Annotations on the Bible Volume 2
5 One Lord , one faith , one baptism .
6 One God and Father of all , who is above all , and through all , and in you all .
7 But unto everyone of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ .
8 Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high , he led captivity captive , and gave gifts unto men .
9 (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth? .
10 He that descended is the same that ascended up far above all heavens , that he might fill all things )
11 And he gave some, apostles ; and some, prophets ; and some, evangelists ; and some, pastors and teachers .
12 For the perfecting of the saints , for the work of the ministry , for the edifying of the body of Christ .
13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith , and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man , unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ .
14 That we henceforth be no more children , tossed to and fro , and carried about with every wind of doctrine , by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness , whereby they lie in wait to deceive.
15 But speaking the truth in love , may grow up into him , in all things, which is the head, even Christ .
16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together , and compacted by that which every joint supplieth , according to the effectual working in the measure of every part , maketh increase of the body , unto the edifying of itself in love .
17 This I say therefore and testify in the Lord , that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk in the vanity of their mind .
18 Having the understanding darkened , being alienated from the life of God , through the ignorance that is in them , because of the blindness of their heart .
19 Who being past feeling , have given themselves over unto lasciviousness , to work all uncleanness with greediness ▪
20 But ye have not so learned Christ .
21 If so be that ye have heard him , and have been taught by him , as the truth is in Jesus .
22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man , which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts .
23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind .
24 And that ye put on the new man , which after God s is created in righteousness , and true holiness.
25 Wherefore putting away lying , speak every man truth with his neighbor; for we are members one of another .
26 Be ye angry and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath .
27 Neither give place to the Devil .
28 Let him that stole, steal no more ; but rather let him labor e, working with his hands the thing which is good , that he may have to give to him that needeth .
29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying that it may minister grace to the hearers .
30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption .
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger , and clamour , and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice .
32 And be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted , forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you .
CHAP. V.
1 BE ye therefore followers of God , as dear children .
2 And walk in love , as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us , an offering, and a sacrifice to God, for a sweet smelling savor .
3 But fornication , and all uncleanness , or covetousness , let it not be once named among you as becometh Saints .
4 Neither filthiness , nor foolish talking , nor jesting , which are not convenient ; but rather giving of thanks.
5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man who is an idolater , hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ, and of God .
6 Let no man deceive you with vain words ; for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.
7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them .
8 For ye were sometimes darkness , but now are ye light in the Lord : walk as children of light .
9 (For the fruit of the spirit is in all goodness , and righteousness , and truth ,)
10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.
11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness , but rather reprove them .
12 For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret .
13 But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light , for whatsoever doth make manifest, is light .
14. Wherefore he saith , Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead , and Christ shall give thee light .
15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools , but as wise .
16 Redeeming the time , because the days are evil .
17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is .
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess ; but be filled with the Spirit .
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms, and hymns, and spiritual songs , singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord .
20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father , in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ .
21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God .
22 Wives submit yourselves to your own husbands , as unto the Lord .
23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church, and he is the Savior of the body .
24 Therefore as the church is subject to Christ so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything .
25 Husbands love your wives, even as Christ also loved the Church, and gave himself for it .
26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word .
27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church , not having spot or wrinkle , or any such thing , but that it should be holy and without blemish .
28 So ought men to love their wives, as their own bodies : He that loveth his wi • e, loveth himself .
29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it , even as the Lord the church .
30 For we are members of his body , of his flesh, and of his bones .
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother , and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh .
32 This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the Church.
33 Nevertheless , let everyone of you in particular, so love his wife even as himself , and the wife see that she reverence her husband.
CHAP. VI.
1 CHildren obey your parents in the Lord for this is right .
2 Honor thy father, and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise .)
3. That it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest live long upon the earth .
4. And ye fathers provoke not your children to wrath , but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord .
5. Servants be obedient to them that are your Masters according to the flesh , with fear and trembling , in singleness of your heart s as unto Christ .
6. Not with eye-service v as men-pleasers , but as the servants of Christ , doing the will of God from the heart.
7. With good will doing service as to the Lord, and not to men .
8 Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doth, the same shall he receive of the Lord whether he be bond or free .
9. And ye masters do the same things to them, forbearing threatening, knowing, that your master also is in heaven , neither is there respect of persons with him .
10▪ Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might .
11. Put on the whole armor of God , that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
12. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood , but against principalities, against powers , against the rulers of the darkness of this world v, against spiritual wickedness in high places .
13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day , and having done all to stand .
14. Stand therefore having yourloyns girt about with truth , and having on the breast-plate of righteousness .
15. And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace .
16. Above all taking the shield of faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked .
17. And take the helmet of salvation , and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God p.
18. Praying always , with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit , and watching thereunto with all perseverance , and supplication for all saints .
19. And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel.
20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds , that therein I may speak boldly , as I ought to speak.
21 But that ye also may know my affairs , and how I do , Tychicus a beloved brother, and faithful minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things.
22 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose that ye might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts .
23. Peace be to the brethren, and love, with faith from God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
24 Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.
PHILIPPIANS.
