d Gen. 1:27

Gen. 27:21

e Gen. 3:6

chapter 3

a Titus 2:6

b 1 Tim. 1:19

1 This 1is a true saying, 2If any man 3desire the office of a Bishop, he desireth a worthy work. 2 aA Bishop therefore must be unreproveable, the husband of one 1wife, watching, temperate, modest, harborous, apt to teach, 3 Not 1given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre, but gentle, no fighter, not covetous.

2 He putteth the sign for the thing itself, the lifting up of hands, for the calling upon God. 3 Without these griefs and offenses of the mind, which hinder us from calling upon God with a good conscience. 4 Doubting which is against faith, James 1:6. 2:9 1 Thirdly he appointeth women to learn in the public assemblies with silence and modesty, being comely appareled without any riot or excess in their apparel. 2:12 1 The first argument, why it is not lawful for women to teach in the Congregation, because by this means they should be placed above men, for they should be their masters: which is against God's ordinance. 2:13 1 He proveth this ordinance of God, whereby the woman is subject to man, first by that, that God made the woman after man, for man's sake. 2:14 1 Then because that after sin God enjoined the woman this punishment, for that the man was deceived by her. 2 Adam was deceived, but through his wife's means, and therefore she is worthily for this cause subject to her husband, and ought to be. 2:15 1 He addeth a comfort by the way, that their subjection hin­ dereth not but that women may be saved as well as men, if they behave themselves in those burdens of marriage holily and mod­ estly, with faith and charity. 3:1 1 Having dispatched the treatise, as well of doctrine and of the manner of handling of it, as also of public prayer, he now in the third place cometh to the persons themselves, speaking first of Pastors and afterward of Deacons, and he useth a preface, that the Church may know that these be certain and sure rulers. 2 A Bishopric or the ministry of the word is not an idle dignity, but a work and that an excellent work: and therefore a Bishop must be furnished with many virtues both at home and abroad. Wherefore it

be requisite before he be chosen, to examine well his learning, his gifts, and ableness, and his life. 3 He speaketh not here of ambitious seeking, than the which there cannot be a worse fault in the Church, but general of the mind, and disposition of man, framed and disposed to help and edify the Church of God, when and wheresoever it shall please the Lord. 3:2 1 Therefore he that shutteth out married men from the office of Bishops, only because they are married, is Antichrist. 3:3 1 A common tippler, and one that will sit by it. 3:6 1 Lest by reason that he is advanced to that degree, he take occa­ sion to be proud, which will undo him, and so he fall into the same condemnation that the devil himself is fallen into. 3:8 1 Likewise the Deacons must first be proved that there may be a good trial of their honesty, truth, sobriety, mind, void of covetous­ ness, that they are well instructed in the doctrine of faith, and to be short, of their good conscience and integrity. 2 These are they that had to see to the poor. 3:9 1 The doctrine of the Gospel, which is a mystery indeed: for flesh and blood do not reveal it. 3:11 1 Regard must be had also to the Pastors' and Deacons' wives. 3:12 1 They that have more wives than one at one time, must nei­ ther be called to be ministers, nor to be Deacons. 3:13 1 Honor and estimation. 2 Bold and assured confidence without fear. 3:14 1 Paul purposing to add many peculiar things pertaining to the daily office of a Pastor, speaketh first a word or two concerning his coming to Timothy, that he would be so much the more careful, lest at his coming he might be reproved of negligence. 3:15 1 The Pastor hath always to think, how that he is occupied in the house of the living God, wherein the treasure of the truth is kept.

1 timothy 3:16 1246

of God, which is the Church of the living God, the 2pillar and ground of truth. 16 1And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness, which is, God is manifested in the flesh, 2justified in the Spirit, seen of Angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and received up in glory. 4 1 He condemneth as well false doctrine, 3 of marriage and the choice of meats, 7 as also profane fables: 8 and commendeth the godly exercise, 13 and the daily reading of the Scriptures.

4 1For every creature of God is good, and nothing ought to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving. 5 1For it is 2sanctified by the 3word of God, and prayer. 6 1If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, which hast been nourished up in the words of faith, and of good doctrine which thou hast continually 2followed. 7 1But cast away profane, and old wives' fables, 2and exercise thyself unto 3godliness. 8 1For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, which hath the promise of the life present, and of that that is to come. 9 1This is a true saying, and by all means worthy to be received. 10 For therefore we labor and are rebuked, because we trust in the living God, which is the Savior of all men, specially of those that believe. 11 These things warn and teach.

