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BEfore you peruse this Discourse and Mapp, be pleased to take notice that for the easier finding out of Places, we have marked whole Countries with hol∣low Letters a thus; and Cities with numerical Figures.
It happened that as the Jews in their exile were scattered all over Asia, like co••∣strewed on the ground, some seeds also (whether by Land or Sea, or both) fell into Cilicia, (at e in the Mapp) and particularly into the City of Tarsus, (at 7 in the Mapp) Among others of this Nation was a certain Benjamite, a person of good quality, who inhabited here, and from whom descended that Heroick Father of the Gospel called Saul, or Paul, Act. 22. 3. Phil. 3. 5. for such was the custom of those dayes, that most Persons of any note or eminency had more names than one. Hence this Holy Father, was by his Father called Saul, in evidence that he was a Hebrew of the He∣brews; and Paulus or Paul, in token that he was born a free man of Rome. Now as this Son grew up, the good old man was not wanting for care sufficient in his educa∣tion. And first, the better to grace his priviledge of a Romane Citizen, he bred him up a Schollar in the Academy of Tharsus, (7) and here was it, that he became so ex∣pert in the Philosophical Sayings of the Heathen Sages, such as were Aratus, Epime∣nides, Menander and others. Act. 17. 28. Tit. 1. 12. But as he grew in years to un∣derstand himself, the Wisdom of Man not amounting to enough to make him a Child of God, He was therefore sent away from Tharsus unto Jerusalem (1) to be in∣structed in the Sacred knowledge of the Book of God. Here was famous at that time one Gamaliel a Doctor of the Law, and Provost of the Schools in Jerusalem, at whose feet this Tarsian Jew being set, he studyed the Holy Scriptures, and greatly profited in Divine learning, beyond all his Equals and fellow-Studients. Act. 22. 3. Gal. 1. 14. Here was it that whilest he was eager of his way of Learning and Religion,
he drew into his head and heart the Doctrine of the Pharisees, who were in those dayes though the most respected with the Popularity, yet the most Hypocritical and Malicious of all the Jewish Sects. Phil. 3. 5, 6.
During these Times the Messiah appeared, as was spoken of by the Prophet Da∣niel, (Dan. 9. 25, 26, 27.) and one half of a week of years, or 3 years and odd, he confirm∣ed the Covenant with many of the Jewish Nation, until in the midst of the Week he was crucified and slain: and Sacrifice and Oblation ceased. All this while was Saul at Ierusalem, but so intent at Gam••liels feet, that this news of the Messias found no re∣spect from his ears. Christ was crucified at the great Paschal Feast; and at Pente∣cost came the Holy Ghost upon the Apostles, and enabled them to speak all Langua∣ges, and to work miracles. Now it hapned, that by vertue of these Languages they spake, and the miracles they wrought, so many became their Converts, that by the Feast of Tabernacles a necessity appeared to ordain Deacons to assist them in their Ministery. Of these were appointed first 7 in company, whereof were Stephen and Philip, and Nicanor and others: and after these were made still more and more Dea∣cons and Evangelists, such as were Ananias of Damascus, (5) Lucius, Barnabas and o∣thers. Act. 6 ch. 9. ch. 13. But as these were zealous in preaching the Gospel, the Jews were as envious in opposing it, and of those opposers Saul of Tarsus was none of the meanest. The first quarrel that brake out into blood, was that of the Synagogue of the Liberrines against Stephen, and this seems to have been at the very next Feast after that of the Tabernacles, at what time Stephen was ordained; and was therefore at lat∣ter
end of the Feast of Dedication: at what time Stephen being apprehended by those Libertines, was haled before the Councel, and tumultuously condemned, and stoned to death. This was (as it seems by course of Story) much about (and as Tradition tells us, upon) the morrow after the Anniversary Festival of our Saviours Nativity, or on the 26 of Decemb. Thus dyed this Proto-Martyr, and thus was this first Anniver∣sary of the Nativity next following his Assension turned into mourning, Act. 7. 54, 55. &c. But devout men in honour of this noble Martyr, would not suffer his body to ly among the bones of malefactors, to be devoured of Dogs, but exposed themselves to the hazzard of the Jews displeasure, by carrying him to buryal with solemne la∣mentation, Act. 8. 2. The Persecuters thus exasperated, made great havoke of these sacred Mourners; and some 2000 faithfull Christians slew they in this heat, toge∣ther with Nicanor S. Stephens fellow Deacon, besides great multitudes of men and wo∣men whom they carryed to prison. Dor. Syn. of the 70 Disciples. Act. 8. 1. 3. ch. 22. 4. ch. 26. 10. Under the Councel who condemned this S. Stephen, was this our Saul it seems a principal Officer, who was present at his examination, and gave his vote to have him put to death, and was especially imployed to see it done: and more than this, being in a zealous fury in a wrong way, was the death of many a good Christian at this time, besides what he imprisoned while he rashly imagined he did God good service by it. 1. Tim. 1. 13. Act. 26. 9, 10. 11. At this time was Saul but a young man; and yet not so young, but he was trusted it seems with some place of Authority, which was not usually bestowed until a man was 30 current, and so by conse∣quence,
at what time our Saviour was 33 compleat, this Saul was 30 current, and therefore some 4 years younger than Christ.
