Commentary on the Gospels and Acts

To be baptized of him]

Not for any need he had (for he was a Lamb without blemish of natural corruption, and without spot of actual transgression, 1 Pet. 1. 19.) but merely for our benefit, to sanctify baptism to us, and to grace his own ordinance for us.

I have need to be baptized of thee]

There can be no flesh without filthiness, as a grave Divine noteth upon this text. Neither the supernatural conception, nor austere life of John could exempt him from need of baptism.

And comest 〈◊〉 to me?]

Amica 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , a friendly falling out, but quickly made up. Most of our jarrings grow from mistakes. Be swift to hear, slow to wrath; easily satisfied. Not 〈◊◊〉 , which being once broken, cannot be peeced again.

To fulfill all righteousness]

Not legal only, and of equality, but that of his present condition also, and of equity; to the end, that all kind of sinners might have all kind of comfort in Christ, an absolute and all-sufficient Savior.

Then he suffered him]

The wisdom from above is gentle, and easy to be persuaded, when better 〈◊〉 is alleged: as in Peter, Joh. 13. 8. first peremptory, but, after conviction, pliable. An humble man will never be an heretic; show him his error, and he will soon retract it. Joannes Bugenhagius (a Reverend Dutch Divine) lighting upon Luther's book de captivitate Babylonica, and reading some few pages of it, as he sat at supper; rashly pronounced him the most pestilent and pernicious heretic, that ever the Church had been troubled with, since the times of Christ. But, a few days after, having seriously read over the book, and well weighed the business, he returned to his Collegioners, and recanted what he had said amongst them; affirming and proving, that Luther only was in the light, and all the world besides in gross darkness, so that many of them were converted by him to the truth. Johannes 〈◊〉 (a learned Bavarian ) held this heresy, That no man or Devil should be damned eternally, because God willeth that all should be saved; and Christ saith, There shall be one shepherd, and one sheep-fold. But, being an humble minded man, he was convinced and converted by Oecolampadius, and died of the plague (but piously) at Basil, Anno 〈◊〉 . Of 〈◊〉 the heretic, because he prayed ardently, and lived unblameably, Bucholeerus the Chronologer was wont to say, that his heart was good, but his head not well regulated. But how that could be, I see not, so long as he lived and 〈◊〉 in his detestable opinions, and would not 〈◊〉 them. If the 〈◊〉 were gotten into the head, the Priest was to pronounce such utterly unclean, Levite. 13 44. And the Prophet pronounceth 〈◊〉 soul, that is lifted up with pride and pertinency, not to be upright in him.

Went up straightway out of the 〈◊〉 ]

And stood upon the shore, apart from the company, that all might see and hear what was now to be done. S ^t Luke addeth, that he fell thereupon his knees and prayed; thereby teaching us, with what deep devotion, we are to receive the Sacraments: Which are given us of God, to signify, as by sign, to assure, as by seal, and to convey, as by instrument, Jesus Christ and all his benefits: the Father, Son and holy Ghost are there one in covenanting and working thy salvation. 〈◊〉 up thyself therefore to hope and faith at the Sacrament: speak to thy faith, as Deborah did to herself, Awake, awake, Deborah, 〈◊〉 a song: Give glory to God, lay claim to the covenant: lean on Christ's bosom at that supper, and be think thyself, with Hesther at the feast, what suit thou hast to commence, what Haman to hang up, what lust to subdue, what grace (chiefly) to get growth in, &c. But, for most communicants, urge them to prayer afore, in, and after Sacrament, and they must say (if they say truly,) as David did of Saul's armor, I cannot go with these, for I have not been 〈◊〉 omed to them.

And, lo, the heavens were opened unto him]

As he was praying; for prayer is the 〈◊〉 of heaven, wherewith we may take out of God's treasury plentiful mercy for ourselves and others. He 〈◊〉 possibly be poor, that can pray, Rom. 10. 12. One said of the Pope, that he could never want money, so long as he could hold 〈◊〉 pen in his hand; of the faithful Christian it may safely be affirmed, He cannot want any good thing, while he can call to God for it. If he can find a praying heart, God will find a pitying heart, and a supplying hand. Now, he is worthily miserable that will not make himself happy by asking. The Ark and the Mercy-seat were never separated. God never said to Israel, Seek ye me in vain: The hand of faith never knocked at Heaven gates, but they were opened, and the Spirit, descended, though not so visibly as here, at the baptism of our Savior, nor a voice heard so audibly from Heaven as then, yet, as truly and effectually to the support of the poor suppliant: Who while he prayeth in the holy Ghost, Jude 20. 〈◊〉 new supplies of the Spirit, Phil. 1. 19. and is sweetly, but secretly, sealed up thereby to the day of redemption.

And he saw the Spirit of God descending]

From the Father, (who spake from the most excellent glory ) upon the Son, who stood upon the shore, so that here was concilium augustissimum, a most majestical meeting of the three Persons in Trinity, about the work of man's redemption, as once about his creation, Gen. 1. 26. Let us make 〈◊〉 : The Hebrews interpret it, I and my Iudgementhall; by which phrase, the Trinity, of old, was implied. For 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 -Hall in Israel consisted of three at least; which, in their close manner of speech, they applied to God; but their posterity understood it not. And as in the matter of man's creation, and redemption, so likewise of his 〈◊◊〉 ; 〈◊〉 is that of the Apostle, 1 Cor. 12. 45 67. where the 〈◊〉 of gifts are said to be of the Spirit: the diversities of ministries (whereby these gifts are administered) of the Lord, that is, of Christ, and the diversities of operations ( 〈◊〉 by the gifts and ministries) to be of God, the Father.

