1 Timothy

How should they that are called be affected with God's discriminating love; how should the vessels of mercy run over with thankfulness; how should they stand upon Mount Gerizim, blessing and praising God: O begin the work of Heaven here! Such as are patterns of mercy, should be…

As suppose a cloud cover the sun, this makes no change in the body of the sun; so though the divine nature be covered with the human, this makes no change in the divine nature. Second, there is no period put to his being (1 Timothy 1:16). Who only has immortality.

Secondly, keep assurance by humility: pride estranges God from the soul; when you are high in assurance, be low in humility. Saint Paul had assurance, and he baptizes himself with this name, chief of sinners, (1 Timothy 1:15). The jewel of assurance is best kept in the cabinet o…

God in this respect is most fit to be a Lawgiver; he is wise in heart (Job 9:4). He has a monopoly of wisdom (1 Timothy 1:17). The only wise God.

He is semper existens, namely, from everlasting to everlasting; it is God's title, a jewel of his crown. 1. He is called, The King Eternal (1 Timothy 1:17). 2. Jehovah, a word that properly sets out God's eternity; a word so dreadful, that the Jews trembled to name or read it, t…

This is that blessed harp which drives away sadness of spirit. Hear the sounding of this harp a little (1 Timothy 1:15): This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners; he took not only our flesh upon him, but our…

God is wise in heart, that is, he is most wise. First, God is only wise; he does monopolize and ingross all wisdom; therefore, he is called [reconstructed: the only wise God] (1 Timothy 1:17). All the treasures of wisdom are locked up in him, and no creature can have any wisdom,…

He is perfectly good: Earthly fathers are subject to infirmities: Elijah (though a prophet) was a man of like passions (James 5:17), but God is perfectly good: All the perfection we can arrive at in this life is sincerity; we may a little resemble God, but not equal him: He is i…

(Psalm 103:1). Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless his holy name. O! how should the vessels of mercy run over with praise: (1 Timothy 1:13). Who was before a persecutor, and injurious, but [in non-Latin alphabet] I obtained mercy. I was bemiracled with mer…

I am He that blots out sin for my own name's sake. As when a creditor freely forgives a debtor (1 Timothy 1:15). I obtained mercy.

For if that righteousness of his satisfied God, who in condemning us is greater than our hearts, then it may satisfy our hearts much more. The righteousness of his life and death is not only a sufficient ransom (1 Timothy 2:6), but there is 'plenteous redemption' in it (Psalm 13…

And not only so, but delivers them up to Satan — that being the consequence of it, which therefore, because it implies the former, is put to express the whole proceeding. Which delivery of him to Satan was not a giving him a commission to carry him on to more sin, for the end pr…

King Manasseh had sold himself to Idolatry and witchcraft, and had shed innocent blood exceeding much, and caused Judah to sin, 2 Kings 21, 6, 16; for which he was led captive: yet when he humbled himself and prayed, God was entreated of him. 2 Chronicles 33.13. And Paul saith o…

Some again are of mind, that love is the very nature and form of faith: but it is otherwise. For as confidence in God, so also love is an effect which proceeds from faith (1 Timothy 1:5). The end of the law is love from a pure heart and good conscience and faith unfeigned.

Reason 1. The faith whereby we live, is that faith whereby we are justified: but the faith whereby we live spiritually, is a particular faith whereby we apply Christ to ourselves, as Paul says (Galatians 2:20): I live, that is, spiritually, by the faith of the Son of God: which…

Therefore the place must be understood of the doctrine of Christ and not of his miracles alone, as Paul teaches in Galatians 1:8: If we or an angel from heaven preach to you anything beside that which we have preached, let him be accursed. And to this effect he blames those who…

There is one ground of boasting that the Lord will have removed in a sinner's justification and obtaining the pardon of sin by the imputation of the righteousness of Christ; but there is another ground or matter of boasting that man might have if he could reach out the hand to b…

The life (says the Apostle, Galatians 2) that I now live in the flesh, is by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. And (1 Timothy 1:15) this is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptance, that Jesus Christ came to the world to save sinners, of…

1. Because He meritoriously purchased life to them; which is the thing here mainly understood; as following immediately on the back of His sufferings. 2. Because they have life from Him efficiently, as He works it in them, and by the gospel begets them; therefore He is said (1 T…

For the Lord had nothing to procure to Himself; to speak simply, there could be no addition made to the glory of God thereby; therefore, it is said (John 6:39-40), This is the Father's will that has sent me, that of all that he has given me, I should lose nothing, but should rai…

2. It may be considered as it looks to the Mediator; and so it speaks out the Mediator's design and work; it is that wherein He is employed, and with which He is taken up, even to get elect sinners brought from under the curse of God, and freely justified through Himself. So tha…

3. Consider that as sometimes knowledge is put for faith, so this assent may be put for faith, where yet more is implied in it, especially considering that, (Romans 10), faith is called, faith of the heart, with the heart man believes; now believing with the heart being an act o…

The Scriptures which we cited before do confirm this, as Psalm 18:23. I kept myself from my iniquity; and 2 Chronicles 6:29. where Solomon says, when every one shall know his own sore and his own grief; or as it is 1 Kings 8:38. The plague of his own heart. This implies these tw…

2. It is Antinomian doctrine to make opposition between the Gospel promise, and the debt of the promise: the debt of works (Romans 4 and Romans 11) is law-debt due to the worker, as a hireling is worthy of his wages, because he has done the work perfectly, according to a covenan…

The churches of Galatia, to whom Paul prays, grace and peace. 1 Peter 3:18: for those that he was to bring to God, and in no place of Scripture, nor yet 1 Timothy 1:15, is it said, Christ died for sinners as sinners, but only for those that were sinners, which can never prove th…

And thus did that evangelical prophet Isaiah chiefly set forth the intent of Christ's sufferings for justification, Isaiah 53, throughout the chapter, as David before had done the story of his passion, Psalm 22. And thus to show the use and purpose of his sufferings was the scop…

Now if a man should pray for men in any calamity, how much more in this, the greatest of all the rest — we ought most to pray for our brethren when they sin. Reason 2: Taken from the duty that lies upon a Christian to exhort his brethren (Hebrews 3:12-13) and (Leviticus 19:17),…

Man had fallen from the love of God to the creature, and was conscious to himself of having displeased his maker, and so lay under the fears of his vindictive justice. Now God by Christ declares his love to the offender, in the fullest and most astonishing way, reconciling himse…

AMEN. 1 Timothy 1 — To the King everlasting, immortal, invisible, to God only wise be honor and glory for ever and ever. AMEN.

For otherwise he calls the law holy and good. As (1 Timothy 1) we know that the law is good, if it be rightly used: to wit, civilly to bridle evildoers, and spiritually to increase transgressions. But, whoever observes the law to obtain righteousness before God, makes the law wh…

Lastly all men are on this real manner with Paul to learn the same. For he is an example to all that shall believe in him to life everlasting (1 Timothy 1:12). Paul bids us do the good things which we have seen in him (Philippians 4:9).

But this exposition has its defects, and errors. For first of all, charity is not the form, or life of faith, but the fruit and effect of it (1 Timothy 1:5). The end of teaching is love out of a pure heart, good conscience, and faith unfeigned.

2. The most principal part of our change or renovation, is in the heart, where the spirit abides. The end of all teaching is love out of a pure heart, good conscience, and faith unfeigned (1 Timothy 1:5). 3. The beginning and principal part of God's worship is in the heart.

We are delivered from our enemies, that we may serve God in righteousness and holiness before him all the days of our lives without fear. Paul says that the law is not given to the righteous man (1 Timothy 1:9), because he is a law to himself, and freely does good duties, as if…

God has made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him (2 Corinthians 5:21). Thirdly, in the object, The law is given to the unjust and lawless, ungodly, and profane (1 Timothy 1:9-10), that it may show them their sins, and the…

In the same manner Paul says: This is a faithful saying, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief, (1 Timothy 1:15.) As to Mark and Luke calling him Levi, it appears that this was his ordinary name: "Il est aise a voir que c'estoit son droit nom…

Nor is it without reason that Paul says, that though he was a blasphemer, he obtained pardon, because he had done it ignorantly in his unbelief (1 Timothy 1:13); for this term draws a distinction between his sin and voluntary rebellion.

