Romans

First we must be called before glorified (Romans 8:30). A man uncalled can lay claim to nothing in the Bible but threatenings; a man in the state of nature is not fit for heaven, no more than a man in his filth and rags is fit to come into a king's presence: a man in his pure na…

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 (…

As the chameleon is changed into the color of that which it looks upon, so faith looking on Christ, changes a Christian into the similitude of Christ. 2. By the growth of it; if it be a true faith, it grows: living things grow (Romans 1:17). From faith to faith; [illegible].

The creation is enough to convince the heathen that there is a God. There are two books, out of which God will judge and condemn the heathen, namely the book of conscience (Romans 2:15), who have the law written in their heart: and the book of the creation (Romans 1:20), the inv…

Resp. God sees all the sins of men, but is no more defiled with them, than the sun is defiled with the vapours that arise out of the earth: God sees sin not as a patron to approve it, but as a judge to punish it. Use 1. Is God so infinitely holy, then see how unlike to God sin i…

God delivered Israel from the pollutions of Egypt; Egypt was a bad air to live in, it was infected with idolatry. The Egyptians were gross idolaters, they were guilty of that which the Apostle speaks of (Romans 1:23). They changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image…

- 1. Heathens. - 2. Turks. - 3. Jews. - 4. Papists. - 5. Protestants. 1. By Heathens: They have a knowledge of a Godhead by the light of nature (Romans 1:19-20), but they dishonor God and sin against the light of nature. The Egyptians worship an ox, the Persians worship the sun,…

Fifthly, God remembers all our deeds of charity, and takes them kindly at our hands. Hebrews 6:10. God is not unrighteous to forget your labor of love which you have shown toward his name, in that you have ministered to the saints. The chief butler may forget Joseph's kindness,…

Question: But how does the Lord show his abhorring of the adulterer? Answer: In giving him up to a reprobate mind and a seared conscience (Romans 1:26). And now he is in such a condition that he cannot repent.

Some men's heads are the devil's mint-house — they are minting mischief. Romans 1:30: Inventors of evil things. Some invent new oaths, others new snares: such were those presidents that invented a decree against Daniel, and got the king to sign it (Daniel 6:9).

To be able to say God is mine, is more than to have all the mines of gold and silver. 3. Seeing there is a God, let us serve and worship him as God: It was an indictment brought in against them (Romans 1:21). They glorified him not as God.

2. A Christian may weep under an affliction, yet patiently submit to God's will. God allows tears; it is a sin to be without natural affection (Romans 1:31). Grace makes the heart tender, strangulat inclusus dolor; weeping gives vent to sorrow, expletur lachrymis dolor.

Especially seeing 3. there is so much strength of carnal and corrupt reason in men, ready to forge and invent strong reasons and arguments to confirm those sad fears and darkened apprehensions, and those drawn from those dealings of God's Spirit mentioned. For as it is said of t…

By faith. Learn here the true nature of true faith: it brings forth true obedience where ever it is: and therefore Christian obedience is called the obedience of faith, Romans 1:5. And these two cannot be separated, no more than light from the sun, or heat from fire.

For Atheism, blasphemy, contempt of God's word and worship, with open profaning of God's Sabbath, do every where abound; to omit the heinous crimes against the second table, as oppression, adultery, and blood touching blood: for all which, we may justly fear, that the Lord will…

The Affection of love is natural, but the Grace is not. Men are by nature [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩]God-haters, Romans 1:30. The wicked would fly from God; they would neither be under his rules, nor within his reach; they fear God, but do not love him.

But it may be alleged to the contrary, that the saying of the Father, This day have I begotten you, is expounded by Paul of the time of Christ's resurrection (Isaiah 2:7; Acts 13:30, 33). Answer: We must distinguish between generation itself, and the manifestation of it: and of…

Again there is no question that God directs his commandment against a sin in speculation, but against some common and wicked practice of the Jews — and that was to represent God himself in likenesses and bodily forms — Isaiah 40:18. And that was also the practice of the Gentiles…

When Julian objected to the Christians that they worshipped their martyrs as God, Cyril grants the memory and honor of them but denies their adoration — and of invocation he makes no mention at all. Ambrose on Romans 1: Is any so mad that he will give to the earl the honor of th…

For his obedience in fulfilling the law, is above Adam's righteousness, indeed above the righteousness of all angels. For they were all but creatures, and their obedience the obedience of creatures: but Christ his obedience is the obedience or righteousness of God; so termed (Ro…

By the arm of the Lord then we understand in general the power of God, the arm of man being that whereby he exercises his power, performs exploits, or does any work: so the arm of the Lord is his power whereby he produces his mighty acts; as it is said in the Psalms, The right h…

For the first, we shall not say much to it; only, seeing the Lord has made choice of the Gospel to be the ordinary external mean of grace, and of the begetting of faith, there is no reason to say that it's useless; for though it be not the main and only thing that turns the sinn…

2. Because, who shall declare his generation? is brought in here, to show the ineffableness of it, and so to make his sufferings the more wonderful — it was he who suffered, whose continuance cannot be declared. 3. It is such a continuance as is brought in to show a reason why d…

But though he was brought to prison and to judgment, to death and to the grave, yet they did not, they could not detain him; He was taken, or as the word signifies, he was lifted up from prison and from judgment, being the same word that follows, He was cut off out of the land o…

And thus, though God's grace and mercy be the Efficient Cause that admits of the ransom; yet neither is grace in us the Formal Cause; nor is grace in God the Meritorious Cause, but it is that which lays down the way how a satisfaction shall be provided, and accepts of it, when p…

That sure were not faith but a blind guessing; it is just as if you should say that you believe such a thing, when yet you cannot at all tell what it is; which is not faith, but as I said, blind guessing, and presumption. 2. Faith as justifying is always held forth as making use…

I call the Gospel the external mean of promoting our justification, in four respects. 1. Because it lays before us the object of our faith, for in it (as it is, Romans 1:17) is the righteousness of God revealed, etc. and (Romans 11:21-22) it's said, Now the righteousness of God…

For all are not justified, and saved, but only believers; indeed, by the doctrine of universal redemption, though you were even new believers, you could not conclude that you should be saved, because you might fall from it again. But our doctrine of justification has solid conso…

The expressions run in different persons; the first is in the first person, I will divide him a portion: it is a promise of God the Father, to the Mediator, for His attaining the victory, as it is said (Ephesians 1:20), God raised him from the dead. The 2nd expression is in the…

3. Conscience is a piece of eternity, a chip that fell from a Deity, and the nearest shadow of God, and ends as it begins. At first, even by its natural constitution, Conscience wars against Concupiscence, and speaks sadly out of Adam, while it is hot, and not cold-dead; I was a…

But to return to the state of the question. 4. So much of God is revealed to all, even to those who never heard of Christ, as serves to make all unexcusable for that knowing willingly, and knowingly, they glorify not God as God (Romans 1:19-21). 5. All within the visible Church,…

If you go about anything, with any tolerable endeavor to give him content, he is not hard to be pleased; and if not easy to please, there is little grace; or dangerous to be none at all, if you have much ado to bow or bend them to comply with them that asks anything of them, the…

These things are written that you may believe. Say not what is this, but to make the work that is already wrought, for though faith and believing be wrought in the hearts of God's people, yet such as do believe, had need to be helped to believe more and better (Romans 1:17). It…

So then, do but lay these things together, do you find a man that is desirous to be doing good duties, but is it to please others, or is it out of the bonds of authority that lies upon him? Do you see them have affection to duties, but out of their place and calling, or in their…

It is kindness to his soul to reprove him. In the general, holy friendship must be improved to the use of edifying (Romans 1:11-12). I long to see you to impart some spiritual gift to you, that I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith of you and me.

Secondly, the necessity of it. 1. The sins and guilty fears of mankind needs such a remedy; we are naturally sensible that the punishment of death is deserved and due to us by the law of God (Romans 1:32): They which commit such things are worthy of death. Now these fears are no…

When God had proclaimed his name and manifested himself to Moses (Exodus 34:8), Moses made haste, and bowed himself and worshipped. It is the crime charged upon the Gentiles, that when they knew God, they glorified him not as God (Romans 1:21). They knew a divine power, but did…

Paul therefore concludes, that there is no other Gospel besides that, which he himself had preached. But he preached not a Gospel which he had himself devised, but the same which God promised before by his Prophets in the holy scriptures (Romans 1). Therefore he pronounces himse…

Therefore necessary it was also that Cornelius should be brought to another belief, not that Christ was yet to come, as he did believe before: but that he was already come. So faith gives place to faith: From faith to faith (Romans 1). The popish Schoolmen therefore are deceived…

You knew not God: and you worshipped God. I answer: All men naturally have this general knowledge, that there is a God, according to the saying (Romans 1): Forasmuch as that which may be known of God, was manifest in them. For God was made manifest to them, in that the invisible…

But the proper office of Christ is, after the law has pronounced a man to be guilty, to raise him up again, and to loose him from his sins, if he believe the Gospel. For to all that do believe, Christ is the end and full finishing of the law to righteousness (Romans 1:16; John 1…

In the end of the verse, Paul adds: for they communicated nothing to me. But to the contrary (Romans 1:12) may be objected, where Paul desires to come to Rome, that he might be comforted by their mutual faith both his, and theirs. Answer: Though the Apostles did communicate noth…

And that which I say appears in this text — for whether these words be left in, or put out, the sense of the verse, is one and the same. These words, that you should not obey the truth, are meant of the obedience of faith (Romans 1:5, and 16:28). And the obedience of faith is pr…

Thus was he made Lord by declaring himselfe to be so indeede. Rom 1:4. 1. Tim 3:16.

Here observe, that all the exercises of Christian religion are to be in the spirit. God must be worshipped in spirit (John 4:24; Romans 1:9). The heart must be rent, and not the garment (Joel 2).

Lastly, whereas the Apostle speaks indefinitly; if any man be nertaken, restore him. I gather, that the gifts and graces of God, bestowed upon vs, ought to be used in restoring those that are fallen, without respect of persons: for herein spirituall men are debters, to the wise,…

The word justice is diversely expounded. Some refer it to the preaching of the Gospel, because the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith by it, as Saint Paul says (Romans 1:17). Now the Gospel was published throughout the whole world by the ministry of the Apostle…

Where he adds, from the foundations of the earth; it is spoken by a figure, where a part is taken for the whole: for a part of the world is here taken for the whole. God has set this world before men as a looking-glass, that by viewing of it, they might come to the knowledge of…

Many are offended at his death, as if he had been overcome and overwhelmed of it. But they must pass forwards to that divine power and majesty which shined in his resurrection (Romans 1:4). Yet if any shall begin at his resurrection, he shall not follow the order here prescribed…

The word shall run, does better express the efficacy of this vocation: for the end thereof is, that we may obey God, in yielding ourselves teachable with a ready and glad heart in his presence, and willingly to receive from his mouth, the least of his commandments. For as Saint…

17. We glorify God by a holy life: Christianorum religio haec sine macula vivere lactant; As a bad life does dishonor God (1 Peter 2:9): You are a holy nation, that you should show forth the praises of him that has called you. Romans 2:24: The name of God is blasphemed among the…

1. In this true Christianity does consist; it is not baptism that makes a Christian: many are no better than baptized heathens. The essential part of religion lies in the new creature (Romans 2:29). Circumcision is that of the heart.

2. When we profess God's name, but do not live answerable to it, it is a taking his name in vain (Titus 1:16): In words they profess him, but in works they deny him. When men's tongues and lives cross one another; when under a mask of profession men will lie and cozen, and be un…

The creation is enough to convince the heathen that there is a God. There are two books, out of which God will judge and condemn the heathen, namely the book of conscience (Romans 2:15), who have the law written in their heart: and the book of the creation (Romans 1:20), the inv…

Why is treason punished with confiscation and death, but because it is against the king's person, which is sacred; much more that offense which is against God's crown and dignity, is of a heinous and infinite nature, and cannot be satisfied with less than eternal punishment. Use…

16. Last. We do hallow and sanctify God's name by a holy conversation (1 Peter 2:9): You are a royal priesthood, a peculiar people; that you should show forth the praises of him who has called you. As an unholy life does dishonor God's name (Romans 2:24): The name of God is blas…

2. When a man lives in the same sins which he condemns in others. Romans 2:1: You that judge another do the same things. As Austin says of Seneca, he wrote against superstitions, yet he worshipped those images which he reproved.

If there were no Bible to tell us there is a God, yet conscience might. Conscience, as the Apostle says, either accuses or excuses (Romans 2:15). Conscience acts in order to a higher judicatory.

Now all these things fell out in types. Correspondingly, by fire of their own kindling is meant the common righteousness of civility and natural devotion which was by nature in some of the heathen (Romans 2:14) — found even in their chimneys — which the Jews also performed, both…

Use 1: Since so many offer up only common fire to God, you should examine whether the righteousness you think pleases God is anything more than fire of your own kindling. First, examine the origin of the righteousness that is kindled in your heart and blazes in your life. Was it…

Saint John says, The word was made flesh (John 1:14): and the angel says, The holy one which shall be born of you, shall be called the Son of the most high (Luke 1:35). And Paul says, that Christ Jesus our Lord was made of the seed of Abraham according to the flesh (Romans 2:3).…

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…

Shall I wrong him because he is good? Or should not rather the goodness of God lead me to repentance — Romans 2:4? 'There is mercy with you, that you may be feared' — Psalm 130:4.

Observe here 1. That sin, in no flesh, no, not in the Elect themselves, is without sorrow and grief; tribulation and anguish are knit to it, or it has these following on it; or take the doctrine thus, Wherever there is sin, there is the cause of much sorrow and grief; no more ca…

And as for all who have chosen the way of holiness, we are allowed to say this to you, that it shall be well with you at death and after death, at judgment and even for evermore. To them (says the Apostle, Romans 2:9,) who by patient continuance in well-doing seek for glory and…

See (2 Corinthians 5:10): For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ — we must; there is an unavoidable necessity of it. For further clearing, and confirming of this, you should know that there are three courts, that especially the hearers of the gospel are liable…

Would it not be this, it is just that you perish, for you had Christ, and His righteousness clearly preached to you, which we had not, and yet you slighted Him: therefore take hold of, and improve the opportunity, God has clearly revealed this truth to the land, and to this plac…

Nor do I see any reason why any should affirm, that the Law is naturally as a party in the soul, of either the regenerate and justified, or of those who are out of Christ. (1.) For the Law's indwelling, as a party engaging, by accusing and condemning, is not naturally in any son…

(Matthew 24:14), "And this Gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world, for a witness to all nations" — that is, Jews and Gentiles. A personal witness to every single man it cannot be, except every single man heard it (Romans 10:14), "How shall they believe in him o…

If we do not labor for it, and suffer for it, we do not value it according to its worth. There is a simple, naked estimation, and a practical esteem; naked approbation (Romans 2:18): And you know his will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the la…

They are like those who are propping up some remote members of their body, while their vitals are wasting in a languishing consumption: These are like a man in a fever, his face and hands burn, but his heart shakes and quivers for cold: These I may call Pepper-professors, hot in…

Therefore God is known and the blessing is given, not by the law, but by the Gospel of Christ. Although Paul speaks these words: Then when you knew not God, you did service, etc. properly and principally to the Galatians, which were Gentiles: yet notwithstanding by the same word…

And these two sentences are not repugnant, but do very well agree. We also do teach in like manner: That the hearers of the law are not righteous before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified (Romans 2). And contrariwise: They that are of the works of the law, are unde…

Also, 'We have one father, which is God.' And to the Romans (Romans 2:17): 'Behold, you are called a Jew, and rest in the law,' etc. Therefore, although that Peter and the other Apostles were the children of God, righteous according to the law, the works and the righteousness th…

The end of our life is uncertain, and look as death leaves us, so shall the last judgment find us. Secondly, when we delay our repentance, we add sin to sin, and so treasure up wrath against the day of wrath (Romans 2). Thirdly, when we defer to obey and turn to God, we grow to…

True worshippers worship God in the spirit (John 4:25; Romans 1:12). He is a Jew, that is a Jew not without, but within in the spirit, in the circumcision of the heart (Romans 2:29). God's service and kingdom, stands in justice, peace of conscience, and joy in the Holy Ghost (Ro…

In spirit] that is, in the powers of the soul sanctified and renewed. In this sense Paul says that the true circumcision is that which is in the heart, in spirit (Romans 2:29), and Christ says, that true worship of God is in spirit (John 4:24). And that spirit is here taken in t…

4. It is very requisite and expedient, that the reprover be not tainted with the same, or the like fault which he reproves in another, lest it be said to him, Physician cure yourself (Luke 4:23). In that you judge another, you condemn yourself (Romans 2:1). Therefore David says…

We had need of some bridle therefore to restrain us from making oaths rashly. The sum of the Prophet's speech is to teach us, that nothing is more displeasing to God than obstinacy, whereby we treasure up wrath against the day of wrath, as the Apostle says (Romans 2:5), and depr…

But in respect that many bore this badge of the covenant, who were no better than the rest; to remove all ambiguity, he adds, the unclean. For the cutting away of the foreskin, was nothing in itself; and is by Saint Paul accounted as uncircumcision, if the purity of the heart be…

But we know how usual this manner of speech is among the Hebrews. The Prophet blames the Jews for thus abusing the patience and long-suffering of God: which notwithstanding should have softened their hearts (Romans 2:4). But such is man's malice, that he thereby emboldens himsel…

But you who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You that preach another should not steal, yet do you steal? (Romans 2). Against such, in conclusion, he denounces judgment, and the horrible vengeance of God; because they abused God's goodness, and gloried in his name in vain.

For when he directs his speech to the Jews, who were reputed as petty Saints in respect of others, of necessity the Gentiles must all come within this rank. If any object, Obiect. that the Gentiles in living justly were a law to themselves, and that their uncircumcision is count…

And this is the reason why Paul denounces them in such earnestness of language for treasuring up to themselves the wrath of God against the last day, (Romans 2:5). It is well known that trees are sometimes preserved, not because their owners find them to be useful and productive…

I acknowledge, therefore, that, as God has promised the reward of eternal life to those who keep his law, we ought to hold by this way, if the weakness of our flesh did not prevent; but Scripture teaches us, that it is through our own fault that it becomes necessary for us to re…

And elsewhere we read of the Pharisees praying in the corners of the streets and sounding a trumpet before them when they did alms: but those works which they so vainly boasted of were moral works. And not only so, but what the Apostle, in this very epistle, is condemning the Je…

There is such base and horrid ingratitude, in being the worse to God because he is a being of infinite goodness and grace, that it above all things renders wickedness vile and detestable. This ought to win us, and engage us to serve God better; but instead of that, to sin agains…

When Job had carried himself discreetly, and spoken discreetly, the Lord hides not this in darkness, he shuts it not up in silence: but proclaims the innocency and uprightness of his carriage in this present passage of his life, as he had done before, concerning the whole course…

Prophanenesse and impietie in life: for God is glorified, when we bring forth the fruits of grace, Ioh. 15. 8. and our good workes cause others to glorifie God, Math. 5. 16. And therefore our profane life is a reproach unto the Lord, and causes others to dishonour and blaspheme…

The thing then here forbiddē, is rash iudgemēt, which one man does vniustly give of another; and the reason why wee so understand this place, may be drawne from the 3. verse, where instance is given of the judgment here forbidden, in a quicke espiall and sharpe censure of smal…

By waking, is understood, some liveliness and sensibleness, or at least life, in opposition to the former deadness and dullness, as, (Romans 13:11) It's high time to awake: And, (1 Thessalonians 5:6) Let us watch, and be sober; which is opposite to that spiritual drowsiness, whe…

2. God speaks by his works of providence, and that both merciful and afflictive. 1. God speaks by his merciful providences, by his patience, and bounty, and goodness, he calls men to repentance (Romans 2:4). He gives witness of himself, in giving rain and fruitful seasons (Acts…

5. To conclude, do any of the ungodly question God's righteousness, because in these common calamities, they have until now survived and escaped? 1. It is but an ill requital and ill use, which they make of God's patience and goodness which he has exercised toward them, that her…

Few bleeding hearts under the sharp sword of the word; little tenderness under the most melting discourses; few converts and penitent persons did the most powerful preaching (especially before the Gospel's eclipse) bring forth in London: converting work was at a great stand, tho…

Men see the face, but they see not what lies within; hence it is that the greatest and best part of a Christian's treasure, is invisible; as the roots of a tree under the earth, or the bottom of a ship under water; or rather as a merchant's goods in his warehouse. So it is with…

By that time you have cast up the reckoning you will find but little profit. 1. By the incomes that sin brings in, you treasure up vengeance (Romans 2:5). While you put unjust gain in your bag, God puts wrath in his vial; and will you call this profit?

Lo! What strong confidences, and high-built persuasions of an interest in God, have sometimes been found, even in unsanctified ones (John 8:54): Of whom you say, that he is your God, and yet you have not known him. To the same height of confidence arrived those vain souls, menti…

My sweet and early blossoms were nipped and blown off, my bright morning overcast and clouded; had I kept on according to the rate of my first growth, I had either now been in heaven, or at least in the suburbs of it on earth; but my graces wither and languish, my heart contract…

I gave her a space to repent. It is not a mere reprieval of the soul, or only a delay of the execution of threatened wrath, though there be much mercy in that; but the peculiar aim of this patience and bounty of God, is to open for them a way to escape the wrath to come, by lead…

On the same ground, many have been tempted to Atheism; but then the world shall see distributive justice shining out in its glory. Tribulation, anguish and wrath, to every soul of man that does evil; but glory, honor and peace, to every man that works good (Romans 2:9-10). Then…

Faith glories in the cross of Christ (Galatians 6:14). To consider Christ as he is crowned with all manner of excellencies, does rather stir up admiration and wonder; but Christ looked upon as bleeding and dying is the proper object of our faith: therefore it is called faith in…

Romans 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace. Quest. 21. What is Justification?

