A Paraphrase on the New Testament

CHAP. VIII.

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

2. Christ's compassion is our great consolation and ground of trust.

4. And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread herein 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. 7. And they had a few small fishes, and he blessed, and commanded to set them also before them. 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.

N. Its like their loaves then were but like our cakes, by the custom of breaking them.

10. And straightway he entered into a ship with his disciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutha. 11. And the Pharisees came forth and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him.

10, 11. They would try whether he were the Son of God, by a sign from heaven of their own choosing.

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

12. He deeply groaned in grief for their obdurateness, and said, Have not this kind of men had signs enough to convince them? Must they further choose what Miracles they shall have? Verily no such desire of these perverse men, shall be satisfied (the miracle of my resurrection they shall have.

13. And he left them, and entering into the ship again, departed unto the other side. 14. Now the Disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf. 15. And he charged them saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.

15. The dangerous enemies of the Gospel are the Ceremonious Pharisees, and the King Herod a jealous Roman Governor. Take special heed that the Pharisees seduce you not by their deceits, nor the King and his Officers affright you not from the Faith by his cruelty.

16. And they reasoned among themselves saying, It is because we have no bread. 17. And when Jesus knew it, he saith to 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? 19. When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments took ye up? and they said, Twelve. 20. And when the seven among four thousand, how many baskets of fraqments took ye up? and they said, Seven. 21. And he said to them, How is it that ye do not understand.

18. N. It is a great sin to have a power of understanding and considering, and not to use it. 2. And a great sin quickly to forget Miracles, or marvelous providences, and to fall into new distrustful reasonings in our next wants.

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 looked up and said, I see men as trees, walking▪

24. &c. I discern not Men from Trees by their shape, but suppose them men, because they walk.

25. After that he put his hands again on his eyes, and made him look up; and he was restored, and saw every man clearly. 26. And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any man in the town.

25, 26. To avoid ostentation and envy.

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

27. Not but that he knew: but his question was to occasion their confession.

28. And they answered, John the Baptist: but some say Elias, and others, One of the Prophets. 29. And he said to them, But whom say ye that I am? and Peter answered and saith to him, Thou art the Christ. 30. And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.

29. Men were to discern who he was by his works: and he would not have it commonly proclaimed, till his Resurection and Spirit had completed those works and evidences by which it was to be proved.

31. And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and of the chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32. And he spake that saying openly: and Peter took him, and began to rebuke him. 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.

N. 1. Christ made them know that he designed not a Worldly Kingdom, when he tells them of his de • t • and resurrection. 2. Peter in his fleshly wisdom thought Christ was not so wise as he. No wonder if Novices now think themselves wiser than their wisest teachers: and specially if such are censured as imprudent for not avoiding suffering. 3. Even a Peter by such carnal wisdom may so far serve Satan as to deserve so sharp a rebuke as to be called a Satan. 4. Savouring the things of men and flesh more than of God, is the great sin that we are all in danger of, and deserveth sharp rebuke.

34. And when he had called the people unto him, with his disciples also, he said to them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me. 35. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospels, the same shall save it.

34. This case of Peter occasioned Christ to call off all his Disciples from worldly expectations, and to tell them what they must trust to; and that they are no Disciples for him if they cannot trust him with their lives; and if they believe not that they shall gain more by him than their lives are worth: N. To deny a man's self is to forsake his life rather than forsake Christ. As to deny Christ was to forsake him to save life or anything else. He that will save his life by denying Christ, shall lose it and his salvation: And he that denieth his life for Christ and the hope of Salvation shall save it forever.

36. For what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37. Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?

36. How poor a price is all the profit and pleasure of this life, to hire a man by sin to lose his salvation, or what can make up that man's loss? N. And will pride, revenge, gluttony, drunkenness, or fornication, then make him a saver that loseth his soul by them? or will preferment, Lordship, and pomp, and power recompense him.

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 and the holy angels.

38. If men be so far ashamed of a crucified, a scorned, a persecuted Christ, as to deny him to escape shame or suffering, a glorified Christ in Judgment before Angels and Men will disown them, and say, I know you not. It is not a Popedom, or a Cardinalship, nor a Lordship that nominal Christians are ashamed of, but it is poor persecuted Christianity.

CHAP. IX.

1. ANd he said, Verily I say to you, there be some of them that stand here, who shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.

1. Till they see a glimpse of that glorious or powerful appearance of the King of the Church in which he shall come at the last.

2. And after six days Jesus took with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves, and he was transfigured before them. 3. And his raiment became shining exceeding white as snow, so as no fuller on earth can white them.

4. And there appeared to them Elias with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5. And Peter answered and said to 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.

2. This was the performance of the fore-going Promise.

See on Matt. 17.

Note, For Glorified Saints from Heaven to wait on Christ in his own splendor, was a glimpse resembling his Last Coming. 2. If the sight of Christ, Moses, and Elias, in glorious Splendor made the Three Apostles, through the strangeness of it, sore afraid ; no wonder, if even the thought of what we shall see after Death, possess us with dread, though it be our hope, and joy.

7. And there was a cloud that overshaddowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.

7. Hear, and obey him, as the chief Messenger of my will, of whom I give you this Testimony from Heaven.

8. And suddenly when they had looked round about; they saw no man anymore, save Jesus only with themselves. 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 from the dead should mean.

10. &c. Though he had oft told them of his Resurrection, they understood him not.

11. And they asked him, saying, Why say the Scribes, that Elias must first come? 12. And he answered, and told them, Elias verily cometh first, and restoreth all things, and how it is written of the Son of man, that he must suffer many things, and be set at naught. 13. But I say unto you, that Elias is indeed come, and they have done unto him whatsoever they listed, as it is written of him.

11. &c. John the Baptist was Elias ; (not the Soul of Elias reincorporate, but he that was meant in Malachi :) And they have used him, as they will do me; as Elias was Persecuted by Ahab.

14. And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the Scribes questioning with them. 15. And straightway all the people when they beheld him, were greatly amazed, and running to him, saluted him. 16. And he asked the Scribes, What question ye with them? 17. And one of the multitude answered, and said, Master, I have brought unto thee my son, which hath a dumb spirit: 18. And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him; and he fometh, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away: and I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out, and they could not.

14. &c. See on Matt. 17.14. N. The Disciples yet had not the full Power that they had after Christ's Resurrection.

19. He answered him and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you, how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me.

19. The want of Faith in you, did more to your frustration, than the want of Power in my Disciples.

20. And they brought him to him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him, and he fell to the ground, and wallowed foaming.

20. Here is the perfect description of an Epi • epsie: And the folly of Atheists tells them, That Natural Diseases are not to be imputed to Devils: That is, Because an Axe, or a Halter Kills a man; therefore the Law, the Judges, or the Executioner are no causes of it.

21. And he asked his Father, How long is it ago, since this came to him? And he said, Of a child. 22. And oft times it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters to destroy him: But if thou canst do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.

21. N. It appeareth this man's Faith was weak, in saying, [If thou canst do anything,] Yet he had some hope.

23. Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

23. If thy Faith make thee a capable receiver, thou shalt find that I want not Power.

24. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe, help thou mine unbelief.

24. He was afraid of losing the Cure of his Child for want of Faith, and yet his Faith was weak, and wavering, and therefore he said, If I had no belief in thee, I had not come to thee, but I am weak and timorous, and therefore pray thee to strengthen my Faith, and make up in thy mercy what is wanting in my Belief. This is alas the Case of most Christians.

25. When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the soul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee come out of him, and enter no more into him. 26. And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him, and he was as one dead, insomuch that many said, He is dead.

25.26. N. Christ's cures seem sometimes to the Flesh to put men into a worse condition than they were before.

27. But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up, and he arose. 28. And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? 29. And he said unto them. This kind can come forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting.

27. &c. N. 1. Even Miraculous Cures may require the use of means, and the same means may serve for one, that will not for another. 2. A double qualification may be necessary, one in the Minister, and another in the Patient.

30. And they departed thence, and passed through Galilee, and he would not that any man should know it. 31. For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him, and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day. 32. But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him.

30, &c. N. Christ saw it necessary often to foretell his Sufferings, and Resurrection; which is a great argument for our Faith.

33. And he came to Capernaum, and being in the house, he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace; for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. 35. And he sat down and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.

33.34. &c. N. They were ashamed to own their Ambition.

The Pre-eminence among my Ministers consisteth in being the most Humble, and the most Serviceable.

36. And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, 37. Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.

36, 37. Humble and harmless Christians are so dear to me, that he that in Love and Mercy receiveth and showeth Kindness to one of these, I will take it, as if he did it to my Self; and my Father will take that which is done, in Love and Obedience to me, to be done as to himself. If you will be great in my Kingdom, and dear to me, be Humble, and harmless.

38. And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us, and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.

38. N. Had John been now as full of Love, as he was afterwards, he would not have forbad this man to do good.

39. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. 40. For he that is not against us, is on our part.

39. N. Men that Preach in Christ's Name, therefore are not to be silenced, though faulty; if they do more good than harm. Dreadful then is the Case of them that Silence Christ's faithful Ministers.

40. In point of Service to the Church, He that is not against it, is someway for it: as Soldiers say of Countrymen that are not against them: But as to their own Salvation, He that is not for Christ above all the World, is against him, and no sincere Christian; As Captains say of their listed Soldiers: Fight, or be Cashiered.

41. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink, in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.

41. He that doth the least good to a Christian, from a true Love to Christ, would do more, were it in his Power: And he that doth good but from common Principles, though he be not Saved, shall have some Reward, and shall be no loser, but a gainer, by all the good that he doth.

42. And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him, that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.

42, N. O then, what will become of Tempters, Persecutors, and malignant Enemies. By [ offending ] is meant, [ hindering ] from Faith and a holy Life. And by [ better ] is meant, [ Its a smaller hurt. ]

43. And if thy hand offend thee, cut it of • : it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, then having two hands, to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: 44. Where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. 45. And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter halt into life, then having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched. 46. Where the worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. 47. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out: it is better for thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire. 48. Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.

43. &c. So great is the difference between the welfare of this Flesh and the Life to come, that you cannot get Heaven, and escape Hell fire at too dear a rate: If a Hand, or Foot, or Eye, were so strong a hindrance as that you had no other way to avoid Sin and Hell, it is a far less evil to lose such a Member, than to lie in Hell. N. The meaning is not, that any man is in such a Case, that he hath no better way to avoid sin, and Hell: But if he had no better, he should choose this: Nor doth it mean, that maimed Persons are maimed in Heaven: but if it were so, it were a less evil.

49. For everyone shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt. 50. Salt is good: but if the salt hath lost its saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.

49. And be sure, that the fire of Affliction shall be as Salt to you all, that now are thinking of Pre-eminence: and those of you that are sound, it shall make fitter to be pure Sacrifices to God. 50. And you that are Preachers, and Professors of Christianity, being thus salted, yourselves must be the salt of the Earth, to season others, by holy Doctrine and Practice. But if you should lose sound Doctrine, and Christianity, what then shall season you? Keep up sound Truth (that seasoneth, though it cause some smart) in yourselves, and instead of seeking Superiority, live in peace, and gentle Meekness with one another.

CHAP. X.

1. AND he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort to him again; and as he was wont, he taught them again. 2. And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him. 3. And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you? 4. And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away.

1. N. These Hypocrites seemed by putting cases of Conscience▪ to be afraid of Sinning.

5. And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart, he wrote you this precept. 6. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. 7. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife. 8. And they twain shall be on • • lesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. 9. What therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder.

5. This Law was good in itself, because it was fitted to your condition: But it was the badness, and hardness of your Hearts that made such a Tolleration needful to you to keep you from worse; so it was not a full approbation of the thing: For the perfect Law of Innocency so united Man and Wife, that no man should Separate them, for his own pleasure, without God's license.

10. And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same matter. 11. And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another; committeth adultery against her. 12. And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.

10. &c. N. Though Mark mention not the exception of the case of Adultery, mentioned by other Evangelists, it is implied.

2. Quest. Doth Adultery dissolve Marriage? Ans. It giveth cause of a dissolution, by divorce, or desertion: But in some cases, it is Lawful for the injured Person to forgive the wrong; and continue in the relation, without being Marryed over again.

3. Quest. May the Woman put away her Husband for Adultery? Answ. They that deny it, because only the Man hath Governing Power, say nothing: For the man doth it not as a Governor, but as an injured Contractor, seeketh it as Justice from the Magistrate; or righteth himself, if permitted by the Magistrate; or if unjustly forbidden. And the Woman may be an injured Contractor, as well as the Man, and may seek to the Magistrate for a Divorce; and in some cases, if denied by the Magistrate, may right herself by Desertion. But whether that Desertion shall be called, A putting away, is but a controversy about the Name, and not the Thing. In what cases it is Lawful to Marry again is a different Controversy.

13. And they brought young children to him that he should touch them, and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. 14. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said to them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of God.

13, 14. N. Tho they brought them not to be baptized (Christian Baptism being not fully instituted till after Christ's Resurrection) yet they are offered to Christ for his acceptance and benediction. 2. He gave them such acceptance and blessing, and declared them to be such as the Kingdom (or Church) of God consisteth of: He could not mean only [of adult persons that are like these Infants in the Kingdom of God:] else he might have taken up a Lamb or a Dove, and blessed them and said [of such harmless creatures is the Kingdom of

God.] But he must mean [ of them and such as them, ] or of such both in age, and also in humble teachable receptivity] is the kingdom of God: else it would be no reason to bless them. Which can be nothing lower than acceptance as Visible-Infant-Church-Members.

2. He that in all ages from the beginning took Infants to be Infant-Members of his Church, and came not to destroy but to enlarge mercies to the faithful and their seed, and saith, They are holy ; and was much displeased with his erroneous Apostles for forbidding them to be brought for his benediction, sure will not be well pleased with those that now forbid them to be dedicated in the Baptismal Covenant to him. But yet if any man will say, I deny not the interest of the Infants of the Faithful in the Church and Covenant, but only think (that Baptism was appointed only for the solemn reception of the adult, and so will be Baptized at age, after (or without) Infant Baptism, merely to satisfy Conscience, and then live in Love and Peace with those of another mind, I should gladly live in Love and Peace with such.

15. Verily I say to you, Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein. 16. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them and blessed them.

N. 1. These words plainly intimate that he received them as capable of the Kingdom of God, that is the Church on Earth, and in Heaven. Christ doth not thus bless unbelievers and their seed, but those that 1 Cor. 7.14. are called Holy.

17. And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good master what shall I do that I may inherit everlasting life?

17. N. It hence appeareth that the Jews (except the Sadducees) then believed an everlasting life. 2. And that we should do whatever God would have us do to attain it.

18. And Jesus said to him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is God,

18. Good indeed in the prime sense is a high title, none being more proper to God himself, and none perfectly and primarily and essentially good but God: Its a greater matter to be good than thou deemest.

19. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honor thy father and mother.

19. N. Defraud not is the sense of the Tenth Commandment, that is, Love thy Neighbor as thyself, so as not to desire from him anything to his hurt. Qu. Why doth Christ mention none of the Commandments of the first Table? Answ. The man is supposed to confess God, and consequently his duty to him, and to mean in his question, What good works must I do towards others? Qu. 2. Why doth not Christ recite the Commandments in their true order? Answ. When the matter alone is intended, the order is not necessary. 2. The Evangelists recite not all Christ's words in the same order that he spake them, as is evident in the difference of their recitals. These very words are otherwise recited by Matth. 19.18, 19. [ Thou shalt do no Murder,] is first, and, Thou shalt love thy Neighbor as thyself, is last, and instead of [ Defraud not. ]

20. And he answered and said to him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.

20. N. He meant that he had not directly in the outward act broken any of these; not knowing how far the Law reacheth.

21. Then Jesus beholding him, loved him, and said to him, One thing thou lackest, go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross and follow me.

