1 Thessalonians

Christ is called the Horn of Salvation (Luke 1:69). He saves from sin (Matthew 1:21), from wrath (1 Thessalonians 1:10). To save is a flower that belongs only to his crown (Acts 4:12).

9. We glorify God by walking cheerfully: it is a glory to God when the world sees a Christian has that within him that can make him cheerful in the worst times: he can with the nightingale sing with a thorn at his breast. The people of God have ground of cheerfulness, they are j…

And where should we flee, but to Jesus Christ? There is none else to shield off the wrath of God from us (1 Thessalonians 1:10): Jesus has delivered us from wrath to come. 3. Subject to all outward miseries: All the troubles incident to man's life are the bitter fruits of origin…

Strong consolation. They are strong indeed, that can bear up a Christian's heart in trials and afflictions (1 Thessalonians 1:6). Having received the word in much affliction — [illegible Greek text] — with joy.

We must love God quoad posse, as much as we are able: Christians should be like Seraphim burning in holy love: We can never love God so much as he deserves: The angels in heaven cannot love God so much as he deserves. 4. Love to God must be active in its sphere: love is an indus…

Now then, if hell be such a house of bondage, what infinite cause have they to bless God, who are delivered from it? (1 Thessalonians 1:10) Jesus delivered us from the wrath to come. Jesus Christ suffered the torments of hell in his soul, that believers should not suffer them.

God will never want ways of saving his people: Rather than fail the very enemies shall do his work (2 Chronicles 20:23). He set Ammon and Mount-Seir one against another: And as God will deliver his people from temporal danger, so from spiritual, from sin, and from hell, Jesus ha…

He did feel God's wrath, that they who believe in him should never feel it. (1 Thessalonians 1:10). Jesus has delivered us from wrath to come. Nebuchadnezzar's fiery furnace was a type of God's wrath, and that furnace did not singe the garments of the three children, nor was the…

Count it all joy when you fall into diverse temptations; that is, afflictions. Count it joy, be as birds that sing in winter: (1 Thessalonians 1:6). You received the word in affliction with joy.

In this state and condition all mankind, had they been left without divine aid and help, must have perished eternally. Sixthly, that God out of his infinite goodness, grace and love to mankind, sent his only Son to save and deliver them out of this condition (Matthew 1:21): "You…

And the Lord Christ has not left that as a matter of liberty, choice or conveniency, which he has made the foundation of the due manner of the performance of all those duties whereby his disciples yield obedience to his commands, to his glory in the world. Sixthly, the principal…

And we believe (as Peter and Paul then taught) that Christ indeed is come, and crucified, dead, and risen, and exalted to be the Christ (Acts 2:36; Ephesians 1:20, 21, 22, 23). So that, if the Jewish faith be not a saving faith at this day; seeing they look for a Messiah to come…

It is not any singular work, but a course in working which he intends. And what that work is, is declared in that parallel place of the same Apostle (1 Thessalonians 1:3), [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]; the same expressions with those in this place, which may be reckoned to the mu…

Yes, none have greater hopes for the most part than such as have no faith at all. The great use, benefit and advantage which believers have by this grace, is the supporting of their souls under the troubles and difficulties which they meet withal upon the account of the professi…

Jesus signifies a Savior; and he was called Jesus, because he was to save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). He therefore concerning whom all these things are affirmed, is to be considered as our Savior; who had the name of a Savior given him by God himself, with respect…

And, (1.) The notion of the word includes in it a supposition of some evil or danger that we are delivered from. This is sin with its consequents of misery, in the curse of the law and the wrath to come; therefore it is said of Christ that he saves his people from their sins (Ma…

The kingdom of God is not in word, but in power. 1 Thessalonians 1:5. Our Gospel came, not in word only, but in power.

We can never love God as he deserves: As God's punishing us is less than we deserve, Ezra 9.13. so our loving him is less than he deserves. 4. Love to God must be active; it is like fire, which is the most active element; it is called, The Labour of Love, 1 Thessalonians 1.3. Lo…

Oecolampadius on his sick-bed, when they asked him, if he wanted any light, putting his hand to his heart, said, Hic sat lucis, Here I have light enough. The saints' joy being inward sweetens affliction, it turns their water into wine (1 Thessalonians 1:6): Having received the w…

The step from sin to grace, is a work of greater difficulty and power, than to go on from grace to grace; as the Apostle maketh it a matter of more ease to save a saint, than to gain a sinner (Romans 5:8, 9, 10), and therefore degrees cannot be alike sensible as change of state.…

And 3. The end of your faith, that is, as being that for which the great God (who keeps us by his power through faith to salvation, verse 5) has wrought this faith in you. Accordingly we find it termed the work of faith (1 Thessalonians 1:3). Which when God has fully wrought, an…

It is a general rule, that all full persuasions draw on affections: let it be but a persuasion in habit, it stirs as the habit is. My word was to you not in word but in power, because it did work in you joy in the Holy Ghost (1 Thessalonians 1:6). Comparing the word of true and…

[illegible]. 1. In pursuit of this matter of Metropolitanes, he proceeds next to take notice of one observation of mine in these words. 2. To this end he informs sect. 2. that in the New Testament there is in sundry places mention made of Church [illegible] number, as Galatians…

What sort of persons they gathered into Christ's fold they themselves everywhere teach. They were born again, called with a holy and effectual calling, godly, faithful, holy, washed, justified, separated from the world and from all evil, children of God, instructed and anointed…

Nehemiah 8:10. After Nehemiah (to wit, the King's Ambassador) and Ezra the Priest and Scribe, and the Levites teaching the people, said to all the people: This is the day sanctified to the Lord your God: mourn not, neither weep (for all the people wept when they heard the words…

5. The earth is but the believer's sentinel, or at best, his watch-tower; but our hope is in heaven. (1 Thessalonians 1:10) We wait for the Son of God from heaven. Our life and treasure is there.

How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? (Romans 10:14). It is true, the word, the works of God, are not the principal object of faith, nor objectum quod; faith rests only on God, and the Lord Jesus (John 14:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:8). Your faith toward God (1 Pet…

So run, that you may obtain (Revelation 2:2). I know your works and your labor (1 Thessalonians 1:3). Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope: 1. We are not dead in supernatural works, and mere blocks (Romans 6:11).

