A commentary or exposition upon the four Evangelists, and the Acts of the Apostles: wherein the text is explained, some controversies are discussed, divers common places are handled, and many remarkable matters hinted, that had by former interpreters been pretermitted. Besides, divers other texts of Scripture which occasionally occur are fully opened, and the whole so intermixed with pertinent histories, as will yeeld both pleasure and profit to the judicious reader. / By John Trapp M. A. Pastour of Weston upon Avon in Gloucestershire.

CHAP. XXI.

Verse 1. And when they drew nigh to Jerusalem]

IN this one verse, our Evangelist closely comprizeth all that S^t John sets down of our Saviours oracles and miracles from his seventh chapter to chap. 12. 12. viz. the history of five moneths and ten daies: for Christ rode not into the city till the fifth day before his last Passeover, Joh. 12. 12. having the day before been 〈◊〉〈◊〉 by Mary at Bethany, Joh. 12. 1. called here Bethpage,* 1.1 or the Conduit-house.

Verse 2. An Asse tied and a colt with her]

There are that by the Asse understand the Jews laden with the Law: and by her foal, the Gentiles that wandred whither they would. That Cano∣nist* 1.2 made the most of it, that said that children are therefore to be baptized, because the Apostles brought to Christ not only the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, but the colt too.

Verse 3. The Lord 〈◊〉〈◊〉 need of them]

The Lord of all, both beasts and hearts: for else how could he so soon have obtained the Asse, of her master? Some read the text thus. The Lord hath 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of them, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 presently send them back 〈◊〉〈◊〉: to teach us to be no further burdensome or beholden to others, then needs must.

Verse 4. All this was done that, &c.]

Here is the mystery of the history: which would otherwise seem to some ridiculous and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 little purpose. He hereby declared himself that King of his Church forepromised by the Prophets, how poor and despicable 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as the world accounts it.

Verse 5. Tell ye the daughter of Sion]

Here was that also of the Psalmist fulfilled, God is my King of old working salvation in the midst of the earth, Psal. 74. 12. For Jerusalem is by the Fathers observed to stand in the very center and navell of the habitable earth, as if it were fatally founded to be the city of the great King.

Thy King cometh unto thee]

All in Christ is for our behoof 〈◊〉〈◊〉 benefit, 1 Cor. 1. 30. & Micah 4. 8, 9. Unto thee shall it come, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 daughter of Zion, even the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 dominion: the kingdom shall come to thee daughter of Jerusalem. Why then dost thou cry out aloud? Is there no King in thee? Is thy counsellour 〈◊〉〈◊〉? A Mandamus from this King, will do it at any time, Psal. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 4.

Meek, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon an Asse]

Not upon a stately palfrey, as Alexander, Julius Caesar, &c. no such state here. Christ King∣dom was of another world: He came riding meek, and his word (the law of his kingdom) is both to be taught and received with 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 2 Tim. 2. 25. Jam. 1. 21. At Genua in Italy they shew the tail of the Asse our Saviour rod on for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 holy relique; and* 1.3 bow before it with great devotion. Neither will 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 be reclaimed from such fond foperies; being herein the I∣talian* 1.4 Asses, which feeding upon the weed hen-bane, are so 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that they lye for dead, neither can they be wakened till 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Verse 6. And the Disciples went]

With a certain blinde obe∣dience they went on Christs errand, though not very likely to speed. Their Masters sole authority 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them on against all difficulties and absurdities. When 〈◊〉〈◊〉 commands us any thing, we may not dispute but dispatch, argue but agree to it, captivate our 〈◊〉〈◊〉, exalt our faith.

Verse 7. And put on them their clothes]

Teaching us to honour God with the best of our substance, and to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 our selves wholly to the Lord our God. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 stripped himself, for his friend David, of the robe that was upon him and his 〈◊〉〈◊〉,* 1.5 even to his sword and his girdle. Christ suspended his glory for a season, laid aside his rich and royall robes, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a cast suit of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that he might cloth us with his righteousnes: And shall we think much to cloth him in his naked members? &c. to part with any thing, for his 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and service?