21. Jesus beheld him with kindness, approving in him what was good, and said, So far thou hast done well: But there is more than this necessary to obtain everlasting life, even to prefer it before all the wealth and pleasure of this world, and life itself; and to try thee herein; Go and sell all and give to the poor, and take heaven for thy treasure instead of all, and follow me in self-denial unto suffering. N. Not that all are bound to sell all; but all are bound so to prefer heaven, as will make them forsake all that stands against it.

22. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved; for he had great possessions.

22. Carnal men may be sorry that they cannot bring down God to their terms: Good and bad would be as well as they can both here and hereafter : But when they see they cannot have both Earth and Heaven, the Faithful choose heaven (though sensible of earthly sufferings) and the worldly choose the world; and most to keep off sorrow and despair, do force on themselves a hope that they shall have both, and that God will save them on their own terms.

23. And Jesus looked about and saith to his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God?

23. How hard is it to persuade rich men to love heaven better than earth, and to yield to the conditions of salvation.

24. And the disciples were astonished at his words: but Jesus answered again, and saith to them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God. 25. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

24. So bad is the heart of man, that it is exceeding hard to have riches and not to place men's trust in them, and such as do so cannot be true Christians and be saved.

N. To trust in riches is to take them for our best, and to take and expect more comfort from them than from Christ and Heaven.

26. And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? 27. And Jesus looking upon them, saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

27. N. Sure the inordinate desire to be rich must needs signify unbelief: Can men seek that which they believe maketh their salvation almost impossible? The same I say of murmuring poverty.

28. Then Peter began to say to him, Behold we have left all and followed thee; 29. And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say to you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake and the Gospels. 30. But he shall receive an hundred fold, now in this time, houses, and brethren, and Sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands with persecutions: and in the world to come, eternal life. 31. But many that are first, shall be last, and the last first.

29. &c. N. To forsake them for Christ is rather to displease them or part with them than with Christ and our Duty; when they stand in Competition, as comforts, or in opposition as adversaries; It is not to forsake them in Passion, or for want of due Love to them; nor to go into a Monastery, or as rebellious Prodigals, or on any unjust cause.

2. A hundred fold in this life, is in value: God will here do better for them, in things of greater worth. And all Christians shall be endeared to them in Love and Communion.

32. And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem: and Jesus went before them, and they were amazed, and as they followed, they were afraid: and he took again the twelve, and began to tell them what things should happen to him. 33. Saying, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and the son of man shall be delivered up to the chief priests, and to the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles. 34. And they shall mock him, and shall scourge him, and shall spit on him, and shall kill him, and the third day he shall rise again.

32. When they were before put in fear of going to Jerusalem, he told them again plainly what and how he must suffer, and rise again. N. Of all Prophecies this is the most confirming.

35. And James and John the sons of Zebedee come unto him saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatever we shall desire. 36. And he said to them, What would ye that I should do for you? 37. They said to him, Grant to us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand in thy glory.

35. &c. They came with their Mother: N. Tho this might show a strong belief of his Resurrection and Kingdom, if it were spoken as here placed, next his telling them of his Death and Resurrection: yet afterward this Faith seemeth to be almost forgotten. And they were far from perfect, while they were so selfish, ambitious and presumptuous in their request.

38. But Jesus said to them, Ye know not what ye ask: Can ye drink of the cup that I drink of, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?

38. It is meeter for you to consider whether you can suffer with and for me.

39. And they said, We can? And Jesus said to them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with. 40. But to sit on my right hand, and on my left hand, is not mine to give, but it shall be: given to them for whom it is prepared.

39. N. Their purpose was good, but not their self-confidence. 40. It is to be given by way of reward to the most excellent and meet, according to my Fathers Decree, and not by me now by way of partial favor, as Courtiers obtain of Princes.

41. And when the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased with James and John.

41. N. Christ own followers and Apostles had their great displeasures at each other, and indignation: no wonder then if such arise in the Church now. 2. It was then the aspiring Ambition of two that would have been above the rest, that caused this breach and indignation: No wonder if the same Cause, have the same Effects, and worse, when it is in worse Men, and in very many.

42. But Jesus called them to him, and saith▪ unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles, exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. 43. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your Minister. 44. And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.

42. &c. Jesus purposely thus decided the controversy: You are not called to an Empire, or Dominion; The Rulers of the Nations exercise Lordship and Command on them. But your Pre-eminence shall be Moral, and he that is the worthiest in Humility, and Serviceableness to the rest, and in that Light and Love that fits them for it, shall have the Chief Authority with you: For his Wisdom, and Service, Reason and Love, shall most prevail with Christians for respect in Church Affairs.

45. For even the son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to Minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

45. Why should you set up a higher Dominion over one another, than I have exercised over you? Have not I been more a Servant to you, in Teaching and Guiding you, than you have been to me, by any Service you have done me: Have not I stooped to you all, and will do even to Death.

46. And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples, and a great number of people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timeus, sat by the high-way side, begging. 47. And when he heard that it was J • sus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, and say, Jesus thou Son of David, have mercy on me. 48. And many charged him that he should hold his peace; but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David have mercy on me. 49. And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called: and they call the blind man, saying unto him, Be of good comfort, rise, he calleth thee. 50. And he casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus. 51. And Jesus answered and said to him, What wilt thou that I should do to thee? The blind man said unto him, Lord▪ that I might receive my sight. 52. And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way, thy faith hath made thee whole: and immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus in the way.

46. &c. See on Mat. 20.30. N. 1. It's great comfort to be called to Christ. 2. Christ maketh whole efficiently but Faith, by moral receptive qualification, of a free gift.

CHAP. XI.

1. AND when they came nigh to Jerusalem unto Bethphage, and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples. 2. And saith to them, Go your way into the Village over against you, and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat, loose him, and bring him. 3. And if any man say to you, Why do ye this? say ye that the Lord hath need of him, and straightway he will send him hither. 4. And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door without, in a place where two ways met: and they loose him. 5. And certain of them that stood there, said to them, What do ye loosing the colt. 6. And they said to them even as Jesus had commanded: and they let them go.

1. N. Christ knew things distant, and what men would say and do. Though man's Acts be free, God accomplisheth his will, by man's freest Acts. 2. It was an Ass with her Colt; though Mark name but the Colt.

7. And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him, and he sat upon • im. 8. And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches of the trees, and strawed them in the way. 9. And they that went before, and they that • ollowed, cried, saying, Hosanna, blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. 10. Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that cometh in the name of the Lord, Hosanna, in the highest.

7. We receive with all joyful Applause the Messiah • hat is come from God; Blessed be He, and blessed be his Kingdom; Let the Heavens applaud and bless it.

11. And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and • nto the temple; and when he had looked • ound about upon all things, and now the • ventide was come, he went out unto Betha • y with the twelve. 12. And on the morrow when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry. 13. And seeing a fig tree afar off, having leaves, he came, if haply he might find anything thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.

11. &c. N. Its not likely that Christ was ignorant, that Figs hit not that year, and that this Tree was fruitless: But by this Miracle he shown, The Destruction of Fruitless Jews and Hypocrites. 3. Its like he lay out of Door at Bethany, as he used to do by night in the Garden where he was taken, because he would not burden poor men's Houses with all his followers: Else sure he would not have come away hungry.

14. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter forever. And his disciples heard it.

14. Note, 1. This Phrase of answering to a fig-tree, must be expounded by the use of the word in those times, when to [answer] signified but [to say] 2. The Curse hurteth not the Tree, but to instruct Men.

15. And they come to Jerusalem, d • Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that sold doves. 16. And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.

15. N. He Showed that he had the authority of a King, though he would not set up a temporal Kingdom 16. Christ now seemed to be more ceremonious than the Pharisees: But he was made under the Law, and would not abrogate our little till all were fulfilled by him: He was to keep it to save men from it. 3. He yet teacheth us to Reverence the place of solemn worship for the worship sake.

17. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.

17. The Temple was dedicated for Holy worship for Jews and Proselytes of all Nations; but these use Merchandize here and rob men by deceit.

Quest. May places now be temples dedicated to Holy worship? Answ. No doubt of it, but that the reverence of God's name and worship, not only alloweth but requireth us when we can, to separate comely places, to Holy worship from common use; And why they may not be called Temples I know not.

18. And the Scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him, for they feared him, because all the people were astonished a • his do • trine.

18. Tho one would think Christ's zeal for the Temple should have pleased them that crved it up as their Glory, and accused Christ, and Stephen and Paul for dishonoring it, yet because C • rist did it as he did by the people's countenance, they feared the wrath of the Romans, lest they would take it for Sedition, and so they should suffer by it.

19. And when even was come, he went out of the city.

19. Lest they should surprise him in the Night, as they did at last.

20. And in the morning, as they pa • sed by, they saw the fig-tree dried up from the oot. 21. And Peter calling to rem • mbrance, saith unto him, Master, b • hold, the fig-tree which thou cursed • t is withered away. 22. And Jesus answering, saith unto them, Have faith in God. 23. For verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saith. 24. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.

23. No difficulty shall hinder you from obtaining what God hath promised, and is fit to be done, if you firmly trust his Love and promise.

25. And when ye stand praying, forgive if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.

25. And forgiving and Charity is necessary to success as well as Believing: Believing supposeth other requisites.

26. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive you your trespass.

26. Note, This showeth that the promise of granting believers Prayers, meaneth caeteris paribus, other requisites being answerable.

27. And they come again to Jerusalem, and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and the Scribes and the elders. 28. And say to him, By what authority dost thou these things, and who gave thee this authority to do these things.

27. Note, They judged truly that they were not to be done without authority: But knew not his authority from God.

29. And Jesus answered and said to them, I will also ask of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 30. The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? answer me.

30. Note, Had they confessed John to be of God, he would have produced his testimony: Had they denied it, they had gainsaid themselves and the people's voice: For the generality of them were baptized by John, in hope that their Messiah and his Kingdom, and their deliverance were at hand.

31. And they reasoned with themselves, saying, if we shall say, From heaven, he will say, Why then did ye not believe him? 32. But if we shall say, Of men, they feared the people: for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed. 33. And they answered and said unto Jesus, We cannot tell. And Jesus answering, saith unto them, Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.

31. N. It was well that they considered what might be said against them, which now most Christians do not in their disputes. 2. These Persecutors and the Romans had some Charity and consideration, in that they were restrained by the fear of the People, and did not accuse and fine them as for Routs, Ryots and Seditions 3. They that deny necessary premises are not to be disputed with.

CHAP. XII.

ANd he began to speak unto them by parables. A certain man planted a vineyard, and set an hedge about it, and digged a place for the wine-fat, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country. 2. And at the season he sent to the husbandmen a servant, that he might receive from the husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard. 3. And they caught him, and beat him, and sent him away empty. 4. And again he sent unto them another servant, and at him they cast stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully handled. 5. And again he sent another, and him they killed: and many others, beating some, and killing some.

1. See on Matth. 21. Note, Who did this: Answer, The only national Church on Earth. 2. Did they cease upon this warning of Christ. Ans. No but do worse. 3. Why did they do • t. Ans. Through folly and wickedness. 4. The things that have been are: This is no strange thing yet on Earth.

6. Having yet therefore one son, his well-beloved, he sent him also last unto them, saying, They will reverence my son. 7. But those husbandmen said amongst themselves, This is the heir, come let us kill him, and the inheritance shall be ours. 8. And they took him, and killed him and cast him out of the vineyard.

8. Note, No wonder that no innocence, or worth can preserve his Ministers from their rage, and from being cast out of the Vineyard.

9. What shall therefore the Lord of the vineyard do? he will come and destroy the husbandmen, and will give the vineyard unto others.

9. He will destroy these Jews, and call the Gentiles to become his Church.

10. And have ye not read this scripture? The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner. 11. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes.

10. Psal. 118. Isa. 28.16.

12. And they sought to lay hold on him, but feared the people, for they knew that he had spoken the parable against them: and they left him, and went their way.

12. N. That which is spoken against bad men enrageth them, be it never so true and necessary.

13. And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees, and of the Herodians, to catch him in his words. 14. And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art right, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth: Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?

13. They send those that thought Caesar an Usurper, or at least had no right to that sort of tribute, alienated from the Sanctuary, and the Herodians that wer • for Caesar's right. Note, They give Christ a flattering Character to ensnare him.

15. Shall we give, or shall we not give? 16. But he knowing their hypocrisy, said to them, Why tempt ye me? bring me a penny that I may see it. And they brought it, and he said to them, Whose is this Image and superscription? and they said to him Caesar's. 17. And Jesus answering said unto them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's: and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him.

15. See on Math. 21. Note, We are not bound to answer directly to all such insnaring questions, nor to satisfy the Tempters.

18. There came unto him the Sadducees who say there is no Resurrection, and asked him saying. 19. Master Moses wrote to us, If a man's Brother die and leave his wife behind and have no Children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed to his brother. 20. Now there were seven brethren, the first took a wife and dying left no seed. 21. And the second took her, and dying left no seed, and the third likewise. 22. And the seven had her and left no seed, Last of all the woman died also. 23. In the Resurrection therefore when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them: for the seven had her to wife.

23. Erroneous Men from one false supposition, infer many that are worse.

24. And Jesus answering said to them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the Scriptures neither the power of God. 25. For when they shall rise from the dead they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as the Angels of God which are in heaven.

24. Carnal Men think Carnally of things Heavenly: Spiritual Glorified bodies are like Angels, and as they die not, so they generate not anymore than they (nor eat and drink as here.)

26. And as touching the dead, that they rise: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? 27. He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living: ye therefore do greatly err.

See on Matth. 22.

28. And one of the Scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all. 29. And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. 30. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: there is none other commandment greater than these.

Note, Love is the most full and final act of the Soul. It is the total inclination, and adherence of the will to God as God, the infinite good, and to Man for his sake as far as his Conformity to God hath made him amiable. It fervently riseth towards God here by desire and seeking; and fully delighteth in him hereafter.

32. And the Scribe said unto him, Well Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God, and there is none other but he. 33. And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbor as himself, is more than all whole burnt-offerings and sacrifices. 34. And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.

34. Note, If the confession of these two great commands, was a matter to greatly esteemed both of Christ and by this Scribe, how greatly do they differ from Christ, who besides the profession of the whole Baptismal faith and Covenant, require abundance of unnecessary or uncertain things to Church Communion and concord, if not to Salvation.

35. And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, How say the Scribes that Christ is the son of David? 36. For David himself said by the holy Ghost, The Lord said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right-hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool. 37. David therefore himself calleth him Lord, and whence is he then his son?

37. He is the Lord in his Divine Nature, and his Son in his human Nature.

37. And the common people heard him gladly. 38. And he said to them in his doctrine, Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in the market-places. 39. And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts: 40. Who devour widows houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: these shall receive greater damnation.

37. Let not these proud Hypocrites deceive you, who by their long Liturgies, and Ceremonies, and claim of Superiority, do but cloak their Worldliness, Pride and Oppression, and are Religious to their greater Damnation.

41. And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. 42. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. 43. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast more in, then all they which have cast into the treasury. 44. For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.

41. It is no note of self-denying piety, to serve God so Liberally of that which the flesh can spare, and which costeth the flesh no denial of its desires, but to serve it with the first, and God with its leavings. 2. God accepteth a willing mind, where 〈◊〉 and power is wanting.

CHAP. XIII.

