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.

The preceding discourse (as has been declared) was written for the use of ordinary Christians; or such as might be in danger to be seduced, or any way entangled in their minds, by the late attempts against the truths pleaded for. For those to whom the dispensation of the Gospel…

Why, they answer, that he is not a meer man, because he was born of a Virgin; Strange! that that should be an argument to prove him more than a man, which the Scripture and all men in their right wits grant to be an invincible reason, to prove him to be a man, and as he was born…

(Isaiah 33:14) Who among us shall dwell with the devouring fire, who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings? (Romans 1:32) Who knowing the judgement of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death. (Romans 3:5, 6) Is God unrighteous who takes vengeance?

Acts 20:28. Feed the Church of God which he has purchased with his own blood. Romans 1:3, 4. Concerning his Son Jesus our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the r…

And the comeliness and beauty of Gospel worship, consisteth in its relation to God by Jesus Christ, as the merciful high-Priest over his house, with the glorious administration of the spirit therein. The order also of it lies in the due and regular observation of all that Christ…

Quest. 19. What is an instituted Church of the Gospel? A society of persons, called out of the world, or their natural worldly state, by the administration of the Word and Spirit, to the obedience of the faith, or the knowledge and worship of God in Christ, joined together in an…

Question 2. By what means do we come to know that God will thus be worshipped? That God is to be worshipped, and that according to his own will and appointment, is a principal branch of the law of our creation, written in our hearts (Romans 1:21; Romans 2:14-15; Acts 15:16-17; A…

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

Q. What is his exaltation in respect of his Godhead? A. It is nothing else but the manifestation of that divine power and glory of his, which had been so much concealed in all the time of his humiliation (John 17:5; Romans 1:4). Q. And what is his exaltation in respect of his ma…

Q. What else may be said for the clearing of God's justice herein? A. God being the Judge of the world may punish sin with what punishment he sees meet, and so by giving sinners up to further sin (Psalm 81:11, 12; Romans 1:24, 25, 26, &c.; 2 Thessalonians 2:11, 12). Q. What may…

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…

Again: Whatever truth you saw was in those which were just in old time, the faith only of the mediator saves them, who shed his blood for the forgiveness of sins. Obiect. III. The power of God is known to the Gentiles (Romans 1). Christ is the power of God.

Acts 13:39. By him every one that believes, is justified. Romans 1:16. The Gospel is the power of God to salvation to every one that believes. Romans 10:4. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believes.

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…

And [in non-Latin alphabet] is frequently used in the New Testament in this sense. Romans 1:23. [in non-Latin alphabet]; Into the likeness of the image of a corruptible man; that is, into the likeness of a corruptible man. The image of the man is not something distinct from him,…

The work here intended is the work of faith; the whole work of obedience to God, whereof faith is the principle, and that which moves us thereunto. Hence it is called the obedience of faith (Romans 1:5). And this obedience of faith according to the Gospel is called there, [〈 in…

But they saw it darkly, and as in a glass, during the time of his humiliation. But after his resurrection his glory was unvailed and made conspicuous, even when he was declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dea…

They do serve: They do according to the Law officiate in sacred things; that is, they did so de jure, in their first institution, and continued de facto so to do still. And the word [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩], is applied both to the inward spiritual, and outward instituted holy w…

This men were greatly in the dark to, under the first Covenant, although all stable peace with God does depend thereon. For it is in the Gospel, that the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith (Romans 1:17). Indeed the righteousness of God without the Law, is witne…

The Vulgar Latine rendets it by Iustificationes; from the inclusion of Ius, Iustum in the signification of it. In the new Testament it is used, Luke 1:6, Romans 1:32, chap. 2:26, chap. 5:16, chap. 8:4, Hebrews 9:1, ver. 10, Revelation 15:4, chap. 19:8. And in no one place does i…

Many things do evidence a condecency to Divine wisdom, in the determination of that season. As, (1.) He testified his displeasure against sin, in suffering the generality of mankind to lie so long under the fatal effects of their apostacy, without relief or remedy (Acts 14:16; c…

No men while the natural principle of conscience remains in them, can cast off all the convictions of sin (Romans 2:14, 15). That it is the judgement of God, that those who commit such things are worthy of death (Romans 1:32). But yet some there are who so far despise these conv…

And that it does intend an earnest desire, we shewed in the consideration of the word foregoing. And the word is never used in the New Testament, but either in a bad sense, to express the impetuous acting of lust, as (Matthew 5:28; Galatians 5:17; Romans 1:1), or a most fervent…

For to these two persons alone was the promise confirmed. And therefore is he said in one place to be the seed of David according to the flesh (Romans 1:3), and in another, to have taken on him the seed of Abraham (Hebrews 2:16). Herein lay Abraham's peculiar interest in the spi…

(5) Wherever there is mention made elsewhere in the Scripture of the Holy Spirit, or the Eternal Spirit, or the Spirit absolutely with reference to any actings of the Person of Christ, or on it, either the Holy Spirit, or his own Divine Nature is intended. See Isaiah 61:1, 2; Ro…

For (1) it was herein the peculiar design of God to glorify his goodness, love, grace, and mercy by Jesus Christ, and he will do it in an abundant manner. He had before glorified his eternal power and infinite wisdom in the creation of the world and all things therein contained…

I. The inevitable certainty of the eternal punishment of Gospel-despisers depends on the essential holiness and righteousness of God, as the Ruler and Judge of all. It is nothing but what he in his just judgment, which is according to truth, accounts them worthy of (Romans 1:32)…

In the first, there are to be considered, (1.) The note of connexion in the adversative particle [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩]: (2.) There is the qualification of the person spoken of, he is the just. (3.) The means of his being so, or of his obtaining the event mentioned, which i…

But it may be said, that they enjoyed the word of God in their state of Judaism; they did so, as to the written word; for to them were committed the oracles of God (Romans 3:2). But it is the word of God as preached in the dispensation of the Gospel that is eminently thus called…

It is the way of God to do so when more inferior manifestation of himself, his Word and will are rejected, or not improved. So he dealt with the Gentiles for their abuse of the light of nature, with the revelation made of him by the works of creation and providence (Romans 1:24,…

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…

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

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…

But if I am deceived, God has deceived me. For among the other crimes which the Spirit of God has branded the Romans with, this is one, that they were haters of God (Romans 1:3). And God says he will repay them that hate him to their face (Deuteronomy 7:10).

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.

5. By undergoing the curse and penalty of the Law (Galatians 3:13), or the punishment of sin required by the Law (2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 8:3). Herein, also according to the will of God, He offered up himself as a propitiatory and expiatory sacrifice to make atonement for sin…

1. That he be of a discerning eye; That so he may be able to see into the whole case, to state it right, and to understand the true and full sense of the Law which refers to it, and to compare the matter of fact with the mind of the Law, that so he may not miss it in his final d…

Yes, his being to judge themselves does augment the terror of all such as these, because this great Savior has been specially and horribly affronted by them, and therefore he has a peculiar design of taking vengeance upon them (2 Thessalonians 1:8), in flaming fire, taking venge…

Question 2. By what means do we come to know that God will thus be worshipped? That God is to be worshipped, and that according to his own will and appointment, is a principal branch of the law of our creation, written in our hearts (Romans 1:21; Romans 2:14-15; Acts 15:16-17; A…

Q. What may be thought of those accusations, and terrors of conscience, that sometimes are found in men, upon the committing of heinous sins, though known to no man living, but to the sinner himself? A. This also is another testimony that there is a God, before whose judgment se…

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…

There are degrees in this deceit, but all sinners are actually more or less deceived. No men while the natural principle of conscience remains in them, can cast off all the convictions of sin (Romans 2:14, 15). That it is the judgement of God, that those who commit such things a…

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

He that believes not shall be damned. And although they shall also perish to whom the Gospel is not preached (Romans 2:12), yet the Gospel though it speaks not exclusively to others, yet principally it declares the inevitable destruction, the everlasting damnation of them who be…

Others convinced of the pride and folly of this presumption, and notwithstanding the encouragement to fruitful obedience which lies in God's gracious acceptation and rewarding of our duties, have been discouraged in their attendance to them. It is well therefore where this notio…

Cursed be the ground, thorns and thistles shall it bring forth to you (Genesis 3:17, 18), whereunto barrenness or unaptness for better fruits is added (Genesis 4:12). From this curse the earth of itself and untilled, would bring forth nothing but thorns and briars, at least they…

God, I thank you, &c. — he seems to acknowledge God, and his grace, in what he was, and did, or had attained to in religion: and so it is with many still, who are yet unsound. Answer 1. A verbal acknowledgment is an easy thing many times, and especially when a good education lea…

Do you know what that means, to see, and yet not to see (Matthew 13:14)? — Seeing you shall see, and shall not perceive. Did you ever see a need to know the things, that you knew before: to know spiritually, what you know doctrinally; there is a form of knowledge, and of the tru…

Whereas the Synod, to prove the parents in question to be in Covenant, alleges, that they were once in Covenant, and never since discovenanted; the former, because else they had not warrantably been Baptized; and the latter, because they have not in any way of God been discovena…

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).…

Herein if they fail, they lose all privilege and benefit by their baptism. So speaks the Apostle in the case of circumcision under the law (Romans 2:25): For circumcision verily profiteth, if you keep the law; but if you be a breaker of the law, your circumcision is made uncircu…

Now all natural men are not hypocrites, to put on a pretence of strictness out of design. The Apostle says, "They do by nature the things contained in the law" (Romans 2:14), that is, upon the impulses of natural conscience, they avoid such sins as nature discovers, upon such ar…

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.

It is also a righteous thing to suit the punishment to the nature of the offence, and what can be more righteous than to punish a man by that wherein he offends? Hence God is said to give up men to sin (Romans 2:26-27): for this cause God gave them up to vile affections. And to…

They may repine sometimes at the service of sin or the consequence of it, in shame and pain, in the shameful distempers that will pursue many in their uncleanness; yet God having given them up judicially to sin, they have not so much as a right to put up one prayer or petition f…

Natural hardness, is the blindness or obstinacy of the heart in sin, by nature, which is not to be cured by the use or application of any outward means. Hardness and impenitent heart (Romans 2:5). This is that heart of stone, which God promises in the Covenant to take away, by t…

Although that which is foretold in these two chapters, and namely in the fourth and fifth verses of this chapter, was in part fulfilled when the people of God returned from captivity in Babylon at the end of seventy years: yet we must not limit the place to that time only, but m…

All men naturally want this motion, they cannot judge or do any thing by nature: they may do opus operatum, but they cannot do it in a holy manner; their prayers, their hearing, receiving of the Sacrament, and the like, are dead works, without faith the principal of life; howeve…

In Amos 3:2, You only have I known of all the families of the earth, therefore will I visit you for your iniquities; your sins are greater. And that in (Romans 2:9), Tribulation and anguish upon every soul of man that does evil, of the Jew first, and also the Gentile. And we hav…

Thus after the inhabitants of many cities of Israel, or of God's professing people, have taken up, and pursued a joint resolution, to go and pray before the Lord, and seek the Lord of Hosts, others shall be drawn to worship and serve him with them; till at length many people and…

Natural theology, how far it survives after the entrance of sin — its remnants, what they are and of what kind, are proved — from the law of nature, what it is; its force, Romans 2:14, 15 — the force of conscience — atheists — that God can be known from His works is shown. I. Th…

Your kingdom come: the second sort has two petitions: the first is disposed in a simple axiom of the subject and adjoint, that the kingdom of God, which he exercises by his Son, may daily come; that is, be set up in glory, fit for it: this having two parts, his administration he…

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…

Holy walking, as a witness of faith, is the way to the possession of the kingdom. As (Romans 2:6) Who will render to every man according to his deeds. (verse 7) To them who by patient continuance in well-doing, seek for glory, and honor, and immortality, eternal life.

