An hundred, threescore and fiftene homelyes or sermons, vppon the Actes of the Apostles, written by Saint Luke: made by Radulpe Gualthere Tigurine, and translated out of Latine into our tongue, for the commoditie of the Englishe reader. Seene and allowed, according to the Queenes Maiesties iniunctions

The .xij. chapiter vpon the Actes of the Apostles. (Book 12)

The .lxxxij. Homelie.

AT the same time Herode the King stretched for••h his handes to vexe cer∣taine of the Congregation. And hee killed Iames the brother of Iohn with the sword. And bicause he sawe that it pleased the Iewes, he proceeded farther, and tooke Peter also. Then were the daies of sweete bread. And when hee had caught him, hee put him in prison also, and deliuered him to fower quaternions of souldiers to be kept, entending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. And Peter was kept in pryson But prayer was made without ceasing of the congregation vnto God for him.

BEfore this, the Euangelist Luke described to vs the persecutions, raysed by the Priests agaynst the congregation, which though they might seeme grieuous and horrible: yet the persecution here reported, was much grieuouser. For a king of great power, and one which had the ruling of all the Iewishe Nation, was the beginner and procurer thereof. And whereas tyll

this time, the Apostles abode safe and vntouched, nowe hath this wicked Tyrant such power, that by cruell death he maketh awaye one of the chiefe among them. The ende of all this hystorye is, that hereby we should learne the state of the Church, and being myndefull of Christes admonitions, prepare our selues to the like. Howbeit, where in these thinges there ap∣peareth alwayes a great dulnesse of our nature, all the circumstaunces of this place, must be the more diligently considered.

And first Luke coupleth this present hystorie,1 1.1 with the ende of the Cha∣piter before going, and beginneth his narration or discourse of the tyme. For where he had entreated of the dearth foreshewed by Agabus, he writeth that the same time Herode begunne to persecute the Church. And if you con∣ferre this place with the ende of the Chapter, it shall appeare this was done in the last yeare of Herode, a little before he ended his lyfe at Cae∣sarea, by the horrible iudgement of God. And if we cast the time according to hystories, we shall fynde that this last yeare of Herode fell in the fourth yere of Claudius y^e Emperor, what time the Hystoriens say that this dearth reygned. There came two most grieuous calamities, dearth, and persecu∣tion togither, eche of which seemed intollerable to the congregation. Thys state of the Church is to be diligently considered of vs, bicause God suffreth his Church with so many afflictions to be tryed and exercised. For God which a little before had stirred vp the mindes of those at Antiochia and o∣thers, to releeue the necessitie of the Iewes with their liberalitie, suffreth now the furious blasts of this wicked king to rise against them. But it is no straunge thing that here commeth to passe. For there are infynit examples of this sort. We reade of Abraham howe when at Gods calling he had for∣sooke his natiue Countrie, and was come into the lande of Chanaan,* 1.2 hee was driuen from thence by famine, and inforced to flye into Egypt. Isaac his sonne fynding the like trouble, sustained great want of victuals,* 1.3 among the enuious Nation of the Chanaanites So we reade that Ioseph hauing lost his libertie, was put in prison, and like also to lose his lyfe.* 1.4 What shall I speake of Iacob his father? which was still invred with troubles and vex∣ation, insomuch that euen in his extreeme age,* 1.5 he confessed before Pharao that he had led the more part of the dayes of his lyfe in trouble and cares. And if a man would consider and weigh the people of Israels estate, as well in Egypt, as in the wildernesse, he shall see continuall traueyles, and as it were, freshe floudes of afflictions flowing by course. And that which the Primitiue Churche nowe prooueth, came to passe also in the yeares following. Neyther is there any cause why we shoulde looke for any better in these dayes,* 1.6 than the Oracles of Christ declare shall be about the last days, where we are taught that the Church shall be exercised with famine, plague, wars, & persecutions in all parts. Wherfore it behooueth vs to pre∣pare our selues vnto pacience, that whē these things come to passe, we may consider howe iudgement must beginne at the house of God, and that wee bee iudged of God,* 1.7 to the ende we should not be condemned with the irrepentaunt worlde. Here also is the error of them confuted, which iudge of religion and faith, according to the things that fall out in this worlde, as though the Ci∣tie of the godly were on earth, whereas the Scripture euerywhere shew∣eth howe it is prepared for vs in heauen.

Secondlye, Luke nameth the author of this persecution,2 1.8 and wryteth

that it was Herode. By this place it appeareth that the Kinges of Galiley and Iurie were commonly called Herodes, verily of that famous and great Herode, which being an aliaunt, first obteyned to be king of Iurie. For it is plaine, that this of whome Luke speaketh in this place was Agrippa, Ne∣phewe to this great Herode, by Aristobulus his sonne, whose death Iosephus in all poyntes agreeing with Luke, describeth in the .xxix. booke of his anti∣quities and .vij. Chapter. This Herode was both a moste mightye Prince and a craftie. For after he was let out of prison by Caius Caesar, where Ti∣berius had put him,* 1.9 bicause of his ouermuch familiaritie with Caius, and was declared king of the Tetrarchies, of Philip and Lysanias, a little after he tooke from Herodes Antipas, his vncle by the fathers side, and sisters hus∣bande, the kingdome of Galiley, procuring him to be banished by Caius, to whome by his letters he had accused him. And after the decease of Caius Caesar, Claudius being Emperor, he gaue him the Prouinces both of Iurie and Samarie. And thus Agrippa obtayned almoste the whole kingdome of Herode the great his grandfather. It shall behooue vs diligently to consider the power of this king, that the power of Christ may appeare the greater, which so easily subdued so mighty an enimie. For God would set Christ and his Church togither with such an one as this, to shew a singuler example, and to declare that all the power of this worlde is but vayne, if it be compa∣red with Christ. For this Agrippa that in short space, had clymed by pros∣perous successe, to such heyght of power and dignitie, which had escaped the cruell handes of Tyberius, and marueylously defeated the craftes of Hero∣des Antipas, assoone as he beganne to encounter with Christ, dyed most mi∣serably, as we shall heare in the ende of the Chapter. The like was seene in Iulian, who where he had bene a most prosperous warryer, sodeinly lost both his Empyre and his lyfe, when he begun once to set on Christ, whom he vsed in scorne to call Galileyan. We haue like examples in our dayes, which we ought diligently to consider, that we be not offended at the power and force of Christes enimies. For he is stronger and of more power that is on our side.* 1.10 And they shall in all ages feele the yron scepter of Christ, that will not be ruled by his wholesome rede and discipline.

3 1.11Thirdly, it behooueth vs to search out the causes of this deuised persecu∣tion, whereof Luke toucheth the one after a darke sort, but the other he de∣clareth plainely. First he sayth, that Herode stretched out his handes to vexe certaine of the congregation. And bicause he maketh mention of the Church, which in poyntes of religion had deuided themselues from the residue of the Iewes,* 1.12 it seemeth that Agrippa was incensed against them, as authors of schisme. For tyrants can away with no likelyhoode of schisme be it neuer so little among their subiects, not for that they delight so much in peace, but for y^t they feare their state, which they know standeth in great hazard through schisme and discention. Which is the cause that though they be voyde of all religion, yet they seeke to haue in their Realmes an vniforme consent in re∣ligion. For the craftie men well knowe, that there is nothing of more effi∣cacie to deuyde the mindes of men, than diuersitie and vnlikenesse of reli∣gion. There be examples of both these in the Scriptures. Ieroboam to the intent that the tenne Trybes, ouer whome he had gotten to be King, shoulde not be reconciled agayne to the house of Dauid,* 1.13 deuised newe ma∣ners of religion. And Antiochus bicause he woulde stablishe his Empyre,

commaunded one forme of religion to be vsed ouer all his Prouinces.* 1.14 In the meane season we haue to note diligently, howe the onely worshippers of truth most commonly are counted for schismatykes, where as yet there are none other people more ledde with the desire of true vnitie, and where∣as there springeth no ranker encrease of sects, than of superstition. Among the Iewes were the sects of Phariseys, Sadduceys, Essenes, and others of like heare. And yet Agrippa layd hands on none of these. Only y^e Church of Christ, as the mother of deuision suffreth persecution. We haue seene the like euen in our dayes. For who is ignorant of the innumerable & most di∣uers sectes of Monkes, wherby Christendome now many ages hath bene deuided? But which of the Popes, or Emperors, or kings, hath called them schismatikes, although they both professed a diuers name, and also diffred from other men in apparell, rytes, and other ceremonies? Yea, such were defended by the Popes authoritie, and made of Kinges priuie counsayles. But assoone as the right fayth set forth by the sincere doctrine of the Gospel, put vp hir head, by and by were hearde euerywhere the horrible names of Heretikes, sectaries, and schismatikes. For where truth only most strongly ouerthroweth the kingdome of Satan, he cannot abyde that they which haue heretofore liued in darknesse, and yeelded them to his gouernement, should imbrace hir. In the meane while they crie out and say, peace and tranqui∣litie is disturbed, and can suffer any thing in their Realmes, rather than the peace of Christ.