And that whatever good they thus show to them, they do it freely, friendly, and without compulsion: and that all things may flow and spring from a well-willing and cheerful heart, that humbly thanks God, and praises his holy name, for all his gracious gifts, so largely and bount…

The truth is, these ordinary Evangelists are a new fiction; their true employment was to be sent by the Apostles, from place to place, for the preaching of the Gospel, without a settled residence upon any one charge. Upon this advantage, you raise a slight argument, that St. Pau…

But yet not one of them, not any one that is now in heaven, Jesus Christ alone excepted, did ever come thither any other way but by forgiveness of sin; and that will also bring us thither, though we come short of many of them in holiness and grace. And this evidence of forgivene…

Or, 2. (which is not inconsistent with the former) some grace in the believer, acting on Christ, and quickening the new life; and seeing the scope is to commend the believer from inherent grace, and the new nature being compared to an inner-man, which is described from its sever…

And certainly a due love of God, and of our neighbor, will make us careful to perform all the duties of religion to the one, and of justice to the other, and keep us from attempting any violation to his honor, or violence to their right. And therefore the apostle tells us, that…

The longer a saint grows in this world, the better he is still acquainted with his own heart, and his obligations to God; both which are very humbling things. Paul had one foot in heaven, when he called himself the chiefest of sinners, and least of saints (1 Timothy 1:15; Ephesi…

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…

He is said to be Plenteous, Psalm 4:5. Abundant, 1 Peter 1:3. Rich, Ephesians 2:4. in mercy; then, that his Mercies are unsearchable, Ephesians 3:8. High as the Heaven above the Earth, Psalm 10:4. Which are so high and vast, that the whole Earth is but a small point to them: ind…

Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world (John 14:22)! The right knowledge of our former estate, and a due consideration thereof, makes us ascribe all the glory of our present dignity, and happiness, to Christ that altered our estate, as Saint…

When afterwards such inhuman impiety was manifested in the world, the Civil Law ordained this punishment: If any shall kill his parent, let him not be put to the sword, nor fire, nor any other usual punishment; but let him be sewed in a sack with a dog, and a cock, and a viper,…

So that there would be no such thing as Peace, and Civility and Honesty to be found in several Places. The Apostle Paul tells us, 1 Timothy 1:9, 10. Knowing this, that the Law is not made for a righteous Man, but for the Lawless and Disobedient, for the Ungodly and for Sinners,…

O, when once a child of God falls upon speaking of God, he cannot tell how to come out of the meditation; he sees so much is due to God, that he heaps words upon words. So (1 Timothy 1:17), Now to the King Eternal, Immortal, Invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory, for…

Therefore whoever supposes that knowledge of the sciences flows from men themselves has indeed detracted just as much from God's authority, since God alone is the source and origin of all knowledge. Therefore however small a portion of this knowledge God may have instilled in us…

Objection 1. But how does this consist with the truth of God? He says he will have all to be saved, (1 Timothy 2:4) yet some perish. Response. Saint Austin understands it not of every [reconstructed: individual] person, but some of all sorts shall be saved: as in the ark, God sa…

And this honor is to be shown by a civil respect to their persons, and a cheerful submission to their laws, so far as they agree and run parallel with God's law. Kings are to be prayed for, which is a part of that honor we give them (1 Timothy 2:1): I exhort that supplications,…

What to be angry with God, and to justify it? I do well to be angry, the man was not well in his wits; passion unfits for prayer (1 Timothy 2:8). I will therefore that men pray lifting up holy hands without wrath.

Are our words savory, being seasoned with grace? Is our apparel according to God's will (1 Timothy 2:9)? In like manner that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, not wanton and garish to invite comers.

For if that righteousness of his satisfied God, who in condemning us is greater than our hearts, then it may satisfy our hearts much more. The righteousness of his life and death is not only a sufficient ransom (1 Timothy 2:6), but there is 'plenteous redemption' in it (Psalm 13…

The woman indeed was the first that brought in sin; and being deceived herself by the devil, she deceived man. In which sense the Apostle says, 1 Timothy 2:14, The man was not deceived, but the woman; and she was in the transgression. And for that cause, grievous calamities, and…

Matthew 5:44. Pray for them which hurt you, and persecute you. 1 Timothy 2:1. I exhort that prayers, intercessions, etc. be made for all men, for kings, etc. Yet when Paul gave this commandment, we read not that there were any Christian kings, but all Infidels.

First to whom it is made: secondly, in what manner: thirdly, whether it be made by Christ alone or no: fourthly, what be the fruits and benefits thereof: fifthly, the duties to which we are moved thereby. For the first, intercession is, to make suit, request, or entreaty in some…

Question 3: What place must we pray in? Answer: The place is set down (1 Timothy 2:8). We may pray in all places: of which there is no difference.

Malachi 1:11: The prophet foretells of a clean sacrifice that shall be in the New Testament, and that (say they) is the sacrifice of the Mass. Answer: This place must be understood of a spiritual sacrifice, as we shall plainly perceive if we compare it with 1 Timothy 2:8, where…

And Hebrews 4:15-16: therefore in all things it behooved him to be made like his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest, etc. And that we have such a Redeemer makes God, to say so, trustworthy, and grace to have access (1 Timothy 2:5): there is one God, a…

Therefore (1 John 2:1) he is called an advocate with the Father; and yet he does not advocate our cause verbally as we said before. And (1 Timothy 2:5) there is one God, and one Mediator between God and man: where the Apostle is speaking of praying; and here he is said to make i…

And he was Intercessor before his Incarnation in these three respects. 1. In respect of his office, being designed to be Intercessor; For (as we said) being designed to be Priest, and being Mediator before his Incarnation, he needed to be Intercessor also: For that way he did me…

Sure the infiniteness of his person conferred infiniteness of worth to his merit; so as he purchased a Church by the blood of God (Acts 20:28). The Lord Jesus gave himself for his Church (Ephesians 5:25-26), and a ransom for many (Matthew 20:28; 1 Timothy 2:6). But I see no reas…

3. [in non-Latin alphabet] for "All" is a word of efficacy, and holds forth the Lord's effectual intention; but if Mr. Moore's gloss stands, there is no effectual intention in Christ to save all and every one. Nor does the place, (1 Timothy 2:4-6) signify any reconciliation, not…

Thus both in Ephesians 1 and Colossians 1: 'In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.' His person gives us title to all the promises, and his blood shows the tenure they hold on — a purchase and a full price, an adequate price (1 Timothy 2:6). A…

So that if you could suppose there were anything which none of all the former three could do or effect for us, yet his intercession could do it to the uttermost, for it itself is the uttermost and highest. If money would purchase our salvation, his death has done it, which he la…

Two solemn ones: a ransom; and, a mediatorial sacrifice. 1. A ransom; [illegible] (Matthew 20:28), [illegible] (1 Timothy 2:6), 'Who gave himself a ransom for all.' A ransom is a price given to a judge, or one that has power of life and death, for to save the life of one capital…

Civil honor and worship is commanded in the second table. They are expressed by godliness and righteousness (1 Timothy 6:11) and godliness and honesty (1 Timothy 2:2). 1. For religious worship.

3. There are several sorts of Prayer: Both as to the kinds, modes, and circumstances. The Apostle distinguishes of Supplications, Prayers, Intercessions, and giving of Thanks (1 Timothy 2:1). There's also Public Prayer, Family Prayer, and Closet Prayer.