ANd as he went out of the Temple, one of his Disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones, and buildings are here. 2. And Jesus answering said unto him, seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. 3. And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, over against the Temple, Peter, and James, and Andrew asked him privately. 4. Tell us when all these things shall be, and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled.

See in Matth. 24. Note, Nature would foreknow even the evil to come.

5. And Jesus answering them, began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you. 6. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ, and shall deceive many.

6. Many shall pretend that they are sent to restore the Jewish Kingdom, and draw in people to their destruction.

7. And when ye shall hear of Wars, and and rumors of Wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be, but the end shall not be yet. 8. For nation shall rise against nation, and Kingdom against Kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines, and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.

8. Many commotions must go before the de •• ruction.

9. But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to counsels, and in the Synagogues ye shall be beaten; and ye shall be brought before Rulers and Kings for my sake for a testimony against them.

9. I allow you by lawful means to keep yourselves out of their hands; but I foretell you that their Councils will condemn you, and in their Synagogues they will scourge you like Malefactors, and cast you out, and you shall be brought before such as Herod, Agrippa, and the Roman Procurators, to answer for being Christians. That your testimony may evince against them, that they heard the Gospel, and did not obey it.

10. And the Gospel must first be published among all nations.

10. Before their destruction, the Gospel must be spread and published abroad, both to Jews and Gentiles.

11. But when they shall lead you and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatever shall be given you in that hour that speak ye, for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.

11. Tho you may be discouraged for want of matter, boldness or utterance, let not this trouble you; for I promise you the present help of my Spirit.

12. Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son, and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death. 13. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

12.13. Your kindred themselves shall be your enemies, and shall not spare your very lives: And the vulgar of all sorts shall be seduced to take you for the plagues of the World, and commonly mention you as a hateful sort of men: But bear all this patiently: Trust God, and hold out to the end, and you shall be saved from all this and more.

14. But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the Prophet standing where it ought not (let them that readeth understand) then let them who be in Judea flee to the mountains. 15. And let him that is on the house top not go down into the house, neither enter therein to take anything out of his house. 16. And let him that is in the field, not turn back again to take up his garment.

14. But when you shall see the Roman Ensigns set up against Jerusalem, like Antiochus 's desolating abomination, mentioned by Daniel, (expect not that I should speak more plainly to you, to enrage the Roman power), then speedily be gone, and shift for yourselves, and be glad, though you lose your goods, if you save your lives.

17. But woe to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days. 11. And pray ye that your slight be not in the winter. 19. For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation, which God created to this day, neither shall be.

17. It will be an increase of misery to all that are h • ndred in flight: For the affliction of those days will be unparalleled.

20. And except the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elects sake whom he hath chosen he hath shortened the days.

20. Those calamities shall not destroy all; but God hath some chosen ones whom he will preserve.

21. And then if any man say to you, Lo here is Christ, and lo he is there, believe him not. 22. For false Christ's, and false Prophets shall rise and shall show signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, the very elect. 23. But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.

21. The miserable Jews will follow divers that will pretend they are sent to be their Savior's: But I warn you, Trust none such.

24. But in those days, after that tribulation, the Sun shall be darkened, and the Moon shall not not give her light. 25. And the stars of Heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in Heaven shall be shaken. 26. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds, with great power and glory.

See Matth. 24.29, 30.

27. And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.

See Matth. 24.31.

28. Now learn a parable of the fig tree: when his branch is yet tender and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near. 29. So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh even at the doors. 30. Verily I say to you that this generation shall not pass till all these things be done. 31. Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

29.30. Expect the destruction of Jerusalem when ye see these signs: And doubt not of my Word: Some now alive shall live to see it. (It was not 40 years.)

32. But of that day and that hour knoweth no man no not the angels which are▪ in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

32. But these things not coming discernibly, as effects of natural causes, neither Angels, nor Christ as man can foretell just the day and hour, because they depend on the mere will of God.

33. Take you heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.

33. It is kept unknown to you, that you may watch and pray, and be still prepared.

34. For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. 35. Watch ye therefore (for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even or at midnight, or at the cock crowing, or in the morning.) 36. Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. 37. And what I say to you, I say to all, Watch.

34. So long shall Christ be out of sight that he will seem to men as one in a far Country: But see that you do the work he set you, and watch for his coming in a wakeful prepared state continually. This is my charge to you and to all.

Note, It occasioneth great perplexity to the Readers here and Matth. 24. that the destruction of Jerusalem, and the final coming of Christ, seem to be set so near together, as if the latter were to come soon after the former. V. 24. [ In those days ] or [ Immediately ]; which causeth them to expound the latter part allegorically, as meaning only the great commotions in Judea : Which seemetth a very hard exposition of Christ's coming with his Angels visibly in the Clouds, and gathering his Elect from the four ends of Heaven, &c. The apparition to Constantine, and the powerful deliverance of the Christians from Heathen rage is less harsh than this. But 1. things of greatest distance may be quickly set together in Writing; and the questions may occasion the Conjunction. 2. Christ spake for all Ages as well as for them. 3. A thousand years with the Lord is as one day. 4. And it is undeniable that the Writers gave us not just all the words that Christ spake. For 1. he spake in Chaldee, and they translate them into Greek 2. In this and other instances, their words oft differ among themselves. 3. They profess to omit much that Christ said. 4. They place his words oft in divers orders. Therefore we must not gather anything from a word, or from the omission of a clause, which contradicteth the scope of the Text, and the certain truth.

CHAP. XIIII.

1. AFter two days was the feast of the passover and of unleavened bread: and the Chief Priests and the Scribes sought how they might take him by craft and put him to death. 2. But they said, not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar of the people.

2. They feared the people's rescuing him.

3. And being in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an Alablaster box of ointment of spikenard, very precious, and she break the box and poured it on his head.

3. Note, This Simon, it is most like, having been cured by him of a Leprosy, shown his thankfulness in entertaining him. 2. Bethany like the Villages near London, contained a large circuit of ground, it being usual for Citizens so to set their Country-houses, and for such grounds to be so populous. 3. It was a Cruise of precious Spike Oil, shaken and poured out.

4. And there were some that had indignation among themselves and said, why was this wast of the oinment made. 5. For it might have been sold for more then three hundred pence and have been given to the poor: and they murmured against her.

4. Note, Whether it was any beside Judas is doubtful. Mans wit is apt to be censorious against good works; on pretence of some good which they more value. 2. Three hundred pence of theirs, is, as Budeus and Beza calculate, fifty two French Crowns and a half. A Crown is 6 s. 8 d. our Noble.

6. And Jesus said let her alone: Why trouble ye her; she hath wrought a good work on me. 7. For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good, but me ye have not always.

6. Note, That is not best at one time, that is best at another; but everything in its season.

8. She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying. 9. Verily I say to you, Wheresoever this Gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.

9. Note, The greatest honoring of Christ tendeth to our own greatest honor, (though despised at present by the profane.)

10. And Judas Iscariot one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests to betray him to them.

10. Note, The Devil draweth sinners to be the seekers of their own temptation, sin and misery.

11. And when they heard of it they were glad, and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently betray him.

11. Note, 1. The wicked are glad to be assisted in sin. 2. Money is the bait of wickedness and blood. 3. When the heart once consenteth to sin, men study how to accomplish it.

12. And the first day of unleavened bread, when they killed the passover his disciples said unto him, where wilt thou that we go and prepare, that thou mayest eat the passover. 13. And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man bearing a pitcher of water: follow him. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, where is the guest chamber; where I shall eat the passover with my disciples. 15. And he will show you a large upper room furnished and prepared: there make ready for us. 16. And his disciples went forth and came into the city, and found as he had said unto them, and they made ready the passover.

16. Note, Christ knew what was future and unseen, even voluntary acts.

17. And in the evening he cometh with the twelve. 18. And as they sat and did eat Jesus said, Verily, I say to you, one of you which eateth with me, shall betray me. 19. And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him, one by one, Is it I? And another said, is it I? 20. And he answered and said unto them; It is one of the twelve that dippeth with me in the dish.

19. Note, They feared themselves and his suspicion, and were troubled at the Prognostick. 2. Christ's giving Judas the Sop is here past by.

21. The Son of man indeed goeth as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed: good were it or that man if he had never been born.

21. Note 1. God's foreknowledge or decrees excuse n ••••• ans sin. 2. By [ Good ] is meant [ A less evil. ]

22. And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take eat: this is my body.

22. Note, Here it is called at once Bread and his Body: Bread Naturally, and His Body Sacramentally, that is, Representatively and Significantly, For [ It ] is the Relative, and [ Bread ] is the Antecedent: What did Christ Take? Bread : What did he Bless? I • : What did he Break? [It. ] What is [ It ] but that before-named? Bread. Yet by so doing he made it his Body ? How? As the King maketh a piece of Wax to become his Great Seal, by which he conveyeth Land, Liberty and Life. Or a piece of Silver to be Money.

23. And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them: and and they all drank of it. 24. And he said unto them, this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.

23. By the Cup is meant the Wine.

Note, It is strange that men who find that Christ throughout the Gospel still taught by Parables or Similitudes, (saying, This is such a thing, and That is such a thing ; as the Seed is the Word, the Field is the World, the Reapers are the Angels, &c.) should force themselves to believe that there is no similitude used here. The Lord deliver his Church from those who burn men that believe not that Bread is no Bread, but made Christ himself ; while themselves believe not that Christ himself is Christ indeed, but are Infidels.

25. Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God. 16. And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

25. See Matth. 24. It's more than probable that this Hymn was a form.

27. And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, for I will smite the shepherd and the sheep shall be scattered.

27. Your Faith shall stagger, and you shall forsake me, and fly in fear.

28. But after that I am risen: I will go before you into Galilee.

28. See Job. 21.1, 2, 3.

29. But Peter said unto him: Although all shall be offended, yet will not I. 30. And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, that this day, even in this night before the cock crow twice, thou shall deny me thrice.

30. Note, This is not contraay to other Evangelists that say [ Before the Cock crow. ] For 1. They mean before Cocks crowing time be past, or before the second Cocks crowing.] 2. The Writers spake the sense of Christ's words, and not always the precise words themselves.

31. But he spake the more vehemently, if I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.

31. Note, If the Apostles so little know themselves, what wonder if most Christians, know not how bad they are.

32. And they came to a place which was named Gethsemani, and he saith unto his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray.

33. And he taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and began to be sore amazed and to be very heavy. 34. And saith to them, my soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here and watch. 35. And he went forward a little and fell on the ground and prayed, that if it were possible the hour might pass from him. 36. And he said, Abba, Father, All things are possible to thee, take away this cup from me, not what I will, but what thou wilt.

34. Note, It is an error that Christ's God-head was instead of a human Soul: For his Soul was sorrowful and suffered, but so could not his Godhead. 2. His nature in the first instant had a sinless averseness to suffering as such, but his Reason and Will submit to it in the second instant, because it is according to God's Will, for greater benefit.

37. And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith to Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest thou not watch one hour. 38. Watch ye and pray lest ye enter into temptation? The Spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

37. Hast thou strength to die with me, who canst not watch one hour with me. Watching and Praying is the means to avoid temptation, and consequently sinning and suffering for sin. The Mind and Will, sanctified by God's Spirit is inclined to duty, but it hath not an absolute Despotical power over the fleshly weakness and backwardness, but a political only.

39. And again he went away and prayed, and said the same words. 40. And when he returned he found them asleep again, (for their eyes were heavy) neither wist they what to answer him. 41. And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is come, behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

40. They were ashamed: 41. Now I have no more use for your watching with me: Take your own course or rest: My apprehenders are at hand.

42. Rise up, let us go, lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand. 43. And immediately while he yet spake, cometh Judas one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the Scribes, and the elders. 44. And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he take him, and lead him away. 45. And as soon as he was come, he goeth straightway way unto him and saith Master, master, and kissed him.

44. Note, Thus Satan's servants that wear Christ's Livery, both Priests and Magistrates, betray Christ, by his own Titles, and by pretence of Love and Honor.

46. And they laid their hands on him and took him. 47. And one of them, that stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant of the high priests and cut off his ear.

47. Note, Had bu • one Peter done this rash unwarrantable act against Papists, when they are killing true Christians as Butchers do Sheep, they would publish to the World, that the whole party are seditious Rebles: yea, if any do but speak against their Murders. I mean they have done thus.

48. And Jesus answered and said to them, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and with staves, to take me. 49. I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not: but the scripture must be fulfilled.

49. The Scripture foretold all this usage.

50. And they all forsook him and fled. 51. And there followed him a certain young man, having a linen cloth cast about his naked body, and the young men laid hold on him. 52. And he left the linen cloth and fled from them naked.

50. All the Disciples locally forsook him to save themselves, though not so as totally to desert him with their heart. 51. Being in the night, some young man, either undrest, or raised out of bed, was come thither.

53. And they led Jesus away to the high priest, and with him were assembled all the chief priests, and the elders, and the Scribes.

53. They led Christ as Prisoner to those that sent them to take him; which was the Jews Church-representative, or Council.

54. And Peter followed him a far off, even into the place of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself by the fire. 55. And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus, to put him to dea • h. 56. Fo • many bare false w • tness against him, but their witness agreed not together.

55. They first resolve of his Death, and after search for some pretended cause: But their suborned witness spake not crime enough for Death.

57. And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying, 58. We heard him say, I will destrory this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands. 59. But neither so did their witness agree together.

58. Note, We have men seemingly wise now, that would say, Why did Christ speak so unadvisedly as to give occasion to such accusers? But what can be spoken so well, from whence such men will not take occasion of Calumny.

60. And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing? What is it which these witness against thee?

60. Note, The Arch-priest (who was relatively and by profession the holiest man of that Nation, and of the whole World) was the Arch-enemy and persecutor of Christ, and the greatest plague of his whole Country.

61. But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the son of the blessed. 62. And Jesus said I am: And ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

61. When the subtle Priest could prove nothing against him, he craftily puts a question to him (equal to an ex officio oath ) which he knew he would answer, that he might out of his own words accuse him.

63. Then the high priest rent his cloths and saith, what need we any further witness. 64. Ye have heard his blasphemy, what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death.

63. Note, He had been better have rent his heart for his wickedness: Here is Diabolism itself clothed with the highest pretence of holy zeal, by the holy Prelate, and his confederates? No wonder if the whole Convocation condemn Christ, when such an High Priest leads them.

65. And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to bu • fe • him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: And the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.

65. Note, This the Son of God endured for our sins: And doth it beseem us to be tender of suffering abuse.

66. And as Peter was beneath in the palace: there cometh one of the maids of the high-priest. 67. And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth. 68. But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch, and the cock crew.

66. Note, It is dangerous among persecutors to be a friend to Christ. 2. Wonderful that the first Cock did not waken Peters conscience, having been so warned. But what will we not do if God leave us to ourselves.

69. And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is one of them. 70. And he denied it again. And a little after, they that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them: for thou art a Galilean, and thy speech agreeth thereto. 71. But he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of whom ye speak. 72. And the second time the cock crew:

70. Note, No man is long safe in the mouth of great temptation, if extraordinary mercy save him not.

72. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon, he wept.

72. Note, Before the love of life, and fear of death, prevailed (in act) But now the Love of Christ beginneth to prevail again, and grieve, and shame him for his sin.

CHAP. XV.

1. ANd straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and Scribes, and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate.

1. To be put to death.

2. And Pilate asked him, Art thou the king of the Jews? And he answering said unto him, Thou sayest it.

2. I am.

3. And the chief priests accused him of many things; but he answered nothing. 4. And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they witness against thee. 5. But Jesus yet answered nothing, so that Pilate marvelled.

3. He would not strive against calumniators, nor against the death which he came to undergo.

6. Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired. 7. And there was one named Barabbas, who lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection. 8. And the multitude crying aloud, began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them. 9. But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the king of the Jews? 10. (For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy).

