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.

Verse 36. Naked, and 〈◊〉〈◊〉 clothed me]

Darius, before he came to the Kingdom, received a garment for a gift of one Syloson. And, when he became King, he rewarded him with the com∣mand of his countrey Samus. Who now will say that Syloson me∣rited* 1.1 such a boon for so small a curtesie? A Gardiner, offering a rape-root (being the best present the poor man had) to the Duke of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 was bountifully rewarded by the Duke: Which his Steward observing thought to make use of his bounty, presenting him with a very fair horse. The Duke (ut perspicaci erat ingenio, saith mine authour) being a very wise man, perceived the pro∣ject, received the horse, and gave him nothing for it. Right so will God deal with our merit-mongers, that by building mona∣steries, &c. think to purchase heaven.

I was in prison, and ye came to me]

Many Papists have hence concluded, that there are only six works of mercy, Visito, poto, cibo, &c. whereas indeed there are many more. But it is remark∣able out of this text, that the last definitive sentence shall passe upon men, according to their forwardnesse and freenesse in shew∣ing mercy to the family of faith. And that the sentence of abso∣ution shall contain a manifestation of all their good works, and

that with such fervency of affection in Christ, that he will see and remember nothing in them, but the good they have done. See my Common-place of Alms.

Notes

• * 1.1

  AElian.