1 Corinthians

This is that Christ prayed so heartily for (John 17:21): That they all may be one. Christians should be one, 1. in judgment; the Apostle exhorts to be all of one mind (1 Corinthians 1:10). How sad is it to see religion wearing a coat of diverse colors, to see Christians of so ma…

Branch 4. See the happy condition of the children of God, they have Christ to be their Prophet (Isaiah 54:13): All your children shall be taught of the Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:30): He is made to us wisdom. One man cannot see by another's eye; but believers see with Christ's eyes,…

This is the name whereby you shall be called, Jehovah Tzidkennu, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. (1 Corinthians 1:30) He is made to us righteousness. This righteousness of Christ which does justify us, is a better righteousness than the angels; theirs is the righteousness of creatur…

In the text we are kept by the power of God to salvation; every person in the Trinity has a hand in making a believer persevere. God the Father establishes (2 Corinthians 1:21), God the Son confirms (1 Corinthians 1:8), God the Holy Ghost seals (Ephesians 1:13), so that it is th…

What is the weak breath of a man to convert a soul? It is like whispering in the ears of a dead man; this is foolishness in the eye of the world: but the Lord loves to show his wisdom by that which seems folly (1 Corinthians 1:27). He has chosen the foolish things of the world t…

Though God could work grace immediately by his Spirit, or by the ministry of angels from heaven, yet he chooses to work by the word preached; this is the usual means by which he sets up the kingdom of grace in the heart. And the reason is, because he has put his divine sanction…

Herein appears the distinguishing love of Christ, that the virtue of his death should reach some and not others. (1 Corinthians 1:26) Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called. That Christ should pass by many of birth and parts, and that the l…

And Saint Augustine, in his book against Pelagius, affirms, that it has been the custom of the church in all ages to baptize infants: indeed, it was an apostolical practice. Saint Paul affirms, that he baptized the whole house of Stephanas (1 Corinthians 1:16). And as you have s…

Why do many apostatize and fall away, but because they did never sit down and count the cost. 2. If we would hold out to the kingdom, let us cherish the grace of faith (1 Corinthians 1:24): By faith you stand. Faith, like Hercules' club, beats down all oppositions before it; it…

Thus Jeremiah would needs be reasoning with God about his dispensations toward wicked men (chapter 12:1-2) and Job about his dealings with himself (chapter 13:3). And reason being likewise the supreme principle in us by nature and our highest distinction as we are men — therefor…

His name likewise has an all-sufficiency in it to supply all our wants and desires and satisfy all scruples. For example, the name of his mentioned by the prophet Isaiah in chapter 9:6, compared with 1 Corinthians 1, last verse: Would we have peace of conscience and the guilt of…

Second, one who does not daily above all things directly and immediately aim at and seek out Christ's righteousness — making it the chief focus of his thoughts, prayers, and business, and being restless without it — still rests in his own. For when Paul had given up his claim in…

Our calling is to profess the Gospel and religion of Christ; now to many it is a reproach and ignominy: but we must learn this special lesson by the example of these men; that howsoever the world judge of Christ and his religion, yet we having entered into this holy profession,…

Saint Luke and Saint Paul set out the faithful servants of God by this mark, Acts 9:14. He has authority to bind all that call on your name. 1 Corinthians 1:2. To them that are sanctified by Jesus Christ, saints by calling, with all that call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…

In whom all have sinned. If the head plot treason, all the body is guilty; but Christ is made to us righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30). Indeed it is this righteousness only, in which we can stand before the justice of God (Jeremiah 23:6).

We hold and believe that the obedience of Christ is imputed to us even for our righteousness before God. Paul says in 1 Corinthians 1:30: Christ is made unto us of God wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. Hence I reason thus: if Christ is both our sanctificatio…

And (chapter 3): Neither working anything, nor repaying the like, are they justified by faith alone through the gift of God. And (1 Corinthians 1): This is appointed of God that whoever believes in Christ, shall be saved without any work by faith alone, freely receiving remissio…

And Peter had in his eye Christ's example, and pointed them thereunto, who at his death committed his separate soul or spirit into the hands of God (Luke 23:46) and the word commit is one and the same in both these places: only there is this difference, that whereas Christ says,…

3. He stands as the great end of preaching, not only that hearers may have Him known in their judgments, but may have Him high in their hearts and affections (2 Corinthians 3:4), We preach not ourselves, that is, not only do we not preach ourselves as the subject, but we preach…

And because the power of God is taken either more generally for that which is exercised in the works of common providence, or more particularly for that which is put forth in the work of saving grace; we take it here in short to be the grace of God exercising its power in and by…

The soul may answer, it was not external preaching, nor my own free will, nor anything in me, but the power of God's grace, I have nothing but what I have received. It is on this ground that the Apostle (Philippians 2:12-13) presses and encourages Christians to their great work,…

Use 1: It serves to be a prop and foundation to our faith. We may say of this truth, as the apostle, speaking of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 1:15), says: if Christ has not risen, then our preaching is vain, and your faith is vain. If Christ were not man, our preaching and yo…

1. I say it preaches wonderful grace, that freely chose them; and that when thousands of great men, and noblemen were passed by, such a poor body that was half a fool in comparison with them, should be chosen. According to that (1 Corinthians 1): "Not many wise after the flesh,…

Say to the righteous it shall be well with him; it's not, say to the honorable man, nor say to the rich man, nor to the wise man, etc. God has not chosen many of these, as is clear (1 Corinthians 1:26), but say to the righteous or holy man; it shall be well with him; and is here…

He shall outlive his sufferings, and death; and shall be delighted in seeing of them, who shall get the good of his sufferings; as it is said of Job, that he saw his children, or [reconstructed: seed] of the third and fourth generation; that is, he lived long, and saw [reconstru…

First, The nature of the Covenant, wherein all the Promises concerning Sinners' Salvation are comprehended; there being but one Covenant of Redemption, and that being a Promise of this Covenant, to circumcise the heart to love God, and to write his law in it, as well as to pardo…

Presumption may look on Christ and His fullness, and few or none will readily dare to give Him a direct and downright refusal, or to reject Him professedly and avowedly when they hear of such happiness that is to be had in Him. But that which we say qualifies faith, is to desire…

It's Christ's merit, His soul-travel, and sufferings; Papists deny this; and make the next immediate cause to be the grace infused in us, that which is called, gratia gratum faciens: but if you ask the Prophet, what is the ground, I mean the next immediate cause, on which justif…

There is another thing supposed here, that serves to clear the doctrine of justification, which we shall observe, before we speak of faith itself particularly, because it's antecedent to it, and it's this: That the Gospel is a necessary external mean, for promoting of our justif…

1. The Scripture speaks of, and points Christ out in His sufferings, as the object of justifying faith (Romans 3:25), where God has set forth for a propitiation through faith in his blood: where the blood of Christ, and He as suffering is proposed as faith's object. So, (1 Corin…

If people soberly and gravely considered of what concernment it is to make use of the Gospel, and what depends upon the profitable or unprofitable hearing of it, how serious would both speakers and hearers be? This same poor, mean and contemptible-like way of speaking or preachi…

Assertion 3. As there is in the eye, lumen innatum; in the ear, aer internus; a certain inborn light, to make the eye see lights, and colors without; and a sound and air in the ear within, to make it discern the sounds that are without. So is there a grace, a new nature, an habi…

Yet they are called something more, sons of God (John 1:12; 1 John 3:1). Saints (1 Corinthians 1:1). Brethren, faithful (Ephesians 1:1).

Reason 2: It is taken from the good pleasure of the Father, whom it has pleased that in Christ all fullness of life should dwell (Colossians 1:19). And when he which is our life shall appear, we shall appear with him (1 Corinthians 1:30). And therefore since God has concluded, a…

2. This was an offense to the Apostles that their Master should die (Matthew 16:22-23): then Peter took him and began to rebuke him saying, be it far from you, Lord, this shall not be to you. 3. This was the Jews' stumbling block (1 Corinthians 1:23): we preach Christ crucified,…

Life we have from him, as Prince of Life, or Head of the renewed estate. So the effects (1 Corinthians 1:30). But of him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made to us wisdom, and righteousness, sanctification and redemption. Wisdom as a Prophet to cure our ignorance and foll…

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the Power may be of God, and not of man. From where I gather, that God can make use of weak, unlearned, sinful instruments to do great works; and he can use persons of mean abilities, to accomplish his glorious…

It commands us not to search out the nature of God: but to know his will set out to us in Christ, whom he would have to take our flesh upon him, to be born and to die for our sins, and that this should be preached among all nations. For seeing the world by wisdom knew not God in…

The Gospel is a doctrine which both of itself, and also by the malice of the Devil brings with it the cross and persecution. Therefore Paul is accustomed to call it the word of the cross and of offense (1 Corinthians 1:18). It has not always steadfast and constant disciples.

Then is the slander of the cross abolished: he means that it were a great absurdity and inconvenience if the offense of the cross should cease. After the same manner he speaks in 1 Corinthians 1: Christ sent me to preach the Gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Ch…

For there is but one Gospel: and if the former opinion were true, then so many opinions, so many gospels. Paul says, that the world by her wisdom could not know God in his wisdom, and for this cause he ordained the preaching of the word to save men (1 Corinthians 1:21). And thou…

And the causes of it may be two. The first, because the poorer sort received the Gospel: thus it was in Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:26), "not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble." The like we see in experience at this day: the poorer sort among us do m…

Thus Jacob says in the adoption of Ephraim and Manasseh, Let them be mine, and let my name be called upon them (Genesis 48:5, 16). And Paul says, that the Corinthians might not be named and distinguished by Paul, Cephas, Apollos, because they were not baptized into their names,…

Thirdly, here we see that true and spiritual invocation of God, is a mark of the Church of God: because it is a fruit of the spirit of God in them that are the children of God. And by this the people of God are noted (Acts 9:14; 1 Corinthians 1:2), and on the contrary, it is the…

Lastly, it may be objected, that love is of no use, if it does not justify. Answer. Justification, and sanctification, are two distinct benefits (1 Corinthians 1:30; 6:11). Justification ministers to us deliverance from hell, and a right to life everlasting: sanctification is a…

This was practiced by Saint Paul (Galatians 2:14), who reproved not Peter, till he was thoroughly informed of his offense: which condemns the common practice of the multitude, who censure and reprove others, specially public persons, as magistrates and ministers, upon false repo…

As if he should say; What a shame were that? or rather, acknowledge the goodness of God, who has dealt so mercifully with you, and cling to him with your whole hearts. Some have falsely imagined, that Saint Paul alleges this place in (1 Corinthians 1:20). But so he should mistak…

If the earth that is well husbanded, brings forth but little fruit; what is to be expected from that that is utterly barren, and unhusbanded? But the Gospel loses no whit of its excellence, though it gets but few followers: neither does the small number of believers diminish the…

But it was proper that, even from the birth of Christ, that saying should be fulfilled, “it pleased God by foolishness to save them that believe,” (1 Corinthians 1:21.) The treasure of this mystery was committed by him to a virgin in such a manner, that at length, when the prope…

Again, though God had, at his command, many honorable and distinguished witnesses, he passed by them, and chose shepherds, persons of humble rank, and of no account among men. Here the reason and wisdom of the flesh must prove to be foolishness; and we must acknowledge, that "th…

Philippians 1:21. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Saint Paul was a great admirer of Christ, he desired to know nothing but Christ and him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2). No julep to the blood of Christ; and in the text, To me to live is Christ, and to die is gain…

2. Christ teaches these sacred mysteries, inwardly, by the Spirit (John 16:13). The world knows not what it is (1 Corinthians 2:14): The natural man receives not the things of God, neither can you know them. He knows not what it is to be transformed by the renewing of the mind (…

2. Great will be our advantage if we love God. God does not court our love that we should lose it (1 Corinthians 2:9): Eye has not seen, nor ear heard the things which God has prepared for them that love him. If you will love God, you shall have such a reward as exceeds your fai…

There is nothing lost by our love to God. [reconstructed: 1 Corinthians 2:9]: Eye has not seen, etc. the things which God has prepared for them [who love him]. Such glorious rewards are laid up for such as love God: That (as Austin says) they do not only transcend our reason, bu…

(Psalm 71:17) O God, you have taught me from my youth. If God be our Father he will give us the teachings of his Spirit: the natural man receives not the things of God, neither can he know them (1 Corinthians 2:14). The natural man may have excellent notions in divinity, but God…

God gives the spring flowers and a crop; he settles upon us such a kingdom as exceeds our faith, Praemium quod Fide non attingitur, Aug. Such as mortal eye has not seen, nor can it enter into the heart of man to conceive (1 Corinthians 2:9). Alas, what an infinite difference is…

'Tis called Regnum paratum, a Kingdom prepared (Matthew 25:34), which implies something that is rare and excellent. God has prepared in his Kingdom, such things as eye has not seen nor ear heard (1 Corinthians 2:9). Heaven is beyond all hyperbole.

And although it is true that every man, having the power of reflecting upon his own actions, can discern what thoughts are in him and what affections, and can tell for the matter of them what he thinks on and that he is grieved, etc. — but yet so as he may still question whether…

And in this respect that name 'the accuser' is given this evil spirit in a direct and full opposition to that special name and office of the Holy Ghost, 'the Comforter' or pleader for us. Because as the Holy Ghost makes intercession in our own hearts to God for us, and upon true…

Here then we learn, that the third Heaven is like a piece of work, wherein an excellent workman hath spent his art, and showed his skill; that is, that the highest heaven is a most glorious place, and surpasses all other creatures of God in glory and excellency, so far as therei…

As if he had said, I will communicate and impart my secrets unto you, as one friend does unto another, as far as shall be fit for you to know. And the Apostle saith, 1 Corinthians 2:15. A faithful and a holy man discerneth into the deep counsels of God; which are revealed unto t…

They therefore that deny that liberty to Ministers, are too rough and rugged, and pull out of the hand of the Ministers, one of his weapons, and out of the wings of the Scripture one of her feathers. Yet we must know, that all, or any kind of eloquence is not permitted to a Chri…

This apprehension of faith, is not performed by any affection of the will, but by a certain and particular persuasion, whereby a man is resolved that the promise of salvation belongs to him. Which persuasion is wrought in the mind by the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 2:12). And by t…

First, he asks of God, the spirit of wisdom, whereby the servants of God are enabled to discern out of the word, in every business which they take in hand, whether it be in word or deed, what ought to be done, and what ought to be left undone: as also the circumstances, the time…

1. A righteous man is more excellent than a wicked, in respect of what he is. 1. He is more richly endued with wisdom; he is of a dexterous sagacity, mixing the serpent's prudence with the dove's innocence (1 Corinthians 2:15). He that is spiritual judges all things: As the soul…

Reason 2. (1 Corinthians 2:14) The natural man does not perceive the things of the spirit of God: for they are foolishness to him, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. In these words Saint Paul sets down these points: 1, that a natural man does not s…

2. More particularly, observe, that Jesus Christ, and what concerns Him, the glad and good news of a Saviour, and the reporting of them, is the very proper work of a minister, and the great subject of a minister's preaching; his proper work is to make Him known, or take it thus,…

For the second, the revealing of the arm of the Lord, by this we do not understand the revealing of it objectively as it is brought to light by the preaching of the Gospel, for thus it is revealed to all the hearers of the Gospel, it is in this respect not kept hidden, but broug…

2. In the solid faith of a believer, there is, as a use-making of Christ crucified solely, as the meritorious cause of justification and life, so he is exercised in this to be solely settled on Him as such. As for presumptuous souls, as they find it easy to believe, so they find…

2. Because, though there be not an evidence to reason in all the things which we believe; yet there is a certainty; and faith gets this name, because it makes men certain of these things which it takes up, as if it were a science or knowledge. 3. To distinguish it from all other…

For though these who truly believe, ought not to doubt of their belief, yet these who have lamps of faith, and no oil, ought to question, whether there be oil in their lamps, or no, and true faith with their profession, else the foolish Virgins were not far out, who never questi…

Then he who cannot be blamed in not acting cannot be united as one spirit, person with person, with him who is justly to be blamed in not acting. Assertion 4. It must evidently follow that there is in the saints a grace created that is neither Christ, nor the Holy Ghost in perso…

Thus did the Apostles also in their sermons. So Paul in his epistle to the Corinthians seemed by the matter of his sermon to have known nothing but Christ, and him as crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2), as Christ above all, so Christ as crucified above all in Christ, as suiting their…

But yet there is something more in it than this, in this worship of Christ in our minds: We honor, or worship Christ in our minds, when we make him the chiefest, and esteem nothing more worthy to be known, than to know the Lord Jesus Christ (John 17:3). This is life eternal to k…

But if this true picture of Christ be defaced, or in any wise darkened, then follows a confusion of all things. For the natural man cannot judge of the law of God (1 Corinthians 2:14). Here fails the cunning of the Philosophers, of the Canonists, and of all men.

Answer: Whole Christ, God-man, or Man-God, was accursed. For the Lord of life (says Paul) was crucified, and consequently accursed (1 Corinthians 2:8). Yet this limitation must be added, that the curse was not upon the Godhead of Christ, but only in his flesh, or manhood.

For the Scripture says, that God alone searches the heart (1 Kings 8:39). None knows what is in man but God, and the spirit of man (1 Corinthians 2:11). Though Abraham had the sight of God, yet it is said, You are our Father, and Abraham knows us not (Isaiah 64:16).

The third thing to be considered, is, the persons that are to restore their brethren, laid downe in these words, yee that are spirituall. Spiritual men are opposed to carnal, as (1 Corinthians 3:1): I could not speak to you brethren, as to spiritual men, but as to carnal: and to…

Contrariwise, God deals forth his benefits of all sorts liberally to those that serve him. It seems Saint Paul expounds this place otherwise, Objection. (1 Corinthians 2:9), and applies it to another sense. Indeed, he cites it in other terms: because he followed the Greek transl…

But this too was a part of the "emptying of himself," (Philippians 2:6:) not that any part of Christ’s glory should be taken away by it, but that it should lie in concealment for a time. Again, as Paul reminds us, that the gospel is mean according to the flesh, "that our faith s…

They had a right to inquire on what grounds Christ laid claim to such authority: but, without any inquiry, they suppose him to be one of the common rank of men, and proceed rashly to condemn him. 4. And when Jesus saw their thoughts He now gives a proof of his Divinity in bringi…

In the choice of Matthew out of that place, not only to be admitted into the family of Christ, but even to be called to the office of Apostle, we have a striking instance of the grace of God. It was the intention of Christ to choose simple and ignorant persons to that rank, in o…

The knowledge of Christ was a hidden treasure for some thousands of years; the Apostle in his time calls it, the mystery which was kept secret since the world began (Romans 16:25). Again he calls it, the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom which God ordained befor…

And this is revealed from the faith of God in the promise, to the faith of the believer; to him that mixes the promise with faith. And again more fully, 1 Corinthians 2:9. Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entred into the heart of man the things which God has prepare…

By eyes also the affections are set forth, because the affection sets the eye on work to look here or there (hence is the phrase of a single and evil eye, Matthew 6:21, 23), and because it's some way the seat of these, and somewhat of love or hatred will be, and may be gathered…

2. A power and efficacy in the word, that somewhat affects the heart, and moves it. 3. It implies some effect it has upon the heart, as being somewhat affected with that touch; Therefore it's his voice or word that not only calls, but knocks, implying some force it had upon her:…

What rare and excellent parts had the Scribes and Pharisees? Who upon that account were styled principes seculi, the princes of the world (1 Corinthians 2:8). What profound and excellent parts had the heathen sages and philosophers?