PAul being called of the Lord to preach the Gospel in Macedonia, having touched at Neapolis of Greece, came to Philippi ; the first City in regard of its Situation, within that part of Macedonia, on his way from Samothrace, Act. 16.11, 12. into that Country, through Amphipolis, and Apollonia, to Thessalonica. Appian describes this Philippi to be seated on a little Hill near the foot of the Panga • an mountain, in old time called Crenides, from the fountains, and Gold-mines adjoining, and Datus or Dathus from the Treasure, (agreeing with the Island Thasus near it) afterwards enlarged, and fortified by Philip King of Macedon, who therefore gave it the name of Philippi as a Frontier Town within his Dominions on the confines of Thracia. Yet afterwards it fell into the hands of the Romans, and became memorable for the Victory which Augustus, and Anthony obtained there over Brutus and Cassius. And in Paul 's time was a Colony, Act. 16.12.21. But there is no evidence from Scripture, or the most Authentic Civil History, that it was (as a Learned Man would have it) the Metropolis of Macedonia when this Epistle was written to it. For it doth not appear that it had so much as a Proconsul, or Deputy (as in some other Colonies of Macedonia, Act. 16.12. ) but rather that the Magistrates and Military Officers, Vers. 20, 22, 35, 36, 38. show themselves to be of an under City, which (some affirm) did depend on the great Mother City Thessalonica, in a civil sense; and some Centuries after (say others) in an Ecclesiastical. However it received Paul who planted the Gospel here, who now being Prisoner at Rome (probably the first, not second time) Chap. 1.7, 13, 14, 15. with 2 Tim. 4.6. and having received by Epaphroditus their Messenger, c. 2.25. their acceptable and liberal present, c. 4▪ 18. and understood from their constancy in the Doctrine they had received (though it seems some affecting preheminencies did trouble them) he doth most Pathetically, as full of paternal affections towards them his dear Children, move them to persevere in Faith and Godliness: and not to be at all discouraged by his present sufferings; but to live as becomes the Gospel in humility and unity; intimating his tender love and care of them in designing to send Timothy to them, and then to come and visit them, whom he cautions to beware of Seducers, who might else pervert them in mingling the Law and Gospel: whereupon he quickens them to an Heavenly Conversation in the exercise of several graces, and expressing his thankfulness for this repeated bounty concludes with his Salutations and Apostolical Blessings.
CHAP. I.
PAUL and Timothy the servants of Jesus Christ , to all the saints in Christ Jesus , which are at Philippi, with the bishops, and deacons :
2 * Grace be unto you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ .
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you .
4 (Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy .)
5 For your fellowship in the gospel, from the first day until now .
6 Being confident of this very thing , that he which hath begun a good work in you , will perform it n until the day of Jesus Christ .
7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all , because I have you in my heart , in as much as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace .
8 For God is my record , how greatly I long after you all , in the bowels of Jesus Christ .
9 And this I pray , that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge , and all judgment.
10 That ye a may approve things that are excellent , that ye may be sincere , and without offense till the day of Christ o;
11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness , which are by Jesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God .
12 But I would ye should understand, brethren , that the things which happened unto me, have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel .
13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places.
14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds , are much more bold, to speak the word without fear .
15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife, and some also of good will .
16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds .
17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel .
18 What then ? notwithstanding every way , whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached , and I therein do rejoice , yea, and will rejoice .
19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer , and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ .
20 According to my earnest expectation, and my hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed , but that with all boldness, as always , so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life or by death .
21 For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain .
22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labor : yet what I shall choose, I wot not .
23 For I am in a strait betwixt two , having a desire to depart , and to be with Christ, which is far better .
24 Nevertheless, to abide in the flesh, is more needful for you .
25 And having this confidence , I know that I shall abide and continue with you all, for your furtherance and joy of faith .
26 That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me, by my coming to you again .
27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ , that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs , that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind , striving together for the faith of the gospel .
28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries , which is to them an evident token of perdition , but to you of salvation , and that of God .
29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ , not only to believe on him , but also to suffer for his sake .
30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me .
CHAP. II.
IF there be therefore any consolation in Christ , if any comfort of love , if any fellowship of the Spirit , if any bowels and mercies .
2 Fulfill ye my joy that ye be like minded , having the same love being of one accord , of one mind .
3 Let nothing be done through strife or vain-glory , but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better then themselves .
4. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.
6 Who being in the form of God , thought it not robbery to be equal with God .
7 But made himself , of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men .
8 And being found in fashion as a man , he humbled himself , and became obedient unto death , even the death of the cross .
9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him , and given him a name , which is above every name:
10 That at the name of Jesus , every knee should bow , of things in heaven , and things in earth , and things under the earth .
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord , to the glory of God the Father.
12 Wherefore my beloved as ye have always obeyed , not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence ; work out your own salvation , with fear, and trembling .
13 For it is God which worketh in you , both to will , and to do , of his good pleasure .
14 Do all things without murmurings , and disputings .
15 That ye may be blameless and harmeless , the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation , among whom ye shine as lights in the world :
16 Holding forth the word of life ; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ , that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain .
17 Yea and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy and rejoice with you all .
18 For the same cause also do ye joy , and rejoice with me .
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus , to send Timothy shortly unto you , that I also may be of good comfort , when I know your state .
20 For I have no man like-minded , who will naturally care for your state .
21 For all h seek their own h, not the things which are Jesus Christ's .
22 But ye know the proof of him , that as a son with the father , he hath served with me in the gospel .
23 Him therefore I hope to send presently , so soon as I shall see how it will go with me .
24 But I trust in the Lord , that I also myself shall come shortly .
25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus , my brother and companion in labor , and fellow-soldier , but your messenger , and he that ministered to my wants .
26 For he longed after you all , and was full of heaviness because that ye had heard that he had been sick .
27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death , but God had mercy on him : and not on him only, but on me also c, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow .
28 I sent him therefore the more carefully , that when ye see him again ye may rejoice , and that I may be the less sorrowful .
29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness , and hold such in reputation .
30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death , not regarding his life , to supply your lack of service toward me .
CHAP. III.
1 FInally , my brethren rejoice in the Lord . To write the same things to you , to me indeed is not grievous , but for you it is safe .
2 Beware of dogs , beware of evil workers , beware of the concision .
3 For we are the circumcision , which worship God in the spirit , and rejoice in Christ Jesus , and have no confidence in the flesh .
4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh . If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more .