And they 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉]

They that make religion daunce at∣tendance

to policie (〈◊〉〈◊〉 one) 〈◊〉〈◊〉 set the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon Christ, not* 1.6 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Thus did 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and before him 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 jactura regionis quam 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Thus do all 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 and the worlds wisards, whose rule is, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sed paucis: Religiosum oportet esse, sed non religen∣tem,* 1.7 &c. But what saith a Father? Deum siquis parum 〈◊〉〈◊〉, valdè contemnit. And, one thing, said Luther, that will be the* 1.8 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of religion is worldly policy, that would have all well howe∣ver; and seeks to procure the publike peace, by impious and un∣lawfull counsels and courses.

Verse 8 And a very great multitude]

Bondinus saith, he was met at this time by three-hundred-thousand Jews, some whereof went afore Christ, some followed after, according to the solemn rites and reverence used to be given to earthly Kings, in their most pompous triumphes. This was the Lords own work.

Verse 9. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the Sonne of David]

So they acknow∣ledg Christ to be the true Messiah, and congratulate him his king∣dom over the Church; and yet a few-daies after, these same, at the instigation of the Priests and Pharisees, cry 〈◊〉〈◊〉: dealing by Christ as Xerxes did by his steersman, whom he crowned in the morning, and then took off his head in the afternoon of the same day: or as the fickle Israelites dealt by David, 2 Sam 20. where we shall finde the same hands that erewhile fought for Da∣vid to be all theirs, do now fight against him under the son of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, to be none of theirs.

Verse 10. Who is this?]

Why? could not they tell after so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 miracles done among them? Were they such strangers at 〈◊〉〈◊〉? Many live and dye very 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉〈◊〉 places where they have had line 〈◊〉〈◊〉 line, precept upon 〈◊〉〈◊〉, &c. and yet they are no wiser then the child new weaned from the breast, Isa. 29. 8. their wits serve them not in spiritualls, though other∣wise shrewd enough.

Verse 11. The Prophet of Nazareth, &c.]

The Archprophet they acknowledge him; but of Nazareth, of Galilee. They had not profited 〈◊〉〈◊〉 much, or made so far 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in the mystery of Christ as to know him to have 〈◊〉〈◊〉 born a 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And to nourish this errour in the people it was, that the devil, that old Impostour, Mark. 1. 24. though he confessed Christ to be the Ho∣ly 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of 〈◊〉〈◊〉, yet he calleth 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Jesus of Nazareth. Satan 〈◊〉〈◊〉

semèl videatur verax, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 est mendax & semper fallax. Sa∣tan 〈◊〉〈◊〉 speaks truth, but with a minde to deceave.

Verse 12. And 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out all them that sold]

The zeal of Gods house did ever eat him up. And (as revenge 〈◊〉〈◊〉 zeal 2 Cor.* 1.9 7. 11.) he marrs their markets, and drives them 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with Procul ò procul este 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And this deed of our Sa∣viours was altogether divine; whiles, as another Sampson, he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon heaps (yet without bloodshed) with the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of an 〈◊〉〈◊〉. S^t Hierom extolleth this 〈◊〉〈◊〉 above the raising of Lizarus, restoring the blind to their sight, the lame to their limmes, &c. and adds this mysticall sense of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 text. 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 ingreditur Templum Patris, & ejicit 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tam Episcopos & Presbyteros, quam 〈◊〉〈◊〉 & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 turbam de Ecclesia sua, & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 criminis habet, vendentes paritèr & 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Christ is every day casting out of his Church all these mony-marchants, 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉, both ministers and others, that make* 1.10 sale of holy things, which the very Heathens abhorred, and others long since complained, that benefices were bestowed non ubi opti∣mè, sed ubi 〈◊〉〈◊〉, as if a man should bestow so much bread on his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he is to ride on him.

The tables of the mony-changers]

This he did also at his first 〈◊〉〈◊〉 into the ministry, Ioh. 2. 14. 15. See my notes on that 〈◊〉〈◊〉. The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of Religion was Christs chief care, and so it should be ours: And although little was done by his first at∣tempt Ioh. 2. yet he tries again; 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should we; contributing what we 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to the work continually, by our prayers and utmost indea∣vours:* 1.11 wishing at least, as Ferus did, that we had some Moses 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 away the evils in Church and state. Non 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 t 〈◊〉〈◊〉, sed multos habemus, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he; for we abound with 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Verse 13. Shall be called the house of prayer]

A principall piece of Gods 〈◊〉〈◊〉 worship, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 put 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the whole. Christ 〈◊〉〈◊〉 never came into this house, but he preached 〈◊〉〈◊〉 as 〈◊〉〈◊〉. In the Sanctuary was the incense-Altar in the middle, a type of prayer, the table of shew-bread on the oneside, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tribes; and the candlestick, a type of the word, on the o∣ther: To teach us that there is a necessity of both ordinances to all Gods 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

But ye have made it a den of theeves]

So Christ calleth not the mony-marchants only, but the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 also that set them a∣work.

