2 Corinthians

The comfort of the Spirit is distinct from the anointing; this comfort is very sweet, sweeter than the honey drops from the comb; it is the Manna in the golden pot, it is Vinum in pectore; a drop of this heavenly comfort, is enough to sweeten a sea of worldly sorrow. It is calle…

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

When David would have assurance, he prays, Take not away your Spirit from me (Psalm 51:11). He knew it was the Spirit only that could make him hear the voice of joy: The Spirit is [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], the Comforter, he seals up assurance (2 Corinthians 1:22). Therefore m…

Be of good cheer, Paul. When God was about to give Paul a cup of blood to drink, he spiced it with joy (2 Corinthians 1:5). As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds.

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

Fifthly, if you would persevere, cherish the grace of faith. Faith does stabilire Animum (2 Corinthians 1:24). By faith you stand.

1. The relation of a Father (2 Corinthians 6:18). I will be a Father to you: A Father is full of tender care for his child: Who does he settle the inheritance upon but his child? God being our God will be a Father to us; a Father of mercy (2 Corinthians 1:3). the everlasting Fat…

Thirdly, in the chief good, there must be not only fullness but variety; where variety is wanting, we are apt to nauseate; to feed only on honey, would breed loathing; but in God is [illegible] all variety of fullness (Colossians 1:19). He is a universal good, commensurate to al…

Secondly, affliction has its light side as well as its dark. God can sweeten our afflictions, candy our wormwood (2 Corinthians 1:5). As our sufferings abound, so does also our consolation.

Mercy is the name by which God will be known (Exodus 34:6): The Lord passed by, and proclaimed, the Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious. Mercy proceeds primarily and originally from God; he is called the Father of mercies (2 Corinthians 1:3), because he begets all those me…

All the affections of parents come from God, but a spark from his flame. He is the Father of mercies (2 Corinthians 1:3). He begets all the mercies and bowels in the creature: His love to his children is a love which passes knowledge (Ephesians 3:19).

A parent's love to his child makes him always giving. Position 9. All the mercy in the creature is derived from God, and is but a drop of this ocean: the mercy and pity a mother has to her child is from God; he that puts the milk in her breast puts the compassion in her heart: t…

He who has grace is sure of heaven, for he has heaven begun in him. A believer has an evidence of heaven (Hebrews 11:1): Faith is the evidence of things not seen; he has an earnest of glory (2 Corinthians 1:22): Who has also given us the earnest of his Spirit; an earnest is part…

Lord if you use so much gentleness and correct in measure, your will be done. 12. There is kindness in affliction, in that God often sweetens it with divine consolation (2 Corinthians 1:4). Who comforts us in all our tribulation: after a bitter potion, a lump of sugar.

What was this for? Not so much for any personal cause of his own as to make him able to comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:4-5). For that comfort which answers a temptation in one man's heart will answer the same in another's — the same key will unlock twenty locks that have the sa…

Is it not that we may learn that lesson of Romans 8:26 — that it is the Spirit who helps our weaknesses and that we of ourselves know not what nor how to ask? In like manner, for the same end does he sometimes hide and then again sometimes reveal himself — to show that he is the…

Do you need comfort as well as pardon? He is both 'Father of mercies and God of all comfort' — that is his name (2 Corinthians 1:3). Do you need peace of conscience being filled with terrors?

Fourthly, afflictions serve to make God's children to go out of themselves to seek sincerely unto GOD, and to rely only upon him: which in prosperity they will not do. This, Paul confesses of himself and others: We (says he) received the sentence of death in ourselves, because w…

And it contains more than men at the first would imagine: It signifies, certainly, so be it, or it shall be so. 2 Corinthians 1:20. It is often taken for a bare assent of the people, saying Amen to the minister: but in this place it contains more; for every point in this prayer…

Secondly, in prayer we learn, that we must be persuaded of two things, and build upon them; God's power, and will: his power, in that he is able; his will, in that he is careful to perform our requests, as it was noted in the preface: the first of these is signified by kingdom a…

Answer: Small, in respect. In this world, we receive, as Paul says, not the tenths, but the first fruits of God's spirit (Romans 8:23): and the earnest of the spirit (2 Corinthians 1:22). Now the first fruits properly are but as a handful or two of corn, to a whole corn field, c…

The Papists to elude this reason, allege that the spirit of God does indeed witness of our adoption, by some comfortable feelings of God's love and favor, being such as are weak and oftentimes deceitful. But by their leave, the testimony of the Spirit is more than a bare sense o…

These experiences are food for your faith in a wilderness condition (Psalm 74:14). By this David kept his heart in times of danger (1 Samuel 17:37), and Paul his (2 Corinthians 1:10). It was sweetly answered by Silenziarius, when one told him that his enemies lay in wait to take…

But your Father has more blessings for you than one. His name is the Father of mercies (2 Corinthians 1:3). He can beget and create as many mercies for you as he pleases; relations and the comforts of them are at his command.

Isa. 63. 9. In his love, and in his pity he redeemed them. God is the Father of mercies, 2 Cor. 1. 3. Mercy doth naturally issue from him.

And will, or can, folks expect that for which they have no promise? The Scripture is plain and peremptory in this, as namely (Acts 4:12), there is no other name under heaven whereby a sinner can be saved, but by the name of Jesus; he is the door (John 10), the way, the truth, an…

And though the godly do steadfastly believe their salvation is in a castle, above losing; yet in reason, sin bringing broken bones, (Psalm 51:10), a sad cloud, the damming up of a spring of Christ's love spread abroad in the heart, a temporary hell in the soul, it must be sorrow…

Object 4. If the man be dead and buried, then farewell he, there is an end, no more of him. Yet Christ (2 Corinthians 1:9; John 5:25) raises the dead, and gives life to dry bones (Ezekiel 37). 2. Some fear they have nothing but an empty profession.

"It had been good for that man he had never been born" — so may we say of all our souls: it had been good for us we had never been born, if we die without grace, we shall then have our portion with hypocrites and unbelievers, and therefore let spiritual life be more sweet to you…

Our adoption assures us of God's nature to be ours, whereby God takes us to be his children, and he is one that is full of grace and goodness, nothing is wanting on his part; he is a Father to us, and that is a great matter. And in regard that Christ is our Advocate and Atonemen…

There is a likeness and a participation of the divine nature, and we are made partakers of the like grace in Christ Jesus, and that grace for grace: look what grace anywhere, you see in Christ, the resemblance of it is stamped upon every child of God, by the spirit of Christ. He…

It is an uncomfortable sign to you; the life of sanctification is not so shed abroad in your hearts, that you may gather you have life, but if you find that in the multitude of your thoughts within you, God's comforts delight your soul (Psalm 94:19-20). In the midst of sorrow yo…

And you have it so as not to lose other things. 2. Stability (2 Corinthians 1:20): "All the promises of God in him are yes, and in him Amen." And (Hebrews 6:18): "That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation," etc.

Moreover, the cross of Christ does not signify that piece of wood which Christ did bear upon his shoulders, and to which he was afterwards nailed, but generally it signifies all the afflictions of the faithful, whose sufferings are Christ's sufferings. 2 Corinthians 1: The suffe…

In (Jeremiah 4:2) there is the form of an oath, The Lord lives, and here only confession is expressed. The form of swearing, I call God to witness to (or upon) my soul (2 Corinthians 1:23), expresses the third part, namely invocation. The words (Ruth 2:17): The Lord do thus and…

The major or first part, is expressed in the Word; the minor or second part is found true by experience, and by the testimony of the conscience, which is a certain testimony. For Paul says, "This is my rejoicing, the testimony of my conscience" (2 Corinthians 1:12). And the conc…

Answer: For six. For illumination of our minds (1 John 2:27; 1 Corinthians 2:12); for regeneration, whereby the image of God is restored in us (John 3); for the government of our counsels, wills, affections, actions (Isaiah 11:1; Romans 8:14); for the effecting of that union, wh…

In himself, in the comfortable testimony of a good conscience. Our glorying is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity, and godly pureness, we have had our conversation in the world (2 Corinthians 1:12). The one, is glorying before God; the other, before men.

It seems the Prophet breaks off his speech to speak of Jesus Christ: but we must call to mind what we have said elsewhere: to wit, that it is usual with the Prophets in promising any thing, hard to be believed, forthwith to make mention of Christ: because all the promises are co…

Having discoursed of the redemption to come, he now descends to speak of Christ, under whose leading, the people were delivered from the captivity of Babylon, as in old time they were out of Egypt. Now it was needful the former prophecy should be confirmed with this present doct…

I forewarn you touching these things in time, to the end you should not faint nor turn aside by reason of your ill success, as though something unexpected were befallen you. Add moreover, that he is commanded to detect their blind obstinacy openly, as if of set purpose he should…

Thus the people dared very well urge God with his promise, and importune him by their prayers, in regard he had voluntarily obliged himself both to their fathers, and to their children. But now, seeing all promises are ratified and confirmed in Christ (2 Corinthians 1:20), and t…

But how should he be favorable without Christ, in whom he has freely adopted us for his chosen, and always receives us to mercy? According to which Saint Paul says, That in Christ all the promises of God are yes and Amen (2 Corinthians 1:20). As often then as God sent any succor…

The same apostle calls it, in another passage, an Embassy by which the reconciliation of the world to God, once accomplished by the death of Christ, is daily offered to men, (2 Corinthians 5:20) Secondly, Paul means not only that Christ is the pledge of all the blessings that Go…

From this Topick faith argues, and that very strongly and conclusively. So did David's faith in many exigencies: when he was to encounter the Champion of the Philistins, it was from former Providence that he encouraged himself, 1 Samuel 17:37 And the Apostle Paul improves his ex…

In all the comfortable Providences of your lives,ye God as the Author or donor of them. Remember he is the father of mercies, that begets every mercy for you, 2 Corinthians 1:3 The God of all comfort, without whose order no mercy or comfort can come to your hands. And think it n…

So David, 1 Samuel 17:37 The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the Lyon, and out of the paw of the Bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistin. So Paul, 2 Corinthians 1:10 Who has delivered, and in whom also we trust, that he will yet deliver. If these be f…

God has enclosed his rich stores of pardon and mercy in the blood of Jesus. Secondly, Because in his blood the promise of pardon is ratified and confirmed, so that nothing is wanting to our compleat forgiveness, but our pleading the promise by faith in him, 2 Corinthians 1:20. A…

For the greatest accent and emphasis that such do usually put upon their miseries, is, that never any before were so severely afflicted, never any before were so violently assaulted. Let them know, that no temptation has befallen them, but what is common to men, and that you you…

But yet if neither of these will suffice, let us see some more immediate confirmation of this out of the New Testament itself. We find Saint Paul himself more than once attesting the truth of those grave and weighty matters which he delivers in his epistles, by calling God to wi…

How sweet are your words to my taste! indeed, sweeter than honey to my mouth. The Apostle calls it [illegible], the savour of knowledge (2 Corinthians 2:14). The light of knowledge is one thing, the savour another.

It was a tree to make one wise. The Scriptures teach a man to know himself; they discover Satan's [illegible] snares and stratagems (2 Corinthians 2:11). They make one wise to salvation (2 Timothy 3:15).

Pray to God, that the same Spirit that wrote the Scripture, would enable us to understand it. Pray that God will give us that [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩] (2 Corinthians 2:14), that savour of knowledge, that we may relish a sweetness in the Word we read. David tasted it sweeter t…

Like Haman's banquet, which did usher in his funeral. Ordinances do a sinner hurt; they are [illegible], a savour of death (2 Corinthians 2:16). Cordials themselves kill.

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

So as to conclude, we must warily sever the work of God's Spirit herein from that of Satan and our own hearts, not attributing such desperate conclusions to the Spirit. Thus that depth of sorrow with which that humbled Corinthian was well-nigh swallowed up (2 Corinthians 2:7) is…

It is his trade; therefore as men are called lawyers or divines from their calling, so he is called the tempter and the accuser from his employment. And by this his long experience and observation he has his set and composed machinations (2 Corinthians 2:11), his methods of temp…

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

And what were those arrows but terrors? So it follows: 'the terrors of God.' Thus that Corinthian was in danger of being swallowed up — as the word signifies — with excessive sorrow, when Satan had to do with him (2 Corinthians 2:7). And the same word is again used of the devil:…

But Satan went further — he would have swallowed him up with sorrow by persuading him that such a sin was unpardonable and that God would never own him again. The reasoning Satan used to bring this upon him was a false one, some trick and device (2 Corinthians 2:7 compared with…

Or else 2. this is done through the ordinance of excommunication and censures of the church duly administered, with the key not erring, for gross and scandalous sins. The proper inward effect that accompanies that ordinance (which casts men out of the church) being inward afflic…

(Numbers 14:24) My servant Caleb because he had another spirit with him. A wicked man has the spirit of the world (2 Corinthians 2:12). He is of an atheistical spirit; Lucian is his Old Testament, Machiavel his New; but a person invested with grace has choiceness of spirit in hi…

Now we cannot (say they) be assured that we have true faith and repentance, because we may lie in secret sins; and so lack that indeed, which we suppose ourselves to have. Answer: I say again, he that does truly repent and believe, does by God's grace know that he does repent an…

Some men's souls have given such deep wounds to their bodies, that they are never likely to enjoy many easy or comfortable days more while they dwell in them. Now this is very sinful, and displeasing to God; for if he have such a tender care for our bodies, that he would not hav…

4. It's profitable as the Lord is pleased to make use of it, to call and gather in so many as He has ordained to eternal life; for though in itself it be not able to convert, yet having the power of God going along with it, it is the instrument of conversion, and the Lord ordina…

4. It not only makes the offer, and backs the offer with a command to embrace it, but it sweetens the command with many gracious promises knit to it, as (Isaiah 55): Hear and your soul shall live, and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David;…

Isaiah 53:11 — Verse 11. He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for…

And though the godly do steadfastly believe their salvation is in a castle, above losing; yet in reason, sin bringing broken bones, (Psalm 51:10), a sad cloud, the damming up of a spring of Christ's love spread abroad in the heart, a temporary hell in the soul, it must be sorrow…

The body while it is alive is sweet and savory, but as soon as ever it begins to smell, it must be buried — it cannot be kept above ground. Every living Christian is a sweet savor to God ([reconstructed: 2 Corinthians 2:13], and Colossians 4:4-6). Let your speech be savory, seas…

You shall no sooner have a petition granted, but you shall have it certified to you by this unction of the holy one, by which you know you have them granted, and for whose sake it is that they are granted by this unction; you know all things pertinent to life and godliness. And…

Have you then found some sweet relish in the ordinances? The gospel is a sweet savor to them that are saved (2 Corinthians 2:15-16), and as a sweet savor to the smell, so also as a sweet savor to the taste. Do you therefore find some kind of sweetness, a spiritual sweetness in t…

And when we consider the Greatness, Importance and Excellency of it, we have Reason to be astonished at the Condescension of God, that he would ever improve mere Creatures as Co-workers and Ministers of Christ in this Affair; for who is sufficient for these Things? 2 Corinthians…

3. It shows us the manner of conflict, both of Satan's Fight, and our Savior's Defense. 1. Of Satan's Fight it is some advantage not to be ignorant of his enterprises (2 Corinthians 2:11). Lest Satan should get an advantage of us, for we are not ignorant of his devices.

Thus the devil hurries us from one extreme to another, as the possessed man fell oftentimes into the fire, and oft into the water (Matthew 17:15). Those that are guided by Satan reel from one extremity to another; either men slight sin, and make light of it, or sinners are apt t…

He speaks as if he were afraid, lest man's spirit should fail, being long overwhelmed with terror and trouble. So the apostle (2 Corinthians 2:7): Comfort him lest he be swallowed up with too much sorrow. The Lord Christ is full of bowels and compassions, pities his people in th…

These things it behooves them specially to know who are in the ministry of the word, lest while they go about to touch all things to the quick, they forget the fatherly and motherly affection which Paul here requires of those that have charge of souls. And of this precept he has…

This assurance that our callings are of God, is of great use. It makes the Minister to make a conscience of his duty: it is his comfort in trouble (Isaiah 49:2; 2 Corinthians 2:15). And to the hearers it is a means of great reverence, and obedience.

