Philippians

Philippians 1:21 And to die is gain. 3. At death the souls of believers pass into glory: Death brings Malorum omnium ademptionem: Omnium ademptionem; death's the day-break of eternal brightness.

Philippians 1:21. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Saint Paul was a great admirer of Christ, he desired to know nothing but Christ and him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2). No julep to the blood of Christ; and in the text, To me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.

Philippians 1:21. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Hope is a Christian's anchor, which he casts within the veil (Romans 12:12).

Does he present our names in heaven, and shall not we profess his name on earth? Branch 2. If Christ lays out all his interest for us at the throne of grace, we must lay out all our interest for him (Philippians 1:20): That Christ may be magnified. Trade your talents for Christ'…

2. A Christian grows Gradu, in the degree of grace; he goes from strength to strength (Psalm 84:7), namely, from one degree of grace to another. A saint goes [in non-Latin alphabet], from faith to faith (Romans 1:17), and his love abounds [in non-Latin alphabet], more and more (…

And (1 Corinthians 6:20): Glorify God in your body, and in your spirit. The glory we give God is nothing else but our lifting up his name in the world, and magnifying him in the eyes of others (Philippians 1:20): Christ shall be magnified in my body. Quest. What is it to glorify…

The same I may say of a sincere aim; if I obey however much, and have not a sincere aim, it profits me nothing. True obedience looks at God in all (Philippians 1:20). That Christ may be magnified.

6. You are in covenant with God, and you are going to your God, behold a deathbed cordial; death breaks the union between the body and the soul, but perfects the union between Christ and the soul. This has made the saints desire death, as the bride the wedding day (Philippians 1…

The Apostles were scattered by reason of persecution, and their scattering was like the scattering of seed, they went up and down and preached the gospel, and brought in daily converts. Paul was put in prison, and his bonds were a means to enlarge the gospel (Philippians 1:12).…

Maximinus the Emperor (as Eusebius relates) gave charge to his officers to put none to death, but the governors and pastors of the church. The ministers are Christ's Antesignani, his ensign-bearers to carry his colors; therefore they are most shot at: they hold forth his truth (…

Will this exalt God? This was Saint Paul's [illegible], his chief design, that Christ might be magnified (Philippians 1:20), namely, that the crown upon his head might flourish. A godly man thinks it is scarce worth the while to live, if he may not bring some revenues of honor t…

What is a knowing head without a fruitful heart? Philippians 1:11. Filled with the fruits of righteousness. It is obedience that crowns hearing.

Because their conscience accuses them that they have taken little or no pains for heaven; they have been sleeping when they should have been working; and now they are afraid lest death should carry them prisoners to hell. Whereas he who has spent his time in serving of God, he c…

Again, our unwillingness to go hence declares, we love the world too much, and Christ too little. Love (as Aristotle says) desires union; did we love Christ as we should, we would desire to be united to him in glory; when we might take our fill of love, be humbled that we are so…

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…

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

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

From there are the Epistles of Paul to the Churches to instruct them in their duties, and privileges in Christ, and how they ought to behave themselves in the ordering of all things among them according to his mind. And these are directed to the Churches themselves, either joint…

Q. But may not a true believer lose his faith, and so lose all these benefits that come by faith in this life, and fall short of eternal glory in the life to come? A. If he should finally lose his faith, it would be so indeed; but God that of his grace has wrought this faith in…

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

(Jeremiah 32:40) I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will never depart from them, to do them good (lo, the everlasting forgiveness of sins) and I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me (behold the perseverance of faith, and regener…

He was not perswaded of any sincere faith in Timothy by especial revelation, nor was it the object of his faith from any express word of Scripture, but he was satisfied in it upon such unquestionable grounds and motives as left no room for doubt about it. Some urge to the same p…

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…

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 5:22, 23); (3) the outward fruits of righteousness…

Well, how is it with the true believer, what are his hopes? Answer: That God is at peace with him through his Son, Christ Jesus: and also that he shall see, and enjoy him for ever, of which inheritance he has some earnest here; and hence hopes, and sometimes perhaps longs also f…

And such as had grace begun in them in their younger years, why should not charity think it is there still, when nothing appears to the contrary? For he that once begins that good work of grace, is not wont to forsake that work of his own hands, but to perfect it until the day o…

It is thus defined: faith is a supernatural gift of God in the mind, apprehending the saving promise with all the promises that depend on it. First, I say, it is a gift of God (Philippians 1:29), to confute the blind opinion of our people, that think that the faith whereby they…

2. His office and condition, the Servant of Jesus Christ. It is a thing usual with the Apostles to prefix this among other their honorary titles; as (Romans 1:1) Paul a Servant of Jesus Christ: so (Philippians 1:1) the greatest honor that he would put upon himself and Timothy, w…

What if they are not so quick and ravishing as at first — may not that be recompensed in the spirituality and solidity of them now? Philippians 1:9: 'I pray God your love may abound more and more in all judgment' — it may be more solid, though not so fervent. Or do you not mista…

(1.) Grace is the work. And so, Philippians 1:6, termed, the good work. A frame of spirit, created to good works: Ephesians 2:10, we are his workmanship, created to good works.