For 4 weeks lasted this persecution very hot, until most part of the poor Christians being fled from Ierusalem (except the Apostles) were scattered abroad here and there as they could get with safety for refuge of their lives and liberties. But this was so far from hindrance, as it rather proved an advantage to the Gospel, by reason of the scattered Evangelists who preaching as they fled, scattered the news of the Gospel in all parts, as they flew away. Philip the Deacon taught the Samaritans (2) Simon went out towards Tyre (43) and Zidon (48) preaching; Bar••abas took towards Cyprus, Lucius towards Cyrene, (x) and Ananias made many Converts at Damascus. (5. Now when the news of these things came to Ierusalem, (1) the Jews were madded at it: And the furious Saul in his fiery zeal, not satisfied in that he had spoiled the growth of Christianity in Ierusalem, unless he might chace it out of the World also, got Letters from Caiphas the high Priest directed unto the Synagogues in Damascus in order to bind and bring away to Ierusalem all whom he found, both men and women who any waies feared not to own the name of Christ. Act. 9. 1, 2. But as many times it hap∣pens where the more hast is, there is the less speed, so it was here; for on the 25, day of January, as Saul was going to Damascus, and almost there, Lo a wonderfull bright light appeared round about him, and cast him upon the ground utterly astonished; and a voice was heard speaking unto him as he lay, saying, Saul, Saul, Why persecutest thou me? Now such was the force of this miracle and the voice withal, together with
other discourse accompanying; that Sauls heat of persecution was quite cooled, and trembling as he lay, his heart turned within him, and he became obedient immedia••ly to all as was commanded him. And being led into the City (for he was struck blind with the light) after three daies fasting and prayer, Ananias the Evangelist•• came to him by Divine appointment, and baptized him, and also constituted him to be a Preacher of the Gospel. And Saul immediately entred into the Jewish Synagogue, and began to preach up that Doctrine he had afore cryed down so much; and justified those Christians which ere while he had so much condemned. And though the Jews opposed his Doctrine and himself, yet he stood to it, and confounded them by Scripture argu∣ments; proving out of the Law and Prophets that that very Jesus whom they had so lately crucified was the very Christ. But all notwithstanding, the Jews would not be convinced, but rather going about to kill him in revenge of his conversion from their way, after certain daies stay he left Damascus, and went into Arabia, (c) where he continued three years, preaching the Gospel in the Dominions of King Aretas. Act. 9. 3, 4, 5, &c. 17. 18. ch. 26. 13, &c. Ch. 22. 6. &c. Gal. 1. 15, 16, 17.
During these years of Saul in Arabia, Philip the Deacon was very successfull in his preaching at Samaria. Hither also came Peter and John the Apostles from Jerusalem, to confirm and settle the Church which Philip had first founded. Here was one Simon a notable Sorcerer first converted by Philip, and then detected by Peter in his hypo∣crisie, and publiquely shamed, Act. 8. 5, 6. &c. This was about the Passeover Feast next after Sauls conversion, which coming on, called Peter and John back again to Je¦rusalem:
but Philip went on preaching along the Countrey in the way towards Gaza, (3) and was in the same road, at what time the Feast being ended, a certain Eunuch called Indion, a person of great quality under Candace Queen of Aethiopia, but a Jew∣ish Proselite, who was returning from the Feast, by an happy providence fell into Phi∣lips way, and that so as to become his convert; and being baptized, carryed away with him into his own Countrey the great tydings of the Gospel. But Philip went on to Azotus, (4) and so to Caesarea, (10) preaching every where as he went. Act. 8. 26, 27, &c. By this time the Church began to enjoy peace and rest, by means of Sauls con∣version: The greatest enemy it seems was taken off, and the rest were dampt, Act. 9. 31. And besides, the civil affairs of Judea (a) were not a little disturbed, whereby the Spiritual enjoyed the more leisure. For Philip the Tetrarch being dead, King Are∣tas with a great Army invaded Herod, in order to be revenged for the matter of Heredi∣as, Herods Concubine, with whom he lived in Incest and Adultery; and by reason of A∣reta the daughter of this Aretas, and Herods lawfull Wife, whom he had put away. This came to a battel about the Paschal time, in the 21 year of Tiherius the Empe∣rour; and Herod the Tetrarch was greatly foyled and routed, and had been utterly lost, but for the Authority Imperial interposing: Jos. Ant. B. 18. ch. 17. Suet. During these things the holy Apostles minded their business, and as it shall seem devided the Toparchies of Judea amongst them, for the better order in their proceedings. Untill the Church increasing more and more, the Apostles also extended their Walks farther and farther; and ten of them going forth into Galilee, and Samaria, (see the Mapp
of Canaan,) and also into Idumea and beyond Jordan. S. James constantly abode at Jerusalem. Eus. Eccl. Hist. B. 2. ch. 1. and S. Peter had the peculiar oversight of all quar∣ters of Judea, Act. 9. 26, 27, &c. As for the Deacons and Evangelists, they we•••• out far and neer into all Countries where they could find any Jews, unto whom they might preach Jesus: for hitherto went they to none but Jews, or Jewish Prose∣lites. Act. 11. 19. During these times did the Apostles and their Disciples appoint and celebrate those sacred Festivals of the Gospel, which we still observe.
