Colossians

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…

5. Is creation proper to the Deity? This is a flower of Christ's crown (Colossians 1:16): By him were all things created. 6. Is invocation proper to the Deity?

Resp. He has redeemed us to a glorious inheritance (1 Peter 1:4): To an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled, and that fades not away, reserved in heaven for you. 1. To an inheritance.] Christ has not only redeemed us out of prison, but he has redeemed us to a state of happin…

Such were some of you, but you are washed, etc. Before effectual calling, we are not only without strength (Romans 5:6), but enemies (Colossians 1:21). So that the foundation of vocation is election.

Response: We must conceive of him spiritually, namely: 1. In his attributes; his holiness, justice, goodness, which are the beams by which his divine nature shines forth. 2. We must conceive of him as he is in Christ; Christ is the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15). S…

The excellencies of the creature are limited. A man may have health, not beauty; learning, not parentage; riches, not wisdom: but in God are eminently contained all excellencies: he is a good commensurate fully to the soul; he is a sun, a portion, a horn of salvation; in him dwe…

1 Peter 1:3: Blessed be God, who according to his abundant mercy has begotten us again to a lively hope. Colossians 1:12: Giving thanks to the Father, who has made us meet for the inheritance in light. The new creature is a sign of election, a badge of adoption.

Men adopt because they want children, and desire to have some to bear their name; but that God should adopt us when he had a Son of his own, the Lord Jesus, here is the wonder of love. Christ is called God's dear Son (Colossians 1:13). A Son more worthy than the angels (Hebrews…

He has a mighty arm (Psalm 89:13). God's power is a glorious power (Colossians 1:11). 1. It is an irresistible power (Romans 9:19).

2. God the Son is the purchaser of peace. He has made peace by his blood (Colossians 1:20): Having made peace by the blood of his cross. The atonement Aaron made for the people when he entered into the holy of holies with blood, was a type of Christ our high priest, who has by h…

God infinitely out-shines all sublunary glory; he is better than the soul, than angels, than heaven. 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…

2. We must conceive of him as he is in Christ. Christ is the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15). As in the wax we see the print of the seal.

And this knowledge of God is through Christ. Christ is the glass in which the face of God is seen (Colossians 1:15). And then we know God aright, when we know him not only with a knowledge of speculation, but appropriation.

1. I begin with the first thing implied in this petition, Your Kingdom come: It is implied that we are in the kingdom of darkness; and we pray, that we may be brought out of the kingdom of darkness; the state of nature is a kingdom of darkness: It is a kingdom; sin is said to re…

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…

He is [illegible], the Almighty (Revelation 1:8). He creates (Colossians 1:16). 2. Is God the Father infinitely immense, filling all places (Jeremiah 23:24), so is Jesus Christ.

2. The palace of this Kingdom is lucid and transparent; 'tis adorned with light, [illegible Greek text], The light is sweet. Hell is a dark dungeon, but the palace above is bespangled with light (Colossians 1:12). Such illustrious beams of glory shine from God as shed a brightne…

3. If God should pardon and not sanctify, then that should enter into heaven that defiles, but (Revelation 21:27): "Nothing shall enter that defiles." Then God should settle the inheritance upon men before they are fit for it, contrary to that (Colossians 1:12): "He has made us…

And this makes their case utterly different from that of the primitive Christians. This religion being thus reinstated in many nations, it brought forth fruit in them, even as the Gospel did at its first preaching in the places whereinto it came (Colossians 1:6). It brought fort…

Phil. 2:5, 6. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus; who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God. Col. 1:15, 16, 17. Who is the image of the invisible God, the first born of every creature; for by him were all things created, that a…

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

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

First, Carefull walking so as to give no offence to one another; which although it be a moral duty in reference to all, yet therein especial regard is to be had to other Churches of Christ, that they be not in any thing grieved or tempted (1 Corinthians 10:32): "Give none offenc…

Q. What is the effect and benefit of his mediatorship? A. Hereby God and man that were at enmity are reconciled together again, and made one (Colossians 1:20; Ephesians 1:10; Ephesians 2:14, 15).

Q. How is he King over all creatures? A. In sustaining and disposing of them all by his providence, as may be for his glory, and the good of the elect (Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:16; Proverbs 8:15-16; Isaiah 43:14-15). Q. And how is he King of the visible Church?

Q. But what do you think of the Angels, were they also created by God? A. Angels are the chief of those invisible things, those thrones and dominions, principalities, and powers, which are expressly mentioned to have been created by the Lord (Colossians 1:16). Q. With what did G…

Is it the continuance in sin and the number and repetition of them that amazes you? 'All fullness dwells in him who is our righteousness' (Colossians 1:19) and has dwelt in him longer than sin has dwelt in you. And the righteousness of our Messiah is 'everlasting righteousness'…

There being even in the best something which does belong to his jurisdiction, which makes their spirits fit subjects for his temptations to take upon. In Ephesians 6:12, they are called 'the rulers of the darkness of this world'; and Colossians 1:12-13, their power is called 'th…

Romans 16:25-26. To him now that is of power to establish you according to my Gospel and preaching of Jesus Christ, by the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, but now is opened. Colossians 1:26-27. Which is the mystery hid since the world bega…

Romans 16:25-26. — by the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret since the world began, but now is opened and published — for the obedience of faith among all nations. Colossians 1:26-27. The mystery which was hid since the world began and from all ages, is now made man…

The second fruit of their faith is noted in these words; And believed them: where, by believing, we must understand not so much the act of faith, for that was noted before, as the growth and increase of their faith; for the word imports a confirmation of their hearts, and a reso…

The image of the man is not something distinct from him, something to represent him; but the man himself. See Romans 8:29; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15; chapter 3:10. This therefore is that which the Apostle denies concerning the Law.