The other cause which more prouoked Herode,ij. 1.15 raging of his owne selfe, Luke plainely expresseth, where he sayeth: Seeing that it pleased the Iewes, he tooke Peter also▪ This new king therfore thought to picke a thank of the Iewes, who he knew of nature could not awaye with seruitude, and yet bare great hatred vnto Christes religion. In this example are the con∣dicions of tyrants trimly declared, whose propertie it is to establishe their tyrannie with the bloude of harmelesse menne. For the bloude of the poore is not deare in their sight, as the Prophete testifyeth of the good King.* 1.16 But they playe for mennes heads, as it were at the dyce, if they thinke any gayne lyke to come by their deathes. So we reade that Augustus sometime purchased Antonius fauour with Cicero his heade. And Pylate bicause he woulde gratifye Herodes Antipas, sent Christ vnto him, and to get the good will of the people of Iewes, adiudged him to dye on the crosse, whose in∣nocencie he had tryed by many argumentes, by this meanes purposing to winne their good willes agayne, whome he had many wayes grieuouslye offended. And there want not lyke examples in these days. For they which persecute the doctrine of Christ and his Disciples, to haue the friendship of the Popes & Byshops, doe rightly imitate Agrippa. And that that we reade L. Flamineus did sometyme, beheadding a certayne man for his Concu∣bines sake and pleasure, the same nowe a dayes among Princes is a com∣mon thing, for the whoore of Babylons sake, not onely to behead and burne, but also to make horible warres agaynst the professours of Christian doc∣trine. Here let it comfort vs, that wee haue God the reuenger of our cause, who as he destroyed the Iewes burning in deadly hatred against Christ, so hath he after horrible sortes reuenged their vnrighteousnesse, which went about to redeeme the good will of a wicked Nacion with the bloude of his saints. They shall fynde the lyke iudgement, that at this day dare per∣secute

Christ for this most wicked worldes sake. We shall haue more com∣moditie to speake of these thinges in the ende of the Chapter, where Luke reporteth the horrible ende of Herode.

4 1.17Fourthly is declared, what this great king attempted and did against the Church of Christ. And there are two wicked deedes of his declared, wher∣by he hath purchased himselfe a perpetuall ignominie and blot of name. First is his beheading of Iames the brother of Iohn the Apostle and Euan∣gelist.i. 1.18 He was one of the chiefe among the Apostles. For him and Iohn his brother, and Peter, did Christ vse more familiarly than the other, when hee tooke him as a witnesse of the myracle of Iairus daughter raysed agayne, and woulde haue him a beholder of his glorification. He was for his fer∣uent zeale of godlynesse and vehemencie of speach,* 1.19 called the sonne of thun∣der. Yet God by his secret iudgement suffreth one of the chiefe of the num∣ber of the Apostles to be killed, and such a worshipper of Christ, to become a praye to a moste cruell tyraunt. By which example is euidently declared that tribulations and shamefull deaths are not arguments of Gods wrath, as the wicked vse to say, which thinke it an high poynt of wisedome to iudge of fayth and religion according to the successe thereof. But if we shall be∣leeue them, we shall condemne Abell one of the first true worshippers of God, the Prophets, and all the Apostles, and Iesus Christ the very sonne of God: bicause it is euident, that all these were circumuented and mur∣thered by the subtiltie of the wicked. Let vs rather harken vnto Christ, say∣ing: Blessed are they which suffer persecution for righteousnesse sake. For theirs is the kingdome of heauen. Blessed are you when men reuile you and persecute you,* 1.20 and shall falsly saye all maner of euill sayings against you for my sake. Re∣ioyce and be glad, for great is your rewarde in heauen. For so persecuted they the Prophetes which were before you. For the which cause Paule teacheth vs to reioyce in afflictions.* 1.21 For so it behooueth we become like to the sonne of God,* 1.22 that when we haue suffred with him, we may also be glorifyed wyth him, and reigne with him.

ij. 1.23The other heynousnesse of Herode is, that perceyuing his enterprise lyked the Iewes, and therefore purposing to holde on, he also apprehended Peter. For bicause he woulde seeme the more terrible to the people, he sette not vpon the rascall comminaltie, but vpon the chiefe. And there was no let in him, but Peter also shoulde by and by haue bene executed: but bicause it was the dayes of sweete breade, he was through obseruation of the feast prohibited, least he shoulde by vnhallowing the feast, turne the good will of the Iewes from him, which by all meanes he sought to winne. So the most cruell caytife playeth the notable hypocrite, and counterfeyteth a loue vnto religion, hauing long before cast out of his mynde all feeling of God, as in his ende it shall appeare. In the meane while, this is a worke of Gods prouidence, that he vseth his counterfeyte holynesse to deliuer hys Apostle by. So knoweth God howe to defeate and disappoynt tyrants en∣terprises, euen by those meanes, whereby they thinke chieflyest to bring their matters to passe. Marke howe great diligence the tyrant vseth in kee∣ping Peter. For he cōmitteth him to fower quaternions of souldiours to be kept, he commaunded him to be fettred in chaynes, and to haue two soul∣diours, one to lye at ech side of him, as afterward we shall see in the story of his deliuerie. But howe many theeues, robbers, murtherers, periurers,

blasphemers, and wicked malefactors, I pray you, went in the meane sea∣on vp and downe Herodes kingdome, without any thing sayde vnto the••? and Christes innocent Apostle in the meane tyme, is fast kept, as it were some heynous theefe or murtherer? But this is it that Christ chargeth them with, that were sent to take him, saying:* 1.24 you be come out with sworde•• and staues, as to a murtherer. &c. Marke this also howe this Apostle lyeth fast bounde in prison, while other men keepe feast, and looketh euery houre to heare sentence of death, whiles other make mery and frollicke. Let vs with pacience followe this example, if it come to passe at any time that our feast dayes be turned to mourning, eyther by reason of sicknesse, imprisonment, or other such like aduersitie. For they keepe not holy day so much, that are present at solemne ceremonies and feastes, as they that being comforted with Christes spirite, reioyce in him, although they be on euery side besette with troubles.

Howbeit at the last,5 1.25 he sheweth what the congregation did in the meane whyle. The Church in the meane time gaue not hir selfe to ydlenesse and pleasures, but vnderstanding Peters case to bee their owne, made their continuall prayers vnto God for him. This is a token both of thankeful∣nesse and fydelitie. For they acknowledge how much beholding they are to Peter, which till this time had taught them the doctrine of saluation. And they trust he may be deliuered out of daunger by Gods helpe. This place teacheth what Christians ought to doe, when their brethren bee in daun∣ger for Christes quarrell, and for the faythes sake, verily euen as much as in them lieth, according to y^e vocation that God hath called them vnto. And if any perceyue that they can no maner of way succour them, at least let them by prayer commende their cause vnto God. This both the glory of Christ teacheth vs, which wee are all bounde to set forth, and also the rule of chari∣tie, and Christian societie, which looketh and commaundeth vs that wee shoulde thinke our brethrens troubles our owne. And herevnto belongeth that saying of the Apostle: Remember them that are in bondes,* 1.26 euen as though you were bounde with them your selues. Agayne: Reioyce with them that re∣ioyce, weepe with them that weepe. Be of lyke affection one towardes another.* 1.27 And if a man would compare these things with the maners of this worlde, it should easily appeare howe colde wee be in a matter of most importance. The godly Martyrs of Iesus Christ doe euerywhere mourne and grone, not onely in chaynes and prison, but also betweene the tormentors handes in the middle of the fyre. But howe many are there which are any thinge touched with their vexation and griefes? Yea, whyle whole Cities and na∣tions stryue for the fayth and for Christ, till their bloud bee shedde: a great many in the meane whyle being giuen to their pleasures, behold their bre∣threns shipwracke as a passetime a farre off out of the hauen. To speake nothing of them that saye it is Priestes matters, and therefore thynke it is well done, when they are so rewarded for their godlynesse. These men te∣stify that they are not of the body of Christ,* 1.28 hauing no feeling or compassion with Christes members. In the meane whyle, this place teacheth vs▪ with what weapons the Church chiefly fyghteth: verily with prayers, wherwith it knoweth that God after a sort will be wonne & ouercome. Therfore they poure out their prayers still vnto God, and in them they fynde present helpe against the menaces, halters, and swords of tyrants, and against all other

torments. But hereof shall bee intreated in the Sermon following▪ where it shall appeere howe the souldiours watch was ouercome, and the prison doores opened at the prayers of the congregation. Let it for this time suf∣fyce vs to acknowledge the state and condicion of the Church, which is in∣vred with continuall troubles. Lette vs prepare and make ready our selfe thereto, that we may possesse our soules in peace, through Iesus Christ: to whome be prayse, honor, power, and glory for euer. Amen.