The first, that they which are, or desire to be dispensers of the word, must do it not for the belly, or for lucre's sake, or for the praise of men, but simply for this end, that they may gain souls to God. The scribe that would have followed Christ for gain, was repelled with t…

Besides this, Paul should be inconstant and unlike himself, if he should admonish unclean persons, fornicators, wantons, and that three times before excommunication: and should at the first excommunicate certain others, without any precedent admonition. Third, the word there use…

And yet notwithstanding, if any be minded to use a distinction here, the smiting of the earth shall be referred as well to the elect as to the reprobate, because the Gospel is a two-edged sword, piercing into the inmost and darkest corners of the heart and discerning the thought…

For it comes to pass by the just judgment of God, and the malice of the wicked, that that which is in its own nature profitable and healthful to them, is turned into loss and poison. Such is the nature also even of God himself, and of his Gospel: (2 Corinthians 2:16). Verse 30.…

How shall they preach, says Saint Paul, unless they be sent: Romans 10:15. It is God's peculiar office then to establish good pastors: for otherwise no man would ever be fit to exercise so difficult and insupportable a charge: 2 Corinthians 2:16. Again, he only sets forward the…

Under the word ruin the Spirit denounces the punishment of unbelievers, and thus warns us to keep at the greatest possible distance from them; lest, by associating with them, we become involved in the same destruction. And Christ is not the less worthy of esteem, because, when h…

And we see how Paul, relying on this consolation, boldly sets at naught all the obstinacy of men, moves on steadily in the midst of hindrances, and boasts that he is a sweet savor to God, though he is the savor of death to them that perish, (2 Corinthians 2:15,16.) Now, this pas…

Christ reminds the Apostles, and, through them, all the teachers of the Gospel, to reserve the treasure of heavenly wisdom for the children of God alone, and not to expose it to unworthy and profane despisers of his word. But here a question arises: for he afterwards commanded t…

Though there were at that time many who assumed this character, yet as few of them discharged it faithfully, he does not rank them among laborers: for he employs the word laborers in a good sense. When Paul complains (2 Corinthians 2:13) of bad laborers, he refers to their boast…

Such is the import of those dreadful threatenings, in which Isaiah forewarns, that he will be to the people a barbarian, speaking in a foreign and unknown language; that the prophetical visions will be to the learned a shut and sealed book, in which they cannot read; and that wh…

Now as salvation depends solely on the election of God, the reprobate must perish, in whatever way this may be effected; not that they are innocent, and free from all blame, when God destroys them, but because, by their own malice, they turn to their destruction all that is offe…

For were it not that the reprobate, through their own fault, turn life into death, the Gospel would be to all the power of God to salvation, (Romans 1:16;) but as many persons no sooner hear it than their impiety openly breaks out, and provokes against them more and more the wra…

He now repeats the same words which he had formerly used, (Matthew 16:19,) but in a different sense; for there he intended to maintain their authority in doctrine, but here he appoints discipline, which is an appendage to doctrine. There Christ declared that the preaching of the…

And certainly, as it is not in reference to the apostles alone that Paul exclaims, (2 Corinthians 2:16,) And who shall be found sufficient for these things? So all whom God raises up to be ministers of the gospel must be endowed with the heavenly Spirit; and, therefore, in every…

As to this latter clause, when Paul asserts that he does not make merchandise of the word of God, (2 Corinthians 2:17), he means that there are some persons who use dexterity, and do not openly overturn sound doctrine, or incur the disgrace of holding wicked opinions, but who di…

This passage shows that God does not always bestow salvation on men when he sends his word to them, but that he sometimes intends to have it proclaimed to the reprobate, who, he knows, will continue obstinate, that it may be to them the savor of death unto death, (2 Corinthians…

To others nothing is sanctified either as an Instrument or occasion of any spiritual good; but as the worst things are ordered to the benefit of the saints, so the best things wicked men enjoy do them no good. Their prayers are turned into sin, Psalm 109:7 The Ordinances are the…

2:18, 19. They are not such, as a cursed guilty sinner might justly expect, but such as are meet for an infinitely Good and Gracious God to propose; not suited to the wisdom of man, but full of the wisdom of God, 2 Corinthians 2:6, 7. The poor convinced wretch, thinking of deali…

Men in vanity use sweet powders, and such things as these, which can but little commend them; But Christ's ointments are his graces (Psalm 45:2), wherewith he is anointed, for opening the blind eyes, for preaching glad tidings to the poor, to bind up the broken-hearted, to give…

Third, she is perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, and all the powders of the merchant: that is, as precious powders are used to make one savory, so the believer being replenished with the graces of Christ's Spirit (often in this Song compared to sweet spices, Chapter 1:12 and…

The matter of the words, as was cleared in Song of Solomon 3:3, does also evidence this; the Church is the city which has walls (that is, the ordinances) for preventing her hurt, and promoting of her edification: the watchmen are her ministers, appointed and designed to keep the…

And may that tongue wither, and that mouth be forever silenced, which shall dare to utter any thing in contempt and vilifying of this holy ordinance. For such excellent things are spoken of the preaching of the Gospel, that it is the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:18), that is, t…

It is not said, the Lord turned and frowned upon Peter, though he deserved to be frowned into hell, but the Lord turned and looked upon Peter (Luke 22:61), and that look recovered him into the way to heaven; it was a kind look, and not an angry one. Some days after when Christ a…

First, when in the word the Spirit does quicken and raise the affections (Luke 24:32): "Did not our hearts burn within us?" Second, when the Spirit does transform the heart, leaving an impress of holiness upon it (2 Corinthians 3:8): "We are changed into the same image, from glo…

By reading other books the heart may be warmed, but by reading this book it is transformed. (2 Corinthians 3:3) You are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God. The Word was copied out into their hearts, and th…

This is an honor to the ministry. (2 Corinthians 3:1): Need we as some others, letters of commendation? Though other ministers might need letters of commendation, yet Paul needed none: for when men should hear of the obedience of these Corinthians, which was wrought in them by P…

Therefore it is requisite before we come, to examine ourselves what knowledge we have in the main fundamentals of religion. Let it not be said of us, that to this day the veil is upon our heart (2 Corinthians 3:15). But sure in this intelligent age we cannot but have some insigh…

Hear and your soul shall live. God sometimes in the preaching of the word drops in that holy oil into the ear which softens and sanctifies the heart: The word preached is called the Ministry of the Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:8), because the Spirit of God makes use of this engine to…

And therefore, the Lord made this promise to the time of the Gospel, long before; that the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, as the waters that cover the sea. And Saint Paul proves this performed, when he affirmeth of the Church of the new Testament, 2 Corinthian…

Answer: We may with reverence to his majesty in good manner say, that Christ was a sinner, and that truly: not by any infusion of sin into his most holy person; but because our sins were laid on him: thus says the Holy Ghost, he who knew no sin was made sin for us, and he was co…

2. He is held out as the foundation and groundwork of preaching, so that preaching without Him wants foundation, and is the building, as it were, of a castle in the air (1 Corinthians 3:10) — I have laid the foundation, and another builds thereon, but let every man take heed how…

1. Of an utter inability and deadness as to that which is good, dead in sins (Ephesians 2:1). We are not sufficient (says the Apostle, 2 Corinthians 3:5) of ourselves as of ourselves to think anything, not so much as a good thought. 2. The Scripture holds him out not only as una…

O, that you would consider, what a sin ignorance is; when the Devil appeared in the world, he made it a great part of his first work, to extinguish, and put out the light of knowledge, and by this means he labors still to keep folk in ignorance. Hence the Apostle says (2 Corinth…

Fourth, indeed, they believing in the Messiah to come were no more under the law and the dominion of sin than we are (Romans 6:6-9; Romans 7:1-7; Romans 8:1-2; Micah 7:18-19; Isaiah 43:25; Jeremiah 50:20; Psalm 32:1-2), but under grace, and pardoned, and saved by faith as we are…

How can Arminians depart from a spiritual communion, in both sacraments, all Jews and Gentiles in the visible body of Christ, externally called; now this is most absurd, that all and every one should be saved, to whom Apostles, and Pastors were sent to preach the Gospel — then n…

And therefore if God should never grant him more mercy, he could not but acknowledge he had done abundantly more for him already than he had deserved; he prays not in his own name, but in the name of another; and no man can pray in the name of Christ, but he must pray in humilit…

A man is said to have the Son, when he has the spirit of the Son. A man is said to have Christ when he has the Spirit, and therefore you may read, (2 Corinthians 3:17). Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty, and the Lord is that Spirit, namely, He had spoken before o…

(1.) That as God is glorious in himself, so he makes him that comes to him partaker of his glory. For certainly all communion with God breeds some assimilation and likeness to God: it is clear in heavenly glory when we see him as he is, we shall be like him (1 John 3:2), and it…

When a soul has been with its God in a corner, the effects are so remarkable, that others shall take knowledge of him that has been with Jesus. And it must needs be so; for, conversing with God is of a transforming nature (2 Corinthians 3:18). But we all with open face beholding…

There some Moses must needs come between as a Mediator, and yet notwithstanding without any fruit, as I will declare hereafter. To this purpose serves that place in 2 Corinthians 3 concerning the covered face of Moses, where Paul out of the history of Exodus 34 shows that the ch…

Now, this form is given by the ministry of the word, as it is said (1 Corinthians 4:15): I have begotten you through the Gospel, that is to say, in spirit, that you might know Christ and believe in him. Also (2 Corinthians 3:3): You are the Epistle of Christ, ministered by us an…

Verse. 17. Is Christ therefore the minister of sin? This is a kind of speech used of the Hebrews, which Paul in (2 Corinthians 3) does also use: where he most divinely and plainly speaks of these two ministries, to wit, of the letter and the spirit, of the law and grace, or of d…

Hence we are taught to yield obedience to our rulers and teachers: because they that are our rulers and teachers, were separated from the womb to be so, and that by God himself, without the will of man. Hence we may gather assurance of God's protection, and assistance in our cal…

The knowledge whereby men know God, is either literal knowledge, or spiritual knowledge: Literal is when the doctrine of God, and his will is known, without reformation of life. Spiritual knowledge is when the mind is enlightened by the Spirit of God, with the knowledge of God,…

Therefore David prays, Establish me with your free spirit (Psalm 51:12). And Paul says, Where the Spirit is, there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17). And, The spirit of life which is in Christ frees us from the power of sin, and death (Romans 8:2).

5. In the effects. The Law is no instrumental cause, of faith, repentance, or any saving grace: it is the minister of death (2 Corinthians 3:7), causing wrath (Romans 3:15). But the Gospel causes life: it is the grace of God which brings salvation (Titus 2:11); for this cause Pa…

Then, I say, the Jews especially had a veil laid over their eyes; which was figured before in Moses, when the people could not endure to behold him, because of the brightness of his countenance. But this is truly fulfilled in Christ, to whom it pertains to take away and abolish…

Or what can we do, or offer to God? We are not sufficient of ourselves, but the Lord makes us sufficient, as Saint Paul says (2 Corinthians 3:5). His free election therefore is free, and is the very foundation of our salvation: and the service is but the end, which we of duty ow…

For albeit God can build up his church without the help of men, yet is he pleased to use their labors: and however he finishes the whole building himself alone, by the secret work of his Holy Spirit, yet he blesses the endeavors of his servants, that the same should not become a…

Let men make never so many laws, and that in the best form they can devise, yet they can not bring us to true righteousness: they may well bring us to some shadows of it, but they shall never attain so far as to express it to the life. He also therewithal shows the way how to pr…

Moreover, if God should only command us to do that he has enjoined us, he should therein show us the way indeed how to obtain life, but yet without any profit to us. For the law, as it comes forth of God's mouth, is the minister of death (2 Corinthians 3:7), but when he calls us…

Wherever Scripture applauds this efficacy in the ministry of men, let us learn to attribute it to the grace of the Spirit, without which the voice of man would have spent itself uselessly in the air. Thus, when Paul boasts that he is a minister of the Spirit, (2 Corinthians 3:6,…

It was proper that Christ should be surrounded by marks of divine grace and power — at least equally illustrious with those which were bestowed on Moses, that the majesty of the Gospel might not be inferior to that of the Law. If God bestowed singular honor on a doctrine which w…

We do not see Christ, and yet we see him; we do not hear Christ, and yet we hear him: for in the Gospel we behold him, as Paul says, face to face, so as to be transformed into his image, (2 Corinthians 3:18;) and the perfection of wisdom, righteousness, and life, which was forme…

Christ warns them of what will take place, that they may be prepared to endure it with patience; and, in the persons of two men, he addresses all his followers. For though many believers die a natural death, and without violence or shedding of blood, yet it is common to all of t…

But they conclude that he is Christ, not simply from the bare sign that his word was efficacious to inflame their hearts, but because they ascribe to him the honor which belongs to him, that when he speaks with the mouth, he likewise inflames their hearts inwardly by the warmth…

For sure it is he was brought up as a child in the doctrine of the law: but that was a literal divinity, which does not humble its disciples. For as he says in another place, the veil was interposed, that the Jews could not see the light of life in the law (2 Corinthians 3:14):…

It assimilates the Nature to the divine Nature, and changes the Soul into an Image of the same Glory that is beheld. 2 Cor. 3.18. But we all with open Face beholding as in a Glass the Glory of the Lord, are changed into the same Image, from Glory to Glory, even as by the Spirit…

For answer to that I say, the "not" there is not an absolute prohibition of renting the garment, it is not so much a negation, as a direction — rent your hearts and not your garments, that is, rent your hearts rather than your garments, or rent your hearts more than your garment…

But now the returning soul, has never more freedom, liberty and amplitude of spirit, than when he is in the acknowledgement of those things whereof he is most ashamed. And this is no small evidence that it proceeds from that spirit which is attended with liberty, for where the S…

First, the truth is in Jesus; then it is expressed in the word; this word learned, and believed, becomes grace in the heart, every way answering unto the Lord Christ his Image from whom this transforming truth did thus proceed. Nay, this is carried by the apostle yet higher, nam…

4. That except she were drawn, she would come short of both. 5. A cheerful engaging to be forthcoming to his honor and the good of others, and to undertake what he shall call to, and fit for; these go well together, that when we see and are sensible, that we of ourselves, as of…

Seventhly, and lastly, it is said that when Moses came down from the mount after his long converse with God, his face shone with such a divine and heavenly luster, that the Israelites were dazzled with the brightness, and could not steadfastly look upon him; and that therefore h…

Our Savior tells his disciples (Luke 10:24) that many Prophets and Kings had desired to see the things which they saw and had not seen them, and to hear the things which they did hear, and had not heard them; for indeed this mystery was hid from ages and generations which God th…

The Apostle Paul therefore takes notice, that the Prophet Esaias is very bold, Romans 10:20. That is, as the meaning of the word, as used in the New Testament, is very plain, he speaks out very plainly and fully; so being "very bold" is used 2 Corinthians 3:12. We use "great pla…

That whole space of time was as it were the time of night, wherein the church of God was not indeed wholly without light: but it was like the light of the moon and stars that we have in the night; a dim light in comparison of the light of the sun, and mixed with a great deal of…

5. The next thing I would observe is the revealing those glorious doctrines of the gospel fully and plainly, which had under the Old Testament been obscurely revealed. The doctrine of Christ's satisfaction and righteousness, his ascension and glory, and the way of salvation, und…

What is the word separated from the Spirit, but a dead letter? It's the Spirit that quickens (2 Corinthians 3:2). Friend, you must know that the Gospel works not like a natural cause upon those that hear it; if so, the [reconstructed: effect] would always follow, unless miraculo…

Children that are born in a dungeon, and know no better things, would be loth to part with that they have there; but when they come to know what is in the world, then all they had before is nothing to them; greater glory diminisheth that which is less. So that we may apply that…

1 Corinthians 1:24, the Holy Ghost tells us that Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God: not the essential wisdom of God, as he is his eternal Son of the Father, upon which account he is called wisdom in the Proverbs (chapter 8:20-23), but as he is crucified (verse 23)…

The thing itself is found there; but the clear light of it, and the boldness of faith in it, is discovered in the Gospel, and by the Spirit administered therein. By that Spirit, we have this liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17-18). Abraham was the friend of God (Isaiah 41:8).