9. Note, He called him their King in scorn.

11. But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them. 12. And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the king of the Jews? 13. And they cried out again, Crucify him.

12. Note, The people are but the mouth of the Priests.

14. Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him. 15. And so Pilate willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them: and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.

4. Pilate to please the People, and they to please the Priests, all please the Devils, displease God, and undo themselves. And yet by all this God is saving the World.

16. And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Pretorium, and they call together the whole band. 17. And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head. 18. And began to salute him, Hail King of the Jews. 19. And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him, and bowing their knees, worshipped him. 20. And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him.

16. As the Priests are the chief contrivers of the Murder, the Soldiers are fittest for execution; such usually being hardened by blood and wickedness into a destroying inclination, the great executioners of the Devil for the ruin of the World. Alas, mad Sinners, little know you whom you scorn, and how your sport will end at last. Reader, see here what sin is. And what thou and I have deserved, that needed such a Sacrifice.

21. And they compelled one Simon a Cyrenian who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus. to bear his cross. 22. And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, the place of a skull. 23. And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh: but he received it not. 24. And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, wha • every man should take. 25. And it was the third • our, and they crucified him. 26. And the superscription of his accusation was written over, The King of the Jews.

See on Mat. 27.

24. See on Joh. 19.24.

26. Meaning that they put him to death, for proclaiming his Kingdom (though it was a spiritual one.)

27. And with him they crucified two thieves, the one on his right hand, and the other on his left. 28. And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, And he was numbered with the transgressors.

27. Note, Men imputed sin itself to him: God only reputed him a Sacrifice for our sins.

29. And they that passed by, railed on him, wagging their heads, and saying, Ah thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days. 30. Save thyself, and come down from the cross. 31. Likewise also the chief priests mocking, said among themselves with the Scribes, He saved others, himself he cannot save. 32. Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe: and they that were crucified with him, reviled him

29. Note, All this tells us what sin is? And when his servants follow him in sufferings, Priests, Soldiers and Rabble with insult with scorns.

33. And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land, until the ninth hour. 34. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani, which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

33. Note, Christ was forsaken so far as to be left to the power of Satan's Servants, and deprived of life, and to have the sense of God's Justice against Mans sin: And this to show that we deserved to be forsaken, and to keep us from being utterly forsaken. But God's Love and esteem of him was not abated, but his suffering was meritorious.

35. And some of them that stood by when they heard it said, Behold he calleth for Elias. 36. And one ran and filled a spunge full of vinegar and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone, let us see whether Elias will come to take take him down.

36. In scorn they still insult.

37. And Jesus cried with aloud voice, and gave up the Ghost.

37. Saying Father, into thy hand I commend my Spirit.

38. And the veil of the temple rent in twain, from the top to the bottom. 39. And when the Centurion who stood over against him saw, he so cried and gave up the Ghost, he said, Truly this man was the Son of God.

39. That he died not as other men in that case do.

40. There were also women looking afar off, among whom was Mary Magdalene and Mary the Mother of James the less, and of Joses and Salome. 41. Who also when he was in Galilee followed him and ministered unto him, and many other women who came up with him to Jerusalem.

42. And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the Sabbath.

40. Note, It is likely that it's James thats called the Brother of Christ, that is, he that is called James the less : for Joses and James, are called brethren, as here, so Math. 13.55. But whether Littleness of Statu • or Dignity be meant it is uncertain.

43. Joseph of Arimathea, an honorable Counceller, who also waited for the Kingdom of God, came and went in boldly unto Pilate, and cra • ed the body of Jesus. 44. And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead, and calling unto him the Centurion he asked him whether he had been any while dead. 45. And when he knew it of the Centurion, he gave the body to Joseph.

45. Note, He feared lest he should seem dead and be taken down alive, till inquiry resolved the doubt.

46. And he bought fine linen, and took him d ••• , a • d wrapped him in the linen, and 〈…〉 • ep • lchre which was hewn out of a • ock, a • d r • lled a stone unto the door 〈◊〉 the •• pulchre. 47. And Mary M • gd • len, and Mary the mother of Joses, beh •• d where h • was laid.

46. ••• e, Joseph shown great boldness and faith, in ow • ing Christ so openly when he was dead: and so ol • Ni •• demus who joined with him. 2. As Ahahs Court h • d one Obadiah, so even the Jewish Rulers had a Jos • ph and a Nico • emus? And there were Saints in Nero 's house. 3. Christ's being buried in fine Linnen maketh it not our duty; nor a sin to be buried in woollen; yea though it had been the greatest enemy of Christ that in opposition to him, had made the new Law which doth command it.

The Grave was also sealed and Watcht.

Christ's bur ••• hath in some sort Sanctified the Grave, to true believers. We ma • boldly there lay down these bodies, as still in his power and care that was buried for us

CHAP. XVI.

1. ANd when the sa • bath was past, Mary Magdalene, a • d Mary the Mother of • am • s, and Salome, had bought sweet spic • s • hat they might come and anoint him 2. And very early in the morning, the first day of the week, they came unto the s • pulchre at the rising of the sun. 3. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulcher? 4. (And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away) for it was very great.

4. The Angel had before done it and frighted away the Soldiers.

5. And entering into the sepulcher, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment, and they were affrighted. 6. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted, ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen, he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.

See on Job. 20. The reconciling of the seeming differences of the Evangelists, about the Apparitions.

7. But go your way, tell his di • ciples, and Peter, that he goeth before you into Galilee, there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

See Joh. 21.1, 2.

8. And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulcher, for they trembled and were amazed; neither said they anything to any man: for they were afraid▪

8. Fear made them silent.

9. Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.

9. The rest were near her.

10. And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.

10. She was the first messenger of Joy, to the morning weeping Disciples.

11. And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her believed not.

11. Note, Christ's Disciples found a great difficulty to believe his Resurrection: and he took them no • at the worst.

12. After that he appeared in another form to two of them, as they walked and went into the country. 13. And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them. 14. Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief, and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.

12. Mark doth but give us a brief touch of some of Christ's appearances, and leave much recorded by others. Note, unbelief and Hardness of heart, are radical sins in us, and of difficult cure. Note, Christ findeth so much of these in us, as to upbrail us with them, as our fault and shame; and directeth us what to blame and resist in ourselves.

15. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16. He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved, but he that believeth not, shall be damned.

15. To all men as far as ye are able. 16. He that upon your Preaching believeth the Gospel, and sincerely giveth up himself in the Baptismal Covenant to God the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost, by a practical and obedient Trust and dedication, shall be forgiven and be saved from sin, from the curse of the Law, from Satan, and from Hell; But those to whom you Preach who will not believe, and take me for their Savior, and God for their God, shall be condemned to Hell as refusers of Salvation.

17. And these signs shall follow them that believe; in my name shall they cast out devils, they shall speak with new tongues: 18. They shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them, they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

17. And because it cannot be expected that all people believe things so strange and unlikely to nature upon your bare affirmation, I will by sending down the Holy Ghost, attest your word by these miraculous signs: They that believe, and specially you my Apostles shall in my name cast out Devils from the Possessed, and make them obey me and confess me: You shall speak in various Languagues, which you • ever learnt. Poison shall not hurt you, either Serpents outwardly, or taken inwardly: And you shall pray and lay your hands on the sick in my name, and they shall recover, Note, 1. That not everyone shall have all these gifts, but someone and some another; not that you shall use them, when, and how you will, but as pleaseth the Holy Ghost that giveth them.

19. So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.

19. Note, His Ascension they beheld, and his Glorification they believed by the Spirits revelation.

20. And they went forth, and preached everywhere: the Lord working with them and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

20. And accordingly they began in Judah, and thence went abroad through the Gentile World, everywhere Preaching the Gospel of Christ (his Person, Life, Doctrine, Sufferings, Resurrection, Ascension, Kingdom, Judgment, Glory and Blessing to his Church) The Lord by his Grace making their teaching successful, and assisting, and confirming it by the promised Miracles.

CHAP. I.

1. FOrasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed amongst us, 2. Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eye-wit-nesses, and ministers of the word:

1. Divers having published the declaration or History in order, of those matters of Fact and Doctrine, which have been done and are fully believed among us Christians, 2. Even as those men did faithfully deliver them to us, who from the beginning were eye-witnesses of the works of Jesus, and Ministers who attended him, and have preached his word.

3. It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus,

3. I also thought good to write the like history in order to thee, most excellent Theophilus, both to confirm what is by others written, and to add especially of the beginning of the history, what in others is omitted; having myself, by very diligent search, got full notice of these matters from the very first, which others mention not.

4. That thou mightest know the certainty of those things wherein thou hast been instructed,

4. That I may contribute my endeavor, to increase thy knowledge, and confirm thy belief of those things concerning Jesus Christ, which thou hast already learned among us.

5. THere was in the days of Herod the King of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia, and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.

5. Note, The Families of the Priests officiated in their courses, and Abia's course was the 8th of old, 1 Chron. 24.10. After it was the 12th Nehem. 12.1. And after that the eleventh, Neh. 12.17.

6. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments, and ordinances of the Lord blameless.

6. They were both sincere godly persons, living in true obedience to all the Commandments and ordinances of God, according to the Law and light which they were under, without the blot of any gross or scandalous Sin.

7. And they had no child, because that Elizabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years. 8. And it came to pass, that while he executed the priests office before God in the order of his course, 9. According to the custom of the priests office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. 10. And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense.

7, 8, 9, 10. Note, The Priest went into the sanctuary to offer, and the people that while prayed without the Sanctuary, not without the Temple. In imitation of which our Temples usually are built in three parts, The Chancel for the Clergy, the body of the Church for the Laity, and all below the Font for the Catechumens, and suspended, who are no communicants; (as the outward Court was for Gentiles.)

11. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord, standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 13. But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias, for thy prayer is heard, and thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shall call his name John. 14. And thou shall have joy and gladness, and many shall rejoice at his birth:

11, 12, 13, 14. He was born to an austere life, and and to martyrdom, yet his birth was joyful, though to such a painful life and death, for the Churches service:

15. For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink, neither wine, nor strong drink, and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mothers womb.

15. Note, 1. The best men and most useful are greatest in God's sight. 2. Extraordinary denying the flesh agreeth well with the extraordinary gift of the Spirit. 3. Infants may have the Holy-Ghost, before it appeareth.

16. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn the Lord their God.

6. Note, To turn many by repentance to God, was the effect of the Holy-Ghost, and of Johns extraordinary worth and work.

17. And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready a people, prepared for the Lord.

17. He shall be possessed with such fullness of Spirit and Power to prepare the way for Christ, as Elias had, as is propheci'd in Mal. 4.6. Note, By [ turning the hearts of the Fathers to the Children ] some think is meant [turning the tyrannical oppression of Rulers, to fatherly love and lenity to inferiors] But Dr. H. more probably translateth it [ with the Children ;] That is, he shall turn Fathers and Children old and young. Others say it is but to turn men's minds to the Love of one another, and those that disobey God, to the true wisdom of just men who obey and trust him.

18. And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this, for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years. 19. And the angel answering, said unto him, I am Gabriel that stand in the presence of God, and am sent to speak unto thee, and to show thee these glad tidings. 20. And behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed; because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

18, 19, 20. I am one of the many Angels that stand before God, and am sent to tell thee this; And to reprove thy unbelief; And to convince thee, for a sign, thou shalt be dumb, &c.

21. And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the [temple.] 22. And when he came out, he could not speak unto them: and they perceived that he had seen [a vision] in the temple: for he beckned unto them, and remained speechless.

21, 22. Sanctuary. 22. Some Revelation.

23. And it came to pass, that as soon as the days of his ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.

23. That Ceremonious service might be done by a dumb man; but so cannot the Gospel Ministration.

24. And after those days, his wife Elizabeth conceived, and hid herself five months, saying, 25. Thus hath the Lord dealt with me, in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my reproach among men.

24, 25. She retired from Peoples observation and discourse, saying, the Lord hath shown me mercy in taking away my reproach.

26. And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God, unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27. To a virgin espoused to a man, whose name was Joseph, of the house of David, and the the virgins name was Mary.

26, 27. Not married but betrothed.

28. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favored, the Lord is with thee: Blessed art thou among women.

28. Rejoice, for thou art highly favored of the Lord, who maketh thee blessed above all women.

29. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 30. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found favor with God. 31. And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus, 32. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest, and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David.

29, 30, 31, 32. She understood it not. That Glorious Kingdom meant in the promise to David's seed, of which his Kingdom was but a type.

33. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there shall be no end:

33. His Kingdom over the Faithful Israel of God, begun in grace, shall be Everlasting in Glory.

34. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? 35. And the angel answered and said unto her, The holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee. Therefore also that holy thing, which shall be born of thee, shall be called the Son of God.

34, 35. This shall be done without Man by the Holy Ghost, and the overshaddowing power of God, and therefore he shall be properly called; the Son of God.

N. 1. Though this give us the most known reason, why Christ is called the Son of God in Scripture, it is not said to be the only reason, excluding his eternal Generation. 2. Yet Christ oft calleth himself, the Son of Man, which signifieth no more, but that he was truly a Man, and born of a woman.

36. And behold thy cousin Elizabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37. For with God nothing shall be unpossible.

36, 37. Note, 1. Though Elizabeth was of the Tribe of Aaron, and Mary of the Tribe of Judah, they were a kin by Elizabeth's Mother marrying a Levite.

2. Nothing should seem difficult to faith, when it is known to be God's will and word.

38. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it unto me according to thy word:

38. Amen. Let thy word come to pass: (They are the expression of Mary's faith and hope.)

38. And the angel departed from her. 39. And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with hast, into a city of Judea. 40. And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elizabeth.

38, 39, 40. The Angels words made her go see how it was with Elizabeth.

41. And it came to pass, that when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the holy Ghost. 42. And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. 43. And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44. For lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. 45. And blessed is she that believed, for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

41, 42, 43, 44, 45. The Holy-Ghost filled her to speak out these word prophetically, &c.

46. And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 47. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. 48. For he hath regarded the low estate of his hand-maiden: for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

46, 47, 48. Mary also filled with the Spirit, speaks these words of praise to God; My Soul, &c. 48. He hath raised me highest who was one of the lowest.

49. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things and holy is his name. 50. And his mercy is on them that fear him, from generation to generation.

49, 50. Mercy to all that fear God and their posterity, is the great name or notification of the most Holy God to man.

51. He hath shown strength with his arm, he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. 53. He hath filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he hath sent empty away;

51, 52, 33. He hath shown that it is he that is Almighty, by scattering the proud in their own vain imaginations; And by casting down the high and exalting the low; And by satisfying the needy, and bringing the prosperous to distress.

54. He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55. As he spake to our fathers, and to Abraham, and to his seed forever.

54, 55. The promises which he made to Abraham and his seed, he is now performing in their proper sense, for the saving of all the believing seed: The mercy which promised it, is now performing it.

56. And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

56. Note, It was many months between Mary's espousal to Joseph, and their marriage.

57. Now Elizabeth's full time came, that she should be delivered, and she brought forth a son. 58. And her neighbors and her cousins heard how the Lord had shown great mercy upon her, and they rejoiced with her.

57, 58. In giving a son to one so old.

59. And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father. 60. And his mother answered and said, Not so, but he shall be called John. 61. And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. 62. And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. 63. And he [asked] for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John: and they marvelled all.

59, 60, 61, 62. Note, They would have the name, keep the memorial of Ancestors. 63. By signs.

64. And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God. 65. And fear came on all that dwelt round about them, and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill-country of Judea. 66. And all they that had heard them, laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of Child shall this be? And the hand of the Lord was with him.

