A supplement to Knowledge and practice wherein the main things necessary to be known and believed in order to salvation are more fully explained, and several new directions given for the promoting of real holiness both of heart and life : to which is added a serious disswasive from some of the reigning and customary sins of the times, viz. swearing, lying, pride, gluttony, drunkenness, uncleanness, discontent, covetousness and earthly-mindedness, anger and malice, idleness / by Samuel Cradock ... useful for the instruction of private families.

SECT. IV. Of our Saviours Life.

HAving thus spoken of our Saviours Birth, and how he came into the World, it will be requisite we should now speak of his Life, and how he lived and conversed in this World, which the Ancient Creed mentions nothing of, but passes immediately from his being conceived by the Holy Ghost, and born of the Virgin Mary to his suffering under Pontius Pilat. I have in my Harmo∣ny of the Four Evangelists fully set forth the History of the Life of our blessed Lord and Saviour. Here I shall only give a short Summary of what I have there more largely delivered, to which I refer my Reader.

The Life of our Saviour we have divided into Six Parts, and in each Part have taken notice of the Particulars observable.

The First Part of our Saviours life was from his Birth to his Baptism containing, the space of about Thirty Years. In which we have these particulars.

1 At Eight days old he was Circumcised, Luke 2.21. Matth. 1.25.

2. Mary the Fortieth day after her delivery goeth up to Jeru∣salem to the Temple to be purified, where she and Joseph present the Child Jesus to the Lord according to the Law, Exod. 13.2, 12, 13. Mary presents the offering for her Purification, viz. (be∣ing a poor Woman) a pair of Turtle Doves, Levit. 12.6, 8. Si∣meon and Anna here acknowledge him and prophesie of him, Luke 2. from 22. to 41.

3. This done, Joseph and Mary return with Jesus to Bethlehem, and there continue for some time. For about Two Years after our Saviours Birth, the Magi or Arabian Astronomers who had in their own Country, at our Saviours Birth, seen a strange Star, or extraordinary brightness over Judea, and understanding either by some Old Prophesie, or New Revelation from God, that it signi∣fied the Birth of the Messias promised to the Jews, they being moved by the Spirit, come to Jerusalem to inquire after the place where this New King should be born. They are told by Herod,

and the Priests that the Birth-place of the Messias was to be at Beth∣lehem. Herod bids them go, and inquire for him, and when they had found him, bring him word. They come to Bethlehem, and there finding him do homage to him, and present him with gifts. This done, being warned of God not to go back to Herod, they return into their own Countrey another way, Matth. 2. from 1. to 13.

4. After their departure Joseph is warned by God in a Dream to fly into Egypt, and so provide for the life of the Child; which accordingly he did, and there He, Mary and the Child re∣mained till Herod was dead. But in the mean time Herod finding himself deceived by the Magi, and thinking that this young Child had been still at Bethlehem or thereabout, that he might be sure to destroy him, he commands all the Male Children from Two years old and under that were in Bethlehem, or the Coasts thereof to be killed, Mat. 2. from the 13. to the 19.

5. Not long after, Herod dying, Joseph is warned of God in a Dream to return with the young Child unto the Land of Israel, which accordingly he did, and dwelt in the City of Nazareth, Mat. 2 from 19. to the end.

6. Christ at Twelve Years old is brought to Jerusalem at the Passover, and there disputes with the Doctors in the Temple. From hence he went down with his Parents to Nazareth again, and there lived privately till his Baptism, Luke 2. from 41. to the end.

.7 John Baptist being newly entred into his publick Ministry, preaches Repentance and Baptizes. He sharply reprehends some of the Pharisees and Sadduces that came to be Baptized of him. He gives particular answers to the questions of the People, of the Pu∣blicans, and of the Soldiers enquiring what every one of them ought to do. He gives his first Testimony to Christ, preferring him before himself, Luke 3. from 1. to the 18. Mat. 3. from 1. to the 13. Mark 1. from 7. to 9.

The Second Part of our Saviours life from his Baptism to the Passover next ensuing containing the space of half a Year, in which we have these particulars.

1. He is Baptiz'd by John in Jordan, and witnessed from Hea∣ven to be the Eternal Son of God, and a Second Testimony by John given of him, Mat. 3. from the 13. to the 18. Mark 1. from 9. to

12. Joh. 1. from 15. to the 19. Luke 3. from 21. to 24.

2. Immediately after his Baptism he goes into the Wilderness, and is there assaulted by Satan with a Threefold Temptation, Mat. 4. from 1. to 12. Mark 1. from 12. to 14. Luke 4. from 1. to 14.

3. John being now Baptizing in Bathabara, some of the Phari∣sees come from the Sanedrim at Jerusalem to enquire who he was. He tells them he was only the Fore-runner of the Messias, Joh. 1. from 19. to 29.

4. Christ now comes to John, whom John calls the Lamb of God, and declares that he was made known unto him to be the true Messias by the descending of the Holy Ghost upon him, John 1. from 29. to 35.

5. Upon this Testimony Two of John's Disciples follow Jesus, viz. Andrew and Peter, Joh. 1. from 35. to 43.

6. Christ calleth Philip, and Philip bringeth Nathanael to Christ, who acknowledges him to be the Son of God, Joh. 1. from 43. to the end.

7. Christ worketh his first Miracle at a Wedding in Cana, where he turns Water into Wine, and prepares to go unto the Passover now at hand, Joh. 2. from 1. to 13.

The Third Part of our Saviours life from the first Passover after his Baptism to the Second, wherein are comprehended the Acts of the first intire Year of his publick Ministry.

1. He purges the Temple of Buyers and Sellers, Joh. 2. from 13. to the end.

2. He instructs Nicodemus, concerning Regeneration and Faith in himself, Joh. 3. from. 1. to 22.

3. He institutes Baptism appointing his Disciples to Baptize, which they accordingly perform; John in the mean time Baptiz∣eth in Enon, John 4.1, 2.

4. John's Disciples take it ill that Christ was more followed than their Master; from whence John takes occasion to instruct them in the difference betwixt himself and Christ; whose high dig∣nity above himself he sets forth and declares; as also what they shall have from Christ who believe in him; and what they are to expect who believe not in him, John 3. from 25. to the end.

5. Herod Antipas now casts John into Prison; for reproving his incestuous taking of Herodias, Luke 3. from 18. to 21. Mark 6. from 17. to 21. Mat. 14. from 3. to 6.

6. Christ hearing of John's imprisonment, leaves Judea, and resolves to go into Galilee, Mat. 4.12. John 4. from 1. to 4. Mark 1.14.

7. Going into Galilee through Samaria, he talks with a Wo∣man of Samaria, and revealeth himself to her, and instructs her concerning the right way of Worship; and that he is the Messiah: which she relates to the Inhabitants of the City Sychar, many of whom come out to him. He declareth to his Disciples upon this occasion what is his principal meat and drink; and that now the time of his Spiritual Harvest is at hand. Many of the Samaritans be∣lieve in him, John 4. from 4. to 43.

8. He goeth from thence into Galilee, and being at Cana, he healeth a Nobleman's Son with a word of his mouth, that lay sick at Capernaum, John 4. from 43. to 55.

9. He preacheth with great fame in the Synagogues of the Gali∣leans, Luke 4 from 14 to 16. Mark 4. from 14. to 16. Mat. 4.17.

10. He t••acheth in the Synagogue at Nazareth out of Esai. 61. that he himself is the promised Messiah; and sheweth by the in∣stances of what was wrought by Elias for the Widow of Sarepta; and by Eliseus for Naaman the Syrian, that Gods favours are free and gratuitous, and therefore he might bestow them where he pleased, giving that for a reason why he did no Miracle there. They being angry with him endeavour to cast him headlong from the brow of a H ll, but he passing through the midst of them, es∣caped their hands, Luke 4. from 16. to 31.

11. He comes now to Capernaum, and teacheth there on the Sabbath day, Mat. 4. from 13. to 17. Luke 4.31.32. Mark 1.21.22.

12. In the Synagoue there he dispossesses a man of an unclean Devil, Luke 4. from 33. to 38. Mark 1. from 23.29.

13. He cures Simon's Wife's Mother of a Fever, Luke 4. from 38. to 40. Mark 1. from 29. to 32. Mat. 8. from 14 to 16.

14. Also many other sick and possessed Persons, Mat. 8. from 16. to 18. Mark 1. from 32 to 35. Luke 4.40.41.

15. He goes from thence and preaches in many other Cities in Galilee, and casts out Devils, Mark 1. from 35. to 40. Luke 4. from 42. to 45. Mat. 4. from 23. to 26.