1. Liberty: The Spirit of the Lord, that was upon the Lord Jesus did anoint him to proclaim liberty to the captive (Isaiah 61:1). And where the Spirit of God is, (that is the Spirit of Christ given to us by him because we are sons) there is liberty (2 Corinthians 3:17). All spir…

Let others look upon him as having no beauty to be desired — he will manifest himself and his excellencies to those in whom he is delighted, so that they shall see him altogether lovely. He will veil himself to all the world, but the saints with open face shall behold his beauty…

6. The sixth thing in Glory is a blessed rest (Hebrews 4:9). There remains a rest, Foelix transitus a labore ad requiem, here we can have no rest, tossed and turned as a ball on racket (2 Corinthians 4:8). We are [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] troubled on every side.

As the wicked have a worm that never dies, so the elect have a crown that never fades. Ever is a short word, but has no ending; in fine erit gaudium sine fine, Bern. (2 Corinthians 4:18). The things which are not seen are eternal.

3. The third lesson is the excellency of things unseen. Christ gives the soul a sight of glory, a prospect of eternity (2 Corinthians 4:18): We look not at things which are seen, but [illegible], things which are not seen. Moses saw him who is invisible (Hebrews 11:27).

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, an eternal weight of glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). Christ makes all his subjects kings (Revelation 2:10): I'll give you a crown of life.

Whom God calls, he crowns. It is a weight of glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). The Hebrew word for glory (Kauod) signifies pondus, a weight: the weight of glory adds to the worth.

So the more the diamond is cut the more it sparkles: And the more God afflicts us, the more our graces cast a sparkling luster. 4. For preparation: To fit and prepare the saints for glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). Those stones which are cut out for a building are first hewn and squa…

2. The bringing Israel out of the house of bondage, was a type of their deliverance from Satan. Thus men naturally are in the house of bondage, they are enslaved to Satan: Satan is called the Prince of this World (John 14:30), and the God of this World (2 Corinthians 4:4), becau…

What angel can span eternity? An eternal weight of glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). The saints shall bathe themselves in the rivers of divine pleasure; and these rivers can never be dried up (Psalm 16:11).

Christ did not rise from the dead as a private person, but as the public head of the church; and the head being raised, the rest of the body shall not always lie in the grave. Christ's rising is a pledge of our resurrection (2 Corinthians 4:14). Knowing that he which raised up t…

When a poor soul has been ready to faint, he has had nothing to comfort him but a Scripture cordial. When he has been sick, the Word has revived him; (2 Corinthians 4:17) Our light affliction which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glor…

Should God convert by the ministry of angels, then we should have been ready to have gloried in angels, and have given that honor to them which is due to God. But when God works by weak tools, makes use of men who are of like passions with ourselves, and by them converts, now th…

Men are willingly slaves to Satan; they will fight and die for him. Therefore Satan is not only called the prince of this world (John 14:30), but the God of this world (2 Corinthians 4:4), to show what power Satan has over men's souls. O let us pray that God will break the scept…

The hope of the kingdom of heaven, says Basil, should sweeten all our troubles; (2 Timothy 2:12) If we suffer we shall reign with him. It is but a short fight, but an eternal triumph; this light suffering produces an eternal weight of glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). 1. A weight of g…

God will let us see that our hearts are nothing but darkness, and that to cause any spiritual comfort is as much as to create light at first. Therefore he says, 'I create the fruit of the lips, peace' (Isaiah 57:19), and that it is he who commands light to shine into our hearts,…

2. Also an innate darkness in our spirits as we are sinful creatures: since the fall, our hearts of themselves are nothing but darkness, and therefore no wonder if, when God draws but the curtains and shuts up the light from us, our hearts should engender and conceive such horri…

Neither yet does he immediately concur to produce such an act of assent in us as God does when he works faith in us, for then God's power and assistance in working good should be no more than Satan's in working evil. And yet the Scripture phrases go far in ascribing to Satan her…

Many interpreters understand these words, of the resurrection at the day of judgment simply; as though the Holy Ghost had said, These Martyrs therefore refused to be delivered from death; because, they looked to receive, at the day of judgment, a greater measure of glory: even f…

2. By suffering affliction for Christ's sake, we are made conformable unto him in his humility; that so we may be made like unto him after this life in glory. So Paul says, Our light affliction causes unto us, an eternal weight of glory, 2 Corinthians 4:17. And again, it is a tr…

And those who should be most ready to die, are generally, most ignorant, most covetous, and their hearts most of all wedded to the earth, and earthly things. Secondly old persons must here learn Saint Paul's lesson: 2 Corinthians 4. That as the outward man perishes, so the inwar…

They believed that these things which the Lord promised, were shadows of better things: and hereon stayed themselves, being well content with that estate to which God had called them. So Paul was contented to bear the afflictions which God had laid upon him, and his reason was,…

Shall we say our sanctification, whereby we are renewed to the image of God in righteousness and true holiness? that also is imperfect and cannot satisfy God's justice required in the law: as Isaiah has said of himself and the people, all our righteousness is as a menstruous clo…

In Ephesians 3:17, we read of being rooted in grace. Grace in the heart is the root of every gracious word in the mouth, and of every holy work in the hand (Psalm 116:10; 2 Corinthians 4:13). It is true, Christ is the root of a Christian; but Christ is the originating root, and…

We shall only add two reasons further, to confirm and some-way to clear why it is that the Lord works, and must work thus distinctly, inwardly, really, powerfully, and immediately in working faith and converting of sinners: The first is drawn from the exceeding great deadness, i…

Since then this is his design in all the chastisements inflicted on his own people, and since he only by his grace can make it infrustrably take effect, let him have our hearty allowance and approbation to carry it on vigorously and successfully, and let us pray more frequently…

It is but tribulation ten days (Revelation 2:10). And which is shorter than all, a moment (2 Corinthians 4:17); and the shortest of all (Isaiah 54:7), a little moment. All the generations of the firstborn, that were in great tribulations, and in the womb and belly of the Red Sea…

Assertion 1. In the first moment of our conversion, called actus primus conversionis, we are mere patients. 1. Because the infusion of the new heart (Ezekiel 36:26), the pouring of the Spirit of Grace and supplication on the family of David (Zechariah 12:10), and of the Spirit o…

And so in all our works, a good tree brings forth good fruit, but a corrupt tree brings forth evil fruit (Matthew 7:18). Wherein he shows you, that as we do no good, so we can do no good, not a good thought, nor a good word, nor a good work comes from such a man all his days; an…

First begin with the sureness of Christian doctrine, that you may lay a good foundation that Christ is the teacher of the Church, who has brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel (2 Timothy 1:10). Then penitently sue out your pardon, in the name of Christ, depend…

Here our days are sorrow and our travail grief, but there is our repose. 3. That our joy and contentment is so infinitely above our sorrow, and trouble (2 Corinthians 4:7), so that in all the troubles and sorrows of this life, we may look beyond them and through them, to the joy…

God permits that men sometimes by indirect means to become great in honor and dignity in this world; all which are done by the instinct of Satan, and his help: and evil men often succeed in their attempts, and from hence Satan is called the prince of this world, (John 12:31) Now…

3. The danger of not hearing this Prophet. 1. For the present to continue to slight and contemn the Gospel, is the mark that you are in a carnal perishing condition (2 Corinthians 4:3) If our Gospel is hid it is hid to them that are lost (John 10:3) My sheep hear my voice, and (…

Did those that read my labors know me, they would be ready to despise my undertakings: this I speak, because my former book has found such good acceptance, and this is so much desired. And that no man think of me, above what he knows to be in me: my heart has been near fainting…

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

As long then as we live in the flesh, which is not without sin, the law often returns and does its office, in one more and in another less, as their faith is strong or weak: and yet not to their destruction, but to their salvation. For this is the exercise of the law in the sain…

The devil desired to sift out all the faith of the Apostles, and to leave in them nothing but the chaff of unbelief (Luke 22). The devil blinds the eyes of men that the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ may not shine to them (2 Corinthians 4:4). This must teach us, that we mus…

5. On the contrary, they are wretched and miserable that live without the Gospel (Proverbs 29:18; 2 Corinthians 4:3; 2 Timothy 3:7). 6.

And it has three parts. The first is, bondage under Satan, who keeps unrepentant sinners in his snare according to his own will (2 Timothy 2:26), he rules in their hearts like a God (2 Corinthians 4:4), and has power to blind them, and to harden their hearts, till he have brough…

2. Because it does after a peculiar manner belong to us, who are under the New Testament, in the kingdom of grace, seeing that this commandment only is renewed by Christ, as his own proper commandment, many others being abrogated: as also because it is daily written by the Spiri…

And in that he mentions himself in particular, it is that he might give the more authority to his doctrine. For he thereby shows that he spoke from the heart, uttering and testifying by this his confession the fruit of his faith, according to that sentence, I believed, therefore…

And if this were said of the Law, and of the Prophets, what shall we say of the Gospel, by which this light is openly revealed to us? Shall we not affirm with Saint Paul: If the Gospel be yet hidden, it is hidden in them that are lost, whom Satan, the God of this world, has blin…

And however that which is here said, for a moment in my indignation, is properly to be understood, that God in fit season brought his banished home again into Judah: yet from there we may gather a general doctrine, namely, that the afflictions of the Church are but for a short s…

If she is now discontented with her estate, she must cast her eyes toward this day, in which she shall be most happy. And so Saint Paul opposes a weight of glory to the momentary afflictions, which are suddenly gone (2 Corinthians 4:17). The wicked scorn us without measure: for…

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

Though the Law was concealed, as it were, by a kind of veil, yet the truth of God shone brightly in it, if the eyes of many had not been blinded. With respect to the Gospel, Paul affirms with truth, that it is hidden to none but to the reprobate, and to those who are devoted to…

The substance of this statement is, that Christ intended to assure his followers of the salvation promised to them in the Gospel, that they might expect it as firmly as if he were himself to descend from heaven to bear testimony concerning it; and, on the other hand, to strike d…

The general instruction conveyed is, that the weak and frail condition of the Church ought not to lead us to conclude that it is dying, but rather to expect the immortal glory for which the Lord prepares his people by the cross and by afflictions; for what Paul maintains in refe…

For it is well if our flesh be continually mortified, and we have profited well, when the flesh, being subdued, has yielded to the Holy Spirit. There is another communication of the death of Christ, whereof as the Apostle speaks often elsewhere, so in (2 Corinthians 4), namely,…

And the imparting the Knowledge of GOD is here appropriated to the Son of GOD, as his sole Prerogative. And again, 2 Cor. 4.6. For GOD who commanded the Light to shine out of Darkness, hath shined in our Hearts, to give the Light of the Knowledge of the Glory of GOD in the Face…

Set the faithfulness of the Lord before you under the saddest Providences. So did David, Psalm 119:75 This is according to his Covenant faithfulness, Psalm 89:32 Hence it is, that the Lord will not withhold a rod when need requires it, 1. Pet. 1:6 Nor will he forsake his people…

And when the life of nature can scarce move one member of the outward man upon the earth, the life of grace moves all the members of the inward man toward Heaven. Though the outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16). Lastly, God saved his…

And as the soul does not die, so neither does it sleep in the body for a time. If the soul be at death absent from the body (2 Corinthians 5:8), then it cannot sleep in the body. There is an immediate passage from death to Glory: It is but winking and we shall see God (Luke 23:4…

3. The saints at death shall not only have a sight of God, but shall enjoy the love of God; there shall be no more veil on God's face, nor his smiles checkered with frowns, but God's love shall discover itself in all its radiant beauty and fragrant sweetness. Here the saints pra…

In fact, yet a further degree of Christ's humility, he not only was made flesh, but in the likeness of sinful flesh. He knew no sin, yet he was made sin (2 Corinthians 5:21). He was like a sinner, he had all sin laid upon him, but no sin lived in him (Isaiah 53:12).

For such a High Priest became us, who is holy, undefiled, separate from sinners. Christ knew no sin (2 Corinthians 5:21); he knew sin in the weight, not in the act. It was requisite that he who was to do away the sins of others, should himself be without sin.

Let our hearts and tongues join in consort to bless God, and let us show our thankfulness to Christ by fruitfulness; let us bring forth (as spice trees) the fruits of humility, zeal, good works. This is to live to him, who has died for us (2 Corinthians 5:15). The wise men did n…

2. Creatures above us glorify God: the angels are ministering spirits (Hebrews 1:14). They are still waiting on God's throne, and bring some revenues of glory into the exchequer of heaven: then surely man should be much more studious of God's glory than the angels, for God has h…

Seneca says, True joy latet in profundo — it is hidden within. Worldly joy is in Superficie; it lies in the outside, like the dew that wets the leaf (2 Corinthians 5:12). Who rejoice in appearance — [illegible Greek text] — in the face.

And God does first hew and polish them by affliction, that they may be fit for the heavenly building. The House of Bondage prepares for the house not made with hands (2 Corinthians 5:1). The vessels of mercy are seasoned with affliction, and then the wine of glory is poured in.

2. They shall be openly acquitted at the day of Judgment. This is to be laid down for a position, that there shall be a Day of Judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10). For we must all appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ.

In this heavenly kingdom is that which is satisfying, unparalleled beauty, rivers of pleasure; and this for ever: (Psalm 16:11) At your right hand are pleasures for evermore: Heaven's eminence is its permanency; and this kingdom God's children shall enter into immediately after…

3. That Christ should not only die for sinners, but die as a sinner. (2 Corinthians 5:21) He was made sin for us. He who was among the glorious persons of the Trinity, was numbered among transgressors (Isaiah 53:12).

They are the messengers of the Lord of Hosts (Malachi 2:7). They represent no less than God himself (2 Corinthians 5:20): Now then we are ambassadors for Christ. Jesus Christ was of this calling; he had his mission and sanction from heaven (John 8:18).

3. Faith is a grace so acceptable to God, because by faith we present a righteousness to God which does best please him. We bring the righteousness of Christ into the court, which is called the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). To bring Christ's righteousness, is to bri…

In this spotless robe of Christ, we outshine the angels. Theirs is but the righteousness of creatures, this is the righteousness of God himself (2 Corinthians 5:21): "That we might be made the righteousness of God in him." How great a blessing then is forgiveness?

2 Corinthians 5:17. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away, behold all things are become new. In this Scripture consists the essence and soul of religion.

Third, to put the greater difference between the estate of God's children here and that hereafter in heaven. To this very purpose is that speech of the apostle in 2 Corinthians 5:7: 'Here we walk by faith, not by sight.' He had said before that the estate of believers in this li…

Light, says the apostle (Ephesians 5:13), is that whereby things are made manifest — that is, to the sense of sight, to which light properly belongs. And as light and faith are here severed, as you see; so sight also is in 2 Corinthians 5:7 distinguished from faith, which is the…

You have been in hell — give warning to others against coming there. 'Knowing the terror of the Lord, we persuade men' (2 Corinthians 5:11). If the rich man had come back from hell, what stories would he have told to scare all his brothers?