And thus Christ has taken away from believers the curse of the law, by being made a curse for them. But though the moral law is thus far abolished, yet it remains as a perpetual rule to believers: though the moral law be not their Savior, yet it is their guide: though it be not…

Election is free (Ephesians 1:4): He has chosen us in him, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], according to the good pleasure of his will. Justification is free (Romans 3:24): Being justified freely by his grace. Say not then, I am unworthy, for mercy is free.

The more peaceable the more like God. It is a bad sign God is not their Father: 1. Who are fierce and cruel, as if with Romulus they had sucked the milk of a wolf (Romans 3:17). The way of peace have they not known, they sport in mischief; these are they who are of a persecuting…

They raised a slander of Paul, that he should preach men might do evil that good might come of it. We are slanderously reported, and some affirm that we say, Let us do evil that good may come (Romans 3:8). Eminency is commonly blasted by slander.

Answ. Faith in Jesus Christ, repentance to life, with the diligent use of all the outward means, whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of redemption. I begin with the first, faith in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:25): Whom God has set forth to be a propitiation through faith i…

Election is free (Ephesians 1:4): He has chosen us in him [illegible], according to the good pleasure of his will. Justification is free (Romans 3:24): Being justified freely by his grace. Salvation is free (Titus 3:5): According to his mercy he saved us.

O let us labor for faith: Christ is a propitiation or atonement, to take away sin, but how? Through faith in his blood (Romans 3:25). 6. Means, Pray much for pardon (Hosea 14:2): Take away all iniquity.

If still he pursues you and his wrath lies heavy on you, ask him what he aims at. Is it to have the victory and to overcome when he judges — as Romans 3:4 says, which David also knew when he humbled himself (Psalm 51:4)? Freely tell him that you are willing to give it to him, to…

Sin is anything whatever is against the will and word of God: as Saint John says, Sin is the transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). And this definition Paul confirms when he says, that by the law comes the knowledge of sin, and, where no law is there is no transgression: and, si…

Basil on humility: Let man acknowledge himself to lack true justice, and that he is justified only by faith in Christ. Origen on Romans 3: We think that a man is justified by faith without the works of the law: and he says that justification by faith alone suffices, so as a man…

1. That the Father should be satisfied, that he that was wronged should have his honor restored, that the threatening given out in his law should light and take effect; that the soul that sins, should in his own, or in the surety's person, die; and that a suitable recompense sho…

And in this respect it is said (Genesis 6:8) that all the imaginations of the thoughts of the heart in man are only evil continually; and (Ephesians 2:1) they are said to be dead in sin, not only in respect of their being subject to God's curse, but in respect of their natural d…

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

And if his strokes were procured by our sins, then the desert of them was laid on him, and his sufferings behooved to be the curse that we elect sinners should have suffered; so when he is called their guarantor, it tells that he undertook their debt, and his laying down of his…

1. He purchases redemption and pardon of sin meritoriously, or He merits it by His death; this regards the value of Christ's sufferings and satisfaction: so that if we consider Christ in Himself, and the elect in themselves, His death and these sufferings are more than if all th…

In every thing He was put to pay the equivalent, for making up the satisfaction due to justice, and these two being put together — that elect sinners were subject to wrath, and that our Lord came in their room — He behooved to be put to sad and sore soul-travail and suffering. 3…

For, though He has sufficient righteousness, and though the Covenant gives warrant to take hold of it, yet, if there is not an actual taking hold of it, it will not profit us. Therefore, in Romans 3:22 and 9:30, it is called "the righteousness which is by faith in him." And in R…

Many of us, alas, live as if we were never to be called to an account, and as if there were no tribunal that we were to appear before. Secondly, observe that all men and women, even the elect themselves, are naturally, and as in themselves obnoxious to condemnation, and liable t…

Look to the epistles, especially those written to the Romans and Galatians, where this question about justification is expressly, and of purpose handled, and we will find, that it is the sum of both. As, (Romans 3), where having said (verse 23) that all have sinned, and come sho…

And so He shows Himself to be infinitely just, gracious, wise and holy, in the justification of sinners. These we may see, (Romans 3:24-26) "Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ." There justice and grace shine clearly, justification…

1. That by knowledge here is meant, that by which justification is made ours, or applied to us; and that which entitles us to it; now mere speculative knowledge does not that; but it's faith embracing Him, who is made known. 2. If we compare that which is attributed to knowledge…

So, (Romans 1:17) The righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, the just shall live by faith. (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 f…

And it's on this ground, that faith sometimes looks on God as able, sometimes as faithful; therefore it's said, (Hebrews 7:25) He is able to save to the uttermost; and (Hebrews 11) Sarah judged Him faithful who had promised: whereupon there is a closing with the offer in the pro…

For clearing of this, take these grounds. 1. The Scripture speaks of, and points Christ out in His sufferings, as the object of justifying faith (Romans 3:25), where God has set forth for a propitiation through faith in his blood: where the blood of Christ, and He as suffering i…

5. Follows God's imputing to that sinner, that receives Christ as He is offered, and rests upon Him by faith, His righteousness, and Christ's payment and satisfaction to justice is counted his, and according to this, his sins are pardoned, for the merit of that righteousness, an…

2. Consider the peculiar phrases, that the Scripture uses to this purpose, and where we are said to be justified by faith; there is a sort of causality attributed to faith, that can be attributed to no other grace, nor works; hence the righteousness of Christ is called the right…

2. That a believer who is justified should be very humble, for he was a sinner as well as others, and is still a sinner in part; therefore it becomes him to walk [reconstructed: softly], with a stopped mouth, and to be tender and compassionate towards other sinners; there is not…

Indeed, the law was a severer teacher to awe the saints, in regard of the outward dispensation of ceremonies and legal strictness, keeping men as criminals in close prison until Christ should come. But imputation of Christ's righteousness, and blessedness in the pardon of sin, a…

All these and many other places show the contrary. And the redemption that is in Jesus Christ (Romans 3:24) is not a redemption which might have been confined within Christ to reconcile God to himself, and which might consist with the final, total and utter perishing of all mank…

It is Christ that paid the price, that performed the righteousness by which we are justified, and it is God that accepts of it and imputes it to us; therefore justification is ascribed to both. And this we have, Romans 3:24, where it is attributed to them both together: 'Being j…

And thus also do the seals of the promises (the sacraments) present Christ to a believer's eye: as they hold forth Christ (as was in the former direction observed), so Christ as crucified, their scope being to show forth his death till he come (1 Corinthians 11:26), the bread si…

Justice will be known to be justice and dealt with upon its own terms, and grace will be acknowledged to be free grace throughout the accomplishment of our salvation. You have both these joined in Romans 3:23–25: 'Being justified freely through his grace by the redemption that i…

As the Apostle tells you, we none of us do good, and which is worse, we can do no good; indeed, and still, which is worse, we would do no good if we could; this is the estate of us all by nature. The Lord looked down from heaven, to see if any of them did good, but they are alto…

Well then the books of the Old Testament are frequently and solemnly thus called, Law and Prophets; the Messiah was spoken of and foretold in both, and the godly before his coming waited for him as such. One place I had almost forgotten, (Romans 3:21) the righteousness of God wi…

He paid a perfect ransom for us, besides or above which he craved no more, but rested fully content in it; for the other, the renovation of man's nature, to put him into a capacity to serve and please God, for God would not admit us to privileges without change of heart, and dis…

I conclude therefore that faith only justifies and brings life without works. Paul cannot suffer this addition: faith joined with works justifies: but he proceeds simply by the negative (Romans 3) and before in the second chapter: Therefore by the works of the law (says he) shal…

It is not without cause then, that Paul calls it the yoke of bondage. For as we have often said before, the law does but reveal, increase and aggravate sin, accuse, terrify, condemn, and generate wrath, and finally it drives poor consciences into desperation, which is the most m…

By his own blood has he entered into the holy place once for all, and obtained eternal redemption for us (Hebrews 9). Also (Romans 3): And we are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God has set forth to be a reconciliation to us thr…

Phil 1:29. justification is freely by Grace. Rom 3:24. Loue is by grace. 1.

And the office of the Church, is no more but to gather, declare, testifie, and pronounce this sentence. It is obiected, that when a question is propounded, the scripture cannot speake, nor Christ in the Scripture, but the Church onely: I answer againe, that God ascribes to the w…

Justification before men, is, when such as profess faith in Christ, are reputed just of men. By this distinction, Paul who says, that a man is justified by faith without works (Romans 3:28), and James, who says, that Abraham was justified by faith, and works (James 2:24), are re…

In the old testament, they which sought to God, came to the Arke or Propitiatorie, and there were they heard, and received the blessings of God. Now Christ, God and man, is in stead of the Arke, Rom 3:25. and therefore we must come to him, if we would receive any good thing of G…

But this interpretation is against the whole scope of this Epistle, in which Paul proves that there is no justification by the law (chapter 5, verse 4), and therefore no justification by love. Again, Paul says (Romans 3:21), that righteousness is revealed without the law: and th…

4. The law promises eternal life upon condition of works: Do this, and live: If you will enter into life, keep the commandments. The Gospel promises eternal life freely without any condition of works (Romans 4:5), To him that works not, but believes in him that justifies the ung…

Of works? No, but by the law of faith (Romans 3:27). Also, if Abraham were justified by works, he had wherein to glory, but not with God (Romans 4:2).

God forbid. Romans 3:3. Indeed, let God be true, and every man a liar. And to say the truth, if he did not overcome men's stubbornness by his goodness, we should incontinently perish.

They have all gone out of the way, they are all become unprofitable: there is none that does good, no not one (Psalm 14:3; 53:4). As Saint Paul also manifests it more fully (Romans 3:10-12). And the Lord has laid upon him.] Here is a goodly opposition: for in ourselves we are sc…

He mentions all the earth, (that is to say; the whole world:) for before, the name of God was only known in Judea (Psalm 76:1); but after the publishing of the Gospel, the Gentiles were also called to one hope of salvation with them. God is now the God of the Gentiles, as well a…

I have sinned against heaven, and before you; he charges himself with sin before ever his father charges him with it. 3. We glorify God by believing (Romans 4:20): Abraham was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Unbelief affronts God, it gives him the lie; he that believes not…

Quest. Why should faith save and justify more than any other grace? Resp. 1. Because of God's sanction: He has appointed this grace to be justifying, and he does it because faith is a grace that takes a man off himself, and gives all the honor to Christ and free-grace (Romans 4:…

And he is just, 1. Because he punishes sinners by a law. Where there is no law there is no transgression, (Romans 4:15) But God has given men a law, and they broke it, therefore he punishes them justly. 2. God is just in punishing the wicked, because he never punishes them, but…

This is most false, as may be proved both by example and reason: 1. By example: Abraham was a regenerate man, but Abraham was not justified by works but by faith (Romans 4:3). Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him for righteousness. 2. By reason: How can those works ju…

5. We take God's name in vain, when we pray to him, but do not believe in him. Faith is the great grace that honors God (Romans 4:20): Abraham being strong in faith, gave glory to God; but when we pray to God, but do not mix faith with our prayer, we take his name in vain. I may…

2. The first covenant being broken, allowed the sinner no remedy, all doors of hope were shut: but the new covenant allows the sinner a remedy; it leaves room for repentance, it provides a Mediator (Hebrews 12:24), Jesus the Mediator of the new covenant. 2nd Difference. The firs…

Oh, says a believer, my corruption is so strong, that surely I shall never get the mastery of it: but the power of God can fulfill his promise. Thus Abraham looked at God's power, (Romans 4:21) being fully persuaded that what God had promised, he was able to perform. He believed…

3. We hallow and sanctify God's name when we trust in his name (Psalm 33:21): We have trusted in his holy name. No way can we bring more revenues of honor to God, or make his crown shine brighter than by confiding in him (Romans 4:20): Abraham was strong in faith giving glory to…

(1.) Because it is a God-exalting grace. It glorifies God (Romans 4:20). Abraham being strong in faith, gave glory to God.

(1.) Had we the kingdom of heaven presently, as soon as ever grace is infused, then God would lose much of his glory. 1. Where would be our living by faith, which is the grace that brings in the chief revenues of glory to God (Romans 4:20)? 2. Where would be our suffering for Go…

This faith is a miracle of miracles, for it is founded — as the earth is — upon mere nothing in itself, and yet bears the weight and stress of sins, of the devil, yes of God himself. And this is the faith you are converted by, in believing on him who justifies the ungodly (Roman…

If the greatness of your sins is objected against you, plead again that 'plenteous redemption is with him' (Psalm 130:7) — and if you have not enough to pardon me, say, 'I am content to go without.' If that you are ungodly — say, 'I believe on him who justifies the ungodly' (Rom…

This we may make use of, whether we be in necessity, and would be relieved: or in any peril, and would be succored: or in what extremity soever, when means do fail us. Secondly, if he made all things of nothing: then he is able also, in respect of his promises made in Christ, To…

From hence we learn two instructions: First, seeing Abraham is the Father of the faithful, Romans 4:11: and our glory is to be children of faithful Abraham; Therefore we must all learn, as good children to follow our Father, in framing our lives according to God's calling: when…

There is a third, a more spiritual or mystical reason: and that reason God had in making Abraham live in Canaan as a stranger; Namely, to teach all Christian men their duty, to the worlds end. Abraham is the Father of the faithful, Rom. 4.11. And this is our honour to be the chi…

Again, I answer, that if we take it in the sense of Scripture, It is true, that God justifies a wicked man. For Saint Paul says, Romans 4. To him that works not, but believes in him that justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted to him for righteousness.

And the answer is, by true saving faith: and it is proved thus. Abraham believed this promise by the faith that justified him, Romans 4:10-11. But Abraham and Sarah believed it both by one faith: therefore Sarah believed that promise by the faith that also justified her.

Besides this main promise, which concerns righteousness and life everlasting in Christ, there be other particular promises touching strength in temptations, comfort in afflictions, and such like, which depend on the former: and they also are the object of justifying faith: and w…

A righteous man moves in a higher sphere, he penetrates the clouds, Moses saw him who is invisible (Hebrews 11:27). Sense and reason are too low of stature to see Christ; faith climbs up, not into the tree as Zacchaeus, but within the veil, and there sees Jesus: a holy person se…

Reason 4. Paul in Romans 4 stands much upon this, to prove that justification by faith is not conferred by the sacraments. And from the circumstance of time he gathers that Abraham was first justified and then afterward received circumcision, the sign and seal of this righteousn…

The fourth abuse is touching the effect and efficacy of repentance, for they make it a meritorious cause of remission of sins and of life everlasting — flat against the word of God. Paul says notably in Romans 4:24: we are justified freely by his grace through the redemption whi…

Where he makes an opposition between faith and doubting: thereby giving us directly to understand, that to be certain, and to give assurance is of the nature of faith. (Romans 4:20-22) Paul says of Abraham, that he did not doubt of the promise of God through unbelief: but was st…

The judgment of the ancient Church. Ambrose on Romans 4: They are blessed to whom without any labor or work done, iniquities are remitted and sin covered: no works of repentance required of them, but only that they believe. And (chapter 3): Neither working anything, nor repaying…

2. It is called pleasing to the Lord, in respect of the end, and as it is a means to the glorifying of His grace, and the performance of His Promise to the Mediator; for by this, His grace comes to be glorified, and He has access, to perform what He has promised to the Mediator.…

Therefore, in Romans 3:22 and 9:30, it is called "the righteousness which is by faith in him." And in Romans 4:5, the Apostle says, "To him that works not, but believes on him that justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted to him for righteousness." It is not faith without its…

4ly. It may be clear from this, that frequently it is called a righteousness that is attained by faith, and that is opposed to our own righteousness, and working; now it cannot be conceived, how we can get a righteousness by faith, but by pleading, that His righteousness may be…

For the Lord would have us know, that we hold our life of Him; and not to receive Him by faith, is an evidence of highest presumption. Therefore it's said, (Romans 4:16), It is by faith that it might be of grace; God has chosen this way, that the freeness of His grace, in pardon…

1. Then, we say that there is something in justification attributed to faith, that cannot agree to any other thing; which is implied in many scriptural phrases, and in this text; in as far as it is said, that by his knowledge, or by faith in Him, justification is attained: And t…

So (2 Corinthians 5, last verse): "He was made sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." (Romans 4:5): "To him that works not, but believes on him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness." The man ungodly in hi…

I shall illustrate it by a [reconstructed: comparison], from which the fourth reason will clearly result, our iniquities become Christ's as his righteousness becomes ours, for these two are parallel (2 Corinthians 5, last verse): He was made sin for us who knew no sin, that we m…

For then David's being moved, and his heart smiting him at the renting of King Saul's garment, should be under a covenant of works, and so not a man according to God's own heart, for a smitten heart is a troubled soul. David, Abraham (Romans 4), and all the fathers under the law…

Now all flesh did never prophesy, nor was the Holy Ghost on Ananias and Sapphira. (Romans 4) Abraham is called the father of us all — a spiritual father by faith, he is to those that are of the faith of Abraham: now Arminians will not allow us to expound "us all" in the matter o…

So here: it is God that justifies, and Christ that died — they are both of them set forth as the foundation of a believer's confidence. So elsewhere, faith is called a believing on him (namely God) that justifies the ungodly (Romans 4:5), and a believing on Christ (Acts 6). Ther…

Which is said because his resurrection was that by which sins (though satisfied for in his death) were taken off, and they acquitted from them. Which I take to be the meaning also of that Romans 4 last: 'He was delivered for our sins and rose again for our justification.' When t…

Christ shall profit you nothing, if you look to be saved by the righteousness of the law (Galatians 5:3-4). If therefore we think that for these graces' sake God accepts us, truly we lose the things that we have wrought, and for all that we have received, we have no part nor por…

Many of Christ's precepts are displeasing to corrupt nature; to deny ourselves, to take up the cross, to mortify our appetites and passions, to cut off right hands, and to pluck out right eyes, that none shall be saved that are not regenerate and holy; that non-condemnation is t…

Verse 18. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more by the promise. &c. So he says in Romans 4: For if they which be of the law be heirs, then is Faith but vain, and the promise of no effect. And it can not otherwise be: for this distinction is plain, that the law is a…

Thus Paul even at the first entrance, bursts out into the whole matter of which he treats in this Epistle. For (as I said) he treats of the resurrection of Christ, who rose again to make us righteous (Romans 4:24-25), and in so doing he has overcome the law, sin, death, and all…

The first is out of Genesis (Genesis 15:6): Abraham believed God, etc. This place the Apostle here mightily prosecutes, as also he does in his epistle to the Romans (Romans 4:2-3). If Abraham (he says) was made righteous by the works of the law, he has righteousness and rejoicin…

Albeit then that the promise be not made to us, yet is it made as touching us and for us: for we are named in the promise: In your seed shall all nations be blessed. For the promise shows plainly that Abraham should be the father, not only of the Jewish nation, but of many natio…

Moreover we are sometimes left of the Holy Spirit and fall into sins, as did Peter, David and other holy men. Notwithstanding we have always recourse to this article: That our sins are covered, and that God will not lay them to our charge (Psalm 32 and Romans 4). Not that sin is…

Abram is called of God to forsake his country and kindred (Genesis 12); he directly then gives attendance to the commandment, and goes as it were blindfold — he knows not where. God promised him a child in his old age; he believes God without any reasoning, or disputing the case…

Dauid, Psal. 143. reasons on the same manner: No flesh shall be justified in your fight: therefore I cannot, though otherwise I be your seruant, in keeping your commandements. When Abraham was the father of all the faithfull, and was come to the highest degree of faith, and abou…

Thirdly, faith joined with charity, is not the justice whereby a sinner is justified. For our faith and love are both imperfect: and faith is imputed for righteousness without works (Romans 4:6): and therefore without charity. For this is charity to keep the commandments of God…

The sentence, If you be circumcised, &c. the proof, J Paul say to you For the better vnderstanding of the sentence, Circumcision must here be considered according to the circumstance of time, three waies. Before Christ it was a sacrament, and a seale of the righteousnesse of fai…

4. The law promises eternal life upon condition of works: Do this, and live: If you will enter into life, keep the commandments. The Gospel promises eternal life freely without any condition of works (Romans 4:5), To him that works not, but believes in him that justifies the ung…

An ignorant person at the first blush would say that the Prophet has heaped up many broken sentences without grace or art: but if we have regard to his scope and end, by an elegant speech he adorns the power of God seasonably, because his power is the true and best stay for our…

No, but by the law of faith (Romans 3:27). Also, if Abraham were justified by works, he had wherein to glory, but not with God (Romans 4:2). It follows then, that those shall justly glory, who seek their justification in God only, acknowledging that in themselves there is no mat…

From there they might collect, that if God in so small a space was able so admirably to multiply their fathers, he was no less powerful to make them increase hereafter, seeing his power is no whit abated, nor his will changed. Look to the rock.] Some think that Abraham is here c…

For our nature is enmity to it, and our lusts overcarry us violently, as wild beasts, to rush against the commandment of God. And thus, the law engenders wrath, rather than righteousness (Romans 4:15). The law then condemns all men, and having discovered their sin, makes them wi…

Use 3. Is Christ our Priest who was sacrificed for us, then see the endeared affection of Christ to us sinners: The Cross (says Austin) was a pulpit in which Christ preached his love to the world. That Christ should die was more than if all the angels had been turned to dust: An…

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.