S. Paul was at the Feast of Pentecost, at a private Church where S, James and the Elders were assembled. Act. 21. 18, 19. During this time also sent Pilat to Rome, (46) to give notice unto Tiberius and the Senate, of the marvellous works of Christ, and how he was reported to berisen from the dead, and was esteemed of his Disciples as a God. Eus. Eccl. Hist. B. 2. ch. 2. Also during these years while Saul remained in Ara∣bia, Caiphas was laid by from being High Priest, in the 21. year of Tiberius, and in the next year Pontius Pilate was displaced from his Prefecture. Jos. Ant. B. 18. ch. 6.
Three years were now ended since the Assension of our Saviour, and the 4th▪ was some moneths old, at what time Saul having continued almost 3 years in Arabia, re∣turned back to Damascus, about the 23 of Tiberius but newly entred, and the 3•• of Christs birth about 3 parts run out. But here again finding himself in great danger of his life, by reason of the Jews implacable malice, he was fain to be let down in a basket over the Town wall, and narrowly escaped away with his life, and came to Jerusalem, about the Feast of Tabernacles, 2 Cor. 11. 32. 33. Act. 9. 25. All this while
had he seen none of the Apostles, but here (as he came on purpose to find him so ac∣cordingly) he met S. Peter. Gal. 1. 16. 17. They at first shunned him at Jerusalem, till Barnabas wrought his introduction among them. Here tarryed he 15 daies during the Feast, and before and after. But after a great deal of labour in vain beslowed upon the stubborn Jews, in order to convince them that Jesus was the Christ, at length Pe∣ter and Saul both left Jerusalem together: Saul went down to Cesarea, (6) and from thence all along by Land through Phoenicia (f) Syria, (d) and Cylicia (c) until he came to Tarsus, his native place Act. 9. 26, 27. &c. Gal. 1. 18. &c.
Peter in the mean time went about from Town to Town over all the quarters and Toparchies of Judea, untill he came to Lydda, (8) where he cured one Aeneas, who had been 8 years sick of a Palsie, by a miracle: and after some stay there, he was sent for to Joppa, (9) where by a greater miracle he raised one Dorcas an holy and a singular good woman from the dead. These miracles were no smal furtherance to the fame of the Gospel. Act. 9. 32, &c. 36. &c. But such as were yet stubborn would be stub∣born; Wherefore now at length, after that Peter had abode many dayes at this Jop∣pa, the other half of the week of years of confirming the Covenant with the Jews being utterly expired, and the Iewish converts dropping in but slowly, until at length there appeared not one more; Then pleased it Almighty God to give warning unto his Apostles hence forwards to leave the Iews, and to turn in unto the Gentiles. This warning by the vision of a strange sheet let down from Heaven, wherein were all man∣ner of Beasts and Fowls, and that as well of the unclean sorts, as of the clean, was first
made known to Peter; whereby he was given to understand, that hence forwards he might eat of all sorts without distinction. And in the mean time messengers being come from Cornelius a Gentile man, he was warned also to go in unto him, without any more scruple what Countrey man he was, and whether he were Iew or Proselite. And accordingly Peter being obedient unto the vision, went with them: and finding Cornelius and many more Gentiles gathered together, he preached unto them, and they were converted, and the Holy Ghost fell upon them miraculously, and they were baptized, Act. 10: At the same time Barnabas of Cyprus, and Lucius of Cyrene (x) and others, being in far Countries, and moved by the same Spirit preached unto the Gentiles where ever they were, and they came in, and converted to the Faith. Act. 11. 19, &c. Now when the news of these things came first unto Jerusalem, Peter was que∣stioned for what he had done, until having given satisfaction of his Divine Warrant, they gave glory to God. &c.