Like a dove, and lighting upon him]

This was shadowed, of old, by Noah's dove lighting upon the Ark: and serveth to denote Christ's innocence, purity, love to his little ones, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , saith Aristotle. And another thus;

That was more then ridiculous (nay it was 〈◊〉 ) that those Pilgrims, that went to 〈◊〉 to fight in the Holy war (as they called it,) did carry a goose before them, pretending it to be the holy Ghost. These were drunk with the wine 〈◊〉 the whore of Babylon's 〈◊〉 : and not filled with the Spirit, as S ^t Stephen was, and Barnabas, and others of old; as of late, among many, that famous Beza; de quo 〈◊〉 saepe 〈◊〉 , 〈◊◊◊〉 vivere. And himself reports of 〈◊〉 , and his colleagues, in an Epistle to Calvin, that, disputing 〈◊〉 a Spanish Jesuit about the Eucharist, the 〈◊〉 (saith he) called us vulpes, & 〈◊〉 , & serpentes, foxes, apes, serpents. My answer was this, Non magis nos credere, quàm 〈◊◊〉 . So that Angel John Bradford (as one calleth him) when he 〈◊〉 with 〈◊〉 a Castro; the Frier was in a wonderful rage, and spake so high, that the whole house rang again, chasing with om and cho, saith 〈◊〉 Fox. But Bradford answered him with 〈◊〉 of wisdom, and, like the waters of Siloam at the 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 , ran 〈◊〉 . He had been baptized with that holy 〈◊〉 that 〈◊◊◊〉 Savior, who received not the spirit by 〈◊〉 , but had a 〈◊〉 , not of abundance only, but also of 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 . 1. 14

Saying, this is my beloved]

My 〈◊〉 , he on whom my love resteth; so that I will seek no further. Zeph. 3. 17. when the earth was founded, Christ was with his Father as his daily delight, sporting, or laughing, always before him, risum 〈◊〉 acconsilium, Prov. 8. 30.

In whom I am well pleased]

The beloved, in whom he hath made us accepted, Eph. 1. 6. God's Heptsibah, so the Church is called, 〈◊〉 . 62. 4. the dearly beloved of his soul, Jer. 12. 7. Or (as the Septuagint render it) his beloved soul, over whom he rejoiceth, as the bridegroom over his bride, Isa. 62. 5. 〈◊〉 he will rest in his love, as abundantly well pleased, he will joy therein with singing. So well thinketh God of his Son Christ, and of us thorough him; as some of the Ancients rendered this word, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , In quo 〈◊〉 sensi. So (after Irenaeus ) Tertullian, Cyprian and Augustine interpret it. And yet, as well as he thought of his only Son, he spared him not, but delivered him up for us all, Rom. 8 32. whereupon S ^t Bernard thus cries ont, O quantum dilecti, prae quo filius ipse 〈◊〉 non dilectus, 〈◊◊〉 neglectus? God so loved his Son, that he gave him all the world for his possession, Psal. 2. but he so loved the world, as he gave Son, and all, for its redemption. One 〈◊〉 this an 〈◊〉 , an excess of love, a miracle of mercy, a 〈◊〉 without a sicut. God 〈◊〉 loved the loved, so infinitely, so 〈◊〉 , so incomprehensibly, as that there is no similitude in nature, whereby to express it. Abraham (God's friend) shown his love to him, in not withholding his only Son Isaac: but what was 〈◊〉 to Christ? or what was Abraham's love to God's? He did that 〈◊〉 and voluntary, that Abraham would never have done, but upon a command. Besides, Isaac was to be offered up after the manner of holy sacrifices; but Christ suffered, after the manner of 〈◊〉 . And yet further, 〈◊〉 was in the hand of a 〈◊〉 and compassionate father: but Christ died by the wicked hands of barbarous and blood-thirsty enemies; that thereby he might 〈◊〉 the enmity, and reconcile us to God: so making peace, and paving us a new and living way, with his blood, to the throne of grace, 〈◊〉 he hath made us accepted in the beloved, Ephes. 1. 6. 〈◊〉 saw the features of his friend Jonathan, in lame Mephibosheth, and therefore loved him. He forgave Nabal at Abigals intercession: and was pacified toward 〈◊〉 , at 〈◊〉 . 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Jacob's house, for Joseph's sake: Shall not God do us much more for Jesus sake? Joseph was well pleased with his brethren, when they brought Benjamin: Bring but the child Jesus in our arms (as, Simeon did, and as 〈◊〉 did the King of Persines child) and he cannot but smile upon us. 〈◊〉 he never so much displeased before, yet upon the sight of this his wellbeloved Son, in whom he is well pleased, all shall be 〈◊〉 and quiet, as the sea was, when once Jonah was cast into it.

Verse 1. Then was 〈◊〉 led up ]

LEst haply the people, hearing that testimony from Heaven should come and take him by force to make him a King, as John. 6. 15. to try their loves also to him, who was thus overclouded, as the Sun in his first rising.

Verse 2. And when 〈◊〉 had fasted 〈◊◊〉 , &c.]

All 〈◊〉 actions are for our instruction; not all for our imitation. We may not imitate the works miraculous of Christ, and proper to him as 〈◊〉 . The ignorance of this caused some to counterfeit 〈◊〉 Christ's: as one Moor in K. Edward the 〈◊◊〉 , and one Hacket in Q. Elizabeth's time, David George and sundry others, according to Mat. 24 24. Neither need we seek to imitate him in his infirmities, which (though they were not 〈◊〉 , but only natural, and therefore unblameable) yet import a weakness (as that he was hungry, weary, sleepy, &c. ) and so, though they be in us, yet we need not strive the attainment of them. But we must 〈◊〉 the Lord Christ in all his imitable graces and actions: showing forth the praises or virtues of him that 〈◊〉 called us out of darkness into his marvelous light. The word signifies to preach them abroad: for we should practice those 〈◊〉 so 〈◊〉 , that our lives may be as so many Sermons upon the life of Christ. It is a dishonor to a dear friend, to hang his picture in a dark hole, and not in a conspicuous place, that it may appear we rejoice in it, as an ornament to us: Think the same of Christ's image and graces, show them forth we must, and express them to the world; walking in Christ, Col. 2. 〈◊〉 yea, as Christ, 1 Joh. 2. 6. who therefore left us a copy that we might write after it, a sampler that we might work by it, a pattern that we should follow his steps, 1 Pet. 2. 21. And although we cannot follow him passibus aequis, yet we must show our good-wills, stretching and 〈◊〉 our utmost, as S ^t Paul did: striving what we can to resemble him, not as a picture doth a man in outward lineaments only, but as a son doth his father (for he is the father of eternity, Esa. 9. 6,) in nature and disposition: and as servants, laboring to do as our Lord, John. 13. 15. Who therefore washed his Disciples 〈◊〉 , to give us an example of humility; as he did likewise of meekness, Mat. 11. 29. patience, 1 Pet. 2. 21. obedience, Heb. 12. 2. diligence and fidelity in his function, Heb. 3. 1, 2. fewness of words, yet boldness of speech, going about and doing all possible good, beneficence 〈◊〉 the poor Saints, 〈◊〉 Cor. 8. 9. constancy in profession, 1 Tim. 6. 13. forgiveness 〈◊〉 others, and love to the brethren, Eph. 5. 2. 〈◊◊〉 therefore followers herein of Christ as dear children, not 〈◊〉 yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance, 〈◊◊◊〉 , which hath called 〈◊〉 , is holy, so be ye 〈◊〉 in all 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 . 1 〈◊〉 . 1. 14, 15.

