Annotations on the New Testament

CHAP. XXVIII.

1 IN the [note a] end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magda • ene, and the other Mary,] to see the sepulcher.

[Paraphrase] 1. the night after the Sabbath, toward the next morning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary having with them spices to embalm his body, Lu. 24. 1. came

2. And behold, there was a great earth-quake,] for the Angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

[Paraphrase] 2. And when they came they found there had been a great concussion, probably of the air, a kind of thunder, with which the Angels are wont to appear, but withal about the earth, at the removal of the grave-stone,

3. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow.

4. And for fear of him [the keepers] did shake, and became as dead men.

[Paraphrase] 4. they that guarded the Sepulcher

5. And the Angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus which was crucified.

6. He is not here, for he is risen: as he said, Come, see the place where the Lord lay.]

[Paraphrase] 6. He is not here in the grave, but according to his own predictions risen from the dead, and all that ye can here discern is the place where he lay, and the napkins, and searcloaths folded up and laid by, Joh. 20. 5.

7. And go quickly and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead, And behold he goeth before you into Galilee, there shall ye see him, Lo, I have told you.]

[Paraphrase] 7. Go quickly and according to what I have told you, do ye tell the disciples, viz. that he hath performed his promise in rising from the dead, and now will perform that other of going into Galilee, ch. 26. 32. the appointed place of meeting, thither if ye go, ye shall be sure to meet him, God hath sent his Angel from heaven to tell you this.

8. And they departed quickly from the sepulcher with fear and great joy, and did run to bring his disciples word.]

[Paraphrase] 8. And being affrighted with the appearance of the Angels, but extremely joyed with the news of Christ's resurrection they made all hast to carry his Disciples word of this.

9. And as they went to tell his disciples, behold Jesus met them, saying, All hail, and they [came and held him by the feet] and worshipped him.

[Paraphrase] 9. fell down, and caught him by the feet,

10. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid, Go tell my [brethren] that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

[Paraphrase] 10. Disciples and kinsmen,

11. Now when they were going, behold some of the watch came into the city, and shown unto the chief priests all the things that were done.

12. And when they were assembled with the Elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,

13. Saying, Say ye,] His disciples came by night and stole him away while we slept.

[Paraphrase] 12, 13. And those chief Priests calling the rest of the Sanhedrim together, by decree of council, appointed that a good sum of money should be given to the soldiers, sufficient to bribe them all to say, that

14. And if this come to [the Governors ear, we will persuade him and secure you.]

[Paraphrase] 14. the Procurator Pilate's hearing, (see ch. 27. 14.) we will persuade him that it was so, and keep you from punishment for guarding the tomb no better.

15. So they took the money, and did as they were taught. And this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.

16. Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain [where Jesus had appointed them.]

[Paraphrase] 16. which Jesus before his passion had assigned as a special rendezvous, ch. 26. 32. By this means there were many there besides the eleven, perhaps the 500 brethren mentioned 1 Cor. 15. 7.

17. And when they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.]

[Paraphrase] 17. And when the eleven were come to him, they with an humble obeisance acknowledged him, but some of them entertained doubts whether twere Christ or no, Mar. 16. 13.

18. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, [ All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.]

[Paraphrase] 18. All authority in disposing all things in or concerning the Church is given unto me by my Father.

19. Go ye therefore and [ teach [note b] all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Ghost.]

[Paraphrase] 19. Teach all the Nations the Christian doctrine, and persuade them to embrace it, and to live according to it, baptizing &c. see Pract. Cat. l. 6. §. 2.

20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the [note c] end of the world.]

[Paraphrase] 20. And whomsoever ye shall baptize, take care that they be taught to obey with all diligence all those commands which I have delivered to you, And though I shall now shortly part with you, yet I will by sending the Spirit upon you, to lead you into all truth, and by my perpetual presence and assistance afforded to you, and by that authority that I received from my Father, and now commit unto you, Joh. 20. 21, 22. continue with you, and your successors unto the end of the world.

Annotations on Chap. XXVIII.

[ a] V. 1. End ] If 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 signify a distinct part of time, and that strictly the evening, then it must note that evening, as the first part of the first day of the week, at which time these women began their journey, bought their spices, went out of the city, stayed all night in the suburbs, and very early 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , Lu. 24. 1. and 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 while it was yet dark, Joh. 20. 1. came to the sepulcher, and so that will reconcile and connect the 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 to the 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 &c. But 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 may be also taken in a wider sense, see Note on ch. 14. d.

[ b] V. 19. All nations ] What is meant sometimes by the word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 nations hath been said, (see Note on ch. 24. c.) to wit, the tribes and families of the Jews, the regions and cities of Palestine, and though it do not so here, exclusively to the other nations of the world, yet neither doth it signify the nations of the heathen world, in opposition or exclusively to the Jews, as elsewhere it frequently doth; but primarily and in the first place, the several parts of Judea, and the Jews, wheresoever they are in their dispersions a broad, and then secondarily the Gentiles mingled with the Jews, and finally the whole gentile world, when, upon the Jews rejecting the Gospel, the Apostles depart from them, and go to the Gentiles. That this is the meaning of the place, I shall use • woe arguments to make most probable. First, because in other places, when the Commission of preaching and gathering disciples is given to the Apostles, 'tis with a command to go first to the Jews, and not at all to the Gentiles. So in their first Commission, out of which the very Samaritans were excluded, Mat. 10. 5. Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And in their second Commission Act. 1. 8. although the Samaritans are taken in, and the utmost parts of the earth, yet ch. 3. and ch. 13. 46. 'tis still 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 first to the Jews, that they must preach. And accordingly we find that the Apostles, till the Jews reject them, and are ready to stone them, do not leave them off to go to the Gentiles. But then Act. 13. 46. they foretell them what they are to do, Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you (which refers, I suppose, to the precept of Christ, that made it necessary) but seeing ye have put it from you, &c. loe we turn to the Gentiles. And when v. 47. they urge the Lord's commandment for so doing, it is not this parting precept of Christ, but one out of the prophet Isaiar, c. 49. 6. I have set thee to be a light to the Gentiles, &c. And the same I conceive before intimated, v. 40, 41. Beware lest that come upon you (Jews) which is spoken of in the prophet, Behold ye despisers and wonder and perish, for I work a work which you shall in no wise believe, &c. that is, upon the Jews despising and holding out obstinately against the preaching of the Gospel, v. 45. 'twas prophesied that they should be destroyed, and about the same time the Gospel should be removed, and preached to the heathen world, An incredible thing which should amaze the Jews, and be matter of great wonderment to them, (and so it is said of them upon the like occasion of the Christian Jews, that they were astonished c. 10. 45.) What was thus foretold at Antioch by S. Paul is again repeated c. 18. 6 to the Jews at Corinth, where upon their resisting and blaspheming, he shakes his garment (an emblem of their approaching ruin, like the shaking off the dust from their feet; ) and tells them, From henceforth I will go to the Gentiles, and presently enters into the house of Justus a prosclyte, v. 7. This is after most fully done to the Jews at Rome, at the conclusion of the Acts c. 28. 28. Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent to the Gentiles, but that again upon the obduration of the Jews, v. 26, 27. All this makes it appear that after Christ's death the Gospel was by the Apostles to be first preached to the Jews to convince them of their sin of crucifying Christ (enlarged also to the Samaritans by Christ's command, Act. 1. 8. who were, in their worshipping at mount Gerizim, schismatics, and so separated from the Jews, but otherwise were Jews in religion) and that was a doing till about the time that that fatal destruction fell upon that nation, ch. 10. 23. But this not exclusively, but inclusively also to the preaching to all the nations and people of the world, as the phrase is taken in the greatest latitude (when the Jews should first have expressed their obstinacy sufficiently) For so the words, as they are repeated in S. Mark, must necessarily signify, Go into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature, to those of the synagogue first, and then to others also. Thus S. Luke hath set it down most distinctly, ch. 24. 47. that repentance and remission of sins should be preached to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem, where Judea in which Jerusalem is, is one of the all nations, and they are to begin at Jerusalem, and from thence first preach through all other parts of Judea (and even in the heathen cities) first of the native and proselyte Jews in their synag • gues, and proseuchae, (before they went to the Gentiles) and so generally they continue to do, till the time of the destruction of that people. The second argument for this rendering of the word 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , so as that it may primarily point to the Jews, is that of S. Paul, Gal. 2. viz. that S. Peter was entrusted with the Gospel of the 〈◊〉 , that is to preach the Gospel particularly to the Jews, and so again it there appeareth of James and John, that they betook themselves to the circumcision, that is, to the Jews, v. 9. And 'tis observable how far S. Peter was from understanding this prec • pt in this place to oblige him at that time (not long after Christ's ascension) to preach to the Gentiles, for in the b • sinesse of Cornelius Act. 10. 'tis clear, that he did not yet think it lawful for him to preach to that one Gentile, and for the commission of Christ he repeats it thus, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 v. 42. he commanded us to preach to the people, that is, to the people of the Jews (as the Rulers of the people and Rulers of Israel are all one, and as that nation is called 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 the people, and as 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 Act. 10. 41. signifies all the Jews ) and 'tis manifest that before he would venture to preach Christ to that one heathen. God saw it necessary to send him a Vision, and by that instructed him that the Gentiles were not to be looked on by him any longer as profane (or not to be conversed with) but might be preached to, as well as the Jews. And this God confirmed by sending down the holy Ghost on these first fruits of the Gentiles, Cornelius and h • s company (as he had done on the Apostles the first fruits of the Jews) to testify this his pleasure from heaven immediately. And accordingly v. 45. the believing Jews were astonished when they heard of this, and ch. 11. 1. 'tis said that the Apostles &c. in Judea heard of this, and v. 2. they call Peter in question about it, and he is fain to give them an account of his Vision, and the descent of the holy Ghost upon them, as a testimony that so 'twas to be, v. 16. and by that they are convinced v. 18. and not till then.