And such as do believe, may be carried on in believing; such as are faithful, had need be yet more faithful; you read also (Philippians 1:25), I shall abide with you, for your furtherance and joy of faith, such a furtherance as is for the increasing and augmentation of your fait…

Most men's faith is so weak and slight, because it is taken hand over head, there is no deepness of earth (Mark 13:6) You have some light sense of religion, but slight impressions are soon defaced, and truths easily taken up are as soon quitted, the more we search into the groun…

has the same meaning as with us. Apud nos. He appears to make faith rest on a weak foundation, its relation to men, while it ought to rest on the Word of God only; and certainly the full assurance (πληροφορία) of faith is ascribed to the sealing of the Spirit, (1 Thessalonians 1…

The Spirit of Christ, which is the immediate Spring of Grace in the Heart, is all Life, all Power, all Act; 2 Corinthians 2:4.—In Demonstration of the Spirit, and of Power. 1 Thessalonians 1:5. Our Gospel came not unto you in Word only, but also in Power, and in the holy Ghost.…

(5.) The Lord Christ being proposed to Sinners in the Gospel, and their acceptance or receiving of him being urged on them, it is withal declared for what end he is so proposed. And this is in general to save them from their Sins, Mat. 1. 21. or the Wrath to come whereof they ar…

He that believes on me as the Scripture has said, out of his belly shall slow rivers of living water; But this he spoke of the Spirit which they that believe on him should receive. And it is with respect principally to this Work of Sanctification that he is compared to flowing a…

(2.) This is a spiritual mercy, excelling in dignity of nature all others, more than gold excels the dirt under your feet, Revelation 3:18 One such gift, is worth thousands of other mercies. (3.) This is a mercy immediately slowing out of the fountain of Gods electing love, a me…

Now you must not take these Thessalonians as if they were new converts, or a people weak in the faith; but here lies the emphasis, that though these Thessalonians were the most eminent Christians of all the world, yet they had a great defect in their faith. Therefore compare thi…

First, every man that is elected, sooner or later, shall be effectually called, and savingly converted by the power of the word. This the Apostle lays down (1 Thessalonians 1:4-5): Knowing brethren, beloved, your election of God. How should this be known?

And (4.) so likewise the world (John 16:33; Galatians 1:4). And against (5.) death (Hebrews 2:14, 15; 1 Corinthians 15:55, 56), with (6.) the grave, and (7.) hell, or the wrath to come (1 Thessalonians 1:10). They are all meritoriously conquered in his death and resurrection.

Neither is it to be omitted, that there is such a coincidence in many phrases, use of words and expressions between this Epistle, and the rest of Saint Paul's, as will not allow us to grant such a discrepancy in style, as some imagine. They have many of them been gathered by oth…

And if he should have done so, then was death eternal in the commination. This is that which with respect to the present effects in this life, and the punishment due to sin, is termed by our Apostle the wrath to come (1 Thessalonians 1:10), from where the Messiah is the Delivere…

And therefore if the consideration of a temporal deliverance were so powerful a motive to engage the Israelites to obedience; how much more effectually should we be obliged to it, whose deliverance is far greater than theirs was; for God has delivered us from the power of darkne…

Frosts and snows conduce very much to the well rooting of the seed, and makes it spread and take root much the better. So do sanctified afflictions, which usually the people of God meet with after their calling, and often in their very seed-time (1 Thessalonians 1:6). And you be…

There never yet was a Time of remarkable pouring out of the Spirit, and great Revival of Religion, but that Example had a main Hand; so it was in the Time of the Reformation, and so it evidently was in that great Out-pouring of the Spirit that was in the Apostles Days, in Jerusa…

1. In general it is a deliverance: Hence Christ is called the deliverer (Romans 11:26), giving himself to deliver us (Galatians 1:4). He is Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come (1 Thessalonians 1:10). 2. It is the delivery of one from bondage or captivity; we are without…

The kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost (Romans 14:17). (1 Thessalonians 1:6) Received the gospel with joy in the Holy Ghost. With joy, as Peter tells believers, unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8).

He tells us, verse 5: it is from the shedding abroad of the love of God in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. And therefore believers are said to receive the word in much affliction with joy of the Holy Spirit, 1 Thessalonians 1:6, and to take joyfully the spoiling of their goods. T…

1 Corinthians 2:5. That is, effectually working, in and by the Word; it works, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]; in the demonstration of the spirit and of power. [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]: its spiritual Power gives a demonstration of it. Thus it comes not as a naked Word, 1 Thessal…

as well as delivers from the Wrath to come. 1 Thessalonians 1 last verse. These several Blessings included in Salvation, though they are all bestowed freely by Grace, yet have a Connection one with another, and Dependence on each other; therefore some of them are represented as…

He saves or delivers us from Sin, and from all the painful or criminal Effects and Consequences thereof: He delivers us from the Wrath to come, 1 Thessalonians 1 last verse he saves us by withholding the divine Anger from us, and taking away every thing that provoked it, or migh…

For our Love to the Law of God and a hearty Inclination to keep it, is a great Part of the very Salvation which the Gospel provides for sinful Men. Jesus Christ the Son of God is become our Saviour, not only to save us from God's Wrath, 1 Thessalonians 1:10. but also to save us…

You have an anointing from the holy One. 2. God calls them to glory, as if a man were called out of a prison to sit upon a throne (1 Thessalonians 2:12). Who has called you to his kingdom and glory.

God's glory is much promoted in the preaching of the word, because it is his engine whereby he converts souls. Now, such as would hinder the preaching of the word, these fight against God's glory (1 Thessalonians 2:16): Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles, that they might be…

Ministers are but as the pipes and organs; it is the Spirit of the Living God breathes in them: when we come to the Word, we should think thus with ourselves, God speaks in this preacher. The Thessalonians heard the Word Paul preached, as if God himself had spoken to them (1 The…

As disobedience reproaches the ministry, so obedience honors it. The apostle calls his Thessalonians, his crown (1 Thessalonians 2:19): What is our crown of rejoicing, are not you? A thriving people are a minister's crown.

This sin can dress itself in the attire of virtue. It is called the cloak of covetousness (1 Thessalonians 2:5). Covetousness is a sin that wears a cloak; it cloaks itself under the name of frugality and good husbandry.

Secondly, God's wrath has something in it positive. That is, his frown and enraged fury, which is [in non-Latin alphabet], wrath come upon the sinner to the uttermost (1 Thessalonians 2:16). Here, three positions or maxims.

His policy is either to hinder from duty, or discourage in duty, or put men on too far in duty. 1. To hinder from duty, as (1 Thessalonians 2:18): I would have come once and again, but Satan hindered me. So many duties of religion had been performed, but Satan hindered.

