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.

This business therefore was engaged in for us (Isaiah 9:6): "To us a Child is born, to us a Son is given." And Paul plainly tells us what he came into the world for (1 Timothy 1:15): Jesus Christ came to save sinners. Jesus Christ, to the end that he might be a Redeemer to manki…

It is evident then that these appellations do not belong to one sort of ministers, not one more than another. And for what is pleaded by some, from the example of Timothy and Titus, it is said, that when any persons can prove themselves to be evangelists (1 Timothy 4:5), to be c…

(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…

(2) John 6:15; Acts 26:18; 1 Peter 2:9; 2 Corinthians 4:3, 4, 6. (3) 1 Timothy 1:19, 20; 2 Timothy 4:3, 4; Titus 1:13; Jude 3. (4) Ephesians 4:20, 21, 22, 23, 24.

Q. How else do they differ? A. Justification makes no real change in the soul, as when the judge acquits a man, but makes him never a whit the more honest than before; but Sanctification makes a great change in the soul from sin and corruption to purity and holiness (Romans 6:17…

Q. What is the Church militant? A. It is that part of the catholic Church which is warring and fighting here on earth against spiritual enemies, the devil, the world and the flesh (Ephesians 6:12; Philippians 1:30; 2 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Timothy 1:18). Q. And what is the Church T…

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…

And seeing they that are the chief reformers of the Protestant assemblies do generally make sanctification a fruit of faith, and do define faith to be a special assurance of mercy in Christ; it must needs be out of controversy their judgement, that a man receives his first assur…

Neither will the first compleat our interest in that body without the latter. Hence are they frequently conjoyned by our Apostle, not only as those which are necessary to, but as those which essentially constitute the union of the whole mystical body and communion therein (Galat…

And they are thus called, because indeed there is no such predominancy of malice in any sin in this world, as wherein there is not a mixture of error, either notional or practical, of the mind or of the heart, which is the cause or a great occasion of it. See (1 Timothy 1:13; Ma…

And in very many places it is recommended as a special Grace and Duty, 2 Corinthians 6:6. Galatians 5:22. Ephesians 4:2. Colossians 3:12. And it is often also ascribed to God, Romans 2:4. chap. 9:22. to Christ, 1 Timothy 1:16. [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] is properly [⟨in non-Latin…

And this title is in the Scripture applied to God. (1) To beget faith and trust in him, as the author of temporal, spiritual, and eternal life, with all things that depend thereon (1 Timothy 1:10). (2) To beget a due fear and reverence of him, as he who lives and sees, who has a…

Therefore the great end which God will ultimately effect, being his own glory in Christ, and the salvation of the elect by him, the wisdom whereby it was contrived must needs be eminent and glorious. So the Apostle tells us, "Then is the end when Christ shall have delivered up t…

But is it no encouragement to them, to see that by God's appointment, the tenders of his grace and mercy are made to their souls, by men subject to alike passions with themselves, and who if they had not freely obtained grace, would have been as vile and unworthy as themselves?…

And if you ask, what the believer's hope is built on? Answer: Christ, and free grace is the foundation of it (Colossians 1:27), Christ in you the hope of glory; (2 Thessalonians 2, second to last verse) good hope through grace; (1 Timothy 1:1) Jesus Christ which is our hope. Not…

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.

Now our actions are sanctified and savor of grace, when they are performed upon new principles and new ends. New principles, duty sways the conscience, and love inclines the heart: (1 Timothy 1:5) the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and good conscience, an…

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…

Ibi anima ubi amat, et amor figit Oculum: love is a knitting affection — this knits the soul to Christ. Where there is love out of a pure heart, there is faith unfeigned (1 Timothy 1:5). 3. That faith is sound and effectual, that purifies the heart, and is fruitful in the course…

This further appears by another passage in that Epistle, where this act of the Apostles approving by the Spirit, and receiving perfect fore-knowledge what would fall out, and what they should do, is by him illustrated by the example of Moses, who [in non-Latin alphabet] fore-kne…

And thus much of those which the Lord in mercy and wisdom receives of us. Now follows those means which he has given us, and they are attributed to the Lord himself directly, as his titles, to be used, either simply (Romans 9:5; 1 Timothy 1:17), in an oath (Deuteronomy 6:13; Jer…

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…

1. Because no man — not the finest and sweetest nature — can engage the grace of Christ, or with his penny or sweating, earn either the kingdom of grace or glory, whether by way of merit of condignity or congruity (Romans 9:16): "So then, it is not in him that wills, nor in him…

The Apostle says (1 Corinthians 2:12), Now we have received not the Spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. The converted can say, I was such a man (1 Timothy 1:13). [illegible], but I obtained mercy;…

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…

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.