[ c] V. 20. End of the world ] It hath formerly been said (Note on Mat. 24. c.) that there was a double age famously spoken of among the Jews, the then present age, and the future age, or the state of things under the Messias, from that time to the end of the world. According to this, the destruction of that state. or end of the first age, is taken notice of, as a famous period, and is set down in that very style, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , the consummation, or conclusion of the age, Mat. 24. 3. and Mat. 13. 40. where 'tis more distinctly, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , of this age, and so again Heb. 9. 26. 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , the conclusion of the ages, in the Plural, those last times, Heb. 1. 2. wherein Christ came into the world. But then other places there are, where it may be taken in another sense, as Mat. 13. 43. where it may well signify the end of this other age, the conclusion of the world, and so here Christ's promise of his being with the Apostles unto the end of the world. For its to be observed that this age being the Christian state or kingdom of Christ, that doth most distinctly begin at his r • surrection, all power being then given to him v. 18. and this being the last age (no other state to succeed this,) it follows necessarily, that this age then beginning, shall not conclude, till the end of the world, And consequently Christ's promise hath no other period to determine it, but instates a power on the Apostles, and their successors by this mission, and assisting and backing them in the execution of their office, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , all the days, the whole term of this new age.

CHAP. I.

1 T HE beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ the Son of God.

2. As it is written in the prophets; Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

3. The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.]

[Paraphrase] 1, 2, 3. The first thing considerable in the story of Christ the Messias and eternal son of God, and in the preaching of the Gospel which he brought with him into the world, was the preaching of John the Baptist, as of an Herald sent before him, and so foretold of by the old prophets, under the style of the voice of a preacher in the desert, that is, the proclamation of an eminent person that should go into the wilderness, and cry, and give warning to the Je • s, that by repentance and amendment of life they should prepare themselves for the coming of God, a terrible coming to visit and punish the impenitents.

4. John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.]

[Paraphrase] 4. According to this prediction of the prophets, John went into the desert part of Judea, and there proclaimed to all the Jews, the necessity of their instant change of life, promising them thereupon (and on no other terms) forgiveness of sins, And all that came to him, and thus reformed upon his preaching, he took and washed them in the river, after the manner of proselytes among the Jews (see Mat. 23. noted, and John 3. a.) to signify to them the purification of their wicked lives, to which they were obliged, and on performance of which (and not otherwise) God would receive them into his favor and look on them as his people. And this baptism and this repentance, and the benefit of it, remission of sins, he proclaimed to all, everywhere, as he went.

5. And there went out unto him all the land of Judea and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.]

[Paraphrase] 5. And the generality of people in all the country, and in the city of Jerusalem, obeyed his preaching so far, as to go and receive baptism from him (which was done in Jordan a river convenient for that purpose, the same wherein Naaman's leprosy had been cleansed long ago by washing in it) and to confess the sins that they had severally been guilty of, and desiring directions from him for new life, Lu. 3. 10.

6. And John was clothed with camels hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins, and he did eat [locusts and wild honey.]

[Paraphrase] 6. See Note on Mar. 3. 8.

7. And preached, saying, [There cometh one mightier then I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose.]

[Paraphrase] 7. I am the foreunner of one who is of infinitely more authority then, I whose disciple I am not worthy to be, or, as such, to be employed by him in the meanest office, such as the taking off his shoes. See Note on Mat. 3. h.

8. I indeed have baptized you with water, but he shall baptize you with the holy Ghost.]

[Paraphrase] 8. I am not worthy to be considered by you in compaparison with him, All that I do is to receive you as Proselytes, (after the Jewish manner) as many as now come in, and repent, and make faithful promise of amendment, and new life; And so water is the only signal which I use. But he, when he comes, shall send down the holy Ghost from heaven in a visible manner upon his disciples, and by that great signal testify to you the truth of his doctrine, &c. See Mat. 3. 11. and Note on Acts 1. a.

9. And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan.

10. And straightway coming up out of the water he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him.]

[Paraphrase] 10. And instantly after his baptism, as he came up from the river, he beheld a parting of the heavens, and opening of the clouds, and the spirit of God hovering over him, as a dove doth, when it descends and lights upon anything. (See Note on Mat. 3. k.)

11. And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased.]

[Paraphrase] 11. And there came a voice from heaven through the clouds directed to Christ, in these words, Thou art &c. see Mat. 3. 17.

12. And immediately the Spirit [note a] driveth him into the wilderness.

13. And he was there in the wilderness forty days tempted of Satan, and was with the wild beasts, and the angels ministered unto him.]

[Paraphrase] 13. And having fasted in the desert forty days, Satan then set upon him to tempt him, Mat. 4. 2, 3. and after he had done tempting him, he left him in the wilderness among none but wild beasts, and there the Angels came, and brought him food, Mat. 4. 11.

14. Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the Gospel of the kingdom of God,]

[Paraphrase] 14. Soon after this Herod having for some time received instructions from John c. 6. 20. and at last being reproved by him about a woman, with whom he lived incestuously, c. 6. 17. imprisoned him. And after this his imprisonment Mat. 14. 3. Jesus went from Nazareth into Galilee (see Note on Mat. 4. e.) and there began to proclaim the doctrine of his father concerning this approaching reformation and change, that God as a King should now work in the world, especially among the Jews.

15. And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand, repent ye, and believe the Gospel.]

[Paraphrase] 15. And the form of his proclamation was in these or the like words, The days of the coming of the M • ssias so long expected, and prophesied of, are now come, and God's remarkable judgments upon the whole nation are approaching (see Note on Mat. 3. c.) which there is no way to avert from any, but by believing the Gospel now to be preached by Christ, and amending of their lives.

16. Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother [casting a net into the sea] (for they were fishers.)

[Paraphrase] 16. washing their net, see Note on Luke 5. a.

17. And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.]

[Paraphrase] 17. And having fi • st shown them a great miracle, convinced them of his divine power, he called them to be his disciples, telling them that he would employ them in an office of greater importance, and so enable them for it, that they should be able to win men to righteousness, as now to get fishes into their nets.

18. And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.]

[Paraphrase] 18. And upon this command of his immediately they left their employments, and as disciples, attended constantly on him

19. And when he had gone a little farther thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, [ who also were in the ship] mending their nets.

[Paraphrase] 19. with their father Zebedee, Mat. 4. 21. and other laborers here mentioned, v. 20. all together in a ship.