For, God does not justify him that lies rotting in his former sins, and weltering in his old corruption; but him that believes in Christ, and repents of his sins. And that man in his faith is justified, and in his repentance sanctified, and so he is made a new man: yea, as Saint…

Now, if all men had been effectually called, then all would have received the promise of the Gospel; but many Nations in former ages never heard of Christ: and therefore there was never in all ages a general effectual calling of all men. Objection. Paul saith, God reconciled the…

4. Love to God must be active; it is like fire, which is the most active element; it is called, The Labour of Love, 1 Thessalonians 1.3. Love is no idle grace, it sets the head a studying for God, the feet a running in the ways of his Commandments: The love of Christ constrains,…

So Paul was contented to bear the afflictions which God had laid upon him, and his reason was, "Because (says he) we look not on things which are seen, but on things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal" (2…

And so he is said to be righteous who has a change of heart wrought in him, and is transformed by the renewing of his mind (Romans 12:2). Such an one, though he is not another man, yet he is a new man (2 Corinthians 5:17). The faculties are not new, but the qualities; as the str…

Again, works are to be done in regard of men: that our neighbor may be helped in worldly things — Luke 6:38; that he may be won by our example to godliness — 1 Peter 3:14; that we may prevent in ourselves the giving of any offense — 1 Corinthians 10:32; that by doing good we may…

Reason 2. (2 Corinthians 5:21) He who knew no sin, was made sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of God which is in him. From which I reason thus: As Christ was made sin for us, so are we made the righteousness of God in him: but Christ was made sin, or, a sinner…

As for Christ's burial and resurrection which followed his death, they served not to satisfy but to confirm and ratify the same. Again Paul says (2 Corinthians 5:21): He that knew no sin was made sin for us, that is, the punishment of sin for us; but if the Church of Rome says t…

Indeed, if you were to die in your sins — as John 8:21 — if death as a king reigned over you — Romans 5:14 — if it could feed upon you as the lion does upon its prey — Psalm 49:14 — if hell followed the pale horse as Revelation 6:8 describes — then you might well startle and shr…

And in like equipage here of preparation to that end, he says, He that has wrought us [for this thing] is God. In this very chapter (2 Corinthians 5) (to go no further) when the great work of salvation, in the whole of it, is spoken of, he prefaces thus to it, All things are of…

4. Consider the parallel places to this in the New Testament, and we will find that this place holds out Christ's real and actual bearing of our sorrows and griefs; I shall only name three. The 1st is that of (2 Corinthians 5:21): He has made him to be sin for us who knew no sin…

First, I shall confirm it from these grounds. 1. From the plain offers which the Lord makes in His Word, and from the warrant He gives His ministers to make the same offers; it's their commission to pray them to whom they are sent to be reconciled, to tell them, that God was in…

3. It serves also to clear other Scriptures, and this same Chapter, and to teach us, not to make common to all, the privileges bestowed on some peculiar ones; and to guard us against the vilifying and profaning of our Lord's sufferings, as if he had no special and peculiar desig…

It's in general the Messiah, who was then to come, he who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, who suffered and was crucified, who died and was buried and rose the third day. Even he, who having the nature of God and our nature united in one Person, he his o…

He undertakes to pay, and God accepts of his undertaking, and obliges himself to absolve the believer; and the words following, "He shall see his seed, and of the travail of his soul and be satisfied, and by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many", are promises ma…

The second thing here, is the native effect or fruit of the Covenant, and that which the Prophet aims at; even to show how it came to pass that Christ suffered so much, because it was so covenanted, statute and ordained, because he was by a prior contrivance and contract substit…

So, having shown how it comes to pass that Christ suffered and suffered so much, and was brought so low under suffering; and having told that he was engaged to pay the Elect's debt, and that the Father had laid their iniquities on him; lest any might think that the Father would…

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…

And therefore look upon Christ's suffering, and upon his innocency who suffered, and you will find that you have a suitable high priest and atonement made for you. O, but that is a sweet word (2 Corinthians 5:21): He has made him to be sin for us who knew no sin, that we might b…

This is also clear, if we compare (Psalm 40:6) with (Hebrews 10:5-6). That which in the Psalm is rendered sin-offering, in the original is sin, but the Apostle, Hebrews 10, has it sacrifice for sin; and it is the same word which he has, (2 Corinthians 5, last verse) he was made…

Even as when God commanded Abraham to offer up his son Isaac, and when he was lifting his hand to slay him, there came a voice from heaven, "Abraham, hold your hand," and a ram is provided, [reconstructed: and] Isaac is loosed and taken down from off the altar, and the ram is pu…

They may say, we should have been in such and such a sad condition; this and that terrible thing would have come on us, if He had not interposed. Never enough can these words be spoken and thought of, that we have (2 Corinthians 5:21): He was made sin for us, who knew no sin, th…

There can no other way be conceived, how we are made partakers of it, but by imputation; this will be the more clear, if we consider, that the same way, that our sins became Christ's, the same way His righteousness becomes ours; or the same way that justice laid claim to Him for…

Is it not folly and madness, for sinners, to obstruct what they can this His design? The Apostle makes use of this argument (2 Corinthians 5:18-19): He has given us the word of reconciliation, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, not imputing their trespasse…

As that of Matthew 11:28, "Come to me all you that labor and are heavy laden," etc. And that of 2 Corinthians 5:20, where both are put together: "We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us, we pray you in Christ's stead, be reconciled to God." Ministers p…

1. The estate that the Elect are naturally lying in for whom Christ undertakes — they are naturally under sin, liable to the curse of God, for the transgressing of His law; which had said, The soul that sins shall die, and cursed is every one that continues not in all things wri…

We shall look upon it as the source of it more generally, in these respects. 1. That to a poor sinner lying under the curse, there is a possibility of getting it put by, and kept off, that Heaven is not desperate, and that the fear of coming before the tribunal of justice is not…

But to make this the more convincingly clear, we shall give you four characteristics, whereby true faith may be tried, and known, which will serve also to discover the unsoundness of the faith of many. 1. It may be tried by the ground that it leans upon; solid faith has for the…

And therefore, when in the one word it is said, He shall see his seed, it's said in the next word, He shall see of the fruit of the travel of his soul; to show, that a Soul's engaging to Christ by Faith, whereby the Person becomes one of His Seed, flows from His Suffering, and i…

It is even this, in a word: that hearing of His sad sufferings and of the design of them, you may turn yourselves to Him for pardon of sin, for sanctification in both the parts of it, and for consolation — and that in the end you may get your souls saved, on the account of His s…

God's justifying is put in as opposite to the charging, and libeling of the elect, and to the condemning of them; therefore none of these can be; and so justification there, looks both to the part of an advocate pleading, and declaring a man to be free, and to the part of a judg…

It's true indeed, that Christ's merits do wash our duties, but our duties come never up to be the ground of our justification in whole or in part; which is evident from this, that before Christ makes our duties or performances acceptable, He makes our persons first to be accepte…

In every nation he that fears God, and works righteousness, is accepted with him. Position 2. Adoption takes in both sexes, females as well as males: (2 Corinthians 6:18) I will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters. I have read that in some countries, femal…

Assurance will rock the heart quiet; the reason of discontent is either because men have no interest in God, or do not know their interest. Saint Paul: I know whom I have believed (2 Timothy 1:12) — there was the assurance of his interest; and (2 Corinthians 6:10): as sorrowful,…

Having received the word in much affliction — [illegible Greek text] — with joy. These are roses that grow in winter; these joys can sweeten the waters of Marah; he that has these can gather grapes of thorns, and fetch honey out of the carcass of a lion (2 Corinthians 6:10). As…

Resp. It is comprehensive of all good things: God is our strong tower; our fountain of living water; our salvation: More particularly, God being our God, implies the sweetest relation. 1. The relation of a Father (2 Corinthians 6:18). I will be a Father to you: A Father is full…

If we have God to be our God; well may we be contented, I know whom I have believed (2 Timothy 1:12). There was Paul's interest in God (2 Corinthians 6:10). As having nothing, yet possessing all: there was his content.

Solomon though a man of wisdom, yet his idolatrous wives drew away his heart from God; the people of Israel entered into an oath and curse, that they would not give their daughters in marriage to the idolaters (Nehemiah 10:30). For a Protestant and Papist to marry, is to be uneq…

1. In putting them out to service; their care is chiefly for their bodies that they may be provided for, but care not what becomes of their souls: their souls are in Egypt, in houses where there is drinking, swearing, Sabbath-breaking, and where God's name is every day dishonore…

Lastly, if we confess and believe God to be the father of Christ, and in him our father also; then in regard of our conduct, we must not frame ourselves like the world: but the course of our lives must be in righteousness and true holiness. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to separa…

"You are his workmanship," says the Apostle (Ephesians 2:10). And truly, if we could enlarge upon all the varieties of dealings God uses to each soul to work it, the several sorts of gracious dispositions he imprints and carves upon it; the manifold actings of every soul drawn f…

Sinners wrong Christ and themselves oftentimes when they shy away from this cordial consolation that by Christ's becoming man is allowed on them. Indeed if we were immediately to go to God, who is a consuming fire, it were no wonder that we stood at a distance; but when God is i…

But it may be asked, Why will God have Christ in the offer of the gospel brought so near the hearers of it? Answer. 1. Because it serves to commend the grace and love of God in Christ Jesus, when the invitation is so broad, that it is to all; it speaks out the royalty of the fea…

There is the way held out for obtaining pardon of sin, and peace, the Lord has made the offer, and laid a fair bridge over the gulf of distance between God and sinners, though you should never get good of it, and though you should never set a foot on the bridge; none needs to fe…

This is condemnation: that light is come into the world, and men love darkness rather than light. (2 Corinthians 6:17-18) Touch no unclean thing, meddle not with vain company; and have nothing to do with the unfruitful works of darkness, and then I will be a father to you, and y…

But for further opening of this phrase, read John 19:27: he took her home to his own house; it is in the original the same word with that in John 1:11, into his own home; he came to his own home or house, to his own temple and people, and they received him not, but neglected his…

It is the Work that Ministers are devoted to; and therefore they are represented as Co-workers with Christ. 2 Corinthians 6:1. We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that you receive not the Grace of God in vain.

2. The manner and way of his fight is by the world, per blanda & aspera, by the good or evil things of the world. There is armor of righteousness on the right hand, and on the left (2 Corinthians 6:7), as there are right hand and left hand temptations. Both ways he lies in ambus…

(1 Corinthians 10:21) You cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils; you cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. So (2 Corinthians 6:16-17) what agreement has the temple of God with idols? In short, for it is endless to reckon up all wh…

Come then, and fear not, poor disciple of Christ, come with filial affections, and the Spirit of Adoption, and you are sure to speed: for this paternal relation imports affection, provision, condescension, and compassion. If you will be a child to him; he will be a Father to you…

Now we are all to be exhorted, to order our lives in this manner. For first of all, we are God's: and therefore we must glorify God both in our bodies and souls (2 Corinthians 6:20). Secondly, the end of our justification and redemption is, that we may live to God.

When Paul says, be as I: I am as you: we learn, that there must be a special and mutual love between the teachers and the people. Paul says, that he did enlarge his heart for the Corinthians, and he requires the like of them (2 Corinthians 6:11, 13). Teachers must show their lov…

This was Paul's practice (1 Corinthians 4:3). I pass very little to be judged of you, or of man's judgment: we must go through good report, and evil report (2 Corinthians 6:8). Lastly, we must seek to be approved of men, not so much in regard of ourselves, as that, by this means…

Now however Isaiah prophesied these things in respect of the Babylonians, yet doubtless he specially aimed at the coming of Christ in the flesh, at whose appearance all Idolatries and superstitions should be abolished. For when his kingdom is once established, all Idols forthwit…

And this, as I have said, ought to be well observed, for the expositors have balked it, and yet without it we shall not be able to make these verses to cohere. Saint Paul plainly shows this, in applying this very sentence to the whole Church (2 Corinthians 6:2). But yet that whi…

For it is always seen, that out of the lap of the Church there arises wicked contemners of God, who are the surliest enemies that the Prophets of God have. Those then who will serve God purely, must fit themselves beforehand to bear all these things with patience, that so they m…

For this cause Ezekiel has foretold, that in the restoration of the Church, the Levites should be high Priests, and all the people should be put in the place of Levites. Seeing then that the Lord has advanced all to so high a degree and dignity, it necessarily follows, that this…

Saint Paul in his Epistle to the Romans 16:26, and to the Galatians 4:4, calls this year the fullness of time. We have also seen previously that the Prophet in Chapter 49:8 said, Behold the acceptable time, behold the day of salvation: which sentence Saint Paul in 2 Corinthians…

For he means that the day is now at hand, which had been appointed by the eternal purpose of God for the salvation of Jerusalem, and had been foretold by the prophets. Thus (says Isaiah) is the accepted time, this is the day of salvation, (Isaiah 49:8; 2 Corinthians 6:2.) Seek t…

He confirms what he had said about the approaching vengeance of God, by saying that the only method of avoiding destruction will be taken from them. For that was the accepted time, the day of salvation, (Isaiah 49:8; 2 Corinthians 6:2,) so long as that very person who had come t…

Though that vile Apostate Julian derided this Promise, yet thousands and ten thousands have experienced it, and do at this day stand ready to set their seal to it. God has made it good to his people, not only in spirituals; inward joy, and peace; but even in Temporals also: inst…

The Apostle says more (Romans 5:3): We glory in tribulation. And again (2 Corinthians 6:10): as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing. The sorrow of godly men is like the joy of the wicked: only in appearance; Paul had only a shadow of sorrow, as sorrowful; but his joy was substantial…

So like wise does every name of God belong now unto us, as if it had in particular manner been engaged in covenant unto us. And that because the whole covenant is ratified and confirmed unto us by Jesus Christ, 2 Corinthians 6:18. Chap.

4. This argument here made use of, says also, that these who are most tender of his Church, and the graces of his people, will be most zealous against false teachers, even the least of them; for, these two are joined together in him, and are in themselves necessary to preserve t…

For more full taking up of the meaning, consider, that it does here include these three. 1. A nobleness and greatness in respect of birth, that the Bride is honorably descended: From which we may learn, That believers (whatever they be in respect of the flesh) are of a royal des…

He sent forth his servants, to call them that were bidden to the wedding: The Ministers of the Gospel are his ambassadors, to tryst this match, and to close it (2 Corinthians 5:19 and 11:2). The day when they shall be spoken for, is either while the means are among people, and s…

And therefore the Wise Man (Ecclesiastes 7:1) compares a good name to precious ointment; and in the comparison gives it the preference; for as precious ointment diffuses its fragrance through the room where it is poured forth, and affects all that are in it with its delightful s…

18. A man's personal day of grace may be short. There is a time while the scepter of grace is held forth (2 Corinthians 6:2): "Now is the accepted time." The Lord has prefixed a time wherein the means of grace shall work or not work.

He walks among the golden candlesticks (Revelation 2:1). "I will walk among you," says he, "and be your God" (2 Corinthians 6:16). Upon this account the Church is called Jehovah Shammah — the Lord is there (Ezekiel 48).

Thus God came to dwell upon his own fee and inheritance, in Judea (Leviticus 26:11-12): And I will set my tabernacle among you, and will be your God, and you shall be my people. Which promise is again renewed to his churches of the New Testament (2 Corinthians 6:16). And when th…

1. Beware of passion in your own interests, though they may be much shaken and damaged in the present controversies, yet self-denying patience will be the best way to settle them: the injury to us may be great, but the injury to truth is greater; we must approve our faithfulness…

Being to pass through this world by honor and dishonor, by evil report, and good report; that is, through a great variety of conditions and treatments, we have need of that long-suffering and kindness, and love unfeigned, which will be armor of righteousness, on the right hand a…

Or as the complaint was upon another occasion, Aut hoc non Evangelium, aut hi non Evangelici, either this is not gospel, or these are not to be called professors of the gospel. If ministers give offense in anything, not they only, but their ministry will be blamed (2 Corinthians…

Surely our hearts may rest where God rests, and we should not be weary where God is not weary. And he does not only dwell here, but he has his delightful walks here: the walks of God are amongst his people, 2 Cor. 6:16 If a man have a house that he rejoyces in, he will have his…

As the Sun-flower, when the Sun shines, the flower is open, but when the Sun is down, it shuts: So here when Gods face shines, their hearts are open to God, but often they lose the shine of Gods face, but in Heaven Gods shine shall be always upon them, and their hearts shall alw…

The longest date of it can be but the time of this Life: This is our day to work in, Job 9. 4. and upon this small wyre, the weight of Eternity hangs. But sometimes the season of Grace is ended, before the night of Death comes; the accepted time is gone, men frequently out-live…

But alas! how are men mistaken? Truly, their fellowship is with the Father: let men think of it as they please, they have close, spiritual, heavenly refreshings in the mutual communication of love with the Father himself; how they are generally misconceived, the apostle declares…

The way of the house is a way of holiness through which the unclean shall not pass, Isaiah 35:8. Expressly they are the sons and daughters of the Lord God Almighty, and they only, 2 Corinthians 6:17-18. All others are excluded, Revelation 21:27.