The .lxxxiij. Homelie.

AND when Herode woulde haue brought him out vnto the people, the same night slept Peter betweene two souldiours bounde with two chaynes, and the keepers before the doore kept the prison. And beholde, the Aungell of the Lorde was there present, and a light shined in the habitation. And hee smote Peter on the side, and stirred him vp saying: aryse vp quickly. And his chaynes fell of from his handes. And the Aungell sayde vnto him, gyrde thy selfe, and bynde on thy sandales. And so he did. And he sayth vnto him: cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. And he came out and followed him. And wyst not that it was truth which was done by the Aungell, but thought he had seene a vision. When they were past the first and the seconde watche, they came vnto the yron gate that leadeth vnto the Citie, which opened to them by the owne accord. And they went out and passed through one strete, and forthwith the Aungell departed from him. And when Peter was come to himselfe he sayde: Nowe I knowe of a suretie that the Lorde hath sent his Aungell, and hath deliuered me out of the hands of Herode, and from all the wayting for of the people of the Iewes.

THe Euangelist Luke in the description of this present hystorie, compriseth three things very wor∣thy to be remembred. First he sheweth, as it were in a glasse, the state and condicion of the Church of Christ, which God suffreth to be tryed with diuers troubles & afflictions. Secondly, he teacheth what the dutie of e∣uery Christian is, when the tempest of persecution ari∣seth, that is to say, that euery one should remember the fellowship which they haue togither in Christ, & think that their brethrens case is their owne, & when they can none otherways help them being so af∣flicted, at the least to make their harty & continuall praiers to God for them. For this he sayth the congregation did, when Herode did cast Peter in prison. Thirdly, he setteth forth vnto vs, an example of the kindenesse and fauor of God, whereby he teacheth vs, that God hath then most care of his peo∣ple, when they seeme moste destitute both of Gods helpe and mannes. And in this part maye be perceyued the effect of godly prayers, which the beleeuers in those dayes founde in all points agreeable to Gods promises. For the holy Ayostle of Christ is myraculously deliuered, and all the power and pollicie of Herode is fayne to giue place to the prayers of the Church, seeing that neyther watch, nor yron chaynes, nor fast locked doores, nor y∣ron barred gates, were able to holde him, whome God woulde deliuer at the intercession of his people. It shall behooue vs diligently to consider this

place, bicause Luke is so diligent in describing euery circumstance, that he leaueth out nothing, be it neuer so little, for that euery poynt therof serueth much both for our comfort and instruction.

He beginneth with the time,1 1.29 not so much after the common vsage of Hystoriographers, as for that it serueth greatly for the better setting forth of Gods benefyte. For he wryteth that Peter was set at libertie that nyght, after that Herode had purposed to put him to death. Whereby it appeareth that this deliuery was suspended for certaine dayes, in the which time Peter abode the annoyance of imprisonment, and the congregation continued in feruent prayer, and the Iewes burning in hatred against Christ, lyke ga∣ping Cormorants greedily wayted for so excellent a mannes death. But euen in a moment of time, when the space but of one nyght seemed to lette their expectation, the Lorde egregiously deluded them, and deliuered hys seruant from the sworde hanging ouer his necke. Whereby we are taught that God vseth sometime to deferre his helpe, but yet not vtterlye to forget and forsake vs, but rather meaneth thereby to trye and prooue vs, and to make his benefite seeme the more notable, when we see it commeth to passe, beyonde all hope and helpe of man. This was the cause that long agone he then deliuered the people of Israel when they were constrayned to make a∣waye their infantes, and to mannes thinking were past all hope of recoue∣ring their libertie againe. And he brought them through the middle of the redde sea, when the Egyptians were almost on their backes, and ready to set vpon them. Hereto also is Ezechias to be referred, whom God euen then helped,* 1.30 when Sannecherib was ready (as it seemed) to haue taken the Ci∣tie. The vse of all these things is, that we should learne paciently to abide Gods leysure, and to prescribe him no meane or time howe to appoynt his affaires. For although Christ seeme sometime to be a sleepe in the sterne of the shippe, yet he vseth in time conuenient to helpe our afflictions,* 1.31 and to calme and cease all stormes and tempestes.

After this, he describeth howe Peter was minded and affected in such a present daunger.2 1.32 And verilye if a man consider the common course of the world, it would seeme he shoulde haue bene ready to die for feare, seeing by reason of Iames late putting to death, and his straight watching, there was no hope of any better helpe. Therefore what should he doe but crye out and lament his owne state and case? But this glorious souldiour of Christ is set out to vs, to be of a farre other minde. For Luke writeth, that he lay a sleepe fast bounde with two chaines, betweene the two souldiours. That this was no token of sloth or sluggishnesse, but rather an argument of true faith and sure confidence, may be gathered hereby, for that we hearde before, when the Apostles were scourged with rods, they went out reioycing and being glad, that they were iudged worthy to suffer for Christes sake. Let vs here compare Herode and Peter togither, and it shall easily appeare howe great difference is betweene the wicked and the true worshippers of God. That Herode was carefull and much troubled howe he might handsomely com∣passe his intended persecution against Christ, may hereby appeare, in that he causeth Peter, who had neyther will nor power to doe anye hurt, to be bound with chaines, as it had bene a fierce and sauage beast, and to be kept with souldiers lying at eche syde of him, and before the prison doores, and to haue yron gates to be barred against him. What troubles and vexations of

minde felt he, thinke you, in other thinges, that was so carefull onely for Peters keeping. But in how much better case is Peter, which sleepeth sound∣lye, while the tyraunt can take no rest all the night long. And that that is in this example declared, may be applyed to all such as he is. For such is the state of all the wicked, that they procure themselues traueyles and cares, while they thinke to bring their matters to passe, by their owne deuises and strength. And bicause they haue to doe with Christ, whose inuincible power, they feele both in outwarde affaires, and also in their consciences, euen against their willes: therefore they neuer rest, deuising how to shake of his yoke, and to breake his bridle. See the ymage of these men, painted out by Dauid.* 1.33 And therefore the Lord sayth, the wicked haue no peace, but rage and boyle in minde, like the restlesse sea, Esa. 48. & .57. But the godly, bicause they hope in the equitie of their cause, repose themselfe in the pro∣uidence of God, wherevpon they know that both themselues and all their doings depende,* 1.34 and so expulse all feare and care out of their mindes, & en∣ioy such peace, as Paule sayth, passeth all vnderstanding. For the nearer di∣stresse and aduersitie approcheth, the more feeling they haue of Gods pre∣sent spirit, whome Christ hath promised to comfort those that be his. These things we ought to haue still in our remembrance, that being confirmed in consolation of the spirite▪ we may be able to beare and ouercome valiantly all daungers for Christes namesake.

3 1.35But let vs see the maner of his deliueraunce, which is the chiefest part of this place: wherfore Luke vseth a marueylous diligence in describing it, rehearsing euery thing that came to passe about the same. And first he sayth expresselye,i. 1.36 that God vsed the ministerie of an Aungell, so that euen here also it maye appeare, howe that is fulfylled which the Scripture promi∣seth, where it sayth that God hath appoynted and prepared the Aungels to serue his elect. But the things pertayning to the explication of this place, may be supplied of that which was said in a like hystory, in y^e .xxxiiij. homily. It shall suffise to adde this one thing, that men ought to haue great conside∣ration of their dignitie, remembring that the Aungels are present, and to giue themselues to innocencie and puritie of maners, least they bereaue themselues through their owne default, of so holy a succour and safegarde. Wherevnto it seemeth Paule had a respect, when he gaue warning, that if women coulde none otherwise be prouoked to shamefastnesse and comely∣nesse in their apparell, yet for feare of the Aungels which are conuersaunt among the godly,* 1.37 they shoulde vse it.