(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…

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.

(Psalm 51:5) Behold, I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me. (Romans 3:23) For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 8:7) The carnal mind is enmity against God, for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

But when God comes to judge men, he finds none of this perfection in their righteousness, but manifold defects, and therefore, for, or upon the account of these he cannot justify them, he cannot in truth declare that he has found the man righteous, that he has seen no iniquity i…

Q. Who among men are tainted with sinne? A. All that are mere men, none excepted (Ecclesiastes 7:20; Romans 3:23 and 5:12). Q. How many sorts of sinne are there?

Q. Did the Lord work the deliverance of man, because man did importunately seek and sue to him for the same? A. Man did not seek and sue to God at all, but fled from him (Genesis 3:8; Romans 3:11). And if he had sought to God for help, God was not bound to afford it; and how muc…

What is the cause of our justification? The impulsive cause that moves God to justify a sinner is nothing else but his free grace (Romans 3:24; Titus 3:7). What is that for which God does justify?

Q. How else may the justice of the Lord in his decrees appear? A. Because whatever be the Lord's decree, there is no man actually condemned till he be first defiled with sin (Romans 3:9, 19; 2:6, 9; Genesis 4:7). Q. Whether is the decree of God certain and immutable, or such as…

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…

Which we willingly grant; that they who receive Christ, their faith becomes active through him to believe in his name, that so they might receive him, and his righteousness. We are justified by faith (Romans 3:28). When we are said to be justified by faith; it is by the righteou…

That when God justifies us (that is, when he first declares, and pronounces us to be righteous) he does declare his own righteousness, that he might be just, as Paul speaks (Romans 3:26), and the justifier of him, which believes on Jesus. And it is the speech of David, that when…

This is the flowering, or the effect and fruit of joy; a readiness to, and the way whereby we do express it. One great design of the Gospel is to exclude all boasting, all glorying in any thing of self in religion (Romans 3:27). It is by the Gospel and the law of faith therein t…

For if a Law be disanulled or abrogated, it is totally dissolved as to its obligatory power. And our Apostle removes the suspicion of any such thing from the doctrine of the Gospel (Romans 3:31): Do we then make void the Law through Faith? God forbid: yea we establish the Law. A…

This was done by Christ alone, who was therefore the [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] of this covenant, and all the grace of it. See (2 Corinthians 5:19, 20; Galatians 3:13, 14; Romans 3:25). 2. No restipulation of obedience to God could be made by man, that might be a ground of ente…

And those who like not God's Covenant on those terms, as none do by nature, will eternally fall short of the grace of it. Hereby all glorying, and all boasting in ourselves is excluded, which was that which God aimed at in the contrivance and establishment of this Covenant (Roma…

Now, at this time, which is the season that God has appointed for the introduction of the New Covenant and Ministry. To the same purpose the Apostle expresses himself, treating of the same subject (Romans 3:26), to declare [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], at this instant season, now…

For it is by blood, and no otherwise, that Atonement is made (Leviticus 17:11). Therefore he is set forth to be a Propitiation through faith in his blood (Romans 3:24, 25). That the Lord Jesus Christ did give himself a ransom for sin; that he did it in the shedding of his blood…

And we are taught, that The one sacrifice of Christ with what ensued thereon, was the only means to render effectual all the counsels of God, concerning the redemption and salvation of the Church (Ephesians 1:3, 4, 5, 6, 7; Romans 3:24, 25, 26). Of these heavenly things, it is s…

But this Cipporeth is rendered by our Apostle [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] a propitiatory, a mercy-seat; as it is also by the LXX sometimes, and sometimes by [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] an imposed covering. But whereas in allusion hereunto, the Lord Christ is said to be [⟨in non-Lati…

And there is, as was said, an emphasis in the expression, not without blood, to manifest how impossible it was that there should be an entrance into the gracious presence of God, without the blood of the sacrifice of Christ. The only propitiation of sins is made by the blood of…

It is granted that the actual communication of this effect of the death of Christ to our souls is wrought according to the method which God in his sovereign wisdom and pleasure has designed. And herein (1) the Lord Christ by his blood made actual and absolute Atonement for the s…

1. He undertook as the Surety of the Covenant to answer for all the sins of those who are to be, and are made partakers of the benefits of it. That is, to undergo the punishment due to their sins; to make atonement for them, by offering himself a propitiatory sacrifice for their…

That the blood of bulls and goats should take away sin, was utterly impossible, as our Apostle declares. It must be the blood of the Son of God (Romans 3:24, 25; Acts 20:28). And herein were glorified both the love and grace of God, in that he spared not his only Son, but gave h…

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

The word of God, that is, the word of the Gospel as preached, is that which they thus tasted of. But it may be said, that they enjoyed the word of God in their state of Judaism; they did so, as to the written word; for to them were committed the oracles of God (Romans 3:2). But…

(2) God will do so to evince the righteousness of his judgements, both in the hearts and consciences of them who shall be finally destroyed, whose end is to be burned; as also of all others who shall wisely consider of his ways. God endures all things from the world that he may…

James 2:20. But will you know, O Vain Man, that Faith without Works is Dead? The Apostle Paul had abundantly taught (as appears in divers of his Epistles) that man is justified by faith alone, without works: See (Romans 3:28) Therefore we conclude, that a man is justified by fai…

(Romans 12:19) he reads, Non vosmetipsos vindicantes, not avenging your selves: where the vulgar Latin has corruptly, Non vosmetipsos defendentes, not defending your selves. (Romans 3:4) where the Rhemists translate according to the Latin, God is true: he shows that in the Greek…

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…

So that you see all have their distinct work; the inchoation is from the Father, the dispensation by the Son, and the consummation by the Spirit: from the Father, in the Son, and through the Spirit; there is God's choice, Christ's purchase, and the Spirit's application: all are…

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…

Nothing is more natural than a spirit of revenge, as we see in little children, which discovers that the children of men bring murderous natures into the World with them. Hence the Apostle declaring what men by nature are, says, that their feet are swift to shed blood (Romans 3:…

Answ. If this saying be weighed in the ballance of the Sanctuary, it will be found to be more pleasing than solid, more plausible than weighty. For the rule is clear, we must not do evil, that good may come thereof (Romans 3:8), but it is an evil thing, and a sin to preach in a…

To those that were the people of God, though the Word concerns all men, yet it is written to the Church in a more especial manner. As you find in the Revelations all the Epistles were written to the Churches, and indeed all the Word of God is in a more peculiar manner written to…

An imperfect knowledge of a most absolute and perfect law profits not a whit with respect to its end. But the apostle shows at length that the law itself is unequal to this task — namely, that anyone should please God — in Romans 3 and 4. 3. Also, "without faith it is impossible…

The greatest privilege of the Jews was once that they were entrusted with the oracles 364 ON THE ORIGIN OF HEBREW POINTING. [Book 5.] — of God, as the apostle relates in (Romans 3:2). But they had long since fallen away from this; for the word has no longer been committed in any…

For those whom God wills efficaciously and graciously to bring to the saving knowledge of Christ, the case is different. For first, through His Spirit working powerfully in their hearts, He causes them to acknowledge and confess the sentence of the law pronounced against them to…

From hence cometh it, that we fear not in greatest dangers (2 Kings 6:16; Psalm 3:7; Psalm 27:3); that in the time of affliction, we are patient (Proverbs 20:22; Hebrews 10:33); without all murmuring to hold our peace (Psalm 39:10); receiving them as from a father (Job 1:21; Psa…

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…

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…

4. That he answered the Law and the penalty of it (Romans 8:3): "God sent forth his Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh; that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us" (Galatians 3:13): "Christ has redeemed us from the curse…

1. That the whole active and passive obedience of Christ was requisite to our justification; we stand in need of them both, and this will appear undeniably if we observe, That it is the justification of sinners that Christ stands engaged for; so the Scripture calls it (Romans 4:…

Qu. 8. How many we sanctify the name of God in the use of Gospel institutions? Answ. 1. By a holy reverence of his sovereign authority appointing of them. 2. A holy regard to his special presence in them. 3. Faith in his promises annexed to them. 4. Delight in his will, wisdom,…

What is the proper effect and use of a sacrament? To be a sign and seal of the covenant between God and his people, and of those spiritual blessings which are promised therein (Genesis 17:10, 11; Romans 4:11; Exodus 12; Matthew 26). How many sacraments are there?

Q. Of what or of what materials did he create the world? A. Not of any pre-existent matter, but of nothing (Hebrews 11:3; Romans 4:17). Q. How do you mean when you say that all things are made of nothing? For the body of Adam was made of the dust of the ground, and fishes of the…

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.

When we are said to be justified by faith; it is by the righteousness of Christ imputed to us. Abraham's To credere, his act of believing, was imputed to him for righteousness (Romans 4:3). It is taken generally among the learned, for a singular opinion of Master Wotton, that To…

As Abraham came to the first assurance of his justification, so we, and all that believe, as Abraham did; for he is made a pattern to us in point of justification (Romans 4:23). Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him (v. 24), but for us also, to wh…

The consequence is plain from the law of contraries: for, if the Lord shame us with a sight and sense of sin; he does not then, first comfort and encourage us, with the sight and sense of sanctification. Minor is proved (Ezekiel 16:63; Romans 4:5). Ezekiel 16:63: That you may re…

The conditional promises are made to poor drooping souls, not in respect of such conditions, or as they are qualified with such gifts and duties of sanctification; but in respect of their union with Christ, to whom the promises belong (Galatians 3:26, 28, 29). The fruits of such…

If the promise be made sure of God to faith out of grace; then it is not first made sure to faith out of works. But the promise is made sure of God to faith out of grace (Romans 4:5): to him that works not, but believes on him, that justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted…

First, we do believe, that in our effectual calling, God draws us to union with Christ (John 6:44), shedding abroad his Spirit in our hearts (Romans 5:5), and working faith in us to receive Christ (John 1:12, 13), and to live by faith upon him (Galatians 2:20). Secondly, we are…

And it is so of grace, as that the righteousness of God wherein it is due to us, can be no other but that of his faithfulness in his promises. For neither we nor our works are capable of an eternal reward by the way of merit, that is, that the reward should be reckoned to us not…

And during this season it was of necessity that they should be kept under a Law that made nothing perfect. For as our Apostle speaketh, if they which are of the Law be heirs, faith is made void (Romans 4:14); and if righteousness come by the Law, then is Christ dead in vain (Gal…

And so in the first covenant which was given in a form of law, attended with a penal sanction, yet the foundation of it was in a promise of a free and undeserved reward, even of the eternal enjoyment of God, which no goodness or obedience in the creature could possibly merit the…

And Chrysost. inclines to that notion of the word. But [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] is used in all good Authors, for not only to find, but to obtain by our endeavors; so do we render it, and so we ought to do (Romans 4:1; Hebrews 4:16). He obtained effectually eternal Redemption by…

Hence in this promise and the confirmation of it, there was the highest engagement of the faithfulness and veracity of God. There was so to the end that the promise might be sure to all the seed (Romans 4:16). Therefore God does not only declare the relation of it to his essenti…

Imitatores is not used in our language, and when it is, it rather signifies mimicks, or contains some reflection of blame or weakness, than what it is here applied to. Therefore we render it followers, that is, in doing what they did, treading and walking in their steps, as our…