The mercy he begged of God for them, was the greatest mercy, that which he was then dying to purchase and procure, the pardon of their sins; not only, Father spare them, or reprieve them, but, Father forgive them; the excuse he pleaded for them, was the best their crime was capa…

Our Lord Jesus was therefore despised and hated by the world, because the world knew him not (John 1:10). If they had known the dignity of his person, the excellency of his doctrine, and the gracious design and purpose of his coming into the world, certainly they would not have…

The men of the world think themselves wise men, and bless themselves in their wisdom, because they can order and dispose of means to get money and fine cloaths; they are poor, and base, and low spirits, who mind and regard no higher, and no better things then these base things t…

Lastly, a spiritual eye looks upon Gods people as precious, notwithstanding all outward meanness, because it looks upon them as in their ends, though they are now incomparably above all that is in the world besides, yet their glorious end raises their worth exceeding high, and a…

The Scripture speaks of the familiar converse that God has with his people here, that they are called friends: Abraham was called The friend of God, and the Disciples were called friends, but hereafter the friendship shall be much more full and sweet; Job shall have his desire,…

But yet there is that which Paul is astonished at — which he calls the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God (Romans 11:33) — that is only hidden in and revealed by Christ. Hence as Christ is said to be the wisdom of God and to be made wisdom to us, so the desig…

That teaching unction which is not only true but truth itself is only the Holy Spirit of God. So he teaches also, being given to us that we may know the things freely given to us of God, 1 Corinthians 2:12. I have chosen this special instance because, as I said, it is comprehens…

He sends his Spirit to make known his mind to his saints and to lead them into all truth. 1 Corinthians 2:10-11: he has revealed these things to us by his Spirit, for we have received him that we might know the things freely given to us of God. And so the apostle concludes, we h…

The Spirit acquaints us with it — not that we always have such an acquaintance, but that the argument is good and conclusive in itself; we have of the Spirit, therefore he dwells in us and we in him. The Spirit being given as an earnest acquaints believers with their inheritance…

1 Corinthians 1:18; the Power of God; And faith which is built on that word, without other helps or Advantages, is said to stand in the Power of God. 1 Corinthians 2:5. That is, effectually working, in and by the Word; it works, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]; in the demonstration…

Unless this be done, all that follows is in vain. 2. The Spirit alone reveals unto us the fullness of Christ for our relief, which is the consideration that stays the heart from false ways, and from despairing despondency (1 Corinthians 2:8). 3. The Spirit alone establishes the…

Those therefore who impoverish the Gospel of Christ, as some Writers have done, and deny those glorious Doctrines that are included in it, they deny that Gospel which was foretold by the Prophets, that Gospel which was hidden in the Jewish Shadows, and they refuse to see it, tho…

This was the bold and glorious method Saint Paul took at Corinth, where learning and reason and philosophy flourished in pride; but they yielded several trophies of victory to the preaching of the cross. Paul could use the wisdom of words whensoever he had occasion for it, and h…

Though nothing can add to God's essential glory, yet praise exalts him in the eyes of others: when we praise God we spread his fame and renown, we display the trophies of his excellence: in this manner the angels glorify God, they are the choristers of heaven, and do trumpet for…

My glory, (that is, my tongue which is the instrument of glorifying you.) The saints are temples of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 3:16). Where should God's praises be sounded but in his temples?

19. If God be our Father it is comfort: 1. In case of loss of relations: Have you lost a father, yet if you are a believer you are no orphan, you have a heavenly Father, a Father that never dies, (1 Timothy 6:16) Who only has immortality. 2. It is comfort in case of death: God i…

Let them fear death, who do not fear sin: but let not God's children be overmuch troubled at the grim face of that messenger which brings them to the end of their sorrow, and the beginning of their joy. Death is yours (1 Corinthians 3:22), it is part of a believer's inventory. I…

Christ says; If a man will ever come in the Kingdom of heaven, he must be born again, John 3:3. Saint Paul says; If any man among you seem to be wise, let him be a fool that he may be wise: 1 Corinthians 3:18. Christ says, If any man will be my Disciple, he must deny himself and…

We prove it thus; First, from plain Scripture, 1 Corinthians 3:24. He that knew no sin, was made sin for us; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

Our bread] First Question. How is bread ours? Answer. Paul shows how (1 Corinthians 3:22): You are Christ's, and all things are yours: So then by means of Christ, bread is called our. For God having given Christ to us, does in him and by him give all things else to us.

Just thus it is in fitting the soul for that glory: and again, that glory in heaven for that soul: God works the one for the other apart. The very similitude in the former verses does import so much; he styles glory in heaven a being clothed upon, and holiness here he compares t…

1. He is the text, to say so, of preaching; all preaching is to explain Him (Acts 10:43), To him give all the Prophets witness, and so do the four Gospels, and the Apostolic Epistles, which are as so many preachings of Him; and that preaching which stands not in relation to Him,…

Should a man remove the roof of your house, cut down the timber of it, and pick out all the fair stones in the wall, and say, Friend, I wrong not your house, see, the foundation stones are safe, and the four corner stones are sure, in the meantime, the house can fence off neithe…

(2.) Often in the fullest sense, not regenerated, nor wholly reprobated, are called men (Job 11:11, 12; Psalm 12:1; and 4:2; and 53:2). (3) Believers are called men (Acts 1:11; 1 Corinthians 3:21, 22). In regard of passions (Acts 14:15).

And in the fourth place, for cleansing ourselves from all superfluous and noisome lusts that we do not, neither can we be freed from them: O Jerusalem, wash your heart from your wickedness, how long shall your vain thoughts lodge within you? (Jeremiah 4:14). Purge out all those…

And truly in this case this shall you often find to be true: you come full of hopeful expectation to the congregation, but return very empty home, or full of bitterness in your souls, and all was because you trusted in lying words — in words that could not profit. You trusted in…

Secondly, we must consider whether the church errs in the foundation or no. If the error or errors be beside the foundation of religion, Paul has given the sentence that they which build upon the foundation hay and stubble of erroneous opinion, may be saved (1 Corinthians 3:15).…

Of it three cautions are to be observed. The first, that grace or power to regenerate, is not included in the word preached, as virtue to heal, in a medicine: Paul says, He that plants, and he that waters is not anything (1 Corinthians 3:7). To regenerate, is the proper work of…

For if you be the child of God, you can have no great loss. For all things are yours, you Christ's, and Christ God's (1 Corinthians 3:22). Lastly, this meditation must stir up in us, a care to lead a heavenly and spiritual life (1 John 3:3), that we may be like our eldest brothe…

To the pure, all things are pure (Romans 14:14). And the reason is, because the dominion over the creatures, lost by Adam, is restored by Christ (1 Corinthians 3:22). And hence it is, that Paul calls the forbidding of marriage, and of meats, with obligation of conscience, a doct…

The third thing to be considered, is, the persons that are to restore their brethren, laid downe in these words, yee that are spirituall. Spiritual men are opposed to carnal, as (1 Corinthians 3:1): I could not speak to you brethren, as to spiritual men, but as to carnal: and to…

It is a stone then; yet so as it fills the whole corner: and is so the corner stone, that the whole building is laid upon it. For as no man can lay any other foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11) so must all the Church and her members rest and be built upon it only. Some translate the…

In a word, it is as much as if he should have said; What will become of this goodly wisdom of yours in the end; will it bereave God of his Spirit? Nay, contrariwise in reproving you for your deceit and vanity, he will show by the effects, that he catches the wise in their crafti…

But this false persuasion, is not condemned only, for that it makes men disobedient to God, and so causes their ruin: but also because it is intolerable in itself. For we must become fools, if we will be the disciples of God (1 Corinthians 3:18). It is also certain, that whereve…

And yet I willingly consent, that the Levites and Ministers of the Temple are here mentioned by way of excellence, for all the people. Thus this doctrine then pertains at this day not only to the Ministers of the word, but to all Christians in general, who are also called a roya…

But we are to note, that God is here made the master workman of this building, for the whole work must be attributed to him. Some may ask what the Prophet means by Carbuncles, Sapphires (verse 11), Pearls, and other precious stones: for Saint Paul has noted out the doctrine of t…

Some understand it, as if the preaching of the Gospel were never in vain, but that it always brings forth some fruit. Which I grant to be a truth, for the Lord works by his Spirit, and gives increase (1 Corinthians 3:7), that the labor of his Ministers may not be in vain. But th…

For first it would have been obscure to us, if he had concealed the cause, why God had given him his Spirit: but now we may evidently perceive his meaning, when he shows the use thereof: namely, that he exercises a public office, that so he may not be taken as some private perso…

and therefore Augustine judiciously reminds the reader that it is not πέτρα (petra, a stone or rock) that is derived from Πέτρος, (Peter,) but Πέτρος (Peter) that is derived from πέτρα, (petra, a stone or rock ) But not to be tedious, as we must acknowledge the truth and certain…

We know with what blind love men naturally regard themselves, how much they are devoted to themselves, how highly they estimate themselves. But if we desire to enter into the school of Christ, we must begin with that folly to which Paul (1 Corinthians 3:18) exhorts us, becoming…

Nor is it without reason that Paul bids men become fools, that they may be wise to God, (1 Corinthians 3:18;) for no darkness is more dangerous for quenching the light of the Spirit than reliance on our own sagacity.

And yet by this mode of expression he does not represent them as sharing their work or labor with the grace of God, as if they contributed anything to it of themselves; but simply means that they were assisted by God, because, according to the flesh, they would in vain have atte…

It may now be asked, How does the Spirit call those men builders, who are so strongly bent on the ruin and destruction of the temple of God? For Paul boasts of having been an honest builder, because he founded the Church on Christ alone, (1 Corinthians 3:10, 11.) The answer is e…

And this issues forth and proceeds from faith, and is the work of love, that we should mutually be mortised and joined one to another, that we all together may make one building. The same reason has Saint Paul also, 1 Corinthians 3, however not altogether after the same manner t…

Of this also Saint Paul says (2 Thessalonians 1): When the Lord Jesus shall show himself from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire, rendering vengeance to them that do not know God, and which do not obey the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Again (1 Corinthians 3): Eve…

He calls that another man's foundation, which was laid by another man's hand. Otherwise Christ is the only stone on which the Church is founded (1 Corinthians 3:11; Ephesians 1:20). 21 But according as it is written.

Whereby it follows that whereas the law does wound us to death, that is accidental: as if an incurable disease should be stirred up the more by a wholesome medicine. Indeed I confess it is an inseparable accident, and therefore the law in another place in respect of the Gospel,…

Matthew 10:42: 'Whosoever shall give to drink, unto one of these little ones, a cup of cold water, only in the name of a disciple, he shall in no wise lose his reward.' 1 Corinthians 3:8: 'Every man shall receive his own reward, according to his own labor.' And in many other pla…

About these there can be no hesitation; but things of a lower nature and lesser concern are left more obscure. (2.) As to the persons to whom God reveals his Will, there is great difference; some are strong men, others babes, 1 Corinthians 3:1 Some have senses exercised, others…

THe due observation of Providence will endear Jesus Christ every day more and more to your souls. Christ is the Channel of grace and mercy: through him are all the dcursus & recursus gratiarum, all the streams of mercy that low from God to us, and all the returns of praise from…

Do natural Causes unite and associate themselves for the good of Gods people? Why, this is no more than what is contained in the Promises, and is but the ulilling of that Scripture, 1 Corinthians 3:22 All is yours, for ye are Christs; (i. e.) the use, benefit and service of all…

(6.) Eye the Way and Method in which your mercies are conveyed to you. They all slow to you through the blood of Christ and Covenant of grace, 1 Corinthians 3. 22, 23. Mercies derive their sweetness from the Channel through which they run to us.

And Isaiah says likewise in the 45th chapter in the person of God: Turn you to me all you ends of the world, and you shall be saved: for I am God, and there is else none. To this agrees also Paul (1 Corinthians 3), saying: Other foundation can no man lay, than that which is laid…

For some presumptuous spirits will help others, chiefly such as live and die without God's own working: even as though they had too many good works. Where Paul says (1 Corinthians 3): that every man shall be rewarded according to his works: therefore not after another man's work…

Or rather, we, the Father, Son and Spirit (as we took the like expression, Chapter 1:11) for, this work which is undertaken and engaged for in the promise, does belong especially to them. 3. The promise is in two expressions (as is also the condition): 1. We will build upon her…

God forbid. And the Apostle thinks this sacrilegiousness of uncleanness so high an aggravation of the sinfulness of it, that he insists on it again (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). Do you not know that you are the temples of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?

For their sakes he made the world, and for their sakes he will destroy it: for their sakes he built heaven, and for their sakes he makes his angels ministering spirits. Therefore the Apostle says as he does, 1 Corinthians 3:21 etc. "All things are yours: whether Paul, or Apollos…

You are not to look upon the truths which ministers deliver, as the mere effects and fruits of their inventions and parts; they are but the conduits through which those celestial waters are conveyed to you. It is all heavenly: the officers from heaven (Ephesians 4:12), their doc…

Look again upon the ingraffed cyences, O my soul! and you shalt find, that when once they have taken hold of the stock, they live as long as there is any sap in the root; and because he liveth, I shall live also, for my life is hid with Christ in God, Col. 3. 3. The graff is pre…

THese cares and fears, with which you are perplexed in such cases, may give you a little gimpse of those troubles of soul, with which the people of God are perplexed about their eternal condition, which perhaps you have been hitherto unacquainted with, and therefore slighted the…

Thus I have touched upon the causes and state of the present distempers, much more might be said upon this subject, but now I was only willing to point at the heads of things: but you will say, then what hopes? I answer, our wound is grievous but not incurable, many things there…

You that are spiritual, if you would approve yourselves so indeed, acted by the Holy Spirit, and minding the things of the Spirit, be careful in this matter. Especially let those that are Christians of the highest form, that excel in grace, and holiness, and the best gifts (such…

Particular parties and interests, as such, will wither and come to nothing, but catholic Christianity, that is denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, and living soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world, in expectation to the blessed hope: this is good, and the goodn…

4. Do you have grace, be humble; you have it not of your own growth, it is borrowed. Were it not a folly to be proud of a ring that is lent (1 Corinthians 4:7)? You have more sin than grace, spots, than beauty.

Put your tears into your bottle. When the secrets of all hearts shall be opened, God will make an honorable mention of the zeal and devotion of his people, and he himself will be the herald of their praises (1 Corinthians 4:5). Then shall every man have praise of God.

1. We must stop our ears to Arminian teachers, who place the chief power in the will, as if that were the helm that turns about the soul in conversion. 1 Corinthians 4:7: Who makes you to differ from another? Ego me ipsum discerno, said Grevinchovius, I have made myself to diffe…

Thus you see the dignity of such as have God for their Father. What a comfort is this to God's children, who are here despised and loaded with calumnies and invectives (1 Corinthians 4:14): We are made as the filth of the world, etc. But God will put honor upon his children at t…

Thirdly, there are spiritual fathers, as pastors and ministers. These are the instruments of the new birth (1 Corinthians 4:15): Though you have ten thousand instructors, yet you have not many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. The spiritual fat…

It was fitting that he only should take upon him to reward, who only could know the principles of all actions, in which the chief of the good or evil in the action lies. This is the great glory of God and Christ at the day of judgment, that they will discover the secrets of all…

And though as Saint James says, They justify our faith, and make us just before men, James 2:21: Yet can they not justify us before God's Justice; nor, at the bar of the last Judgment, will they pass for payment. Saint Paul says, 1 Corinthians 4:4. I know nothing by myself, yet…

A Christian man can never have greater honor than to suffer for the gospel of Christ when God calls him to that: and therefore Saint Paul sets forth another most glorious show which all those must make that suffer any thing for God's cause. They must encounter with the world, th…

4. Branch. See the different esteem that God has of the righteous, and that men have of them: The men of the world esteem lightly of the saints; they disdain them, and scarce allow them half an eye; they think, of all things the people of God may be best spared. They look upon t…

Your condition is not singular; though you have hitherto been strangers to wants, other saints have daily conversed with and been familiarly acquainted with them. Hear what blessed Paul speaks — not of himself only, but in the name of other saints reduced to like extremities (1…

In this we say that God is the efficient cause, and so we may take the words, By his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; actively, and efficiently to look to Christ, as having this power, as He is God; which is proper to God alone, as is clear (Romans 8:34): It is…

First, it applies itself against the Church of Rome; first, who maintain that men in the state of nature have free will to lay hold upon Christ, and they conceive it is upon very fair terms; but I would only demand of you this question, whether when they do lay hold on Christ (a…

Therein stands our blessedness, when the Lord imputes not sin to us, but if we look to be justified either by the gifts of grace we have received, or by the works and acts of grace that we have performed, we shall certainly fall short. Paul knew nothing wherein he had dealt unfa…

4. Because they are witnesses of the obedience and fidelity of Christ's disciples, and so far as God permits, they cannot but assist them in their conflicts. Thus Paul (1 Corinthians 4:9): We are made a spectacle to the world, and to angels and to men. Now the angels, that are w…

I reply, though we know not the form of words he will speak, yet that a discovery shall be made of the acts of piety and charity (Matthew 25) evidently declares. Indeed, that secret duties shall be brought to light as well as secret sins, the Scriptures declare (1 Corinthians 4:…

Contrariwise, if we seek first the glory of God by the ministry of the word, then surely our glory will follow, according to that saying: Him that honors me I will glorify. To conclude, let every man prove his work: that is, let him do his endeavor that his ministry may be found…

I was as the very filth and [reconstructed: offscouring] of the world. He makes mention of this his infirmity in many places, as in (1 Corinthians 4; 2 Corinthians 4; 6; 11; 12) and in many other. We see then that Paul calls afflictions the infirmities of the flesh which he suff…

For it is imperfect, because it is increased (as they teach) by a second justification, and it is in this life mixed with the corruption of the flesh. Fourthly, the righteousness of a good conscience is an excellent grace, and gift of God — but by it we are not justified (1 Cori…

And for this cause, he had a privilege to preach the truth, so as he could not err in things which he delivered to the church. 2. He preached with authority, as having power to correct rebellious offenders (2 Corinthians 10:6) and (1 Corinthians 4). 3. He preached with unspeakab…

You will say; If such persons have not the Spirit of God, what other Spirit have they? Answer: If their life be bad, they have an unclean Spirit dwelling in them: and the god of this world has blinded their eyes, and makes them so that they cannot see the right way wherein they…

A notable example hereof we have in Moses, who being provoked, instead of anger, showed meekness. It further makes a man to yield of his right, and not to prosecute the matter in rigor, and extremity, and so it is opposed to severity (1 Corinthians 4:21): Shall I come to you wit…

Let them therefore rest themselves upon his defense, and leave the maintenance of their cause to him. Let them make their appeal (as Paul does) to the day of the Lord (1 Corinthians 4:4), and never stand to break their brains about the lies, slanders, and outrages of their enemi…

Because the judge that defends their innocence is near. The faithful ministers therefore may (by Saint Paul's example) summon the false and sinister judgments of men before the judgment seat of God, who will give a just sentence (1 Corinthians 4:4). Let us stand together.] The f…

The same kind of coldness may be now observed in the speculative theology of Popery. Those masters do indeed thunder out whatever they think proper in a sufficiently magisterial style; but as their manner of discoursing about divine things is so profane, that their controversies…

Nor is there any importance in the distinction which some have brought forward, that men, by whom children have been begotten, are fathers according to the flesh, but that God alone is the Father of spirits. I readily acknowledge that in this manner God is sometimes distinguishe…

Relying on this testimony, let us learn to set little value on any reports concerning us that are spread abroad in the world, provided we know that what men condemn God approves. In this manner Isaiah, when oppressed by wicked calumnies, makes reference to God as his voucher, (I…

Do not therefore take any regard to those vain talkers, that can prattle much of these things, whose words notwithstanding, are but as wind and mere trifles. Of such, Paul speaks (1 Corinthians 4), I will come to you, and will know, not the words of them that are puffed up, but…

It is a very apt description of the judgment, serving for the present place, that they might know — which willingly hide themselves in the darkness of insensibleness or dullness of mind — that those inward cogitations, which now are altogether hidden in the depth of their hearts…

It is with this thought that God gives all riches, Let them trust in the living God, who gives us all things richly to enjoy. That argument of the Apostle, (1 Corinthians 4:7) If you have received it, why do you boast? is as strong and as true in regard of temporal things, as of…

And that both because indeed they are superior to the people in things appertaining to God, having the dispensation of the grace of the gospel committed to them; and because likewise through the concurrence of the Spirit's operation with their ministry, they beget souls to Jesus…

I am sure it's so in a spiritual sense; he that lays in spiritual provision is only fit to lay out in the exercises of religion. I shall but give this one proof for the general (Matthew 13:52) — "A Scribe [that is, a Minister] instructed to the Kingdom of Heaven [that is, prepar…

And again, He that judges me is the Lord. Let us therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the counsels of the heart; and then shall every man have praise of God (1 Corinthians 4:4-…

'Tis usual with the apostles to place this title of servant among their honorary titles, though a profane mouth once called it, Probosum artificium, a sordid artifice. Christ has stamped a great deal of dignity upon his ministers, in retaining them for the nearest service to him…

The Work of the Spirit of God that was wrought then, was carried on in a Manner that, in very many Respects, was altogether new: There were such Things then that the Jews, then living, nor their Fathers, had never seen nor heard, yea such as never had been since the World stood:…

How glad was he that Christ was preached, though out of envy, and ill-will by those that studied to add affliction to his bonds? In governing the church, he was not led by the sudden resolves of passion, but always deliberated calmly concerning the use of the rod of discipline,…

If the practice of piety be branded as a sect, it is better for us to come under the reproaches of men for following it, than under the curse of God for neglecting it. It is a very small thing to be judged of man's day, but he that judges us is the Lord (1 Corinthians 4:3-4): le…

Such affronts as these we should learn to bear as David did when Shimei cursed him, so let him curse (2 Samuel 16:10); and as the Son of David did when his enemies reviled him (1 Peter 2:23), blessing them that curse us, and praying for them that thus persecute us, that we may b…

And as they did the Prophets, so Christ, and the Apostles; when they were filled with the Spirit of God, they mocked them, and said, they were filled with new Wine; And Christ tells them, they shall revile them, and speak all manner of evil unto them. And so St. Paul, a man of m…

And you shalt see how it will shrink them all up to nothing. Oppose the Inheritance you shalt receive in that day, to your losses for Christ now; and see how joyfully it will make you bear them, Hebrews 10:34. Oppose the honor that will be put upon you in that day, to your prese…

And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it (1 Corinthians 4:7)? When a man is exalted from a low to a great place, and thereupon grows proud and insolent, we say, he has forgotten where he came from.