After this the Apostles deviding the World into 12 parts, each of them took his Walk, together with certain Evangelists their assistants, into all parts of the World. S. James the brother of John seems to have gon into Egypt and Marmorica, where he spent those few years his Glass had to run. S. John went into Asia, Dacia, and Panonia. S. An∣drew Eastwards as far as Sogdia, and Scythia. S. Philip Northward into Cappadocia, Ibo∣nia, and so between these into Scythia. S. Bartholmew Southeastwards into India, and S. Thomas through Persia into China. S. Jude bestowed himself in Mesopotamia, Chaldea, and Arabia. And Simon Zel••tus Southwestwards into Mauritania. S. Matthew tarryed
at Jerus••lem, untill he had written his Gospel in the Hebrew Tongue, and then went after S. James into Aegypt, and so into Aethiopia. S. Matthias sayled over into Macedonia, and Gracia, and from thence into Africa. Ant. Chr. par. 1 Tit. 6. ch. 8. par. 1. Oecu∣men. on Acts. Eus. B. 3. ch. 1. Ab. Apost. Hist. B. 7. 9. Dor. Syn. Pet. de Nat. B. 3. ch. 149. S. James tarryed at Jerusalem, but S. Peter steered towards Antioch. (11) and that so as Rome also was in his ey. About this very time dyed Tiberius the Empe∣rour at Rome, (46) and Ca••us C••ligula ascended the throne, in Anno 37. Tac. An. B. 6. ch. 45. Dion. B. 58 Ios Ant B. 18. ch. 7. And this was a little before the Paschal time. S. Thomas about this time, with one Jude his brother, and an Evangelist, going out Eastwards, sent Jude unto Edessa, who miraculously cured King Ag••arus of an infirmi∣ty which had long vexed him, and converted that King and a great many of his sub∣jects. Eus. Eccl. Hist. B. 1. ch. 13, 14. Barnabas went along in S. Peters Walk to Anti∣och. (11) and after Easter S. Peter followed Act. 11. 22. Eus. Chron. And because they had here a great harvest of Converts, Barnabas stept aside unto Tarsus, and from thence fetcht Saul also unto Antioch: and by these three were so many Converts baptized, that by reason of the multitudes the Disciples began to be first called Christians at this place, and so spread the name all over the World, where ever the Gospel was di∣lated. Act. 11. 26. &c.
Now by that time Peter. Barnabas, and Saul had been one whole year at Antioch,, came Agabus the Prophet thither from Jerusalem, and foretold of a great death, which was to follow over all the World. But with this Agabus came certain weak brethren
of the Jews, who either out of tender Conscience or faction, were offended at the en∣tring of the Gentiles: as if it had not been lawfull. This weakness S. Peter thought fit to comply with: but Saul was therefore angry. 1 Cor. 9. 20, 21. Gal. 2. 12, 13, 14. Thus hapned this first quarrel amongst these great Fathers; but it was only in matters of discretion, not of Doctrine. And however he found fault at this time, yet at ano∣ther time, Saul also himself acted S. Peters part. 1 Cor. 9. 20, 21. After these things was a Collection made at Antioch for the poor Saints at Jerusalem, and Barnabas and Saul carryed it. Act. 29. 30.