In this condition, God of his sovereign grace first calls him to the saving knowledge of himself, and by degrees accumulates him with all the favors and privileges before mentioned. Hence in the close of his whole course he had no cause to glory in himself neither before God nor…

We must consider the design of the Apostle, and scope of the place, and what they do require. The word is used only in this place, though the verb, [in non-Latin alphabet], be elsewhere (Romans 4:21; chapter 14:15), to signify a full satisfaction of mind, in what we are persuade…

Therefore as God engages his omnipotency or all-sufficiency as the foundation of all his covenant actings towards us (Genesis 17:1), so he often pleads the same power to assure us of the accomplishment of his promises (Isaiah 40:28, 29). And it is expressly asserted as the princ…

(3.) I have fully proved on that place, that the Apostle in that expression intendeth only the days and times of the Messiah, or of the Gospel, commonly called among the Jews, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] the World to come, that new Heaven and Earth, wherein righteousness should…

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…

So the Corinthians are said to be Saints by calling (1 Corinthians 1:2), and (Hebrews 3:1): Holy Brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling. Now the Saints are a called people, first, because all they have and enjoy is from God's calling; a Christian is nothing and has nothing…

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…

If this were Christ's end in dying and rising, it was his Father's end too, who appointed him to death, and raised him by his mighty power. And since he was delivered for our offences, and rose again for our justification (Romans 4:25), the government he is invested with, being…

And the Scripture teaches us, that God the Father has constituted his Son, as God-Man, and in his kingdom of grace, or mediatorial kingdom, to be the heir of the world, that he might in this kingdom have the heathen for his inheritance, and the utmost ends of the earth for his p…

From this confidence, springs trust or hope, which is to wait and look for the help, which in confidence we assure ourselves of from the Lord (Psalm 33:18, 19, 20, 21). Yes, although means be wanting, we give glory to God (Romans 4:10; 2 Kings 6:16). From hence cometh it, that w…

Now let us see what particulars are forbidden, and what commanded. First, we see forbidden in the first part, the making of images to liken God, or to worship him, whether graven or painted (Romans 4:12; Ezekiel 8:10; John 5:21). No image of God must be made, because he is a Spi…

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.…

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…

It remains therefore, that we consider, (1.) how this is revealed and affirmed in the Scripture: and (2.) what is the true meaning of the expressions and propositions wherein it is revealed and affirmed; for in them, as in sundry others, we affirm, that the satisfaction pleaded…

(Ecclesiastes 7:29) Lo, this only have I found, that God made man upright, but he has sought out many inventions. (Romans 5:12) Therefore as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. Ver. 18. Therefore by…

And if this be well considered, it will from there be apparent, that both Christ's active and passive obedience were needed in this case, and no more than what was requisite; and if he had not so, he could not have perfectly merited for us: for Covenant merit is nothing else but…

And that he should do all this for those that were his enemies, and had wilfully and unreasonably revolted from and taken up arms of rebellion against him — behold what manner of love God has loved us withal, thus to do for us in our most urgent distress. The Apostle cannot choo…

Peace within a man's self is a wonderful blessing, and happy is that man who enjoys it, and can live upon it: and this peace, if it be of the right kind, and that which will hold out, has its foundation in our justification by faith in Jesus Christ. This is the proper ground of…

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

What righteousness is it then? That perfect righteousness whereby we are justified is that righteousness which was wrought by Christ, and inherent in his person (Isaiah 45:24, 25; Jeremiah 23:6; 1 Corinthians 1:30; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 5:18, 19). How comes the righteousnes…

Q. Justification, Adoption, and Sanctification are excellent benefits that come to believers through Christ; tell me what other benefits do accompany or flow from these? A. In this life there does accompany or flow from them assurance of God's love, lively hope, and expectation…

Q. What Scriptures do prove that Adam and Eve did fall from that state of innocency and purity wherein they were created? A. Many, but most especially the third chapter of Genesis, Ecclesiastes 7:29, Isaiah 43:27, Romans 5:12, 18, 19, 1 Timothy 2:14. Q. Who did fall?

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…

If the sin of Adam were imputed to us for our condemnation, as soon as we were alive by natural life before we had done any act of life, good or evil: then the righteousness of Jesus Christ is imputed to us to our justification, as soon as we be alive to God by faith, before we…

In the explicating of it, I must first speak what it is that justifies us. First, we do believe, that in our effectual calling, God draws us to union with Christ (John 6:44), shedding abroad his Spirit in our hearts (Romans 5:5), and working faith in us to receive Christ (John 1…

The introduction of all imperfection and weakness in the Church was by sin. This made the Law weak (Romans 8:3), and sinners to be without strength (Romans 5:7). Therefore the reduction of Perfection must in the first place be by righteousness.

It is therefore highly vain to confound the consideration of our concernment in what Adam did as he was the head of the covenant, with what he afterwards did, and other intervenient progenitors might do. All this our Apostle confirms at large (Romans 5). (7.) Abraham was taken i…

In the new Testament it is used, Luke 1:6, Romans 1:32, chap. 2:26, chap. 5:16, chap. 8:4, Hebrews 9:1, ver. 10, Revelation 15:4, chap. 19:8. And in no one place does it signifie Institution, but it may be better rendred Righteousness when alone we so translate it (Romans 5:16).…

God has eminently suited our relief, the means and causes of our spiritual deliverance, to our misery, the means and causes of it, as that his own wisdom and grace may be exalted and our faith established. That which is here summarily represented by our Apostle in this elegant a…

This state of things is now changed under the Gospel. It is one of the principal priviledges of Believers, that, being made Kings and Priests to God by Jesus Christ, this distinction as to especial gracious access to God is taken away (Revelation 1:5; Ephesians 2:18; Romans 5:2)…

Yes, none have greater hopes for the most part than such as have no faith at all. The great use, benefit and advantage which believers have by this grace, is the supporting of their souls under the troubles and difficulties which they meet withal upon the account of the professi…

It is granted that the actual communication of this effect of the death of Christ to our souls is wrought according to the method which God in his sovereign wisdom and pleasure has designed. And herein (1) the Lord Christ by his blood made actual and absolute Atonement for the s…

And therefore that the Lord Christ in all this may have the preeminence, he will do it in an abundant and unconceivable manner, above the former declarations of his glory in any other of his attributes. Hence in the Scripture the communication of grace is expressed in words that…

(1) In its nature it is [in non-Latin alphabet], sure, and not a deceiving imagination. It makes not ashamed (Romans 5:5) by any failure or disappointment. Groundless presumptions are the deceitful engines, whereby the souls of multitudes are ruined every day; of no more use tha…

Hence believers have boldness to appear before him, and approach to his presence. See (Romans 5:11; 2 Corinthians 5:18, 19, 20, 21; Ephesians 2:13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18). Hereon was it the procuring, the purchasing cause of this privilege.

A respect to his oblation whereby he made reconciliation is included, but it is the efficacy of his intercession that is expressly regarded. For being reconciled by his death, we are saved by his life (Romans 5:10). He therefore alone is the mediator of intercession, who is able…

They knew they had it in themselves, from the powerful experience which faith gave them of it. So the whole of it is intended, and at large explained by the Apostle (Romans 5:1, 2, 3, 4, 5). Faith gives us justification before God, access to him, and acceptance with him, and the…

Patience is the perfecting grace of suffering Christians (James 1:4, 5). And that which all tribulations do excite in the first place to its proper actings, whereon the exercise of other graces does depend (Romans 5:4, 5). This says the Apostle you have need of.

The grant hereof is called God's gift. So is the gift of Christ used also (Ephesians 4:7): according to the measure of the gift of Christ, that is, according as he is pleased to give and grant of the fruits of the Spirit to men; see (Romans 5:15, 17; Ephesians 3:7). Sometimes it…

Hence the Substantive [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩] is used in both those Senses, and where it is to be taken in either of them, the circumstances of the Text do openly declare. Where it is taken in the latter Sense, the Greek renders it by [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], a Sacrifice…

(3) Afflictions and trials. By these he purges his vine that it may bring forth yet more fruit; that is, he tries, exercises, and thereby improves the faith and graces of believers (1 Peter 1:7; Romans 5:3, 4, 5; James 1:2, 3, 4). 4. God expects fruit from this field, which is s…

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

This the Apostle does so plainly and positively declare, Chap. 10. 19, 20, 21, 22. that I somewhat admire so many worthy and learned expositors should utterly miss of his meaning in this place. The Holies then is the gracious presence of God, whereunto believers draw nigh, in th…

Indeed works don't justify us, they have no hand in that at all: it is faith only that justifies us (Romans 3:28) — a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law. (Romans 5:1) Therefore being justified by faith, &c. yet it is also true, that that faith which is alone,…

Which does clearly shew what the Synod says, That a different way and means of being members, does not alter the nature and kind of membership; which we see does hold as touching being a member of fallen mankind, and we see no reason but it may also hold as touching being a memb…

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. 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. Hence it follows naturally, that faith has no natural or proper vertue in it self to justifie a sinner; for that which has in it self a real virtue to justifie, must answer the Law in all its demands, whereas faith in it self answers to none of them. There is no such thing as…

Qu. 10. How do we in and by them build up our selves in our most holy faith? Answ. By the exercise of that communion with God in Christ Jesus, which in their due observation he graciously invites and admits us to, for the increase of his grace in us, and the testification of his…

(1) Genesis 2:16, 17; Genesis 4:3, 4; Genesis 17:9, 10, 11; Exodus 12:24; Exodus 20; Matthew 28:19, 20; Matthew 26:26, 27; Ephesians 4:11, 12; Revelation 1:13; Revelation 21:3. (2) Genesis 17:10; Exodus 12:23, 24; Romans 6:3, 4, 5; Matthew 26:27; 1 Corinthians 11:25, 26, 27. (3)…

For the words expressly assign two sorts of Elders, whereof some, only attend to rule; others moreover labor in the word and doctrine. Neither does that word, as some would have it, labor in the Word, intend any other labor but what is incumbent on all the Pastors and Teachers o…

Qu. 6. May not such an estate of faith and perfection in obedience be attained in this life, as wherein believers may be freed from all obligation to the observation of Gospel institutions? Answ. No! For the ordinances and institutions of the Gospel being inseparably annexed to…

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

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

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…

Now faith is instead of eyes to the soul: by Faith Abraham saw the day of Christ, and rejoiced, though it were afar off (John 8:56). The same Apostle says, that there be six witnesses that give light and evidence to our spiritual life in Christ: of which three be in heaven, and…

It is with respect to our wills that we are said to be dead in sin, and alienated from the life of God. And by this change of the will, do we become dead to sin (Romans 6:2). That is, whatever remainder of lust or corruption there may be in us, yet the will of sinning is taken a…

Grotius adds little to what Schlictingius offers in this case. Only he tells us that [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] is taken for those griefs which are commonly the punishment of sin (Romans 6:10). But it is a mistake: [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], in that place, signifies nothing b…

See (2 Corinthians 3:18; chap. 4:4, 6). Neither does it renew, change, or transform the soul into a conformity to the things known, by planting of them in the will and affections, as a gracious saving light does (2 Corinthians 3:18; Romans 6:17; Romans 12:1). These things I judg…

First it brings forth, [in non-Latin alphabet], thorns and briars: see the opening of the words before. In general, I doubt not but all sorts of sins are hereby intended, all unfruitful works of righteousness (Romans 6:21; Ephesians 5:11). And the principal reason why they are h…

When you shall enlarge my heart, &c. Trial 2. If your faith be not a dead faith, it will have fruits: even such as we read of (Romans 6:2), fruits to holiness: I shall instance in three things. (1.) Repentance.