20. And straightway he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the ship, with the hired servants, and went after him.

[Paraphrase] 20. See Luke 5. a.

21. And they went into [Capernaum,] and straightway on the Sabbath day he entered into the Synagogue and taught.

[Paraphrase] 21. a city of Galilee called Capernaum Mat. 4. 13.

22. And they were astonished at his doctrine, for he taught them as one that had authority, and not as the Scribes.]

[Paraphrase] 22. And they wondered extremely at his way of instructing them, Mat. 7. 28. For his manner of teaching was not like that of the Doctors of their law, who only expound the law, and tell them the traditions of their fathers the Jews, but he as one that came with power from heaven to give new rules of life, delivered his doctrine with great authority.

23. And there was in the Synagogue a man [ with an unclean spirit,] and he cried out,

[Paraphrase] 23. possessed with a devil, (Luke 4. 33. see Mar. 3. 22, 30.) which cast him into a fit of epilepsie,

24. Saying, Let us alone, What have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? Art thou come to [destroy us?] I know thee who thou art, the holy one of God.

[Paraphrase] 24. Subdue, quell, undo us, cast us out of our possesions;

25. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him,

26. And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him.

27 And they were all amazed insomuch that they questioned among themselves saying, [What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? For with authority commandeth he even the unclean Spirits, and they do obey him.]

[Paraphrase] 27. This is more then was ever heard of before, and therefore sure his doctrine comes from heaven in an extraordinary manner, for it appears that he hath an authority over the devils themselves, and they are subject to him.

28. And immediately his fame spread abroad [ throughout all the region round about Galilee.]

[Paraphrase] 28. through all Galilee a third partition of Palestine, called the ambient or circumjacent region of the nations, which encompassed Judea. See Note on Mat. 4. e.

29. And forthwith when they were come out of the Synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John.

30. But Simon's wives mother lay sick of a fever, and anon they tell him of her.

31. And he came and [took her by the hand, and lift her up, and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered unto them.]

[Paraphrase] 31. took held of her hand and raised or lifted her up, and as • oon as he hid so, the disease forthwith left her, and she was so well, that immediately she attended and made provision for them.

32. And at even when the sun did set, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils.

33. And [all the city was] gathered together at the door.

[Paraphrase] 33. well-nigh all the inhabitants of that place were

34. And he healed many, that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils, and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.

35. And in the morning rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

36. And Simon and [they that were with him followed after him.]

[Paraphrase] 36. the rest of the disciples, whom he had called, pursued and sought after him.

37. And when they had found him, they said unto him, [All men seek for thee.]

[Paraphrase] 37. Sir, thou art extremely inquired for, and sought after by all.

38. And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, [for therefore came I forth.]

[Paraphrase] 38. for that was the appointment and employment for which I was sent by my Father.

39. And he preached in their Synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

40. And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him and saying unto him, [If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.]

[Paraphrase] 40. If it be thy pleasure to show forth thy power, thou art most able to cure me of my leprosy.

41. And Jesus moved with compassion put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him [I will, be thou clean.]

[Paraphrase] 41. It is my pleasure, be thou cured of thy leprosy.

42. And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed.

43. And [he straightly charged him, and] forthwith sent him away.

[Paraphrase] 43. with threats commanding him not to speak of it (see Mat. 8. 4. Note b.) he

44. And saith unto him, See thou say nothing unto any man, but go thy way and [show thyself to the Priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded for a testimony unto them.]

[Paraphrase] 44. See Note on Mat. 8, c. d.

45. But he went out and began to publish it much, and to blaze abroad the matter, in so much that Jesus could [no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places, and they came to him from every quarter.]

[Paraphrase] 45. no longer with safety come publicly into the city, but was fain to withdraw himself into places of solitude (see Note on Mat. 8. b.) and yet even there the people found him out, and in great multitudes came to him from all parts.

CHAP. II.

1. AND again he entered into Caperna um after some days,] and it was noised that he was in the house.

[Paraphrase] 1. And after a while he came openly in the day time in to the city Capernaum, c. 1. 21, 45. see Mat. 9. 1. and went, as 'tis probable, into Simon's and Andrew's house, c. 1. 21.

2. And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no not so much as about the door, and he preached the word unto them.

3. And they came] unto him bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.

[Paraphrase] 3. And there was a company which came

4. And when they could not come nigh unto him for press, they uncovered the roof where he was, and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed, wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

5. When Jesus saw [their faith] he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee:

[Paraphrase] 5. the great confidence which the sick man and his friends had of Christ's power to cure him

6. But there were certain of the Scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts,

7. Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can] forgive sins, but God only?

[Paraphrase] 7. This must needs be a wicked blasphemous thing, to assume that to himself which belongs only to God, For sure none can

8. And immediately when Jesus [perceived in his spirit] that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts?

[Paraphrase] 8. discerned by his divine Spirit, which alone is able to know the secrets of the heart (see Note on Rom. 9. a.)

9. Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, thy sins be forgiven thee, or to say, Arise, take up thy bed and walk?

10. But that ye may know, that the son of man hath power [on earth] to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)

[Paraphrase] 10. See Mat. 9. 6.

11. I say unto thee, [Arise,] and take up thy bed and go thy way into thine house.

[Paraphrase] 11. receive health, or recover from this disease,

12. And immediately he arose and took up the bed, and went forth before them all, insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.

13. And he went forth again by the sea side, and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them.

14. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alpheus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him.

15. And it came to pass that as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many Publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples, for there were many, and they followed him.

16. And when the Scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with Publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, [How is it that he eateth and drinketh with Publicans and sinners?]

[Paraphrase] 16. If your Master be a pious and holy person, how comes it to pass, that he observeth not that which all pious Jews (those of the sect of the Pharisees, Ch. 7. 3, 4.) observe most carefully? viz. to abstain from all pollutions, and so not to eat or converse with any heathen person, or such as frequently trade with such.

17. When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the Physician, but they that are sick: [I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.]

[Paraphrase] 17. my special business for which I am sent, is to reduce wicked men to new life.

18. And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees [ used to fast] and they come and say unto him, Why do the disciples of John, and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?

[Paraphrase] 18. according to their custom of frequent fasting, were now on a day of fast.

19. And Jesus said unto them, Can [the children of the bridechamber] fast, while the Bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the Bridegroom with them they cannot fast.

[Paraphrase] 19. See Mat. 9. 15. e.

20. But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast in those days.

21. No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment, [else the new piece that filled it up,] taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse.

[Paraphrase] 21. if he do not take care not to run that error, that patch of new cloth (see Mat. 9. 16.)

22. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles, else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred. But new wine must be put into new bottles.

23. And it came to pass that he went through the corn-fields on the [Sabbath day,] and his disciples [note a] began as they went to pluck the ears of corn.

[Paraphrase] 23. See Mat. 12. 1.

24. And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they on the Sabbath day that which is not lawful?

25. And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David did when he had need, and was an hungered, he and they that were with him?

26. How he went into the house of God [ in [note b] the days of Abiathar the high priest,] and did eat the show-bread which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him?

[Paraphrase] 26. in the time of Abimelech, just before Abiathar's coming to the high priesthood

27. And he said unto them, The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.

28. Therefore the son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath.

[Paraphrase] 28. See Note on Mat. 12. a.

CHAP. III.

1. AND he entered again into [the synagogue,] and there was a man there which had a withered hand.

[Paraphrase] 1. the Synagogue at Capernaum, c. 1. 21.

2. And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the Sabbath day, that they might accuse him.]

[Paraphrase] 2. And the Pharisees v. 6. desirous to have somewhat to lay to his charge, thought they had now an opportunity, and therefore observed greedily what he would do to this lame man, whether he would heal him on the Sabbath day or no.

3. And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth.

4. And he saith unto them, [Is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill?] but they held their peace.

[Paraphrase] 4. Which do you conceive to be most unlawful on the Sabbath day, to hurt by not helping, when I am able, to be guilty of killing one whom I can save? Or else to work a cure, to deliver one in distress or danger?