My Mother, says Solomon to Bathsheba (1 Kings 2:20). I find also the title of Sir or Lord, used: a title of honor (1 Samuel 24:12; 2 Kings 5:13; Judges 18:19; 2 Kings 6:21; 1 Corinthians 4:15; 1 Timothy 5:1; Genesis 22:7; Genesis 27:18; Matthew 21:30; Genesis 31:35). 2. By using…

It is sometimes ascribed to the subordinate means, to baptism, called therefore the laver of regeneration (Titus 3:5), to the Word of God (James 1:18). It is that immortal seed, by which we are born again; by the ministers of this Word, and the seals of it, as (1 Corinthians 4:1…

There's the great and most public reward of Christians. (1 Corinthians 4:5) Then he will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the heart; and then shall every man have praise with God: That is, every man that is praise-worthy, howev…

God is greater than our consciences. His authority is greater, for God is Supreme, whose sentence is decisive: Now, though conscience should not do its office (1 Corinthians 4:4): For I know nothing by myself, yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judges me, is the Lord. Al…

(Hebrews 8:10) He does not only set up his ordinances, laws, and constitutions; but there is power that goes along with the dispensation of this kingdom, and thereby we are fitted and enabled to love, serve, and please God; and then are we under the kingdom of God, when we are u…

We would laugh, if a groom should be proud of his master's horse, and his master's cloak: Shall we usurp that honor that is due to God? What have you that you did not receive? (1 Corinthians 4:7). And then we have it from hand to mouth.

And Luther was called a Trumpet of Rebellion; St. Paul was Judged a Pestilent fellow, Acts 24:5. The Wicked think of all things in the World the Saints may be best spared: 1 Corinthians 4:13. We are made as the filth and off-scowring of all things: but this is Vinum in pectore,…

Therefore to abate that loftiness, and to cleanse us of such vice, Saint Paul puts us in mind once again, that we have nothing which is not given us. And therefore we must resort to this which he says in (1 Corinthians 4:7): Who are you? Have you made yourself so excellent by yo…

We are all in a race, and it is not what men say of us, but what God says, who is judge of all. (1 Corinthians 4:3-4) It's a small thing that I should be judged of man's judgment: but he that judges me is the Lord. In the original it is man's day (and so in the margin).

How does this keep us humble and lowly? Partly thus, because we have all by gift; What have you that you have not received? (1 Corinthians 4:7). All the strength that we have, is but borrowed; and who will be proud that is more in debt than others?

1. A privative part, Mortification, which lies in the purging out of sin. Sin is compared to leaven, which sours, and to leprosy, which defiles: Sanctification does purge out the old leaven (1 Corinthians 5:7). Though it takes not away the life, yet the love of sin.

This has made many they could not reach heaven, because of their over-reaching. 13. If you would not miss of the Kingdom of Heaven, take heed of evil company; there is a necessary commerce with men in buying and selling, else, as the Apostle says, we must go out of the world (1…

God would have a public satisfaction given. So when the incestuous person had committed that sin (1 Corinthians 5:1, 9), for which at that time he was not humbled — for afterward in 2 Corinthians 2:7, when he was humbled indeed, Paul bids them comfort him — yet until his humilia…

Even as on the contrary, the special work of baptism (which admits into the church), to such as were adult believers already, was by joy in the Holy Ghost to seal up their adoption and regeneration to them, as to the eunuch (Acts 8:39). This we may see in the excommunication of…

seeing properly the Passover is nothing else, but the act of the Angel passing over the houses of the Israelites, when he smote the firstborn in every house of the Egyptians. Answer. The phrase is improper: yet it must not seem strange, because it is usual in Scripture, treating…

Their last objection is, If a sinner be righteous by Christ's righteousness, then Christ is a sinner by his sins: for there is the same reason of both. But Christ is no sinner, but the holy of holiest: and Saint Paul says, He knew no sin, 1 Corinthians 5. And himself for himself…

Before God sends his judgments on Jerusalem, an angel is sent to mark them in the foreheads that mourn for the abominations of the people (Ezekiel 9:4). And this privilege none can have but he whose heart is sprinkled with the blood of Christ (Exodus 12:23 with 1 Corinthians 5:7…

And 1 Corinthians 10:4: The rock was Christ. 1 Corinthians 5:7: The Passover was Christ. The like phrase is to be found in the institution of this sacrament concerning the cup, which the Papists themselves confess to be figurative — when it is said in Luke 22: This cup is the ne…

And it is the same that you read (Isaiah 1:16-18), to show you that if men do begin to learn to be better, if they cease to do evil, and learn to do well, if they acknowledge their sins in the sight of God, God will so sprinkle the blood of Christ upon them, as that their great…

Fourthly, neither must I behold my brother's failings with a wanton eye, that is, when a man is not humbled for his brother's faults, but partly puffed up with it, and prides himself with beholding another man's failings, and thinks every man's fall is a refreshing to himself; h…

If the faults of the Church be in manners, and these faults appear both in the lives of ministers and people, so long as true religion is taught, it is a church, and so to be esteemed; and the ministers must be heard (Matthew 23:1). Yet may we separate from the private company o…

The example of one incestuous man was sufficient to corrupt all Corinth. Therefore Paul says, Purge out the old leaven (1 Corinthians 5:6). The law of God is, that blasphemers, murderers, adulterers, etc. shall be put to death: the reason is, that evil may be taken away out of I…

(Matthew 23:8) One is your Doctor, to wit, Christ, and all you are brethren. (1 Corinthians 5:11) If any that is called a brother be a fornicator, with such a one eat not. To these we may add a fifth sense: for all those that are confederate, or otherwise joined together, by the…

By this similitude then he threatens, that nothing shall remain in good condition to the Assyrians, who are now destined to destruction, because they shall perish, both soul and flesh: not that men's souls are mortal, but because God will openly show his vengeance upon them. Sur…

Here we perceive also what Paul tells us, that some are delivered to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus, (1 Corinthians 5:5.) And the length of time points out to us that, though the Lord does not immediately relieve…

and when Paul says, that a little leaven leavens the whole lump, (1 Corinthians 5:6.) But here the term must be understood simply as applying to the present subject.

There are restless men, on the other hand, who have endeavored in various ways to corrupt sound doctrine, and, in guarding also against such impostures, believers must maintain a strict watch, that they may keep a perpetual Passover With the unleavened bread of sincerity and tru…

It is asked, what does he mean by the term Church? For Paul orders (1 Corinthians 5:5) that the incestuous Corinthian shall be excommunicated, not by a certain chosen number, but by the whole assembly of the godly; and therefore it might appear to be probable that the power of j…

Such is the import of what Paul says, that Christ our passover is sacrificed for us, (1 Corinthians 5:7.) 19. And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them.

Then he was offered up to God as a lamb without blemish, and without spot. Then especially did he appear to be the antitype of the lamb of the Passover (1 Corinthians 5:7). And yet in that act, he did in an especial manner appear as the Lion of the tribe of Judah; yes, in this a…

And they have amongst them the broad seal of Heaven; To Gods people that are together in a Church-fellowship, the seals are committed; now this is a mighty priviledge. And besides, they have the power of Christ with them, 1 Cor. 5:4 the power of Christ is committed to them. And…

The Lord would have his people shun the society of such, as a pest. Not to eat with them, 1 Corinthians 5:11. Indeed, the Scripture brands them with Atheism; they are such as have lost the sense and expectation of the Day of Judgment; mind not another world, nor do they look for…

What are my Lusts, (says Fuller's Medone) but so many Toads spitting of Venome, tations, p 11. and spawning of Poison; croaking in my Judgment, creeping in my Will, and crawling into my Affecttions? The Apostle in 1 Corinthians 5:1. tells us of a sin, Not to be named; so monstro…

3. One beyond those degrees of consanguinity and affinity which are forbidden by the law of God: these degrees are expressed by Moses (Leviticus 18:6-7, etc.) and explained in a table of the degrees of consanguinity and affinity within which none may marry, appointed to be hung…

Some begin to grow negligent, careless, worldly, wanton; they break the ice toward pleasing the flesh; at first others blame and judge them, but before long their love also waxes cold and they conform to the same mold. A little leaven leavens the whole lump — Paul repeats this t…

It is the greatest judgment which can be laid upon any creature, that he may have his own will. A man may be given up to Satan, yet recover (1 Corinthians 5:5): Deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesu…

This is a great sin. Paul spent the great part of a chapter to excuse himself, because he was necessitated by Providence to break promise of coming to Corinth (1 Corinthians 5:16-18). It was grievous to him that he should seem to use lightness, and not make good his word, though…

2. There is civil friendship built on natural pleasure and profit, when men converse together for trade, or other civil ends; thus men are at liberty to choose their company, as their interests and course of their employments lead them. The Apostle says, a man must go out of the…

3. This comfortable sense of God's mercy should induce us to this by way of argument (1 John 4:19): We love him because he first loved us. (1 Corinthians 5:14-15): For the love of Christ constrains us because we thus judge: that if one died for all, then were all dead. And that…

Oh, that there were more crying persons, when there are so many crying sins! They that grieve not and mourn not, are guilty, as the Apostle tells us (1 Corinthians 5:1-2), and by mourning they were cleared of this matter (2 Corinthians 7:11). 2. By concealing that which we ought…

Yes, more than this, he became a curse (Galatians 3:13). Yes, which is the worst of words, he became sin for us (1 Corinthians 5:21). There are yet other circumstances, which added to his sorrow and suffering, such as these: he came to his own, and they received him not, he had…

It goes about to un-god God, and is by some of the Ancients called Deicidium, God-murder, or God-killing. And though all these things be not acted by every sinful man, yet they are not only in the nature of sin, yes, of every sin, more or less, but are all of them in the heart o…

Him whom the gospel has not bound in the bond of peace, Satan has bound in the bond of iniquity. Uncharitableness is a leaven that sours the whole lump (1 Corinthians 5:8). It sours your good qualities; Naaman was an honorable man, a mighty man in valor — but he was a leper (2 K…

Thirdly, Satans power is ministerial, appointed by God for the service and benefit of the Saints: 'Tis true (as its said of the proud Assyrian,) be weans not so, neither does his heart think so; but it is in his heart to destroy those he tempts: but no matter what he thinks: as…

But we distinguish them as the Scripture. It is true (Romans 4:9), faith is said to be imputed to Abraham for righteousness, and so verse 3, verse 5, but it is not meant of the act or work of believing, that was counted for Abraham's formal righteousness, there should so no room…

Assertion 2. This threefold taking away of sins, I clear from the Scripture: 1. Christ takes away our sins on the Cross, causatively, and by way of merit, while as he suffers for our sins on the Cross: So, (John 1:29) Behold the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world.…

And (2 Corinthians 12:10): "I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake." The ground of all which was the love of Christ which did constrain him (1 Corinthians 5:14). He had such a love to Christ that he profess…

Our Savior washed all the disciples' feet (John 13:5, 8-14), and says, If I wash you not, you have no part in me: to show you, that every master of a family must be careful to wash the feet of all those he has any part or portion in. As in the law, they put away all leaven when…

In this sense Christ is a Redeemer, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], he has paid a price. Never such a price paid to ransom prisoners (1 Corinthians 6:20): You are, Pretio Empti, bought with a price; and this price was his own blood. So in the Text, By his own blood he entered in on…

Faith throws itself into Christ's arms; it says, Christ is my Priest, his blood is my sacrifice, his divine nature is my altar, and here I rest. This faith is seen by the effects of it, a refining work and a resigning work; it purifies the heart, there is the refining work; it m…

What worthiness in the Corinthians, when God began to call them by his gospel? They were fornicators, effeminate, idolaters (1 Corinthians 6:11). Such were some of you, but you are washed, etc.

Spiritual worship is the virgin-worship. Though God will have the service of our bodies, our eyes and hands lifted up, to testify to others that reverence we have of God's glory and majesty, yet chiefly he will have the worship of the soul (1 Corinthians 6:20): Glorify God in yo…

Question. How shall I get a part in this unchangeable God? Response. By having a change wrought in you (1 Corinthians 6:11): "But you are washed, but you are sanctified." When we are changed, A tenebris ad lucem, so changed as if another soul did live in the same body, by this c…

2. The glory which is ascribed to God, or which his creatures labor to bring to him (1 Chronicles 16:29): Give to the Lord the glory due to his name. And (1 Corinthians 6:20): Glorify God in your body, and in your spirit. The glory we give God is nothing else but our lifting up…

Let Christ's golden maxim be observed (Matthew 7:12): What you would have men do to you, do you even so to them. You would not have them wrong you, neither do you them; rather suffer wrong than do wrong (1 Corinthians 6:7). Why do you not rather take wrong?

God the Son is said to justify (Acts 13:39). By him all that believe are justified. God the Holy Ghost is said to justify (1 Corinthians 6:11). But you are justified by the spirit of our God. God the Father justifies as he pronounces us righteous; God the Son justifies as he imp…

Nothing will hold out but grace; it is only this anointing that abides; paint will fall off. Get a heart-changing-work (1 Corinthians 6:11). But you are washed, but you are sanctified.

Jude 14: Behold the Lord comes with ten thousands of his saints to execute judgment upon all. 1 Corinthians 6:2: Do you not know that the saints shall judge the world? The saints shall sit with Christ in judicature, as justices of peace with the Judge; they shall applaud Christ'…

Keep your bodies pure: keep your eyes from unchaste glances; your hands from bribes; your tongues from slander: defile not your bodies which you hope shall rise one day to glory. Your bodies are the members of Christ; and hear what the Apostle says (1 Corinthians 6:15). Shall I…

Revelation 18:4: Come out of her my people, that you not be partakers of her sins, and that you do not receive of her plagues. Idolatry lived in cuts men off from heaven (1 Corinthians 6:9). So then it is no small mercy to be delivered out of idolatrous places.

(Joel 1:5): Howl, you drinkers of wine! Drunkenness excludes a person from heaven (1 Corinthians 6:10): Drunkards shall not inherit the kingdom of God: a man cannot go to heaven reeling. King Solomon makes an oration full of invectives against this sin (Proverbs 23:29): Who has…

They sit on a better throne: King Solomon (1 Kings 10:18) sat on a throne of ivory overlaid with gold; but the saints are in heaven higher advanced; they sit with Christ upon his throne (Revelation 3:21). They shall judge the princes and great ones of the earth (1 Corinthians 6:…

We have no call to sin; we may have a temptation, but no call; no call to be proud, or unclean, but we have a call to be holy. 2. The necessity appears in this, without Sanctification there is no evidencing our Justification; Justification and Sanctification go together (1 Corin…

It is a tearing of God's picture, and breaking in pieces the King of Heaven's broad-seal. Man is the temple of God (1 Corinthians 6:19). Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost?

A king's palace must be kept clean, especially his presence-chamber. The body is the temple of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 6:19) — then the soul is the Sanctum Sanctorum; how holy ought that to be? Secondly, you are to dwell with God.

(2.) Injurious to God the Son, two ways. First, as he has purchased you with his blood (1 Corinthians 6:20). You are bought with a price.

Covetous Achan stole the wedge of gold. Therefore thieves and the covetous are put together (1 Corinthians 6:10). 9. Covetousness is a breach of the Ninth Commandment, You shalt not bear false witness.

The Holy Ghost works miracles, which transcend the sphere of nature; as raising the dead (Romans 8:11). To him belongs [illegible], divine worship; our souls and bodies are the temples of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 6:19), in which temples he is to be worshipped (verse 20). We…

Thus justification and sanctification are not the same; yet, for all that, they are not separated. God never pardons and justifies a sinner, but he does sanctify him (1 Corinthians 6:11): "but you are justified, but you are sanctified." (1 John 5:6): "This is he that came by wat…

Adam was created a glorious creature but mutable, a bright star but a falling star, but in the kingdom of heaven is a fixation of happiness: when Christ's kingdom of glory comes you shall be rid of all your enemies: As Moses said (Exodus 14:13), The Egyptians whom you have seen…

2. Moral actions are done out of a vain-glorious humor, not any respect to God's glory. The Apostle calls the heathen magistrates unjust (1 Corinthians 6:1). While they were doing justice in their civil courts they were unjust; their virtue became vice, because faith was wanting…

This circumstance is worth the marking: for, good Jacob, by reason of the weakness of his body and old age, was not able to come forth of his bed, and kneel down or prostrate himself; but raises himself up upon his pillow towards his bed's head: and by reason of feebleness being…

For, Noah being told of a miraculous thing, and believing it, and being commanded so unreasonable a thing, as the making of the Ark, and obeying, shall condemn that wicked world, who would not believe God's ordinary promises; nor obey his ordinary and most holy commandments. And…

How could she believe, being a harlot in former times? for it is said, That neither fornicators, nor adulterers, shall inherit the Kingdom of heaven, 1 Corinthians 6.9. Answer.

The dealing of the world in this case is no example for us to follow. For through rage and stomach men will abide no private agreement, and therefore they use the law in the first place, as the Corinthians did: but what says Paul (1 Corinthians 6:7), it is utterly a fault among…

If we were clear that our share was there, and that our iniquities came in among the rest to make up the libel, and if we could aright discern him so [reconstructed: pinched] and straitened in satisfying for us, would we not think ourselves eternally obliged to him, to hate sin,…

And if people have anything, they should not be proud or conceited of it, but mind that what they have, is a fruit of Christ's purchase, and that therefore there is no ground to be proud of it. The 3rd use serves to show what great obligation lies on sinners that get any special…

The effect of this faith follows, when a person is chased and has fled into, and laid hold on Christ; the effect, I say, is, he shall be justified; we may consider this several ways, and for explication's sake I shall shortly put by some of them. 1. Then, according to the exposi…

He is redeemed from his vain conversation (1 Peter 1:18). He is the temple of the Holy Ghost; he is not his own, but bought with a price; and is, being washed in Christ's blood, a king over his lusts, a priest to offer himself to God, a holy, living, and acceptable sacrifice (1…

6. His coming in the world has no such Arminian end, that we read of, as a possible saving, or an obtained salvation, that thousands, indeed not one in the world may ever enjoy; but he came to seek, and actually, and intentionally, to save that which was lost (Luke 19:10), to sa…

For we knowing our work to be well done, and having a good conscience before God, go forward by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report, etc. (Philippians 4:4). This says Paul is to have rejoicing or glory in yourself (1 Corinthians 6:3). And this admonition is very n…

Paul says, Christ is made to us of God, wisdom, justice, sanctification (1 Corinthians 1:3). Again, "But you are washed, you are justified, and sanctified" (1 Corinthians 6:11). Secondly, the justice whereby a sinner is justified, is revealed without the law (Romans 3:21).

Thirdly, our duty is, to glorify God and Christ, who has redeemed us, and that both in body and soul. The redeemed must live according to the will of their Redeemer (1 Corinthians 6:20). This is all the thankfulness that we can show to our Redeemer for his mercy.