It was now Anno 39. at what time Barnabas and Saul continued preaching at Jeru∣salem. At this time came forth S. Matthews Gospel in the Hebrew Tongue, and was published for the use of all good Christians. But Saul and Barnabas tarryed at Jerusalem till Anno. 40. And now was it at what time was assembled a great concourse of Peo∣ple from all parts: Here was S. Peter from Antioch, and S. James out of Aegypt: and a∣mong others the plausible King Agrippa failed not to beat the Feast too: This Agrippa being a very ambitious man, and apt to take over much upon him, had been most shamefully mocked and abused by the Romanes and Aegyptians in Alexandria, and all the Jews there fared the worse for him. And because they could not be suffici∣ently revenged of the Romanes and Aegyptians who did them the wrong, it seems therefore they threw the more spite upon the Christians, who were more apt to fall into their hands; not that those Christians had any wayes offended, but meerly for that inhabiting in Alexandria, they also had not been abused as themselves were. And
now having found S. James at Jerusalem (who seems to be the Father of those Aegy∣ptian Christians) they told Agrippa of him, who by vertue of his interest both with Marullus the Prefect, and the Officers of the Iews, easily laid hands on him, and with∣out more adoe sent him away to execution. But such was the magnanimity of this braveman, that death was but a sport with him: and with so much gallantry did he bear it, that the very Soldier that guarded him to the place of execution, was conquer∣ed by his Prisoner, and that unto such pitch of admiration, as the man was ambitious to dy with him, in the same cause, and so he did; and thus dyed they nobly together. S. Peter after this, was taken also, and imprisoned, but escaped by a miracle. Act. 12. 1, &c. Eus. Eccl. Hist. B. 2. ch. 9. Clem. Hypot. B. 7. Some say that Barnabas and Saul were also clapt up, and strangely escaped▪ But however, about this Time Saul being in an ecstasie as he was praying in the Temple, was caught up into the third Heaven, where he heard words unspeakable, and finally was commanded to be gon quickly out of Jerusalem, for that the Iews would not receive his testimony, and to go away upon Gods message far thence among the Gen∣tiles. Act. 22. 17, &c. 2 Cor. 12. 2, &c. Now from the conversion of Saul unto his return unto Je∣rusalem were 3 years, And from that time unto his coming again to bring al••s were 11 years, or 14 in all from his conversion. Gal. 1. 17, 18. and ch. 2. 1. Now according to this command Barnabas and Saul went back again
to Antioch, and one Titus a Greek was in their company. But there were at this time certain other Evangelists, who in absence of these had taught at Antioch; such as were Lucius, Simon Niger, and Manahen. And now Barnabes and Saul being come thi∣ther too, the Holy Ghost spake openly by vision, saying, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work unto which I have called them. Act. 13. 1, 2, &c. About this time Saul seems to be promoted to be an Evangelist. And from hence forward is called Paul.
Anno 41. in the Spring of the year, Barnabas and Paul left Antioch▪ and having one John Mark in company to be their Deacon, went forth to preach the Gospel. And first they came into Seleucia neer the Sea, upon the River ••tontes; and from thence sayled over Sea unto Salamis (12) in the Isle of Cypras. (g) And after some stay journeyed all over the Island, unto Paphos (13) where Sergius Paulus the Governour held his seat, and who was by these converted to the Faith, having first by miracle conquered one Bar∣jesus a Sorcerer, who opposed them; for they smote him with sudden blindness, so that he could not see at all.
Anno 42. in the Spring they crost the Sea again to Perga (14) in Pamphilia. But here Iohn Mark being tyred with the Voyage broke up their company, and returned to Ie∣rusalem. Yet Barnabas and Paul went on as far as Antioch (15) in Psidia. (i) Here in vain first preached they unto the Iews; but after turning unto the Gentiles, they were quickly accomodated with crowds of Converts, and that not only of the City, but out of the Countrey also, who were baptized. This took them up no smal space of time, untill finally by the malicious Iews they were driven away out of the coast.
Hence therefore carryed they the Holy Gospel unto I••onia (16) the principal City of Lycaonia, (k) where some few Iews beleeved, but great multitudes of the Gentiles; wherefore here also tarryed they some space of time, and most probable made up their first year in Asia, (n) Act. 13. 4, &c. About this time S. Peter commending the care of the Church of Antioch to one Erodius whom he left Bishop there, himself de∣parted by land through Cappadocia, Galatia, (m) and the rest of Asia, Pontus, and Bathina; finally he came to Rome. 1 Pet. 1. 1, 2. This year also hapned the Famine spoken of by Agabus. Dion. B. 60. Suet. B. 5. ch. 18. Ios. Ant. B. 20: ch. 2.
Anno 43. Barnabus and Paul continued still preaching at Iconia Act. 14. 3, 4. About this time S. Peter being at Rome, ••ounded an hopefull Church there also. And Simon the Sorcerer came thither also with one Helena his Concubine, who was honoured, by some as much for his Arts Diabolical, as was S. Peter for his Doctrines Divines and was so far advanced by the great ones, that his Image was taken in also amongst their Gods Eus. Eccl. Hist. B. 2. ch. 12. 13. 14. 15.
Anno 44. S. Mark at Rome published his Gospel for the use of that Church. And af∣terwards was sent away into Aegypt to govern the Church of Alexandria. Eus. Eccl. Hist, Barnabas and Paul about this time were finally driven away from Iconia, by a ryotous tumult of envyous Iews, and went on preaching to Lystra, (17) where they got great credit by a lame man they cured miraculously. And here also tarryed they some time; until from Antioch and Iconia the Iews pursuing them with mallice and envy rais∣ed a party in the Town, and in a tumult stoned Paul, who was yet by miracle restored
to life again, and went away with Barnabas the next day for Derbe, (18.) Act. 14. 6, &c. v. 21. &c.