He is said to dwell in us chiefly or perhaps solely as a Spirit of sanctification — which is evident from the work he does as indwelling: he quickens and sanctifies, Romans 8:11. The manner of his indwelling as in a temple, which he thereby makes holy, 2 Corinthians 6, and his p…

It is designed of God to declare [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], the effectual working of his power. See John 6:68, 69; 2 Corinthians 6:41; 2 Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 2:8. By virtue of this Power, it brought forth fruit in all the world.

First; it conduces to our confidence in prayer: for it is not an empty title, or a naked relation; but this is the ground of all that favor and grace which we stand in need of, and receive from God. It is notable (2 Corinthians 6:8), says God, I will be a Father to you, and you…

The Ark and Dagon cannot sink and stand together; either the Ark must be removed, or Dagon will down upon his face. So (2 Corinthians 6:14). What communion has Christ with Belial, and light with darkness? It is impossible both kingdoms can stand together, or both kings be set up…

The leper under the law, if he had touched the altar, the altar had not cleansed him, but he had defiled the altar. The Apostle calls sin [in non-Latin alphabet], filthiness of flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). Sin stamps the Devil's image on a man.

The dove is the emblem of purity; it loves the purest air; it feeds on pure grain: the raven fed on the carcass, but the dove feeds pure. Thus let us be as doves for sanctity, cleansing ourselves from all pollution both of flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). Christ's dove is p…

He has a perfect idea of wisdom in himself: He knows the fittest means to bring about his own designs; the angels light at his lamp. In particular, this is one branch of his wisdom, that he knows what is best for us: An earthly parent knows not in some intricate cases how to adv…

First the blade springs up, then the ear, then the ripe corn in the ear. Such as are already sanctified may be more sanctified (2 Corinthians 7:1). Justification does not admit of degrees; a believer cannot be more elected or justified than he is, but he may be more sanctified t…

If he had not used the lump of figs, he had been the cause of his own death. Thirdly, by immoderate grief (2 Corinthians 7:10), the sorrow of the world works death. When God takes away a dear relation, and one is swallowed up with sorrow.

3. It would make us strive after holiness, because none but such are admitted into this Kingdom, only the pure in heart shall see God (Matthew 5). Holiness is the language of Heaven, it is the only coin will pass current in Heaven; this considered would make us cleanse ourselves…

4. Sin is a polluting thing. Sin is not only a defection, but a pollution, 'tis as rust to gold, as a stain to beauty, 'tis called filthiness of flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). It makes the soul red with guilt, and black with filth, quanta saeditas vitiosae mentis! Cicero.

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

Lastly, if we confess and believe God to be the father of Christ, and in him our father also; then in regard of our conduct, we must not frame ourselves like the world: but the course of our lives must be in righteousness and true holiness. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to separa…

2 Corinthians 7. Chapter part of the 1. verse. Having therefore these promises, dearly Beloved, let us cleanse ourselves.

Objection 7. 2 Corinthians 7:10: Paul sets down sundry fruits of repentance, whereof the last is revenge, whereby repentant persons punish themselves, thereby to satisfy God's justice for the temporal punishment of their sins. Answer: A repentant sinner must take revenge of hims…

When there are ominous signs in the heavens, on earth distress of nations with perplexity, the sea and waves roaring — then the hearts of men fail for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming upon the earth (Luke 21:25-26). Even Paul himself may sometimes compla…

Fourthly, Then you may also conclude your sorrows to be excessive and sinful, when they so overload and oppress your bodies, as to endanger your lives, or render them useless and unfit for service. Worldly sorrow works death (2 Corinthians 7:10), that is, sorrow after the manner…

Or thirdly, it's some common work of the Spirit, such as was in Simon Magus, of whom it is said, he believed, and who could say, pray for me; for folks to conclude on this ground, that they are brought out of nature into a state of grace, is to build upon a sandy foundation. The…

And though the godly do steadfastly believe their salvation is in a castle, above losing; yet in reason, sin bringing broken bones, (Psalm 51:10), a sad cloud, the damming up of a spring of Christ's love spread abroad in the heart, a temporary hell in the soul, it must be sorrow…

2. Some fear they have nothing but an empty profession. Ans. Then the Scripture holds forth the promises to visible saints (2 Corinthians 7:1). Can you come in among the crowd of visible saints?

3 And in verse 13. there is a third benefit of them, To stir them up to do such things, which though they well knew should be done, yet they were dull, and slow of heart, and stood in need to be stirred up to them. 4 Another end of their writings was this, That sometimes they mi…

Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Faith strives against fear, and love strives against malice, and patience strives against frowardness, modesty against pride, and so [reconstructed: every grace] of God; wonder to see how it will by degrees either sweat them out, or els…

Do not spare the body to do God service (Acts 26:7). To which promise our twelve tribes instantly serving God day and night hope to come, for which hope's sake, King Agrippa I am accused of the Jews (2 Corinthians 7:1). Having therefore these promises (dearly beloved) let us cle…

For the Galatians and others which were conversant with Paul, had seen him often in great anguish, terror and heaviness of spirit. Therefore the Apostles had not only bodily, but also spiritual temptations, which also he confesses in (2 Corinthians 7) with these words: Fightings…

And Cornelius (Acts 10:33). And Paul (2 Corinthians 7:17). The second: we must take knowledge of the will of God in all things, whether it be revealed in the word, or by any event.

Sometimes to faith, as (Galatians 5:6): Neither circumcision avails anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith which works by love. Sometimes to the new creature or sanctification, as in this place, and (2 Corinthians 7:29): Circumcision is nothing, etc. but the keeping of the comm…

The Prophet condemns not joy simply: for we see that Saint Paul himself exhorts the faithful to rejoice with a true joy; to wit, in the Lord (Philippians 4:4). But he here reproves that joy which is contrary to that sorrow which proceeds of repentance; whereof also the same Apos…

For the Lord would not be acknowledged faithful from a bare and naked imagination, but from experience itself; to wit, in the preservation and protection of his people, whom he has adopted. Hence therefore let us learn not to judge of God's promises by our present estate, but by…

For the Prophet not only requires this purity of the Jews when they shall be set free, but also during the time of their slavery and bondage, yes, though it were with the loss of their lives in the very place. Doubtless these advertisements also belong to us, who by Saint Paul a…

And yet I deny not but we may extend these things to the last day, because we cannot expect the perfect restoration of all things, until Christ, who is the life of the world, shall appear. But we must begin higher, namely, at this deliverance, by which Christ regenerates his, th…

So then, Judas conceived disgust and horror, not so as to turn to God, but rather that, being overwhelmed with despair, he might serve as an example of a man entirely shut out from the grace of God. Justly, indeed, does Paul say, that the sorrow which leads to repentance is salu…

O happy Providences, how smart soever, that make the soul for ever araid of sin! surely such rods are well bestow'd. This gives God his end: and if ever we sorrowed after a godly sort, in the day of our troubles it will work this carefulness. 2 Corinthians 7:11 Behold this self…

The soul is now wholly displeased with it self, and reflects upon it self with all affections of regret and trouble. So the apostle declares it to have been with the Corinthians when their godly sorrow was working in them, 2 Corinthians 7:11. among other things, it wrought in th…

It will give you freedom, liberty, delight, and chearfulness in all duties of gospel obedience. You will finde a constraining power in the love of Christ therein; a freedom from bondage, when the Son truely has made you free. faith and love will work genuinely and naturally in y…

The plow kills those rank weeds that grow in the field, turns them up by the roots, buries and rots them. So does saving conviction kill sin at the root, makes the soul sick of it, begets indignation in the heart against it (2 Corinthians 7:11). The word there signifies the risi…

But do you know that all this will at last rebound in your own faces, and return into your own bosoms? Either here or in a worse place, you must repent of all this, that is, you must turn all these passions upon yourselves, you must be angry at yourselves, and reproach yourselve…

Oh it breeds an indignation in him against himself. That word [[〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉]] 2 Corinthians 7:11. signifies the rising of the stomach with very rage, and being sick with anger. Religious wrath is the fiercest wrath.

We put not off the Humane, when we put on the Divine Nature; nor are we then freed from the sense, though we be delivered from the sting and curse of them. Grace does not presently pluck out all those Arrows that sin has shot into the sides of Nature, 2 Corinthians 7:5. When we…

2. That we ask for them for the end of the promise: not to spend on our lust, when we ask pardon for sin, with secret reserves in our hearts to continue in sin, we ask the choicest mercy of the covenant, to spend it on our lusts. The end of the promise the apostle tells us (2 Co…

Is it not necessary that they should be holy who are admitted into his presence, walk in his sight, and lay in his bosom? Should they not with all diligence cleanse themselves from all pollution of flesh and spirit, and perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord, 2 Corinthians 7:1…

The cleansing virtue of the blood of Christ lies in the promises, as the blood of sacrifices in the hyssop, ready to pass out to those who draw near to them. Therefore the apostle argues from receiving of the promises to universal holiness and purity: having therefore these prom…

Longing, breathing and panting after deliverance, is a grace in itself, that has a mighty power to conform the soul into the likeness of the thing longed after. Hence the Apostle describing the repentance and godly sorrow of the Corinthians, reckons this as one eminent grace tha…

When God comes home to speak peace in a sure covenant of it, it fills the soul with shame for all the ways whereby it has been alienated from him. And one of the things that the Apostle mentions as attending that godly sorrow which is accompanied with repentance unto salvation n…

Now it being our duty to mortify, to be killing of sin; while it is in us, we must be at work. He that is appointed to kill an enemy, if he leaves striking, before the other ceases living, does but half his work (Galatians 6:9; Hebrews 12:1; 2 Corinthians 7:1). 2. Sin does not o…

As when one that has drawn near to an army in the night, and has killed a principal person; instantly the guards awake, men are roused up, and strict inquiry is made after the enemy; who in the mean time, until the noise and tumult be over, hides himself, or lies like one that i…

God's work consists in universal obedience; to be freed of the present perplexity is their own only. Hence is that of the Apostle (2 Corinthians 7:1): Cleanse yourselves from all pollution of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord. If we will do any thing,…

And Paul: The love of Christ constrains us (2 Corinthians 5:14). And: Having received these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from all pollutions of flesh and spirit (2 Corinthians 7:1). But now if a man be so under the power of his lust, that he has nothing but law to oppose i…

Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit] Here is: 1. The chief seat, or subject of the work of sanctification, the soul. 2. The subordinate means, truth. 3. The nature of it, obeying of truth. 4. The chief worker of it, the Holy Spirit. For th…

The way then to assuage all these wicked heats, is for every man to think with himself, that he shall surely have enough for which to be grieved with himself, and to be angry with himself, and to be revenged of himself. According to which, Saint Paul in 2 Corinthians 7:10-11, de…

Many have gone to heaven that were never learned, but never any without holiness. (3) The word of promise encourages it (2 Corinthians 7:1). Having therefore these promises, (dearly beloved) let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holines…

How soon the fire may be kindled, we cannot tell; times tend to Popery; though there be few left to stick by us, the favor of the times run another way; we ought to resolve for God, whatever it cost us. 5. It reproves those that think to reserve their hearts, notwithstanding out…

Fear and weakness excuse not; the fearful and unbelieving are put with murderers, and sorcerers and idolaters, and sent together to the lake that burns with fire and brimstone (Revelation 21:8). Use 1. To reprove them that think it to be enough to own the truth in their hearts,…

3. It is a full comfort, both for measure and matter. 1. Sometimes for the measure; the Apostle speaks of comforts abounding by Christ (2 Corinthians 1:5), and (Acts 13:52) the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost: and the Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 7:4), [〈…

(1 Thessalonians 1:6): "Having received the Word with much affliction and joy in the Holy Ghost." (2 Corinthians 7:4): "I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation." Preachers, though with great hazard they perform their office, should be joyful (Acts 20:24): "Neither count I…

That he might take our flesh, and redeem us; that he might instate us into a kingdom. He was poor, that he might make us rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). He was born of a virgin, that he might be born of God; he took our flesh, that he might give us his Spirit.

Those services which would have been rejected in the first covenant, are accepted in the second. Here God accepts of the will for the deed (2 Corinthians 8:10); here sincerity is crowned. In the covenant of grace, wherein we are weak, God will give strength, and wherein we come…

The Lord healed the people. The Tribes of Israel being straitened in time wanted some legal purifications, yet because their hearts were upright, God healed them, he pardoned them; God accepts of the good will (2 Corinthians 8:12). A father takes a letter from his son kindly tho…

5. He does really endeavor to obey God's law perfectly, and wherein he comes short, he runs to Christ's blood to make supply for his defects. This cordial desire and real endeavor God esteems as perfect obedience (2 Corinthians 8:12): If there be a willing mind, it is accepted.…

Musculus famous for learning and piety was put to great straits, he was put to dig in a town ditch, and had scarce daily bread, yet content. Indeed, Christ, who was heir of all, yet for our sakes became poor (2 Corinthians 8:9). Let all these examples make us content.

God is the Author and inditer of this Story, and in God's sight and estimation he was offered, though not in the world's: and therefore it is so said, in regard of God's acceptance; because Abraham's purpose was to have done it; and if he had not been stayed, he had done it. Whe…

And if we look to (Luke 8) we will find that he was provided for in his necessity by some few women, such as Mary Magdalen, Joanna, Susanna, and others, who ministered to him of their substance; he lived upon the charity of others. And yet (2 Corinthians 8) by his poverty he mad…

This I consider, either as in the kingdom of grace, or of glory. In grace's kingdom, the saints for their holiness, and Titus and the brethren (2 Corinthians 8:23), are the glory of Christ. I will place (says the Lord (Isaiah 46:13)) salvation in Zion, for Israel my glory.

So that all that he does for his members is for himself, as truly, indeed more fully than for them; and his share of glory out of theirs is greater than theirs, by how much the glory of the cause is greater than that of the effect. And thus indeed the Scripture speaks of it: as,…

God becomes a God to me, and to my seed by way of covenant; so (Deuteronomy 29:10-13), both your children of understanding, and your little ones of no understanding, you are all here before God this day, to enter into a covenant with him, to keep his commandments forever; you an…

It is an unreasonable thing you exact of us: for, as for some of us, we have a great family and charge to look to, wife and children to provide for; and for them we must provide, otherwise we deny the faith, and are worse than infidels (1 Timothy 5:8). Others, are poor and needy…

Hence we infer, that all that he enjoined on the rich was, that they should bestow on the poor, according to their own ability, what their necessity required. "Consider to what extent the necessaries of life, which you enjoy abundantly, are wanted by your neighbors, that your ab…

That they may see your good works: for, as Paul tells us, believers must, "provide for honest things, not only in the sight of God, but also in the sight of men," (2 Corinthians 8:21.) The command, which he gives shortly afterwards, to seek concealment and a retired situation fo…

You have known Parents that have laid out all their stock of money to purchase Estates for their Children; but when did you hear of any that spent the whole stock and treasure of their blood, to make a purchase for them? If the life of Christ had not been so afflictive and sad t…

Lastly, if life be worth all; then hereby we may take measure of the love and bounty of Christ to poor sinners, who not only spent himself in all to his life, but spent life and all, that they might not perish. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ was exceeding great towards us, t…

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

But what was borrowed, or the naked ground. O melting consideration! that the glorious Son of God, Ioh, 1. 14. The Lord of glory, Iam. 2. I. The brightness of his fathers glory. Heb. 1. 3. Who was rich, 2 Cor. 8. 9. And it no robbery to be equal with God. Phil. 2. 8. who from al…

Please one another, for Christ pleased not himself (Romans 15:2-3). Be charitable to the poor, for we know the grace of our Lord Jesus (2 Corinthians 8:9). Wash one another's feet, that is, stoop to the meanest offices of love, for Christ did so (John 13:14; Matthew 20:27-28).