And whereas they cryed, The Temple of the Lord, the Temple of the Lord (for to those was this speech first addressed, Ier. 7. 11.) as if they could not do amisse, because they served in the Temple, the Prophet tells them there, and our Saviour these here, that it's so much the worse. What should an Angel of dark∣nesse do in heaven? Who required these things at your hands, to tread the courts of my Temple? This is the gate of the Lord, in∣to* 1.12 which the righteous only should enter. The Papists in like sort cry out at this day, Ecclesia, Ecclesia, Nos sumus Ecclesia: and herewith think to shrowd their base huckstering of holy things. For omniae Romae venalia, all things are saleable and soluble at Rome. But this covering is too short, and their grosse theeve∣ries* 1.13 are now made apparent to all the world, as their rood of grace, and the blood of Hales were at Pauls crosse by that Noble Cromwell; and as their cheating trade of Indulgencies and Popes∣pardons was by Luther, who by dint of argument overthrew those Romish mony-changers, and drove the countrey of those 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 and 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, as Nazianzen fitly calleth them.

Verse 14. Came to him in the Temple, and he healed them]

So true was that testimony given of our Saviour, Luke 24. 19. that he was a Prophet mighty in deed, as well as in word, before God and all the people. Nos non eloquimur magna, sed vivi∣mus, said the Primitive Christians. Our lives as well as our lips should speak us right and reall in Religion: As Christ here, by his cures, gave a reall answer to that question, ver. 10. Who is this? Let us learn to lead convincing lives: these are the best a∣pologies when all's done.

Verse 15. And the children crying, &c.]

To the great grief and regret of those cankerd carls the Priests and Scribes: but* 1.14 to the singular commendation of their parents, who had so well taught and tutoured them. So the children of Merindoll answer∣ed the Popish Bishop of Canaillon with such grace and gravity as was admirable. So, when John Lawrence was burnt at Col∣chester,* 1.15 the young children came about him, and cryed in the au∣dience of the persecutours, Lord strengthen thy servant, and keep thy promise.

Verse 16. Thou hast perfected praise]

〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, thou hast gi∣ven* 1.16 it all its parts, and proportions; thou hast compleated and accomplished it. The Hebrew saith, Fundasti, thou hast found∣ed praise, and well bottomed it. Quae enim perfecta, sunt fir∣missima.

Now there is no mouth so weak, into which God can∣not put words of praise. And how oft doth he chuse the silly∣simples of the world, to confound the wise and learned? See my notes on Psal. 8. 2. And here it is observable that our Saviour answers warily to the captious question; so as he may nei∣ther offend 〈◊〉〈◊〉, by taking upon him to be a King, nor stum∣ble the people, who took him for no lesse, and he was well pleas∣ed there with. Let our columbine simplicity be mixed with ser∣pentine subtilty, that we run not our selves heedlesly into unne∣cessary dangers.

Verse 17. And he left them]

As not willing to loose his la∣bour, to cast away his cost upon men so unthankfull, untractable.* 1.17

Ludit, qui steril•• semina mandat humo.

Went out of the city into Bethany]

Happly for safety sake: undoubtedly for his delight and to refresh himself with his friend Lazarus, after his hard labour, and little successe.

Verse 18. As he returned into the city]

There his work lay chiefly: thither therefore he repaires betimes, and forgat, for haste, to take his breakfast, as it may seem: for ere he came to the city he was hungry, though it were but a step thither. A good mans heart is where his calling is: Such a one, when he is visi∣ting friends or so, is like a fish in the aire: whereinto if it leap for recreation or necessity, yet it soon returns to his own element.