The constitution of his person, was the greatest mystery that ever infinite wisdom effected (1 Timothy 3:16). And thereby did God gloriously represent himself and all his infinite perfections to us (Hebrews 1:3; Colossians 1:14, 15; 2 Corinthians 4:6). Had he not the divine natu…

And the end of the institution of the ministry of the Gospel, to make his mediation effectual to the souls of men by the application of it in the Word to them, was to bring the Church [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] (Ephesians 4:13), to a perfect man; or that perfection of state whi…

The Son of God in infinite Grace condescending to the susception of this Office, and the discharge of all the Duties of it, it was meet that all things which might contribute any thing to the Glory, or efficacy of it should accompany his undertakings. For being in himself the Im…

Therefore God will now secure all the good things of this Covenant, both as to grace and glory, in a third hand, in the hand of a Mediator. Hereon the Promises are made to him, and the fulness of grace is laid up in him (John 1:14; Colossians 1:17; Chapter 2:2; Ephesians 3:8; 2…

In the close of the whole they affirm, that the obtaining of everlasting salvation by Christ, was not an act antecedent to his entering into Heaven, as the word seems to import, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], having obtained; but it was done by his entrance itself into that Holy P…

The enmity on our part also must be taken away, or reconciliation will not be finished. Now we were enemies in our minds by wicked works (Colossians 1:21), and thereby alienated from the life of God (Ephesians 4:18). The removal hereof consists in this repentance.

The next thing ascribed to them is [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩]. Patience, say we, that is, [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩]; but these Graces are expressly distinguished, 2 Timothy 3:10. [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩]; Faith, Long-suffering, Patience; so plainly Colossians 1:11. [⟨in non-Lati…

[⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], is to rest in, to approve, to delight in, to be pleased with: so is it always used in the New Testament, whether spoken of God or men. See (Matthew 3:17), Chap. 12:18, Chap. 17:5, (Luke 3:22), Chap. 12:32, (Romans 15:26, 27), (1 Corinthians 1:21), Ch…

For this fruit God both expects, and will require. This is the work and effect of the Gospel (Colossians 1:6). And the fruit of it is threefold: (1) of persons in their conversion to God (Romans 15:16); (2) of real internal holiness in them or the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians…

Oh! see here the privilege, the glory, and the happiness of a child of God: and consider it — you it may be, have many duties, good desires and affections, and the like, in which you secretly trust: but consider, does Christ live in you does he dwell, and rule in you? If not, yo…

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

1. It shows us the necessity of effectual calling; without it there is no going to Heaven: We must be made meet for the inheritance, Colossians 1:12. As God makes Heaven fit for us, so he makes us fit for Heaven; and what gives this idoneity and meetness, but effectual Calling?

Your] This word puts us in mind that there are two kingdoms: one God's, and that is the kingdom of heaven: the other the devil's, called the kingdom of darkness (Colossians 1:13). For when all had sinned in Adam, God laid this punishment on all, that seeing they could not be con…

1 Corinthians 13:12: We may see God as men do, through spectacles in his word, sacraments, and creatures. And therefore as Paul prayed for the Colossians (Colossians 1:10), that they might increase in the knowledge of God: so are we taught to pray for ourselves in this petition.…

3. Again, we are here taught to have a desire in our hearts, and an endeavor in our lives, in all things to perform obedience to God's word in our lives and conversations, and in our particular callings. 4. Lastly, we desire patience and strength, when it shall please God at any…

And again it is said, that God by his son made the world (Hebrews 1:2). As for the Holy Ghost, the work of creation is also ascribed to him: and therefore Moses says, The spirit moved upon the waters (Genesis 1:2): and Job says, His spirit has garnished the heavens ([reconstruct…

Question: Must we of necessity follow all the petitions in conceiving a prayer? Answer: No, but only those which do principally belong to the time, place, and occasion, as Paul makes a prayer (Colossians 1:9-10). And all the points of it may be referred to the third and last pet…

He who is truly righteous is far more excellent than any wicked person in the world whatsoever. I say [truly righteous] to exclude the hypocrite, who has a form, and slight tincture of piety, but knows not the grace of God in truth (Colossians 1:6). He has nothing of religion bu…

2. They pray to angels. Angel-worship is forbidden (Colossians 2:18-19), and that we may not pray to angels is clear from Romans 10:14: How shall they call upon him in whom they have not believed? We may not pray to any but whom we may believe in; but we may not believe in an an…

Christ is the great Luminary. In him are hidden all treasures of knowledge (Colossians 2:3). The middle lamp of the Sanctuary gave light to all the other lamps.