What do those that are gay and brave attire themselves for, but to have the eyes of men drawn after them? Let childrens eyes be drawn after them; but if they have rotten spirits, let them be so looked upon, notwithstanding they be in gay cloaths: but for those that are gracious,…

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

3. The fruits of the Spirit, sanctifying and renewing our natures, enabling unto good, and preventing from evil, are so termed. Thus the Lord tells Paul, his grace was sufficient for him: that is, the assistance against temptation which he afforded him (Colossians 3:16; 2 Corint…

It is believers that are mother, and brother of this Solomon (Matthew 12:49-50). They crown him in the day of his espousals, giving themselves to him, and becoming his glory (2 Corinthians 8:23). Thus he sets out his whole communion with his church under this allusion: and that…

He values his saints. Evidences of that valuation: first, his incarnation; second, exinanition (2 Corinthians 8:9; Philippians 2:6-7); third, obedience as a servant; fourth, in his death, his valuation of them in comparison of others. Believers' estimation of Christ: first, they…

4. Again, there Christ speaks of the general bent of our conversation, and here only of particular and private duties: it would argue too much hypocrisy to do these in public, though the whole frame and course of our carriage before men must be religious in their sight. And that…

No: but to the intent that we should receive that which we lack, according to the measure that it pleases him to deal to us, as we have seen heretofore. And that is the cause why Saint Paul in the second to the Corinthians says, that he became poor to the intent to fill us with…

And what did Jesus Christ? He forgot himself, he regarded not his own person: he that was the Lord of all glory, submitted himself to all reproach: he that was the life from the beginning (John 1:4), made himself mortal: he that was the power of God the father, made himself weak…

Peter's getting out of prison was nothing to it. In comforting: Every grace is a mystery; to depend upon what we see not; to be as a rock in the midst of a storm; dying, yet we live; as poor, yet making many rich (2 Corinthians 8:9-10). All the operations of the Spirit are wonde…

God can soon blast abundance, and can relieve us in the deepest wants. He can give you a sufficiency in your deep poverty (2 Corinthians 8:2). If you should go on carking and caring, and feathering your nests, God may take you off, or set your nests on fire.

2. Sinful thoughts are an abomination in the sight of God: God has a special eye to the thoughts of men's hearts, to them of good men (Malachi 3:16), and to them of bad men (Genesis 6:5). In good men God accepts (very often) the will for the deed, if to will be present with them…

3. The third privilege is this, if we are children, then God will accept of our imperfect services. A parent takes anything in good part from his child; God accepts of the will for the deed (2 Corinthians 8:12). Often times we come with broken prayers, but if we are children, Go…

The golden mandates of the gospel are comparatively easy. In the gospel, if there is a desire to keep God's commandments, it is accepted (Nehemiah 1:11; 2 Corinthians 8:12): if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted. Though a person had had the best intentions to fulfill…

And so all these being both so excellent, and then so undue, have respect of satisfaction to God. 2. The active obedience of Christ and all that Christ did and suffered were performed by him in his state of humiliation: In which he was poor, [illegible], (2 Corinthians 8:9) for…

How faithful and free in rebuking the Pharisees and rulers, and in declaring the truth of the Gospel, that he was the Son of God, though they attempted to stone him for his free teaching? None mortified to honor as he that refused to be a king (John 6:15), and was willing to be…

5. We are not dead to Mammon: O who is like Christ and refuses to be a rich King (John 6)? Paul (2 Corinthians 8-9): For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor: He had a greater mind than that he could live to riche…

For his friends (John 15:13). Was made poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9). Is our forerunner who has entered into heaven, ⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩, for us (Hebrews 6:20).

The love of Christ himself and his grace are peculiarly exalted in our justification; that all men may honor the Son, even as they honor the father. Frequently are they expressed unto this purpose, 2 Corinthians 8:9. Galatians 2:20.

Question: when a man by restoring shall discredit himself, how shall he both restore and keep his credit? Answer: let him (if the thing to be restored be of small moment) make choice of some faithful and honest friend who may deliver the thing on behalf of the party, concealing…

Philosophy tells us there is a main-business, and a by-business; the same is found in religion also. There are those that give themselves to the Lord (2 Corinthians 8:5), whose way of life or trade is heaven (Philippians 3:18), the end or scope of whose life is Christ (Hebrews 1…

And let another man do many things very weakly, and yet has some care of his heart, God knows how to pardon it; though Asa had many failings (2 Chronicles 15:17), yet his spirit was upright with God all his days, and that covered a multitude of failings that elsewhere were in hi…

The saints, says Saint Augustine, have all the world for their possession. And if it be here demanded how this can be true, since we find the saints of God often in great want, and it would doubtless be sin in them to usurp another man's goods upon presumption of that promise th…

To this end you may further consider that in men's hearts — though they be stony toward God — there are yet some sparks of fire which may be struck out by the word, by education, by the enlightening of conscience, and by working upon self-love in men. The sparks of this fire are…

Remember how short my time is' (Psalm 89:46-47, compared with Psalm 39:12). Tell him that for the little time you have to live, the more joy you have the more service you will be able to do him and the more lively and strongly you will go about his work — 'for the joy of the Lor…

This makes walking after the Spirit, and a parting from iniquity and being pure in Spirit and dying to [illegible] of no interest in Christ, contrary to (Romans 8:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:19; Matthew 5:8; 1 Peter 2:4; Galatians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:18), and contrary to the whole Gospel: which…

Thus much of the reason: I proceed to the confirmation or proof of his reason, in these words, For whatever a man sows, that shall he also reap. Where the Apostle proves, that God will not be mocked with vain excuses, seeing he will render to every man, according to his works, w…

The Lord therefore greatly commends a cheerful heart (Romans 12:8), the rather to correct this vice of niggardliness: and albeit the place in the Romans be chiefly directed to the deacons, yet it ought to be applied to all. Another sentence also must be kept in mind, which testi…

For as the Lord requires obedience, so would he have his servants perform the same cheerfully and readily. He loves a cheerful giver, as the Apostle says (2 Corinthians 9:7), but those that serve him by halves, or by constraint, cannot properly be called his servants; neither do…

And thus all hypocrites are here rejected, because the express tenor of our vocation runs thus; that we serve the Lord with a free and ready affection of the heart: for we cannot serve him, unless we yield him a frank and voluntary obedience. That therefore which is said of alms…

Hence it follows, that we must draw from it a meaning, which corresponds to the law of charity, as it is laid down by God: and that law is, that each person should give out of his abundance to supply the wants of the poor. God does not extort a tax, to be paid "grudgingly or of…

For although he does not plainly ask it, yet while he says that Achaia and Macedonia ought to do it, he infers what was the duty of the Romans, who were in the same predicament. And that he had respect thereto he plainly confesses to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 9:1). I boast…

Why, when you see all the kindness and love they have shown the saints returned with an Overplus into their bosoms; how is it possible, but you must see the accomplishment of these Scriptures in such Providences? Isaiah 32:8 2 Corinthians 9:6 The liberal soul deviseth liberal th…

Hence it is said, the four beasts (that is, the community of the faithful) rest not day nor night, praising God (Revelation 4:8). Yet their work is their rest, only some have an instrument of six, some of eight, others sing praise to God upon an instrument of ten strings, having…

Thus stands the case between those places which God has blessed with a faithful painful ministry, and such as have none, or worse than none: for as the husbandman's cost and pains appears in the verdant, and fragrant hue of his fields; so a minister's pains and diligence is (ord…

§. 35. Of husbands and wives' wisdom, in preserving each other's good name. To preserve a good name, it will be meet for a husband or wife, wisely and seasonably to give one another notice of that good fame which is raised of them, thereby to provoke them both to give glory to G…

2. Answer. If the love he had to Rachel made him do his service so cheerfully: then if servants love God, for whose sake they ought to do their service, it will cheerfully be done. 1. That which the Apostle applies to giving of alms (2 Corinthians 9:7) may be extended to all man…

that is Doctrines of the heavenly State. Commands, 2 Corinthians 9:13. By the Experiment of this Ministration they glorify God for your professed Subjection to the Gospel of Christ.

When you are at the table, to be carved to by a great person, their remembrance is counted a greater favor than the meal itself: so it is not barely the comfort we have by the creature, which sweetens it; but when we think of the Donor, that the great God should think of us, tha…

Such as redemption by Christ (Psalm 111:4): He has made his wonderful works to be remembered. We must daily be blessing God for Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 9:15): Thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift. I understand it of his grace by Christ.

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

The act of Jehu in rooting out the house of Ahab, and the priests of Baal was a right zealous action in itself, and by God commanded, but it was a mere murder as it was by Jehu executed, because he intended not the extirpation of idolatry, but only the erecting and establishing…

Sanctification is still increasing, like the morning sun which grows brighter to the full meridian. Knowledge is said to increase (Colossians 1:10), and faith to increase (2 Corinthians 10:15); a Christian is continually adding a cubit to his spiritual stature. It is not with us…

For as before faith was wrought, carnal reason shows its opposition by using the utmost of its strength to persuade a man of the goodness of his estate though without faith, thereby to prevent the entrance of faith and our seeking after it at all as not needful to change our est…

'More piercing than any two-edged sword.' Now as elsewhere the word is compared to an armory of all sorts of weapons and instruments for war and vengeance — 'the weapons of our warfare are mighty' (2 Corinthians 10:4) for pulling down strongholds and subduing to Christ those who…

It is the common workshop where thoughts are first forged and formed, and as this is, so are they. If imaginations are not first cast down, it is impossible that every thought of the heart should be brought into obedience to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). This imagination is natur…

3. Because God makes use of the word preached, for engaging of sinners to Christ, and for making them to take hold of him; it's true, that it is not powerful of itself, and without the Spirit; yet it's the ordinary mean that God makes use of. Therefore, says the Apostle (2 Corin…

Here be great persons in eminent places, and they can lead armies against us, and have in every single soldier, a strong garrison of concupiscence, and fleshly lusts, that war against the soul (1 Peter 2:11). And the flesh is a strong Fort-royal, a tower of imaginations, which e…

No; angels are made of God, and for God, and to God; then by the Apostle's reason, they could not give first to God, to engage the Almighty to a recompense, they could not first set their free-will to work their own standing in court, before God did with his grace separate them…

Remember that he is said here in the text, first to be at God's right hand, and then to intercede. He treats the salvation of sinners, as a mighty prince treats the giving up some town to him, which lies seated under a castle of his, which commands that town: he stands treating…

This is, first when a man has such respect to all the commandments of God, as that there is none of them but he greatly delights in it (Psalm 119:6) then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect to all your commandments: He looks at them all with such respect, as the commandm…

And two things there be in having Christ for our Prince, to open them plainly to you. First, when you resign up yourselves, to be wholly ruled by him in all your paths, so as that you lean not to yourselves, not so much as in one thought, but all your thoughts stand in subjectio…

There are some mysteries in the Christian religion, though not against reason, yet above natural reason. Now we must believe them upon Christ's word, Captivantes omnem intellectum in obsequium Christi, (2 Corinthians 10:5). Bringing into captivity every thought into the obedienc…

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

The third, that the whole work of the spirit may be reduced to three actions. The first is, to cast down everything in us, that exalts itself against God (2 Corinthians 10), as namely, to beat down erroneous reason, and rebellious affection, and to put a man out of heart with hi…

When he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not (1 Peter 2:23), as it may appear by that meek answer; If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if I have spoken well, why do you strike me? (John 18:23). Paul has no stronger argument to exho…

On the other side, the Prophet sends us not here to secret revelations, that Christ might reign in us: but he openly extols the outward preaching of the word, and teaches that the Gospel preached and sounded forth, is a royal scepter in the hand of Christ; otherwise he had impro…

In this respect, it was a remarkable display of his firmness, that those, who were highly esteemed by others, were not spared on account of their reputation, but sternly reduced, as they deserved, to their proper rank. And thus ought all godly instructors to be zealous, not to d…

It must be observed, however, that this does not belong to the nature of the Gospel, but is accidental; as Paul also informs us, when, speaking of the vengeance which he tells us that he has it in his power to execute against all unbelievers and rebels, he immediately adds, When…

Ah how unwilling are we to surrender to the Lord the Loan which he lent us! to be disquieted by troubles when at ease in our enjoyments! How unwelcome are the messengers of affliction to the best men! we are ready to say to them as the Widow to Elijah, What have I to do with you…

3. She is terrible as an army with banners: an army is strong and fearful; a bannered army is stately and orderly, under command and readiness for service; an army with banners is an army in its most stately posture. The Church is terrible as such an army, either, 1. considered…

In the second chapter of Isaiah, where the prophet is foretelling God's setting up the kingdom of Christ in the world, he foretells how God will, in order to it, bring down the haughtiness of men, and how the day of the Lord shall be on every high tower, and upon every fenced wa…

The scope and end of the ministry is for the church's benefit and advantage. They must not lord it over God's heritage, as if the church were for them, and not they for the church; nor serve themselves of it, but be the church's servants for Jesus' sake (2 Corinthians 4:6); the…

We have all of us reason to say, that Jesus Christ is very meek, or else we that have provoked him so much and so often, had been in hell long ago: we owe it to his meekness to whom all judgment is committed, that we have not ere this been carried away with a swift destruction,…

This obedience consists, as in the receiving Christ as our Redeemer, so also at the same time, as our Lord, or King, an entire rendering up of the whole man to his obedience. This obedience then of the only begotten Jesus Christ may well be understood not as his actively, as Bez…

And this King has his throne in the consciences of men, where thoughts are brought into captivity to him. (2 Corinthians 10:5) And he has his royal scepter, (Psalm 110:3) which is called the rod of his strength. And he has his subjects, and they are the saints, (Revelation 15:3)…

Indeed, but that which has been may be again; therefore it is expressed not only by a resurrection, but by a creation (Ephesians 2:10): We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to good works (2 Corinthians 4:6): He that commands the light to shine out of darkness, has shi…

But on the other side, we have also commission to withhold sins, by threatening the despisers of God's word with God's horrible wrath, and by telling them that when they have shaken their ears, and think themselves to be escaped, the doctrine that they have heard, must be as rop…

For since there is no accepting of persons before God: his word must be handled roundly, and we must not be dismayed at the highness and authority of such as are in estimation among men. For seeing it is God that speaks, his word must pull down all loftiness, according as Saint…

(1.) To try your faith in the great day of accounts: Can you comfort yourselves in the solemn vindication of the day of judgment, and in God's approbation then? (2 Corinthians 10:18) He is approved whom the Lord commends. Men cannot defend you, if God condemns you; they cannot c…

O it shows we are not so dead, at least as we ought to be to credit in the world, to have the glory that comes from God only; his image implanted in us; the testimony of his love to our souls; all clear between God and our souls, and he is not upright whose peace and tranquility…

8. Sin (as was hinted before) is contrary to and opposite against the being and existence of God; it makes the sinner wish and endeavor that there might be no God; for sinners are haters of God (Romans 1:30). And as he that hates his brother is a murderer (1 John 3:15), so (as m…

Now the Gospel comes to throw down these strong towers, to cast down imaginations, to conquer whole armies of thoughts, to reduce these straggling and thievish highway men into good order and obedience. This is the glory of the Gospel (beyond all the philosophy in the world) tha…

Hence it is, the time of the [illegible] of the [illegible] is called the [illegible] and [illegible] day of the Lord (Malachi 4:5). [illegible] that of [illegible] (2 Corinthians 10:5): the weapons [illegible] (that is, the [illegible] ministry [illegible] Word [illegible] thro…

When Paul preached against Diana, all the city was in an uproar: we preach against men's Dianas, those sins which bring them in pleasure and profit, this causes an uproar. 3. From the malice of Satan: the ministers of Christ come to destroy his kingdom, therefore the old serpent…

Many of the Jews perished though Christ himself was their preacher. The other mistake is described by the apostle (2 Corinthians 10:12): they measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise. Here is a double error. They measure themselve…

'Tis the phrase which the Holy Ghost expresss the weakness and impotency of a creature by, Isaiah 31:3. They are men, and their horses are flesh; that is, weak; as on the contrary, when he would set out the power and strength of a thing, he opposs it to flesh, 2 Corinthians 10:3…

This may justifie us in the sight of God and men, for our departure from them, who will force us to venture the life of our souls in such, paper-armour, when God has provided better. Secondly, the carnal Protestant, who fights in fleshly armour. 2 Corinthians 10:3. the Apostle s…

Try it therefore by this one Scripture-stamp. Those weapons are mighty, which God gives his Saints to fight his battels withal, 2 Corinthians 10:4. The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God.