The first is, when men make more things indifferent than God ever made. Thus the Corinthians used fornication as a thing indifferent (1 Corinthians 6). To many in these days drunkenness and surfeiting is but a thing indifferent.

Now my sons be not deceived. And Paul the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 6:9): be not deceived, neither fornicators, etc. (1 Corinthians 15:33): be not deceived, evil speeches corrupt good manners.

This place is notable therefore, and teaches us to stick fast to the calling of God, that we defile not ourselves with the filth of the world: if corruptions break forth, and that Idolaters let loose the bridle to all villainy; yet must we be held short by another bridle; to wit…

To this pertains that which the prophet adds, And to the Temple; Your foundations shall be laid. Indeed we at this day have no Temple of wood and stone which we are commanded to build, but the living temples of the Holy Ghost (1 Corinthians 6), namely, ourselves, because he has…

“God has not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness,” (1 Thessalonians 4:7.) We are “redeemed with a great price,” (1 Corinthians 6:20,) “the precious blood of Christ,” (1 Peter 1:18-19,) not that we may serve “the lusts of the flesh,” (2 Peter 2:18,) or indulge in unbrid…

For if we will live with him, we must die also with him. If we will reign with him, we must also suffer with him, as Saint Paul says (Romans 6; Colossians 2; Ephesians 4; Hebrews 12; 1 Corinthians 6; 2 Timothy 2) and in many other places. That when his glory shall appear, you ma…

If so be then, that for charity's sake, a man may cease from the use of meats, God's honor not hindered, Christ's kingdom not prejudiced, and religion or piety not violated: they are not to be suffered who for meats' sake trouble the Church. He uses the same arguments to the Cor…

They will rise up as witnesses, and will declare what a precious opportunity you had, and did not improve; how you continued unbelieving, and rejecting the offers of a Savior, when those offers were made in so extraordinary a manner, and when so many others were prevailed upon t…

You will appear separated from them while you stand before the great judgment seat, they being at the right hand while you are set at the left (Matthew 25:32-33). And you shall then appear in exceedingly different circumstances: while you stand with devils, in the image and defo…

Doubtless, this is the end and level of these mercies; for else to what purpose are they afforded you? Your bodies are a part of Christs purchase, as well as your souls, 1 Corinthians 6:19 They are committed to the charge and Tutelage of Angels, Hebrews 1:14 who have performed m…

Secondly, My servant, by way of special right and property; so Job and all godly persons are called God's servants: first, by the right of election they are God's chosen servants, as Paul is called a chosen vessel, that is, a chosen servant, to carry the name of God. Second, the…

Such are the sins that cast David into his depths. Such are the sins enumerated 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10. Be not deceived, says the apostle, neither Fornicators; nor Idolaters, nor Adulterers, nor Effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with Mankind.

He takes up their hearts to be his dwelling place; to what ends and purposes? that he may purify and sanctify them, make them holy, and dedicate them to God; to furnish them with Graces and gifts, to interest them in priviledges; to guide, lead, direct, comfort them; to seal the…

2. Yet by the way to take off this objection also, consider what the apostle says in particular concerning the several sorts of sinners that obtained mercy, 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10, 11. Be not deceived, neither Fornicators, nor Idolaters, nor Adulterers, nor Effeminate, nor Abuser…

Fifthly, they shall certainly be eternally cursed, and eternally miserable: their ill-gotten goods shall not be able to redeem their souls, or bribe the justice of God, or give them the least solace and comfort. And what wretched fools are they, who must eternally perish for gai…

Solomon had put all the creatures into a Limbeck, and when he came to extract the spirits and quintessence, all was vanity (Ecclesiastes 2:11). The Apostle calls it [illegible], a show or apparition (1 Corinthians 7:31), having no intrinsical goodness. 3. The third lesson is the…

- 1. Fixedness of mind. - 2. Fervency of devotion. - 3. Uprightness of aim. 1. Fixedness of mind: then we spiritualize duty when our minds are fixed on God; (1 Corinthians 7:35). That you may attend on the Lord without distraction.

1. Distraction. 1 Corinthians 7:35. That you may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

If parents should indeed counsel a child to match with one that is irreligious or Popish, I think the case is plain; and many of the learned are of opinion, that here the child may have a negative voice, and is not obliged to be ruled by the parent. Children are to marry in the…

(1.) Something implied: that the ordinance of marriage should be observed. (1 Corinthians 7:2) Let every man have his own wife, and every woman have her own husband. Marriage is honorable, and the bed undefiled (Hebrews 13:4).

Therefore children in their infancy being God's servants, why should they not have baptism, which is the tessera, the mark or seal which God sets upon his servants. Third Arg. Is from 1 Corinthians 7:14: "But now are your children holy." Children are not called holy, as if they…

Thirdly, he is able indiscernably to communicate all his false reasonings (though never so spiritual) which he does forge and invent, and that in such a manner as to deceive us by them and to make them take with us. First, he is able not only to put into the heart suggestions an…

For, too much delight in fleshly pleasures, smothers the grace of God in us, and lets loose all sins, and gives life unto all corruptions. Secondly, we must use this world as though we used it not; that is, even the necessary comforts and delights thereof: they be the very words…

For, if he had loved and liked the pomp of Egypt, he would have had his sepulcher among them; but, giving commandment to the contrary, it shows plainly, that his heart was never set on that glory and pomp in which he lived. By whose example we are taught, that in using the world…

And the same reason must move every one of us, to use this world, and all things herein (even all temporal benefits) as though we used them not: being, always willing and ready to leave them whensoever God shall call. This same reason does Paul render when he persuades the Corin…

For, if they had, they would rejoice in it, and not in the vain and transitory delights of this world, which perish in the using, and are lost with more torment and vexation, than they were kept with delight. We must learn then to use this world, as though we used it not, 1 Cori…

But how (will some say) shall we be answerable to this profession? Answer. For the practice hereof, we must do these three things: 1. We must use this world and the things thereof, as though we used them not; 1 Corinthians 7.31: The temporal blessings we here enjoy, we must so u…

Our love to God must be intense and vehement; like the Coals of Juniper, which are most acute and fervent, Psalm 120.4. Our love to transitory things must be indifferent; we must love quasi non, as if we loved not, 1 Corinthians 7.30. But our love to God must flame forth.

4. A righteous man has more excellent freedom (Psalm 119:45): And I will walk at liberty. Another is capable of civil freedom; he may be a Roman born; but he is still enslaved to his lusts; but a righteous person is God's freeman (1 Corinthians 7:21). His neck is out of the Devi…

Daniel 10:3: I ate no pleasant bread, neither came flesh nor wine within my mouth, neither did I anoint myself at all, until three weeks of days were fulfilled. 1 Corinthians 7:5: Defraud not one another, except it be with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fast…

Objection 4. 1 Corinthians 7:8: Paul says it is good for all to be single as he was, and in verse 38 he says it is better for virgins not to marry, and this he speaks by permission not by commandment (verse 26). Answer: Here single life is not preferred simply, but only in respe…

The fault is not in the substance of marriage but in the manner of making it. And for this cause the Apostle commands the believing party not to forsake or refuse the unbelieving party — being a very infidel, which no Papist is — if he or she will abide: 1 Corinthians 7:13. The…

This kind of vow is flat against the word of God, and therefore unlawful. For Paul says in 1 Corinthians 7:9: If they cannot contain, let them marry. 1 Timothy 4:1: It is a doctrine of devils to forbid to marry.

It is as common with men, indeed, with good men, to exceed in their sorrows for dead relations, as it is to exceed in their loves and delights to living relations; and both of the one and other, we may say as they say of waters, it is hard to confine them within their bounds. It…

The great all of heaven and earth, since God laid the first stone of this wide hall, has been groaning, and weeping, for the liberty of the sons of God, (Romans 8:21). The figure of the passing-away world, (1 Corinthians 7:31), is like an old man's face, full of wrinkles, and fo…

But to the unmortified man the world smells like the garden of God: lust casts in, and comes to eye and heart and fancy, grenades and fire-balls of uncleanness; sinful pleasure has a rosy face, profit has golden fingers, court and honor has a sweet breath, the world is not to hi…

And besides, such a natural man, though he be of a magnanimous spirit in respect of fear of danger, yet such a man is often captivated of many base lusts, and sinful courses, and is not able to resist ill counsel, nor ill company; whereas a godly man is free from all these; free…

1. As he works by representation, or the fair show and splendid appearance of worldly things, you must check it. (1.) By considering the little subsistence and reality that is in this fair appearance (1 Corinthians 7:31). The fashion of this world passes away [illegible: non-Lat…

But I need not trouble you with the mention of Popish fopperies. A right-bred Christian, that has learned the truth as it is in Jesus, being thrust into a corner, knows how to improve solitariness for soul-advantage; and voluntarily does withdraw himself into a corner, that he m…

3. Objection. But I am a servant, and must obey my master; I am kept too hardly at work, to get time for secret prayer; I am called to work early, dogged to it all the day. Answer. Though you be servants to do men's work, yet not slaves to their lusts: in that respect you must n…

Paul then did not reject circumcision as a damnable thing, neither did he by word or deed enforce the Jews to forsake it. For in (1 Corinthians 7) he says: If any man be called being circumcised, let him not add uncircumcision. But he rejected circumcision as a thing not necessa…

Justification by works is a yoke that none could ever bear (Acts 15). The vow of single life is as a snare, or as the noose in the halter to strangle the soul (1 Corinthians 7:34). So is the doctrine which teaches that men after their conversion, must still remain in suspense of…

If the root be holy, the branches are holy (Romans 11:16). If either of their parents believe, their children are holy (1 Corinthians 7:14). In a civil contract, the father and his heir make but one person, and the father covenants for himself, and his posterity: even so, in the…

In Acts 2:39, Peter says to the Jews that heard him preach, The promises belong to you, and to your children. Paul says, If the parents believe, the children are holy (1 Corinthians 7:14). If holy, then are they in the covenant: now they are holy: because we are in the judgment…

This authority shows itself, specially in two things: in the marriage, and in the calling of the child. In the marriage of the child, the parent is the principal agent, and the disposer thereof (Deuteronomy 7:3; Exodus 34:16; 1 Corinthians 7:38). Where observe, that the commandm…

Thus magistracy and Christian liberty may stand together: and the rather, because liberty is in conscience, and the magistrate's authority pertains to the body. Here is further comfort for all the godly: for even by Christian liberty, their consciences are exempted from the powe…

Synecdochically, not of perfect and absolute knowledge, for we all know but in part (2 Corinthians 13:12), but of initiate, or inchoate knowledge, which shall be consummate in the life to come. Further, upon this distinction it follows, that hearers are not to intermeddle with t…

Abraham was of an excellent faith, and constancy, of singular meekness, and holiness, yet had he not this gift. Christ himself testifies that it is not given to all, even then when his Apostles so highly commended single life (Matthew 19:6, 10, 11, 12), and Saint Paul says the l…

For not only the eyes, but even the concealed flames of the heart, render men guilty of adultery. Accordingly, Paul makes chastity (1 Corinthians 7:34) to consist both in body and in mind. But Christ reckoned it enough to refute the gross mistake which was prevalent: for they th…

We know, on the contrary, that none of those who walk in their ways are ever left destitute of the assistance of the Spirit. For the sake of avoiding fornication, says Paul, let every man marry a wife, (1 Corinthians 7:2). He who has done so, though he may not succeed to his wis…

And touch not with that which you cannot recommend to God by prayer for a blessing. Be well satisfied in that Station and Imployment in which Providence has placed you, and do not so much as wish your selves in another, 1 Corinthians 7:20 Let every man abide in the same Calling,…

The Priest said, There is no common bread under my hand, but there is hallowed bread, if the young men have kept themselves at least from women; if they have but that outward preparation: the meaning is, if they had kept themselves from their wives; David affirms it was so, in t…

This high and most laudable benefit as no tongue can express it, so can no tongue also praise it enough. And therefore does Paul exhort and warn us of the abuse of this benefit, saying (1 Corinthians 7): You are dearly bought (namely, with the blood of Jesus Christ) be not you s…

Here much love and sympathy appears in these three things, 1. That she is called a sister, 2. our sister, 3. little sister, and without breasts, which do express much tenderness of affection and sympathy. By sister, is sometimes understood, more strictly, such as are renewed con…

For we find the holy fathers have still taken the care of the disposal of their children in this affair. And the Apostle (1 Corinthians 7:36-37) declares, that it is in the parents' power either to marry their children, or to keep them in a single estate. But yet no question so,…

Therefore polygamy was unlawful in the beginning, even then when the necessity of increasing the world might seem to plead for it; and how much more unlawful now, when that necessity is ceased. Besides this the Apostle has commanded (1 Corinthians 7:2), Let every man have his ow…

Who never were up before the sun, nor break an hour's rest; For your poor souls, as you have done so often, for a beast. Learn once to see the difference; between eternal things; And these poor transient things of sense: that fly with eagle's wings. (2 Corinthians 4:18; 1 Corint…

For every man shall kiss his lips that gives a right answer (Proverbs 24:26). In the conjugal relation, it is taken for granted (1 Corinthians 7:33-34) that the care of the husband is to please his wife; and the care of the wife is to please her husband; and where there is that…

O brethren, labor to practice these things: O what a blessed thing were it that all of us might come to convert souls! Though women may not preach in the Church, they may preach abroad in their lives, and in their families, by their humble and godly conversations; 1 Cor. 7:16 Wh…

Again, all things that do befal us in this world, and all the ways of Gods providence, do but tend to the furtherance of us to our reward, and to the increase of our reward, and that is the wonderful happiness of Gods people, this should sweeten all conditions: If I be in a mean…

Haggai 1:6. We earn Wages, and put it into a Bag with holes, and disquiet our selves in vain; all our Relations full of trouble. The Apostle speaking to those that Marry, says, 1 Corinthians 7:28. Such shall have trouble in the flesh. Upon which words one glosseth thus: Flesh an…

Take no thought for your life (says the Lord) what you shall eat, or what you shall drink; or for the body, what you shall put on: Which he backs with an Argument from God's Providence over the Creatures, and enforceth it with a [much rather) upon them, Matth. 6. 25, 31. God wou…

APPLICATION. Thus mutable and inconstant are all outward things, there is no depending on them: Nothing of any substance, or any solid consistence in them, 1 Corinthians 7:31. The fashion of this world passes away. It is an high point of folly to depend upon such vanities, Prove…

It is not sufficient to perform general duties of Christianity, unless also we be conscientious in performing the particular duties of our several callings. A conscientious performance of those particular duties is one part of our walking worthy of the vocation with which we are…

The law does not only permit a widow to marry again: but if her husband died before he had any children, it commanded the next kinsman that was living and free to marry her, that he might raise up seed to his deceased brother: which if he refused to do, a penalty of ignominy was…

I have said you are gods, (namely) set in God's place to do justice; but dying gods (verse 7). You shall die like men (1 Corinthians 8:5-6). There be that are called gods, but to us there is but One God.

Branch 3. See the misery of men in the state of nature, before Christ came to be their Prophet, they are enveloped with ignorance and [reconstructed: darkness]. Men know nothing in a salvifical, sanctified manner; they know nothing as they ought to know (1 Corinthians 8:2). This…

Quest. 1. What is it to make God to be a God to us? Resp. 1. To make God to be a God to us, is to acknowledge him for a God: The gods of the heathen are idols (Psalm 96:5), and we know that an idol is nothing (1 Corinthians 8:4), that is, it has nothing of deity in it: If we cry…

Nahash the Ammonite would make a covenant with Israel to thrust out their right eyes (1 Samuel 11:2). Since the fall our left eye remains a deep insight into worldly matters, but our right eye is thrust out, we have no saving knowledge of God: Something we know by nature, but no…

The priests going wrong caused others to stumble. 2. He does hurt to the converted; by an open scandalous sin he offends weak believers, and so sins against Christ (1 Corinthians 8:12). Thus sin is worse than affliction, because it does hurt to others.

God's unchangeableness is the foundation of our comfort. Saint Paul says, If we love God; we are known of him (1 Corinthians 8:3). Now the first we may certainly find in ourselves, namely, the love of God, and Christ: and for the second, God is unchangeable.

But if man be considered in respect of his spiritual estate, as he is a member of the invisible, or catholic church, under spiritual government, consisting in righteousness, peace of conscience and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17), there is no distinction of calling, condit…

For the superstitious do not simply worship the wood, brass, or metal, but the majesty of God, which they fondly and blasphemously tie to the corruptible idol: so as in effect here is nothing but a vain imagination. To which purpose Paul says, that an idol is nothing (1 Corinthi…

Still, he is in a peculiar manner the Lord of believers, who yield willingly and cheerfully to his authority; for it is only of "his body" that he is "the head," (Ephesians 1:22, 23.) And so Paul says, "though there be lords many, yet to us," that is, to the servants of faith, "…

But righteousness and peace. He has by the way, opposed these, against meat and drink, not as though he reckoned all those things, whereon the kingdom of Christ consists: but that he might declare how it stands upon spiritual things (1 Corinthians 8:[illegible]). Although to say…

It's a relative, where no antecedent goes before, yet certainly it looks to Christ alone, as the reasons show; Here no rules of art are kept, for love stands not on these: This manner of speaking is to be found also in moral authors, when one eminent is set forth, who is singula…

Again, as if that did not fully set out his amiableness, she adds, He is the chiefest among ten thousand. This is a definite great number for an indefinite; in sum it is this, there are many beloveds indeed in the world, but compare them all with Christ, they are nothing to him,…

Thus in redemption, we have not only all things of God, but by and through him. 1 Corinthians 8:6. But to us there is but one God the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. Thirdly, the redeemed have all t…

Gifts may damage the person that possesses them; and it may be better in respect of a man's own condition he had never had them. Knowledge (says the Apostle) puffs up (1 Corinthians 8:1), makes the soul proud and flatulent. It is a hard thing to know much, and not to know it too…

This union is more fully expressed afterwards, verse 30. The dignity of Christ is here principally intended: so as Christ is the highest in authority over the Church: the titles Lord, Father, Master, Doctor, Prophet, First-born, with the like, being by a kind of excellency and p…

Ioseph fled from his Mistresses temptation, he would not be seen in her company. The appearance of evil though it defile not ones own Conscience, it may offend anothers Conscience: and hear what the Apostle says, 1 Corinthians 8:12. When ye wound the weak Conscience, ye sin agai…

As touching the essence or being, we have but only one God: and yet in Jesus Christ we have the lively and express image of the Father, so as there we find whatever is expedient and requisite for our salvation (Colossians 1:15, etc.). It is said that we ought to glory in our kno…

Most will declaim against the vanity of the creature, evil of sin; but they do not see with an affective heart-piercing light; they have on them the veil of spiritual ignorance. (2.) The veil of carnal knowledge and wisdom, that puffs up (1 Corinthians 8:1-2), by which seeing no…

Directive, affective, operative knowledge is never at a stand, but increases daily. And therefore the Apostle says (1 Corinthians 8:2): He that thinks he knows any thing, knows nothing as he ought to know. Many think they know as much as can be taught them; surely they have no e…

A natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned. There is a knowing things at random, and by a general knowledge, and a knowing things as we ought to know (1 Corinthians…

1. Because of our want, we never know so much, but we may know more of God's mind, and know it better, and to better purpose. To know things as we ought to know them is the great gift (1 Corinthians 8:2). If any man thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought…

And when we know generals, yet we are so apt to err in particular cases, and since the commandment of God is [reconstructed: so] exceeding broad (Psalm 119:96), every day we may see more into it, and may be more fully informed of the mind of God. We every day see more in a promi…

Though all sins come from the heart (and may there be acted when men are alone) yet as to matter of fact, some sins cannot be committed by persons alone, but every such sin has a double sinner, if not a greater number. Besides, this way men are confirmed and hardened in their wi…

It is an ordinary thing for the Scripture to speak of such a thing, as if it were, and to say it is, which is but supposed to be by others. As for instance (1 Corinthians 8:4-6): there are gods many, and lords many, not that really there was any such, but by others they were rec…

Even in a thing indifferent, if it is an appearance of evil and may grieve another, we are to forbear. For when we sin against the brethren and wound their weak conscience, we sin against Christ (1 Corinthians 8:12). The weak Christian is a member of Christ; therefore sinning ag…

Hypocrites grow in knowledge; but not in humility. Knowledge puffs up (1 Corinthians 8:1). It is a metaphor taken from a pair of bellows, that are blown up and filled with wind.