This being a grand article of our faith, I shall amplify: I know the Arians, Socinians, Ebionites would rob Christ of the best jewel of his crown, his Godhead; but the Apostolical, Nicene, Athanasian Creed affirm Christ's deity, to this the churches of Helvetia, Bohemia, Wittemb…

The saints are not only compared to stars for their light, but trees for their growth (Isaiah 61:3; Hosea 14:5). A good Christian is not like Hezekiah's sun that went backward, nor Joshua's sun that stood still, but is always advancing in holiness, and increasing with the increa…

If our obedience be not according to the Word, it is offering up strange fire; it is [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], Will-worship; and God will say, Who has required this at your hand? The Apostle condemns worshipping of angels, which had a show of humility (Colossians 2:18). The J…

3. A miraculous faith, which was granted to the apostles, to work miracles for the confirmation of the gospel: this Judas had, he cast out devils, yet was cast out to the devil. 4. A true justifying faith, which is called a faith of the operation of God (Colossians 2:12), and is…

Who has required this at your hand? (Isaiah 1:12). The Apostle condemns the worshipping of angels, which had a show of humility (Colossians 2:18). The Jews might say, they were loath to be so bold as to go to God in their own persons; they would be more humble, and prostrate the…

Is a gold mine so precious? how precious is he who founded this mine? What is Christ in whom are hid all treasures? (Colossians 2:3). We should ascend from the creature to the Creator.

The strings of a viol may be the same, but the tune is altered: before this regeneration, there are spiritual pangs, much heart-breaking for sin. Regeneration is called a circumcising of the heart (Colossians 2:11). In circumcising there was pain in the flesh: so in this spiritu…

He is a pillar in the temple of God. Colossians 2:7: Rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith. Unbelievers are skeptics in religion, they are unsettled; they question every truth.

3. He is coessential with God the Father. The Godhead subsists in Christ (Colossians 2:9). In whom dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.

When a poor sinner looks upon himself, and sees his guilt, and when he looks upon God's justice and holiness, he falls down confounded, but here is that may be as cork to the net, to keep him from despair, if you will leave your sins and come to Christ, mercy can seal your pardo…

(Ephesians 4:18) Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart. (Ephesians 2:1; Colossians 2:13) Thirdly, that in this state all men continue in sin against God, nor of thems…

The way to come to the acknowledgement of these things, is that described by the Apostle (Ephesians 3:14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19): "For this cause I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in Heaven and Earth is named, that he would grant you, a…

Qu. 12. What is principally to be attended to by us in the manner of the celebration of the worship of God, and observation of the institutions and ordinances of the Gospel? Answ. That we observe and do all whatever the Lord Christ has commanded us to observe, in the way that he…

And this as it is sufficiently manifested in the Scriptures quoted in answer to this question, so it is at large declared in the writings of those holy and good men, who have explained the nature of gospel ordinances, and therefore in particular we need not here insist much in t…

"The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break is it not the communion of the body of Christ? for we being many are one bread and one body, for we are all partakers of that one bread." And also he gives out to them t…

Answ. Professing believers, if not baptized in their infancy, and their infant seed. Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:38, 39; Acts 16:33; 1 Corinthians 1:16; 1 Corinthians 7:14; Colossians 2:12, 13; with Genesis 17:10, 11, 12. Quest. 39. Where, and to whom, is the ordinance of the Lord's S…

For to that season were those ordinances to serve, and no longer (Hebrews 9:10, 11, 12). And then were they removed by the same authority whereby they were instituted and appointed (Colossians 2:14, 18, 19, 20). So that though God would never allow, that men, upon what pretense…

There is among the members of the Church one faith (Ephesians 4:5): the common faith, the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 3), which is the sound doctrine (1 Timothy 1:10), which those that will not endure, must be turned from (2 Timothy 4:3); the faithful word that is t…

And therefore they are all to be at his disposal, to confirm or remove, as he saw reason and occasion. And this he did virtually in the sacrifice of himself, or the blood of his Cross, fulfilling and finishing of them all (John 19:30), breaking down the middle wall of partition,…

Q. What need was there of such a Mediator? A. Very much need, because by the sin of man there was now grown enmity between them, God being offended with man, and man being enemy to God (Romans 5:9, 10; Colossians 2:21). Q. Is Christ the only Mediator? or are there not others tha…

Fourth, fire is a devouring thing — a whole world would not satisfy it if it were left to burn on. And one day this whole world will be burned up by fire as punishment for enticing people. Just such are people's desires after pleasures — never satisfied. The more fuel is added,…

Such a faith as a practical syllogism can make, is not a faith wrought by the Lord's almighty power: for though a syllogism makes faith; yet such a faith is but a human faith; because the conclusion follows but from the strength of reasonings, or reason; not from the power of Go…

The consequence is denied. That power which can disannul the greater, must needs disannul the lesser; if the death of Christ put an end to the heavenly Father's Ceremonial worship, and in prayer and praise, at, or before the Ark, or in the Temple; then it will put an end to all…

The allusion in my judgment to the art of painting, wherein a shadow is first drawn, and afterwards a picture to the life, or the very image itself, has here no place, nor does our Apostle anywhere make use of such curious similitudes taken from things artificial, and known to v…