Second, when the Spirit does transform the heart, leaving an impress of holiness upon it (2 Corinthians 3:8): "We are changed into the same image, from glory to glory." Third, when the Spirit does refresh the heart with comfort, it comes not only with its anointing, but its seal…

There had never been a stone in the kidneys, if it had not been first a stone in the heart. Indeed, the death of the body, is the fruit and result of original sin (Romans 5:12). Sin entered into the world, and death by sin.

There are some meats (we say) are hard of digestion, and only a good stomach will concoct them: affliction is a meat hard of digestion, but patience (like a good stomach) will be able to digest it; and from where comes patience but from Assurance? (Romans 5:5). Tribulation works…

3. As faith is the grace which God honors to justify and save: thus, indeed, it is precious faith, as the apostle calls it (2 Peter 1:1). The other graces help to sanctify, but it is faith that justifies (Romans 5:1): being justified, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], by faith. Repen…

Your comforts delight my soul; that is, the comforts which distill from the alembic of the promises. 2. The Spirit of God (who is called [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], the Comforter (John 14:26)) does sometimes drop in this golden oil of joy into the soul; the Spirit whispers to a…

Quest. What is the means or instrument of our Justification? Resp. Faith (Romans 5:1). Being justified by faith. The dignity is not in faith as a grace, but relatively, as it lays hold on Christ's merits.

Look up to the blood of sprinkling (Hebrews 12:24). That blood of Christ which pacified God, must pacify conscience; Christ's blood being sucked in by faith gives peace (Romans 5:1). Being justified by faith, we have peace with God.

Death was not natural to Adam, it came in after sin. Josephus is of opinion, man should have died though he had continued in innocency, only he should have had a longer term of years added to his life; but out of question, death grew out of the root of sin: the Apostle says (Rom…

Answ. The covenant being made with Adam, not only for himself, but for his posterity, all mankind descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell within his first transgression. Romans 5:12. By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, etc. Adam b…

We had no spiritual beauty to tempt Christ. In fact, we were not only in our blood, but we were up in arms (Romans 5:8). When we were enemies, Christ died for us: when he was shedding his blood, we were spitting our poison.

First, he has no sense; a dead man has no sense: he has no sense of the evil of sin, of God's holiness and veracity; therefore he is said to be without feeling (Ephesians 4:19). Second, he has no strength (Romans 5:6). What strength has a dead man?

Having answered this question, I shall now come to press the exhortation upon every one of us to seek earnestly after the forgiveness of our sins. 1. Our very life lies upon the getting of a pardon, it is called the justification of life (Romans 5:18). Now if our life lies upon…

4. Branch. If you have any good hope of this blessed kingdom, let this make the color come in your faces, be of a sanguine, cheerful temper; have you a title to a kingdom, and sad? (Romans 5:2) We rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Christians, the trumpet is ready to sound…

This we may also see in Asaph (or whatever other holy penman of Psalm 73): his heels were well-nigh tripped up in the dark. 'My feet were almost gone,' says he (verse 2) — that is, from keeping his standing by faith, as the apostle speaks (Romans 5); and this by an argument fram…

Lastly, in the general state of the reason, and of Abraham's practice; observe, how he having promise of Canaan, waited for heaven. Now, no man waits for anything, but that which he has hope of; nor hopes truly and properly, for anything, but that which he has assurance of: for…

Deuteronomy 8:2, Remember all the way (says Moses to the Israelites) which the Lord your GOD led you, this forty years, for to prove you and to know what was in your heart. Hence James calls temptations, the trial of faith, James 1:2, 3: And Paul makes patience, the fruit of tri…

Sin is anything whatever is against the will and word of God: as Saint John says, Sin is the transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). And this definition Paul confirms when he says, that by the law comes the knowledge of sin, and, where no law is there is no transgression: and, si…

2. There is a gospel-righteousness, which is first a righteousness imputed. That is, when Christ's righteousness is made over to us. In Adam we were criminal persons (Romans 5:12). In whom all have sinned.

Reason 2. Infants baptized and regenerate, die the bodily death before they come to the years of discretion: therefore original sin in them is sin properly; or else they should not die, having no cause of death in them: for death is the wages of sin, as the Apostle says (Romans…

Whereas the Papists teach, that a man may be assured of his salvation by hope: even hence it follows, that he may be infallibly assured thereof. For the property of true and lively hope is never to make a man ashamed (Romans 5:5). And true hope follows faith and ever presupposes…

Reason 3. (Romans 5:19) As by one man's disobedience many were made sinners: so by the obedience of one, shall many be made righteous: mark here is a comparison between the first and second Adam. And hence I reason thus: As by the disobedience of the first Adam men were made sin…

Why are you afraid, O saint, that this sickness may be your death — as long as you know that the death of Christ is the death of death? Indeed, if you were to die in your sins — as John 8:21 — if death as a king reigned over you — Romans 5:14 — if it could feed upon you as the l…

For God in mercy turns all things, even sin it selfe, to the good of them that be his: and therfore sin committed cannot either waste, or extinguish grace received, but by diuihe dispensation, serueth to amplifie and inlarge the same; so as where sin aboundeth, there grace aboun…

That God the great Party offended should come so low to recover the despicable Parties offending; and that even while they were rank enemies to him? God commends his love to us, says the Apostle (Romans 5:8), that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us; And says himself, J…

1. That our Lord Jesus in his sufferings did really suffer, and was really brought low in his sufferings, so as on-lookers thought him a most despicable man, and one that was stricken and smitten of God, and afflicted: of this we spoke on the beginning of the 4th verse. 2. We ha…

There is a common word in many of your mouths, that we are all sinners by nature, but when it's searched into, we find that there is much ignorance among you of what it means; many count themselves to be sinners, only because of their being guilty of the first sin, and so put no…

Husbands love your wives as Christ loved his Church and gave himself for it, etc. (Romans 5:5) God commends his love to us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (John 15:13) Greater love has no man than this, that a man should lay down his life for his friends.

You will, it may be, say, I know not if Christ loves me. O! Consider these sweet words, (Romans 5:10). If he died for us while we were yet enemies, how much more shall we be saved by his life?

O! manifold and vastly comprehensive So, what is unfolded in it, Eternity will but suffice fully to unfold; and this being the great instance of the Mediator's condescendency, and of His commending His love to sinners; That while we were yet enemies, he died for us. As it is, (R…

Indeed, take the best of them, for whom He suffered; even those whom He took to the garden with Him, to be witnesses of His agony; and we will find them sleeping, when He is in the height of it, and is thereby cast into a top sweat of blood; and out of condition to watch, and be…

This is more than His giving them His Word for it, though that had been enough; it's more than the giving them His Oath, thus to commend His love, as it is, (John 15:13) Greater love has no man than this, that a man should lay down his life for his friend; But, says the Apostle,…

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

1. That by knowledge here is meant, that by which justification is made ours, or applied to us; and that which entitles us to it; now mere speculative knowledge does not that; but it's faith embracing Him, who is made known. 2. If we compare that which is attributed to knowledge…

3. Consider, that the Scriptures do expressly make believing to precede justification; and make justification to be an effect, or rather a consequent of faith, to which faith necessarily concurs; as all these places, which say, that we are justified by faith in Christ, do clear.…

This will be clear, if we consider all these Scriptures, that make offer of the pardon of sin; for it's offered not in the condition of faith, in a more general notion of it, but on condition of faith, in Him. So (Romans 5:22, 24, 25): The righteousness of God, which is by faith…

2. If faith in Christ is a saving fruit of His death, and if none can believe but those whose iniquities He has borne, then wherever faith is, the person may conclude that Christ has borne his iniquities, and that he shall be justified; but faith in Christ is a saving fruit and…

Infinite goodness makes love to swell without itself (John 15:13). Goodness is much moved with righteousness and innocency; but we had a bad cause, because sinners: but goodness (for every man that has a good cause, is not a good man) is moved with goodness: we were neither righ…

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

Christ's redemption is not merely a price or ransom equivalent, or making due satisfaction according to the just desert of sin, but it is plenteous redemption. There is an abundance of the gift of righteousness (Romans 5:17) and unsearchable riches of Christ (Ephesians 3:8). Ind…

And what was by that law threatened or done to him for what he did is threatened against his posterity also. Now this man was herein a lively type of our Lord Christ, as you have it, Romans 5:14: 'Who was the type of him who was to come.' To which purpose the titles which the Ap…

Therefore faith (you see) comes to a 'rather' there. But then let it go on to consider Jesus sitting at God's right hand and making intercession for us, and then faith will triumph and insult over all accusers, be more than a conqueror; then it comes not to a 'rather' only (as h…

As it strikes the last stroke to make all sure, it is as great a stroke as any of the former. Therefore, as you have heard, there was an all-sufficiency in his death ('Who shall condemn? it is Christ that died'), a 'rather' in his resurrection ('yes rather, is risen again'), and…

Now a second sort of signs is from the effects and fruits of life, and in this take notice of some fruits of your life of justification; it is a principal part of our spiritual life to have our sins forgiven, Blessed is the man whose iniquity is pardoned, and to whom the Lord im…

By how much the more affliction makes their spirits sad, yet so much the more is the heart enlarged with joy and comfort in the Holy Spirit. Romans 5:3, we rejoice in tribulations, tribulation is such a kind of affliction, as is a threshing us like corn out of the chaff, drives…

1. With respect to Adam, that the parallel between the first and second Adam might be more exact. They are often compared in Scriptures as (Romans 5, latter end, and 1 Corinthians 15) and we read (Romans 5:14) that the first Adam was [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], the figure of hi…

USES. 1. Oh then be affected with this great mystery, the death which the Son of God accomplished at Jerusalem; look upon it under a double notion, with respect to his Father's command, it was an act of obedience, carried on with such humility, patience, self-denial, resignation…

As a prophet, hear him; the business is put out of all question, that God will love you because he loved Christ. When you depend on him as a priest, you have reconciliation and access to God (Romans 5:1-2): Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through our…

2. The sweetness of victory will recompense the trouble of resistance, it is much more pleasing to deny a temptation, than to yield to it; the pleasure of sin is short-lived, but the pleasure of self-denial is eternal. 3. Grace the more it is tried and exercised, the more it is…

2. A justified person is redeemed à Dominio, from the power and regency of sin, though not the presence. Sin may furere, but not regnare, it may rage in a child of God, but not reign: lust did rage in David, fear in Peter, but it did not reign; they recovered themselves by repen…

Does sin prevail? He has promised to take away its kingly power (Romans 6:14). O the heavenly comforts which are distilled from the alembic of the promises; but who has a right to these?

Give battle to sin, it is a most just war, God has proclaimed it. In fact, he has promised us victory, sin shall not have dominion, Romans 6. No way to peace but by maintaining a war with sin, Pax nostra Bellum contra Daemonem, Tert.

I was held before conversion (says Austin) not with an iron [reconstructed: chain], but with the obstinacy of my own will. Sin is the enslaver; sin is called, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, a law (Romans 7:23), because it has such a binding power over a man: And it is said, 〈 in non…

Grace, though it does purify nature, does not perfect it. Objection. But does not the Apostle say of believers that their old man is crucified (Romans 6:6), and they are dead to sin (Romans 7:11)? Response. They are dead, first, spiritually; they are dead as to the Reatus, the g…

Many people aspire after the kingdom of glory, but never look after grace; but these two which God has joined together may not be put asunder: The kingdom of grace leads to the kingdom of glory. 1. I begin with the first thing implied in this petition, Your Kingdom come: It is i…

Sin unrepented of ends in a tragedy. Sin has the devil for its father, shame for its companion, and death for its wages (Romans 6:23). What is there in sin then, that men should continue in it?

All this was to do away our sin; view sin in Christ's blood and it will appear of a crimson color. Sixthly, look upon sin in the dismal effects of it, and it will appear the most horrid prodigious evil (Romans 6:23). The wages of sin is death, that is, the second death (Revelati…

They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh. The new creature is said to be dead to sin (Romans 6:11). He is dead as to the love of sin, that it does not bewitch; and as to the power of it, that it does not command.

2. It signifies, that every man that looks for salvation by Christ, must give himself to God, and all that is in him. So Paul exhorts, Romans 6:13. Give yourselves unto God, and your members weapons of righteousness.

For your soul cannot live, whilst your sins, the old man, that is, your corruptions do live; but they must die, and be buried, and then your soul lives: and whilst they live, your soul is dead, and far from the life of grace, which is in Christ Jesus. All this is affirmed at lar…

We see then, that merciful promise of Christ is ever made good, Seek and ye shall find, Matthew 6. None ever sought God, but found: We may seek our own pleasures, and live loosely, and be deceived, and hear that fearful question, What profit have ye now of these things? Romans 6…

The third thing which follows sin is punishment, and that is death. So Paul says, The stipend of sin is death (Romans 6:23): where, by death we must understand a double death, both of body and soul. The death of the body is a separation of the body from the soul.

Reason 2. Infants baptized and regenerate, die the bodily death before they come to the years of discretion: therefore original sin in them is sin properly; or else they should not die, having no cause of death in them: for death is the wages of sin, as the Apostle says (Romans…

Scripture directly condemns merit of works. (Romans 6:23) The wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. The proportion of the argument required that Saint Paul should have said: The reward of good works is eternal life, if life eve…

But by regeneration, this disordered soul is set right again; sanctification being the rectifying and due framing — or as the Scripture phrases it, the renewal of the soul after the image of God (Ephesians 4:24) — in which self-dependence is removed by faith, self-love by the lo…

And on the contrary, there faith is termed a believing to the salvation of the soul: and both note out the final event and consequent of each, and salvation of the soul to be the end of faith, when men continue and go on to believe, until their faith arrives at, and attains this…

2. If the believer has to do with corruption, with the Devil and with many enemies; is it not strong consolation that our Lord is risen and up, that the prince of this world is judged, that Satan is trodden under foot, and that he shall and must reign till all his enemies be mad…

2. In this respect that they cannot fall into that sin which leads to death, as is clear (1 John 5:17-18). And 3. In this respect, that they [reconstructed: cannot so sin as to lie or be under the reign and dominion] of sin, as is evident (Romans 6:14). The Believer delights in…

It's said (Matthew 22:5), when the invitation comes, that some made light of it, but faith, on the contrary, is a laying weight on it, and an entrusting of ourselves to God on that ground. It's called (Romans 6) a delivering up of ourselves to the word, and to him in it; it's ev…

If this be not, Christ will be to you as if He had never suffered. Secondly, it calls for holiness and mortification of sin; this is much pressed (Romans 6:2-14) by this same argument — to wit, that seeing Christ died for believers, we should die with Him, that being the thing w…

Third, or that they believed not, or that their faith was not counted to them for righteousness, as it is with us (Genesis 15:5-6; Romans 4:3-8; Psalm 32:1-2)? Fourth, indeed, they believing in the Messiah to come were no more under the law and the dominion of sin than we are (R…

I know your works and your labor (1 Thessalonians 1:3). Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope: 1. We are not dead in supernatural works, and mere blocks (Romans 6:11). We are alive to God in Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:1).

No, but to condemn it, as it follows — that is, to cast and overthrow it in its power and plea against us, that instead of sin's condemning us he might condemn sin, and that we might have the righteousness of the law (verse 5). This phrase 'for sin' is like to that in Romans 6:1…

And because the justification of himself which Christ spoke of as looked for from God was to be made at his resurrection (as has been said), therefore Paul here puts a 'rather' upon his resurrection. And further to establish this: as you heard before out of Romans 6:10 that in r…

You would think yourselves secure enough, if you were ascended into heaven. As Heman said of his condition, that he was free among the dead, that is, he reckoned himself (in his despair) free of the company in hell, as well as if he had been there; thinking his name enrolled amo…

Thirdly, a prevention of an objection or doubt that might here arise. For might some man say, All unrighteousness is sin, and every sin is a sin to death, and the wages of every sin is death (Romans 6, last verse). And therefore if the promise extend only thus far, to procure pe…

And truly there is a certain kind of conformity even in this very point, between the Lord Jesus and every servant of Christ; as he is weak, so are we; as he dies, so do we; as he is in his greatest debasements, and advancements, so it is with us. And hence it is that you read th…

Now the baptism of Christ agrees with ours as to the general nature of it. Baptism is our initiation into the service of God, or our solemn consecration of ourselves to him; and it does not only imply work, but fight (Romans 6:13): Neither yield your members as instruments of un…

2. Feel the virtue of it in heart and conscience. In heart, by our dying to sin, then we are planted into the likeness of his death (Romans 6:5): They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts thereof (Galatians 5:24). Who his own self bore our sin…

Life euerlasting is of grace. Rom 6:23. To auoide any euill is the least good, and euery good is of God.

For the most that professe Christ, take and challenge to themselues, a licentious libertie, to liue and doe as they list: and this kind of libertie, is flat bondage. But they that are seruants of Christ indeed, should take heede of this bondag[•]: For being free from sinne, they…

The stipend of euery sinne is death. Rom 6:23. If we were perfectly sanctified, and consequently fulfillers of the law in this life, then Christ should not be a Sauiour, but an Instrument of God, to make vs our own Sauiours.

They which turne to God, and believe in Christ, reape foure benefits hereby. The first is, that no sinne shall have dominion ouer them, Rom 6:14. Here marke by the way, that they which are in Christ, cannot wholly fall from grace.

And hence arises another deliverance from the bondage of human traditions, as Paul says, If you be dead with Christ from the elements of the world, why are you burdened with traditions? (Colossians 2:20). The fourth deliverance is from under the tyranny and dominion of sin (Roma…

Answer: the common received opinion in schools, that some sins are mortal, others venial of their own nature, is a witless distinction. For if all sins deserve death, as Paul teaches (Romans 6:23), either venial sins are no sins, or they must needs deserve death. Moses says, tha…

For he shall not resemble those that are delivered from death, and yet must die nevertheless afterwards, because he rose again to live eternally. For as Saint Paul says, (Romans 6:9) He can die no more, death can have no more dominion over him. And yet we must remember that the…

Where it is added, from hence forth, it seems it should rather be referred to the perpetuity of justice and doctrine, than to the eternity of the kingdom; to the end we should not think his laws resemble those of Kings and Princes, which continue in comparison but three days, or…

For “the kindness and love (φιλανθρωπία) of God our Savior toward man,” (Titus 3:4,) “has appeared unto all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly,” (Titus 2:11-12.) And so Paul, when he wishes powerfully to e…

This is accomplished by a free adoption and the forgiveness of sins, by which he reconciles to himself those who were unworthy. In a word, the kingdom of heaven is nothing else than “newness of life,” (Romans 6:4,) by which God restores us to the hope of a blessed immortality. H…

We have already assigned a special reason. He received the same baptism with us, in order to assure believers, that they are ingrafted into his body, and that they are "buried with him in baptism," that they may rise to "newness of life," (Romans 6:4.) But the end, which he here…

God sometimes invites us to repentance, when nothing more is meant, than that we ought to change our life for the better. He afterwards shows, that conversion and “newness of life” (Romans 6:4) are the gift of God. This is intended to inform us, that not only is our duty enjoine…

But as the Greek preposition ἀπό "the Greek word which we have translated by" does not properly relate to an agent, some explain it, that Wisdom is acquitted by her children, and is no longer under obligation to them, in the same manner as when an inheritance is transferred to a…

The sum of the whole is, that for none but him who has fought lawfully is the crown prepared; and especially, that none will be a partaker of the life and the kingdom of Christ who has not previously shared in his sufferings and death. In the word baptism the force of the metaph…

Now Christ here places first in order his death and resurrection, and afterwards the fruit which we derive from both. For whence come repentance and forgiveness of sins, but because our old man is crucified with Christ, (Romans 6:6,) that by his grace we may rise to newness of l…

For all live to him. This mode of expression is employed in various senses in Scripture; but here it means that believers, after that they have died in this world, lead a heavenly life with God; as Paul says that Christ, after having been admitted to the heavenly glory, lives to…

For since the shaking which he mentioned was appalling, and since that conflagration of the human race was terrific, he is about to show that the first-fruits must be offered in his own person, after which the disciples ought not to be displeased at feeling some portion of it. H…

while the greater part of them are mean and despised, some are slenderly provided with food, others drag out a wretched life, amidst uninterrupted disease; others are driven about in flight, or in banishment; others pine away in prisons, and others are burnt and reduced to ashes…

For if we will live with him, we must die also with him. If we will reign with him, we must also suffer with him, as Saint Paul says (Romans 6; Colossians 2; Ephesians 4; Hebrews 12; 1 Corinthians 6; 2 Timothy 2) and in many other places. That when his glory shall appear, you ma…

Whether they had not better consulted their own interest and comfort, in keeping within the bounds and limits of Gods commands? and they cannot but confess, that this their way is their folly. What fruit (says the Apostle) had ye in those things, whereof you are now ashamed? for…

1. At death they are freed from a body of sin. There are in the best reliquiae peccati, some remainders and relics of corruption (Romans 7:24). O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of death!