16. He cleanseth a Leper, sending him to the Priest to offer for his cleansing, according to the Law of Moses, Mark 1. from 40. to the end. Luke 5. from 12. to 17. Mat. 8. from 2. to 5.

17. In the presence of many of the Scribes and Pharisees, he cureth one sick of the Palsie, that was let down through the Roof of the House to him; and pronounceth his sins to be forgiven him, and proves he had Authority so to do, Mark 2. from 1. to 13. Luke 5. from. 17. to 27. Mat. 9. from 2. to 9.

18. He teaches the Multitude out of Peter's Ship, and after a miraculous draught of Fish, which he had helped them to, he promises to make him and Andrew, James and John, Fishers of men, Luke 5. from 1. to 12. Mark 1. from 16. to 21. Mat. 4. from 18. to 23.

19. He calleth Matthew the Publican from the receipt of custom to follow him, Mark 2. from 13. to 15. Mat. 9. Vers. 9. Luke 5.27.28.

20. Matthew invites him, and many other Publicans and sin∣ners, to a Feast; to which he goes, and eats with them and justi∣fies it, because he was a Physician of Souls. He gives reason why his Disciples fasted not at that time, as the Disciples of John and the Pharisees did, Mat. 9. from 10. to 18. Mark 2. from 15. to 23. Luke 5. from 29. to the end.

The Fourth Part of our Saviours Life from the Second Passover after his Baptism to the Third, containing the Acts of the Second Year of his publick Ministry. In which we have these particulars.

1. Jesus goeth again to Jerusalem at the Passover, and there healeth on the Sabbath day a man that had had an infirmity Thirty eight Years, lying at the Bath of Bethesda; who at his command carries away his Bed, and being reproved for it by the Jews, he he justifies himself by the warrant he had from him, so to do. The Jews hereupon seek to put Jesus to death, as one that brake the Sabbath, and made himself equal with God. Christ justifies this action, and asserts his equality and conjunction with the Father in all his works, such as are raising the dead, judging, receiving Di∣vine honour, saving sinners, quickning those that are dead in tres∣passes and sins: and farther shews by the Testimony of his Father, of John, and of his Miracles themselves, and of the Scriptures, who he was, John 5. from 1. to the end.

2. His Disciples pluck and eat Ears of Corn on the Sabbath day, and are by him defended for it against the Pharisees, by Scrip∣ture and reason, Luke 6. from 1. to 6. Mat. 12. from 1. to 9. Mark. 2. from 23. to 29.

3. He heals a man on the Sabbath day that had a withered hand, and proves that the Sabbath was not profaned thereby: Hereupon the Pharisees and Herodians consult to destroy him, Mark 3. from 1. to the 7. Mat. 12. from 9. to 15. Luke 6. from 6. to 12.

4. To avoid this danger, he withdraws himself to a private place, but Multitudes flock to him, and he healeth the diseased among them, forbidding them to noise it abroad, that the Prophe∣sie of him Recorded, Isa. 42.1. might be fulfilled, Mark 3. from 7. to 13. Mat. 12. from 15. to 22.

5. He goes up to a Mountain to Pray, and continues all Night in Prayer and then chuseth out of his Disciples Twelve Persons to be his Apostles, whose Names are there set down, and gives a reason why he chose Judas for one of them, Luke 6. from 10. to 17. Mark 3. from 13. to 20.

6. Then he cometh down with them, and healeth divers sick Persons, and the multitude so tumultuously flowed in upon them, that they had not time to eat Bread, and refresh themselves, Luke 6. from 17 to 20. Mark 3. from 19. to 22.

7. Seeing so great a Multitude there present, he went up into the Mountain again, as a place of advantage to speak more audi∣bly to them, and there preached that Divine and excellent Sermon, called the Sermon in the Mount, in which,

1. He propounds the eight Beatitudes.

2. He admonishes his Apostles of their duty, comparing them unto Salt, Light, and a City set on a Hill.

3. He shews he does not oppose the Law, or the Prophets.

4. He vindicates several Laws from the corrupt glosses of the Pharisees, viz. the Sixth, the Seventh and the Third Commandment, and the Law of Retaliation, and the Law of loving our Neighbours.

5. He instructs his Apostles concerning giving Alms, concern∣ing Prayer (giving them a breviary or pattern of Prayer) and concerning fasting.

6. He disswades them from inordinate carking and caring for the things of this life; and advises them in the first place to seek Gods Kingdom and his Righteousness.

7. He dehorts them from rash judging, and from giving that which is Holy to Dogs.

8. Exhorts them to fervency in Prayer; to do as they would be done by; to strive to enter in at the strait Gate.

9. He gives them a Caveat to beware of false Prophets, teach∣ing them how to discern them.

Lastly, He shews them that it is not enough to profess him for their Lord and Master in words, except they do his will, and per∣form his command, Mat. Chap. 5. Chap. 6. Chap. 7. Luke Chap. 6. from 20. to 50.

8. Having ended his Sermon he goes to Capernaum, and there heals the Centurions Servant, by his word only, that lay sick of the Palsie; and highly commendeth the Centurions faith; and upon this occasion foretels the Calling, Conversion, and Salvation of the Gentiles. Luke 7. from 1. to 11. Mat. 8. from 15. to 14.

9. He raises from the dead a widows son at Nain, Luk. 7. fr. 11. to 18.

10. John being still detained in Prison, and hearing a great fame of Christ's Miracles, sends Two of his Disciples to him, (not so much for his own as their satisfaction) to know whether he were the Messiah or no. Christ proveth by his Doctrine and Works, that he is the Messiah: He gives a glorious Testimony of the Person and Office of John, as the first Preacher, that the Spiri∣tual Kingdom of the Messiah was begun; into which Multitudes thronged, though the Pharisees rejected the counsel of God towards themselves. He upbraids the Jews under the Parable of little Chil∣dren in the Market place (sometimes piping merrily, sometimes singing mournfully) that they would not be won neither by John's Austerity, nor his Affability. Particularly threatens the Cities of Corazim, Bethsaida; and Capernaum, with very heavy Judgments: He joyfully acquiesces in the good pleasure of his Father, in hiding the mysteries of Salvation from the wordly wise (who will not submit to the teachings of Christ) and revealing them to Babes and Sucklings: He shews, the power of revealing the Mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven is commited to him by his Father; and thereupon invites all weary and heavy laden sinners to come to him, and to take his Yoke upon them, promising them rest, Luke 7. from 18. to 36. Mat. 11. from 2. to the end.

11. Simon a Pharisee invites him to eat with him, where Mary Magdalen bedeweth his feet with her tears, and wipeth them with her hair; whereat Simon is offended, but Christ defends her by the Parable of the debtors; he forgives her sin and commends her Faith, Luke 7. from 36. to 51.

12. He goeth up and down with his Disciples, Preaching the Gospel, and certain pious women followed him, and ministred to him, of their goods; among whom was Mary Magdalen, out of whom seven Devils had been cast, Luke 8. from 1. to 14.

13. He cures one so possessed, that the Devil had taken from him both the use of Eyes and Tongue. The Pharisees blaspheme his Miracles, saying he did them by Belzebub, which he confutes several ways. He shews that Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, is never forgiven; that an account must be given of every idle word, Mat. 12. from 22. to 38. Mark 3. from 22. to 31.

14. He rebukes the Pharisees for seeking a new sign: He refers them to that of Jonas, which typified his Resurrection: He op∣poseth against their stiff-neckedness, the example of the Ninevites, and of the Queen of Sheba: by the similitude of an unclean spirit, that was cast out and returned again, he shews how it shall go with them, Mat. 12. from 38. to 46.

15. He shews whom he accounts his Mother and Brethren, Luk. 8 from 19. to 22. Mat. 12. from. to 51.46 Mark 3. from 31. to the end.

16. He teaches the People out of a Ship, presenting unto them nine Parables. 1. Of the Sower, the Seed, and four sorts of ground. 2. Of the Tares. 3. Of the Seed growing insensibly. 4. Of the grain of Mustardseed. 5. Of the Leven. 6. Of Trea∣sure hid in a field. 7. Of the Merchantman and the Pearl. 8. Of the Net. 9. Of the Candle set in a Candlestick, and not put un∣der a Bushel. He shews the cause why he taught in Parables, and expounds them to his Disciples, Mark 4. from 1. to 35. Mat. 13. from 1. to 53. Luke 8. from 4. to 19. Luke 13. from 18. to 22.