5 • Circumcised the eighth day , of the stock of Israel , of • the tribe of Benjamin , an Hebrew of the Hebrews : as touching the law, a Pharisee .
6 Concerning zeal , persecuting the church : touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless .
7 But what things were gain to me , those I counted loss for Christ .
8 Yea doubtless , and I account all things but loss , for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord : for whom I have suffered the loss of all things , and do count them but dung , that I may win Christ .
9 And be found in him , not having mine own righteousness , which is of the law , but that which is through the faith of Christ , the righteousness which is of God by faith .
10 That I may know him , and the power of his resurrection h, and the fellowship of his sufferings , being made conformable to his death .
11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead .
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect , but I follow after , If that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus .
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended , but this one thing I do , forgetting those things which are behind , and reaching forth unto those things which are before .
14 I press toward the mark , for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus .
15 Let us therefore as many as be perfect , be thus minded : and if anything ye be otherwise minded , God shall reveal even this unto you .
16 Nevertheless whereto we have already attained , let us walk by the same rule , let us mind the same thing .
17 Brethren, be followers together of me , and mark them which walk so, as ye have us for an ensample .
18 (For many walk , of whom I have told you often , and now tell you even weeping , that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ .
19 Whose end is destruction , whose God is their belly , and whose glory is in their shame , who mind earthly things r.
20 For our conversation is in heaven , from whence also we * look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus .
21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body , according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things to himself .
CHAP. IV.
1 THerefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for , my joy , and crown , so stand fast in the Lord , my dearly beloved .
2 I beseech Euodias, and I b seech Syntyche , that they be of the same mind in the Lord .
3 And I entreat thee also, true yoke-fellow , help those women which labored with me in the gospel , with Clement also , and with other my fellow-laborers , whose names are in the book of life .
4 Rejoice in the Lord always , and again I say Rejoice .
5 Let your moderation be known unto all men . The Lord is at hand .
6 Be careful for nothing : but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving , let your requests be made known unto God .
7 The pe • ce of God which passeth all understanding shall keep g your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally brethren , whatsoever things are true , whatsoever things are honest; whatsoever things are just , whatsoever things are pure , whatsoever things are lovely , whatsoever things are of good report : if there be any virtue p, if there be any praise ; think on these things .
9 Those things which ye have both learned , and received, and heard , and seen in me , do : and the God of peace shall be with you .
10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly , that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again, wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity .
11 Not that I speak in respect of want : for I have learned in whatsoever state I am ▪ therewith to be content .
12 I know both how to be abased , and I know how to abound : everywhere and in all things I am instructed , both to be full, and to be hungry, both to abound , and to suffer need .
13 I • an do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me m.
14 Notwithstanding , ye have well done that ye did communicate with mine affliction .
15 Now ye Philippians know also , that in the beginning of the gospel , when I departed from Macedonia , no church communicated with me, as concerning giving and receiving but ye only .
16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity .
17 Not because I desire a gift , but I desire fruit that may abound to your account .
18 But I have all, and abound: I am full , having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you , an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God .
19 But my God c shall supply all your need , according to his riches in glory , by Christ Jesus .
20 Now unto God and our Father be glory , forever and ever . Amen .
21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus : The Brethren which are with me greet you .
22 All the saints salute you , chiefly they that are of Caesar's household .
23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all . Amen .
CHAP. I.
PAUL and Timothy the servants of Jesus Christ , to all the saints in Christ Jesus , which are at Philippi, with the bishops, and deacons :
2 * Grace be unto you, and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ .
3 I thank my God upon every remembrance of you .
4 (Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy .)
5 For your fellowship in the gospel, from the first day until now .
6 Being confident of this very thing , that he which hath begun a good work in you , will perform it n until the day of Jesus Christ .
7 Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all , because I have you in my heart , in as much as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace .
8 For God is my record , how greatly I long after you all , in the bowels of Jesus Christ .
9 And this I pray , that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge , and all judgment.
10 That ye a may approve things that are excellent , that ye may be sincere , and without offense till the day of Christ o;
11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness , which are by Jesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God .
12 But I would ye should understand, brethren , that the things which happened unto me, have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel .
13 So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places.
14 And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds , are much more bold, to speak the word without fear .
15 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife, and some also of good will .
16 The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds .
17 But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defense of the gospel .
18 What then ? notwithstanding every way , whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached , and I therein do rejoice , yea, and will rejoice .
19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer , and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ .
20 According to my earnest expectation, and my hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed , but that with all boldness, as always , so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life or by death .
21 For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain .
22 But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labor : yet what I shall choose, I wot not .
23 For I am in a strait betwixt two , having a desire to depart , and to be with Christ, which is far better .
24 Nevertheless, to abide in the flesh, is more needful for you .
25 And having this confidence , I know that I shall abide and continue with you all, for your furtherance and joy of faith .
26 That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me, by my coming to you again .
27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ , that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs , that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind , striving together for the faith of the gospel .
28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries , which is to them an evident token of perdition , but to you of salvation , and that of God .
29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ , not only to believe on him , but also to suffer for his sake .
30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me .
CHAP. II.
IF there be therefore any consolation in Christ , if any comfort of love , if any fellowship of the Spirit , if any bowels and mercies .
2 Fulfill ye my joy that ye be like minded , having the same love being of one accord , of one mind .
3 Let nothing be done through strife or vain-glory , but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better then themselves .
4. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.
6 Who being in the form of God , thought it not robbery to be equal with God .
7 But made himself , of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men .
8 And being found in fashion as a man , he humbled himself , and became obedient unto death , even the death of the cross .
9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him , and given him a name , which is above every name:
10 That at the name of Jesus , every knee should bow , of things in heaven , and things in earth , and things under the earth .
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord , to the glory of God the Father.
12 Wherefore my beloved as ye have always obeyed , not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence ; work out your own salvation , with fear, and trembling .