1 Now 1the Spirit speaketh evidently, that in the latter times some shall depart from the 2faith, and shall give heed unto spirits of error, and doctrines of devils, 2 1Which speak lies through 2hypocrisy, and have their 3consciences burned with an hot iron, 3 1Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats 2which God hath created 3to be received 4with giving thanks of them which believe and know the truth.

3:15 2 To wit, in respect of men: for the Church resteth upon that cor­ nerstone, Christ, and is the preserver of the truth, but not the mother. 3:16 1 There is nothing more excellent than this truth, whereof the Church is the keeper and preserver here amongst men, the ministry of the word being appointed to that end and purpose: for it teacheth us the greatest matters that may be thought of, to wit, that God is become visible in the person of Christ by taking our nature upon him, whose Majesty notwithstanding in so great weakness was manifested many ways, insomuch that the sight of it pierced the very Angels: and to conclude, he being preached unto the Gentiles was received of them, and is now placed above in glory unspeakable. 2 The power of the Godhead showeth itself so marvelously in that weak flesh of Christ, that though he were a weak man, yet all the world knoweth he was, and is God. 4:1 1 He setteth against that true doctrine, false opinions, which he foretelleth that certain which shall fall away from God and his reli­ gion, shall bring in by the suggestion of Satan, and so that a great number shall give ear to them. 2 From the true doctrine of God. 4:2 1 Although heretics counterfeit holiness never so much, yet they have no conscience. 2 For they will as it were practice the art of disguised persons and players, that we may not think they will lie lurking in some one cor­ ner, or keep any resemblance of shamefastness. 3 Whose conscience waxed so hard, that there grew an hard fleshi­ ness over it, and so became to have a canker on it, and now at length required of very necessity to be burned with an hot iron. 4:3 1 He setteth down two kinds of this false doctrine, to wit, the Law of sole life, and difference of meats. 2 He proveth that he justly called such doctrines devilish, first, because the teachers of them make laws of things which are not their own: for have they created the meats? 3 Secondly, because they overthrow with their decrees, the end wherefore they were created of God, to wit, that we should use them. 4 Thirdly, for that by this means they rob God of his glory, who will be honored in the use of them. And herewithal the Apostle declar­ eth that we must use the liberality of God soberly, and with a good

conscience. 4:4 1 He setteth an Apostolical rule, for taking away the difference of meats, against that false doctrine. 4:5 1 He useth God's benefits rightly, which acknowledge the giver of them by his word, and calleth upon him. 2 It is so made pure and holy in respect of us, so that we may use it with a good conscience, as received at the Lord's hand. 3 We confess and acknowledge that God is the maker and giver of those creatures which we use. Secondly, that we are of the number of those, who through Christ's benefit have recovered that right over all creatures, which Adam lost by his fall. Thirdly, by our prayers we crave of the Lord, that we may use those meats with a good con­ science, which we receive at his hands. Fourthly, we make an end of our eating and drinking, with thanksgiving and prayer: and so are our meats sanctified to us. 4:6 1 The conclusion with an exhortation to Timothy, to propound these things diligently to the Churches, which he had sucked of the Apostle, even in a manner from the teat. 2 Never departing from the side of it. 4:7 1 He setteth again true doctrine not only against that false and apostatical doctrine, but also against all vain and curious subtleties. 2 It is not only requisite that the minister of the word be sound in doctrine, but also that his life be godly and religious. 3 In the true serving of God. 4:8 1 Godliness consisteth in spiritual exercise, and not in outward austereness of life, which though it be something to be accounteth of, if it be rightly used, yet is it in no wise comparable with godliness: For it profiteth not of itself, but through the benefit of another, but this hath the promise both of the life present, and of that that is to come. 4:9 1 He goeth a little from his matter, and showeth that they which give themselves to godliness, although they are afflicted and reproached, are notwithstanding not to be counted miserable as other men are, because they are not afflicted for that cause that other men are, and the end of them both is far different one from the other. For how can God forsake his, which is bountiful even towards his enemies? And he willeth that this doctrine be well beaten into their heads.