The blessed man Christ confesses that he knows neither the day nor the hour of the Son of Man's coming; yet there are those who dare define the time of his coming, and the day. The mind is a proud and haughty thing, and we are not dead to it; the mind is not mortified to the min…

May not a man be exhorted from attempting that which yet, if he should attempt, he could not effect? A second place is 1 Corinthians 8:10-11: 'And through your knowledge shall your weak brother perish for whom Christ died.' A brother is said to perish for whom Christ died: that…

Proof 16. The sixteenth proof urges the Scripture's manner of describing the sin of those who despise and refuse grace — that they turn the grace of God into wantonness (Jude 4), trample underfoot the Son of God, profane the blood of the covenant by which they were sanctified, a…

Christ denied his name and reputation; Hebrews 12:2, He endured the shame. He denied worldly grandeur and riches; 1 Corinthians 8:9. For our sakes he became poor.

The Saints are called wise Virgins, Matthew 25. 4. A natural man may have some discursive knowledge of God, but he knoweth nothing as he ought to know, 1 Corinthians 8. 2. He knows not God savingly: he may have the eye of Reason open, but he discerns not the things of God after…

2nd Commandment: You shall make to yourself no graven image, etc. He breaks this commandment: who represents God in an image (Exodus 32:6-8); who worships God in or at images, as crucifixes and such like (2 Kings 18:4); who kneels down before an image; who is bodily present at M…

The places are: Mark 10:30; Luke 18:30; John 9:32; Ephesians 2:7; 3:9; Colossians 1:26; Hebrews 6:5. The places are as follows: Matthew 6:13; 21:19; Mark 11:14; Luke 1:33, 55; John 4:14; 6:51, 58; 8:35, twice, 51, 52; 10:28; 11:26; 12:34; 13:8; 14:16; Acts 15:18; Romans 1:25; 9:…

We must not be like the fig-tree in the gospel, which had nothing but leaves, but like the Pomocitron, that is continually either mellowing or blossoming, it is never without fruit. It is not profession but fruit that glorifies God; God expects to have his glory from us this way…

To you that believe he is precious. St. Paul did best know Christ (1 Corinthians 9:1). Have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord?

A good Christian is so humble, as to oblige others; but not so unworthy, as to disobey God. Saint Paul, as far as he could with a good conscience, did become all things to all, that he might save some (1 Corinthians 9:20, 22). But he would not break a commandment to gratify any.

Resp. Corrupt nature may as the spider, suck poison from this flower, but a sober Christian who has felt the efficacy of grace upon his heart, dares not abuse this doctrine: He knows perseverance is attained in the use of means, therefore he walks holily, that so in the use of m…

Excess in the creature clouds the mind, chokes good affections, provokes lust! St. Paul did [illegible], keep under his body (1 Corinthians 9:27). The flesh pampered is apt to rebel.

If he had been fully glorified, he could not so sensibly and plainly have made manifest the truth of his resurrection to his disciples: and therefore for their sakes and ours he is content after his entrance into glory still to retain in his body some remnants of the ignominies…

Such a man was Paul — he did not only spend his time in preaching to others, in keeping others' vineyards, but he looked to himself and kept his own vineyard. 1 Corinthians 9:27: 'Lest when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.' And what an eminent instrument…

Is there not reason for it? Who (as the Apostle says, (1 Corinthians 9:7)) goes a warfare on his own charges? Who plants a vineyard and eats not of the fruit thereof?

9. He has friends within us, every saint is a divided party. 2. The quarrel is not money, civil liberties, laws, houses, lands, nor corruptible things, yet we run and strive for pence and pounds, but here peace of conscience, an incorruptible crown (1 Corinthians 9:25), the Lord…

He that believes in me, the works that I do, he shall do, and greater than these (Matthew 12:50). He that does the will of my heavenly Father, the same is my brother, etc. (1 Corinthians 9:24). So run, that you may obtain (Revelation 2:2).

If by any Means I may provoke to Emulation them which are my Flesh, and might save some of them. 1 Corinthians 9:22. That I might by all means save some.

It is not without cause therefore that Paul warns the hearers of the Gospel to make their pastors and teachers partakers with them in all good things. If we (says he to the Corinthians) have sown to you spiritual things, is it a great matter if we reap your worldly things (1 Cor…

He grants moreover that he had lived after the manner of the Jews, but yet only among the Jews. And this is it which he says in 1 Corinthians 9: when I was free from all men, I made myself servant to all men, that I might win the more. To the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might…

Verse 2. Which I preach among the Gentiles. For among the Jews he suffered the law and circumcision for a time, as the other Apostles did: I am made all things to all men, says he (1 Corinthians 9), yet ever holding the true doctrine of the gospel, which he preferred above the l…

The Corinthians were babes in Christ, and Paul feeds them with milk (1 Corinthians 3:3). To the Jew he became a Jew, to the Gentile a Gentile, that he might win some (1 Corinthians 9:18). For this cause it were to be wished, that catechizing were more used than it is of our mini…

And he compares the word and precepts of God, to a way or race; believers to runners, life eternal to the prize, God to the umpire or judge, the lookers on, are men and angels, good and bad, and the exercise of religion, is the running in this race. Read of this (1 Corinthians 9…

The Colossians are commended by the Apostle, for that they continued, and increased, in faith to God, and love to man, for the hope's sake that was laid up for them in heaven (Colossians 1:5). And Paul shows this to have been the practice, and to be the duty of all the saints of…

Let him always think and remember that he must use an invincible freedom of speech against all difficulties that are opposed to his ministry, as the Prophets and Apostles have done, without shrinking their necks out of the collar. Woe be to me, says the Apostle, if I preach not,…

And he himself labored with his own hands, that he might not be burdensome to others, much less would he have the chief of the Laity who abound with wealth to be maintained of the common store; and that more liberally than others: For, if by those that rule well, you shall under…

The motive whereby she presses this petition, is, We will run after you: wherein we are to consider these three things. 1. What this is, to run; which is, in short, to make progress Christ-ward, and advance in the way of holiness, with cheerfulness and alacrity (having her heart…

And so also, that and the like precepts, discharging the Jews, the sowing their fields with diverse grains, &c. which though they be not wholly allegorical, but have in the letter their own truth, yet, somewhat in these beyond what appears, was aimed at by the Spirit; for, says…

And God himself tells such ignorant and foolish teachers (Hosea 4:6), Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you, that you shall be no priest to me: seeing you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children. And as they must be able to teac…

Covetousness is one of the sins which the Apostle would not have so much as named among the saints (Ephesians 5:3). It is a sin if it reign, which is inconsistent with the truth of grace, and power of godliness, because it is idolatry (Colossians 3:5), and the Apostle tells us e…

There is something needs mortifying. Hence it was St. Paul did [illegible], beat down his body, by prayer, watching, fasting (1 Corinthians 9:27). But, is it not said, Ephesians 5:29, no man ever hated his own flesh?

It is appointed for all men once to die. Secondly, the seed is cast into the earth in hope (1 Corinthians 9:10). Were there not a resurrection of it expected, the husbandman would never be willing to cast away his corn.

O, what matter of unspeakable joy and comfort is this to upright souls! Well then, be not discharged, for you do not run as one uncertain, nor fight as one that beats the air (1 Corinthians 9:26), but the foundation of God stands sure, having this seal, the Lord knows who are hi…

But God's workmen have a much harder task than they. Hence they are set forth in Scripture by the laborious ox (1 Corinthians 9:9; Revelation 4:7). Some derive the word deacon from a word that signifies dust, to show the laboriousness of their employment, laboring till evening,…

Therefore that which is very much beside the common practice, unless it be a thing in its own nature of considerable importance, had better be avoided. Herein we shall follow the example of one, who had the greatest success in propagating the power of religion in the world, of a…

Though his natural temper seems to have been warm and eager, which made him eminently active and zealous, yet that temper was so rectified and sanctified, that he was no less eminently meek. He became all things to all men (1 Corinthians 9:19, etc.). He studied to please all wit…

The husband then having power to lead about a wife from place to place, she ought to submit herself to that power. This clause (as well as other Apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord and Cephas) shows that this was not only a power which might be used, but which was used by…

So must husbands love their wives in truth and in deed. Such a love is required of a man to his brother: much more therefore to his wife, who is not only a sister (as the Apostle expressly calls her (1 Corinthians 9:5)) but nearer than sister, mother, daughter, friend, or any ot…

3. For the mortification of any distemper so rooted in the nature of a man, unto all other ways and means already named or further to be insisted on, there is one expedient peculiarly suited. This is that of the Apostle (1 Corinthians 9:27): I keep under my body, and bring it in…

The principal assertion concerning the necessity of mortification proposed to confirmation. Mortification the duty of the best believers (Colossians 3:5; 1 Corinthians 9:27). Indwelling sin always abides: no perfection in this life (Philippians 3:12; 1 Corinthians 13:12; 2 Peter…

Whom I serve in the Gospel. 1 Corinthians 9:14. They that preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel, (namely) be maintained, not merely for preaching a Promise, but for the whole of their Ministration; and therefore the Apostle sometimes calls it my Gospel, and our Gospel, to…

But while it is evident the holy writers have used high expressions, strong figures of speech, and vehement turns on both sides, this sufficiently instructs us that we should be moderate in our censures of either side, and that the calm doctrinal truth, stripped of all rhetoric…

Health, and a good constitution of body is a more constant remaining pleasure than that of excess and momentary pleasing of the palate, thus the comfort of this hope is a more refined, and more abiding contentment than any is in the passing enjoyments of this world, and it is a…

This wives, and husbands, and parents, and friends, if themselves converted, would consider seriously, and apply themselves to pray much that their unconverted relations, in nature dead, may be enlivened, and they may receive them from death; and esteem of nothing, rest in no na…

A Child may have assurance of his Fathers love, yet has a fear of offending him. Who more fearful of Sin than St. Paul? 1 Corinthians 9:27. Yet who had more assurance?

God takes care of all his creatures (Psalm 36:6). He preserves man and beast; but man much more (1 Corinthians 9:9). Does God take care of oxen?

A slow motion is easily stopped, whereas a swift one bears down that which opposes it; so when men run and are not tired in the service of God. And then the prize calls for running (1 Corinthians 9:24). So run that you may obtain.

For answer, we must distinguish between persons employed to preach the gospel, some immediately called by Christ himself, others mediately called by men, some fallible and obnoxious to errors, and many failings, which render them unworthy of such a calling, others infallibly gui…

1. Because the matter of keeping God's precepts does not only fall under his authority, but the manner also. God has not only required service, but service with all its circumstances: "I so run that I may obtain" (1 Corinthians 9:24). It is our duty not only to run, but so to ru…

For, 1. Eternal life is not a chimera, or a thing that has no being; you might run uncertainly (1 Corinthians 9:24) if it were a dream, or a well-devised fable: No, it is the greatest reality in the world (Hebrews 4:9), we cannot be mistaken, we see it before us in the promises…

The ox knows his owner, and the ass his master's crib (Isaiah 1). The flock feeds the shepherd, etc. (1 Corinthians 9:7). If you be barren and unfruitful, your gardens and your fields; if you be disobedient, your ox and your ass will upbraid you, and God himself appeals to heave…

Oh, labor to be altogether Christians, to go farther than they who have gone farthest, and yet fell short; this is the great counsel of the Holy Spirit. So run that you may obtain (1 Corinthians 9:24). Give diligence to make your calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10).

2. Their titles. 1. Ministers are called God's seedsmen (1 Corinthians 9:11), therefore they must upon all occasions be scattering the blessed seed of the word: The sower must go forth and sow; yes, though the seed fall upon stones (as usually it does) yet we must disseminate, a…

I proceed now to the second part of the text, a promise annexed: They shall be filled. A Christian's fighting with sin is not like one that beats the air (1 Corinthians 9:26), and his hungering after righteousness is not like one that sucks in only air. Blessed are they that hun…

1 Corinthians 9:24. Know you not that they who run in a race run all, but one receives the prize? So run, that you may obtain. Religion is a business of the greatest importance; the soul, which is the more noble and divine part, is concerned in it; and as we act our part here, s…

The heart will secretly suggest that as long as a man goes to church and gives alms, he may secretly indulge corruption — as if duty gave a man a patent and license to sin. The heart will quote scripture to justify sin (1 Corinthians 9:20, 22): to the Jews I became as a Jew, tha…

Fruit is that which God expects from us; we are his plantation. Who plants a vineyard and eats not of the fruit thereof (1 Corinthians 9:7)? Let us not be as Pharaoh's kine, which devoured the fat and yet still were lean; let us not be still devouring sermons and yet never the f…

Here are two ends of life specified, 1. The glorifying of God. 2. The enjoying of God. First, I begin with the first, the glorifying of God (1 Peter 4:11): That God in all things may be glorified; the glory of God is a silver thread which must run through all our actions (1 Cori…

Finis specificat actionem: In religion the end is all. The end of our obedience must not be to stop the mouth of conscience, or to gain applause and preferment; but that we may grow more like God, and bring more glory to God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Do all to the glory of God.

I come next to answer some objections of the Arminians. 1. The first objection of the Arminians is, if a believer shall persevere in grace, then to what purpose are all those admonitions in Scripture, Let him take heed lest he fall (1 Corinthians 10:12), and (Hebrews 4:1): Let u…

Exercise a holy fear and jealousy over your own hearts (Romans 11:20). Be not high minded but fear (1 Corinthians 10:12). Let him that thinks he stands, take heed lest he fall.

(Job 5:19) He shall deliver you in six troubles, and in seven. How is the Scripture bespangled with these promises, as the firmament is with stars; either God will deliver them from death, or by death; [illegible], he will make a way to escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). When promise…

First, against reason. Are we able to stand it out against God (1 Corinthians 10:22)? Do we provoke the Lord, are we stronger than he?

Oh, unthankful! Israel's murmuring cost many of them their lives (1 Corinthians 10:10): "Neither murmur you as some of them did, and were destroyed of the destroyer." Their speeches were venomous, and God punished them with venomous serpents.

2. If it be a great blessing to be delivered from Egypt, Popish idolatry, then it shows their sin and folly, who being brought out of Egypt, are willing to return into Egypt again: having put off the yoke of Rome, would fain put it on again. The Apostle says, Fly from idolatry (…

6. If God be our Father then he will correct us in measure (Jeremiah 30:11). I will correct you in measure; and that two ways: 1. It shall be in measure for the kind; God will not lay upon us more than we are able to bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). He knows our frame (Psalm 103:14).

The Papists tell us of five more, namely Confirmation, Penance, Matrimony, Orders, and the Extreme Unction. Resp. 1. There were but two Sacraments under the Law, therefore there are no more now (1 Corinthians 10:2-4). 2. These two Sacraments are sufficient: the one signifying ou…

1. Because there is no standing it out against God. If we do not obey him we cannot resist him: (1 Corinthians 10:2) Are we stronger than he? (Job 40:9) Have you an arm like God?

And again also 2, the Holy Ghost may represent to him and remind him of all those examples of men in whom, for their going on in sin, his soul has had no pleasure, and of God's dealings with them: as how he swore against many of the Israelites for their provocations of him, that…

Some have enough to struggle under one of these, and it is seldom that all befall one. Some spirits are so weak that they would faint and not be able to sustain themselves, and God never suffers any to be tempted above what they are able (1 Corinthians 10:13). Some men's bodies…

So to prepare you for it, it is good to take notice that such a condition exists. In like manner also in 1 Corinthians 10:13 the apostle says for the same end of other kinds of trials, that nothing had befallen them but what is common to man. There is great relief in that — that…

Answer. This could not be in reason, but it was indeed to Abraham's faith: whereby he saw Christ more lively, and more to his joy and consolation, so many hundred years before he was; than many which lived in Christ's time, and saw him, and heard him, and conversed with him: for…

In this example of faith, we are taught to hold fast true religion, and to prefer the enjoying of it, before all the pleasures and commodities in the world; yea, before life itself. This point, Paul urges in sundry exhortations; saying, Let him that thinks he stands, take heed l…

So that if we would die well, as Jacob did, praising God, then let us lead our lives as he did; namely, by faith, and the direction of his word and promises. Then come death when it will, and how it will, we may indeed be sore assaulted by sickness and temptation; but yet we sha…

Lastly, Moses went with courage out of Egypt. This departure of his was a sign of our spiritual departing out of the Kingdom of darkness: for, so Paul applies it, 1 Corinthians 10. And therefore after Moses' example, we must with courage come every day more and more out of the K…

Answer. Not all: for Paul says, With many of them God was not well pleased; for they were overthrown in the wilderness: 1 Corinthians 10:5. Which shows, that all that passed over had not true faith; for, some believed: and by the force of their faith all went over safely.

And earthly fathers are called the fathers of our bodies, and not of our souls. It remains therefore as being most agreeable to the scriptures, that the souls of men are then created by God of nothing, when they are infused into the body (1 Corinthians 10; Hebrews 12). And thoug…

Reason 5. 1 Corinthians 10:3-4: The fathers of the Old Testament did eat the same spiritual meat and drink the same spiritual drink, for they drank of the rock which was Christ. Now they could not eat his body which was crucified, or drink his blood shed bodily, but by faith, be…

Here (say they) is a prayer made to angels. Answer: By the angel is meant Christ, who is called the angel of the covenant (Malachi 3:1) and the angel that guided Israel in the wilderness (1 Corinthians 10:9 compared with Exodus 23:20). Objection 2.

Works are to be done in respect of God: that his commandments may be obeyed — 1 John 5:12; that his will may be done — 1 Thessalonians 4:3; that we may show ourselves to be obedient children to God our Father — 1 Peter 1:14; that we may show ourselves thankful for our redemption…

However a man may be assured of his present estate, yet no man is certain of his perseverance to the end. Answer: It is otherwise: for in the sixth petition, lead us not into temptation, we pray that God would not suffer us to be wholly overcome of the devil in any temptation: a…

And whereas God denied the believing Israelites, with Moses and Aaron to enter into the land of Canaan, it cannot be proved that it was a punishment or penalty of the law upon them. The scripture says no more but that it was an admonition to all men in all ages following, to tak…

Thus it is with us: looking through the glass of carnal fear upon the waters of trouble, the swellings of Jordan, we cry out, 'O, they are unfordable! we must surely perish in them!' But when we come into the midst of those floods indeed, we find the promise made good: 'God will…

Fifth, indeed, the law was no less a letter of condemnation to them than to us (Romans 8:3; Romans 10:3; Deuteronomy 27:26; Galatians 3:10, 13; 2 Corinthians 3:7-8, 13-15). Sixth, they drank of the same spiritual rock with us, and the rock was Christ (1 Corinthians 10:1-4; Hebre…

So that Abraham's faith first closed with Christ in the promise, and therefore he is said to see Christ's day and to rejoice in embracing him. And so all the succeeding fathers (that were believers) did, more or less, in their types and sacraments, as appears by 1 Corinthians 10…

So the Israelites in the wilderness tempted him before his coming in the flesh; and Christians may now tempt him, after his ascension into heaven. Both are in one place, (1 Corinthians 10:9): Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpen…

You have borne the tabernacle of your Moloch and Chiun your images, the star of your God, which you made to yourselves. As God appointed the Levites to bear the tabernacle, for communion in the service of them (1 Corinthians 10:18). Are not they that eat of the sacrifices partak…

2. His fidelity, which will not permit him to suffer you to be tempted above measure. We do not stand to the devil's courtesy, to tempt us as long as he likes, but are in the hands of the faithful God (1 Corinthians 10:13). There has no temptation taken you, but what is common t…

Hence I gather, that there is but one Gospel, one in number and no more. For there is but one way of salvation by Christ, whereby all the Elect are saved, from the beginning of the world to the end (Acts 15:11; 1 Corinthians 10:3). It may be demanded, how they of the Old Testame…

Lastly, it may be said, how shall we be able to do this? Answer: God is faithful, and will not lay on us more than we shall be able to bear (1 Corinthians 10:3). By this we are admonished, not to make a reckoning in this world, of pleasure, and delight, as though the Gospel were…

They are two Testaments] they are, that is, they signify: and so Hagar is Sinai a mountain in Arabia, that is, signifies Sinai. Thus the Rock in the wilderness is Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4), that is, figures Christ. Like to this is the Sacramental phrase, This is my body, that…

Otherwise the thing in itself is not necessary, but remains still indifferent, and may be used or not used, if contempt and scandal be avoided. The Apostles made a law that the Gentiles should abstain from strangled and blood, and things offered to idols (Acts 15:28), yet Paul s…

So that were it not for this preventing and cooperating grace, he would fall into as great enormities as other men. In regard of the time to come, Consider yourself, lest you also be tempted: remember Paul's Item (1 Corinthians 10:12), Let him that thinks he stands, take heed le…

This is the second proof of God's mercy towards his elect; whom he judges with the world, lest they should be condemned with the world: for while he smites them, he so moderates his blows, that he still has an eye to their weakness; so as he will never correct them beyond measur…

And questionless the only remedy in adversity is, to go and ask counsel at the mouth of the Lord, and not to fix our eyes upon the outward estate of things present; but in our spirits to comprehend the salvation to come, which the Lord has promised us. For he is faithful (as the…

While it is foolish and improper to press, as some do, the literal meaning, so as to include both the sign and the thing signified, we must observe, that the connection subsisting between the sign and the thing signified is denoted by these modes of expression. In this sense, th…

Now we know that the Church was governed by God in such a manner that Christ, as the Eternal Wisdom of God, presided over it. In this sense Paul says, not that God the Father was tempted in the wilderness, but that Christ himself was tempted, ‐Mais que Christ luy-mesme a esté te…

Again, as he declares that he is faithful, and will not suffer us to be tempted beyond what we are able to bear, (1 Corinthians 10:13,) we shall never be in want of strength to resist, provided that our weakness be not nourished by indifference.