5. And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved [for the hardness of their hearts,] he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand, and he stretched it out, and his hand was restored whole as the other.

[Paraphrase] 5. that their hearts were so hardened, as flesh which hath a thick skin grown over it, keeping his words, or miracles from having impression on them.

6. And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway [took counsel with the Herodians] against him, how they might destroy him.

[Paraphrase] 6. entered a consultation with the Herodians; see note on Mat. 22. b.

7. But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and from Judea,

8. And from Jerusalem, and from Idumea, and from beyond Jordan, and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things he did, came unto him.

9. And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should wait on him, because of the multitude, lest they should throng him.

10. For he had healed many, insomuch that [they [note a] pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had plagues.]

[Paraphrase] 10. They besought him to give them leave but to touch him, and as many of them as had any disease upon them, (see note on 1 Cor. 4. c.)

11. And unclean spirits] when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the son of God.

[Paraphrase] 11. And those that were possessed with devils, or the devils in the possessed,

12. And he straitly charged [them] that they should not make him known.

[Paraphrase] 12. those that were thus cured by him, and dispossessed (see note Mat. 8. b.)

13. And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him [whom he would,] and they came unto him.

[Paraphrase] 13. A select number.

14. And he ordained twelve, that they should [be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,]

[Paraphrase] 14. be continually attendant on him as disciples are wont, and go on his errands, to preach his doctrine, &c.

15. And to have power] to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils.

[Paraphrase] 15. And to those he gave power.

16. And Simon he surnamed Peter.

[Paraphrase] 16. And these twelve were, 1. Simon, on whom he bestowed a surname, signifying a stone, or rock.

17. And James the son of Zebedee, and John the broher of James (and he surnamed them [note b] Boanerges, which is, the sons of thunder.)

18. And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alpheus, and Thaddeus, and Simon the Canaanite.

19. And Judas Is • ariot, which also betrayed him. And they went into [an house.]

[Paraphrase] 19. the forementioned house in Capernaum, c. 2. 1.

20. And the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread.]

[Paraphrase] 20. And again so great a multitude came in unto him, that they had no time or vacancy to take food, he and his disciples,

21. And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay hold on him, for they said, He is [note c] beside himself.]

[Paraphrase] 21. And when his kindred heard the reports abroad concerning him, they came to him to get him home with them, for it was commonly reported, that he was in some excess or transportation,

22. And the Scribes which came down from Jerusalem, said, [He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils.]

[Paraphrase] 22. He is possessed with the devil, the prince or chief of the devils, (see note on Mar. 12. f.) and by his power it is, not by any divine authority, that he cures, and casts out devils.

23. And he called them to him, and said unto them in parables [How can Satan cast out Satan?]

[Paraphrase] 23. See Lu. 11. 18.

24. And if a kingdom be divided against it self, that kingdom cannot stand.

25. And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.

26. And if [Satan rise up against himself, and be divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end.]

[Paraphrase] 26. the whole community of devils make an insurrection and schism against one another, they will certainly be destroyed and not long continue.

27. No man can enter into a strong man's house and spoil his goods] unless he first bind the strong man, and then he will spoil his house.

[Paraphrase] 27. No man can come into the house of a strong man, and rob him. See Mat. 12. 29.

28. Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme:

[Paraphrase] 28. See Mat. 12. 31.

29. But he that [shall blaspheme against the holy Ghost, hath never forgiveness,] but is in danger of eternal damnation.

[Paraphrase] 29. shall resist the holy Spirit (see note on Mat. 12. h.) there is no pardon to be had for him, without particular repentance and reformation,

30. Because they said, [He hath an unclean spirit.]

[Paraphrase] 30. The miracles he doth, are by the power of the devil, v. 22.

31. There came then his brethren and his mother, and standing without sent unto him, calling him.

32. And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without [seek for thee.]

[Paraphrase] 32. desire thee to come to them.

33. And he answered, saying. Who is my mother or my brethren?

34. And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren.

35. For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same [is my brother and my sister, and mother.]

[Paraphrase] 33. shall be valued by me as dearly, as any of the nearest relations is by any man.

CHAP. IV.

1. AND he began again to teach by the sea side, and there was gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered into a ship and sat in the sea;] and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land,

[Paraphrase] 1. And again he taught by the sea side, and the people flocked so together about him, that he was forced to go into a boat, and sit in that upon the water;

2. And he taught them many things by parables [and said unto them in his doctrine,]

[Paraphrase] 2. And as he taught them, thus he said,

3. Hearken, Behold there went out a sower to sow,

4. And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell [by the way side,] and the fowls of the air came, and devoured it up.

[Paraphrase] 4. See Mat. 13. 4.

5. And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth, and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth.

6. But when the sun was up, it was scorched, and because it had no root, it withered away.

7. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no fruit.

8. And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit, that sprang up, and increased, and brought forth some thirty, and some sixty, and some [an hundred.]

[Paraphrase] 8. See note on Mat. 13. • .

9. And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

10. And when he was alone, they that were about him with the twelve, asked him the parable.]

[Paraphrase] 10. And being retired from the company of the promiscuous multitude, they that constantly followed him, together with the twelve select, or chosen disciples, Mat. 13. 10. desired him to interpret to them the meaning of the parable.

11. And he said unto them, To you it is given to know [the mystery of the kingdom of God, but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables,]

[Paraphrase] 11. the secret manner of God's dispensing of his grace which to others is more obscurely delivered in parables,

12. [note a] That seeing they may see and not perceive, and hearing they may hear and not understand, lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.]

[Paraphrase] 12. In such a manner that although they hear God's Word, yet they are not wrought on by it so far as to be converted, or to have their sins pardoned, and this is a punishment of their own faults in holding out against God's word, and not embracing it. See Mat. 13. 15.

13. And he saith unto them, Know ye not this parable? And how then will ye know all parables?]

[Paraphrase] 13. But as parables are a way of obscuring doctrine to the careless heedless hearers, so have they a special energy in them, which worketh most sharply, and with greatest quickness on the diligent hearer, such as disciples are supposed to be (see Mat. 13. 13.) and therefore 'tis strange you should not understand my meaning in this parable, which is an essay of what may be expected of you in others the like hereafter, this being the way, in which I shall commonly speak unto you.

14. The sower soweth the word.

15. And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown, but when they have heard,] Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.

[Paraphrase] 15. These which are answerable to the ground which is by the way, on which men tread, are they, which when the word is sown, hear it, and

16. And these are they likewise which [are sown] in stony ground, who when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness,

[Paraphrase] 16. receive the • eed.

17. And have no root in themselves, and so] endure but for a time, afterward when persecution or affliction ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.

[Paraphrase] 17. The word in them hath not found any mould, or soil, wherein to take root, and that is the reason that whatever their resolutions are, they

18. And these are they which are sown among thorns, such as hear the word,

19. And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and [the lusts of other things entering in choke the word,] and it becometh unfruitful.

[Paraphrase] 19. the various objects of men's carnal apperites being entertained and admitted by them, stifle the commands of Christ, as weeds do good corn by overgrowing it,

20. And these are they which are sown on good ground, such as hear the word and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirty fold, some sixty, and some an hundred.

21. And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed▪ and not to be set on a candlestick?]

[Paraphrase] 21. The Gospel of Christ wheresoever 'tis received, as it ought, is diffusive of itself, is as a candle lighted and brought into a room, on purpose to shine forth to others, in communicating the light we have (see Mat. 5. 15.) and in actions of the light, Christian performances.

22. For there is nothing hid which shall not be manifested, neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.]

[Paraphrase] 22. For the doctrine which is taught you by me in, or out of parables, must be both practiced and published by you, and therefore (for no other reason) it is revealed to you, and that by way of parables, which are the obscuring of it, that having acquired the understanding of them you may set the more value on them for your own practice, and be more industrious to communicate them to others, See Mat. 10. 26.

23. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.]

[Paraphrase] 23. And therefore let there be a weight laid on these and all other my words, and be sure you lay them up to do accordingly.

24. And he said unto them, Take heed what you hear, with what measure ye mete it shall be measured to you, and unto you that hear shall more be given.]