The Rhemists indeede tell us, that when the Church does offer and sacrifice Christ daily; hee in mysterie and sacrament dyeth. Further than this they durst not goe: for if they had said, hee dyed really; they should thereby not only make themselves daily killers of Christ, but a…

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.

Saint Paul does plainly sever these two parts of Christian righteousness one from the other. For in the 6th chapter of Romans (Romans 6) thus he writes, Being freed from sin, and made servants to God; you have your fruit in holiness, and the end everlasting life. You are made fr…

So that to live as if we were at our own dispose, is to defraud Christ of his purchase. Thus we are Christ's by Creation and Redemption; but now if we would be his servants, we must be his by voluntary contract, and spiritual resignation: Yield up yourselves, &c. (Romans 6:13).…

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…

A man's lusts and corruptions are indeed so strongly interested in him, that sin is himself, and his corruptions are his members, therefore when we leave off sin, we are said to live no more to ourselves. And mortification is the greatest violence that can be done to nature, the…

So Paul had, and so the saints in Scripture had. If you have but Paul's faith, that is, a sin-lamenting faith, as (Romans 7:24), a groaning faith (Romans 8:23, 26), a laboring faith (Colossians 1:29), a sanctifying faith (Romans 6), a growing faith (Philippians 3:10–13), and if…

2. See the sin and sinfulness of such a state. Unspeakable is the sin that the unbeliever lies under: all sin lives and reigns, where unbelief lives and reigns; for now the curse reigns in its strength, and sin has dominion (Romans 6:14). A man is in his sins still, if not in Ch…

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…

There is the flesh remaining in every one which lusts against the Spirit (Galatians 5:17). And it adheres to all the faculties of our souls; from where it is called the old man (Romans 6:6; Ephesians 4:22), in opposition to the renovation of our minds, and all the faculties of t…

Where it has dominion, it has the force and power of a law in the wills and minds of them in whom it is. Hereby it requires obedience of them, and they yield up themselves servants to obey it (Romans 6:16). Therefore to this dominion of sin, there is required a consent of the wi…

1. We do not enquire concerning them in whom the reign of Sin is absolute and easily discernable, if not to themselves, yet to others. Such there are, who visibly yield up their members instruments of unrighteousness to Sin (Romans 6:13). Sin reigns in their mortal bodies, and t…

Where these things and the like are found, there is no question what it is that has dominion, and bears rule in the minds of men. This all men may easily know, as the Apostle declares (Romans 6:16).

It cannot make an incursion on the kingdom of Christ, so as to carry away any of its subjects into a state of sin and darkness again. And an interest in this state ought to be pleaded against all the attempts of sin (Romans 6:1, 2). There is nothing more to be detested, than tha…

Envy not their gallantry, their glistering appearances, their heaps of wealth and treasures, they are in the whole vile and contemptible slaves. The Apostle determines their case (Romans 6:17). It is a matter of eternal thankfulness to God, that we are delivered from being the s…

Rom. 6:14. For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under the law but under grace. FINIS.

But the inference is not good, that therefore it should be unlawful to enter into Church-Covenant: for, first, by the same reason, all promises are unlawful, and all covenants whatever; as the covenant of marriage, the covenant of service, yes and the personal covenant of Grace,…

The conscience of the sinner immediately protests, and likewise the law itself; both forbid him to hope for any forgiveness or pardon whatever; both cry out loudly and persistently that no sinner will find any such thing with God. "It is not possible," they say, "that so great a…

Theology as a complex of spiritual gifts — Extraordinary or ordinary gifts — Ordinary gifts peculiar to the ministry or common to all — Christ the bestower of all gifts (Psalm 68:19; Acts 2:33; Ephesians 4:8) — The Hebrew word signifies both to receive and to give — Christ the a…

That the first work may better be wrought, the Law has two properties (Deuteronomy 28:3, 15). Curse or punishment, which is the first, which punishes the least offence with the wrath of God, to be felt for ever in soul and body; called death (Galatians 3:10; Romans 6:23; Romans…

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…

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?

2. The command expects perfect obedience; that is, that every act of obedience do fully come up to the height of what the Law requires, that there be no flaw or defect in it, whereas the people of God are perfect in no one act. Believers indeed are sincere, and that sincerity is…

But still it is also woefully true on the other hand, that they are overtaken with sin, drawn forcibly into it; yes, they are miserably hampered with it, the oppression which they suffer from it sets them [〈◊〉] groaning, and fills their souls with distress. Holy Paul makes bitte…

The most of men have entertained carnal conceptions about the Law, and that occasions their taking up of confiding thoughts in themselves: they have not made a discovery of the exceeding great latitude of it, and that makes them to think it an easie matter to pay all observance…

Q. What proceeds from this imperfection of Sanctification? A. A continual combat between corruption and grace in the sanctified soul (Galatians 5:17; Romans 7). Q. And what else?

Q. What rules are to be observed for our better understanding the commandments of the Law? A. Every commandment of the Law is spiritual, reaching not only to the outward man, but also to the heart, soul, and conscience (Romans 7:14; Matthew 5:22, 28). Q. What is another rule?

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…

Admit a house be weakly timbered, which being almost now already fallen will ere long fall; and that I do not with any engines or instruments throw or beat down the same, but only take away the outward hindrances, and on every side as it were open a way for the downfall, to the…

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…

While Satan, the strong man, keeps the house, Christ the stronger comes upon him, and bereaves him of his armor, and divides the spoil (Luke 11:21, 22). We are dead to our first husband, the Law, by the body of Christ (Romans 7:4), and therefore it is by the virtue of Christ's d…

For God himself was the immediate Author of it, whose Authority is Sovereign and over all; and from there also it follows, that the matter of it was Good. For the Commandment, as our Apostle speaks, was Holy, Just, and Good (Romans 7:12). And however there be a difference betwee…

The first includes all positive holiness; the other an abnegation of all unholiness. As he was [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] he had not [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], sin present, as we have with us (Romans 7:18, 21), or [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], sin easily besetting (Hebrews 12:…

1. The introduction of the assertion is by the particles [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], But now; [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], now, is a note of time, of the present time. But there are instances where these adverbial particles thus conjoined, do not seem to denote any time or seas…

This force it borrows from its relation to the law of God and the curse thereof. (2.) Its impelling ruling power, subjectively in the minds of men, leading them captive into all enmity and disobedience to God (Romans 7:23). Christ appeared to abrogate this law of sin, to deprive…

No otherwise is it with them who are thoroughly convinced of sin. They were alive, as the Apostle speaks (Romans 7), and at peace, fearing no more evil than they felt; perhaps persuading themselves that all things were well between God and their souls, or not much solicitous whe…

I shall endeavour to make some discovery of it. 1. It is not only notional, or doctrinal, but it is experimental also: a man does not only hear it, or read it in some good book, but he does also feel, and find it, as he said (Romans 7:21), I find then a law, &c. How did he know…

Oh! consider it, you say you trust in Christ, but it may be you never saw your selves yet, nor the plague of your own hearts. The commandment never came, and sin never revived, as he speaks (Romans 7:9). It may be you never saw the evil of sin.

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

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…

The sin of the Pharisees was vain-glory and ambition: some morsel there is reserved under the tongue, some sin kept with the greater allowance from conscience, and the less shame from abroad, because otherwise the life is fair and honest. 4. There is a greater care about actions…

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…

So did David (Psalm 119:128): I esteem all your precepts concerning all things to be right. And so did Saint Paul when he was under the same temptation as other men, when his corrupt inclination led him one way, and the law and Spirit of God pulled him another way, and he was li…

Oh! Was your heart ever wounded for sin and made sick of it? Did the Lord ever awaken you by his Word, not only to dream of a natural estate; but to see it; to see yourself a dead man, under the power and guilt of sin, under the strength of the curse (Romans 7:9)? Has the Spirit…

So Paul had, and so the saints in Scripture had. If you have but Paul's faith, that is, a sin-lamenting faith, as (Romans 7:24), a groaning faith (Romans 8:23, 26), a laboring faith (Colossians 1:29), a sanctifying faith (Romans 6), a growing faith (Philippians 3:10–13), and if…

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…

It is supposed that sin does still abide in and dwell with believers. For so is the meaning of the words: that sin which is in you shall not have dominion over you; that is, none of them who are not sensible of it, who groan not to be delivered from it, as the Apostle does (Roma…

Such imaginations are no evidence of the dominion of sin, in what degree soever they are, where they are afflictive; where they are a burden to the soul, which it groans under and would be delivered from. There is a full account given by the Apostle, of the conflict between indw…

As, When the Law presseth on their consciences, perplexing and disquieting of them, the Commandment comes home to them, Sin reviveth and they die (Romans 7:9, 10). That is, it gives power to Sin to slay the hopes of the sinner, and to distress him with the apprehension of guilt…

It is a matter of eternal thankfulness to God, that we are delivered from being the servants of sin. Yes, it is an evidence of grace, of a good frame of spirit, when a soul is made really sensible of the excellency of this freedom; when it so finds the power and interest of sin…

Secondly, if you have been dead, whether you are made alive. First I say, consider whether you have been dead or no; I mean, whether sin has been made alive in you, that you might die (Romans 7:9, 10). I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived,…

We are here admonished to be displeased with ourselves, for our imperfect obedience to God, and for our hypocrisy, privy 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 wants in hi…

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…

Galatians 6:4. God sent forth his Son made of a Woman; he was his Son, and was made of a woman; according as he expresses it (Hebrews 10:5), A body have you prepared Me; as also (Romans 8:3). Philippians 2:5, 6, 7.

(Romans 3:23) For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 8:7) The carnal mind is enmity against God, for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. (Ephesians 4:18) Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God thro…

Now guilt is properly an obligation binding a person over to suffer punishment for some transgression which he is fallen under; condemnation is a passing of a sentence formally upon such an one, adjudging of him so to suffer: and there is only this difference between these two,…

If you have thus believed, you are then in Christ Jesus, and you shall be found in him, and being so, you are delivered from all grounded fear of evil, and have reason to expect to partake in all needful good: briefly, that you are every way as safe as can be desired, for [illeg…

(1) Luke 18:1; Chap. 21:36; Romans 12:5; 1 Timothy 2:1, 2. (2) Ephesians 4:8, 12, 13; Romans 8:15, 16; Galatians 4:6. (3) Acts 2:42; 1 Timothy 4:5.

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…

And as he which continues in Christ's word is verily his disciple: so he that does not fall away, but abides a sheep, is verily a sheep. Romans 8:35: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Romans 10:29: The gifts and calling of God are without repentance.