64, 65, 66. It raised in all the Country great expectations, what this Child would prove: And God did extraordinarily bless him.

67. And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, 68. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he hath visited and redeemed his people, 69. And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David. 70. As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: 71. That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us.

67, 68, 69, 70, 71. Spake by inspiration. Note, Christ was prophesied of from the beginning of the World, after Adams Fall: N. Tho God's Spirit in him understood just what manner of Savior Christ would be, and what sort of deliverance from enemies he would bring (by the destruction of the Jews and calling the Gentiles ) we know, not that Zacharias, Elizabeth and Mary understood this while they thus prophesied,

72. To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant, 73. The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, 74. That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered our of the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75. In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life.

72, 73, 74, 75. That the Messiah delivering us from all our enemies spiritual and corporal, we may serve him in safety, not terrified by them.

Note, Holiness and Righteousness are the sum of God's acceptable service.

Note, The chief benefit of deliverance from cruel enemies, is that we freely and peaceably serve God.

76. And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways, 77. To give knowledge of salvation unto his people, by the remission of their sins,

76, 77. Thou shalt be a Prophet of God, to go before Christ, to prepare men to receive him, by calling them to repentance, proclaiming that a Savior is come to save his people by pardoning their sins.

78. Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the day-spring from on high hath visited us, 79. To give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace,

78, 79. The tender mercy of God, having given us from Heaven, the sum of heavenly Light to visit us, 79. even to them that lived in the darkness of sin and misery, and to guide us into the way of life and happiness.

80. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts, till the day of his showing unto Israel.

80. And John, with his increase of age and strength, shown great strength of the Spirit of God in him, and he dwelt in the wilderness, (or, say some, in the hill Country of Judea, ) (bred up in a life of holiness, and mortification) till the time that he set upon his public ministry; of preaching the Kingdom of the Messiah and repentance, and baptizing.

CHAP. II.

1. ANd it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. 2. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria) 3. And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city.

1, 2, 3. Augustus decreed that all the Empire, called the Roman world, should be enrolled in their several Families and Cities: That he might know the state of his Empire, and how to tax them.

4. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, (because he was of the house and lineage of David,) 5. To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

4, 5. She was now married, though called espoused.

6. And so it was, that while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 7. And she brought forth her first-born Son, and wrapped him in swaddling cloths, and laid them in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

6, 7. Note, It should be rather [ in the stables ] than [ in the manger. ] Had Joseph been a rich man its like he would have found better room.

8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field; keeping watch over their flock by night.

8. Some one part of the night, and some another, by turns (as is most likely.)

9. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. 10. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.

11. For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. 12. And this shall be a sign unto you: ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying a [manger.]

9, 10. Glory is Light. Christ's birth is cause of universal joy. 12. stable.

13. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, 14. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will towards men.

13, 14. Note, Angels are the heavenly host. Note, God's praise and Glory is the end of all his works. Note, Angels rejoiced at Christ's birth, and for man's redemption.

14. In Christ the Redeemer God will be glorified in Heaven, Peace will be made on Earth, by this great Reconciler, and God's Love or Benevolence will be towards men.

Or [ Glory be to God in the Heavens through the Redeemer, and Reconciliation, or Peace, on Earth to men that are the objects of God's good will. ]

Q. Is it necessary or lawful to keep a day as holy in remembrance of Christ's birth? Ans. 1. If any should appoint a weekly day for it, it would be an usurping of the same power, (that hath already separated a weekly day for it, it would be an usurping of the same power) that hath already separateh a weekly, day for commemorating the work of Redemption, though specially for Christ's Resurrection: And it would seem an accusing Christ's Law of insufficiency. 2. And if any should make a yearly days observation necessary to the universal Church. 1. They would usurp a power, not given to any, (to make Laws for all the Church.) 2. And they would accuse Christ's Law as imperfect.

But if particular Christians, Churches, or Countries, voluntarily agree to celebrate yearly, the memorial of Christ's birth, it is but what almost all the Churches on earth do, and have done at least 1300 years; And i • •• lawful to keep a yearly day of remembrance for a • y 〈◊〉 deliverance or mercy to the Church, even in an Ap ••• le. But if any Christian think that it is an unlawful addition to the institution of the Lord's day, which Go • set a part for our commemorating the whole work of Redemption, such sh • uld not be forced to keep it against their Consciences; but must avoid affronting them that do.

15. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us, 16. And they came with hast and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger, 17. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. 18. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shephards. 19. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them,

15, 16, 17, 18. In a Stable. 19. Regarded them • as tending to what was promised her. 20. Angel are not first sent to Princes, but to poor Shephards, who must preach Christ.

21. And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called Jesus, who was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

21. Jesus is [a Savior.] He was circumcised, as bound to keep the Law of Moses, not as a seal of pardon of sin to him.

22. And when the days of her purification, according to the law of Moses, were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord.

22. To the Priest, as in Numb. 3.12.46.

23. (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb, shall be called holy to the Lord,) 24. And to offer a sacrifice, according to that which is said in the law of the Lord; A pair of turtle doves, or two young pidgeons.

23, 24. See Levite. 12.6.8.

25, And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the holy Ghost was upon him. 26. And it was revealed unto him by the holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord Christ.

25. Note ; The Messiah was much expected at that time.

Note ; It is Just and Devout men that God specially favoreth by ex • raordinary gifts of his Spirit.

27. And he came by the spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, 28. Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, 29. Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: 30. For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 31. Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people. 32. A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.

27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32. Praised God saying, now thou hast performed thy word, by letting me live to see Christ, let me die in Peace as soon as it pleaseth thee: For I have seen the Savior, whom thou hast appointed to be a light to the gentile World, to lead them into the way of Faith and Righteousness to thee, and to be the honor of the Jews, of whom he is born after the flesh; but the special glory of all that by Faith receive him.

33. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things that were spoken of him. 34. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel: and for a sign which shall be spoken against.

33, 34. He shall prove eventually, a stumbling block, on which many Israelites shall fall to their destruction, and the chief Corner Stone, on which Believers shall be built up to Salvation; and the talk and obloquy of Men.

35. (Yea, a sword shall pierce thorough thy own soul also) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

35. Yea thou also shall bear a deep part in sufferings by grief of heart, and Men, in these Trials, shall show what they are, even the different State of their secret Thoughts.

36. And there was one Anna a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser, she was of a great age, & had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity. 37. And she was a widow of about four-score and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers, night and day.

37, 36. She kept close to the Temple Worship, and was constant in the duties of Fasting, Mortification and Prayer.

Note. It is not proved that she deserted all outward calling or labor in the World, on pretence of Religion, while she was able for it: And if it be done but when age or sickness disableth one, it is lawful, and well.

Note. Some think Fasting unfit for age and weakness: But digestion being then weakest, and most dying by that suffocation of crudities, and not by mere defect of nutrimental matter, moderate Fasting may be fit for the aged, as well as for the young.

Note ; She was not of the sick mind of the profane nominal Christians, that cannot abide long Prayers, and Religious strictness.

38. And she coming in at that instant, gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.

38. She was inspired then to come in, and to Prophecy of Christ, and declare him to the People, that looked for the Messiah.

39. And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. 40. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the Grace of God was upon him.

39, 40. Q. What increase of Spiritual strength was Christ capable of, and what greater fullness of Wisdom and Grace! Ans. His Divine nature was capable of no increase: But the human was capable, 1. Of increase of bodily stature and strength. 2. Of seeing more objects, then he saw at first. 3. Of actual knowing them by that sight. 4. Of improving them to holy uses as known, which he did not in Infancy. 5. Of doing many good works, which he could not do in Infancy. 6. And of the increase of such habits, by all these acts as are acquired by them. As Adam when new Created had perfect faculties; but not perfect knowledge of all the Creatures before he saw them, nor the fullest improvement of them, nor the perfect habit of such use, as it is distinct from the faculties perfection.

41. Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. 42. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem, after the custom of the feast. 43. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem, and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. 44. But they supposing him to have been in the company, went a days journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolks and acquaintance.

41, 42, 43, 44. Note ; It may seem an unnatural neglect of a Child: But they had found him so manlike in all other matters, that they trusted him with himself.

45. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. 46. And it came to pass, that after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions.

45, 46. Note ; Christ himself disdained not to hear the Jewish Doctors, and to ask them Questions.

47. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. 48. And when they saw him, they were amazed; and his mother said unto him, Son, Why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.

47, 48. Note ; If Christ's Holy Mother blamed him, as dealing ill with his Parents, by mistake, for want of true knowledge of the inside of the case, what wonder if the best Person do, by the like ignorance of the case, by mistake, blame and censure one another, and misreport accordingly.

49. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Fathers business? 50. And they understood not the saying, which he spake unto them.

49, 50. Where should I be but in my Fathers House, about his work? your ignorance maketh you blame me.

51. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

51. Note ; Christ, who submitted in his Humanity, to a state of Infancy, (sanctifying that state, and showing, that as an Infant was yet in title, King and Head of the Church; so Infants may be Members of him, and it) did also in his Childhood subject himself to his supposed Father, and to his Mother, reverencing them, and obeying them, both as part of his meritorious Humiliation, and to sanctify a state of subjection, and become a Pattern thereof to us all: And it will greatly condemn proud, rebellious Children, and Youth, who will not obey the just government of Parents, (but their fleshly appetites and lusts,) wh •• the Son of God Incarnate, condescended to subjection.

Mary 's laying up all these sayings, was the working of her Faith and Hope, perceiving that God was going on to fulfil the Promises made to her.

52. And Jesus increased in wisdom, and stature, and in favor with God and man.

52. His Human Nature increased, as in stature, so in actual Human Knowledge, and its habits, knowing more than he knew in Infancy as Man: And God, that by way of approbation and complacence, loveth all things, so far as they are lovely, so approved and loved his Humanity more, as it grew more in act and habit toward perfection.

CHAP. III.

1. NOW in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea, and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene, 2. Annas and Cajaphas being the high-priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

1, 2. Note ; A Tetrarch is the Governor of the fourth part of a Province, or large Country. Whether Annas and Caipahas were both High Priests (by corruption▪) at once, or exercised it by turns; or being yearly chosen, one had it one part of the year, and the other succeeded him; or whether Annas is so called for his power with, or over the High Priest by affinity and interest, or whether Annas, though so called; had another sort of Government distinct from the Priesthood, Expositors are not agreed. But it's certain, that the High Priesthood was greatly corrupted, and usually bought of the Romans.

3. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins,

3. Preaching Pardon to all true Penitents, and telling them that public deliverance from their National Calamity was at hand to be offered them, if they would prepare for it by Repentance.

4. As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. 5. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth, 6. And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.

4, 5, 6. Prepare yourselves for the Kingdom of God, in which he will raise the humble and the oppressed, and take down the proud and the oppressors, and will bring in Justice and Reformation into an unrighteous, wicked World; and the Savior of the World shall appear, and his Salvation be proclaimed and wrought throughout the Earth.

7. Then said he to the multitude, that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8. Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.

7, 8. Do you think to scape the wrath that is coming on you, by an hypocritical Repentance, and the Ceremony of Baptism? Shew that you truly repent by your reformed lives, and presume not on your being Abraham 's Seed: For God, that can make Man of Stones, can of the Gentiles raise a Seed of Believers to Abraham.

9. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the tree: every tree therefore, which bringeth not forth good fruit, is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

9. God is • ntring into Judgment with you, and will • ut down wicked and fruitless Hypocrites for the fire.

10. And the people asked him; saying, what shall we do then? 11. He answereth and saith unto them, he that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none, and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.

10, 11. Love others as yourselves, and see them not suffer in want, while you have supply for them, and can spare it from your plenty: Prefer▪ their necessity before your fullness or superfluity.

12. Then came also Publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do? 13. And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.

12, 13. Excise, or Tax-gatherers.

14. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely, and be content with your wages.

14. Live not as Soldiers use to do, by violence to the poor people that cannot resist them, and by false accusing, and robbing, and plundering.

Note ; He meaneth not that it is enough to Salvation, to amend the crimes of their lives, without a renewed, holy heart; but that this also must be done.

15. And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ or not: 16. John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water, but one mightier then I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose; he shall baptize you with the holy Ghost, and with fire:

15, 16. See on Matth. 3. Note ; The great and peculiar work and notification of Christ, was his sending the Holy Ghost on his Disciples.

17. Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner, but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable. 18. And many other things in his exhortatation preached he unto the people.

17, 18. Who will winnow you thoroughly, and will gather and save all true Believers, and burn the Unbelievers in fire unquenchable.

Note ; Christ, that is a Savior, is the severe destroyer of his obstinate Enemies.

19. But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Phi • ips wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, 20. Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

19, 20. Note; John would not sorbear the faithful discharge of his office in reproving a wicked King to save his liberty or life. 2. To imprison and persecute his reprover, was wicked in Herod above all his former wickedness.

21. Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened. 22. And the holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape-like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son, in thee I am well pleased.

21, 22. Note, Baptism, with his own Prayer, were the means thus miraculously approved by God, in which he will bear witness to his Son from Heaven.

Note, The descent of the Holy-Ghost on Christ, with God's vocal Testimony, was a fit investiture of him in the office, of the Captain of our Salvation, who was to mark out his Soldiers with the same gift of the Holy-Ghost, and his adopting word.

23. And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli. 24. Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Ianna, which was the son of Joseph, 25. Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Eli, which was the son of Nagge, 26. Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Judah, 27. Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zerubbabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri, 28. Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er, 29. Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, 30. Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Judah, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim. 31. Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Mena, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David, 32. Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson, 33. Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Judah, 34. Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor, 35. Which was the son of Saruch which was the son Ragau, which was the son of Phaleg, which was the son of Heber, which was was the son of Sala, 36. Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noah, which was the son of Lamech, 37. Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Canan, 38. Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.

23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38. He entered on his public office about thirty: And now young novices run into the Ministry. Luke reciteth the pedigree of Joseph, and Matthew of Mary Q. Whence had Luke that part of the pedigree that is not written in the Scripture before? Ans. By other History and Tradition, with the help of God's Spirit.

The Genealogical controversies I pass by.

CHAP. IIII.

1. ANd Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost, returned from Jordan, and was led by the spirit into the wilderness, 2. Being forty days tempted of the devil, and in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterwards hungered. 3. And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. 4. And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. 5. And the devil taking him up into an high mountain, shown unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6. And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them; for that is delivered unto me, and to whomsoever I will, I give it. 7. If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine. 8. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind me, Satan: for it is written thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 8. See on Matth. 4. strongly inspired by the Holy-Ghost, was led by him, &c.

6. Though Satan lied in part, yet he hath great power over the Kingdoms and Glory of the World, partly as a Templer, and partly as God's executioner, but all under God's absolute will: The success showeth that too many receive them from him, that they may serve him by them, as enemies to the Church of Christ.

Note, Blasphemous temptations must be answered with rejecting hatred.

9. And he brought him to Jerusalem and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him. If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence. 10. For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee: 11. And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. 12. And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.

9, 10, 11, 12. Note, Satan useth to tempt by perverted Scripture, yet it is by right expounded Scripture, that he must be repelled.

Q. How did the writers know these secret things▪ Ans. Christ told them his Disciples (though that be not written.)

13. And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season.

13. Luke reciteth them not in the same order with Matthew, but the same things.

Note ; Christ's Victory over the Tempter was part of his saving work, and to prepare for our Victory.

14. And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee, and there went out a fame of him thorough all the region round about.

14. Note ; Though the Constitution of Christ's Person was by the Divine Nature of the second in the Trinity, yet the Scripture usually ascribeth his works to the operation of the Holy Ghost in him.

15. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all. 16. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath-day, and stood up for to read.

15, 16. Note ; Christ separated not from the Jews corrupt Church.

17. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah, and when he had opened the book, he found, the place where it was written, 18. The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor, he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, 19. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

17, 18, 19. Note ; He chose a Text that described his own Office, and applied it.

20. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down: and the eyes of all them that were in the synagogues were fastened on him. 21. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.

20, 21. Note, This Instance proveth it not necessary to sit in Preaching; but lawful, where custom or circumstances forbid it not.

22. And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?

22. They applauded his Preaching, but undervalued him for being known to be their Neighbors Son.

23. And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country.

23. As a Physician must first heal himself, so do thou do thy Miracles here among thy Kindred and Neighbors.

24. And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is accepted in his own country.

24. God can cause him to be accepted; but as he worketh ordinarily by means: familiarity breeds contempt.

25. But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land: 26. But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta, a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow. 27. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman the Syrian.

25, 26, 27. Prophets cure not all that are diseased: You shall not see Miracles, nor be saved, for being my Neighbors, if you be not Believers: And familiarity and prejudice maketh fewer of you believe, than of others.

28. And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath. 29. And rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill (whereon their city was built) that they might cast him down headlong:

28, 29. Note ; They that applauded his Preaching, when the Application grated on them would have killed him; even the Nazarite Neighbors that hated him not heretofore.

30. But he passing thorough the mids of them, went his way; 31. And came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the Sabbath-days. 32. And they were astonished at his doctrine; for his word was with power.

30, 31, 32. By Miracle unhurt.

33. And in the synagogue there was a man which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice; 34. 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.

33, 34. Christ's Power over Devils forced this confession.

35. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the mids, he came out of him, and hurt him not. 36. And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this? for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out; 37. And the same of him went out into every place of the country round about.

35, 36, 37 Christ specially cured the diseases, that the Devils caused, to show that he came to conquer Satan, and save men from his power.

38. And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house; and Simon's wives mother was taken with a great fever, and they besought him for her. 39. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever, and it left her. And immediately she arose, and ministered unto them.

38, 39. Note, We have still the same Physician.

40. Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases, brought them unto him: and he laid his hands on everyone of them, & healed them. 41. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them, suffered them not to speak; for they knew that he was Christ.

40, 41. Experience made them believe that he could heal them.

42. And when it was day, he departed, and went into a desert place▪ and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them. 43. And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also: for therefore am I sent.

42, 43. Note ; Preaching the Gospel was his great business▪ to the belief of which, his Miracles were but means subservient.

CHAP. V.

1. ANd it came to pass that as the people pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Genesareth. 2. And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 3. And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land: and he sat down and taught the people out of the ship.

1, 2, 3. That he might not be crowded.

4. Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Lanch out into the deep, and let down your netts for a draught. 5. And Simon answering, said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. 6. And when they had this done, they enclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their net brake. 7. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.

4, 5, 6, 7. Note ; The Sea, and Earth, and all therein are at Christ's command.

8. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus knees, saying, Depart from mo, for I am a sinful man, O Lord. 9. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of fishes which they had taken: 10. And so was also James and John the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not, from henceforth thou shalt catch men.

8, 9, 10. Note ; The miracle and danger made him afraid.

11. And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all and followed him.

11. Note ; It was not only by his bare Command [ Follow me, ] but by this Miracle that they were moved.

12. And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold, a man full of leprosy; who seeing Jesus, fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. 13. And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him. 14. And he charged him to tell no man: but go and show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

12, 13.14. Note ; A Miracle that the Priests themselves were to have notice of. See Matth. 8.

15. But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities. 16. And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed. 17. And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. 18. And behold, men brought in a bed a man which was taken with a palsy; and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him. 19. And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in, because of the multitude, they went upon the house-top, and let him down through the tiling with his couch, into the midst before Jesus.

15, 16, 17, 18, 19. Note ; O that we were all as diligent and believing for the healing of our Souls!

20. And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. 21. And the scribes and the pharisees began to reason, saying, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins, but God alone? 22. But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts? 23. Whether is easier to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee, or to say, Rise up and walk?

20, 21, 22, 23. To forgive the punishment, is to forgive the sin; which you shall see I have power to do.

24. But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy) I say unto thee, Arise and take up thy couch, and go into thine house. 25. And immediately he rose up before them, and took up that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying God. 26. And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things today.

24, 25, 26. The Glory of all great things, is due only to God, whoever is the Agent.

27. And after these things he went forth and saw a publican named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. 28. And he left all, rose up, and followed him.

27, 28. Levi is Matthew.

29. And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of Publicans, and of others that sat down with them. 30. But their Scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with Publicans and sinners? 31. And Jesus answering, said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician: but they that are sick.

29, 30, 31. Note ; It is none of the meaning of God's Law, to be against Charity, or man's good, but to keep us from encouraging evil.

32. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

32. It is sinners that need me for a Savior, and the unconverted that need conversion.

33. And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?

33. The Disciples of John, and the Pharisees, used more strictness in tasks of fasting, and making prayers, and in bodily austerities, than Christ's Disciples did.

34. And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bride-chamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? 35. But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then they fast in those days.

34, 35. Then shall they have days of sadness.

36. And he spake also a parable unto them, No man putteth a piece of new garment upon an old: if otherwise, then the new maketh a rent, and the piece, that was taken out of the new, agreeth not with the old. 37. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles, else the wine will burst the Bottles and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38. But new wine must be put into new bottles, and both are preserved.

36, 37, 38. Doctrines and Precepts must be suited to men's capacity. See Matth. 9.

39. No man also having drunk old wine, straightway desireth new: for he saith, The old is better.

39. They that have been used to a freer life, will not suddenly like austerities.

CHAP. VI.

1. ANd it came to pass on the second Sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields: and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands. 2. And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye that which is not lawful to do on the Sabbath-days?

1, 2. The reason of the name of the second Sabbath, after the first, is doubtful to us that live at this distance. Many conjectures there be. Some, that it is the last day of unleavened Bread; others, that it is the day of Pentecost, &c.

3. And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read so much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungered, & they which were with him: 4. How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat of the show-bread, and gave also to them that were with him, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone?

3, 4. Hypocrites will be stricter than Christ, but it is when they err, or are strict in evil, or in shadows against the greater things.

5. And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath.

5. I have power to use all Ceremonies to the ends of Redemption, for the good of Man.

6. And it came to pass also on another Sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and there was a man whose right hand was withered, 7. And the scribes and pharisees watched him, whether he would heal on the Sabbath-day; that they might find an accusation against him. 8. But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the mids: And he arose and stood forth. 9. Then said Jesus to them, I will ask you one thing, Is it lawful on the Sabbath-days to do good, or to do evil? to save life, or to destroy it?

6, 7, 8, 9. See Matth. 12. What better work for the Sabbath-day, than to save life? And he that will not do that when he may, is guilty of murder.

10. And looking round about upon them all, he said unto the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so, & his hand was restored whole as the other. 11. And they were filled with madness, and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus.

10, 11. Note ; Nothing so enrageth the Devil and his Servants, as doing the greatest good: This is to them the greatest crime.

12. And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.

12. Note ; What need then have we to pray?

13. And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples; and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles:

13. Note ; His Prayer seemeth to be in order to the choice of his Apostles, that is, Deputed Commissioned Messengers, next under him, to gather and guide his Church.

14. Simon (whom he also named Peter) and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, 15. Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alpheus, and Simon called Zealots, 16. And Judas the brother of James, and Judas Iscariot, which also was the traitor. 17. And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coasts of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases. 18. And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed. 19. And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.

14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. O the wonderful mercy of our Savior to Bodies and Souls!

20. And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed be ye poor; for yours is the kingdom of God.

20. Ye my Disciples, though poor in the World. Note; Matthew more fully repeateth this Sermon than Luke.

21. Blessed are ye that hunger now; for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now; for ye shall laugh.

21. See Matth. 5.

22. Blessed are ye when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.

22. Blessed are ye though you now hunger, weep, are hated, &c. because it is for Righteousness sake.

23. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in like manner did their fathers unto the Prophets.

23. Note, But we must see that the cause be good, and that our hearts be sound with God in the main, and in all other Cases.

24. But woe unto you that are rich, for ye have received your consolation. 25. Woe to you that are full: for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now: for ye shall mourn and weep. 26. Woe unto you when all men shall speak well of you: for so did their fathers to the false prophets,

24, 25, 26. Woe to you ungodly unbelievers, though you be now rich, and full, and merry, and well spoken of: (Not because you are rich and full. &c. ) But though you are so, because you have no better: For man's welfare is to be judged of, by what he shall have hereafter, and not by what he hath here.

Note, Luke omitteth divers of the beatitudes, but reciteth the woes which Matthew omitteth: Whether this Sermon was twice spoken by Christ, or (which is liker) but once, is uncertain.

27. But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you. 28. Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you. 29. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek, offer also the other: and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also. 30. Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods, ask them not again.

27, 28, 29, 30. See on Matth. 5. prefer charity and peace before thy right; and right not thyself to thy neighbors greater hurt.

31. And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise.

31. Love your neighbors as yourselves, and make not too great a difference beetwen their interest and your own: For justice will not be maintained without Love.

32. For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. 33. And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same. 34. And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again.

32, 33, 34. All this is but the exercise of self-love, and is not so much as virtue; much less that charity in which you must excel all wicked men.

35. But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again: and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful, and to the evil. 36. Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.

35, 36. Let your Love and good works be in imitation of God your Father, taking his approbation for your full reward.

37. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive; and ye shall be forgiven: 38. Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom: for with the same measure that ye mete withal, it shall be measured to you again.

37, 38. God's rewards are sure and full.

Note ; The word [ men] v. 38. is not in the Text; but [ They shall give, ] signifieth [ It shall be given, ] as Luke 16.9. [ They shall receive you into the everlasting habitations, ] is, [ That ye may be received: ] And Angels are liker to be the Instruments than Men, from whom we cannot expect to be measured to, as we measure to them. Yet the Promise may extend to this, that when God seeth it good, he will make Men, yea Enemies, the Instruments of his reward.

39. And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?

39. He that will be a Teacher of others, must himself first understand what he teacheth. Teaching-ignorance is the calamity of the Church, the deceiver of Souls, and the condemnation of the Teachers.

40. The disciple is not above his master: but everyone that is perfect shall be as his master.

40. You must look to speed no better than I that am your Master; but it will be your perfection to imitate me; Learn of me, and suffer with me, and you shall be blessed with me.

But some expound it [you cannot expect that the Disciples of ignorant Teachers should attain to any higher perfection than their Masters] which they gather from the context: But Luke useth oft to conjoin various sayings and subjects. See Matth. 10.24.

41. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brothers eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thy own eye? 42. Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam that is in thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brothers eye.

41, 42. It is of great necessity for Teachers and Reprovers, to know themselves, and be free from scandals, and the crimes which they reprove and not as Pharisees, to be loose in Morals, and cruel to others, while they are zealous for their Ceremonies; else their Hypocrisy will aggravate their Iniquity.

43. For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit: neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 44. For every tree is known by his own fruit: for of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble-bush gather they grapes.

43, 44. If thou be a bad man thyself, and guilty of worse than thou preachest against, who will believe thee, or expect good fruit from so bad a man?

Note ; But Matthew otherwise connecteth these sayings.

45. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart, bringeth forth that which is good: and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart, bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.

45. As the man is, so usually will his words and actions be (for hypocritical force is usually short l.v'd.)

46. And why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?

46. All the good words and praises of God and Religion, from disobedient men, do but aggravate their sin.

47. Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings and doeth them, I will show you to whom he is like. 48. He is like a man which built a house, and digged deep and laid the foundation on a rock and when the flood arose, the stream beat; vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.

47, 48. As a building on a Rock will stand in Storms; so he that obeyeth my Word, will stand in Trial. Q. How is our Obedience made the Rock that we build on? Is not Christ the Rock? Ans. Similitudes must not be stretched beyond their intent. It's only the stability of the obedient that is meant.

49. But he that heareth and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth, against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.

49. Hypocritical, disobedient Hearers, and Professors, have no firm foundation and stability, trusting to a barren Opinion instead of true Faith, and so fall by woeful ruin in their Trials.

CHAP. VII.

1. NOw when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum. 2. And a certain centurions servant, who was dear unto him, was sick and ready to die. 3. And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant. 4. And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly, saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this. 5. For he loveth our nation, and he hath build us a synagogue.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5. See M •• th. 8.9.

6. Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself, for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof. 7. Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee: but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed. 8. For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth: and to another, Come, and he cometh: and to my servant, Do this, and he doth it.

6, 7, 8. Note ; The Devotion of this man in building a Synagogue, and his great Humility, show that he was better prepared for Faith than many others.

9. When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him, I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.

9. As Man, he marvelled; as God, he foreknew it.

Note ; Whether he took Christ for his Savior, is uncertain; but the • earing of his works had caused him strongly to believe his power to heal.

10. And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick. 11. And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Naim; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people. 12. Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her. 13. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, weep not. 14. And he came and touched the bier, (and they that bare him stood still) and he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. 15. And he that was dead, sat up, and began to speak: and he delivered him to his mother. 16. And there came a fear on all, and they glorified God, saying, that a great Prophet is risen up among us; and that God hath visited his people.

10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. Note ; This Savior hath still the same Love and Pity, though he use not Miracles so much. He is still Lord of Life and Death.

17. And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judea, and throughout all the region round about. 18. And the disciples of John shown him of all these things. 19. And John, calling unto him two of his disciples, sent them unto Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come, or look we for another?

17, 18, 19. Note ; It's like John did it to convince his Disciples.

20. When the men were come unto him, they said, John the Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou lie that should come, or look we for another?

20. See Matth. 11.

21. And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits, and unto many that were blind he gave sight. 22. Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard, how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the Gospel is preached. 23. And blessed is he whosoever shall not be offended in me.

21, 22, 23. Tell John what is done, and let him judge by the works. But men's great danger is, of being scandalized at my visible meanness, and my sufferings.

24. And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? a reed shaken with the wind? 25. But what went ye out for to see? a man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately, are in kings courts. 26. But what went ye out for to see? a prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and much more than a prophet. 27. This is he of whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. 28. For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women, there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist: but he that is least in the kingdom of God, is greater than he.

24, 25, 26, 27, 28. The least true Believer in my Church hath a more honorable state and work, See Matth. 11.

29. And all the people that heard him, and the publicans justified God, being baptized with the baptism of John.

29. All the People that heard Christ speak so highly of John, were pleased at it and justified God that sent him; for they had been baptized by him. Or, as others expound it, [all the People that heard John, and the publicans received his Message from God, &c. ]

30. But the Pharisees and Lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.

30. [Rejected God's Message sent by John ] or [rejected Christ's Testimony of John. ]

31. And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they like? 32. They are like unto children sitting in the market-place, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced: we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept. 33. For John the Baptist came neither eating nor drinking wine, and ye say, He hath devil.

31, 32, 33. See Matth. 11.33. That he is distracted.

34. The Son of man is come eating and drinking, and ye say, Behold, a gluttonous man, and a wine-bibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. 35. But wisdom is justified of all her children.

34, 35. Ne •• her his auster • ty, nor my free conversation, do escape your censure. But the wise will justify Wisdom.

36. And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisees house, and sat down to meat, 37. And behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisees house, brought an alabaster box of ointment. 38. And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.

36, 37, 38. A Woman who had been of a bad life.

39. Now when the Pharisee, which had bidden him, saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who, and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him; for she is a sinner?