[Paraphrase] 24. And he farther said unto them, Mark diligently (and practice accordingly) what you hear, As you deal with God, so will he deal with you, and to those of you that heed and make use of what is said to you, more knowledge shall be revealed.

25. For he that hath, to him shall be given, and he that hath not, from him shall be taken, even that he hath.]

[Paraphrase] 25. For he that makes use of that grace and knowledge which he hath (see note on Mat. 13. b.) he shall improve extremely; the very using his talent well, the exercising of Christian virtues, and the teaching them to others, is a sure way of improving it, and besides God's blessing and grace to him, is a great though insensible addition also; and on the contrary, that which is not used, decreases and moulders away, and 'tis just with God to withdraw it.

26. And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground,]

[Paraphrase] 26. To which purpose he used another parable, The state of Christianity is as if a man should till and sow his ground,

27. And should sleep and rise night and day and the seed should spring and grow up he knoweth not how.]

[Paraphrase] 27. And having done so, never do more toward the growing of the corn, but go to bed at night, and rise in the morning, and yet without any contribution of his, it comes up and grows insensibly, he knows not how.

28. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself, first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.]

[Paraphrase] 28. For the earth itself by its own strength (and the continuel warmth and influences of heaven, and the dews and showers that God is pleased to afford it) without any farther labor or daily assistance of the husbandman, completes the whole work, sends out a spear of grass, as it were, first, then a blade &c.

29. But when the fruit is [note b] brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.]

[Paraphrase] 29. And when it is perfectly ripe, he reaps it in the time of harvest, so when Christ hath made known our duty to us, he expects, without more ado, that we should set to the performance of it, make good resolutions, bring forth good fruit, and when we have finished our course, he then takes us to himself, and rewards us, and whensoever Christ's word and grace meets with an honest heart, thus it is upon his first being revealed to him.

30. And he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?]

[Paraphrase] 30. The same also is the meaning of that other parable.

31. It is like a grain of mustard seed, which when it is sown in the earth, is less then all the seeds that be in the earth.]

[Paraphrase] 31. The state of Christianity is like to the sowing of mustard-seed, There the word and grace of Christ is sown in the heart, as a little grain of mustard-seed in a garden, It is small and unconsiderable at the sowing, as the mustard-seed is the least of all seeds.

32. But when it is sowed, it groweth up, and becometh greater then all herbs, and shooteth out great branches, so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.]

[Paraphrase] 32. But being sowed, as the mustard-seed comes up, and within a while grows into a tree (Lu. 13. 19.) and hath branches big enough for birds (to build nests in, and roost, Lu. 13. 19. or) to be defended from sun or weather in them, so doth that in the honest heart bring forth most abundantly, by the grace and blessing of God upon the use of his talents of grace.

33. And with many such parables spake he the word unto them [as they were able to hear it. ]

[Paraphrase] 33. In such a manner as was most intelligible, & withal most profitable for them.

34. But without a parable spake he not unto them, and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.

35. And [ the same day] when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.

[Paraphrase] 35. on a certain time, Mat. 8. 23.

36. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him [ even as he was] in the ship, and there were also with him other little ships.

[Paraphrase] 36. alone without the multitude.

37. And there arose a great [note c] storm of wind,] and the waves beat into the ship so that it was now full.

[Paraphrase] 37. tempest of wind and rain together.

38. And he was in the hinder part of the ship asleep on a pillow, and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, [carest thou not that we perish?]

[Paraphrase] 38. We are ready to be drowned, and wilt thou continue asleep, and take no care to preserve us?

39. And he arose and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still, and the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

40. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? [How is it that ye have no faith?]

[Paraphrase] 40. How should it be possible for you after so many evidences and experiments of my power, and readiness to preserve you, not at all to trust or rely on me?

41. And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

CHAP. V.

1. AND they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the [country of the Gadarenes.]

[Paraphrase] 1. the coast where Gadara, Mat. 8. 28. and Gergesa lie together, See ch. 8. 10.

2. And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs [ [note a] a man with an unclean spirit,]

[Paraphrase] 2. two men Matth. 8. 28. which were in a frenzy possessed with devils, in a raving lunatic manner of unruliness.

3. Who] had his dwelling among the tombs, and no man could bind him, no not with chains,

[Paraphrase] 3. And one of them here mentioned (as the other also in S. Matthew.)

4. Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces, neither could any man tame him,

5. And always night and day he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.

6. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him.

7. And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou [note b] torment me not.]

[Paraphrase] 7. And the devil that possessed him made use of the man's voice, to cry aloud to Jesus, and say, Let me alone, thou eternal Son of the supreme God, I beseech thee earnestly for God's sake, who hath permitted me thus to possess and wound this man, not presently to throw me into my chains.

8. (For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit.)

9. And he asked him, What is thy name? [and he answered, saying, My name is Legion, for we are many.]

[Paraphrase] 9. and the devils that possessed him answered Jesus, saying 'It is not any peculiar name that is competible to us, unless that of a Legion, or regiment of six thousand soldiers among the Romans, there be so many of us in this man.

10. And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.]

[Paraphrase] 10. And the devil was very importunate in his request, that if he were forced to go out of that man, he might yet stay in those parts, and get some other habitation.

11. Now there were nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding,

12. And all the devils besought him saying, [Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them.]

[Paraphrase] 12. Permit us to enter into the swine, Mat. 8. 31.

13. And forthwith Jesus gave them leave,] And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine, and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea (they were about two thousand) and were choked in the sea.

[Paraphrase] 13. And although this was foreseen by Christ to be the certain drowning of the swine, and though he seldom wrought any destructive miracle, yet that the people might see the virulency of these devils, if not restrained by him, and so the mercy done to those that were possessed, and likewise the mercy now approaching to their country by the coming of Christ, if they will accept of it, and withal to try whether their love to their swine was greater, then that to their own souls, he permitted the devils to go into the swine, that is, forbad them not, did not violently restrain them.

14. And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And [they] went out to see what it was that was done.

[Paraphrase] 14. the inhabitants of the city and the whole country.

15. And they come to Jesus, and see him that was possessed with the devil and had the Legion sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind, [and they were afraid.]

[Paraphrase] 15. And that sight wrought an awe & a reverence in them, an acknowledgment of the Power of Christ that had done it.

16. And they that saw it, told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.

[Paraphrase] 16. and they that had been present all the time, gave them the whole relation, the mercy to the poor man, and the drowning of the swine.

17. And they began to pray him] to depart out of their coasts.

[Paraphrase] 17. And when they heard the one with the other, their love of the world prevailed so far above their care of that which was so much, more precious, that they earnestly besought him.

18. And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil, prayed him, that he might be with him.

19. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but said unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.

20. And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis, how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.

21. And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him, and he was nigh unto the sea.

22. And behold, there cometh [note c] one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and when he saw him he fell at his feet,

23. And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death. I pray thee come and lay thine hands on her, that she may be healed, [and she shall live.]

[Paraphrase] 23. and I am confident she will recover.

24. And Jesus went with him, and much people followed him, and thronged him.

25. And a certain woman which had an issue of blood twelve years,

26. And had suffered many things of many Physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse,

27. When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment,

28. For she said, If I may touch but his clothes I shall be whole.]

[Paraphrase] 28. Being thus confidently persuaded in her mind that the least touch of his clothes would cure her.

29. And straightway the [note d] [fountain] of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague.

[Paraphrase] 29. Flux.

30. And Jesus immediately knowing in himself, [that virtue had gone out of him] turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes?

[Paraphrase] 30. Some cure had been wrought by touching him,

31. And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me?

32. And he looked round about to see her, that had done this thing.

33. But the woman [fearing, and trembling, knowing what was done in her] came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth.

[Paraphrase] 33. Being by what had been wrought in her assured of his divine power, and so stricken into a great awe and reverence towards him,

34. And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole, go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.

35. While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the Synagogues house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead; why troublest thou the master any further?

36. As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the Synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.

37. And he suffered no man to follow him,] save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James.

[Paraphrase] 37. And the father and the mother Lu. 8. 51. leading him the way, he permitted none of his own company to go into the house along with him,

38. And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the Synagogue, and seeth [the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.]