Now is the prophecy accomplished, (Malachi 1:11): In every place, incense shall be offered to my name. Which the Apostle also asserts expressly, (1 Timothy 2:8). Much has been said in controversy concerning the holiness of places; but this seems to be an undeniable argument agai…

I will pray with understanding: For blind devotion is not pleasing to God: 2. A sensible feeling of our wants, we must come weary and heavy laden (Matthew 11:28). Pressed with the guilt of sin, pinched with want of grace: 3. Fervency of spirit (James 5:17), arising from a consid…

There are distinctions of men in respect of nation, some Jews, some Gentiles: in respect of condition, some bond, some free, some rich, some poor, some in authority, some in subjection, etc.; in respect of sex, some men, some women: yet in Christ Jesus, all are even as one man.…

And though there be neither male nor female in Christ, but we are all one in him (Galatians 3:28), namely, in receiving of the Gospel: yet in dispensing of it, there is great difference: it being unlawful for a woman to preach, or publicly to teach. I permit not a woman to teach…

But we must note the phrases of speech which are usual and familiar among the Prophets: for they use such figures as fitted their own times (as we have already showed:) for by the Temple and sacrifices they mean God's pure worship and service. The Prophet here therefore sets for…

Which Christ also himself teaches (John 4:21), saying; The hour is come, and now is, when you shall neither in this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. And Saint Paul wills that men in every place do lift up pure hands to heaven, without wrath or doubting (1 Timothy…

Now in this respect solitude has a powerful influence, by disposing those who engage in prayer, when God is their only witness, to be more on their guard, to pour their heart into his bosom, to be more diligent in self-examination; and, in a word—remembering that they have to do…

If the question be about the title, Paul certainly did not intend to do any injury to Christ by sacrilegious usurpation or boasting, when he declared that he was a master and teacher of the Gentiles, (1 Timothy 2:7.) But as Christ had no other design than to bring all, from the…

God has never left himself (ἀμάρτυρον) without witness, (Acts 14:17,) and although in special manner he testified to the Jews concerning himself, yet it was a testimony remarkable beyond all others when he revealed himself in Christ; and therefore Paul says, that he was manifest…

He gave his life a ransom for the sins of many, Matthew 20:28. 1 Timothy 2:6. He was in it made sin,that others might become the righteousness of God in him, 2 Corinthians 5:20.

Thirdly, that God calls not all men effectually to salvation by Christ, for then should every one have God to bee his Father in Christ and the Iewe had no priuiledge before the Gentile, in regard of mercie, and the grace of adoption: but here we see, that God []o[] many hundreds…

2. Because as hair is upmost and most conspicuous, and therefore seen when the natural body is hid (therefore it was to women a cover, (1 Corinthians 11:5)) so a suitable practical profession, is (as it were) the cover of holiness, through which it shines, and by which it is con…

But because I have had other occasions largely to treat on this subject, I shall not now further prosecute it. Thirdly; Another great duty of subjects, is fervent and earnest prayer for them; so the Apostle (1 Timothy 2:1), I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, p…

And therefore be sure you be no longer angry than you may lawfully abstain from prayer. For we are commanded to lift up holy hands without wrath (1 Timothy 2:8). For certainly dissension and animosity with men, is no fit temper to prepare us to hold communion with God.

Christians are called out of the world, and delivered from it, and should evidence a victory obtained by faith over it, as in other instances, so in this. It is prescribed rule of our holy religion (whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear) that women adorn themselve…

Those are most easy to themselves, that are so to all about them, while they that are a burden and a terror to others, will not be much otherwise to themselves. He that would lead a quiet, must lead a peaceable life (1 Timothy 2:2). The surest way to find rest to our souls, is t…

Remember how much it is your concern to be accepted of God, and to walk worthy of your relation to him, to all well-pleasing, and how much meekness and quietness of spirit, does contribute to this, as it is consonant to that excellent religion which our Lord Jesus has establishe…

1. It is a price: we are bought with a price (1 Corinthians 6:20), being not redeemed with silver and gold, and corruptible things but with the precious blood of Christ (1 Peter 1:17-18), which therein answers those things in other contracts: He came to lay down his life a ranso…

First, in answer to Objection 1: Jesus Christ, in undertaking the work of our reconciliation with God — for which cause he came into the world — and in the accomplishment of it by his death, was constituted and considered as a common, public person, in the stead of those for who…

Though it be harsh to corrupt nature, yet beat down that corruption: indeed though your husbands be backward in their duties, yet be forward, and strive to go before them in yours: remembering what the Lord says (Matthew 5:46-47), If you love them which love you, what singular t…

It seems by their arguments that one main ground of their error was a misinterpretation of those Scriptures which forbid men to have two wives at once, and women to have two husbands at once, as, Two shall be one flesh (Genesis 2:24). A Bishop and a Deacon must be the husband of…

Hence is it that the wife is called mistress of the house, as well as the husband master of the house. Objection. A woman is not to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man (1 Timothy 2:12). Answer. 1. That branch of teaching has respect to public assemblies, and churches, in…

Thence arise those various mistaken Grounds of Hope, of which we have given an Account in the former Discourse. But the Blessed God has sufficiently informed us in the Word of his Gospel, that it is in vain for us to hope to draw near to God, our offended Sovereign, without a Me…

He is the Author of Eternal Salvation to them that obey him, or accept of all the Blessings of Salvation in his own appointed way. 2. the next Title which is given to our Lord Jesus, on this Account, is a Mediator, to make Peace between an offended God and offending Man, 1 Timot…

Let us beseech God to persuade and incline their hearts, for his is the kingdom; he can move them to do what shall be for the glory of his name, and the comfort and benefit of his afflicted people. Let us go to God, who is the sovereign King, he can give you to live a quiet and…

If there be such brawls in the family, how can the husband and wife call upon God with such a united heart as is requisite? So (1 Timothy 2:8), I will that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. Not only lift up pure hands to God, and that witho…

Of which kind of people the cowardliness is so much the more shameful and blameworthy, because God has given them such a Savior and Captain, as is both able and willing to minister strength to them be they never so weak and feeble, health, be they never so sick or diseased, soun…

For man was already the head of the woman even before the sin and fall of Eve and Adam. And Saint Paul alleging the same reason, to show that it is not fitting that the wife should reign in equal degree with her husband, says, that the man came not of the woman, but the woman of…

4. Here is a caution, and a word of counsel to the princes of the nations, or the heads of the people, that now are met together, and sit in council; oh do not sit and speak against such as are God's people; that is, do not decree anything against them. Some would have the magis…

So much the Apostle intimates, when he says, He will have all men to be saved. How would he have them saved? (1 Timothy 2:4). For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; which text implies that salvation is by the knowledge of the truth, or…

They are called morning stars (Job 38:7), but falling stars; they were holy but mutable. As the vessel is overturned with the sail, so their sails being swelled with pride, were overturned (1 Timothy 3:6). By unsettledness, who do you imitate but lapsed angels?

Thus Christ's person in two natures. 2. Consider Christ's two natures in one person: [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], God-Man; (1 Timothy 3:16): God manifest in the flesh. Christ had a twofold substance, divine and human, yet not a twofold subsistence, both natures make but one Chri…

1 Timothy 3:16. Great is the mystery of godliness, God manifest in the flesh. Question 17. Wherein did Christ's humiliation consist?

Greg. Nazianzen blessed God he had any thing to lose for Christ's sake. 2. Faith is a refining grace (1 Timothy 3:9). Mystery of faith in a pure conscience.

Majora sunt lingua vulnera quam gladii, Aug. — the sword does not make so deep a wound as the tongue. The Greek word for slanderer signifies devil (1 Timothy 3:11). Some think it is no great matter to belie and defame another; but know, this is to act the part of a devil.

We read of God's dividing the waters, making a causeway in the sea for his people to go over, the iron swimming, the oil increasing by pouring out, Christ's making wine of water, his curing the blind, and raising the dead: thus God has set his seal to the truth and divinity of S…

O the depth of the riches of the wisdom of God, thus to make justice and mercy to kiss each other! Great is this mystery, God manifest in the flesh (1 Timothy 3:16). What wisdom was this, that Christ should be made sin, yet know no sin; that God should condemn the sin, yet save…

The seed in the parable which sprung up suddenly withered (Mark 4:5): Solent praecocia subito flaccescere. 4. True faith is joined with sanctity; as a little bezoar is strong in operation, and a little musk sweetens, so a little faith purifies (1 Timothy 3:9): Holding the myster…

Paul was slandered as a mover of sedition, and the head of a faction (Acts 24:5). The same word signifies both a slanderer and a devil (1 Timothy 3:11): Not slanderers. In the Greek, [in non-Latin alphabet], Not devils.