Anno 45. Barnabas and Paul having setled their Church at Derbe in peace and qui∣et, left it to the Government of Elders ordained there, and so returned to Lystra, where they spent the rest of the year. Act. 14. 21, &c.
Anno 46. Having ordained Elders at Lystra (among which was Timothy for one) they returned to Ieonium: and doing the like there, finally they came to Antioch, in Pisidia again. This year dyed the blessed Virgin Mary, aged about 60 years; having survived her Sons Assension 14. years, and remained a Widdow about 20. Eus. Chron.
Anno 47. Barnabas and Paul came back again to Perga, and from thence went to Attalia, (19) where also they setled a Church, Act. 14. 24▪ &c.
Anno 48. they returned through Cilicia and Syria unto Antioch in Syria, every where as they went declaring the great things God had done by their Ministery. Act. 14. 26.
Anno 49 Barnabas and Paul still remain at Antioch: But in the mean time certain falacious Iews from Ierusalem disturbed the Church, teaching that without Circumci∣sion and other Legal ceremonies the Iews could not be saved. Whence followed great disputes; and finally, Barnabas and Paul were sent to Ierusalem for a determina∣tion of the controversie. Here at this time were assembled S. Iames, S. Peter, and S. Iohn, besides who ever else un-named, by whom it was ordained, as in Acts 15. With this Decree Barnabas and Paul together with one Iudas the brother of S. Thomas, and Silas, returned unto Antioch, to the great satisfaction of the Churches. Acts 15. 30, 31.
After these things Barnabas and Paul being about to make a second Voyage into Asia, had some quarrel about Iohn Mark, whom Barnabas desired might be their Com∣panion. But Paul refused Upon this so great was the falling out, that they parted assunder▪ and Barnabas with Iohn Mark sayled away for Cyprus: (g) and Paul with Silas departed into Asia. This was Anno 50. early in the year, at what time Paul travelled through Syria and Cilicia, unto Derbe in Lycaonia. Act. 15. 41. ch. 16. 1, &c. Hence went they to Lystra, where Timothy was also taken in company, and so through Phry∣gia, (l) and Gallatia, (m) and Bithynia, (p) they made but little stay in Asia, but came to Troas (20) in Mysia. Here they shipt away for the Isle of Samothrace, (21) and thence to Neapolis (22) on the Continent of Tharcia, and so to Philippine (23) in Mace∣donia, (q). Act. 16. 11. &c. Here after Lydia and others converted, and a certain Devil cast forth of a Divining maid, they were cast into Prison; but working miracles there too, the Jaylor was converted, and on the morrow they were dismissed. Hence went they to Amphipolis, (24) and so to Apollonia, (25) and thence onwards to Thessa••lnica, (26) where Jason and other Jews were converted, and great multitudes of Greeks. But being by unbeleeving Jews disturbed, they departed after 3 weeks stay unto Berrhea, (27) where they made more Converts than at Thessalonica. But the malicous Jews persecuting them from thence also, Paul sayled away by Sea to Athens (28) where he had very famous disputations with the Learned of all Sects and Religions, and converted Dyonisius the Areopagite, and one Damaris a famous Woman, and ma∣ny more. Act. 17. 1, &c. From hence Paul wrote the first and second Epistle to the
Thessalo••ians, for confirmation of that Church. And finally from Athens he went to Corinth, (29) in the Isthmus, where he took up his rest for one whole year and six moneths. Act, 18. 1, &c.
Anno 51. S. Paul had a Vision at Corinth to encourage his preaching. Sila•• and Ti∣mothy he sent into Macedonia to confirm the Churches there. And tarrying at Corinth wrought for his living by making of Tents, with Aqaila and Priscilla, and yet preach∣ed constantly in the house of one Justus, which was near the Synagogue: And So∣sthenes the chief Ruler of the Synagogue being also converted adjoyned himself unto Paul. But when Gallio was made Deputy a tumult was raised, wherein Sosthenes was hearen; yet Paul tarryed still. Act. 18. 7, &c.
Anno 52. S. Paul left unto Silas the government of the Church of Corinth; and him∣self sayled away to Ephesus (32) in Asia. Here, after some reasonings with the Iews, he converted many of the Gentiles. But after some stay, leaving Timothy to govern the Church here, he sailed away into the Isle of Creta, (u) where having also setled a Church, he left it to the care of Titus; and taking ship he sayled directly to Cesarea (10) in Canaan, and so he went up to Jerusalem; where tarrying no longer but meerly to salute the brethren, went directly to Antioch. Act. 18. 18, &c. Here also he made but a very short stay, and began a third Voyage through Gallatia, and Phrygia, con∣firming the Churches as he went; but made little stay in a place till he came to Timo∣thy at Ephesus. (32) Here instructed he certain Disciples of S. Iohn Baptists, and after 3 moneths in vain reasoning in the Synagogues with the Iews, he preached 2 whole years in the School of Tyrannus, unto the Gentiles.