Verse 19. He came to it and found nothing]

He thought then to have found something: there was some kinde of ignorance, we see in Christ as man (but not that that was sinfull.) His soul desired the first ripe fruits; yea though they had not been ripe* 1.18 and ready; hard hunger would have made them sweet and savou∣ry, as the shepherds bread, and onions were to Hunniades, when he was put to flight by the Turkes: So well can hunger season* 1.19 homely cates, saith the Historian. Or this promising figtree our Saviour might say, as Alciat of the Cypresse.

Pulchra coma est, pulchro dig••stae{que} ordine frondes,* 1.20 Sed fructus nullos haec coma pulchra gerit.

Verse 20. They marvelled, saying &c.]

And well they might, for no conjurer, with all his skill, could have caused this figtree so suddenly to whither, with a word speaking. For the figtree is the most juicefull of any tree: and bears the brunt of winter∣blasts. Yea Plutarch tells us that there issueth from the figtree* 1.21 such a strong and most vehement vertue, as that if a bull be tied

unto it for some while, he becomes tame and tractable, though he were never so fierce and fell before. No wonder therefore though the Disciples wondered at so sudden an alteration.

Verse 21. If ye have faith and doubt not]

Or dispute not the matter as probable only and somewhat uncertain, but not alto∣gether undoubted. He that doubteth debateth it, as it 〈◊〉〈◊〉, with* 1.22 himself, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the case to and fro, sometimes being of one minde, sometimes of another. Now let not such a man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord, Iam. 1. 7. If ye will not beleeve, sure∣ly ye shall not be 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Verse 22. What soever ye shall ask in prayer, beleeving]

Faith is the foundation of prayer, and prayer is the fervencie of faith. Cast thy burden upon the Lord, or thy request, thy gift upon the Lord. Psal. 55. 22. that is, whatsoever thou desirest that God should give thee in prayer, cast it upon him by faith, and it shall be effected. Fidei mendica manus. Faith and prayer are the soules two hands, whereby she begs and receives of God all good things both for this and a better life. Hence of old when the Saints praid they spred out the palmes of their hands, as to receive a blessing from God, 1 Kings 8. 22. Exodus 9. 29. Psalm 143. 6.

Verse 23. And when he was come into the Temple]

Not into the Inne or victualing-house, though he had been so hungry by the way. He forgat that; the zeal of Gods house had eaten him up: it was his meat and drink to do the will of his heavenly father: this he preferred before his necessary food. And truly a man would wonder what a deal of work he did up in these three-〈◊〉〈◊〉, before his apprehension. All those Sermons and discours∣es set down by Matthew from this place to chap. 26. by Mark from chap. 11. to chap. 14. by Luke from chap. 20. to chap. 22. and by Iohn, from the 12. to 18. chap. were delivered by him in these three last daies of his liberty. He dispatched them with speed, as if he had been loth to have been taken with his task undone. To teach us to get up our work, and to work out our salvation: Not work at it only; Lazy spirits 〈◊〉〈◊〉 not to immortality. The twelve tribes served God instantly day and night, and found all they could do little enough, Act. 26. 7.

Came unto him as he was teaching]

Otiosum vel 〈◊〉〈◊〉 fa∣cilè tulissent, saith an Interpreter. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he would have been quiet or silent, they would never have questioned him. A wolf flies not

upon a painted sheep; we can look upon a painted 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with de∣light. It is your active Christian that is most spited and persecu∣ted. Luther was offered to be made a Cardinall, if he would be quiet. He answered, no, not if 〈◊〉〈◊〉 might be Pope; And defends himself thus against those that thought him (happly) a proud fool* 1.23 for his refusall. Let me be counted fool or any thing, said he, so I be not found guilty of cowardly silence. The Papists, when they could not rule him, railed at him, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 him an Apostate: He confesseth the action, and saith, I am indeed an Apostate, but a blessed and holy Apostate; one that had fallen off from the de∣vil.* 1.24 They called him devil. But what said he? Prorsùs Satan est Lutherus, sed Christus vivit & 〈◊〉〈◊〉: Amen. Luther is a devil: Be it so; but Christ liveth and raigneth: that's enough for Luther: So be it.

By what authority doest thou these things?]