(4) That the Lord having called them to faith, repentance, and newness of life by Jesus Christ, they give up themselves to be saved by him, and to obey him in all things; and therefore (5) are willing and ready through his grace, to walk in subjection to all his commands, and in…

We condemne onely those that sinne through a wilfull contempt; because the evill of their halfe-way Reformation is discovered by them, whom God has raised up to declare his truth in an evill day. Now, when these sorts of men shall bee so farre from repenting of all the evill tha…

Fourthly, if we join with them that deny Jesus the Christ (1 John 2:22), and will be partakers of their sins, we shall be partakers of their plagues (Revelation 18:4). And for our unbelief, in persisting to persecute them that contend for the faith of Jesus the Christ (Matthew 1…

The Syriac renders it in this place by [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] pure; which is an inherent qualification; as it does (1 Timothy 2:8 and Titus 1:8) by [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] Pious, Holy, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], says Hesychius: [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]; Pure, Right…

He does not say, those that believe not, and obey not the Gospel, as he does elsewhere, when he treats absolutely of the day of judgment; as in that place (2 Thessalonians 1:8, 9) now mentioned; but it confines them to those that are adversaries, who from a contrary principle se…

And this season he seems to reflect upon in particular, because he mentions his own bonds at that time, and their compassion with him. However, certain it is, that all the Churches of Judea had suffered those things here mentioned from their countrymen, as the Apostle himself de…

And this wrath seems to be come upon multitudes in the world to the utmost. So the Apostle describes this condition in the Jews when they were under it (1 Thessalonians 2:15, 16): Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own Prophets, and have persecuted us, and they please not…

The Reverend Author gives this reason; because that text (Romans 11:20) speaks only of such as have been received into membership by their personal faith, and covenanting with the Church visibly. A. The text clearly speaks of the people or nation of the Jews, of whom it is said,…

Which place must thus be understood: not that the gospel must be preached to the whole world at any one time, for that (as I take it) was never yet seen, neither shall be; but that it shall be published distinctly and successively at several times: and thus understanding the wor…

It is an holy calling, because of the effect and purpose of it: man's calling may put dignity and honor upon us, but it cannot infuse grace; it may change our condition, but not our hearts. It is an heavenly calling, because of the author of it, God by his Spirit; and because of…

And this was among the things with which Augustine comforted the lady Italica after the death of her dear husband, telling her that she should know him in the world to come among the glorified saints. Indeed, a greater than either of these — Paul — comforted himself that the The…

Ergo. That Churches are distinct Societies, is plain in the Scripture, where we have mention of many Churches in one Country or Province (Galatians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:14), of seven Churches in Asia (Revelation 1:4), and of all the Churches (1 Corinthians 14:33; Revelation 2:…

You have heard of mortification; you have heard the doctrine of changing from death to life; apply them, and take heed how you hear; you that heard it negligently shall grow worse and worse. The second means to hear profitably, is that which is set down in (1 Thessalonians 2:13)…

And so those terms, as far as the sacred Scripture is concerned, are unwritten (agrapha). Indeed, evangelical doctrine is called "the word of life" (Philippians 2:16), "the word of the cross" (1 Corinthians 1:18), "the word of faith" (1 Timothy 4:6), "the word of Christ" (Coloss…

It has, inward feeling (Philippians 1:9; Philippians 2:13); outward works (Ephesians 5:10). By feeling of the heart, we choose, love, desire, delight, are zealous in the good thing itself, that it may be done; to refuse, hate, abhor, and are zealous against the known evil (Amos…

Faithful pastors take in cities, and subdue crowns and kingdoms, to Christ. Paul conquered many crowns to Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:19). For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?

All things are delivered to mee by my Father: and presently after for all this he says, Come to me all you that are heavie laden,—[I am meeke and lowly;] verse 28, 29. Look therefore what lovely, sweete, and delightfull thoughts you use to have of a deere friend, who is of an am…

If a man be in a wrong, and will not see his error, will not see the evil he has done in God's sight, his stiffness is a sign of his dead-heartedness; so much stiffness here, so much deadness in his heart, and so much nearness to the chambers of death: For a living Christian if…

Abraham knew Lazarus (Luke 16:25). Ministers (1 Thessalonians 2:19): What is our hope or joy or crown of rejoicing, are not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming. Christ's argument (Luke 16:9): Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness…

The word is a torment, rather than a comfort to you, you are afraid it will be found too true. 4. Do you receive it as the word of God (1 Thessalonians 2:13) It may be you do not contradict the divine authority in the Scriptures, but do you soundly believe them, and know the cer…

By this the Ministers of the Gospel are taught to handle their doctrine with modesty, and humility, without ostentation, with reverence, and with a consideration of the majesty of God whose the doctrine is which they utter, that God may be glorified (1 Peter 4:11). Secondly, the…

By this we are taught, that we may not fix our love, and our confidence upon riches: and they that buy, must be as though they bought not, and they that possess, as though they possessed not, because riches steal away the heart. The second cause of their poverty was, that they w…

Answer: Carnal Ishmaelites, such as are of the same religion and family with Isaac. Thus the Jews persecuted their own Prophets, and the Thessalonians were persecuted of their own people (1 Thessalonians 2:14). Thus Priests and Jesuits, that have been heretofore born, baptized,…

The reason was this. The Roman Emperor had given liberty to the Jews to live according to their own laws, and that without molestation or disturbance, in all places of the Roman Empire, so that if a Jew became a Christian, he had the privilege of a Jew, so long as he kept the ce…

Although all Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorified: for in this place we may see that two contraries are opposed one to another. If the ministers of the word be ordained to save men, it is a great honor to them when many are brought to salvation; if not, it makes them…

Of his abundant Love, 2 Corinthians 2:4. And of his affectionate and [tender] Love, as of a Nurse towards her children, 1 Thessalonians 2:7, 8. [So] being affectionately [desirous] of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of [God only], but also [our own…

'Whereunto I also labor, striving, according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.' 1 Thessalonians 2:2. 'We are bold in our God, to speak unto you the gospel of God, with much contention.'