Verse 3. Then came unto him the Tempter ]

So called, because he politikely feels our pulses which way they beat, and accordingly 〈◊〉 us a penny-worth. He sets a wedge of gold before covetous Achan, a courtezan Cozbi before a voluptuous Zimri, a fair preferment before an ambitious Absalom: and finds well that a fit 〈◊〉 is half a victory. So dealt his agents with those ancient 〈◊〉 , 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , they were sawn asunder, they were tempted, saith the Apostle; to wit, with the proffers of preferment, would they but have renounced their religion, and done 〈◊〉 to an Idol. So the Pope tempted Luther with wealth and honor. But all in vain: he turned him to God, Et valde 〈◊〉 sum, saith he, me nolle sic satiari abeo, he said flat, that God should not put him off with these low things. Here was a man full of the Spirit 〈◊〉 Christ. The tempter came to Christ, but found 〈◊〉 in him; that matter was not malleable. In vain shall the 〈◊〉 strike fire, if we find not 〈◊〉 : In 〈◊◊〉 he knock at the door, if we look not out to him at the window. Let us but divorce the flesh from the world, and the devil can do us no 〈◊〉 . Ita cave 〈◊〉 , ut cave as 〈◊〉 . From that naughty man myself, good Lord deliver me, said one.

Verse 4. But 〈◊〉 answered and said, It is written ]

With this 〈◊〉 sore, and great and strong sword of the Spirit, doth the Lord here punish Leviathan that crooked 〈◊〉 serpent, Isa. 27. 1. With these 〈◊〉 out of God's quiver, with these pibbles chosen out of the silver streams of the Scriptures, doth he prostrate the 〈◊〉 of hell. The Word of God hath a 〈◊〉 in it to quail and to quash Satan's temptations, far better 〈◊〉 that wooden dagger, that leaden sword of the Papists, their holy water, crossings, grains, dirty relics, &c. It is not 〈◊◊〉 of the cross, but the word of the cross that overthrows Satan. He can no more abide by it, then an owl by the shining of the 〈◊〉 . Set therefore the Word against the temptation, and the sin is laid. Say. I must not 〈◊〉 it, I may not, I dare not: for it is forbidden in such a place, 〈1 page duplicate〉 〈1 page duplicate〉 〈1 page duplicate〉 〈1 page duplicate〉 again in such a place. And be sure to have places of Scripture ready 〈◊〉 hand (as Saul had his spear and pitcher ready at his head, even while he slept) that ye 〈◊〉 resist the devil, steadfast in the faith, grounded on the Word. Joseph 〈◊〉 him by remembering the seventh Commandment: And David, by hiding this Word in 〈◊〉 heart, Psal. 1 19. 11. Wicked therefore was that advice of D. Bristow to his Agents, to labor still to get here: ikes out of their weak and false Castle of holy Scriptures, into the plain fields of 〈◊〉 and Fathers. The Scriptures are our armoury (far beyond that of Solomon ) whether we must resort and furnish 〈◊◊〉 . One 〈◊〉 sentence thereof shall do us more service, then all the pretty, witty sayings and sentences of Fathers and 〈◊〉 , or constitutions of Councils.

〈◊〉 5. Then the devil taketh him. ]

Not in vision only, or imagination, but really and indeed: as he was afterwards apprehended, bound and crucified by that cursed crew. Spiritual assaults may be beaten back by the shield of faith: Bodily admit of no such repulse. A 〈◊◊〉 Abraham may be bound by Satan, A Mary Magdalene possessed, a Job 〈◊〉 , a Paul boxed, &c. As for the souls of the Saints, they are set safe out of Satan's scrape. Shake his chain at them he may, muster his forces, Revel. 12. 7. which may band themselves, and bend their strength against 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 Angels, Christ and his members: but they are bounded by God, who hath set his on a rock that is higher then they: So that the floods of temptation (that the serpent casts out of his mouth after them) cannot come so much as to their feet. Or, if it touch their heel, yet it can come no higher. There is no 〈◊〉 against Jacob, because God was a Unicorn, to take away the venom (saith Balaam the sorcerer) as waters, when the Unicorns horn hath been in them, are no longer poisonable, but healthful.

Verse 6. And he saith unto him. ]

The devil usually tempteth by speech, inward or outward. Senarclaeus telleth of a plain Country-man at Friburg in Germany, that lying on his deathbed, the devil came to him in the shape of a tall, terrible man, and 〈◊〉 his soul, 〈◊〉 , Thou hast been a notorious sinner, and I am come to set down all thy sins: And therewith he drew out 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 , and sat down at a Table that stood by, and began to write. The sick man answered, My soul is God's, and all my sins are nailed to the cross of Christ. But if thou desire to set down my sins, write thus, All our righteousnesses are as a filthy rag, &c. The devil set down that, and bad him say on: He did: But thou, Lord, hast promised, for thine own sake to blot out our iniquities, and to make our searlet sins white as snow. The devil passed by those words, and was earnest with him to go on in his former argument. The sick man said with great 〈◊〉 , The son of God appeared to destroy the works of the devil. With that the devil vanished, and the sick man departed.

Verse 7. Jesus answered and said, It is written again ]

Christ rejects not the holy Scriptures ( 〈◊◊〉 alleged and 〈◊〉 by Satan) but openeth them, by laying one place to another. So did those holy Levites in Nehemiah, and 〈◊〉 . Paul in the Acts. Parallel texts (like gl 〈◊〉 ) 〈◊〉 one against another cast a mutual light. 〈◊〉 as the 〈◊〉 brightneth his hard diamond with the dust snaved from itself: So must we clear hard Scriptures, by others that are 〈◊〉 plain and perspicuous.