For in this we groan earnestly, desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven. In this verse he utters the working of the affections of Christians towards their being clothed upon with this house; and so in order to this enjoyment of it, their desiring even to…

Joseph is sold for a slave, and God sends him as a harbinger; his brothers sold him to destroy him, and God sends him to save them. Paul's bonds in the opinion of some might have stifled the Gospel, but he tells us, that they had fallen out to the furtherance of the Gospel (Phil…

Saints (Psalm 50:5, 16, 17). [Called to fellowship with Christ] so (1 Corinthians 1:9) else if they be not united to Christ by faith, they are not fit materials for such a building as a Church of God, which is the house of the living God (Ephesians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Philip…

[in non-Latin alphabet], To you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira: as if he would say, says Pareus, Tibi [illegible]spicopo cum collegis & reliquo coetui dico. Paul writeth to the Bishop at Philippi (Philippians 1:1), and notwithstanding that there was already a certaine number…

All deceit is from similitude, false wares having the same dye that true has, deceive the buyers: so falling stars are like other stars. When we see some men that profess religion to be false hearted, we think all are so: therefore Philippians 1:10, the Apostle prays, that they…

Such should the Saints be, they should bring forth fruits to God. And in Philippians 1:11, "Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." So should the Saints be, and all the fruits they bear.

Oh! how many that heretofore seemed to flourish, yet but leaves, and bearing no fruit, now their leaves are gone too, and their common gifts are taken away from them, and not only withered, but shall be cast away, cast away from God, and out of the hearts of the Saints, and men…

With many Additions in every Page, marked with the letter A. Five Books of Mr Jer. Burroughs lately published: As also the Texts of Scripture upon which they are grounded, namely: - 1. The rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, on Philippians 4:11. Wherein is shewed: 1 What Conten…

So also of [in non-Latin alphabet] Rulers, I have spoken at large, Dissert. 4. c. 13. The like of [in non-Latin alphabet], when they have none but Deacons joined with them (Philippians 1:1. and 1 Timothy 3). All which are perfectly agreeable to my hypothesis, that there are no s…

4. And first for the difference between Clement and Ignatius, it was far from being any observation of the Prefacers, or useful to him against us, It is known to be a principal ingredient in the foundation, on which I build and assert Episcopacy, namely, that in the times of the…

But this evangelical doctrine is "light," (Matthew 4:16; 1 Peter 2:9; Hosea 6:5; John 11:9; Psalm 119:130); and it affords light to all who receive it (Psalm 19:8, 9; John 1:5; Psalm 36:9; 2 Peter 1:19; John 12:35, 36). It is also "life," (John 6:33; Philippians 1:16); and it gi…

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

In the whole body of the Law jointly considered, two things are commanded: knowledge and practice (Colossians 1:10). Concerning the first, is commanded the true knowledge of good and evil, which is for the age of every man (Colossians 1:9-10; Philippians 1:9; Hebrews 5:14; Luke…

Or what just reason can there be to be dissatisfied with, or to complain of God's giving to, and ordering that for us, whereof we stand in need, and which we cannot want without being considerably prejudiced and worsted by the want? Sixthly, if it be considered, that in all your…

2. Indeed, to say we see justification more clearly, when we see no sanctification, is to make the water and the Spirit (1 John 5:8) dumb or false witnesses, that either speak nothing, or tell lies. 3. It is against the office of the Spirit, which is to make us know [illegible],…

Objection 12: The thing prayed for, is that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, that so the Gospel might run and be glorified (2 Thessalonians 2:1; John 17:22-23). But things to be prayed for to the believers are higher, as increase of love, sincerity, filling with the fruit…

Look therefore what lovely, sweete, and delightfull thoughts you use to have of a deere friend, who is of an amiable nature, or of some eminently holy or meeke Saint, of whom you thinke with your selves, I could put my soul into such a mans hands, & can comprimise my salvation t…

It is not only the power of God to work faith in such as believe, but to lead them on from faith to faith, from one measure of faith to another, and the Gospel is revealed from heaven for that end, that such as believe not might be brought on to believe. And such as do believe,…

Nor would he live by the graces of the Spirit in him, but the life that he would live is by the faith of the Son of God (Galatians 2:20), that Christ and his life in him might work all his works in him and for him. And in that at any time he desires death, it is not that he migh…

I will endeavor that you may be able after my decease, the death of the godly is a going out but from sin, and sorrow, to glory, and immortality, as Israel's going out of Egypt (from where the second book of Moses is called Exodus) was no destruction and cessation of their being…

(Philippians 2:9) Therefore God also has highly exalted him, and given him a name above every name, &c. Before we have spoken of Christ's Humiliation, now of his Exaltation: Before you saw the Sun of Righteousness in the eclipse, now you shall see it coming out of the eclipse, a…

Christ did humble himself more in lying in the Virgin's womb, than in hanging upon the cross. It was not so much for man to die, but for God to become man, that was the wonder of humility (Philippians 2:7). He was made in the likeness of men.