Anno 53. Paul being at Ephesus did many miracles; and 7 sons of Scera a Iew were fouly foyled and shamed by attempting to cast out Devils in imitation of Paul. Act. 19. 10, &c. About the same time S. Philip the Apostle having preached the Gospel in Cap∣padocia, Armenia, Colchis, and Iberia; finally came down to Phrygia, where preaching at Hierapolis the unbeleeving lews and Heathens conspiring against him crucified him there, and stoned him with stones. Eus. chron. & Eccl. Hist. 8. 3. ch. 28. Ant. chr. tit. 6. c. 11.
Anno 54. S. Philip being dead, it seems S. Paul was called to be an Apostle, and was counted amongst the twelve; and ever after find we him write himself Paul an Apostle of Iesus Christ. Being still at Ephesus many were converted: and of the new Converts many who used curious Arts burnt their Books of great price, out of zealous love to the Gospel. But as he was about to depart, a great tumult was raised by one De∣metrius a Silver smith, upon the account of interest, but was appeased by the Town Clark. Act. 19. 23, &c.
Anno 55. From hence Paul wrote the first Epistle to the Corinthians, and sent it by Timothy. Act. 19. 22. 1 Cor. 16. 8. But Timothy being returned, Paul left him at Ephe∣sus, and went himself into Macedonia, passing by Troas. Hither came he about Pente∣cost, and from hence he wrote the second Epistle to the Corinthians 14 years and some∣what over since his carrying of almes from Anti••ch to Ierusalem. 2 Cor. 2. 12. 1••. 1, 2. Hence also wrote he unto Titus in Crete (u) from Nicapolis (22) in this Countrey. Tit. 3. 12. and here he Wintered. This year S. Peter at Rome utterly foiled Simon the Sor∣cerer in the presence of Nero; and the Sorcerer falling from on high perished. Aegesip. B. ••. ch. 2. Epiphan. tom. 2. Haeres. 21. Abd. Apost. Hist. B. 13.
Anno 56 Paul by the first of the year came to Corinth, where and thereabouts he tarryed 3 moneths. Hence wrote he an Epistle to the Romanes. Rom. 15. 19. ch. 16. 25. Act. 20. 3 Hence went he to Philippi, Rom. 15. 24. where leaving Epaphroditus Govenour of that Church, and Silvanus Bishop of Thessalonica, and one Urbanus over other small Towns. (Phil. 2. 25. Dor. Syn. (After the daies of unleavened bread he went by Sea to Troas, in Asia, where Eutieus being dead was restored to life. Act. 2. 6. Thence went he to Assos, (33) and so to Mityleu••, (34) to the Isle of Chios, (35) to Sa∣mos, (36) to Trogillium, (37) to Micales, (38) to Miletus, (39) Here met him Timothy and the Elders of Ephesus. Act. 20. 16. Hence sayled he away to Choos, (40) and so to Rhodes, (41) thence to Patara, (42) Act. 21. 1. Hence he sayled by Cyprus on the left hand unto Tyre, where Simon one of the 7 Deacons was Bishop. Dor. Syn. Act. 21. 2, 3, &c. Hence sayled he again to Ptolomais, and thence (after one daies stay) to Cesaria, where Philip the Deacon was Bishop. Here was foretold of the ill usage which attend∣ed him at Jerusalem; yet went he on thither by Land, where he arrived at the Feast of Pentecost. Act. 21. 21, &c.
During his stay here he submitted to certain Iewish Ceremonies, in order to win the Iews. But being found in the Temple, by certain Jews of Asia, was apprehended in a tumult, and buffetted: but being rescued by Lysias the chief Captain, and found to be a Romane, was sent safe away from Ierusalem to Cesarea; where at an hearing be∣fore one Foelix Prefect of Judea, The High Priest and his Oratour accused him of great matters, but could prove nothing. Act. 24. 1, &c. Here Foelix condiscended
himself to hear Paul preach the Gospel, yet was not converted. But after two years Foelix going out of place, left S. Paul in prison. S. Peter was in Aegypt, and from Ba∣bylon in Aegypt wrote his first Epistle to the dispersed strangers. 1 Pet. 1. 1, ch. 5. 15.