Verse 8. Again the devil taketh him. ]

This Master-fly 〈◊〉 , though beaten away once and again, yet returns to the same place. 〈◊〉 how 〈◊〉 he is in renewing his temptations after a flat repulse. He sollicits and sets upon our Savior again (as 〈◊〉 wife did upon Joseph, for all his many 〈◊〉 ) and is not only importunate, but impudent. Stand we therefore still upon our guard, and look for no ease here. The Roman Captains, when they had once triumphed, took their ease ever after. So did not Cato, and is therefore highly commended. So may not we, if ever we will be approved, as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. Our whole life is a continual warfare, and we must look for the continual hail-shot, hell-shot of Satanical assaults and suggestions. When Xerxes fought against theGreeks, The sea was full of ships (saith the Orator) the earth of soldiers, the air of arrows. So fares it with the Saints under Satan's batteries: no truce, but continual conflict. Ever since those two strong men fought, there is no more peace. S. Paul sounds the alarm, Arm, Arm, take the whole armor of God, and be ever in your harness. And S. Peter gives the reason, Because your adversary the devil, as a 〈◊〉 lion, walketh, and watcheth, night and day, seeking whom 〈◊〉 may devour. For our encouragement, as the devil is, Leo 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , a roaring lion; so is Christ, Leo de tribu 〈◊〉 , 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , the lion of the Tribe of Judah, that delivereth us, and maketh us more then Conquerors; holding the crown of glory over our heads (as we are sighting) with this inscription, Vincenti 〈◊〉 , To 〈◊〉 that 〈◊〉 , will I give, &c. Fight therefore and faint not: your 〈◊〉 is 〈◊〉 , your armor is of proof. Get on both those 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 (as the girdle of truth, breast-plate of 〈◊〉 , shoes of peace and patience, shield of faith, helmet of 〈◊〉 ) and those 〈◊〉 of offense; as the sword of the Spirit, and 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 . And then resolve, with that aged Citizen of Exeter in 〈◊〉 Edward the 6. time; who when the Town was besieged, 〈◊〉 , That he would feed on the one arm, and fight with the other, before he would consent to yield the City to the seditious. It is said of 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 the siege of Byrrachium, that he so long resisted Pompey's 〈◊〉 , that he had 220. darts sticking in his shield, and lost one of his eyes, and yet gave not over, till Caesar came to his rescue: And of S ^r Thomas Challoner (who died, anno 1566.) that he 〈◊〉 in his younger time under Charles the 5. in the expedition of Algier; where being ship wreckt, after he had swum till his 〈◊〉 and his arms failed him, at the length catching hold of a 〈◊〉 with his teeth, he escaped, not without the loss of some of his teeth. The like (and somewhat more) is reported of Cynegiras the Athenian in the Persian wars. These did thus for a corruptible crown, or temporary honor; what should not we do for an eternal? 1 Cor. 9. 25. Hold out, and hold fast that thou hast, that no man take thy crown from thee. Be of Queen Elizabeth's disposition, who provided for war, even when she had most perfect peace with all men. God's Spirit sets up a standard in the Saints, Isa. 59. 19. And stronger is he that is in you, then he that is in the world. That old serpent hath his head so bruised and crushed by Christ, that he cannot now so easily thrust in his mortal sting, though he 〈◊〉 it never so often, unless we dally with him and lay ourselves open, unless we tempt Satan to tempt us, by inconsideration, security, or venturing on the occasion. Vitanda est glacies. si nolis cadere. He that tastes of the broth, will have a mind to the meat. The Nazarites might not only not drink wine, but forbear to eat of the grape, whether moist or dried.

Verse 9. And he saith unto him, All these things will I give thee. ]