They saw that their kingdom would down, their trade decay, if Christ should be* 1.25 suffered thus to teach and take upon him in the Temple as a Refor∣mer.* 1.26 When Erasmus was asked by the Electour of Saxony, why the Pope and his Clergy could so little abide Luther, he answer∣ed. For two great offences, viz he had medled with the Popes tripple crown, and with the Monks fat paunches: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 illae la∣chrymae. Hence all that hatred: And hence now-adaies those Popish questions to the Professours of the truth. By what autho∣rity do 〈◊〉〈◊〉 these things? where had you your calling, your ordina∣tion? Where was your Religion before Luther? Where unto it was well answered by one once, in the Bible, where yours never was.

Verse 24. I also will ask you one thing]

Our Saviour could have answered them roundly that what he did, he did by the will and appointment of his heavenly father. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he had a∣vouched that so oft, and they beleeved him not, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he took another course. We must be ready to 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 on of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 faith; but then it must be when we see it will be to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 good purpose;* 1.27 as if otherwise, forbear, or untie one knot with another as Christ here 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Verse 25. The baptisme of John whence was it?]

That is, the whole ministry of John. As if our Saviour should have 〈◊〉〈◊〉, know ye not by what authority I do these things? have ye not heard Iohns testimony for me? And can ye deny that he had his autho∣rity for what he spake, from God? How is it then that ye ask me

any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 idle question as this? do ye not go 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to your 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉?

Verse 26. We fear the people]

Lest they should be stoned, and the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 feared them, lest they should be excommunicated. Thus they were mutuall executioners one to another: for all fear 〈◊〉〈◊〉 torment, 1 Joh. 4. 18.

Verse 27. We cannot tell]

Lie and all: they could tell, and would 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Their reasonings within themselves, vers. 25. testi∣fie* 1.28 that they knew the truth, but would not acknowledge it; they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their ignorance rather: And such dealing we have from many learned Papists. Thus Bellarmine 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that he never read in all the Bible a promise of pardon made to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their sinns to Almighty God. Baronius cannot see that Pe∣ter was in fault at Antioch, but Paul a great deal more, for taking him up for halting, Gal. 2. The wit of hereticks will 〈◊〉〈◊〉* 1.29 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 a thousand shifts to delude the truth, then their pride will suffer them once to yeeld and subscribe to it.

Verse 28. But what think you?]

Christ reporteth himself to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 own consciences, whiles he proveth Iohn Baptists ministry to be from heaven, by the happy 〈◊〉〈◊〉 he had in converting the vilest sinners, see Ier. 23. 22. 1 Cor. 9. 2. The peoples fruitfulnesse is the Ministers testimoniall, 2 Cor. 3. 2. If but one of a city, or two of a family be gained to God, it is a signe that the Pastours are according to Gods own heart, Ier. 3. 14, 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Verse 29. I will not]

This is the language of most mens hearts, when prest to duty: and, as 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 discover an headstrong 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that is uncouncellable. As Pharaoh 〈◊〉〈◊〉 not down under the miracle, but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for Magici∣ans: so do these, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the word comes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to their 〈◊〉〈◊〉, send for carnall arguments. And though the word doth eat up all they can say, as Moses rod did: yet they harden their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with Pharaoh, they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their brows with him in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 I will not: 〈◊〉〈◊〉 said the Israelites but we will have a King. And as for the word that thou hast spoken unto us in the name of the Lord, we will not harken unto thee, said those, Ier 44. 16.

But afterward he 〈◊〉〈◊〉]

So do but few. Men will be as big as their words, though they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for it, lest they should be ac∣counted inconstant. These are niggardly of their reputation, but prodigall of their souls.

Verse 30. I go Sir]

I, but when Sir? Stultus semper incipit* 1.30 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Hypocrites purpose oft, and promise fair to do better, but drive off and fail in the performance, their morning cloud is soon disperst, their earthly dew is quickly dried up, 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 come to nothing, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 & modò 〈◊〉〈◊〉 habent 〈◊〉〈◊〉. The* 1.31 〈◊〉〈◊〉 liked not such as are semper victuri, alwaies about to live better, but never begin.

