Verse 38. And he that taketh not up his crosse]
Omnis Christia∣nus crucianus, saith Luther. Every Christian is sure of his crosse; but first it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be (his) crosse, such as God hath laid upon him, not such as he hath created to himself (as Baals Priests, who cut* 1.1 themselves with knives and launcers, the Circumcelliones of old, and the Monks at this day, with their voluntary pennances, &c.) Next, he must take it, and not stay till it be laid upon him; or then bear it, as an asse doth his burden, because he can neither will nor chuse: But he must 〈◊〉〈◊〉 active in suffering, and take Gods part against himself. Nay he must (as he may) be chearfull under his crosse, and thankfull for it, as a favour, an honour, Act. 5. 41. & 20. 24. The very beasts take blows from their keepers. Turks, when cruelly lasht by their officers, give them thanks, and go their waies. Porters go singing under their burdens, &c. Levius fit pati∣entiâ quicquid corrigere est nefas.* 1.2
〈◊〉〈◊〉 cometh not behinde me: and this* 1.3 not aloof off, as Peter, Mat. 26. 58. but close at heels, as Caleb, Numb. 14. 24. walking in Christ, Col. 2. 6. as Christ, 1 Joh. 2. 6. put∣ting* 1.4 him on in his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as Constantines sons did their father, and preaching forth his praises, 1 Pet. 2 9. He is a Saviour to none, but those to whom he is a samplar: neither have any his redemption, but they that take his direction.