Here we see that Paul distinguishes God's eternal purpose and election, and places in his decree a certain election in the first place before the purpose of damning or saving. And in Romans 8:29-30: those which he knew before, he also predestinated to be made like to the image o…

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…

Seventhly, lastly, there is no society that has such privileges, as this spiritual house, which is constituted according to the Magna Charta of the gospel (Matthew 28:18, 19, 20; Mark 16:15, 16), though while they are in the world, they are for the faith of Jesus the Christ kill…

He quickened us, since he acknowledges a passive receiving of Christ, he must acknowledge a passive faith: for there is no receiving of Christ, but by faith. In a book of choice English sermons, that goes under the name of Doctor Sybbs, and our Brother Hooker, and Master Davenpo…

Zancheus his judgement, though he was a godly and an eminent learned man, yet I would not have named him, but that Mr. Perkins highly approved his discourse, and translated it, as a choice piece, into his own volume, which makes it obvious to every godly reader, that studies Per…

We harden the obstinate Papist in their superstition; for they say, and that truly, we received most of our forms of prayer and praise from them. We rob the Spirit of his glory, who is given to Saints to form prayer and praise in them (1 Corinthians 14:15, 16; Romans 8:26; Galat…

There ensued also an enmity between man and all the creation here below. The sin of man had brought all things into a condition of vanity and bondage, which they groan to be delivered from (Romans 8:20, 21, 22). And the Earth the common mother of them all, as it were to revenge…

(2) By the evidence of faith when any thing is believed on grounds infallible, namely, the revelation of the mind of God in the Scripture, or the Promises of the Gospel. So he uses this word (Romans 8:34), [in non-Latin alphabet], for I am perswaded that neither death nor life,…

The introduction of all imperfection and weakness in the Church was by sin. This made the Law weak (Romans 8:3), and sinners to be without strength (Romans 5:7). Therefore the reduction of Perfection must in the first place be by righteousness.

The End it directed to was Righteousness before God: But this could never be attained by an Obedience to it, nor was it ever intended that so it should do. This the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the Flesh (Romans 8:3). And therefore those who pursued and followed…

And the defective speech is to be supplied by [in non-Latin alphabet], made perfect; as we do it by did, that is, did make all things perfect. To the same purpose the Apostle expresses himself in other words (Romans 8:3): For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak throug…

1. He was not separate from them as to community of nature. For God sent his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh (Romans 8:3). He sent him in the flesh, for he sent him made of a woman, made under the Law (Galatians 4:4), wherein the Word was made flesh (John 1:14); but he s…

But it became necessary from the state and condition of them with whom this covenant was made, and the especial nature of this covenant. This the Apostle declares (Romans 8:3): For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the li…

To the same purpose he argues (Chap. 7:11, 19). And with respect to this end it is said that the Law was weak (Romans 8:3; Galatians 3:21; Acts 13:38, 39). In brief, that which the Apostle designeth to prove is that the first Covenant was of that constitution, that it could not…

He was appointed Heir of all things (chapter 1:3). By him is it communicated to all believers, who thereby become heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ (Romans 8:15, 16, 17). For the Lord Christ as the great Testator did in and by his death bequeath to them all his goods, as…

It is the name of taking away the force, power, and obligation of a law. The power of sin, as to all its effects and consequents whether sinful or penal, is called its law; the law of sin (Romans 8:2). And of this law as of others, there are two parts or powers.

What was in the tables of stone was nothing but a transcript of what was written in the heart of man originally; and which is returned there again by the grace of the new Covenant (Jeremiah 32:35; 2 Corinthians 3:3). 3. Although this Law as a Covenant, was broken and disannulled…

And how do we become heirs of this inheritance? Merely by God's gratuitous adoption; so our Apostle declareth fully this whole matter (Romans 8:15, 16, 17). "You have received the Spirit of adoption whereby we cry Abba Father; the Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit th…

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?

And where there was none in public calamities, that did voluntarily devote themselves, the people were wont to take some obnoxious person, to make him execrable, and to lay on him according to their superstition, all the wrath of their gods, and so give him up to destruction. Su…

Romans 1:3. Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh, Romans 9:5. Whose are the Fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came.

Isa. 6:1, 2, 3. I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up and his train filled the temple; above it stood the Seraphims, each one had six wings, with twain he covered his face, with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did flye: and one cryed to anoth…

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

Q. What was the cause of God's decrees? A. The cause that moved him to decree was nothing foreseen in the creature, but his own will and good pleasure (Romans 9:11, 18; Matthew 11:25, 26). But since some are appointed by the decree of God to damnation, if his will be the cause o…

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…

Fourthly, if God wills that all men, as they are men, be saved: in like manner he wills that all sinners, as they are sinners, be damned; which is absurd. Fifthly, that will which cannot be resisted, is absolute: but God's antecedent or first will cannot be resisted (Romans 9:19…

The former concerns the end, the latter concerns the means tending to the end. This the holy Ghost seems to me to have taught very evidently (Romans 9:11): that the purpose which is according to election might remain. Here we see that Paul distinguishes God's eternal purpose and…

From where it is that Lumbard the Master of all the Schoolmen says, that God has rejected whom he would, not for any future merits which he did foresee, but yet most righteously, though we cannot conceive the reason thereof. And Jerome long before him does thus expound the place…

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…

And for the defects the people of Israel and Judah committed in their worship, so long as they continued in their integrity, the high priest went once every year into the Holy of Holiest, and that not without blood, to offer up for himself, and for the errors of the people (Hebr…

To works of creation there needs no preparation; the almighty power of God calls them to be his people, that were not his people (1 Peter 2:10). And by calling them to be so, he makes them to be so (Romans 9:25, 26): "As he says in Hosea, I will call them, My people, which were…

But the mistake is evident, for the will of God here intended is not at all opposed to the legal sacrifices, but only as to the means of the accomplishment of it, which they were not, nor could be. The sovereign will and pleasure of God, acting itself in infinite wisdom and grac…

And notwithstanding all the provocations and injuries he had received from them, he gave on all occasions the highest demonstration of the most intense affection towards them; never opposing them nor reflecting on them with any severity, but only then and wherein they opposed th…

3. It was so obscurely represented to them, as that the Law arose up in a competition with it, or rather against it, in the minds of the generality of the people. They looked for righteousness as it were by the works of the Law (Romans 9:32), and on this rock of offence, this st…

This the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the Flesh (Romans 8:3). And therefore those who pursued and followed after it with the most earnestness for this End, never attained thereunto (Romans 9:31, 32). This End therefore is principally to be considered in this Law…

It was this covenant that raised and ruined them, it raised them to glory and honor when given of God; it ruined them when abused by themselves, contrary to express declarations of his mind and will. For although the generality of them were wicked and rebellious always, breaking…

And it was with respect to those, of this sort among that people, that the Covenant was promised to be made with them. See (Romans 9:24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33; chapter 11:7). But in respect of the outward dispensation of the Covenant, it is extended beyond the effec…

[in non-Latin alphabet] is originally of as large a signification as [in non-Latin alphabet], and denotes any service whatever. But it is here, and constantly in the new Testament, as is also the verb [in non-Latin alphabet], restrained to Divine service (John 16:2, Romans 9:4,…

And when God threatened to deprive them of that Land, he said he would disinherit them (Numbers 14:12). And this inheritance consisted not only in the Land itself, but principally in the privileges of holy worship and relation to God which they enjoyed therein (Romans 9:5). But…

The Cherubims, that represented the glorious presence of God himself, as he dwelt among the people. So the Apostle reckoning up the privileges of the Hebrews (Romans 9:4), affirms that to them appertained the adoption and the glory. And therein not the Ark is intended, although…

For now when the full accomplishment was declared, and innumerable persons came in to a participation of it, those to whom it was peculiarly made, neither would be, nor were sharers of it. This great objection against the truth of the Promise our Apostle lays down (Romans 9:6),…

[⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩], is God purposing or determining. So is the same act of God expressed by [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] (Romans 9:22), what if God willing to show his wrath; that is, purposing or determining so to do. And this [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩], as it respects [⟨in…

(4.) The time and season did manifest itself to them. For whereas the body of that people were to be cut off, and cast off, as the Apostle expressly declares (Romans 9:10, 11), this could not be done until a sufficient tender of the Gospel and of grace by Christ Jesus were first…

And it is laid down as a universal rule, that no man has any thing in this kind but what he has freely received, nor does any man make himself to differ from others (1 Corinthians 4:7). For, (1.) God lays the foundation of all spiritual differences among men, in his sovereign de…

It was not contrary to the nature of God, but God had decreed that so it should not be (1 Samuel 15:28, 29). But the decrees of God respecting persons in particular, and not qualifications in the first place, they cannot be here intended; because they are free acts of his will,…

In the designation and contrivance of it. So preparation is sometimes used for predestination, or the resolution for the effecting any thing that is future in its proper season (Isaiah 30:33; Matthew 20:23; Romans 9:23; 1 Corinthians 2:9). In this sense of the word, God had prep…

It may be some find not themselves much concerned in this laborious accurate dispute of the Apostle, wherein so much occurrs about pedigrees, priests, and tithes, which they think belongs not to them. But let them remember, that in that great day of taking down the whole fabric…

This is that which he aimeth to accomplish thereby, and therefore his will and purpose herein is that which gives rule and measure to the actings of his providence concerning it. Wherever there are any of his Elect to be called, or in what time soever, there and then will he cau…

And in like cases, though not by express command yet by his secret providence he takes off the hearts of his people from them whom he has designed to ruin for their sins. And we may observe, that our Apostle himself who a long time laboured with unspeakable zeal and most fervent…

Indeed there is a difference — some die more easily than others do. [illegible] say, that every man naturally is alive to the Law, that is, he seeks life by the Law, as they did (Romans 9, penult). Many times persons don't know that they do thus; they may profess, and protest ag…

And here consider these things. 1. Every man, one as well as another, is inclined naturally to seek righteousness, by the works of the law, as they did (Romans 9:31, 32 and 10:3). Men are not at any time more addicted to their vile lusts, which they hardly part with, than to thi…

Nor is it easily proved, that a grown person, who was admitted in minority, and is now qualified as the Proposition expresseth, that such a grown person is now a stranger from the Covenant, and without the Church, and without God in the world, and this in respect of his external…

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…

In the next place, how aptly these blessings are suited among themselves; first mercy, then peace, and then love; mercy does not differ much from that which is called grace in Paul's Epistles, only grace does more respect the bounty of God, as mercy does our want and need: by me…

The Apostle says far otherwise, that God gave Christ to be the Head over all things to the Church, which is his Body; which the Syriack readeth more plainly, And him who is over all, he gave to be the Head to the Church. He is a Head to none but the Church: but he who is Head to…

There is nothing else without this, that will entitle you to salvation, or give you right to life eternal. If you would take the way to attain to salvation, attain to saving faith: attain to the righteousness which is by faith (Romans 9:30). If you would work out your own salvat…

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.

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…

Justification not only exempts a sinner from hell, and wrath, and eternal death, which he had been obnoxious to, but it also appoints him to life, and peace, and salvation; and this also must be done according to the tenor of the law. Now if we search, we shall find that the law…

Explication. It was showed before, that all the institutions of the Old Testament had respect to the coming of Christ in the flesh, who was the end of the Law (Romans 10:4), and thereupon they were subject to alteration or abolition upon a twofold account. First, Because that wh…

Qu. 9. How do we in our observation, profess our subjection to the Lord Jesus Christ and his Gospel? Answ. In that being all of them 1. Appointed by him as the head law-giver, King of his Church. And 2. Made by him the ensigns and tokens of his Kingdom, and subjects, in their du…

Q. These covenants are only concerning external and earthly blessings; but is there not some covenant concerning everlasting happiness, besides that covenant of grace in Christ? A. Yes, that which is usually called the covenant of works (Galatians 4:24, 25; Romans 10:5). Q. What…

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…

Romans 8:35: Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Romans 10:29: The gifts and calling of God are without repentance. 2 Timothy 2:19: The foundation of God remains sure, and has this seal, the Lord knows who are his.