A great catch sure: even just nothing: for he shown out Savior only shows and shadows, apparitions and resemblances of things. The word also used in the former verse for ( glory ) 〈◊〉 an opinion or imagination. So S ^t Luke stiles all Agrippa's 〈◊〉 , but a fantasie. David tells us, that man walketh in a vain shadow. Now a shadow is something in appearance, nothing in 〈◊〉 : So the Apostle calleth all these things, that the devil 〈◊〉 our Savior, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , an accidental mathematical figure, without solidity or substance. And further tells us, that this figure 〈◊〉 away, is ever in transitu, like the streams of a river, that 〈◊〉 by the sides of a City, no man can stop: or if we could retain the things of this life, yet not the world only passeth away (saith the Apostle) but the lusts thereof. So that a man 〈◊〉 make his heart delight in the same thing still. 〈◊◊◊〉 fastidio sunt. We loath after a while what we lusted 〈◊〉 (as Amnon did Tamar ) and quickly find a satiety, yea an unsatisfy ingnesse in the creature. For he that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver, nor though he could heap up his hoards to the stars, and engross a monopoly of all the wealth in the world. Non 〈◊〉 satiatur cor 〈◊〉 , quàm corpus aurâ. You may as soon 〈◊〉 a bag with wisdom, a chest with 〈◊〉 , or a circle with a triangle, as the heart of man with anything here below. All that earth can afford, is, fumus 〈◊〉 (saith one) 〈◊〉 & 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 , saith another: Vanity and vexation, saith Solomon the wise: To whose impartial verdict (grounded upon so good 〈◊〉 ) we shall do well to subscribe, without believing the 〈◊〉 crakes, or trying any further conclusions. The Centurists 〈◊〉 , All these things will I give thee, thus; I will make thee Pope. And indeed many Popes were advanced to that Sea 〈◊〉 by the devil, as Histories relate. Who, had they but 〈◊〉 what is usually done at their inthronization, would never have been so hasty. For before the Pope is set in his Chair, and puts on his tripple Crown, a piece of row, or wad of straw is set on fire 〈◊〉 him, and one appointed to say, Sic transit 〈◊〉 , The glory of this world is but a 〈◊〉 . This is only 〈◊〉 of form and Ceremony: As is also that, that one day in the year the 〈◊〉 Almoner rideth before him, casting abroad to the 〈◊〉 certain pieces of brass and lead, saying, Silver and gold have I none, but such as I have I give you, Whereas that 〈◊◊〉 holds a golden cup in her hand, and her merchants that trade with her, are the Grandees of the earth, Revel. 18. and are 〈◊〉 rich by her, verse. 15. The Cardinal of Toledo hath a hundred thousand pound a year coming in; The Arch-bishops of Germany are 〈◊〉 - 〈◊〉 (many of them) and have revenues accordingly. Petrarch reporteth, that in the treasury of Pope John the 22. were found after his death 250. tuns of gold. And of Boniface the eighth it is storied, that when he was taken by Philip the fair, King of France, and his palace rifled, there was more treasure found, then all the Kings of the earth were able to show again. Otto, one of the Popes Mice-catchers (as the story 〈◊〉 them) sent hither by Gregory 9. after three years raking 〈◊〉 of money by most 〈◊〉 arts, at last departing 〈◊〉 , he left not so much money in the whole Kingdom, as he either 〈◊〉 with him, or sent before him. Judge by this, what they did throughout all Christendom. The Pope, saith one, could never want money so long as he could hold a pen in his hand. Thus it was then; but how now? Bellarmine complains, that since by us the Pope was cried down for Antichrist, his Kingdom 〈◊〉 not only not increased, but every day more and more decreased. And Cotton the 〈◊◊〉 , That the authority of the Pope of Rome is incomparably less then it was: And that now the Christian Church is but a diminutive. Hereupon also the Cardinals (who 〈◊〉 wont to meet oftener) meet but once a week, because the 〈◊〉 of the Court of Rome grow 〈◊〉 . And albeit the 〈◊〉 good, and 〈◊〉 blood, his honors and manners rose together; yet abates he as little of his former pomp and pride, as the 〈◊〉 doth since his fall, in taking upon him here to dispose of all the Kingdoms of the earth, as his: and requiring our Savior (the true Lord of all) to 〈◊〉 down and worship him. The Cardinals he still createth with these words, Estote fratres nostri & principes mundi. And, as another 〈◊〉 (who was the first that 〈◊〉 that honor) he holdeth forth his feet to be kissed, having the sign of the 〈◊〉 shining with pearls and 〈◊〉 stones 〈◊〉 〈◊◊〉 , 〈◊◊〉 crucem Christi derideat, saith mine 〈◊◊〉 . In 〈◊〉 word, with his pomp and primacy, gain and 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 and riches, fat Bishoprics and Cardinalships, as he 〈◊◊◊〉 Luther, and gain him to his side: so he gets and 〈◊◊〉 a 〈◊◊〉 to that rotten religion. Pauper Lutherus 〈◊◊◊〉 , said Erasmus; it being then the ready way to 〈◊〉 to write and rail against Luther, as Eccius, 〈◊〉 , 〈◊〉 others found it. But Christ will one day whip such 〈◊◊〉 , and their customers out of his house, as he did 〈◊◊〉 the Gospel; chase them out of his presence, as Nehemiah did 〈◊〉 son in Law; Curse them with a curse, that run 〈◊〉 after the error of 〈◊〉 for 〈◊〉 . Let the Romish 〈◊〉 offer as large as the devil doth here, everyone that hath anything of Christ in him, will answer with that noble Italian 〈◊〉 ( Galeacius Caracciolus Marquess of Vico in 〈◊〉 ) who being tempted by a Jesuit to revolt for money, 〈◊〉 out, Let their money perish with them, who esteem all the gold in the world worth one days society with 〈◊〉 Christ, and his holy Spirit. And cursed be that Religion forever, &c.

Verse 10. Get thee hence, Satan. ]

Avaunt, avoid, be packing. This was an indignity not to be endured, as great every way, as if the 〈◊〉 scoundrell upon earth should assault the chastity of the greatest Empresse. Our Savior therefore will endure him no longer, but commands him out of his presence, with utmost indignation. And surely madness, in case 〈◊〉 God's dishonor, is far better then meekness. Here, if 〈◊◊〉 besides ourselves, it is to God, as Paul said to the Corinthians; and as he did, when 〈◊〉 dealt with Elymas that first-born of the devil, when he saw him 〈◊〉 the deputy, He set his eyes upon him, saith the Text, as if he would have run thorough him. After which lightning follows that terrible thunder-crack, Full of all 〈◊〉 and of 〈◊◊〉 , &c. So the Angel of Ephesus could not abide those 〈◊〉 , Revel. 2. 2. Nor could David brook the workers of iniquity: he casteth down the gauntler of defiance against them, as his utter enemies, He hateth them with a perfect hatred. Hezekiah pulled down the brazen Serpent (when the people idolized it) and called it a piece of brass. And Josiah would not let stand the horses of the Sun, and other monuments of Idolatry, upon any entreaty. King Edward the 6 ^th , being labored by some of his best friends, to permit the Lady Mary his sister, to have Mass in her house, answered, He would rather spend his life, and all he had, then to agree and grant to that he knew certainly to be against the truth. And another time, in his message to the Rebels of 〈◊〉 : Assure you, most surely, said he, that we, of no earthly thing under heaven, make such reputation as of this one, to have our law obeyed, and this cause of God which we have taken in hand, to be thoroughly maintained. From the which we will never remove an hairs breadth, or give place to any creature living, much less to any Subject; wherein we will spend our own royal Person, our Crown, Treasure, Realm, and all our State, whereof we assure you of our high honor. Now God's blessing be on that blessed heart, that 〈◊〉 such a stomach against God's dishonor; and 〈◊〉 entertain all wicked attempts and assaults with this Apage of our Savior. And woe to them that cry Euge to such. Whether we may say to the Tempter, as our Savior did, Get thee hence; and not rather as the Angel, The Lord rebuke thee, is questioned by some; because it is his only, to command the devil. But that we may, and must say to him, no man doubts, as our Savior did to the Pharisees, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? as Naboth did to Ahab, God forbid me any such wickedness: As Solomon to his mother, Ask the Kingdom also: As the witch of Endor to Saul, Why seekest thou to take me in a snare, to cause me to die? Thus, Resist, saith Peter: Stand fast, saith Paul: Resist, and Satan will flee, he is but a coward. Stand, and then Satan will fall. Not to yield, is to conquer: if he cast us not down, we are then accepted, as if we did cast him down. We do ever-overcome, saith that great Apostle, because in our head Christ we overcome before we fight, and are sure of victory, Revel. 12. 1. Quare apage sis, Diabole, & tela tua in hoc semen mulier is converte: hunc si viceris, me quo{que} viceris, said one, Devil, do thy worst to Christ: conquer him and take all.