2. He shows us of a lively faith of Abraham, which wrought with his works, now it is a foolish error to make Abraham's faith, and the faith of believing Rahab of the same nature with the faith of the vain empty hypocrite, whose faith is nothing but fair words, and with the faith…

Obj. 1. Then shall Gospel-obedience be of less worth than law-obedience, which flows not from grace, which Christ has merited by his death? Ans. It's not denied, but it is obedience, so the Scripture (Hebrews 5:9; Romans 1:5; Romans 6:17; Romans 16:19; 2 Corinthians 10:5; 1 Pete…

Thus the Pharisees (those gross self-deceivers) trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others (Luke 18:9); their low rating of others gave them that high rate and value of themselves: and thus the proverb is made good, 'In the land of the blind, the one-eyed…

In a thousand the like, Faith is to improve the free grace, the omnipotence, the unchangeable love of Christ, to promote his own work, and to work in us to will, and to do, according to his good pleasure (Philippians 2:13). Now for the ingredients of Faith: First, there are in u…

3. They are to be repented of; indeed repentance is expressed, as to begin at them. So Isaiah 55:7 — let the unrighteous man forsake his thoughts; and a man is never truly and thoroughly wrought on (as 2 Corinthians 10:4-5) till every thought be brought into obedience; which arg…

By them we chiefly sanctify him in our hearts, by them we walk with God, and shall we not make conscience of them? Fourthly, if you look to the work and power of grace, wherein lies it, but in bringing every thought into obedience (2 Corinthians 10:4-5)? This is the glory of our…

Reason 3: Hence it comes to pass, because the word of God is mighty, not only to give light to the simple, but makes the thing we should see, clear and evident (Psalms 119:130). And this springs from the former reasons; there is that in the word, which will soften the most hard…

The Spirit breathes where it wills (John 3:8). If he take pleasure to breathe in a man, there is nothing can hinder him, it will blow upon the most foul dunghill in any place, and be never a whit the more defiled; and he is not only free, but mighty and powerful through God to c…

6. We glorify God by being contented in that state where his providence has set us; we give God the glory of his wisdom in that we rest satisfied with what he carves out to us. Thus did holy Paul glorify God; the Lord had cast him into as great variety of condition as any man, i…

As the soul is excellent in its nature, so in its capacities: it is capable of grace, it is fit to be an associate and companion of angels. It is capable of communion with God, of being Christ's spouse (2 Corinthians 11:2): "That I might espouse you, virgin souls, to Christ." It…

If Satan has all these subtle artifices in tempting, are not we in great danger of this prince of the air, and had not we need often pray, Lord suffer us not to be led into temptation? As the serpent beguiled Eve with his subtlety (2 Corinthians 11:2), let us not be beguiled by…

First on carnal reason, on which he chiefly works in this sort of temptations, the strength whereof lies in false reasonings, wherein, if in anything, he has the advantage. First, his abilities to forge and invent false reasonings and arguments to overthrow our faith are (as the…

The Christians live so bad because Christ taught them no better. How should the righteous cut off occasion from them that seek occasion (2 Corinthians 11:12)? Daniel's piety sealed up the lips of his enemies (Daniel 6:4).

2. We may clear and confirm it from these similitudes, by which the offer of this gospel is, as it were, brought to the doors of people, and there are several similitudes made use of to this purpose; I shall name but four. 1. It's set down under the expression of wooing, as (2 C…

The first is that of (John 12:27-28) — now is my soul troubled, and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour; here our blessed Lord is troubled in spirit, and so pinched and hedged in as in a prison, that he is holily nonplussed what to say. The second Scripture is (Matt…

And fifthly, if we look to the rise of error, or from where it comes, we will find it to be a fruit of the flesh (Galatians 5:19), and that which flows from our corruption, and is therefore ranked in with witchcraft, adultery, fornication, idolatry, hatred, variance, etc. 6. If…

2. The respect that a faithful minister has to the people's souls, has influence on this; A tender shepherd will watchfully care for, and wish the sheep well, and be much affected when they are in an evil condition, and where the relation is of a more spiritual nature, and the f…

Job had an army sent against him, and from heaven too (Job chapter 6:4): The terrors of God set themselves in array against me. See what a catalogue of sufferings Paul did refer to God (2 Corinthians 11:23-25, etc.): one good violent death would have made away a stronger man tha…

And to clear it further, we must conceive that the promises of forgiveness are not as the pardons of a prince, which merely contain an expression of his royal word for pardoning, so as we in seeking of it do rest upon and have to do only with his word and seal which we have to s…

And that both these are [reconstructed: meant], 1. That under [infirmities] he means persecutions and afflictions is manifest, not only in that the word is often used in that sense, as (2 Corinthians 11:30) and (chapter 12:5) but also it is plain, that the phrase is here so inte…

1. Observe the devil's cunning in citing Scripture. The Apostle tells us that Satan is sometimes transformed into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). And we read that once he took the habit and guise of a prophet (1 Samuel 28:18), and indeed he deceives more by the voice of…

Let him suffer the law to rule over the body and members thereof, but not over the conscience. For that queen and spouse may not be defiled with the law, but must be kept without spot for her only husband Christ, as Paul says (2 Corinthians 11): I have espoused you to one husban…

The better your cause is, the better are your sufferings: they are blessed that suffer for righteousness. Paul commends himself by the multitude of his sufferings (2 Corinthians 11:13). Again, it may be demanded, how long we must suffer?

The weakness of the child stirs up compassion in the mother: and David says, as a father has compassion on his children, so has the Lord compassion on them that fear him: and mark the reason: for he knows our frame, and that we are but dust (Psalm 103:14). When Paul says, I trav…

Lawful boasting is in the Lord, when, being urged and compelled, we confess the good things that are in us, to God's glory. Of this read at large (2 Corinthians 11). Unlawful is, when men ascribe the gifts that they have of God, to themselves: or having gifts, do arrogate more t…

Secondly, consider the reasons why Paul would not take wages of the Church of Corinth, and some others. 1. Lest he should be a burden to them (2 Thessalonians 3:8): We worked with labor and travail, day and night, because we would not be chargeable to any of you (2 Corinthians 1…

For who sees him not speaking here in the person of this railing miscreant? In fact, which is more, he takes to him even the person of God himself, and so transforms himself into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). For what says the Holy Spirit in other places?

Yet the solution is easy: for when we speak of this marriage of the Church, she has but one husband, that is, God; who always attributes this title to himself. Now this is accomplished in Christ, to whom the Pastors marry and couple the Church, as a chaste and pure virgin; as Sa…

As the faithful friend of the bridegroom he presents the bride chaste and uncontaminated to Christ, who alone is the bridegroom of the Church. Paul tells us that he kept the same object in view, (2 Corinthians 11:2), and the example of both is held out for imitation to all the m…

Hence it follows that leaven is the name given to every foreign admixture; as Paul also tells us that faith is rendered spurious, as soon as we are Drawn aside from the simplicity of Christ, (2 Corinthians 11:3.) It must now be apparent who are the persons of whose doctrine our…

And therefore we ought so to judge as God himself judges, that is, that we must have all one mind and one judgment, that unity and concord may flourish and remain in the world: that our hearts may continue undivided, and not be drawn asunder for these outward matters: so that we…

There are manifold hazards into which we are often cast in this world. The Apostle Paul gives us a general account of his dangers, in 2 Corinthians 11:26 And how great a wonder is it, that our life has not been extinguished in some of those dangers we have been in? For,

And there is a truth also in this, O death how sweet are you to a man, that is bitter in his soul! It often falls out, that to die, is but a short affliction, but affliction many times is a long and a continued death, a frequent death, as the Apostle speaks of his afflictions, i…

The effect of these his ointments (which is a proof of the reality of this truth, and the third thing in the verse) is in these words, Therefore the virgins love you. By virgins here, are not understood bare professors, but sincere believers, who are not counterfeit in their aff…

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…

This then is the meaning: consider Christ in the beauty wherein he appears to believers, and with the esteem they have of him, as full of grace and truth, when they acknowledge him, and subject to him, and he will be seen to be exceeding stately and lovely. The second qualificat…

3. What is the scope of these allegories, in other Scriptures, as that of Psalm 45, that of planting a vineyard (Matthew 21), that of marriage (Matthew 22), (which none can deny) is meant of espousing spiritually. (See this same allegory of marriage, Jeremiah 3, Hosea 2-3, Ezeki…

We will find all these parties in this Song, acting their several parts. First, The Bridegroom is Christ (John 3:24), called the one husband (2 Corinthians 11:2), for there is not another spiritual husband, to whom believers can be matched; He is the King's son, for whom the mar…

First, the charge laid upon them is greater, and the burdens pressing them, are heavier than what lie upon other men; and therefore they should be eased and helped by our prayers. What St. Paul says (2 Corinthians 11:28), that he had the care of all the churches upon him; we may…

Objection. But here some may object against the Sufficiency of the Marks given, what the Apostle Paul says, in 2 Corinthians 11:13, 14. For such are false Apostles, deceitful Workers, transforming themselves into the Apostles of Christ; and no Marvel, for Satan himself is transf…

It is said of our Lord and Master Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:19), that he shall not strive, nor cry, neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets, (that is,) he shall not keep a bustling, and a stir for worldly glory and great matters in this life; and truly we should learn…

Rejoyce in that day, and leap for joy, for, behold your reward is great in heaven: As if Christ should say, I do not bid you bear it patiently, but joyfully, and more then an ordinary joy, leap for joy. And that is remarkable of St. Paul, in 2 Cor. 11. where he reckons up many t…

Which is a plain allusion to the Custom of the Iews in punishing an offender who being convicted, the Judge was to see him bound fast to a Pillar, his cloaths stript off, and an Executioner with a Scourge to beat him with so many stripes: But now those stripes came but from the…

That this might be the state of the church of Corinth, the apostle made it his endeavor. Paul says in 2 Corinthians 11:2-3: I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ; and I fear, lest by any means as the serpent beguiled Eve through…

And always where there is most of grace, and of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, there is most of this sympathy. The Apostle Saint Paul, as he was eminent in all grace, had a large portion of this (2 Corinthians 11:29). And if this ought to be in reference to their outward condition,…

The Devil may find forces from the temper of the body to destroy the soul. So also from sex, as he beguiled Eve (2 Corinthians 11:3). And from age, we read of youthful lusts (2 Timothy 2:22).

We, 1. Beg wisdom, that you may espy the wiles of Satan, and may not be caught unawares, for he is transformed into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). Mark, the Devil does not care so much to ride his own horses, to act and draw wicked men to evil, he has them sure enough;…

But he also worked miracles, he endured a number of troubles and encumbrances, and finally he suffered imprisonment and death. Now when we see that for all this he ceased not to go through steadfastly, and to overcome all the assaults that Satan and the wicked world were able to…

So ministers (Romans 9:1): I say the truth in Christ, I lie not. (2 Corinthians 11:31): The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ knows that I lie not. Among private Christians, are we not too rash in our suspicions, and speak worse of others than they deserve?

3. So many and subtle are those temptations which Satan sets on foot to make us transgress this Rule. The Devil assaults us two ways, by fiery darts, and by cunning wiles (Ephesians 6:11); he has not only violent temptations, burning lusts, or raging despair; but he has ensnarin…

1. Without the distinguishing or discerning act of judgment, how apt are we to be misled and deceived! They that cannot distinguish meats, will soon eat what is unwholesome; so if we have not a judgment to approve things that are excellent, and disapprove the contrary, our fanci…

The lamp is starved, when not supplied with oil. Some to gain credit and entrance, and to disgrace Paul, and the true evangelical ministers, whose poverty needed a supply, will take no maintenance; therefore Paul says (2 Corinthians 11:12), That wherein they glory, we might be a…

It may be sin to another that knows not to do good, but not so great a sin as it is to him that knows; and therefore he that knew not his master's will was beaten but with a few stripes, but he that knew it, and did it not, was beaten with many (Luke 12:47-48). The Jews had used…

Surely no: So if he did come and tempt men to sin, and tell them it is the ready way to hell, would this prevail with them, to swear and whore, etc. No, no, the devil is subtle (an old Serpent) he colors and paints sin, covers his hook with a bait, etc. and draws men in ere they…

2 The sinfulness of sin appears by the Commandment thus, that it takes occasion by the Commandment to deceive us, as the Apostle says it did him (Romans 7:11), just as the devil took occasion from the Commandment to deceive our first parents; as if God were envious to us, or at…

Hence Paul might in many other, so in this respect also, be called a choice [illegible] to carry Christ's name among the Heathens [illegible] 9:15, being his zeal was fiery, his love earnest, [illegible] courage resolute, his judgment deep, his spirit undaunted, and fit for disp…

When the Apostle was driven out of all, yet in regard of that sweet contentment of mind (which was like music in his soul,) he possessed all. We read a short map or history of his sufferings (2 Corinthians 11:23-25): in prisons more frequent, in deaths often, etc. Yet behold the…

Those who say they have comfort, but are proud — who have learned to despise others and are climbed above ordinances — their comforts are delusions. The devil is able not only to transform himself into an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:4), but he can transform himself into the…

There is an immediate passage from death to Glory: It is but winking and we shall see God (Luke 23:43). This day shall you be with me in Paradise; by Paradise is meant Heaven, the Third Heaven into which Paul was wrapped, (which all hold to be the Heaven of the blessed) was call…

Make this prayer to God, Lord do not leave me to myself: If Adam fell so soon who had strength, how soon shall I fall who have no strength? O urge God with his hand and seal (2 Corinthians 12:9). My strength shall be made perfect in weakness. 2. The sin by which our first parent…

Comfort in case of weakness of grace, and fear of falling away: I pray, but I cannot send out strong cries; I believe, but the hand of my faith does shake and tremble: Cannot God strengthen weak grace? (2 Corinthians 12:9). My strength is made perfect in weakness: Most gladly th…

Thus a Christian, who walks with God, has something that bears up his heart from sinking; and it is but waiting a while, and he is sure of those joys which are unspeakable and full of glory. Use 1. Then see that religion is no melancholy thing; it brings joy, the fruit of the Sp…

Temptation is a medicine for security, the more Satan tempts, the more the saints pray. When Paul had the messenger of Satan to buffet him (2 Corinthians 12:8), for this I besought the Lord three times, that it might depart from me. Thus nothing can break off a believer from Chr…

Secondly, labor for humility. 'Tis a kind of self-annihilation (2 Corinthians 12:11). ⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩.