So the words are used again (Mark 10:45). And both these notes of a succedaneous substitution are joined together (1 Timothy 2:6): [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]. And this the Greeks call [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] — to buy any thing, to purchase or procure any thing, with the pri…

1. That he offered himself a sacrifice to God, to make atonement for our sins, and that in his death and sufferings (Isaiah 53:10): "When you shall make his soul an offering for sin" (John 1:29): "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world" (Ephesians 5:2): "Chr…

And there we have found a valuable price to merit, that which has in it enough to answer for the justification of sinners, but still this added to the former yet falls short of the actual meriting of it, there is yet something more wanting, but that also is supplied by Christ, h…

Quest. 17. Which are the principal institutions of the Gospel to be observed in the worship of God? Answ. (1.) The calling, gathering and setling of Churches with their Officers, as the seat and subject of all other solemn instituted worship. (2.) Prayer with thanksgiving. (3.)…

(5) because in all the prayers of the Church, there is an especial regard had to himself, and the whole work of his mediation. (1) Luke 18:1; Chap. 21:36; Romans 12:5; 1 Timothy 2:1, 2. (2) Ephesians 4:8, 12, 13; Romans 8:15, 16; Galatians 4:6.

This authority in the Discipline of the Church they exert and put forth by virtue of their Office; and not either as declaring of the power of the Church itself, or acting what is delegated to them thereby, but as ministerially exercising the authority of Christ committed to the…

Quest. 52. Wherein consists the duty of any Church of Christ towards other Churches? Answ. (1) In walking circumspectly, so as to give them no offence. (2) In prayer for their peace and prosperity. (3) In communicating supplyes to their wants according to ability. (4) In receivi…

Q. Since there are two natures in Christ, the divine and human, whether is Christ then two persons? A. By no means, but one only (1 Corinthians 8:6; 1 Timothy 2:5). Q. But is not Christ a person in respect of his Godhead?

Q. Having spoken of the person of Christ, tell in the next place what is Christ's office? A. His office in the general is to be a Mediator between God and man, to work reconciliation between them (1 Timothy 2:5; 2 Corinthians 5:18, 19). Q. What need was there of such a Mediator?

Q. Whether must we pray to God directly and immediately, or through a Mediator? A. Only through the mediation of Jesus Christ (John 14:6 & 16:23; 1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 7:25). Q. What are the parts of prayer?

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…

And the Lord Christ is there said to be [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] antecedently to his Resurrection: which must be with respect to his internal holiness, You shall not suffer your Holy One to see Corruption. And in the New Testament the word is every where used for him, that is…

But hereof there is nothing at all in the description they give us of this office. But this the Apostle does in his elsewhere (1 Timothy 2:5, 6): There is one God, and one Mediator between God and man, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for all. The principal part o…

So the Redemption that is by Christ, is everywhere said to be a price, a Ransom. See (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 Peter 1:18, 19). It is the deliverance of persons out of a state of captivity and bondage, by the payment of a valuable price or…

From there is [in non-Latin alphabet], mediatorem ago, pacificatoris partes ago, to interpose a mans self by any means to confirm and establish peace, which was here done, [in non-Latin alphabet], with an Oath. The word is used in this place only in the New Testament, as [in non…

1. Some would have our Lord Jesus Christ to be the Surety of that Testament also. For so our Apostle affirms in general, There is one God, and one Mediator between God and Man, the Man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransome for all to be Testified in due time (1 Timothy 2:5, 6…

But (3.) both these do not render it prayer or intercession. For intercession is prayer (1 Timothy 2:1; Romans 8:26). Therefore there is in it moreover, a putting up, a requesting, and offering to God, of his desires and will for the Church, attended with care, love, and compass…

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.