13 For it is God which worketh in you , both to will , and to do , of his good pleasure .
14 Do all things without murmurings , and disputings .
15 That ye may be blameless and harmeless , the sons of God without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation , among whom ye shine as lights in the world :
16 Holding forth the word of life ; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ , that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain .
17 Yea and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy and rejoice with you all .
18 For the same cause also do ye joy , and rejoice with me .
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus , to send Timothy shortly unto you , that I also may be of good comfort , when I know your state .
20 For I have no man like-minded , who will naturally care for your state .
21 For all h seek their own h, not the things which are Jesus Christ's .
22 But ye know the proof of him , that as a son with the father , he hath served with me in the gospel .
23 Him therefore I hope to send presently , so soon as I shall see how it will go with me .
24 But I trust in the Lord , that I also myself shall come shortly .
25 Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus , my brother and companion in labor , and fellow-soldier , but your messenger , and he that ministered to my wants .
26 For he longed after you all , and was full of heaviness because that ye had heard that he had been sick .
27 For indeed he was sick nigh unto death , but God had mercy on him : and not on him only, but on me also c, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow .
28 I sent him therefore the more carefully , that when ye see him again ye may rejoice , and that I may be the less sorrowful .
29 Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness , and hold such in reputation .
30 Because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death , not regarding his life , to supply your lack of service toward me .
CHAP. III.
1 FInally , my brethren rejoice in the Lord . To write the same things to you , to me indeed is not grievous , but for you it is safe .
2 Beware of dogs , beware of evil workers , beware of the concision .
3 For we are the circumcision , which worship God in the spirit , and rejoice in Christ Jesus , and have no confidence in the flesh .
4 Though I might also have confidence in the flesh . If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more .
5 • Circumcised the eighth day , of the stock of Israel , of • the tribe of Benjamin , an Hebrew of the Hebrews : as touching the law, a Pharisee .
6 Concerning zeal , persecuting the church : touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless .
7 But what things were gain to me , those I counted loss for Christ .
8 Yea doubtless , and I account all things but loss , for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord : for whom I have suffered the loss of all things , and do count them but dung , that I may win Christ .
9 And be found in him , not having mine own righteousness , which is of the law , but that which is through the faith of Christ , the righteousness which is of God by faith .
10 That I may know him , and the power of his resurrection h, and the fellowship of his sufferings , being made conformable to his death .
11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead .
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect , but I follow after , If that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus .
13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended , but this one thing I do , forgetting those things which are behind , and reaching forth unto those things which are before .
14 I press toward the mark , for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus .
15 Let us therefore as many as be perfect , be thus minded : and if anything ye be otherwise minded , God shall reveal even this unto you .
16 Nevertheless whereto we have already attained , let us walk by the same rule , let us mind the same thing .
17 Brethren, be followers together of me , and mark them which walk so, as ye have us for an ensample .
18 (For many walk , of whom I have told you often , and now tell you even weeping , that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ .
19 Whose end is destruction , whose God is their belly , and whose glory is in their shame , who mind earthly things r.
20 For our conversation is in heaven , from whence also we * look for the Savior, the Lord Jesus .
21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body , according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things to himself .
CHAP. IV.
1 THerefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for , my joy , and crown , so stand fast in the Lord , my dearly beloved .
2 I beseech Euodias, and I b seech Syntyche , that they be of the same mind in the Lord .
3 And I entreat thee also, true yoke-fellow , help those women which labored with me in the gospel , with Clement also , and with other my fellow-laborers , whose names are in the book of life .
4 Rejoice in the Lord always , and again I say Rejoice .
5 Let your moderation be known unto all men . The Lord is at hand .
6 Be careful for nothing : but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving , let your requests be made known unto God .
7 The pe • ce of God which passeth all understanding shall keep g your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally brethren , whatsoever things are true , whatsoever things are honest; whatsoever things are just , whatsoever things are pure , whatsoever things are lovely , whatsoever things are of good report : if there be any virtue p, if there be any praise ; think on these things .
9 Those things which ye have both learned , and received, and heard , and seen in me , do : and the God of peace shall be with you .
10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly , that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again, wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity .
11 Not that I speak in respect of want : for I have learned in whatsoever state I am ▪ therewith to be content .
12 I know both how to be abased , and I know how to abound : everywhere and in all things I am instructed , both to be full, and to be hungry, both to abound , and to suffer need .
13 I • an do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me m.
14 Notwithstanding , ye have well done that ye did communicate with mine affliction .
15 Now ye Philippians know also , that in the beginning of the gospel , when I departed from Macedonia , no church communicated with me, as concerning giving and receiving but ye only .
16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity .
17 Not because I desire a gift , but I desire fruit that may abound to your account .
18 But I have all, and abound: I am full , having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you , an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God .
19 But my God c shall supply all your need , according to his riches in glory , by Christ Jesus .
20 Now unto God and our Father be glory , forever and ever . Amen .
21 Salute every saint in Christ Jesus : The Brethren which are with me greet you .
22 All the saints salute you , chiefly they that are of Caesar's household .
23 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all . Amen .
COLOSSIANS.