Faith is a virgin-grace, it is joined with sanctity. 1 Timothy 3:9. Holding the mystery of faith in a pure conscience. The jewel of faith is always put in the cabinet of a pure conscience.

In whom dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. It is said, not only Christ was with God before the beginning, but he was God (John 1:1), and (1 Timothy 3:16), God manifest in the flesh. The title of Lord so often given to Christ in the New Testament does answer to the ti…

Now follows Christ's incarnation, in these words, Conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary. And they contain in them one of the most principal points of the doctrine of godliness, as Paul says, Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness, which is, God is m…

To the father, who is described by two titles: the first, the father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and that by nature as he is God, and as he is man by personal union. The other title: Of whom the whole family, which is in heaven and earth, is named: In which words is set down a des…

And that we have such a Redeemer makes God, to say so, trustworthy, and grace to have access (1 Timothy 2:5): there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, and this gives man access to step in to God. Fourth, this makes the mystery of godliness to…

3. Consider our Lord's submission to his being brought to judgment, not only nor chiefly before men, but before God, therefore says he (John 12:48), Father save me from this hour, but for this cause came I to this hour; come then Father and let us reckon; he looks not only to th…

1. That in his lowest state and step of humiliation he was sustained and carried through, so that all the assaults which he was put to endure and encounter with from all his enemies, wicked men and devils, did not overcome him. 2. That as he in himself was borne through and sust…

And that other word which He has on the cross, is remarkable to this purpose: It's finished; now the task and work is ended, and I have no more to do, but presently to pass to the victory, and to the dividing of the spoil. And a third testimony is our Lord Jesus His ascension to…

Christ never needed pardon, he was able to pay all he was owing; he needed never the grace of forgiveness, nor grace to be spared; God spared him not. God could exact no less blood of him, than he shed; but he received an acquittance of justification, never a pardon of grace (1…

Hence thirdly, we read, as that Christ was condemned, so that he was justified. Thus (1 Timothy 3:16), God is said to be manifest in the flesh, and then that this God-man was justified in the spirit: that is, whereas God was manifest or appeared in flesh to condemn sin in the fl…

Hebrews 13:20: The God of peace brought again the Lord Jesus from the dead, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. As pacified in Christ, received into glory (1 Timothy 3:16): Certainly God is well pleased since he has given not only a discharge, but a reward. The gift o…

Elisha is called of Joash, The chariots and horsemen of Israel (2 Kings 13:4). And the Church of God upon earth, is called the Pillar and ground of truth, in respect of the Ministry of the word (1 Timothy 3:15). Again, in that all ministers in their places (according to the meas…

Answer. There is a twofold labor, one of the body, another of the mind: now although the ministers do not weary themselves in bodily labor, yet they are not therefore idle: for the labors of the mind do far exceed the labors of the body: they are more painful, they spend the spi…

In the meantime this title wherewith God adorns his Church is well to be observed, to the end she may be known by some sure and infallible mark. For that assembly is not to be held for the Church where the heavenly doctrine of glad tidings is not sounded forth and preached: and…

For having had so many good lessons taught them from time to time, they could not without gross disloyalty either doubt or call into question the power and goodness of God. Thus then he shows that the Church is picked out to bear witness to the truth of God: in which sense Saint…

Afterwards, the Lord gives this title to the Church, which is the spouse of Christ, as the wife is dignified with the name and title of her husband. Now he calls Israel his servant: that is to say, his handmaid the Church; for she is the pillar and ground of truth, because he ha…

For he has been wont so to chastise his people, that he has still continued a Church, in which his truth and pure religion might be kept. For which cause also Saint Paul calls her the pillar and ground of truth (1 Timothy 3:15). We are not to judge of the Church then, by the est…

It appears sufficiently then that he speaks of a virgin which should conceive by the power of the Holy Spirit, and not according to the common order of nature. And this is that mystery which Saint Paul so highly magnifies, namely, that God was manifested in the flesh (1 Timothy…

He argues that Christ was not the Son of God before he appeared in the world clothed with flesh; because the angel says, He shall be called On the contrary, I maintain, the words of the angel mean nothing more than that he, who had been the Son of God from eternity, would be man…

For we must bear in mind, that she does not speak like an ordinary woman at her own suggestion, but merely utters what was dictated by the Holy Spirit. This name Lord strictly belongs to the Son of God "manifested in the flesh," (1 Timothy 3:16,) who has received from the Father…

It is true, indeed, that a catalogue, divided into three equal numbers, is more easily remembered. But it is also evident that this division is intended to point out a threefold condition of the nation, from the time when Christ was promised to Abraham, to "the fullness of the t…

Hence they infer, that the promised birth of the child would be delayed for a very short time; otherwise, it would not agree with the rapidly approaching change of the kingdoms, which, the prophet announced, would take place before that child should have passed half the period o…

Let the reader always consider the purpose for which passages of Scripture are brought forward by the Evangelists, so as not to stick too closely to the particular words, but to be satisfied with this, that the Evangelists never torture Scripture into a different meaning, but ap…

When John beholds the Holy Spirit descending upon Christ, it is to remind him, that nothing carnal or earthly must be expected in Christ, but that he comes as a godlike man, "Un homme rempli de Dieu;" — "a man filled with God." descended from heaven, in whom the power of the Hol…

Again, though he chose unlearned and ignorant persons, he did not leave them in that condition; and, therefore, what he did ought not to be held by us to be an example, as if we were now to ordain pastors, who were afterwards to be trained to the discharge of their office. We kn…

We must also consider what God enjoins on his prophets and the ministers of his word: for in this way their faithfulness may be easily ascertained. If, for example, we place before our minds what Paul requires in bishops, (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9,) that description will be…

Something, too, he had undoubtedly heard about the promised Redeemer. Though he does not distinctly understand that Christ is God manifested in the flesh, (1 Timothy 3:16,) yet he is convinced that the power of God is manifested in him, and that he has received a commission to d…

They remain silent, but think in their hearts, that they may slander him when absent among people of their own class. It is no doubt true, that God alone has power and authority to forgive sins: but they are wrong in concluding that it does not belong to Christ, for he is God ma…

Righteousness, and salvation, and perfect happiness, are founded on his resurrection. The Gospel, therefore, is a public exhibition of the Son of God manifested in the flesh, (1 Timothy 3:16) to deliver a ruined world, and to restore men from death to life. It is justly called a…

So then those who had not yet declared that he was their Master, instantly acknowledge that he is the Son of God, and by this term render to him the honor of the Messiah. Though at that time this lofty mystery was not generally known, how God was to be manifested in the flesh, (…

Paul employs the same argument, when he wishes to exhort pastors to be diligent in the discharge of their duty, that they are stewards, chosen to govern the house of God, which is the pillar and ground of truth, (1 Timothy 3:16). And properly; for the more honorable and illustri…

And though Paul had never said this, yet such is the fact, that Christ is above David and other holy kings, because he also ranks higher than angels; which would not apply to a created man, unless he were also God manifested in the flesh, (1 Timothy 3:16.) I do acknowledge that…

But this is the crowning point of desperate and final depravity, when men obstinately reject the goodness of God, and refuse to come under his wings. I said formerly that Christ speaks here in the person of God, and my meaning is, that this discourse belongs properly to his eter…

To make it still more evident that Christ is the God of armies, towards whom the people had been from the beginning malicious and ungrateful, when he was manifested in the flesh, (1 Timothy 3:16,) it became necessary that what had formerly been spoken figuratively should now be…

So Christ our second surety, (in whose justification all who believe in him, and whose surety he is, are virtually justified,) was not justified until he had done the work the Father had appointed him, and kept the Father's commandments, through all trials, and then in his resur…

Wherein you do merely delude the reader; you find indeed the elders of the people so called, but the elders of the Church never; to make good your own construction therefore, you must maintain that laymen did and must lay on hands in Ordination, which Calvin himself utterly abom…

Whereupon Jerome in the same place; he would says he, have them to yield carnal things to those of whom they receive spiritual things, because they being taken up in teaching, cannot provide necessary things for themselves. Indeed, I say yet more, if Saint Paul had, by those tha…

These are the things which will give them a good report among those which are without, and will recommend the doctrines and truths which they teach, to the acceptance and love of their very enemies, and the enemies of their holy profession. They must likewise be exemplary in the…

As it is with a stick; a stick when it is in the water, it looks as if it were broken, pull it out of the water, and it is straight: So it is with the names of Gods people; when their names are under reports that go abroad in the world, they look as broken; but when their names…

It was he that purged our sins, who was the Son and heir of all things, by whom the world was made, the brightness of his Father's glory, and express image of his person; he did it, he alone was able to do it. God was manifested in the flesh (1 Timothy 3:16) for this work; the s…

Hence was that ejaculation of one of the ancients: O felix culpa, quae talem meruit Redemptorem — O happy fault, which merited such a Redeemer! Thus Paul tells us, great is the mystery of godliness (1 Timothy 3:16), and that without controversy. We receive grace for grace — for…

1. He rewards his subjects in this life: 1. He gives them inward peace and joy; a bunch of grapes by the way; and oftentimes riches and honor. Godliness has the promise of this life (1 Timothy 4:8). These are as it were the saints' wages; but besides, the great reward is to come…

2. Use all means for growth in grace. First, exercise yourselves to godliness (1 Timothy 4:7). The body grows stronger by exercise.