The moral law is to keep us within the bounds of our duty; sin is a going beyond our bounds. 2. The Law of God; it is not the law of an inferior prince that is broken, but of Jehovah, who gives laws as well to angels as men; it is a law that is just, and holy, and good (Romans 7…

Quest. But who can obey God in all things? Ans. An adopted heir of heaven, though he cannot obey every precept perfectly, yet he does evangelically: 1. He approves of every command (Romans 7:16). I consent to the law that it [reconstructed: is] good.

No man can feel sin but by grace. A wicked man is insensible; lay a 100 weight upon a dead man, he does not complain, but the being sensible of corruption, argues a gracious principle (Romans 7:21). Again, from where is it that there is a combat with sin, but from the life of gr…

The Law of God is a hedge to keep us within the bounds of sobriety and piety. Use 2. If God spoke all these words of the Moral Law, then it condemns, first, the Marcionites and Manichees, who spoke slightly, indeed, blasphemously of the Moral Law; they say it is below a Christia…

I was held before conversion (says Austin) not with an iron [reconstructed: chain], but with the obstinacy of my own will. Sin is the enslaver; sin is called, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, a law (Romans 7:23), because it has such a binding power over a man: And it is said, 〈 in non…

2. The threats and prohibitions of the moral law reach the heart: the law of God forbids not only the act of sin, but the desire and inclination: not only does it forbid adultery, but lusting (Matthew 5:28). Not only stealing but coveting (Romans 7:7). Lex humana ligat manum, le…

Third, we grieve that we can do no better. 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.

In old age the fair blossoms of beauty fall; so original sin is the Old Man, because it has withered our beauty, and made us deformed in God's eye. 2. Original concupiscence is called the law of sin (Romans 7:25). Original sin has vim coactivam, the power of a law.

What would a Christian give to have his chains taken off, to be rid of vain thoughts. How did Paul (that bird of paradise) bemoan himself for his sins (Romans 7:24). We cannot act either our duties or graces without sin.

It is not said, You shall not take away his house: but, You shall not covet it. These lustings and desires after the forbidden fruit are sinful (Romans 7:7). The law has said, You shall not covet.

A man sweats at his recreation, tires himself with hunting, but there is a delight he takes in it which sweetens it: (Romans 7:22) I delight in the Law of God, in the inner man, Gr. [illegible], I take pleasure. Not only is the kingdom of Heaven delightful, but the way there:

Answ. Though we cannot do all God's will legally, yet we may evangelically; which is, 1. When we mourn that we can do God's will no better, when we fail we weep (Romans 7:24). 2. When it is the desire of our soul to do God's whole will (Psalm 119:5): O that my ways were directed…

Quest. If sin in the regenerate is not quite done away, then how far must one put off the old man that he may be a new creature? Answ. 1. There must be a grieving for the remains of corruption (Romans 7:24). O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of death?

And because such examples of men cast off are presented to them to show them what advantage God might take against them — they, mistaking, think they read their own destiny laid before them in them, and conclude that God will deal so with them. And thus, as the apostle says of s…

1. That he knows what ends and intentions and thoughts and lusts such corrupt hearts as ours usually produce and bring forth in all men, and therefore can imagine what selfish motives, etc., may be stirring in such and such actions, and so lay them to our charge, and so often hi…

Fourthly, hence also we learn, what a regenerate man does most feel in himself; namely, original sin, the corruption of his nature: for, that hangs on fast, and hinders him in the practice of all good duties. This, Paul knew well; and therefore confesses, that he saw another Law…

Answer. By means of faith, which does revive and refresh the dead heart of man, by bringing to his remembrance the merciful promises of God. Saint Paul pressed with corruption, cried out: O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death? Romans 7:24. Ye…

We are here admonished to be displeased with ourselves, for our slack and imperfect obedience to God, and for our hypocrisy, private pride, presumption, deadness of spirit, and many other wants which break out when we are in doing God's will. There is no servant of God, but has…

Lastly, if all mankind be shut up under unbelief, the duty of every man is, to labor in using all good means whereby we may be delivered from this bondage, and to pray to God with David, Create in me a [reconstructed: clean] heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me (Psal…

The righteous man says, What a pleasure is it! I delight in the law of God in the inner man (Romans 7:22). As the bee delights to suck the flower, so does a holy person to obey God; it is amor elicitus, he does duty out of love to duty; he prays out of love to prayer: when he si…

Again, the philosophers knew that lust with consent was evil even by the light of nature. But Paul — a learned Pharisee and therefore more than a philosopher — knew not lust to be sin, that is forbidden in this commandment, Romans 7. Therefore the lust forbidden here is without…

Reason 1. (Romans 7:17) Paul says directly: It is no more I that do it, but sin that dwells in me: that is, original sin. The Papists answer again, that it is so called improperly: because it comes of sin and also is an occasion of sin to be done.

Their hearts are under the power of their lusts, and therefore it is no wonder they go after their lusts even when they are about holy things (Ezekiel 33:31). (2) Involuntary and lamented distractions (Romans 7:21-24): 'I find then a law, that when I would do good, evil is prese…

But there is a taint come upon the souls of all men by sin, so as this alliance is thereby worn out, indeed forfeited, until it be restored. Now therefore these souls (the only subject of our discourse) being such as God has wrought, and so are become his workmanship by a new an…

The second thing to be used in way of remedie, for the staying of the mind in this tentation, is, that though it should be graunted, that the foresaid euill and blasphemous thoughts are our sins, yet we are to remember, that they may through the mercy and goodnesse of God, be pa…

And though sometimes they will say their faith is weak, yet they cannot be beaten from it, but that they believe; and their faith is up and down as their security stands or falls. This the apostle makes clear from his own experience (Romans 7:9), where before his conversion he s…

Faith holds the sinner going to Christ, and the sense of its own sinfulness and worthlessness keeps him under holy fear and in the exercise of humility. Paul once thought himself a confident man (as we may see in Romans 7:9), but when he was brought to believe in Christ, he sees…

2. Experience also confirms it; go through all the men and women that ever were in the world (our blessed Lord Jesus being excepted, as not descending of Adam by the ordinary way of generation) and that will be found true which the Apostle has (Romans 3), "There is none that doe…

It's Christ that died, or rather, who is risen again, etc. And it's said in Romans 7, that we are delivered from the law being dead to that wherein we were held; the law had us in prison, and a lock on the door, and had us under irons, but our Lord came, and (as Samson did in an…

For we showed before, that Christ is here proposed as our pattern, and we are bidden purify ourselves as he is pure. But this we say, that none living here on the earth are without sin; the most perfect men that are on this side of eternity, carry about with them a body of death…

There is such a humor and natural inclination in all, and it is a good token when it is discovered and becomes a binder and the ground of a challenge — not only that they have sinned in this and that and the other duty, but that they have gone whoring after their feckless perfor…

3. A passing from the one to the other, a passing from our own righteousness to Christ's righteousness, a passing from our natural condition to Jesus Christ, a real passing from death in ourselves, to life in Him. Most part, think faith to be a conceit, a humor, or a guessing, t…

For while he is so, he cannot know what is sin, and what is not sin; what is faith, and what is presumption, unless it be by guess; and people will never be suitably affected with sin by guess. The Apostle Paul (as it is, Romans 7:9): "Before the law came, I was alive" — that is…

If so, then what means the good opinion that many of you have of yourselves? This is even the thing that the Apostle says of himself before his conversion (Romans 7:9): Before the law came, I was alive, but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died; That is before the c…

This is the very hinge of our consolation, [reconstructed: agreeing] to take with our debt, and to betake [reconstructed: our] selves to him, according to the [reconstructed: gospel], trusting for salvation on that ground. [reconstructed: 2]. It is these who are essaying and pra…

(3.) That a man must be so far from being troubled for sin, that he must take no notice of his sin, nor of his repentance. Indeed, Doctor Crisp, volume 3, Sermon 1, pages 20, 21, 22, says, there was no cause why Paul (Romans 7) should fear sin, or a body of death; because in tha…

For my name's sake you have labored, and have not fainted (1 Corinthians 15:58). Be steadfast, unmoveable, always abundant in the work of the Lord — there is activity in the Spirit to lust against the flesh (Galatians 5:17; Romans 7:15). Nor is the blessedness of the Saints only…

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…

All relations that are natural, such as between father and child, husband and wife, brother and brother, etc. look what world they are made for, in that world they forever hold, and can never be dissolved. These fleshly relations indeed do cease in that other world, because they…

The very presence of a duty, and the thoughts of it, is a horror to such souls in such cases; we have been too busy in our own strength, and too mighty in the grace we have received, and rather aimed at ourselves than at him, and then no marvel if God leave us to a world of dead…

In Heaven there is neither sin nor misery. 1. To begin with sin: that is the worst evil, because it makes us hateful to God, and grieves the saints most (Romans 7:24): Oh wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death. If any man had cause to complain o…

But it must be earnest and vehement as against the enemy of God, and our souls. Paul's resistance in his conflicts was with serious dislikes, and deep groans (Romans 7:19): The good that I would I do not, but the evil which I would not, that I do, and (verse 24): Oh wretched man…

Or will you balk any divine commands to gratify a lazy humor, or a base lust? God forbid; methinks, if you cannot obey as you ought, yet you should take God's part, and plead for obedience: Paul does so (Romans 7:15-16). Though he says, What I would, that do I not, But what I ha…

But in that we are in the flesh, and have as yet the remnants of sin in us, we are under the law, and yet not under the curse, because the remnants of sin are not imputed to us for Christ's sake in whom we believe. For the flesh is an enemy to God, and that concupiscence which y…

But we are careless, indeed we make light of sin and a matter of nothing: which although it bring with it the sting and remorse of conscience, yet notwithstanding we think it not to be of such weight and force but that by some little work or merit we may put it away. This senten…

Another use of the law is divine and spiritual, which is (as Paul says) to increase transgressions: that is to say, to reveal to a man his sin, his blindness, his misery, his impiety, ignorance, hatred and contempt of God, death, hell, the judgment and deserved wrath of God. Of…

True it is, that of all things in the world, the law is most excellent: yet is it not able to quiet a troubled conscience, but increases terrors, and drives it to desperation. For by the law, sin is made beyond measure sinful (Romans 7:13). Therefore the afflicted and troubled c…

Yet notwithstanding he says that she has flesh rebelling against the spirit. After the same manner he speaks of himself in Romans 7. I (says he) am carnal and sold under sin.

The second: we wait in spirit by faith for righteousness with hope and desire: that is to say, we are righteous: however our righteousness is not yet revealed, but hangs yet in hope. For, as long as we live here, sin remains in our flesh: there is also a law in our flesh and mem…

Here a Christian's grace is imperfect, he cannot write a copy of holiness without blotting. He is said to receive but Primitas Spiritus, the first fruits of the Spirit, Grace in Fieri (Romans 8:23). But at death believers shall arrive at perfection of grace.

6. Believers at Death shall gain perfection of holiness. Here grace was but in Cunabulis, in its cradle, very imperfect; we cannot write a copy of holiness without blotting: believers are said to receive but Primitias Spiritus, the first fruits of the Spirit (Romans 8:23). But a…

Christ said to his Father, as Rebecca to Jacob, Upon me, upon me, be the curse, let the blessing be upon them, but upon me be the curse. And now there's no condemnation to believers (Romans 8:1). An unbeliever has a double condemnation; one from the law which he has transgressed…

(Romans 8:34) Who also makes intercession for us. When Aaron entered into the holy place, his bells gave a sound; so Christ having entered into Heaven, his intercession makes a melodious sound in the ears of God.

Had not Christ suffered on the Cross, we must have lain in Hell for ever satisfying God's justice. 2. The severity of God: Though it were his own Son, the son of his love, and our sins were but imputed to him, yet God did not spare him (Romans 8:32), but his wrath did flame agai…

Romans 8:30 Them he also called. Quest. 20. What is effectual calling?

Repentance is not in the outward severities used to the body — penance, fasting, and chastising the body — but it consists in the sacrifice of a broken heart; thanksgiving does not stand in church music, the melody of an organ, but rather making melody in the heart to the Lord (…

And the glory you have given me, I have given them; there is possession. Glory shall be revealed in us (Romans 8:18), not only revealed to us, but in us. To behold God's glory, there is glory revealed to us; but to partake of his glory, there is glory revealed in us.

There is none else to shield off the wrath of God from us (1 Thessalonians 1:10): Jesus has delivered us from wrath to come. 3. Subject to all outward miseries: All the troubles incident to man's life are the bitter fruits of original sin; the sin of Adam has subjected the creat…

Not that he could go out of God's sight, but the meaning is, Cain went from the church and people of God, where the Lord gave visible tokens of his presence. Third Sign of Adoption: To have the conduct of God's Spirit (Romans 8:14). As many as are led by the Spirit of God, are t…

Resp. It is not vocal, any audible voice, or brought to us by the help of an Angel, or Revelation; assurance consists of a practical syllogism, where the Word of God makes the major, conscience the minor, the Spirit of God the conclusion. The Word says, He that fears and loves G…

Resp. The whole Trinity, all the persons in the blessed Trinity have a hand in the Justification of a sinner: Opera Trinitatis ad extra sunt indivisa. God the Father is said to justify (Romans 8:33). It is God that justifies. God the Son is said to justify (Acts 13:39). By him a…

He is enslaved. Thus sinners are in the house of bondage, but God takes his elect out of this house of bondage: He beats off the chains and fetters of sin: He rescues them from their slavery: He makes them free, by bringing them into the glorious liberty of the children of God (…

2. He will bless us with peace (Psalm 29:11): The Lord will bless his people with peace: Outward peace, which is the nurse of plenty (Psalm 147:14): He makes peace in your borders: Inward peace, a smiling conscience: This is sweeter than the dropping honey. 2. God will turn all…

That I may be found in him. Faith implants us into Christ, it ingarrisons us in him; and then there's no condemnation (Romans 8:1). There's no standing before Christ but by being in Christ.

In particular, this is one branch of his wisdom, that he knows what is best for us: An earthly parent knows not in some intricate cases how to advise his child, or what may be best for him to do; but God is a most wise Father; he knows what is best for us; he knows when comfort…

So I prayed to the God of Heaven. 4. Conceived prayer; when we pray for those things which God puts into our heart (Romans 8:26). The Spirit helps us with sighs and groans.

3. You that are Christians, believe that all God's providences shall conspire for the good of his people, and shall promote their salvation at last. The providences of God are sometimes dark, and our eyes dim, and we can hardly tell what to make of them: but when we cannot unrid…

Yet further, the power and Godhead of the Holy Ghost appeared in the effecting the glorious conception of our Lord Jesus Christ; the very shadow of the Holy Ghost made a virgin conceive (Luke 1:35). The Holy Ghost works miracles, which transcend the sphere of nature; as raising…

One day's wearing the crown will abundantly pay for all the Saints' sufferings — how much more than when they shall reign for ever and ever (Revelation 22:5). O let this support you under all the calamities and sufferings in this life: what a vast difference is there between a b…

Secondly, in the foregoing verses he had spoken of justification, whereby God pardons our sins and accepts our persons. The prophet, or Christ in the person of his elect (as some interpret), having expressed his assurance of this: 'God is near that justifies me, who shall condem…

Why does he sometimes assist us in prayer and fill our sails, and again at other times leave our hearts empty? Is it not that we may learn that lesson of Romans 8:26 — that it is the Spirit who helps our weaknesses and that we of ourselves know not what nor how to ask? In like m…

For our spirit — that is, our graces — never witnesses alone; but if God's Spirit does not join in testimony therewith, it is silent. 'The Spirit of God witnesses with our spirits' (Romans 8:16). Now therefore, when God has withdrawn his testimony, then the testimony of our hear…

For the Spirit is not the direct efficient or positive cause of them. And to this end we may consider that known place: Romans 8:16: 'You have not received the spirit of bondage to fear again, but the spirit of adoption.' The right understanding of which will also prevent an obj…

The righteousness of his life and death is not only a sufficient ransom (1 Timothy 2:6), but there is 'plenteous redemption' in it (Psalm 130) — yes, to superfluity, as the apostle's phrase implies (1 Timothy 1:14), overfull, more than would serve the need, and that to pardon th…

God's General calling, is, whereby he calls all men to repentance by the Gospel, and so to life eternal. Of this, speaks the Apostle, Romans 8:30. Whom God predestinated, them also he called: and Romans 11:29.

This is a sovereign remedy against immoderate grief in the greatest distress: and, undoubtedly the floods of affliction shall never overwhelm him, that has his heart assured by faith of the mercy of God towards him by Jesus Christ. This made David say, He would not fear evil, th…

Romans 8:28. We know that all things work together for good, to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

2. Sanctification of body and soul (1 Thessalonians 4:3): This is the will of God, even your sanctification, etc. 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 3:1…

It is a blessed work of the spirit. Romans 8:15. We have received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, that is, father. And Romans 8:26. Likewise the spirit helps our infirmities: for we know not what to pray as we ought: but the spirit itself makes request.

This point is the rather to be marked, because his power in the matter of grace is not to be seen with the eye; and few there be in respect that have felt the virtue thereof in themselves: for the devil does mightily show his contrary power in the greatest part of the world, in…

Answer: It is no lip-labor, it is the putting up of a suit to God, and this action is peculiar to the very heart of a man. Romans 8:26. The spirit makes request for us. But how?

It is a metaphor alluding to water, quae ebullit prae ardore, which boils over; a good heart boils over with hot affections in prayer; there may be powder in a gun when there is no fire; some may have good matter in prayer, but no fire of affection to discharge it; prayer withou…

This appears (Genesis 8:21): The frame of man's heart (says the Lord) is evil even from his childhood: that is, the disposition of the understanding, will, affections, with all that the heart of man devises, forms, or imagines, is wholly evil. And Paul says (Romans 8:5): The wis…

Whereby we see they desire a final deliverance of the Church and a destruction of the enemies thereof, that they themselves with all the people of God might be advanced to fullness of glory in body and soul. Yes, the dumb creatures in Romans 8:23 are said to groan and sigh, wait…

Christ says in Matthew 5:6: Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be satisfied — where by persons hungering and thirsting are meant all such as feel with grief their own want of righteousness and withal desire to be justified and sanctified.…

In original sin are three things: 1, the punishment, which is the first and second death. 2, Guiltiness, which is the binding up of the creature to punishment. 3, the fault or the offending of God, under which I comprehend our guiltiness in Adam's first offense, as also the corr…

The first part of this reason is true, and cannot be denied of any. The second part is proved thus: Saint Paul says (Romans 8:15): We have not received the spirit of bondage to fear: but the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry Abba, Father: adding further, that the same spirit be…

And (Ephesians 2:8-10): By grace you are saved through faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God: not of works which God has prepared that we should walk in them. If any works be crowned, it is certain that the sufferings of Martyrs shall be rewarded: now of them…

Hebrews 12:10: 'But he for our profit.' Romans 8:28: 'All things work together for good.' They are God's workmen upon our hearts, to pull down the pride and carnal security of them.

So working upon it, in order to this self-same thing, continually. To which words there, these here have an evident aspect; yet so, as that time of working is but during this life: for it is while the outward man is moldering, and that by afflictions, which during this moment wo…

For answer to this Question, divers places of scripture are to be skanned; wherein this case of conscience, is fully answered and resolued. The first place is Rom. 8. 16. And the spirit of God testifies together with our spirits, that we are the sonnes of God.

Unto you it is given (says Paul) for Christ, that not onely ye should believe in him, but also suffer for his sake. The Fourth ground of comfort in affliction is, that euery affliction upon the seruants of God, has some special goodnesse in it, Rom. 8. 28. We know that all thing…

We are not sufficient (says the Apostle, 2 Corinthians 3:5) of ourselves as of ourselves to think anything, not so much as a good thought. 2. The Scripture holds him out not only as unable for good, but perverse and bent to everything that is evil (Colossians 1:21), alienated an…

He is better content with your recovery than ever he was discontent or ill-pleased with all the wrong you did to him. Use 3. This word of doctrine lays down the ground on which a sinner sensible of sin may build his expectation of peace with God; The transaction concluded and ag…

Our Lord Jesus not only died and was laid in the grave, but he went further in (to speak so,) he was even at the bar of Justice, libelled, exacted upon and sentenced, and the sentence executed upon him, else, woe had been to us. On this ground is that triumph, Romans 8: Who shal…

For 1. Has a believing sinner to do with challenges at the bar of justice, is it not unspeakable consolation that their debt is paid? Hence it is said (Romans 8:33), Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifies; who shall condemn?

Thus you see what is the meaning of these words, "my people" — that is, his elect people in or by the decree of election. I shall shortly give you some few grounds from Scripture to clear and confirm this truth; the first of which is taken from the names that the people of God g…

We grant indeed that the people of God are free of sin in these respects. 1. In this respect, that no sin can condemn them, they are not under the Law but under Grace in that respect (Romans 8:1). It is said that there is no condemnation to them who are in Christ. 2. In this res…

3. In respect of His having had a hand actively in them; and as he was the chief party that pursued Christ; it was He that was exacting the elect's debt of Him; therefore the Lord looks over Pilate and Herod to Him; and says to Pilate you could have no power over me except it we…

And as a man that refuses his food murders himself, so he that refuses to work out his salvation does destroy himself. The vessels of mercy are said to be prepared to glory (Romans 9:23) — how are they prepared, but by being sanctified, and that cannot be but in the use of means…

Before I proceed to the questions, I shall lay down three positions: 1. Adoption takes in all nations: At first adoption was confined to the people of the Jews; they only were grafted in to the true Olive, and were dignified with glorious privileges (Romans 9:4). Who are Israeli…

Which of these two is fittest to take place, God's Justice or man's reason? (Romans 9:20) Who are you, O man, that dispute against God? The plumb line of our reason is too short to fathom the depth of God's Justice, (Romans 11:33) How unsearchable are his Judgments!