Love is the fountain of all duties, the substance of all rules, that concern the Saints; the endless bond of communion; the fulfilling of the Law; the advancement of the honor of the Lord Jesus, and the glory of the Gospel. The primitive Christians had a proverbial speech, recei…

They were a people that had for many Generations been harrased and oppressed, by all the principal Empires in the world; this caused them to hate them, and to have their minds always possessed with revengeful thoughts. When our Apostle affirmed of them, that they pleased not God…

Therefore when this design of the love and wisdom of God was brought to light, it filled the Jews who had lost the faith of it with envy and wrath. See (Acts 13:45, 46, 47, 50; Acts 22:21, 22, 23; 1 Thessalonians 2:15, 16). The stories of all ages from there to this day testify…

For thus I guide all my counsel, whom I afterward receive to glory. 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:…

3. This is in respect of the glory, that results to Christ from their submission and acknowledgment, even as sinners despising him, put (as it were) a blot on him, put him to open shame, and say we will not have him to reign over us; so believers, yielding up themselves to Chris…

Now, this may relate either to the reward that faithful ministers shall have from Christ, spoken of, Daniel 12:3. O what joy and glory will result to them, from the people's fruitfulness (among whom they have labored) in the day of the Lord! that they have not run in vain, but w…

This is the inward glory of the king's daughter, which faith sees and approves of, as that which becometh God to require in us; whatever is contrary hereunto, as a sensual, carnal, worldly frame of mind, it looks on as vile and base, unworthy of God, or of those who design the e…

James 1:3. The TRYING of your Faith works Patience. 1 Thessalonians 2:4. God who TRIES our Hearts. The same Word is used in 2 Corinthians 8:8. To PROVE the Sincerity of your Love.

And effectual to melt the heart! And as the warm rain is most refreshing, so when the word comes warmly, from the melting affections of the preacher, who imparts not only the Gospel, but his own soul with it (1 Thessalonians 2:8), this does abundantly more good than that which d…

1. To walk worthy of the Gospel; it is a Kingdom. The Apostle has an exhortation and charge to this purpose (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12), that you would walk worthy of God, who has called you to his Kingdom and glory. Walk in obedience to Christ, that's one thing.

1. The precepts are a part of the divine revelation: the object of faith is the whole Word of God, and every part of divinely inspired truth is worthy of all belief and reverence. The word works not unless it be received as the Word of God (1 Thessalonians 2:13): For this cause…

1. On the one side there is the law of God's mouth, it is God's own Word, and we should be as sure of it as if we had heard him utter it and pronounce it with his own mouth, or had received it immediately by oracle from him. And indeed that is one way to raise this esteem (1 The…

So that of Samuel to Israel (1 Samuel 12:24-25), and that of David to Solomon (1 Kings 2:1-3) etc., indeed to all his children; Come, says he, I will teach you the fear of the Lord (Psalm 34:11), and it is by the fear of the Lord, that men depart from evil. So in the New Testame…

6 Another sin, which is the work of the devil, and which makes them that do it like the devil, is hindering persons from believing and closing with the truth of the Gospel, which may be done several ways: as, 1 By keeping them in ignorance, and blinding them (2 Corinthians 4:4),…

O that this might be said of every householder here; I know him, that he will take all of his house, one by one, and charge every one of them to keep the way of the Lord! What says the Apostle, in (1 Thessalonians 2:11), We charged every one of you, as a father his children. We…

[illegible] can you escape the damnation of hell (verse 32-33). 1 Thessalonians 2:15: The Jews both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us, they please not God and are contrary to all men, to fill up their sins always, for the wrath is come upon th…

6. What need we have to grow in grace. There is still something lacking in our faith (1 Thessalonians 3:10). Grace is but in its infancy and minority, and we must be still adding a cubit to our spiritual stature; the Apostles said Lord increase our faith (Luke 17:5).

The ferryman may take in too many passengers into his boat, to the sinking of his boat; so a man may heap up so much gold and silver as to sink himself in perdition (1 Timothy 6:9). But one cannot be too earnest and zealous for the kingdom of Heaven; there is no fear of excess h…

(6) 1 Timothy 4:14, 15, 16. (7) Acts 20:18, 19, 20, 25, 26; 1 Thessalonians 3:5; 2 Timothy 2:24, 25. (8) Romans 12:8; 1 Timothy 5:17.

Quest. 24. Wherein consists the general duty of the whole Church, and every member thereof in their proper station and condition? Answ. In performing, doing, and keeping inviolate all the commands and institutions of Jesus Christ, walking unblameably and fruitfully in the World,…

The reasons of this are: 1. Above all graces in us, he is the greatest enemy to faith. Therefore (1 Thessalonians 3:5) the apostle was jealous of Satan in nothing more than in this, lest he had been dealing and tampering with and perverting their faith: 'I sent to know of your f…

[In non-Latin alphabet], if, is generally taken here not to be a conditional but a causal conjunction. And so, as many judge, it is used: (Romans 8:31; 2 Corinthians 5:15; 1 Thessalonians 3:8; 1 Peter 1:17). And it is rendered in our translation by For, For that another Priest;…

Answer: Invocation belongs to all the three persons in Trinity, and not only to the father, Acts 7:59. Stephen prays, Lord Jesus receive my spirit. 1 Thessalonians 3:2. Now God our father and our Lord Jesus Christ guide our journey to you. 2 Corinthians 13:13. The grace of our L…

I know God more, Christ more, the vanity of the world more, the odiousness of sin more, that is more practically, and in another manner than I did before, old principles are improved and perfected: I speak this because of the danger to which men expose themselves by expecting ne…

Secondly, there are no acts, but for some end, there are men who make not themselves their end; if they did, they might then take other courses, going with the stream. If then they make not themselves their end, then they make God their end, they live not to themselves, but to t…

Acts 7:59. Stephen prays, Lord Jesus receive my spirit. 1 Thessalonians 3:2. Now God our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, guide our journey to you. 2 Corinthians 13:13. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you.

3 Whole man] Therefore in the commandments not the body only, but the judgment, will, and affections, in the soul, must be taught what to do, and leave undone. 4 Perfect obedience] A second difference of the Law and Gospel is gathered: for the Gospel asks but a true faith, not p…

How comforted was he when he heard tidings of the constancy and increase of any of their faith? (1 Thessalonians 3:6-7) and verse 8 he says, for now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord. Read all his Epistles, and take the character of his spirit this way; and when you have do…

And such as do believe, may be carried on in believing; such as are faithful, had need be yet more faithful; you read also (Philippians 1:25), I shall abide with you, for your furtherance and joy of faith, such a furtherance as is for the increasing and augmentation of your fait…

Seventhly, that Christians who have attained the strongest and highest degree of faith have yet had many defects and doubts mingled with their faith. Lord, I believe (Mark 9), yet help my unbelief — yet that man attained to a high pitch of faith (1 Thessalonians 3:10). Night and…

(Ephesians 5:2) Walk in love, as Christ also has loved us. (1 Thessalonians 3:12) The Lord make you to increase and abound in love one towards another. (1 Thessalonians 4:9) Your selves are taught of God to love one another.