I pass by general figures, which occur frequently in Scripture, and only say this: whenever an outward sign is said to be that which it represents, it is universally agreed to be an instance of metonymy. If baptism be called the laver of regeneration, (Titus 3:5;) if the rock, f…

In this point have stumbled and foully failed our Grand masters and teachers which have heretofore taken upon them to expound and interpret the Scripture. As when they expound and stretch that saying of Christ, Matthew 16, "You are Peter," etc., to be meant of the Pope, which ad…

Therefore there is a choice to be kept in the study of obeying, and profit is to be considered, that we may willingly grant to our brother, whatever serves to the furthering of his salvation. As Paul admonishes in another place, all things are lawful to me, but all things are no…

Do you think to strengthen yourself against God, and be able to make your part good with him? Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than he (1 Corinthians 10:22)? Do you flatter yourself that you shall find out ways for your ease and support, and make it out tolera…

That it supposeth the people of God to have a foresight of troubles and distresses approaching and drawing near to them: I confess 'tis not always so, for many of our afflictions, as well as comforts, come by way of surprizals upon us: but oft times we have forewarnings of troub…

(5.) Is it not fully convictive, that there is a God who takes care of you, in as much as you have found in all the temptations and difficulties of your lives his promises still fulfilled, and faithfully performed in all those conditions? I appeal to your selves, if you have not…

Did God abandon and cast you off in the day of your straits? certainly you must belye your own experience, if you should say so. 'Tis true, there have been some plunges and difficulties you have met with, wherein (1.) You could see no way of escape, but concluded you must perish…

That Providence wards off many a deadly stroke of Temptation, and puts by many a mortal thrust which Satan makes at our souls, is a truth as manifest as the light that shineth. This is included in that promise, 1 Corinthians 10:13 God will with the temptation make a way to escap…

Thankfully to remember benefits, is to bless the Lord. The cup in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper is called the Cup of Blessing (1 Corinthians 10:16), because in it we commemorate the death of Christ, and render thanks to the name of the Lord, for the unspeakable benefits con…

The apple of his eye is touched, and is not he sensible? Saint Paul was scourged by cruel hands (1 Corinthians 11:35). Three times I was beaten with rods; as if you should see a scullion whip the king's son.

Answ. The females were included, and were virtually circumcised in the males. What is done to the head, is done to the body; the man therefore being the head of the woman (1 Corinthians 11:3), what was done to the male sex, was interpretatively done to the female. Having answere…

God lets us fall into sufferings to prevent falling into snares; say then, Lord do as it seems good in your sight, your will be done. (2.) God by affliction would prevent damnation (1 Corinthians 11:32). We are corrected in the world, that we may not be condemned with the world.

This is to provoke God: To a sinner there is death in the Cup, he eats and drinks his own damnation, 1 Corinthians 11.29. Thus the Lord's Supper works for hurt to impenitent sinners.

And considering that men have care to behave themselves well when they are before men: what a shame is it for a man to behave himself unseemly either in open or in secret, he then being before the glorious angels. Paul says that the woman ought to have power on her head, because…

A soul inspired by the Almighty, and beautified with grace, does exceed others more than the light of the sun does exceed the light of a taper. 7 Branch. If the righteous are more excellent than others, then how severe will God be against those that wrong them; the wicked are th…

That is: the Roman religion now established by the Council of Trent is, in the principal points thereof, against the very grounds of the catechism that have been agreed upon ever since the days of the Apostles by all churches. These grounds are four: the first is the Apostles' C…

In the first estate, all afflictions are curses or legal punishments, be they little or great: but to them that are in the second estate and believe in Christ, though the same afflictions remain, yet do they change their condition, and are the actions of a Father serving to be t…

We hold that the Church of God has power to prescribe ordinances, rules, or traditions touching time and place of God's worship, and touching order and comeliness to be used in the same. In this regard, Paul in 1 Corinthians 11:2 commends the Church of Corinth for keeping his tr…

For though these who truly believe, ought not to doubt of their belief, yet these who have lamps of faith, and no oil, ought to question, whether there be oil in their lamps, or no, and true faith with their profession, else the foolish Virgins were not far out, who never questi…

Then by this, all and every one of them were converted. (1 Corinthians 11:3) The head [illegible], of every man is Christ — of every man without exception? No, these of whom Christ is head, these are his body, the Church, that have life from him, and are knit to him by the Spiri…

So he preached him, and so they received him, and so they began in the Spirit (verse 3). And thus also do the seals of the promises (the sacraments) present Christ to a believer's eye: as they hold forth Christ (as was in the former direction observed), so Christ as crucified, t…

3. Take we heed how we carry ourselves, because of this honorable presence. In congregations there should be no indecency, because of the angels (1 Corinthians 11:10). In all our ways let us take heed that we do not step out of God's way.

Satan makes fair offers of what he cannot perform: He promises many things, but does only promise them: he offers the kingdoms of the world to Christ, but cannot make good his word; he shows them to Christ, but cannot give them. And this is the devil's custom, to be liberal in p…

2. They delight in the holy conversation of the godly; as they are offended with all impurity, filthiness, and ungodliness. If good men be offended at the sins of the wicked, as Lot's righteous soul was vexed from day to day with their ungodly deeds (2 Peter 2:8), much more are…

First, they serve for trial of men, that it may appear what is hidden in their hearts (Deuteronomy 8:2). Secondly, they serve for the correction of things amiss in us (1 Corinthians 11:23). Thirdly, they serve as documents, and warnings to others, specially in public persons: th…

If they be taken properly, they are absurd in common reason: therefore the words are figurative, and the sense is this: I am as the true vine, and my father as a husbandman. The words of Christ, Take, eat, this is my body (1 Corinthians 11:24), taken properly, are against the ar…

Motives to enforce this duty are these. First, the exhortation and example of Christ, to be followers of him (1 Corinthians 11:1), who was lowly and meek (Matthew 11:29); for he was led as a sheep to the slaughter, and like a lamb dumb before his shearer; so opened he not his mo…

Thus he confirms the former statement; for Christ shows us how great are the inconveniences which arise from offenses, since the Church never will be, and indeed never can be, free from this evil. But he does not state the reason of this necessity, as Paul does, when, speaking o…

Of the new testament. Luke and Paul (1 Corinthians 11:25) express it differently, the new testament in my blood, but the meaning is the same; for it is only by a spiritual drinking of blood that this covenant is ratified, so as to be firm and stable. Yet it may easily be inferre…

And therefore these things agree in each respect: and very fittingly are to be applied namely and specially to the Pope, with his Cardinals, Bishops, Monks, Friars, Nuns, and all the rest of his filthy Spirituality, and rumpwood retinue. For they being appointed to be as it were…

But now all this hangs entirely upon Christ. The New Testament is in his bloo, 1 Corinthians 11:5 and whatever mercies you reap from that Covenant, you must thank the Lord Jesus Christ for them. Put all this together, and then think how such considerations will endear Christ to…

(4.) And was it not a special Favour to us, to have Parents that went before us as Patterns of Holiness, and beat the path to Heaven for us by their Examples? Who could say to us, as Philippians 4:9 What things ye have heard and seen in me, that do; and as 1 Corinthians 11:1 Be…

Weak things united are strengthened, join weak with weak and they are strong. And things obscure, united, are honorable, especially if united with that which is honorable; the glory of the wife is in the band of union with her husband, she shines with the rays of her husband's h…

The first direction (go your way forth by the foot-steps of the flock) holds forth, 1. That all believers, of old and late, are of one flock, of one common concernment, and under the care of one chief shepherd: This is the flock spoken of, in verse 7, of which Christ is shepherd…

2. These eyes are within her locks. Locks are that part of the hair that hang about the face, handsomely knit, and was then in place of a veil to women (1 Corinthians 11:7), and so the word in the Hebrew will bear; and it's distinguished from that word translated hair, in the wo…

4. The last step is, "They took away my veil from me": the word that is rendered veil comes from a root that signifies to subdue, it is that same word which we have (Psalm 144:2): "who subdues the people," etc. It had a threefold use: 1. for decoration, as in Isaiah 3:23; 2. for…

2. It may be translated Scarlet or Crimson, as the same word is (2 Chronicles 3:14); thus it is a rich color, with which princes and great men used to be decorated; and the hair being in the next words compared to purple, it is not unlikely that it is taken for a color here also…

As, 1st. The woman was made out of the man, and therefore ought to be subject to him (1 Corinthians 11:3, 8). The head of the woman is the man; for the man is not of the woman, but the woman of the man.

I am afraid, Sirs, that one of the great sins of our age, is not only the neglect and contempt of this ordinance by some, but the seldom celebrating it by all. The Apostle, where he speaks of this holy institution, intimates that it should be frequently dispensed and participate…

It is all heavenly: the officers from heaven (Ephesians 4:12), their doctrine from heaven (Ephesians 3:8-9), the efficacy and success of it from heaven (1 Corinthians 3:3). What I received of the Lord (says Paul) that have I delivered to you (1 Corinthians 11:23). The same may e…

All the rest had their spots, the fairest marbles had their flaws, but here is a copy without a blot. We must follow the rest no further than they were conformable to this great original: be followers of me (says Paul, 1 Corinthians 11:1) as I am of Christ. He fulfilled all righ…

Augustine said, Here Lord cut me, dowhat you will with me, but spare me hereafter; It was the prayer of Fulgentius, Lord grant patience here, and pardon hereafter: though I have never so much affliction here, it is no great matter, so I shall have pardon hereafter. Yea, the endu…

Thirdly, they reproached him, because he said, God delighted in him; so because the Saints of God do profess their relations to God, and do expect an especial love of God, therefore the world reproaches them. Secondly, it is the reproach of Christ, in regard of the near relation…

And it is the main design of the ministry of the gospel to prevail with men to give up themselves unto the Lord Christ, as he reveals his kindness in this engagement. Hence Paul tells the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 11:2) that he had espoused them unto one husband, that he might…

The second necessary common-mutual marriage-duty is Matrimonial Chastity. Chastity in a large extent is taken for all manner of purity in soul or body: in which respect the Apostle calls the Church of God a chaste virgin (1 Corinthians 11:2). But in the sense wherein we here use…

This did the heathen by light of nature observe. 3. The titles and names, whereby a husband is set forth, do imply a superiority and authority in him, as Lord (1 Peter 3:6), Master (Esther 1:17), Guide (Proverbs 2:17), Head (1 Corinthians 11:3), Image and glory of God (1 Corinth…

The same is also implied under the titles of preeminence which the Scripture attributes to husbands, as Lord, Master, head, guide, image and glory of God, etc. The honor and authority of God, and of his Son Christ Jesus, is maintained in and by the honor and authority of a husba…

Blessed may we say were the Ages past, who received the Word of God in its unquestionable power and purity, when it shone brightly in its own glorious native Light, and was free from those defects and corruptions, which through the default of men, in a long tract of time it has…

4. Our Lord Jesus Christ is described not only as our High-Priest, but he himself was also the very Sacrifice of Propitiation or Atonement, to take away our Sins, Hebrews 9:12, 26. He offered himself up to God for us as a Sacrifice, Ephesians 5:2 and his Blood was shed for the R…

The Differences of true Christians in some Parts of their Faith and Worship, have frighted and scandalized the Hypocrite and the giddy Professor; their Heads have been turned round with every Wind of Doctrine, because their Hearts have not been established in the Way of Holiness…

When they are beaten from one worldly folly or delight, they are ready through nature's corruption to lay hold upon some other, being thrust out from it at one door, to enter at some other, and as children unwilling to be weaned, if one breast be embittered, they seek to the oth…

God proves. When there are delusions abroad, and errors broached, it is, that the approved may be made manifest (1 Corinthians 11:19). God lets loose these winds of error and delusion, that the solid grain may be distinguished from the light chaff: and that he may discover his o…

If affliction be so grievous, what would hell be? (1 Corinthians 11:32): "But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world." It is a gentle remembrance of hell pains, or a fair warning to avoid them, when scorched or singed a l…

What have you done, as to the Day of Christ's coming? Have you judged yourselves? (1 Corinthians 11:31). If we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.

Prosperity like Opium is ready to make men fall asleep in Sin, God awakens them by the Voice of the Rod, and so prevents a Spiritual Lethargy. 2. They prevent Hell, 1 Corinthians 11:32. We are chastened of the Lord that we should not be condemned with the World.

God had one Son without sin, none without the cross. 2. That afflictions, though in themselves they are legal punishments, fruits of sin, yet by the grace of God they are medicinal to his people (1 Corinthians 11:32): When we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we may…

God may be said to know things two ways; either simply, with respect to the perfection of his nature, and so he knows all things; or by virtue of his office, and so God knows things judicially, as judge of the world; he takes knowledge of it so as to punish it, unless you confes…

The Lord permits this in his holy and righteous Providence, that the godly may be stirred up more to embrace truth upon evidence, with more affection; that they may more encourage, and strengthen themselves and resolve for God; for when all people will walk every one in the name…

Three things are wont to give offense, and exceedingly shake the faith of some, namely: errors, persecutions, scandals. 1. Errors: Be not troubled when differences fall out about the truths of God, nor shaken in mind; the winds of error are let loose upon the floor of the church…

Question. But this is to pin our faith upon men? Response. We are to receive nothing for current but what is agreeable to the Word; as God has given to his ministers gifts for the interpreting obscure places, so he has given to his people so much of the Spirit of discerning, tha…

(2.) Their love is evidenced by their cost. 1 Corinthians 12:14: They lay up, and lay out for their children. They are not like the raven or ostrich (Job 39:14), which are cruel to their young.

Christ speaks not there of an attribute, but a person. And that the Godhead subsists in the person of the Holy Ghost appears thus: The Spirit, who gives diversity of gifts, is said to be the same Lord, and the same God (1 Corinthians 12:5-6). The black and unpardonable sin is sa…

4. A wonder any holds out in grace, and does not tire in his march to heaven; if you consider the difficulty of a Christian's work, he has no time to lie fallow, he is either watching or fighting; in fact, a Christian is to do those duties which to the eye of sense and reason se…

He knows all the several ranks and classes of men in the state of grace, and according to their ranks, with what sort of temptations to encounter them. For men's temptations are various and manifold (1 Peter 2:6), even as the gifts and operations of the Spirit are (1 Corinthians…

Or else 3. when this ordinance is not in the case of such sins administered, then God himself (who works without an ordinance sometimes the same effects that with it) does excommunicate men's spirits from his presence and gives them up to Satan by terrors to whip them home to hi…

14. And he dwelt personally in the flesh and nature of all Adam's sons. So is it said (1 Corinthians 12:13), For by one Spirit we are all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free, and have been all made to drink into one Spirit [illegibl…

But beyond all these relations, the relation of Head and Members, as it is most natural, so it obliges most: No man ever yet hated his own flesh (says the Apostle) (though diseased and leprous) but loves and cherishes it. And it is the law of nature, that if one member be honore…

And yet before long God answered Stephen's prayer in converting Saul; so that let a man — a believing Christian — pray for his sinning brother, and he shall give him life. Reason 1. It is taken from the pleasure that God takes to knit the members of the body of his Son together,…

For we must eat the flesh of Christ, and drink his blood, before we can have life abiding in us (John 6:53), and our bodies are members of Christ (1 Corinthians 6:15). Again, this union is spiritual, because it is made by the bond of one spirit (1 Corinthians 12:13): by one spir…

Lastly, it is a means of unity. Read (Ephesians 4:5; 1 Corinthians 12:13). The fifth point concerns the efficacy of baptism.

One sheepfold (John 10:16). There be many members, but one body (1 Corinthians 12:12). Fourthly, hence we gather, that the Catholic Church is invisible.

Hence we learn, that the Holy Ghost is author not only of meekness, but of all sanctifying graces, and therefore is called the spirit of wisdom and understanding; the spirit of counsel and strength; the spirit of knowledge, and of the fear of the Lord (Isaiah 11:2). Secondly, th…

For in one essence of God we acknowledge three persons: but he names the Spirit, because he is the only teacher and conductor of all the Prophets. Saint Paul says, That none can say Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost: and by and by after he says, that the gifts of God are…

Which is no new thing. For when Paul speaks of that union which is between Christ and the Church, having set it forth under the similitude of a man's body, he adds, even so is Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12). And in this place the name of Christ is attributed to Israel: that is to…

But the diversity of gifts with which the Lord adorns his servants are to be observed. For all are not Sapphires or Carbuncles: the Lord distributes to every one his measure according to his own will (1 Corinthians 12:11; Ephesians 4:7, 11). From this we are also to remember, th…

Therefore after the Prophet has spoken of the Spirit of the Lord: in the second place he adds the anointing to it: thereby understanding the virtues which proceed from that spirit. To which purpose Paul says (1 Corinthians 12:4), that there are diverse gifts: but only one spirit…

As to fullness, there is no occasion for entering into the subtle disputations, or rather the trifling, of the sophists; for Scripture conveys nothing more by this word than the pre-eminent and very uncommon abundance of the gifts of the Spirit. We know, that to Christ alone the…

Christ is not truly acknowledged as a Savior, till, on the one hand, we learn to receive a free pardon of our sins, and know that we are accounted righteous before God, because we are free from guilt; and till, on the other hand, we ask from him the Spirit of righteousness and h…

It is easy to reply, that it was their own fault if they did not know; for Christ is now speaking expressly about special faith, which had its secret instincts, as the circumstances of the case required. And this is the faith of which Paul speaks, (1 Corinthians 12:9.) How then…

Let us know that the Lord does not bestow on all indiscriminately the same measure of gifts, (Ephesians 4:7,) but distributes them variously as he thinks proper, (1 Corinthians 12:11,) so that some excel others.

For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not one office, so we being many, are but one in Christ, and every one, one another's members, having gifts that are diverse, according to the grace that is given to us. And immediately after in the same chapter he ad…

For the grounds hereof, I shall mention one only; which all others do lean upon. This is pressed, 1 Corinthians 12:12, 13. As the body is one, and has many members, and all the members of that one body being many, are one body, so is Christ.