All this may be done by persons of a private gift and station. There is something that the Magistrate may do; he is the Minister of God for good; not only for good civil, but spiritual; and therefore does the Apostle bid us pray for them, that they may be keepers of both the Tab…

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…

He turns her eyes and thoughts away from the difference of places, to look at the spirituality of the worship: for as God is no respecter of persons, so he is no respecter of places; but wherever, for that indefinite [where] is equivalent to an universal, Wherever two or three a…

My proposition he must either grant, or else say that the incestuous man was not to be put out of the midst of women, and that the Apostle did not forbid women to be commingled with fornicators. My assumption is his own, Pag. 24. where he tells us from (1 Corinthians 14:34, 35;…

Question. 3. What place must we pray in? The place is set down (1 Timothy 2:8): we may pray in all places, of which there is no difference. Some will say, that in the time of the Law, the Tabernacle and Temple were places for divine prayer.

Mat. 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.

For the second part he says (1 Corinthians 10:31), "Whether therefore you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God: give no offence, neither to the Jew nor to the Grecian, nor to the Church of God." And again, the apparel even of women, must be such as become…

To keep within the compass of one's calling, is neither to go above our ability in them, nor yet above those with whom God has sorted us in age, degree, condition of life and trade: but in diet, apparel, recreation, to square ourselves according to the most sober of our age, deg…

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…

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…

No, says the Apostle, he took upon him the form of a Servant, was made in the likeness of Men, and was found in fashion as a Man; that his being truly a Man is expressed in these words our adversaries deny not; and we therefore believe that the same Jesus Christ is God also, bec…

Col. 1:15, 16, 17. Who is the image of the invisible God, the first born of every creature; for by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers, all things were…

Quest. 17. Which are the principal institutions of the Gospel to be observed in the worship of God? Answ. (1.) The calling, gathering and setling of Churches with their Officers, as the seat and subject of all other solemn instituted worship. (2.) Prayer with thanksgiving. (3.)…

The principal thing we are to aim at in the whole worship of God, is the discharge of that duty which we owe to Jesus Christ the King and head of the Church (Hebrews 3:6). Christ as a Son over his own house — whose house are we (1 Timothy 3:15) — that you may know how you ought…

1 Peter 5:2: the elders which are among you, I exhort, feed the flock of God, which is among you, taking the oversight thereof. 1 Timothy 3:15; Colossians 4:17: and say to Archippus, take heed to the ministry which you have received in the Lord, that you fulfill it. They were th…

Being converted by the word, and making profession of that conversion in their Baptism, they gave up themselves to a stedfast continuance in the observation of all other ordinances of the Gospel. Besides the Church is an house, a Temple, the house of God (1 Timothy 3:15), the ho…

Quest. 23. Who are the ordinary officers or ministers of Christ in the Church to be always continued therein? Answ. Those whom the Scripture calls, pastors and teachers, bishops, elders, and guides (Acts 14:23; Acts 20:17, 18; 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11; Philippians 1:1…

Secondly, their unblameableness and holiness of conversation is previously required in them that are to be set apart to the Ministry. This the Apostle expressly declares, and lays down many particular instances whereby it is to be tried (Titus 1:7, 8, 9): "For a Bishop must be b…

(8) To attend with diligence, skill and wisdom to the discharge of that authority which in the rule of the Church is committed to them. (1) 1 Timothy 3:10, 11, 13; chap. 4.12; 2 Timothy 2:3; Colossians 1:24; Philippians 2:17; chap. 3.17. (2) Hebrews 13:17; Acts 20:28.

(1) Acts 20:28; Hebrews 13:7, 17; 1 Peter 5:2; 1 Corinthians 12:28. (2) 1 Timothy 3:5; Colossians 4:17; 2 Corinthians 10:4, 8. (3) 1 Timothy 4:11; Titus 2:15; 1 Peter 1:2, 3, 4, 5.