Rest in God's wisdom, in several cases: 1. In want of spiritual comfort: God is wise, he sees it good sometimes we should be without comfort. Perhaps we should be lifted up with spiritual enlargements, as Paul with his revelations (2 Corinthians 12:7). It is hard to have the hea…

As for his accusing, Christ is advocate for the saints, and answers all bills of indictment brought in against them. God will make all Satan's temptations promote the good of his [reconstructed: children]: 1. As they set them more a praying (2 Corinthians 12:8). Temptation is a…

Keep up your authority, and you keep up your honor. 3. Provide for your children what is fitting both in their minority, and when they come to maturity (2 Corinthians 12:14). The children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

9. There is kindness in affliction, in that it is preventive. (1.) God by this stroke of his would prevent some sin; Paul's thorn in the flesh was to prevent his being lifted up in pride (2 Corinthians 12:7). As affliction is sometimes sent for the punishing of sin, so sometimes…

He can multiply suggestions so fast, and come in with such a tempest, that as Job complains (Job 9:17) he will not suffer them to take a breath. Therefore the apostle calls them the 'buffetings of Satan' (2 Corinthians 12), because like buffetings they come in thick and threefol…

Yet in the end, when God raised him up again, this Heman — who lived around the time of David and Solomon — is reckoned among the wisest men of his time and one of the four who were next to Solomon (1 Kings 4:31). So that great apostle Paul was a man exposed to the same conflict…

So in Deuteronomy 8:16 the end of the stinging of the Israelites by scorpions — which were types of these stings and terrors — was, as to prove, so also to humble them. And for this end was that buffeting by Satan we have so often mentioned (2 Corinthians 12:7): 'to keep him fro…

And like small birds, are held long under with limed straws of frivolous objections, which great ones fly away with. Saint Paul, being a man of knowledge, was not easily taken with such chaff: 'We are not ignorant of his devices,' says he (2 Corinthians 2:11); and therefore Sata…

Thus he left David to Satan, to provoke him to sin as well as Judas; therefore that provocation to number the people, as it is imputed to Satan and his malice (1 Chronicles 21:1), so also to God and his anger in giving leave first to Satan (2 Samuel 24:1). And as an evil spirit…

This was a notable prerogative, To prevail with the Lord; but yet he must prevail with his foil (Verse 31) and at the same time, and ever after draw one of his legs after him, even to his dying day. Saint Paul was rapt up into the third heaven, into Paradise, and heard words whi…

A most notable virtue in this servant of God: and the like mind bear all those, that have the same graces of saving faith, and true repentance that Moses had. Saint Paul esteemed the Temptations unto sin, which Satan suggested into his mind, to be as beatings and buffetings, and…

The second, because we ask amiss (James 4:3). The third, because sometimes the things which we ask, though they be good in themselves, yet they are not good for us, and for that cause are withheld (2 Corinthians 12:7). The last, because God will for some long time defer the gran…

This is armor of God's making (Ephesians 6:16), and the Lord with his armor gives strength. Alexander might give a coward his armor, but he could not give him his courage; but God infuses a spirit of magnanimity into his people, with his armor he conveys strength (2 Corinthians…

And these things we may certainly and sensibly perceive in ourselves: and when we find them in us, though our unworthiness be exceeding great, it should not hinder our assurance. For God makes manifest his power in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12), and he will not break the bruis…

Help 7. Mourn over the matter to God, and call in assistance from heaven when vain thoughts assault your heart in duty. When the messenger of Satan buffeted Paul by wicked injections, as is supposed, he goes to God and mourns over it before him — 2 Corinthians 12:8. Never slight…

Your prayers may be answered, though the thing prayed for be withheld, yes, or though it should be given for a little while and then taken from you again. There are four ways God answers prayers: by giving the thing prayed for immediately (Daniel 9:23); by suspending the answer…

And if we consider the efficient cause of desertion, which is God's wise dispensation: when Paul has been in the third heaven, on a hyperbole, a great excess of revelations, God thinks then good to exercise him with a messenger of Satan; which by the weakness and spiritual infir…

For we are commanded to confess this to God, as may be gathered from Revelation 3:17, 1 John 1:9, Proverbs 28:13, Psalm 32:5. We are expressly commanded in the day of trouble and of our temptation to pray and seek help from God under our temptations (Psalm 50:15; Matthew 6:13; 1…

In the sixth place you shall have modesty mixed with much magnanimity, which is rarely found in men, endued only with moral or civil gifts, but in nature the more modest, the less magnanimous. But a Christian, the more modest he is, the more magnanimous; look at Paul, and touchi…

Who now rejoice in my Sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the Afflictions of Christ in my Flesh, for his Body's sake, which is the Church. 2 Corinthians 12:15. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you.

Of this you may see an instance in Abraham (Genesis 22:1): And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, that is after he had assured Abraham, that he was his shield, and his exceeding great reward, and given him so many renewed testimonies of his favor. So…

Therefore, when there were any evidences of human frailty, lest the world should be offended, and stumble at it, he was pleased at the same time to give some notable demonstration of the divine power. As on the other side, when holy men are honored by God, something falls out to…

Therefore there was ever some weakness discovered in those that did receive them; Jacob wrestled with God, but came off halting and maimed, though he prevailed (Genesis 32:31): when he came off from seeing God face to face, he halted on his thigh. Paul was wrapped into the third…

After the same manner speaks he also Romans 5: We glory in our afflictions. Also in 2 Corinthians 12: I will glory in mine infirmities. Here Paul shows what is the glory and rejoicing of the Christians, namely to glory and to be proud in tribulations, reproaches, infirmities, et…

This feeling is in our heart, these horrible voices and this fearful show we hear and we see. And this is what Paul says in 2 Corinthians 12: that the strength of Christ is made perfect through our weakness. For then is Christ almighty indeed, then does he truly reign and triump…

To come to the second point: when Paul says, the Galatians were removed from him that called them, that is, himself; he shows Christian modesty: because speaking things praiseworthy of himself, he speaks in the third person: from him that has called, etc. The like he does (2 Cor…

This is to change the voice. It was the manner of Paul to abase himself, and to mourn for the sins of others (2 Corinthians 12:24), and he reproves the Corinthians that they were puffed up, and did not mourn for the incestuous person. Like was the practice of David (Psalm 119:13…

Secondly, they have this use, to convince the consciences of persecutors, and wicked men, that they are the servants of Christ, which suffer thus for righteousness' sake, for which cause they are here mentioned by Paul. Thus he proves himself to be a member of Christ by the affl…

And we daily behold how they burn, drown, and hang the servants of Jesus Christ, whose death nonetheless is precious and blessed in God's sight. For even as the Cross of our Lord was blessed; so also the gibbets, bonds, chains and deaths which his members endure do partake of th…

But the greatest fault of all was his pride, which after a sort strips men's hearts of all fear of God: for which cause Augustine rightly breaks out into this exclamation: O what and how great is the poison of ambition, which cannot be cured but by a counterpoison! For he had re…

I grant, that the Prophet had respect to the people who were detained prisoners in Babylon: but we ought notwithstanding to make our profit of this doctrine, that although our strength should fail us, so as we should be brought to death's door, yet to remember that it is God's p…

For why is it, that the Lord so often hedges up our way with thorns, as it is Hosea 2:6 but that we should not ind our paths to sin? Why does he clogg us, but to prevent our straying from him? 2 Corinthians 12:7 Lest I should be exalted above measure, there was given me a thorn…

Thus Basil was a long time exercised with a violent head-ach, which (as he observed) was used by Providence to prevent Lust. Paul had a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan sent to busset him: and this affliction, whatever it was, was ordained to prevent pride in him, 2 Cori…

But if God afflict his own people with a sanctified rod, it awakens them to a more earnest seeking of God: it makes them pray more frequently, spiritually and fervently than ever. When Paul was buffeted by Satan, he besought the Lord thrice, 2 Corinthians 12:8 We may conclude ou…

So also in ecstasies and ravishments, the body is as it were laid by, as useless and uninstrumental to the soul. I knew a man in Christ about fourteen years ago, (so the Apostle Paul says,) whether in the body, I cannot tell, or out of the body, I cannot tell, God knows (2 Corin…

8. Often the having of our eye in prayer upon one particular (suppose upon one comfort) may make us construct our prayers, to have less of an answer than they have, whereas indeed they are not fruitless, but may be answered in other things, which we do not observe. 9. The Lord m…

And this provision is not only for the present, but our care is to extend farther; and according to our ability (bating the expenses of decency and charity) we are to take care for their future subsistence; and if we cannot leave them a patrimony, we are to leave them an art and…

And therefore the wise man tells us (Proverbs 26:20), Where no wood is, the fire goes out; so where there is no tale-bearer, the strife ceases. The Apostle cautions the Corinthians against this sin (2 Corinthians 12:20), I fear, lest when I come, I shall not find you such as I w…

Or like that new name which no man knows, saving he that receives it (Revelation 2:17). Such truths are better felt than spoken, sooner experienced than expressed, indeed like those [illegible] unutterable words that Paul heard in paradise (2 Corinthians 12:4). Such truths as ar…

You are glad when you have found your strayers; much more is Christ, when he has found a lost soul. O 'tis a great satisfaction to him to see the fruit of the travel of his soul; Isa. 53. Yea, there is more joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, than ninety nine just pers…

This kept Joseph in that good temper towards his brethren, though he had occasion enough to quarrel with them (Genesis 50:20): you thought evil against me, but God meant it to good. This satisfied Paul, in reference to the thorn in the flesh, that is, the calumnies and oppositio…

Fourthly, God shows the glory of his power, in doing such great things as he does, by a few afflicted, distressed, persecuted, contemptible people: The greatest things that ever God has done in the world, have been by these: the more afflicted, the more mean and despised they ha…

Romans 1:24, 29. Romans 13:13. 1 Corinthians 6:13, 14, 15, 16, 18. 2 Corinthians 12:21. Galatians 5:29. Ephesians 5:3. Colossians 3:5. 1 Thes. [•]▪ 2, 3, 4, 5. Hebrews 12:16. Hebrews 13:4. All these, with many others, are the true sayings of God; By them you shalt be tryed in th…

Fourth, by giving in fresh supplies of grace as temptations grow or increase. So it was in the case of Paul, 2 Corinthians 12:9: My grace is sufficient for you. The temptation grew high; Paul was earnest for its removal; and receives only this answer of the sufficiency of the gr…

When sin is mortifying, Satan is crucifying. 3. Self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5): Examine yourselves, a metaphor from metal, that is pierced through, to see if it be gold within. Self-examination is a spiritual inquisition, set up in one's soul: a man must search his heart…

Secondly, by pronouncing a blessing upon them, according to God's holy word. A form of this blessing we have from the Apostle Saint Paul, who blessed the Corinthians after this sort; The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion (or fellowship) of th…

1 Thessalonians 3:2. Now God our father and our Lord Jesus Christ guide our journey to you. 2 Corinthians 13:13. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you. And men are baptized in the name of the father, the son, and th…

And he is so termed, 1. in respect of the Father: for as reason and speech has his beginning from the mind without any passion in the mind, so has he beginning from the Father. And as the speech is in the mind and the mind in the speech, so the Father is in the Son, and the Son…

The day comes when many of you, if God graciously prevents not, shall curse yourselves that ever you should have been such fools as to have trusted your own hearts, or to have taken up this opinion of your faith without ground. We would therefore seriously recommend to you the p…

1. To be believers, for without faith you are never over the borders of God's curse; which may lay a chase to you, and put you to the necessity of fleeing to Christ for refuge. 2. To take some pains to try whether you be in the faith, as the Apostle exhorts (2 Corinthians 13:5):…

3. When you have gotten your own righteousness cast away, and Christ's righteousness closed with, there is a necessity to cover and hide yourselves in it, that you may never so much as in the wandering conceit of your mind, be found out of it; It alludes to the city of refuge, w…

This is one of the great uses of all this doctrine. If there be no way but faith, and if, in studying this one way, many go wrong, then as you would make your calling and election sure, study to make this sure, by putting yourselves to the trial, if you be taking this way as the…

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

All the three in one deed of life open blind eyes and convert lost sinners (Matthew 11:25, 26, 27; Ephesians 1:17, 18; Matthew 16:17; John 12:32; 2 Corinthians 3:14, 15, 16, 17; John 14:23; John 16:7, 8, 9, 10; John 14:16; Ephesians 2:1, 2, 3, 4; 1 John 2:27; 1 John 5:6, 7). Gra…

And if so be, that God give him any great or eminent gifts of spiritual grace, it is strange to see how they are clad in him, with a garment of Christ crucified, overshadowed in self-denial. As they said of Paul, mean in outward view, and speech of little or no value (2 Corinthi…

Here, tempted by Satan; but ministered to, and attended upon, by a multitude of glorious angels (Matthew 4:11). Finally crucified through weakness, but living by the power of God (2 Corinthians 13:4). He hung dying on the cross; but then the rocks were rent, the graves opened, a…

And again, it must be remembered, that Paul speaks this not privately of himself, but generally in the name of all believers. For he says (2 Corinthians 13:5): "Do you not know that Christ is in you, except you be reprobates?" The use: hence it follows, that they which are true…

He purposed indeed to excommunicate the incestuous person, if he persisted in his sin, yet mark how; in the name, and by the power of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 5:4), in which words the form of proceeding against him is limited, and that according to Christ's instituti…

Christ has subdued death, the world, and the devil, for us. In a word, the Prophet here extols this victory which Christ achieved by his sufferings, who though he died according to the infirmity of the flesh, yet he was raised again by the wonderful power of the Holy Spirit (2 C…

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

To which interpretation the phrase of the Apostle agrees very well: for he says he was declared in power, or mightily, because there appeared in him such power, as was proper to God, and proved him most certainly to be God. This power appeared in his resurrection: as in another…

He is the God of Glory (Psalm 29:3), full of orient beauty: in comparison of whom both angels and men are but as the small dust of the balance. He is the God of love (2 Corinthians 13:11), who triumphs in acts of mercy. Well may this encourage our approaches to him who delights…

Sometimes the Spirit alone is mentioned. 2 Corinthians 13:14: the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. This distinct communion of the saints with the Father, Son, and Spirit is very plain in the scripture.

This love in itself is antecedent to the purchase of Christ, although the whole fruit thereof is made out alone thereby, Ephesians 1:4-6. Second, in that distribution made by the apostle in his solemn parting benediction, 2 Corinthians 13:13: the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ,…

John 1:14, 16, 17. 2 Corinthians 13:14. 2 Thessalonians 3:17, 18.

This was David's work, when he communed with his own heart, and called to remembrance the former lovingkindness of the Lord (Psalm 77:6-9). This is the duty that Paul sets us to practice (2 Corinthians 13:5). But now, to do it for this end, to satisfy conscience, which cries and…

Now the promise of God is established when it is confirmed and made good. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established — that is, accounted valid and firm (2 Corinthians 13:1). And in 2 Samuel 7:25, when he speaks of God's promises he prays, "Establish…

Our baptism binds us to this profession, and to all practices consonant and agreeable with it (Romans 10:10), "With the heart man believes to righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made to salvation": To own Christ as the Savior of the world, evidenced by his resurrecti…

Therefore this should be our great inquiry: for if we know not where we are, we cannot know what we are, and if we know not what we are, we cannot be what we should be, namely, altogether Christians (Ezekiel 36:26). Let me then, I beseech you, press this duty upon you that are p…

Why, do this then: make these sure, and keep these sure [illegible] your own comfort. First make sure your evidence for Christ and all saving good in him: (2 Corinthians 13:5). Examine yourselves, prove yourselves whether you be in the faith or no — know you not that Christ is i…

Faith and peace keep house together. Faith believes the Word of God; the Word says, 'Live in peace' (2 Corinthians 13:11). And as soon as faith sees the King of heaven's warrant, it obeys.

But that we may arrive at it, I shall demonstrate by these arguments. Why else does God bid us make our calling and election sure (2 Peter 1:10), and to test ourselves whether we are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5), if assurance cannot be had? The Greek word for testing signif…

O my heart, what do you? Where are you going? See what work lies undone, what sin you have to bewail, what grace to strengthen. Search your evidences; examine your title to Christ (2 Corinthians 13:5). Traverse things narrowly in your soul; see if there be no sin countenanced; s…

Question: But how shall we know that we are Christ's? Answer: Those that are Christ's, Christ is in them (2 Corinthians 13:5): Know you not that Christ is in you? Question: But how shall we know that?

Saving grace is not in vain, but effectual (1 Corinthians 15:10; 1 Timothy 1:14). And we are saved by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 15:11), and no greater mercy can be wished to any, than the grace of our Lord Jesus (Romans 16:20; 2 Corinthians 13:14; Revelation 22:21…

Nor that he wills that they should believe either their eternal damnation, or their final and total falling away, which inevitably leads to that. For they, knowing that they are in Christ (2 Corinthians 13:5; Romans 8:16-17) and freed from condemnation (Romans 8:1), are to belie…

Thereupon they live in a general presumption that they shall be saved by Christ, though they do not know how. This makes the apostle so earnest in pressing the duty of self-examination on all Christians: "Examine yourselves whether you are in the faith; test yourselves — do you…

There is a twofold trial of grace, active, and passive. First, an active trial of it, in which we try it ourselves (2 Corinthians 13:5): 'Examine yourselves, prove yourselves,' that is, measure your hearts, duties and graces by the rule of the word; see how they answer to that r…

First, this is but the single testimony of one man, and by the law of God, and of the land, a man must not die, but under the testimony of two or three witnesses, in the Old Testament, Deuteronomy 9 and 15: One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any…