Quest. In what way does the greatness of Christ's sufferings appear? Resp. In the sufferings of his body, he suffered truly, not only a [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], an appearance; the Apostle calls it Mors Crucis, The Death of the Cross, (Philippians 2:8). Tully when he speaks o…

There are indentures drawn in baptism, and in the Lord's Supper: the indentures are renewed and sealed on our part, that we will be faithful and constant in our obedience. Therefore we must imitate Christ, who became obedient to the death (Philippians 2:8). The crown is set upon…

Response. Beg the Spirit of God. We cannot do it in our own strength; the Spirit must work in us both the [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] and [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], to will and to do (Philippians 2:13). When the lodestone draws, the iron moves; when God's Spirit draws, then we…

1. God's covenant people are a humble people (1 Peter 5:5): be clothed with humility. God's people esteem others better than themselves; they shrink into nothing in their own thoughts (Philippians 2:3). David cries out, I am a worm, and no man (Psalm 22:6) — though a saint, thou…

4. To have grace increasing is suitable to Christianity: Christians are called trees of righteousness (Isaiah 61:3). The saints are not only jewels for sparkling luster, but trees for growth, they are called the lights of the world (Philippians 2:15). Light is still increasing.

Aaron had Holiness to the Lord written upon his golden plate. Where there is sanctity in the soul, there Holiness to the Lord is engraved upon our life; we are adorned with patience, humility, good works, and shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:15). We carry Christ's pic…

The will hangs forth a flag of defiance against God. Such as speak of the sovereign power of the will, forget Philippians 2:13: It is God that works in you [in non-Latin alphabet], both to will and to do. If the power be in the will of man, then what needs God to work in us to w…

Works are required in the Covenant of Grace, not so much in our own strength, as in the strength of another. It is God which works in you (Philippians 2:13). As the scrivener guides the child's hand, and helps him to form his letters, so that it is not so much the child's writin…

If to oppose Christ's members be such a sin, what is it to oppose Christ himself? 1. Jesus Christ is coequal with God the Father (Philippians 2:6). He thought it no robbery to be equal with God.

God sent forth his Son made of a Woman; he was his Son, and was made of a woman; according as he expresses it (Hebrews 10:5), A body have you prepared Me; as also (Romans 8:3). Philippians 2:5, 6, 7. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus, who being in the form…

As 1. What was done in this matter, was from the will, purpose, and love of God the Father (Psalm 40:6, 7, 8; Hebrews 10:5, 6, 7; Acts 4:28; John 3:16; Romans 8:3). 2. It was also done by his own voluntary consent (Philippians 2:6, 7, 8). 3. He was substituted, and did substitut…

1 Corinthians 10:9. Neither let us also tempt Christ as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents; compared with (Numbers 21:6). 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…

2. What was done by Jesus Christ in the performance of it; and that was, he both undertook the work, and went through with it: he accepted the offer and condition that was proposed to him, and did all that was required on his part for the purchasing of this benefit (Psalm 40:7,…

(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.

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

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…

Q. How may it be proved that Christ is God? A. By sundry places of Scripture, wherein he is expresly so called (Isaiah 9:6; John 1:1; Romans 9:5; Philippians 2:6; 1 John 5:20). Q. How else?

Q. Who gave Christ this great authority thus to sit at the right hand of God? A. He did not come to it by any unjust usurpation, but it was given to him by God (Ephesians 1:20; Philippians 2:10; John 5:22, 27; and 17:2). Q. And why did God give this great advancement to Christ?

Furthermore, if this power were common to all and to each person, faith were common to all. For the will and the deed flows from one and the self same grace (Philippians 2:13). It is God who works in you the will and the deed, even of his good pleasure.

And he bids godly wives so walk, that their husbands may be won without the word, by beholding their pure conversation which is with fear. 1 Peter 3:1-2. And Paul bids the Philippians, to walk blameless in the middle of a wicked and crooked nation, as lights in the middle of the…

And had he not been Man, he could not have represented him to us. Nor can any thing be more mysteriously glorious, than the furniture of his person as Mediator, with all fullness of power, wisdom and grace for the accomplishment of his work (John 1:16; Colossians 1:18, 19; Chapt…

And in this sense by the heavens, than which Christ is made higher, exalted above, the angels the sacred inhabitants of those heavenly places are intended. And this our Apostle in other places often insists upon, as a great manifestation of the glory of Christ: See (Ephesians 1:…

For he did in a peculiar way and manner for a season, forego and leave his glory as to the manifestation of it. For being (essentially) in the form of God, and counting it no robbery to be equal with God, yet he made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a serv…

Yet being thus rich, this was his grace, that for our sakes he became poor. This ineffable grace and love of Christ is the principal object of our faith and admiration, as it is declared by the Apostle (Philippians 2:6, 7, 8, 9). And as he emptied himself and laid aside his glor…

The condescension of the Son of God to undertake the office of the ministry on our behalf, is unspeakable, and for ever to be admired. Especially will it appear so to be, when we consider who it was who undertook it, what it cost him, what he did and underwent in the pursuance a…

For as the virtue of his offering depends principally on the dignity of his Person, so his humane soul, his mind, will and affections, with the fullness of the graces of the Spirit resident and acting in them did concur to the efficacy of his offering, and were necessary to rend…

For had it not been so, the human nature of Christ had not been immediately exalted into the highest glory that it was capable of. See (Ephesians 5:1, 2; Philippians 2:7, 8, 9). (2.) That he had by his offering perfectly expiated the sin of the world, so as that there was no nee…

Without this a triumphant entrance into Heaven had not been granted to him. (2) God's blessed approbation of all that he had done here below (Isaiah 53:11, 12; Philippians 2:7, 8, 9, 10, 11). 2. With respect to what he has yet to do for us.