[Paraphrase] 38. See Mat. 9. 23.

39. And when he was come in he saith unto them, Why make ye this ado, and weep? the damsel is not dead but sleepeth.

40. And they laughed him to scorn: but when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damosel, and [them that were with him] and entereth in where the damsel was lying.

[Paraphrase] 40. Peter; and James and John v. 37.

41. And he took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her, Talitha cumi, which is being interpreted, Damsel (I say unto thee) arise.

42. And straightway the damsel arose and walked, for she was of the age of twelve years, and they were astonished with a great astonishment.

43. And he charged them straitly that no man should know it] and commanded that something should be given her to eat.

[Paraphrase] 43. See Mat. • . note b.

CHAP. VI.

1. AND he went out from thence, and came into his own country,] and his disciples followed him.

[Paraphrase] 1. Mat. 13. 14.

2. And when the Sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands?]

[Paraphrase] 2. he went into their synagogue, and there expounded the Old Testament to them, to their great amazement, whereupon they questioned among themselves, how he should be able to do this, who gave him this wisdom, and withal this power of miracles, saying,

3. Is not this the carpenter? the son of Mary, the brother of James and Joses, and of Judah and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? and they were offended at him.]

[Paraphrase] 3. Is not this man the son of Joseph the carpenter, brought up in the same trade with him? is not Mary his mother, and James &c. his near kinsmen? and do not his near kinswomen live among us? and thus upon the consideration of his mean, and known beginnings, they were discouraged from following, and so forsook him.

4. And Jesus said unto them, [a prophet is not without honor, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.]

[Paraphrase] 4 A prophet is not so subject to be despised and set at naught anywhere, as among them that are nearest to him, that think they know his beginnings, &c.

5. And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk and healed them. ]

[Paraphrase] 5. And accordingly there was such a general unbelief, and undervaluing him there in his own country, that he had no fit opportunity there, to show his power in working miracles, Only a few sick people, that had faith to be healed, came and besought him, and those by his bare laying his hands on them, were healed presently, see Lu. 4. 23.

6. And he marveled because of their unbelief: and he went round about the villages teaching.

7. And he calleth unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two, and gave them power [ over unclean spirits.]

[Paraphrase] 7. to cast the devils out of those, that were possessed by them.

8. And he commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only, no scrip, no bread no money in their purse,]

[Paraphrase] 8. See note on Mar. 10. e.

9. But be shod with sandals, and not put on two coats.

10. And he said unto them, [ In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide, till ye depart from that place.]

[Paraphrase] 10. whensoever ye come into a town, or city, the first house ye enter into, let it be the place of your abode, while you stay in that city.

11. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when you depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet [for a testimony against them:] Verily I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrhah in the day of judgment, then for that city.

[Paraphrase] 11. as a significative ceremony what a crying sin this is, and what a punishment will attend it (Mat. 10. 14.) and that they may know that a prophet hath been among them 〈◊〉 33. 33. that 'tis the message of God which they have rejected.

12. And they went out and [preached that men should repent.]

[Paraphrase] 12. preached or proclaimed, in the same words, that John the Baptist, and Christ had done before them, saying, Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand, Mat. 10. 7.

13. And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them. ]

[Paraphrase] 13. And they cast devils out of many that were possessed by them, and using no other means, but only that of unction (and laying on their hands ch. 16. 18.) they cured many sick persons.

14. And king Herod heard of him, (for his name was spread abroad,) and he said that John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and [therefore mighty works do show forth themselves in him.]

[Paraphrase] 14. Now he is risen, the same power that raiseth him, worketh also miraculously in him.

15. Others said that it is Elias, and others said that it is [a prophet, or as one of the prophets.]

[Paraphrase] 15. one of the old prophets raised from the dead, or else such an one as they were of old, now newly raised up.

16. But when Herod heard thereof, [he said,] It is John whom I beheaded, he is risen from the dead.

[Paraphrase] 16. The conscience of what he had done to John the Baptist, made him fear, and say,

17. For Herod himself had sent forth, and laid hold upon John, and bound him in prison [for Herodias sake his brother Philip's wife, for he had married her.]

[Paraphrase] 17. on occasion of Herodias, whom Herod had married, though she were his own brothers wife.

18. For John had said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brothers wife.]

[Paraphrase] 18. Whereupon John dea •• freely and plainly with him, and told him that it was utterly unlawful for him to live with her.

19. Therefore Herodias [note a] had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him, but she could not.]

[Paraphrase] 19. Herodias therefore being touch • with this, designed him a mischief, and would have removed him out of the way by some death or other, but could not any way compass it.

20. For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man, and an holy, [note b] and observed him, and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly.]

[Paraphrase] 20. For Herod because of his authority with the people, on whom John had wrought very much (saith Josephus) was afraid to meddle with him, Mat. 14. 5. and besides knew him to be a just and holy man, which extorted respect from him, and accordingly he had care to keep him 〈◊〉 , and moreover heard him oft, and in obedience to him did reform many things, and indeed took a delight to hear him, but this one particular of Herodias stuck so close to him, that John's reproofs could not prevail to make him part with her.

21. And when [note c] a convenient day was come, that Herod on his birth-day made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief estates of Galilee.

22. And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and daunced, and pleased Herod, and them that sat with him, the king said [unto the damsel,] Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee.

[Paraphrase] 22. to Herodias's daughter.

23. And he sware unto her, Whatsoever thou shalt ask of me I will give it thee, unto the half of my kingdom.

24. And she went forth and said unto her mother, What shall I ask? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.

25. And she came in straightway with hast unto the king, and asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by the head of John the Baptist in a charger.

26. And the king was exceeding sorry, yet for his oaths sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject her.]

[Paraphrase] 26. And Herod the king was exceeding sorrowful and much troubled, not only that he should be obliged to shed blood upon his birth day (see note on Mat. 14. b.) but especially as having a reverence and kindness to John, v. 20. and also fearing the inconvenience that might come of it by reason of the authority which John had with the people, Mat. 14. and yet because he had sworn so publicly before those that were at the feast with him, that they might not discern either imprudence, or inconstancy in him, imprudence in promising, or inconstancy in not performing, he granted her request.

27. And immediately the king sent an [note d] executioner, and commanded his head to be brought, and he went and beheaded him in the prison,

28. And brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel, and the damsel gave it to her mother.

29. And when [his disciples] heard of it, they came and took up his corps, and laid it in a tomb,

[Paraphrase] 29. John's disciples.

30. And the Apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and [told him all things both what they had done, and what they had taught.]

[Paraphrase] 30. gave him an account of their preaching and miracles, and of the success of both of them.

31. And he said unto them, Come ye [yourselves apart] into a desert place, and rest a while, For there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.

[Paraphrase] 31. alone and nobody else with you.

32. And they departed into a desert place by ship privately.

33. And the people saw them departing, and many knew him, and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent [them,] and came together unto him.

[Paraphrase] 33. the disciples,

34. And Jesus when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd, and he began to teach them many things.

[Paraphrase] 34. See Mat. 9. 36.

35. And when the day was now far spent,] the disciples came unto him, saying, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed.

[Paraphrase] 35. And when it began to be late toward the evening, See note Mat. 14. d.

36. Send them away that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread, for they have nothing to eat.

37. He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to 〈◊〉 And they say unto him, Shall we go, and buy two hundred penyworth of bread, and give them to eat?

38. He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see: and when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes.

39. And he commanded them to make all sit down [note e] by companies upon the green grass.

40. And they sat down in ranks] by hundreds and by fifties.

[Paraphrase] 40. And they lay down in several companies or divisions on the ground, after the manner that they used on beds whereon they were wont to eat, See note on Mat. 8. g.

41. And when he had taken the five loaves and two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them, and the two fishes divided he among them all.

42. And they did all eat, and were filled.

43. And they took up twelve baskets full [of the fragment and of the fishes.]

[Paraphrase] 43. of the broken pieces of bread, and of the remainder of the fishes.

44. And they that did eat of the loaves] were about five thousand men.

[Paraphrase] 44. And they that were entertained and supped on these few loaves and fishes,

45. And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people.

46. And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.

47. And [when the even was come] the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land.

[Paraphrase] 47. in the night, see Note on Mat. 14. d.