Quest. 33. What are the Deacons of the Church? Answ. Approved men chosen by the Church to take care for the necessities of the poor belonging thereunto, and other outward occasions of the whole Church, by the collection, keeping, and distribution of the alms, and other supplies…

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,…

Herein are bounds and limits fixed to the actings of the whole Church, and of every part and member of it. Thirdly, This power or authority, thus granted, and conveyed by Jesus Christ, is to be exercised as to the manner of the administration of discipline, with skill and dilige…

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…

Quest. 52. Wherein consists the duty of any Church of Christ towards other Churches? Answ. (1) In walking circumspectly, so as to give them no offence. (2) In prayer for their peace and prosperity. (3) In communicating supplyes to their wants according to ability. (4) In receivi…

Thirdly, he was the greatest Prophet born among women: for he saw him come in the flesh, and said to two disciples, "Behold that Lamb of God which takes away the sins of the world" (John 1:29). Yet he that is the least member in the kingdom of heaven is greater than John: becaus…

And this in the Church is twofold: (1) Of especial office; (2) of common love and charity. The rise, occasion and institution of an especial office or ministry towards the poor is at large declared, Acts 6, and mentioned afterwards by our Apostle as an abiding ordinance (Romans…

Neither will it be effected without a constant exercise of grace. For this cause the Apostle would not have a novice called to the ministry or public exercise of spiritual gifts, namely, lest he be puffed up with pride and fall into the condemnation of the Devil (1 Timothy 3:6).…

This it is the principal design of the whole Gospel to demonstrate, namely, to declare that all the treasures of divine wisdom and knowledge are hid in Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:3). The constitution of his person, was the greatest mystery that ever infinite wisdom effected (1 T…

That is still continued, this is that which was already accomplished, at the time limited by the Apostle. Therefore this appearance, this [in non-Latin alphabet] or manifestation of Christ in the end of the world, is the same with his being manifested in the flesh (1 Timothy 3:1…

And as to the especial effects of this wisdom, the angels themselves desire to bow down, with an humble diligence in their enquiry into them (1 Peter 1:12). And on these considerations our Apostle concludes that without all controversie the work hereof is a great mystery (1 Timo…

The foundation of the new creation was laid gloriously in the Death and Resurrection of Christ, so as to be the matter of triumphant praises to God. Such is the triumph thereon described (Colossians 2:15; 1 Timothy 3:16). And it may be observed, that as on the laying of the foun…

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…

2. To keep it and preserve it for ages to come: so that to the present age we are witnesses, to the future trustees. 1. To publish, own and defend the truth, by profession and martyrdom; and therefore the Church is called the pillar and ground of truth (1 Timothy 3:15), namely i…

But when the sun arises, the shadows fly away, and therefore now that Christ the body is come, and that Sun of Righteousness arisen upon the world, those legal shadows are done away; and to retain them in these times of the New Testament does interpretatively deny that Christ is…

If there be any agreement or confederacy among them, it is not to walk in the ways of the Gospel, but in ways contrary to the fundamental truths of the Gospel, as idolatry in worship, heresy in doctrine, and other Antichristian pollutions and corruptions: and therefore if they c…

Saravia says, the Churchwardens which are in every Parish of England, have some resemblance of ruling Elders, whose charge appointed by law, he says, is to collect, keep, and disburse the goods and revenues of the Church, to preserve the fabric of the Church and all things perta…

Bilson gives yet another sense, That there were two sorts of Elders, some who laboured in the word and doctrine, some who had the care of the poor: both were worthy of double honor; but especially they who laboured in the word. Answer. Deacons are distinguished from Elders, (Rom…

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 d…

In Romans 12:7, 8 him that teaches, him that exhorts, him that rules, and him that shows mercy. In Philippians 1:1 we have Bishops and Deacons; and their institutions with the order of it, we have at large expressed in 1 Timothy 3:1, 2, Bishops and Deacons without the interposit…

But he informs us, cap 4 sect. 3. from that testimony which we cited before, that the Apostles in the appointment of Bishops and Deacons (for so the words expressly are) are said [in non-Latin alphabet], that is, namely, says he, Revelationibus edoctos esse, quibus demùm haec di…

Contrary to this, is the common and whole casting off of this care, unless in worldly matters. The first part of this rule is proved by these places: I will have the younger woman to marry, and govern their houshold (1 Timothy 5); If one rule not his houshold well, how shall he…

And some of them to labor also in the word, one by teaching, another by exhorting, some to attend to manners, watching over the people, to admonish them, to comfort them, to pray with them when they be in distress, etc., to join with the others in the rest of the governing of th…

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…

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…

That which gives the soul the advantage to take hold of the person of Christ, is the promise of special mercy in which he is exhibited. It is not to be denied that the whole Scripture is serviceable to the faith of God's Elect; and it all some way or other leads to Christ; and f…

And what is not so appointed, neither does, nor can be any part thereof. Of this nature are the celebration of all other ordinances with prayer; for every thing is sanctified by the word of God and prayer (1 Timothy 4:5); of some of them indispensably in the assemblies of the Ch…

It is evident then that these appellations do not belong to one sort of ministers, not one more than another. And for what is pleaded by some, from the example of Timothy and Titus, it is said, that when any persons can prove themselves to be evangelists (1 Timothy 4:5), to be c…

(4) Acts 14:23. (5) Acts 13:2; 1 Timothy 5:22; 1 Timothy 4:14. Explication.