God's power is a glorious power (Colossians 1:11). 1. It is an irresistible power (Romans 9:19). Who has resisted his will.

Objection. It is said, Christ died for all; he is the Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world, (John 1:29). How does this consist with God's truth, when some are vessels of wrath? (Romans 9:22). Answer. 1. We must distinguish of world.

1. It is to be preferred before life; we pray, Hallowed be your Name, before we pray, Give us this day our daily bread. 2. It is to be preferred before salvation (Romans 9:1): God's glory is more worth than the salvation of all men's souls. As Christ said of love (Matthew 22:37)…

Resp. The party baptized has, (1.) an entrance into the visible body of the Church. (2.) The party baptized has a right sealed to the ordinances, which is a privilege full of glory (Romans 9:4). (3.) The child baptized is under a more special providential care of Christ, who app…

(5.) God's will is an irresistible will; we may oppose it, but we cannot hinder it. The rising of the wave cannot stop the ship when it is in full sail; so the rising up of our will against God cannot stop the execution of his will (Romans 9:19). Who has resisted his will?

So likewise on the contrary, darkness and distress of conscience is but a temporal chastisement as outward crosses are, differing from them only in the subject matter — the one being conversant about things of the outward man, this about the inward, namely, a man's spiritual sta…

For the first: Abraham was called, the son of Terah: but neither his father Terah, nor his brother Nahor were called, but Abraham alone. But it may worthily be demanded, why God should not call his Father and his kindred: there can be no answer but this, that the Apostle gives,…

As it is said of Abraham, and in him, of all the faithful; The blessing of Abraham came on the Gentiles, through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the spirit, through faith: Galatians 3.14. Further observe, the Holy Ghost setteth down that particular promise whi…

Nay, such is the power of love to God when it is fervent, that it makes a man so zealous of God's glory, that if there were no other way to glorify God, than by sufferings; the child of God would rather yield himself to endure the torments of the damned, than suffer God to lose…

Saint Paul counted Gold and Pearl but dung for Christ, Philippians 3:8. Yea, he was so inflamed in love to God, that he could have wished himself accursed from Christ, for his Brethren the Jews, Romans 9:3. Not that he could be accursed from Christ; but such was his fervent love…

Hence again we learn, that they which persuade themselves that they are in the favor of God, because they live at ease in wealth and prosperity, are far deceived. For saint Paul says, God suffers with long patience the vessels of wrath prepared to destruction, to make known his…

For, for one thing to be first wrought in order to another, is a preparation to it. Now says the text, He has wrought us for this thing; and Romans 9:23, it is in terminis, the vessels of mercy, which he had before prepared to glory; which was by working holiness: for it follows…

First, his indisputable sovereignty over them. Romans 9:20: Who are you, O man, who disputes with God? He speaks this in the matters of eternal election and reprobation.

The glorious sovereignty of God is illustriously displayed in two things, his decrees, and his providences. With respect to the first he says (Romans 9:15), I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy. Here is no ground of disputing with him; for so it is said, verse 20, Who are…

I will take one of a city, and two of a family, and bring you to Zion, says the Lord; it's two or three in the corner of a parish, or in the end of a town, to speak so, who are converted, and the rest are suffered to lie in black nature. If the reason thereof be inquired after,…

As Christ says (John 6:44), "No man can come to me" — that is, no man can believe in me — "except the Father who has sent me draw him;" yes, why does God find fault with men for their unbelief? For answer, it has been no new thing for men to start questions and objections agains…

For the first, when we say to all that hears this Gospel that there is a necessity of a powerful work of grace before this Word can be profitable, you should 1. Abstain from, and lay aside curiosity in seeking satisfying answers to all these objections that are moved against it,…

There are four qualifications or properties in this doctrine, which will serve to clear it. 1. When we say there is such a decree of election, we say that it is a discriminating or differencing decree; wherein, or whereby there is a taking of some, and not all, a taking of one,…

There is a world of reprobates whom Christ never loved with peculiar love, and sure for these he did not die. Jacob have I loved but Esau have I hated, says the Lord (Romans 9:13), which the Apostle holds forth as a sort of copy of God's dealing in reprobation and election in re…

But to give obedience to the command of believing they mind it not; they can live, and die without it. This was the woeful, and soul-ruining practice of the Jews of old, as we are told, (Romans 9). They took much pains to come by righteousness, but they attained it not, because…

And how is it that many of you win so easily at it? Seeing the Apostle (Romans 9) calls it, a stumbling stone to many, and a rock of offence; surely, [reconstructed: if] it be so, your coming at it by guess, and ignorantly is to be suspected. And therefore on this consideration…

Because, not any Saint on earth can be so united personally to God, as the Son of Man; for he being made of a woman, of the seed of David, the Son of Man, he, and not any but he, is the eternal Son of God, God blessed for ever. The Child born to us, is the mighty God, the Father…

Arminians hold, that the Lord's decree of election of men to glory is general, conditional, incomplete, changeable, while he foresees they have ended their course in the faith, and then peremptorily, and irrevocably, he passes a fixed decree to save such, and not others. We deny…

Also they that were at Jerusalem complained of Peter for that he went into men uncircumcised and did eat with them (Acts 11:3): but when they heard the matter declared by Peter in order as it was done touching Cornelius, they marveled, and glorified God saying (verse 18): Then h…

Therefore we must always believe, and always hope: we must always take hold of Christ as the head and fountain of our righteousness. He that believes in him shall not be ashamed (Romans 9:33). Moreover, we must labor to be outwardly righteous also: that is to say, not to consent…

It seems to reason that it is a matter of small importance. Therefore if the Holy Spirit does not magnify it (Romans 9:23), and add a weight to it, it is contemned.

This glorious boasting then: We are the seed of Abraham, is to no purpose. This argument Paul sets out plainly in Romans 9 by two examples of the holy scripture. The first is of Ishmael and Isaac, which were both the seed and natural children of Abraham, and yet notwithstanding…

Answer: God has given to the Church the power of building, and it has 4 degrees — admonition, suspension from the sacraments, excommunication, anathema. And this last is a censure or judgment of the Church, whereby it pronounces a man severed from Christ and adjudged to eternal…

Answer: Here the Jews are opposed to sinners of the Gentiles: and therefore by the Jews, are meant a holy, and peculiar people. The distinction therefore lies in this, that the one was holy, the other profane: the one in the covenant, the other out of the covenant (Romans 9:4-5;…

Cor 5:17. flesh, and the new creature are opposed. And Paul says, Rom 9:29. He is a Iew, that is a lew within, in the spirit, hauing the circumcision of the heart.

Teachers must show their love, by tendering the salvation of the people by all means, even as their own souls. Paul could have found in his heart to have been accursed for his countrymen the Jews (Romans 9). He desired that he might be offered up as a drink offering upon the sac…

III. Rom. 9. God chose Jacob, and hated Esau: and we must be like to God.

3. for men of the same country. Thus all the Jews are called brethren one to another (Deuteronomy 17:15), From among your brethren shall you make a king over you, and (Deuteronomy 23:19), You shall not give to usury to your brother, and (Romans 9:1), Paul says, he could wish him…

Thus it pleases the Lord to keep his hand in; to the end he may still continue a Church in the world. And Saint Paul also who is the best expositor of this place yields the same reason: for alleging it in the Epistle to the Romans (Romans 9:29), he beats down the insolence of th…

For he takes the midst of the earth for the heart of it, that is to say, for the places most strong and best fortified. Many think the word Consumption should be an adjective: but I had rather affirm that it is a substantive, according to which sense it is taken in Daniel (Danie…

Whereas he puts the whole land for Babylon, he has respect to the largeness of the kingdom, that they might not think to prevent the assaults of the enemies by means of the provinces with which they were environed on every side: indeed, notwithstanding that he shows the calamity…

No question but the Prophets feared the vengeance of God of which they were the Heralds, more than any other: and however they sharply threatened the people as in regard of the person they sustained, yet did they never so cast off the affection of love, but they always had compa…

As often then as they allege a text out of the Old Testament, they diligently retain both the end and use of it. The Apostle alleging this prophecy translated it according to the Greek: Whoever believes, shall not be confounded (Romans 9:33) which agrees with the Prophet: for wi…

In the third place he adds, the seed of Abraham, to teach us, that election depends upon the free promise of God: not that the promise goes before election (which is from everlasting) but because the Lord makes known his favor in respect of his promise: for to Abraham he said, I…

Saint Paul uses the same similitude, but it is in a matter of a higher nature, for he disputes about the point of God's eternal predestination, and manifests men's blind conceits, who reason with God why he has chosen some, and rejected others. Then he shows, that men at the lea…

For mine house shall be called, &c.] The Temple was only destined to the Jews, by whom the Lord would especially be called upon. And therefore when Paul would show that the Jews were above the Gentiles in dignity, he says, that to them belonged the service of God: (Romans 9:4).…

I answer, that the Apostle retains the Prophet's true meaning, Answer. if all be well considered: for the Jews are said to be far off here, because they seemed to be banished out from the house of the Lord: and in this respect their condition was like to that of the Gentiles. Se…

But the Prophet uses a phrase of speech very ordinary. For the Holy Spirit is wont to say, that God causes men to err, hardens, and gives men up into a reprobate mind (2 Thessalonians 2:11; Romans 9:18 and 1:28). Now when the faithful speak thus, they mean nothing less than to m…

So then as well the great, as the small, who had always obstinately resisted God, did yet more licentiously overflow at that time; so as being come to the top, in the day of their destruction, they were wholly forsaken of God, whose Son they had willfully rejected. And from henc…

And hence we observe how the Apostles were wont to allege the testimonies of the Prophets, and to show the end and true use of them. As Saint Paul alleges the testimony of Hosea, I will call them my people which were not my people (Romans 9:26; Hosea 1:10). Where he appropriates…

A universal covenant of salvation had been made by God with the posterity of Abraham; but, as stones moistened by the rain do not become soft, so the promised righteousness and salvation are prevented from reaching unbelievers through their own hardness of heart. Meanwhile, to m…

Matthew 24:15. When you shall see the abomination of desolation. Because the destruction of the temple and city of Jerusalem, together with the overthrow of the whole Jewish government, was (as we have already said) a thing incredible, and because it might be thought strange, th…

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…

This is to dishonor God, and take his name in vain; this is to make God either an idol, that he has ears and hears not, or a liar, who promises mercy to the penitent, but will not make good his word (John 5:10): He that believes not, has made God a liar. When the Apostle says, H…

3. The ear; which is the conduit pipe through which knowledge is conveyed. Better lose our seeing than our hearing, for faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). To have an ear open to God, is the best jewel on the ear. 4. The tongue. David calls the tongue his glory (Psalm 16:9).…

Faith is a humble grace, it gives all to Christ, it is an adorer of free grace; and free grace being advanced here, God has his glory, and it is his highest wisdom to exalt his own glory. 3. The way of working faith declares God's wisdom; it is wrought by the Word preached (Roma…

Answer: No: as grace is not sufficient to make a minister, so neither are gifts; therefore it is observable that the Scripture puts a difference between gifting and sending. Romans 10:15: How shall they preach, unless they be sent? If gifts were enough to constitute a minister,…

The Bible is bespangled with promises made to prayer, (Isaiah 30:19) "He will be very gracious to you at the voice of your cry." "The Lord is rich to all that call upon him" (Romans 10:12). (Jeremiah 29:13) "Then shall you find me when you search for me with all your heart."

(Matthew 7:1). 6. Lay aside disobedience, (Romans 10:21). All the day long have I stretched forth my hands to a disobedient people.

Surely, were it not for the ministry, you would not be a vineyard, but a desert. Were it not for the ministry, you would be destitute of the two seals of the covenant, Baptism and the Lord's Supper; you would be infidels; for faith comes by hearing; and how shall they hear witho…

And all angel-worship is forbidden (Colossians 2:18-19). We must not pray to any but whom we may believe in (Romans 10:14). How shall they call upon him in whom they have not believed?

While the saints have their lamp of grace burning here, they need the oil of ordinances to be continually dropping upon them; but there will be no need of this oil when they are stars in Heaven. If you intend to get to Heaven, be swift to hear; for faith comes by hearing (Romans…

When they are in danger of shipwreck, they pray to Saint Nicholas; when they are in the fit of a fever, they pray to Saint Petronelle; when they are in travail, they pray to Saint Margaret. How unlawful it is to invoke Saints in prayer, I will prove from one Scripture (Romans 10…

This differs as much from the goodness of nature you bring into the world, or which has been worked in you by education, as the fire and light of the sun in heaven differs from common fire, or the light of a glow-worm from that of the sun. Now because the Jews rested in such an…

But no man's own righteousness can make him the righteousness of God, nor can God's righteousness be the righteousness of man: therefore it remains, that only Christ, being both God and man, has in him that righteousness, which may make a man the righteousness of God. Thirdly, t…

Now, as God in mercy dealt with these, so did he in like mercy call Rahab the harlot above all the people of Jericho; for, they trusted to their strong walls, and therefore died; but Rahab believed, that the God of Israel was the true God, and so had mercy showed unto her. Now,…

Luke 11:13. If you which are evil can give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your heavenly father give the Holy Spirit to them that desire him. Romans 10:12. He that is Lord over all, is rich to all that call on him. James 4:8. Draw near to God, and he will draw n…

The place and seat of faith (as I think) is the mind of man, not the will: for it stands in a kind of particular knowledge or persuasion, and there is no persuasion but in the mind. Paul says indeed, that we believe with the heart (Romans 10), but by the heart he understands the…

The first is, to whom we are to pray. The answer is, to God alone: Romans 10:14. How shall they call on him in whom they have not believed, etc. Mark how invocation and faith are linked together.

Nay, we are commanded only to call upon God: Him only shall you serve (Matthew 4:10). And: How shall we call upon him in whom we have not believed? (Romans 10:14). And we have no promise to be heard but for Christ's sake.

And therefore when this faith shall cease which he wrought for this, he will attain his end without delay: and you (says he) shall attain your end also: and faith thus ceasing, if this salvation of the soul did not succenturiate and recruit it anew, the end of this faith were wh…

2. Consider that the prophet speaks of this report, not as in his own person only, but as in the person of all that ever preached, or shall preach this gospel; therefore this report is not peculiar to Isaiah, but it's our report, the report of the prophets before, and of these a…

So it is with many, they will say, they hope to escape hell, and to get their sin pardoned, and to win to heaven, and they believe it will be so, when in the meantime there is no ground for it, but clear ground to the contrary. A fifth ground is, folks' spiritual and practical i…

I shall first name some direct Scriptures holding out some things essentially accompanying faith, and then shall add others having more specific characters for the more particular differencing of this, helping to the decision of this great question. The first mark whereby you ma…

Indeed, 3. By the preaching of the Gospel, He holds out what men's ability is, or rather what is their inability, and by His external calling gives them in it occasion to know this their inability in not giving obedience to His call; and this is no small advantage, when by it th…

2. It is implied, that Jesus Christ is only to be proposed as the object of faith, to be rested on by the hearers of the gospel, and as the only ground of their peace; there is no name that can be mentioned for the salvation of souls, but this name only; and there is no other go…

And therefore, by all means run and flee to him, as having this fear, lest the Avenger of Blood pursue and overtake you; and if you cannot run so fast as you would, yet run as you may; and you have this advantage that the City of Refuge is not far off, it's near you even at your…

The second thing then, is, the duty that lies on people to whom the Lord sends the gospel, or this report concerning Christ, and you may take it in this general; that it lies on all that hear the gospel to believe the report that it brings concerning Christ, and by faith to rece…

There were many Jews, who by the daily sacrifices, which typified this one offering of Christ, were taught that there was no other way to come by pardon and peace with God, but by use making of it; and yet the most part of them, in going about these sacrifices, were slighters of…

This is it that we call you to, even to quit your own feet, and to roll yourselves over on Christ. A fifth expression is, Romans 10:3, where it's called a submitting to the righteousness of God; which is held out in the Gospel, thus, as if a king were proclaiming a pardon to reb…

This is implied in that word, "his knowledge." So, in Romans 10, it is said, "How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard," which says plainly that there cannot be faith, except knowledge precede. I observe this the rather, because many think to come to Heaven with…

Have you not heard it? Yes verily; we may here allude to that Word (Romans 10:16): Doubtless you have heard, the sound thereof is come to you; and you shall never have that to object, that you heard it not. This text, and this same sermon on it, and others, will bear witness, th…

These words show the great scope and design of the covenant of redemption, and of Christ's sufferings agreed upon therein; which have been so much insisted on in the former verses; and that's in a word, that there may be a ground laid down, how a sinner may be justified; therefo…

You will ask men, how does knowledge and faith differ, seeing, wherever there is faith, there is knowledge, though not contrary ways, wherever there is knowledge there is faith? We shall not stand upon this; but shortly we conceive, that knowledge discovers the object, and faith…

We may instance and illustrate it also in the example of the Prodigal, wherein we may find something of all this; when he had been in the height of his distraction and madness, in his natural condition; it is said, he came to himself, he knew and believed that there was meat eno…

Much and long — or many years of preaching, much plain and powerful preaching — and yet little or no fruit; they are snared and taken, and fall backward, for all that. And this was not in Isaiah's days only, but in Christ's days (John 12:37-38), and in Paul's days (Romans 10:16)…

So (Philippians 3:8-9), I count all things to be but dung that I may win Christ, and be found in him, not having my own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith, and (Romans 3:25), whom God has…

2. That there is such a kind of sin as unbelief, beside other sins, and such a distinct duty as believing, that if folks could do all other duties, if this duty of believing be wanting, they will be still sinful, and there will be still ground of complaint; and if faith be a par…

4. We shall answer some practical doubts that have, or may have some puzzling influence on the consciences of some Christians; But as I said, we had need, in speaking, and hearing of these things, to be awed with some deep impression of the majesty of God on our hearts, lest we…

We cannot naturally endure it. Therefore, in Romans 10, it's said of the Jews that being ignorant of God's Righteousness, they did not submit nor stoop to the same, but sought to establish their own righteousness. 3. There is a readiness to settle and condescend on almost any ot…

Fourthly, as for directions to help and further you to believe, it's not easy, but very difficult to give them, it being impossible to satisfy the curiosity of nature; neither can any directions be prescribed that without the special work of God's Spirit, can effectuate the thin…

And considering the case of people generally, if our hearts were suitably tender, it would make us even burst for grief to see so many sleeping securely and senselessly in their sins, and in that pitiful posture posting to the pit, if God prevent not. Observation 3. The third ob…

(Galatians 3:10) For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse. Then there must be none redeemed under the Old Testament, nor any justified, contrary to express Scriptures: (Psalm 32:1-2; Romans 4:1-6; Galatians 3:14; Acts 15:11; Acts 11:16-17; Romans 10:1-3). N…

2. No man living on earth, but he is beholden to Christ (though many know him not) for common helps of providence, and experiences do teach him some more of God by nature. 3. The sound of Christ, God revealed in the Gospel, in the Apostles' ministry is declared, and is gone to t…

Thus the captain of our salvation (being made perfect through sufferings and then crowned with glory and honor in bringing many sons to glory, as Hebrews 2:10, of which company he was captain) is brought in saying to God, verse 13: 'Behold I and the children which God has given…

For the further opening of this point, you shall see it in some things principally, which are ever found in some measure in the spirits of Christian men that have any life in Christ. First, that which is wonderful, and is indeed nowhere found but in them, their very knowledge is…

And had God been pleased at any time to think that these writings should be effectual to convert men to grace, surely, it had been a notable means for the Apostles to have sent sundry epistles to many churches, to whom they should never personally come: But this was their care,…

And therefore as you desire to grow in believing, be diligent in these duties, that you may believe on the name of Christ, and in believing may believe much more. And for you that do not believe savingly, whose faith will not put you in possession of eternal life, though this Sc…

Now to pray in the name of Christ, is not only to pray in humility, but also to pray in faith, and these acts of faith you have in all the prayers that you put up to God according to his will. First, faith directs you to pray only to him, upon whom you have believed (Romans 10:1…

What word of God was it, by which you were begotten? It is a general speech, that in (Romans 10:17). faith comes by hearing, and by the doctrine of faith preached, (Galatians 3:5). that is, the Gospel of faith; so that this is the point: there is some promise which being reporte…

In doing this, you shall both save yourself and them that hear you. Romans 10:14. If by any Means I may provoke to Emulation them which are my Flesh, and might save some of them.

However we are to put forth our utmost endeavor and raise the natural spirit as far as we can. 2. The second agent is the new nature which inclines us to God as our chief good and last end: this also must be taken in, for the Holy Ghost does not blow as to a dead coal, the new n…

The sight of Caesar's bloody robe incensed the Romans against them that slew him: The sight of Christ's bleeding body should incense us against sin; let us not parley with it, let not that be our joy which made Christ a man of sorrow. Use 2. Is Christ our Priest sacrificed, see…

They who are effectually called, are candidates of heaven, they are princes in all lands (Psalm 45:16), though princes in disguise. 3. It is an immutable call (Romans 11:9). The gifts and calling of God are without repentance; that is, those gifts which flow from election, (as v…

Reason thinks God must go such a way to work, or the business will never be effected. This is to limit God to our reason, whereas he is infinite, and his ways are past finding out (Romans 11:33). In the deliverance of the church it is a limiting God either to set him a time, or…

It is he that has made us. We think it a great kindness in a man to spare our life, but what kindness is it in God to give us our life; we draw our breath from him, and as life, so all the comforts of life are from God: he gives us health, which is the sauce to sweeten our life;…

(Romans 9:20) Who are you, O man, that dispute against God? The plumb line of our reason is too short to fathom the depth of God's Justice, (Romans 11:33) How unsearchable are his Judgments! We are to adore God's Justice, where we cannot see a reason of it.