This was to be effected by a glorious conquest and victory, which is every where so described in the Scripture. See (Colossians 2:15). And because outward force and opposition is always used by the world in the defence of the interest of Satan, he will also sometimes apply the o…

4. God had designed the whole dispensation of the Law under that Priesthood to this very end, that it should give the People neither rest nor liberty, but press and urge them to be looking after their full relief in the Promised Seed (Galatians 4:1, 2; chapter 3:24). It pressed…

Whatever it be, it is called better, with respect to the Law, with all things that the Law contained or could effect, somewhat of more power and efficacy to perfect the Church-state. This neither was, nor could be any thing but Christ himself and his Priesthood: for in him we ar…

From henceforward the Old Covenant, and all its administrations, having received their full accomplishment, did abide only in the patience of God, to be taken down and removed out of the way in his own time and manner. For really and in themselves, their force and authority did…

That therefore wherein God dwells really and substantially, and on the account whereof he is our God in the Covenant of Grace, that and no other is the true Tabernacle. But this is in Christ alone; for in him dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9). Thus th…

It is used in the New Testament only (Jude 7) [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩], are set forth for an example, (speaking of Sodom and Gomorrah) or a particular instance of what would be God's dealing with provoking sinners at the last day. [in non-Latin alphabet] which is framed of [in…

The Church that then was, was put into some kind of subjection to Angels, as the Apostle plainly intimates (Hebrews 2:5). Hence the worshipping or adoration of Angels began among the People (Colossians 2:18), which some, with an addition to their folly and superstition, would in…

(1) Of all those which concerned meats, or things to be eaten or not eaten, as being clean or unclean; an account whereof is given, Leviticus 11 throughout. With reference thereunto does the Apostle reflect on the Levitical institutions, in those words, Touch not, Taste not, Han…

His flesh was the vail (Hebrews 10:20), and in his incarnation he is said to pitch his tabernacle among us (John 1:14). Herein dwelt the fulness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9), that is, substantially; represented by all the pledges of God's presence in the tabernacle of…

2. This yet is certain and indubitable, which gives us our stable rule of the interpretation of their significancy, that God chose this way and these means to represent his glorious presence in and with the Lord Christ, to all the ends of his mediation. For with respect to them…

And in the same spirit he complains of his Corinthians, for their want of proficiency in spiritual things, so that he was forced in his dealing with them to dwell still on the rudiments of religion (1 Corinthians 3:1, 2). In all his epistles he is continually as it were pressing…

It is no where used but in this place, and Chap. 9:14. And he uses it in answer to what he elsewhere declares, concerning men being dead in sin by nature (Ephesians 2:1, 5; Colossians 2:13). That which he there ascribes to their persons, here he attributes to their works.

As, (1) Because they proceed from a principle of spiritual death, or are the works of them who have no vital principle of holiness in them (Ephesians 2:1, 5; Colossians 2:13). (2) Because they are useless and fruitless, as all dead things are.

It was [〈in non-Latin alphabet 〉], the manifold wisdom of God, or the infinite wisdom of God, exerting itself in such wonderful variety of holy, wise operations, as no mind of men nor angels can comprehend. On this account are all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge said to be…

1 The subject treated of is [in non-Latin alphabet]; that is [in non-Latin alphabet] the Tabernacle; the common name for the whole fabric, as the Temple was afterwards of the House built by Solomon. An eminent type this was of the Incarnation of Christ, whereby the fulness of th…

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

By the improvement of sanctified reason, called by the Apostle, the Spirit of Wisdom (for so I understand it) Christians grow into a further measure of the knowledge of God, and of his Son Christ Jesus, whom to know, is life eternal (John 17:3). And so are by degrees further roo…

The first Argument of the Synod for confirming this Proposition, is; because the children here spoken of are partakers of that which is the main ground of baptizing any children whatever, and neither the parents nor the children do put in any bar to hinder it. Of which the forme…

For thus Paul makes a special request, that he might know Christ, and the virtue of his resurrection (Philippians 3:10), that is, that he might feel in himself that power whereby Christ was raised from death to life, to raise him also from the bondage of his sins to a new life m…

The King's daughter is glorious within. Jesus Christ himself was outwardly mean, yet in him are hid all the treasures of wisdom (Colossians 2:3). A soul inspired by the Almighty, and beautified with grace, does exceed others more than the light of the sun does exceed the light o…

The way of error is manifold, but there is but one path that leads to Heaven. 6. They are in one mystical body, ministering supplies to one another (Colossians 2:19): not holding the head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit togeth…

Reason 3. Thirdly the Holy Ghost affirms (Ephesians 2; Colossians 2:13) that all men by nature are dead in sins and trespasses: not as the Papists say, weak, sick, or half dead. Hence I gather, that man lacks natural power not to will simply, but freely and frankly to will that…

Galatians 5:1: Stand fast in the liberty wherein Christ has made you free. Colossians 2:16: Let no man judge you in meat or drink. To conclude: whereas the Papists magnify these their vows and yet make no such account of the vow in baptism, we for our parts must be contrary to t…

Will any say, that he who excels other men in dignity, splendor, honor, and glory, must therefore reign and rule over all those whom he thus excels? The Apostle says indeed, in another sense, that Christ is the Head of all Principality and Power (Colossians 2:10). But that is sp…

Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver (or redeem) us from this present evil world. Such as are redeemed by Christ, are risen with Christ (Colossians 3:1). As the birds though they light upon the ground to pick up a little seed, yet immediately they take their wing…

4. Did God create our souls after his image, but we lost it, let us never leave till we are restored to God's image again. We have now got the devil's image in pride, malice, envy; let us get God's image restored, which consists in knowledge and righteousness (Colossians 3:10).…

It were well if we had such magistrates as would by their authority cover the unclean lips of those lepers in this city. 8. The evil tongue is the lying tongue (Colossians 3:9): "Lie not one to another." The Cretians were noted for liars (Titus 1:12): [illegible] "The Cretians a…

The Word is our Magna Charta for heaven; shall we be ignorant of our charter? Colossians 3:16: Let the word of God dwell in you richly. The memory must be a table-book where the Word is written.

Each one resembled the children of a king: Every child of God resembles the King of Heaven; herein God's adopting children and man's differ. A man adopts one for his son and heir that does not at all resemble him, but whoever God adopts for his child is like him; he not only bea…

He is not a consecrated person who is good only in some part, but who is all over sanctified. Therefore in Scripture grace is called a new man (Colossians 3:10), not a new eye, or a new tongue, but a new man. A good Christian, though he be sanctified but in part, yet in every pa…

Redemption was the work of his arm (Luke 1:5). In the creation God gave us ourselves, in the redemption he gave us himself: by creation we have a life in Adam, by redemption we have a life in Christ (Colossians 3:3). By creation we had a right to an earthly paradise, by redempti…

They are the Apostle's words, not answering again. And to those servants who do thus honor their masters, or family-fathers, by submission, diligence, faithfulness, love, and humble silence, for their encouragement let them take that (Colossians 3:24): Servants obey in all thing…

2. The second way of showing honor to parents is in careful obedience. Colossians 3:20: Children obey your parents in all things. Our Lord Christ herein set a pattern to children.

6. Carry it prudently towards your children. A great point of prudence is, when a parent does not provoke his children to wrath (Colossians 3:21). Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.

The covetous man has more gods than one; Mammon is his God. He has a god of gold, therefore he is called an idolater (Colossians 3:5). 2. Covetousness breaks the Second Commandment: You shalt not make any graven image, you shalt not bow down thyself to them.

A soul belimed with earth cannot ascend to heavenly cogitations. (Colossians 3:5) Covetousness which is idolatry. Will Christ come into that heart where there is an idol?

While a Christian fixes his thoughts on God and glory, he does as it were tread upon the borders of the heavenly kingdom, and he peeps within the veil; as Moses who had a sight of Canaan, though he did not enter into it; so the heavenly Christian has a sight of heaven, though he…

Demas afterwards became a priest in an idol temple, says Dorotheus. 6. Covetousness will make men idolaters (Colossians 3:5): Covetousness which is idolatry. Though the covetous man will not worship graven images in the church, yet he will worship the graven image in his coin.

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

Q: Besides the Resurrection and ascension of Christ, what further degree is there of his exaltation? A. His sitting at the right hand of God (Psalm 110:1; Mark 16:19; Ephesians 1:20; Colossians 3:1; Hebrews 1:3, 13; and 8:1; and 10:12, 13). Q. What are we to understand by Christ…

Q. If these things be vouchsafed to believers in this life, what shall they have in the life to come? A. Unspeakable glory and happiness in the immediate fruition of communion with God and Christ to all eternity (Colossians 3:4; 1 John 3:2; Hebrews 12:23; 1 Corinthians 15:28). Q…

Q. What is the sum of the ninth commandment? A. Truth in speeches, promises, and our dealings among men; and the contrary forbidden is all lying and false speaking (Ephesians 4:25; Colossians 3:9, 10; Psalms 15:2; Micah 6:12; Psalms 12:2). Q. What is the sum of the tenth command…

Q. What was that image of God? A. Principally it stood in knowledge, righteousness, and true holiness (Colossians 3:10; Ephesians 4:24; Ecclesiastes 7:29). Q. What was the knowledge that man was endued withal in that estate?

Second, their fiery hot and burning lusts, which prey upon and live upon this fuel. Both together make the fire spoken of here, and the comparison holds in many ways. First, because the fuel of these fires of their lusts and comforts is base — things only here below. What is the…

Secondly, in that the Author of this Epistle notes their particular sentence, and by consequence gathers this meditation out of it; that they sought a Country; Hereby all men are taught to exercise themselves in hearing and reading all the places of the Bible: even the Histories…

1. The first is prayer, which the Spirit of Christ forms in the heart of a believer, whereby he lays open all his spiritual and temporal wants to God his Father, in the name and mediation of Jesus Christ, through whom he has received a promise to be heard, and to have his reques…

But the first real effect of the internal promised grace of the Covenant is on the mind, the most spiritual and inward part of the soul. This in the New Testament is expressed by the renovation of the mind (Romans 12:1; Colossians 3:5), and the opening of the eyes of our underst…