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

(2) 1 Timothy 3:5; Colossians 4:17; 2 Corinthians 10:4, 8. (3) 1 Timothy 4:11; Titus 2:15; 1 Peter 1:2, 3, 4, 5. Explication.

(2) Ephesians 4:8, 12, 13; Romans 8:15, 16; Galatians 4:6. (3) Acts 2:42; 1 Timothy 4:5. (4) Revelation 8:3, 4; Hebrews 4:14, 15, 16; Chap. 6:20; Chap. 10:20, 21, 22.

Q. How must officers be put into their places? A. All of them by solemn prayer to God, and with imposition of hands upon elders and deacons, and in the ordaining of elders with fasting also (Acts 6:6; 1 Timothy 4:14; 5:22; Hebrews 6:2; Acts 14:26).

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…

Yet, Titus 1:15, to the pure, all things are pure. No, the meat and drink and the creature which God has created, are sanctified to his use (1 Timothy 4:3, 4, 5), for every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: for it is sanctif…

This was the sign of the communication of healing virtue from the Lord Christ by their Ministry. Thirdly, Imposition of hands was used in the setting apart of persons to the office and work of the Ministry (1 Timothy 4:14; chapter 5:22; Acts 6:6); the Rite herein was derived fro…

If they are not, is it not the greatest folly and madness imaginable, while we seek after salvation, to set him aside on any occasion, in any one instance, who can save us to the utmost, and betake our selves to them who cannot save us at all? If they are able to save us in any…

He is the God that lives and sees (Genesis 16:14). And as he sees, so he judges, because he is the Living God, which also is the ground of holy trust in him (1 Timothy 4:10). This name of the Living God is full of terror or comfort to the souls of men.

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…

God knows what is best for himself, and how by his own institutions to keep up the repute of his nature and essence: when man presumes to be wiser than God, and leaves the certainty of God's institutions, for additions and innovations of our own, that please us better, because t…

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.

Collegium Presbyterorum, says Camero. The Presbytery whereof mention is made (1 Timothy 4:14). Tell the Church, that is, [in non-Latin alphabet], says Chrysostome, expounding the place: he means the Presbytery made up of Pastors and ruling Elders.

3. An Ellipsis of the particle [illegible], is no error, no not in members of an opposition, as (Colossians 2:23) much less in the distinction of a Species from the Genus. 4. [In non-Latin alphabet] without [illegible], is put for especially, as well as when it has [illegible],…

The word [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩] Presbytery we find three times in the New Testament, twice of the Jewish Presbytery at Jerusalem (Luke 22:66; Acts 22:5), and once of the Christian Presbytery (1 Timothy 4:14): "Neglect not the gift that is in you, which [⟨◊⟩] given you by pr…

Thirdly, this life is a life that is least indigent of all others: it needs least. Take a man that leads any other life, he needs many things; this is shadowed in that of Martha, and Mary (Luke 10:41-42): Martha busies herself about many things, she wanted many; but Mary had one…

2. 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, t…

This further appears by another passage in that Epistle, where this act of the Apostles approving by the Spirit, and receiving perfect fore-knowledge what would fall out, and what they should do, is by him illustrated by the example of Moses, who [in non-Latin alphabet] fore-kne…

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…

"Sacrifices of the dead" is an objective genitive: sacrifices that were offered to the dead — that is, to gods who can provide help to no one, but are plainly like a dead thing, vain and useless, from which to expect any help or comfort is nothing less than extreme madness. And…

The study of theology, therefore, is nothing other than the effort, directed according to the norm of the divine word, to promote the saving light and the spiritual gifts in which this heavenly wisdom consists in the mind of the theologian. This Scripture itself teaches us every…