First, Take heed of presumption: Do not presume upon your own strength. Exercise a holy fear and jealousy over your own hearts (Romans 11:20). Be not high minded but fear (1 Corinthians 10:12).

1. Here was the masterpiece of divine wisdom, to contrive a way to happiness between the sin of man, and the justice of God. We may cry out with the Apostle (Romans 11:33), [illegible], O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! This posed men and angels.

2. We could give Christ nothing in lieu of his love. (Romans 11:35) Who has first given to him? We were fallen to poverty; if we have any beauty, it is from Christ.

17. It is mercy that there is a possibility of happiness, and that upon our pains taking we may have a kingdom; by our fall in Adam we forfeited Heaven; why might not God have dealt with us as with the lapsed angels? They had no sooner sinned but were expelled Heaven never to co…

Of this, speaks the Apostle, Romans 8:30. Whom God predestinated, them also he called: and Romans 11:29. The calling of God, is without repentance.

Answer. We must understand the Apostle according to his meaning: for, Romans 11.15, he expounds himself, and shows what he means by the world; saying, That the falling away of the Jews, is the reconciling of the world: which cannot be understood of men in all the ages; but in th…

5. See here the wisdom of God, who can make the worst things imaginable turn to the good of the Saints; he can by a divine Chemistry extract Gold out of dross. [...] — O the depth of the wisdom of God! Romans 11.33. It is God's great design to set forth the wonder of his wisdom.

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…

For all works done are in the matter of justification and salvation opposed to the grace of Christ. Romans 11:6: Election is of grace, not of works; if it be of works, it is no more of grace. Again, whereas they teach that we are saved by the works of Christ which he works in us…

If any ask the cause of this distinction, I answer: it is the very will of God, vouchsafing mercy to some and forsaking others by withdrawing his mercy from them, for the better declaration of his justice. Thus says the Lord in Romans 11:4: I have reserved seven thousand that ne…

Ans The same Apostle shall againe answer for himselfe. Rom. 11. 15. The casting away of the Jews, is the reconciling of the world, that is, of the Gentiles in the last age of the world: for so he said before more plainly, The falling avvay of the Ievv, is the riches of the world…

Thirdly, to what is the native use it calls for; and lastly, to some considerations to press this. For the first, when we say to all that hears this Gospel that there is a necessity of a powerful work of grace before this Word can be profitable, you should 1. Abstain from, and l…

Some are ready to think (as was hinted before) that the elect by nature were better than others, or that God foresaw they would be better, and therefore he elected them. This piece of Arminianism is in all naturally; but this text in down-right contradiction to such a groundless…

Thus you see what is the meaning of these words, "my people" — that is, his elect people in or by the decree of election. I shall shortly give you some few grounds from Scripture to clear and confirm this truth; the first of which is taken from the names that the people of God g…

4. They have a rich portion from Him, and are well provided for. 5. What good they get, is for His sake, who is their Father; here we may allude to that word (Romans 11), they are beloved for the Father's sake, by a right and title to Him; they come to have a good and goodly por…

It is so, first, that the Lord may humble all flesh, as the Apostle says (Romans 3:19): that every mouth may be stopped, and that all the world may become guilty before God. Second, it is so ordered, that His grace may shine the more conspicuously; when the person is found guilt…

A second sort, are such as want not affection to truth; nor love to piety, yet to them the studying of this doctrine, that concerns Christ, and His offices, is somewhat tasteless, and wearisome; they would be at hearing of duties, cases and questions spoken of; though we may, in…

Object 3. If the promise be made sure of God to faith, of grace, then it is not first made sure of faith to works. But the promise is made sure of God, to faith, out of grace (Romans 4:5), to him that works not, but believes: the opposition between grace and works (Romans 11:6;…

Answer. The word "world" refers to the nations and Gentiles, and believers are elect of both Jews and Gentiles (John 3:16), "God so loved the world." (Romans 11:12), "If the fall of them be the riches of the world; if the casting away of them be the reconciliation of the world"…

All the sheaves in a field being unholy of themselves, there was some one sheaf in the name and room of all the rest, (which was called the first-fruit) which was lifted up, and waved before the Lord; and so all the sheaves abroad in the field, by that act done to this one sheaf…

If we see them to sink under the burden of sin, not there to let them lie, but though we could find in our hearts there to let them lie, yet we ought not so to satisfy ourselves, but to look to our brethren in such a case, and do the best we can to recover them from going astray…

As the Heathens of old said to the Christians, Do but touch the Censer. The commendation of God's servants was, that they had not bowed the knee to Baal (Romans 11:4). The devil knows, if he can get us to a little, he shall get us to more; and the least reverence is too much to…

Likewise when Paul so highly commends his calling, he seeks not his own praise, but with a necessary and holy pride he magnifies his ministry. As to the Romans 11, he says: For as much as I am the Apostle of the Gentiles, I will magnify my office: that is to say, I will that men…

Whereas Paul beginnes his prayer with grace, we learne that Grace in God is the first cause and beginning of all good things in vs. Election is of grace. Rom. 11. v. 5. Vocation to salvation is of Grace. 2.

The last point is, that the Jews are a holy people by nature: not because holiness is conveyed to them by generation, but because even from their beginning, and birth, by virtue of the covenant, they are holy. If the root be holy, the branches are holy (Romans 11:16). If either…

That our frailty and weakness may not be hurtful to us, we must remember two rules. One is, not to have a conceit of anything in us: but to hold our faith and religion in fear, as in the presence of God (Romans 11:20). The second, to take heed that there be not in us an evil, co…

In respect of this second estate, the Church may be in desolation. This was the condition of the Church in paradise upon the fall of our first parents, of the Israelites at Mount Horeb, when they worshipped the golden calf, and in the days of Elijah (Romans 11:3), and afterward…

Hence that phrase and forme of speech in our English Liturgie, or Common prayer booke, (though misliked by some, and cauilled at by others) has his warrant and ground, when the Minister says, The Lord be with you; and the people answer, And with your spirit, wishing the same to…

He will yet choose Israel] (says he.) The election of God is eternal: for he chooses us not, as if he thought not on it before: and even as we were chosen before the foundations of the world, so does he never repent himself of the same his election (Ephesians 1:4; Romans 11:29).…

For this word heritage has a greater emphasis in it than we commonly think. For questionless that same covenant which God made first with them gave them such a privilege as could not be annulled by their unthankfulness; because the gifts and callings of God are without repentanc…

For thereby he expresses the steadfastness of their election: as if he should say; I have not left or forsaken you, though you have given me many occasions: for the ingratitude of the Jews was so great, that he had just cause to have cast them off, but that he meant to show hims…

Let us know that the same is now said to us: for as this people was planted; so also have we been. We ought also to call to mind that which Saint Paul says, that we were but wild Olives, and they were the true and natural Olive (Romans 11:24). We then which were strangers are gr…

Where he adds, a better name; it may be demanded whether the Lord compares the Jews which were then in the Church, with the faithful which afterwards he will call into their room: or the estate of the people to come, with that it was then. For it is certain that the name of the…

We must therefore distinguish these things without separating or confounding them together, and so hold fast the foundation of our salvation. Saint Paul alleges this place, to show, that there yet remains some hope of salvation for the Jews, however by their untamed obstinacy we…

For the reason of God his eternal counsel belongs not to us; but we must look to the cause which is before our eyes, to wit, their rebellion, by which they made themselves unworthy of so many and great benefits. Saint Paul also shows from this place not once but often, that all…

All whom he has joined by faith to the children of Abraham are accounted the true Israel. Though the Jews, by their revolt, have separated themselves from the church of God, yet the Lord will always preserve till the end some "remnants" (Romans 11:5;) for his "calling is without…

He contrasts the Gentiles with them, in order to excite them to faith by a holy jealousy: as Paul writes, that "it will be a distinguished honor of his ministry, if he excite any of his nation and blood to such an emulation," (Romans 11:13,14.) The Jews must have been stung by i…

Hence it follows, that all are corrupted in Adam; for the mouth of the Lord charges all with pollution. It is in perfect consistency with this, that the Jews are spoken of, in other passages, as "holy branches of a holy root," (Romans 11:16): for this benefit did not properly be…

Christ is not truly acknowledged as a Savior, till, on the one hand, we learn to receive a free pardon of our sins, and know that we are accounted righteous before God, because we are free from guilt; and till, on the other hand, we ask from him the Spirit of righteousness and h…

Besides, it ought to be observed that, so long as the covenant of God remained in the family of Abraham, there was such force in it, that the inheritance of the heavenly kingdom belonged peculiarly to them. With respect to God himself, at least, they were holy branches from a ho…

This dishonor was the completion of the divine vengeance on the Jews, when God cut them off, and ingrafted wild branches into the stock of the olive-tree, (Romans 11:17;) when he threw them off, and received the polluted and filthy Gentiles into his house.

And this, no doubt, was once spoken to them, but was written for the sake of all of us, that, if God choose us to be His people, we may not grow wanton through a vain and wicked confidence in the flesh, but may endeavor, on our part, to perform the duties which he enjoins on his…

and why does he wish that they should perish twice or three times? There is nothing left for us but to ascribe glory to the judgments of God, by exclaiming with Paul, that they are a deep and unfathomable abyss, (Romans 11:33.) But it is asked, How does he declare that the proph…

It was because his grace dwelt in the people whom he had adopted; and, that his covenant might not fail, some were elected and appointed to salvation by his eternal purpose. Hence Paul ascribes to free election (Romans 11:5) the reason why out of an immense nation a remnant only…

If there were no other text in the Bible about justification but this, this would clearly and invincibly prove that we are not justified by any of our own goodness, virtue, or righteousness or for the excellency or righteousness of any thing that we have done in religion; becaus…

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). Rejoicing in hope.

1. Else we cannot serve God rightly; we can never worship God acceptably unless we worship him regularly: and how can we do that, if we are ignorant of the rules and elements of religion? We are told to give God a reasonable service (Romans 12:1). If we understand not the ground…

The world knows not what it is (1 Corinthians 2:14): The natural man receives not the things of God, neither can you know them. He knows not what it is to be transformed by the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2), or what the inward workings of the Spirit means; these are riddles…

It is not only a coal that burns but blackens. Thirdly, we are spiritual in the performance of duty; we are more serious, reverent, fervent, we have more life in prayer, we put fire to the sacrifice (Romans 12, [illegible], fervent in spirit). We serve God with more love, which…

Cheerfulness shows that there is love in the duty; and love does to our services, as the sun does to the fruit — mellow and ripen them, and make them come off with a better relish. 2. Obedience must be devout and fervent (Romans 12:11). [reconstructed: fervent in spirit], and so…

It is sad, that after the sun of the Gospel has shined so long in our horizon, yet, to this day the veil should be upon their heart. Such as are enveloped with ignorance, cannot give God a reasonable service (Romans 12:1). Ignorance is the nurse of impiety: the Schoolmen say, Om…

2. By having the renewing of the Spirit, which is nothing else but regeneration, which is called a being born of the Spirit (John 3:5). This regenerating work of the Spirit is a transformation, or change of nature (Romans 12:2). [in non-Latin alphabet], Be transformed by the ren…

Though it takes not away the life, yet the love of sin. 2. A positive part, Vivification, which is the spiritual refining of the soul, which in Scripture is called a renewing of our mind (Romans 12:2), and a partaking of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). The priests in the law no…

Is it not a wrong to God, to take his work out of his hand? He has said, 'Vengeance is mine, and I will repay' (Romans 12:19). But you will take upon you to revenge yourself: you will be both plaintiff, and judge, and executioner yourself.

It is the sense of abused kindness that causes contrition. (2.) Transformation, or change (Romans 12:2): "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Repentance works a change in the whole man: as wine put into a glass where water is, the wine runs into every part of the water…

Because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. Fervency puts life into duty (Romans 12:11). Fervent in spirit serving God; [illegible], boiling over.

God's furnace is to melt us and mold us into obedience. 2. God's mercies are to make us do his will; (Romans 12:1) I beseech you by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice. Body is by a synecdoche put for the whole man.

First, how by the fire of their own kindling — their own righteousness without Christ, such as the Pharisees had and Paul had before conversion — this should be meant, we must consider that he, speaking here to the Jews, alludes to the types of the old law with which they were a…

And look, as under the Law the burnt offerings were burnt all to smoke and ashes; so must we in our lives, wholly and altogether, give ourselves unto God, and renouncing ourselves, be nothing to the world, but wholly dedicated to God. Neither must we come unto him in our sins: f…

For the nature of man is to pine away, and to grieve at the good of another; and contrariwise it is a work of grace to rejoice thereat. Paul says, Rejoice with them that rejoice (Romans 12:15). And this was the holy practice of the friends and neighbors of Zacharias and [reconst…

2. A righteousness imparted; which is the infusing the seed and habit of grace into the soul; the making a person internally holy. And so he is said to be righteous who has a change of heart wrought in him, and is transformed by the renewing of his mind (Romans 12:2). Such an on…

O, says nature, revenge is sweet — but O, says God, the effects thereof shall be bitter. How plainly has God forbidden this flesh-pleasing sin: Proverbs 20:22, 'Say not, I will recompense evil'; Proverbs 24:29, 'Say not, I will do so to him as he has done to me'; Romans 12:17, '…

He is redeemed from his vain conversation (1 Peter 1:18). He is the temple of the Holy Ghost; he is not his own, but bought with a price; and is, being washed in Christ's blood, a king over his lusts, a priest to offer himself to God, a holy, living, and acceptable sacrifice (1…

The man never has a fair venture of heaven, nor comes into close grips with eternal love revealed till he believe, because the poor man's believing is his act of choosing God for his portion, and so cannot be an assent to a common good, general to all men, Heathens, Pagans, Jews…

First, wherever there is life, there is some warmth (2 Kings 9:34). When the Prophet had lain upon the child, and had done so seven times, at length the breath of the child began to wax warm, a sign that life was a restoring, and thereby the Prophet discerned that life began to…

And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple, and that other disciple was known to the High Priest, meaning himself, so that in these and other places you still find Peter and John together as very near and fast friends, they always keep together, possibly for spi…

Oh take heed of this; nothing breeds slightness and hardness of heart so much as perfunctory praying. The rule is continue instant in prayer (Romans 12:12), and it is said of the saints that they served God instantly day and night 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 (Acts 26:7), that they…

And in 1 Corinthians 13, Paul attributes to love all the fruits which are done in the Spirit, when he says: Love is patient, courteous, etc. Notwithstanding, he would set it here by itself among the rest of the fruits of the Spirit, and in the first place, thereby to admonish th…

And here Paul, by an holy reproofe, withstands Peter for his bad example. In Paul, here first we may behold an example of true virtue, in that he resists evil, to the uttermost of his power, following his own rule, Abhor that which is evil, and cleave to that which is good (Roma…

Thirdly, we must know God in respect of his will, in all things to be done, and to be suffered: and this is the right knowledge of God, to have regard to his will. Rom 12:2. Eph 5:17.

I say in the use: because liberty itself is inwardly in the conscience: and the use of it is often in the outward action: and therefore under the order of human law. The fifth rule: Our liberty must be used for right ends; as namely the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31), the pr…

A soft, meek, and mild answer turns away wrath (Proverbs 15:1). Meek and gentle behavior heaps coals of fire upon our enemies' heads (Romans 12:20). A soft tongue breaks the bones (Proverbs 25:15).

To conclude, the Prophets describe not this service in such wise as it should be after Christ his coming; but such as it was in their own times: the reason is: because it was needful for them to apply themselves to the capacity of the people whom they taught. Hence we may gather…

There are very few that will venture their alms for nothing, and give with a frank and willing heart: for they think that that which they give to others, is lost, and is but a lessening of their stock. The Lord therefore greatly commends a cheerful heart (Romans 12:8), the rathe…

But now, instead of sacrifices, we have praises, thanksgivings, good works, &c. And lastly, we offer up our bodies and souls: (Romans 12:1). When he says their sacrifices are acceptable: let us not think the same proceeds from their merit or excellence, but from the free bounty…

Doctrine. From this we are to gather, that we cannot truly be converted to the Lord, unless we offer up to him all that ever we have: for these are those spiritual oblations which he requires, (1 Peter 2:5; Romans 12:1). which we cannot possibly deny him, if our hearts be truly…

They which usurp this office are sacrilegious persons, namely, such as will reiterate that which Christ has by himself accomplished. Every one ought rather to offer himself, with all that he has to God (Romans 12:1), that he may exercise this Priesthood as he ought to do. Second…

But it is the Gospel, by which men are mortified; that being renewed by the Holy Spirit, they may be offered up to God. Besides, everyone offers up himself in vowing and dedicating themselves to God's service: and in yielding him sincere obedience, which is that reasonable servi…

For “the kindness and love (φιλανθρωπία) of God our Savior toward man,” (Titus 3:4,) “has appeared unto all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly,” (Titus 2:11-12.) And so Paul, when he wishes powerfully to e…

In this way, he summons them to the inward tribunal of conscience, that they may thoroughly examine themselves, and, laying aside all flattery, may institute a severe investigation into their crimes. Wrath is put here, as in many other places, for the judgment of God: as when Pa…

It ought to be observed that Christ, adapting his discourse to that age, speaks of sacrifices. 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 wi…

Though Christ does not permit his people to repel violence by violence, yet he does not forbid them to endeavor to avoid an unjust attack. The best interpreter of this passage that we can have is Paul, who enjoins us rather to "overcome evil by good" (Romans 12:21) than contend…

The second fault is, that, instead of laboring with one consent, as they ought to have done, to render mutual assistance, and to secure for their brethren as large a share of honors as for themselves, they strove with wicked ambition to excel each other. If we wish that our mann…

Whoever then desires to escape that fearful punishment which Christ denounces, let him stretch out his hand to the little ones who are despised by the world, and let him kindly assist them in keeping the path of duty; for Christ recommends them to our notice, that they may lead…

Not after the lusts of men, (says he) that is: We must not do it, to please either ourselves or others thereby. For we must not fashion ourselves like this world, as Saint Paul writes in Romans 12. Whatever the world requires of us, that must we refrain and forbear.

Some will say, that Peter in that former sentence spoke of elders and here in this place only of the younger sort, who ought to submit themselves first to their elders, and next one to another. But we will take these words as spoken in a generality, even as that sentence of Sain…

Albeit God has caused a great light to shine to us, in this so merciful a manifestation of the Gospel: so that we both now know what a Christian life is, and also what Christian doctrine means, and do also see the scope of the whole Scripture to tend to none other end but this:…

It's said, Augustus built an Apragapolis, a City void of business; but I am sure God never erected any City, Town or Family to that end. The Command to Adam, Genesis 3:19 no doubts reaches all his posterity: and Gospel-Commands back and second it upon Christians, Romans 12:11 an…

Bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2). Rejoice with them that rejoice, and weep with them that weep (Romans 12:5). Be you all of one mind, having compassion one of another (1 Peter 3:8) — these are Apostolic rules for, and trials of Gospel love.

And where such people are, from there does every man run, they be shunned, neither does any man assist nor help them, and provide so for them, that they may be able also: but must abide still in the depth and low estate. For there will no man be such a creator among men, that wi…

For dominion reveals what a man is, seeing also that the common people dare not withstand for fear of punishment the commandments of their leaders, though they were wicked and ungodly. For this cause should the superiors greatly dread God, seeing they need to fear men so little,…

Thankefulnesse indeede, is showed in word; but yet true thankefulnesse stands in obedience: and our obedience is showed by doing good workes. And therefore the Apostle Paul exhorts us, to give up our bodies, as holy and acceptable sacrifices unto God, Rom. 12. 1. Thirdly, they s…

This is not Gods absolute will, but rather an effect thereof concerning man, reuealing unto him, not what he simply and absolutely wills to bee done, for that must needes be done; but what is pleasing or displeasing unto him, done by man, and what he will have man to doe, or not…

Secondly, their obedience is partiall, onely to some of Gods commandments, not to all: so Herod, he would heare John gladly, and doe many things, but yet he would not leaue his brothers wife. But true obedience which proceeds from true faith, has these heads and branches; First,…

Fourthly, He is a profane person, that performs holy duties slightly and superficially: All our duties ought to be warmed with zeal, winged with affection, and shot up to heaven from the whole bent of the soul. Our whole hearts must go into them; and the strength and vigor of ou…

Who sets bounds to the sea, and bridles the proud waves (Job 38:11). God is the supreme monarch, all power is seated originally in him; and the powers that be are of God (Romans 13:1). Kings hold their crowns from him (Proverbs 8:15).

2. You are within a few days march of heaven. Salvation is near to you; (Romans 13:11) Now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Christians, it is but a while and you shall have done weeping and praying, and be triumphing.