The partition wall is broken down, and the gates of the new Jerusalem are set open to all comers upon the Gospel invitation. This is frequently taken notice of in the Scripture; see Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15; John 11:51, 52; John 12:32; Acts 11:18; Acts 17:30; Galatians 5:6; Eph…

Patience, say we, that is, [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩]; but these Graces are expressly distinguished, 2 Timothy 3:10. [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩]; Faith, Long-suffering, Patience; so plainly Colossians 1:11. [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩]; to all patience and long-suffering. And in very…

And the body is said to be washed from them, (1.) Because they are outward, in opposition to those that are only inherent in the mind. (2.) Because the body is the instrument of the perpetration of them; hence are they called deeds of the body; the members of the body; our earth…

And we may observe, farther to clear the design of the Apostle in this commination, 1. That all the gifts of God under the Gospel are peculiarly heavenly (John 3:12; Ephesians 1:3), and that in opposition, (1) to earthly things (Colossians 3:11, 12), (2) to carnal ordinances (He…

And happy are they, whose faith on trial, is found to praise, and honor, and glory, at the appearing of Christ. Christ knew all men, and he knew that such as now cried, Hosanna to the Son of David, would some of them ere long, cry, Crucify him, Crucify him, away with him: and tr…

Whereas the Synod said, That the parents in question are keepers of the covenant, because they are not forsakers, and rejecters of the God, and covenant of their fathers; and alleged for this (Deuteronomy 29:25, 26; 2 Kings 17:15–20; 2 Chronicles 7:22; Deuteronomy 7:10). The Rev…

Meekness the Ornament, 1 Peter 3.4. Love the Bond of perfectness, Colossians 3.14. The Saints' Graces are Weapons to defend them, Wings to elevate them, Jewels to enrich them, Spices to perfume them, Stars to adorn them, Cordials to refresh them: And does not all this work for g…

This image of God has two principal parts: 1. wisdom: 2. holiness. Concerning wisdom Paul says, "Put on the new man which is created in knowledge, after the image of him which created him" (Colossians 3:10). This wisdom consists in three points: 1. in that he knew God his creato…

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

They are hidden, first, for their invisibility; their excellency is not known to many; the world can see their infirmity, not their eminency; a saint has that internal glory as cannot be beheld by a carnal eye; the fair face is hid under a veil. 2. The righteous are hidden for t…

So for peace with the saints; Jesus Christ breaketh down the partition wall (Ephesians 2:16, 17, 18), removeth prejudices and jealousies, changeth interests, cleareth up truths, and by his Spirit meekens their hearts that they be at one: Surely his blood is the best cement and b…

For when men shall be taught that for sundry points of religion they may believe as the Church believes, that the study of the Scriptures is not to be required of them, that to their good they may be barred the reading of them, so long as they know some principal things containe…

A quiet conscience never produced an unquiet conversation. The peace of God rules in the heart as an umpire in appeasing strifes — for so much that word in Colossians 3:15 imports. Wrath and strife are hugely opposed to the frame and temper of a spiritual heart, because they are…

They were therefore fit resemblances to shadow out that heavenly music, and inward melody of the joys and graces of God's Spirit in the hearts of his people. The Apostle therefore exhorts us to sing, but instead of musical instruments, he requires the melody of the heart (Ephesi…

Now the first proper object of this mortification is this sin that dwells in us. It is the flesh which is to be mortified, the old man which is to be crucified, the lusts of the flesh with all their corrupt inclinations, actings, and motions that are to be destroyed (Romans 6:6;…

This therefore is the principal way and means which we have to secure our peace and comfort against the pretences of sin, to the disquietment of our consciences. Let us endeavour to preserve an experience of the rule of grace in our hearts (Colossians 3:15). Under a conduct and…

There is no riddance of them, no conquest to be obtained over them, but by subduing the temptation; and no subduing the temptation, but by the mortification of the lust, whose satisfaction it is design'd to. This course the Apostle directs to (Colossians 3:3, 5). That which he e…

God hides these spirituall things, as he hid Christ under a Carpenters sonne: so he hides the glorious mysteries of the Sacrament, under the base elements of Bread and Wine; he hides the wisedome of God, under the foolishnesse of preaching, he hides those whom the world is not w…

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

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

And this is what the apostle intends in that solemn prayer he offers for the saints at Colossae: (Colossians 1:9) "We do not cease to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding." And again, (Colossians 3:1…

Also pride not to hear any excuse or defense delivered in duty, submission and obedience of child or servant. Finally bitterness, which may provoke wrath rather than cause amendment (Colossians 3:21. Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath, lest they be discouraged. Job 31:1…

But the first we do, therefore, etc. The proposition is wanting, the assumption is contained in an axiom copulative, which numbers up the parts; where again as above, the couple is left out, to note our joyful and fervent feeling and melody of the heart, in heaping up praise to…

(Romans 3:24-25) Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God has set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, etc. (Colossians 3:22) God has concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might b…

He is dead, and his life is hid with Christ in God. And, he mortifies his members on earth (Colossians 3:1-4). He is redeemed from this present evil world (Galatians 1:4).