Romans 1:16. The Gospel is the power of God to salvation to every one that believes. Romans 10:4. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believes. Galatians 3:22. The Scripture has concluded all under sin, that the promise by the faith of Jesus Christ s…

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,…

Because the Word without the Almighty power of the Spirit is but a dead letter; and the Work has no more power than the Word; nor so much neither. For Faith comes rather by hearing of a Word than by seeing of a Work (Romans 10:17). And the light of a renewed Conscience, is a cre…

But after the entrance of sin it became weak and utterly insufficient to any such purpose; for by the deeds of the Law can no flesh be justified. Therefore Christ is become the end of the Law for righteousness, to every one that believes (Romans 10:4). And by whoever this is den…

How much more must it do so, if that be changed, removed, or taken away, which was not only a material part of it, but the very hinge, whereon the whole observance of it did depend and turn. And the whole of this System of Laws, is called ⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩ a Command, becau…

3. It revived the Promise of that Covenant, that of eternal life upon perfect obedience. So the Apostle tells us, that Moses thus describeth the righteousness of the law, that the man which does these things shall live by them (Romans 10:5), as he does (Leviticus 18:5). Now this…

He would also give them their day, and make them a sufficient tender of mercy, which he had now done towards forty years. In this space, through the ministry of the Apostles, and other faithful dispensers of the Word, the Gospel had been proposed to all persons of that nation th…

And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach except they be sent? (Romans 10:13, 14, 15.) That is, by God himself; for neither does the Apostle discourse, nor has he any occasion in that place to discourse concerning the ordinary call of persons to an of…

No, he shall not, he cannot: the terror of the Lord makes him afraid; there is no rest in his soul now by reason of his sin, and the danger that he is in thereby: well then, shall he fall in with the way of the Gospel? He should indeed, but he cannot: for he is ignorant thereof,…

The spirit is wounded, and he cannot bear it; a sense of wrath lies on him, so that now he can no more rest, and sleep as in days past. (2.) All that he has built, and leaned upon, now fails him: he would have done what they endeavored (Romans 10:3), namely, have established his…

Take heed of resting in a dead faith; and labor for a lively faith. In other words, see that you accept the offers of the Gospel, sincerely; or that you submit to, accept of Christ as offered in the Gospel: I use that word submit: the Apostle uses it (Romans 10:3). We cannot fin…

The Reverend Author gives this reason; because that text (Romans 11:20) speaks only of such as have been received into membership by their personal faith, and covenanting with the Church visibly. A. The text clearly speaks of the people or nation of the Jews, of whom it is said,…

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.

8. This is true both positively and negatively of the Catholic Church invisible of the elect: all that are of it shall be saved; and none shall be saved but those that belong to it (Ephesians 5:25, 26, 27). Of the Catholic visible professing Church negatively; that no adult pers…

Now all these things do make, constitute, and are the church-state and worship enquired after. Therefore as Christ always has and ever will have an invisible Kingdom in this world, in the souls of elect believers, led, guided, ruled by his Spirit; so he will have a visible Kingd…

Let him that is athirst come, and whoever will let him take of the water of life freely: You are not worthy, but you are thirsty, or else from where come these groans? And by the way take notice of the pride that is in legal dejection: men are loath to be beholding to Christ, th…

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.

I beseech you content not yourselves with owning religion in your hearts, Christ as he deserves, so he expects, your mouths and tongues also. Romans 10:9. If you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart you shall be saved. Thus David was not…

2. Cherish the motions of the Spirit: and thank God and bless Him on your bended knees, for that little you have; for those beginnings He has given you; though it be but common, though it be but little; yet bless Him for it: it is the way to have more. 3. Attend and listen to th…

On this sandy bottom most professors build their hopes for heaven and claim their privileges among the best of saints on earth, even to eat and drink in Christ's presence. Indeed without knowledge the mind cannot be good, and the history and knowledge of gospel truths is necessa…

4. They are yet in unbelief that are so engaged to the things and contentments of the world as that they cannot part with them for Christ (John 5:44; James 4:4; 1 John 2:15). 5. They that establish their own righteousness (Romans 10:3). We must remember that faith is a going out…

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…

Or if they do not return to wallow in the same mire of their former pollutions, they betake themselves to the shades of some superstitious observances; as it is in the Papacy. For they openly succeed into the room of the Jews, who being ignorant of the righteousness of God, and…

It cannot be otherwise; where the voice of Christ does sound effectually, there they justify this: wisdom is justified of her children (Luke 7:35). How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace (Romans 10:15)? that is, they see such beauty in the ways of God…

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, &c. Mark how invocation and faith are linked together; and Paul's reason may be framed thus.

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 Ghost 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 nea…

But the apostle shows at length that the law itself is unequal to this task — namely, that anyone should please God — in Romans 3 and 4. 3. Also, "without faith it is impossible to please Him" (Hebrews 11:6); but "faith is from hearing, and hearing through the word of God" (Roma…

For many, ensnared again by the lures of pleasures, shaking out of their breasts this whole beginning of divine work, whatever it may be, return again to the wallowing of vices, to perish eternally (2 Peter 2:20, 21). Some are pleased with a righteousness as it were from works o…

1 Given] And therefore every thing taught out of the Law, rightly interpreted, is to be received (Romans 7:7). 2 Commanding to do] One difference between the Law and the Gospel, which to apprehend Christ, and so justification, etc. asks but belief (Romans 10:15; Galatians 3:10-1…

But before we come to the proper and peculiar exercises, we will set down reasons, that prove it perpetual for the Church in this world, to have one such day in seven to be dedicated to the Lord, that so we may have the use of it in our conscience, and of the ceremony ceased I w…

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…

Q. Is the decree of God secret within himself, or revealed and made known? A. It is secret within himself, till himself does reveal it, and therefore further than so it is not to be searched into (Romans 11:33, 34; 1 Corinthians 2:16; Deuteronomy 29:29). Q. How does God reveal h…

Q. For what end did God make the world? A. For the declaration of his own glory (Proverbs 16:4; Romans 11:36; Colossians 1:16). Q. What was the state of all things by creation?

Q. What are the things whereto the providence of God does extend? A. All things without exception of any (Romans 11:36; Ephesians 1:11). Q. What are some sorts of them?

What meaneth this word world in this place? Surely not all men of all ages, but the Gentiles which were to be called after the ascension of Christ, as Paul plainly explaining his own mind shows (Romans 11:12). Therefore if the fall of them be the riches of the world, and the dim…

2 Timothy 2:19: the foundation of God remains sure — the Lord knows who are his. Romans 11:2: those whom God foreknew are said to be elected according to the election of grace (verse 5). And therefore the foreknowledge mentioned by Paul does not signify the foreknowledge of fait…

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…

As when God promised them to send a Redeemer out of Sion, to them which turn from transgression in Jacob (Isaiah 59:20), the Apostle expounds it, that Christ shall come out of Sion, and shall turn away transgression from Jacob: which is as much as if he should say, He shall work…

Therefore the promise is not made sure to faith out of works. From the opposition of grace, and works (Romans 11:6): And if by grace then it is no more of works; otherwise grace is no more grace. The opposition stands not only between grace and works, but between grace and the m…

And the reasons hereof are evident, for (1) Although that perswasion which men may have of their spiritual condition, or which others may have or declare concerning them, may strengthen their peace, yet it neither does nor ought to incline them to security. You stand by faith, s…

(1) Supposing that expression, And I regarded them not, to intend the rejection of the Jews, yet it is manifest, that their excision and cutting off absolutely, was not in nor for their non-continuance in the Old Covenant, or not being faithful therein, but for the rejection of…

1. The words of the introduction are, [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] Admonished of God. [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] we render the answer of God (Romans 11:4). But what says to him [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩], the Divine Oracle; a Responsum, a word or answer from God, giving caution or di…

And it is so called in opposition to that of Works, which was made with us in Adam. For these two, Grace and Works, do divide the ways of our relation to God, being diametrically opposite, and every way inconsistent (Romans 11:6). Of this Covenant the Lord Christ was the Mediato…

This was one of the first things that was preached to sinners, as was before declared; and without a compliance herewith they were not further to be treated with. For (1) the Lord Christ came not only to save men from their sins, but to turn them from their sins; to turn them fr…

Who knows but that by virtue of the engaged love and faithfulness of God declared in this promise, these withered branches may revive, and these dead bones rise again? Our Apostle places the hopes of it on this ground alone, that as touching the election they were beloved; they…

It denotes a concurrent operation, when one works with another. Nor does it always denote a subservient instrumental cause, but sometimes that which is principally efficient (John 1:5; Romans 11:34; Hebrews 1:2). So it does here; the eternal Spirit was not an inferior instrument…

For as the infinite sovereign wisdom of his being admits not of his taking counsel with any other; so the infinite simplicity of his nature and understanding comprehending all things in one single act of his mind, allows not of formal counsel or deliberation. The first therefore…

And when any provocation is high, we render it strife or contention, such as whereby the spirits of men are embittered one towards another (Acts 15:39). Howbeit, it is used sometimes for an earnest and diligent excitation of the minds or spirits of men to that which is good (see…

(2.) In that things were at a great stand as to the progress of the Gospel among the Hebrews. At the first preaching of it multitudes were converted to Christ, and the Word continued in efficacy towards them for some season afterwards; but now as our Apostle plainly declares in…

While there is in such persons any seed of light or conviction of truth which is capable of an excitation or revival, so as to put forth its power and efficacy in their souls, they cannot be looked on to be in the condition intended, though their case be dangerous. 3. Our Apostl…

This was that Gospel church gathered of the Hebrews which brought forth fruit to the glory of God, and was blessed of him. This was the remnant among them according to the Election of Grace, which obtained mercy when the rest were blinded (Romans 11:5, 7). For (2) the remainder…

(2) God pours out upon such persons a spirit of slumber, or gives them up to a profound security, so as that they take notice of nothing in the works or Word of God that should stir them up to amendment, or restrain them from sin. So he dealt with these unbelieving Jews (Romans…

Thus of the second particular, that the parents in question are immediate members. The third is, that their membership still continues in adult age, and ceases not with their infancy; 1. Because in Scripture persons are broken off only for notorious sin, or incorrigible in penit…

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…

God's love is not founded upon any temporal accident, but on his own counsel, in which there can be no change, because the same reasons that moved him to choose at first, continue for ever. God never repented in time of what he purposed before all time: (Romans 11:29) His gifts…

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…

We would degrade his omniscience and wisdom, and sway him by our foolish and purblind dictates; it is as if we would instruct him better in the management of the world, and direct him to a reformation of his methods (Job 40:2): shall he that contends with the Almighty, instruct…

The word does breed a quicke sence: they who have not this true voyce sounding to them, in hearing they doe not heare, and seeing they doe not see; their hearts are fat, their eares heavy, and their eyes shut (Isaiah 6:9). God has given them the spirit of slumber (Romans 11:8);…

Hence there were Baalim, though the one to whom all referred was one; and Baalim and Baal are used interchangeably. Indeed, the Holy Spirit so consistently regarded the actual images or statues in the Baalitic worship that Paul uses the name of Baal in the feminine gender, by wh…

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;…

Argument 5. God (as Augustine says) has a greater dominion over our wills, than we have over them ourselves; as he is more master of the beings, so of the operations, (that are created beings) than the creature is, and so he must use the creature's operations at his own pleasure…

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"…

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.

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

So that no name could be fixed on with less probability to assert from it a special supreme order or degree of men in ministry, than this of bishops. Neither is there any mention in any place of Scripture, of any such preeminence of one sort of these church-officers or ministers…

(2) Hebrews 13:17; Acts 20:28. (3) 2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Timothy 4:2; Romans 12:6, 7, 8. (4) 1 Timothy 6:20; Acts 20:28; Jude 3.