17. He passes over the Lake with his Disciples, sleeps in the Ship, and a great Tempest arising, he is awakened by them, he stilleth the Tempest, Mark 4. from 35. to 42. Mat. 8. from 23. to 28. Luke 8. from 22. to 26.

18. When they came on the other side of the Sea to the Coun∣trey of the Gadarens, he there dispossesseth a man of a Legion of Devils, and permits them to enter into a Herd of Swine, who thereupon ran headlong into the Sea: The Gaderens offended at this, desire him to depart their Coasts, which he doth, and com∣mands him that was cured to abide there, to make known what great things he had done for him, Mat. 8. from 28. to 35. Mark 5. from 1. to 21. Luke 8. from 26. to 40.

19. He crosses the Sea again to Capernaum, where he is gladly received, Mark 5.21. ••uke 40. Mat. 9.1.

20. He raises Jairus's daughter that was dead, Luke 8. from 41. to 57. Mark 5. from 22. to the end, Mat. 9. from 18. to 27.

21. He restores two blind men to their sight, Mat. 9. from 27. to 32.

22. He casts a Devil out of a man, which made him speechless, Mat. 9. from 32. to 35.

23. He teaches now at Nazareth his Countrey, where he is de∣spised, Mark 6. from 1. to 7. Mat. 13. from 54. to 59.

24. He hath compassion on the multitude who were as Sheep without a Shepherd; and exhorts his Disciples to pray that La∣bourers may be sent into the Harvest, Mat. 9. from 35. to 39.

25 He sends out his twelve Apostles to Preach, and to work Miracles, he giveth them their Charge and Commission, and forti∣fieth them against persecutions, and promises a blessing to those that receive them, Mat. 10. from 1. to 43. Mark 6. from 7. to 12. Luke 9. from 1. to 7.

26. The Apostles depart and Preach up and down, and cast out Devils, and anoint such as were sick with Oyl, and recover them; Mark 6. from 12. to 14. Matth. 11.1.

27. John Baptist is now beheaded by Herod, and his body bu∣ried by his Disciples, Mark 6. from 17 to 30. Mat. 14. from 3. to 13.

28. Herod hearing of the fame of Christ, thinks him to be John Baptist risen from the Dead; others think him to be Elias or one of the old Prophets, Mat. 14.1, 2. Mark 6. from 14 to 18. Luke 9. from 7. to 10.

29. The Apostles having preached up and down, return to their Master, and give him an account of their Labours: He takes them with him into a desert place, whither a great Multitude follow∣ed him, of about five thousand men, whom he feedeth with five loaves and two fishes, Mark 6. from 30. to 45. Mat. 14 from 13. to 22. Luke 9. from 10. to 18. John 6. from 1. to 14.

30. The People are so affected with this Miracle that they would forthwith have made him King, but he with∣draws himself to avoid it, and sends his Disciples to Sea; in the mean time retires himself to the Mountain to pray; then he co∣meth to his Disciples (they being in a great Tempest) walking on the Sea; Peter desires leave from him that he may come to him

on the water, which being granted, Peter being afraid beginneth to sink, but is saved by him. He stilleth the Tempest whereby he is acknowledged to be the Son of God: He comes again into the Land of Genezareth, and heals many sick persons, John 6. from 14. to 22. Mark 6. from 45. to 57. Mat. 14. from 22. to 37.

31. The multitude that had been miraculously fed by him, fol∣low after him, and find him at Capernaum: He reproves them for following him for loaves, and admonishes them to seek for in∣corruptible food, which is to be obtained by Faith in him: He shews that Faith in him comes from the Father: He declares himself to be the Bread of life to true Believers; that his Flesh is meat indeed, and his Blood drink indeed, which must be eaten and drunken Spiritually to obtain eternal life. At this Doctrine several of his Disciples stumbled: he instructs them concerning the right sence of his words: Many of his Disciples forsake him: Peter and the other Apostles confess that he hath the words of eternal life, and abide with him: He declareth that one of them is a Devil, John 6. from 22. to the end.

The fifth part of our Saviours life, from the third Passeover after his Baptism, to the fourth, containing the Acts of the third year of his publick Ministry. In which we have these particu∣lars.

1. Our Saviour now goeth up to the Passeover at Jerusalem, and making there but a short stay, returns into Galilee, John 7.1.

2. Certain Scribes and Pharisees come thither to him from Jeru∣salem, and quarrel with him because his Disciples did eat with un∣washen hands. He reproves their Hypocrisie and Transgressing of Gods Commandments through their Traditions, instancing in the Fifth Commandment. Then he sheweth what it is that truly defileth a man, viz. that which cometh from within, out of the heart, Mat. 15. from 1. to 21. Mark 7. from 1. to 24.

3. He now retires himself into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, where he casteth out a Devil out of the Daughter of a Canaanitish woman, highly commending the strength of her Faith, who would not be discouraged though he called her Dog, Mat. 15. from 21. to 29. Mark 7. from 24. to 31.

4. He healeth one deaf and dumb, putting his fingers into his ears, and saying, Ephatha, and touching his Tongue, Mark 7. from 31. to 38.

5. He goeth up into a Mountain, and there he heals all man∣ner of diseased People brought unto him, Mat. 15. from 29. to 32.

6. He feeds four thousand men with seven loaves and a few lit∣tle Fishes, Mat. 15. from 32. to the end, Mark 8. from 1. to the 10.

7. He refuses to give the Pharisees and Sadduces any new Sign from Heaven, but refers them to what was prefigured by the rising of Jonah out of the Whales belly, Mark 8. from 10. to 13. Mat. 16. from 1. to 5.

8. He warneth his Disciples of the leaven and corrupt Doctrine of the Pharisees, Sadducees and Herodians, Mark 8. from 13. to 22. Mat. 16. from 5. to 13.

9. At Bethsaida he restores a blind man to his sight, Mark 8. from 22. to 27.

10. Divers opinions of the people concerning him. Peters con∣fession of him to be the true Messiah, whom he commendeth, and promiseth upon the rock of that truth to build his Church, which he will govern by the Ministry of his Apostles and his other Servants that shall succeed them, giving them the Keys of his Kingdom. He foretelleth his Death and Resurrection, and rejects the evil Counsel of Peter, disswading him from dying and suffering. He requires of all that would be his Disciples, to be willing to bear the Cross, and to be ready to lay down their lives for him. He gives them an intimation that some of them there present should see a Type and resemblance of his second coming in the destruction he should bring upon Jerusalem, and the Jewish Nation by the Romans for their obstinacy. Mat. 16. from 13. to 29. Mark 8. from 27. to the end. Mark 9.1. Luke 9. from 28. to 28.

11. He taketh Peter, James, and John into an high Mountain, and is transfigured before them; Moses and Elias appearing to them: from Heaven he is declared to be the Son of God. He teach∣eth that John is that Elias that was to come, Mat. 17. from 1. to 14. Mark 9. from 2. to 14. Luke 9. from 18. to 37.

12. He casteth out a Devil that inflicted dumbness and deafness on a Lunatick, which his Disciples were not able to do, the cause whereof is declared, as also the power of Faith quickned by Fa∣sting and Prayer, Mat. 17. from 14. to 22. Mark 9. from 14. to 30. Luke 9. from 37. to 43.

13. He again foretelleth his Death and Resurrection, Mark 9. from 30. to 33. Mat. 17. from 22. to 24. Luke 9. from 43 to 46.

14. He pays the half shekel for himself and Peter, miraculous∣ly fetching it out of the Fishes mouth, Mat. 17. from 24. to 28.

15. He teacheth by the example of a little Child, who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven, and among his Disciples. He forbiddeth to hinder such as cast out Devils in his name. He pro∣miseth a reward to any that do the least good office to any that are his. He sheweth what punishment they are worthy of, that give offence, and how narrowly men must beware they give not scan∣dal to little ones, whom the Holy Angels do take care of, and whom he is come to save, as he declares by the similitude of a lost Sheep. He shews what mischiefs are like to come to the World by reason of the offences and scandals. That we must refrain from what∣soever is an occassion of sin, or an hindrance to Salvation, though as dear to us as our right eye, right hand, or foot, rather than go to Hell, where the worm dieth not, and where the fire is not quenched. That the hearts of Christians must be seasoned with the Salt of Grace and Holiness, That they his Apostles are the Salt of the Earth, and must be of savoury Spirits themselves, and by the Savouriness of their Doctrine and Conversation, must sea∣son others, and maintain concord and union among themselves. He gives rules about dealing with a trespassing and offending Bro∣ther, and shews what the office and power of the Church is in such a case, when the first and second admonition doth not pre∣vail to reform him. He promises his gracious presence with his Church, be the number great or small, when they joyn together in Prayer or Church-censures. He shews how we must be ready always to forgive, which is declared by the Parable of a King, forgiving one of his servants ten thousand Talents, who would not forgive a fellow servant of his one hundred pence, Mark 9. from 33. to the end. Mat. 18. from 1. to the end. Luke 9. from 46. to 51.