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she liveth. 7 These things therefore warn them of, that they may be blameless. 8 If there be any that provideth not for his own, and namely for them of his household, he denieth the faith, and is worse than an infidel. 9 1Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, that hath been the wife of 2one husband. 10 And well reported of for good works: if she have nourished her children, if she have lodged the strangers, if she have 1washed the Saints' feet, if she have ministered unto them which were in adversity, if she were continually given unto every good work. 11 1But 2refuse the younger widows: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry. 12 Having damnation, because they have broken the first faith. 13 1And likewise also being idle they learn to go about from house to house: yea they are not only idle, but also prattlers and busybodies, speaking things which are not comely. 14 1I will therefore that the younger women marry, and bear children, and govern the house, and give none occasion to the adversary to speak evil. 15 For certain are already turned back after Satan. 16 1If any faithful man or faithful woman have widows, let them minister unto them, and let not the Church be charged, that there may be sufficient for them that are widows indeed.

12 1Let no man despise thy youth, but be unto them that believe, an ensample, in word, in conversation, in love, in spirit, in faith and in pureness. 13 1Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, and to doctrine. 14 Despise not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the company of the Eldership. 15 These things exercise, and give thyself unto them, that it may be seen how thou profitest among all men. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto learning: continue therein: for in doing this thou shalt both 1save thyself, and them that hear thee. 5 1 Having set down a manner how to rebuke all degrees. 5 He entreateth of widows, who then were chosen for the service of the Church: 17 Then he cometh to Elders, 23 and speaketh somewhat touching the health of the body.

1 Rebuke 1not an elder, but exhort him as a father, and the younger men as brethren, 2 The elder women as mothers, the younger as sisters, with all pureness. 3 1,2Honor widows, which are widows indeed. 4 1But if any widow have children or nephews let them learn first to show godliness 2toward their own house, and 3to recompense their kindred: 4for that is an honest thing, and acceptable before God. 5 1And she that is a widow indeed and left alone, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day. 6 1But she that liveth in pleasure, is dead, while

4:12 1 Now he returneth to that exhortation, showing which are the virtues of a Pastor, whereby he may come to be reverenced, although he be but young, to wit, such speech and life as are witnesses of char­ ity, zeal, faith, and purity, but here is no mention made of the crosier staff, ring, cloak, and such other foolish and childish toys. 4:13 1 The private exercise of Pastors, is continual reading of the Scriptures, whence out they may draw matter of wholesome doc­ trine and exhortation, both to themselves and to others. 4:16 1 Faith is by hearing, and hearing by preaching: and therefore the ministers of the word are so said to save themselves and others, for that in them the Lord hath put the word of reconciliation. 5:1 1 Of keeping measure in private reprehensions according to the degrees of ages and kinds. 5:3 1 The Apostle giveth these rules touching the care of widows. 2 Have care of those widows which have need of help. 5:4 1 Widows' children and nephews must take care for their parents, according to their ability. 2 The first reason, because that, that which they bestow upon theirs, they bestow it upon themselves. 3 Another, because nature itself teacheth us to recompense our parents. 4 The third: because this dutifulness pleaseth God. 5:5 1 The second rule: Let the church have care of such as are wid­ ows indeed, that is to say, such as are poor and destitute of help of

their own friends, and live godly and religiously. 5:6 1 The third rule: Let widows that live in pleasure, and neglect the care of their own family, be holden and accompted as fallers away from God and his religion, and worse than very infidels. 5:9 1 The fourth rule: Let none under threescore years old, be taken into the number of widows, to serve the Congregations or Churches, and such as are free from all reproach of unchastity, and are well reported of for their diligence, charity, and integrity. 2 That hath had no more husbands, but one at one time. 5:10 1 This is spoken in respect of the manner of those countries. 5:11 1 The first reason why younger widows are not to be admitted to this ministry, to wit, because for the lightness of their age, they will at length shake off the burden that Christ hath laid upon them, and think rather upon marrying again: and so will forsake the ministry whereunto they had bound themselves. 2 Take them not into the college of widows. 5:13 1 Another reason: because they are for the most part prattlers and busybodies, and gadders up and down, neglecting their charge and duty. 5:14 1 The fifth rule: Let younger widows marry and govern their houses godly. 5:16 1 The sixth rule: Let the faithful help their widows at their own charges as much as they can, and let not the Congregation be bur­ dened with these expenses.

1 timothy 5:17 1248

6 1 He showeth the duty of servants: 10 and what a mischievous evil coveteousness is: 13 and having spoken somewhat of rich men, he once again forbiddeth Timothy, 20 to cumber himself with vain babblings.