Verse 11. Then the devil left him. ]

If Christ command him away, there's no abiding for him. Here he was foiled and quelled, and, as it were, cast down and killed by Christ our Champion. He came into the field like another Goliath, cracking and calling craven, but ere he went thence, was made to hop headless, as he. First a terror, afterward a scorn, as it was anciently said of those Chariots, armed with sithes and hooks. Henceforth therefore, though we are ever to expect temptations, till such time, as we have gotten that great gulf between the devil 〈◊〉 us, Luk. 16. 26. Yet fear none of those things that ye shall suffer. Behold, the devil shall (by his imps and instruments) cast 〈◊〉 of you (not all) into prison (not into hell) that ye may be tried (not destroyed) and ye shall have tribulation ten days (so 〈◊〉 , and no longer.) Be thou faithful unto the death, and I will 〈◊〉 thee a crown of life. Satan can look for no Crown, he is in perdition already. His aim and endeavor is, to draw us into the same condemnation. This we escape, if we resist, steadfast in the faith: for then he perceives Christ, the chief Captain of our salvation to be there; and therefore flees his presence, ever since he felt his prowess. Chrysostom saith, That by the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper we are so armed against Satan's temptations, that he 〈◊〉 from us no otherwise, then if we were so many leones ignem expuentes, lions that spet fire. It is not silly people's defying the devil, and spetting at his name, that avails anything: for 〈◊〉 spet not low enough; they spet him not out of their hearts: yea, they admit him thereinto by yielding to his suggestions; and are miserably foolish, as if men should startle at the name of fire, and yet not fear to be scorched with the flame thereof. Our 〈◊〉 way is to run to Ithiel and Ucal, as Agur did, to Christ, the Author and finisher of our faith; who here gave the devil such an inglorious 〈◊〉 , trampled him in the mire, triumphed over him, and hath promised to tread him under our feet shortly, Rom. 16. 20.

Verse 12. Now when Jesus heard that John was cast into prison ]

For Herodias his sake, though under pretexts of fear of sedition, because of the great multitudes that followed and admired him, as Josephus hath it. This hath ever been an ordinary 〈◊〉 cast upon the most 〈◊〉 , to be 〈◊〉 of sedition, and 〈◊〉 of the State. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 held and called a Traitour, Elijah a troubler of Israel, Paul a pest, Luther, tuba rebellionis, the Trumpet of rebellion, &c. Iuvenies apud Tacitum quentatas accusationes Majestatis: unicum crimen eorum qui crimine vacabant, saith Lipsius. There was some color of right, yea of piety laid upon the French massacre, and by edicts, a fair cloak sought, to cover the impious fraud, as if there had been some wicked conspiracy plotted by the Protestants against the King, the Queen-mother, the Kings brethren, the King of Navarre, and the Princes of the blood. For there was coin stamped in memory of the matter, in the fore-part whereof, (together with the Kings picture) was this inscription, Virtus in rebelle • . And on the other side, Pietas excitavit justitiam. Not many years before this, Francis King of France, when he would excuse to the Princes of Germany (whose friendship he then sought after) that cruelty he had exercised against the Protestants, he gave out that he punished Anabaptists only, that bragged of Enthusiasmes, and cried down Magistracy, stirring up the people to sedition, as they had done, not long before in Germany. This foul aspersion cast upon true Religion, gave occasion to Calvin (then a young man of 25. years of age) to set forth that incomparable work, called his institutions of Christian Religion. Concerning which, Paulus Melissus long since sang,

Since Christ's and the Apostles time no such book hath been written.

Verse 13. And leaving 〈◊〉 ]

Where he had had his conception and education; and did 〈◊〉 in a special manner affect them, and 〈◊〉 their good, but they would not. For when 〈◊◊〉 have healed Israel, then the iniquity of Ephraim broke our, as the leprosy in their fore-heads, Hos 7. 1. they refused to be reformed, they hated to be healed. Some few sick folk he healed there, and that was all he could do for them, more then marvel at their unbelief. He could do there no mighty work, saith S ^t Mark; and therefore left them, saith S ^t Matthew; then the which he could hardly have done them a greater 〈◊〉 ; For, woe be unto you, if I depart from you, Hos. 9. 12. In the 9, 10, 〈◊〉 11. 〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉 , God makes divers removes: And 〈◊〉 as he goes out, some judgment 〈◊〉 in, till at length he was 〈◊〉 gone out of the City, Chap. 11. 23. And then followed 〈◊◊〉 calamity in the ruin 〈◊〉 . O pray that the Sun of that dismal day may 〈◊〉 arise, wherein it shall be said, That our 〈◊〉 stick is removed, that our Sun is eclipsed, that the 〈◊〉 is 〈◊〉 from our English Israel, that Christ hath turned his back upon this our Nazareth, 〈◊〉 preces & lacrymas, cordis logatos, saith Cyprian. Currat poenitentia ne praecurrat sententia, saith Chrysologus. Wish we for our Church, as 〈◊〉 did for the Romish Synagogue, that we had some Moses to take away the evils and abuses therein. Nam non unum 〈◊〉 vitulum, sed multos habemus. And then sing as another did,

Verse 14. That it might be fulfilled, &c.]

The two Testaments may be fitly resembled to the double doors of the Temple, one whereof infolded another: The Old is the new enfolded; the new is the old explicated. For there are above 260. places of the Old Testament cited in the new: so that almost in every needful point the harmony is expressed.

Verse 15. The land of Zebulon, and the land of Naphtali, &c.]

In 〈◊〉 were Nazareth, Beth saida, Tiberias, Cana (where our Savior 〈◊〉 water into wine) and Naim, where he raised the widows son; so that she was twice a mother, yet had but one child. In Naphtali were the City of Abel (where they asked counsel of old, and so they ended the matter) Harosheth the City of Sisera, Riblah, Cesarea, Philippi and Capernaum. This burrough was the seat of the Evangelical Kingdom; and it was 〈◊〉 chosen for such a purpose, as that which by reason of the wonderful wholsomnesse of the air, fertility of the soil, 〈◊〉 to the river Jordan, and lake of Genne sareth, neighbor-hood of many great Towns and famous Cities, promised a plentiful increase and income of the Evangelical harvest. Here the corn was white unto the harvest (as at Samaria ) and solicited laborers. It is a Ministers wisdom to seat himself, as near 〈◊〉 may be, where most need is, and greatest likely-hood of doing good, as S ^t Paul did often. No Church was founded at Athens, no good to be done there among those wits of Greece. The 〈◊◊〉 at Ephesus, whiles a door was opened, and then departed to other places. If thou perceive thyself unfit to do more good in any place, though it be not any fault of thine (saith 〈◊〉 grave Author) away to another. If the commodity of the place prevail more with thee, there to abide, then the promoting of Christ's Kingdom, to use thy talent elsewhere, it is to be feared, thou wilt either lose thy gifts, or fall into errors and herefies, refies, or, at least, become a frigid and dry Doctor among such a people as have once conceived an incurable prejudice against thee.