16 His Kinsmen now perswade him to go up with them to Jerusalem to the Feast of Tabernacles, which he refuseth for the present to do, John 7. from 1. to 10.

17. But after some days he setteth forth privately with his own

Disciples for Jerusalem, journeying thitherward through Samaria, the Samaritans refuse him lodging; James and John desire they may call for fire from Heaven upon them, but are rebuked by him for it, John 7.10. Luke 9. from 51. to 57.

18. He declares his poverty to a Scribe that had a mind to fol∣low him; he commands another to follow him without delay, and not go home to bury his Father. To another, that would have gone home to take leave of his friends, he declares, that as he that starteth from the Plough is not fit for the Field, no more is he that shifteth from his Calling fit for his service, Luke 9. from 57. to the end. Mat. 8. from. 19. to 23.

19. He now sendeth out his Diciples to preach the Gospel and work Miracles. He instructs them how they should fit themselves for their journey, and how they should carry themselves towards their hearers: He threatens Corazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum for their great impenitency and contempt of the Gospel, Luke 10. from 1. to 17.

20. Being now come to Jerusalem at the Feast of Tabernacles, he teacheth in the Temple, vindicates his Doctrine, and shews them how they may try Doctrines and Teachers: Then he vindi∣cates his practice in healing the impotent man on the Sabbath day; divers opinions of the people concerning him: He proceeds on in teaching, which so inraged some of the Jews, that they sought to take him, but for the present they could not. The Pharisees and chief Priests send their officers to apprehend him. He threa∣tens the unbelieving Jews, that hereafter they shall seek him and shall not find him. On the last day of the Feast he invites unto him all that are spiritually athirst, and promiseth the Holy Ghost to those that believe in him; upon this a division ariseth among the people: The Officers that were sent to apprehend him return without bringing him Prisoner, and extol his Doctrine. The Pharisees are enraged at this, and speak reproachfully of him, and of the people who were so taken with him, Nicodemus gainsayeth their proceeding, pleading he was not to be condem∣ned before he was heard: Hereupon not agreeing among them∣selves, they part and go their several ways, John 7. from 11. to the end.

21. Early in the morning he teacheth in the Temple, whither they bring to him a woman taken in Adultery, he frustrates

their intention against him, and dismisses the woman with a seri∣ous admonition. He teacheth that himself is the light of the World: He defends himself against the Pharisees by his own and his Fathers testimony: He tells the Jews they shall hereafter seek him in vain and shall die in their sins if they believe not in him: He declareth who he is, and by whom he is sent: He promiseth those that be∣lieve in him knowledge of the truth, and freedom from the Servi∣tude and Slavery of sin: He proveth that the unbelieving Jews wrongfully boasted that they were Abraham's and Gods Children, they being Children of the Devil, because they fulfilled his lusts: He reproves their unbelief, for which they slander him as a Sama∣ritan, who hath a Devil. This calumny he confuteth, and testi∣fieth that Abraham saw his day, and that he was before Abraham; at this they would have stoned him, but he secretly conveyed him∣self from their fury, John. 8. whole Chapter.

22. He anoints the eyes of a man that was born blind with clay, and that on the Sabbath day; and commanding him to wash in the waters of Siloam, restores him to his sight. The man being brought to the Pharisees relates the same. They reproach Christ as a breaker of the Sabbath, and seem to doubt whether this man had ever been blind. They send for his Parents, who refer them to their Son, whom they call and examine again: He answereth them, and from this Miracle argueth, that Christ is no Sinner, but a person extraordinary and sent from God; for which Testi∣mony he is reproachfully cast out by them and excommunicated: He is further instructed by Christ, believeth in him, and worship∣eth him. Christ telleth the Pharisees that they are Spiritually blind, and therefore they remain in sin, because they are not sen∣sible of their blindness, John 9. whole Chapter.

23. Upon this occasion he propounds the Parable of the Faith∣ful and true Shepherd, and of the false and unfaithful, descri∣bing them by their contrary marks and properties, and points out himself as the true Shepherd of his Sheep, as also the true door of the Sheep-fold. That he is no hireling, seeing that he willingly lays down his life for his Sheep: His hearers are divided in their opinions concerning him, John 10. from 1. to 22.

24. The Seventy Disciples return, and joyfully relate what they had performed, whom he teacheth to be humble, and where∣in they ought most to rejoyce. He giveth thanks to his Father

who hath hid Mysteries of Salvation from the wise of the World, and hath revealed them to despised little ones. He sheweth from whom saving knowledge cometh. He declareth them happy whose eyes have seen the Messiah in the flesh, whom many Pro∣phets and Kings desired to see, and saw not, Luke 10. from 17. to 25.

25. He answereth a Doctor of the Law, inquiring what he must do to inherit Eternal Life, and shews him who is his Neighbour, by a similitude of one fallen among Thieves, and pitied by a Samaritan, Luke 10. from 38. to 43.

26. He is now entertained at Bethany by Martha and Mary, where he commends the Godliness of Mary above the Carefulness of Martha, Luke 10. from 38. to 43.

27. He now a second time prescribes unto his Disciples that f••rm or pattern of Prayer, which he gave them in the Sermon on the Mount. He stirs them up to fervency and importunity in Pray∣er, from the Parable of a Friend coming to his Friend at mid∣night, and especially to pray for the Holy Spirit, which the Fa∣ther will not deny to them that ask him, Luke 11. from 1. to 14.

28. He casteth out a dumb Devil, and confutes the Blasphemy of those, who said he did it by Belzebub. He shews by a Parable the miserable state of that man into whom the unclean spirit returns again after ejectment, Luke 11. from 14. to 27.

29. He sheweth to a woman, who pronounced the womb blessed that bare him, that they are blessed that hear the word of God and keep it, Luke 11. from 27. to 29.

30. He testifies that no other sign shall be given to those unbe∣lieving Jews, than that signified by Jona's rising out of the Whales belly, that is, the wonder of his Resurrection. He oppo∣seth to their stifneckedness the example of the Queen of the South, and the men of Nineveh: He teacheth by the similitude of a Can∣dle, that the light of the Gospel must not be hid. He shews why that generation continued so blind, namely, because the eye of their mind was darkned, Luke 11. from 29. to 37.

31. He is invited to dinner by a Pharisee: He complies not with them in washing before dinner. He there reprehends the Pharisees, Scribes, and Lawyers, for their Hypocrisie, Ambition, and Cruelty against those sent to them from God, and threatneth the Judgment of God unto them. They lay new snares to catch him, but fail of their expectation, Luke 11. from 37. to the end.

32. He warneth his Disciples of the Leaven and corrupt Doctrine of the Pharisees, he exhorts them to do all things uprightly, seeing all things shall be brought to light, and not to be fearful of men in publishing his Doctrine, but to depend on God's care of them, he exhorts them to own and profess him before men, and he will own them at the day of Judgment. He shews the horrible dan∣ger of Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost; and exhorts them not to be solicitous how to answer when they are brought before Councils, seeing they shall then be instructed what to say by the Holy Ghost, Luke 12. from 1. to 13.

33. He refuseth to arbitrate a difference about an Inheritance between two Brethren; and upon that occasion he dehorts them from covetousness by the Parable of a rich man, who would needs build his Barns bigger. He disswades them from being over-careful and solicitous about earthly things; and by the example of the Ra∣vens and Lillies he shews that the care of this life should be commit∣ted unto God; and that his Kingdom and the Righteousness thereof should be sought in the first place: He exhorts to give Alms, and so to deposite their riches in Gods hand, and to lay up Treasure in Heaven: To watch for his coming (the time of which is uncertain, like the coming of a Thief in the Night.) And if they approve themselves vigilant Servants, they shall be rewarded. He shews that his Ministers are diligently to look to their charge, which if they do, they shall be highly recompensed; but if they prove slothful, negligent, and tyrannize over their fellow Ser∣vants, they shall be severely punished. He forewarns them of persecution and trouble. He shews them that he himself came to suffer, and to bring fire on Earth. He exhorts the People to dis∣cern, take notice of, and improve the season of grace, and merciful visitation afforded to them; for it is a dreadful thing to die with∣out reconciliation with God, Luke 12. from 13. to the end.