After this, it is sayde, a certaine light shyned in the prison, being other∣wyse darke and horrible,ij. 1.38 which me thinketh, serued partly for that it might appeare this was an Aungell of light, and partlye that Peter myght see what he had to doe. And it is very often seene in Scripture, that good Aun∣gels haue appeared in bright and shyning wise, as may be gathered by the storie of the resurrection and ascention of Christ. This place teacheth vs, that Christ is able to lighten and giue effectual comfort to those that be his, euen in the middest of darkenesse, so that he can make those things pleasant and comfortable, that otherwise seeme vnto vs fearefull and horrible. For he is the light of the world,* 1.39 which whosoeuer followeth, walketh not in dark∣nesse.

iij. 1.40Thirdly, an Aungell puncheth Peter on the side as he sleepeth, waketh

him, and biddeth him aryse quickly, whereas he once thinketh not of anye maner of deliuerye. This is an argument of the goodnesse of God, which alwaye waketh for vs, that our cruell enimie deuour vs not. And that that here commeth to passe vnto Peter, eche one of vs euery daye fyndeth true, but such is our blindenesse, that we acknowledge not the present goodnesse of God. For it is euident, that Satan lyeth still in wayte to catch vs, & wan∣dreth vp and downe like a roaring Lyon, seeking whome he maye deuour. How then commeth it to passe, that in our sleepe he destroyeth vs not, when we are not able by prayer to keepe him of, nor to doe or thinke any thing for our owne safegard? Can there be here any other reason alleaged, than that we dwell safe vnder the defence of the most highest, and vnder the shadowe of the almighty, as y^e Prophet saith Psal. 91. Wherby we also leearne with what diligence we ought at all times to commend our selues vnto the tuition and protection of God. These things may also comfort vs agaynst the terrours of death. For where it appeareth that God taketh care for vs in our sleepe (which is an ymage or counterfeyte of death) we shall thinke that by death we are not excluded from his prouidence. Example whereof Christ setteth out in Lazarus, whome being deade, and lying buried in his graue, he doth vouchsafe to call his friende.* 1.41 Which is the cause that the Saintes being ready to giue vp their lyfe, vse to commende themselues vnto God the fa∣ther, lyke as though they woulde laye themselfe downe to sleepe or to rest.

Fourthly, the chaines fell of from Peters hands at the voice of the Aun∣gell, and all things touching his deliuery,iiij. 1.42 were done without any difficul∣tie. For the souldiours (whether they were through Gods power fast on sleepe, or whether they were amazed with the brightnesse of the Aungell, as we reade came to passe in the resurrection of the Lorde) neyther staye Peter araying himselfe, nor going out: and without any let or stoppe. Peter pas∣seth the first and seconde watch, being ledde by the Aungell. Moreouer, the yron gate which alone was able to keepe out and in, all persons, opened of it owne accorde. And the Aungell leaueth not Peter, before he had sette him safe out of all daunger. It pleased God thus by steppes and degrees to set him at libertie, that his benefite might seeme the more notable. For other∣wise he coulde by some straunge myracle haue set him safe sodeinly in Ma∣ries house. Here is the inuincible power of God to be considered, and howe easie a thing it is for him to set his people at libertie, to whom things other∣wise inuincible, vse to obeye and giue place. For it hath not onelye come to passe in Peters deliuerie, but also at diuers other times, that nature hath bene fayne to yeelde vnto Gods pleasure, that a waye of escape might be o∣pened to his elected. For hereto maye be referred the passage through the redde sea, and the deuiding or parting a sunder of the riuer Iordane. Like∣wise we reade, that the fyre touched not Daniels fellowes, no not so much as their garments or heare, beyonde the course of nature. And the Lyons chose rather to laye aside their naturall fiercenesse,* 1.43 than to hurt the seruant of God contrary to Gods pleasure. Which thing the Ecclesiasticall hystorie reporteth oftentimes to haue come to passe in the Martyrs. Herevnto be∣longeth the falling of the walles of Iericho, at the blasting of Trumpettes: that the army of the Assyrians, were slaine all in one night, and diuers other examples are to be seene of them that reade eyther prophane or Ecclesiasti∣call hystories. With these things therefore let vs strength our fayth against

the threates of tyrants. For it is moste certayne that God is able to deliuer those that be his, out of any daunger, so it be his good pleasure. And if at any time he refuse so to doe, it is bicause he knoweth it is so needefull for our saluation. In the meane season he remayneth faythfull, and suffreth vs not to be tempted further than we be able to beare.* 1.44

To conclude, the Euangelist sheweth what Peter did in all this meane whyle.4 1.45 First he sayth that Peter wyste not whether this geare was done of a truth or not. For he thought it was a vision, such as was shewed him be∣fore in the hystory of Cornelius. And this is an argument of mans infirmi∣tie, wherewith he is so encombred, that he cannot perceyue the manifest works of God, specially if they be ouershadowed with any maiesty of God∣heade. So when Peter sawe Christ glorifyed in the mount with Moses and Helias,* 1.46 he vttered certaine vnfyt sayings, being ignorant what he sayd. Yet are they more daungerously deceiued, which marke not the manifest iudge∣ments of God, whereby they are prouoked to repentance: which is a thing to common in these dayes. In the meane whyle Peters obedience deserueth no small prayse, which though he were ignorant what this thing ment, yet obeyed the Aungels admonition, teaching vs by his example, howe wee shoulde vse our selues to obey fayth, as hath bene oftentimes declared. But when he was come to himselfe, and perceyued he was at libertie, then he greatly magnifyed God, the author of so great a benefyte. Nowe (sayth he) I knowe for a suretie, that the Lorde hath sent his Aungell, and deliuered mee from the hande of Herode▪ &c. By which example we are taught that we must giue God only, all the thanks for any our deliueries. For although he vse the ministery of angels or men, he must yet haue the whole praise, which vseth his creatures onely according to his pleasure. This thing himselfe teacheth by the Prophet,* 1.47 saying: Call vpon me in the time of trouble: so will I heare thee, and thou shalt prayse me. Wherevnto appertayneth this saying of Dauid:* 1.48 Let them giue thankes whome the Lorde hath redeemed and deliue∣red from the hande of the enimie. Therfore Peter truly acknowledgeth God onely to be his reuenger, which thing Paule also doth, where he confesseth himselfe to be deliuered from the mouth of the Lion,* 1.49 by Gods power. Wherefore their error is intollerable, which being deliuered out of prison, from sickenesse, or other like kinde of daungers, ascribe the prayse of their deliuerye vnto Saintes. Howe much more ought the redeeming of man∣kinde from the tyrannie of h••ll, to be ascribed to God as the onely author? Let vs acknowledge these things, O brethren, and with thankfull mindes prayse God, which hath deliuered vs from the power of darkenesse, and hath brought vs vnto the fellowship of his kingdome, by his sonne Iesus Christ: to whome be prayse, honor, power, and glory, for euer. Amen.

The .lxxxiiij. Homelie.

AND as hee considered the thing, he came to the house of Marye the mother of one Iohn, whose surname was Marke, where many were gathe∣red togither in prayer. As Peter knocked at the entry doore, a Damsell came forth to harken named Rhoda. And when she knewe Peters voyce, she ope∣ned not the entry for gladnesse, but ranne in, and tolde how Peter stoode be∣fore

the entrie. And they sayd vnto hir thou art madde. But she affirmed that it was euen so. Then sayde they, it is hys Angell. But Peter continued knoc∣king, and when they had opened the doore, and saw him, they were astonied. And when he had beckened to them with the hande, that they might holde their peace, he tolde them by what meanes the Lorde had brought him out of prison. And he sayde, go shewe these things vnto Iames, and to the brethren. And he departed and went into another place. Assoone as it was daye, there was no little adoe among the Souldiours, what was become of Peter. When Herode had sought for him, and founde him not, he examined the keepers, and commaunded them to be caried awaye. And he descended from Iurie to Caesarea, and there abode.

AS the Euangelist Luke by suggestion of the holy spirit, hath described in this Chapter a most grieuous persecution of the Church of Christ, by the example whereof wee are taught what state the Church is in here vpon earth: so lykewise he setteth forth a notable example of the goodnesse and proui∣dence of God, which defendeth the faythfull in their distresse, and most faithfully perfourmeth the helpe which long agone he promised. For as we sawe ere∣whyle, then the Lorde was at hande with Peter the Apostle, when he see∣med destitute aswell of Gods helpe as mannes. And he did not onely shew a semblant and token of good will, but vsed his inuincible power to deliuer him. For he sent his Aungell to vnloose the yron chaynes, he openeth the doores in woonderfull wise, he defeateth the watche of the souldiours, and bringeth Peter out of all daunger, and setteth him at libertie when sen∣tence of death was already giuen agaynst him. And albeit all they that are imprisoned, and in bands for Christes sake, are not deliuered in such woon∣derfull wyse: yet there are generall promises, that all they that giue them∣selues to Gods seruice, are vnder his protection. For Dauid affirmeth that the eyes of the Lorde are ouer the righteous,* 1.50 and his eares are open vnto their prayers. And the sonne of God testifyeth, that the heares of our head be num∣bred. But to let these things passe, as is already sufficientlye entreated of, let vs consider this present place, where we are taught what Peter did after he was deliuered out of his bandes and prison, what the exercise of the Church was in the meane season, and howe Herode the tyraunt tooke this iudgement of God.