48. And he saw them toiling in rowing, (for the wind was contrary unto them) and [about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.]

[Paraphrase] 48. toward morning he came walking on the sea, and appeared to design not to come to them, but to pass by them, farther that way.

49. But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out.

50. (For they all saw him and were troubled) and immediately he talked with them, and said unto them, Be of good cheer, it is I, be not afraid.

51. And he went up unto them into the ship, and the wind ceased, and they were sore amazed in themselves, beyond measure, and wondered:

52. For [they considered not the miracle of the loaves, for their heart was hardened.]

[Paraphrase] 52. they had not so laid to heart the miracle of the loaves, as to believe him able to do such a miracle as this (that of multiplying the loaves, &c. being as truly an act of divine power as this of walking upon the sea) which was a great stupidity and dullness in them.

53. And when they had passed over, they came into the land of Genesareth, and drew to the shore.

54. And when they were come out of the ship straightway [ they knew him,]

[Paraphrase] 54. those of the country took knowledge of him.

55. And ran through that whole region round about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick, where they heard he was.

56. And whithersoever he entered into villages, or cities, or [ [note f] country,] they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him, that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment, and as many as touched, were made whole.

[Paraphrase] 56. the villages in the country-regions without the cities.

CHAP. VII.

1. THen came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the Scribes, which came from Jerusalem.

2. And when they saw some of his disciples [eat bread with [note a] defiled (that is to say, with unwashen) hands,] they found fault.

[Paraphrase] 2. take their dinner, their meat without using the ce ••• money of wathing their hands before it,

3. For the Pharisees and all the Jews, except they wash their hands [note a] oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the Elders.]

[Paraphrase] 3. do not ear any meat, and this in obedience to an ordinance made by their Praedecessors, not recorded in the Scripture of the old • estament.

4. And when they come from the [note b] market, except they [note c] wash, they eat not: many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups and pots, brazen vessels, and tables.]

[Paraphrase] 4. And when they come from the market or hall of judgment, or any the like mixed assemblies, they wash their hands solemnly, (for fear they may have been defiled there) before they eat. And in thir matter of washing, many other ordinances there are, which they think themselves bound to observe, as laws divine, as the washing of cups to drink in, of pots containing somewhat above a pint, of brazen vessels (when carthen vessels, if defiled, were to be broken) and also of beds, on which they did eat then, as now on tables.

5. Then the Pharisees and Scribes asked him, Why [walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the Elders, but] eat bread with unwashen hands?

[Paraphrase] 5. observe not thy disciples the ordinances of our progenitors, which forbid to

6. He answered and said unto them [Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me.

7. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the traditions of men.

8. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups, and many other such like things ye do.]

[Paraphrase] 6, 7, 8. you are the very sort of hypocrites of which Isaiah prophesied c. 30. 13. men that profess great strictness in performances toward God, and practice in some external things more then God commands them, and impose these upon others as the commands of God, when they are only human ordinances: As for the inward purity of heart and actions, to which all God's laws of washings, &c. all the ceremonial law of legal uncleannesses did refer, being but the shadow to pourtray the true substantial purity of the heart, and soul, the fountain of actions, they take no care of them, transgress against this substantial part of religion in the foulest manner, and spend all their time in these external superfluities, washing of pots, &c. the ordinances of their Rabbins only.

9. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.]

[Paraphrase] 9. And he said unto them, Is not this fair worship and serving of God, to reject all the prime commands of God, the most considerable parts of religion, and act directly contrary to them, and satisfy and content yourselves with some external performances, which are not at all commanded by God, but only by yourselves or your Rabbins?

10. For Moses said, Honor thy father and thy mother, and, whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death.

[Paraphrase] 10. Exed. 20. 12. and Exo. 21. 17. see Note on Mar. 15. b.

11. But ye say [If a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me, he shall be free. ]

[Paraphrase] 11. If when a man's parents want anything which the son hath, (and so is bound by nature and the fifth commandment to give it them) he can tell them that he hath taken an oath, to relieve them, he shall be free from the obligation of the fifth commandment. See Note on Mat. 15. c.

12. And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or mother.

13. Making the word of God of none e •• ect through your tradition, which ye have delivered,] and many such like things do ye.

[Paraphrase] 13. And so by this invention of yours, ye free a man from any obligation of honoring or succouring his parents when he hath no mind to it.

14. And when he had called all the people unto him, he said unto them, Hearken unto me everyone of you, and understand,

15. There is nothing from without a man that entering into him can defile him, but things which come out of him those are they which defile a man.]

[Paraphrase] 15. As for your question v. 5. about washing, know this, that the true and real pollutions, which God would have all men to avoid, are not those which come from the meats and drinks, and such external things, but those of wicked thoughts and words and actions, those are the great defilements principally aimed at in the legal prohibitions, and forbidden by them.

16. If any man hath ears to hear, let him hear.]

[Paraphrase] 16. Take notice of what I say, though it be contrary to the rules of purity, as they are understood and practiced by you, for this is a Reformation, that I am sent to work in your law.

17. And when he was entered into the house from the people, his disciples asked him concerning the parable.

18. And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive that [whatsoever thing from without] entereth into a man, it cannot defile him?

[Paraphrase] 18. meats, drinks, &c. whatsoever

19. Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats.]

[Paraphrase] 19. Because his heart, or soul being the principal part of him, and that which alone is capable of defilement, all sin being an act of his will and choice, the meats which we take in, enter only into the stomach and belly, not into the heart, and being taken in, if there be any polluted part in them, that is voided and carried out in the draught, and by the purging out those dregs, all meats are made clean and nutritive.

20. And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth a man.]

[Paraphrase] 20. But as in the law of Moses it is observable that the excrements and whatsoever (almost) comes out of a man, polluted all it touched, Deut. 23. 13.

21. For from within, out of the heart of men proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,

22. Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, [note d] foolishness.]

[Paraphrase] 21, 22. So thereby is signified, that all defilements of the man are those that come from within him, having their beginning from men's wicked will and choice, such are evil machinations, or conspracies, (see Note on Mat. 15. e.) adulteries, fornications, homicides, thefts, inordinate lusts (see Note on Rom. 1. h.) villainies, cheating, effeminacy, envy, and covetousness, calumniatings, haughtiness, or despising of others, foolish vain-glorious boasting.

23. All these evil things come from within and defile the man.]

[Paraphrase] 23. These vile things are they that are truly said to come out of the man, that is, out of his soul, betraying themselves by actions, and leaving a stain and blemish upon it.

24. And from thence he arose and went [into the borders of] Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have no man know it; but could not be hid.

[Paraphrase] 24. to the utmost parts of Palestine, which border upon

25. For a certain woman whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet.

26. (The woman was [a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation]) and she besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.

[Paraphrase] 26. not of the Jewish profession, but by religion an heathen, born near the sea shore called Phenicia and Canaan, See Note on Mat. 15.

27. But Jesus said unto her, [Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and cast it to the dogs.]

[Paraphrase] 27. I am first to exercise my office, to distribute my miracles of mercy among the Jews, which have always had a nearer relation to God, then any other nation, and all other nations looked on by them, as vile and profane, not to be conversed with, They are first to be taken care for, and when they have their fill, then the fullness of God's mercy may everflow to the Gentiles.

28. And she answered and said unto him, [Yes Lord, yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs.]

[Paraphrase] 28. Though it be so, Sir, yet that which may be had by another poor creature without prejudice to the Jews, is all that I beg of thee, and such proportions are allowed even to dogs, when the children have the full meal.

29. And he said unto her, For this saying] go thy way, the devil is gone out of thy daughter.

[Paraphrase] 29. And he said, The faith expressed by this answer of thine is such, Mat. 15. 28. and so much beyond ordinary, that it shall not go unrewarded, and therefore

30. And when she was come to her house, she found the devil gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.

31. And again departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis.

32. And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had [note e] an impediment in his speech, and they beseech him to [put his hand upon him.]

[Paraphrase] 32. bless him, and so cure him.