GOD having a Church planted in the City of Colossae, (by some since called Chone ) situated at the conflux of the Rivers Meander, and Lycus, in the Neighbourhood of Laodicea, and Hierapolis, ch. 4.13. in Phrygia of the lesser Asia, whither at first, only by the Preaching of Epaphras one of them who was a Servant of Christ, and faithful Minister, ch. 1.7. & 4.12. or by Paul himself, who (we learn from Luke that accompanied him) had gone throughout Phrygia, Act. 16.6. and again over all the Country of Phrygia in order, Act. 18.23. having stayed for a season in Asia, where he wrought Miracles, and was complained of for turning away much People from Idolatry almost throughout all Asia, Act. 19.11, 22, 26. we may leave undetermined. But whoever was God's prime instrument in planting the Gospel here, upon Paul 's being advertized by Epaphras, ch. 1.8. & 4.12. Philem. v. 23. that weeds sprang up to choke the good seed; as he was careful for the Philippians during his imprisonment, so for the Colossians, that they might not be perverted by those Judaizing false Teachers who mingled Moses with Christ, stickling for the necessity of abrogated Ceremonies to Salvation, ch. 2.4, 8, &c. varnishing their Doctrines with notions of vain or abused Philosophy, did seek to introduce a Superstitious Worship grounded on human Traditions, ch, 2.8, 18, &c. but reposing all their hope of Salvation in Christ alone, persevere in that Doctrine they had received according to his mind, and in the practice of real holiness with heavenly affections, both Personally and Relatively in heart and life, craving help of God, unto whom having blessed God for the grace wrought in them, he doth recommend them in his own, and Brethren's salutations, contracting as it were the matter he had more fully Written to the Ephesians, that Epistle and this, as the Evangelists explaining each other.
CHAP. I.
1 PAUL an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God , and Timothy our brother .
2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ , which are at Coloss , Grace be unto you, and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ .
3 We give thanks to God , and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ , praying always for you .
4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus , and of the love which ye have to all the saints .
5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven , whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel .
6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world , and bringeth forth fruit , as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it , and knew the grace of God in truth .
7 As ye also learned of Epaphras , our dear fellow-servant , who is for you a faithful minister of Christ .
8 Who also declared unto us your love in the spirit .
9 For this cause we also , since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you , and to desire that ye • ight be filled with the knowledge of his will , in all wisdom , and spiritual understanding .
10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing , being fruitful in every good work , and increasing in the knowledge of God .
11 Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power , unto all patience , and longsuffering with joyfulness.
12 Giving thanks unto the Father , which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light .
13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness , and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son .
14 In whom we have redemption through his blood , even the forgiveness of sins .
15 Who is the image of the invisible God , the first-born of every creature .
16 For by him were all things created that are in heaven, and that are in earth visible and invisible , whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers : all things were created by him, , and for him .
17 And he is before all things , and by him all things consist .
18 And he is the head of the body, the church : who is the beginning , the first-born from the dead , that in all things he might have the preeminence .
19 For it pleased the Father , that in him should all fullness dwell .
20 And having made peace through the blood of his cross by him to reconcile all things unto himself , by him , I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven .
21 And you that were sometime alienated , and enemies in your mind by wicked works , yet now hath he reconciled .
22 In the body of his flesh through death , to present you holy and unblameable, and unreprovable in his sight .
23 If ye continue in faith grounded and settled , and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel which ye have heard , and whi • h was preached to every creature which is under heaven , whereof I Paul am made a minister .
24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you , and fill up p that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh , for his bodies sake, which is the Church .
25 Whereof I am made a minister according to the dispensation of God , which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God .
26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages, and from generations , but now is made manifest to his saints .
27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles , which is Christ in you the hope of glory .
28 Whom we preach , warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom , that we may present every man perfect in Jesus Christ .
29 Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working , which worketh in me mightily.
CHAP. II.
1 FOR I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you , and for them at Laodicea , and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh .
2 That their hearts might be comforted , being knit together in love , and to all riches of the full assurance of understanding , to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God , and of the Father, and of Christ .
3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom, and knowledge .
4 And this I say , lest any man should beguile you with enticing words .
5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit , joying and beholding your order , and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ .
6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord , so walk ye in him .
7 Rooted and built up in him , and stablished in the faith , as ye have been taught , abounding therein with thanksgiving .
8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit , after the tradition of men , after the rudiments of the world , and not after Christ .
9 For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily .
10 And ye are complete in him , which is the head of all principality, and power .
11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands , in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh , by the circumcision of Christ .
12 Buried with him in baptism , wherein also ye are risen with him , through the faith of the operation of God , who hath raised him from the d • ad .
13 And you being dead in your sins , and the uncircumcision of your flesh , hath he quickened together with him , having forgiven you all trespasses .
14 Blotting out the hand-writing of ordinances , that was against us , which was contrary to us , and took it out of the way , nailing it to his cross .
15 And having spoiled principalities and powers m, he made a show of them openly , triumphing over them , in it .
16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat or in drink , or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath- days .
17 Which are a shadow of things to come , but the body is of Christ .
18 Let no man beguile you ofyour reward , in a voluntary humility , and worshipping of angels , intruding into those things which he hath not seen vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind .
19 And not holding the head , from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered , and knit together , increaseth with the increase of God .
20 Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the word : why as though living in the world are ye subject to ordinances ?
21 Touch not, taste not, handle not :
22 Which all are to perish with the using ) after the commandments and doctrines of men l.
23 Which things have indeed a show of wisdom , in will-worship , and humility , and neglecting of the body , not in any honor , to the satisfying of the flesh .
CHAP. III.
1 IF ye then be risen with Christ , seek those things which are above , where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God .
2 Set your affections on things above , not on things on the earth .
3 For ye are dead , and your life is hid with Christ in God .
4 When Christ who is our life shall appear , then shall ye also appear with him in glory .
5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth : fornication , uncleanness , inordinate affection , evil concupiscence , and covetousness , which is idolatry :
6 For which things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of dissobedience .
7 In the which ye also walked sometime , when ye lived in them .
8 But now you also put off all these , anger , wrath , malice , blasphemy , filthy c • mmunication out of your mouth .
9 Lie not one to another , seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds .
10 And have put on the new man , which is renewed in knowledge , after the image of him that created him .
11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew , circumcision nor uncircumcision , Barbarian, Scythian , bond nor free : but Christ is all, and in all .
12 Put on therefore as the elect of God holy and beloved bowels of mercies , kindness , humbleness of mind , meekness , long suffering .