Peter after he perceyued the Aungell gone, and himselfe at libertie,1 1.51 weyghing and expending diligently with himselfe, all thinges that recour∣sed in his minde, getteth him to the house of Mary, which by all likelyhoode was not farre of, and where he supposed some of the faythfull were assem∣bled, as the custome was. This Mary was y^e mother of Iohn Marke, which of diuers, both of the olde and later writers, is thought to be Marke the E∣uangelist. Which opinion as it is not altogither certaine, so it appeareth that this Marie was a woman of a rare fayth and godlynesse, euen by thys one argument, that while Agrippa did so cruellye persecute the Disciples of Christ, yet would she let them resort to hir house, as to a publike Temple, where they did meete togither, and exercise themselfe in the worde of God,

and in prayers, which she coulde not doe without apparaunt and manifest perill. Here the Lord thought good to teach vs by the example of this weake vessell, howe boldly Christians ought to stande by their tackle, and defende their cause, euen in the middle of daungers and troubles. But when Peter came thither, the doores opened not myraculously, as before, the yron gate did, bicause now there was no neede of any straunge myracle, but he knoc∣keth to haue some body to come open the doore. Peters example is to be well considered of vs which hauing escaped the daunger of death, is desirous aboue all things, to be ioyned to the congregation agayne, agaynst whome yet he knewe the tyraunt still raged. Hereby we be taught what care wee ought to haue of Ecclesiasticall vnitie or fellowship, and howe the spirite of Christ scattereth not the faythfull in sunder, but ioyneth them togither, as well inwardly as outwardly. And they cannot fynde in their hart, easilye to contemne this coniunction. For as they knowe that all saluation is con∣tayned in Christ alone, so they vnderstand the same is deriued from Christ their head, vpon them which are members of Christ, that is to saye, of the Church. Therefore absurde and pernicious is the errour of them, which when persecution ariseth, forsake the congregation, or else if they once haue bene in daunger, thinke they haue done ynough for their part, and will be ioyned to them no longer, for feare of newe daungers. And thus they alie∣nate themselues from Christ, for whose name sake they abode the first bruntes, and whyle they will keepe their bodies out of daunger, destroye their soules.

2 1.52Let vs also see what maner of Christians Peter founde in the house of Mary, Luke comprehendeth a great matter in fewe words, and sayth there were many there gathered togither, and praying. And yet it is not to bee thought that all the faythfull of the whole Citie were gathered into one house, but it is likely that there were other assembles also in other places, and that in the night season, bicause they might not meete togither in the day time. And hereof it seemeth that those meetinges of Christians in the night,* 1.53 and earely in the morning, tooke their beginnings. Wherof the pro∣phane writers make mention, not that they thought anye more religion or effect of prayers in one time than another, but for that in the time of perse∣cutions, & lying in wayte of their enimies, they coulde not otherwise scarse come togither. Nowe a dayes such kinde of meetinges are of many vtterly condemned, thinking that all men ought to abstaine from them, least the godly might giue some suspition of sedicion, or of some other more dishonest misdemeanour. But why doe not these notable comptrollers consider the example of the Primitiue Church, and suffer the brethren that be vnder the crosse,* 1.54 to doe as they did in times passed, seeing both their cases be a like? In the meane whyle we denie not, but that there ought to be had herein great diligence and circumspection. For as it was in tymes passed a great occasion to the enimies of Christ, to rayle and depraue the Christian reli∣gion, euen so in the ages following, it was cause of superstition, whyle cer∣taine foolishe men thought they might here vppon grounde their Mattens and singing before daye. This place in the meane whyle yet teacheth vs what maner of exercises the Christians shoulde haue at all times, but spe∣cially when persecutions are stirring, or any other kinde of publike calami∣tie. And here ought to be diligent heede had of these holy meetings. For as

Christ desireth to haue his to be one: so it becommeth them to testifye pub∣likely, the desire of their vnitie and fellowship. Which thing was cause that in the olde Testament Moses gaue such diligent aduertisement concerning their festiuall dayes, in all which the chiefe matter was,* 1.55 the holy conuocati∣on or assembly. And Ioël the Prophet admonishing the people of their du∣tie, in the time of the Assyrian warres, commaundeth them oftentimes to proclayme an holy assembly. And it is not without a cause that Paule wry∣ting to the Corinthians, reasoneth in diuers Chapters, of the good order to be had and vsed when the congregation meete togither. For he knewe that Christ had adourned such as were gathered togither in his name,* 1.56 with a peculiar promise, testifying that he is in the middle of them. And yet shall not those assemblies be allowed, be they neuer so great, except those things be done in them, which God commaundeth. He will haue his worde open∣lye taught. Therefore we must come togither to heare it. He will haue vs to praye vnto him. Therefore when we meete, we must ioyne togither in prayer,* 1.57 that we maye euen in a troupe togither (I will vse Tertullians wordes) compasse and beset God about with prayers. For this kinde of violence is acceptable vnto him, as Christ hath taught vs,* 1.58 by the example of the wydowe. It is euident that these men obserued both these things. For although Luke make mention in this place but of prayers onely, yet foras∣much as they be ordred according to Gods worde, and take their force of the promises of God, it is not lyke they were slacke herein.* 1.59 Of such assem∣blies as these, the most auncient writers make plentifull mention. And if we woulde compare these things with the vsage of our dayes, it should ea∣sily appeare, howe farre we haue swarued from the integritie of the Pri∣mitiue Church. For it pleased God that these companies shoulde come to∣gither in the night time, bicause of perilles on euery side at hande: but wee will not come togither in the day time, when we maye so doe without anye daunger. And they that come to the Church, doe as they did, whose vani∣tie and wickednesse Ezechiel accuseth cap. 33. And againe, they that meete in the night time, eyther they striue who shall quaffe best, or they playe at the defamed dyce, or else runne vp and downe the streetes with their noyses, in too dissolute a wise. To speake nothing in the meane whyle of those, that if any persecution aryse, turne to cursing and rayling, vsing all vnseemelye speach against the harmelesse Ministers, as though the matter touched not the whole congregation, but them alone. And hereof commeth it, that wee perceiue such continuall calamities in our days. For why should God spare to strike them, which whilste they are layde on,* 1.60 will not acknowledge his hande, nor turne vnto him, correcting them like a father.

Luke now proceedeth in his Oration begunne,3 1.61 and declareth how the faythfull were affected at this sodeine and vnlooked for comming of Peter. And first it appeareth they were somewhat troubled at the knocking at the doore, bicause Rhoda the mayde runneth not forthwith to open the doore, but standeth harkening who it shoulde be that was at the doore. For whereas they were not ignorant howe greatly Herode burned in hatred against the church, there was nothing so sure, but they had some suspicion and feare in it. But Rhoda knowing it was Peter by his voyce, surprised with exceeding ioy, and desirous to be the messenger of such gladsome tydings, before shee would open the dore, goeth and telleth it within. They which scarce thought