Guilt clips the wings of comfort; he who is conscious to himself of secret sins, cannot draw near to God in full assurance; he cannot call God Father but Judge; keep conscience as clear as your eye, that no dust of sin fall into it. 2. If you would have assurance, be much in the…

The Bible lies by like rusty armor, which they never use: They think it no great matter to omit family, or closet prayer; they can go several months and God never hear of them. These have nothing sanctified to them; they feed upon a curse; For every creature is sanctified by pra…

Thus in the church of Thyatira, those cursed heretics who applauded themselves and were admired by their followers for the depths and profoundness of the learning shown in those heresies they broached — 'depths as they speak' (Revelation 2:24) — but if they call them depths, say…

Psalm 34:10; They that seek the Lord, shall lack nothing that is good. For, Godliness has the promises of this life, and of the life to come, 1 Timothy 4:8, And therefore David compares the godly man to the tree that is planted by the water side, which brings forth much fruit, a…

Daniel also was an extraordinary Prophet: yet (as we may read) Daniel 9:2, he studied with admirable diligence the prophecies of Jeremiah and Ezekiel. And Timothy, though he were a Disciple (Acts 16:1) and well learned: yet Paul charges him to give attendance to reading, to exho…

Second Question. How may I know that the things I enjoy are mine by Christ, and that I do not usurp them? Answer (1 Timothy 4:4). Paul says that the creatures of God are good, and that the use of them is sanctified to us by the word and prayer. Then if we have the word of God to…

We flatly say no, holding that lawful vows are certain props of God's worship and not the worship itself. For Paul says plainly in 1 Timothy 4:8: Bodily exercise profits little, but godliness is profitable for much. Again, as God's kingdom is, so must his worship be.

Second: All skilled in the original languages, and all divines say that the particle "all" is taken pro singulis generum, vel pro generibus singulorum — all and every one of kinds, and for the kinds of all, though not absolutely excluding any kind. First, the word "all" is, in m…

If you have Christ, you have all the promises, for in him they are — indeed, and in him Amen — and they shall all be ratified and confirmed and established to you, and all the blessings of God are yours (Isaiah 1:3). He has blessed you with all spiritual blessings in Christ Jesu…

Implying, that in hearing we shall find him, and in finding Christ we shall find life; be diligent therefore to hear, and when you have heard it go home, and search whether it be true or no; and if you have liberty be doing this often, be conferring about it, as you can have any…

Christ is the Savior of the Souls of Men; Ministers also, are spoken of in Scripture as saving Men's Souls. 1 Timothy 4:16. In doing this, you shall both save yourself and them that hear you.

Christ in the wilderness miraculously fed many; but near the city he sent his disciples to buy bread (John 4:8). When the church of God had need of able helps at first, gifts were miraculously conferred; but afterwards every man to his study (1 Timothy 4:15): Meditate upon these…

1. Sufficiency (Genesis 17:1): "I am the almighty God, walk before me and be you perfect." (1 Timothy 4:8): "Godliness is profitable for all things, having the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come": of heaven and of earth (Matthew 6:33). "Seek you first…

For first of all, it is the express commandment of God (1 Peter 5:3): Be patterns of the flock. (1 Timothy 4:12): Be an example in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, purity. (Philippians 4:8): What you have seen in me, that do.

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 doctrine of devils (1 Timothy 4:1). The third freedom…

First, because God loves all his creatures, specially mankind, most especially the faithful, upon whom he does bestow the riches of his love, yea himself also: for though God be good to all (Psalm 145:9), yet in a special sort he is good to Israel, to them that are of a pure hea…

I answer, God never afterward so afflicted his Church, that the whole face thereof was abolished, as it fell out when the people were carried away captive into Babylon. For albeit Antiochus and others made terrible wastes, after which followed those revolts which Saint Paul fore…

On this principle John would rank higher than the Son of God; but, on the contrary, we ought to maintain, that bodily exercise profits little, but godliness is profitable to all things, (1 Timothy 4:8.) And yet we must not make this a pretense for giving a loose rein to the fles…

Now Christ has taught us, by his example, that we cannot partake of our food with holiness and purity, unless we express our gratitude to God, from whose hand it comes to us. Accordingly, Paul tells us, that every kind of food which God bestows upon us is sanctified by the word…

Whereas they, contrariwise, cry out and say, that it is not lawful for the lay people to read the Scriptures. And therefore if you are asked, whether you will consent and believe that the Pope is the head: answer, Yes: and [reconstructed: say] that you so take him to be: namely,…

For there shall arise false Christs and false Prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders, so that if it were possible, they should deceive the very elect. Again Saint Paul in 1 Timothy 4 has these words: The Spirit speaks evidently, that in the latter times some shall depa…

There is a twofold consideration of Providence according to its twofold Object, and manner of dispensation; the one is general, exercised about all creatures, rational and irrational, animate and inanimate; the other special and peculiar. Christ has an universal Empire over all…

Brethren, God speed you well with your question; as for the first, which is edifying the Church by Word, and Sacraments, we make no difference, your distance may; we both hold it our work and make it so; and if any one has been slack herein, the fault is personal, we neither def…

3. They are compared to these for their subtlety, a fox being famous for that, for which cause Herod is called a fox (Luke 13:32). So false teachers speak lies in hypocrisy (1 Timothy 4:2), creep into houses, their doctrines eat as a canker insensibly: And they are called deceit…

Secondly; as he must have an inward call in the gifts of the Spirit of God, so likewise he must have an outward call by a solemn separation of him to this work through imposition of hands. This indeed gives him the ministerial power, and invests him with authority to dispense th…

A seventh direction to obtain a treasure, that is, trade with God in every performance: rest not satisfied with a bare outside of duties, or a trudging in the common road or round of formality: if you look not beyond ordinances in the use thereof, you will get no more treasure t…

Satan may rob us of our treasure by subtle insinuations of new light as well as grosser temptations to apparent works of darkness, for these drink up the marrow of those spirits that should be laid out otherwise. Therefore take Paul's advice: refuse profane and old wives' fables…

God does not regenerate us by miracles or revelations, but by the word of truth (James 1:18). As truth is the breeder of grace, so the feeder of it (1 Timothy 4:6). Truth sanctifies (John 17:17): "Sanctify them by your truth."

Fire's coming down from heaven, seemed to have reference to their excommunications, which were dreaded like fire from heaven. — It was foretold, that he should forbid to marry, and to abstain from meats: 1 Timothy 4:3. "Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats,…

(2 Peter 1:10) in securing salvation, diligent; or doing it thoroughly, and enough. (1 Timothy 4:7) in godliness, exercising, or stripping themselves, as for a race. (Luke 13:24) in the pursuit of happiness, striving, even to an agony.