17 ¶ 1The Elders that rule well, let them be had in 2double honor, 3specially they which labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the Scripture saith, aThou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn: and, bThe laborer is worthy of his wages. 19 1Against an Elder receive none accusation, but under two or three witnesses. 20 1Them that sin, rebuke openly, that the rest also may fear. 21 ¶ c,1I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect Angels, that thou observe these things, without preferring one to another, and do nothing partially. 22 1Lay hands 2suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins; keep thyself pure. 23 1Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake, and thine often infirmities. 24 1Some men's sins are open before hand, and go before unto judgment: but some men's follow after. 25 1Likewise also the good works are manifest before hand, and they that are otherwise, cannot be hid.

chapter 5

a Deut. 25:4

1 Cor. 9:9

b Matt. 10:10

Luke 10:7

c 1 Tim. 6:13

1 Let 1as many servants as are under the yoke, count their masters worthy of all honor, 2that the Name of God, and his doctrine be not evil spoken of. 2 1And they which have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren, but rather do service, because they are faithful, and beloved, and 2partakers of the benefit. 3These things teach and exhort. 3 1If any man teach otherwise, and consenteth not to the wholesome words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness, 4 He is puffed up and knoweth nothing, but doteth about questions and 1strive of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Froward 1disputations of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, which think that gain is godliness: from such separate thyself. 6 1But godliness is great gain, if a man be content with that he hath.

5:17 1 Now he giveth rules, and showeth how he ought to behave himself with the Elders, that is to say, with the Pastors and such as have the governance in the discipline of the Church, which is presi­ dent of their company. The first rule: Let the Church or Congregation see unto this especially, as God himself hath commanded, that the Elders that do their duty well, be honestly maintained. 2 We must be more careful for them, than for the rest. 3 There were two kinds of Elders, the one attended upon the gov­ ernment only, and looked to the manners of the Congregation; the other did beside that, attend upon preaching and prayers, to and for the Congregation. 5:19 1 The second rule: Let no accusation be admitted against an Elder, but under two or three witnesses. 5:20 1 The third rule: Let the Elders so convicted be rebuked openly, that they may be an example to others. 5:21 1 The fourth rule: Let sincerity be used without any prejudice or respect of persons in Ecclesiastical proceedings, (especially against the Elders) because God himself is there present, and the Lord Jesus Christ with a multitude of Angels. 5:22 1 The [fifth] rule: Let the minister lay hands suddenly on no man. Let him not be faulty herein either by favoring any man's folly, or perverse affection: If ought be done otherwise than well of his fellows, let him keep his conscience pure. 2 As much as in thee lieth do not rashly admit any whatsoever, to any Ecclesiastical function. 5:23 1 The sixth rule: Let the Elders have indifferent consideration of their health, in the manner of their diet. 5:24 1 Because hypocrites sometimes creep into the ministry although there be never so great diligence used, the Apostle willeth the Pastors not to be troubled therefore, or slack any whit of their diligence in trying and examining, because the Lord hath appointed a time to discover the faults of such men, and it is our parts to take heed that we offend not therein. 5:25 1 Another comfort belonging to them, which sometimes are slandered and misreported of.

6:1 1 He addeth also rules for the servants' duty towards their masters: whereupon no doubt there were many questions then moved by them which took occasion by the Gospel to trouble the common state. And this is the first rule: Let servants that are come to the faith, and have infi­ dels to their masters, serve them notwithstanding with great fidelity. 2 The reason: lest God should seem by the Doctrine of the Gospel to stir up men to rebellion and all wickedness. 6:2 1 The second rule: Let not servants that are come to the faith, and have also masters of the same profession and religion, abuse the name of brotherhood, but let them so much the rather obey them. 2 Let this be sufficient, that as touching those things which pertain to everlasting life, they are partakers of the same good will and love of God, as their masters themselves are. 3 A general conclusion, that these things ought not only to be simply taught, but must with exhortations be diligently beaten into their heads. 6:3 1 He condemneth severely, and excommunicateth or casteth out of the Church as proud men, such as content not themselves with Christ's doctrine, (that is to say, the doctrine of godliness) but weary both themselves and others in vain questions, (for all other things are vain) because they content not themselves in Christ's doc­ trine: and as lying deceivers, because they savor or sound of nothing but vanity: as mad men, because they trouble themselves so much in matters of nothing: as mischievous plagues, for that they cause great contentions, and corrupt men's minds and judgment: to be short, as profane and wicked, because they abuse the precious name of godliness and religion to filthy lucre. 6:4 1 Striving about words, and not about matter: and by words he meaneth all those things which have no pith in them, and whereby we can reap no profit. 6:5 1 Such as we see in those shameless schools of Popery, which are nothing else but vain babbling and prating. 6:6 1 He turneth away fitly the name of gain and lucre, confessing that godliness is great gain, but far after another sort, to wit, because it bringeth true sufficience.