To whom coming as to a living stone, disallowed indeed of men; but that's no matter; chosen of God, and precious: [reconstructed: who could we come to], but here, on a stone with life, and so noble a life as an intellectual life, and then the life of God? O death, come to your l…

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

So says God, If the soul of your child miscarry by your negligence, his blood will I require at your hand: Think of this all you parents, take heed of placing your children in Egypt in a wicked family: Do not put them in the devil's mouth; find out a sober religious family, such…

God's glory is dear to a saint as his own salvation, and that this glory may be promoted he endeavors the conversion of souls, every convert is a member added to Christ: let us thus hallow God's name by laboring to advance piety in others; especially, let us endeavor that those…

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

(2) John 20:21, 22, 23; Galatians 1:1; Ephesians 2:20; Revelation 21:14; Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5, 7. (3) Matthew 28:18, 19, 20; 2 Corinthians 11:28; Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 1:2; Colossians 4:17. (4) 1 Corinthians 12:28, 29, 30.

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

(2) Hebrews 13:17; 1 Corinthians 16:16. (3) Ephesians 6:18, 19; Colossians 4:3; 2 Thessalonians 3:1; Colossians 4:17. (4) Galatians 6:6; 1 Corinthians 9:14.

(2) Ephesians 4:8, 12, 13. (3) 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6, 7; Colossians 4:17; Matthew 25:14, 15, 16. (4) 1 Corinthians 12:7.

We must in the first place take heed to ourselves, if we intend to take heed to the flock as we ought (Acts 20:28). And herein especially do we, as we are charged, take heed to the ministry we have received that we do fulfill it (Colossians 4:17). 3. The persons exhorted to the…

Hence he styles himself in particular (Philemon 1) the bondman for Christ, and gloried in his bonds as his peculiar honor (Acts 26:29), an Ambassador in bonds (Ephesians 6:20). So (Philippians 1:7) and 12. 13, 14, 16; (Colossians 4:3) which he desired the Church to remember him…

Romans 16:5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, the church in their house: and, the churches of Asia. Colossians 4:15, Salute Nymphas and the church in his house. Acts 11:22, the church of Jerusalem.

In the Hebrew, they are grace. His words are not as vinegar to fret, but as salt to season others (Colossians 4:6). The roof of the mouth is called Coelum, heaven; a godly man's mouth is full of heaven; he speaks as if he had been already in heaven: The holy conference of the tw…

To God you must pray, that he would send forth not only laborers, but champions (Matthew 9:38), not only such as can handle the trowel, but the sword in the battels of the Church. To men, you are to quicken those that have gifts to look to their duty in this kind; Say to Archipp…

Religion does not only forbid to offend God, but men (1 Corinthians 10:32): Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to Gentiles, nor to the Church of God. It requires your special care and circumspection towards strangers or enemies (Colossians 4:5): Walk in wisdom towards t…

For if you respect the literal name, there were many others that were called Jesus, as well as He, at the hearing of whose names, the grossest idolatry is oftentimes committed, by capping, and bowing, before they know what Jesus is intended and spoken of. For the Apocrypha menti…

Neither do I see any reason why the Church which was in the house of Aquila and Priscilla (Romans 16:5; 1 Corinthians 16:19) should not be understood to be a congregation, as Erasmus reads it, that is, such a number of Christians as met together in their house. So we read of the…

Many that are of weak parts, very poor abilities to exercise themselves, yet their hearts being upon God in a duty, Oh! there's a fulness in that duty, there's more in that weak expression, in their sighs and groans than in all the eloquence of your empty hypocrites, they not be…

5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and humbling, in singleness of your hearts, as to Christ. 6 Not with service to the eye, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart (Colossians 4:20-…

But the Gospel teaches us a real and personal mortification, and that we are to be holy as he is holy, perfect as he is perfect; that is, a new-covenant command (Genesis 17:1). That we should walk before him and be perfect, that we should walk after the Lord (Deuteronomy 13:4),…

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…

And here the popish sort come to be taxed, who exempt their clergy men (as they call them) from all reproofs, and ecclesiastical proceedings, in thrusting them into some monastery or other, lest their exemplary punishment should be a blemish or disparagement, to their order and…

This word may be taken in a different sense from what it had in the former verse, as meaning that seasoning of good odor, which is obtained by faith, or rather the wisdom of the Spirit. When Paul enjoins, "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt," (Colossians 4:…

But if we consider the purpose for which our tongues were made, we will acknowledge, that those men are justly held guilty who unthinkingly devote them to trifling fooleries, and prostitute them to such a purpose. It is no light fault to abuse, for frivolous purposes, the time,…

Prayer and supplications are continually to be in his behalf, for assistance in the work committed to him. (Ephesians 6:18, 19) Pray always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, for me, that utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the…

(Ephesians 6:18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all Saints. (Colossians 4:12) Epaphras who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always labouring fervently for you in pra…

1. That her speech is profitable for its matter, as a scarlet thread is precious and useful: the subject of a believer's discourse is not common, but good to the use of edifying (Ephesians 4:29). 2. It's pleasant and delightsome for its manner, like a sweet, comely and pleasant…

Another general wherein his duty consists, is provision; and that both for their temporal and spiritual good; for the welfare both of their bodies and their souls. First; as for their temporal provision, he is bound to supply them with things necessary for them according to the…