Satan is the sworn enemy of Christ, the adversary that openly, constantly, avowedly opposes him in his throne (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 6:12; 1 Peter 5:8). And he exerts his enmity by temptations (1 Corinthians 7:5; 1 Thessalonians 3:5), accusations (Revelation 12:10), persecuti…

For you are our glory and our joy. It's a piece of their life and satisfaction, to see the work of the Gospel thrive among the people: We live (says Paul) 1 Thessalonians 3:8. if you stand fast in the Lord. Or, 2. It may look to that which is called for from a people to their mi…

Pray for me (says the great Apostle) that utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the Mysteries of the Gospel (Ephesians 6:19). Indeed, by the saints' prayers it is, that Ministers obtain the success and fruits of their labors (1 Thessalonians 3…

In the regenerate the affections are like two contrary rivers, when the one river is full at the flowing in of the sea, the river in the contrary coast is low and ebb; so joy, sorrow, love, desire, &c. as the Spirit prevails (Romans 7), as the flesh prevails in its motion, so ar…

The workings then of the spirit of grace in that duty, are distinctly directed to the Father as such, as the fountain of the Deity, and of all good things in Christ; as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. And therefore the same apostle does in another place, expressly conjoin,…

The life promised, is opposed to the death threatened in the clause foregoing: If you live after the flesh, you shall die; which the same Apostle elsewhere expresses: you shall of the flesh reap corruption (Galatians 6:8), or destruction from God. Now perhaps the word may not on…

Every grace in a child of God needs increase and support. There is something that is lacking to their faith, to their love, to their knowledge (1 Thessalonians 3:10). The Apostle says, That I might perfect that which is lacking to your faith.

Non est vivere sed valere vita. 1 Thessalonians 3:8: We live if you stand fast in the truth. A man that enjoys himself is said to live.

3 Deceivers and seducers are of the devil, who is the deceiver (Revelation 12:9 and 20:12), the old serpent that deceived Eve, and deceives the whole world: they that deceive the souls of men are like the devil, whether it be done by calling the truth into question, as the devil…

2. His design. 1. God's decree (1 Thessalonians 3:3). We are appointed to it: whoever brings the suffering, God sends it; God did bid Shimei curse; Shimei's tongue was the arrow, but it was God that did shoot it.

Indeed in heaven this doctrine will be out of season; we shall not need to hear it — then we shall have done growing, having arrived at our full stature; then our light shall be clear and our love perfect. But while we live here, there is something lacking in our faith (1 Thessa…

It has pleased God, there should be extant various monuments whereby the author's eminent abilities do yet survive in the hearts and esteem of men. Yet none express him more to the life, than the piety and virtue of those that grew up under him — he lives if they stand fast in t…

1 How disproportionable is it to the means of Grace we have enjoyed! There is still something lacking inour Faith, 1 Thessalonians 3:10. O Christian be not proud of what you have, but be humble for what you want.

Hence Daniel in his Vision of the Day of Judgement, beheld a thousand thousand ministering to Him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. Yes, and all the Saints in heaven shall come down from there to wait upon the blessed Son of God (1 Thessalonians 3:13). At th…

Truly by the same man's definition, the end and fulfilling of the law is charity (1 Timothy 1:5). But when he wishes the minds of the Thessalonians to be filled with charity, he does sufficiently confess, that the law sounds in our ears without profit, unless God inspire the who…

8th Commandment: You shall not steal. He breaks this commandment: who lives in no calling (1 Thessalonians 3:11); who neglects his calling (Jeremiah 48:10); who spends his wealth in riot and provides not for his family (1 Timothy 5:8); who is not content with his estate but seek…

And David, though Nathan had told him that the Lord had put away his sin, and that he should not die (2 Samuel 12), yet he is not so quickly persuaded and so easily satisfied touching this point, but that after this he still prays and cries for pardon (Psalm 51), as if he had ne…

In your favour is life. Secondly, The prospering of God's work in themselves and others (1 Thessalonians 3:8). Now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord: they were his joy, and his crown and glory; But was that his life of justification, think you?

2. The bodies of believers are united to Christ in the grave, and shall rest there till the resurrection. They are said to sleep in Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4:14). The dust of believers is part of Christ's body mystical.

A voice came from heaven, saying, this is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased. It is the will of God that we should be holy (1 Thessalonians 4:3). Now when we are bespangled with holiness, our lives are walking Bibles: this is according to God's will, and it pleases him.

(2.) Christ prays for nothing but what his Father has a mind to grant. There is but one will between Christ and his Father: Christ prays, Sanctify them through your truth; and this is the will of God, even your sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3). So then, if Christ prays for n…

Quest. To what does God call men? Resp. 1. He calls them to holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:7). God has not called us to uncleanness, but to holiness.

The highest elevation of a reasonable soul, is to enjoy God for ever. It is the enjoying God, makes heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Then shall we ever be with the Lord.

I saw the dead small and great stand before God. This citing of men will be by the sound of a trumpet (1 Thessalonians 4:16), and this trumpet will sound so loud, that it will raise men out of their graves (Matthew 24:31). Such as will not hear the trumpet of the Gospel sound in…

At your right hand are pleasures forevermore. This is the highest strain in the Apostle's rhetoric (1 Thessalonians 4:17): ever with the Lord. There is peace without trouble, ease without pain, glory without end — ever with the Lord.

All that are of God, as they have Christ for their captain (Hebrews 2:10), so holiness is the white color they wear. 5. Holiness is our honor, holiness and honor put together (1 Thessalonians 4:4), dignity goes along with sanctity (Revelation 1:6). He has washed us from our sins…

Isaiah 25:8. He will swallow up death in victory. That is, by delivering our bodies from the captivity of the grave, wherein death for a time had power over them (1 Thessalonians 4:14). Them which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.

The more violently the wind beats against the sails of a ship, the sooner the ship is brought to the haven; and the more fiercely God's children are assaulted, the sooner they come to their Father's house. Therefore comfort one another with these words (1 Thessalonians 4:18). Us…

1 Thessalonians 4:3 — For this is the will of God, even your Sanctification. The notion of the word Sanctification signifies to consecrate and set apart to a holy use.

1. It is against the law of God. (Leviticus 25:14) If you sell anything to your neighbor, you shall not oppress one another. And, 2. Against gospel. (1 Thessalonians 4:6) Let no man go beyond, or defraud his brother. It is stealing.