Verse 31. Go into the Kingdom of heaven before you]

And it were an arrant 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 behinde by such: as that's a very 〈◊〉〈◊〉, we 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that will not follow, though she will not lead the way. But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 proud Pharisees hated to be in the same hea∣ven with penitent Publicans. And, as Quintilian said of some in his time, that they might have proved excellent scholars, had they not been so perswaded of their own scholarship already. In like 〈◊〉〈◊〉, these over-weeners of themselves might have had place in heaven, had they not taken up their 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in heaven a∣fore-hand.

Verse 32. John came unto you in a way of right]

Which he both 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and lived. Nos non eloquimur 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vivimus. Johns practice was a transcript of what he preached: he burned within himself, he shone forth to others, Joh. 5. 35.

Ye repented not afterwards]

No, not after his death, though ye saw me 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to him, and preaching and pressing the same things upon 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that John did. An hypocrite comes 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to heaven then a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sinner, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 far more obstacles. As he that must be stripped, is not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 soon clothed, as one that is na∣ked: and as he climbs not a tree so soon that must first come down from the top of another tree, where he is perked: So is it here.

Verse 33. Planted a vineyard, and hedged it]

Of all possessions, saith Cato, Nulla majorem operam requirit, None requires more pains then that of a vineyard. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 comes up and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 alone, Mark 4. 28. Injussa 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gramina, saith the Poet: but 〈◊〉〈◊〉 must be dressed, supported, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, sheltered every day almost, 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 15. 2. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Church is Gods continuall care, 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, &c. Isa 27. 3. and he looks for an answerable return offruits, Act. 12. 48. Regnum Angliae, regnum Dei, said Poly∣dor Virgil long since. The Kingdom of England, is the Kingdom of God. It may weil be said so, since the Reformation 〈◊〉〈◊〉: neither is there any thing more threatneth us then our 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉.

〈◊〉〈◊〉. The Cypresse tree, the more it is watered, the lesse fruitfull; so many of us, the more taught, the more unto∣ward.

And went into a farre countrey]

As the impious husband-men imagined, who put far away the evil day. But God shall 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 such with an arrow, suddenly shall they be wounded, Psal. 64. 7. As a bird is with the bolt, whiles he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at the bow. Morae dispen∣dium,* 1.32 foener is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 pensatur. God 〈◊〉〈◊〉 men at length for the new and the old.

Verse 34. He sent his servants]

seil. His Prophets and Mini∣sters, whom the Lord sendeth to his people continually, not to teach them only, but to take account of their 〈◊〉〈◊〉, to urge and exact of them growth in grace, according to the means, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they receive not the grace of God in vain.* 1.33

Verse 35. Beat one, and killed another]

This is the worlds wages; this is the measure Gods Ministers meet with from the sons of men: never have any, out of hell, suffered more then such. Persecution is, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 genius, saith Calvin, the e∣vil Angel that dogs the Gospel at the heels. And, Praedica∣re nihil aliud est, quàm derivare in se 〈◊〉〈◊〉, &c. saith Lu∣ther. To preach faithfully is to get the ill will of all the world, and to subject a mans self to all kinde of deaths and dangers.

Verse 36. Again 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sent other servants]

O the infinite good∣nesse and long sufferance of Almighty God! Jonas upbraided him with it most unworthily, in that brawl of his, chap. 4. 2. Paul admires it, Rom. 9. 22. teaching us to improve it to the practice of repentance, 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 2. 4. Ezekiel describes it by Gods lying on* 1.34 one side for three hundred and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 years together, which must needs be very troublesome. We cannot lie for a few hours, on one side, but we must turn us. David, for the abuse of his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, fell 〈◊〉〈◊〉 foul on the Ammonites. Rehoboam for one 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of his slain by the ten 〈◊〉〈◊〉, raised a mighty army to chastise them. But God bears with mens evil manners, though he 〈◊〉〈◊〉 power enough in his hand to deal with them at his 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Verse 37. They will reverence my sonne]

They will 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ano∣ther* 1.35 way for shame (so the word imports) they will never be able to look him in the face, they will be so abashed of their for∣mer villanies. But it fell out far otherwise: for these frontlesse

fellows, past grace, as we say, had faces hatcht all over with im∣pudency, and that could blush no more then a sackbut. Sin had woaded shamelesnes in their fore-heads, and they were as good 〈◊〉〈◊〉 resisting the holy Ghost, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their fathers were,

Verse 38. This is the heir, Come, &c.]