Answ. The Office of them that are Teachers, is one and the same among them all; but where there are many in the same Church, it is the will of Christ that they should be peculiarly assigned to such especial work in the discharge of their office power, as their gifts received fro…

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

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

First, that in all the members of the Church there ought to be love without dissimulation. They are to be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love (Romans 12:9-10), which as they are taught of God, so they are greatly exhorted thereunto (Hebrews 13:1). This love is…

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…

To do good and distribute forget not, for with such a sacrifice God is well pleased (Philippians 4:18). 5. Sacrifice is an holy life, which the Spirit of Christ forms in us (Romans 12:1). I beseech you brethren upon the mercifulness of God, that you present your bodies a living…

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

But all the ordinances and institutions of the Gospel do give light into, and exhibit the things themselves to the minds and faith of believers. Hereon they discern the reasons and grounds of their use and benefit; from where our whole worship is called our reasonable service (R…

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

If this at any time fall out otherwise, it is from the sins and wickedness of the persons in whom it is; in the nature of the things themselves, they thus depend on one another. See Ephesians 4:21, 22, 23, 24; Romans 12:2. That ignorance is the mother of devotion, is a maxim tha…

But there is something peculiar in the mention of it in this place. For (1) the due consideration of God as the living God, will discover how necessary it is that we be purged from dead works, to serve him in a due manner. (2) The nature of Gospel worship and service is intimate…

See (2 Corinthians 3:18; chap. 4:4, 6). Neither does it renew, change, or transform the soul into a conformity to the things known, by planting of them in the will and affections, as a gracious saving light does (2 Corinthians 3:18; Romans 6:17; Romans 12:1). These things I judg…

Our prayers and praises also, as he declares in the verse foregoing, are sacrifices to God, and accepted with him, ver. 15. Our whole obedience is our reasonable sacrifice, is a sacrifice acceptable to God (Romans 12:1). Yes, but in these fruits of benignity, bounty, charity, do…

And hence the Lord Christ in the trial of his Church, is compared to a refiner with fire (Matthew 3:2), so faith is tried (1 Peter 1:7). And it is the word which our Apostle uses when he enjoins us to try and search ourselves as to our sincerity in faith and obedience (2 Corinth…

For example: in (1 Corinthians 7:34) he reads as we do, There is difference between a wife and a virgin; and not as the Rhemists have translated it out of the Latin. (Romans 12:19) he reads, Non vosmetipsos vindicantes, not avenging your selves: where the vulgar Latin has corrup…

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…

So godly Masters are said to have the Lord for their Master (Ephesians 6:9), knowing that your Master is also in Heaven: in the former place he says, a servant is God's freeman; and here, that a Master is God's servant. 3. It noteth designation to any public office for God's glo…

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, '…

This is that which opens the mouths of men wide against Religion, and woe to them that give the occasion, but let such vain pretenders to Religion know that godliness is nothing worth which is not attended with righteousness, and the grace of God, wherever it is in truth, will t…

Verse 17, Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves; for they watch for your souls. And what understands he by him that rules (Romans 12:8)? If the judgment of Gualther and Bullinger have any weight with him (as I suppose it has) they do not there exclude, but…

For by the same reason men might still continue in their sins, and not make any progress in knowledge and holiness, that so they may not seem unconstant, which were contrary to the Scripture, wherein we are commanded not to fashion ourselves according to the former lusts of our…

They who have place in the highest and most supreme assemblies of the Church, wherein the weightiest matters are determined, ought much more to be admitted into inferior meetings, such as Presbyteries are. But if we will speak with Scripture, we shall call them Ruling Elders (Ro…

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

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

Where, as Beza notes, he distinguishes the Word, which is the Pastor's part, from Doctrine, which is the Doctor's part. Even as (Romans 12:7-8) he distinguishes teaching from exhortation: and (1 Corinthians 12:8) puts the word of wisdom, and the word of knowledge for two differe…

Our third Argument is grounded upon (Romans 12:8). The Apostle has declared before that, as there are many members in one body, and all the members have not the same office, for the office of the eye is to see, of the eare to heare, &c. So are their gifts given to the severall o…

Our fourth Argument is drawn from 1 Corinthians 12:28, where we find again an enumeration of sundry offices in the Church (though not so perfect as that Romans 12), and among others, Helps, that is, Deacons, and Governments, that is, Ruling Elders. Where we cannot enough admire…

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

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

Thirdly, as in the natural life, so in this, there is a taste, and palate, that helps this appetite. Be you changed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, and perfect, and acceptable will of God (Romans 12:2); that is, that you may be able to discern…

And so all kind of evil and sin that would stick so fast upon us? In (Romans 12:9), Abhor that which is evil: to abhor it as well as to abhor Hell itself; it comes from a word that is used for Hell. Thus we should learn from wicked men's casting off what is good, to cast off tha…

It is also "life," (John 6:33; Philippians 1:16); and it gives life to those who understand it (John 17:3, 25). This doctrine is moreover communicated through the "opening of eyes," (Isaiah 42:7; Acts 26:18); the "renewing of the mind," (Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23); "translatio…

Thus much of feeling. The second thing in practice, is the outward work, when from the inward feeling, the members of the body execute (Romans 6:12-13; Romans 12:1). The want of this forbidden (James 1:26).

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-…

Q. What is the special rule according to which the life of a christian ought to be framed? A. The life of a christian ought to be framed according to the moral Law of God (Romans 13:8, 9; Ephesians 6:2, 3; James 2:8). Q. How may that be further cleared?

But since some are appointed by the decree of God to damnation, if his will be the cause of that decree, how is that just? Yes, it is most just and righteous notwithstanding (Romans 13, 14). Q. How may that appear?

That is necessary by commandment, which is necessarily to be done because God has commanded it. After this sort it is of necessity that one undergo the office of a magistrate (Romans 13:5). That is necessary by the decree of God, which is so, because God has foreknown it, and wi…

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.

In assigning his earnestness and zeal for their good, you may take notice of three things, which I shall explain in their order. A compellation of their persons, [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉] [Beloved;] a term usual in the Apostles' writings, the same word is used (1 Peter 2:11),…

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…

Now Religion has entered its protest against all the disorders of its Disciples; Religion has bound its yoke upon all of them. What if some Religious men be seditious or rebellious against Magistrates, Religion has protested against it (Romans 13:1). Let every soul be subject to…

2. They that are in civil authority, may and ought to take away the lives of men, that shall commit crimes, by the law of God worthy of death. The Apostle therefore says concerning the magistrate: "He is the minister of God to you for good: but if you do that which is evil, be a…

He would have the Magistrate to do like the rich man in the Parable, who had exceeding many Flocks and Herds, and yet did take away the little ewe-lamb from the poor man, who had nothing save that. The Brother says, Of other Governments besides Magistracy, I find no institution;…

And it adheres to all the faculties of our souls; from where it is called the old man (Romans 6:6; Ephesians 4:22), in opposition to the renovation of our minds, and all the faculties of them called the new man, or new creature in us. And there is [in non-Latin alphabet], a cont…

The imaginations intended are the fixing of the mind on the objects of sin, or sinful objects by continual thoughts, with delight and complacency. They are the mind's purveying for the satisfaction of the flesh in the lusts thereof (Romans 13:14), whereby evil thoughts come to l…

The first, does contain those duties which we owe directly in his service (Deuteronomy 4:13 and Exodus 34:1-2). The second, which we owe to our brethren (Matthew 22:36; Romans 13:8-9). In this division we are charged two things: First, that to perfect obedience of the Law, we sh…

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…

Which words signify as much, as that those two Commandments comprehend the Duty prescribed, and the Religion taught in the Law and the Prophets. And the Apostle Paul does from Time to Time make the same Representation of the Matter; as in Romans 13. 8. He that loveth another, ha…

We see among Men, that the Servant who is of a haughty Spirit, is not apt in every Thing to be submissive and obedient to the Will of his Master; but it is otherwise with that Servant who is of a lowly Spirit. And that Lamblike, Dovelike Spirit, that has been spoken of, which ac…

Great perplexities accompany the secret infusion of a principle of spiritual life into the will — as two wills now operate within the same soul, one old and confirmed by habit, one new and weak, the soul is torn between them and experiences an inner conflict it cannot resolve by…

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;…

God sometimes honors the reading of the word, to give encouragement to reading, to be a means of some men's call. I have read of Saint Augustine that he was converted, not by hearing a sermon, but by opening the Bible and reading that place (Romans 13:13): Let us walk honestly a…

V. 35. By this shall all men know, that you are my Disciples, if you have love one to another. (Romans 13:8) Owe nothing to any man, but to love one another, he that loves another fulfills the law. (Ephesians 5:2) Walk in love, as Christ also has loved us.

He that is employed in any great and public work is [in non-Latin alphabet]. Hence of old Magistrates were termed [in non-Latin alphabet], as they are by Paul [in non-Latin alphabet] (Romans 13:4), the Ministers of God. And Chap. 8. v. 2. of this Epistle, he calls the Lord Jesus…

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…

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…

Amen. Romans 14:10, 11, 12. For we shall all stand before the judgement seat of Christ; as it is written, as I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us, shall give an account of himself to God.

(4) To admit them being approved into the order and fellowship of the Gospel in the Church. Acts 8:20, 23; Titus 1:10; Revelation 2:2; Jeremiah 15:19; Acts 18:26; 1 Thessalonians 2:7, 8, 11; Acts 9:29, 27; Romans 14:1. Qu. 50 What is the duty of the whole Church in reference to…

This is the first thing that faith regards in divine worship; it rests not in any thing, closes nor with any thing, but what it discerns that God has commanded, and therein it eyes his authority as he requires it (Malachi 1:6): If I be a Father, where is mine honor? if I be Mast…

Q. Justification, Adoption, and Sanctification are excellent benefits that come to believers through Christ; tell me what other benefits do accompany or flow from these? A. In this life there does accompany or flow from them assurance of God's love, lively hope, and expectation…

Q. Are there any for whom we must not pray? A. Yes; we must not pray for the dead, because we cannot do it of faith, as having neither precept nor example, nor any good warrant for it in the world (Romans 14:23). Q. Why else may we not pray for the dead?