34. From the report of certain Galileans, whose blood Pilate mingled with their Sacrifices, and from the example of the eighteen, on whom the Tower in Siloam fell; He takes occasion to exhort the Multitude to repent, and to that end propounds the Parable of the barren Fig-tree, Luke 13, from 1. to 10.

35. He healeth a Woman on the Sabbath day, that had been bow∣ed together Eighteen Years, and justifieth the same against the Ruler of the Synagogue. He compares his Kingdom to a Grain of Mu∣stard-seed

and Leaven, shewing thereby the power of his word, and spreading Nature of his Evangelical Doctrine, Luk. 13. frō 10. to 22.

36. He comes to Jerusalem at the Feast of Dedication, and being compassed about with the Jews, he is asked by them whether he be the Christ? He affirms it, and proveth it by his works. He tells them the reason why they believe not in him, namely, because they are not of his Sheep. Those that are his Sheep believe in him, and they are kept by him and his Father to eternal life. Upon this the Jews would have stoned him as a Blasphemer; but he proves by Scripture and by his works, that he did rightly call himself the Son of God. They attempt to seize on him, but he escaped out of their hands, Luke 13. vers. 22. John 10. from 22. to the end.

37. Being asked whether few should be saved, he exhorts them to enter in at the strait Gate, and to take the present season of grace, from the Parable of a man that had invited guests, and admitted those who came in due time; but shut out the Loyterers. He shews that the Gentiles shall receive and imbrace the Gospel, and shall enter into the Kingdom of God, whilst they for their impeni∣tency shall be cast out, Luke 13. from 23. to 31.

38. He tells the Pharisees, who warned him of the great dan∣ger he was in from Herod, that he feared him not; for he knew he must die at Jerusalem; and then he passionately complains of the cruelty and stifneckedness of the People of Jerusalem, and foretels their ruine, Luke 13. from 31. to 36.

39. He now cures one that had the Dropsie on the Sabbath-day, and justifies the same. He reproves the ambition of the Pharisees, striving for the upper-most Seats at Feasts, and exhorts them to hu∣mility. He exhorts them also to feast the Poor, who cannot re∣quite them, Luke 14. from 1. to 15.

40. By the Parable of a great Supper, and the excuses of those that were invited (to shift off coming,) he upbraids the Jews with their ingratitude; and foretells their rejection, and the cal∣ling of the Gentiles, Luke 14. from 15. to 25.

41. He shews that he that will be his Disciple must deny him∣self, and all that is dear to him, and must consider before hand what it may cost him (as he that intends to build a Tower, or as a King that intends to wage war with another King, must do) lest with shame he revolt from him afterwards, and become al∣together unprofitable, like Salt that hath lost its Savour, Luke 14. from 25. to 36.

42. The Pharisees murmur that he coversed with sinners. Here∣upon he shews Gods tender care of the recovery of lost sinners by three eminent Parables; First, Of the lost Sheep. Secondly, Of the lost Groat. Thirdly, Of the lost Son, Luke 15. whole Chapter.

43. By the Parable of the cunning though unjust Steward, he teaches them to make friends to themselves of the unrighteous Mammon, and to be faithful in a right imploying their Temporal Riches. He exhorts them also to take heed of serving Mammon, or setting their hearts on Riches. He reproves the Pharisees for their Pride, Hypocrisie, and affectation of the opinion of men. He shews that the Sacrifices prescribed by the Ceremonial Law Typified and prefigured him, and that the Prophets Prophesied of him un∣til John came, who declared him to be actually come in the flesh, and began the Evangelical Ministry. He declares the permanent Authority of the Moral Law, which was by the Pharisees violated, particularly in the Seventh Commandment. By the Parabolical History of Dives and Lazarus, he shews the different estate of the Godly Poor and the unmerciful Rich in the other World, Luke 16. from 1. to 32.

44. He teaches his Disciples to take heed of giving occasion of offence and scandal, and to forgive those that trespass against them, who are sorry for their offence how oft soever they have of∣fended, Luke 17. from 1. to 5.

45. The Disciples hereupon pray for the increase of their Faith, that they may depend on him for power to perform this, and his other injunctions. Upon this occasion he describes the power of Faith, and by the Parable of a servant coming from the service of the Field, and setting himself to other services after, he declares that a man doth not merit of God, by doing his duty, Luke 17. from 5. to 11.

46. He healeth ten Lepers whereof but one returns to give him thanks, Luke 17. from 11. to 20.

47. He shews that his Kingdom comes not with observation or outward pomp. He sorewarns them of the days of Tribulation, that would come on that Nation after his departure out of this World. He describes this his coming to execute vengeance on those ob∣durate Jews, viz. That it should be suddenly, & would surprize them in their deep security, as it was in the days of Noah, & Lot. That there would be much of God's providence seen in rescuing some fr m that calamity, wherein others would fall, Luke 17. from 20. to 38.

48. He incourages his Disciples to fervency, importunity, and perseverance in prayer from the Parable of an importunate Widow prevailing with an unjust Judge, Luke 18. from 1. to 9.

49. By a Parable of a Pharisee and a Publican he teaches that God hears and justifies the penitent sinner, and not those which rely on their own righteousness, Luke 18. from 9. to 15.

50. He now crosses Jordan, and there teaches and heals, Mat. 19.1.2. Mark 10. to 1.

51. He answereth the Pharisees question concerning divorce, that the Married may not part but in case of Adultery. He shew∣eth the gift of continence is not given to all, Mat. 19. from 3. to 13. Mark 10. from 2. to 13.

52. He commands that little Children should be brought unto him, and blesseth them, Mat. 19. from 3. to 16. Mark 10. from 13. to 17. Luke 18. from 15. to 18.

53. He answers a rich young man, who desireth to know of him, what he must do to inherit Eternal life, and gives him a special command to go and sell all and give to the poor, to try him and convince him of his secret covetousness, who thereupon de∣parts very sorrowful. Upon this he teaches how hard it is for a rich covetous man who trusts in his riches, to be saved. He pro∣mises them who leave all for his sake, both Temporal and Eternal recompences: And to his Apostles (who had done this) he pro∣mises high favours at the day of Judgment, viz. That they shall sit upon Twelve Thrones judging the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Yet he cautions them to be humble minded, and to look to it that they persevere, for many that are last shall be first, and first shall be last, Mat. 19. from 16. to 31. Mark 10. from 17. to 32. Luke 18. from 18. to 31. Luke 22. from 28. to 31.

54. Under the Parable of an Housholder hiring Labourers at several hours of the day into his Vineyard, he sheweth that all ought to be Labourers; that God doth freely both call and re∣ward; that none ought to have any confidence in their own works, but a low estimation of themselves, and of whatever they do or suffer for him, Mat. 20. from 1. to 17.

55. Lazarus is now sick at Bethany, and Jesus is sent for to him, but for the present goeth not, that he might die, and so God might be the more glorified in raising him to life again, John 11 from 1. to 7.

56. He acquaints his Disciples now a Third time that he should suffer death, and rise again the Third day; they thereupon diswade him from going into Judea, but he tells them as long as his day last∣ed, Providence would secure him from danger, Mat. 20. from 17. to 20. Mark 10. from 32. to 35. John 11. from 7. to 11. Luke 18. from 31. to 35.

57. He gives answer to the request of James and John, Zebedees Children, desiring that they might sit one on his right hand, the other on his left in his Kingdom. He exhorts them to prepare for sufferings and the Cross, and commands all of them to be humble minded, and not to seek after dignity and preheminence one above another, (remembring that their Office was a Ministry and ser∣vice, not a Lordship or Dominion) and to imitate his example who came not to be ministred unto, but to minister, Mat. 20. from 20. to 29. Mark 10. from 35. to 46. Luke 22. from 24. to 28.