13 Forbearing one another , and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any ; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye .
14 And above all these things, put on charity , which is the bond of perfectness .
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts e, to the which also ye are called in one body : and be ye thankful .
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom , teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms, and Hymns, and spirtual Songs , singing with grace m in your hearts to the Lord .
17. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed , do all in the name Lord Jesus q, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
18. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands , as it is fit in the Lord u.
19. Husbands, love your wives , and be not bitter against them .
20. Children , obey your parents in all things , for this is well-pleasing unto the Lord .
21. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger , lest they be discouraged .
22 Servants , obey in all things your masters according to the flesh : not with eye-service , as men pleasers , but in singleness of heart , fearing God.
23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men .
24 Knowing , that of the Lord ye shall re • ceive the reward of the inheritance n : for ye serve the Lord Christ o.
25 But he that doth wrong q, shall receive for the wrong which he hath done : and there is no respect of persons .
CHAP. IV.
1 MAsters , give unto your servants that which is just and equal , knowing that ye also have a master in heaven .
2 Continue in prayer e, and watch in the same with thanksgiving .
3 Withall, praying also for us , that God would open unto us a door of utterance , to speak the mystery of Christ , for which I am also in bonds .
4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak
5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without , redeeming the time .
6 Let your speech be always with grace , seasoned with salt , that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man .
7 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you , who is a beloved brother , and a faithful minister , and fellow servant in the Lord .
8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose , that he might know your estate , and comfort your hearts :
9 With Onesimus a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you . They shall make known unto you all things which are done here .
10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner saluteth you , a • d Marcus sisters son to Barnabas (touching whom ye received commandments; If he come unto you receive him .)
11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision . These only are my fellow-workers unto the kingdom of God , which have been a comfort unto me .
12 Epaphras, who is one of you a servant of Christ, saluteth you , always laboring fervently for you in prayers , that ye may stand perfect, and complete in all the will of God .
13 For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you , and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis .
14 Luke the beloved physician , and Demas greet you .
15 Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea , and Nymphas , and the church which is in his house .
16 And when this epistle is read amongst you , cause that it be read also in the Church of the Laodiceans : and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea .
17 And say to Archippus , Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received, in the Lord that thou fulfill it .
18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul . Remember my bonds. Grace be with you Amen .
CHAP. I.
1 PAUL an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God , and Timothy our brother .
2 To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ , which are at Coloss , Grace be unto you, and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ .
3 We give thanks to God , and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ , praying always for you .
4 Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus , and of the love which ye have to all the saints .
5 For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven , whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel .
6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world , and bringeth forth fruit , as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it , and knew the grace of God in truth .
7 As ye also learned of Epaphras , our dear fellow-servant , who is for you a faithful minister of Christ .
8 Who also declared unto us your love in the spirit .
9 For this cause we also , since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you , and to desire that ye • ight be filled with the knowledge of his will , in all wisdom , and spiritual understanding .
10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing , being fruitful in every good work , and increasing in the knowledge of God .
11 Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power , unto all patience , and longsuffering with joyfulness.
12 Giving thanks unto the Father , which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light .
13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness , and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son .
14 In whom we have redemption through his blood , even the forgiveness of sins .
15 Who is the image of the invisible God , the first-born of every creature .
16 For by him were all things created that are in heaven, and that are in earth visible and invisible , whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers : all things were created by him, , and for him .
17 And he is before all things , and by him all things consist .
18 And he is the head of the body, the church : who is the beginning , the first-born from the dead , that in all things he might have the preeminence .
19 For it pleased the Father , that in him should all fullness dwell .
20 And having made peace through the blood of his cross by him to reconcile all things unto himself , by him , I say, whether they be things in earth or things in heaven .
21 And you that were sometime alienated , and enemies in your mind by wicked works , yet now hath he reconciled .
22 In the body of his flesh through death , to present you holy and unblameable, and unreprovable in his sight .
23 If ye continue in faith grounded and settled , and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel which ye have heard , and whi • h was preached to every creature which is under heaven , whereof I Paul am made a minister .
24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you , and fill up p that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh , for his bodies sake, which is the Church .
25 Whereof I am made a minister according to the dispensation of God , which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God .
26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages, and from generations , but now is made manifest to his saints .
27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles , which is Christ in you the hope of glory .
28 Whom we preach , warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom , that we may present every man perfect in Jesus Christ .
29 Whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working , which worketh in me mightily.
CHAP. II.
1 FOR I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you , and for them at Laodicea , and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh .
2 That their hearts might be comforted , being knit together in love , and to all riches of the full assurance of understanding , to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God , and of the Father, and of Christ .
3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom, and knowledge .
4 And this I say , lest any man should beguile you with enticing words .
5 For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit , joying and beholding your order , and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ .
6 As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord , so walk ye in him .
7 Rooted and built up in him , and stablished in the faith , as ye have been taught , abounding therein with thanksgiving .
8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit , after the tradition of men , after the rudiments of the world , and not after Christ .
9 For in him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily .
10 And ye are complete in him , which is the head of all principality, and power .
11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands , in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh , by the circumcision of Christ .
12 Buried with him in baptism , wherein also ye are risen with him , through the faith of the operation of God , who hath raised him from the d • ad .
13 And you being dead in your sins , and the uncircumcision of your flesh , hath he quickened together with him , having forgiven you all trespasses .
14 Blotting out the hand-writing of ordinances , that was against us , which was contrary to us , and took it out of the way , nailing it to his cross .
15 And having spoiled principalities and powers m, he made a show of them openly , triumphing over them , in it .
16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat or in drink , or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the Sabbath- days .
17 Which are a shadow of things to come , but the body is of Christ .
18 Let no man beguile you ofyour reward , in a voluntary humility , and worshipping of angels , intruding into those things which he hath not seen vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind .
19 And not holding the head , from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered , and knit together , increaseth with the increase of God .
20 Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the word : why as though living in the world are ye subject to ordinances ?
21 Touch not, taste not, handle not :
22 Which all are to perish with the using ) after the commandments and doctrines of men l.
23 Which things have indeed a show of wisdom , in will-worship , and humility , and neglecting of the body , not in any honor , to the satisfying of the flesh .
CHAP. III.
1 IF ye then be risen with Christ , seek those things which are above , where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God .
2 Set your affections on things above , not on things on the earth .
3 For ye are dead , and your life is hid with Christ in God .
4 When Christ who is our life shall appear , then shall ye also appear with him in glory .
5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth : fornication , uncleanness , inordinate affection , evil concupiscence , and covetousness , which is idolatry :
6 For which things sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of dissobedience .
7 In the which ye also walked sometime , when ye lived in them .
8 But now you also put off all these , anger , wrath , malice , blasphemy , filthy c • mmunication out of your mouth .
9 Lie not one to another , seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds .
10 And have put on the new man , which is renewed in knowledge , after the image of him that created him .
11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew , circumcision nor uncircumcision , Barbarian, Scythian , bond nor free : but Christ is all, and in all .
12 Put on therefore as the elect of God holy and beloved bowels of mercies , kindness , humbleness of mind , meekness , long suffering .
13 Forbearing one another , and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any ; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye .
14 And above all these things, put on charity , which is the bond of perfectness .
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts e, to the which also ye are called in one body : and be ye thankful .
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom , teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms, and Hymns, and spirtual Songs , singing with grace m in your hearts to the Lord .
17. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed , do all in the name Lord Jesus q, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
18. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands , as it is fit in the Lord u.
19. Husbands, love your wives , and be not bitter against them .
20. Children , obey your parents in all things , for this is well-pleasing unto the Lord .
21. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger , lest they be discouraged .
22 Servants , obey in all things your masters according to the flesh : not with eye-service , as men pleasers , but in singleness of heart , fearing God.
23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men .
24 Knowing , that of the Lord ye shall re • ceive the reward of the inheritance n : for ye serve the Lord Christ o.
25 But he that doth wrong q, shall receive for the wrong which he hath done : and there is no respect of persons .
CHAP. IV.
1 MAsters , give unto your servants that which is just and equal , knowing that ye also have a master in heaven .
2 Continue in prayer e, and watch in the same with thanksgiving .
3 Withall, praying also for us , that God would open unto us a door of utterance , to speak the mystery of Christ , for which I am also in bonds .
4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak
5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without , redeeming the time .
6 Let your speech be always with grace , seasoned with salt , that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man .
7 All my state shall Tychicus declare unto you , who is a beloved brother , and a faithful minister , and fellow servant in the Lord .
8 Whom I have sent unto you for the same purpose , that he might know your estate , and comfort your hearts :
9 With Onesimus a faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you . They shall make known unto you all things which are done here .
10 Aristarchus my fellow prisoner saluteth you , a • d Marcus sisters son to Barnabas (touching whom ye received commandments; If he come unto you receive him .)
11 And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision . These only are my fellow-workers unto the kingdom of God , which have been a comfort unto me .
12 Epaphras, who is one of you a servant of Christ, saluteth you , always laboring fervently for you in prayers , that ye may stand perfect, and complete in all the will of God .
13 For I bear him record, that he hath a great zeal for you , and them that are in Laodicea, and them in Hierapolis .
14 Luke the beloved physician , and Demas greet you .
15 Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea , and Nymphas , and the church which is in his house .
16 And when this epistle is read amongst you , cause that it be read also in the Church of the Laodiceans : and that ye likewise read the epistle from Laodicea .
17 And say to Archippus , Take heed to the ministry which thou hast received, in the Lord that thou fulfill it .
18 The salutation by the hand of me Paul . Remember my bonds. Grace be with you Amen .
I. THESSALONIANS.
THE Apostle Paul being more especially the Minister of the Uncircumcision, and Preacher of the Gentiles, in his Progress through their Cities and Countries comes to Thessalonica ; a chief City in Macedonia, for thither he was called in a Vision, Acts 16.9. A man of Macedonia prayed him, saying, Come over to Macedonia and help us. In obedience to which he loosed from Troas, and came to Samothracia, and from thence to Neapolis, from thence to Philippi, where he abode certain days; verse 12. And after passing through Amphipolis, and Appolonia came to Thessalonica, where was a Synagogue of the Jews, Acts 17.1. whither as his manner was he went and Preached that Jesus was the Christ. Whereupon some believed, and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief Women not a few. But the Jews which believed not raised a persecution against him, whereupon the Brethren sent him and Silas away to Berea, verse 10. where he also went and Preached in the Jews Synagogue. But the unbelieving Jews of Thessalonica following him to Berea, he was conducted thence to Athens ; and from thence its thought by some he writes this Epistle to the Thessalonians, as is asserted in the Postscript. Wherein he gives account of the great success of his Preaching among them, for which he gives thanks to God, and makes an honorable mention of them in several places. But because they were new Converts, and met with Persecution from their own Countrymen for the Gospel sake, the Apostle was the more solicitous for them to confirm them in the Faith they had received. Whereupon he endeavored once and again to come to them himself, but some way or other was hindered by Satan, as he tells them, chapter 2. verse 18. And therefore he sends to them Timothy in his room, to know their Faith, and to establish them in it, who bringing an account thereof to him, and of their state, he writes this Epistle to them according to the account he received by Timothy, and his own observation and knowledge while he was amongst them. Particularly,
1. He gives thanks for the Eminency and Operation of the Graces of God in them, for the special presence of the Holy Ghost in his Ministry amongst them, for their exemplary Faith and Conversation, chap. 1.