1. In its morning or former part, which is everywhere in Scripture made to be of a dismal and doubtful appearance, and therefore do we so often hear of the evil of the latter times — days full of delusion and desolation. A world of delusion and error there is then (1 Timothy 4:1…

The same felicity, in a manner, attending him, which we believe of Adam, if he had not fallen, a life in paradise, and from there a transplantation to heaven. But besides this, meekness is a branch of godliness, which has more than other branches of it, the promise of the life t…

Interest him in our dealings, and ask counsel and direction at his mouth. Prayer is that which sanctifies all employments and enjoyments, 1 Timothy 4:5. The very Heathen could say, A Iove Principium, They must begin with God O that we had more Prayers and fewer Oaths. 2.

Satan, whose design as he is god of this world is to be uppermost, not dwelling wholly in any form cast down by the providence of God, has now transformed himself into an angel of light and will pretend the Spirit also, and only. But there are seducing spirits, 1 Timothy 4:1. We…

Answer: Indeed, in his more than in any others: for note the counsel of the Apostle to Timothy, (though in another case, yet very pertinent to this purpose) Let no man despise your youth. It was therefore in Timothy's power to maintain his honor, and not to suffer it to be despi…

First, Elders.] This here, as often, is a name not of age, but of office; yet named by that age that is, or ought to be most suitably qualified to such an office, and imports, that men, though not aged; yet if called to that office, should be noted with that wisdom and [illegibl…

Now this covenant-right we have by Christ, who is heir of all things; (Hebrews 1:2) Christ has the original right to them, and we by him come to have a covenant-right: So it is said, (1 Corinthians 3:23) Things present, and things to come, all are yours. As things to come, the d…

1. They are good in themselves. Food and raiment is good, and every creature of God is good (1 Timothy 4:4). They are good things, though not the best things.

If we ail anything, we may go to our Father, and acquaint him with our case and grief. And we shall have a child's allowance here in the world: the heirs of glory are well provided for in their nonage; they have a right to a large portion, all the good things of the world, meat,…

So therefore God draws us to himself even with a promised reward, but he does not wish it to be our goal and end. For those who labor until they have proceeded in his worship through various dangers and the risks of death, and have hoped against hope in him in the midst of the s…

Or, 2. Idle and vain, as foolish tales. The Apostle bids Timothy (1 Timothy 4:7) to refuse profane and old wives' fables, or vain compliments, though we are to give an account for idle words (Matthew 12:36). Or else like the Athenians, we spend our time in hearing and telling ne…

(Mark 6:33) Seek you first the kingdom of God, and the righteousness thereof, and all these things shall be added. (1 Timothy 4:8) Godliness is profitable to all things, having the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. Heaven and earth are laid at the fe…

The captain told Paul, that his liberty as a Roman was obtained with a great sum (Acts 22:28). Now the Court of Rome does challenge such a power, that it commands and forbids those things which God has left free, as distinction of days, meats, marriage, according to their own pl…

The evil of suffering is but for a moment, the evil of sin for ever; in suffering we lose the favor of men, in sin we lose the favor of God; suffering brings inconvenience upon the body, sin upon the soul; suffering is only evil in our sense, sin whether we feel it indeed or no:…

5. He is communicative, it is over all his works (Psalm 145:9). Not a creature but subsists by God's mercy, he loves man and beast (Psalm 36:6) and (1 Timothy 4:10). He is the Savior of all men, especially of those that believe, the whole earth is full of his goodness, Lord show…

He is so able that he can secure us in his work, so good that we should not trouble ourselves about his will, but refer it to him without hesitancy, which if we could bring our hearts to, it would ease us of many burdensome thoughts, and troublesome cares; (1 Peter 4:19) Therefo…

Why do the children of God expose themselves to difficulties, and all manner of hard usages, but because of their hope in God? (1 Timothy 4:10) Therefore we suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God; for that reason, because they look for great things from God, therefo…

(Matthew 6:33) Seek first the kingdom of God, and the righteousness thereof, and all these things shall be added to you. (1 Timothy 4:8) Godliness is profitable to all things, having the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come. But alas, the naughty heart c…

10. Serpents are great lovers of wine. Pliny, who writes of Natural History, says, if serpents come where wine is, they drink insatiably: In this be not like the serpent; though the Scripture allows the use of wine (1 Timothy 5:23), yet it forbids the excess (Ephesians 5:18): Be…

Were it not for the ministry, you would be destitute of the two seals of the covenant, Baptism and the Lord's Supper; you would be infidels; for faith comes by hearing; and how shall they hear without a preacher (Romans 10:14)? 2. Honor the ministers, these spiritual fathers, by…

Some have been under temptation; Satan has suggested, they are such sinners as do not deserve a bit of bread, and so they have been ready to starve themselves. This is contrary to this sixth commandment, You shall do no murder; it is implied, we are to use all means for the pres…

Quest. Is it not lawful to lay up for afterwards? Does not the Apostle say, He who provides not for his family is worse than an infidel (1 Timothy 5:8)? Answ. 'Tis true, it is lawful to lay up for posterity, but our Savior has taught us to pray, Give us this day our bread, for t…

And if they be bound by all bonds of nature and religion, to provide for the bodies of their children; let reason judge, how much more straightly they are tied to look to their souls. But Saint Paul says, He that provides not temporal things necessary for his family, is worse th…

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 these holy spirits, especially when all things are irregularly carried in the worship of God (1 Corinthians 11:10). For this…

Whereas we should not open our mouths to reprove, till we have certain knowledge of the fault. Moreover, public persons, as magistrates and ministers, have their privilege, that an accusation is not to be received against them, without there be a proof by two or three witnesses…

If adultery, which is the breach of wedlock, be a work of the flesh, then damnable is the decretal of Pope Siricius, that marriage itself was the pollution of the flesh. It may be objected, that young widows by marrying have damnation, and break the faith of baptism (1 Timothy 5…

Secret I call those that are known only to God, and the conscience of the doer: or only to others, but not to us. 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…

Silly ambition has filled the world with apes, from superstitious persons seizing, with more "zeal" than "knowledge" (Romans 10:2), every thing that they hear praised in the saints: as if the distinction of rank did not render a selection of employments necessary, that each pers…

As to the loud and open rebuke, which was administered to them in presence of all, it was for the sake of others; and that is the reason why Luke mentions, that it was addressed to multitudes, (Luke 3:7.) Though the persons whom John reproved were few in number, his design was t…

For if any man offends against the whole Church, Paul enjoins that he be publicly reproved, so that even elders shall not be spared; for it is in reference to them that he expressly enjoins Timothy, to rebuke them publicly in presence of all, and thus to make them a general exam…

Thus we lean on our Relations, and the inward thoughts of our hearts are, that they shall be to us so many springs of comfort to refresh us throughout our lives; but God will shew us by his Providence our mistake and error in these things. Thus an Husband is smitten, to draw the…

So he himself has told us, (Luke 10:16) He that despises you, despises me; and he that despises me, despises him that sent me. Sixthly; superiors in any gift of divine providence, whether of riches, or of age, or of knowledge, and the like, are to be reverenced and honored by us…

You have work enough at home, within your own heart, and in your own house; and if you are careful to manage that well, you will scarce have either time or inclination to receive or divulge bad reports of others. And therefore the Apostle joins idleness, meddlesomeness, and tatt…

Remember the command (Titus 3:2): Speak evil of no man. And take heed of the sinful practice of the women described (1 Timothy 5:13): They learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also, and busybodies, speaking things which they ough…

Under the law, God rejected the snail and the ass (Leviticus 11:30; Exodus 13:13). And under the gospel, he allows no sluggish lazy professor (1 Timothy 5:11, 13). Sleepy duties are utterly unsuitable to the living God; he will have the very spirits distilled and offered up to h…

It is observed, that when the people of Israel had got Aaron to make the Calf, and they set down to drink, and rose up to play, they offered burnt-offerings, but no sin-offerings were thought of: These beset the heart, and make it even uncapable of any spiritual good. St. Paul s…

This is the charge that the Apostles lays upon the Romans, For your sake is the name of God blasphemed: we had need look to ourselves in this. Mark what charge the Apostle lays upon women, 1 Tim. 5. 13, 14. that they should take heed of tatling, and carrying themselves unchristi…

I need not spend many words, to open the nature of this sin to you: we all grant, that there is a lawful use of Wine and strong Drink, to support Nature, not to clog it; to cure Infirmities, not to cause them. Drink no longer water, but use a little Wine, for your stomachs sake,…