And it is the word which our Apostle uses when he enjoins us to try and search ourselves as to our sincerity in faith and obedience (2 Corinthians 13:5; Galatians 6:4), as also to make a due enquiry into the true nature of spiritual things (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 5:10), not cont…

He will up, and be doing. That he may mortify his lust; he must work (Philippians 2:12). And not only so, but it teaches him, as to work, so to look beyond all his own works, and doings and to own himself to be a poor nothing: else it is but (as I may call it) a legal faith.

Hence it follows necessarily, that Jesus Christ is true God: and the whole tenor of the Scriptures confirms it sufficiently. 1. He is made equal to God the Father, who being in the form of God thought it no robbery to be equal with God (Philippians 2:6): again, All things that t…

He is Lord of all (Galatians 4:1; Hebrews 1:2), and the saints are co-heirs, they go sharers with Christ. 9. God calls them the luminaries of the world: they give light by their precepts and example (Philippians 2:15). Among whom you shine as lights in the world: Lot was a brigh…

So if you want any thing, holiness, comfort, grace, pardon, reflect not only upon the fullness of Christ's merit but the freeness of the Father's love: you deal with a God of bowels and bounty; Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, all are yours. There is a fond affectation in some, to c…

Now to be born again, is a work of no less importance than our first creation; and therefore wholly to be ascribed to God as our creation is. Indeed Paul (Philippians 2:12-13) bids the Philippians work out their salvation with fear and trembling: not meaning to ascribe to them a…

It will never be proved that any such thing is intended in that place, as may warrant this argumentation: There is such a particular corruption in one mans heart, for instance, Ambition, which makes him unfit to be trusted with Government; therefore the same corruption is in all…

V. Bowing at the Name of Iesus. A most vile piece of syllabical idolatry grounded upon a very gross and carnal mistaking, and wresting of that text (Philippians 2:9, 10). 1. It is but oddly and untowardly translated at, for in, for the word is [in non-Latin alphabet] and it is c…

There is a parallel expression in (Proverbs 2:19), None that go to her return again, that is, very, very few, not one of a thousand, but some there are; as Mary Magdalene out of whom Christ did cast seven unclean devils, but where will you find such another? So when Paul says of…

But how few such public spirits appear even among professors in this selfish generation? May we not with the Apostle complain (Philippians 2:21), All seek their own, and not the things that are of Christ. Few men have any great cares or designs lying beyond the bounds of their o…

It is not lawful to make such a Covenant as the Church-Covenant, because it is not in our power to keep it, and we do not know whether God will give us power. This ground is very true, that no man has power of himself to anything that good is, but all a man's power and ability m…

[in non-Latin alphabet], To you I say, and to the rest in Thyatira: as if he would say, says Pareus, Tibi [illegible]spicopo cum collegis & reliquo coetui dico. Paul writeth to the Bishop at Philippi (Philippians 1:1), and notwithstanding that there was already a certaine number…

Christ lives in us and works in us (Galatians 2:20): It is not that live, but Christ lives in me. The same mind will be in us that was in Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5). Now if you desire to know whether Christ live in you or no, or whether you are in an estate of death, you mus…

Oh! 'tis fit to wait upon God for our time, and if God gives us time take heed we do not trifle and say, we shall have time hereafter. Therefore in Philippians 2:12 the Apostle says, Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling: (and it follows) for it is God that works i…

For that promise is what the Apostle is speaking of: which shows, that God has appointed Christ to be the heir of the world in his kingdom of grace, and to possess and reign over all nations, through the propagation of his Gospel, and the power of his Spirit communicating the bl…

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…

Practice is the following or flying of the thing known to be commanded or forbidden. It has, inward feeling (Philippians 1:9; Philippians 2:13); outward works (Ephesians 5:10). By feeling of the heart, we choose, love, desire, delight, are zealous in the good thing itself, that…

In the saints' prayers (as Psalm 51) it's called even as to further degrees of this work, or restoring of lost degrees, creating of a clean heart, and renewing a right spirit within; and many more the like expressions there are, which show not only man's impotency and inability…

The soul may answer, it was not external preaching, nor my own free will, nor anything in me, but the power of God's grace, I have nothing but what I have received. It is on this ground that the Apostle (Philippians 2:12-13) presses and encourages Christians to their great work,…

It is said in verse 44, "No man can come to me except the Father draw him," and on the contrary, it is as expressly set down in verse 45: "It is written in the Prophets, they shall be all taught of God; every man therefore that has heard and learned of the Father comes to me," a…

If you lean too hard upon a glass, it will break; many break their children, by leaning too hard upon them. 4. Others make a god of their belly (Philippians 3:19): Whose God is their belly. Clemens Alexandrinus writes of a fish that has its heart in its belly; an emblem of Epicu…

If we could weep rivers of tears, out-fast Moses on the mount, if we were exact moralists, touching the law blameless, if we could arrive at the highest degree of sanctification in this life, all this would not save us without looking to the merits of him who is God: our perfect…

What shall we think of them who say they are the redeemed of the Lord, yet are lovers of the world? Like the tribes who desired to have their portion on this side Canaan (Philippians 3:19). Who mind earthly things.