When we pray for outward things, for riches or children, perhaps God sees these things are not good for us; our prayers must comport with God's will. We may pray absolutely for grace; for this is the will of God, our sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3). There might be no strang…

6. A heart without guile is just in his dealings: as he is upright in his words, so he is upright in his weights. He makes conscience of the second table as well as the first: he is for equity as well as piety (1 Thessalonians 4:6). That no man go beyond and defraud his brother…

Sometimes it is used of a person, who ought in duty to be regarded and honored, but is despised (Luke 10:16; John 12:48), where it is rendered to despise. So (1 Thessalonians 4:8; Jude 8). Sometimes it respects things (Galatians 2:21; 1 Timothy 5:12).

This very flesh which we now thus employ under its weaknesses, in a constant course of the most difficult duties, shall be raised out of the dust, purified from all its infirmities, freed from all its weaknesses, made incorruptible and immortal, to enjoy rest and glory to eterni…

1. To believe in Christ (John 6:40): This is the will of him that sent me, that every one which sees the Son, and believes in him, should have everlasting life. 2. Sanctification of body and soul (1 Thessalonians 4:3): This is the will of God, even your sanctification, etc. 3. T…

And sensible experience shall manifest the force of it. For it shall cause all the dead even from the beginning of the world to rise again, though they have lain rotten in the earth many thousand years: and all unclean spirits shall be forced and compelled, will they, nill they,…

A faithful servant would not willingly offend his Master, and therefore would fain know what is his will: they plead with God, and search themselves (Romans 12:2), and all to know his pleasure; and not only to know it, but to do it, otherwise they are worthy of many stripes by C…

This use is threefold: in respect of God, of man, and of ourselves. 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 —…

So (1 Corinthians 6:9) Know you not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of God; that is, are you so ignorant of the principles of the Oracles of God, as not to understand so plain and important a truth? The rules of the Gospel are clear (1 Thessalonians 4:6): That…

And for their relations, though it be some comfort to receive them again from the dead; yet the consideration, that they are returned to them into the stormy sea, to partake of new sorrows and troubles, from which they were lately free; and in a short time they must part with th…

The farmer does not mourn when he casts his seed-corn into the earth, because he sows in hope and commits it to the ground with an expectation to receive it again with increase. And just so the apostle states it in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14: But I would not have you to be ignorant…

1. To believe in Christ (John 6:40). This is the will of him that sent me, that every one that sees the Son, and believes in him, should have life everlasting. 2. Sanctification of body and soul (1 Thessalonians 4:3). This is the will of God, even your sanctification, &c. 3. The…

4. But as every fullness is not all fullness, so every fullness is not the fullness of the Godhead; therefore, to me it's as much as the elect are drawn to Christ as the choicest, the rarest among all. 2. So among all choice things and all relations, he is the first and most emi…

Every one that loves him that begat, loves him also that is begotten of him. The new nature inclines to both, there is an inward propensity and inclination, needing no outward provocation and allurements (1 Thessalonians 4:9). As touching brotherly love you need not that I write…

We have higher things to mind; it is not for eagles to catch flies, or princes to embrace the dunghill. 4. Since this glory is for the body, do not debase the body, to make it an instrument of sin (1 Thessalonians 4:4). Possess your vessels in sanctification and honor, do not of…

Of this creation we have amply spoken heretofore; to wit, that it pertains to the renewing of the inward man. Now the Scripture is often accustomed to use this argument, to wit, You are called to holiness, and not to uncleanness: (1 Thessalonians 4:7). Also (Philippians 2:15), W…

We must meditate on such declarations as these: “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…

also came. The publicans are not only exhorted, in general terms, to repent, but the duties peculiar to their calling are demanded: for we know that, besides the general rule of the law, each person ought to consider what is required by the nature of the employment to which he h…

Now therefore in like sort be prone and ready to be ruled of God: and let not your courage be less now in doing of good, than it was before in doing of evil. He does not observe the order of the Antithesis, to apply the parts on both sides: as to the Thessalonians he opposes unc…

Now Holiness wherever it is pleases God, and therefore without Faith it is impossible we should have any interest in it. This is the Will of God even our Sanctification, 1 Thess. 4. 3. and walking therein we please God, v. 7. All that pleases God in us, is our Holiness, or some…

The necessity of holiness is proved from the commands of God in the law and the gospel. Section 1. Having established the necessity of holiness from the nature and decrees of God, the next argument is taken from his word, or commands, as the nature and order of these things requ…

Now the Providence of God with respect to our civil Callings, may be displayed very takingly in the following particulars. In directing you to a Calling in your Youth, and not suffering you to live an idle, useless and sinful life, as many do, who are but burthens to the Earth,…

Your mind was a fairly built house without windows; or if any, but wooden windows that would let in no light: now God has opened these shutters, and let in the Sun of righteousness to shine upon your soul; and brought you from this dungeon of darkness in your soul, and given you…

(1 Thessalonians 3:12) The Lord make you to increase and abound in love one towards another. (1 Thessalonians 4:9) Your selves are taught of God to love one another. (1 Peter 1:22) Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the spirit, to unfeigned love of…

But, 5. yet it is apparent that the Apostle uses an [in non-Latin alphabet], placing himself among those to whom he wrote, though not personally concerned in every particular spoken; a thing so usual with him, that there is scarce any of his Epistles wherein sundry instances of…

Create in me a clean heart O God; from where it appears that the heart of its self is unclean. And the Apostle gives it us under the same name and notion (1 Thessalonians 4 v. 7; 1 Corinthians 7 v. 14). Fourthly, Solomon as they suppose calls it [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩] an en…

So you find it often in the Scripture; Our friend Lazarus sleeps, says Christ, when he was dead (John 11). And the Apostle (1 Thessalonians 4:13): I would not have you ignorant concerning those which sleep, that is, concerning those who are dead. Lighten my eyes (says David) [re…

The soul in its faculties will then be perfected, capacitated and expanded to conceive, take up and delight in God; and the body perfected, made glorious and spiritual, like the glorious body of our Lord Jesus (Philippians 3, last verse). 4. The hope of that day, and of the flee…

False and counterfeited wares, over-commending, or undervaluing of goods for advantage; and many other unjust contrivances, which men's consciences can better suggest to them, than any discourse. The Apostle has sufficiently cautioned and threatened such men (1 Thessalonians 4:6…

Indeed the whole apparatus of this day seems to be typical of the last; but as it is the condition of all types, it shall be far outdone and exceeded by its antitype. Here were voices, and fire, and smoke, and the noise of a trumpet; and these struck terror into the hearts of th…

To defraud another in dealing, is but a more covert way of stealing, and it is as lawful to take a purse upon the highway, as to take a shilling by fraud in the shop; the difference lies only in the degree, the nature of the sin which is theft, is the same in both. And the Lord,…

Sincerity in every duty, and universality with respect to all duties, are the properties of it. This is the will of God, even your sanctification (1 Thessalonians 4:3). That holiness, without which none shall see God (Hebrews 12:14).