2 Declaring more plainlie the nature of temperance. All these must be sanctified by the word, with prayer before, and thanksgiving after, yes so used, as every one do it to the glory of God, without offence, and keep himself within his calling: as for the first part, the Apostle…

THE ORDER OF Hovsholde, methodicallie described out of the word of God, with the contrarie abuses found in the world. THE order of an houshold called oeconomia, it is an order for the government of an houshold according to the word of God (1 Timothy 4). Which governes his house…

Where the consequent is declared by two arguments. First, the subject ours; that is, such as we in Christ be heirs of, to use, being sanctified by word and prayer (1 Timothy 4; 1 Corinthians 3:22). The second by the adjoint, such as is both apt, and able by his blessing to nouri…

His titles according to the double use of them, simply, or in an oath, has double caution set down in the word. In the simple use, we must be prepared either by premeditation, or else by some occasion going before, which does stir up the several affections of the heart in the us…

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…

Section 31. If this is the condition of the command of holiness, how just and equal must it be confessed to be, and how highly reasonable that we should comply with it, and how great is the sin and folly of those by whom it is neglected — to neglect or despise this command is to…

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 (2.) some temporary appointments relating to gifts in the Church, bestowed only for a season in the first plantation of the Gospel, are ceased. But (3.) no institution or command of Christ, given to the whole Church, relating to the evangelical administration of the New Cove…

Sometimes bishops or overseers (Philippians 1:1; Acts 20:28; Titus 1:5). Sometimes elders (1 Peter 5:1; 1 Timothy 5:17; Acts 14:23; Acts 20:17). Sometimes guides (Hebrews 13:7, 17).

(4) Acts 14:23. (5) Acts 13:2; 1 Timothy 5:22; 1 Timothy 4:14. Explication.

(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. The answer is full and plain.

(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.

Quest. 31. Are there appointed any Elders in the Church, whose office and duty consist in rule and government only? Elders not called to teach ordinarily, or administer the Sacraments, but to assist and help in the rule and government of the Church, are mentioned in the Scriptur…

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 widows and their works? A. They are godly and aged women, left desolate and destitute of outward support, who are to attend the sick, and such like offices as are more suitable to be performed by women than by men (1 Timothy 5:9-10; Romans 16:1). Q. What persons must…

Q. May the rest also fall away, and perish with the devils? A. No, because they are elected of God, and so for ever upheld in that good estate (1 Timothy 5:27).

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…

So (1 Thessalonians 4:8; Jude 8). Sometimes it respects things (Galatians 2:21; 1 Timothy 5:12). But commonly it respects a law, and is applied to them who are absolutely under the power of the law, or such in whose power the law is.

3. Men deny Christ, when they profess him, and walk unworthily and dishonorably to their profession: actions are the best image of men's thoughts; now their actions give their profession the lie (Titus 1:16): they profess they know God, and in works they deny him. So (1 Timothy…

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 worthy of double honor. (Hebrews 13:7), Remember them which…

Opportunities to manifest more love to God, more dependence on him, the perfection of the soul. (1 Timothy 5:5) Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusts in God, and continues in supplications and prayers night and day; there is a ground of more exercise of trust in G…

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…

It has four different significations: 1. It notes age; 2. antiquity; 3. venerability; 4. an office. In the first signification, Elder is opposed to younger, as (1 Timothy 5:1) Rebuke not an Elder, but entreat him as a father, and the younger men as brethren, (1 Peter 5:5) Likewi…

THE office of Ruling Elders is not only maintained by [illegible] Cartwright, [illegible], Bucer[illegible], and others whom our opposites will call partial Writers, let him who pleases read the commentaries of Martyr, [illegible], Gualther, Hemmingius, Piscator, Paraus upon (Ro…

Our answer to this is: 1. We have showed already the certain bounds of the power and vocation of ruling Elders. 2. It was not necessary that the Apostle should severally set down canons and directions: first, touching Pastors, then Doctors; lastly, ruling Elders, since they are…

8. Some of all estates in the commonwealth voice in Parliament, therefore some of all sorts in the Church ought to voice in Councils and Synods; for de paribus idem judicium, a National Synod is that same to the Church, which a Parliament is to the commonwealth. 9. Those Elders…

The ruling Elder does neither of these, but labors in the government and policie of the Church only. The Apostle has distinguished these three sorts of Elders (1 Timothy 5:17): Let Elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the Word and…

To the fourth wee answer, That though it be ordinarily most convenient, that the office of attending the sicke bee committed to women, yet it is not essentially necessary to the office: and as Aretius noteth upon the place, wee may under [in non-Latin alphabet] comprehend not on…

Our fifth argument is taken from a clear place, 1 Timothy 5:17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.