58. He now sets forward towards Bethany for the raising of La∣zarus who was dead. His way lying through Jerico, when he came nigh the City he cured a blind-man. Zacheus gets up into a Sycamore Tree to see him. He invites himself to Zacheus's House, who gladly receives him, and testifies his repentance by restitution, and is comforted by him. By the Parable of a Noble∣man going into a far Countrey to receive for himself a King∣dom, and to return, and delivering Ten Pounds to his Ten Ser∣vants to imploy and improve in his absence. He shews he was not now presently (as they thought) to enter upon a Temporal Kingdom, but to die and suffer, and so go to Heaven; and then to return again in an eminent manner. In the mean time they ought to imploy the Talents he had intrusted them with for his service, and he would reward their diligence. He cures Two other blind men, whereof one was Bartimeus, as he goes out of the City, Luke 18. from 35. to the end. Luke 19. from 1. to 28. Mat. 20. from 29. to 35. Mark 10. from 46. to 53.

59. He now approacheth to Bethany, where Martha meets him, with whom he speaketh of the Resurrection of her Brother and all Believers. Mary comes out to him also. He weepeth and goeth to the grave, and finds Lazarus four days buried, he prays to his Father and raiseth him to life again; whereupon ma∣ny believe in him, others go and tell it to the Chief Priests, John 11. from 11. to 47.

60. The Chief Priests and Pharisees call a Council, and con∣sult upon the matter. Caiaphas unwittingly prophesies of the fruit of Christs death: Here they conclude he shall be put to death, but to avoid their fury for the present, he withdrew him∣self privately unto Ephraim, John 11. from 47. to 55.

61. He is inquired for at Jerusalem by those that came up sometime before the Feast to purifie themselves, John 11. from 55. to the end.

62. Six days before the Passeover he is entertained at a Supper at Bethany by Simon the Leper, where Lazarus fate at Supper with him. Mary pours a box of precious oyntment on his head and feet, wiping them with the hairs of her head. For this she is blamed, and repined at by Judas; but defended by Christ. Many Jews resort thither to see Lazarus newly raised, where∣fore the Chief Priests seek to put him to death also, John 12. from 1. to 12. Mat. 26. from 6. to 14. Mark 14. from 3. to 10.

63. On the first day of the week now commonly called Palm-Sunday, he sets out with his Disciples for Jerusalem. He sends two of his Disciples for an Asse, which the owner lets them have, and being set thereon, he rides towards the City. The people spread their Garments in the way, and cry Hosanna. When he was come to the descent of the Mount of Olives many from the City met him with branches of Palm-tree in their hands. The Pharisees speak to him to silence the People, and to forbid them to make such acknowledgments to him. He answers that if they should hold their peace, the very stones would cry out. Then coming within the view of the City, he burst out into tears at the consideration of their obstinacy, and their ruine that would en∣sue thereupon. He rides into the City in this triumphant manner. The Pharisees are inraged hereat, Luke 19. from 28. to 45. John 12. from 12. to 20. Mat. 21. from 1.12. Mark 11. from 1. to 11.

64. He goes directly to the Temple. He drives the buyers and sellers out of it. He heals the blind and lame that were brought to him. He justifies the Children crying Hosanna, and teaches in the Temple Luke 19. from 45. to 49. Mat. 21. from 12. to 17. Mark 11. from 15. to 20.

65. Certain Religious Greeks desire to see him. They speak to Philip about it. Being brought into his presence, he speaks

to them of his death, and the fruit of it by the Parable or Si∣militude of a grain of Wheat, which is not lost when it is sown, but springeth up with increase. He sheweth that all that will be his Disciples must follow him in suffering, and not think their life to dear to lay down for him. He prayes unto his Fa∣ther, and is answered by Thunder, and with it a voice from Hea∣ven, he tells them that that voice came not for his sake alone to comfort him, but to testifie to them that he was the true Messias. He goes on to declare the glorious fruits of his death, as parti∣cularly the delivering the World from the usurping power of Sa∣tan, and the drawing all sorts of persons to believe on him after he hath been lifted up on the Cross. He shews that his suffering death in his state of Humiliation, and yet abiding for ever in his state of Exaltation may well stand together. He exhorts them to walk in the light whilst they have it, testifying that he him∣self is the light of the World. The consequent of this was that though the Jews generally continued blinded and hardned (as was fore-told by Esaiah) yet some of the Rulers believed in him, but durst not openly confess him. In fine, he shews the benefits of Faith and mischiefs of Ʋnbelief, John 12. from 20. to the end.

66. Having thus spent the day, at night he goes with his Apo∣stles to lodg at Bethany, Mat. 21.17. Mark 11.11.

67. Next morning (viz. Munday) he sets forth with them for Jerusalem again, and cursed the barren Fig-tree by the way, and then goes to the Temple, and teaches there, and at night returns with his company to Bethany again, Mat. 21.18, 19. Mark 11. from 12. to 15. Luke 21.37, 38.

68. Next morning, (viz. Tuseday) coming again with his Apostles to the City, in the way they observed that the Fig-tree, (which the day before he had cursed) was now quite withered. Hereupon he discourses of the power of Faith in prayer, and ex∣horts them to forgive such as have done them any wrong, Mark 11. from 20. to 27. Mat. 21. from 20. to 23.

69. He goes again to the Temple, and teacheth there. The Chief Priests and Scribes ask him by what authority he did these things. He answers them by propounding to them a question concerning the Baptism of John. He convinceth them of their disobedience by the Parable of the two Sons; and shews them

that Publicans and Harlots imbrace the Gospel before them, for all their fair profession. He threatens their ruine by the Parable of a Lord of a Vineyard, whose Servants and Son were abused, and slain by the Husbandmen. By the Parable of the Marriage of the Kings Son, to which the guests invited re∣fused to come, and therefore others were invited in their stead, (among which one appeared without a Wedding Garment, &c.) He declares the rejection of the Jews, the calling of the Gentiles, and shews that some do joyn themselves to the Church in Hypo∣crisie, Mark 11. from 27. to 34. Mat. 21. from 23. to the end. Mark 12. from 1. to 13. Luke. 20. from 1. to 20. Mat. 22. from 1. to 15.

70. He gives an answer to the question of the Pharisees and Herodians whether they might pay tribute to Caesar or no. Then he answers the question of the Sadduces concerning a Woman that had seven Husbands, and proves to them the Resurrection of the Dead. He answers a Doctor of the Law, demanding of him which is the great Commandment, and tells him he is not far from the Kingdom of God. He then propounds a question to the Pharisees how the Messiah could be Davids Son, whom David himself calls Lord; but they could not answer him, Mat. 22. from 15. to the end. Mark 12. from 13. to 28. Luke 20. from 20. to 45.

71. He now begins a severe commination against the Scribes and Pharisees, exhorting his hearers to follow what they should rightly teach them out of Moses and the Prophets; but not their example and works. He describes their Hypocrisie and Ambition in making broad their Phylacteries and fringes of their Garments, in loving salutations in publick places, and to be called Rabbi. He admonishes his hearers to take heed thereof and to study Hu∣mility. He denounceth eight woes against the Scribes and Phari∣sees, 1. Because they shut Heaven against men. 2. Devoured Wi∣dows houses. 3. Made bad Proselytes. 4. Taught perversely to swear by the Temple, Altar and Heaven. 5. Tythed small matters, and neglected the weightier matters of the Law. 6. Made clean the out-side, but not the heart. 7. Were like whited Se∣pulchres. 8. Repaired the Sepulchres of the old Prophets, and sought to kill the new. Then complaining of the stiff-neckedness of the City of Jerusalem. He foretells her destruction, Mat. 23.

whole Chapter. Mark 12. from 38. to 41. Luke 20. from 45. to 48.

72. He commendeth the poor Widows gift of two mites, which she cast into the Treasury of the Temple, Mark 12. from 41. to the end. Luke 21. from 1. to 5.