Verse 16. The people which sat in darkness, saw a great light ]

For the day-spring from on high visited them, the bright Sun of righteousness (which had all Palestine for his Zodiac, the twelve 〈◊〉 for his signs) stayed longest in 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 : and (S. 〈◊〉 observeth) as these two Tribes were first carried into captivity, and seemed furthest from heaven, as bordering on the Gentiles, and in many things symbolizing with 〈◊〉 , having learned their manners; so redemption was first preached in these Countries. Physicians are of most use where diseases abound. The Prophets in Elisha's days planted at Bethel. There was at once the golden calf of Jeroboam, and the school of God.

Verse 17 From that time Jesus began to preach. ]

So he had done before John was imprisoned, John 2. and 3. but now more freely and 〈◊〉 , more manifestly, and all abroad, as when the day-star hath done his devoir, the Sun 〈◊〉 out to the perfict day.

Verse 18. 〈◊〉 Jesus walking by the sea of Galilee ]

Not for recreation sake, or to deceive the time (for he had a great multitude attending upon him to 〈◊〉 the Word of God, as S ^t Luke noteth) 〈◊〉 as laying hold on the opportunity of calling Peter and Andrew; and, after that, 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 to the Apostleship. Our Savior knew that a well chosen season is the greatest advantage of any action: which, as it is seldom found in haste, so is it too often lost in delay. The men of Issachar were in great account with David, because they had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do, and when to do it. So are they in great account with the son of David, who regard and improve (as he did here) the season of well-doing; which they that lose are the greatest losers, and the wastfullest prodigals: For of 〈◊〉 other 〈◊〉 two may be had together: but two moments of time (how much less two opportunities of time?) cannot be 〈◊〉 together. Some are semper victuri (as Seneca saith) ever about to do better: they stand futuring and whiling out the time so long, till they have trifled and fooled away their own salvation. Let us sit ready in the door of our hearts (as Abraham did in the door of his 〈◊〉 ) to apprehend occasions of doing good, as he to entertain passengers; to set a word or work upon it's wheels, that it may be as apples of gold, and pictures of silver, pleasant and profitable; for everything is beautiful in it's season, and how forcible are right words? As the Be (so soon as ever the Sun breaks forth) flies abroad to gather honey and wax: So be thou ready to every good work, waiting the occasions thereof, Tit. 3. 1. Now, now, saith David, and after him Paul; because (for ought we know) it is Now or Never, today, or not at all. Opportunities are headlong, and, once past, irrecoverable, Ex hoc momento pendet aeternitas. God hath hanged the heaviest weights upon the weakest wires. Be quick therefore, and abrupt in thine obedience, Thou knowest not what a greatbellied day may bring forth: Yea, thou mayest the very next hour be cut off from all further time of repentance, acceptation, and grace forever.

Verse 19. He saith unto them, Follow me. ]

And together with his Word 〈◊〉 went forth a power inclining them to follow: whereby it appears, that they were not only of the many that are called, but of those few that are chosen. The Lord knoweth who are his, saith S ^t Paul. But this knowing of his is carried secret, as a river under ground, till by 〈◊〉 calling he 〈◊〉 them from the rest; 〈◊〉 they can call upon the Name of the Lord, and depart from evil. This, when they are once 〈◊〉 of Christ, they must be acting; when he hath tuned and touched us, we must make music; and 〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉 embreaths us, we must turn about as the Mill: and follow the Lamb wheresoever he 〈◊〉 , as these 〈◊〉 did.

Verse 20. And they straight way left their 〈◊〉 . ]

As the woman of Samaria did her 〈◊〉 , Matthew his 〈◊〉 , and blind Bartimaeus his cloak, when Christ called for him. Look we likewise to this Author and 〈◊〉 of our faith; and for love of him, cast away every clog, and the sin that doth so easily beset or surround us. Divorce the 〈◊〉 from the world, and there is no great danger. Admire not over-much, rest not in, dote not on, cleave not to the things of this life (those nets and snares of Satan, whereby he entangleth and encumbreth us) that we may attend upon the Lord (or 〈◊〉 close to him ) without being hailed away, or distracted by these lusts of life. The deeplier any man is drowned in the world, the more desperately is he divorced from God, deadened to holy things, and disobedient to the heavenly call, as the recusant guests in the Gospel.

Verse 21. He saw other two brethren, James, &c.]