of any such thing, much lesse hoped therefore, fyrst sayde she was madde, and afterwarde hearing that she constantly affirmed it to be true, supposed yet that it was not Peter, but his Aungell that was at the doore, and did counterfeyte his voyce. So a man may see the notable seruants of Christ, bewtifyed with all kinde of vertues, tossed with diuers affections, and be∣tweene hope, feare, and ioye, standing in a doubt. Hence therefore with the madnesse of the Stoykes, who whyle they teache that a good and perfite man must be voyde of all affections of the mynde, go about to make of men blockes and mushroomes. And yet Paule witnesseth that Iesus Christ was subiect to such infirmities,* 1.62 and was many wayes tempted like a very true man, so that he coulde haue compassion on vs. Yet here are two things to be diligently considered, before we go any further. The first is for our consola∣tion,* 1.63 where we are taught that the prayers of the godly are so accepted with God, that many times his goodnesse farre exceedeth them, by graunting more than they dare presume to aske. For although these people made con∣tinuall intercession to him for Peter, yet it appeareth by this place, that they had no hope in his deliuery. They knewe well ynough that nothing was impossible vnto God. But they perceyued not why God woulde saue Peter, seeing he suffred Iames to die so vnwoorthy a death. Therfore I suppose they desired God in their prayers, that Peter by his grace might be strengthned in the confession of the truth, and that for Christes sake he might stoutely ouercome the terrors of death. And beyonde all hope, they see Peter by the helpe of God restored to them againe, which was an infallible argument of Gods goodnesse, whereby they were taught that God woulde not suffer his Church to be torne in sunder of Tyrantes, seeing he so faythfully defended the Ministers thereof. There are infynite examples of like kynde, which euery one may euerywhere see that readeth eyther the Scriptures or other writers. And if we woulde but a little diligentlyer marke the iudgements of God, we should see the like fall out in our owne affayres. Let vs learne therefore constantly to hope in the Lorde, and to commit our matters and our selues vnto his care and prouidence.* 1.64 The other thing to be here obser∣ued is, that they suppose it was Peters Aungell that appeared. For the god∣ly people acknowledged what is sayde in the Scriptures, touching the de∣fence and ayde of the Aungels. For no man ought to thinke that they yma∣gined any superstition, deuoyde of syncere religion. For there are Oracles of Scripture, whereby we are taught that God hath appoynted the Aun∣gels to be the Tutors and Ministers of man, as may be seene Psal. 54. and 91. And we haue examples, whereby it is manifest they haue appeared in visible fourme. Therefore they neyther in foolish sort, nor wicked, vttered these words at Peters sodeyne comming. Yet are we not ignorant that here∣of sprang the common error that the superstitious had, of the two Aungels appointed to euery man: which error wee reiect for good considerations, bi∣cause the Scripture defyneth not for certaine any thing touching the num∣ber of Aungels,* 1.65 whether it is one, two, or three, or whole armies of Aun∣gels that defende one man, as wee reade of Iacob and Helisaeus. Much lesse thinke wee them to bee hearde, which saye that the soules of those that bee deade, walke vp and downe, and appeare. For that opinion repugneth a∣gainst the doctrine of Christ, and the veritie of our fayth, whereby we are taught that the soules of the godlye passe from death vnto life, and that the

soules of the wicked are caryed into hell, and can not returne from thence agayne. See Christ reasoning of these poynts in Iohn. 5. and Luc. 16. Let it be sufficient for vs, that the Aungels are the Ministers of God, which v∣seth them at his pleasure, for the safegarde of his elect, and let vs acknow∣ledge the worthynesse and dignitie of man, which ought to be no small pro∣uocation for vs vnto godlynesse.

Nowe is it time to turne agayne vnto Peter.* 1.66 He beckoneth with his hande vnto the brethren, being partly surprised with ioye, and partly wyth amazednesse, to keepe silence, and rehearseth all thing in order as it was done, declaring that God was the onely worker of this benefite. And fur∣ther, he warneth them to signify these things to the residue of the brethren; but chiefly vnto Iames the sonne of Alphaeus, which the olde writers affirme was Bishop of Ierusalem. Of which commaundement it seemeth there was two causes. For he woulde haue the glory of God hereby the more thanke∣fully spredde abrode, and his brethren, whome he knew were sadde for his sake, to be quitte of their cares. Therefore Peter by his example teacheth vs, that we must not hide the benefytes of God in vnthankfull and vnkinde harts. For then Gods benefytes are best declared, when others prouoked by our meanes, learne to hope in God, and to call vpon him in their dis∣tresse, as their defender and reuenger. Dauid being deliuered out of the handes of the Philistynes, makethmention hereof in the beginning of the Psalme. xxxiiij.

Further, it is declared that Peter went to another place.* 1.67 For he easilye perceyued that he should doe no good to remaine in Herodes kingdome. And the present benefyte of his deliuery, did sufficiently declare, that God would not haue him dye vnder the hande of Herode, but to execute his Apostleship otherwheres. Therefore he vseth the counsell of Christ, saying: If they per∣secure you in one citie, flye vnto another.* 1.68 Here hast thou therfore what aun∣swere to make vnto those, which woulde haue the Ministers of the worde put into the Woolues handes, and say that they truly followe the Apostles, when without hope of doing any good, they suffer the wicked, not onely to condemne their doctrine, and the truth of Christ, but also themselues. But it easily appeareth what causeth these men thus to say. They woulde haue all the Ministers of the Gospell gone at once, that Antichristes superstiti∣on might be brought in agayne. Wherefore wee must vse the wisedome of serpents against these men, according as Christ hath commaunded vs, that through our temerity & rashnesse, we do not indammage Christs quarrell.

Nowe remayneth the last part of this place,4 1.69 whereby wee are taught how Herode was affected in minde at this worke and myracle of God. And first after it was knowne that Peter had escaped his bandes and imprison∣ment, there arose a great feare & trouble among the souldiours. For where they were well acquainted with the fierce nature of Herode, they looked for no goodnesse at his hande. And they were not beguiled. For where Herode had appoynted to put Peter to death, and vnderstoode afterwarde that he was escaped, like one beside himselfe, he commaundeth the keepers to bee racked, insomuch that although he heard they were in no fault, yet he com∣maūdeth them to be had to prison, or else (which is the liker) to their deaths. This is a very notable example whereby we are taught that the wicked waxe the woorse and not better by the iudgements of God. For where they

are so bolde to striue agaynst God, through his iust iudgement they are so blinded and hardened, that in the open light they are not able to see, nor to submit themselfe vnder the mightie hande of God. And there is no cause why we should hope for any better of the tyrants of these dayes, which haue begun to make warre agaynst God, & maintaine the same with such deadly hatred. Here appeareth also an example of Gods prouidence, whereby Herodes craft is deluded, while he heareth the worke of God sette forth by them, whose helpe he accustomed to vse against God. And that example is not vnlike herevnto, where the souldiours appointed by y^e Priests to watch the sepulchre of Christ,* 1.70 were the fyrst that published his resurrection abrode in the Citie. Furthermore, the vnprosperous ende of these souldiours teach vs, what they may looke for which serue tyrantes turnes against the truth. They fall commonly into the pit which they digged for other.* 1.71 And they fynd them to be their enimies, whose good will they go about to get, by killing the godly. Whereby it commeth to passe, that although men doe them no iniurie, yet are they punished by the iust iudgement of God, bicause they had liefer please men than God. Let such as eyther themselues doe anye thing against the faithfull of Christ, for mennes sakes, or else suffer other to doe,* 1.72 beare this well in minde. It is Christes saying: Touch not myne annoynted. And he that toucheth you, toucheth the apple of mine eye. These sayinges threaten present destruction to the persecutours of the Church. Therefore they that will be taken for the syncere loouers of true fayth, lette them abstaine from these mennes company and counsell, least they perishe with them. In the meane season let vs acknowledge the power of Christ our king and sauiour, which so luckily deludeth the enterprises of his eni∣mies, and so valiauntly defendeth his chosen. To him be all prayse, honor, power, and glory for euer. Amen.

The .lxxxv. Homelie.

HERODE was displeased with them of Tyre and Sydon. But they came all with one accord, & made intercession vnto Blastus the kings cham∣berlaine, and desired peace, bicause their Countrie was nourished by the Kings prouision. And vpon a daye appoynted, Herode arayed him in royall apparell, and set him in his seate, and made an Oration vnto them. And the people gaue a showte, saying: It is the voyce of a God and not of a man. And immediatly the Aungell of the Lorde smote him, bicause he gaue not God the honour, and he was eaten of wormes, and gaue vppe the ghost. And the worde of God grewe and multiplied. And Barnabas and Paule returned from Ierusalem to Antioch when they had fulfilled their office, and tooke with them Iohn whose surname was Marke.

ALthough God suffreth his Church to be ex∣ercised and tryed with continuall persecutions: yet he ap∣pointeth for the persecutors thereof grieuous and horrible punishments. For in the Prophet Zacharie he is compared to a weightie stone, wherewith euery one vseth to trye mai∣steries, and to prooue his strength. But none scapeth scot∣free or without some hurt. Hereof is set forth vnto vs a notable example

in Herodes Agrippa, who as was declared in the beginning of this Chapter, entended and begunne a grieuous persecution against the Church, both for that he woulde not haue the people of his iurisdiction deuided in diuers re∣ligions, and also for that he ment thereby to get the fauour and good will of the Iewes. And at the fyrst his enterprise seemed luckilye to succeede. For where he had set on two of the chiefe Apostles, he put Iames vnto death, and Peter he tooke and layde in yrons, appoyinting sixteene souldiours to watch him. At which time how greatly all mennes mindes were amazed, and striken with feare, their continuall prayers testifye. But euen in a mo∣ment when all things seemed past hope, Christ declareth himselfe to be the protector of his Church. And fyrst of all he deliuereth Peter in woonderous wise. Next, he causeth the punishment to light on the souldiours, that they ment vnto Peter. And bicause none should thinke that Herode should alway prosper, God catcheth him also with an horrible reuenge, the which Luke nowe in this place diligently describeth.