Ignorance draws the curtains round about the soul (1 Corinthians 2:14). 2. A natural man is under the darkness of pollution: Hence sinful actions are called works of darkness (Romans 13:12). Pride and lust darken the glory of the soul: A sinner's heart is a dark conclave, it loo…

Think not that birth, or high parts, no nor yet your grace, will exempt you from obedience to your master. To obey him, is an ordinance of God; and the apostle says, whoever resists the ordinance, shall receive to themselves damnation (Romans 13:2). (2.) The servant's honoring o…

Believe the word, and so believe it as to apply it. When you hear Christ preached, apply him to yourselves; this is to put on the Lord Jesus (Romans 13:14). When you hear a promise spoken of, apply it: this is to suck the flower of the promise, and turn it to honey.

O if you would not miss of the heavenly kingdom, beware of giving way to your unbridled passions; some say words are but wind, but they are such a wind as may blow them to Hell. 11. If you would not fall short of the heavenly kingdom, beware of too much indulging the sensual app…

They put on their best clothes, are dressed in the richest garb, but care not how naked or undressed their souls are; they do not get the jewels of grace, to adorn their inner man. 2. About feeding their bodies, than their souls, they are caterers for the flesh, they do [in non-…

Surely thus: He must do those in his own person, that concern him in his place; and then see that his subjects and servants do likewise such duties, both towards God and man, as concern them in their places. This is a special point concerning all Magistrates and Superiors whatso…

Inferiors again must remember to submit themselves to the authority of their governors, especially of magistrates. For they are set over us by our Sovereign Lord and king Christ Jesus: as Paul says, Let every soul be subject to the higher powers. (Romans 13) For there is no powe…

Oh what excellent food is this, God himself is in this cheer. 6. A righteous man has more excellent armor; namely, the armor of light (Romans 13:12). This is armor of God's making (Ephesians 6:16), and the Lord with his armor gives strength.

The end of man's life is not only to serve God by the duties of the first table, but by serving man in the duties of the second table to serve God. Therefore the love of our neighbor is called the fulfilling of the whole law (Romans 13:10), because the law of God is practiced no…

For the continuance of their houses to many generations (Psalm 49:11). For the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof (Romans 13:14). If Christ be for the Saints, then all other things are for them; all things are theirs: Death is a waterman to carry them to the other side of time;…

(Ephesians 4:23): be renewed in the Spirit of your mind. (Romans 12:2; Romans 13:14; and 1 Thessalonians 5:17): pray without ceasing. (Psalm 50:15): Call upon me.

Baptism is our initiation into the service of God, or our solemn consecration of ourselves to him; and it does not only imply work, but fight (Romans 6:13): Neither yield your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin: but yield yourselves to God, as those that are alive…

Therefore we ought not to call them back again, nor superstitiously bind ourselves to them: as some went about to do in times past, being ignorant of this liberty. Now although the Gospel does not make us subject to the Judicial laws of Moses, yet notwithstanding it does not exe…

To put on Christ is taken two kinds of ways, according to the law, and according to the gospel. According to the law, as it is said in Romans 13: Put on the Lord Jesus Christ: that is, follow the example and virtues of Christ. Do that which he did, and suffer that which he suffe…

This was Peter's fear, and it was a sin in him. For God is to be feared, simply because he is Lord of body and soul, and can destroy both: and he is to be feared for himself, whereas every creature is to be feared in part only, and for God (Romans 13:3-4). By this we are taught,…

VII. Rom 13:8. Loue is the fulfilling of the law: and the regenerate loue their neighbours.

This doctrine is not of God, because it is against Christian liberty. Objection 1. Romans 13:5. Be subject to the higher powers for conscience. Answer. Conscience here is not in respect of the laws of the magistrate, but in respect of the law of God, that binds us in conscience…

The Popes, and Prelates of the Romish Church, are notorious in this kind, in urging men to make conscience of that, which they themselves will not keep, to practice that which they will not perform, and to believe that, which they count false, and fabulous. For first, they stric…

Now it is very likely that after his banishment, Eliakim was placed in his room. I will call.] It is most certain that all princes and magistrates are called by the Lord: indeed, even such as are heathen and unbelieving; for all power, as Saint Paul says, is of God (Romans 13:1)…

Besides, however these words be directed to the Jews, that with a sincere affection of heart, and with an unfeigned desire of godliness, they might show themselves thankful to their redeemer; yet it also belongs to us all in general: for the whole world is lost in itself, unless…

But I warn you, that you must ascend much higher. Love is the fulfilling of the law, (Romans 13:10;) and I say that your neighbor is injured, when you act towards him otherwise than as a friend.” The latter clause which he quotes, he who kills shall be liable to the judgment, co…

I reply, the question is not as to the manner in which the garment is to be procured; for whomsoever the Lord invites he at the same time supplies with clothing, and in all of us is fulfilled what Ezekiel says, (16:6-14,) that God finds nothing in us but wretchedness, and nakedn…

For Christ intended to refute the error of those who did not think that they would be the people of God, unless they were free from every yoke of human authority. In like manner, Paul earnestly insists on this point, that they ought not the less to look upon themselves as servin…

and, in another passage, the fulfilling of the law, (Romans 13:10;) for all the commandments of the second table must be referred to it.

Matthew satisfies himself with one part; and there is no absurdity in calling the duties of charity the principal points of the Law, since charity itself is pronounced by Paul to be the perfection of the Law; as he also says, that the Law is fulfilled if we love our neighbors, (…

They therefore that do well and live orderly and honestly, ought at the magistrate's hands to receive praise: and them ought the magistrate to commend, prefer and gratify: that others by their example may be provoked, drawn and allured to the like virtue and integrity: not that…

If there be no Candles in the house, we do not much matter it, if we are sure it's almost break of day; for then there will be no use for them. This is your case; your salvation is nearer than when you believed, Romans 13:11 I have done with the directive part of this discourse;…

The way to cut off this occasion of offence is this; to make triall inour selues whether our faith be true and sound or not. This will appeare two waies: First, by the beginnings and degrees of the workes of the spirit, which goe before a true and liuely faith, which be three; f…

The wisdom that is from above, is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easie to be intreated, full of mercie and good fruits. And hence it is, that loue is called the fulfilling of the law, Rom. 13. 10. IV.

The 5. Comm, concernes the giving of honour and reuerence to Superiours: and it restraines us of our naturall desire, which is to seeke for, and to take honour unto our selues alone; for this inioyns us to give honour one to another, especially to them to whome it belongs, as to…

From verse 2 to the ninth (which is the second part of the chapter) the Bride speaks, and sets down a very complex piece of her condition, which we take up in these three. 1. Her condition is shortly set down. 2. The mutual carriage of the Bridegroom and Bride are recorded; wher…

Hence our Savior commands us to render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's (Matthew 22:21). And the Apostle (Romans 13:7), render to all their due; tribute to whom tribute, custom to whom custom, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor is due. And although possibly sometimes t…

And the second is like to it: you shall love your neighbor as yourself." From where the Apostle deduces that great conclusion (Romans 13:10): that love is the fulfilling of the law. It is so, if not formally, yet virtually and effectively; for it will powerfully and sweetly sway…

We must not repay with the least revenge those who have done us the greatest wrongs — in which sense, we must not resist evil. But if we have in anything suffered wrong, we ought to bring all our causes and complaints to the magistrate, for into his hands has God put the sword o…

Be like the Church of Thyatira, her last works were more than her first (Revelation 2:19). Be as the Sun that shines brightest before its setting: as the Swan that sings sweetest before its death (Romans 13:11). Your salvation is nearer than when you believed.

So the Christian knows, it is but yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry (Hebrews 10:37). And that now his salvation is nearer than when he first believed (Romans 13:11). What a small point of time is our waiting time, compared with eternity?

God has sown the precious seed of grace upon my soul, and though my heart has been an unkind soil which has kept it back and much hindered its growth; yet blessed be the Lord, it still grows on, though by slow degrees; and from the springing of the seed, and shootings forth of t…

Is this a time for one to stand idle, who stands at the door of eternity? What, now slack-handed, when so near to my everlasting rest (Romans 13:11)! Or have you found the work of God so unpleasant to you (Proverbs 3:17)?

When we speak of the happiness of our souls, we are not so capable of it; but when we speak of the happiness of our bodies, we are sensible of that. Now certainly, there shall be much more for our bodies, here is a way to provide for your bodies: Lay up provision for your flesh,…

To the Satisfaction and refreshment of nature, you may drink; for it is a part of the Curse, to drink, and not be satisfied: but take heed you go no further, For Wine is a [mocker] strong Drink is raging, and whoever is deceived thereby is not wise, Proverbs 20:1. The Throat is…

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

That is a remarkable Text, 1 Thessalonians 4:6. That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter, because that the Lord is the [Avenger] of all such. This word Avenger, is but once more used in the New Testament, Romans 13:4. And there it is applyed to the Civil Magis…

O my Soul, what a joyful day will this be! for at present we are tossed upon an Ocean of troubles, fears, temptations; but these will make Heaven the sweeter. Chear up then, O my Soul, your Salvation is now nearer, than when you first believedsts Romans 13:11. And it will not no…

Love is the bottom of all their duties. Hence our Savior resolves all obedience into the love of God and neighbor, and Paul on the same ground tells us that love is the fulfilling of the law, Romans 13:10. Where love is in any duty it is complete in Christ.

Concerning man, the Apostle exhorts to serve one another by love: and to do all things in love (Galatians 5:13; 1 Corinthians 16:14). Indeed, sometimes the Holy Ghost is pleased to comprise all duties under love: in which respect Christ calls this commandment (You shall love the…

The love which a husband owes to his wife further requires that he wisely commend and reward what she has well done. That which the Apostle says of the magistrate's authority, may fitly be applied to a husband's in relation to his wife, "Do that which is good, and you shall have…

Thus will those good servants be the more encouraged to hold on, and others will be moved to imitate them. This encouragement does the Apostle give to all under authority, do that which is good, and you shall have praise of the same (Romans 13:3). Which phrase implies that gover…

We will suppose then the lust or distemper whose mortification is inquired after, to be in itself a strong, deeply rooted, habitual inclination and bent of will and affections unto some actual sin, as to the matter of it, always stirring up imaginations, thoughts and contrivance…

1. To me to live is Christ, that is, Christ is the principle of my life. I fetch my spiritual life from Christ, as the branch fetches its sap from the root (Galatians 2:20). Christ lives in me. Jesus Christ is a head of influence, he sends forth life and spirits into me to quick…

8. We glorify God by living to God (2 Corinthians 5:15): That they which live should not live to themselves, but to him who died for them. (Romans 14:8): Whether we live we live to the Lord. The Mammonist lives to his money, the Epicure lives to his belly; the design of a sinner…

The seed springs up by degrees; first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. Therefore be not discouraged; God, who would have us receive them that are weak in faith (Romans 14:1), will not himself refuse them. A weak believer is a member of Christ, and though C…

How fervently did they pray, whom God made joyful in the house of prayer (Isaiah 56:7). 3. Joy is the beginning of Heaven here; it is called the Kingdom of God (Romans 14:17), because it is a taste of that which the saints have in the Kingdom of God. What is the Heaven of the an…

When we pray, "Your kingdom come," we pray: 1. That the kingdom of grace may come into our hearts. This is Regnum Dei[〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], God's lesser kingdom (Romans 14:17). "The kingdom of God is righteousness."

Christ will cut off rotten members, but not weak members. Therefore Christian, be not discouraged: God who would have us receive them that are weak in faith (Romans 14:1), will not himself refuse them. 2. The second means whereby we escape the curse and wrath due to sin, is by r…

1. A bad debtor does not love to be called to account. There is a day coming, when God will call all his debtors to account (Romans 14:12): so then every man shall give an account for himself to God, but we play away the time, and do not love to hear of the day of judgment. We l…

Which two glorious and incommunicable attributes of his that description of the word of God (Hebrews 4:12-13) seems fully to hold forth to us. Where, as at the gate of paradise was set a cherub with a flaming sword to keep our fallen parents from ever entering in again, so there…

Answer. So long as he doubts, he must defer the performance of it. For, he that does a thing doubtingly, condemns himself in the thing he does, because he does it not of faith: and whatsoever is not of faith, is sin, Romans 14:23. Question. 3. What if a man be urged by fear to t…

Kingdom being taken thus specially, is also twofold. The first is the kingdom of grace, of which mention is made (Romans 14:17): The kingdom of God stands not in meat and drink, but in righteousness: that is, the assurance of our justification before God in the righteousness of…

This day, that is, at the time of your incarnation, but especially at the day of your resurrection, have I begotten you, that is, I have made manifest that you are my Son: so is this place expounded by Saint Paul in the Acts (Acts 13:32-33). 2. Christ's rising from death by his…

Hence, Observe, 1. That all men and women, even all the elect themselves, are by nature liable to an arraignment before the justice-seat of God; that they are justified, supposes a bringing of them, as it were, before His tribunal, before they can be justified, and have the sent…

2. Faith as justifying is always held forth as making use of, and giving credit to, that which is revealed in the word; hence we that hear the gospel have that revealed to us therein, binding us to the belief of it, that heathens have not, as it is (Romans 1:17): "I am not asham…

2. Consider, that this contributes most to God's end, which is to glorify himself, especially in his grace, in the justification of sinners, even to hold forth the manifold riches of his grace; and nothing contributes to this so much, and so well, as that which speaks the sinner…

I grant it was not that righteousness of God through faith (Philippians 3); yet it was a fruit and infallible sign of that righteousness, and such as did prove them to be in Christ. And 2. all our acts of sanctification are no acts, no infallible marks of justification to my sou…

For, first, Christ's dominion and authority that he has acquired by death is not a free-will-power or possibility, by which he may, upon such and such conditions, kill or save, though all may eternally perish. But Christ is made Lord of living and dead by dying (Romans 14:9), th…

4. Since this glory is for the body, do not debase the body, to make it an instrument of sin (1 Thessalonians 4:4). Possess your vessels in sanctification and honor, do not offend God to gratify the body, as they do (Romans 14:13), who make provision for the flesh to fulfill the…

Both do as it were deliver over to Christ their whole dispensation, and lay it down at his feet, as the magistrates that are to go out of office, solemnly resign the ensigns of their authority to him that succeeds, and also they come both to reverence the majesty of their suprem…

It may also be applied to other works. He that works, prays, or suffers without Christ, works, prays and suffers in vain: for all that is not of faith is sin (Romans 14:23). It profits a man therefore nothing at all to be outwardly circumcised, to fast, to pray or to do any othe…

But we are earnestly to seeke after the things that make vs accepted with God; as true faith, righteousnes, and good conscience. Rom 14:17. Againe, superiours must be admonished to deale moderately with their inferiours, Coloss. 2. 11.

Answer: Upon like grounds we may, if we have a warrant, and calling from God so to do. For all judgment is God's (Romans 14:10): if this judgment be in truth: if it be in charity, for the amendment of the parties, and for the good of others. Otherwise, if these grounds fail us,…

3. The beginning and principal part of God's worship is in the heart. He that serves God in the righteousness of his heart, in peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost, is accepted (Romans 14:17). 4. In our hearts no wicked or carnal thought, will, desire, or lust must reign, but only G…

Here I consider four things: 1. what this liberty is. 2. the author of it. 3. the persons to whom it belongs. 4. our duty touching this liberty. For the first: Christian liberty is called, the good, or commodity of Christians (Romans 14:16). It is a spiritual right or condition,…

Let every man prove his own work. The word translated prove, signifies also to approve, as (Romans 14:22): Blessed is he that condemns not in himself in the thing that he approves. (1 Corinthians 16:3): Whoever you shall approve or allow of by letters.

In the meantime, he fills the hearts of the faithful with unspeakable joy, as well in showing himself pacified towards them, as in causing them to feel his favor and good will, by giving a happy success to their affairs. Yet the chief and principal joy consists in the peace of c…

The old translator has repeatedly fallen into mistakes about this word, and through that ignorance has given us a corrupted sense of some very beautiful passages. One of these occurs in the writings of Paul, where he enjoins every man to be fully persuaded in his own mind, (Roma…

Before men can truly worship God, they must obtain peace of conscience, as David speaks, “There is forgiveness with Thee, that Thou may be feared,” (Psalm 130:4:) for those to whom God has given peace are graciously invited and led to approach him willingly and with a cheerful d…

The commencement of solid joy is, to perceive the fatherly love of God toward us, which alone gives tranquility to our minds. And this "joy," in which, Paul tells us, "the kingdom of God" consists, is "in the Holy Spirit," (Romans 14:17.) By calling it great joy, he shows us, no…

The word righteousness may be either understood as applying to God, or to the kingdom: On the latter supposition, we would naturally have expected that, instead of τὴν δικαιοσύνην αὐτοῦ, we would have had τὴν δικαιοσύνην αὐτὢς, when αὐτὢς would have stood for τὢς βασιλείας. — Ed…

Then follows the second clause, on which we have already touched, that God is not bound to pay us hire for any of our services. Let each of us remember, that he has been created by God for the purpose of laboring, and of being vigorously employed in his work; and that not only f…

Matthew 15:10. And having called the multitudes to him. Here Christ turns “Christ laissant la ces orgueilleux, se retourne vers les dociles;” — “Christ, leaving there these proud men, turns towards the teachable.” to those who are ready to receive instruction, and explains more…

But, according to the testimony of Paul, when Christ was raised to kingly power, there was given to him a name which is above every name, that before him every knee should bow, (Romans 14:11; Philippians 2:9.) And though Paul had never said this, yet such is the fact, that Chris…

Nearly to the same purpose does Paul argue, when he says that we have no right to judge one another, for all are brethren, and all must stand before the judgment seat of Christ, (Romans 14:10.) 9. And call no man on earth your Father.

What Matthew and Mark had stated more obscurely, know you that it is near at the door, is more fully explained by Luke, know you that the kingdom of God is at hand; and in this passage the kingdom of God is not represented -- as in many other passages -- at its commencement, but…

Let us know, therefore, that we act improperly, when we form our opinion without paying regard to the word of God; for, as Paul informs us, None of us lives or dies to himself, but all must stand before the judgment-seat of Christ, where we must give our account, (Romans 14:7, 1…

When Job says, Let not God regard it, this may be the sense: let not God take any care for it, or make any account of it; let not his eyes be upon it to do it any good, or to do any extraordinary good upon it; let it not be honored by God with any special work of providence, whi…

Here is first denied the saying of Isaiah recited by Saint Paul (Romans 14): As truly as I live, says the LORD, all knees shall bow to me, and all tongues shall acknowledge to God. And again the saying of Moses, Deuteronomy chapter 6: Hear O Israel, the LORD our God is one LORD…

Now this estate of man is called a Kingdome, because herein God rules as king, and man obeies as Gods subiect: for no man can be in Gods fauour, nor enioy his fellowship, unless God be his King, ruling in his heart by his word and spirit, and he Gods subiect resigning himselfe t…

Secondly, I show wherein it consists; namely, in a voluntarie subiection of the whole man in soule, and bodie, and spirit, to the will of God, reuealed in the word: Psalm. 110. 3. your people shall come willingly in the day of assembling yours armie, in holy beautie. And this su…

Cor. 4. And the Christian brethren among the Romans condemned one another in the obseruation of daies and times, and in the use of the creatures of God, Rom. 14. which was nothing els but rash judgment. And this no doubt is a fault which raignes in our congregations, even among…

3. Endeavor to treasure up profiting graces, I mean such as will help you both in doing and receiving good. For the first, lay up such graces as will render you serviceable in your places (Romans 14:19) — Let us follow after the things that make for peace, and things with which…

We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ; for it is written, as I live (says the Lord) every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. Let us not therefore judge one another any more (Romans 14:10-13). And again, He that judges me is the Lord.

This will appear very manifest, by looking over the following Scriptures; 1 Chronicles 28:9; Psalm 7:9, 10, 11; Psalm 26 throughout; Proverbs 16:2 and 17:3 and 21:2; John 2:23, 24, 25; Revelation 2:22, 23. That Sort of Judging which is God's proper Prerogative, is forbidden, as…

It puts a charming loveliness and amiableness upon the soul, which renders it acceptable to all that know what true worth and beauty is. He that in righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost: that is, in Christian meekness and quietness of spirit, serves Christ, is acce…

We make our profession of religion a sect when we monopolize the church and its ministry and sacraments, and spend that zeal in matters of doubtful disputation which should be reserved for the weightier matters of the law. When we place our religion in meats and drinks, which sh…

Quarles. Lastly, It's your gross mistake to think you shalt be bereaven of all delights and pleasures, by coming under the government of Christ: For one of those things in which his Kingdom consists, is joy in the Holy Ghost, Romans 14:17. Indeed, it allows no sinful pleasures t…

These are the preparations of grace and mercy, love, kindness, and supplies revealed in the gospel, declared in the assemblies of the saints, and exhibited by the Spirit. This love is better than wine (Song of Solomon 1:1); it is not in meats and drinks, but righteousness and pe…

The Spirit, as was showed, is called the oil of gladness (Hebrews 1:10); his anointing brings gladness with it (Isaiah 61:3), the oil of joy for mourning. The kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost (Romans 14:17). (1 Thessalonians 1:6) Received the gos…

2. Every one is to give an account of his own particular duty. That which the Prophet speaks of father and son, may be applied to husband and wife, and to all other sorts of people (Romans 14:12), If a father does that which is lawful and right, he is just, he shall surely live:…

The conscience is subject to God alone: if it be forced it will be a fearful horror, and a very hell in that party whose conscience is forced. She that doubts is condemned if she does that of which she makes doubt (Romans 14:23). 1. Objection. In doubtful matters the commanding…

When Christians have sat by the rivers weeping, the Word has dropped as honey, and sweetly revived them. A Christian's chief comfort is drawn out of these wells of salvation; (Romans 15:4) that we through comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. When a poor soul has been ready…

4. They do voluntarily murder their souls, who suck in false prejudices against religion; as if religion were too strict and severe; they that espouse holiness must live a melancholy life, like hermits and anchorites, and drown all their joy in tears. This is a slander which the…

An unbeliever will stick at no sin, luxury, perjury, injustice. Paul was afraid of none so much as them that did not believe (Romans 15:31). That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judea.