As fire is to the chemist, so is faith to a Christian; the chemist can do nothing without fire, so there is nothing done without faith. Faith makes Christ's sacrifice ours (Philippians 3:8): Christ Jesus my Lord. It is not gold in the mine that enriches, but gold in the hand: fa…

It is such a powerful call, that the will of man has no power to resist. 2. It is a high calling (Philippians 3:14). I press toward the mark for the price of the high calling of God.

How do earth and spirit agree? (Philippians 3:19) Earthly ones may give for their crest the mole or tortoise, that live in the earth. What resemblance is there between an earthly heart and him who is a Spirit?

Saint Paul was assured of Christ's love to him (Galatians 2:20): who has loved me; and how was his heart fired with love? He valued and admired nothing but Christ (Philippians 3:8); as Christ was fastened to the cross, so he was fastened to Paul's heart. (2.) Praise him.

I answer, true justifying faith consists in three things, 1. Self-renunciation: faith is a going out of one's self, a man is taken off from his own bottom, he sees he has no righteousness of his own to save him (Philippians 3:9): not having my own righteousness. Self-righteousne…

4. Other slaves are forced against their will: Israel groaned under slavery (Exodus 2:23). But sinners are content to be under the command of sin, they are willing to be slaves, they love their chains, they will not take their freedom: They glory in their shame (Philippians 3:19…

Sugar laid in a damp [reconstructed: place] turns to water: so all the sugared joys and pleasures of sinners, will turn to the water of tears at last. 3. If we love our belly more than God, we make a God of it (Philippians 3:19): Whose God is their belly. Clemens Alexandrinus wr…

6. He that loves God, prefers him before estate and life. 1. Before estate (Philippians 3:8): "For whom I have suffered the loss of all things." Who that loves a rich jewel, would not part with a flower for it?

When we fail, we weep: we prefer bills of complaint against ourselves, and judge ourselves for our failings (Romans 7:24). Fourth, we do elicere conatum, we endeavor to obey every Commandment (Philippians 3:14): I press toward the mark. We strive as in an agony, and if it lay in…

Quest. How is that? Resp. 1. If you would stand acquitted at the Day of Judgment, then first, labor to get into Christ (Philippians 3:9). That I may be found in him.

2. Clarity and splendor: the bodies of the saints shall have a graceful majesty in them; they shall be like Stephen, whose face shined as if it had been the face of an angel (Acts 6:15). Indeed they shall be made like Christ's glorious body (Philippians 3:21). 2. The bodies of t…

1. Drunkenness casts off the true God (Hosea 4:11): Wine takes away the heart: it takes the heart off from God. 2. It makes the belly a god (Philippians 3:19): to this the drunkard pours drink-offerings; there's a breach of the Second Commandment. 3. The drunkard in his cups tak…

Resp. Corrupt nature may as the spider, suck poison from this flower, but a sober Christian who has felt the efficacy of grace upon his heart, dares not abuse this doctrine: He knows perseverance is attained in the use of means, therefore he walks holily, that so in the use of m…

The saints of old, though they did live in the world, they did trade in heaven. Philippians 3:20. [in non-Latin alphabet], Our conversation is in heaven. The Greek word signifies our commerce, or traffic, or citizenship is in heaven.

If they have some thoughts of this kingdom, yet it is in a dull careless manner, they serve God as if they served him not; they do not vires exerere, put forth their strength for the heavenly kingdom. How industrious were the Saints of old for this kingdom (Philippians 3:13): Re…

Do we send forth the ship of prayer there, which fetches in returns of mercy? Is our communion with the Father and his Son Jesus (1 John 1:3; Philippians 3:20)? 5. Are our lives heavenly?

1. Self-denial. A man must deny his righteousness (Philippians 3:9), his duties and moralities: he would graft the hope of salvation upon the stock of his own righteousness. 2. He must deny his unrighteousness.

So I come to answer this great question, in what manner are we to do God's will that we may find acceptance. Answer. 1. We do God's will acceptably when we do duties spiritually (Philippians 3:3). We worship God, [in non-Latin alphabet], in the Spirit.

Grace alters a man's walk: before he walked proudly, now humbly; before loosely, now holily. He makes the Word his rule, and Christ's life his pattern (Philippians 3:20). Our conversation is in heaven.