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…

The care of many husbands is in this respect commended in Scripture, as of Abram, of Jacob, of Joshua, of David, the Ruler at Galilee (Joshua 4:15), and of many other (Psalm 101:2, etc.). That the wife also ought to be a help to him therein, is very evident: for the Apostle lays…

4. To bring up children while they are young, with the like. These therefore ought he with a general consent to refer to her discretion: with limitation only of these two cautions (1 Timothy 5:14; Proverbs 31:21-22; verse 15; Genesis 16:6; 1 Timothy 5:10; Titus 2:4; 2 Kings 4:19…

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…

These two circumstances imply that it pertains to a mother to nurse her children (Exodus 2:7, etc.). 5. The Apostle lays this down as a note of a good woman, who in her place has been careful to do her duty, and thereupon fit to do service in God's Church (If she have nourished…

2. Common equity and justice requires as much: for wages is as due for labor, as money for wares. Christ takes it for an undeniable principle, that the laborer is worthy of his hire: so also does the Apostle (Luke 10:7; 1 Timothy 5:18). This duty is to be performed to such as ar…

A Christian that has God and Christ, and his wonderful and precious benefits to talk of, and so many occasions to give thanks, he cannot want matter to discourse of when he comes into company; therefore we should avoid vain discourse. Or, 3. We talk of other men's matters or fau…

If there are many doubts about the true Religion, why they are occasioned by the scandalous lives of professors; we reason from the artist to the art itself. Look as there is a correspondence between the stamp and the impression, the seal and the thing sealed; so should there be…

It argues that you are not seriously through with God, if you should break with him after some profession of his name; now your motion should be more earnest, more strong towards him. I speak this, because we are so apt to cast off our first faith (1 Timothy 5:12), and to lose o…

2. Take heed of immoderate liberty or vanities of the world, or pleasures of the flesh if you would not lose this quickening. The Apostle tells us (1 Timothy 5:6), the woman that lives in pleasure, is dead while she lives. Pleasures have a strange infatuation, they bring a brawn…

And there are many, not only vain, but unruly talkers (Titus 1:10), that a man had need of more patience to hear them, than to hear the beating of an unbraced drum. And, alas, it is not only the chat and tattle of idle gossips (such as in 1 Timothy 5:13) who spoke unbecomingly,…

Take heed of being an occasion of, a partaker of, or but accessory to other men's sins. God forbids it, that it may not be (Ephesians 5:7-11; 1 Timothy 5:22), and sharply reproves and punishes it, where he finds it to be (Psalm 50:18; 2 Samuel 12:9; 1 Kings 21:19), in which two…

They take account of our vows (Ecclesiastes 5:5-6): better it is you should not vow, than vow and not pay, because it is before the Angel. The Apostle charges Timothy, not only before God, but before the Elect Angels, to be strictly conscientious (1 Timothy 5:21). They are witne…

6. Take heed of idleness: every man should have a calling to follow, and follow his calling, which is an excellent preservative from evil thoughts: idle persons have no business but to sin, and they that follow their callings have no leisure to sin; their thoughts are too intent…

If custom and a seared conscience seem to deny the sense of such regrets, yet that argues the case the worse; for what pleasure can that be that benumbs a man, and makes him not only stupid, but dead? And they that live in such pleasures are (by the infallible truth declared to…

The devil did not abide in the truth, but left his first love, life, and estate (2 Peter 2:4 with Jude 6). Hence Judas is called Devil (John 6:70), and apostates are said to turn aside after Satan (1 Timothy 5:15). As converts are turned from Satan to God, so apostates return fr…

Now those upon whom legal terrors and these restraining strokes are laid for [illegible] and the like ends, in the counsel of the Lord: in the issue the strength of their corruptions (like waters that are stopped) break out with greater violence, the Lord lets loose their distem…

But, is any man discontented, how shall he pray? Lift up pure hands without wrath (1 Timothy 5:8). Discontent is full of wrath and passion; the malcontent cannot lift up pure hands; he lifts up leprous hands, he poisons his prayers; will God accept of a poisoned sacrifice?

And (Genesis 22:17), in blessing I will bless you. And when the Lord says (Isaiah 19:25), blessed be Egypt my people; he should mean, he would bless Abraham, not his seed, and that he minds to bless the aged of Egypt, and of Assyria, but not their seed and infants, because they…

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…

When the scriptures say, that men are dead in trespasses and sins, no man understands the expression to mean annihilation. The same may be said of the apostle's words in 1 Timothy 5:6, "She that lives in pleasure is dead while she lives." Therefore, since the scriptures do often…

'For there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed, and hidden that shall not be known' (Matthew 10:26). And the apostle assures us (1 Timothy 5:24-25) that they that are otherwise cannot be hidden. If men's works are not good, it is impossible they should be hidden long.

Therefore let no man be afraid of mortification, and the duties that lead to it. Indeed, let me say to you, look — as you see it is with a man in his carnal estate, when he thinks himself most lively, he is then a most dead creature, dead in trespasses and in sins (Ephesians 2:1…

Now that God is a Spirit, and is not capable of bodily shape or substance, probatur. 1. A body is visible, but God is invisible, therefore he is a Spirit (1 Timothy 6:16). Whom no man has seen, nor can see, not by an eye of sense. 2. A body is terminated, can be but in one place…

God knew, if your estate had not been lost, your soul had been lost. God saw riches would be a snare to you (1 Timothy 6:9). Are you troubled that God has prevented a snare?

'Tis a duty to provide for our charge (1 Timothy 5:8): If any provide not for his own he is worse than an infidel: To lay up for our family, here's the wisdom of the serpent; but we must lay out for the poor too, here's the mixture of the dove. (1 Timothy 6:17) Charge them that…

None of those who belong to the election are so rough-cast and unhewn but God can polish them with his grace, and make them fit for the inheritance. 7. God is the best Father because he never dies, (1 Timothy 6:16) Who only has immortality. Earthly fathers die, and their childre…

They care not though their servants should serve the devil, so long as their bodies do them service. That which St. Paul says to Timothy (1 Timothy 6:20), Serva Depositum, Keep that which is committed to your trust, is of a large extension. Not only have a care of your own soul,…

2. Love. Love loves mercy: It is a noble, bountiful grace. Mary loved Christ, and how liberal was her love! She bestows on Christ her tears, kisses, costly ointments. Love is like a full vessel, will have vent; it vents itself in acts of liberality. Secondly, to communicate to t…

The Pharisees who were covetous derided him. (3.) Covetousness is a mother-sin, a radical vice (1 Timothy 6:10). The love of money is the root of all evil. — Quid non mortalia pectora cogit Auri sacra fames — Hor.

Indeed a man may follow the world too much, he may make too much haste to be rich. 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…

There are, says Solomon, four things that say it is not enough (Proverbs 30:15): the grave, the barren womb, the earth, the fire; and I may add a fifth thing — the heart of a covetous man. Such as are not content with daily bread, but thirst insatiably after more, will break ove…

The consideration of this difference, has manifold and profitable use. First, we may see how reasonable the counsel of the Apostle is, 1 Timothy 6:17, Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high minded, and put not their trust in uncertain riches, but in the l…

As for the wearing of apparel, we have no special rule, nor precept in God's word: and therefore our direction, must be the example and fashion of the most grave and godly, in that calling whereof we are; whose precedent must be our direction in all cases, whereof we have no pre…

And (John 12:3) our Savior Christ allowed of the fact of Mary, which took a pound of ointment of Spikenard very costly, and anointed his very feet, so that all the house was filled with the smell; though Judas did esteem it waste. Yet if it so fall out that the Lord does grant u…

But if we do but a little look into the corruption of our nature, we shall see that we are deceived. For being in prosperity, we are not troubled: but if once we be pressed with adversity, then we howl and weep, and as Paul says (1 Timothy 6:10), men pierce themselves through wi…

God was busy for six days in making this world, the angels all that while stood wondering with themselves, to what end, or for whom all this was prepared. At the end of the sixth day, they saw God to set down into the world this little thing called man; and then they ceased thei…

This light comes from inherent acts of grace in us: (1 John 2:3-5; 1 John 3:14). (2) From the testimony and rejoicing which results from a good conscience: (2 Corinthians 1:12; 2 Timothy 4:6-8; 1 Timothy 6:17-18; Hebrews 13:18). (3) From the experience they have had of the Lord'…

Civil honor and worship is commanded in the second table. They are expressed by godliness and righteousness (1 Timothy 6:11) and godliness and honesty (1 Timothy 2:2). 1. For religious worship.