And it is clear that the Spirit is here intended, because it is the Spirit's blowing that only can make the spices or graces of a believer to flow, as the wind does the seeds and flowers in a garden. Next, by north and south wind are understood the same Spirit, being conceived a…

And thus this last part qualifies the former, he is in his Church, but especially where his spices are most abounding; and therefore would you have him? seek him in his Church and among his people, and especially in such societies of his people, where true and lively believers a…

For the first, lay up such graces as will render you serviceable in your places (Romans 14:19) — Let us follow after the things that make for peace, and things with which one may edify another, such as brotherly love, or kindness, charity, meekness, forbearance, gentleness, cond…

Gifts take their leave of the soul, as Orpah did of Naomi; but grace says, then as Ruth, where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge, and nothing shall separate you and me. Now [reconstructed: put] all this together and then judge whether the Apostle spoke hyperbole…

And that this is the Force of the Expression, as the Apostle John uses it in this Place, is confirmed by that other Place in the same Epistle, in the next Chapter, at the first Verse, Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ, is born of God; and every one that loveth him tha…

Secondly, it is the reproach of Christ, in regard of the near relation, and close union that is between Christ and his people: As the reproach of the Wife is the reproach of the Husband, and the reproach of the Husband is the reproach of the Wife, because of their union, and the…

The solid, wise, and judicious Christian may want that liveliness of affections, and tenderness of heart, that appears in the weak; and one that excels in gifts and utterance, may learn Humility from the very Babes in Christ. And one principal Reason of this different distributi…

Wherein their distinct witnessing consists will be declared afterward. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6: the apostle speaking of the distribution of gifts and graces to the saints ascribes them distinctly — in respect of the fountain of their communication — to the distinct persons. There a…

Second, the particular products of his actings in our souls, wherein we have communion with him. First, he is said to work effectually, 1 Corinthians 12:11: all these works that one and the same Spirit. It is spoken there in respect of his distribution of gifts, but the way is t…

A soul never glorifies or honors Christ upon a discovery or sense of the eternal redemption he has purchased for it, but it is in him a peculiar effect of the Holy Spirit as our Comforter. No man can say that Jesus is Lord but by the Holy Spirit, 1 Corinthians 12:3. 3. He sheds…

He calls men to that work, and they are separated unto him, Acts 13:2. He furnishes them with gifts and abilities for that employment, 1 Corinthians 12:7-10. So that the whole religion we profess without this administration of the Spirit is nothing; nor is there any fruit of the…

This note of comparison (as) is not to be taken of the kind, but of the truth of these unions, our union with Christ is as true as Christ's union with his Father. So true is this union, as not only Jesus himself, but all the Saints which are members of this body together with Je…

Thus far Doctor Doddridge in a late Preface. And I think we may as well borrow the Similitude expressly from the Scripture itself, 1 Corinthians 12:14 etc. The Body is not one Member, but many.

When they shall arrive there they shall be fully one, and of one mind, not a jar nor difference, all their harps perfectly in tune to that one new Song. Having Compassion] This testifies that it is not a bare speculative agreement of opinions, that is the badge of Christian unit…

I desire none to leap over the bounds of their calling, or rules of Christian prudence in their converse, indeed, this were much to be blamed, but, I fear, lest unwary hands, throwing on water to quench that evil, let some of it fall by upon these sparks, that should be stirred…

But it is not enough to attain those splendid titles of pastors and teachers; rather, the necessary gifts from the Lord must also be added, by which they can sustain those offices and dignities whose names they bear. For this reason Paul joins both together in the twelfth chapte…

So therefore that evil spirit which tormented Saul is said to be from the Lord, and afterwards an evil spirit of the Lord — not because evil proceeds from God, but because the devils, although they contain in themselves their own malice, are nevertheless reluctantly held in such…

Paul calls Aquila and Priscilla, fellows or helpers in Christ Jesus. And Apollo, a mighty man in the Scriptures, had a great deal of help by Aquila and Priscilla (Romans 16:3; 1 Corinthians 12:21). The eye cannot say to the hand, I have no need of you; nor the head to the feet,…

Now many times God gives the end when he will deny the means. Paul had grace sufficient, though the thorn in his flesh were not removed (1 Corinthians 12:9). A Christian prays for the light of God's countenance, for sensible feeling of God's love; why?

If you must needs be coveting, laboring and carking, you are called to better things (John 6:27): Labor not for the meat which perishes, but for the meat which endures to everlasting life. Covet the best gifts (1 Corinthians 12:31). Be as passionate for grace as others are for t…

1. Fix your desires and enlarge them to the full. A carnal man may be a shame to a godly man, because he is carried out so earnestly, and with such uniform respect to earthly things (1 Corinthians 12:31). Covet earnestly the best gifts, this is a holy covetousness, and a good di…

The Reasons of the Point. 1. They are all members of one body, they are all called into one body, and the good and evil of one member is common to the whole; this reason is rendered by the Apostle in (1 Corinthians 12:25-26): But that the members should have the same care one fo…

First, in disdain of inferiors, or contempt of those who are of meaner gifts, or rank and place in the world. Every member has its use in the body, the toe as well as the head, neither can one say to another, I have no need of you (1 Corinthians 12:21). All Christians have their…

There are many advantages attending the communion of saints, their very sight and presence is a confirmation to us; many times that temptation befalls us, which befell Elijah; we think we are left alone, (1 Kings 19:10) that godliness is gone out of the world. To have company is…

He may out-pray, and out-preach, and out-do them, that in sincerity and integrity out-go him. 2. Gifts are for the use and good of others, they are given in ordine ad alium, as the schoolmen speak, for the profiting and edifying of others, so says the Apostle (1 Corinthians 12:7…

As you are members of a body politic; the whole nation is a political body, and it should be with the body politic as it is with the natural body. All the members of the body have a sweet sympathy and work for the good of the whole, that there be no schism in the body (1 Corinth…

Its true, when Adam fell God did save his stake, but how can Christ who is so nearly united to every believing soul? There was a league of friendship betwixt God and Adam; but no such union as here where Christ and his Saints make but one Christ, for which his Church is called C…

Good works should shine, but not blaze. If I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profits me nothing (1 Corinthians 13:3). The same I may say of a sincere aim; if I obey however much, and have not a sincere aim, it profits me nothing.

Secondly, he submits to God's will. If God will have him suffer for him, he does not dispute but obey (1 Corinthians 13:7). Love endures all things.

Love is a holy expansion or enlargement of soul, whereby it is carried with delight after God, as the chief good: So Aquinas defines love, Complacentia amantis in amato; love is a complacential delighting in God as in our treasure: love is the soul of religion, it is a grace hig…

Our ignorance is more than our knowledge. 2. Our divine knowledge is imperfect; we know but in part, said Paul (1 Corinthians 13:9), though he had many revelations, and was wrapped up into the third heaven. We have but dark conceptions of the Trinity (Job 11:7). Can you by searc…

Love is a lovely grace. Love thinks no evil (1 Corinthians 13:5). It makes the best interpretation of another's words.

Knowledge is the pillar of fire to give light to practice; but though knowledge is requisite, yet the knowing of God's will is not enough without doing of his will: your will be done. If one had a system of divinity in his head, if he had 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, all knowledge…

Christ in the Parable calls some at the 11th hour, Matthew 20:6: and so God calls men to grace in their old age. We must therefore spare these sharp and unsavoury censures, which some unadvisedly cast upon such men; for charity thinks not evil, 1 Corinthians 13, where it may thi…

After this manner: It is the property of faith, to persuade the conscience, of God's love and favor in Christ; and upon this persuasion, the heart begins to love God again. Now, by this love does faith work, and make a man able to bear all torments that can be inflicted for reli…

Now the Church of Rome says, A man may be justified by this. But it is not so, as appears by these reasons: First, this righteousness is in this life imperfect: and that is proved by the Apostle, where he says, We do here know but in part, 1 Corinthians 13:12. Therefore, our und…

Though a Christian has not a perfect knowledge of the Mysteries of the Gospel, yet he has a certain knowledge. We see through a glass darkly, 1 Corinthians 13:12. therefore we have not perfection of knowledge; but we behold with open face, 2 Corinthians 3:18. therefore we have a…

Exodus 23: Moses may not see God's face, but his hinder parts. 1 Corinthians 13:12: We may see God as men do, through spectacles in his word, sacraments, and creatures. And therefore as Paul prayed for the Colossians (Colossians 1:10), that they might increase in the knowledge o…

Good words are but a cold kind of Charity; the poor cannot live as the Chameleon upon this air. Let your words be as smooth as oil, they will not heal the wounded, let them drop as the honeycomb, they will not feed the hungry, 1 Corinthians 13. 1. Though I speak with the tongue…

There are but two ways of the soul's living known in Scripture — the life of faith and the life of vision — 2 Corinthians 5:7. Those two divide all time, both present and future, between them — 1 Corinthians 13:12. If when faith fails, sight should not immediately succeed, what…

This conjunction therefore of absent from the body, and present with the Lord, falls out in no state else, but only in that interim or space of time between. And let us also view this place in the light, (by bringing the one to the other) which that passage, 1 Corinthians 13:12,…

2. Then, if ever, a man's flesh and his heart fails (Psalm 73:26). 3. And (which is worse) a man's faith fails or ceases after death, and all his spiritual knowledge as in this life — it is the express phrase used in 1 Corinthians 13:8, and which is prosecuted to the end of that…

Hence it is said, many shall come to me in that day, and shall say, we have cast out devils in your name, to whom he will say, depart from me you workers of iniquity. And the Apostle says (1 Corinthians 13:2), if I had all faith, and could remove mountains, if I lack charity, it…

And the reason of this is, 1. Because there is nothing that is not saving, but a natural man may have it; now, this doctrinal faith is not saving, and so a natural man may have it — yea, the devils believe and tremble; and James does not dispute with these to whom he writes on t…

Nor is that true, whatever an inferior power can do, that a superior can much more do; if there be orders in angels, a superior angel cannot determine the will of an inferior, as he himself can do. Sure my knowledge and will are inferior powers, in comparison of angels (1 Corint…

In blessedness there is a confluence of all good; our joys are full and eternal. 1. There is the immediate sight and presence of God, and Jesus Christ, who shall be all in all to them (1 Corinthians 13:12): Now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face; now I know in…

In things of this world, persons are apt to grudge others any benefit by what they have stolen from others' view, but in spiritual advantages there is no envy, and if there be, it proceeds not from grace, but from corrupt nature; the more grace the less envy; and when envy is go…

Seeing then there are vices in every state of life and in all men, therefore Paul sets forth the law of Christ to the faithful, by which he exhorts them to bear one another's burden. They which do not so, do plainly witness that they understand not one jot of the law of Christ,…

It had been enough to have said "Love" and no more: for love extends itself to all the fruits of the Spirit. And in 1 Corinthians 13, Paul attributes to love all the fruits which are done in the Spirit, when he says: Love is patient, courteous, etc. Notwithstanding, he would set…

Who although he has done me some wrong, or hurt me by any manner of way: yet notwithstanding he has not put off the nature of man, or ceased to be flesh and blood, and the creature of God most like to myself: briefly, he ceases not to be my neighbor. As long then as the nature o…

For all judgment is God's (Romans 14:10): if this judgment be in truth: if it be in charity, for the amendment of the parties, and for the good of others. Otherwise, if these grounds fail us, we may not give judgment against any man, but must follow the judgment of charity which…

5. There is danger of God's anger, for unless we forgive, we are not forgiven, and we crave forgiveness, as we forgive. 6. It is the duty of love to suffer and bear (1 Corinthians 13). 7. It is a point of injustice, to revenge ourselves, for then we take to ourselves the honor o…

For it is not sufficient to do good to men, unless it proceed from a frank and willing mind. If I distribute all my goods to the poor, says Saint Paul, and have not love; I am nothing: (1 Corinthians 13:3). Thus then to pour out the soul, signifies nothing else but to pity our b…

And certainly, as "tongues shall then cease, and prophecies shall be abolished," (1 Corinthians 13:8,) I think that the written law, as well as the exposition of it, will come to an end; but, as I am of opinion that Christ spoke more simply, I do not choose to feed the ears of r…

Alms are called in Scripture sacrifices of a sweet smell, (Philippians 4:18;) and we learn from the mouth of Paul, that he who "spends all his substance on the poor, if he have not charity, is nothing," (1 Corinthians 13:3.) Lastly, God does not receive and acknowledge, as his s…

Besides, the half of his goods he dedicates to the poor. A man might indeed bestow all his goods on the poor, (1 Corinthians 13:3) And yet his generosity might be of no value in the sight of God; but, though no mention is here made of inward repentance, yet Luke means that the g…

And this is further to be noted, that this love covers not one or two sins only, but the multitude of sins: it cannot be drawn by any provocation to be so angry, but that it covers all. The same also has saint Paul, 1 Corinthians 13, where he does (as it were) expound this place…

Joy shall forever be before the eye, and therefore joy shall forever fill the heart. The joy of Heaven consists in vision, in seeing God as he is (1 John 3:2) or in seeing face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12) which is the beatific vision. So likewise there is an afflicting vision.

Observation 1. There is an excellent day coming to believers, wherein Christ shall be immediately enjoyed and seen, and wherein the soul shall be comforted with no mediate object, or created excellence, but shall see his face, and be filled with the fullness of God. 2. While her…

Love being the principle within, from which all our performances should flow, it is not opposed to sacrifice simply, or to obedience; but, 1. Supposing these to be separate, he prefers love; if it were to cast in but a mite of duty out of love, it will be more acceptable than th…

It may be you will say, though the difference be not easily discernible in their active obedience; yet, when it shall come to suffering, there every eye may discern it: the false heart will then flinch, and cannot brook that work. And yet, even this is no infallible rule neither…

The surest Character of true divine supernatural Love, distinguishing it from Counterfeits that do arise from a natural Self-Love, is that That Christian Virtue shines in it, that does above all others renounce and abase and annihilate Self, namely Humility. Christian Love, or t…

And the reason is, because all excellency and good that is in the creature is eminently in God; for all the good of the effects must needs be eminently in all the principles, and the good of all principles in the first principle: If all good in the creature be eminently in God,…

SEcondly, they shall have the Beatifical Vision of God, we shall be where he is, and we shall see his face. Says Christ, Father, I will, that those which you hast given me, be where I am, that is a blessing; but in Rev. 22:4 it is said, They shall see his face, and that is more,…

NOw we come to the fourth thing, Communion with God, and this is more then the other three things. Union is the ground of communion; communion is that which rises from both parts being united, and the Saints shall have a glorious communion with God and the Trinity; in this life…

Their charge is especially and above all, to seek the good of their wives: as wives are the chief and greatest charge of husbands, so their chief and greatest care must be for them: the parents and friends of wives as they give over all their authority to their husbands, so they…

3. The Apostle exalting to the utmost this glory of Gospel light above that of the law, manifesting that now the veil causing darkness is taken away; so that with open or uncovered face we behold the glory of the Lord; tells us how: As in a glass (2 Corinthians 3:18). In a glass…

Mortification the duty of the best believers (Colossians 3:5; 1 Corinthians 9:27). Indwelling sin always abides: no perfection in this life (Philippians 3:12; 1 Corinthians 13:12; 2 Peter 3:18; Galatians 5:17; etc.). The activity of abiding sin in believers (Romans 7:23; James 4…

Whatever your Pretenses of Truth be, this is but lying against the Truth: This Wisdom descends not from above, but is earthly, sensual, carnal, devilish, James 3:14, et cetera. It is impossible there should be true Faith without sincere Love: If I understand all Mysteries, and h…

When the soul finds that all its obedience, and endeavor to keep the commands of Jesus Christ, which himself makes its character, do flow from love, then it is true and sincere: for do, or suffer what you will, without love, all passes for nothing. All are ciphers without it, th…

A child has in it a reasonable soul, and yet by the indisposedness of the body, and abundance of moisture, it is so bound up, that its difference from the beasts and partaking of a rational life is not so apparent as afterwards. And thus the spiritual life that is from above inf…

1. Gracious] Or of a bountiful kind disposition, the word (Psalm 34), from where this is taken, is Tob, which signifies good. The Septuagint there renders it by the word used here by our Apostle, both the words signify a benignity, and kindness of nature, it is one of love's att…

Look upon and study much that infinite love of God, and his Son Jesus Christ towards us, he gave his only begotten Son, the Son gave himself, he sweetened his bitter cup with his [reconstructed: transcendent] love, and this he has recommended to us, that even as he loved us, so…

Not upon every trifling occasion. It must be after other means are tried and used; as the help of friends to compound the matter, for charity tries all things (1 Corinthians 13:4). And the Apostle says (1 Corinthians 6:5), Is there none to judge between you?

The Godly in this Life are imperfect, they cast but a faint lustre of Holiness, they receive but the first-fruits of the Spirit, Romans 8:23. that is, a small measure of Grace: the first-fruits under the Law were but an handful to the whole Vintage. This may humble us to conside…

Though Christ is present with them now spiritually while they are here; yet the presence and nearness is but distance, but a kind of absence being compared with what is to come; and therefore this very presence does not quench their desires, but kindle them, and sets them longin…

And this is the glory which does not yet appear, that we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is (1 John 3:2). They that are regenerate, and enlightened from above, and are refined and clarified, have some glimpses and gradual sights of God, and yet it is comparatively…

1. God the Father is the God of peace. As he is the God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33), so the God of peace (Philippians 4:9). This was the form of the priests blessing the people (Numbers 6:26): The Lord give you peace.

But alas, this may be spoken of old men in these days, that in regard of this wisdom, they are very babes; a thing greatly disgraceful to their condition. For, Paul bids the Corinthians, 1 Corinthians 14:20, that they should not be children in understanding, but of ripe age: yea…

Therefore a man must endeavor that all his speech be in one language, at least in such as his hearers understand: for else if he speak the body of his speech in one, and piece out the members in other, which the people understand not; he may indeed in his own spirit speak myster…

Where any of these three are wanting, miracles may be suspected — because sometimes false prophets have their miracles to try men whether they will cleave to God or no (Deuteronomy 13:1-3). Again, miracles are not done or to be done for them that believe, but for infidels that b…

Consideration 1. The gospel is the will of God from heaven; yet it is a riddle, a parable not understood (Matthew 13:14). In the Law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak to this people (1 Corinthians 14:21). And (Isaiah 29:11): And the vision of a…

So God is said to be terrible in his holy places, (Psalm 68:35) whether heaven, or the church; indeed the awful carriage of his people in his worship should be one means to convince of the excellency and majesty of God. (1 Corinthians 14:25) The Apostle shows there, that an unbe…

The Gospel is full of this, yes, this is the main hinge of our religion: you are not Christians, unless you make Jehovah your righteousness in all you do, as well as God your ultimate end: You will go away as the proud Pharisee without acceptance, if you plead your enlargements…

So he came upon Christ at Jordan, in the likeness of a Dove: and in the likeness of fire upon the Apostles and other believers. And this was the first sending of the Holy Spirit: which was necessary in the primitive church, for it was expedient that it should be established by m…

For commonly the eldest must be the heir, the next the lawyer, the youngest the divine. Students must love and prize this calling above all other (1 Corinthians 14:1). Lastly, all men must make prayer that God would prosper and bless all schools of learning where this kind of te…

Again, that kind of preaching is to be blamed, in which there is used, a mixed kind of variety of languages, before the unlearned. For this is a sign to unbelievers (1 Corinthians 14:22). And in this kind of preaching we do not paint Christ, but we paint out our own selves.

First, those that have received the Spirit of regeneration, and do begin to savor the things of the Spirit (Romans 8). Secondly, those that have received a greater portion of the Spirit, and a greater measure of spiritual graces, of whom Paul speaks (1 Corinthians 14:37): If any…

And therefore some foolishly join this verse and that place of Saint Peter together: for they make the Prophet speak as if the Lord should be brought in seeking such disciples as were emptied of all pride; and were become like children lately weaned. But he rather complains that…

The preaching of the Gospel is justly compared to a net sunk beneath the water, to inform us that the present state of the Church is confused. Our God is the God of order, and not of confusion, (1 Corinthians 14:33,) and, therefore, recommends to us discipline; but he permits hy…

When he enjoins his followers to become like a child, this does not extend indiscriminately to all points. We know that in children there are many things faulty; and accordingly Paul bids us be children, not in understanding, but in malice, (1 Corinthians 14:20;) and in another…

But we must attend to Paul’s admonition, not to be children in understanding, but in malice, (1 Corinthians 14:20).