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…

Far be it from him to judge so rashly of the Ages and Generations past, or present, concerning their final estate; for he is commanded to judge no man before the time, knowing that they stand and fall to their own Master. And, we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Chris…

So also (2 Timothy 1:12), [in non-Latin alphabet], I know whom I have believed, and am perswaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed to him. He uses the same expression in matter of faith (Romans 14:14). (3) There is a certain perswasion of mind, that is founded…

In these things consists that state of perfection which the Church is called to under the New Testament, which it could never attain by the Levitical priesthood. This is that kingdom of God which is not meat and drink, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost (Roman…

This the whole Scripture testifieth to, namely, a real communication of glory to Christ by the Father after his ascension which he had not before. See Luke 24:16; John 17:24; Acts 2:33; Acts 5:31; Romans 14:9; Ephesians 1:20, 21, 22, 23; Philippians 2:9, 10, 11; Hebrews 1:3; Cha…

And as Christ by his death does not take away death absolutely, but only as it was penal; so on his second appearance, he does not take away judgment absolutely, but only as it is a condemnatory sentence, with respect to believers. For as we must all dye, so we must all appear b…

If by any means I might attain, [in non-Latin alphabet], the resurrection of the dead. This is [in non-Latin alphabet], a living again; as it is said of the Lord Christ distinctly, [in non-Latin alphabet] (Romans 14:9), he rose and lived again, or he arose to life. With respect…

Hence is [in non-Latin alphabet], one that upon trial is approved, found sound, and therefore is accepted (1 Corinthians 11:19; 2 Corinthians 10:15; 2 Timothy 2:15; James 1:12). [in non-Latin alphabet] (Romans 14:18): accepted with God, and approved with men. Hence [in non-Latin…

And when the Apostle bids Timothy, turn away from such; does not this simply that they were scandalous persons, and apparently wicked? It is not likely that the Apostle would else have commanded to turn from them, sith he himself did so lovingly converse with so many sorts of me…

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…

First, a sure estate, or terms of amity with God: this is called in Scripture peace with God, and is the immediate effect and fruit of actual justification (Romans 5:1). And then secondly, there is a sense of this sure estate, or the reflex of this amity upon the conscience, and…

And certainly, since God set him at his right hand, and confirmed this power to him, after he had purged our sins; it was certainly out of the high value God had for him, and therefore must be the intent of God, that he should govern all things in reference to the design of that…

Under the power and dominion of sin we were, and could not be delivered without a ransom. Christ died and rose, and lives again, that he might be our Lord (Romans 14:9), and so deliver us from the power of all other lords whatever. It is true there was no ransom due to sin or Sa…

It is not ministerial gifts that makes a man a minister to every Church, nor invests him with spiritual power over them, nor though he dwell among them, unless they call him, and he accept of that call. And as they have power to choose their officers, so likewise to choose their…

The 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…

Chapter 10:23. All things are lawful to me, but all things edify me not. Romans 14:20. All things are clean: but evil to him that eats with offence: It is good neither to eat flesh, nor drink wine, nor do any thing whereat your brother stumbles, wherewith he is offended, or weak…

This must be prayed, when we feel any repugnancy to God's will, in the deed or manner of doing. For here we request by one, all the fruits of the kingdom; righteousness, joy, peace, &c. (Romans 14). The other sorts of request have this general, that we pray in common for the who…

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…

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

Argument 6. Christ's Lordship and Princedome through his resurrection, is in turning of hearts (Acts 5:31; Romans 11:23). Grace is stronger than devils, sin, hell and death (Romans 14:4; Ephesians 3:20; Jude 24; 1 John 2:14; 1 John 4:4). Arg. 7. If it must lie at our door more t…

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…

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.

From where it is distinguished from that private pastoral admonition, which is an act of the teaching office and power, not directly belonging to the rule or government inquired after. But this admonition is an effect of love and where it proceeds not from there, it is irregular…

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

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…

For the promise is to you, and to your children, and to them that are far off, even so many as the Lord God shall call. And with many other words he said, (and must not we do so likewise? seeing whatever things were written afore-time, were written for our learning, Romans 15:4.…

Their poverty was such as that our Apostle in many places, perhaps in all where the Gospel had success, made collations for them. And as he pressed the Gentile Believers to a contribution to this purpose, with weighty arguments (Romans 15:25, 26, 27), so he looked on his duty he…

Rex pacificus and Rex pacis do both denote him that is the maker and author of peace. So God on that account is called the God of Peace (Romans 15:13; Chapter 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:23; 2 Thessalonians 3:16; Hebrews 13:20). Therefore as we ought to acquiesce in the authority o…

A joy it is unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8). See (John 5:11; Romans 15:13; Jude 24). It is that inexpressible satisfaction which is wrought in the minds of believers by the Holy Ghost, from an evidence of their interest in the love of God by Christ, with all the frui…

The Lord Christ is expressly spoken of here as a Priest; it is a name of his priestly office wherein he acts towards God. Nor is he any where called or said to be [⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩] in any of his actings from God towards us; although he be said therein to be [⟨in non-Lati…

But he had a standing office committed to him, as the word imports. In that sense also he is called [⟨ in non-Latin alphabet ⟩], a Minister in office (Romans 15:8). 2. Subordination to God is included herein.

And this the Lord Christ testified to in his own personal ministry. Hence our Apostle says, that he was the Minister of the Circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made to the Fathers (Romans 15:8). And this he testified to them (John 8:24): I said therefore t…

So is our election (Ephesians 1:4, 5), our vocation (1 Corinthians 1:26, 27), our regeneration (John 1:13; James 1:18), our recovery from sin (Hosea 14:4). So is our peace and all our consolation, from where he is called the God of all grace (1 Peter 5:10), and the God of patien…

But they were not all his sureties. So he affirms that he came into the world to bear witness to the truth (John 18:37), that is, the truth of the promises of God; for he was the Minister of the Circumcision for the truth of the promises of God to the Fathers (Romans 15:8). But…

But this imagination is vain also. For Abraham's being heir of the World, is no more but his being the father of many nations: nor was there ever any other promise which the Apostle should refer to, of his being heir of the World, but only that of his being the father of many na…

This is the work and effect of the Gospel (Colossians 1:6). And the fruit of it is threefold: (1) of persons in their conversion to God (Romans 15:16); (2) of real internal holiness in them or the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, 23); (3) the outward fruits of righteousness…

If it be according to the Scripture, may it not [•]e said to be according to Christs Ordinance? Sure, when Christ himself bids us Search the Scripture (John 5:39), and when the Bereans are commended for searching the Scripture, whether those things were so, which were Preached b…

(Romans 3:4) where the Rhemists translate according to the Latin, God is true: he shows that in the Greek copies it is found, Let God be true, or, let God be made true. (Romans 15:17) he notes that the Latin books have put glory for gloriation. (Galatians 1:16) where the Rhemist…

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…

These are standing dishes at Christ's table: that this is a great part of our office, appears by those places (1 Timothy 4:6), if you put the brethren in remembrance of these things, you shall be a good minister of Jesus Christ. And Paul speaking of his Apostleship says (Romans…

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…

Religion commands you not only to please God, but others as far as you may. Romans 15:2. Let every one of us please his neighbor, for his good to edification. Religion does not only forbid to offend God, but men (1 Corinthians 10:32): Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor…

Our end is to preach life and comfort to you, not damnation. Romans 15:4: All Scripture is written for our comfort: now there are many things in the Scripture that tend to discomfort and terrors, yet their end is comfort: as physic is sharp for the time, yet the end is health. W…

Seeing our Savior commandeth 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. Also, brethren I beseech you that you would strive with me by prayers to God for me (Romans 15:30).…

So what the Apostle writes in these Epistles concerning the collection for Judea (1 Corinthians 16:1) and (2 Corinthians c. 8 and 9) evidently belongs to all Achaia. Romans 15:26, Macedonia and Achaia have pleased to make a certain contribution, and I know your forwardness, Acha…

That office pertained solely "to the lost sheep of the house of Israel" (Matthew 15:24). Hence He was also called "a minister of the circumcision" (Romans 15:8). The Son and Heir was indeed to be sent into the same vineyard from which the servants had been repulsed (Matthew 21).

But all those arguments fought directly against the catholicity of the evangelical church. For although all the apostles had received a command from Christ to proclaim the gospel to all nations to the extent that lay within them — which they also fulfilled to the best of their a…

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…

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…

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

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

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

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…

Acts 17:30. And the time of this ignorance God regarded not, but now he admonishes all men everywhere to repent. Romans 16:25-26. To him now that is of power to establish you according to my Gospel and preaching of Jesus Christ, by the revelation of the mystery, which was kept s…

Acts 17:30. And the time of this ignorance God regarded not, but now he admonishes all men every where to repent. Romans 16:25-26. — by the revelation of the mystery which was kept secret since the world began, but now is opened and published — for the obedience of faith among a…

He was to be [〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉], that is, says Schlictingius, omnis mali expers, nullis amplius miseriis obnoxius; incapable of suffering any hurt, says another to the same purpose. The word is but once more used in the New Testament, and that in a sense remote enough f…

(4.) The owning and avowing of them, as not being ashamed of their chains, bonds, or sufferings (2 Timothy 1:16, 17). (5.) A readiness to undergo hazards, difficulties and dangers, for them who are called thereunto (Romans 16:4). It is not a heartless, fruitless, ineffectual pit…

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…

And as 'tis abused to shut out all endeavors after grace; so all actings and operations under grace: as if we were mere logs rather than rational agents, and God so did all, that the act of our own faculties were quite abolished, or suspended: whereas though the grace be from Go…

Christ has but one wife or spouse (Canticles 6:9). The Catholic Church indeed is but one; namely the whole company of God's elect in heaven, in earth, dead, now living, and not yet born: But as there is the Church Catholic, which is but one; so there are particular and visible c…

6. The Rhemists do interpret the Apostle in the same manner. But Cartwright answers them: if he had meant any extraordinary labor, he would rather have said [in non-Latin alphabet] than [in non-Latin alphabet]; for elsewhere he uses [in non-Latin alphabet] as a degree of painful…

It is answered that this evill proceedeth from another, namely that there is too much sloth and oversight in the admission of such as are to be members of a Congregation, and that they would be fit enough to doe their duty, if they were all Saints, they meane appearantly, and in…

To the multitude of Christians in those cities, let us add another consideration, namely, that they had no Temples (as now we have) but private places for their holy assemblies, such as the house of Mary (Acts 12:12), the School of Tyrannus (Acts 19:9), an upper chamber at Troas…

If they have any special privilege to found this claim upon, they may do well to produce it. In the Scripture, though there be of many believers, yet there is no mention made, of any church at Rome, but only of that little assembly that used to meet at Aquila's house (Romans 16:…

Thus when (1 Corinthians 3:5) it is said of Apollos, that he has watered them, as the minister by which they to whom he wrote believed and so in this of Clemens, that they had been factiously inclined to Apollos it is evident by the story in the Acts, that this belonged not only…

XII. In this way the faithful are initiated into the sacred things of Christ. For it is "given" to them "to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven," Mark 4:11 — mysteries not revealed in ancient ages (Romans 16:25). "We speak," says the apostle, "wisdom in a mystery," 1 Cor…

So the Greeks in Greek, as Timothy, the fear of God, [Acts 16. Then came he to Derbe, and to Lystra, and behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, a woman's son which was a Jewess, but his father was a Grecian.] And the Latins in Latin, as Tertius, [(Romans 16:22. I…

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.

How unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! And again, To God only wise be glory, through Jesus Christ forever. Amen. (Romans 16:27) To the King Eternal, Immortal, Invisible, the only wise God be honor and glory forever, etc. (1 Timothy 1:17)

3. These words are to be taken with those that follow after, God will have all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth. Now that God will be willing to save those that come to the knowledge of the truth is unquestionable: all that repent (Acts 17:30), all oppo…

To mark diligently, and avoid carefully, all causes and causers of divisions; especially to shun seducers, false teachers, and broachers of heresies and errors, contrary to the form of wholesome words. Romans 16:17, 18. Now I beseech you brethren, mark them which cause divisions…

And this was the issue of their disquisitions, who were no less wise in the principles of inbred reason, and the knowledge of the works of nature, than those who now contend for their ability to have done better. Besides, the salvation of sinners is a mystery, as the Scripture e…

Saint Peter calls the whole ⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩ (2 Peter 1:19) the word of prophesy; and ⟨in non-Latin alphabet⟩ (v. 20) prophesy, and therefore it belongs not to any peculiar part of it, to be given out by prophesy; which is an affection of the whole. And Saint Paul also, t…

Neither is it to be omitted, that there is such a coincidence in many phrases, use of words and expressions between this Epistle, and the rest of Saint Paul's, as will not allow us to grant such a discrepancy in style, as some imagine. They have many of them been gathered by oth…

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…