39. Christ and the Pharisees agreed that sin is hateful.

40. And Jesus answering, said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he said, Master, say on. 41. There was a certain creditor, which had two debtors; the one ought five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? 43. Simon answered and said, I suppose that he to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.

40, 41, 42, 43. Note ; When God forgiveth great sins, it is that we may love him much.

44. And he turned unto the woman, and said unto Simon, seest thou this woman? • entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman, since the time I came in, hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46. Mine head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment.

44, 45, 46. She hath shown more Love than though • .

47. Wherefore I say unto thee, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.

47. Her great Love showeth that her great sins are forgiven, for it is her • rateful return: But they that think they need but little pardo • , will return but little thankfulness for it.

48. And he said unto h •• , Thy sins are forgiven.

48. Note, No doubt they were truly repented of, hated, and forsaken.

49. And they that sat at meat with him, began to say within themselves, who is this that forgiveth sins also? 50. And he said unto the woman, thy faith hath saved thee, go in peace.

49. Note, None can forgive sins against God but God, and man after (not before him) by declaring and delivering God's pardon.

50. God pardoneth and saveth all true believers; And thou hast shown that thou art a believer. Though God freely give pardon and Salvation, thy faith maketh thee a qualified receiver, and so saveth thee.

CHAP. VIII.

1. ANd it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village preaching, and showing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him. 2. And certain women which had been healed of evil spirits, and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, 3. And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.

1, 2, 3. In the thankful sense of their deliverance attended him, and contributed to his m • intenance.

Note, Christ that was Lord of all, and gave other • Life and Salvation, disdained not to live on others gifts, and contribution.

4. And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: 5. A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the ways side, and i • was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. 6. And some fell upon a rock, & as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. 8. And other fell on good ground, and sprung up, and bare frui • an hundred-fold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

4, 5, 6, 7, 8. See the exposition, on Matth. 19.

Note▪ It is the difference of the receivers, and reception, which is the notable cause of different succ • sses of the same word; yet supposing God's election.

9. And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be? 10. And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.

9, 10. Note, The reception of one truth prepareth for more, and the rejection of God's calls prepareth men to be forsaken.

11. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12. Those by the wayside, are they that hear: then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13. They on the rock are they, which when they hear receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. 14. And that which fell among thorns, are they, which when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares, and riches, and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.

11, 12, 13, 14. Note, Hopeful and fair beginnings in very many fall short of Salvation.

15. But that on the good ground ar • they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

15. Who receive the Gospel so, as to renew them, their hearts before prepared being by it sanctified, and persevere to maturity.

16. No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed: but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.

16. Light is not to be hid, nor God's Gifts and Man's Knowledge; being given not only for themselves, but for the good of all about them.

Note 1. Woe then to unjust silencers of God's faithful Ministers! And 2. To idle, treacherous, unfaithful Pastors.

Note ; These passages are otherwise connected in Matthew.

17. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest: neither anything hid, that shall not be known; and come abroad.

17. Note ; Oh then how vain is the hiding endeavor of the Hypocrite! And how little should we trust to lies, or to the secrecy of our sins!

Note ; The connection of these sentences is not too much to be minded.

18. Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have.

18. The thankful receiving of what is given you, and the well using of what you have, is the way to have more given you: But the rejection or abuse of it, forseiteth what you have.

Note ; When Luke collecteth several passages, spoken on several occasions, like Solomon 's Proverbs, to feign an Analysis, and thence put the sense on them, is to make the sense, and not to expound it.

19. Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press. 20. And it was told him by certain, which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without desiring to see thee. 21. And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God and do it.

19, 20, 21. N. He knew that their acquaintance with his Parents, Kindred, and Education, was the hindrance of their Faith; and therefore he lets them know that he had a higher Original and Kindred, and valued spiritual before carnal Relations.

22. Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake: and they launched forth. 23. But as they sailed, he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake, and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. 24. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he rose, and rebuked the wind, and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm.

22, 23, 24. Note, 6. And cannot he with a word rebuke all popular and tyrannical rage against his Church?

25. And he said unto them, Where is your faith? and they being afraid, wondered, saying one to another? What manner of man is this? for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.

25. Note ; And shall not we obey him?

26. And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes, which is over against Galilee. 27. And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city, a certain man which had devils long time, and ware no cloths, neither abode in any house, but in the tombs. 28. When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high? I beseech thee torment me not. 29. (For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him: and he was kept bound with chains, and in fetters; and he brake the bands, and was driven of the devil into the wilderness.) 30. And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? And he said, Legion; because many Devils were entered into him. 31. And they besought him that he would not command them to go out into the deep.

26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31. See on Matth. 8. & Mark 5.8, 9. The bottomless Pit. N. The Devils are not yet confined to Hell, nor in their utmost misery.

32. And there was there a herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him that he would suffer them to enter into them: and he suffered them. 33. Then went the Devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the lake, and were choked. 34. When they that fed them saw what was done, they fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country. 35. Then they went out to see what was done, and came to Jesus, and found the man out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the seat of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind: and they were afraid. 36. They also which saw it, told them by what means he, that was possessed of the devils, was healed.

32, 33, 34, 35, 36. Note 1. One man is of more worth than multitudes of Swine (though swinish sinners vilify themselves.) 2. What would not Devils do against us, if God should permit them?

37. Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gadarenes round about, besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear: and he went up into the ship, and returned back again. 38. Now the man, out of whom the devils were departed, besought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him away, saying, 39. Return to thine own house, and show how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his way and published throughout the whole city, how great things Jesus had done unto him.

37, 38, 39. Note ; All men's service of God is not in one way; some may do most good at home, and in a private state of life, and some more publicly.

40. And it came to pass, that when Jesus was returned, the people gladly received him; for they were all waiting for him. 41. And behold, there came a man, named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue, and he fell down at Jesus feet, and besought him that he would come into his house: 42. For he had one only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay a dying. (But as he went, the people thronged him.)

40, 41, 42. Bodily Gifts are gladly received, and earnestly sought.

43. And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon Physicians, neither could be healed of any, 44. Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. 45. And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter, and they that were with him, said, Master, the multitude throng thee, and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? 46. And Jesus said, Some body hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me.

43, 44, 45, 46. Note; Peter carpt at Christ's words, because he knew not the reason of them

47. And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him, before all the people, for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately.

47. She was afraid lest he would be angry with her for stealing a Cure without his consent.

48. And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee whole, go in peace.

48. Note ; Faith healeth not efficiently, but as the necessary moral qualification of the receiver of a free gift.

49. While he yet spake, there cometh one, from the ruler of the Synagogues house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead, trouble not the Master. 50. But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not, believe only, and she shall be made whole. 51. And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the Maiden. 52. And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth.

49, 50, 51, 52. Permitting it to come to extremity magnified the Miracle.

53. And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead.

53. She was dead by the cessa • ion of natural life and motion, and not dead, by a remote departure of the Soul; it being o • tained to restore the suspended life: And so both Christ and they said true.

54. And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. 55. And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her some meat. 56. And her Parents were astonished: but he charged them that they should tell no man what was done.

54, 55, 56. See on Mark 5.

CHAP. IX.

1. THen he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases. 2. And he sent them to preach the Kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.

1, 2. To Save Bodies and Souls.

3. And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money, neither have two coats a piece. 4. And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and thence depart. 5. And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them.

3, 4, 5. See on Matth. 10.10, 11. To witness that it is not long of your unwillingness, but their own, that they are forsaken and perish.

6. And they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing everywhere. 7. Now Herod the tetrach heard of all that was done by him: and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead: 8. And of some, that Elias had appeared: and of others, that one of the old prophets was risen again. 9. And Herod said, John have I beheaded: but who is this of whom I hear such things? and he desired to see him.

6, 7, 8, 9. Note ; Christ, that was familiar with the Poor, would not gratify the desire of the King, a persecutor, that desired to see him:

10. And the Apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside privately into a desert place, belonging to the city called Bethsaida.

10. Note ; Had we the History of all the Apostles Miracles before and after Christ's Resurrection, how large would it be!

11. And the people, when they knew it, followed him, and he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing.

11. Note ; Christ rejected none that followed after him, with desire and diligent seeking him.

12. And when the day began to wear away, then came the twelve and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and get victuals: for we are here in a desert place. 13. But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more but five loaves and two fishes, except we should go and buy meat for all this people. 14. For they were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company. 15. And they did so, and made them all sit down.

12, 13, 14, 15. See Matth. 8. Then they obeyed, expecting some Miracle.

16. Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude. 17. And they did eat, and were all filled: and there was taken up of fragments that remained to them, twelve baskets.

16, 17. See on Matth. 14.

18. And it came to pass as he was alone praying, his disciples [were with him:] and he asked them, saying, whom say the people that I am? 19. They answering said, John the baptist: but some say Elias: and others say, That one of the old prophets is risen again.

18, 19. Came to him. See Matth. 16.15, 20.

20. He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God. 21. And he straitly charged them and commanded them to tell no man that thing.

20, 21. Q. What then was the Gospel which they were sent to preach, and which he preached? Ans. Much like John Baptist's preaching that the Kingdom of God is come; and moreover, that Jesus did such and such Miracles, as he told John 's Disciples; not directly saying, I am the Christ, but proposing those Evidences from whence they were themselves to gather it: Because his Resurrection, &c. was to make the Evidence full, before the Gospel was fully preached?

Q. But what then was the Baptism he used before his Resurrection, if men were not to be told, and to profess that he was the Christ? Ans. Just answerable to his preaching; and like Johns Baptism; but much different from the following Baptism in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Men were to profess Repentance and hope of Salvation, by learning of Christ, and so lifted themselves under him as his Disciples; but not yet to profess that He was the Christ ; which after was necessary.

22. Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and chief priests, and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.

22. All this is part of the Gospel which you must hereafter preach; and when this is done, it will be seasonable to preach it.

23. And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24. For whosoever will save his life, shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.

23.24. Carnal Self love, and the love of worldly prosperity, being man's lapsed sinful state, it is from these that I come to save men; and therefore will save none, but by saving them from these, and teaching them to deny their carnal selves, and worldly prosperity.

25. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away.

25. See on Matth. 10. and Mark 8. Alas th •• 〈◊〉 how little a part of this vain World, do millions 〈◊〉 their Souls!

26. For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory and in his Fathers, and of the holy angels.

26. They that, to save their estates or lives, are ashamed now to own me and the Gospel, I will reject them as ashamed to own them, or such as they, in the day of Glory, and their Extremity, in Judgment.

27. But I tell you of a truth, There be some standing here which shall not taste of death, till they see the Kingdom of God.

27. Note ; All the three Evangelists prefixing this immediately before the History of Christ's Transfiguration, do plainly tell us, that it was that glimpse of his Glory which he meant.

28. And it came to pass about eight days after these sayings, he took Peter, and John, and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.

28. Matth. 17.1. Saith, after six days, not reckoning the two parts of the foregoing and the last day.

29. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glittering. 30. And behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias. 31. Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. 32. But Peter, and they that were with him, were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. 33. And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. 34. While he thus spake, there came a cloud and overshadowed them and they feared as they entered into the cloud. 35. And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son, hear him.

29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35. See on Matth. 17. I have largely opened all this in my Book called, My Dying Thoughts.

Note ; If this glimpse of Glory was so sweet, why do we fear to pass hence into the blessed Vision and Fruition.

36. And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone: and they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.

36. For Christ so commanded.

37. And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people met him. 38. And behold, a man of the company cried out, saying, Master, I beseech thee look upon my son, for he is mine only child: 39. And lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out, and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising him, hardly departeth from him. 40. And I besought thy disciples to cast him out, and they could not. 41. And Jesus answering, said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you? Bring thy son hither. 42. And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down, and tare him: and Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.

37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42. See on Matth. 17.15, 16. Since I have myself known one yet living, that had an old and violent Epilepsy, once, twice or thrice a day, perfectly cured (near thirty years ago, and so continueth,) after other great means used, merely by fasting and earnest prayer, suddenly in the midst of prayer the second day▪ I do the easilier believe that the Devil and • atural Disease, of which he is the Executioner, may consist together.

43. And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God: but while they wondered everyone at all things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples. 44. Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men.

43, 44. Let not my Glory and Power put you into vain expectations of earthly Dominion. Observe, and forget not that I tell you again and again, that I must suffer (and rise again.)

45. But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, that they perceived it not: and they feared to ask him of that saying.

45. Note ; Even the Apostles understood not that Christ must be crucified and rise again, though he oft told it them, and charged them that it might sink down into their Ears. Therefore the belief of it was not then necessary to Salvation, as it is now.

46. Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.

46. Note ; Alas, that Pride and Ambition should begin so near to Christ, and foretell the Calamity of the Church!

47. And Jesus perceiving the thought of their heart, took a child, and set him by him 48. And said unto them, Whosoever, shall receive this child in my Name, receiveth me: & whosoever shall receive me receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great.

47, 48. Humility must be your greatness.

49. And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy Name; and we forbade him, because he followeth not with us. 50. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not; for he that is not against us, is for us.

49, 50. See on Matth. 12.30.

51. And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he steadfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem.

51. The time of his approaching Crucifixion, and his Ascension to Heaven.

52. And sent messengers before his face, and they went and entered into a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him. 53. And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem.

52, 53. Note ; For the Jews and the Samaritans disowned each other upon their Controversies about Worship.

54. And when his disciples, James and John, saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? 55. But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. 56. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.

54, 55, 56. That which you take for the Spirit of Elias, and Zeal for me against sin, is a selfish, uncharitable, revengeful Spirit, and not that which I will give you, which is a Spirit of Love and Gentleness: You know not your own hearts, but take that for good in you, which is evil; and you know not me as you should do: I come to save, and not to destroy men.

This is the third sin against Charity, recorded of John, who was after the great Preacher of Love.

57. And it came to pass, that as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. 58. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.

57, 58. I have no entertainment for any but self-denying persons, that can forsake all for me.

59. And he said unto another, Follow me: but he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. 60. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.

59, 60. The work of my Gospel, and God's Kingdom, must be preferred before the burying of a Father.

Note ; Christ fitteth his Answer to the disposition of those he spake to. He knew that this man was fitter to be put on, and the former to be stopped.

61. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee: but let me first go and bid them fare-well that are at home at my house. 62. And Jesus said unto him, No man having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

61, 62. If thou wilt be my Minister thou must be like a man plowing, who looketh still before him on the Furrow, and not behind him: The Kingdom of God must be first sought, and all things that would hinder the true service of it, must be put behind, and denied and forsaken: (Not that it dissolveth Relation-duties, but puts all behind the works and interest of God, and forsaketh that which is against it.)

CHAP. X.

AFter these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face, into every city and place, whither he himself would come. 2. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth laborers into his harvest.

1, 2. As he had chosen twelve, with respect to the twelve Tribes; so he chose seventy, according to the number of the great Council, it's like 70 being put for 72, as an ancient Copy hath it. By which it appeareth he settled a disparity in his Ministers,

2. Note ; Priests now are many, but Laborers few: What men are they that hate and silence the faithfulest Laborers, suspecting that they are not for their interest?

3. Go your ways: behold I send you, forth as lambs among wolves. 4. Carry neither purse nor scrip, nor shoes, and salute to man by the way.

3, 4. I send you on such work, in which you shall suffer from wicked men as I must do. Let not the care of provision, nor any matters of inferior concern; as human respects are, stop you in your work and undertaken Ministry, (not that all Civility is forbidden.)

5. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. 6. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again.

5, 6. For the necessary capacity of the Receiver is implied as a condition of the Effect. The same Benediction is effectual to a capable Receiver, and ineffectual to another, (as is also the Sacrament.)

7. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house. 8. And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you.

7, 8. Maintenance is your due, for your work.