So that these hus∣band-men the Pharisees knew, and yet crucified the Lord of glory: And all this out of desperate malice, which had debauch∣ed their reason, and even Satanized or transformed them into so many breathing devils: they fell into that unpardonable sinne, 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 12. 31.

〈◊〉〈◊〉 us 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on his inheritance]

Covetousnesse is bloudy, Ezek. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 13. Pro. 1. 11, 13. 1 Kin. 21. 10. Ahab longed for a sallet out of Naboths vineyard, and must have it, though Nahoth die for it. Quid non mortalia pector a cogit, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sacra 〈◊〉〈◊〉! Judas selleth his Master for thirty-pence.

Verse 39. Cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him]

By wic∣ked hands, Act. 2. 23. and are therefore abhorred of God and men, and exiled out of the world, as it were, by a common con∣sent of Nation, for their inexpiable guilt. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Constantinople* 1.36 and Thessalonica (where are many thousand Jews at this day) if they but stirre out of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at any 〈◊〉〈◊〉 time between Maunday-Thursday at Noon, and Easter-eve at night, the Christians, among whom they dwell, will stone them, be∣cause at that time they derided, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and crucified our blessed Saviour.

Verse 40. What will he doe, &c.]

Nay, what will he not 〈◊〉〈◊〉? God will 〈◊〉〈◊〉 upon them, even on their neck, upon the thick bosses* 1.37 of their bucklers. They that would kill their enemy, strike not where he can defend himself. But so doth God, he strikes tho∣row all, yea thorow the loins, Deut. 33. 11. even to the very soul, 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 4. 10. This made Moses cry out, Who knoweth the pow∣er of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 anger? Ps. 90. 11. Surely it is such, as none can either a∣void or abide.

Verse 41. They say unto him, he will 〈◊〉〈◊〉, &c.]

Here they* 1.38 〈◊〉〈◊〉 read their own destiny, as David 〈◊〉〈◊〉 did his, 2 Sam. 12. 5, 6. The wicked are presently self-condemned, Tit. 3. 11. and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 at last day stand speechlesse, Matth. 21. 12. out of the conviction of their own 〈◊〉〈◊〉.

Verse 42. Did ye never read in the Scriptures?]

Yes, full oft, but never applied such a place as this to themselves. A godly man

〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Scriptures as he doth the Statute-〈◊〉〈◊〉: he holds 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 in all that he reads: he findes his own name written in every passage, and laies it to heart, as spoken to him. The wicked on the other side, put 〈◊〉〈◊〉 all they like not, and dispose of it to others, as if themselves were none such. God forbid, said these to our Saviour, Luk. 20. 16. But he convinceth them out of their own reading, to be the men he meant. Men may make some 〈◊〉〈◊〉 shift, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for a while from side to side, as 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Asse did, but there is no averting or avoiding the dint of Gods displeasure, otherwise then by falling down, as the Asse did, and afterwards her master, being rebuked for his in quity, The dumb Asse speaking with mans voice, forbad the madnesse of the Prophet, 2 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 2. 16,

Verse 43. The kingdom of God shall be taken 〈◊〉〈◊〉 you]

An hea∣vy sentence. We had better, saith one, be without meat, drink, light, air, earth, all the elements, yea life it self, then that one sweet saying of our Saviour, Come unto me, all ye that are weary* 1.39 and heavy laden, and I will refresh you. The Gospel is that inheti∣tance we received from our godly fore fathers, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉: and it must be our care to transmit the same to our posterity, earnestly contending for the faith which was once delivered, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 3. once for all: for if lost, or any way corrupted, it will hardly be ever gi∣ven again. Look to it therefore: unfruitfulnesse forfeits all; as the Merchants non-paiment of the Kings custome forfeits all his goods.

Verse 44. And whosoever shall fall on this stone]

Christ is a stone of stumbling to his enemies, who stumble at his 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and a rock of offence, 1 Pet. 2. 8. but like that rock, Judg. 6. 21. cut of which fire wcnt and consumed them, Nemo me impunè 〈◊〉〈◊〉, saith he. The Corinthians abused certain Roman 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and were therefore burnt to the ground by L. Mummius. For irasci po∣pulo* 1.40 Rom. nemo sapientèr possit, saith Livy thereupon. Christ is wise in heart, and mighty in strength; who ever hardened him∣self against him and prospered? Who ever brag'd of the last blow? If his wrath be kindled, yea but a little, woe be to his oppo∣sites: but if he fall upon them with his whole weight, he will crush them to pieces, yea grinde them to powder. They can no more stand before him, then can a glasse-bottle before a Can∣non-shot.