There is one place of Ambrose which clears it sufficiently. He writing on 1 Timothy 5:1, Rebuke not an Elder, says, Vnde & Synagoga, &c. Therefore both the Jewish Synagogue, and after the Church had Senior or Elders, without whose counsel nothing was done in the Church: which by…

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…

2. That expression if not exactly, yet competently is somewhat mysterious. 3. Ruling Elders are expressly distinguished from those that labor in the word and doctrine (1 Timothy 5:17), and from these that teach or exhort (Romans 12:7, 8). 4. If ruling Elders shall teach publicly…

The second degree is, when as men are not so active that way, but yet are dead in pleasures, ambition, covetousness, and the like. There is a generation of men which trouble not themselves to oppose God and the saints, but give themselves to pleasures, and like those widows (1 T…

So we must desire more the presence of God in the life to come, than his favor in this life (1 Corinthians 1:7). And love, and reverence more the teaching Elders, than governing only (1 Timothy 5:17), etc. For the better doing of this, is required perfection, sobriety (Matthew 1…

The second, of those which are governed in the same. 1 Timothy 5:8: If one care not for his own, especially those of his house — which shows an especial rule of mutual duty between these two. Also the wisdom of the holy Ghost, in setting down mutual duties to them: Proverbs 31;…

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…

This God complains of in the People of old; My People are foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish Children, and have none understanding; they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledg, Jer. 4. 22. (2.) In the Choice and preferring of any other Life befo…

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…

Verse 13. And to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake. 1 Timothy 5:17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine. 1 Peter 5:5. Submit yourselves to the elders.

The holy Angels of God looked on, rejoicing to behold how gloriously they acquitted themselves in the work and ministry committed to them. And to this end does he charge Timothy before the elect Angels, to look to and discharge aright the work of an Evangelist (1 Timothy 5:21),…

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…

Proverbs 23:19. Hear you my son and be wise, and guide your heart in the way: it's grace that guides the heart in the way, but the graced heart also guides itself, in its manner of working, in the way of God. 1 Timothy 5:22. Keep yourself pure. 2 Timothy 2:15. Study to show your…

Ans. Sure, Jesus Christ must be the meritorious and fountain cause of such influences. For 1. We suppose that Christ is the head of the elect Angels: God having purposed to save man of grace, he gave this mighty separating influence distinguishing the standing and elect Angels f…

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…

And (2.) some temporary appointments relating to gifts in the Church, bestowed only for a season in the first plantation of the Gospel, are ceased. But (3.) no institution or command of Christ, given to the whole Church, relating to the evangelical administration of the New Cove…

(3) 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 4:2; Romans 12:6, 7, 8. (4) 1 Timothy 6:20; Acts 20:28; Jude 3. (5) 1 Corinthians 4:1, 2; 1 Timothy 3:15.

Secondly, offences against that mutual love which is the bond of perfection in the Church, if pertinaciously persisted in (Matthew 18:16, 17). Thirdly, false doctrines against the fundamentals in faith or worship, especially if maintained with contention, to the trouble and dist…

Qu. 5. Is there any farther alteration to be expected in, or of those institutions and ordinances of worship, which are revealed and appointed in the Gospel? Answ. No! The last complete revelation of the will of God being made by the Son, who is Lord of all, his commands and ins…

Q. You have shewed that there is a God, and only one God, and three persons; tell me now what God is? A. God is so infinite, and incomprehensible, that no creature is able fully to comprehend or know him (Exodus 33:20, 23; Job 26:14 & 11:7-9; 1 Timothy 6:16). Q. How then may we…

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…

(Honoured Sir) The Word of Christ being the Rule of England's Reformation; the good Lord (that writeth his Laws in his peoples hearts, according to his new Covenant of Grace: Hebrews 8:10.) put it into my mind, seriously to consider, What Schism was, that I had covenanted agains…

Thirdly, Superstition: namely, whatever is supra Statutum, that has not the word of God to warrant it. Fourthly, Schism: namely, from all those that teach, and consent not to the wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to…

And those who have ability in any church should do well to consider the honor and reputation of the whole church in the sight of God and man depends much on their diligence and bounty in the discharge of this duty. Hence is that peculiar direction of our Apostle to Timothy with…

1. Jesus Christ is a King: as he is a Prophet and a Priest, so he is a King. Psalm 2:6. Acts 17:7. 1 Timothy 6:14, 15. 1 Corinthians 15:25. He is the blessed and only potentate, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and he must reign: and let his Kingdom come.