Mercy is his delight (Micah 7:18). We pray to God for a holy heart, and this prayer is according to his will (1 Thessalonians 4:3). This is the will of God, your sanctification.

But now the great trumpet is blown in a more literal sense, with a mighty sound, which shakes the earth. There will be a great signal given by a mighty sound made, which is called the voice of the archangel, as being the angel of greatest strength, 1 Thessalonians 4:16. "For the…

Colossians 1:4. We heard of your Faith in Christ Jesus, and of the LOVE which ye have to all Saints. 1 Thessalonians 4:9. As touching BROTHERLY-LOVE, ye need not that I write unto you; for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. So, Philemon 5. Hearing of thy Love,…

Were there not a resurrection of it expected, the husbandman would never be willing to cast away his corn. The bodies of saints are also committed to the grave in hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14). But I would not have you to be ignorant brethren, concerning those which are asleep,…

Then we may suit from God what he promises to give. 4. Our will is to be conform to the holy will of God in his law (Romans 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 1 Peter 2:5). Then may we seek necessary helps for these actings.

O but a clean hearth-stone, and a chaste, holy and clean house would be kept for the kindlings and flamings of the Holy Ghost. See (Titus 2:3, 4; 1 Thessalonians 4:2, 3, 4; 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20) let the Holy Ghost, his temple that he dwells in, be neat, pure, undefiled, for in…

Resp. This peace has the whole Trinity for its author. 1. God the Father is the God of peace (1 Thessalonians 5:23). 2. God the Son is the Prince of peace (Isaiah 9:6).

This is the partaking of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). God's Spirit is a Spirit of consecration; though it sanctifies us but in part, yet in every part (1 Thessalonians 5:23). This is such a mercy that God cannot give in anger; if we are sanctified, then we are elected (2 The…

God's Spirit is a spirit of bondage before it be a spirit of adoption. This blessed work of regeneration spreads over the whole soul; it irradiates the mind, it consecrates the heart, and reforms the life: though regeneration be but in part, it is in every part (1 Thessalonians…

The dew wets the leaf, the sap is hid in the root; the religion of some consists only in externals, but Sanctification is deeply rooted in the soul (Psalm 51:6): In the hidden part you will make me to know wisdom. 3. Sanctification is an extensive thing; it spreads into the whol…

These spiritual fathers are to be honored for their work's sake, and this honor is to be shown three ways. 1. By giving them respect (1 Thessalonians 5:12): Know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake.…

Quest. How shall we know our souls are pure? Resp. 1. If our souls are pure, then we fly from the appearance of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:22). We will not do that which looks like sin.

Let us cry to God for help against the Tempter, as Samson cried to Heaven for help (Judges 16:28), O Lord God, remember me, and strengthen me I pray you, that I may be avenged of the Philistines: and, verse 30, The house fell upon the lords, and upon all the people. Prayer is st…

4. That he answered the Law and the penalty of it (Romans 8:3): "God sent forth his Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us" (Galatians 3:13): "Christ has redeemed us from the curse…

(6) To abide with, and stand by them, in their sufferings for the Gospel, and service of Christ among them. (1) 1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13; 1 Timothy 5:17. (2) Hebrews 13:17; 1 Corinthians 16:16.

For the words expressly assign two sorts of Elders, whereof some, only attend to rule; others moreover labor in the word and doctrine. Neither does that word, as some would have it, labor in the Word, intend any other labor but what is incumbent on all the Pastors and Teachers o…

Quest. 42. To whom is the power and administration of this Discipline committed by Jesus Christ? Answ. As to the authority to be exerted in it in the things wherein the whole Church is concerned, to the Elders; as to trial, judgment and consent in, and to its exercise to the who…

(4) In exhorting, comforting, and restoring to the enjoyment and exercise of Church privileges such as are recovered from the error of their ways; all according to the laws, rules, and directions of the Gospel. (1) (Matthew 18:15; 1 Thessalonians 5:14; 1 Corinthians 4:14; Titus…

Q. What are the parts of prayer? A. Petition and thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:17, 11). Q. What is petition?

Do you need peace of conscience being filled with terrors? He is 'the God of peace' (1 Thessalonians 5:23). 'Yes, but I have a heart empty of grace and holiness and full of corruptions.'

No better helps of our faith can there be, than often and seriously to consider of the mercy and power of him that made them: if he be willing, and able, what can let the performance of them? Let us therefore often say with holy Paul, Faithful is he who has promised, who will al…

Rex pacificus and Rex pacis do both denote him that is the maker and author of peace. So God on that account is called the God of Peace (Romans 15:13; Chapter 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 2 Thessalonians 3:16; Hebrews 13:20). Therefore as we ought to acquiesce in the authority o…

The whole was corrupted, and the whole must be renewed. The image of God was originally in and upon the whole, and on the loss of it the whole was depraved; see 1 Thessalonians 5:23. 2. To take away the necessity and efficacy of renewing, changing, sanctifying grace, consisting…

So it is made use of by our blessed Savior (Luke 21:34, 35, 36). And so by our Apostle (1 Thessalonians 5:5, 6, 7, 8). And this also is expressed in the type of it, or the Flood in the days of Noah, nothing in it was more terrible to men than that they were surprised in the mids…

The great use, benefit and advantage which believers have by this grace, is the supporting of their souls under the troubles and difficulties which they meet withal upon the account of the profession of what they do believe (Romans 5:4, 5; 1 Corinthians 15:19; 1 Thessalonians 1:…

Hereby it is rendered unmeet for the discharge of its office in any particular duties. With respect hereunto conscience is here used synecdochically for the whole soul, and all the faculties of it, yes, our whole spirit, souls and bodies, which are all to be cleansed and sanctif…

2. What is it to hold fast this profession? The words we so render, are [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], and sometimes [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], singly, as (1 Thessalonians 5:23). [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] and [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], are indefinitely used to this end (ch.…

First, real and internal in regeneration and effectual sanctification. The washing of regeneration and the renewing of the Holy Ghost (Titus 3:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:23). But this is not that which is here intended.