As therefore faith is that chief work of God and the master-grace (John 6), so despair and doubting is the masterpiece of Satan. And in faith he is especially envious at the joy of our faith (Romans 15:13). And as comfort is the most proper work of the Spirit and most pleasing w…

These his examples are rules of direction to all men in the like case. Now as for the examples of men, as the examples of wicked men are every way to be eschewed, so good men's are to be followed: for, whatsoever is written, is written for our learning, Romans 15:4. And for them…

Seeing our Savior commands his disciples and so even us also to pray to God, it is our duty not only to present our prayers to God, but also to do it cheerfully and earnestly. Romans 15:30. Also brethren I beseech you that you would strive with me by prayers to God for me. What…

Answer: Though it be granted that some books of canonical Scripture are lost, yet the Scripture still remains sufficient because the matter of those books, so far as it was necessary to salvation, is contained in these books of Scripture now extant. Again, I take it to be a trut…

Christ's will is heaven. Christ thinks it is best, that his Father's will stand, and his human will be repealed (Romans 15:3), for even Christ pleased not himself — to have no will of your own is the pearl in the ring, a jewel in submission. (2.) That the Lord's end is good, he…

The man never has a fair venture of heaven, nor comes into close grips with eternal love revealed till he believe, because the poor man's believing is his act of choosing God for his portion, and so cannot be an assent to a common good, general to all men, Heathens, Pagans, Jews…

And the proper duty of his place being to show mercy, he does it with cheerfulnesse, (as the Apostle speaks:) For Mercy makes one do what they do, with cheerfulnesse. And Christ, as he is the Bishop, so the [illegible], the Deacon also, (for he beares all offices to his Church)…

His righteous soul was vexed with it, as Lots righteous soul is said to have been with the impure conversation of the Sodomites. He endured the contradictions of sinners against himself, Hebrews 12:3 the reproaches of them that reproached you, (that is, upon his God,) fell upon…

And therefore do not neglect a letter written by such precious Scribes, and from the hand of a gracious God, that directed them to us; but if written to us, and for our instruction and learning, let us hear, and read, and obey, and look at them as the greatest blessings, and orn…

Secondly, besides this, this spirit helps us to pray to God with fervency, and heat of spirit, so much as that in such a case as this we strive with God in our prayers, and wrestle with him; The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous avails much, (James 5:16). When the Spirit…

Thus doing, we suffer persecution (according to this text: 'I believed and therefore did I speak, and I was sorely troubled') with patience, being strengthened and encouraged through hope. The Scripture exhorts us with most sweet and comfortable promises taught and revealed to u…

So is the doctrine which teaches that men after their conversion, must still remain in suspense of their salvation: and that pardon of sin, is necessarily annexed to confession in the ear, and to satisfaction for the temporal punishment of sin in this life, or in purgatory. On t…

Hence we gather, the free election of God: and that they are deceived, who think, that there was no difference of Jews and Gentiles in respect of God, but in respect of themselves: because the one embraced Christ, the other refused Christ. But there cannot be a refusal, where th…

(Ephesians 2:12) they were without God, and without Christ. (Romans 15:20) Paul preached where Christ was not so much as named. Hence it follows, that the calling of men to life everlasting, is not universal: because Christ was never universally revealed.

When the Israelites had sinned, Moses stands in the breach, as it were in the face of the cannon, between the wrath of God and them, by his prayer to stay the judgment of God (Psalm 106:23). Again, the people must show their love to their teachers; first, by praying for them, as…

Toleration must tend to the good and edification of men. Rom 15:2. We must not so tolerate as that we approoue of the least vice, or betray the least part of Gods truth.

Thus the Apostle commands, that we should beare with the infirmities of those that areweake, and not sufficiently catechized in the doctrine of our spirituall libertie purchased to vs by Christ, and not to please our selues too much, but rather to please our neighbour in that wh…

But in this sense all Paul's Epistles may be called Catholic Epistles. For whatever is written, is written for our learning, that we through patience and consolation of the Scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4). Secondly, the word Catholic, is not so ancient: for Pacianus an…

The Prophet in this song addresses himself in general to all the people, even as if he spoke to one man, for it was requisite they should be joined together as if they had been but one. According to this example, our conjunction ought to be so close that there should be but one…

To conclude, the Prophets describe not this service in such wise as it should be after Christ his coming; but such as it was in their own times: the reason is: because it was needful for them to apply themselves to the capacity of the people whom they taught. Hence we may gather…

Although we be well instructed in God's word then, and have learned that he will surely help us in the day of trouble, yet when some extraordinary surge or wave arises, it is all the need then to get us to the mouth of the Lord again and again, and still to seek out new confirma…

The covenant was confirmed then only in Abraham's seed, that is to say in Christ: at whose coming it was confirmed, and established by effect, though it was done before in regard of the promise. Therefore it is that Paul says, All the promises of God are Yes, and Amen in Christ…

The preaching of the gospel therefore manifested those things which neither the eye had seen, nor the ear heard of before: as also in regard the publishing of this doctrine came to Kings and nations far off, even to the ends of the world. Saint Paul alleges this text, and shows…

But also we ought diligently to note what this kind of Priesthood is: for we must no more offer to God any brute beasts; but reasonable men must now be offered and sacrificed to the obedience of Christ. According to which Saint Paul says, that he offered up the Gentiles by the s…

But it was requisite that the Prophets should borrow similitudes from things then commonly in use; as we have often said. Under the Law, they offered brute beasts: but the Apostles and other Priests of Christ have sacrificed reasonable men: and have offered them living sacrifice…

33. And he shall reign over the house of Jacob As salvation was promised, in a peculiar manner, to the Jews, (the covenant having been made with their father Abraham, Genesis 17:7,) and Christ, as Paul informs us, "was a minister of the circumcision," (Romans 15:8,) the angel pr…

There is propriety in the distinction here made between the people Israel and the Gentiles: for by the right of adoption the children of Abraham “were nigh” (Ephesians 2:17) to God, while the Gentiles, with whom God had made no “covenants of promise,” were “strangers” to the Chu…

We must attend to what Paul says, "that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers," (Romans 15:8) with which agrees that saying of Christ, "Salvation is of the Jews," (John 4:22.)

The reason is, that he had been sent by the Father to be the minister of circumcision, to fulfill the promises, which had anciently been given to the fathers, (Romans 15:8.) Now God had entered into a special covenant with the family of Abraham, and therefore Christ acted proper…

The reason is, that every one would desire to have advocates, who would defend his cause. That we may not depend on the favor of men, Christ bids us look up to the judgment of his Father, who is the God of peace, (Romans 15:33) and who accounts us his children, while we cultivat…

and again says that we ought not to please ourselves, (Romans 15:1.) To hang a millstone about a man's neck, and drown him in the sea, was the punishment then reckoned the most appalling, and which was inflicted on the most atrocious malefactors.

Though in this passage Christ teaches nothing more than that he ought patiently to suffer death, because the Scriptures have declared that it must be so, yet the use of this doctrine is evidently more extensive, namely, that Scripture is a sufficient bridle for subduing the rebe…

He has either (1.) Strengthened your back to bear, or (2.) Lightened your burden, or (3.) Opened an unexpected door of escape, according to that Promise, 1 Corinthians 10:13 so that the evil which you feared, came not upon you. You read, that the Word of God is the only support…

Sometimes also a Christian is so engaged in prayer for the obtaining of a mercy, and finds his heart so much below his suit, that he calls out to all those, who have any holy skill in praying, pray for me, pray with me, the business is too big for me alone. How earnestly does Pa…

Dauid prayed seuen times a day, and rose up at midnight to give thankes to God, Psal. 119. 164. 62. And Paul wills the Romans that they would striue or wrestle with him by prayer to God, Rom. 15. 30. All these are worthie examples unto us; and if we compare our selues with them…

2. It shows that believers act and exercise their graces for others' edification, as a fountain that in some way is common for the use of more Gardens, and so it points out what public spirits they should have, intending the edification of all to whom they can conveniently commu…

To send out faith as a spy to view the heavenly Canaan, and pluck a bunch of grapes there — what delight is here? "Joy in believing" (Romans 15:13). To love God (in whom all excellencies are combined) — how sweet is it!

And, oh that I might study those instructing clouds, from which, as from the bottles of heaven, God pours down refreshing showers to quench and satisfy the thirsty earth! In this may I resemble them, and come among the people of the Lord, in the fullness of the blessing of the G…

Whosoever therefore shall confess me before Men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in Heaven. Romans 15:9. I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy Name.

Secondly, meekness teaches and enables us patiently to bear the anger of others, which instance of meekness we have especially occasion for, in reference to our superiors and equals; commonly that which provokes anger is anger, as fire kindles fire; now meekness prevents that vi…

It is a branch of that wisdom, which he that lacks must ask of God, and it shall be given him (James 1:5). The God we address to is called, the God of patience and consolation (Romans 15:5), and he is therefore the God of consolation, because the God of patience (for the more pa…

Tenthly, it appears there are great things for the people of God hereafter, because of the great hopes that are wrought in the hearts of Gods servants, by the power of the Holy Ghost. Now surely such hopes as are wrought by the power of the Holy Ghost, they must attain unto glor…

Secondly, they are purging hopes. First, they are such hopes as are wrought by the power of the holy Ghost, Rom. 15:13 Certainly, hopes of such great things as these, must be raised by a great power, they are hopes that could never be raised by any natural apprehensions, by any…

And therefore Peter tells you (2 Peter 3:9), that he is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance, that is, all us towards whom he exercises forbearance, for that is the end of it, that his will concerning our repentance…

The closing of the great sin of unbelief is still described as an opposition to and resisting of the Holy Spirit. And there is distinct mention of the love of the Spirit, Romans 15:13. The apostle also peculiarly directs his supplication to him in that solemn benediction, 2 Cori…

This gives us a valuation of his love, teaches us where to make application in our distress, whom to pray for, to pray to, and whom to wait upon in perplexities. 2. Peace arises from this also (Romans 15:13). The God of hope fill you with all peace in believing, that you may abo…

§. 57. Of natural self-love. Object. Lovers of themselves are condemned in God's word, as (2 Timothy 3:2; Philippians 2:21; 1 Corinthians 10:24; Romans 15:1). Answer. There is a double loving of a man's self.

Now the style by which seducers use to deceive is, 1. By wisdom of words (Romans 16:18). By good words and fair speeches they deceive the hearts of the simple. They have fine elegant phrases, flattering language, whereby they work on the weaker sort; as being Christed with Chris…

Child-like obedience is that which is consonant to our Father's revealed will. 2. It must be done from a right principle; that is, the noble principle of faith (Romans 16:26). The obedience of faith.

Faith is a heavenly plant which will not grow in an impure soil. 3. Faith is an obediential grace (Romans 16:26). The obedience of faith.

Answer 1: Our keeping the Commandments must be fiducial. Our obedience to God's commands must Profluere à Fide, spring from faith, therefore it is called the obedience of faith (Romans 16:26). Abel by faith offered up [illegible], a better sacrifice than Cain (Hebrews 11:4).

Railing often ends in reviling, and so men bring themselves into a praemunire, and are in danger of hell-fire (Matthew 5:22). 13. The seducing tongue is an evil tongue. The tongue that by fine rhetoric decoys men into error (Romans 16:18). By fair speeches they deceive the heart…

Thus we should be as the dove, without fraud and craft. There is a holy simplicity commendable; (Romans 16:19) I would have you simple concerning evil; to be a bungler at sin, not to have the art to beguile; this is a good simplicity; as Nathanael, in whose spirit there was no g…

The way of peace have they not known, they sport in mischief; these are they who are of a persecuting spirit, as Maximinus, Dioclesian, Antiochus, who (as Eusebius) took more tedious journeys, and ran more hazards in vexing and persecuting the Jews, than any of his predecessors…

(5.) True faith is obediential. Romans 16:26. The obedience of faith. Faith melts our will into the will of God.

We worship God, [in non-Latin alphabet], in the Spirit. To serve God spiritually is to do duties ab interno principio, from an inward principle: the Pharisees were very exact about the external part of God's worship; how zealous were they in the outward observation of the Sabbat…

But more evidently it is in all those damnable heresies which have been broached in all ages: as in the primitive times among the Romans, the broachers whereof are made the emissaries of Satan. Therefore (Romans 16) Paul, having branded them to the Romans who taught false doctri…

And the church which we here profess to believe, is called Catholic, that we may distinguish it from particular churches, which are not believed, but seen with the eye, of which mention is made often in the scriptures. Romans 16:5, 1 Corinthians 16:19, the church in their house:…

Now therefore Paul prays that this wonderful power of God, which did show forth itself in the head Christ, might likewise show itself in the members of Christ. First, in treading Satan and sin under their feet (Romans 16:10). Secondly, in raising them from sin, as out of a grave…

It is but one house, one family, which is in earth and heaven; they differ but as elder and younger brothers. Paul (Romans 16:7) puts a note of respect on Andronicus and Junia, who (says he) also were in Christ before me. There is more honor put on them that are in glory before…

4. While we are striving against temptations, let us remember our general. We do but follow the Captain of our salvation, who has vanquished the enemy, and will give us the victory if we keep striving, The God of peace shall bruise satan under your feet shortly (Romans 16:2). No…

The matter which we believe is of a practical concernment, and does not require only a simple faith, or bare belief, which were enough in points merely speculative, but a ready obedience. It is said (Romans 16:26): the mysteries of the Gospel are made manifest to all nations for…

The danger of the battle will increase the joy of the victory; as the dangers of the way make home the sweeter. There will a time come, when he that is now a soldier will be a conqueror (Romans 16:20): The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. 6. Where Satan g…

He reproves here the flattery of the false apostles. For Satan is wont by his ministers, through wonderful subtlety and crafty sleights to beguile the simple: As Paul says (Romans 16) With fair speech and flattering they deceive the hearts of the simple. For first of all they ma…

The second answer is that to preach otherwise is to preach contrary, because (as they say) precepts and doctrines may be delivered if they be diverse and not contrary. As the Gospel of John and the Apocalypse were written after this epistle to the Galatians, which are diverse to…

After the ascension of Christ, this distinction ended: because the mystery of man's redemption was then more plainly revealed; and it began then to be revealed to the whole world. (Colossians 1:26-27) and (Romans 16:25). Thus we see that the law served for transgressions: becaus…

Or thus, Consider yourself, that is, your own frailty, how you may easily be overtaken with the same, the like, or a greater sin, seeing you may be taken in the devil's snare, and deceived with his pleasant baits, as well as he was: therefore deal as mildly with him, as you woul…

But we are to observe what he says in the beginning of the verse; to wit, In that day. For thereby he means, that God permits Satan to uphold and continue his kingdom for a time; but so, that it shall fall in the end; as Saint Paul says (Romans 16:20), The Lord will shortly trea…

However it be, he boldly pronounces that they were patiently to wait with meek and quiet spirits, until it pleased God to stretch forth his hands. Saint Paul in his Epistle to the Romans 16:26, and to the Galatians 4:4, calls this year the fullness of time. We have also seen pre…

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

Among all treasures, spiritual treasures are most hidden; they are so hidden, that they are called mysteries, or secrets. The knowledge of Christ was a hidden treasure for some thousands of years; the Apostle in his time calls it, the mystery which was kept secret since the worl…

Use. Hence we also learne, that in temptation Satan can goe no further then God permits him: hee could not touch Iobs goods, his children, nor his bodie, till God gaue him lea[]e, Job. 1. 12. and 2. 6. neither could the legion of deuils enter into the heard of swine, til Christ…

And of both these properties ioyntly S. Paul speaks, Rom. 16. 17. I beseech you brethren, marke them diligently which cause diuision and offences, contrary to the doctrine which ye have received, and auoyde them; for they that are such, serve not the Lord but their own bellies,…

The doctrine of Christ's satisfaction and righteousness, his ascension and glory, and the way of salvation, under the Old Testament, were in a great measure hid under the veil of types and shadows, and more obscure revelations, as Moses put a veil on his face to hide the shining…

Then shall he also stand at the bar of the saints, whom he has so hated, and afflicted, and molested: for the saints shall judge him with Christ: 1 Corinthians 6:3 "Know ye not that we shall judge angels?" Now shall he be as it were subdued under the church's feet, agreeable to…

A Mystery hidden from Ages and Generations, Ephesians 3:3, 5. The Mystery which in other Ages was not made known unto the Sons of Men. Romans 16:25. The Mystery that was kept secret since the World began, hidden in God himself, Ephesians 3:9.

He that's now a soldier, shall be a conqueror, when the crown of righteousness shall be put upon his head (2 Timothy 4:8). And mark that (Romans 16:20): And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. 'Tis troublesome to be in the world, but shortly God shall br…

It is a great Sacrament, says Saint Paul, that is to say, a great mystery or secret. And hereof there is no doubt, no more than when he says, it is a great Sacrament, that God was manifested in the flesh (1 Timothy 3:16): It is a great Sacrament that the Gospel was published thr…

Paul calls Aquila and Priscilla, fellows or helpers in Christ Jesus. And Apollo, a mighty man in the Scriptures, had a great deal of help by Aquila and Priscilla (Romans 16:3; 1 Corinthians 12:21). The eye cannot say to the hand, I have no need of you; nor the head to the feet,…

You lose many a comfortable sight of Christ because you were so late acquainted with him. And it is said of Andronicus and Junias (Romans 16:7), they were in Christ before me. Certainly he that is first in Christ, and sooner called to grace, has the advantage of us.

If the pleasing [reconstructed: of] the flesh be their work or scope, they are said to serve their own bellies. (Romans 16:18) "They that are such, serve not the Lord Jesus but their own belly." 3. Cheerfully, having so good a master, let us take pleasure in our work.

He who so believes the glory of heaven, as to have his endeavors thereby quickened to use his utmost diligence for the obtaining of it: he who so believes the torments of hell, as thereby to be terrified from doing anything that might expose him to so great and fearful a condemn…

There is no temptation that can befall us, but God has made a suitable promise to relieve us; that so we might not sinfully deliver ourselves, but patiently rest on him for deliverance. He has promised to tread Satan under our feet, to bind the strong man, not to suffer us to be…

Heretics destroy the truth of the church by error; schismatics destroy the peace of it by division. The apostle sets a brand upon such (Romans 16:17): Mark those who cause divisions and avoid them. Have no more to do with them than with witches or murderers.

Let us get the fear of God into our hearts; as one wedge drives out another, so the fear of God will drive out all other base fear. 3. Take heed of a facile spirit; a facile-spirited man will be turned any way with a word; he will be worked as wax; he is so tame, that you may le…

The third ingredient into obedience is faith (Hebrews 11:6): without faith it is impossible to please God. Therefore it is called the obedience of faith (Romans 16:26). Abel is said by faith to offer up a better sacrifice than Cain.

What are ordinances, but a dumb show, without the breathings of faith in them? Therefore in Scripture it is called, the prayer of faith (James 5:7), the hearing of faith (Hebrews 4:2), and the obedience of faith (Romans 16:26); dead things have no beauty in them — it is faith th…

The household of Stephanas (1 Corinthians 1:16) was baptized. And this 3. is held forth as the Church, as the household of Narcissus which are in the Lord (Romans 16:11). Aquila and Priscilla, and all the Church at their house (Romans 16:5).

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

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

Ans. He was not obliged to despair, but to rely, by virtue of the first Commandment of the Decalogue, upon God infinitely powerful, merciful, gracious, and wise to save, for that was revealed and written in his heart, and that is far from despairing. But in the interval between…

Love being above and (in a manner) not stronger than the grave only, and than death and hell, but some way (with reverence to his holiness) mightier than the Most High, and brought God down to sick clay: that you may (says Bernard) see, if you take heed, joy saddened, faith fear…

And the life of a Saint is nothing else but a life of Faith; his prayer is the breathing of Faith, James 5:15. His obedience is the result of Faith, Romans 16:26. A godly man by Faith lives in Christ, as the beam lives in the Sun, Galatians 2:20. I live, yet not I, but Christ li…

Hereunto we may add that of Paul. Romans 16:25, 26. According to the Revelation of the Mystery which was kept secret since the World began, but now is made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the Prophets, according to the Commandment of the everlasting God, made known unto all N…

The circumstance that [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], will not always bear to be rendered eternity and eternal, no more proves, that they do not properly signify the same with our words eternity and eternal, than the circumstance that they will not always bear to be rendered an age…

The most in the world do love those things which one time or other will make them ashamed; the covetous will be ashamed of their love of riches, and the voluptuous will be ashamed of their love of pleasures, and the ambitious will be ashamed of their love of honors; disappointme…

Go, show these things to James, as a sign he was not there; thus they met in sundry families. But this is not all, but besides this, it is said, they met every family apart, last verse; so that they did not only meet when many families could get together, but every family had a…