Philippians 3:9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the Law, but that which is through the Faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by Faith. The justification of a sinner before God, is (as one great mystery of the Gospel, and wonderme…

Hence are they earnestly exhorted to these things (Philippians 4:8, 9): "Brethren whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there be any virtue, if…

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…

For all the strength that the law and God's justice has, sin also has to back it — 'for the strength of sin is the law' (1 Corinthians 15:56). Second, as to know the power of Christ's resurrection, so also the fellowship of his sufferings — that thereby the soul may be made more…

But you will say: we do not trust in this our own righteousness, for we profess Christ and believe in him, and this, added to what we have, is enough. I answer: though you profess Christ, yet first, unless you have had a light that has shown you that all the righteousness you ha…

And our Savior Christ in one of his parables, Matthew 13:44, compares the kingdom of heaven, to a treasure hid in the field; which, when a man finds, he hides it, and goes home and sells all he has, to buy the field. Whereby he would teach us, that every one's duty, who would en…

So should we, when we are in our best estates, in our greatest jollity, in the midst of our wealth, and abundance of pleasures, cast our minds from them, and have our thoughts even then conversing in heaven, where is the place of our abode. This is likewise the Apostles exhortat…

Secondly, hence inferiors also must learn to follow the godly, holy, and religious examples of their governors and superiors (whether they be civil or Ecclesiastical); as we may see in this place, Joseph does imitate the godly example of his father Jacob. Hereof Saint Paul gives…

And for this cause, the righteousness, that makes us righteous before God, is rather called the righteousness of faith, than of any other Christian virtue, or grace of the spirit. And for the same cause is it, that so often in Saint Paul's Epistles, it is called by the same name…

Of our glorification. Philippians 3:21: The Lord Jesus shall change our vile bodies, and make them like to his own glorious body. Of a new world, 2 Peter 3:13.

Nor a righteousness according to the Gospel; for the act of believing is an act of our own, though given of grace: but the righteousness of the Gospel is not an act of our own. And therefore Paul desires that he may be found in Christ, not having his own righteousness which is o…

If we be active in laying hold on Christ, before he has given us his Spirit: then we apprehend him, before he apprehend us: then we should do a good act, and so bring forth good fruits, before we become good trees; yes, and be good trees before we be in Christ. But these are all…

Secondly, the ground is a free promise tendered to us from God; as to Adam, The seed of the woman shall break the serpent's head (Genesis 3:15; John 3:16; 1 John 4:10). Thirdly, the means is, faith apprehending it (Philippians 3:9). Fourthly, the Spirit of Christ sealing of it (…

And this it does absolutely where we attain that frame, that while the work of faith and obedience thrives in our hearts and lives, we are not much moved with whatever else befalls us in this world. This was the frame of our Apostle (Acts 21:13; Philippians 3:7, 8). But because…

We have no obligation indeed hereunto, towards such as visibly and evidently walk unworthy of that high calling whereby we are called. For concerning such our Apostle assures us, that whatever they profess, they are enemies of the Cross of Christ, whose end is destruction, whose…

(1.) As to its absolute completeness in its final issue. This the Apostle denies that he himself had as yet attained (Philippians 3:12): not as though I had already attained, or received, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] namely, the whole of what is purchased for me by Christ, [〈 in…

An absolute perfection in the comprehension of the whole mystery of God in Christ, is not by us attainable in this life. The Apostle denies it concerning himself (Philippians 3:12). But such a degree and measure as God is pleased to communicate to believers in the ordinary use o…

Some ungodly ones think, they are rich in spiritual things (Revelation 3:17), and whatever any may say, or think to the contrary, there is no secure, unconvinced sinner, but what thinks he has more than indeed he has; most think they have ability to turn to God, and promise them…

(2) To affect the heart much; it is an affecting thing, when the Gospel comes in power. An excellent, and wonderful thing is in the way of the Gospel: in itself it is so, and to all that have a right understanding of it (Philippians 3:8). Also it is powerful in melting the heart…

If you close with, and love the Lord Christ himself. You will abhor your selves; and there will be a continual contest with, and opposition against your own righteousness: you will still endeavour to be beating down that: as he (Philippians 3:8, 9), and you will never wholly get…

3. The bearing of affliction in this life (Romans 8:29): Those which he knew before, he did predestinate to be made like to the image of his own son. Philippians 3:10: That I might know him and the virtue of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his afflictions, and be made co…

Now as God did show his power in raising Christ from death: so every one must labor to have this knowledge and experience in himself of the mighty power of God, in raising him from the grave of sin to newness of life. For thus Paul makes a special request, that he might know Chr…

But such are all habitual sinners; those who having prevalent habits and inclinations to sins of any kind unmortified, do walk according to them. Such are profane swearers, drunkards, fornicators, covetous, oppressors, and the like, who shall not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Co…

And although there be force and light enough in its general rules, to guide us in all particulars, yet lest any should imagine that the cause under consideration, about different apprehensions and practices in some things relating to the worship of God, might be exempted from th…

Again, they are called from misery to happiness and glory, from aliens to be friends, from darkness to light (1 Peter 2:9), from being enemies to be reconciled, from bastards to become sons, from vessels of wrath to be heirs of glory. With respect to all these sorts of calling,…

And in these also we join with the church of Rome, and say (as experience teaches) that men have a natural freedom of will, to put them or not to put them in execution. Paul says (Romans 2:14), The Gentiles that have not the law do the things of the law by nature, that is, by na…

And sundry kings of Judah are said to walk uprightly before God with a perfect heart, as David, Josiah, Hezekiah, and others. Paul accounts himself with the rest of the faithful to be perfect, saying: Let us all that are perfect be thus minded (Philippians 3:15). Now this perfec…

Our salvation stands not so much in our apprehending of Christ, as in Christ's comprehending of us. Therefore Paul says in Philippians 3:12: He follows after perfection, if that he might comprehend that for whose sake he is comprehended of Christ. Now if any shall say that witho…

Thus did holy Paul glorify God; the Lord had cast him into as great variety of condition as any man, in prisons more frequent, in deaths often (2 Corinthians 11:23), yet he had learned to be content. Saint Paul could sail either in a storm or a calm; he could be anything that Go…

1. God the Father is the God of peace. As he is the God of order (1 Corinthians 14:33), so the God of peace (Philippians 4:9). This was the form of the priests blessing the people (Numbers 6:26): The Lord give you peace.