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7 1For we brought nothing into the world, and it is certain, that we can carry nothing out. 8 Therefore when we have food and raiment, let us therewith be content. 9 1For they that will be rich, fall into tentation and snares, and into many foolish and noisome lusts, which drown men in perdition and destruction. 10 For the desire of money is the root of all evil, which while some lusted after they erred from the faith, and 1pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 1But thou, O 2man of God, flee these things, and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith: lay hold of eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 13 a,1I charge thee in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Jesus Christ, which under Pontius Pilate bwitnessed a good confession. 14 That thou keep this commandment without spot, and unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ,

15 Which in due time he shall show, that is c,1 blessed and Prince only, the King of kings and Lord of lords. 16 Who only hath immortality, and dwelleth in the light that none can attain unto, dwhom never man saw, neither can see, unto whom be honor and power everlasting, Amen. 17 1Charge them that are rich in 2this world, that they be not high minded, and that they etrust not in uncertain riches, but in the 3living God, (which giveth us abundantly all things to enjoy.) 18 That they do good, and be rich in good works, and be ready to distribute, and communicate, 19 f,1Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may obtain eternal life. 20 1O Timothy, keep that which is committed unto thee, and avoid profane and vain babblings, and oppositions of science falsely so called, 21 Which while some 1profess, they have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee, Amen.

chapter 6

a 1 Tim. 5:21

b Matt. 27:11

John 18:37

c 2 Thess. 1:11

Rev. 17:14 Rev. 19:10

d John 1:18

e Mark 4:19

Luke 12:15

f Matt. 6:2

¶The first Epistle to Timothy, written from

Laodicea, which is the chiefest city of

Phrygia Pacatiana.

6:7 1 He mocketh their folly, which do so greedily gape after frail things, that they can in no wise be satisfied, and yet notwithstanding they cannot enjoy that excess. 6:9 1 He frayeth Timothy from covetousness after another sort, to wit, because it draweth with it an infinite sort of lusts, and those very hurtful, wherewith covetous men do torment themselves so far forth, that in the end they cast away from them their faith and salvation. 6:10 1 Sorrow and grief do as it were pierce through the mind of man, and are the harvest and true fruits of covetousness. 6:11 1 A peculiar exhortation to divers virtues, wherewith it behooveth the Pastors especially to be furnished. 2 Whom the Spirit of God ruleth. 6:13 1 A most earnest request and charge, to observe and keep all the premises faithfully, with our eyes set upon the coming of Jesus Christ, whose glory we have to set against the vain glistering of this world, and his power, against all the terrors of the wicked. 6:15 1 He heapeth many words together, to one purpose: whereby he voucheth the power of God, which if we stick fast unto, we shall not be moved out of our standings. 6:17 1 He addeth for an overplus as it were a sharp admonition to

the rich, that they chiefly take heed of two mischiefs, to wit, of pride, and deceitful hope, against which he setteth three excellent virtues, hope in the living God, liberality towards their neighbor, and gentle conditions. 2 In things pertaining to this life, with whom those men are com­ pared which are rich in good works. 3 Who only is, and that everlasting: for he setteth the frail nature of riches against God. 6:19 1 The praise of liberality by the effects thereof: because it is a sure testimony of the Spirit of God which dwelleth in us, and there­ fore of the salvation that shall be given us. 6:20 1 He rehearseth the chiefest of all the former exhortations, which ought to be deeply imprinted in the minds of all ministers of the word, to wit, that they eschew all vain babblings of sophistry and continue in the simplicity of sincere doctrine. 6:21 1 Not only in word, but also in countenance and gesture: to be short, while their behavior was such that even when they held their peace, they would make men believe their heads were occupied about nothing but high and weighty matters, even then they erred concerning the faith.