He beginneth with rehearsall of a newe hystory,* 1.73 which more manifest∣ly yet sheweth the nature of Herode, that hereby we may the better knowe the cause of so grieuous a punishment. The summe and chiefe poynt hereof is, that he had conceyued in his minde displeasure against those of Tyre and Sidon, whom when he had compelled through publike necessitie, that is say, by famine, humbly to sue for peace, waxing hereby the prowder, he did ha∣sten the vengeance of God. And although Luke declareth not the causes of his enmitie, yet is it not harde to perceyue what they were. For it seldome commeth to passe, that Monarches and free Cities agree togither in one, bicause they take against their ambition and licentiousnesse, and by their example allure kings subiects to the desire of libertie. Furthermore, it is credible that the Tyrians and Sydonians dyd not well lyke of Agrippa his pryde, as being an vpstart, and aduaunced to such great power by Caligu∣la and Claudius, and but newly come out of prison. And peraduenture their great riches and power by the sea, which they had many yeares gotten by their merchaundise, encouraged them and set them the more a gogge. For that they were hereof the prowder, appeareth by the writings of the Pro∣phetes. See Esay. 23. Ezech. 26.27. and .28. And it may be that the crafty ty∣rant cloked this lurking hatred in his minde, vntill penurie and dearth of victuals gaue him occasion to stirre against them. They againe perceyuing that their Cities coulde from none other place be so commodiously main∣tayned as by nighnesse of Herodes kingdome, and that therefore his friend∣ship was necessary, became humble suters vnto him, and that they might obtayne peace the sooner at his hands, they make Blastus of his priuie cham∣ber their friende, which thing could not be compassed without many bribes and rewardes.

In these thinges the holy Ghost hath set out vnto vs to beholde as in a glasse the condicions of tyrauntes.* 1.74 For as Herode is not here content with the wyde boundes of his kingdome, but desireth to haue the borderers al∣so vnder his obeysaunce: so if the insatiable desire of the fleshe bee not bry∣dled in the hearts of Princes, there is none so large and wide a kingdome, that can content their minde, or suffyse their ambition. For as couetous men heape and masse vp mony, and ioyne house vnto house, and fyelde vn∣to fyelde with all greedye desire: so Kinges labour to ioyne Realme vnto

Realme, and still to extend their power ouer them that border vpon them: little regarding in the meane season how they may prudently gouerne those people which God hath giuen them the rule of. And this is the cause of continuall warres, whereby the miserable subiectes are wasted and consu∣med, who fynde them that ought to be as shepeheardes and fathers vnto them, to be their destroyers. Againe, where kings puffed vp with insatia∣ble ambition, desire to haue all men in subiection vnder them, their selues most commonly are ruled by vile slaues, which by craft can creepe into their bosomes, and knowe well ynough how to vse their foolishnesse and blocke∣headnesse, to their owne aduauntage. Of which kinde of men, it appeareth this Blastus was, vppon whome this one place easily declareth, the whole rule of y^e realme depended. So with some Emperours we reade that such were of most authoritie about them, as they of bondmen and villaines had made free, to saye nothing of those, which were ledde and ruled by players, ••esters, harlots, and abused yong Springalles. And hereof it hath come to passe, that they which haue had any thing to doe with great Princes, haue bene compelled to become suiters to most wicked menne. For vnlesse they had made them their friendes, they should neuer haue bene able to come to the speach of the Prince. And forbicause they gaped after money, wherby to maintaine their coueted dignitie, it came to passe, that in kinges Courtes, all things went for money, and according to the Poetes saying: there was most right where most money was stirring. These things are sayde, to thende that Princes may vnderstande what vices they had neede to beware of, and that all men may acknowledge the goodnesse of God, which so diligentlye disswaded his people from a King, as we reade in the first booke of Samuel cap. 8. And those to whome God hath giuen to liue in libertie, maye learne to make much of such a benefyte, & worthily to vse it, least loosing it, and cō∣ming to be subiect to the pleasure of vnruly men, they then desire in vaine, with carefull sighes and grones,* 1.75 their libertie once lost. Further more, here is to be obserued what good successe Herode hath, after his persecuting of the Church, and embruing himselfe with the bloude of the guiltlesse saints. And yet was he worthy, eyther to haue bene destroyed with a thunderbolt from heauen, or else to haue lost his kingdome, and wander vp and downe like a begger. And beholde, moste riche Cities of their owne accorde, fall downe at his feete, and are glad to receyue such condicions of peace as hee prescribeth. This is that thing that offendeth those that are weake in faith, bicause they see the wicked so prosper, and feele none of the plagues or pu∣nishments that other men doe, as the Prophete sayth, Psal. 73. And there∣fore Ieremie crieth out: Howe commeth it that the waye of the vngodlye is so prosperous,* 1.76 and that it goeth so well with them which without any shame of∣fende, and liue in wickednesse. Furthermore, the wicked take occasion here∣of to gather, that all studye and endeuour of true religion, is superfluous & vnprofytable, as we maye see in Malachie. 2. and .3. Chapter. But we must here remember that the wicked are euen then ruled with the becke of Gods prouidence, when things seeme moste to succeede with them against the O∣racles of God. For it commeth to passe by the iust iudgement of God, that being drunken with this good successe, they are lifted the higher, to the intent they may fall the lower. Wherevnto Salomon had a respect when he sayde: Presumptuousnesse goeth before destruction,* 1.77 and after a prowde stomacke there

followeth a fall. And Dauid teaching vs howe the glorye and felicitie of the wicked is but transitorie, sayth: I my selfe haue seene the vngodlye in great power and flourishing like a greene Baye tree. And I went by,* 1.78 and loe hee was gone. I sought him but his place coulde no where be founde. Therefore it is a folly to be offended at the prosperitie of the wicked, considering it is the chiefe cause of their destruction, bicause they vse it insolently against God, as may be gathered of the successe of this present businesse, that Luke nowe rehearseth.

For Herode seeing all thinges succeede after his desire,* 1.79 being drunken with the fauour of fortune, began to aspire to diuine honor also, as it shall more euidently appea••e, if you will conferre the things that Iosephus wri∣teth in the .xix. booke of his antiquities, and seauenth Chapter with Luke. For he writeth that he had appoynted games or playes in the honor of Cae∣sar, and that vpon a daye assigned for that purpose, he sate in his throne, ha∣uing on a Princely ro••e, wouen throughout with strokes of siluer, meaning openly to make an Oration vnto the people. And where the garment by reason of the Sunne beames rysing vppon it, glittered and shined in his face, the flattering Courtyers tooke occasion thereof to magnifye him as God, and all the people followed their example. First therefore they begin to crye, the voyce of a God, and not of a man. And forthwith turning them to prayers and supplications, they saye: Be mercifull vnto vs. For although we haue hitherto feared thee but as a man, yet now we see thou art of an higher nature. &c. It seemeth that these things are for this cause chiefely intermed∣led with this hystorie, that we maye beholde the vanitie of all the people, wherewith they were so infected, that they deserued so to be oppressed and pinched vnder so vile a tyraunt. For why shoulde God giue them a better Prince, which were not ashamed so to extoll a fylthie and wicked man with godly honor? But the like vanitie reigneth euerywhere in these dayes, con∣sidering we see most cruell tyrants giuen wholy to beastly pleasures, being almost loden with like ambicious and godly styles and tytles. Nor it is not now sufficient to call them benefyciall or conquerors, but they must be called most victorious, and haue these diuine names of Grace and Maiestie, which by Scripture are due vnto God, onely so often repeated, till a man woulde lothe it. And bicause the Courtyers fyrst beginne, and the rascall people not onely followe them, but also imitate the seruile and slauishe condicio••s of their teachers: we are worthy that by open tyrannie of Princes, and their manifest wickednesse, we shoulde to our great losse and dammage be re∣prooued as lyers. Lette those moste ambitious men well remember this geare, which abuse the foolishnesse of such seruile people, to the ende to bee taken for ioly fellowes, by such counterfeyte and vaine titles. For by this meane they declare themselues to be the companions both of Herode and Caligula, and Domitian, and other such like, and therefore with them God shall punishe them, as Herode here prooued.* 1.80