Soberly, in acts of temperance; righteously, in acts of justice; godly, in acts of zeal and devotion. It commends to us whatever is just, lovely, of good report (Philippians 4:8). This sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17) cuts down vice.

8. The serpent and the dove, wisdom and innocence, is to be moderate yet zealous. Moderation is good in some cases (Philippians 4:5). Let your moderation be known to all.

Quest. 6. Wherein lies the dignity of such as have God for their Father? Resp. They have greater honor than is conferred on the princes of the earth; They are precious in God's esteem; (Isaiah 43:4) Since you were precious in my eyes, you have been honorable; the wicked are dros…

It was from contentment. (Philippians 4:11) I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. Content says, as Jacob (Genesis 33:11), I have enough: I have a promise of heaven, and have sufficient to bear my charges there, I have enough.

Question: How does faith come to be so strong? Response: Faith fetches Christ's strength into the soul (Philippians 4:13) [illegible]. A captain may give his soldier armor, but not strength.

A Christian spirit is not fretful, but humble, not craving but contented. See the picture of a Christian spirit in Saint Paul, (Philippians 4:12). I know [illegible], how to be abased, and how to abound.

This is one end therefore the Lord Christ calls them out of the World, separates them to be a peculiar people to himself, brings them forth to a visible profession, and puts his name upon them, namely that in their walking, and conversation, he may show forth the holiness of his…

Moreover (3) it will render the discharge of the duty of ministers to several precepts and exhortations of the Gospel, for the use, stirring up and exercise of their gifts impossible, and (4) thereby hinder the edification of the Church, the great end of all ordinances and insti…

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

Q. Are believers able to perform obedience to God? A. They are able by the power of Christ that strengthens them, to do the will of God in some measure of truth, as being now alive from the dead, and created in Christ Jesus to good works (Philippians 4:13; Ephesians 2:10; Romans…

This made David say, He would not fear evil, though he should walk through the valley of the shadow of death, Psalm 23:4: and Paul speaking of tribulation, anguish, famine, persecution, yea, and death itself says, In all these we are more than conquerors through him that has lov…

4. Sacrifice is a free, ready, and cheerful contribution to the poor and needy members of Christ (Hebrews 13:16). To do good and distribute forget not, for with such a sacrifice God is well pleased (Philippians 4:18). 5. Sacrifice is an holy life, which the Spirit of Christ form…

And they also declare the nature of God. For they are all of them things good, benign, beautiful, useful to mankind, such as give peace, quietness, and blessedness to the souls of them in whom they are, as tend to the restoration of all things in their proper order; and to the r…

Again, we gather that prayer and thanksgiving must go together: for as in the six petitions we made request to God; so in these words we praise him, and thereby give him thanks. Philippians 4:6. But in all things let your requests be showed to God in prayer and supplication with…

If the Lord blesses not our labor we must be content: if he does, we must give him thanks. Now for this cause we are further to pray to God that he would open our eyes, and by his Spirit teach us in all his good creatures to see his providence, and when means fail and are contra…

For though men for their parts put up many abuses and injuries, yet their angels may take just revenge by striking them with plagues and punishments for their offenses. Thirdly, seeing angels are about us, and serve for the good of men, we must do whatever we do in a reverent an…

Theodosius thought it a greater renown to be Membrum Christi, than Caput Imperii; a member of Christ, than the head of an empire. The righteous are highly in favor with God, and he has enrolled their names in the Book of Life (Philippians 4:3). It was a custom among the Romans t…

5. Though all things are at peace with us, yet some troubles are left for our exercise, but not for our hurt and destruction. The peace of God 'tis a very riddle (Philippians 4:7). It passeth all understanding: To sense who more wretched than God's children, hated, reviled, pers…

It allows no mans unrighteous, churlish, morose, un-neighbourly deportment. But whatever things are true, whatever things are honest, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report: if there be any virtue, and i…

2. In the increase of it in other parts. Paul's prison made his preaching famous in Rome, and was an occasion of bringing Christianity into Nero's court, that monster of mankind — one might have looked for saints in hell as soon — his bonds were as great a confirmation of the tr…

2. He is not so very well skilled in the Greek, as he boasts to be, unless he make the Apostle Paul a great Ignoramus in that language. For he puts a Participle with the Prepositive Article for a Verb and a Relative, (Philippians 4:7) [in non-Latin alphabet], and the peace of Go…

The second is noted, in that glory is his (2 Corinthians 1:20): for all the promises of God in him are yes, and Amen, to the glory of God. 3. And hence we gather, that prayer and thanksgiving must go together; for as in the six petitions we made request to God; so in these words…

With many Additions in every Page, marked with the letter A. Five Books of Mr Jer. Burroughs lately published: As also the Texts of Scripture upon which they are grounded, namely: - 1. The rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, on Philippians 4:11. Wherein is shewed: 1 What Conten…

The Apostle in this regard, would have no man thinke it strange, no not when he is in the fierie triall; but rather to reioyce because he is partaker of Christs sufferings. Phil. 4. 31. And Christ says to Saul persecuting his Church, Saul, Saul, why persecutest you me?