Now if this excellent glory by the veil of the firmament were not obscured, man were not able to bear it (Job 37:20): If man speak, he shall be swallowed up. (1 Timothy 6:16): He dwells in light which no man can approach to, whom no man has seen, nor can see, until we are receiv…

Thus much the very words import: and the same words are again used in the next verse. And Paul bids Timothy, avoid them that teach otherwise, that is, any different doctrine as necessary to salvation, beside that which he taught (1 Timothy 6:3). And the reason of this sin, is: b…

The king must not lift up his heart against his brethren (Deuteronomy 17:20). Rich men (says Paul) must not be high-minded (1 Timothy 6:17). Job would not despise the cause of his handmaid (Job 31:13).

The use. This must teach us that are members of the visible church, to fear and to suspect ourselves: and not to content ourselves, because we have some good things in us: but we must labor to be sealed up to the day of our redemption, and to lay up a good foundation against the…

And three things cause a lameness or feebleness in this foot, the lust of the eye, that is covetousness; the lust of the flesh, and pride of life. The third duty is, that we must run the race from the beginning to the end, and finish our course, so as we may apprehend life everl…

Further, we learn from hence, that no man is to think highly of himself in regard of outward privileges, as birth, honor, wealth, favor, nor to glory in them (Jeremiah 9:23). Rich men must not be high minded (1 Timothy 6:17). Nay, the King may not lift up his mind above his bret…

In the meantime, such a title never agrees to any but to God only; because he rules over all kingdoms. Notwithstanding he denies not but Kings, Princes, and Magistrates have their just titles; yet so, as themselves be subject to God, and maintain his right and dominion: for it b…

Let us therefore learn to repent early, lest our long-continued harshness should confirm the reign of Satan within us; for as soon as we have been abandoned to this tyranny, his rage will have no bounds. It is particularly worthy of notice, that the cause and source of so great…

And thus was fulfilled the prediction of Isaiah (53:7), that he was led as a sheep to the slaughter. And yet he gave, at the same time, that good confession, which Paul mentions, (1 Timothy 6:12), a confession not by words, but by deeds; not that by which he consulted his own ad…

Beware you lose not your God in the Crowd and hurry of Earthly business. Mind that solemn warning, 1 Timothy 6:9 But they that will be rich fall into Temptation, and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. The inhabitants o…

For the fashion of this world, the scheme of this world passes away. You see it did with Job; in what a goodly fashion was his worldly estate in the morning, how was it dressed and adorned in perfect beauty in all its excellencies (as we heard it before described,) yet before ni…

Be content with those things you have. And certainly he that is not content with what God allows him, lies under a grievous temptation, by fraudulent and unjust courses to carve out his own condition to himself, and to invade the rights and properties of others: Let us therefore…

Do your riches increase? Set not your heart upon them; make use of what God has given you without such pinching and self-denial which the Lord Jesus never commanded in his precepts of that kind; God never gave riches to save, but to use; take heed of exceeding the bounds in spen…

What would you give, sirs, to come safely to heaven? Do but lay up a good foundation for yourselves against the time to come, and thereby you do (as it were) lay hold upon eternal life (1 Timothy 6:19). Press forward, and be aiming at perfection, take heed of (so much as) seemin…

Oh what good may these do you upon a temptation to carnal confidence! Tremble to pierce and prejudice your soul again, never lean upon this broken reed, that will run into your hand and heart, and pierce you with many sorrows here, and be in danger to drown you in eternal perdit…

Alas, poor creatures, if you get a treasure in the world, what will you do for a treasure when you must be gone from here? Your earthly treasures will not purchase eternal happiness, you cannot always live here; therefore lay up in store for yourselves a good foundation against…

I acknowledge, true repentance is never too late; but when a man can hardly stir his hand, or lift up his eyes, now is a very unfit time to begin the race from earth to Heaven. 4. This earnestness for Heaven is compared to fighting, which implies violence (1 Timothy 6:12). Fight…

The little ants, and painstaking bees; by nature's instinct led; These have their summer granaries, for winter furnished. (Proverbs 6:6-7) But you my soul, whose summer's day is almost past and gone; What soul-provision do you lay in stock, to spend upon? (Matthew 6:20; 1 Timoth…

God is a bountiful rewarder of such as diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6). They must not indeed work for wages, nor yet will God suffer their work to go unrewarded; indeed, it sufficiently rewards itself (1 Timothy 6:6). And its reward is twofold, (1) present, and in part; (2) f…

3. We must follow after meekness. This precept we have (1 Timothy 6:11). Meekness is there put in opposition to those foolish and hurtful lusts, which Timothy must flee from.

If ministers give offense in anything, not they only, but their ministry will be blamed (2 Corinthians 6:3). Indeed, if servants, Christians of the lowest rank and figure, if they be unfaithful, and disobedient to the government they are under, the name of God, and his doctrine,…

The third thing in fruition, is to have the sweet and comfort of all that we do use, or else we do not enjoy that we have. If a man should have the use of his estate, and meat, and drink, if he have not the sweet and comfort of it, he cannot be said to enjoy it; but when the com…

I have read of Antipater King of Macedonia, that when one presented him a Book treating of happiness, his answer was, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], I have no leisure; you have been presented with Sermons, and now with a Book treating of heavens happiness, take heed that no earthl…

This is the [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], the Master-design, which engrosseth all their time, studies and contrivances. The Will has past a Decree for it, the Heart and Affections are fully let out to it, They will be rich, 1 Timothy 6:9. This Decree of the Will, the Spirit of Go…

Oh then! what a vanity is it to set the heart and let out the affections on them! You can never depend too much upon God, nor too little upon the creature, 1 Timothy 6:17. Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded and trust in uncertain riches. REFLEC…

This spiritual affection extends itself as far as natural affection, namely to wives, husbands, children, parents, brethren, cousins, friends, etc. Much is this urged and pressed in the Scriptures, as (Isaiah 55:1-3), (Matthew 6:19-20, 33), (John 6:27), (1 Timothy 6:11, 19). §.…

5. Who are over suspicious of their wives, and thereupon over strict in taking account of them. Saint Paul calls surmises evil, and that not without just cause: for evil they are in their nature, and evil in their effects, being occasions of many mischiefs: but in none so evil a…

This is it which the Apostle here intimates under these two words, fear and trembling. In both these respects Saint Peter commands servants to be subject in all fear (1 Timothy 6:1) (1 Peter 2:18). So proper is this fear to a servant in relation to his master, as where it is wan…

God can make a way for a man to escape, when he is in, he can break the snare, tread down Satan, and make the soul more than a conqueror, though it have entered into temptation: Christ entered into it, but was not in the least foiled by it, but 4. It is, as the Apostle expresses…

Thus is he described to be immortal, infinite; that is, he is not as we are, mortal, finite, and limited. Hence is that glorious description of him (1 Timothy 6:16): Who only has immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto, whom no man has seen nor can see.…

How may this be done? Any carnal affection unmortified, lays us open to the Devil; (1 Timothy 6:9) They that will be rich, fall into temptation, and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. If a man cherish his worldliness,…

(Proverbs 30:8) Feed me with food convenient for me. And, (1 Timothy 6:8) If we have food and raiment, let us therewith be content. And then ask them with humility, and submission to the will of God.

Therefore, when Christ was transfigured, the disciples were astonished, and fell back; they could not endure the emissions and beamings out of his divine glory, because of the weakness and incapacity of the present state; therefore has God a place above, where he discovers his g…

These are things pertaining to the kingdom of God, concerning which Christ spoke to the disciples (Acts 1:3). These are to be kept till Christ's appearing (1 Timothy 6:14). It is an honor to God, and of great profit to the church, and a rejoicing to God's people, to see them pur…