33. And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and [he spit and touched his tongue.]

[Paraphrase] 33. touched his tongue with a little spittle on his finger, and nothing else.

34. And looking up to heaven he sighed, and said unto him, Ephphata, that is, [Be opened.]

[Paraphrase] 34. All impediments be removed, thy hearing and speaking come to thee.

35. And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue loosed, and he spake plain.

36. And he charged them that they should tell no man, but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it.

37. And were beyond measure astonished • aying, He hath done all thigns well, he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.

CHAP. VIII.

1. IN those days the multitude being very great, and having nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and saith unto them.

2. I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat.

3. And if I send them away fasting to their own houses, [they will faint by the way,] for divers of them came from far.

[Paraphrase] 3. either they will faint for want of refreshment, or else to get victuals they will be scattered and dispersed from one another, See note on Mat. 9 m.

4. And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness?

5. And he asked them, How many loaves have ye? and they said, Seven.

6. And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground, and he took the seven loaves, and gave thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them, and they [did set them before the people.]

[Paraphrase] 6. distributed them, gave everyone of the multitude a portion.

7. And they had a few small fishes, and he blessed, and [commanded to set them also before them. ]

[Paraphrase] 7. appointed them to give everyone a piece of fish.

8. So they did eat and were filled, and they took up of the broken meat that was left, seven baskets.

9. And they that had eaten were about four thousand, and he sent them away.

10. And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into [ the parts of Dalmanutha.]

[Paraphrase] 10. the coasts of Magdala, Mat. 15. 39. or Magadon (as S. Jerome and S. Augustine there read it) a village, near which lies another called Dalmanutha, so that either of them might fitly denominate the whole.

11. And the Pharisees came forth and began to question with him, [seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him.]

[Paraphrase] 11. requiring him to show them some miracle from heaven, by which they might know him to be a Prophet, but this they did not out of sincerity of heart, to believe in him upon any such miracle (of which they had store already) but only to ensnare him.

12. And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? Verily I say unto you, There shall no sign be given unto this generation.]

[Paraphrase] 12. Hereupon saith Christ in a great sadness, This is an infidel perverse sort of people, miracles would be but cast away upon these, and therefore they shall not be afforded them upon asking, only that great miracle of my rising from death, typified by that which befell Jonas, Mat. 16. 4. that shall be afforded them.

13. And he left them, and entering into the ship again, departed to the other side.

14. Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more then one loaf.

15. And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of [Herod.]

[Paraphrase] 15. See note on Mat. 16. a.

16. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, [ It is because we have no bread.]

[Paraphrase] 16. This he saith to reproach us for our negligence in providing and bringing victuals with us.

17. And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, [Why reason ye because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet, neither understand? Have ye your heart yet hardened?

18. Having eyes, see ye not? and having ears, hear ye not? and do ye not remember?

[Paraphrase] 17, 18. Why should you think that my speech should relate to your having no bread? as if I were not able to supply that want, will you never understand nor consider what is done before you? will you always be thus senseless, thus unimprovable, that nothing can enter into you, making no use of eyes, or ears, or memory, after all this?

19. When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say unto him, Twelve.

20. And when the seven among four thousand, how many [baskets] full of fragments took ye up? And they said, Seven.

[Paraphrase] 20. See note on Mat. 16. b.

21. And he said unto them, [ How is it, that ye do not understand?]

[Paraphrase] 21. How stupidly inconsiderate are you?

22. And he cometh to Bethsaida, and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch him.

23. And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the town, and when he had spit on his eyes and put his hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought.

24. And he [note a] looked up, and said, [ I see men as trees walking.]

[Paraphrase] 24. I see men, but cannot distinguish them from trees, but that they walk.

25. After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and [made him look up,] and he was restored and saw every man clearly.

[Paraphrase] 25. wrought the cure perfectly upon him,

26. And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neithr go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.

27. And Jesus went out and his disciples into the towns of [Cesarea Philippi] and by the way he asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am?

[Paraphrase] 27. Mat. 16. not • . c.

28. And they answered, John the Baptist, but some say Elias, and others, One of the prophets.

29. And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art [the Christ.]

[Paraphrase] 29. The long expected Messias of the world.

30. And he charged them that they should [tell no man of him.]

[Paraphrase] 30. not proclaim him as yet to any that he was the Christ, See Mat. 16. 20.

31. And he began to teach them, that [the son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, of the chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.]

[Paraphrase] 31. the prophecies of the Messias could not be fulfilled, unless he suffer, and be rejected, and at last put to death by the great Consistory or Sanhedrim of Jerusalem, (see note on c. 5. c.) and rise again the third day.

32. And he spake that saying [openly.] And Peter took him, and began to re buke him.

[Paraphrase] 32. in the heaving of the people (see note on Joh. 7. a.) or without any figure or parable to involve it, which formerly he had often used, Joh. 2. 19. and 3. 14. Mat. 16. 4.

33. But when he had turned about, and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, [saying, Get thee behind me Satan: for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.]

[Paraphrase] 33. telling him, that his proposal was contrary to the will of God, the prophecies, the end of his coming, the salvation of men, and such only as was fit for the adversary of all these to propose to him.

34. And when he had called the people unto him, with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever [will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.]

[Paraphrase] 34. will undertake to be my disciple, must resolve not to care what becomes of his own secular advantages, or of even life itself, but prepare himself for the same death, that I shall die before him, and to follow me as a disciple both in life and death.

35. For whosever will save his life, shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the Gospels, the same shall save it.

36. For what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?]

[Paraphrase] 35, 36. And let me tell him that the great care of preserving himself, if it make him to deny or forsake me, in the pursuit of it, shall not be a probable course of standing him in any stead in this world, it shall be the very means to destroy many, who, if they continued firm to their profession, might probably escape (see Mat. 16. 25.) and however the advantages to the constant, and losses to the cowardly, in another life, are infinitely above all other considerations.

37. Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?]

[Paraphrase] 37. The losing of life here, if it happen by an unchristian desire to save it, or however everlasting death, is so great a loss, that nothing else is worth having, which is so purchased.

38. Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with his holy Angels.

[Paraphrase] 38. See note on Mat. 16. m. n.

CHAP. IX.

1. AND he said, Verily I say unto you, [There be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.]

[Paraphrase] 1. In this generation Mat. 24. 34. before the death of some that are here, particularly of John, Joh. 21. 22. shall be that famous coming of Christ as a king for that act of revenge upon his crucifiers, and destroying the Jewish state, See note on Mat. 3. c. and on Mat. 17. a. and 24. b.

2. And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter and James and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves, and he was [transfigured] before them.

[Paraphrase] 2. changed into another form or manner of appearance.

3. And his raiment became shining exceeding wite as snow, so as no [note a] fuller on earth can white them.

4. And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus.

5. And Peter [answered and said unto Jesus Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us make three tabernacles, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.

6. For he wist not what to say, for they were sore afraid.]

[Paraphrase] 5, 6. said to Jesus, Lord, what a blessing is this to us to be made partakers of this dignity? let us abide here always. And not knowing what to speak, being together with his transportation of joy, in a great fright also (as the rest of them were, so that they fell on their faces, Mat. 17. 6.) he spake he knew not what, saying, We will make three tents or tabernacles, one for thee and us, &c.

7. And there was a cloud that overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, [This is my beloved son, hear him.]

[Paraphrase] 7. This is he whom I have appointed to reveal my whole will unto you, whatsoever he tells you is perfectly my will and pleasure, and he himself the only eternal Son of God, whom therefore you and all the world are obliged to hearken to and obey.

8. And suddenly when they had looked round about, [they saw no man any more] save Jesus only and themselves.

[Paraphrase] 8. Elias and Moses were vanished out of sight, and none left.

9. And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen, till the son of man were risen from the dead.

10. And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning one with another, what the rising of the dead should mean.

11. And they asked him saying, [ Why say the Scribes that Elias must first come?

[Paraphrase] 11. And upon occasion of what they saw, and heard in the Mount, (see note on Mat. 17. a.) they asked Christ, saying, Is it not resolved by all that are skilled in the prophecies of scripture, that Elias must come, before that great day, that Moses and Elias talked of with thee?