73. Going now out of the Temple (into which he never entred again) he foretells the destruction thereof; Being come to Mount Olivet, he foretells the grievous calamities that should be∣fall the Jews, before the Temple, and Cities destruction; and gives them Signs that should sometime before precede it, as the arising of false Christs; Wars, and rumors of Wars; Famines, and Pestilence, and Earthquakes, and fearful sights and signs from Heaven: Great persecutions against those that professed him: The arising of many false Prophets and Heretical teachers: The spreading of the Gospel among all the chief and principal Nati∣ons in those parts of the World: Then he gives them signs that should immediately precede it. Namely, the begirting the City by the Roman Army, at which time the Prophecy of Daniel should be fulfilled: The arising of false Christs and false Prophets, that should be so cunning that they should deceive (if it were possible) the very Elect. He now comes to describe the destruction it self, which he sets forth as the destruction of the whole World, of which it was to be a Type. For the precise time when this destruction should be, he tells them they must not expect to have it revealed to them, it being hid from men and Angels, yea, and from himself also as man. Yet two things he acquaints them with. 1. That this Judgment would come sud∣denly, and unexpectedly on the Jews, as destruction did on the old World. 2. That the Providence of God would much appear in the rescuing of some out of that calamity, in which others will fall. He exhorts them to watch and pray that they may be accounted worthy to escape those calamities, by the Para∣ble of good servants, expecting the coming of their Master, and because the time of his coming is uncertain, he presseth them again to a diligent watchfulness by the Parable of an Hou∣sholder, watching against the coming of a Thief, Mat. 24. whole Chapter, Mark 13. whole Chapter, Luke 21. from 5. to 37.

74. By the Parable of five wise and five foolish Virgins, he again exhorts them to watchfulness against his coming; and

by the Parable of Servants which had each of them received Ta∣lents from their Lord to trade withal, he exhorteth to a faith∣ful improvement of the gifts which God had given to every one. Then he comes to describe his last coming to Judgment, and how he will distinguish his ••heep from the Goats, and give and exe∣cute Sentence upon them both, Mat. 25. whole Chapter.

75. Having thus Preached his Prophetick Sermon on Mount Olivet, he comes to Bethany and suppeth there; Rising from Sup∣per, he girded himself and washed his Disciples feet. Peter at first refused to admit of it, but afterward suffered it. He teach∣eth them hereby his spiritual washing of them, and exhorts them to imitate this example of his Humility, and to be serviceable one to another. He complains of, and detects the Tray∣tor Judas, whom he discovereth to John by giving him a sop: After which the Devil entred into him, and he went forth. Our Saviour comforts himself against his near approaching death with this consideration, that God should be glorified thereby. He ex∣horts his Disciples to mutual Love. Peter promises he will lay down his life for him; but Christ telleth him he will deny him thrice, John 13. whole Chapter.

76. Wednesday. On this day the Chief Priest and Elders met in Caiaphas's House, and hold the second Council how they might take Jesus and put him to death. Whilst they were thus consulting, Judas comes to them, and offers to betray him to them. They bargain with him for thirty pieces of silver to do it; which he having accepted, returns to his Master at Bethany, Mat. 26. from 1. to 6. and from 14. to 17. Mark 14.1, 2. and 10, 11. Luke 22. from 1. to 7.

77. Thursday. Our Saviour now sendeth Peter and John to Je∣rusalem to prepare the Passeover for him and his Disciples, and directs them by a special token to follow a man that would lead them to a great Chamber ready furnished; which they according∣ly do, and having provided all things for the present Supper, re∣turn to him again, Matth. 26. from 17. to 20. Mark 14. from 12. to 17. Luke 22. from 7 to 14.

78. Being now ready to go with his Apostles to eat the Passeover (which he was to eat that night) he comforts them concerning his going away from them to the Father, seeing he went to pre∣pare Mansions for them at his Fathers house. He declares to

Thomas that he is the way, the truth and the life; and to Philip that he that seeth him seeth the Father. He promiseth his Apo∣stles that they should do great Miracles, and obtain what they shall pray for in his name. That they shall receive the Comfor∣ter, the H••ly Ghost, and not be left Orphans. He exhorts them to love him and keep his Commandments, promising his, and his Fathers abode with them, and that the Holy Ghost should bring all things necessary to their remembrance. He leaveth his peace with them, and declareth that they ought to rejoyce, be∣cause he goeth to the Father. He sheweth his willingness to obey his Father, even in suffering. Then arising he goeth forth with them to Jerusalem, John 14. whole Chapter.

The sixth part of our Saviours life comprehends what he did and suffered at the fourth Passeover after his Baptism, at which He our Passeover was Sacrificed for us, 1 Cor. 5.7. And here we have these observables.

1. Thursday evening he cometh with his Company to the place prepared for him, and there eats the Passeover with them. He tells them there was one at the Table with him that would betray him. He institutes the Sacrament of his Supper. They conclude with an Hymn, Luke 22. from 14. to 24. Mat. 26. from 20. to 31. Mark 14. from 17. to 27.

2. He warneth Peter of the approach of his Tryal, and that he should that very night before the Morning-Cock crew, deny him thrice. He acquaints his other Apostles with his own and their approaching troubles, Luke 22. from 31. to 39.

3. Before their departure from the place where they had eaten the Passeover, he gives them his farewel exhortations, contained in the fifteenth and sixteenth Chapters of John, where he compares himself to a Vine and his Disciples to branches, which abiding in him will be fruitful. He testifieth his singular love to them, and ex∣horts them to keep his Commandments, and to love one another. He shews the greatness of his love to them, in that he is willing to lay down his life for them, and calleth them his friends and chosen ones. He comforts them against the hatred of the world by ma∣ny arguments. He sheweth them that all manner of excuse is taken from the Jews, who have both heard his Doctrine and seen his Miracles. He declareth that the Holy Ghost shall testifie of him, and make his Person and Doctrine to be acknow∣ledged

in the World; and they themselves should bear witness concerning him. He fortelleth them they shall be persecuted, and must expect to meet with Excommunication and Martyrdom. He comforts them with the promise of the Holy Ghost, who shall convince the World of Sin, Righteousness, and Judgment, and shall lead them into all truth, and shall glorifie him, and shall in all things so accord with him, that he shall evidence he hath his message from him. He declares he shall shortly be taken from them, but shall be seen again by them for a little while; so that their Sorrows shall quickly be turned into joy. He tells that when the Comforter is come they shall be more fully illuminated and not puzled with doubts as now they were. He promises that their prayers shall be heard that are put up in his name, and for their encouragement he assures them not only of his own intercession, but his Fathers love, he declares plainly to them his leaving the World, and going to his Father. His Disciples hereupon are confirmed in their belief in him. He forewarns them they should be scattered and flye from him; yet his Fathers presence would be with him. He promises them, that trusting in him, they should have peace, and bids them be of good chear: for he had overcome the World for them, John 15. whole Chapter. Joh. 16. whole Chapter.

4. He now pours out a most Divine and Heavenly Prayer unto the Father, wherein he prayes. 1. For himself, that the Father would now glorifie him, (having thus far finished his work) that he may give eternal life to those that know him and believe on him. 2. For his Apostles, that the Father would keep them in unity of love, and would preserve them from the evil of the world, and Sanctifie and fit them more and more for the great work of Preaching the Gospel. 3. For all that shall believe on him, through their word, that they may be one here, and eternally glorified with him in his Kingdom hereafter, John 17. whole Chapter.

5. Having ended his Prayer, he went with the eleven towards the Garden of Gethsemane, at the foot of Olivet, John 18.1. Luke 22.39.

6. Judas as it seems slip'd away when they rose from Supper, and went to his Complices in the City, who were ready to execute their wicked design. As our Saviour goes along with his

Disciples towards the Garden, he tells them they will be offen∣ded at his sufferings that night, and like Sheep will be scat∣tered, when they shall see him the Shepherd smitten. Yet not∣withstanding he intended to meet them again in Galilee. He foretels Peter again of his fall that night, which Peter seems to abhor, Mat. 26. from 31. to 36. Mark 14. from 27. to 32.

7. Being come to the Garden, he leaves eight of his Disciples behind, and takes only Peter, James and John with him, and charging them to watch and pray, he falls prostrate on his face, and prayeth to his Father, that, if he were willing, that Cup might pass from him. An Angel from Heaven is sent to strength∣en him: He comes to his Disciples, and finds them sleeping, and re∣proves them for it, and exhorts them again to watch and pray. He goes a second time and prayes more earnestly, being in an A∣gony, so that his sweat was as it were great drops of blood: Re∣turning to his Disciples he finds them asleep again. He went away a third time and prayed to the same effect as before, and coming to his Disciples, found them asleep again; then he bids them sleep on; for he that would betray him, was at hand, Mat. 26. from 36. to 47. Mark 14. from 32. to 43. Luke 22. from 39. to 47.

8. Judas immediately comes with a great band to take him, and betrayes him with a kiss. At Christs word they fall back to the Earth. He speaks to them to let his Disciples go. When they began to lay hands on him, Peter draws his sword, and laies about him, and smote off Malcus'es Ear. Christ rebukes him for his rashness, and heals the wound presently; declaring that he could have more then twelve Legions of Angels for his guard, if he would be forcibly rescued. His Disciples now fly and forsake him. He is apprehended. A young man that followed him escapes their hands, Mat. 26. from 47. to 57. Mark 14. from 43. to 53. Luke 22. from 47. to 54. John 18. from 2. to 12.