9. And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, the Kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

9. This was the Gospel that they were to preach.

10. But into whatsoever city ye enter, & they receive ye not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, 11. Even the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against you: notwithstanding, be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.

10, 11. See Mat. 10.14.

12. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in that day for Sodom, than for that city.

12. At the Judgment. There will be some punished in hell more tolerably than others.

13. Woe unto thee Chorazin: woe unto thee Bethsaida: for if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented sitting in sackcloth and ashes.

13. The same means, which prevaileth not with some, would have converted others that now perish.

14. But it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon, at the day of Judgment, then for you. 15. And thou Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shall be thrust down into hell.

14, 15. The loss of the greatest means and mercy, prepareth for the heaviest Judgment.

16. He that heareth you, heareth me and he that despiseth you, despiseth me: and he that despiseth me, despiseth him: that sent me.

16. So far as you do my works, I will take what is done to you, as done to myself.

17. And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy Name. 18. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven.

17, 18. Satan shall be cast down from much of his Tyranny over Mankind, by me and my Gospel.

19. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents, and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

19. Note ; The Kingdom of Christ is set up against the Devil and his Kingdom, and not against Kings as such.

2. It seems Serpents are used as Satan's Instruments to hurt man.

20. Notwithstanding, in this rejoice not that the spirits are subject unto you: but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

20. Even wicked men may cast out Devils, but it's greater matter of joy to be Saints that shall be said.

21. In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight.

21. That thou hast revealed the heavenly Wisdom to those that are despised, as unlearned in the World, rather than to men counted wise and learned for their human wit and knowledge. See Matth 11.25.

22. All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father: and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.

22. Christ is made the Lord of all; and he is perfectly known by none but God: And there is no true knowledge of God the Father, but by the teaching of Christ.

23. And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see.

23. See Matth. 13.17.

24. For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them: and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

24. Such as David, Solomon, Isaiah, &c.

25. And behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

25. To try his skill.

26. He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?

26. Note, They err who say, that the Law of Moses prescribed not the mean • to Eternal Life.

27. And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, & with all thy soul, & with all thy strength, and with all thy mind, and thy neighbor as thyself. 28. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shall live.

27, 28. Note ; This is not the same History that is mentioned, Matth. 19.16. there is much of the same, and yet much difference: There Christ repeateth the Commandments particularly, but here the Lawyer repeateth them summarily. So Mark 10.17. agreeth with Matthew. But that in Luke 18.18. is the same with this, and a distinct History.

Note ; Whoever loveth God sincerely, and his Neighbor as himself, shall be saved. But this will never be done without Regenerating Grace.

29. But he willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus and who is my neighbor?

29 Note ; This overwillingness to justify ourselves, is one of the de •• est rooted commonest vices in corrupted Nature.

30. And Jesus answering, said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, & fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raim •• t, and wounded him, and departed leaving him half dead. 31. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

32. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. 33. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 34. And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35. And on the morrow, when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him, and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35. The Priest and the Levite, who should be the most holy and charitable, past by him without helping him; but a Samaritan, one contemned by them as a Heretic, or profane Rustic, took him up, and helped him.

Note ; They abuse the Text that say, by the Samaritan, is meant Christ, and by two pence, the Two Testaments, &c.

36. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?

36. Which of the • to •• the man for his Neighbor, and dealt as a Neighbor with him?

37. And he said, He that shown mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

37. So do thou, and though he be a Samaritan, a Schismatic, a Heretic, use him with such charity as thy Neighbor.

Note ; Do they so, that ruin, hunt and destroy such, and better men?

38. Now it came pass as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman, named Martha, received him into her house. 39. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus's feet, and heard his word:

38, 39. Martha was the House-keeper or Owner.

40. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him and said, Lord, doest thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

40. The followers of Christ to be provided for, were many, and the work seemed necessary.

41. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful, and troubled about many things: 42. But one thing is needful, And Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.

41, 42. Thou troublest thyself more than needs, and unseasonably, about many things of less necessity. But to learn the way of Salvation, and so to be blessed in the Kingdom of God, is the one thing of absolute necessity. This Mary hath preferred, and so shouldest thou, and have left serving to the second place: And none shall deprive her of that better portion which she hath chosen.

Note 1. Christ doth not blame Martha for her car • and work, but for not preferring better: Nor speaks this so much to blame her, as to commend Mary, and to teach us all what to prefer.

2. One thing only (in a comprehensive sense, as containing Salvation, and its necessary means,) is of such absolute necessity to man, that all things else should be put behind it.

3. Preferring things less necessary, though good, and troubling ourselves about need-nots, is a common fault, even of religious persons.

4. That is a fault out of its due time and place, which is a great duty in its season.

5. They that prefer and choose the best, shall have the best, whoever is against it.

6. Even godly persons and near, are apt upon cross Interests and Opinions, to censure and accuse each other upon mistake, when the fault is in the accuser, and that to Christ.

7. But Christ will justify the right.

CHAP. XI.

1. AND it came to pass that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.

1. It seems they had till now been too little and unskillful in prayer.

2. And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. 3. Give us day by day our daily bread. 4. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indepted to us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

2, 3, 4. See the Exposition of the Lord's Prayer on Matth. 6.9.

Note ; It is evident that Christ gave them this prayer to be used both as a Directory for Matter and Method, and as a meet form of words, when they pray comprehensively and summarily, though not trying them always to use these very words, nor to go through the whole Method, when occasion confines them to someone branch, or requires them to insist most on it; much less obliging or allowing them to use no other: And so the Apostles, and all the Churches, understood it.

The small difference in words between Matthew and Luke, are not material; save that Luke omitteth the doxology in the end.

By [ Debt] verse 4. is meant chiefly wrong or sin: For so the Syriac signifieth, in which Christ spake: Though also our obligation to keep the Law of Innocency on pain of death, or for Justification, is a Debt which God remitteth by the Law of Faith and Grace, and accepteth on our part Faith and sincere Obedience, for the Merit of Christ, who fulfilled that perfect Law.

5. And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; 6. For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, & I have nothing to set before him: 7. And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not, the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. 8. I say unto you, though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend: yet because of his importunity, he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.

5, 6, 7, 8. Though God be not as Man, that giveth the importunate to be eased of them, yet importunity also prevaileth with him, as it fits the Receiver for his Gifts.

9. And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and ye shall find: knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10. For everyone that that asketh, receiveth: and he that seeketh, findeth: and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.

9, 10. He that will spare for no labor, and take no denial, shall have no denial finally: He that easily giveth over his suit, and will not be at pains and patience, forfeiteth mercy by contempt.

11. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish, give • him a serpent? 12. Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? 13. If ye then, being evil, know▪ how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the holy Spirit unto them that ask him?

11, 12, 13. Note ; God's Goodness is a great ground of hope that he will grant our prayers; that is, as far as he hath promised; 1. Grace and Glory certainly to all penitent Believers. 2. And the things of this life on these three conditions; 1. If they are such as are fit for the person. 2. And he be sit for them. 3. And it be fit to subserve God's higher ends, his Glory, and the public good, and do not cross them.

So much of his Spirit as is necessary to Salvation, he will give to all true Believers: And the additional degrees and gifts, he giveth on the terms aforesaid.

14. And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake: and the people wondered. 15. But some of them said, He casteth out devils through Beelzebub, the chief of the devils.

14, 15. See Matth. 12. They were so convinced of the fact of his Miracles, that they had no plea for their unbelief left them, but to say, he did them by Conjuration, which is the blaspheming of the Holy Ghost.

16. And others tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven. 17. But he knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself, is brought to desolation: and a house divided against a house, falleth. 18. If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub. 19. And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges.

16, 17, 18, 19. Note ; When Satan laboreth to divide the Church of Christ, it is that he may destroy it: And should we do worse against Christ's Kingdom than Satan will do by his own?

20. But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.

20. It is the approving work of God, to set up his Kingdon against the Devils.

21. When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace. 22. But when a stronger then he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armor wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.

21, 22. If I did not conquer Satan, I could not cast him out of his possession of Bodies and Souls.

23. He that is not with me, is against me, and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth.

23. See Matth. 12.30.

24. When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh thorough dry places, seeking rest: and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. 25. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. 26. Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked then himself, and they enter in, and dwell there, and the last state of that man is worse than the first.

24, 25, 26. But let him that is delivered from Satan's possession of Body or Soul, take heed that he return not: For when Satan is cast out, he trieth by his Temptations to get Possession of some others: And when he hath as •••• ed many, and is resisted and frustrate by the grace of God, he resolveth again to try his assaults, on him that was delivered; And finding him careless, unwatchful, and ready to receive his Temptations, he suggesteth worse things to him than those that he had renounced, and bringeth in on fair pretences sevenfold worse vices than he had before: And the end of that man is worse than was his first captivity to Satan.

Note, It is some kind of rest to Devils to deceive and destroy Souls. As it is to a malicious man to do mischief by revenge. Devils are not yet at their most easeless state. See Mat. 12.43.

27. And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lift up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked. 28. But he said, Yea, rather blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.

27, 28. Note ; Carnal persons most regard carnal Relations. 2. Christ accounts them that hear and keep God's Word, as more amiable and blessed, than it would be to have been his own Mother: And we must judge as he doth: Though when God maketh the provision for our Families out duty, we must obey him as his Stewards in our distributions; yet Grace is more amiable than natural Relations.

29. And when the people were gathered thick together, he began to say, This is an evil generation, they seek a sign, and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the Prophet: 30. For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation.

29, 30. As Jonas, after three days abode in the Sea, was sent to preach; so after my three days in the grave, I will rise and call the World to Repentance, by mine Apostles and my Spirit, and save them as Nineveh was saved.

31. The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth, to hear the wisdom of Solomon: and behold a greater than Solomon is here.

31. It shall appear that the Jews are worse than her, and deserve destruction for being so much worse, and averse to Faith.

32. The men of Nineveh shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas: and behold, a greater than Jonas is here.

32. See Matth. 12.42.

33. No man when he hath lighted a candle putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.

33. God would not have us hide his Truth, (much less silence it by Diabolical Persecution.)

34. The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body is full of light: but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness.

34. The Light of Man is his true Understanding: As that is, so is the man, a Child of Light or of Darkness.

35. Take heed therefore, that the light which is in thee be not darkness.

35. Take heed lest that Understanding be ignorant or erroneous.

36. If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light.

36. See Mark 6.26.

37. And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat. 38. And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed-before dinner.

37, 38. See Matth. 7.3. Ma • th. 15.2.

39. And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter, but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. 40. Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without, make that which is within also? 41. But rather give alms of such things as you have: and behold, all things are clean unto you.

39, 40, 41. True Cleanness is to be acceptable to God: Be charitable and liberal, and your meat will be clean to you.

42. But woe unto you, Pharisees: for ye tithe mint and rue, and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment, and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

42. See Matth. 23.23. The Love of God, and Justice with Men, are far greater matters than religious Rites and Ceremonies, or Church-Orders. God's Laws are some far greater than others, though none to be violated.

43. Woe unto you, Pharisees: for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets. 44. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites: for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them, are not aware of them.

43, 44. Note ; Hypocrisy is Pride covered with formal Ceremonious▪ shows of Religion, sometime unknown to the Hypocrite himself.

45. Then answered one of the lawyers and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also. 46. And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers: for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be born, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.

45, 46. Note 1. Bad men can bear guilt, but not reproach for it. 2. Strict Doctrine condemneth loo • e and guilty Preachers.

47. Woe unto you, for ye build the sepulchers of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. 48. Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers▪ for they indeed killed them, and ye 〈◊〉 their sepulchers.

47, 48. See Matth. 23.3 • . H •• ocrites glory • n the names and honor of d • ad 〈…〉 and Saints, and kill the living.

49. Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute: 50. That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;

49, 50. Your Fore-fathers sins, and yours, shall be revenged on you shortly.

51. From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple; verily • say unto you, it shall be required of this generation. 52. Woe unto you lawyers: for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in, ye hindered.

51, 52. Note ; The just description of a wicked Clergy.

53. And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke him to speak of many things: 54. Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.

53, 54. Their wrath set their wits on work to ensnare him.

CHAP. XII.

1. IN the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trod one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

1. Note ; He dissuadeth none from joining with them in any good, or hearing the Law from them, but to avoid their Hypocrisy, and ceremonious covers of iniquity, joined with malice against Christ.

2. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed, neither hid, that shall not be known. 3. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness, shall be heard in the light: and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets, shall be proclaimed upon the house tops.

2.3. Trust not to Secresie and Deceit; for all secret sins shall be opened at the last.

Note ; O how many will that day shame! It is our wisdom, by due confession, to take shame sooner to ourselves.

4. And I say unto you, my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. 5. But I will forewarn you whom you shall fear: Fear him which, after he hath killed, hath power to cast into hell, yea, I say unto you, Fear him.

4, 5. I give it you as the most friendly counsel, Take heed of too much fear of man, lest it cause you to betray your Souls: They can but kill the Body: The Soul overliveth it; and man's welfare or misery is after death: Persecutors or Tyrants cannot reach or hurt you after death. But, as you love yourselves, fear God, whose Justice will be executed on the ungodly after death, and when he hath taken away their Souls, will cast them into Hell: Again, I say, be sure to fear him.

6. Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? 7. But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered: fear not therefore, ye are of more value then many sparrows.

6, 7. God's Providence extendeth to a Sparrow, and to the smallest creatures; (for he is omnipotent, and all-sufficient, and maintaineth all;) and much more to you: There is not an hair of your heads not-caused, not known, and not regarded by him: And doth he disregard your lives or welfare, whom he hath raised above the rank of Brutes?

Note ; God is as sufficient for every creature and event, as if he had but that one to mind.

8. Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God.

8. Own me sincerely in the time of Trial, and I will own you before Angels, where are your greatest concerns.

9. But he that denieth me before men, shall be denied before the angels of God.

9. Without true Repentance.

10. And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven.

10. To speak against me, as a man, is pardonable: But when I shall send the Spirit of Miracles and Holiness to be my Witness in the World, they that will not be convinced by this Spirit, but blasphemously say, It is the power and work of the Devils, do sin against the last and great means of Conviction, and being uncured, are unpardoned.

11. And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates and powers, take ye no thought how, or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: 12. For the holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour, what ye ought to say.

11, 12. Let not the fear of your unready speech discourage you, but trust the Spirit of God to help you.

13. And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. 14. And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge, or a divider over you?

13, 14. N. Whether the man would have had Christ taken on him an Authoritative Decision, or only a free Arbitration, is uncertain; which ever it was, Christ refuseth it: A work of worldly Rule he disclaimed: And he would not be so imprudent as to offend men by an Arbitration without need.

15. And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

15. Take heed of being too desirous of wealth or plenty: For neither life, nor the comfort of life, depends on plenty, but on the holy and obedient use of what you have, and on the blessing and love of God.

16. And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully. 17. And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? 18. And he said, This will I do, I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there will I bestow all my fruits, and my goods. 19. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years, take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. 20. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be which thou hast provided?

16, 17, 18, 19, 20. Note ; The damning folly of wicked men, is 1. In over-loving the pleasure of the flesh, to eat, and drink, and be merry, and live at ease. 2. To over-love Riches and Plenty, as provision for this fleshly pleasure. 3. To flatter themselves with the conceit of long life, and to forget the shortness of time, and their latter end. 4. To neglect a due dependence on God for all things. 5. To neglect the due care of the Soul, and preparation for another World, and to set less by Heaven than Earth; such are the most miserable fools.

21. So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

21. Such is everyone, whose chief care and labor is, to have plenteous provision for his own Body, and is not rich in Grace, nor useth his riches to please God in good works.