Hence is commanded to desire his presence more visible in heaven above all, and rejoice in it above all (Psalm 16:10, 11, 12; 2 Corinthians 5:8). Here is forbidden the love of men, wives, children, or any thing of this life, to desire it more than the Lord and his presence (Phil…

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

The prayer itself has two parts, the form of request, the confirmation of it, containing a thanksgiving. Because our requests must be made manifest with thanksgiving (Philippians 4:6). And thanksgiving for a benefit received, does greatly confirm our faith in requests, as Jacob'…

(3) From the experience they have had of the Lord's dealing with their souls, and the love of God spread abroad in the heart, by the Holy Ghost: (Romans 5:3-5). (4) From a sincere aim and respect to all the commandments of God (Psalm 119:6; Acts 24:16; 1 John 3:20-21; 1 Thessalo…

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…

A man justified, is one that has his sins pardoned, for what was it that all our lifetime before made us afraid of God's displeasure, and we had much disquietness about our estates; oh, the sin of our souls that we had committed all our life long, the sin committed many a day ag…

Christ dwells in their hearts as on a throne (Ephesians 3:17): "That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith." The Holy Spirit guards them against all cares and fears (Philippians 4:7): "And the peace of God which passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds throug…

By promises (1 Peter 5:7): Casting all your care upon him, for he cares for you. (Philippians 4:6-7): Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understand…

And hence, says Job, I will speak that I may be refreshed. And Scripture backs this in (Philippians 4:6). Be careful in nothing, but in every thing make your requests known to God, and unload your cares and fears into the bosom of God: but how? Why by prayer and supplication in…

Thus doing we care not whether our work does please or displease the Devil: whether the world love us or hate us. For we knowing our work to be well done, and having a good conscience before God, go forward by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report, etc. (Philippians…

And the peace of good conscience is as a guard to keepe our hearts and minds in Christ. Phil 4:7. The fault of most men is, They spend their daies and their strength in seeking riches, honours, pleasures: and they thinke not on grace and peace.

(1 Timothy 4:12): Be an example in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, purity. (Philippians 4:8): What you have seen in me, that do. (Matthew 5:16): Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works.

The sayings of the wise are as nails or stakes fastened to range men in the compass of their own duties (Ecclesiastes 12:11). Again, the peace of God, or the assurance of our reconciliation with God, is a guard, to keep our hearts and senses in Christ (Philippians 4:7). If this…

And it is also very probable, that the Sabbath of the new testament is limited and determined by our Savior Christ to the Lord's day. For Paul and the rest of the Apostles observed the first day of the week for a Sabbath day (Acts 20:7), and he says, Whatever you have heard, and…

And Paul bids us to procure honest things in the sight of all men. And whatever things are true, and honest, and just, and pure; whatever appertain to love, and are of good report, we must think on them, and practice them (Philippians 4:8). Yet we must seek for the approbation o…

Vers. 13. And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh and drinking wine, eating and drinking, for tomorrow we shall die. The Prophet condemns not joy simply: for we see that Saint Paul himself exhorts the faithful to rejoice with a true joy; to wit…

And what marvel? For as the same Apostle teaches (Philippians 4:7), this peace passes all understanding. Having once obtained this justice, we shall be no more disquieted with inward terrors, as we were when we felt that God was angry with us.

Think not then that God promises such a peace as carnal sense can comprehend. No, we must dive into the deepest thoughts of our hearts, reformed by the Holy Ghost in righteousness and holiness, if we will enjoy this peace which passes understanding, as Paul says (Philippians 4:7…

Men no sooner feel that God is near to them, but they cast away fear, or at the least so resist it, that they are not overcome by it. In nothing be careful, says Saint Paul, for the Lord is at hand (Philippians 4:5 and 6), of which sentence we have treated at large elsewhere. It…

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

For then they boasted themselves as being Lords of the whole world: but in the end they should feel that it is the proper and particular possession of God's children. Everlasting joy may be referred to the external estate of the Church; because God daily furnishes them with ampl…

Our condition is now different: but the doctrine remains the same, that whatever we offer to God is polluted, unless, at least as much as lies in us, (Romans 12:18,) we are at peace with our brethren. Alms are called in Scripture sacrifices of a sweet smell, (Philippians 4:18;)…

There is therefore no reason to wonder, if Christ invites the rich and poor indiscriminately to apply to their Heavenly Father for the supply of their wants. No man will sincerely offer such a prayer as this, unless he has learned, by the example of the Apostle Paul, "to be full…

Of this concord speaks Saint Paul (2 Corinthians 11), where he says thus: I fear, lest as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtlety, so your minds should be corrupt from the simplicity that is in Christ: which is as much to say, as, I fear lest the Devil likewise deceive you…