9. He is first brought before Annas, John 18. from 12. to 15.

10. Then before Caiaphas and the Sanbedrim. In the night Caiaphas examines him concerning his Doctrine and Disciples. An Officer of the High Priest strikes him with the palm of his hand. They seek false witnesses to accuse him; at last two came, who agreed not in their Testimony. The High Priest adjures him to

declare whether he were the Christ; he expresly saith he is, and they shall see him sit on the right hand of God, and coming in the Clouds of Heaven. Caiaphas at this rent his Cloaths, and he and the rest of the Bench pronounced him worthy to die as a Blasphemer. Then there were vile abuses put upon him in the High Priests house by the servants and others, by spitting upon him, blindfolding of him, smiting and mocking him, John 18.15, 16, 19. And from 20. to 24. Mat. 26. from 57. to 69. Mark 14. from 53. to 66. Luke 22. verse 54.63, 64, 65.

11. Peter having got into the High Priests Hall there denies him thrice, but upon Jesus's looking upon him, he goes out and be∣wailes it bitterly, Mat. 26. from 69. to the end. Mark 14. from 66. to the end. Luke 22. from 54. to 63. John 18. from 15. to 19. and from 25. to 28.

12. Friday Morning. The Elders and Chief Priests met to∣gether in Council again, and have Jesus brought before them. They ask him again whether he were the Messias, and the Son of God; He tells them he was; hereupon they judge him again a Blasphemer out of his own mouth, and lead him away bound to Pilate, Mat. 27.1, 2. Mark 15.1. Luke 22. from 66. to the end.

13. When they came to Pilates Palace they would not go in, lest they should be defiled. Pilate coming forth to them, they accuse Jesus before him of three things. 1. Of perverting the Na∣tion. 2. Of forbidding to pay Tribute to Caesar. 3. Of saying that himself was Christ a King. Our Saviour makes no reply to these apparently false accusations. Pilate bids them judge him according to their own Law. They reply they had not power to put any man to death. Pilate hereupon examines him himself, and asks him whether he were the King of the Jews? Our Savi∣our answers he was a King, but his Kingdom was not of this World: That he came into the World to bear witness to the truth. Pilate asks what is Truth? yet would not stay for an answer, but bringing Jesus out to the gate where the Jews stood, he professeth he found no fault in him. The Jews at this were more inraged, saying that he stirred up the People through all Jewry, even from Galilee to that place. Pilate hearing that he belonged to Galilee, sends him to Herod who was then in Jerusalem. Our Saviour would not work any Miracle before him, nor so much as vouch∣safe

him a word. Hereupon Herod and his attendants abuse him, and mock him, and array him in a gorgeous Robe, and so send him back to Pilate. Upon this occasion both the Gover∣nors were made friends, Mat. 27. from 11. to 15. Luke 23. from 1. to 13. Mark 15. from 2. to 6. John 18. from 28. to 39.

14. Being brought before Pilate again, he calls the Jews, and tells them that neither he nor Herod found any fault in him, he would therefore (to gratifie them) chastise him and so release him. Then it comes into his mind how he might release him without any chastisement at all. He makes therefore a motion to them to have Christ given them in honour of their Feast, and that they might be the more willing to it, he matched him with Barabbas, but they by the instigation of the Priests chose Barabbas, (though pressed three several times by Pilate to the contrary) and cry out that Jesus should be crucified. When Pilate saw that all this would not do, he orders Jesus to be soundly scourged, supposing that that lesser punishment would have pacified the rage of the Jews. The Soldiers hereupon strip him, scourge him, put a Crown of Thorns upon his Head, smite him and mock him. Pilate now shews him to the people thus cruelly used; they cry out Crucifie him, Crucifie him; for he made himself the Son of God. When Pilate heard that, he was more afraid, not knowing how Divine a Person Christ might be; therefore he examines him again concerning his original and parentage, but our Saviour gave him not a word. Pilate at this is offended, that he would not speak to him, who had such power over him. Christ answers, he could have no power over him, except it were permitted to him of his Father. This so wrought on Pilate that he now seeks more earnestly to release him; but the Jews cried out, if thou lettest this man go, thou art not Caesars friend; By that word he is vanquished. He sits now upon another Tribunal in open view, and has Jesus brought before him. He says to the Jews, behold your King. They scornfully reject him, saying they had no King but Caesar. Whilst he is upon the Bench, his Lady sends to him to have nothing to do with that just man. He calls for water and washes his hands before them, and declares he is innocent of the blood of this just person, and bids them look to it. They cry out, his blood be upon us, and upon our Children. Then he released

Barabbas, and condemned Jesus to be Crucified. Mat. 27. from 15. to 32. Mark 15. from 6. to 21. Luke 23. from 13. to 26. John 18.39. and 40. John 19. from 1. to 17.

15. Judas repenting, brings back the money and casts it in the Temple, and so goes and hangs himself. With the Money a Potters field is bought, as was foretold by the Prophet Zachary, Mat 27. from 3. to 11.

16. They now lead forth our Saviour to Crucifie him; Simon of Cyrene is forced to help him to bear his Cross. Two Thieves are led forth to be Crucified with him. A great many people follow him, and several women, lamenting him, to whom he foretells the misery that should come on them and their Chil∣dren. When they were come to the place of execution, they gave him a bitter portion of wine mingled with Myrrh, which having tasted, he refused to drink. They strip him of his cloaths, and lift him up on the Cross, placing him between two Malefactors. He prayes, Father forgive them, they know not what they do. Pilate caused a superscription to be written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latine, This is Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews. Not long after he was fastned to the Cross, a wonderful prodigious darkness began, and continued till three in the afternoon. The Souldiers divide his Garments, and cast lots for his seamless Coat. They that passed by reviled him. The Chief Priest and Rulers mocked him, saying he saved others, himself he cannot save. The Soldiers also did the same, off••ring him vinegar. One of the Thieves also cast the same in his Teeth, but the other rebukes him for it, and prayes unto Christ to remember him when he came into his Kingdom. His Mother standing by the Cross is commended by him to Jehu's care, about three of the Clock he cries out, Eli, Eli, Lamasabacthani. The Jews scoffingly say, he calls for Elias to help him. He then said he thirsted. They that stood by gave him vinegar, which having tasted, he said it is finished, then crying with a loud voice, he said Father into thy hands I commend my Spirit, and bowing his head he gave up the Ghost. The Centurion seeing these things glorified God, saying, certainly this was a Righteous man, truly this was the Son of God. Imme∣diately upon his death four Prodigious things ensued. 1. The rend∣ing of the Veil of the Temple. 2. An Earthquake. 3. The rending of the Rocks. 4. The graves were opened. The Centurion and

people return to the City much affected. Towards the evening the Jews besought Pilate, that the legs of the Crucified persons might be broken to hasten their death, that so they might be removed, which being granted, the leggs of the two Thieves were broken, but not of Jesus, being already dead, yet a Soldier with a Spear pierced his side, out of which came blood and water, Mat. 27. from 31. to 57. Mark 15. from 20. to 42. Luke 23. from 29. to 50. John 19. from 16. to 38.

17. Joseph of Arimathea begs his body of Pilate, and he and Nicodemus wrap it in fine linnen, with spices, and lay it in Jo∣sephs new Sepulchre, hewn out of a Rock in a Garden. They roll a stone to the door of the Sepulchre. Mary Magdalen and other Religious women observed where his body was laid, and went, and prepared Spices and Oyntments, purposing more ex∣actly to embalm him when the Sabbath was over. The Chief Priest desired Pilate that the Sepulchre may be secured. Here∣upon a Guard is set upon it, and the Stone sealed with the pub∣lick Seal, Mat. 27. from 57. to the end, Mark 15. from 42. to the end. Luke 23. from 50. to the end. John 19. from 38. to the end.

Notes

• Baptism instituted, of which see a parti∣cular Tract at the end.
• This is the First Council at which the Jews determined to put our Saviour to death.
• The great week. Do∣minica Palmarum.
• See §. 1. of the third part of our Saviours life.
• Munday.
• Tuesday.
• See §. 47. of this part
• Wednesday.
• Thursday.
• Of the Lords Supper see a particu∣lar tract at the end.
• Friday.