There was sleeping in the bed of uncleanness and drunkenness among the Heathens. But our Apostle who well enough knew their course, affirms of them, that they who sleep, sleep in the night, and they who are drunken, are drunken in the night (1 Thessalonians 5:7). They did their…

How incomparably useful are the Graces! Faith and Fear go hand in hand; Faith keeps the heart cheerful, Fear keeps the heart serious; Faith keeps the heart from sinking in despair, Fear keeps it from floating in presumption; all the Graces display themselves in their beauty: Hop…

And the reason why the Lord would have him stand on these two parts is this: Some creatures made before him were only bodily; as beasts, fishes, fowls: some spiritual, as Angels: now man is both; spiritual in regard of his soul, corporeal and sensible in regard of his body; that…

Question 4: What is the time appointed for prayer? Answer: Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17), that is, upon all occasions: or when a man begins any business, whether it be in word or deed (Colossians 3:17): or as Daniel, who prayed three times every day (Daniel 6:11): or a…

The faculties are not new, but the qualities; as the strings of a viol are the same, but the tune is altered. Righteousness is extensive in the subject, it has a spreading virtue (1 Thessalonians 5:23). The God of peace sanctify you wholly.

The pattern of that sanctification which is wrought in the heart is God's nature or image (2 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 4:24), and the pattern of that sanctification which is wrought in the life is God's law or revealed will (1 Thessalonians 4:3); the one is our habitual holiness, and…

That they walk according to rule (Galatians 6:16): "As many as walk according to this rule, peace be to them, and mercy." That they have a respect to all God's commands, and hate every false way (Psalm 119:128), and consequently that they make conscience of every, yes the least…

I am sorry he sought no better, else he had found more. Subjection and obedience is commanded, as due, not only to Civil, but to Spiritual Governors, to those that are over us in the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:12). So (1 Timothy 5:17), Let the Elders that rule well, be counted wort…

We use to say (when we speak of our conversion) since my soul was wrought on. And though the body is said to be sanctified (1 Thessalonians 5:23), yet the immediate subject is the soul; and that primitively, originally: the body by derivation from the soul. And hence it is, the…

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,…

Now this is the work of prayer, namely, to seek and obtain such supplies of mortifying, sanctifying grace, as whereby the power of sin may be broken, its strength abated, its root withered, its life destroyed, and so the whole Old Man crucified. That which was the Apostle's requ…

If he shall say, you have nothing to do to pass sentence or censure upon me, I am none of your Church, but of another Church; suppose in Holland, in France, &c. and I am only here now for merchandise sake, or upon some other occasion: what shall they say to stop his mouth, if th…

For example, every Christian is bound in charity to admonish and reprove his brother that offends; first, privately, then before witnesses; and if he hear not, to tell it to the Church (Leviticus 19:17; Matthew 18:15, 16, 17). This a ruling Elder ought to do by virtue of his cal…

4. It makes the last part of the speech, in the word and doctrine, to be superfluous: for they hold that all the difference here is in the measure or manner of labor, and no difference in re subjecta. 5. All who have any charge in the ministry are called [in non-Latin alphabet]…

Now there are good reasons why this popular government or exercise by jurisdiction by all can not be admitted into a Congregation. First, in every Christian Congregation, there are some Rulers, some ruled, some Governors, some governed, some that command, some that obey, as is m…

Quest. 4. What is the time appointed for prayer? Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5:17), that is, upon all occasions, or when a man begins any business, whether it be in word, or deed (Colossians 3:17), or as Daniel, who prayed three times every day (Daniel 6:11), or as David,…

That one Spirit, whom He commanded the faithful to seek with all their prayers from the Father (Luke 11:13), He willed to be all in all throughout the whole of evangelical worship. See (Luke 12:10; John 3:5, 6, 8, 4:24; Romans 7:6, 8:1, 2, 9, 18, 26, 15:30; 1 Corinthians 2:4, 12…

To this is contrary, a stay, or going backward (Galatians 5). Watchfulness is a continual care with ourselves, that we be readily prepared as we ought, to practice good, and resist evil, which is set forth (Ephesians 6:10-18; 1 Corinthians 16:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:6; Mark 13:35)…

3 Of the vse of them to the glorie of God. To use these things to the glory of God, is so to use them, as we neither be drunk or asleep in them, as the Apostle says, which are the works of the night and darkness: not of the day (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8). To be drunk, it is to be o…

BY a thing indifferent in vse, is meant that which is not only free to be used, but also convenient in that time & place, before those persons where we are presently to use the same as if the thing be made by the law unlawful, & withal to have no good report, praise, or virtue i…

Matthew 26. And when they had sung a Psalm, they went out into the mount Olivet. 1 Thessalonians 5:20. Quench not the Spirit: Set not light by preaching: Try all things: Hold fast that which is good.] For obedience of life, it behooveth them to teach them, call on them, and see…

We are commanded to put away all other things out of our mind, and all superfluity, or malice, or filthiness whatever, and be ready and swift to hear, yes and to receive the word of the Lord by his minister, his husbandman is ready to ingraft in our souls (James 1:18; Luke 8:18)…

1. You would not take up our meaning in it so, as if we made every common work that lively means may have on the hearers of the Gospel, to be conversion; the preaching of the Word will sometimes make folks tremble, as we see in Felix, and will waken convictions and terrors in th…

But as peace is opposed to pain, and sense of wrath and punishment, for the guilt of our sins, so he wanted physical peace, and was now under penal disturbance and disquietness of soul. So we see some have peace, but not pardon; as the secure sinners (1 Thessalonians 5:3). Secon…

So as Christ died not, but on a poor hopeless venture, and a forlorn contingency, that might as soon fill Hell, with the damned souls of all the world, as grace Paradise with redeemed ones. 6. His coming in the world has no such Arminian end, that we read of, as a possible savin…

When the Prophet had lain upon the child, and had done so seven times, at length the breath of the child began to wax warm, a sign that life was a restoring, and thereby the Prophet discerned that life began to return into the body of the child, because warmth returned; and so i…

Just as Paul complains of the Jews (Acts 13:46), since you have put it away from you, lo, we turn to the Gentiles, we purge and cast out the motions of God's spirit, and cannot endure that any Ordinance should bring us nearer to Christ. (Acts 7:51) You have always resisted the H…

2. Civil worship is when we give men and angels due reverence, and 1. With respect to their stations and relations, whatever their qualifications be, as to magistrates, ministers, parents, great men; we are to reverence and honor them according to their degree and quality; accor…