Anno 58 Portius Festus was made Prefect of Iudea, before whom S. Paul was accu∣sed a fresh; but he appealed to Caesar. After this, King Agrippa heard him preach, but was only almost converted. Act. 25. ch. 26. But at end of the year S. Paul was ship∣ped away for Rome. Act. 27. 1, &c. And sayling by Zidon, (48) so to Cyprus, My••a (49) in Pamphilia, (h) where he was put in a ship of Alexandria, (50) and came to G••i∣das, (51) thence by Salmona, (52) and so Westwards to the Haven in Creta, (u) called Fair havens, (53) neer the City Lasea. (54) Here he admonished the company to Win∣ter: but heeding him not, they sailed on, (hoping to Winter in Phenix) (55) unto an Isle called Clauda. (56) After this they had a very solitary Journey for 14 dayes toge∣ther: and after all hope of life was past, and the Ship utterly perished, all the per∣sons landed safe on the Isle Melita. (58) Here Publius Governour of the Isle was con∣verted. Anno 59 S. Paul and all his company sayled thence to Syracuse. (59) thence to Rhegium, (60) so to Puteoli. (61) Here they landed, and travelled to Apiiforum, (62) thence to the 3 Taverns, (63) and so to Rome.
Here S. Paul first preached to the Jews: but they being most of them hardned, he preached two full years to the Gentiles: having liberty to dwell in an hyred house of his own, having only one Soldier for his guard. Act. 28. 1, &c.
Anno 60. He continues prisoner in Rome, and this year he wrote the Epistle to the Galatians. Gal. 1. 1. And likewise he wrote to the Ephesians. Eph. 1. 1.
Anno 62. He was still prisoner, but received dayly the benevolence of the Church∣es. Epaphroditus brought him the good will of the Philippians; by whom he returned his Epistle to the Philippians. Phil. 11. 1. Then came Timothy with the alms of Ephesus. And a while after came Onesinus, run away from his Master: by whom S. Paul return∣ed the Epistle to Philemon. Then came Epaphras to Rome, and not unlikely be brought with him the alms of the Colossians, to whom be returned an Epistle, sent by Tychicus of Colophon. And finally, after 2 years imprisonment, he came to a hearing before Nero: and though most of his friends fell off, yet was he acquitted; 2 Tim. 4 16, 17. And now being at liberty, some think he prosecuted his Journey into Spain, as he had pro∣mised. Rom. 15. 24.
Anno 63. He was in Spain, or in his way thither, preaching the Gospel. This year S. James at Jerusalem suffered martyrdome, in whose place S. Simon his brother was chosen Bishop. Eus. Ecc. Hist. B. 2. ch. 11. & 23. Ios. Ant B. 20. ch. 8. S. Paul in Gallia ordained Cresceus Bishop of Calcedon. Dor. Syn.
Anno 64. S. Paul out of Gallia took shipping, and sayled into Greece.
Anno 65. S. Paul in Macedonia visited the Churches: and landed at Troas i•• Asia, where Carpus was Bishop. He left him his Cloak and certain parchment writings, and went up into Phrygia, unto Laodecea, and from thence wrote his first Epistle to T••mothy; at Ephesus. 1 Tim. 3. 14. 15. promising shortly to come thither to him. But it fell out otherwise; For in the mean time the news arriving of the persecutions ar R••me, he leaving off all farther thought hasted to be there. And accordingly, going from Lao∣dicea
to Miletum. There he left Trophimus one of his Companions sick. Hence he sail∣ed away to Corinth, where Erastus tarryed for him by appointment. 2. Tim. 4. 20. And hence he sayled away to Rome, where S. Peter also met him. In the meantime the poor Christians in Rome were crucified, torn with beasts, and burnt in fire. Tac. An. B. 15. ch. 44. But S. Paul at Rome greatly encouraged, and so did S. Peter. From hence S. Paul at this time wrote his second Epistle to Timothy, desiring his company.
S. Paul was clapt up a prisoner, betrayed by Alexander the Coppersmith of Ephesus. 2 Tim. 4. 14, 15. Demas forsook the Faith.
Anno 66. S. Peter and S. Paul were both prisoners at Rome. Timothy and Trophi∣mus came to Rome to S. Paul.
Anno 67. June 29. S. Peter was crucified with his head downwards; and Olympas and Rhodion his companions suffered with him. S. Paul was beheaded; and with him suffered his companions Aristarchus, Trophimus, and Pudens. Eus. Ecc. Hist. B. 2. ch. 25. Tertul. in Apol. ch. 5. Dor. Syn.
Thus ended the travels of this painful Father, after he had spent some 32 years in preaching the Gospel: and had run over many thousands of miles by Land and Water for the promulgation thereof.
Now it does appear that S. Paul wrote the 2d Epist▪ to the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Anno 55, and this trance was 14 year•• before: It was certainly therefore in Anno 40. And so by consequence the martyrdom of this James was in the same year some time be∣fore.