T h e s e c o n d e p i s t l e o f

pa u l T o t i m o t h y

1 3 He commendeth Timothy's faith, 6 and exhorteth him to go on faithfully in the charge committed unto him: 8 and that neither for his bonds, 15 nor the revolting of others, he faint. 11 He triumpheth of his Apostleship. 14 He willeth him to have care of the thing committed unto him, 16 and praiseth Onesiphorus.

thou 2stir up the gift of God which is in thee, by the putting on of mine hands. 7 For God hath not given to us the Spirit of 1fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. 8 1Be not therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, neither of me 2his prisoner: but be partaker of the afflictions of the 3Gospel according to the 4power of God, 9 1Who hath saved us, and called us with an bholy calling, not according to our cworks, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was 2given to us through Christ Jesus 3before the dworld was, 10 But is now made manifest by that appearing of our Savior Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality unto 1light through the Gospel. 11 e,1Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and Apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. 12 1For the which cause I also suffer these things, 2but I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed to him against that

chapter 1

a Acts 22:3

b 1 Cor. 1:2

c Titus 3:5

d Rom. 16:25

Eph. 1:4 Col. 1:26 Titus 1:2

e 1 Tim. 2:7

1 Paul an Apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, 1according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy my beloved son: Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father, and from Jesus Christ our Lord. 3 1I thank God, awhom I serve from mine 2elders with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day. 4 Desiring to see thee, mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy: 5 When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and in thy mother Eunice, and am assured that it dwelleth in thee also. 6 1Wherefore, I put thee in remembrance that

1:1 1 Sent of God to preach that life which he promised in Christ Jesus. 1:3 1 The chiefest mark that he shooteth at in this Epistle, is to con­ firm Timothy to continue constantly and manfully even to the end, setting first before him the great good will he beareth him, and then reckoning up the excellent gifts which God would as it were have to be by inheritance in Timothy, and his ancestors, which might so much the more make him bound to God. 2 From Abraham, Isaac and Jacob: for he speaketh not of Pharisa­ ism, but of Christianism. 1:6 1 He warneth us to set the invincible power of the Spirit, which God hath given us, against those storms which may and do come upon us. 2 The gift of God is as it were a certain lively flame kindled in our hearts, which the flesh and the devil go about to put out: and there­ fore we on the contrary side must labor as much as we can to foster and keep it burning. 1:7 1 To pierce us through, and terrify us, as men whom the Lord will destroy. 1:8 1 He proveth that the ignominy or shame of the cross is not only not to be ashamed of, but also that it is glorious and most honor­ able: first, because the Gospel wherefore the godly are afflicted, is the testimony of Christ: and secondly, because at length the great virtue and power of God appeareth in them. 2 For his sake.

3 The Gospel after a sort is said to be afflicted in them that preach it. 4 Through the power of God. 1:9 1 He showeth with how great benefits God hath bound us to maintain boldly and constantly his glory which is joined with our sal­ vation, and reckoneth up the causes of our salvation, to wit, that free and eternal purpose of God to save us in Christ which was to come, whereby it should come to pass, that we should at length be freely called of God by the preaching of the Gospel, to Christ the destroyer of death and author of immortality. 2 He sayeth that that grace was given us from everlasting, unto which we were predestinate from everlasting. So that the doctrine of foreseen faith and foreseen works, is clean contrary to the doctrine which preached and teacheth the grace of God. 3 Before that course of years, which hath run on ever since the beginning of the world. 1:10 1 Hath caused life and immortality to appear. 1:11 1 That is, the Gospel which the Apostle preached. 1:12 1 He confirmeth his Apostleship by a strange argument, to wit, because the world could not abide it, and therefore it persecuted him that preached it. 2 By setting his own example before us, he showeth us how it may be, that we shall not be ashamed of the cross of Christ, to wit, if we be sure that God both can and will keep the salvation which he hath as it were laid up in store by himself for us against that day.