Three pair of brethren, at least, our Savior called to the Apostleship; to show what brotherly love should be found amongst Ministers; what agreement in judgment and affection. There the Lord commands the blessing, and life forever more. As where envying and strife is, there is confusion, and every evil work, Jam. 3. 16. Hence the devil laboreth (all he can) to set Ministers at variance, and to 〈◊〉 dissension amongst them (as betwixt Paul and 〈◊〉 ) that the work may be hindered. Divide & impera, Make division, and so get dominion, was a maxim of Machiavil, which he learnt of the devil. What woeful tragedies hath he 〈◊〉 alate betwixt the Lutherans and Zwinglians? What 〈◊〉 have the Papists composed out of the Churches tragedies? To foster the faction, they joined themselves to the Lutherans in that sacramentary quarrel: they commended them, made much of them, and almost pardoned them all that loss they had sustained by them. This, that holy man of God Oecolampadius bitterly bewaileth, in a letter to the Lutherans of Suevia. The 〈◊〉 saith he, may be pardoned through faith in Christ, but the discord we cannot expiate with the dearest and warmest blood in our hearts. They on the other side (in their syngrame or answer) handled that most innocent man so coarsely, Ut non objurgatione, sed execratione dignum sit, saith Zwingli, that they deserved not to be confuted, but to be abhorred of all men. This was as good sport to the Papists, as the 〈◊〉 betwixt Abraham and Lot were to the Amorites. But that one consideration (that we are 〈◊〉 ) should conjure down all disagreements (as betwixt them) and make us unite against a common advesary. The 〈◊◊〉 the English ( Anno 1587.) stamped money with two earthern pots, swimming in the sea (according to the old fable) and wittily inscribed, Si collidimur, frangimur, If we clash, we are broken. The Thracians, had they been all of one mind, they had been invincible, saith 〈◊〉 . And Cornelius Tacitus (who had been here in 〈◊〉 with his father-in-law Agricola ) reporteth of our forefathers, that they fell into the hands of the Romans, by nothing so much as by their dissensions amongst themselves. Pliny telleth of the stone Thyrroeus, that though never so big while it is whole, it floteth upon the waters: but being broken, it sinketh. And who hath not read of Silurus his bundle of arrows? To break unity, is to cut asunder the very veins and sinews of 〈◊〉 mystical body of Christ, as the Apostle intimateth, 1 Cor. 1. 10. to hinder all true growth in godliness, Eph. 4. 16. and inward 〈◊〉 , Phil. 2. 1. to drive away God, who appeared not to Abraham till the difference was made up, Gen. 13. 14, &c. and to undo ourselves. As the dragon sucketh out the blood of the 〈◊〉 : and the weight of the falling elephant 〈◊〉 the dragon, and so both perish together. To prevent all which, and to compose all quarrels in this Egypt of the world, let it be remembered, as Moses told the two striving Israelites, that we are 〈◊〉 . And oh how good, and how pleasant it is for brethren (in the Ministry especially) to 〈◊〉 together in unity.

Verse 22. And 〈◊〉 immediately left the ship and their 〈◊〉 . ]

These were 〈◊〉 merchants, that 〈◊〉 with all to 〈◊〉 the pearl of price. So did many Martyrs, and knew they made a savers bargain. Nicolas Shetterden 〈◊◊〉 in a 〈◊〉 to his mother; What state soever your fathers be in, leave that to God, and let us follow the counsel of his Word. Dear mother, embrace it with hearty affection: read it with 〈◊〉 ; 〈◊〉 it be your pastime, &c. So shall we meet in joy at the last day: or else I bid you farewell for evermore. So Nicolas of Jenvile ( 〈◊〉 young man newly come from Geneva ) was condemned to die, and set in the Cart. His father coming with a 〈◊〉 , would have beaten him. But the officers, not suffering it, would have struck the old man. The son, crying to the officers, desired them to let his father alone, saying, he had power over him, to do in that kind what he would: but Christ was dearer to him then the dearest friend on earth, &c. That of S ^t Jerome is well known to most, and often alleged; If my father stood weeping on his knees before me, my mother hanging on my neck behind me, and all my brethren, sisters, children, kinsfolk, howling on every side, to retain me in sinful life with them, I would fling my mother to the ground, despise all my kindred, run over my father, and tread him under my feet, thereby to run to Christ when he calleth me. Reberies and Danvile, two French Martyrs, having been sorely racked, at night rejoiced together. After that, Reberies cried twice or thrice, Away from me, Satan. His fellow being in bed with him, asked, why he cried, and whether Satan would stop him of his course? Reberies said, that Satanset before him his parents, but by the grace of God, said he, he shall do nothing against me.

Verse 23. And Jesus went about all 〈◊〉 ]

Not (as the Circumcelliones of old) to make show of their holiness; nor as the Jesuits (into whom the Pharisees have fled and hid themselves) to gain proselytes and passengers, That go right on their ways, Prov. 9. 15. but he went about doing good, saith S. Peter. The chiefest goods are most active: the best good a mere act. And the more good we do, the more God-like we be, and the more we draw nigh to the heavenly pattern. Religion is not a name, goodness a word: but as the life of things stands in goodness: So the life of goodness, in action. So much we live, as we 〈◊〉 . O Lord, by these things men live, saith 〈◊〉 , and in all these things is the life of my spirit. And he that keepeth my Commandments shall live in them, as the lamp lives in the oil, the flower in the earth, the creature by food. Nos non eloquimur magna, sed vivimus, said the ancient Christians. And holy Bradford 〈◊〉 that hour lost, wherein he had not done some good, with tongue, pen or hand. God hath set us our time, and our task, Job 14. 5, 6, David is said to serve out his time; and John Baptist, to finish his course, Act. 13. Up therefore and be doing, that ye be not taken with your task undone. Fruitlesse trees shall be cut down: short shooting loseth many a game. The master is an austeer man, and looketh for his own with usury. It is an easy thing when the candle is out, and all still without din, to fall a napping: which will prove to your cost, when God shall send forth summons for sleepers.

Verse 24. And his fame went thorough all Syria. ]

Fame followeth desert, as a sweet sent the rose. This gave occasion to the Poets to feign, That Achilles his tomb was ever garnished with green amaranth. A good name is better then great riches, saith Solomon, And if I can keep my credit I am rich enough, said the Heathen. Blessing and good report are expressed by one and the same word in the Old Testament, Prov. 27. 21. to show what a ablessing of God it is. And it could not but be a great comfort to David, that whatsoever he did pleased the people. Cicero saith, that perfect glory consisteth in these three things; If the multitude love a man, if they will trust him, and if they hold him worthy of admiration, praise and honor. Now none of these were wanting to our Savior, as appeareth in this holy History, and as others have fully set forth. Do worthily in Ephratah, and so be 〈◊〉 in Bethlehem, Ruth 4. 11.

Verse 25. And there followed him great multitudes. ]

A good house-keeper shall not (likely) want company. O thou that hearest prayers (and so sollicitest suitors) to thee shall all flesh come. Christ's miracles drew multitudes after him, then; and should still affect us with admiration and strong affection to the Gospel, as the Author to the Hebrews showeth, Heb. 2. 3, 4.

Verse 1. And seeing the multitudes, ]

AS sheep without a shepherd, or as corn ripe and ready, falling, as it were, into the hands of the harvest-man. The children cried for bread, and there was none to break it. His eye therefore affected his heart, and out of deep commiseration,

Verse 2. And he opened his mouth. ]

This phrase is not superfluous (as some may conceit) but betokeneth free and full discourse, Ephes. 6. 19. of some weighty and important matter, Psal. 78. 26. uttered with great alacrity of spirit, and vehemency of speech.