For they are all one, and a spiritual people: and therefore they are all priests together, and all both may and ought to show forth the Word of God. Saving that, in the church, women ought not to speak, but to refer that to men to teach and preach there, because of the commandme…

For we can all utter and declare those things that appertain to the glory of God, and Christian life: we also (so far as is needful and expedient for us) can foretell of things to come, as that there shall be a day of general judgment, and that we shall all rise again from the d…

And therefore as all direction and consolation is derived from Christ; so should the husband likewise derive down and communicate knowledge, and comfort, and guidance to the wife; called therefore her guide (Proverbs 2:17). And St. Peter requires of husbands that they should dwe…

(4) The plow turns up, and discovers such things as lay hid in the bosom of the earth before, and were covered under a fair green surface, from the eyes of men. Thus when the Lord plows up the heart of a sinner by conviction, then the secrets of his heart are made manifest [reco…

So our Savior has told us (who, even after his resurrection, is called, the Holy Child Jesus (Acts 4:27)) (Matthew 18:3). And even when we have put away other childish things, yet still in malice we must be children (1 Corinthians 14:20). And as for the quarrels of others, in al…

They shall see since the people of God did close one with another, they are encreased in gifts; a poor boy, or girl, or servant, that understood nothing before, now they can understand more, and with their understanding their hearts are more humble then before; this is a great c…

The Church of Rome does directly transgress against the forenamed rule of joining the word and Baptism together. For though they have a public form prescribed, yet it being in an unknown tongue, not understood of the people, nor expounded to them, it is all one as if there were…

On the other hand, Genicola hates the Presbyterians for their scandalous Irreverence at the Sacrament: What, says he, dare any Man use so clownish and so rude a Gesture as sitting, when he receives the Seal of the Pardon of his Sins, and the Emblems of the Body and Blood of Chri…

This new birth is the same that Saint John calls the first Resurrection, and pronounces them blessed that partake of it, Blessed are they that have part in the first Resurrection, the second death shall have no power over them. The weak beginnings of grace in comparison of furth…

It is (says he) when good men, and such as are already inured to fear and serve God, are edified by his word. And not only that, but also if an unbeliever comes in, which was formerly a mocker, and never had any remorse of conscience, and hears what is uttered in the name of God…

All these are mysteries. So the wonderful effects of the word in convincing sinners (1 Corinthians 14:25). Thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face, he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.

(Psalm 111:4) He has made his wonderful works to be remembered. So in his ordinances, when God makes any nearer approach to us by way of conviction, counsel, or comfort (1 Corinthians 14:25): and thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest, and so falling down on his face, h…

There is the matter of true spiritual comfort. 1 Corinthians 14:31. That all may learn and all be comforted. This follows from the former; God is the God of comfort.

Ministers should be, and, if faithful they will be as nurses to the people, they will prepare milk for the meanest and weakest, and meat for all; but never give dry crust or [illegible] instead of bread to any; for that was not to feed, but to starve the child. Hence the Apostle…

Paul in Acts 9:7, and Zacchaeus (Luke 19:9), it is most probable they were in their middle age, as their places and employments together with their accustomed experience, and practice therein do [illegible]. Paul indeed is called a young man (Acts 7:58), yet his bringing up at t…

Verse 18: For in much wisdom is much grief, and he that increases knowledge increases sorrow. Paul spoke more with tongues than they all (1 Corinthians 14:18), but he was dead to that gift; he had rather have brought them nearer to Christ. 1 Corinthians 4:10: We are fools, and h…

First let us hold this, that if we see in every fellowship of men some policy to be necessary, that may serve to nourish common peace and to retain concord: if we see that in the doing of things there is always some orderly form, which is fitting for public honesty and for very…

And because this is the sense I chiefly must insist on, in handling the vanity of the thoughts, and also men usually think that thoughts are free; I will therefore prove this to you, which is the only doctrine raised, that thoughts are sins. 1. The law judges them (Hebrews 4:12)…

And he believed immediately, and was baptized; and such a wonderful change does a pricked heart make; of those very men, whom before he scourged and put in the dungeon, now they are [illegible], Lords; any reverence now little enough to show them — such work makes a pricked hear…

It is true, sometimes men come and find spoils in the ordinances, that never battled with their corruptions before, for sometimes God is found of them that seek him not, and so many a man that never struck a stroke gets spoils. They come and wonder at the presence of God there,…

Thus death gives a believer his Quietus est; it frees him from sin and trouble. Though the Apostle calls death the last enemy (1 Corinthians 15), yet it is the best friend: to me to die is gain. Use 1. See here that which may make a true saint willing to die: death will set him…

16. We glorify God when we give God the glory of all we do: Herod when he had made an oration, and the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a God, and not of a man; and he took this glory to himself, the text says, Immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because…

When I go in the streets, and hear the language of some, I think of the man in the gospel, who had the spirit of an unclean devil in him (Luke 4:33). Men's lips do not drop as the honeycomb, but they drop poison to the defiling of others (1 Corinthians 15:33). It is a sign when…

Not in another flesh, but my flesh. 1 Corinthians 15:53. This corruptible shall put on incorruption. Question 2. By what arguments may the resurrection be proved?

Herod instead of hallowing God's name, stained the honor of his name in assuming that praise to himself which was due to God (Acts 12:23). We ought to take the honor from ourselves and give it to God (1 Corinthians 15:10): I labored more than they all. One would think this had s…

3. We show honor to our Heavenly Father, by ascribing the honor of all we do to him. 1 Corinthians 15:10. I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was in me. If a Christian has any assistance in duty, any strength against corruption, he rear…

Take heed of any unseemly word that may enkindle unclean thoughts in yourselves or others. (1 Corinthians 15:33) Evil communications corrupt good manners. Impure discourse is the bellows to blow up the fire of lust.

Answ. 1. As it is a means to prevent sin, no sword like this to cut asunder the sinews of temptation; it is almost impossible to sin presumptuously with the lively thoughts and hopes of Heaven: It was when Moses was out of sight that Israel set up a calf and worshipped it; so it…

5. Has God pardoned you? Do all the service you can for God (1 Corinthians 15:58). Always abounding in the work of the Lord.

The contemplating heaven would put us upon the study of holiness, because none but such are admitted into that kingdom: heaven is not like Noah's Ark, into which came clean beasts and unclean; only the pure in heart shall see God (Matthew 5:8). (3.) The meditation of the heavenl…

The wounds of the guilt of sin are as deadly and as strong as the lusts of its power, and it requires as great a power to dissolve and scatter them. For all the strength that the law and God's justice has, sin also has to back it — 'for the strength of sin is the law' (1 Corinth…

Now to die in faith, is to die in an assured estate of glory and happiness; which is that, that every man desires: therefore, as we all desire it, so let us die in faith, and we shall attain unto it. Saint Paul tells us, 1 Corinthians 15:55, Death is a terrible serpent, for he h…

For whereas Christ says of himself that he descended from heaven (John 3:13), his speech must be understood in respect of his Godhead, which may be said in some sort to descend, in that it was made manifest in the manhood here upon earth. And whereas Paul calls him heavenly and…

Because when God gives man power to will good things, then he can will them: and when he gives him a power to do good, then he can do good, and he does it. For though there be not in man's conversion a natural cooperation of his will with God's spirit, yet is there a supernatura…

A saint need not fear to put his hand boldly into it — it has left and lost its sting in the sides of Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:55: 'O death, where is your sting?' Why are you afraid, O saint, that this sickness may be your death — as long as you know that the death of Christ is…

So at last, and then bringing both body and soul together to complete glory. And the congruity of reason that is for this appointment, is observable, something like to that (1 Corinthians 15). As by man came death, so by man came also the resurrection from the dead.

It became him (says he) (Hebrews 2:10). For whom are all things, and by whom are all things, etc. And so in the point of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:21). Since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead; that is, it was congruous, harmonious, it shou…

No natural infirmities hang about glorified bodies, nor sinful ones upon perfected spirits of the just. Oh what lovely creatures will they appear to you then, when that which is sown in dishonor shall be raised in honor (1 Corinthians 15)! Fourth, you shall have an everlasting e…

3. We are afraid that many of you believe not a judgment, and your particular and personal coming to it; in fact there are among you who are like to these mockers spoken of by Peter in his second Epistle (chapter 3:3-4), who say, where is the promise of his coming? And as there…

A man that is under the hazard of a civil penalty, will think on it again and again, it will affect him, and he will not be at rest till he be without the reach of it; much more should you be with the hazard that your souls are in through sin; you are not excusable, so long as y…

He nailed the handwriting which was against us to his cross, as the Apostle says (Colossians 2:14-15): and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it. And as it is (1 Corinthians 15, at the close), he took the sting from d…

The grave will not swallow him up with a sort of dominion and right, as it does the reprobate. Fourth, it serves to confirm the truth of the resurrection of Christ, more than if he had never been in the grave, as the Apostle proves (1 Corinthians 15), from the beginning to the c…

Therefore, Revelation 1, we will find that he delights in this property, as a piece of his spiritual state, and grand honor, that he holds the stars in his right hand: such is his respect to them, and his it is to dispose of them. 2. It is a greatly exercising difficulty to the…

The Child born to us, is the mighty God, the Father of ages, the Prince of peace (Isaiah 9:6; Romans 9:5; Galatians 4:4). There is a wide difference between him the second Adam, and all men, even the first Adam in his perfection (1 Corinthians 15:47). If Christ suffered without…

Indeed he can [illegible] of them, neither soul nor body, neither a [illegible] nor a piece of an ear of his sheep, as he speaks (Amos 3). So Christ speaks (John 6:39); indeed, (1 Corinthians 15:23) every man shall be raised in his own order; verse 24. Then comes the end, when h…

This is to make John (who only prepared the way for Christ) to be the Messiah indeed (as many of the Jews thought) — that is, to think the eminent work of John's ministry (which was to humble and so prepare men for Christ) to be their attaining Christ himself. But if you be wear…

It may fully satisfy our faith that God himself is satisfied and that he reckons the debt as paid, so that our faith may boldly come to God and call for the bond in, as having Christ's resurrection to show for it that the debt is discharged. And hence the Apostle cries victory o…

And during that time, God prepared for him all sorts of afflictions and miseries to run through, which we our selves do here meet withall; and all that time he was acquainted with, and inured to all the like sorrowes that we are: and God left him to that infirmity and tenderness…

Some of the apostles did not believe the resurrection of Christ, Thomas said, he would not believe, unless he might see and feel (John 20:25). He was wanting in the belief of one article of faith, the resurrection of the dead, and (1 Corinthians 15) the whole church was wanting…

He looks at every thing he had as nothing; This I am, but yet I am nothing. He sometimes calls himself, the least of all the Apostles (1 Corinthians 15:9-10), and yet other times, not inferior to the very chief of them. Sometimes he calls himself, the least of all Saints (Ephesi…

1. With respect to Adam, that the parallel between the first and second Adam might be more exact. They are often compared in Scriptures as (Romans 5, latter end, and 1 Corinthians 15) and we read (Romans 5:14) that the first Adam was [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], the figure of hi…

Glory frees us from natural infirmities, but it does not strip us of natural properties, Christ has showed in his own body, what he can or will perform in ours, these same bodies but otherwise adorned, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], and with these eyes shall I see God (Job 19:26-2…

I write not to please learned scholars, but to profit plain Christians; whose spiritual good I prefer above any credit to myself. I am sure, there is none due: there being few of my brethren but they transcend me in parts and learning, But by the grace of God I am what I am (1 C…

For Christ whom God the Father has raised up from the dead, is our righteousness and victory. Therefore thanks be to God, who has given us victory by our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57). Amen. But mark how fitly and to the purpose Paul here speaks.

And it is the flat commandment of God (Matthew 5:34). It is alleged, that Paul (1 Corinthians 15:31) swears by his rejoicing in Christ. I answer; the words of Paul, by my rejoicing, are not an oath, but an obtestation: for the meaning of his words is this, that his sorrows and a…

He is the prince of life (Acts 3:15). He is a quickening spirit (1 Corinthians 15:45). And in this regard is he said to live in us, namely, as a root in the branch, or as the head in the members.

Always one and the same; no doubt in good things, specially in the religion established among us. The same must be the mind of all good subjects and all good people (1 Corinthians 15:58). 21 Is the law then against the promise of God?

Thirdly, for this liberty we are to give all praise and thanks to God. This did Paul at the remembrance of it (Romans 7:25; 1 Corinthians 15:57). And not to be thankful is a height of wickedness.

And Paul the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 6:9): be not deceived, neither fornicators, etc. (1 Corinthians 15:33): be not deceived, evil speeches corrupt good manners. Now men err and are deceived sundry ways, both in divine and human things (which appertain not to this place.)

For tomorrow we shall die.] This particle shows sufficiently why the Prophet so sharply rebuked them for drinking wine, and eating of flesh; to wit, because they scoffed and turned all the Prophets' threats into jests and matter of derision. Some think that Saint Paul in allegin…

Is not the holy Spirit of greater force than the dew? Saint Paul I remember uses the like similitude (1 Corinthians 15:36), where he speaks of the resurrection: but in regard he applies his metaphor to another purpose, I think it not amiss to let it pass for this time; because I…

The kingdom of the Father, as the inheritance of the godly, is contrasted with the earth, to remind them that here they are pilgrims, and therefore ought to look upwards towards heaven. In another passage, the kingdom of God is said to be within us, (Luke 17:21), but we shall no…

I think it more probable that, when Christ died, the graves were immediately opened: and that, when he rose, some of the godly, having received life, went out of their graves, and were seen in the city. For Christ is called the first-born from the dead, (Colossians 1:18,) and th…

And, indeed, there could be no doubt that a rich man, when he gave up his sepulcher to our Lord, made provision also, in other respects, for suitable magnificence and splendor. And this, too, was brought about by the secret providence of God, rather than by the premeditated desi…

For the lively assurance of our reconciliation with God arises from Christ having come from hell as the conqueror of death, in order to show that he had the power of a new life at his disposal. Justly, therefore, does Paul say that there will be no gospel, and that the hope of s…

Flesh and blood shall not thenceforth be natural, there shall then be no such function either [illegible] or corporeal, such as other creatures now [illegible] as well as we. These be in a manner the words which Saint Paul uses. 1 Corinthians 15. The first man Adam (says he) was…

This his Power shall perpetually continue, and stand in force, so long as the world has continuance, and so long as Flesh and Blood has any being upon earth. This entire power of the Kingdom of Christ shall have continuance and force, till the last day, and then shall another wo…

So on the same account we have not eternal life merely on the account of being void of guilt (as Adam was at first existence), which we have by the atonement of Christ; but on the account of Christ's activeness in obedience, and doing well. Christ is our second federal head, and…

So (Ephesians 3) to the intent that now to the Rulers and Powers in heavenly places, might be known by the Congregation, the manifold Wisdom of God; do we think this blessed Revelation confined to a Parish, or common to the whole Church of God? So (1 Corinthians 15) they transla…

So says Job, I had been as one of these untimely births, that fall to the earth before their time. The Apostle Paul says concerning himself (1 Corinthians 15:8) I was as one born out of due time, I was an untimely birth. Some of the naturalists say, that word signifies such abor…

Christ did not only pray for his disciples and apostles, but for the weakest believer. Branch 4. Love your Intercessor (1 Corinthians 16:22). If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema.

Mercy spreads our table, it carves us every bit of bread we eat; we never drink but in the golden cup of mercy. 2. God shows mercy in lengthening out our gospel liberties (1 Corinthians 16:9): [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]; there are many adversaries; many would stop the waters of…

Christ arose on the first day of the week out of the grave, and appeared twice on this day to his disciples (John 20:19, 26), which was to intimate to the disciples (says Austin and Athanasius) that he transferred the Jewish Sabbath to the Lord's Day. 2. The keeping of the first…

This point, Paul urges in sundry exhortations; saying, Let him that thinks he stands, take heed lest he fall: 1 Corinthians 10:12, forbidding us to preserve our outward peace, by communicating with idolaters. And again, Stand fast in the faith: 1 Corinthians 16:13. Yea, this is…

Observation 1. The first is, that it is fitting for, and the duty of a minister of the Gospel, to observe what fruit and success his ministry has among a people, and whether they believe or not; Isaiah speaks not here at random, but from consideration of the case of the people,…

Answer: God has given to the Church the power of building, and it has 4 degrees — admonition, suspension from the sacraments, excommunication, anathema. And this last is a censure or judgment of the Church, whereby it pronounces a man severed from Christ and adjudged to eternal…

For Paul and the rest of the Apostles observed the first day of the week for a Sabbath day (Acts 20:7), and he says, Whatever you have heard, and what you have seen in me, that do (Philippians 4:9). Again it was the decree or constitution of Paul, that the collection for the poo…

The word translated prove, signifies also to approve, as (Romans 14:22): Blessed is he that condemns not in himself in the thing that he approves. (1 Corinthians 16:3): Whoever you shall approve or allow of by letters. And so the word is used in English, when we say such a one i…

We read in the Gospel that Christ kissed his disciples, which was a custom then in those countries. Of this kiss Saint Paul also makes frequent mention (Acts 20; 1 Corinthians 16; 2 Corinthians 13; Romans 16). Peace be with you all, which are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Again; The public collections for the poorer saints, were ordained by the apostle to be made on this day: Now concerning the collection for the saints — upon the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him. And this very rule and cus…

Our Sabbath is altered by Christ's own appointment. He arose this day out of the grave, and appeared on it often to his disciples (1 Corinthians 16:1). To intimate to them, says Athanasius, that he transferred the Sabbath to the Lord's day.

Whom justice so locks up, mercy will never let out. This is that which makes up the Anathema Maranatha (1 Corinthians 16:22), which is the dreadfulest curse in all the book of God, [reconstructed: accursed] till the Lord come. (3) 'Tis the most indiscernible stroke to themselves…

Concerning God, Moses exhorts Israel to love the Lord and serve him: and again, to love the Lord, to walk in his ways, to keep his commandments, etc. (Deuteronomy 11:13; Deuteronomy 30:16). Concerning man, the Apostle exhorts to serve one another by love: and to do all things in…

1. Because no duty on the husband's part can be rightly performed except it be seasoned with love. The Apostle exhorts all Christians to do all their things in love: much more ought husbands: though in place they be above their wives, yet love may not be forgotten (1 Corinthians…

1. The first is a general expression, by no means to be limited to its native signification, of waking from sleep: to watch is as much as to be on our guard, to take heed, to consider all ways, and means by which an enemy may approach to us. So the Apostle (1 Corinthians 16:13):…

This is Popish Slavery wheresoever it is practised, and Popish Tyranny where it is commanded: But Christians ought to give due Attention to the Advice and Counsel of such as are set over them in the Lord, Hebrews 13:17. 1 Corinthians 16:15, 16. Such as are solemnly devoted to th…

2. Whoever uses this remedy, must look to his own heart, that he be not acted with private revenge, nor with a spirit of rigor, or rancor against the party offending; but that he be carried out with zeal to justice, with pity to the person, that he and others may not be hardened…

Wrath is abroad seeking out sinners; now, says the Apostle, O that I might be found in him. 3. A sense of this benefit we have by Christ, will necessarily beget an unfeigned love to him; else we can have no evidence, but the curse does still remain; and therefore it is said (1 C…

He puts all the honor upon grace. So (1 Corinthians 16:10), Not I, but the grace of God. So (Galatians 2:20), I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me.

But do they love Christ who let the members of Christ starve? No — these love their money more than Christ, and come under that fearful condemnation (1 Corinthians 16:22). Argument 9: Lastly, I shall use but one more argument to persuade to works of mercy — the reward which foll…

This should helpe us to discover our selves, there is no way to discover hypocrisie, none so sure a signe of it, as where love is not. And therefore learne by this to know your selves, and to judge of your condition: It may be, when we confesse our sinnes, we have not thought of…

So I say to you, what else does the Lord your God require of you? But againe know this, that as it is a command full of equity and reasonablenes, so the danger is the greater if you doe it it not; and what that is I will show you but by one place, that is, 1 Cor. 16:22.Cursed is…

One says he will go work in his father's vineyard, it may be he purposes to work, but yet he works not (Matthew 21:30), nor is a practical purpose of heart to obey either obedience or faith formally. 5. If to be justified by faith in Christ as not only Jesus who saves, but as Lo…

Let Christ lie as a bundle of myrrh, always between your breasts. If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha, 1 Corinthians 16.22. Love (says Chrysostom) is the diamond that only the Queen wears, namely The gracious soul.

6. The same may be argued from various other passages of scripture, some of which I shall now cite. 1 Corinthians 16:22: If any man love not our Lord Jesus Christ, let him be anathema maranatha. It is absurd to suppose, that this curse means a discipline designed for the good on…

Without love to Christ you are under the guilt of all your sins; neither your original sin, nor any of your actual sins are pardoned, they all lie upon your own score, and you must answer for all your selves, and how fearful is your account like to be! Without love to Christ you…