1251 2 timothy 2:14

day. 13 1Keep the true pattern of the wholesome words, which thou hast heard of me in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 14 1That worthy thing, which was committed to thee, keep 2through the holy Ghost, which dwelleth in us. 15 1This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia, be turned from me: of which sort are Phygellus and Hermogenes. 16 The Lord give mercy unto the house of On­ esiphorus: for he oft refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain, 17 But when he was at Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. 18 The Lord grant unto him, that he may find mercy with the Lord at that day, and in how many things he hath ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well. 2 2 The better to set out perseverance in the Christian warfare, 3 he taketh similitudes, 4 from soldiers, 6 and from husbandmen. 10 He showeth that his bonds are for the profit of the Saints: 15 Then he warneth Timothy to divide the word of truth aright, 17 to beware of the examples of the wicked, 22 and to do all things modestly.

which shall be able to teach others also. 3 1Thou therefore suffer affliction as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 4 No man that warreth, entangleth himself with the affairs of 1this life, because he would please him that hath chosen him to be a soldier. 5 1And if any man also strive for a mastery, he is not crowned, except he strive as he ought to do. 6 1The husbandman must labor before he receive the fruits. 7 1Consider what I say: and the Lord give thee understanding in all things. 8 1Remember that Jesus Christ, made of the seed of David, was raised again from the dead according to my Gospel, 9 1Wherein I suffer trouble as an evil doer, even unto bonds: but the word of God is not bound. 10 Therefore I suffer all things for the elect's sake, that they might also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus, with eternal glory. 11 1It is a true saying, For if we be a,2dead together with him: we also shall live together with him. 12 If we suffer, we shall also reign together with him: bif we deny him, he also will deny us. 13 If cwe believe not, yet abideth he faithful: he cannot deny himself. 14 Of these things put them in remembrance, and 1protest before the Lord, that they strive not about words, which is to no profit, but to the perverting of the hearers.

chapter 2

a Rom. 6:5

b Matt. 10:33

Mark 8:38

c Rom. 3:3

Rom. 9:6

1 Thou 1therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And what things thou hast heard of me, by 1many witnesses, the same deliver to faithful men,

1:13 1 He showeth wherein he ought to be most constant, to wit, both in the doctrine itself, the abridgment whereof is faith and char­ ity, and next in the manner of teaching it, a lively pattern and shape whereof Timothy knew in the Apostle. 1:14 1 An amplification, taken of the dignity of so great a benefit committed of the ministers. 2 The taking away of an objection. It is a hard thing to do it, but the Spirit of God is mighty, who hath inwardly endued us with his virtue. 1:15 1 He preventeth an offense which arose by the means of cer­ tain that fell from God and the religion, and uttereth also their names, that they might be known of all men. But he setteth against them the singular faith of one man, that one only good example might counterpoise and weigh down all evil examples. 2:1 1 The conclusion of the former exhortation, which hath also added unto it a declaration how that they do not keep that wor­ thy thing that is committed unto them which keep it to themselves, but they rather which do most freely communicate it with others, to the end that many may be partakers of it, without any man's loss or hindrance. 2:2 1 When many were by, which can bear witness of these things. 2:3 1 Another admonition: That the ministry of the word is a spiritual warfare, which no man can so travail in, that he may please his cap­ tain, unless he forgo and part with all hindrances which might draw him away from it. 2:4 1 With affairs of household, or other things that belong to other ordinary businesses. 2:5 1 The third admonition: The ministry is like to a game or justing, wherein men strive for the victory, and no man is crowned unless he

strive according to the laws which are prescribed, be they never so hard and painful. 2:6 1 Another similitude tending to the same end: no man may look for the harvest, unless he first take pains to plow and sow his ground. 2:7 1 All these things cannot be understood, and much less prac­ ticed, unless we ask of God and he gives us understanding. 2:8 1 He confirmeth plainly two principles of our faith, which are always assaulted of heretics, the one whereof (to wit, that Christ is the true Messiah made man of the seed of David) is the ground of our salvation: and the other is the highest part of it, to wit, that he is risen again from the dead. 2:9 1 The taking away of an objection: Truth it is, that he is kept in prison, as an evildoer, yet there is no cause, why therefore some should go about to derogate credit from his Gospel, seeing that not­ withstanding God did bless his ministry, nay rather, that example of this his captivity and patience did sundry ways confirm the Church in the hope of a better life. 2:11 1 The fourth admonition: we ought not to contend upon words and questions, which are not only unprofitable, but also for the most part hurtful: but rather upon this, how we may frame ourselves to all manner of patience, and to die also with Christ (that is to say, for Christ's Name) because that is the plain way to the most glorious life: as contrariwise the falling away of men can diminish no part of the truth of God, although by such means, they procure most certain destruction to themselves. 2 If we be afflicted with Christ, and for Christ's sake. 2:14 1 Call God to witness, or as a Judge: as Moses, Joshua, Samuel, and Paul himself did, Acts 20.

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