There is a sweet harmony and exact symmetry in a saint's performance of duty. Some can frame to some easier duties, not to more difficult, but the treasured soul can frame to anything which God in the word has made his duty, and hence it is that he is complete in all the will of…

"And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark." He was Barnabas's sister's son, and seems sometimes to have been a companion of the Apostle Paul: Colossians 4:10. "Aristarchus, my fellow-prisoner, saluteth you, and Marcus, sister's son to Barnabas; touc…

This made them greater than all the nations round about them (Deuteronomy 4:7-8). (2) By losing the ordinances, they lose their quickenings, comforts, and soul-refreshments; for all these are sweet streams from the Gospel fountain (Psalm 119:50; Colossians 4:8). No wonder then t…

O how welcome is a shower to the thirsty ground! Hence the little hills are said to rejoice on every side, indeed to shout for joy, and sing when a shower comes (Psalm 65:12-13); but never was shower of rain so sweetly refreshing to the thirsty earth, as Gospel-showers are to gr…

He who waters the garden, waters every plant of the garden every moment (Isaiah 2:7), and when he waters not, there is a drying up. 6. Neglect of praying and fetching enlargement from the fountain may straiten, as appears from Paul's suiting of the prayers of the Lord's people,…

[4.] Consider what a preparative it is for something further. It is a very desirable thing to stand complete in all the will of God (Colossians 4:12), to be fitted and furnished for every good work, to be made ready, a people prepared for the Lord. A living principle of grace is…

Rash and indiscreet zeal may give occasion to those who seek occasion to speak against all religious zeal. Therefore walk in wisdom towards them that are without (Colossians 4:5). Religion is a most sweet and pleasant and amiable thing: let not us by our indiscretion make it a t…

No fruit in the world so apt to corrupt and taint, as the fruits of the Lips. When it is so, the Scripture calls it [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], corrupt [•]r rotten communication, Ephesians 4:29. To prevent this, the Spirit of God prescribes an excellent way to season our words,…

They all imply a common equity between masters and servants, but no equality: mutual duties, but diverse and distinct duties, appertaining to their several places. Compare with this text, that which the Apostle himself has more plainly and fully noted (Colossians 4:1) and we sha…

The well managing of their authority is generally noted in this phrase, do the same things: but more particularly in another place referred to these two branches 1. Justice. 2. Equity (Colossians 4:1). Of these in order.

1. From God's precept: That precept which requires prayer, requires secret and closet-prayer: For God's command to pray, first falls upon single persons, before it falls upon families and churches, which are made up of single persons; therefore where God has bidden you to pray,…

Now because we are so full of self-love, therefore are we so backward to this duty. 2. A second cause is, our stupid negligence; we do not gather up matter of thanksgiving, and observe God's gracious dealing with us, that we may have with what to enlarge ourselves in giving glor…

[reconstructed: Take my Yoke upon you.] 2. When you give up yourselves to God, it must be without bounds and reservations: That you may stand perfect and complete in the will of God (Colossians 4:12). That was his prayer for them.

4. The Fear of God is Wisdom as it makes us walk wisely. Colossians 4:5. Walk wisely,, towards them that are without. 1. The Fear of God makes us walk affably.

Have you Tasted the Hony of the word? let others have a Tast with you. He who has bin in a Perfumers shop does not only himself partake of those sweet smells, but some of the perfume sticks to his cloaths, so that those who come near him partake of those perfumes: so having our…

Use 2. To press us to holy conference, both occasional and set. 1. Occasional: We are not left at random in our ordinary discourse to speak as we will; but at all times, and with all persons we should have an eye to the good of those with whom we speak (Colossians 4:6): Let your…

1. If you observe not his answer, God loses a great deal of honor and praise; for it is said, (Psalm 50:15) Call upon me in time of trouble, and I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me. Every answer of prayer makes for the glory of God: and (Colossians 4:2) Continue in pray…

The Apostle goes to God for that: Grant to your servants, that with all boldness they may speak your word. And so (Colossians 4:3) he begs prayers to God to open a door of utterance for them. There is a door shut until God opens it.

Use 1. Let then every person be dealing with God about this case, every single private person for himself, and for public persons, the prayers of others are necessary. It is a common case wherein all are concerned (Colossians 4:3): Praying for us that God would open to us a door…

Do not come only in a complaining way. (Colossians 4:2) Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving. They are not holy requests unless we acknowledge what he has done for us, as well as desire him to do more.

We should not be always craving, always complaining, there should be a mixture of thanksgiving. (Colossians 4:6) "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving" — together with the expression of our wants and desires, there must be thanksgiving for favors already r…

But now in soul-concernments we are not the like affected. It is for want of observation to discern the progress of grace, and God's dealings with the inward man (Colossians 4:2): "Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." And it is for want of affection; we…

For the negative; let no corrupt, or filthy, and rotten, unsavory communication (no kind of it, no degree of it) proceed out of your mouth; but (affirmatively) that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace to the hearers (Ephesians 4:29). So again (Ephesi…

Tis too commonly seen that Amici temporis Fures; our friends are our thieves; they steal our time, because we don't use our time, when then they are with us. Tis observable, in Colossians 4:6, as soon as the Apostle had said, redeem the time, he adds, let your speech be always w…