Verse 45. They 〈◊〉〈◊〉 that he spake of them]

Who told them

so, but their own guilty consciences? Every man hath a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Chaplain within his own bosome, that preacheth over the Sermon to him again, and comes over him with, Thou art the 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Conscience is said to accuse or excuse in the mean while,* 1.41 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 2. 15. In the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 betwixt 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and Sermon, convicti∣on and conviction. So that personall and nominall application is therefore needlesse, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 every man hath a 〈◊〉〈◊〉 faculty within him, applying severall truths to every mans particular 〈◊〉〈◊〉. And, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 gener 〈◊〉〈◊〉 de 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 est, ibi 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉, saith 〈◊〉〈◊〉; Where the discourse against vice is 〈◊〉〈◊〉, no man can justly complain of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 personall injury. By 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Christ many times smites the earth, Isa. 11. 4. that is, the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of carnal men glued to the earth, Gods words 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them full in the teeth, and makes them spit 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Now if they rage, as Tygres tear themselves at the noise of a drum, if they flee in the faces of their teachers, and 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 upon them, they 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 cast into a 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 escape the visible 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of God.

Verse 46, But when they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to lay 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on him]

And so shewed themselves to be the same our Saviour spake of, ver. 39, 42. As the Pope and his emissaries do well approve 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to be that false prophet, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 locusts, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 forth in the Revelation. Their daily practice is a clear Commentary upon that obscure pro∣phecy, which the ancient Fathers, that lived 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to see it fulfilled, could not tell what to say to. 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 are best understood by their events.

Notes

• * 1.1

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 a 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 & 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• * 1.2

  〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 & 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉 est. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉. pag. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.3

  〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.4

  〈◊〉〈◊〉. com. 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉.
• * 1.5

  1 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 18. 4.
• * 1.6

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.7

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.8

  〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉 in 〈◊〉〈◊〉, & 〈◊〉〈◊〉 tran 〈◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊〉. Luth.
• * 1.9

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.10

  〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.11

  〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.12

  Psal. 118. ••0.
• * 1.13

  Act. and Mon. fol 1••84.
• * 1.14

  Act. and Mon fol 866.
• * 1.15

  Act. and Mon. fol. 1403.
• * 1.16

  〈1 line〉〈1 line〉.
• * 1.17

  Ovid.
• * 1.18

  Mi••. 7. 1.
• * 1.19

  Turk Hist. fol 310.
• * 1.20

  Emblem.
• * 1.21

  Plut. Sympos. lib. ••.
• * 1.22

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉 〈◊◊◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊◊◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. lia. 7. 9.
• * 1.23

  Inveniar sanè superbus, &c. modò impij si∣lentij non 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Epist. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.24

  Consitetur se esse Apostaram, led beatum & 〈◊〉〈◊〉, qui 〈◊〉〈◊〉 diabolo 〈◊〉〈◊〉 non serva∣vit.
• * 1.25

  Epist ad 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.26

  Ventres & 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 coro∣nam Papae, & Monachorum 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.27

  No 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.28

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 no∣dam 〈◊〉〈◊〉 quem 〈◊◊◊〉〈◊◊◊〉 vel 〈◊〉〈◊〉 non 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 1 cap. 21.
• * 1.29

  〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.30

  Sen.
• * 1.31

  Hos. 6. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. Augustin. Seneca.
• * 1.32

  Hieron in Jer.
• * 1.33

  2 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 6. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.34

  Ezek. 4. 〈◊〉〈◊〉, 5.
• * 1.35

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.
• * 1.36

  Biddulph.
• * 1.37

  Joh. 15. 26.
• * 1.38

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉. Videtur parono∣masia hec in proverbium 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.39

  Mallemus care∣re coelo terra, omnibus 〈◊〉〈◊〉, &c. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.40

  Iob 9. 4.
• * 1.41

  〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉〈 in non-Latin alphabet 〉.