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…

It provoketh us to get an interest in such a sure condition. Be not contented, 1. With outward happiness; things are worthy according to their duration: Nature has such a sense of God's eternity, that the more lasting things are, it accounteth them the better: An immortal soul m…

It commands that every one that names the name of Christ, should depart from iniquity (2 Timothy 2:19), and charges Christians, as they tender its honor, to take heed to their actions. Let as many servants as are under the yoke of Christ, count their own masters worthy of all ho…

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…

But yet if the Lord shall grant but bread, that is, so much as shall but hold body and soul together, we must be content therewith. (1 Timothy 6:8) Therefore, when we have food and raiment, let us be therewith content. This contentment was in Jacob (Genesis 28:20).

Those who are rich, must be rich in good works. In (1 Timothy 6) God gives us richly; therefore be rich in good works. It is not enough for a rich man to give sixpence, or twelvepence for some great service, but he is to be rich in good works, and for relieving distressed ones,…

Contrary to this is, unmannerliness, answering again, giving curt answers, etc. [1 Timothy 6:2. And they which have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren, but rather do service, because they are faithful and beloved, and partakers of the benefit…

The antecedent is declared by the adjoint of the time, this day; that is, one kind of time being put generally for that time wherein we are, according to God's promise to ask it, as Solomon says, the thing of the day in the day: that is, every thing in his time, as Saint Luke ex…

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'…

Answ. 1. We are to make believers know if they believe not, and walk not worthy of Christ, in all holy duties; their faith is a fancy, and a dead faith, and the wrath of God abides on them, and they are not believers. 2. Though they be believers, wrath must be preached to them,…

Bread shall be given him, his waters shall be sure; or faithful: bread and drink are unfaithful, uncertain, and winged to natural men. (1 Timothy 6:17): Riches has a [illegible], an uncertainty, like ghosts or spirits that you see, but they vanish out of your sight, and disappea…

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…

The fear of the Lord is his treasure. Godliness is the gain that he is covetous and greedy of; 1 Timothy 6 verse 6. Hypocrites long for discoveries, more for the present comfort of the discovery, and the high manifestation of God's love in it, than for any sanctifying influence…

And by the same word is the bounty of God in other things expressed. The living God who gives us richly all things to enjoy, 1 Tim. 6. 17. (2.) This pouring out has respect to the Gifts and Graces of the Spirit and not to his Person. For where he is given he is given absolutely,…

And for our Encouragement in this part of our Work, this Necessity is such, as that it is by all sorts of Christians allowed, pleaded for, and the thing it self pretended to. For, whereas the Gospel is eminently,[[original in non-Latin script]], or [[original in non-Latin script…

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…

They are the Lord's Bishops. 2 Corinthians 5:20. Stewards (1 Corinthians 4:1; Titus 1:7), men of God (1 Samuel 2:27; 1 Timothy 6:11), rulers (Hebrews 13:7, 17), lights (Matthew 5:14), salt (Matthew 5:13), fathers (1 Corinthians 4:15), and by many more such like terms are they de…

Galatians 6:10. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good to all men, especially to them who are of the household of faith. 1 Timothy 6:17. Charge them that be rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who give…

The world is also a professed enemy of the kingdom of Christ (John 15:18); in the things of it, the men of it, the rule of it, it sets itself against the work of the Lord Christ on his throne. The things of it, as under the curse and subject to vanity, are suited to alienate the…

But is this [illegible] a living Redeemer, [illegible], the living one, is a property of God. He is [illegible], the living God (1 Timothy 4:10), [illegible] (1 Timothy 6:16), who alone has immortality. A mortal man is not rightly called a living Redeemer, one that has life in h…