For streightway the Aungell of the Lorde smote him, which Eusebius out of Iosephus writeth, appeared to him in visible wise. Of the which stroke he by and by beganne to be tormented with pangues & grypes of the belly,* 1.81 which extorted some confession of truth out of his heart, though otherwise so ambitious. For he turned him to them that wayted on him, and sayde: Beholde I your God, must nowe exchaunge lyfe for death. And I whome you

called immortall, am nowe ledde away vnto death. But Luke declaring the kinde of his death, sayth: he being eaten and gnawen with wormes, gaue vp his ghost.* 1.82 It seemeth therefore he dyed of the disease called Phthiriasis, hauing wormes or lyce breeding in his fleshe, which fedde vpon him whyle he liued, with great griefe and fylthinesse, and at length were the cause of hisdeath. Moreouer, Luke assigneth this to be the onely cause hereof, for that he gaue not God the glory. For first he thought the honour of y^e king∣dome, came not of God, but of Caesar, whome for that cause he worshipped with ordeyning shewes and games in the honor of him. After that he went about cruelly to persecute the true religion of God. Last of all, he reioyced in the blasphemous wordes of flatterers, whome it had behooued him to haue detested and abhorred. Let them therefore learne by this example, what to looke for at Gods hande, which with lyke impietie set vp themsel∣ues against him. It behooueth vs chiefly to note how mightily God reuen∣geth pride, seeing he doth not onely punishe the prowde grieuously, but al∣so shamefully, the more to tame and pull downe their haultie heartes and courages. So it pleased him that Pharao shoulde not dye valiauntly in the fyelde, but be drowned in the waues of the redde sea, which is a shamefull kynde of death. So he slewe Sanherib miserably in the Church of his owne God, by his owne sonnes. And with the same disease which is here descri∣bed, before that, was Antiochus, Herode the great, Sylla, and at length Maximinian the persecutor, vglily consumed. Peter therefore sayd most tru∣ly,* 1.83 that God resisteth the prowde. Let all degrees and states of men hereby learne to keepe themselues within the bounds of their vocation, and if they perceiue any thing in themselues singuler or excellent, to acknowledge that it commeth altogither of the goodnesse of God. So shall it come to passe, that humbling themselues vnder the mightye hande of God, they shall vse his giftes as they ought to doe. Furthermore, this place teacheth vs, what hurt flatterers procure vnto Princes. For of nature we be selfelouers, and like best our owne doings and sayinges. Then if we admit flatterers, we become starke blinde, so that we see not manifest vices, & grow to be such as cannot abide to heare the truth, or to be admonished. Which thing hath bene the cause that great Realmes haue bene ouerthrowne by the tongues of flatterers, as hystories declare. And surely Herode had bene most prospe∣rous, if he had giuen eare rather to the Apostles, reprehending his vice, than to the voyces of flatterers and clawbacks. For they caused him being swollen in a wicked and prowde contempt of God, to be destroyed with horrible death.

Ouer all this, hauing shewed the ende of the tyraunt, Luke returneth to the story of the Church,* 1.84 which he begonne howe the Gospell did spreade, to declare that by Herode it was nothing hindered. For the worde of God (sayth he) encreased and was multiplied, spreading it selfe euery daye farther abrode. This he will declare in the thinges following, wherevnto he ma∣keth a digression touching Paule and Barnabas returne from Ierusalem. For we hearde about the ende of the eleauenth Chapter, howe they were sent thither to cary that mony that was here and there gathered to the poore and needy brethren in Iurie, pinched with dearth and famine. Which businesse after they had faithfully discharged, they return vnto Antioch, from whence shortly after they departed with Marke, whom they brought with them, and

published the Gospell both farre and neare. This is very comfortable, that we see the Church stande fast and suruiue all hir enimies, and all tyrantes. For she is borne and conserued by the worde of God, which endureth for e∣uer. This thing the hystories of all times and nations teach vs.* 1.85 For mise∣rably and fylthily died Pha••ao, the Chanaanites, Sanherib, the Babylonians, Antiochus, the three Herodes, Nero, Domitian, Traiane, Antonye, Seuerus, the Maximini, Decius, Valerianus, Aurelianus, Dioclesianus, the two Maxi∣minianes, Liciuius, Maxentius, Iulian, and as many as euer after all these, durst to set vpon Christes Church. For she flourisheth and liueth, and shall for euer liue, vnder hir trusty and most victorious de∣fender and reuenger, Iesus Christ: to whome be prayse, honour, power, and glorye, for euer. Amen.

Notes

• 1 1.1

  Persecuti∣on r••geth in time of derth
• * 1.2

  Gene. 12.
• * 1.3

  Gene. 26.
• * 1.4

  Gene. 37.39
• * 1.5

  Gene. 47.
• * 1.6

  Math. 24. Luke. 21.
• * 1.7

  1. Pet. 4. 1. Cor. 11.
• 2 1.8

  Herodes A∣grippa is au∣thor of thys persecu••ion.
• * 1.9

  A Tetrarchy is one part of a kingdome or prouince deuided in fower parts.
• * 1.10

  Psal. 2. &c.
• 3 1.11

  The cau∣ses of thys persecution.
• * 1.12

  i. Schisme.
• * 1.13

  1. Reg. 13.
• * 1.14

  1. Mach. 1.
• ij. 1.15

  Desire to please the people.
• * 1.16

  Psal. 72.
• 4 1.17

  What He∣rode did in persecuting the Church.
• i. 1.18

  Iames is killed with the sworde.
• * 1.19

  Marc. 3.
• * 1.20

  Math. 5.
• * 1.21

  Rom. 5.
• * 1.22

  Rom. 8. 2. Tim. 2.
• ij. 1.23

  Peter is appreh••nded
• * 1.24

  Luc. 22.
• 5 1.25

  What the congregation did during the persecu∣tion.
• * 1.26

  ••eb. 13.
• * 1.27

  Roma. 12.
• * 1.28

  1. Cor. 12.
• 1 1.29

  The time when Peter was deliue∣red.
• * 1.30

  Esay. 37.
• * 1.31

  Marc. 4.
• 2 1.32

  How Peter was affected in his minde being in pri∣son.
• * 1.33

  Psalm. 2.
• * 1.34

  Phil. 4. Iohn. 14.
• 3 1.35

  The ma∣ner of his de∣liuery.
• i. 1.36

  The mini∣sterye of an Aungell.
• * 1.37

  1. Cor. 11.
• ij. 1.38

  A lyght shyneth.
• * 1.39

  Iohn. 8.12.
• iij. 1.40

  The An∣gell awaketh him.
• * 1.41

  Iohn. 11.
• iiij. 1.42

  The im∣pediments of deliuery are castly taken awaye.
• * 1.43

  Daniel. 6.
• * 1.44

  1. Cor. 18.
• 4 1.45

  what Peter doth after he is deliuered.
• * 1.46

  Luke. 9.
• * 1.47

  Psal. 50.
• * 1.48

  Psal. 107.
• * 1.49

  2. Tim. 4.
• * 1.50

  Psal. 34. Math. 10.
• 1 1.51

  Peter desi∣reth to be io••∣ned 〈…〉〈…〉 ga••e.
• 2 1.52

  The exer∣cises of the Primitiue Church.
• * 1.53

  Plinie the yonger in his Epistle to T••••iane the Emperour.
• * 1.54

  See what the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 repo•••••••• of these assem∣bles in Ter∣tullians Apo∣logy. cap.
• * 1.55

  Leuit. 23.
• * 1.56

  Math. 18.
• * 1.57

  Tertullian in his Apology cap. 39.
• * 1.58

  Luke. 18.
• * 1.59

  See Tertul∣lian in his A∣pology. ca. ••9
• * 1.60

  Esay. 9. Amos. 4.
• 3 1.61

  Howe the faythful we••e affected at Peters cōming
• * 1.62

  Heb. 2.
• * 1.63

  The prayers of the godlye are not in vaine.
• * 1.64

  The appari∣tions of aun∣gels.
• * 1.65

  Gen. 28.32. 2. Reg. 6.
• * 1.66

  Peter will haue Gods benefite to be declared.
• * 1.67

  Peter prouy∣deth for him∣selfe by flying
• * 1.68

  Math. 10.
• 4 1.69

  Howe He∣rode tooke the myracle of God.
• * 1.70

  Math. 28.
• * 1.71

  Psalm. 7.
• * 1.72

  Psal. 105. Zach. 2.
• * 1.73

  Herode is of∣fended with those that border vpon him.
• * 1.74

  The condici∣ons of Ty∣rants.
• * 1.75

  The successe of the wicked is a preamble of ruine.
• * 1.76

  Ierem. 12.
• * 1.77

  Prou 16.
• * 1.78

  Psal. 37.
• * 1.79

  Herode des••∣reth to be ho∣noured as a God.
• * 1.80

  The destruc∣tion of He∣rode.
• * 1.81

  Eusebius in the .2. booke of the Eccle∣siasticall sto∣rie .x. chap.
• * 1.82

  A disease which maye well be called the lowsie e∣uill, by reason of lyce which encrease so mightily, that they deuour and eate vp the body.
• * 1.83

  1. Pet. 5.
• * 1.84

  The enlar∣gement of Christes kingdome.
• * 1.85

  1. Pet. 1.