2. He puts them in mind of his Ministerial Labors and Personal Conversation among them, of the malicious carriage of the Jews both against Christ, and his Apostles, and particularly against himself, whereof he knew they themselves were eye witnesses; and declares his present rejoicing and glorying in them, chap. 2.
3. He next gives the Reason of his sending Timothy to them, and speaks of the good account he gave of them, and the great refreshing and comfort he received thereby; and that he was greatly desirous to see their face, and prays that they might increase in Love, and be established in Holiness, chap. 3.
4. He then proceeds to exhort them about their Personal walking according to the Directions and Commandments he had given them from the Lord Jesus. And he instanceth in Marriage Chastity, Righteousness in dealing, brotherly Love, peaceable carriage, minding their callings, and diligence therein, and not to mourn inordinately for them that die in Jesus, as knowing that they shall rise from the dead, and meet the Lord in the Air as well, and as early as those that shall be found alive at his coming, chap. 4.
5. He next describes the manner of Christ's Coming; that it will be sudden and unexpected, whereby many will be surprised in their security, and therefore exhorts these Thessalonians to be watchful, sober, and armed for that day, which will be to them a day of Salvation which they had been appointed to. And then he exhort • them to duties belonging to their Church State, and Communion, to have an high esteem for their Guides and Teachers; to warn, support, and comfort one another; not to retaliate evil for evil, &c. And so in the close of the Epistle recommends them to God in Prayer, begging they would also pray for him; and salute one another, and Communicate this Epistle to all the Brethren, and so concludes with his usual salutation.
This is the Substance of the Epistle.
As to the place whence it was written we need not inquire, whether it was as is expressed in the Postscript, from Athens : or from Corinth as Grotius and others imagine.
As to the Time, It was surely not long after Paul's coming from Thessalonica ; for indeed the present state of the Thessalonians did require that he should not long delay it, as his secret affection to them would not suffer it neither.
And as to the Order of the Epistle, that that which is called the Second Epistle should be really the First, and by some carelessness misnamed, and misplaced, is a bold groundless conjecture of Grotius, and needs no confutation.
But this is more probable, that it was the first Epistle that the Apostle wrote to any Church, though other Epistles are in order set before it: The Gospel was more early Preached here then at Corinth or Rome, as appears in the Acts of the Apostles, and the success of it was more sudden and eminent then in any other City, and their persecutions more, whereby they might obtain an Epistle from the Apostle before any other Church.
CHAP. I.
1 PAul and Silvanus and Timothy unto the church of the Thessalonians , which is in God the father , and in the LORD Jesus Christ : Grace be to you, and peace from God our Father, and the LORD Jesus Christ.
2 We give thinks to God always for you all , making mention of you in our prayers .
3 Remembering without ceasing your work of faith , and labor of love , and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ , in the sight of God , and our Father .
4 Knowing brethren beloved, your election of God .
5 For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power , and in the holy Ghost , and in much assurance , as ye know what manner of men we were among you for yoar sake .
6 And ye became followers of us , and of the LORD , having received the word in much affliction , with joy of the holy Ghost .
7 So that ye were examples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.
8 For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to Godward is spread abroad g, so that we need not to speak anything .
9 For they themselves show of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you , and how ye turned to God from idols , to serve the living and true God .
10 And to wait for his son from heaven , whom he raised from the dead , even Jesus , who delivered us from the wrath to come .
CHAP. II.
1 FOR yourselves , brethren, know our entrance in unto you , that it was not in vain c.
2 But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi , we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention .
3 For our exhortation was not of deceit , nor of uncleanness , nor in guile .
4 But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel , even so we speak , not as pleasing men, but God which trieth our hearts .
5 For neither at any time used we flattering words , as ye know ; nor a cloak of covetousness, God is witness .
6 Nor of men sought we glory , neither of you, nor yet of others , when we might have been burdensome as the apostles of Christ .
7 But we were gentle among you , even as a nurse cherisheth her children .
8 So being affectionately desirous of you , we were willing to have imparted to you not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us .
9 For ye remember brethren our labor ▪ and travel : For laboring night and day, because we would not be chargeable to any of you , we preached unto you the gospel of God.
10 Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily, justly, and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe .
11 As you know how we exhorted and comforted, and charged everyone of you as a father doth his children .
12 That ye would walk worthy of God , who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory .
13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us , ye received it not as the word of men , but (as it is in truth ) the word of God , which effectually worketh also in you that believe .
14 For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God, which in Judea are in Christ Jesus ; for * ye also have suffered like things of your own country-men , even as they hav • of the Jews .
15 Who both killed the Lord Jesus , and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God , and are contrary to all men .
16 Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles, that they might be saved , to fill up their sins always : for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost .
17 But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time , in presence; not in heart, endeavored more abundantly to see your face with great desire .
18 Wherefore we would have come unto you, (even I Paul z ) once and again, but Satan hindered us .
〈1 page duplicate〉 〈1 page duplicate〉19 For * what is our hope , or joy , or crown of rejoicing ? are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
CHAP. III.
1 WHerefore when we could no longer forbear †, we thought it good † to be left at Athens alone:
2 And sent Timothy our brother and minister of God, and our fellow-laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith .
3 That no man should be moved by these afflictions , for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto .
4 For verily, when we were with you we told you before that we should suffer tribulation , even as it came to pass, and ye know .
5 For this cause when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you , and our labor be in vain .
6 But now, when Timothy came from you to us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity , and that ye have good remembrance of us always , desiring greatly to see us , as we also to see you .
7 Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you , in all our affliction, and distress by your faith .
8 For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord
9 For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God .
Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith .
11 Now God himself, and our Father , and our Lord Jesus Christ direct our way unto you .
12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one towards another , and towards all men , even as we do towards you ,
13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints .