Explanatory notes upon the New Testament. By John Wesley, M.A. Late Fellow of Lincoln-College, Oxford. ; Volume the first[-third].

NOTES ON THE Gospel according to St. MATTHEW.

THE Gospel (that is, Good Tidings) means a Book containing the Good Tidings of our Salvation by Jesus Christ.

St. Mark in his Gospel presupposes that of St. Matthew, and sup∣plies what is omitted therein. St. Luke supplies what is omitted by both the former: St. John what is omitted by all the three.

St. Matthew particularly points out the fulfilling of the Prophecies for the Conviction of the Jews. St. Mark wrote a short Compendium, and yet added many remarkable Circumstances omitted by St. Matthew, particularly with regard to the Apostles, immediately after they were called. St. Luke treated principally of the Office of Christ, and mostly in an historical Manner. St. John refuted those who denied his God-head: ••••••h chusing to treat more largely on those Things, which most suited the Time when, and the Persons to whom he wrote.

The Gospel according to St. Matthew contains,

• I. The Birth of Christ, and what presently followed it:
  • a. His Genealogy, C.i. 1—17
  • b. His Birth, 18—25
  • c. The Coming of the wise Men, C.ii. 1—12
  • d. His Flight into Egypt and Return, 13—23
• II. The Introduction:
  • a. John the Baptist, C.iii. 1—12
  • b. The Baptism of Christ, 13—17
  • c. His Temptation and Victory, C.iv. 1—11
• III. The Actions and Words by which Jesus proved He was the Christ:
  • a. At Capernaum, 12—16 Where we may observe,
    • 1. His Preaching, 17
    • 2. Calling Andrew, and Peter, James, and John, 18—22
    • 3. Preaching and Healing, with a great Concourse of People, 23—25
    • 4. Sermon on the Mount, C. v.vi. vii.
    • 5. Healing the Lep••r, viii. 1— 4
    • 6. Healing The Centurion's Servant, 5—13
    • 7. Healing Peter's Mother-in-law, 14—15
    • 8. Healing n••••••y that were sick, 16—17
  • b. In his Journ••y; (wherein he admonished two that of∣fered ••o follow Him over the Sea: Here, we may observe,
    • 1. His Dominion over the Winds and Seas, 18—27
    • ...

• ...
  • ...
    • 2. The Devils passing from the Men into the Swine, 28—34
  • c. At Capernaum again. Here, C. ix.
    • 1. He cures the Paralytic, 1-8
    • 2. Calls Matthew, and defends his conversing with Publicans and Sinners, 9-13
    • 3. Answers concerning Fasting, 14—17
    • 4. Raises Jairus' Daughter (after curing the Issue of Blood) 18—26
    • 5. Gives Sight to two blind Men, 27—31
    • 6. Dispossesses the Demoniac, 32— 34
    • 7. Goes thro' the Cities, and directs to pray for La∣bourers, 35—38
    • 8. Sends and instructs Labourers, and preaches Him∣self, C.x. 1. xi. 1.
    • 9. Answers the Message of John, 2— 6
    • 10. Commends John, reproves the unbelieving Cities, invites the Weary, 7—30
    • 11. Defends the Disciples' plucking the Corn, C.xii. 1— 8
    • 12. Heals the withered Hand, 9—13
    • 13. Retires from the Pharisees lying in wait, 14—21
    • 14. Cures the Demoniac, while the People wonder, and the Pharisees blaspheming are refuted, 22—37
    • 15. Reproves them that require a Sign, 38—45
    • 16. Declares who are his Relations, and 46—50
    • 17. Teaches by Parables, C.xiii. 1—52
  • d. At Nazareth: 53—58
  • e. In other Places.
    • 1. Herod having killed John, doubts concerning Jesus. Jesus retiring, is sought for by the People, C.xiv. 1—13
    • 2. He heals the Sick, and feeds five thousand, 14—21
    • 3. His Voyage and Miracles in the Land of Gennesa••••, 22—30
    • 4. Unwashen Hands, C.xv. 1—20
    • 5. The Woman of Canaan, 21—28
    • 6. Many Sick healed, 29—31
    • 7. Four thousand ••ed, 32—38
    • 8. Those who require a Sign reproved, C.xv. 39. xvi. 1— 4
    • 9. The Leaven of the Pharisees, 5—12
• IV. Predictions of his Death and Resurrection:
  • a. The First Prediction.
    • 1. Preparation for it by a Confirmation that He is the Christ, 13—20
    • 2. The Prediction itself, and Reproof of Peter, 21—28
  • b. The Second Prediction.
    • 1. The Tra••••••••guration, and Silence enjoined, C. xvii. 1—13
    • 2. The L••••••se healed 14—21
    • 3. The 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••self, 22—23
    • 4. The Tr•••••••• p••d 24—27
    • 5. Who is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 in Christ Kingdom, C.xviii. 1—20
    • 6. The Day of ••••••••ving ••ur brother, 21—35
  • c. The Third 〈…〉〈…〉.
    • 1. Jesus departs out of Galilee, C.xix. 1— 2
    • ...

• ...
  • ...
    • 2. Of Divorce, and Celibacy, 3—12
    • 3. His Tenderness to little Children, 13—15
    • 4. The rich Man drawing back, and hence 16—22
      • of the Salvation of the Rich, 23—26
      • of the Reward of following Christ, 27—30
      • of the last and the first, C.xx. 1—16
    • 5. The Prediction itself, 17—19
    • 6. The Request of James and John; Humility en∣joined, 20—28
    • 7. The two blind Men cured, 29—34
• V. Transactions at Jerusalem before his Passion:
  • a. Sunday
    • His royal Entry into Jerusalem, C.xxi. 1—11
    • His purging the Temple, 12—17
  • b. Monday,
    • The barren Fig-tree, 18—22
  • c. Tuesday, Transactions, In the Temple:
    • 1. The chief Priests and Elders consuted,
      • By a Question concerning John's Baptism, 23—27
      • By the Parables,
        • of the two Sons, 28—32
        • of the Vineyard: 33—44
    • 2. Seek to lay Hands on Him, 45—46
    • 3 The Parable of the Marriage-feast C.xxii. 1—14
    • 4. He is questioned, concerning paying Tribute, 15—22
      • the Resurrection, 28—33
      • the great Commandment, 34—40
    • 5. Christ's Question concerning David's Lord, 41—46
      • Caution, concerning the Scribes and Pharisees, C.xxiii. 1—12
      • Severe Reproof of them, 13—36
      • and of Jerusalem, 37—39
  • Out of the Temple:
    • 1. His Discourse of the Destruction of Jerusalem, and the End of the World, C.xxiv. 1—51
    • 2. The ten Virgins; the Talents; the last Judgment, C.xxv. 1—46
• VI. H••s Passion and Resurrection,
  • A. H•••• Passion, Death, and Burial, C.xxvi. 1—2
    • a. Wednesday,
      • His Prediction, C.xxvi. 1—2.
      • The Consultation of the chief Priests and Elders, 3—5
      • Judas bargains to betray Him, 6—16
    • b. Thursday,
      • 1. In the Day-time,
        • The Passover prepared, 17—19
      • 2. In the Evening,
        • The Traitor discovered, 20—25
        • The Lord's Supper, 26—29
      • ...

• ...
  • ...
    • ...
      • 3 In the Night,
        • 1. Jesus foretels the Cowardice of the Apostles, 33—35
        • 2. Is in an Agony, 36—46
        • 3. Is apprehended, reproves Peter and the Multi∣tude; is forsaken of all, 47—56
        • 4. Is led to Caiaphas, falsely accused, owns Him∣self the Son of GOD, is condemned, derided, 57—68
        • 5. Peter denies Him and weeps, 69—75
    • c. Friday,
      • 1. The Height of his Passion:
        • In the Morning,
          • 1. Jesus is delivered to Pilate, C.xxvii. 1—2
          • 2. The Death of Judas, 3—10
          • 3. Jesus' Kingdom and Silence, 11—14
          • 4. Pilate, tho' warned by his Wife, condemns Him, 15—26
          • 5. He is mocked and led forth, 27—32
            • The Third Hour,
              • The Vinegar and Gall; the Crucifixion; his Garments divided; the Inscription on the Cross; the two Robbers; Blasphemies; 33—44
              • From the Sixth to the Ninth Hour, The Darkness, his last Agony 45—49
          • 2. His Death, 50
            • The Veil rent, and a great Earthquake, 51—53
            • The Centurion wonders; the Women behold, 54—56
          • 3. His Burial, 57—61
        • d. Saturday,
          • The Sepulchre secured: 62—66
      • B. His Resurrection,
        • 1. Testified to the Women by an Angel, C.xxviii. 1—8
          • By our Lord Himself, 9—10
        • 2. Denied by his Adversaries, 11—15
        • 3. Proved to his Apostles, 16—20

St. MATTHEW.

I.

THE * 1.1 book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham. [ 2] Abra∣ham begat Isaac, and Isaac begat Jacob, and Ja∣cob

begat Judah and his Brethren; [ 3] And Judah be∣gat Pharez and Zarah of Thamar, and Pharez begat Esrom, and Esrom begat Aram; [ 4] And Aram begat Aminadab, and Aminadab begat Naasson, and Naasson begat Salmon; [ 5] And Salmon begat Boaz of Rahab, and Boaz begat bed of Ruth, and Obed begat Jesse; [ 6] And Jesse begat David the king.

[ 7] And David the king begat Solomon, of the wife of Uriah; A••d Solomon begat Rehoboam, and Rehoboam begat Abijah, an•• Abijah begat Asa; [ 8] And Asa begat Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat begat Jehoram, and Jehoram begat Uzziah; [ 9] And Uz∣ziah begat Jotham, and Jotham begat Ahaz, and Ahaz begat Hezekiah; [ 10] and Hezekiah begat Ma∣nasseh, and Manassen begat Amon, and Amon be∣gat

Josiah; [ 11] And Josiah begat Jeconiah and his brethren, about the time they were carried away to Babylon. [ 12] And after they were brought to Ba∣bylon, Jeconiah begat Salathiel, and Salathiel be∣gat Zerubbabel; [ 13] And Zerubbabel begat Abiud, and Abiud begat Eliakim, and Eliakim begat A∣zor; [ 14] And Azor begat Zadok, and Zadok begat Achim, and Achim begat Eliud; [ 15] And Eliud begat Eleazar, and Eleazar begat Matthan, and Matthan begat Jacob; [ 16] And Jacob begat Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

[ 17] So all the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations: and from David to the

carrying away to Babylon are fourteen generations, and from the carrying away to Babylon to Christ are fourteen generations.

[ 18] Now the birth of Christ was on this wise: His mother Mary, being espoused to Joseph, before they came together she was found with child by the Holy Ghost. [ 19] Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and yet not willing to make her a pub∣lic example, purposed to put her away privately. [ 20] But while he was thinking on these things, behold an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take to thee Mary thy wife; for that which is begotten in her is of the Holy Ghost. [ 21] And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus; for he shall save his people from their sins. [ 22] (Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled, which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, [ 23] * 1.2 Behold the virgin shall be with child, and bring forth a Son, and they shall call his name Emma∣nuel,

which is, being interpreted, God with us.) [ 24] Then Joseph, being raised from sleep, did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him, and took unto him his wife: [ 25] But he knew her not, till she had * 1.3 brought forth her Son, the first-born. And and he called his name Jesus.

V. 1. The book of the Generation of Jesus Christ—That is, strictly speaking, the Account of his Birth and Genealogy. This Title there∣fore properly relates to the Verses that immediately follow: But as it sometimes signifies the History of a Person, in that Sense it may be∣long to the whole Book. If there were any Difficulties in this Ge∣nealogy,

or that given by St. Luke, which could not easily be re∣moved, they would rather affect the Jewish Tables, than the Credit of the Evangel••sts: For they act only as Hist••rians setting down these Genealogies, as they stood in those public and allowed Records. Therefore they were to take them as they found them. Nor was it needful they should correct the Mistakes, if there were any. For these Accounts sufficiently answer the End for which they are recited. They unquestionably prove the grand Point ••n View, That Jesus was of the Family from which the promised Seed was to come. And they had more weight with th•• Jews for this Purpose than if Alter∣ations had been made ••y Inspiration itself. For such Alterations would have occasioned endless Disputes between them and the Disci∣ples of our LORD. The son of David, the son of Abraham—He is so called, because to these He was more peculiarly promised; and of these it was often foretold the Messiah should spring.

V. 3. Of Thamar—St. Matthew adds the Names of those Women also, that were remarkable in the Sacred Hi••tory.

V. 4. Naasson—Who was Prince of the Tribe of Judah, when the Israelites entered into Canaan.

V. 5. Obed begat Jesse—The Providence of GOD was peculiarly shewn in this, That Salmon, Boaz, and Obed, must each of them have been near 100 Years old, at the Birth of his Son here re••orded.

V. 6. David the King—Particularly mentioned under this Cha∣racter, because his Throne is given to the Messiah.

V. 8. Jehoram begat Uzziah—Jehoahaz, Joash, and Am••ziah coming between. So that he begat him mediately, as Christ is medi∣ately the Son of David and of Abraham So the Progeny of Heze∣kiah, after many Generations, are called The sons that should issue from him, which he should beget, Isaiah xxxix. 7.

V. 11. Josiah begat Jeconiah— Mediately, Jehoialim coming be∣tween. And his Brethren—That is, his Uncles. The Jews term all Kinsmen Brethren. About the time they were carried away—Which was a little after the Birth of Jeconiah.

V. 16. The husband of Mary—Jesus was generally believed to be the Son of Joseph. It was needful for all who believed this, to know that Joseph was sprung from David. Otherwise they would not allow Jesus to be the Christ. Jesus, who is called Christ—The Name Jesus respects chiefly the Promise of Blessing made to Abraham: The Name Christ, the Promise of the Messiah's Kingdom, which was made to David.

It may be farther observed, That the Word Christ in Greek, and Messiah in Hebrew signify Anointed, and imply the prophetic, priestly, and royal Characters, which were to meet in the Messiah. Among the Jews, Anointing was the Ceremony whereby Prophets, Priests, and Kings, were initiated into those Offices. And if we look into ourselves, we shall find a Want of Christ in all these Respects. We are by Nature at a Distance from GOD, alienated from Him, and incapable of a free Access to Him. Hence we want a Mediator, an Intercessor, in a Word, a Christ, in his priestly Office. This regards our State with Respect to GOD. And with Respect to ourselves, we find a total Darkness, Blindness, Ignorance of GOD, and the Things of GOD. Now here we want Christ in his prophetic Office, to enlighten our Minds and teach us the whole Will of GOD. We find also within us a strange Misrule of Appetites and Passions. For these we want Christ in his royal Character, to reign in our Hearts, and subdue all Things to Himself.

V. 17. So all the generations—Observe, in order to compleat the three Fourteens, David ends the first Fourteen, and begins the second (which reaches to the Captivity) and Jesus ends the third Fourteen.

When we survey such a Series of Generations, it is a natural and obvious Reflection. how like the leaves of a tree ou•• passeth away, and another cometh! Yet the earth still abideth. And with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Goodness

of the LORD, which runs on from Generation to Generation, the common Hope of Parents and Children.

Of those who formerly lived upon Earth, and perhaps made the most conspicuous Figure, how many are there whose Names are pe∣rished with them? How many, of whom only the Names are remain∣ing? Thus are we likewise passing away! And thus shall we shortly be forgotten! Happy are we, if, while we are forgotten by Men, we are remembered by GOD! If our Names, lost on Earth, are at length found written in the Book of Life!

V. 19. A just Man—A strict Observer of the Law: therefore not thinking it right to keep her.

V. 21. Jesus—That is, a Saviour. It is the same Name with Jos••••a (who was a Type of Him) which properly signifies, The Lord, Salvation. His people—Israel. And all the Israel of GOD.

V. 23. They shall call his name Emmanuel—To be called, only means, according to the Hebrew Manner of speaking, That the Person spoken of shall really and effectually be what he is called, and actually fulfil that Title. Thus, Unto us a child is born—and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty GOD, the Prince of peace—that is, He shall be all these, tho' not so much nominally, as really, and in effect. And thus was he called Emmanuel: which was no common Name of Christ, but points out his Nature and Office: As He is GOD incarnate, and dwells by his Spirit, in the Heart, of his People.

It is observable, the Words in Isaiah are, Thou (namely his Mo∣ther) shal••••••••l; but here, They—that is, all his People, shall call—

shall acknowledge him to be Emmanuel, GOD with us. Which being interpreted—This is a clear Proof, that St. Matthew wrote his Gos∣pel in Greek, and not in Hebrew.

V. 25 He knew her not, till after she baa brought forth—It can∣not be inferred from hence, that he knew her afterward: No more than it can be inferred from that Expression (2 Sam. vi. 23.) Michal had no Child till the day of her Death, that she had Children afterward. Nor do the Words that follow, the first-born Son, alter the Case. For there are Abundance of Places, wherein the Term first-born is used, tho' there were no subsequent Children.

II.

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of Herod the king, behold wise men came from the East to Jerusalem, saying, [ 2] Where is he that is born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and are come to do him homage. [ 3] When Herod the king had heard these things, he was

troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. [ 4] And having assembled all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them, Where the Christ was to be born? [ 5] And they said to him, in Bethle∣hem of Judea; for thus it is written by the pro∣phet, [ 6] * 1.4 And thou, Bethlehem in the land of Judah; art in no wise the least among the princes of Judah; for out of thee shall come forth a Governor, who shall rule my people Israel. [ 7] Then Herod, having privately called the wise men, inquired of them with great exactness, at what time the star ap∣peared: [ 8] And sending them to Bethlehem, he said, Go, inquire exactly concerning the young child, and if ye find him, bring me word again, that I also may come and do him homage. [ 9] And having heard the king, they departed; and lo the star which they had seen in the East, moved on before them, till it came and stood over where.the young child was. [ 10] And seeing the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. [ 11] And being come into the

house, they saw the young child, with Mary his mother; and falling down, they did him homage. And opening their treasures, they presented to him gifts, gold, frankincense, and myrrh. [ 12] And hav∣ing been warned of God in a dream, not to return to Herod, they retired into their own country ano∣ther way.

[ 13] And when they had retired, behold an angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his Mother, and flee into Egypt, and continue there till I shall tell thee; for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. [ 14] And he arose, and took the young child and his mother by night, and retired into Egypt, And continued there till the death of He∣rod; [ 15] that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, * 1.5 Out of E∣gypt have I called my son. [ 16] Then Herod, seeing he was deluded by the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sending forth, slew all the male chil∣dren that were in Bethlehem, and in all the confines thereof, from two years old and under; according to the time which he had exactly inquired of the wise men. [ 17] Then was fulfilled that which was

spoken by Jeremiah the prophet, saying, [ 18] * 1.6 In Ra∣ma was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not. [ 19] But when Herod was dead, behold an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Jo∣seph in Egypt, saying, [ 20] Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Is∣rael; for they are dead who sought the young child's life. [ 21] And he arose and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. [ 22] But having heard, Archelaus reigneth over Judea, in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither, and being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the region of Galilee. [ 23] And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.

V. 1. Bethlehem of Judea—There was another Bethlehem in the Tribe of Z••bulon. In the days of Herod—Commonly called Herod the great, born at Asealon. The Sceptre was now on the Point of depart∣ing from Judah. Among his Sons were Ar••helaus, mentioned ver. 22. Herod Antipes mentioned ch. xiv. and Philip, mentioned Luke iii. Herod Agrippa, mentioned Acts xii. was his Grandson. Wise men— The first Fruits of the Gentiles: Probably they were Gentile Philoso∣phers, who, thro' the divine Assistance, had improved their Know∣ledge of Nature, as a Means of leading to the Knowledge of the One, true GOD. Nor is it unreasonable to suppose, that GOD had favoured them with some extraordinary Revelations of himself, as He did Mel∣••••isedec, Job, and several others, who were not of the Family of Abra∣ham; to which he never intended absolutely to confine his Favours. The Title given them in the Original, was anciently given to all Phi∣losophers, or Men of Learning; those particularly who were curious in examining the Works of Nature, and observing the Motions of the heavenly Bodies.

From the East—So Arabia is frequently called in Scripture. It lay to the East of Judea, and was famous for Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh. We have seen his star—Undoubtedly they had before heard Bal••••am's Prophecy. And probably when they saw this unusual Star, it was revealed to them that this Prophecy was fulsilled. In the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 —That is, while we were in the East.

V. 2. To do him homage—To pay him that Honour, by bowing to the Earth before him, which the Eastern Nations used to pay to their Mo••archs.

V. 4. The chief Priests—That is, not only the High-priest and his Deputy, with those who formerly had borne that Office; but also the chief Man in each of those twenty-four Courses, into which the Body of Priests were divided, 1 Chron. xxiv. 10. The s••ribes were those whose peculiar Business it was, to explain the Scriptures to the Peo∣ple. They were the public Preachers, or Expounders of the Law of Moses: Whence the chief of them were called Doctors of the Law.

V. 6. Thou art in no wise the least among the princes of Judah—That is, among the Cities belonging to the princes or Heads of Thousands in Judah. When this and several other Quotations from the Old Testament are compared with the Original, it plainly appears, the Apostles did not always think it necessary, exactly to transcribe the Passages they cited, but contented themselves with giving the general Sense, tho' with some Diversity of Language. The Words of Micah which we render, Tho' thou be little, may be rendered, Art thou little? And then the Difference which seems to be here between the Pro∣phet and the Evangelist vanishes away.

V. 8. And if ye find him, bring me word—Probably, Herod did not believe He was born: Otherwise would not so suspicious a Prince have tried to make sure Work at once?

V. 10. Seeing the star—standing over where the Child was.

V. 11. They presented to him gifts—It was customary to offer some Present, to any eminent Person whom they visited. And so it is, as Travellers observe, in the Eastern Countries to this Day. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh—Probably these were the best Things their Country afforded; and the Presents ordinarily made to great Persons.

This was a most seasonable providential Assistance, for a long and expensive Journey into Egypt, a Country where they were entirely Strangers, and were to stay for a considerable Time.

V. 15. That it might be fulfilled—that is, whereby was fulfilled. The original Word frequently signifies, not the Design of an Action, but barely the Consequence or Event of it. Which was spoken of the Lord by the Prophet—on another Occasion: Out of Egypt have I called my Son—which was now fulfilled as it were anew; Christ being in a far higher Sense the Son of GOD, than Israel, of whom the Words were originally spoken.

V. 16. Then Herod, seeing that he was deluded by the wise men—So did his Pride teach him to regard this Action, as if it were intended to expose him to the Derision of his Subjects. Sending forth—A Party of Soldiers: In all the confines thereof—In all the neighbouring Places, of which Rama was one.

V. 17. Then was fulfilled—A Passage of Scripture, whether pro∣phetic, historical or poetical, is in the Language of the New Testa∣ment fulfilled, when an Event happens to which it may with great Propriety be accommodated.

V. 18. Rachel weeping for her children—The Benjamites, who in∣habited Rama, sprung from her. She was buried 〈◊〉〈◊〉 this Place; and is here beautifully represented, risen, as it 〈◊〉〈◊〉 out of her Grave, and bewailing her lost Children. Because they are not—that is, are dead. The Preservation of Jesus from this Destruction, may be considered as a Figure of GOD'S Care over his Children in their greatest Danger. GOD does not often, as He casily could, cut off their Persecutors at a Stroke: But He provides a Hiding-place for his People, and by Methods not less effectual, tho' less pompous, preserves them from being swept away, even when the Enemy comes in like a Flood.

V. 22. He was afraid to go thither—into Judea; and so turned aside into the region of Galilee—a Part of the Land of Israel not under the Jurisdiction of Ar••helaus.

V. 23. He came and dwelt in Nazareth—(where he had dwelt be∣fore he went to Bethlehem) a Place contemptible to a Proverb. So that hereby was fulfilled what had been spoken in effect, by several of the Prophets (tho' by none of them in express Words) He shall be cal∣led a Nazarene—that is, He shall be despised and rejected, shall be a Mark of public Contempt and Reproach.

III.

† 1.7 In those days cometh John the Baptist, preach∣ing

in the wilderness of Judea, [ 2] And saying, Re∣pent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. [ 3] For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, saying, * 1.8 The Voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. [ 4] And this John had his raiment of camels' hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his food was locusts and wild honey.

[ 5] Then went out to him Jerusalem and all Judea. and all the region round about Jordan, [ 6] And were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins.

[ 7] But seeing many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, Ye brood of vipers, who hath shewed you to flee from the wrath to come? [ 8] Bring forth therefore fruit worthy of repentance: [ 9] And say not confidently within yourselves, We have Abraham to our Father; for I say unto you, God is able of these stones to raise up children to Abraham. [ 10] But the ax also already

lieth at the root of the trees; therefore every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit, is hewn down and cast into the fire. [ 11] I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I; whose shoes I am not wor∣thy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with Fire: [ 12] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly cleanse his floor, and gather the wheat into the garner, but will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

[ 13] * 1.9 Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan up∣to John, to be baptized by him. [ 14] But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? [ 15] And Jesus answering said to him, Suffer it now; for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. [ 16] And Jesus being baptized, went up straightway from the water, and lo the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like

a dove, and coming upon him. [ 17] And lo a voice out of the heavens, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I delight.

V. 1. In those days—that is, while Jesus dwelt there. In the wil∣derness of Judea—This was a Wilderness properly so called, a wild, barren, desolate Place, as was that also where our LORD wa•• tempt∣ed. But generally speaking, a Wilderness in the New Testament, means only a Common, or less cultivated Place, in Opposition to Pasture and Arable Land.

V. 2. The kingdom of heaven, and the kingdom of GOD, are but two Phrases for the same Thing. They mean, not barely a future hap∣py State in Heaven, but a State to be enjoyed on Earth: The proper Disposition for the Glory of Heaven, rather than the Possession of it. Is at band—As if he had said, GOD is about to erect that Kingdom, spoken of by Daniel (C. ii. 44. and vii. 13, 14.) the Kingdom of the GOD of Heaven. It properly signifies here, The Gospel Dispen∣sation, in which Subjects were to be gathered to GOD by his Son, and a Society to be formed, which was to subsist first on Earth, and afterwards with GOD in Glory. In some Places of Scripture, the Phrase more particularly denotes the State of it on Earth: In others, it signifies only the State of Glory: But it generally includes both. The Jews understood it of a temporal Kingdom, the Seat of which they supposed would be Jerusalem; and the expected Sovereign of this Kingdom, they learned from Daniel to call the Son of Man.

Both John the Baptist and Christ, took up that Phrase, the Kingdom of Heaven, as they found it, and gradually taught the Jews (tho' greatly unwilling to learn) to understand it right. The very Demand of Repentance, as previous to it, shewed it was a spiritual Kingdom, and that no wicked Man, how politic, brave, or learned soever, could possibly be a Subject of it.

V. 3. The way of the Lord—Of Christ. Make his paths straight— By removing every thing which might prove an Hinde ance to his gra∣cious Appearance.

V. 4. John had his raiment of camels' hair—Coarse and rough, suiting his Character and Doctrine. A leathern girdle—Like El••jah, in whose Spirit and Power he came. His food was locusts and wild honey— Locusts are ranked among clean Meats, Lev. xi. 22. But these were not always to be had. So in Default of those, he fed on wild Honey.

V. 6. Confessing their sins—Of their own Accord; freely and openly.

Such prodigious Numbers could hardly be baptized by immerging their whole Bodies under Water: Nor can we think they were pro∣vided with Change of Raiment for it, which was scarce practicable for such vast Multitudes. And yet they could not be immerged naked with Modesty, nor in their wearing Apparel with Safety. It seems therefore, that they stood in Ranks on the Edge of the River, and

that John passing along before them, cast Water on their Heads or Faces, by which Means he might baptize many Thousands in a Day. And this Way most naturally signified Christ's baptizing them with the Holy Ghost and with Fire, which John spoke of, as prefigured by his baptizing with Water, and which was eminently fulfilled, when the Holy Ghost sat upon the Disciples in the Appearance of Tongues, or Flames of Fire.

V. 7. The Pharisees were a very ancient Sect among the Jews. They took their Name from an Hebrew Word, which signifies to separate, because they separated themselves from all other Men. They were outwardly strict Observers of the Law, fasted often, made long Prayers, rigorously kept the Sabbath, and paid all Tithe, even of Mint, Anise, and Cummin. Hence they were in high Esteem among the People. But inwardly, they were full of Pride and Hypocrisy.

The Sadducees were another Sect among the Jews, only not so considerable as the Pharisees. They denied the Existence of Angels, and the Immortality of the Soul, and by Consequence the Resurrec∣tion of the Dead. Ye brood of vipers—In like Manner, the crafty Herod is stiled a Fox, and Persons of insidious, ravenous, profane, or sensual Dispositions, are named respectively by Him who saw their Hearts, Serpents, dogs, wolves, and swine. Terms, which are not the random Language of Passion, but a judicious Designation of the Persons meant by them. For it was fitting such Men should be mark∣ed out, either for a Caution to others, or a Warning to themselves.

V. 8. Repentance is of two Sorts; that which is termed legal, and that which is stiled evangelicat Repentance. The former (which is the same that is spoken of here) is, A thorough Conviction of Sin. The latter is, A Change of Heart (and consequently of Life) from all Sin to all Holiness.

V. 9. And say not confidently—The Word in the Original, vulgarly rendered, Think not, seems here, and in many Places, not to diminish, but rather add to the Force of the Word with which it is joined. We have Abraham to our Father—It is almost incredible, how great the Pre∣sumption of the Jews was, on this their Relation to Abraham. One of their famous Sayings was,

Abraham sits near the Gates of Hell, and suffers no Israelite to go down into it

I say unto you—This Preface always denotes the Importance of what follows. Of these stones—Probably pointing to those which lay before them.

V. 10. But the ax also already lieth—That is, There is no Room for such idle Pretences. Speedy Execution is determined against all

that do not repent. The Comparison seems to be taken from a Wood∣man that has laid down his Ax, to put off his Coat, and then immediate∣ly goes to work to cut down the Tree. This refers to the wrath to come in the 7th Verse. Is b••wn down—Instantly, without farther Delay.

V. 11. He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire—He shall f••ll you with the Holy Ghost, inflaming your Hearts with that Fire of Love, which many Waters cannot quench. And this was done, ••ven with a visi••le Appearance as of Fire, on the Day of Pentecost.

V. 12. Whose fan—That is, the Word of the Gospel. His floor— That is, his Church, which is now covered with a Mixture of Wheat and Chaff He will gather the wheat into the garner—Will lay up those who are truly good, in Heaven.

V. 15. It becometh us to fulfil all righteousness—It becometh every Messenger of GOD, to observe all his righteous Ordinances. But the particular Meaning of our LORD seems to be, That it becometh us to do (me to receive Baptism, and you to administer it) in order to fulfil, that is, that I may fully perform every Part of the righteous Law of GOD, and the Commission He hath given me.

V. 16. And Jesus being baptized—Let our LORD's submitting to Baptism, teach us an holy Exactness, in the Observance of those In∣stitutions which owe their Obligation merely to a Divine Command. Surely thus it becometh all his Followers to fulfil all Righteousness.

Jesus had no Sin to wash away. And yet He was baptized. And GOD owned his Ordinance, so as to make it the Season of pouring forth the Holy Spirit upon Him. And where can we expect this sacred Effusion, but in an humble Attendance on Divine Appoint∣ments?

Lo the heavens were opened, and he saw the spirit of GOD— St Luke adds, in a bodily form—Probably in a glorious Appearance of Fire, perhap•• in the Shape of a Dove, descending with a hovering Motion, till it rested upon him. This was a visible Token of those secret Operations of the Blessed Spirit, by which he was anointed in a peculiar Manner; and abundantly fitted for his public Work.

V. 17. And lo a voice—We have here a glorious Manifestation of the ever blessed Trinity: The Father speaking from Heaven, the Son spoken to, the Holy Ghost descending upon Him. In whom I delight—What an Encomium is this! How poor to this are all other Kinds of Praise! To be the Pleasure, the Delight of GOD, this is Praise indeed: This is true Glory: This is the highest, the brightest Light, that Virtue can appear in.

IV.

Then * 1.10 was Jesus led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. [ 2] And having fasted forty days and forty nights, he was after∣wards hungry. [ 3] And the tempter coming to him, said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. [ 4] But he answering said, It is written, † 1.11 Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth God. [ 5] Then the devil taketh him with him into the holy city, and setteth him on the battlement

of the temple, [ 6] And saith to him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down; for it is written, * 1.12 He shall charge his Angels concerning thee, and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. [ 7] Jesus said to him, it is written again, † 1.13 ••hou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. [ 8] Again the devil taketh him with him to an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them, [ 9] And saith to him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and wor∣ship me. [ 10] Then Jesus saith to him, Get thee hence, Satan; for it is written, ‡ 1.14 Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. [ 11] Then the devil leaveth him, and behold angels came and waited upon him.

[ 12] ‖ 1.15 But when he heard, that John was cast into prison, he retired into Galilee. [ 13] And leaving Na∣zareth, he came and dwelt at Capernaum, which is on the sea coast, in the borders of Zebulon and Naphthali: [ 14] That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, § 1.16 [ 15] The land

of Zebulon and the land of Naphthali, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles. [ 16] The people who walked in darkness saw a great light, and to them who sat in the region of the shadow of death, light is sprung up.

[ 17] From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. [ 18] † 1.17 And walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw two Brethren, Simon called Peter and Andrew his bro∣ther, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishers. [ 19] And he saith to them, Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men. [ 20] And straightway leaving the nets they followed him. [ 21] And going on from thence, he saw two other brethren, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the vessel with Zebedee their father mending their nets; and he called them. [ 22] And leaving the vessel and their father, they immediately followed him.

[ 23] And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of disease and all manner of malady among the people. [ 24] And his fame went thro' all Syria; and they brought to him all sick people, that were held with divers

diseases and tormenting pains; and demoniacs, and lunatics, and paralytics; and he healed them. [ 25] And there followed him, great multitudes from Galilee, and Decapolis, and Jerusalem, and Ju∣dea, and from beyond Jordan.

V. 1. Then—After this glorious Evidence of his Father's Love, He was compleatly armed for the Combat. Thus after the clearest Light and the strongest Consolation, let us expect the sharpest Temptations. By the spirit—Probably thro' a strong inward Impulse.

V. 2. Having fasted—Whereby doubtless He received more abun∣dant spiritual Strength from GOD. Forty days and forty nights—As did Moses, the Giver of the Law, and Elijah, the great Restorer of it. He was afterwards hungry—And so prepared for the first Temptation.

V. 3. Coming to him—In a visible Form; probably in a human Shape, as one that desired to inquire farther into the Evidences of his being the M••ssiah.

V. 4. It is written—Thus Christ answered, and thus we may an∣swer all the Suggestions of the Devil. By every word that proceed••th out of the mouth of GOD—That is, by whatever GOD commands to sustain him. Therefore it is not needful I should work a Miracle to procure Bread, without any Intimation of my Father's Will.

V. 5. The holy city—So Jerusalem was commonly called, being the Place GOD had peculiarly chosen for Himself. On the battlement of the temple—Probably over the King's Gallery, which was of such a pro∣digious Height, that no one could look down from the Top of it, without making himself giddy.

V. 6. In their hands—That is, with great Care.

V. 7. Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God—By requiring farther Evidence, of what he ha••h already made sufficiently plain.

V. 8. Sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world—In a Kind of visi∣onary Representation.

V. 9. If thou wilt fall down and worship me—Here Satan clearly shews who he was. Accordingly Christ answering this Suggestion, calls him by his own Name, which he had not done before.

V. 10. Get thee hence, Satan—Not, get thee behind me, that is, into thy proper Place; as He said on a quite different Occasion to Peter, speaking what was not expedient.

V. 11. Angels came and wait••d upon him—Both to supply him with Food, and to congratulate his Victory.

V. 12. He retired into Galilee—This Journey was not immediately after his Temptation. He first went from Judea into Galilee, J••hn i. 43. ch. ii. 1. Then into Judea again, and celebrated the Passover at Jerusalem, John ii. 13. He bapti••ed in Judea while John was bap∣tizing at Enon, John iii. 22, 23. All this Time John was at Liberty, ver. 24. But the Pharisees being offended, ch••iv. ver. 1. and John put in Prison, He then took this Journey into Calilee.

V. 13. Leaving Nazareth—Namely, when they had wholly reject∣ed his Word, and even attempted to kill him, Luke iv. 29.

V. 15. Galilee of the Gentiles—That Part of Galilee which lay be∣yond Jordan was so called, because it was in great Measure inhabited by Gentiles, that is, Heathens.

V. 16. Here is a beautiful Gradation, first, they walked, then they sat in darkness and lastly, in the region of the shadow of death.

V. 17. From that time Jesus began to pre••ch—He had preached be∣fore both to Jews and Samaritans, John iv. 41, 45. But from this Time began his solemn, stated Preaching. Repen•• for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.—Although it is the peculiar Business of Christ, to establish the Kingdom of Heaven in the Hearts of Men, yet it is observable, He begins his Preaching in the same Words with John the Baptist: Because the Repentance which John taught, still was, and ever will be the necessary Preparation for that inward Kingdom. But that Phrase is not only used with regard to Individuals, in whom it is to be established, but also with regard to the Christian Church, the whole Body of Believers. In the former Sense it is opposed to Repentance; in the latter, to the Mosaic Dispensation.

V. 23. The gospel of the kingdom—The Gospel, that is, the j••yous Message, is the proper Name of our Religion: As will be amply ve∣rified in all who earnestly and perseveringly embrace it.

V. 24. Through all Syria—The whole Province of which the Jewish Country was only a small Part. And demoniacs—Men possest with Devils; and lunatics, and paralytics—Men ill of the ••••••sy, whose Cases were, of all others, most deplorable and most helpless.

V. 25. Decapolis—A Tract of Land on the East-side of the Sea of Galil••e. in which were ten Cities near each other.

V.

And seeing the Multitudes, he went up into the Mountain; and when he was sat down his Dis∣ciples came to him. [ 2] And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying, [ 3] * 1.18 Happy are the poor in

spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. [ 4] Hap∣py are they that mourn; for they shall be comfort∣ed. [ 5] Happy are the meek; for they shall inherit the earth. [ 6] Happy are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be satisfied. [ 7] Happy are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. [ 8] Happy are the pure in heart; for they shall see God. [ 9] Happy are the peace-makers; for they shall be called the children of God. [ 10] Happy are they who are persecuted for righteousness sake; for

theirs is the kingdom of heaven. [ 11] Happy are ye when men shall revile and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake. [ 12] Rejoice and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in heaven; for so persecuted they the pro∣phets who were before you.

[ 13] ‖ 1.19 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost its savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and to be trodden under foot of men. [ 14] Ye are the light of the World. [ 15] A City that is situated on a mountain cannot be hid. § 1.20 Neither do they light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light to all that are in the house. [ 16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

[ 17] Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy but to fulfil. [ 18] ‡ 1.21 For I verily say unto you, Till heaven

and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all things be effected. [ 19] Whosoever therefore shall break one of the least of these commandments, and teach men so, shall be the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, he shall be great in the kingdom of heaven. [ 20] For I say unto you, That unless your righteousness shall exceed the righteous∣ness of the scribes and pharisees, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven. [ 21] Ye have heard, that is was said to them of old, † 1.22 Thou shalt do no murder, and whosoever shall do murder, shall be liable to the judgment. [ 22] But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother, shall be liable to the judgment; and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be liable to the council; but whosoever shall say, Thou fool,

shall be liable to hell-fire. [ 23] Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and shalt there remember, that thy brother hath ought against thee, [ 24] Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go, first be re∣conciled to thy Brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [ 25] * 1.23 Agree with thine adversary quickly, while thou art in the way with him, lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. [ 26] Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt in no wise come out thence, till thou hast paid the last farthing.

[ 27] Ye have heard, that it was said, ‖ 1.24 Thou shalt not commit adultery. [ 28] But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh upon a woman to lust after her,

hath already committed adultery with her in his heart. [ 29] § 1.25 But if thy right eye cause thee to offend, pluck it out, and cast it from thee; for it is pro∣fitable for thee that one of thy members should pe∣rish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. [ 30] And if thy right hand cause thee to of∣fend, cut it off and cast it from thee; for it is pro∣fitable for thee that one of thy members should pe∣rish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

[ 31] It hath been said, † 1.26 Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorce. [ 32] But I say unto you, whosoever shall put away his wife, save for the cause of whoredom, causeth her to commit adu••tery: and whosoever shall marry her that is put away, committeth adultery.

[ 33] Again, ye have heard that it was said to them of old, † 1.27 Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt persorm thine oaths unto the Lord. [ 34] But I say unto you, Swear not at all, neither by heaven, for it is God's throne: [ 35] Nor by the earth, for it is his footstool: Neither by Jerusalem, for it is the City of the great King. [ 36] Neither shalt thou swear by thy head; for thou canst not make one hair white

or black. [ 37] But let your conversation be yea, yea; nay, nay; for whatsoever is more than these, is of the evil one.

[ 38] Ye have heard that it hath been said, * 1.28 An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. [ 39] But I say unto you, that ye resist not the evil Man: but who∣soever shall smite thee on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; [ 40] And if a man will sue thee and and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloak also. [ 41] And whosoever shall compel thee to go with him one mile, go with him twain. [ 42] ‖ 1.29 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would bor∣row of thee, turn not away.

[ 43] Ye have heard, that it hath been said, § 1.30 Thou shalt love thine neighbour, and hate thine Enemy.

[ 44] But I say unto you, † 1.31 Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you and persecute you: [ 45] That ye may be the children of your Father, who is in heaven; for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and the unjust. [ 46] For if ye love them that love you, what reward have ye? Do not even the publicans the same? [ 47] And if ye salute your friends only, what do ye more than others? Do not even the heathens so? [ 48] Therefore ye shall be perfect, as your Father who is in heaven is perfect.

V. 1. And seeing the multitudes—At some Distance, as they were coming to him from every Quarter. He went up into the mountain— Which was near: Where there was room for them all. His Disciples— Not only his twelve Disciples, but all who desired to learn of Him.

V. 2. And he opened his mouth—A Phrase which always denotes a set and solemn Discourse; and taught them—To bless Men, to make Men happy, was the great Business, for which our LORD came into the World And accordingly He here pronounces eight Blessings to∣gether, annexing them to so many Steps in Christianity. Knowing that Happiness is our common Aim, and that an innate instinct con∣tinually urges us to the Pursuit of it, he in the kindest Manner applies to that Instinct, and directs it to its proper Object.

Tho' all Men desire•• yet few attain Happiness, because they seek it where it is not to be found. Our LORD therefore begins his Di∣vine Institution which is the compleat Art of Happiness, by laying down before all that have Ears to hear, the true and only true Me∣thod of acquiring it.

Observe the benevolent Condescension of our LORD. He seems, as it were, to lay aside his supreme Authority as our Legislator, that He may the better act the Part of our Friend and Saviour. Instead of using the lofty Stile, in positive Commands, He in a more gentle and engaging Way, insinuates his Will and our Duty, by pronouncing those happy who comply with it.

V. 3. Happy are the poor—In the following Discourse there is, 1. A sweet Invitation to true Holiness and Happiness, ver. 3—12: 2. A Persuasive to impart it to others, ver. 13—16: 3. A Description of true. Christian Holiness, ver. 17—ch. vii 12: (in which it is easy to observe, the latter Part exactly answers the former:) 4. The Conclusion: Giving a sure Mark of the true Way, Warning against false Prophets. Exhorting to follow after Holiness. The poor in sp••rit—They who are unfeignedly penitent, they who are truly convinced of Sin; who see and feel the State they are in by Nature, being deeply sensible of their Sinfulness. Guiltiness Helplessness. For theirs is the kingdom of heaven—The present inward Kingdom: Righteous∣ness and Peace, and Joy in the Holy Ghost, as well as the eternal Kingdom if they endure to the End.

V. 4. They that mourn—Either for their own Sins, or for other Men's, and are steadily and habitually serious. They shall be comforted— More solidly and deeply even in this World, and eternally, in Heaven.

V. 5. Happy are the meek—They that hold all their Passions and Affections evenly balanced. They shall inherit the earth—They shall have all Things really n••cessary for Life and Godliness. They shall enjoy whatever Portion GOD hath given them here, and shall here∣after possess the New Earth, wherein dwelleth Righteousness.

V. 6. They that hunger and thirst after righteousness—After the Ho∣liness here described. They shall be satisfied with it

V. 7. The merciful—The tender-hearted: They who love all Men as themselves: They shall obtain mercy—Whatever Merey therefore we desire from GOD, the same let us sh••w to our Brethren. He will repay us a thousand sold, the Love we bear to any for his Sake.

V. 8. The pure in heart—The Sanctified: They who love GOD with all their Hearts. They shall see God—In all Things here; here∣after in Glory.

V. 9. The peace-makers—They that out of Love to GOD and Man do all possible good to all Men. Pe••e in the Scripture Sense implies all Blessings, temporal and eternal. They shall be called the children of God—Shall be acknowledged such by GOD and Men. One would imagine a Person of this amiable Temper and Behaviour would be the Darling of Mankind. But our LORD well knew it would not be so, as long as Satan was the Prince of this World. He therefore warns them before of the Treatment all were to expect, who were deter∣mined thus to tread in his Steps, by imat••diately subjoining, Happy are they who are persecu••ed for righteousness sake.

Thro' this whole Discourse, we cannot but observe, the most exact Method which can possibly be conceived Every Paragraph, every Sentence is closely connected both with that which precedes and that which follows it. And is not this the Pattern for every Christian Preacher? If any then are able to follow it, without any Premedita∣tion, well: If not, let them not dare to preach without it. No Rhapsody, no Incoherency, whether the Things spoken be true or false, comes of the Spirit of Christ

V. 10. For righteousness sake—That is, because they have, or follow after the Righteousness here described. He that is truly a righteous Man, he that mourns, and he that is pure in heart, yea, all that will

live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution, 2 Tim. iii. 12. The World will always say, Away with such Fellows from the Earth. They are made to reprove our thoughts. They are gri••vous to us even to behold. Their lives are not like other mens' their ways are of another fashion, Wisd. ii. 14, 15.

V. 11. Revile—When present: Say all evil—When you are absent.

V. 12. Your reward—Even over and above the Happiness that natu∣rally and directly results from Holiness.

V. 13. Ye—Not the Apostles, not Ministers only; but all ye who are thus holy, are the salt of the earth—Are to season others.

V. 14. Ye are the light of the world—If ye are thus holy, you can no more be hid than the Sun in the Firmament: No more than a city or a mountain—Probably pointing to that on the Brow of the op∣posite Hill.

V. 15. Nay, the very Design of GOD in giving you this Light, was t••at it might shine.

V. 16. That they may see—and glorify—That is, That seeing your good Works, they may be moved to love and serve GOD likewise.

V. 17. Think not—Do not imagine, fear, hope, that I am come— Like your Teachers, to destroy the law or the prophets. I am not come to destroy—The Moral Law, but to fulfil—To establish, illustrate, and explain its highest Meaning, both by my Life and Doctrine.

V. 18. Till all things shall be effected—Which it either requires or foretels. For the Law has its Effect, when the Rewards are given,

and the Punishments annexed to it inflicted, as well as when its Pre∣cepts are obeyed.

V. 19. One of the least—So accounted by Men: And shall teach —Either by Word or Example; shall be the least—That is, shall have no Part therein.

V. 20 The righteousness of the scribes and pharisees—Described in the Sequel of this Discourse.

V. 21. Ye have heard—From the Scribes, reciting the Law; Thou shalt do no murder—And they interpreted this, as all the other Com∣mandments, barely of the outward Act. The judgment—The Jews had in every City a Court of twenty-three Men, who could sentence a Criminal to be strangled. But the Sanhedrim only (the great Coun∣cil which sat at Jerusalem, consisting of seventy-two Men) could sen∣tence to the more terrible Death of Stoning. That was called the Judgement, This the Council.

V. 22. But I say unto you—Which of the Prophets ever spake thus! Their Language is, Thus saith the LORD. Who hath Au∣thority to use this Language, but the one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy? Whosoever is angry with his brother—Some Copies add. Without a cause: But this is utterly foreign to the whole Scope and Tenor of our LORD's Discourse. If he had only forbidden, the being angry without a Cause, there was no manner of need of that so∣lemn Declaration, I say unto you; for the Scribes and Pharisees them∣selves said as much as this. Even they taught, Men ought not to be angry without a Cause. So that this Righteousness does not exceed theirs. But Christ teaches, That we ought not for any cause to be so angry, as to call any Man Raca, or Fool. We ought not for any Cause to be angry at the Person of the Sinner, but at his Sin only. Happy World! Were this plain and necessary Distinction thoroughly

understood, remembered, practised. Raca means, a silly Man, a Trifler. Whosoever shall say, thou fool—Shall revile or seriously re∣proach any Man. Our LORD specified three Degrees of Murder, each liable to a sorer Punishment than the other: Not indeed from Men, but from GOD. Hell-fire—In the Valley of Hinnom (whence the Word in the Original is taken) the children were used to be burnt alive to Molocb. It was afterwards made a Receptacle for the Filth of the City, where continual Fires were kept to consume it. And it is probable, if any Criminals were burnt alive, it was in this accursed and horrible Place. Therefore both as to its former and lat∣ter State, it was a fit Emblem of Hell. It must here signify a De∣gree of future Punishment, as much more dreadful than those in∣curred in the two former Cases, as Burning alive is more dreadful than either Strangling or Stoning.

V. 23. Thy brother hath ought against thee—On any of the preceding Accounts: For any unkind Thought or Word; any that did not spring from Love.

V. 24. Leaving thy gift, go—For neither thy Gift nor thy Prayer will atone for thy Want of Love: But this will make them both an Abomination before GOD.

V. 25. Agree with thine adversary—With any against whom thou hast thus offended; while thou art in the way—Instantly, on the Spot; before you part. Lest the adversary deliver thee to the judge—Lest he commit his Cause to GOD. Till thou hast paid the last Farthing— That is, for ever, since thou canst never do this.

What has been hitherto said refers to Meekness: What follows, to Purity of Heart.

V. 27 Thou shalt not commit adultery—And this, as well as the sixth Commandment, the Scribes and Pharisees interpreted barely of the outward Act.

V. 29, 30. If a Person as dear as a Right-eye, or as useful as a Right-hund, cause thee thus to offend, tho' but in Heart.

Perhaps here may be an Instance of a kind of Transposition, which is frequently found in the sacred Writings: So that the 29th Verse may refer to 27, 28; and the 30th to Ver. 21, 22. As if He had said, Part with any thing, however dear to you, or otherwise useful, if you cannot avoid Sin while you keep it. Even cut off your Right-hand, if you are of so passionate a Temper, that you cannot otherwise be restrained from hurting your Brother. Pull out your Eyes, if you can no otherwise be restrained from lusting after Women.

V. 31. Let him give her a writing of divorce—Which the Scribes and Phatisees allowed Men to do, on any trifling Occasion.

V. 32. Causeth her to commit adultery—If she marry again.

V. 33. Our LORD here refers to the Promise made to the pure in heart, of seeing GOD in all things, and points out a false Doctrine of the Scribes, which arose from their not thus seeing GOD.

What he forbids is, The Swearing at all,

• 1. By any creature,
• 2. In our ordinary Conversation: Both of which the Scribes and Pharisees taught to be perfectly innocent.

V. 36. For thou canst not make one hair white or black—Whereby it appears, that this also is not thine but GOD's.

V. 37. Let your conversation be yea, yea; nay, nay—That is, in your common Discourse, barely affirm or deny.

V. 38. Ye have heard—Our LORD proceeds to enforce such Meek∣ness and Love on those who are persecuted for Righteousness Sake (which He pursues to the End of the Chapter) as were utterly un∣known to the Scribes and Pharisees. It hath bern said—In the Law, as a Direction to Judges, in case of violent and barbarous Assaults, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth—And this has been interpre∣ted, as encouraging bitter and rigorous Revenge.

V. 39. But I say unto you, that you resist not the evil man—Thus; the Greek Word translated resist, signifies standing in battle array, striving for victory. If a man smite thee on the right-cheek—Return not Evil for Evil: Yea, turn to him the other—Rather than revenge thyself.

V. 40, 41. Where the Damage is not great, chuse rather to suffer it, tho' possibly it may on that account be repeated, than to demand an eye for an eye, to enter into a rigorous Prosecution of the Offen∣der. The Meaning of the whole Passage seems to be, Rather than return Evil for Evil when the Wrong is purely personal, submit to one bodily Wrong after another, give up one Part of your Goods after another, submit to one Instance of Compulsion after another. That the Words are not literally to be understood, appears from the Beha∣viour of our LORD himself, John xviii. 22, 23.

V. 42. Thus much for your Behaviour towards the Violent. As for those who use milder Methods, Give to him that asketh thee—Give and lend to any so far (but no farther, for GOD never contradicts Himself) as is consistent with thy Engagements to thy Creditors, thy Family and the Houshold of Faith.

V. 43. Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thy enemy—GOD spoke the former Part; the Scribes added the latter.

V. 44. Bless them that curse you—Speak all the Good you can to and of them, who speak all Evil to and of you. Repay Love in Thought, Word, and Deed, to those who hate you, and shew it both in Word and Deed.

V. 45. That ye may be the children—That is, that ye may continue and appear such before Men and Angels. For be maketh his sun to rise—He gives them such Blessings as they will receive at his Hands. Spiritual Blessings they will not receive.

V. 46. The Publicans—were Officers of the Revenue, Farmers, or Receivers of the public Money: Men employed by the Romans to ga∣ther the Taxes and Customs, which they exacted of the Nations they had conquered. These were generally odious for their Extortion and Oppression, and were reckoned by the Jews as the very Scum of the Earth.

V. 47. And if ye salute your friends only—Our LORD probably glances at those Prejudices, which different Sects had against each other, and intimates, that he would not have his Followers imbibe that narrow spirit. Would to GOD this had been more attended to, among the unhappy Divisions and Subdivisions, into which his Church has been crumbled! And that we might at least advance so far, as cordially to embrace our Brethren in Christ, of whatever Party or De∣nomination they are!

V. 48. Therefore ye shall be perfect, as your Father who is in heaven is perfect—So the Original runs, referring to all that Holiness, which is described in the foregoing Verses, which our LORD in the Begin∣ning of the Chapter recommends as Happiness, and in the Close of it as Perfection.

And how wise and gracious is this, To sum up, and as it were, seal all his Commandments with a Promise! Even the proper Promise of the Gospel, That He will put those Laws in our Minds, and writs them in our Hearts! He well knew, how ready our Unbelief would be, to cry out, This is impossible! And therefore stakes upon it all the Power. Truth, and Faithfulness of Him, to whom all Things are possible.

VI.

Take heed that ye practise not your righteous∣ness before men, to be seen of them: Otherwise ye have no reward from your Father who is in hea∣ven. Therefore when thou dost alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do, in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. [ 2] Verily I say unto you, they have their reward [ 3] But when thou dost alms, let not thy left-hand know what thy right-hand doth: [ 4] That thy alms may be in secret, and thy Father who seeth in secret will reward thee openly. [ 5] And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypo∣crites; for they love to pray, standing in the syna∣gogues, and in the corners of the streets, that they may appear unto men: verily I say unto you, they

have their reward. [ 6] But thou when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and having shut thy door, pray to thy Father who is in secret, and thy Fa∣ther, who seeth in secret, shall reward thee. [ 7] But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the hea∣thens; for they think they shall be heard for their much speaking. [ 8] Be not therefore like them; for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. [ 9] * 1.32 Thus therefore pray ye,

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. [ 10] Thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. [ 11] Give us this day our daily bread. [ 12] And forgive us our debts, as we for∣give our debtors. [ 13] And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from evil. For thine is the king∣dom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

[ 14] § 1.33 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. [ 15] But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. [ 16] Moreover, when ye fast, be not as the hypocrites, of a sad counte∣nance; for they disfigure their Faces, that they may appear unto men to fast: verily I say unto you, they have their reward. [ 17] But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thy head, and wash thy face, That thou appear not unto men to fast, but to thy Father who is in secret, [ 18] and thy Father who seeth in secret shall reward thee.

[ 19] † 1.34 Lay not up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break thro' and steal: [ 20] But lay up for yourselves

treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth consume, and where thieves do not break thro' nor steal. [ 21] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. [ 22] * 1.35 The eye is the lamp of the Body: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. [ 23] But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of dark∣ness: if therefore the light that is in thee be dark∣ness, how great is that darkness? [ 24] § 1.36 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will cleave to the one and neglect the other. Ye cannot serve God and Mammon. [ 25] † 1.37 Therefore I say unto you, Take not thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, nor for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than ••••iment? [ 26] Behold the birds of the air: they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feed∣eth them. [ 27] Are ye not much better than they? And which of you, by taking thought can add to his age the smallest measure? [ 28] And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do

they spin: [ 29] And yet I say unto you, that even So∣lomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [ 30] Now if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to-morrow is cast into the still, will he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? [ 31] Therefore take not thought, saying, What shall we eat, or what shall we drink, or what shall we wear? [ 32] (For after all these Things do the heathens seek) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye need all these things. [ 33] But seek ye fast the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. [ 34] Take not

therefore thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for itself: sufficient for the day is the evil thereof.

V. 1. In the foregoing Chapter our LORD particularly described the Nature of inward Holiness. In this he describes that Purity of In∣tention without which none of our outward Actions are holy. This Chapter contains four Parts,

• 1. The right Intention and Manner in giving Alms, Ver. 1—4.
• 2. The right Intention, Manner, Form, and Pre-requisites of Prayer, Ver. 5—15.
• 3. The right Intention and Manner of Fasting, Ver. 16—18.
• 4. The Necessity of a pure Intention in all Things, unmixed either with the Desire of Riches, or worldly Care and Fear of Want, Ver. 19—34.

This Verse is a general Cantion against Vain-glory, in any of our good Works: All these are here summed up together, in the com∣prehensive Word Righteousness. This general Caution our LORD ap∣plies in the Sequel to the three principal Branches of it, relating to our Neighbour, Ver. 2—4: to GOD, Ver. 5—6: and to ourselves Ver. 16—18.

To be seen—Barely the being seen, while we are doing any of these Things, is a Circumstance purely indifferent. But the doing them with this View, to be seen and admired, this is what our LORD con∣demns.

V. 2. As the hypocrites do—Many of the Scribes and Pharisees did this, under a Pretence of calling the Poor together. They have their reward—All they will have; for they shall have none from GOD.

V. 3. Let not thy lest-hand know what thy right-hand doth—A pro∣verbial Expression for doing a Thing secretly. Do it as secretly as is consistent,

• 1. With the doing it at all.
• 2. With the doing it in the most effectual Manner.

V. 5. The syn••gogues— These were properly the Places where the People assembled for public Prayer, and hearing the Scriptures read and expounded. They were in every City from the Time of the Balylonish Captivity, and had Service in them thrice a Day on three Days in the Week. In every Synagogue was a Council of grave and

wise Persons, over whom was a President called the Ruler of the Sy∣nagogue. But the Word here, as well as in many other Texts, signi∣nisies, any Places of public Concourse.

V. 6. Enter into thy closet—That is, do it with as much Secrecy as thou canst.

V. 7. Use not vain repetitions—To repeat any Words without mean∣ing them, is certainly a vain Repetition. Therefore we should be extremely careful in all our Prayers to mean what we say; and to say only what we mean from the Bottom of our Hearts. The vain and heathenish Repetitions which we are here warned against, are most dangerous, and yet very common; which is a principal Cause why so many who still profess Religion, are a Disgrace to it. In∣deed all the Words in the World are not equivalent to one holy Desire. And the very best Prayers are but vain Repetitions, if they are not the Language of the Heart.

V. 8. Your Father knoweth wh••t things ye have need of—We do not pray to inform GOD of our Wants. Omniscient as He is, He can∣not be informed of any Thing which He knew not before: And He is always willing to relieve them. The chief Thing wanting is, a fit Disposition on our Part to receive his Grace and Blessing Con∣sequently, one great Office of Prayer is, to produce such a Disposition in us: To exercise our Dependence on GOD; to increase our Desire of the Things we ask for; to make us so sensible of our Wants, that we may never cease wrestling till we have prevailed for the Blessing.

V. 9. Thus therefore pray ye—He who best kn••w what we ought to pray for; and how we ought to pray; what Matter of Desire, what Manner of Address would most please Himself, would best become us, has here dictated to us a most perfect and universal Form of Prayer, comprehending all our real Wants, expressing all our lawful Desires; a compleat Directory and full Exercise of all our Devotions.

Thus—For these Things; sometimes, in these Words, at least in this Manner, short, close, full.

This Prayer consists of three Parts, the Preface, the Petitions, and the Conclusion. The Preface, Our Father who art in heaven—I•••• ye a general Foundation for Prayer, comprising what we must first know of GOD before we can pray in Confidence of being heard. It like∣wise points out to us that Faith, Humility. Love of GOD and Man, with which we are to approach GOD in Prayer.

• I. Our Father—Who art good and gracious to all, our Creator, our Preserver: The Father of our LORD, and of us in Him, thy Chil∣dren by Adoption and Grace: Not my Father only, who now cry unto Thee, but the Father of the Universe, of Angels and Men: Who art in heaven—Beholding all Things, both in Heaven and Earth; know∣ing every Creature, and all the Works of every Creature, and every possible Event from Everlasting to Everlasting: The Almighty LORD and Ruler of all, superintending and disposing all Things: In heaven —Eminently there, but not there alone, seeing Thou fillest Heaven and Earth.
• II.
  • 1. Hallowed be thy name—Mayst Thou, O Father, be truly known by all intelligent Beings, and with Affections suitable to that Knowledge: Mayst Thou be duly honoured, loved, feared, by all in Heaven and in Earth, by all Angels and all Men.
  • 2 Thy kingdom come—May thy Kingdom of Grace come quickly, and swallow up all the Kingdoms of the Earth: May all Mankind, receiving Thee, O Christ, for their King, truly believing in thy Name, be 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with Righteousness, and Peace, and Joy; with Holiness and Happiness, till they are removed hence into thy Kingdom of Glory, to reign with Thee for ever and ever.
  • 3. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven—May all the Inhabi∣tants of the Earth do thy Will as willingly as the holy Angels: May these do it continually even as they, without any Interruption of their willing Service; yea, and perfectly as they: Mayst Thou, O Spirit of Grace, through the Blood of the everlasting Covenant, make them perfect in every good Work to do thy Will, and work in them all that is well-pleasing in thy Sight.
  • 4. Give us—O Father (for we claim nothing of Right, but only of thy free Mercy) this Day—(for we take no Thought for the Mor∣row) our daily bread—All Things needful for our Souls and Bodies: Not only the Meat that perisheth, but the Sacramental Bread, and thy Grace, the Food which end reth to everlasting Life.
  • 5. And forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors—Give us, O LORD, Redemption in thy Blood, even the Forgiveness of Sins: as Thou enablest us freely and fully to forgive every Man, so do Thou forgive all our Trespasses.
  • 6. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil—When∣ever we are tempted, O Thou that helpest our Infirmities, suffer us not to enter into temptation; to be ov••rcome or suffer Loss thereby; but make a Way for us to escape, so that we may be more than Con∣querors thro' thy Love, over Sin and all the Consequences of it. Now the principal Desire of a Christian's Heart being the Glory of GOD (Ver. 9, 10.) and all he wants for himself or his Brethren, being the daily Bread of Soul and Body (or the Support of Life, animal and

• ...
  • spiritual) Pardon of Sin, and Deliverance from the Power of it and of the Devil; (Ver. 11, 12, 13.) There is nothing besides that a Christian can wish for; therefore this Prayer comprehends all his Desires. Eternal Life is the certain Consequence, or rather Comple∣tion of Holiness.
• III. For thine is the kingdom—The sovereign Right of all Things that are or ever were created: The power—The executive Power, whereby thou governest all Things in thy everlasting Kingdom: And the glory—The Praise due from every Creature, for thy Power, and all thy wondrous Works, and the Mightiness of thy Kingdom, which endureth thro' all Ages, even for ever and ever. It is observable, that tho' the Doxology, as well as the Petitions of this Prayer, is threefold, and is directed to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost dis∣tinctly, yet is the whole fully applicable both to every Person, and to the ever-blessed and undivided Trinity.

V. 16. When ye fast—Our LORD does not enjoin either Fasting. Alms-deeds, or Prayer: all these being Duties which were before fully established in the Church of GOD. Disfigure—By the Dust and Ashes which they put upon their Head, as was usual at the Times of solemn Humiliation.

V. 17. Anoint thy head—So the Jews frequently did. Dress thy∣self as usual.

V. 19. Lay not up for yourselves—Our LORD here makes a Transi∣tion from religious to common Actions, and warns us of another Snare, the Love of Money, as inconsistent with Purity of Intention, as the Love of Praise. Where rust and moth consume—Where all Things are perishable and transient.

He may likewise have a farther View in these Words, even to guard us against making any Thing on Earth our Treasure. For then a Thing properly becomes our Treasure, when we set our Affections upon it.

V. 22. The eye is the lamp of the body—And what the eye is to the Body, the Intention is to the Soul. We may observe with what exact Propriety our LORD places Purity of Intention, between worldly Desires and worldly Cares, either of which directly tend to destroy it. If thine eye be single—Singly fixed on GOD and Heaven, thy whole Soul will be full of Holiness and Happiness. If thy eye be evil—Not single, aming at any Thing else.

V. 24. Mammon—Riches, Money; any Thing loved or sought, without reference to GOD.

V. 25. And if you serve GOD, you need be careful for nothing. Therefore take not thought—That is, be not anxiously careful. Beware of worldly cares; for these are as inconsistent with the true Service of GOD as worldly Desires. Is not the Life more than meat?—And if GOD give the greater Gift, will He deny the smaller?

V. 27. And which of you—If you are ever so careful, can even add a Moment to your own Life thereby? This seems by far the most easy and natural Sense of the Words.

V. 29. Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of thes••—Not in Garments of so pure a white. The Eastern Monarchs were often cloathed in white Robes.

V. 30. The grass of the field—Is a general Expression including both Herbs and Flowers. Into the still—This is the natural Sense of the Passage. For it can hardly be supposed that Grass or Flowers should be thrown into the Oven the Day after they were cut down. Neither is it the Custom, in the hottest Countries, where they dry fastest, to heat. Ovens with them. If God so clothe—The Word properly im∣plies the putting on a compleat Dress, that surrounds the Body on all Sides; and beautifully expresses that external Membrane, which (like the Skin in an human Body) at once adorns the tender Fabrick of the Vegetable, and guards it from the Injuries of the Weather. Every Miscroscope in which a Flower is viewed, gives a lively Comment on this Text.

V. 31. Therefore take not thought—How kind are these Precepts! The Substance of which is only this, Do thyself no Harm! Let us not be so ungrateful to Him, nor so injurious to ourselves, as to har∣rass and oppress our Minds with that Burden of Anxiety, which He has so graciously taken off. Every Verse speaks at once to the Under∣standing, and to the Heart. We will not therefore indulge these un∣necessary, these useless, these mischievous Cares. We will not bor∣row the Anxieties and Distresses of the Morrow, to aggravate those of the present Day. Rather we will chearfully repose ourselves on that heavenly Father, who knows we have Need of these Things; who has given us the Life, which is more than Meat, and the Body, which is more than Raiment. And thus instructed in the Philoso∣phy of our heavenly Master, we will learn a Lesson of Faith and Chearfulness, from every Bird of the Air, and every Flower of the Field.

V. 33. Seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness—Singly aim at this, That GOD reigning in your Heart, may fill it with the Righte∣ousness above described. And indeed whoever seeks this first, will soon come, to seek this only.

V. 34. The morrow shall take thought for itself—That is, Be careful for the Morrow, when it comes. The evil thereof—Speaking after

the Manner of Men: But all Trouble is, upon the whole, a real Good. It is good Physic which GOD dispenses daily to his Children, according to the Need, and the Strength of each.

Ch. vii. Our LORD now proceeds to warn us against the chief Hinderances of Holiness. And how wisely does he begin with Judg∣ing? Wherein all young Converts are so apt to spend that Zeal which is given them for better Purposes.

VII.

* 1.38 Judge not, that ye be not judged. [ 2] For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged, and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you. [ 3] § 1.39 And why beholdest thou the mote in thy brother's eye, but observest not the beam in thine own eye? [ 4] Or how sayst thou to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote from thine eye, and behold a beam is in thine own eye? [ 5] Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to cast the mote out of thy brother's eye. [ 6] Give not that which is holy to dogs, neither cast your pearls be∣fore swine, lest they trample them under their feet,

and turning, rend you. [ 7] † 1.40 Ask and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find; knock and it shall be opened to you. [ 8] For every one that asketh, receiveth, and he that seeketh, findeth, and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened. [ 9] What man is there of you, who if his son ask bread will give him a stone? [ 10] And if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? [ 11] If ye then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father who is in heaven, give good things to them that ask him? [ 12] * 1.41 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them; for this is the law and the prophets.

[ 13] § 1.42 Enter ye in thro' the straight gate: for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there are that go in thro' it: [ 14] Because straight is the gate and narrow is the way that leadeth to life, and few there are that find it. [ 15] But beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they

are ravenous wolves. † 1.43 By their fruits ye shall know them. [ 16] Do men gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles? [ 17] So every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but the corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. [ 18] A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. [ 19] Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit, is hewn down and cast into the fire. [ 20] Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

[ 21] * 1.44 Not every one that saith to me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doth the will of my father who is in heaven. [ 22] Ma∣ny will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name, and in thy name have cast out devils, and in thy name have done

many wonderful works? [ 23] † 1.45 And then will I declare to them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. [ 24] * 1.46 Therefore who∣soever heareth these my sayings, and doth them, I will liken him to a wise man, who built his house on the rock. [ 25] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell not; for it was founded on the rock. [ 26] But every one that heareth these my sayings, and doth them not, shall be liken∣ed to a foolish man, who built his house on the sand. [ 27] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house: and it fell, and great was the fall of it. [ 28] And when Jesus had ended these sayings, the multitudes were astonished at his teaching, [ 29] For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

V. 1. Judge not—any Man without full, clear, certain Knowledge, without absolute Necessity, without tender Love.

V. 2. With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you—Awful Words! So we may, as it were, chuse for ourselves, whether GOD shall be severe or merciful to us. GOD and Man will favour the Candid and Benevolent: But they must expect judgment without mercy, who have shewed no mercy.

V. 3. In particular, why do you open your Eyes to any Fault of your Brother, while you yourself are guilty of a much greater? The mote—The Word properly signifies a Splinter or Shiver of Wood. This and a beam, its Opposite, were proverbially used by the Jews to de∣note, the one, small Infirmities, the other, gross, palpable Faults.

V. 4. How sayst thou—With what Face?

V. 5. Thou hypocrite—It is mere Hypocrisy, to pretend Zeal for the Amendment of others while we have none for our own. Then —When that which obstructed thy Sight is removed.

V. 6. Here is another Instance of that Transposition, where, of the two Things proposed, the latter is first treated of. Give not—to d••••s—l••st turning they rend you: Cast not—to swine—left they trample them under scot.

Yet even then, when the le••m is cast out of thine own eye, Give not —That is, Talk not of the deep things of God, to those whom you know to be wallowing in Sin; neither declare the great things GOD hath done for your Soul, to the profane, furious, persecuting Wretches.

Talk not of Perfection, for Instance, to the former; not of your own Experience, to the latter. But our LORD does in no wife for∣bid us to reprove, as Occasion is, both the one and the other.

V. 7. But ask—Pray for them, as well as for yourselves: In this there can be no such Danger. Seek—Add your own diligent En∣deavours to your asking; and knock—Persevere importunately in that Diligence.

V. 8. For every one that asketh, receiveth—Provided he ask aright, and ask what is agreeable to GOD's Will.

V. 11. To them that ask him—But on this Condition, that ye follow the Example of his Goodness, by doing to all as ye would they should do to you. For this is the law and the prophets—This is the Sum of all, exactly answering ch. v. 17. The whole is compriz••d in one Word, Imitate the GOD of Love.

Thus far proceeds the Doctrinal Part of the Sermon. In the next Verse begins the Exhortation to practise it.

V. 13. The straight gate—The Holiness described in the foregoing Chapters. And this is the narrow way. Wide is the gate, and many there are that go in thro' it—They need not seek for this; they come to it of course. Many go in thro' it because straight is the other gate— Therefore they do not care for it; they like a wider Gate.

V. 15. Beware of false prophets—Who in their Preaching describe a broad Way to Heaven: It is their prophesying, their teaching the broad Way, rather than their walking in it themselves, that is ••••re chiefly spoken of. All those are false prophets, who teach any other

Way than that our LORD hath here marked out. In sheep's cloathing— With Outside Religion and fair Professions of Love: Wolves—Not feeding, but destroying Souls.

V. 16. By their fruits ye shall know them—A short, plain, easy Rule, whereby to know true from false Prophets: And one that may be applied by People of the meanest Capacity, who are not accustomed to deep Reasoning. True Prophets convert sinners to GOD, or at least confirm and strengthen those that are converted. False Prophets do not. They also are false Prophets, who tho' speaking the very Truth, yet are not sent by the Spirit of GOD, but come in their own name, to declare it: Their Grand MARK is, "Not turning Men from the power of Satan to God."

V. 18. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither a corrupt tree good fruit—But it is certain, the Goodness or Badness here mentioned, respects the Doctrine, rather than the personal Character: For a bad Man preaching the good Doctrine here delivered, is sometimes an Instrument of converting Sinners to GOD. Yet I do not aver, That all are True Prophets, who speak the Truth, and thereby convert Sinners. I only affirm, That none are such who do not.

V. 19. Every tree that bringeth not so th•• ••••od fruit, is hewn ••own and cast into the fire—How dreadful then is the Condition of that Teacher who hath brought no Sinners to GOD!

V. 21. N••t every one—That is, no one, that saith Lord, Lord— That ma••es a mere Profession of Me and my Religion, shall enter—Whatever their false Teachers may assure them to the contra∣ry: He th•••• d••••h the will of my Father—As I have now declared it. Observe: Every thing short of this, is only saying Lord, Lord.

V. 22. We have prophesied—We have declared the Mysteries of thy Kingdom; wrote Books; preached excellent Sermons: In thy name done many wonderful work••—So that even the working of Miracles is no Proof that a Man has ••aving Faith.

V. 23. I never know you—There never was a Time that I approved of you. So that as many Souls as they had saved, they were them∣selv•••• ••••ver saved from their Sins. LORD, is it my Case?

V. 29. H•• t••ught them—The Multitudes, as o•••• having Authority—With a Dignity a••d Majesty peculiar to Himself as the Great Law∣giver, and with the Demonstration and Power of the Spirit: And not as the s••ribes—Who only expounded the Law of another; and that in a lifeless, ineffectual Manner.

VIII.

And when he was come down from the moun∣tain, great multitudes followed him. [ 2] And § 1.47 be∣hold a leper came and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus stretching forth his hand, touched him, saying, I will; Be thou made clean. [ 3] ••nd imme∣diately his leprosy was cleansed. [ 4] And Jesus saith to him, See thou tell no man, but go, shew thy∣self

to the priest, and offer the gift that * 1.48 Moses commanded, for a testimony to them.

[ 5] † 1.49 And when he was entered into Capernaum, there came to him a Centurion, beseeching him, and saying, [ 6] Lord, my servant lieth in the house, ill of the palsy, grievously tormented. [ 7] And Jesus saith to him, I will come and heal him. [ 8] The Centurion answering said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldst come under my roof: but speak in a word only, and my servant shall be healed. [ 9] For I am a man, under authority, hav∣ing soldiers under me: and I say unto this man. Go, and he goeth, and to another, Come, and he cometh, and to my servant, Do this and he doth it. [ 10] When Jesus heard it, he mar∣velled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith,

no, not in Israel. [ 11] ‖ 1.50 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. [ 12] But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into the outer dark∣ness: * 1.51 there shall be the weeping and the gnash∣ing of teeth. [ 13] And Jesus said to the centurion, Go thy way, and as thou hast believed, be it un∣to thee. And his servant was healed in that hour.

[ 14] † 1.52 And Jesus coming to Peter's house, saw his wife's mother lying and sick of a fever. [ 15] And he touched her hand, and the fever left her; and she arose and waited upon them.

[ 16] ¶ 1.53 When it was evening they brought to him ma∣ny demoniacs; and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all that were ill: [ 17] Whereby was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah, saying, § 1.54 Himself took our infirmities and bare our diseases.

[ 18] And Jesus seeing great multitudes about him, commanded to go to the other side. [ 19] ‡ 1.55 And a cer∣tain

scribe came and said to him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. [ 20] And Jesus saith to him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the son of man hath not where to lay his head. [ 21] And another of his disci∣ples said to him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. [ 22] But Jesus said to him, Follow me, and leave the dead to bury their dead. [ 23] † 1.56 And when he was come into the vessel, his disciples fol∣lowed lowed him. [ 24] And behold there was a great tempest in the sea, so that the vessel was covered with the waves. [ 25] But he was asleep. And his disciples coming to him awoke him, saying, Lord, save us; we perish. [ 26] And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful. O ye o little faith? Then arising, he rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. [ 27] But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him?

[ 28] * 1.57 And when he was come to the other side, into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two demoniacs, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no one could pass by that

way. [ 29] And behold they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? Art thou come hither to torment us before the time? [ 30] And there was at some distance from them an herd of many swine feeding. [ 31] So the devils besought him, saying, If thou cast us out, suffer us to go into the herd of swine. And he said to them, Go. [ 32] And coming out, they went into the swine, and behold the whole herd rushed down the precipice into the sea, and perished in the waters. [ 33] But they that kept them fled, and going into the city, told every thing, and what had be∣fallen the demoniacs. [ 34] And behold the whole city came out to meet Jesus; and seeing him, they besought him, to depart out of their coasts.

V. 2. A leper c••me—Leprosies in those Countries were seldom curable by natural Means, any more than Palsies or Lunacy. Proba∣bly this Leper. tho' he might not mix with the People, had heard our LORD at a Distance.

V. 4. See thou tell no man—Perhaps our LORD only meant here, Not till thou hast shewed thyself to the Priest who was appointed to inquire into the Case of Leprosy. But many others He commanded, Absolutely to tell none, of the Miracles He had wrought upon them. And this He seems to have done, chiefly for one or more of these Reasons: 1. To prevent the Multitude from thronging Him, in the

Manner related, Mark i. 45.2. To fulfil the prophecy (Isaiah xlii. 1.) That he would not be vain or ostentatious: This Reason St. Mat∣thew assigns, ch. xii. 17, &c. 3. To avoid the being taken by Force and made a King, John vi. 15. And, 4. That He might not enrage the Chief Priests. Scribes, and Pharisees, who were the most bitter against Him, any more than was unavoidable, Matt. xvi. 20, 21. For a testimony—That I am the M••ssiah; to them—The Priests, who otherwise might have pleaded Want of Evidence.

V. 5. There came to him a Centurion—A Captain of an hundred Roman Soldiers. Probably he came a little Way towards Him, and then went back. He thought himself not worthy to come in Person, and therefore spoke the Words that follow by his Messengers. As it is not unusual in all Languages, so in the Hebrew it is peculiarly fre∣quent, to ascribe to a Person himself the Thing which is done, and the Words which are spoken by his Order. And accordingly St. Matthew relates as said by the Centurion himself, what others said by Order from him. An Instance of the same Kind we have, in the Case of Zebedee's Children. From St. Matthew (xx. 20.) we learn, it was their Mother that spoke those Words, which, Mark x. 35, 37, themselves are said to speak; because she was only their Mouth.

Yet from ver. 13, Go thy way home, it appears, he at Length c••me in Person; probably on hearing that Jesus was nearer to his House than he apprehended when he sent the second Message by his Friends.

V. 8. The Centurion answered—By his second Messengers.

V. 9. For I am a man under authority—I am only an inferior Officer: And what I command, is done even in my Absence: How much more what Thou commandest, who art LORD of All?

V. 10. I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel—For the Centurion was not an Isra••lite.

V. 11. Many from the farthest Parts of the Earth, shall embrace the Terms and enjoy the Rewards of the Gospel-Covenant established with Abraham. But the Jews, who have the first Title to them, shall be shut out from the Feast; from Grace here, and hereafter from Glory.

V. 12. The outer darkness—Our LORD here alludes to the Custom the Ancients had of making their Feasts in the Night-time. Pro∣bably ••hile he was speaking this, the Centurion came in Person.

V. 14. Peter's wife's mother—St. Peter was then a young Man, as were all the Apostles.

V. 17. Whereby was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah—He spoke it in a more exalted Sense. The Evangelist here only al∣ludes to those Words, as being capable of this lower Meaning also. Such Instances are frequent in the Sacred Writings, and are Elegan∣cies rather than Imperfections. He fulfilled these Words in the highest Sense, by hearing our sins in ••is own Body on the tree: In a lower Sense, by sympathizing with us in our Sorrows, and healing us of the Diseases which were the Fruit of Sin.

V. 18. He commanded to go to the other side—That both himself and the People might have a little Rest.

V. 20. The son of man—The Expression is borrowed from Dan. vii. 13. and is the Appellation which CHRIST commonly gives himself: Which he seems to do out of Humility, as having some relation to his mean Appearance in this World. Hath not where to lay his head—Therefore do not follow me, from any View of temporal Advantage.

V. 21. Another said—I will follow Thee without any such View; but I must mind my Business first. It is not certain, that his Father was already dead. Perhaps his Son desired to stay with him, being very old, till his Death.

V. 22. But Jesus said—When GOD calls, leave the Business of the World, to them who are dead to GOD.

V. 24. The ship was covered—So Man's Extremity is GOD'S Op∣portunity.

V. 26. Why are ye fearful—Then He rebuked the winds—First, He composed their Spirits, and then the Sea.

V. 28. The country of Gergesenes—Or of the Gadarenes. Gergesa and Gadara were Towns near each other. Hence the Country between them took its Name, sometimes from the one, sometimes from the other. There met him two demoniacs—St. Mark and St. Luke mention only one, who was probably the fiercer of the two, and the Person who spoke to our LORD first. But this is no way incon∣sistent with the Account which St. Matthew gives. The tombs—

Doubtless those malevolent Spirits love such Tokens of Death and Destruction. Tombs were usually in those Days in desart Places, at a Distance from Towns, and were often made in the Sides of Caves, in the Rocks and Mountains. No one could pass—Safely.

V. 29. What have we to do with thee— This is an Hebrew Phrase which signifies, Why do you concern yourself about us? 2. Sam. xvi. 16. Before the Time—The Great Day.

V. 30. There was a herd of many swine—Which it was not lawful for the Jews to keep. Therefore our LORD both justly and merci∣fully permitted them to be destroyed.

V. 31. He said, Go—A Word of Permission only, not Command.

V. 34. They besought him to depart out of their coast—They loved their Swine so much better than their Souls! How many are of the same Mind?

IX.

And † 1.58 going into the vessel, he passed over and came to his own city. [ 2] ‡ 1.59 And behold they brought to him a paralytic, lying on a couch; and Jesus seeing their faith, said to the paralytic, Son, Take courage: thy sins are forgiven thee. [ 3] And behold certain of the scribes said within them∣selves, This man blasphemeth. [ 4] And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Why think ye evil in your hearts? [ 5] For which is easier? To say,

Thy sins are forgiven thee? Or to say, Arise and walk? [ 6] But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins (then saith he to the paralytic) Arise, take up thy couch, and go to thy house. [ 7] And he arose and went to his own house. [ 8] And the multitude seeing it, marvelled and glorified God, who had given such power to men.

[ 9] * 1.60 And as Jesus passed along from thence, he saw a man named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom, and saith to him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him. [ 10] And as he sat at table in the house, behold many publicans and sinners came, and sat down with him and his disciples. [ 11] And the Pharisees seeing it, said to his disciples, Why eat∣eth your master with publicans and sinners? [ 12] But Jesus hearing it, said to them, They that are whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. [ 13] But go ye and learn what that meaneth, † 1.61 I will have mercy and not sacrifice; for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners.

[ 14] § 1.62 Then come to him the disciples of John, say∣ing, Why do we and the Pharisees fast often, but

thy disciples fast not? [ 15] And Jesus said to them, Can the children of the bride-chamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bride-groom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast. [ 16] No man putteth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: for that which is put in to fill it taketh from the garment and the rent is made worse. [ 17] Neither do men put new wine into old leathern bottles, else the bottles burst, and the wine is spil∣led, and the bottles are destroyed; but they put new wine into new bottles and both are preserved.

[ 18] * 1.63 While he spake these things to them, behold a certain ruler coming worshipped him, saying, My daughter is just dead: but come and lay thi•••• hand on her, and she shall live. [ 19] And Jesus arose and followed him, and so did his disciples. [ 20] (And behold a woman who had had a flux of blood twelve years, coming behind him, touched the hem of his garment. [ 21] For she said within herself, If I but touch his garment, I shall be made whole. [ 22] And

Jesus turning and seeing her, said, Daughter, take courage; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.) [ 23] And Jesus coming into the ruler's house, and seeing the minstrels and the croud making a noise, [ 24] Saith to them, Withdraw; for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth: and they derided him. [ 25] But when the croud were put forth, he went in and took her by the hand; and the maid arose. [ 26] And the fame of it went abroad into all that country.

[ 27] And as Jesus passed thence, two blind men fol∣lowed him, crying aloud and saying, Thou son of David, have mercy on us. [ 28] And when he was come into the house, the blind men came to him: and Jesus saith to them, Believe ye that I am able to do this? They say unto him, Yea, Lord. [ 29] Then he touched their eyes, saying, Be it unto you, according to your faith. [ 30] And their eyes were opened; and Jesus strictly charged them, saying, see that no man know it. [ 31] But when they were gone out, they spread his fame abroad in all that country.

[ 32] * 1.64 As they were going out, behold they brought a dumb demoniac to him. [ 33] And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, it was never seen thus, even in

Israel. [ 34] But the Pharisees said, He casteth out the devils by the prince of the devils.

[ 35] And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every malady. [ 36] But seeing the multitudes he was moved with tender compassion for them, be∣cause they were faint and scattered, as sheep having no shepherd. [ 37] † 1.65 Then saith he to his disciples, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few. [ 38] Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would thrust forth labourers into his har∣vest.

V. 1 His own city—Copernaum,, ch. iv. 13

V. 2. Seeing their faith—Both that of the paralytic, and of them that brought him: Son—A Title of Tenderness and Condescension.

V. 3. —This man blasphemeth—Attributing to himself a power (that of forgiving Sins) which belongs to GOD only.

V. 5. Which is easier—Do not both of them argue a divine Power? Therefore if I can heal his Disease, I can forgive his Sins: Especially as his Disease is the Consequence of his Sins. Therefore these must be taken away, if that is.

V. 6. On Earth—Even in my State of Humiliation.

V. 8. So what was to the Scribes an Occasion of blaspheming, was to the People an Incitement to praise GOD.

V. 9. He saw a man namea Matthew—Modestly so called by himself. The other Evangelists call him by his more honourable Name Levi. Sitting—In the very Height of his Business, at the receipt of custom.—The Custom-House, or Place where the Customs were received.

V. 10. As Jesus sat at table in the house—Of Matthew, who having invited many of his old Companions, made him a f••••st (Mark ii. 15.) and that a great ••ne, tho' he does not himself mention it. The Pub∣licans, or Collectors of the Taxes which the Jews paid the Romans, were infamous for their illegal Exactions: Sinners—Open, notori∣ous Sinners.

V. 11. The Pharisees said to his disciples, Why eateth your M••ster—Thus they commonly ask our LORD, Why do thy Disciples this? And his Disciples, Why doth your Master?

V. 13. Go ye and learn—Ye that take upon you to teach others. I will have mercy and not sacrifice—That is, I will have Mercy rather than Sacrifice. I love Acts of Mercy better than Sacrifice itself.

V. 14. Then—While he was at Table.

V. 15. The children of the bride-chamber —The Companions of the Bridegroom. Mourn—Mourning and Fasting usually go together. As if He had said, While I am with them, it is a Festival Time, a Season of Rejoicing, not Mourning. But after I am gone, all my Disciples likewise shall be in fastings often.

V. 16. This is one Reason. It is not a proper Time for them to fast. Another is, they are not ripe for it. New cloth—The Words in the Original properly signify, Cloth that hath not passed thro' the Fuller's Hands, and which is consequently much harsher, than what has been washed and worn; and therefore yielding less than that, will tear away the Edges to which it is sewed.

V. 17. New—Fermenting wine will soon burst those bottles, the Leather of which is almost worn out. The Word properly means Vessels made of Goats Skins, wherein they formerly put Wine (and do in some Countries to this Day) to convey it from Place to Place. Put new wine into new bottles—Give harsh Doctrines to such as have Strength to receive them.

V. 18. Just dead—He had left her at the point of Death, Mark v. 23. Probably a Messenger had now informed him, She was dead.

V. 20. Coming behind—Out of Bashfulness and Humility.

V. 22. Take courage—Probably she was struck with Fear, when he turned and looked upon her (Mark v. 33. Luke viii. 47.) left she should have offended him, by touching his Garment privately; and the more so, because she was unclean, according to the Law, R••v. xv. 25.

V. 23. The minstrels—The Musicians. The original Word means Mute players. Musical Instruments were used by the Jews as well as the Heathens, in their Lamentations for the Dead, to sooth the Melancholy of surviving Friends, by soft and solemn Notes. And there were Persons who made it their Business to perform this, while others sung to their MusiC.Flutes were used especially on the Death of Children; louder Instruments on the Death of grown Persons.

V. 24. Withdraw—There is no Need of you now; for the maid is not ••••••d—Her Life is not at an end: but sleepeth—This is only a temporary Suspension of Sense and Motion, which should rather be termed Sleep than Death.

V. 25. The maid arose—Christ raised three dead Persons to Life. This Child, the Widow's Son, and Lazarus: One newly departed, another on the Bier, the third smelling in the Grave: To shew us, that no Degree of Death is so desperate as to be past his Help.

V. 33. Even in Israel—Where so many Wonders have been seen

V. 36. Because they were faint—In Soul rather than in Body. As sheep having no shepherd—And yet they had many Teachers: They had Scribes in every City. But they had none who cared for their Souls: and none that were able, if they had been willing, to have wrought any deliverance. They had no Pastors after GOD'S ow•• heart.

V. 37. The harvest truly is great—When Christ came into the World, it was properly the Time of Harvest; till then is was the Seed-time only. But the labourers are few—Those whom GOD sends; who are holy and convert Sinners. Of others there are many.

V. 38. The Lord of the Harvest—Whose peculiar Work and Office it is, and who alone is able to do it; that he would thrust forth—For it is an Employ not pleasing to Flesh and Blood; so full of Reproach, Labour, Danger, Temptation of every Kind, that Nature may well be averse to it. Those who never felt this, never yet knew what it is, To be Labourers in Christ's Harvest. He sends them forth, when he calls them by his Spirit, furnishes them with Grace and Gifts for the Work, and makes a Way for them to be employed therein.

X.

And ‖ 1.66 having called to him his twelve disciples, he gave them power over unclean spirits, to cast them out and to heal every disease and every malady. [ 2] § 1.67 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; the first, Simon who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his Brother; [ 3] Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Al∣pheus,

and Lebbeus, whose surname was Thaddeus; [ 4] Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him. [ 5] These twelve Jesus sent forth, having commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into a city of the Sama∣ritans enter not: [ 6] But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. [ 7] And as ye go, proclaim, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. [ 8] * 1.68 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.

[ 9] Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses: [ 10] * 1.69 Nor scrip for your journey, nor two coats, nor shoes, nor yet a staff: for the workman is worthy of his maintenance. [ 11] § 1.70 And into what∣soever city or town ye shall enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and there abide till ye go thence. [ 12] And when ye come into an house salute it. [ 13] And if the house be worthy, your peace shall come upon it; but if it be not worthy, your peace shall return to you. [ 14] And whosoever will not receive you, nor hear your words; when you go out of that house or city, shake off the dust from your feet. [ 15] Verily I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judg∣ment, than for that city.

[ 16] * 1.71 Behold I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. [ 17] † 1.72 But beware of men; for they will deliver you to the councils, and scourge you in their synagogues. [ 18] And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them and to the heathens. [ 19] ‖ 1.73 But when they deliver you, take no thought, how or what ye shall speak; for it shall be given you in that very hour what ye shall speak. [ 20] For it is not ye that speak, but the spirit of your father who speaketh in you. [ 21] § 1.74 But the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child; and children shall rise up against their parents, and kill them. [ 22] ‡ 1.75 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end, the same shall be saved. [ 23] But when they persecute you in this city, flee to another; for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the son of man be come.

[ 24] ¶ 1.76 The disciple is not above his teacher nor the servant above his lord. [ 25] It is enough for the dis∣ciple that he be as his teacher, and the servant as his lord. * 1.77 If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more them of his

houshold? [ 26] ‖ 1.78 Therefore fear them not; for there is nothing covered, which shall not be made mani∣fest; nor hid that shall not be known. [ 27] ‡ 1.79 What I tell you in the dark, speak ye in the light; and what ye hear in the ear, proclaim on the house-tops. [ 28] And be not afraid of them who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; but rather be afraid of him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. [ 29] Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall to the ground, without your Father. [ 30] ¶ 1.80 Yea, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. [ 31] Fear ye not therefore: ye are of more value than many spar∣rows. [ 32] * 1.81 Whosoever therefore shall confess me be∣fore men, him will I confess before my Father who is in heaven. [ 33] But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father who is in heaven. [ 34] † 1.82 Think not that I am come to send

peace on earth: I am not come to send peace, but a sword. [ 35] For I am come to set a man at variance with his father, and the daughter with her mother, and the daughter-in-law with her mother-in-law. [ 36] ‖ 1.83 And the foes of a man shall be they of his own houshold. [ 37] He that loveth father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me; [ 38] § 1.84 And he that taketh not his cross and fol∣loweth after me, is not worthy of me. [ 39] ‡ 1.85 He that findeth his life shall lose it; and he that loseth his life for my sake, shall find it. [ 40] * 1.86 He that enter∣taineth you, entertaineth me; and he that enter∣taineth me, entertaineth him that sent me. [ 41] He that entertaineth a prophet in the name of a pro∣phet, shall receive a prophet's reward: and he that entertaineth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man, shall receive a righteous man's reward. [ 42] † 1.87 And whosoever shall give to drink to one of these little ones a cup of cold water only, in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

V. 1. His twelve disciples—Hence it appears that he had already chosen out of his Disciples, those whom he afterwards termed Apostles. The Number seems to have Relation to the twelve Patriarchs, and the twelve Tribes of Israel.

V. 2. The first, Simon—The first who was called to a constant At∣tendance on Christ; Although Andrew had seen him, before Simon.

V. 3. Lebbeus—Commonly called Judas, the Brother of James.

V. 4. Iscariot—So called from Iscari••th (the Place of his Birth) a Town of the Tribe of Ephraim, near the City of Samaria.

V. 5. These twelve Jesus sent forth—Herein exercising his supreme Authority, as GOD over all. None but GOD can give Men Autho∣rity to preach his Word. Go not—Their Commission was thus con∣fined now, because the Calling of the Gentiles was deferred till after the more plentiful Effusion of the Holy Ghost on the Day of Penticost. Enter not—Not to preach; but they might to buy what they wanted, John iv. 9.

V. 8. Cast out devils—It is a great Relief to the Spirits of an Infi∣del, sinking under a Dread, that possibly the Gospel may be true, to find it observed by a learned Brother, that the Diseases therein ascribed to the Operation of the Devil, have the very same Symptoms, with the natural Diseases of Lunacy, Epilepsy, or Convulsions; whence he readily and very willingly concludes, that the Devil had no Hand in them.

But it were well to stop and consider a little. Suppose GOD should suffer an evil Spirit to usurp the same power over a Man's Body, as the Man himself has naturally; and suppose him actually to exercise that Power; could we conclude the Devil had no Hand therein, because his Body was bent in the very same Manner, wherein the Man him∣self might have bent it naturally?

And suppose GOD gives an evil Spirit a greater Power, to affect immediately the Origin of the Nerves in the Brain, by irritating them to produce violent Motions, or so relaxing them that they can produce little or no Motion; still the Symptoms will be those of over tense Nerves, as in Madness, Epilepsies, Convulsions; or of relaxed Nerves, as in paralytic Cases. But could we conclude thence, that the Devil had no Hand in them? Will any Man affirm that GOD cannot or will not, on any Occasion whatever, give such a Power to an evil Spirit? Or that Effects, the like of which may be produced by natu∣ral Causes, cannot possibly be produced by preternatural? If this be possible, then he who affirm it was so, in any particular Case, can∣not be justly charged with Falsehood, merely for affirming the Reality of a possible Thing. Yet in this Manner are the Evangelists treated

by those unhappy Men, who above all Things dread the Truth of the Gospel, because, if it is true, they are of all Men the most miserable.

Freely ye have received—All Things; in particular, the Power of working Miracles; freely give—Exert that Power wherever you come.

V. 9. Provide not—The Stress seems to lie on this Word: They might use what they had ready; but they might not stay a Moment, to provide any Thing more, neither take any Thought about it. Nor indeed were they to take any Thing with them, more than was strictly necessary, 1. Lest it should retard them. 2. Because they were to learn hereby to trust to GOD in all future Exigencies.

V. 10. Neither scrip—That is, a Wallet, or Bag to hold Provisions: Nor yet a staff—We read, Mark vi. 8. Take nothing, save a staff only. He that had one might take it; they that had none, might not pro∣vide any. For the workman is worthy of his maintenance—The Word includes all that is mentioned in the 9th and 10th Verses; all that they were forbidden to provide for themselves, so far as it was needful for them.

V. 11. Inquire who is worthy—That you should abide with him: who is disposed to receive the Gospel. There abide—In that House, till ye leave the Town.

V. 12. Salute it—In the usual Jewish Form, "Peace (that is, all Blessings) be to this House."

V. 13. If the house be worthy—Of it, GOD shall give them the Peace you wish them. If not, He shall give you what they refuse. The same will be the Case, when we pray for them that are not worthy.

V. 14. Shake off the dust from your feet—The Jews thought the Land of Israel so peculiarly holy, that when they came Home from any heathen Country, they stopped at the Borders and shook or wiped off the Dust of it from their Feet, that the Holy Land might not be polluted with it. Therefore the Action here enjoined was a lively

Intimation, That those Jews who had rejected the Gospel, were holy no longer, but were on a Level with Heathens and Idolaters.

V. 17 But think not that all your Innocence and all your Wisdom will screen you from Persecution. They will scourge you in their syn∣agogues—In these the Jews held their Courts of Judicature, abo•••• both civil and ecclesiastical Affairs.

V. 19. Take no thought—Neither at this Time, on any sudden Call, need we be careful, how or what to answer.

V. 22. Of all men—That know not GOD.

V. 23. Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel—Make what•• Haste ye will; till the son of man be come—To destroy their Temple•• and Nation.

V. 25. How much more—This cannot refer to the Quantity of Re∣proach and Persecution: (For in this the Servant cannot be above his Lord:) But only to the Certainty of it.

V. 26. Therefore fear them not; For ye have only the same Usage with your LORD. There is nothing covered—So that however they may slander you now, your Innocence will at Length appear.

V. 27. Even what I now tell you s••••rc••ly, is not to be kept secret long, but declared publickly▪ Therefore what ye hear in the ear, pab••ish on the hous••••t p— Two Customs of the Jews seem to be alluded to here. Their Doctors used to whisper in the Ear of their Disciples, what they were to pronounce aloud to others. And as their Houses were low and flat-roo••ed, they sometimes preached to the People from thence.

V. 28. And be not afraid of any Thing which ye may suffer for pro∣claiming it. Be afraid of him who is able to destroy both body and soul in hell—It is remarkable, that our LORD commands those who love GOD, still to fear Him, ever on this Account, under this Notion.

V. 29. The particular Providence of GOD is another Reason for your not fearing Man▪ For this extends to the very smallest Things. And if He had such Care over the most inconsiderable Creatures, how much more will he take Care of you (provided you confess Him before M••n, before powerful Enemies of the Truth) and that not only in this Life, but in the other also?

V. 30. The particular Providence of GOD is another Reason for your not fearing Man▪ For this extends to the very smallest Things. And i••••••lle had such Care over the most inconsiderable Creatures, how much more will he take Care of you (provided you confess Him before M••n, before powerful Enemies of the Truth) and that not only in this Life, but in the other also?

V. 32. Whosoever shall confess me—Publickly acknowledge me for the promised Messiah. But this Confession implies the receiving his whole Doctrine (Mark viii. 38.) and obeying all his Commandments.

V. 33, 34 Whosoever shall deny me before men—To which ye will be strongly tempted. For think not that I am come—That is, think not that universal Peace will be the immediate Consequence of my Com∣ing. Just the Contrary. Both publick and private Divisions will

follow, wheresoever my Gospel comes with Power. Yet this is not the Design, tho' it be the Event, of his Coming, thro' the Opposition of Devils and Men.

V. 36. And the foes of a man—That loves and follows Me.

V. 37. He that loveth father or mother more than me—He that is not ready to give up all these, when they stand in Competition with his Duty.

V. 38. He that taketh not his cross—That is, whatever Pain or In∣convenience cannot be avoided, but by doing some Evil, or omitting some Good.

V. 39. He that findeth his Life shall lose it—He that saves his Life, by denying me, shall lose it eternally; and he that loses his Life, by confessing me, shall save it eternally. And as you shall be thus re∣warded, so in Proportion shall they who entertain you for my Sake.

V. 41. He that entertaineth a prophet—That is, a Preacher of the Gospel; In the name of a prophet—That is, because he is such, shall share in his Reward.

V. 42. One of these little ones—The very least Christian.

XI.

And when Jesus had made an end of commanding his twelve disciples, he departed thence, to teach and preach in their cities.

[ 2] * 1.88 Now when John had heard in the prison the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples, [ 3] And said to him, Art thou he that is to come, or look we for another? [ 4] And Jesus answering said to them, Go and tell John the things which ye hear and see. [ 5] † 1.89 The blind receive their sight, the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear; the dead are raised, and the poor have the gospel preached to them: [ 6] And happy is he whosoever shall not be offended at me. [ 7] And as they departed, Jesus said to the multitudes concern∣ing John, what went ye out into the Wilderness to see? [ 8] A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out to see? A man clothed in soft rai∣ment? Behold they that wear soft cloathing, are in king's houses. [ 9] But what went ye out to see? A prophet? Yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. [ 10] For this is he of whom it is written, ‡ 1.90 Behold I send my messenger before thy face, who shall prepare thy way before thee. [ 11] Verily I say unto you, among them that are born of women, there hath not rise•• a greater prophet

than John the Baptist; but he that is least in the kingdom of heaven, is greater than he. [ 12] And from the days of John the Baptist till now the kingdom of heaven is entered by force, and they who strive with all their might take it by violence. [ 13] * 1.91 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John. [ 14] And if ye are willing to receive him, he is † 1.92 Elijah, who was to come. [ 15] He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. [ 16] But whereto shall I liken this genera∣tion; it is like children sitting in the markets, and calling to their fellows, [ 17] And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented. [ 18] For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. [ 19] The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a glut∣ton and a wine-bibber, a friend of publicans and

sinners; but wisdom is justified by her children. [ 20] Then began he to upbraid the cities, wherein the most of his mighty works had been done, because they repented not. [ 21] ‡ 1.93 Wo to thee, Chorazin, wo to thee, Bethsaida: for if the mighty works which have been done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. [ 22] Moreover I say to you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon in the day of judgment than for you. [ 23] And thou Caper∣naum, who hast been exalted to heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. [ 24] Moreover I say unto you, It shall be more tolera∣ble for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment than for thee. [ 25] § 1.94 At that time Jesus answering said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them to babes. [ 26] Even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy

sight. [ 27] All things are delivered to me by my Fa∣ther; and no one knoweth the Son but the Father; neither knoweth any one the Father, save the Son and he to whomsoever the Son is pleased to reveal him. [ 28] Come to me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [ 29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest to your souls. [ 30] For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

V. 1. In their cities—The other Cities of Israel.

V. 2. He sent two of his disciples—Not because he doubted himself; but to confirm their Faith.

V. 3. He that is to come—The Messiah.

V. 4. Go and tell John the things which ye hear and see—Which are a stronger Proof of my being the Messiah, than any bare Assertions can be.

V. 5. The poor have the gospel preached to them—The greatest Mercy of all.

V. 6. Happy is he who shall not be offended at me—Notwithstanding all these Proofs that I am the Messiah.

V. 7. As they departer, he said concerning John—Of whom probably He would not have said so much, when they were present. A reed shaken by the wind?—No; nothing could ever shake John, in the Testimony he gave to the Truth. The Expression is proverbial.

V. 8. A man clothed in soft, delicate raiment—An essiminate Courtier, accustomed to Fawning and Flattery? You may expect to find Per∣sons of such a Character in Palaces, not in a Wilderness.

V. 9. More than a prophet—For the Prophets only pointed me out afar off; but John was my immediate Fore-runner.

V. 11. But he that is least in the kingdom of heaven, it greater than he—Which an ancient Author explains thus:

One perfect in the Law, as John was, is inferior to one who is baptized into the Death of Christ. For this is the Kingdom of Heaven, even to be buried with Christ, and to be raised up together with him, John was greater

than all who had been then born of Women; but he was cut off before the Kingdom of heaven was given.

[He seems to mean, that Righteousness, Peace, and Joy, which constitute the present, inward Kingdom of Heaven.]

He was blameless, as to that Righteousness which is by the Law; but he fell short of those who are perfected by the Spirit of Life which is in Christ. Whosoever therefore is least in the kingdom of heaven, by Christian Regeneration, is greater than any who has attained only the Righteousness of the Law, because the Law maketh nothing perfect.

It may farther mean, The least true Christian Believer, has a more perfect Knowledge of Jesus Christ, of his Redemption and Kingdom, than John the Baptist had, who died before the full Manifestation of the Gospel.

V. 12. And from the days of John—That is, from the Time that John had fulfilled his Ministry, Men rush into my Kingdom with a Violence like that of those who are t••••••ing a City by Storm.

V. 13. For all the prophets and the law prophesied untit John—For all that is written in the Law and the Prophets only foretold as distant, what is now fulfilled. In John the old Dispensation expired, and the new began.

V. 15. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear—A Kind of proverbial Expression, requiring the deepest Attention to what is spoken.

V. 16. This generation—That is, the Men of this Age. They are like those froward Children of whom their Fellows complain, that they will be pleased no Way.

V. 18. John came neither eating nor drinking—In a rigorous, austere Way, like Elijah. And they say, He hath a devil—Is melancholy, from the Influence of an evil Spirit.

V. 19. The Son of man it come, eating and drinking—Conversing in a free, familiar Way. Wisdom is justified by her children—That is, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Wisdom herein is acknowledged by those who are truly wise.

V. 20. Then began he to upbraid the cities—It is observable he had never upbraided them before. Indeed at first they had received him with all Gladness, Capernaum in particular.

V. 21. Wo to thee, Chorazin—That is, miserable art thou. For these are not Curses or Imprecations as has been commonly supposed; but a solemn, compassionate Declaration of the Misery they were bringing on themselves. Chorazin and Bethsaida were Cities of Gali∣lee▪ standing by the Lake of Gennesareth. Tyre and Sidon were Cities of Phenic••a, lying on the Sea-shore. The Inhabitants of them were Heathens.

V. 22, 24. Moreover I say to you—Besides the general Denuncia∣tion of Wo to those stubborn Unbelievers, the Degree of their Misery will be greater, than even that of Tyre and Sidon, yea of Sodom.

V. 23, Thou, Capernaum, who hast been exalted to heaven—That is, highly honoured by my Presence and Miracles.

V. 25. Jesus answering—This Word does not always imply, that something had been spoken, to which an Answer is now made. It often means no more, than the speaking in reference to some Action or Circumstance preceding. The following Words Christ speaks in re∣ference to the Case of the Cities above-mentioned: I thank thee—That is, I acknowledge and joyfully adore the Justice and Mercy of thy Dis∣pensations: Because thou hast hid—That is, because Thou hast suffered these Things to be hid from Men, who are in other Respects wise and prudent, while Thou hast discovered them to those of the weakest Understanding, to them who are only wise to GOD-ward.

V. 27. All things are delivered to me —Our LORD here addressing Himself to his Disciples, shews why Men wise in other Things, do not know this: Namely, because none can know it by natural Rea∣son; none but those to whom he revealeth it.

V. 28. Come to me—Here He shews to whom He is pleased to re∣veal these Things; to the weary and heavy laden: Ye that labour— After Rest in GOD: And are heavy la••en—With the Guilt and Power of Sin: And I will give you rest—I alone (for none else can) will freely give you (what ye cannot purchase) Rest from the Guilt of Sin by Justification, and from the Power of Sin by Sanctification.

V. 29. Take my Yoke upon you—Believe in me: Receive me as your Prophet, Priest, and King: For I am meek and lowly in heart—Meek toward all Men, lowly toward GOD: And ye shall find rest—Whoever therefore does not find Rest of Soul, ••s not meek and lowly. The Fault is not in the Yoke of Christ: But in thee, who hath not taken it upon thee. Nor is it possible for any one to be discontented, but thro' Want of Meekness or Lowliness.

V. 30. For my yoke is easy—Or rather gracious, sweet, benign, de∣lightful: And my burden—Contrary to those of Men, is Ease, Liber∣ty, and Honour.

XII.

* 1.95 At that time Jesus went on the sabbath thro' the corn, and his disciples were hungry, and plucked the ears of corn and ate. [ 2] But the Phari∣sees seeing it said to him, Behold thy disciples do what is not lawful to do on the sabbath. [ 3] But he said to them, have ye not read what David did when he was hungry, and they that were with him? [ 4] † 1.96 How he entered into the house of God, and ate the shew-bread, which it was not lawful

for him to eat, neither for them who were with him, but only for the priests? [ 5] Or have ye not read in the law, that on the sabbath-days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath and are blame∣less? [ 6] But I say to you, That a greater than the temple is here. [ 7] * 1.97 And if ye had known what that meaneth, I will have mercy and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. [ 8] For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath.

[ 9] † 1.98 And departing thence, he went into their synagogue. [ 10] And behold there was a man who had a withered hand. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath? that they might accuse him. [ 11] And he said to them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, who if it fall into a pit on the sabbath, will not lay hold on it and lift it out? [ 12] How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful

to do good on the sabbath-day. [ 13] Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he str••••ched it forth; and it was restored whole, as the other. [ 14] Then the Pharisees went out, and took council together against him, how they might destroy him. [ 15] And Jesus knowing it withdrew from thence; and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all, [ 16] And charged them not to make him known: [ 17] That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet Isaiah, saying, [ 18] † 1.99 Behold my servant, whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom my Soul delighteth: I will put my Spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the heathens. [ 19] He shall not strive nor clamour, neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. [ 20] He shall not break a bruised reed, and smoaking flax he shall not quench, till he send forth judg∣ment unto victory. [ 21] And in his name shall the heathens trust.

[ 22] ‡ 1.100 Then was brought to him a demoniac, blind and dumb; and he healed him, so that the blind and dumb both spake and saw. [ 23] And all the multi∣tude were amazed and said, Is not this the Son of David? [ 24] * 1.101 But the Pharisees hearing it said, This

fellow casteth not out devils but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils. [ 25] And Jesus knowing their thoughts said to them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself shall not be established. [ 26] And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself: how then shall his king∣dom be established? [ 27] And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. [ 28] But if it be by the Spirit of God that I cast out devils, then the kingdom of God is come upon you. [ 29] How can one enter into the strong one's house, and plunder his goods, unless he first bind the strong one? And then he will plunder his house. [ 30] He that is not with me is against me, and he that ga∣thereth thereth not with me, scattereth. [ 31] † 1.102 Wherefore I say to you. All manner of sin and blasphemy shall

be forgiven to men; but the blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven to men. [ 32] And whosoe∣ver speaketh against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, nor in that to come. [ 33] * 1.103 Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree corrupt and its fruit corrupt; for the tree is known by its fruit. [ 34] Ye brood of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. [ 35] A good man out of the good treasure bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. [ 36] But I say to you, That every idle word which men shall speak, they shall give an Account thereof in the day of judgment. [ 37] For by thy words thou shalt be justi∣fied, or by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

[ 38] † 1.104 Then certain of the Scribes and Pharisees

answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee. [ 39] And he answering said to them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh a sign, and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of the pro∣phet Jonah. [ 40] † 1.105 For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the Earth. [ 41] The men of Nineveh shall rise up in the judgment with this generation and shall condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and behold a greater than Jonah is here.

[ 42] * 1.106 The queen of the south shall rise up in the judg∣ment with this generation and shall condemn it; for she came from the uttermost parts of the earth, to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and behold a a greater than Solomon is here. [ 43] ‡ 1.107 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh thro' dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.

[ 44] Then he saith, I will return to my house whence I came out, and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept and garnished. [ 45] Then goeth he and taketh with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there, and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it be also to this wicked generation.

[ 46] † 1.108 While he yet talked to the multitude, behold his mother and his brethren stood without, seeking to speak to him. [ 47] And one said to him, Behold thy mother and thy brethren stand without, seek∣ing to speak to thee. [ 48] And he answering said to him that told him, Who is my mother, and who are my brethren? And stretching forth his hand toward his disciples he said. [ 49] Behold my mother and my brethren. [ 50] For whosoever shall do the will of my Father who is in heaven, the same is my brother and sister and mother.

V. 1. His disciples plucked the ears of corn, and ate—Just what suf∣ficed for present Necessity: Dried Corn was a common Food among the J••••s.

V. 3. Have ye not read what David did—And Necessity was a suf∣ficient Plea for his transgressing the Law in an higher Instance.

V. 4. He entered into the House of God—Into the Tabernacle. Th•• Temple was not yet built. The shew bread—So they called the B••c••••••

which the Priest, who served that Week, put every Sabbath-day on the Golden Table that was in the Holy Place, before the LORD. The Loaves were twelve in Number, and represented the twelve Tribes of Israel: When the new were brought, the stale were taken away, but were to be eaten by the Priests only.

V. 5. The priests in the temple profane the sabbath—That is, Do their ordinary Work on this, as on a common Day, cleaning all Things, and preparing the Sacrifices. A greater than the temple—If therefore the Sabbath must give way to the Temple, much more must it give way to me.

V. 7. I will have mercy and not sacrifice—That is, when they inter∣fere with each other, I always prefer Acts of Mercy, before Matter•• of positive Institution: Yea, before all ceremonial Institutions what∣ever; because these being only Means of Religion, are suspended of course, if Circumstances occur, wherein they clash with Love, which is the End of it.

V. 8. For the Son of man—Therefore they are guiltless, were it on∣ly on this Account, that they act by my Authority, and attend on me in my Ministry, as the Priests attended on GOD in the Temple: Is Lord even of the sabbath—This certainly implies, that the Sabbath was an Institution of great and distinguished Importance: It may per∣haps also refer to that signal Act of Authority which Christ afterwards exerted over it, in changing it from the seventh to the first Day of the We••k. If we suppose here is a Transposition of the 7th and 8th Verses, than the 8th Verse is a Proof of the 6th.

V. 12. It is lawful to do good on the sabbath-day—To save a Beast, ••uch more a Man.

V. 18. He shall shew judgment to the heathens—That is, He shall publish the merciful Gospel to them also: The Hebrew Word signi∣fies either Mercy or Justice.

V. 19. He shall not strive, nor clamour; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets—That is, He shall not be contentious, noisy, or ostentatious; but gentle, quiet, and lowly. We may observe, each Word rises above the other, expressing a still higher Degree of Humi∣lity and Gentleness.

V. 20. A bruised reed—A convinced Sinner; one that is bruised with the Weight of Sin: Smoaking flax—One that has the least good Desire, the faintest Spark of Grace: Till he send forth judgment unto victory—That is, till he make Righteousness compleatly victorious over all its Enemies.

V. 21. In his name—That is, in Him.

V. 22. A demoniac, blind and dumb—Many undoubtedly supposed these Defects to be merely natural. But the Spirit of GOD saw other∣wise, and gives the true Account both of the Disorder and the ••••are. How many other Disorders, seemingly natural, may even now be owing to the same Cause?

V. 23. Is not this the Son of David—That is, the Messiah.

V. 25. Jesus knowing their thoughts—It seems, they had as yet only said it in their Hearts.

V. 26. How shall his kingdom be established—Does not that subtile Spirit know, this is not the Way to establish his Kingdom?

V. 27. By whom do your children—That is, Disciples, cast them out—It seems, some of them really did this; altho' the Sons of Sceva could not. Therefore they shall be your judges—Ask them, if Satan will cast out Satan: Let even them be Judges in this Matter. And they shall convict you of Obstinacy and Partiality, who impute that in Me to Beelzebub, which in them you impute to GOD. Besides, how can I rob him of his Subjects, till I have conquered him? The kingdom of God is come upon you—Unawares; before you expected: So the Word implies.

V. 29. How can one enter into the strong one's house, unless he first bind the strong one—So Christ coming into the World, which was then emi∣nently the strong one's, Satan's House, first bound him, and then took his Spoils.

V. 30. He that is not with me is against me—For there are no Neu∣ters in this War. Every one must be either with Christ or against Him; either a loyal Subject or a Rebel▪ And there are none upon Earth, who neither promote nor obstruct his Kingdom. For he that does not gather Souls to GOD scatters them from Him.

V. 31. The blasphemy against the Spirit—How much Stir has been made about this? How many Sermons, yea, Volumes have been written concerning it? And yet there is nothing plainer in all the Bible. It is neither more nor less, than the ascribing those Miracles to the Power of the Devil, which Christ wrought by the Power of the Holy Ghost.

V. 32. Whosoever speaketh against the Son of man—In any other Re∣spect: It shall be forgiven him—Upon his true Repentance: But who∣soever speaketh thus against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven, nei∣ther in this world nor in the world to come—This was a proverbial Ex∣pression among the Jews, for a Thing that would never be done. It here means farther, He shall not escape the Punishment of it, either in this World or in the World to come. The Judgment of GOD shall overtake him, both here and hereafter.

V. 33. Either make the tree good and its fruit good: or make the tree corrupt and its fruit corrupt—That is, you must allow, they are both good, or both bad. For if the Fruit is good, so is the Tree; if the Fruit is evil, so is the Tree also. For the tree is known by its fruit—As if he had said, Ye may therefore know Me by fruits.—By my converting Sinners to GOD, you may know that GOD hath sent me.

V. 34. In another Kind likewise, the tree is known by its fruit— Namely, the Heart by the Conversation.

V. 36. Ye may perhaps think, GOD does not so much regard your Words. But I say to you—That not for blasphemous and profane Words only, but for every ille word which men seall speak—For Want of Seriousness or Caution, for every Discourse which is not conducive to the Glory of GOD, they shall give account in the day of judgment.

V. 37. For by thy Words (as well as thy Tempers and Works) thou shalt then be either acquitted or condemned. Your Words as well as Actions shall be produced in Evidence for or against you to prove whether you was a true Believer or not. And according to that Evi∣dence you will either be acquitted or condemned in the great Day.

V. 38. We would see a sign—Else we will not believe this.

V. 39. An adulterous generation—Whose Heart wanders from GOD tho' they profess Him to be their Husband. Such Adulterers are all those who love the World, and all who seek the Friendship of it. Seeketh a sign—After all they have had all already, which were abun∣dantly sufficient to convince them, had not their Hearts been estrang∣ed from GOD, and consequently averse to the Truth. The sign of Jo∣nah—Who Who was herein a Type of Christ

V. 40. Three days and three nights—It was customary with the Eas∣tern Nations, to reckon any Part of a natural Day of twenty-four Hours, for the whole Day. Accordingly they used to say, A Thing was done after three or seven Days, if it was done on the third or seventh Day, from that which was last mentioned. Instances of this may be seen, 1 Kings xx. 29. and in many other Places. And as the Hebrews had no Word to express a natural Day, they used Night and Day, or Day and Night for it. So that to say, a Thing happened after three days and three nights, was with them the very same, as to say, it happened after three Days, or on the third Day. See Esther iv. 16. v. 1. Gen. vii. 4, 12. F••••. xxiv. 18. xxxiv. 23.

V. 42. She came from the uttermost parts of the earth—That Part of Arabia from which she came, was the uttermost Part of the Earth that Way, being bounded by the Sea.

V. 43. But how dreadful will be the Consequence of their rejecting Me? When the unclean spirit go•••• out—Not willingly, but being com∣pelled by one that is stronger than he. He walketh—Wanders up and down; thro' ary places—Barren, dreary, desolate; or, Places not yet watered with the Gospel: Seeking rest and findeth none—How can he, while he carries with him his own Hell? And is it not the Case of his Children too? Reader, Is it thy Case?

V. 44. Whence I came out—He speaks as if he had come out of his own Accord: See his Pride! He findeth it empty—Of GOD, of Christ, of his Spirit: Swept—From Love, Lowliness, Meekness, and all the Fruits of the Spirit: And garnished—With Levity and Se∣curity: So that there is nothing to keep him out, and much to in∣vite him in.

V. 45. Seven other spirits—That is, a great many; a certain Num∣ber being put for an uncertain: More wicked than himself—Whence it appears, that there are Degrees of Wickedness among the Devils themselves: They enter in and dwell—For ever, in him who is for∣saken of GOD. So shall it be to this wicked generation—Yea and to Apostates in all Ages.

V. 46. His brethren—His Kinsmen: They were the Sons of Mary the Wife of Cleopas or Alpheus, his Mother's Sister; and came now seeking to take him, as one beside himself, Mark iii. 21.

V. 48. And he answering, said—Our LORD'S knowing why they came, sufficiently justifies his seeming Disregard of them.

V. 49, 50. See the highest Severity, and the highest Goodness! Severity to his Natural, Goodness to his Spiritual Relations! In a Manner disclaiming the former, who opposed the Will of his heavenly Father, and owning the latter, who obeyed it

XIII.

* 1.109 The same day went Jesus out of the house, and fat by the sea-side. [ 2] And great multitudes

were gathered together to him, so that he went in∣to the vessel and sat, and all the multitude stood on the shore. [ 3] And he spake many things to them in parables, saying, Behold the sower went forth to sow. [ 4] And while he sowed, some seeds fell by the high-way side, and the birds came and devoured them. [ 5] Others fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth; and they sprung up immedi∣ately, because they had not depth of earth. [ 6] And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and be∣cause they had not root, they withered away. [ 7] And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up and choaked them. [ 8] And others fell on the good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty. [ 9] He that hath ears

to hear let him hear. [ 10] And the disciples came and said to him, Why speakest thou to them in parables? [ 11] He answering said unto them, Because to you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven; but to them it is not given. for [ 12] * 1.110 whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and he shall have abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even what he hath. [ 13] Therefore I spake to them in parables, because seeing they see not, and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand. [ 14] And in them is ful∣filled the prophecy of Isaiah who saith, † 1.111 Hearing ye will hear, but in no wise understand, and seeing ye will see, but in no wise perceive. [ 15] For the heart of this people is waxed fat, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed: lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears and understand with their hearts, and should be converted and I should heal

them. [ 16] ‡ 1.112 But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears for they hear. [ 17] For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see the things which ye see, and have not seen them, and to hear the things which ye hear, and have not heard them. [ 18] Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. [ 19] When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and consi∣dereth it not, the wicked one cometh, and catch∣eth away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the highway-side. [ 20] But he who received the seed in stony places, is he that heareth the word and immediately receiveth it with joy. [ 21] Yet he hath not root in himself, and so endureth but for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, straight∣way he is offended. [ 22] He that received the seed among the thorns, is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.

[ 23] But he that received seed on the good ground, is he that heareth the word and considereth it: who also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty.

[ 24] He proposed to them another parable, saying, The Kingdom of heaven is like a man sowing good seed in his field. [ 25] But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed darnel amidst the wheat, and went away. [ 26] And when the blade was sprung up and brought forth fruit, then appeared the darnel also. So the servants of the housholder came to him, and said, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? [ 27] Whence then hath it ••••••••el? He said to

them, An enemy hath done this. [ 28] The servants said to him, Wilt thou then, that we go and ga∣ther them up? [ 29] But he said, No: lest gathering up the darnel, ye root up the wheat with them. [ 30] Suf∣fer both to grow together till the harvest; and at the time of the harvest I will say to the renpers, Gather ye together first the darnel, and bind it in bundles to burn it, but gather the wheat into ••••y barn.

[ 31] He proposed to them another parable, saying, * 1.113 The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mus∣tard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field: [ 32] Which indeed is the least of all seeds, but when it is grown up, it is the greatest of herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches of it.

[ 33] He spake another parable to them: † 1.114 The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a wo∣man taking, covered up in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

[ 34] All these things spake Jesus to the multitude

in parables, and without a parable spake he not unto them: [ 35] Whereby was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet, saying, ‡ 1.115 I will open my mo••th in parables; I will utter things hid from the foun∣dation of the world.

[ 36] Then Jesus having sent the multitude away, went into the house: and his disciples came to him, saying, Declare to us the parable of the darnel of the field. [ 37] He answering said to them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of Man. [ 38] The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom, but the darnel are the children of the wicked one. [ 39] The enemy that sowed them is the devil: the harvest is the end of the world; the reapers are the angels. [ 40] As therefore the dar∣nel is gathered and burnt with fire, so shall it be at the end of this world. [ 41] The Son of Man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them that do iniquity; [ 42] And shall cast them into the furnace of fire; there shall be the wailing and the gnashing of teeth. [ 43] Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

[ 44] Again the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hid in a field, which a man having found hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath and buyeth that field.

[ 45] Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a mer∣chant seeking goodly pearls: [ 46] Who having found one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.

[ 47] Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a not cast into the sea, and gathering of every kind: which when it was full, they drew to the shore, and sitting down, gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away. [ 48] So shall it be at the end of the world. [ 49] The angels shall come forth and sever the wicked from among the just; [ 50] And shall cast them into the furnace of sire: there shall be the wailing and the gnashing of teeth. [ 51] Jesus saith to them, Have ye understood all these things? They say to him, Yea, Lord. [ 52] Then saith he to them, Therefore every scribe instructed unto the kingdom of heaven, is like an housholder, who bringeth out of his treasure things new and old.

[ 53] And when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence: [ 54] * 1.116 And coming into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, Whence hath HE this wisdom and these mighty works? [ 55] Is not

this the carpenter's son? Is not his mother called Mary? And his brethren James and Joses and Simon and Jude? And his sisters are they not all with us? [ 56] Whence then hath HE all these things? [ 57] † 1.117 And they were offended at him. But Jesus said to them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. [ 58] And he wrought not many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.

V. 2. He went into the vessel—Which constantly waited upon Him, while He was on the Sea-coast.

V. 3. In parables—The Word is here taken in its proper Sense, for apt Similies or Comparisons. This Way of speaking extremely common in the Eastern Countries, drew and fixt the Attention of many, and occasioned the Truths delivered, to sink the deeper into humble and serious Hearers. At the same Time, by an awful Mix∣ture of Justice and Mercy, it hid them from the Proud and Careless.

In this Chapter our LORD delivers seven Parables; directing the four former (as being of general Concern) to all the People; the three latter to his Disciples.

Behold the sow••••—How exquisitely proper is this Parable to be an Introduction to all the rest? In this our LORD answers a very ob∣vious and a very important Question. The same Sower, Christ, and the same Preachers sent by Him, always sow the same Seed: Why has it not always the same Effect? He that hath Ears to hear, let him hear!

V. 4. And while he sowed, some seeds fell by the highway-side, and the birds came and devoured them—It is observable, that our LORD points out the grand Hinderances of our bearing Fruit, in the same Order as they occur. The first Danger is, That the Birds will de∣vour the Seed. If it escape this, there is then another Dan••••••, namely. Lest it be scorched, and wither away. It is long after t•••••• that the Thorns spring up and choke the good Seed.

A vast Majority of those who hear the Word of GOD, receive the Seed as by the highway-side. Of those who do not lose it by the Birds, yet many receive it as on stony places. Many of them who receive it in a better Soil, yet suffer the thorns to grow up and c••oke it: So that few even of these endure to the End, and be•••• fruit unto perfection: Yet in all these Cases, it is not the Will of GOD that hinders, but their own voluntary Perverseness.

V. 8. Good ground—Soft, not like that by the Highway-side; deep, not like the stony Ground; purged, not full of Thorns.

V. 11. To you, who have, it is given to k••••w the myst••••ies of the kingdom of ••e••ven—The deep Things, which Flesh and Blood can∣not reveal, pertaining to the inward, present Kingdom of Heaven. But to ••••••m who have not, it is not given—Therefore speak I i•• parables, that ye may understand, while they do not understand

V. 12. Whosoever hath—That is, improves what he hath, uses the Grace given according to the design of the Giver; to him shall be given—More and more, in Proportion to that Improvement. But whosoever h••th not—Improves it not, from him shall be taken even what he hath. Here is the grand Rule of GOD'S dealing with the Children of Men: A Rule, fixt as the Pillars of Heaven. This is the Key to all his providential Dispensations; as will appear to Men and Angels in ••••••t Day.

V. 13. Therefor•• I speak to them in parables, because seeing they see not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 In Pursuance of this general Rule, I do not give more Knowledge 〈◊〉〈◊〉 this People, because they use not that which they have. ••lready: ••••aving all the Means of seeing, hearing, and understanding, they 〈◊〉〈◊〉 none of them; they do not effectually see, or hear, or understand any Thing.

V. 14. Hearing ye will hear, but in no wise understand—That is, Ye will surely hear: All possible Means will be given you; yet they will profit you nothing: Because your Heart is sensual, stupid, and insensible; your spiritual Senses are shut up; yea, you have closed your eyes against the Light; as being unwilling to understand the Things of GOD, and afraid, not desirous that He should heal you.

V. 16. But blessed are your eyes—For you both see and understand. You know how to prize the Light which is given you.

V. 19. When any one heareth the word and considereth it n••••••••—The first and most general Cause of Unfruitfulness. The wicked one cometh —Either inwardly; filling the Mind with Thoughts of other Things: Or by his Agents. Such are all they that introduce other Subjects, when Men should be considering what they have heard.

V. 20. The seed sown on stony places, therefore sprung up soon, be∣cause it did not sink deep. (ver. 5.) He receiveth it with joy—Perhaps with Transport, with Extasy: Struck with the Beauty of Truth, and drawn by the Preventing Grace of GOD.

V. 21. Yet hath he not root in himself—No deep Work of Grace: no Change in the Ground of his Heart Nay, he has no deep Con∣viction: And without this, good Desires soon wither away. He 〈◊〉〈◊〉 off aded—He finds a thousand plausible Pretences for leaving so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 row and rugged a Way.

V. 22. He that received the seed among the thorns, is he that he•••••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the word and considereth it—In spite of Satan and all his Agents: Y•••• hath root in himself, is deeply convinced, and in great Measure, in∣wardly changed; so that he will not draw back, even when tribula∣tion or persecution ariseth. And yet even in him, together with the good Seed, the thor•• ••••ring up (ver. 7. ••••perhaps unperceived at first) till they gradually choke it, destroy all its Life and Power, and it be∣cometh unfruitful.

Cares are thorns to the Poor; Wealth to the Rich; the Desire of other Things to All. The deceitfulness of riches—Deceitful indeed! For they smile, and betray: Kiss, and smite into Hell. They put out the Eyes, harden the Heart, steal away all the Life of GOD: Fill the Soul with Pride, Anger, Love of the World: Make Men Ene∣mies to the whole Cross of Christ! And all the while are eagerly de∣sired, and vehemently pursued, even by those who believe there is a GOD!

V. 23. Some an hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty.—That is, in various Proportions; some abundantly more than others.

V. 24. He proposed another parable—In which He farther explains the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of unfruitful Hearers. The kingdom of heaven (as has been observed before) sometimes signifies eternal Glory: Sometimes the Way to it, Inward Religion: Sometimes, as here, the Gospel Dis∣pensation: The Phrase is likewise used for a Person or Thing relat∣ing to any of those: So in this Place, it means, Christ preaching the Gospel, who is like a man sowing good seed—The Expression, is like, both here and in several other Places, only means, That the Thing spoken as may be illustrated by the following Similitude. Who sowed good seed in his field—GOD sowed nothing but Good in his whole Cre∣•••••• Christ sowed only the good Seed of Truth in his Church.

V. 25. But while men slept—They ought to have watched: The 〈…〉〈…〉 of the Field sleepeth not. His enemy came and sowed darnel— 〈…〉〈…〉 like Wheat, and commonly grows among Wheat rather 〈…〉〈…〉 ••ther ••rain: But Tares or Vetches are of the Pulse Kind, 〈…〉〈…〉 no R••••••••blance to Wheat.

V. 26. When the blade was sprung up, then appeared the darnel—It 〈◊〉〈◊〉 not discerned before: It seldom appears, as soon as the good ••eed is 〈◊〉〈◊〉: A•••••• first appears to be Peace, and Love, and Joy.

V. 27. Didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? Whence then hath it ••••••nel••—Not from the Parent of Good. Even the Heathen could ••••y,

"No Evil can from Thee proceed; "〈◊〉〈◊〉 is only suffer'd, not decreed: "As Darkness is not from the Sun, "〈◊〉〈◊〉 mount the Shades, till he is gone."

V. 28. He said, An Enemy hath done this —A plain Answer to the great Question, concerning the Origin of Evil. GOD made Men (as he did Angels) Intelligent Creatures, and consequently Free either to chuse Good or Evil: But he implanted no Evil in the human Soul: An Enemy (with Man's Concurrence) hath done this.

Darnel, in the Church, is, properly, outside Christians, such as have the Form of Godliness, without the Power. Open Sinners, such as have neither the Form nor the Power, are not so properly Darnel, as Thistles and Brambles: These ought to be rooted up with∣out Delay, and not suffered in the Christian Community. Whereas should fallible Men attempt to gather up the darnel, they would often root up the wheat with them.

V. 31. He proposed to them another parable—The former Par•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 relate chiefly to unfruitful H••••rers; these that follow, to these 〈…〉〈…〉 bear good Fruit. The kingdom of heaven—Both the Go•••• 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••∣tion, and the Inward Kingdom.

V. 32. The least—That is, One of the least: A Way of spe•••••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 extremely common among the Jews. It becometh a tree—In the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Countries it grows exceeding large and high. So will the Christian•• Doctrine spread in the World, and the Life of Christ in the Soul.

V. 33. Three measures—This was the Quantity which they usually baked at once; till the whole was leavened—Thus will the Gospel leaven the World, and Grace the Christian.

V. 34. Without a parable spake he not unto them—That is, Not at that Time; at other Times he did.

V. 38. The good seed are the children of the kingdom—That is, the ••••••dren of GOD, the Righteous.

V. 41. They shall gather all things that offend—Whatever had hin∣•••••• or grieved the Children of GOD; whatever Things or Persons, 〈…〉〈…〉 the good Seed which Christ had sown from taking Root 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••it. The Greek Word is, All Scandals.

V. 44. The three following Parables are proposed not to the Mul∣••••••, but peculiarly to the Apostles: The two former of them re∣•••••• those who receive the Gospel; the third, both to those who receive and those who preach it. The kingdom of heaven is like trea∣sure hid in a field—The Kingdom of GOD within us, is a Treasure indeed, but a Treasure hid from the World, and from the most wise and prudent in it. He that finds this Treasure (perhaps when he thought it far from him) hides it deep in his Heare, and gives up all other Happiness for it.

V. 45. The kingdom of heaven—That is, one who earnestly feeles for it: In the 47th Verse it means, The Gospel preached, which is like a net gathering of every Kind: Just so the Gospel wherever it is preached, gathers at first both good and bad, who are for a Season full of Approbation and warm with good Desires. But Christian Disci∣pline, and strong, close Exhortation, begin that Separation in this World, which shall be accomplished by the Angels of GOD, in the World to come.

V. 52. Every scribe instructed unto the kingdom of heaven—That is, every duly-prepared Preacher of the Gospel, has a Treasure of divine Knowledge, out of which he is able to bring forth all Sorts of In∣structions. The Word Treasure signifies any Collection of This whatsoever, and the Places where such Collections are k••••••.

V. 53. He departed thence—He crossed the Lake from 〈…〉〈…〉 And came once more into his own country—Nazareth: But with 〈◊〉〈◊〉 better Success than he had had there before.

V. 54. Whence hath HE—Many Texts are not understood, for want of knowing the proper Emphasis: And others are utterly mis∣understood, by placing the Emphasis wrong. To prevent this in some Measure, the Emphatical Words are here printed in Capital Letters.

V. 55. The Carpenter's son—The Greek Word means, One that works either in Wood, Iron, or Stone. His brethren—Or Kinsmen.

They were the Sons of Mary, Sister to the Virgin, and Wife of Cleophas or Alpheus. James—Stiled by St. Paul, also, the Lord's Bro∣ther. Gal. i. 19. Simon—Surnamed the Canaumte.

V. 57. They were offended at him—They looked on Him as a mean, ignoble Man, not worthy to be regarded.

V. 58. He wrought not many mighty works, because of their unbelief—And the Reason why many mighty Works are not wrought now, is not, That the Faith is every where planted; but, That Unbelief every where prevails.

XIV.

* 1.118 At that time Herod the Tetrarch heard the fame of Jesus, [ 2] And said to his servants, This is John the Baptist: he is risen from the dead, and therefore these mighty powers exert themselves in him. [ 3] ‡ 1.119 For Herod having apprehended John, had bound and put him in prison, for Herodias's sake, his brother Philip's wife. [ 4] For John had said to him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. [ 5] And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they accounted him a pro∣phet. [ 6] But when Herod's birth-day was kept, the

daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. [ 7] Whereupon he promised with an oath, to give her whatever she should ask. [ 8] And she being before instructed by her mother, said, Give me here John the Baptist's head in a charger. [ 9] And the king was sorry; yet for the oath's sake, and them who sat with him at table, he commanded it to be given her. [ 10] And he sent and beheaded John in the prison. [ 11] And his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel, and she carried it to her mother. [ 12] And his disciples came and took up the body, and buried it, and went and told Jesus. [ 13] † 1.120 And Jesus hearing it, withdrew thence by ship into a desert place apart: but when the peo∣ple heard thereof, they followed him by land out of the cities.

[ 14] And coming forth he saw a great multitude, and was moved with tender compassion for them, and healed their sick. [ 15] * 1.121 And in the evening his disci∣ples came to him, saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past: send the multitude a∣way, that going into the villages, they may buy themselves victuals. [ 16] But Jesus said to them, They

need not go: give ye them to eat. [ 17] They say to him, [ 18] We have here but five loaves and two fishes. He said, Bring them hither to me. [ 19] And he com∣manded the multitude to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fishes, looking up to heaven he blessed and brake, and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples to the multitude. [ 20] And they all ate and were satisfied: and they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. [ 21] And they that had eaten were about five thousand, beside women and children. [ 22] ‡ 1.122 And he constrained his disciples, to go straight∣way into the vessel, and go before him to the other side, till he sent the multitude away. [ 23] And hav∣ing sent the multitude away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray. [ 24] And in the evening he was there alone: but the vessel was now in the midst of the sea, tossed by the waves; for the wind was contrary. [ 25] In the fourth watch of the night he went to them, walking on the sea. [ 26] And the disciples seeing him walking on the sea, were affrighted, saying, It is an apparition: and they cried out for fear. [ 27] But Jesus immediately spake to them, saying, Take courage: it is I: be not afraid. [ 28] And Peter answering, said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come to thee on the waters. [ 29] And he said, Come. And Peter going down from the vessel, walked on the waters, to go to Jesus. [ 30] But seeing the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and be∣ginning

to sink, he cried, Lord, save me. [ 31] And immediately Jesus reaching forth his hand, caught him, and saith to him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? [ 32] And when they were come into the vessel, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the vessel, came and worshipped him, saying, of a truth thou art the son of GOD.

[ 34] And having crossed over, they came into the land of Gennesaret. [ 35] § 1.123 And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought to him all that were diseased; [ 36] And besought him that they might touch but the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole.

V. 1. At that time—When our LORD had spent about a Year in his public Ministry. Tetrarch—King of a fourth Part of his Father's Dominions.

V. 2. He is risen from the dead—Herod was a Sadducce: And the 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••denied the Resurrection of the Dead. But Sadduceism 〈…〉〈…〉 Conscience awakes.

V. 3. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 brother Philip's wife—Who was still alive.

V. 4. It is not lawful for thee to have her—It was not lawful indeed for either of them to have her. For her Father Aristobulas was their own Brother. John's Words were rough like his Raiment. He would not break the Force of Truth, by using soft Words even to a King.

V. 5. He would have put him to death—In his F•• of Passion; but he was them restrained by the Fear of the Multitude; and afterwards, by the Reverence he bore him.

V. 6. The daughter of Herodias—Afterwards infamous for a Life suitable to this Beginning.

V. 8. Being before instructed by her mother—Both as to the Matter and Manner of her Petition: She said, Give me here—Fearing if he had Time to consider, he would not do it: John the Baptist's head in a charger—A large Dish or Bowl.

V. 9. And the king was sorry—Knowing that John was a good Man: Yet for the oath's sake—So he murdered an innocent Man from mere Tenderness of Conscience!

V. 10. And he sent and beheaded John in the prison, and his head was given to the damsel—How mysterious is the Providence, which left the Life of so holy a Man in such infamous Hands! Which permitted it to be sacrificed to the Malice of an abandoned Harlot, the Petulan•••• of a vain Girl, and the Rashness of a foolish, perhaps drunken P•••••••••• who made a Prophet's Head the Reward of a Dance ••••••••t 〈…〉〈…〉 sure the Almighty will repay his Servants in another Wor•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 whatever they suffer in this.

V. 13. Jesus withdrew into a desert place—1. To avoid Herod; 2. Because of the Multitude pressing upon him; (Mark vi. 32.) and 3. To talk with Disciples, newly returned from their Progress; (Luke ix. 10.) apart—From all but his Disciples.

V. 15. The time is now past—The usual Meal-time.

V. 22. He constrained his disciples—Who were unwilling to leave him.

V. 24. In the evening—I earned Men say the Jews reckoned Two Evenings; the first beginning at Three in the Afternoon, the second, ••••••un set. If so, the latter is meant here.

V. 25. The fourth w••tch—The Jews (as well as the Romans) usu∣•••••• divided the Night into four Watches, of three Hours each. The first watch began at Six, the second at Nine, the third at Twelve, the fourth at Three in the Morning. If it be thou—It is the s••me as Since it is thou. The Particle if frequently bears this Meaning, both in ours and in all Languages. So it means John xiii. 14 and 17. St. Peter was in no Doubt, or he would not have quitted the ••hip.

V. 30. He was afraid—Tho' he had been used to the Sea, ••nd was a skilful Swimmer. But so it frequently is. When Grace be∣gins to act, the natural Courage and Strength are withdrawn.

V. 33. Thou art the son of God—They mean, The Messiah.

XV.

* 1.124 Then came to Jesus scribes and pharisees who were at Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? [ 2] For they wash not their hands when they eat bread. [ 3] But he an∣swering said, Why do ye also transgress the com∣mandment of God thro' your tradition? [ 4] For God said, † 1.125 Honour thy father and mother: and he that revileth father or mother, let him die the death. [ 5] But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest have been profited by me: He shall in no wise honour his father or his mother. [ 6] Thus have ye made void the command of God thro' your tradi∣tion. [ 7] Ye hypocrites, well did Isaiah prophesy of

you, [ 8] saying, * 1.126 This people draweth nigh to me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. [ 9] But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. [ 10] And call∣ing the multitude unto him he said to them, Hear and understand. [ 11] Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth the man, but what cometh out of the mouth, this defileth the man. [ 12] Then came his disciples and said to him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees, hearing this saying, were offended; [ 13] He answered and said, Every plant which my heavenly father hath not planted shall be rooted up. [ 14] † 1.127 Let them alone: they are blind leaders of the blind: but if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a ditch. [ 15] Then answered Peter and said to him, Declare to us this parable. [ 16] And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? [ 17] Do ye not yet understand, that whatever entereth into the mouth, goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the vault? [ 18] But the things which proceed out of the mouth, come out of the heart, and they defile the man. [ 19] For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, mur∣ders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, railings. [ 20] These are the things which defile a man; but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.

[ 21] ‖ 1.128 And Jesus going thence, retired to the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. [ 22] And behold a woman of Ca∣naan,

coming out of those coasts, cried to him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David: my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil. [ 23] But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away, for the crieth after us. [ 24] But he answering said. I am not sent but to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. [ 25] Then she came and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. [ 26] But he answering said, It is not good, to take the childrens bread and cast it to the dogs. [ 27] And she said, True, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their master's table. [ 28] And Jesus answering said to her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee as thou wilt. And her daughter was healed from that hour.

[ 29] * 1.129 And Jesus passing thence, came nigh the sea of Galilee; and going up into a mountain, he sat down there. [ 30] And great multitudes came to him, having with them the lame, blind, dumb, disa∣bled, and many others; and cast them at the feet of Jesus, and he healed them: [ 31] So that the multi∣tudes wondered, seeing the dumb to speak, the disabled whole, the lame to walk, and the blind to see: and they glorified the God of Israel. [ 32] † 1.130 Then Jesus calling his disciples to him said, I have tender compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have

nothing to eat: and I am not willing to send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way. [ 33] And his disciples say to him, Whence should we have so many loaves in the wilderness, as to satisfy so great a multitude? [ 34] And Jesus saith to them, How many loaves have you? They said, Seven, and a few small fishes. [ 35] And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. [ 36] And taking the seven loaves and the fishes, he gave thanks and brake them and gave to his disciples, and the dis∣ciples to the multitude. [ 37] And they all ate and were satisfied, and they took up of the Fragments that remained seven baskets full. [ 38] And they that had eaten were four thousand men, besides wo∣men and children.

[ 39] And having sent away the multitude, he took ship again, and came into the coasts of Magdala.

V. 2. The elders—The chief Doctors or Teachers among the Jews.

V. 3. They wash not their hands when they eat bread—Food in gene∣ral is termed Bread in Hebrew: So that to eat Bread is the same a•• to make a Meal.

V. 4. Honour thy father and mother—Which implies all such ••••∣lief as they stand in Need of.

V. 5. It is a gift by whatsoever thou mightest have been profited by me—That is, I have given, or at least, purpose to give to the Trea∣sury of the Temple, what you might otherwise have had from me.

V. 7. Well did Isaiah prophesy of you, saying—That is, The De∣scription which Isaiah gave of your Fathers, is exactly applicable to you. The Words therefore which were a Description of them, are a Prophecy with Regard to you.

V. 8. Their heart is far from me—And without this, all outward Worship is mere Mockery of GOD.

V. 9. Teaching the commandments of men—As equal with, nay, su∣perior to, those of GOD. What can be a more heinous Sin?

V. 13. Every plant—That is, every Doctrine.

V. 14. Let them alone—If they are indeed ••lind leaders of the blind, let them alone; concern not yourselves about them: A plain Direction ••••w to behave, with Regard to all such.

V. 17. Are ye also yet without understanding? How fair and candid are the sacred Historians? Never concealing or excusing their own Blemishes.

V. 19. First evil thoughts—then murders—and the rest. Railings—The Greek Word includes all Reviling, Back-biting, and Evil-speaking.

V. 22. A woman of Canaa••—••anaan was also called Syrophen••cia, as lying between Syria properly so called, and Phenicia, by the Sea-side. Cried to him—From afar, Thou son of David—So she had some Knowledge of the promised Messiah.

V. 23. He answered her not a word—He sometimes tries our Faith in like Manner.

V. 24. I am not sent—Not primarily; not yet.

V. 25. Then came she—Into the House where He now was.

V. 28. Thy faith—Thy Reliance on the Power and Goodness of GOD.

V. 29. The sea of Galilee—The Jews gave the Name of Seas, to all large Lakes. This was an hundred Furlongs long, and forty broad. It was called also, the sea of Tiberias. It lay on the Borders of Galilee, and the City of Tiberias stood on its Western Shore. It was likewise stiled, The lake of Gennesareth: Perhaps a Corruption of Cinnereth, the Name by which it was anciently called, Numb. xxxiv. 11.

V. 32. They continue with me now three days—It was now the third Day, since they came.

V. 36. He gave thanks, or blessed the Food—That is, He praise GOD for it, and prayed for a Blessing upon it.

XVI.

‖ 1.131 Then the Pharisees and Sadduces came to him and tempting, desired him to shew them a sign from heaven. [ 2] § 1.132 He answering said to them. In the evening ye say, It will be fair weather; for the sky is red: And in the morning, It will be foul weather to-day; for the sky is red and lowring. [ 3] O ye hypocrites, ye know to discern the face of the sky; can ye not discern the signs of the times? A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; but there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonah. [ 4] And he left them and departed.

[ 5] * 1.133 And when his disciples were come on the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.

[ 6] † 1.134 And Jesus said to them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. [ 7] And they reasoned among themselves, saying, We have taken no bread. [ 8] Jesus knowing it said to them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have taken no bread? [ 9] Do ye not understand nor remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? [ 10] Neither the seven loaves of the four thou∣sand, and how many baskets ye took up? [ 11] How do ye not understand, that I spake not to you con∣cerning bread, to beware of the leaven of the Pha∣risees and Sadducees? [ 12] Then they understood, that he did not bid them beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

[ 13] ‖ 1.135 And Jesus coming into the coasts of Cesarea Philippi, asked his disciples saying, Whom do men say that the Son of Man is? [ 14] And they said, Some say, John the Baptist; others Elijah; others Jeremiah, or one of the prophets. [ 15] He saith to them, But whom say ye that I am? [ 16] And Simon Peter an••••ering said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. [ 17] And Jesus answering said to

him, Happy art thou, Simon Barjonah; for flesh and blood have not revealed this to thee, but my Father who is in heaven. [ 18] And I say also to thee, Thou art Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. [ 19] * 1.136 And I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and what∣soever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. [ 20] Then charged he his disciples, to tell no one, that he was the Christ.

[ 21] † 1.137 From that time Jesus began to shew his dis∣ciples, That he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. [ 22] Then Peter taking hold of him, re∣buked him, saying, Favour thyself, Lord: this shall in no wise be unto thee. [ 23] But he turning said to Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan; ••••ou art an offence to me: for thou savourest not the things of God, but the things of men. [ 24] * 1.138 Then said Jesus to his disciples, If any man be willing to come after me, let him deny himself, and take

up his cross and follow me. [ 25] † 1.139 For whosoever will save his life, shall lose it, and whosoever will lose his life for my sake, shall find it. [ 26] For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give, in exchange for his soul? [ 27] For the Son of Man shall come in the glory of his Father, with his angels; and then shall he render to every man according to his work. [ 28] Verily I say to you, there are some

standing here, who shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.

V. 1. A sign from heaven—Such they imagined Satan could not counterfeit.

V. 3. The signs of the times—The Signs which evidently shew, That this is the Time of the Messiah.

V. 4. A wicked and adulterous generation—Ye would seek no far∣ther Sign, did not your Wickedness, your Love of the World, which is Spiritual Adultery, blind your Understanding.

V. 6. Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees—That is, of their False Doctrine: This is elegantly so called; For it spreads in the Soul or the Church, as Leaven does in Meal.

V. 7. They reasoned among themselves—What must we do then for Bread, since we have taken no Bread with us?

V. 8. Why reason ye—Why are you troubled about this? Am I not able, if Need so require, to supply you by a Word?

V. 11. How do ye not understand—Besides, do you not understand, that I did not mean Bread, by the Leaven of the Pharisees and Sad∣ducees?

V. 13. And Jesus coming—There was a large Interval of Time be∣tween what has been related, and what follows. The Passages that follow were but a short Time before our LORD suffered

V. 14. Jeremiah or one of the prophets—There was at that Time a current Tradition among the Jews, That either Jeremiah or some other of the ancient Prophets would rise again before the Messiah came.

V. 16. Peter—Who was generally the most forward to speak.

V. 17. Flesh and blood—That is, Thy own Reason, or any natural Power whatsoever.

V. 18. On this rock—Alluding to his Name, which signifies a Rock, namely the Faith which thou hast now professed; I will build my church—But perhaps when our LORD uttered these Words, He pointed to Himself, in like Manner as when He said, Destroy this temple (John ii. 19.) meaning the Temple of his Body. And it is certain, that as He is spoken of in Scripture, as the only Foundation of the Church, so this is that which the Apostles and Evangelists laid in their Preaching. It is in respect of laying this, that the Names of the twelve Apostles (not of St. Peter only) were equally inscribed on the twelve Foundations of the City of GOD, Rev. xxi. 14 The gates of bell—As Gates and Walls were the Strength of Cities, and as Courts of Judicature were hold in their Gates, this Phrase properly signifies the Power and Policy of Satan and his Instruments, Shall not prevail against it—Not against the Church Universal, so as to destroy it. And they never did. There hath been a small Rem∣nant in all Ages.

v. 19. I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven—Indeed not to him alone for they were equally given to all the Apostles at the same Time, John xx. 21, 22, 23.) but to him were first given the Keys both of Doctrine and Discipline. He first after our LORD's Resurrection exercised the Apostleship, Acts i. 15. And he first by Preaching opened the Kingdom of Heaven, both to the Jews (Acts ii.) and to the Gentiles (Acts x.)

Under the Terms of binding and loosing are contained all those Acts of Discipline which Peter and his Brethren performed as Apostles: And undoubtedly what they thus performed on Earth, GOD con∣firmed in Heaven.

V. 20. Then charged he his disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ—Jesus Himself had not said it expressly to his Apostles, but lest them to infer it from his Doctrine and Miracles. Neither was it proper the Apostles should say this openly, before that grand Proof of it his Resurrection. If they had, they who believed them would the more earnestly have sought to take and make Him a King; and they who did not believe them, would the more vehe∣mently have rejected and opposed such a Messiah.

V. 21. From that time Jesus began to tell his disciples, that he must Juffer many things—Perhaps this Expression, began, always implies his entering on a set and solemn Discourse. Hitherto He had mainly taught them only one Point, That he was the Christ. From this Time He taught them another, That Christ must through Sufferings and Death enter into his Glory. From the elders—The most honour∣able and experienced Men; the chief priests—Accounted the most re∣ligious; and the scribes—The most learned Body of Men in the Na∣tion Would not one have expected, That these should have been the very first to receive Him? But not many wise, not many noble were called. Favour thyself—The Advice of the World, the Flesh and the Devil to every one of our LORD's Followers.

V. 23. Get thee behind me—Out of my Sight. It is not improbable, Peter might step before Him, to stop Him. Satan—Our LORD is not recorded to have given so sharp a Reproof to any other of his Apostles, on any Occasion. He saw it was needful for the Pride of Peter's Heart, puffed up with the Commendation lately given him. Perhaps the Term Satan, may not barely mean, Thou art my Enemy, while thou fanciest thyself most my Friend; but also, Thou art acting the very Part of Satan, both by endeavouring to hinder the Redemption of Mankind, and by giving me the most deadly Advice, that can ever spring from the Pit of Hell. Thou savourest not—Dost not relish or desire. We may learn from hence, 1. That whosoever says to us in such a Case, Favour thyself, is acting the Part of the Devil: 2. That the proper Answer to such an Adviser is, Get thee behind me: 3. That otherwise he will be an Offence to us, an Occa∣sion of our Stumbling, if not Falling: 4 That this Advice always proceeds from the not relishing the Things of GOD, but the Things of Men. Yea, so far is this Advice, Favour thyself, from being, fit for a Christian either to give or take, that if any Man will come after Christ, his very first Step is. To deny or renounce himself: In the Room of his own Will, to substitute the Will of GOD, as his one Principle of Action.

V. 24. If any man be willing to come after me—None is forced, but if any will be a Christian it must be on these Terms, Let him deny

himself and take up his cross—A Rule that can never be too much ob∣served: Let him in all Things deny his own Will, however pleasing, and do the Will of GOD, however painful.

Should we not consider all Crosses, all Things grievous to Flesh and Blood, as what they really are, as Opportunities of embracing GOD's Will, at the Expence of our own? And consequently as so many Steps by which we may advance toward Perfection? We should make a swift Progress in the spiritual Life, if we were faithful in this Practice. Crosses are so frequent, that whoever makes Ad∣vantage of them, will soon be a great Gainer. Great Crosses are Occasions of great Improvement: And the little ones, which come daily, and even hourly, make up in Number, what they want in Weight. We may in these daily and hourly Crosses, make effectual Oblations of our Will to GOD; which Oblations, so frequently re∣peated, will soon mount to a great Sum. Let us remember then (what can never be sufficiently inculcated) That GOD is the Author of all Events: That none is so small or inconsiderable, as to escape his Notice and Direction. Every Event therefore declares to us the Will of GOD, to which thus declared, we should heartily submit. We should renounce our own to embrace it; we should approve and chuse what his Choice warrants as best for us. Herein should we exercise ourselves continually; this should be our Practice all the Day long. We should in Humility accept the little Crosses that are dispensed to us, as those that best suit our Weakness. Let us bear these little Things, at least for GOD's Sake, and prefer his Will to our own in Matters of so small Importance. And his Goodness will accept these mean Oblations; for He depiseth not the Day of small Things.

V. 25. Whosoever will save his life—At the Expence of his Con∣science: Whosoever in the very highest Instance, that of Life itself, will not renounce himself, shall be lost eternally. But can any Man hope, he should be able thus to renounce himself, if he cannot do it in the smallest Instances? And whosoever will lose his life, shall find it—What he loses on Earth, he shall find in Heaven.

V. 27. For the Son of Man shall come—For there is no Way to escape the righteous Judgment of GOD.

V. 28. And as an Emblem of this, there are some here who shall live to see the Messiab coming to set up his Mediatorial Kingdom, with great Power and Glory, by the Increase of his Church, and the Destruction of the Temple, City, and Polity of the Jews.

XVII.

* 1.140 And after six days, Jesus taketh Peter and James and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, [ 2] And was transfigured before them, and his face shone as the sun, and his raiment became white as the light. [ 3] And behold there appeared to them Moses and Elijah talking with him. [ 4] Then Peter answering said to Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here; if thou wilt, let us make here three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. [ 5] While he was yet speaking, behold a bright cloud overshadowed them, and behold a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son in whom I delight: hear ye him. [ 6] And the disciples hearing it, fell on their face and were sore afraid. [ 7] And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise and be not afraid. [ 8] And lifting up their eyes, they saw no man, but Jesus only. [ 9] And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the

vision to no man, till the Son of Man be risen again from the dead. [ 10] And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the scribes, That Elijah must come first? [ 11] And Jesus answering said to them, Elijah truly doth come first, and will regulate all things. [ 12] But I say to you, That Elijah is come already, and they acknowledged him not, but have done to him whatever they listed. [ 13] So shall also the Son of Man suffer from them. Then the disciples under∣stood, that he spoke to them of John the Baptist.

[ 14] * 1.141 And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a man, kneeling down to him, and saying, [ 15] Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is lunatic, and suffereth grievously; for often he falleth into the fire and often into the water. [ 16] And I brought him to thy disciples, but they could not cure him. [ 17] Then Jesus answering said, O unbeliev∣ing and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I suffer you? Bring him hither to me. [ 18] And Jesus rebuked the devil, and he went out of him, and the child was cured from that hour. [ 19] Then the disciples coming to Jesus apart said, Why could not we cast him out? [ 20] † 1.142 And Jesus said to them, Because of your unbelief. For verily I say to you, If ye have faith

as a grain of mustard-seed, ye shall say to this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place, and it shall remove, and nothing shall be impossible to you. [ 21] Howbeit this kind goeth not out, but by prayer and fasting.

[ 22] ‖ 1.143 And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said to them, The Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men; [ 23] and they will kill him, and the third day he will rise again: and they were exceeding sorry.

[ 24] And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received the tribute-money came to Peter and said, Doth not your master pay the tribute? He saith, Yes. [ 25] And when he came into the house, Je∣sus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Si∣mon? Of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? Of their own sons, or of stran∣gers? He saith to him, of strangers. Jesus saith

to him, Then are the sons free. [ 26] Yet that we may not offend them, go to the sea, and cast an hook, and take the fish that first cometh up. And when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money. That take and give them for me and thee.

V. 1. A high mountain—Probably Mount Tabor.

V. 2. And was transfigured—Or transformed. The indwelling Deity darted out its Rays through the Veil of his Flesh: And that with such transcendent Splendor, that He no longer b••re the Form of a Servant. His Face shone with divine Majesty, like the Sun in its Strength; and all his Body was so irradiated by it, that his Cloaths could not conceal its Glory, but became white and glittering as the very Light, with which He covered Himself as with a Garment.

V. 3. There appeared Moses and Elijah—Here for the full Confir∣mation of their Faith in Jesus, Moses the Giver of the Law, Elijah the most zealous of all the Prophets, and GOD speaking from Hea∣ven, all bore Witness to him.

V. 4. Let us make three tents—The Words of rapturous Surprize. He says three, not six: Because the Apostles desired to be with their Master.

V. 5. Hear ye him—As superior even to Moses and the Prophets. See Deut. xviii. 17.

V. 7. Be not afraid—And doubtless the same Moment He gave them Courage and Strength.

V. 9. Tell the vision to no man—Not to the rest of the Disciples, lest they should be grieved and discouraged because they were not admit∣ted to the Sight; nor to any other Persons, lest it should enrage some the more, and his approaching Sufferings should make others disbe∣lieve

it; till the Son of man be risen again—Till the Resurrection should make it credible, and confirm their Testimony about it.

V. 10. Why then say the Scribes, That Elijah must come first—Before the Messiah? If no Man is to know of his Coming? Should we not rather tell every Man, That He is come, and that we have seen Him, witnessing to Thee as the Messiah?

V. 11. Regulate all things—In order to the Coming of Christ.

V. 12. Elijah is come already—And yet when the Jews asked John, Art thou Elijah? He said, I am not. (John i.) His Meaning was, I am not Elijah the Tishbite, come again into the World. But he was the Person of whom Malachi prophesied under that Name.

V. 15. He is lunatic—This Word might with great Propriety be used, tho' the Case was mostly preternatural: as the evil Spirit would undoubtedly take Advantage of the Influence which the Changes of the Moon have on the Brain and Nerves.

V. 17. O unbelieving and perverse generation—Our LORD speaks prin••••pally this to his Disciples. How long shall I be with you—Be∣fore you stedfastly believe?

V. 20. Because of your unbelief—Because in this Particular they had not Faith. If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed—That is,

the least Measure of it. But it is certain, the Faith which is here spoken of, does not always imply saving Faith. Many have had it who thereby cast out Devils, and yet will at last have their Portion with them. It is only a supernatural Persuasion given a Man, that GOD will work thus by him at that Hour. Now tho' I have all this Faith, so as to remove mountains, yet if I have not the Faith which worketh by Love, I am nothing.

To remove Mountains was a proverbial Phrase among the Jews, and is still retained in their Writings, to express a Thing which is very difficult, and to Appearance impossible.

V. 21. This kind—of devils—goeth not out but by prayer and fasting—What a Testimony is here of the Efficacy of Fasting, when added to fervent Prayer? Some Kinds of Devils the Apostles had cast out before this, without Fasting.

V. 24. When they were come to Capernaum—Where our Lord now dwelt. This was the Reason why they stayed till he came thither, to ask him for the Tribute. Doth not your master pay tribute—This was a Tribute or Payment of a peculiar Kind, being Half a Shekel (that is, about fifteen Pence) which every Master of a Family used to pay yearly to the Service of the Temple, to buy Salt, and little Things not otherwise provided for. It seems to have been a volun∣tary Thing, which Custom rather than any Law had established.

V. 25. Jesus prevented him—Just when St. Peter was going to ask him for it. Of their own sons, or of strangers?—That is, such as are not of their own Family.

V. 26. Then are the sons free—The Sense is, This is paid for the Use of the House of GOD. But I am the Son of GOD. Therefore I am free from any Obligation of paying this to my own Father.

V. 27. Yet that we may not offend them—Even those unjust, unrea∣sonable Men, who claim what they have no Manner of Right to: Do not contest it with them, but rather yield to their Demand, than violate Peace or Love. O what would not one of a loving Spirit do for Peace? Any Thing which is not expressly forbidden in the Word of GOD. A piece of money—The original Word is a Stater, which was in Value Two Shillings and Six-pence: Just the Sum that was wanted. Give for me and thee—Peter had a Family of his own: the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Apostles were the Family of Jesus.

How illustrious a Degree of Knowledge and Power did our LORD here discover? Knowledge, penetrating, into this Animal, though beneath the Waters: and Power, in directing this very Fish to Peter's Hook, tho' he himself was at a Distance? How must this have encouraged both him and his Brethren in a firm Dependance on divine Providence?

XVIII.

At that time came the disciples to Jesus, say∣ing, Who is greatest in the kingdom of heaven? [ 2] * 1.144 And Jesus calling to him a little child, set him in the midst of them, [ 3] § 1.145 And said, Verily I say to you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom

of heaven. [ 4] Whosoever therefore shall humble him∣self as this little child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. [ 5] † 1.146 And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me. [ 6] ‖ 1.147 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a mill-stone were hanged about his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea. [ 7] Wo to the world because of offences: for it must needs be that offences come; but wo to that man by whom the offence cometh. [ 8] * 1.148 Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot cause thee to offend, cut them off and cast them from thee; it is good for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into the everlasting fire. [ 9] And if thine eye cause thee to offend, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is good for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell-fire. [ 10] See that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say to

you, that in heaven their angels continually behold the face of my Father who is in heaven. [ 11] * 1.149 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost. [ 12] † 1.150 What think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them go astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine and go into the moun∣tains and seek that which was gone astray? [ 13] And if so be that he find it, verily I say to you, he re∣joiceth more over that sheep, than over the ninety and nine which went not astray. [ 14] So it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish. [ 15] † 1.151 But if thy bro∣ther shall sin against thee, go and reprove him, between thee and him alone: if he will hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. [ 16] But if he will not hear, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 with thee one or two more, that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be esta∣blished. [ 17] And if he will not hear them, tell it to

the church; but if he will not hear the church, let him be to thee as the heathen and the publican. [ 18] Verily I say to you, * 1.152 Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth, shall be-bound in heaven, and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven. [ 19] Again I say to you, That if two of you shall agree on earth, touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. [ 20] For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

[ 21] Then came Peter to him and said, Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? [ 22] Till seven times? Jesus saith to him, I say not unto thee, till seven times, but till seventy times seven. [ 23] Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a king, who was minded to settle accounts

with his servants. [ 24] And when he had begun to settle, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. [ 25] But as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife and children, and all that he ••ad, and payment to be made. [ 26] Then the servant falling prostrate at his feet, said, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. [ 27] And the lord of that servant, moved with tender compassion, loosed him and for∣gave him the debt. [ 28] But that servant going out, found one of his fellow-servants who owed him an hundred pence, and seized him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. [ 29] And his fellow-servant falling at his feet, besought him saying. Have patience with me and I will pay thee all. [ 30] And he would not, but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. [ 31] But his fellow-servants seeing what was done, were very sorry, and came and gave their lord an exact ac∣count of all that was done. [ 32] Then his lord calling him, said to him, Thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou intreatedst me. [ 33] Shouldst not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow-servant, as I had pity on thee? [ 34] And his

lord being wroth, delivered him to the tormenters, till he should pay all that was due to him. [ 35] So likewise will my heavenly Father do to you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.

V. 1. Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?—Which of us shall be thy Prime Minister? They still dreamed of a temporal King∣dom.

V. 2. And Jesus calling to him a little child—This is supposed to have been the great Ignatius, whom Trajan, the wise, the good Emperor Trajan, condemned to be cast to the wild Beasts at Rome!

V. 3. Except ye be converted—The first Step towards entering into the Kingdom of Grace, is to become as little children: Lowly in Heart, knowing yourselves utterly ignorant and helpless, and hanging wholly on your Father who is in Heaven, for a Supply of all your Wants. We may farther assert (tho' it is doubtful, whether this Text im∣plies so much) Except ye be turned from Darkness to Light, and from the Power of Satan to GOD: Except ye be entirely, inwardly changed, renewed in the Image of GOD, ye cannot enter into the Kingdom of Glory. Thus must every Man be converted in this Life, or he can never enter into Life eternal. Ye shall in no wise enter—So far from being great in it.

V. 5, 6 And all who are in this Sense little Children, are un∣speakably dear to me. Therefore help them all you can, as if it were myself in Person, and see that ye offend them not: That is, that ye turn them not out of the right Way, neither hinder them in it.

V. 7. Wo to the world because of offences—That is, unspeakable Misery will be in the world thro' them▪ for it must needs be that of∣fences come—Such is the Nature of Things, and such the Weakness, Folly, and Wickedness of Mankind, that it cannot be but they will come: but wo to that man—That is, miserable is that Man, by whom the offence cometh. Offences are, all Things whereby any one is turned out of, or hindered in the Way of God.

V. 8, 9 If thy hand, foot, eye, cause thee to offend—If the most dear Enjoyment, the most beloved and useful Person, turn thee out of, or hinder thee in the Way. Is not this an hard Saying? Yes; if thou take Counsel with Flesh and Blood.

V. 10. See that ye dispise not one of these little ones—As if they were beneath your Notice. Be careful to receive and not to offend, the very weakest Believer in Christ: For as inconsiderable as some of these may appear to thee, the very Angels of GOD have a peculiar Charge over them: Even those of the highest Order, who continu∣ally appear at the Throne of the most High. To be•••••••• the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of GOD seems to signify the waiting near his Throne; and to be an Allusion to the Office of chief Ministers in earthly Courts, who daily converse with their Princes.

V. 11. Another, and a yet stronger Reason for your not despising them is, That I myself came into the World to save them.

V. 14. So it is not the will of your Father—Neither doth my Fa∣ther despise the least of them. Observe the Gradation. The An∣gels, the Son, the Father!

v. 15. But how can we avoid giving Offence to some? Or being offended at others? Especially suppose they are quite in the wrong? Suppose they commit a known Sin? Our LORD here teaches us how: He says down a sure Method of avoiding all Offences. Whosoever closely observes this threefold Rule, will seldom offend others, and never be offended himself. If any do any thing amiss, of which thou art an Eye or Ear Witness thus saith the LORD, If thy brother—Any who is a Member of the same religious Community: Si•• against thee,

• 1. Go and reprove him alone—If it may be, in Person; if that cannot so well be done, by thy Messenger; or in Writing. Observe. Our LORD gives no Liberty to omit this: or to exchange it for either of the following Steps. If this do not succeed.
• 2. Take with thee one or two more—Men whom he esteems or loves, who may then confirm and enforce what thou sayest; and afterwards if need require, bear Witness of what was spoken. If even this does not succeed, then and not before,
• 3. Tell it to the Elders of the Church—Lay the whole Matter open before those, who watch over yours and his Soul. If all this avail not, have no farther Intercourse with him, only such as thou hast with Heathens.

Can any Thing be plainer? Christ does here as expresely command all Christians who soe a Brother do Evil, to take this Way, not ano∣ther, and to take these Steps, in this Order, as he does to honour their Father and Mother.

But if so, in what Land do the Christians live?

If we proceed from the private Carriage of Man to Man, to Pro∣ceedings of a more publick Nature, in what Christian Nation are Church Censures conformed to this Rule? Is this the Form in which ecclesiastical Judgments appear, in the Popish, or even the Protestant World? Are these the Methods used even by those who boast the most loudly of the Authority of Christ to confirm their Sentences? Let us earnestly pray, that this Dishonour to the Christian Name may be wiped away, and that common Humanity may not, with such so∣lemn Mockery, be destroyed in the name of the Lord!

Let him be to thee as the heathen—To whom thou still owest earnest Good-will, and all the Offices of Humanity.

V. 18. Whatsoever ye shall hind on earth—By Excommunication, pronounced in the Spirit and Power of Christ. Whatsoever ye shall loose—By Absolution from that Sentence. In the Primitive Church, Absolution meant no more than a Discharge from Church Censure. Again I say—And not only your Intercession for the Penitent, but all your united Prayers shall be heard. How great then is the Power of joint Prayer! If two of you—Suppose a Man and his Wife.

V. 20. Where two or three are gathered together in my name—That is, to worship me. I am in the midst of them—By my Spirit, to quick∣en their Prayers, guide their Counsels, and answer their Petitions.

V. 22. Till seventy times seven—That i••, as often as there is Occa∣sion. A certain Number is put for an uncertain.

v. 23. Therefore—In this respect.

V. 24. One was brought who owed him ten thousand talents—Accord∣ing to the usual Computation, if these were Talents of Gold, this would amount to seventy-two Millions Sterling. If they were Talents of Silver, it must have been four Millions, four hundred thousand Pounds. Hereby our LORD intimates the vast Number and Weight of our Offences against GOD, and our utter Incapacity of making H••m any Satisfaction.

V. 25. As he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold—Such was the Power which Creditors anciently had over their insolvent Debtors in several Countries.

V. 30. Went with him before a Magistrate, and cast him into prison, protesting he should lie there, till he should pay the whole debt.

V. 34. His lord delivered him to the tormentors—Imprisonment is a much severer Punishment in the Eastern Countries than in ours State-Criminals, especially when condemned to it, are not only confined to a very mean and scanty Allowance, but are frequently loaded with Clogs or heavy Yokes, so that they can neither lie nor sit at Ease: And by frequent Scourgings and sometimes Rackings are brought to an untimely End. Till he should pay all that was due to him—That is, without all Hope of Release: For this he could never do.

How observable is this whole Account: as well as the great ••••fer∣ence our LORD draws from it!

• 1. The Debtor was freely and ally

• forgiven;
• 2. He wilfully and grievously offended;
• 3. His Pardon was retracted, the whose Debt required, and the Offender delivered to the Tormentors for ever.

And shall we still say, But when we are 〈◊〉〈◊〉 freely and fully forgiven, our Pardon can never be retracted? Verily, verily I say unto you, So like wife will my heavenly Father do to you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trepasses.

XIX.

* 1.153 And Jesus, when he had finished these sayings, departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judea beyond Jordan. [ 2] And great multitudes fol∣lowed him, and he healed them there. [ 3] And the Pharisees came to him, tempting him and say∣ing, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? [ 4] And he answering said to them, Have ye not read, that he who made them, made them male and female from the beginning? [ 5] And said, § 1.154 For this cause a man shall leave father and mother and cleave to his wife, and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain but one flesh. [ 6] What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. [ 7] They say to him, Why

then did Moses † 1.155 command to give a writing of divorce, and put her away? [ 8] He saith to them, Because of the hardness of your hearts, Moses per∣mitted you to put away your wives; but from the beginning it was not so. [ 9] And I say to you, who∣soever shall put away his wife, except for whore∣dom, and marry another, committeth adultery, and he that marrieth her that is put away, committeth adultery. [ 10] His disciples say to him, If the case of a man with his wife be so, it is not expedient to marry. [ 11] But he said to them, All men do not receive this saying, but they to whom it is given. [ 12] For there are eunuchs, who were born so from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs, who were made eunuchs by men; and there are eunuchs, who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

[ 13] ‖ 1.156 Then were brought to him little children, that he might lay his hands on them and pray:

but his disciples rebuked them. [ 14] * 1.157 But Jesus said, Suffer the little children to come to me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven. [ 15] And he laid his hands on them and departed thence.

[ 16] † 1.158 And behold one came and said to him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? [ 17] And he said to him, Why cal∣lest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. [ 18] He saith to him, Which? Jesus said, § 1.159 Thou shalt do no murder: thou shalt not commit adultery; thou shalt not steal; thou shalt not bear false witness; [ 19] Honour thy father and mother, and thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. [ 20] The young man saith to him, All these things have I kept from my childhood: what lack I yet? [ 21] Jesus saith to him, If thou desirest to be perfect, go, sell what thou hast and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me. [ 22] But the young man hearing

that saying, went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.

[ 23] Then said Jesus to his disciples, Verily I say to you, a rich man shall with difficulty enter into the kingdom of heaven. [ 24] And again I say to you, It is easier for a camel to go thro' the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the king∣dom of God. [ 25] His disciples hearing it, were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? [ 26] But Jesus looking upon them, said to them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

[ 27] Then Peter answering said to him, Behold we have forsaken all, and followed thee. What shall we have therefore? [ 28] Jesus said to them, Verily I say to you, that ye who have followed me, in the renovation, when the son of Man shall sit on the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. [ 29] And every one that hath forsaken house, or bre∣thren,

or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or land for my name's sake, shall receive an hundred fold, and inherit everlasting life. [ 30] * 1.160 But many first will be last, and the last will be first.

V. 1. He departed—And from that Time, walked no more in Galilee.

V. 2. Multitudes followed him, and he healed them there—That is, Wheresoever they followed him.

V. 3. The Pharisees came tempting him—Trying to make him contra∣dict Mases. For every cause—That is, for any Thing which he dislikes in her. This the Scribes allowed.

V. 4. He said. Have he not read—So instead of contradicting him, our LORD confutes them by 〈◊〉〈◊〉 very Words of Moses. He who made them, made them male and female from the beginning—〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••east from the Beginning of the Mosaic Creation. And where do we read of any other? Does it not follow, that GOD's making Eve was part of his Original Design, and not a Consequence of Adam's beginning to fall? By making them One Man and One Woman, he condemned Poly∣gamy: By making them One F••••sh. he condemned Divorce.

V. 5. And said—By the Mouth of Adam, who uttered the Words.

V. 7. Why did Moses command—Christ replies, Moses permitted [not commanded] it, because of the hardness of your hear••••—Because neither your Fathers not you could bear the more excellent Way.

V. 9. And I say to you—I revoke that Indulgence from this Day, so that from henceforth, Whosoever, &c.

V. 11. But he said to them—That is not universally true; it does not hold, with regard to all Men, but with regard to those only to whom is given this excellent Gift of GOD. Now this is given to three Sorts of Persons; to some by Natural Constitution, without their Choice: To others by Violence against their Choice; and to others by Grace with their Choice: Who steadily withstand their Natural Inclinations, that they may wait upon God without Distrac∣tion.

V. 12. There are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake—Happy they! Who have abstained from Marriage (tho' without condemning or despising it) that they might walk more closely with GOD! He that is able to receive it, let him re∣ceive it—This gracious Command (for such it is unquestionably, since to say, Such a Man may live single is saying nothing. Whoever doubted this?) is not designed for all Men: But only for those few who are able to receive it. O let these receive it joyfully!

V. 13. That he should lay his hands on them—This was a Rite which was very early used, in praying for a Blessing on young Per∣sons. See Gen. xlviii. 14—20.

The disciples rebuked them—That is, them that brought them: Pro∣bably thinking such an Employ beneath the Dignity of their Master.

V. 14. Of such is the kingdom of heaven—Little children, either in a Natural or Spiritual Sense, have a Right to enter into my Kingdom.

V. 16. And behold one came—Many of the Poor had followed him from the Beginning. One rich Man came at last.

V. 17. Why callest thou me good?— Whom thou supposest to be only a Man. There is none good—Supremely, originally, essentially, but God. If thou wilt enter into life, keep the Commandments—From a Principle of loving Faith. Believe, and thence love and obey. And this undoubtedly is the Way to eternal Life. Our LORD therefore does not answer ironically, which had been utterly beneath his Cha∣racter, but gives a plain, direct, serious Answer to a serious Question.

V. 20. The young man saith, All these have I kept from my childhood—So he imagined; and perhaps he had, as to the Letter: But not as to the Spirit, which our LORD immediately shews.

V. 21. If thou desirest to be perfect—That is, to be a real Christian: Sell what thou hast—He who reads the Heart, saw his Bosom-Sin was Love of the World; and knew, He could not be saved from this, but by literally renouncing it. To him therefore he gave this Parti∣cular Direction, which he never designed for a General Rule. For Him this was necessary to Salvation: To us, it is not so. To sell all was an absolute Duty to ••i••••. To many of us, it would be an abso∣lute Sin. The young men went away—Not being willing to have Salvation, at so high a Price.

V. 24. It is easier for a camel to go thro' the eye of a needle (a pro∣verbial expression) than for a rich man to go thro' the straight Gate: That is, humanly speaking, it is an absolute Impossibility. Rich Man, Tremble! ••••el this Impossibility; else thou art lost for ever!

V. 25. His disciples were amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?—If rich Men with all their Advantages cannot? Who? A poor 0179 Man: a Peasant: A Beggar: ten thousand of them; sooner than one that is rich.

V. 26. Jesus looking upon them—To compose their hurried Spirits. O what a speaking Look was there? Said to them—With the utmost Sweetness: With men this is impossible—It is observable, He does not retract what he had said; no•• nor soften it in the least Degree, but rather strengthens it, by representing the Salvation of a rich Man, as the utmost Effort of Omnipotence.

V. 28. In the renovation—In the final Renovation: Ye shall sit—In the Beginning of the Judgment they shall stand (2 Cor. v. 10.) Then being absolved, they shall sit with the Judge: (1 Cor. vi. 2.) On twelve thrones—So our LORD promised, without expressing any Condition: Yet as absolute as the Words are, it is certain, there is a Condition implied, as in many Scriptures, where none is exprest. In consequence of this, these twelve did not sit on those twelve thrones: For the Throne of Judas another took, so that he never sat thereon.

V. 29. And every one—In every Age and Country; not you my Apostles only: That hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or wife, or chil∣dren—Either by giving any o•• them up, when they could not be re∣tained with a clear Conscience; or by willingly refraining from ac∣quiring them: Shall receive an hundred fold—In Value, tho' not is Kind, even in the present World.

V. 30. But many first—Many of those who were first called, shall be last—Shall have the lowest Reward; those who came after them being preferred before them: And yet possibly both the first and the last may be saved, tho' with different Degrees of Glory.

XX.

For the kingdom of heaven is like an houshol∣der, who went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. [ 2] And he having a∣greed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. [ 3] And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the market-place, [ 4] And said to them, Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right, I will give you. [ 5] And they went. Again going out about the sixth and ninth hour, he did likewise. [ 6] And going out about the eleventh hour, he found others standing idle, and saith to them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? They say to him, Be∣cause no man hath hired us. [ 7] He saith to them, Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right ye shall receive. [ 8] And in the evening the lord of the vineyard saith to the steward, Call the

labourers, and pay them their hire, beginning from the last to the first. [ 9] And when they came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every one a penny. [ 10] But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every one a penny, [ 11] And having received it, they murmured against the housholder, saying. [ 12] These last have wrought one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, who have borne the burden and the heat of the day. [ 13] And he answering said to one of them, Friend, I do thee no wrong. Didst not thou agree with me for a penny? [ 14] Take what is thine, and go: it is my will to give to this last, even as to thee. [ 15] Is it not lawful to do what I will with my own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?

[ 16] * 1.161 So the last shall be first and the first last: for many are called, but few chosen.

[ 17] † 1.162 And Jesus going up to Jerusalem, took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said to them, [ 18] Behold we go up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and [ 19] scribes, and they will condemn him to death, And shall deliver him to the Gentiles, to mock and scourge and crucify him; and the third day he shall rise again.

[ 20] * 1.163 Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him and desir∣ing a certain thing of him. [ 21] And he said to her. What wilt thou? She saith to him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right-hand, and the other on thy left in thy kingdom. But Jesus answering said, Ye know not what ye ask. [ 22] Are ye able to drink the cup, that I am about to drink, or to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. [ 23] And he saith to them, Ye shall indeed drink my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right-hand and on my left is not mine to give, save to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. [ 24] And the ten hearing it, were moved with indigna∣tion

against the two brethren. [ 25] But Jesus calling them to him said, Ye know that the Princes of the Gentiles lord it over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. [ 26] § 1.164 It shall not be so among you; but whosoever desireth to be great among you, let him be your minister; [ 27] And whosoever desireth to be chief among you, let him be your servant: [ 28] Even as the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.

[ 29] ‖ 1.165 And as they were going from Jericho, a great multitude followed him. [ 30] And behold two blind men sitting by the way side, hearing that Jesus was passing by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David. [ 31] And the mul∣titude charged them to hold their Peace: but they cried out the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David. [ 32] And Jesus standing still called them and said, What do ye desire that I should do for you? [ 33] They say to him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened. [ 34] So Jesus moved with tender compassion, touched their eyes, and imme∣diately their eyes received sight, and they follow∣ed him.

V. 1. That some of those who were first called may yet be last, our LORD confirms by the following Parable: Of which the primary Scope is, to shew, That many of the Jews would be rejected, and many of the Gentiles accepted; the Secondary, That of the Gentiles, many who were first converted, would be last and lowest in the King∣dom of Glory, and many of those who were last converted, would be first and highest therein. The kingdom of heaven is like—That is, The Manner of GOD's proceeding in his Kingdom, resembles that of an housholder. In the morning—At Six, called by the Romans and Jews, the First Hour. From thence reckoning on to the Evening, they called Nine, the Third Hour; Twelve, the Sixth; Three in the Afternoon, the Ninth; and Five, the Eleventh. To hire labourers into his vineyard—All who profess to be Christians are in this Sense La∣bourers, and are supposed during their Life, to be working in GOD's Vineyard.

V. 2. The Roman Penny was about Seven-pence Half-penny Eng∣lish. This was then the usual Price of a Day's Labour.

V. 6. About the eleventh hour—That is, very lace; long after the rest were called.

V. 8. In the evening—Of Life; or of the World.

V. 9. Who were hired about the eleventh hour—Either the Gentiles, who were called long after the Jews into the Vineyard, the Church of Christ; or those in every Age, who did not hear, or at least under∣stand the Gospel-Call, till their Day of Life was drawing to a Period. Some Circumstances of the Parable seem best to sait the former, some the latter of these Senses.

V. 10. The first supposed they should have received more—Probably the first here may mean the Jews, who supposed they should always be preferred before the Gentiles.

V. 12. Thou hast made them equal to us—So St. Peter expressly, Acts xv. 9. GOD—hath put no difference between us (Jews) and them (Gen∣tiles) purifying their hearts by faith. And those who are equally holy here, whenever they were called, will be equally happy hereafter.

V. 14. It is my will to give to the last called among the Heathens even as to the first called among the Jews: Yea, and to the late con∣verted Publicans and Sinners, even as to those who were called long before.

V. 15. Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with my own?—Yea, doubtless: To give either to Jew or Gentile, a Reward infinitely greater than he deserves. But can it be inferred from hence, That it is lawful, or possible, for the merciful Father of Spirits, to

"Consign an unborn Soul to Hell! "Or damn him from his Mother's Womb?"

Is thine eye evil, because I am good?—Art thou envious, because I am gracious? Here is an evident Reference to that malignant Aspect, which is generally the Attendant of a selfish can envious Temper.

V. 16. So the last shall be first, and the first last—Not only with re∣gard to the Jews and Gentiles, but in a thousand other Instances. For

many are called—All who hear the Gospel: but few chosen—Only those who obey it.

V. 20. Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children—Consider∣ing what He had been just speaking, was ever any Thing more un∣seasonable? Perhaps Zebedee himself was dead, or was not a Follower of Christ.

V. 21. In thy kingdom—Still they expected a temporal Kingdom.

V. 22. Ye know not what is implied in being advanced in my Kingdom, and necessarily pre-required thereto. All who share in my Kingdom, must first share in my Sufferings. Are you able and willing to do this? Both these Expressions, The Cup, the Baptism, are to be understood of his Sufferings and Death. The like Expressions are common among the Jews.

V. 23. But to sit on my right-hand—Christ applies to the Glories of Heaven, what his Disciples were so stupid as to understand of the Glories of Earth. But he does not deny, That this is his to give. It is his to give in the strictest Propriety, both as GOD, and as the Son of Man. He only asserts, That He gives it to none but those for whom it is originally prepared; namely, those who endure to the End in the Faith that worketh by Love.

V. 25. Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles lord it over them—And hence you imagine, the chief in my Kingdom will do as they: But it will be quite otherwise.

V. 26. Your minister—That is, your Servant.

V. 30. Behold two blind men cried out—St. Mark and St. Luke men∣tion only one of them, blind Bartimens. He was far the more emi∣nent of the t••••, and as it seems, spoke for both.

V. 31. The multitude charged them, to hold their peace—And so they will All who begin to cry after the Son of David: But let those who feel their Need of Him, cry the more; otherwise they will come short of a Cure.

XXI.

* 1.166 And when they drew nigh to Jerusalem, and came to Bethpage, at the mount of Olives, then [ 2] sent Jesus two disciples, Saying to them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her; loose

and bring them to me. [ 3] And if any man say ought to you, say, The Lord hath need of them: and he will send them immediately. [ 4] This was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying. [ 5] † 1.167 Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold thy king cometh to thee, meek and sitting on an ass, even a colt the foal of an ass. [ 6] And the disciples went and did as Jesus had commanded them, [ 7] And brought the ass and the colt, and put on them their clothes and set him thereon: [ 8] And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; and others out down branches from the trees and strewed them in the way. [ 9] And the multitudes that went before and that followed after cried, saying, Hosunna to the Son of David; blessed in the name of the Lord is he that cometh: Hosanna in the highest.

[ 10] And as he came into Jerusalem, all the city was in a commotion, saying, Who is this? [ 11] And the multitude said, This is Jesus, the prophet, from Nazareth of Galilee.

[ 12] * 1.168 And Jesus went into the temple, and cast out all that sold and bought in the temple, and over∣threw the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that were selling doves; [ 13] And saith to them, It is written, † 1.169 My house shall be called the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves. [ 14] And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple, and he healed them. [ 15] But the chief priests and the scribes, seeing the wonders that he did, and the children crying in the temple saying, Hosanna to the Son of David, were sore displeased, And said to him, Hearest thou what these say? [ 16] And Jesus saith to them, Yea: have ye never read, ‖ 1.170 Out of the mouth of babes and suck∣lings thou hast perfected praise? [ 17] § 1.171 And leaving them, he went out of the city to Bethany, and lodged there.

[ 18] Now in the morning, as he was returning to the city he hungered. [ 19] And seeing a fig-tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon but leaves only. And he saith to it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And pre∣sently

the fig-tree withered away. [ 20] And the disci∣ples seeing it marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig-tree withered away? [ 21] Jesus answering said to them, ‡ 1.172 Verily I say to you, if ye have faith and doubt not, ye shall not only do this miracle of the fig-tree, but also if ye say to this mountain, Be thou lifted up, and be thou cast into the sea: it shall be done. [ 22] And all things whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

[ 23] * 1.173 And when he came into the temple, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him as he was teaching, and said, By what autho∣rity dost thou these things? and who gave thee this authority? [ 24] And Jesus answring said to them, I will also ask you one thing, which if ye tell me, I will likewise tell you, by what authority I do these things. [ 25] The baptism of John, whence was it? From heaven or from men? And they reasoned among themselves, saying, If we say from heaven, he will say, why then did ye not believe him?

[ 26] But if we say, Of men; we fear the multitude: for all hold John as a prophet. [ 27] And they answer∣ing said to Jesus, We cannot tell. And he said to them, Neither tell I you, by what authority I do these things But what think you? [ 28] A man had two sons; and coming to the first, he said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard. [ 29] He answering said, I will not; but afterward repenting he went. [ 30] And coming to the other, he said likewise. And he answered, I go, Sir: but went not. [ 31] Which of the two did the will of his father? They say to him, The first. Jesus saith to them, Verily I say to you, the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of GOD before you. [ 32] For John came to you in a way of righteousness, and ye believed him not; but the publicans and the harlots believed him. And ye seeing it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him. [ 33] * 1.174 Hear another pa∣rable. There was a certain housholder, who plant∣ed a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a wine-press in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far coun∣try. [ 34] And when the season of fruit drew near, he

sent his servants to the husbandmen to receive the fruits of it. [ 35] And the husbandmen taking his ser∣vants, beat one, and killed another, and stoned another. [ 36] Again he sent other servants more than the former; and they did to them in like manner. [ 37] Last of all he sent to them his Son, saying, They will reverence my Son. [ 38] But the Husbandmen see∣ing the Son, said among themselves, This is the heir; come let us kill him and take possession of his inheritance. [ 39] And taking him, they cast him out of the vineyard and slew him. [ 40] When therefore the Lord of the vineyard cometh, what will he do to those husbandmen? [ 41] They say to him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out the vineyard to other husbandmen who will render him the fruits in their seasons. [ 42] Jesus saith to them, Have you never read in the Scriptures, † 1.175 The stone which the builders rejected, is become the head of the corner? This is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes. [ 43] Therefore I say to you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. [ 44] § 1.176 And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. [ 45] And the chief priest and the Pharisees, hearing his para∣bles, knew he spoke of them. [ 46] But when they sought to apprehend him, they feared the multi∣tude, because they took him for a prophet.

V. 5. The daughter of Sion—That is the Inhabitants of Jerusalem: the first Words of the Passage are cited from. Isa. lxii. 11 the rest from Zech. ix. 9. The ancient Jewish Doctors were wont to apply these Prophecies to the Messiah On an ass—The Prince of Peace did not take an Horse, a warlike Animal: But he will ride on that by and by, Rev. xix. 11. In the patriarchal Ages, illustrious Per∣sons thought it no Disgrace to make Use of this Animal: But it by no Means appears, That this Opinion prevailed or this Custom con∣tinued till the Reign of Tiberius. Was it a mean attitude wherein our LORD then appeared? Mean even to Contempt? I grant it: I glory in it: It is for the Comfort of my Soul; for the Honour of his Humility, and for the utter Confusion of all worldly Pomp and Grandeur.

V. 7. They set him thereon—That is, on the Clothes.

V. 8. A great multitude spread their garments in the way—A Custom which was usual at the Creation of a King, 2 Kings ix. 13.

V. 9. The multitudes cried, saying—Probably from a divine Impulse; for certainly most of them understood not the Words they uttered. Hosanna—(LORD save us) was a solemn Word in frequent Use among the Jews. The Meaning is

We sing Hosanna to the Son of Da∣vid. Blessed is He, the Messiah, of the LORD. Save, Thou that art in the highest Heavens

Our LORD restrained all public Tokens of Honour from the People till now, lest the Envy of his Enemies should interrupt his Preaching before the Time. But this Reason now ceasing, He suffered their Acclamations, that they might be a public Testimony against their Wickedness, who in four or five Days after cried out, Crucify Him, crucify Him. The Expressions recorded by the other Evangelists are somewhat different from these: But all of them were undoubtedly used by some or others of the Mul∣titude.

V. 11. This is Jesus from Nazareth—What a Stumbling-block was this? If He was of Nazareth, He could not be the Messiah. But they who earnestly desired to know the Truth, would not stumble thereat: For upon Inquiry (which such would not fail to make) they would find, He was not of Nazareth, but Bethlehem.

V▪ 12. He cast out all that sold and bought—Doves and Oxen for Sacrifice. He had cast them out three Years before (John ii. 14.) bidding them not make that house an house of merchandize: Upon the Repetition of the Offence, He uses sharper Words. In the temple—That is, in the Outer Court of it, where the Gentiles used to worship. The money-changers—The Exchangers of foreign Money into current Coin, which those who came from distant Parts might want to offer for the Service of the Temple.

V. 13. A den of thieves—A proverbial Expression, for an Harbour of wicked Men.

V. 20. The desciples seeing it—As they went by, the next Day.

V. 21. Jesus answering, said, If ye have faith—Whence we may learn, That one great End of our LORD in this Miracle, was to con∣firm and increase their Faith: Another was, To warn them against Unfruitfulness.

V. 23 When he was come into the temple, the chief priests came—Who thought he violated their Right: And the elders of the people—Probably, Members of the Sanhedrim, to whom that Title most properly belonged: Which is the more probable, as they were the Persons under whose Cognizance the late Action of Christ, in purg∣ing the Temple, would naturally fall. These with the Chief Priests, seem purposely to have appeared in a considerable Company, to give the more Weight to what they said, and if Need were, to bear an united Testimony against him. As he was teaching—Which also they supposed he had no Authority to do, being neither Priest, nor Levite, nor Scribe. Some of the Priests (tho' not as Priests) and all the Scribes were authorized Teachers. By what authority dost thou these things?—Publickly teach the People? And drive out those who had our Commission to traffick in the Outer Court?

V. 24. I will ask you one thing—Who have asked me many: The baptism, that is, the whole Ministry, of John, was it from heaven, or from men?—By what Authority did he act and teach? Did Man or GOD give him that Authority? Was it not GOD? But if so, the Consequence was clear. For John testified, that Jesus was the Chist.

V. 25. Why did ye not believe him—Testifying this.

V. 27. Neither tell I you—Not again, in express Terms: He had often told them before, and they would not believe Him.

V. 30. He answered, I go, Sir: but went not—Just so did the Scribes and Pharisees: They professed the greatest Readiness and Zeal in the Service of GOD: But it was bare Profession, contra∣dicted by all their Actions.

V. 32. John came in a way of righteousness—Walking in it, as well as teaching it. The publicans and harlots—The most notorious Sin∣ners were reformed, tho' at first they said, I will not. And ye seeing the amazing Change which was wrought in them, tho' at first ye said, I go, Sir, repented not afterward—Were no more convinced than before. O how is this Scripture fulfilled at this Day!

V. 33. A certain housholder planted a vineyard—GOD planted the Church in Canaan; And hedged it round about—First with the Law, then with his peculiar Providence: And digged a wine press—Perhaps it may mean Jerusalem: And built a tower—The Temple: And went into a far country—That is, left the Keepers of his Vineyard, in some Measure, to behave as they should see good.

V. 34 He sent his servants—His extraordinary Messengers, the Pro∣phets: to the husbandmen—The ordinary Preachers or Ministers among the Jews.

V. 41. They say—Perhaps some of the Bystanders, not the Chief Priests or Pharisees; who, as St. Luke relates, said, GOD forbid (Luke xx. 16.)

V. 42. The builders—The Scribes and Priests whose Office it was to build up the Church. Is become the head of the corner—Or the chief Corner-stone: He is become the Foundation of the Church, on which the whole Building rests, and its principal Corner-stone, for uniting the Gentiles to it, as the chief Corner-stone of an House supports and links its two Sides together.

V. 43. Therefore—Because ye reject this Corner-stone. The king∣dom of God—That is, the Gospel.

V. 44. Whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken—Stumbles at Christ, shall even then receive much Hurt. He is said to fall on this Stone, who hears the Gospel, and does not believe. But on whom∣soever

it shall fall— In Vengeance, it will utterly destroy him. It will fall on every Unbeliever, when Christ cometh in the Clouds of Heaven.

XXII.

And Jesus answering, spake to them again in parables, saying, [ 2] The kingdom of heaven is like a king, who made a marriage-feast for his son. [ 3] And sent forth his servants to call them that were invited, to the marriage; but they would not come. [ 4] Again he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them who were invited, behold I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come to the marriage. [ 5] But they slighting it, went one to his farm, another to his merchandise. [ 6] And the rest laying hold on his servants, treated them shamefully and slew them. [ 7] And the king hearing it was wroth, and sending forth his troops, destroyed those murderers and burnt their city. [ 8] Then saith he to his servants, The marriage-feast is prepared, but they who were invited were not worthy. [ 9] Go ye therefore into the highways, and invite whomsoever ye find to the wedding-banquet. [ 10] So those servants going out into the ways, gathered together all whomso∣ever they found, both bad and good. And the feast was abundantly supplied with guests. [ 11] But the king coming in to see the guests, saw there a man who had not on a wedding-garment, [ 12] And saith

to him, Friend, how camest thou in hither, not having a wedding-garment? And he was speech∣less. [ 13] Then said the king to his servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth. [ 14] * 1.177 For many are called but few chosen.

[ 15] † 1.178 Then went the Pharisees and consulted toge∣ther ther how to insuare him in his talk. [ 16] And they send to him their disciples with the Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and teachest the way of God in truth; neither carest thou for any man: for thou regardest not the per∣son of men. [ 17] Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give tribute to Cesar, or not? But Jesus knowing their wickedness, said, Why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? [ 18] Shew me the tribute-money. [ 19] And they brought to him a penny. [ 20] He saith to them, Whose is this image and super∣scription? They say to him, Cesar's. [ 21] Then said he to them, Render therefore to Cesar the things that are Cesar's, and to God the things that are God's. [ 22] And hearing it they marvelled. And they left him and went away.

[ 23] * 1.179 The same day came the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, and asked him, [ 24] Saying, Master, Moses said, † 1.180 If a man die having no chil∣dren, his brother shall marry his wife and raise up issue to his brother. [ 25] Now there were with us se∣ven brethren: and the first, having married a wife died, and having no issue, left his wife to his bro∣ther. [ 26] Likewise the second also, and the third, unto the seventh. [ 27] Last of all the woman died also. [ 28] Therefore in the resurrection, whose wife shall she be of the seven? For they all had her. [ 29] Jesus an∣swering said to them, Ye err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. [ 30] For in the re∣surrection, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. [ 31] But touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken to you by God, [ 32] saying, ‖ 1.181 I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. He is not a God of the dead, but of the living. [ 33] And the multitude hearing it, were astonished at his doctrine.

[ 34] ‖ 1.182 But the Pharisees having heard, that he had silenced the Sadducees, were gathered together. [ 35] And one of them a scribe, asked him a question, trying him and saying, [ 36] Master, which is the great commandment in the law? [ 37] Jesus said to him, * 1.183 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. [ 38] This is the first and great commandment. [ 39] And the second is like unto it, † 1.184 Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. [ 40] On these two command∣ments hang all the law and the prophets.

[ 41] ‡ 1.185 While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, Saying, What think ye of Christ? [ 42] Whose son is he? They say to him, Da∣vid's. [ 43] He saith to them, How doth David then by the Spirit call him Lord? [ 44] Saying, § 1.186 The Lord said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right-hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool. [ 45] If David then call him Lord, how is he his son? [ 46] And no man was able to answer him a word; neither durst any from that day question him any more.

V. 1. Jesus answering, spake—That is, spake with reference to what had just past.

V. 2. A king, who made a marriage-feast for his son—So did GOD, when He brought his first-begotten into the World.

V. 3. Them that were invited—Namely, the Jews.

V. 4. Fatlings—Fatted Beasts and Fowls.

V. 5. One to his farm another to his merchandise—One must mind what he has; another, gain what he wants. How many perish by misusing lawful Things!

V. 7. The king sending forth his troops—The Roman Armies, em∣ployed of GOD for that Purpose: Destroyed those murderers—Primari∣ly, the Jews.

V. 9. Go into the highways—The Word properly signifies, the By∣ways, or Turnings of the Road.

V. 10. They gathered all—By preaching every where.

V. 11. The guests—The Members of the Visible Church.

V. 12. A wedding-garment—The Righteousness of Christ, first imputed, then implanted. It may easily be observed, this has no

Relation to the LORD's Supper, but to GOD's Proceeding at the last Day.

V. 14. Many are called; few chosen—Many hear; few believe. Yea, many are Members of the Visible, but few of the Invisible Church.

V. 16. The Herodians, were a Set of Men peculiarly attached to Herod, and consequently zealous for the Interest of the Roman Govern∣ment, which was the main Support of the Dignity and Royalty of his Family. Thou regardest not the person of men—Thou favourest no Man for his Riches or Greatness.

V. 17. Is it lawful to give tribute to Cesar?—If He had said, Yes, the Pharisees would have accused Him to the People, as a Betrayer of the Liberties of his Country. If He had said, No, the Harodians would have accused Him to the Roman Governor.

V. 18. Ye bypocrites—Pretending a Scruple of Conscience.

V. 20. The tribute-money—A Roman Coin, stamped with the Head of Cesar, which was usually paid in Tribute.

V. 21. They say to him, Cesar's—Plainly acknowledging, by their having received his Coin, that they were under his Government. And indeed this is a standing Rule. The current Coin of every Na∣tion

shews who is the supreme Governor of it. Render therefore, ye Pharisees, to Cesar, the things which ye yourselves acknowledge to be Cesar's: And, ye Herodians, while ye are zealous for Cesar, see that ye render to GOD the things that are GOD's.

V. 25. Now there were with us seven brethren—This Story seems to have been a Kind of common-place Objection, which no doubt they brought up on all Occasions.

V. 29. Ye err, not knowing the Scriptures—Which plainly assert a Resurrection. Nor the power of GOD—Which is well able to ef∣fect it. How many Errors flow from the same Source?

V. 30. They are as the angels—Incorruptible and immortal. So is the power of GOD shewn in them! So little Need have they of Marriage!

V. 31. Have ye not read—The Sadducees had a peculiar Value for the Books of Moses. Out of these therefore our LORD argues with them.

V. 32. I am the GOD of Abraham—The Argument runs thus: GOD is not the GOD of the Dead, but of the Living: (For that Ex∣pression, Thy GOD, implies both Benefit from GOD to Man, and Duty from Man to GOD) But He is the GOD of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob: Therefore Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are not dead, but living. Therefore, the Soul does not die with the Body. So indeed the Sadducees supposed, and it was on this Ground that they denied the Resurrection.

V. 33. At his doctrine—At the Clearness and Solidity of his An∣swers.

V. 35. A scribe ashing him a question, trying him—Not, as it seems, with any ill Design: but barely to make a farther Trial of that Wis∣dom, which he had shewn in s••••••ncing the Sadduce••s.

V. 43. How doth David then by the spirit—By Inspiration, Call him Lord? If he be merely the Son for Deseendent) of David? If he be, as you suppose, a more Man, the Son of a Man?

V. 44. The Lord said to my Lord:—This his Dominion, to which David himself was subject, shews both the heavenly Majes∣ty of the King, and the Nature of his Kingdom. Sit thou on my right-hand: that is, Remain in the highest Authority and Power.

V. 46. Neither durst any question him any more:—Not by Way of insnaring or tempting him.

XXIII.

Then spake Jesus to the multitudes and to his disciples, saying, [ 2] The Scribes and Pharisees sit in the chair of Moses: [ 3] All things therefore what∣soever

they bid you observe, observe and do; but do not ye after their works; for they say and do not. [ 4] § 1.187 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders, but they will not move them with their finger. [ 5] ‡ 1.188 But all their works they do, to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and inlarge the fringes of their garments. [ 6] And love the upper∣most places at feasts, and the chief seats in the sy∣nagogues, [ 7] And salutations in the markets, and to be called by men, Rabbi, Rabbi. [ 8] But be not ye called Rabbi; for one is your teacher, and all ye are brethren. [ 9] And call no man your father on earth; for one is your Father, who is in heaven. [ 10] Neither be ye called Masters; for one is your Master even Christ. [ 11] * 1.189 But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. [ 12] † 1.190 Whosoever shall exalt himself, shall be humbled, and he that shall humble himself, shall be exalted.

[ 13] But wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypo∣crites; for ye shut the kingdom of heaven against men: ye go not in, neither suffer, ye them that are entering to go in. [ 14] ‡ 1.191 Wo to you, Scribes and Pha∣risees, hypocrites: for ye devour widows houses, and for a pretence make long prayers; therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. [ 15] Wo to to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites; for ye compass sea and land, to make one proselyte, and when he is become so, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. [ 16] Wo to you, ye blind guides; who say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is bound. [ 17] Ye fools and blind: for which is greater? The gold? Or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? [ 18] And who∣soever shall swear by the altar, ye say, it is nothing: but whosoever shall swear by the gift that is upon it, is bound. [ 19] Ye fools and blind; for which is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? [ 20] He therefore that sweareth by the altar, sweareth by it and by all things thereon. [ 21] And he that sweareth by the temple, sweareth by it and by him that dwelleth therein. [ 22] And he that sweareth by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by

him that sitteth thereon. [ 23] Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites; for ye pay tythe of mint, and anise, and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to have neglected the others. [ 24] Ye blind guides, who strain out a gnat, and swallow a camel. [ 25] Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites; for ye cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish; but within they are full of rapine and intemperance. [ 26] Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first, the inside of the cup and the dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. [ 27] Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites; for ye are like whited sepulchres, which outwardly indeed appear beautiful, but within are full of dead men's bones and of all uncleanness. [ 28] So ye likewise outwardly appear righteous to men; but within are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. [ 29] Wo to you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites; for ye build the tombs of the prophets, and adorn the sepulchres of the righteous, [ 30] And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the pro∣phets. [ 31] Wherefore ye testify against yourselves,

that ye are the sons of them who killed the pro∣phets. [ 32] Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. [ 33] Ye serpents, ye brood of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell? [ 34] * 1.192 Wherefore behold I send to you prophets, and wise men, and scribes; and some of them ye will kill and crucify, and some of them ye will scourge in your synagogues, and per∣secute from city to city: [ 35] That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of Abel the righteous, to the blood of Zechariah the son of Barachiah, whom ye slew

between the temple and the altar. [ 36] Verily I say to you, all these things shall come upon this generati∣on. [ 37] † 1.193 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that killest the prophets, and stonest them who were sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a bird gathereth her young un∣der [ 38] her wings; and ye would not! Behold your house is left unto you desolate. [ 39] For I say to you, ye shall not see me from this time, till ye say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

V. 1. Then—Leaving all Converse with his Adversaries, whom he now lest to the Hardness of their Hearts.

V. 2. The scribes sit in the chair of Moses:—That is, read and ex∣pound the Law of Moses, and are their appointed Teachers.

V. 3. All things therefore—Which they read out of the Law, and insorce therefrom.

V. 5. Their phylacteries—The Jews understanding those words li∣terally, It shall be as a token upon thy hand, and as frontlets between thine eyes (Exod. xiii. 16.) And thou shalt bind these words for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between the eyes (Deut. vi. 8.) used to wear little scrolls of Paper or Pare ••••at, bound on their Wrist and Foreheads, on which several T•••••• of Scripture were writ. These they supposed, as a kind of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••m, would preserve them from Danger. And hence they seem have been ca••hed Phylacteries or Preservatives.

The gringes of their garments—Which GOD had enjoined them to wear, to remind them of doing all the commandments, Mumb. xv. 38. These, ••s well as their Phylacteries, the Pharisees affected to wear broader and larger than e••ther men.

V. 8, 9, 10 The Je••••sh Rabbis were also called Father and Master, by their several D••s••iples, whom they required,

• 1. To be∣lieve implicitly what they affirmed, without as••••ing any farther Rea∣son;
• 2. To obey implicitly what they enjoin••••, without seeking farther Authority. Our U••••d therefore by forbidding us either to give or receive the Title of Rabbi, Master, or F••th••, for••••ds us ei∣ther to receive any such Reverence, or to pay any such, to any but GOD.

V. 12. Whosoever shall exalt himself shell be humbled, and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted—It is 〈◊〉〈◊〉 s••••val 〈◊〉〈◊〉, that no one Sen∣tence of o•• LORD's is so often repcated, as this. I•• ••eeurs, with scarce any Variation, ••pan•• t••n Times in the Evangelists.

V. 13. Wo to you—Our LORD pronounced eight Blessings upon the Mount: He pronounces eight Woes here: Not as Imprecations, but solemn, compassionate Declarations of the Misery, which these stubborn Sinners were bringing upon themselves. Ye go not in—For ye are not poor in Spirit; and ye hinder those that would be so.

V. 16. Wo to you, ye blind guides—Before He had stiled them Hy∣pocrites, from their personal Character: Now He gives them another Title, respecting their Influence upon others. Both these Appella∣tions are severely put together, in the 23d and 25th Verses: And this Severity rises to the Height, in the 33d Verse. The gold of the Temple—The Treasure kept there. He is bound—To keep his Oath.

V. 20. He that sweareth by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon—Not only by the Gift, but by the holy Fire, and the Sacrifice; and above all, by that GOD to whom they belong; inas∣much as every Oath by a Creature, is an implicit Appeal to GOD.

V. 23. Judgment—That is, Justice: Faith—The Word here means Fidelity.

V. 24. Ye blind guides, who teach others to do as you do yourselves, to strain out a gnat—From the Liquor you are going to drink! and swallow a camel—It is strange, that glaring false Print, strain at a Gnat, which quite alters the Sense, should run thro' all the Editions of our English Bibles.

V. 25. Full of rapine and intemperance—The Censure is double (taking Intemperance in the vulgar Sense.) These miserable Men procured unjustly what they used intemperately. No wonder Tables so furnished prove a Snare, as many find by sad Experience. Thus Luxury punishes Fraud, while it feeds Disease with the Fruits of In∣justice. But Intemperance in the full Sense, takes in not only all Kinds of outward Intemperance, particularly, in Eating and Drink∣ing, but all intemperate or immoderate Desires, whether of Honour, Gain, or sensual Pleasure.

V. 29. Ye build the tombs of the prophets—And that is all; for ye neither observe their Sayings, nor imitate their Actions.

V. 30. We would not have been partakers—So ye make fair Profes∣sions as did your Fathers.

V. 31. Wherefore ye testify against yourselves—By your smooth Words as well as devilish Actions, that ye are the genuine sons of them

who killed the prophets of their own Times, while they professed the utmost Veneration for those of past ages.

From the third to the thirtieth Verse is exposed every thing that commonly passes in the World for Religion, whereby the Pretenders to it keep both themselves and others from entering into the Kingdom of GOD; from attaining, or even seeking after those Tempers, in which alone true Christianity consists. As, 1. Punctuality in at∣tending on public and private Prayer, ver. 4—14.2. Zeal to make Proselytes to our Opinion or Communion, tho' they have less of the Spirit of Religion than before, ver. 15.3. A superstitious Reve∣rence for consecrated Places or Things, without any for Him to whom they are consecrated, ver. 16—22.4. A scrupulous Exactness in little Observances, tho' with the Neglect of Justice, Mercy, and Faith, ver. 23, 24.5. A nice Cautiousness to cleanse the outward Behaviour, but without any Regard to inward Purity, ver. 25, 26.6. A specious Face of Virtue and Piety, covering the deepest Hypo∣crisy and Villany, ver. 27, 28.7. A profest Veneration for all good Men; except those among whom they live.

V. 32. Fill ye up—A Word of Permission, not of Command: As if he had said, I contend with you no longer: I leave you to your∣selves: You have conquered: Now ye may follow the Devices of your own Hearts. The measure of your Fathers'—Wickedness: Ye may now be as wicked as they.

V. 33. Ye serpents—Our LORD having now lost all Hope of re∣claiming these, speaks so as to affright others from the like Sins.

V. 34. Wherefore—That it may appear you are the true Chil∣dren of those Murderers, and have a Right to have their Iniquities visited on you: Behold I send—Is not this speaking as one having Authority? Prophets—Men with supernatural Credentials: Wise men—Such as have both natural Abilities and Experience: and Scribes—Men of Learning: But all will not avail.

V. 35. That upon you may come—The Consequence of which will he, that upon you will come the Vengeance of all the righteous blood shed on the earth—Zechariah the son of Barachiah—Termed Jehoiada, 2. Chr xxiv. 20. where the Story is related: Ye slew—Ye make that Murder also of your Fathers your own, by imitating it: Between the temple—That is, the Inner Temple, and the altar—Which stood

in the Outer Court. Our LORD seems to refer to this Instance, rather than any other, because he was the last of the Prophets on Record that were slain by the Jews for reproving their Wickedness; and because GOD's requiring this Blood, as well as that of Abel, is particularly taken Notice of in Scripture.

V. 38. Behold your house—The Temple, which is now your House, not GOD's: Is left unto you—Our LORD spake this, as He was going out of it for the last Time: Desolate—Forsaken of GOD and his Christ, and sentenced to utter Destruction.

V. 39. Ye—Jews in general; Men of Jerusalem in particular: Shall not see me from this time—Which includes the short Space till his Death, till, after a long Interval of Desolation and Misery, ye say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord—Ye receive me with joyful and thankful Hearts. This also shall be accomplished in its Season.

XXIV.

‖ 1.194 And Jesus going out of the temple departed: and his disciples came to him, to shew him the buildings of the temple. [ 2] And Jesus said to them, Do ye see all these things? Verily I say to you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, which shall not be thrown down. [ 3] And as he sat on the Mount of Olives, his disciples came to him

privately, saying, Tell us when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign of thy coming and of the end of the world? [ 4] And Jesus answering said, Take heed that no man deceive you. [ 5] For many will come in my name, saying, I am the Christ, and will deceive many. [ 6] And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled; for all these things must come to pass: but the end is not yet. [ 7] For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines and pestilences and earthquakes in divers places: [ 8] All these are the beginning of sorrows. [ 9] ‡ 1.195 Then will they deliver you up to affliction, and will kill you; and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. [ 10] And then sake. And then will many be of∣fended, and will betray one another, and hate one another. [ 11] And many salfe prophets will rise and will deceive many. [ 12] And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many will wax cold.

[ 13] * 1.196 But he that shall endure to the end, the same shall be saved. [ 14] † 1.197 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world, for a testimon, to all nations: and then shall the end come. [ 15] § 1.198 When therefore ye see the abomination of deso∣lation spoken of by Daniel the proph••••, standing in the holy place (he that readeth, let him under∣stand) [ 16] Then let them who are in Judea flee to the mountains: [ 17] Let not him that is on the house-top, come down to take any thing out of his house: [ 18] Neither let him who is in the field return back to take his clothes. [ 19] But wo to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days.

[ 20] And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath. [ 21] For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not from the beginning of the world to this time, nor ever shall be. [ 22] And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect's sake, those days shall be shortened. [ 23] † 1.199 Then if any say to you, Lo here is Christ, or there; believe it not. [ 24] For false Christs and false prophets will arise and shew great signs and wonders, so that they would deceive (if possible) even the elect. [ 25] Behold I have told you before. Therefore if they say to you, behold, he is in the desert, go not forth: [ 26] Behold he is in the secret chambers, believe it not. [ 27] For as the lightning goeth forth from the east, and shineth even to the we••••, so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be. [ 28] ‡ 1.200 For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the ea∣gles be gathered together. [ 29] * 1.201 Immediately after

the tribulation of those days, the sun shall be dark∣ened, and the moon shall not give her light; and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. [ 30] And then shall ap∣pear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven; and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. [ 31] And he will send forth his angels, with a loud-sounding trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect, from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

[ 32] ‖ 1.202 Learn a parable from the fig-tree: when its branch is now tender and shooteth forth leaves, ye know that the summer is nigh. [ 33] So likewise when ye see all these things, know that it is nigh, even at the doors. [ 34] Verily I say to you, This generati∣on shall not pass away till all things be done. [ 35] Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words

shall not pass aw•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉. [ 36] But of tha•• 〈…〉〈…〉 hour knoweth no 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••••ther 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••aven, but my Father only, [ 37] ‡ 1.203 But 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the days of Noah, so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be. [ 38] For as in the days that were before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, till the day that Noah entered into the ark, [ 39] And knew not till the flood came and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

[ 40] Then shall two men be in the field: one is ta∣ken and one is left. [ 41] Two women shall be grind∣ing in the mill; one is taken, and one is left.

[ 42] * 1.204 Watch therefore; for ye know not what hour your Lord cometh. [ 43] But ye know this, that if the housholder had known in what watch the thief would have come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken open. [ 44] Therefore be ye also ready: for at an hour ye think not, the Son of man cometh. [ 45] Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath ap∣pointed ruler over his houshold, to give them food in due season? [ 46] Happy is that servant, whom his lord coming shall find so doing. [ 47] Verily I say to you, he will appoint him ruler over all his goods. [ 48] But if that evil servant say in his heart, My lord

delayeth his coming: [ 49] And shall begin to smite his fellow-servant, and shall eat and drink with the drunken: [ 50] The lord of that servant shall come in a day that he expecteth him not, and in an hour that he is not aware of, [ 51] And shall cut him asunder, and allot him his portion with the hypo∣crites: there shall be the weeping and the gnash∣ing of teeth.

V. 2. There shall not be left one stone upon another—This was most punctually fulfilled: For after the Temple was burnt, Titus, the Roman General, ordered the very Foundations of it to be dug up; after which the Ground on which it stood was ploughed up by T••r∣••us Rusus.

V. 3. As he sat on the mount of Olives—Whence they had a full View of the Temple. When shall these things be? And what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?—The Disciples enquire confusedly, 1. Concerning the Time of the Destruction of the Temple; 2. Concerning the Signs of Christ's Coming, and of the End of the World, as if they imagined these two were the same Thing.

Our LORD answers distinctly, concerning, 1. The Destruction of the Temple and City, with the Signs preceding, ver. 4, &c. 15, &c. 2. His own coming, and the End of the World, with the Signs thereof, ver. 29-31 3. The Time of the Destruction of the Tem∣ple, ver. 32, &c. 4. The Time of the End of the World, ver. 36.

V. 4. Take heed that no man deceive you—The Caution is more particularly designed for the succeeding Christians, whom the Apos∣tles then represented. The first Sign of my Coming is, the Rise of false Prophets. But it is highly probable many of these Things re∣fer to more important Events, which are yet to come.

V. 5. Many shall come in my name, first, False Christs, next false-Prophets, ver. 11: At length both together, ver. 24. And indeed never did so many Impostors appear in the World, as a few Years before the Destruction of Jerusalem: Undoubtedly because that was the Time, wherein the Jews in general expected the Messiah.

V. 6. Wars—Near: Rumours of wars—At a Distance. All these things must come to pass—As a Foundation for lasting Tranquilli∣ty. But the end—Concerning which ye enquire, is not yet—So far from it, that this is but the beginning of sorrows.

V. 9. Then shall they deliver you up to assliction—As if you were the cause of all these Evils. And ye shall he hated of all nation— Even of those who tolerate all other Sects and Parties: But in no Nation will the Children of the Devil tolerate the Children of GOD.

V. 10. Then shall many be offended—So as utterly to make ship∣wreck of saith and a pure conscience. But hold ye fast Faith (ver. 11.) in spite of false Prophets: Love, even when Iniquity and Offences abound (ver. 12.) And Hope, unto the End (ver. 13.) He than does so, shall be snatched out of the Burning. The love of many

will wax cold—The Generality of those who love GOD, will (like the Church at Ephesus, Rev. 2, 4.) Leave their first love.

V. 14. This Gospel shall be preached in all the world—Not univer∣sally; This is not done yet: But in general, thro' the several Parts of the World, and not only in Jude••. And this was done by St. Paut and the other Apostles, before Jerusalem was destroyed. And then shall the end come—Of the City and Temple.

Josephus's History of the Jewish war, is the best Commentary on this Chapter. It is a wonderful Instance of GOD's Providence that he, an Eye-witness, and one who lived and died a Iew, should (especially in so extraordinary a Manner) be preserved, to transmit to us a Collection of important Facts, which so exactly illustrate this glorious Prophecy, in almost every Circumstance

V. 15. When ye see the abomination of desolation—Daniel's Term is, The Abomination that maketh desolate (C. xi. 31.) that is, The Stand∣ards of the desolating Legions, on which they hear the abominable Images of their Idols: Standing in the holy place—Not only the Tem∣ple and the Mountain on which it stood, but the whole City of Je∣rusalem, and several Furlongs of Land round about it, were accounted holy. Particularly the Mount on which our LORD now sat, and on which the Romans afterwards planted their Ensigns He that read••th let him understand—Whoever reads that Prophecy of Daniel, let him deeply consider it.

V. 16. Then let them who are in Judea, s••e to the mountains—So the Christians did, and were preserved. It is remarkable, that after the Romans under Cestius Gallas, made their first Advance towards Jerusa∣lem, they suddenly withdrew again, in a most unexpected and indeed impolitic Manner. This the Christians took as a Signal to retire, which they did, some to Pella, and others to Mount Libanus.

V. 17. Let not him that is on the house-top, come down to take any thing out of his house—It may be remembered, that their Stairs used to be on the Outside of their Houses.

V. 19. Wo to them that are with child, and to them that give 〈◊〉〈◊〉— Because they cannot so readily make their Escape.

V. 20. Pray ye that your slight be not in the winter—They did so; and their flight was in the Spring: Neither on the Sabbath—Being on many Accounts inconvenient: Besides that many would have scrupled to travel far on that Day. For the Jews thought it unlawful to walk about two thousand Paces (Two Miles) on the Sabbath Day.

V. 21. Then shall be great tribulation—Have not many Things spo∣ken in the Chapter, as well as in Mark 13. and Luke 21. a farther and much more Extensive Meaning, than has been yet fulfilled?

V. 22. And unless those days were shortened.—By the taking of Jeru∣salem sooner than could be expected: No flesh, would be saved—The whole Nation would be destroyed: But for the cleat's sake—That is, for the Sake of the Christians.

V. 24. They would deceive, if possible, the very elect—But is it not possible, that GOD should suffer the Body of Christians to be thus deceived.

V. 27. For as the lightning goeth forth—For the next coming of Christ, will be as quick as Lightning; so that there will not be Time for any such previous Warning.

V. 28. For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together—Our LORD gives this, as a farther Reason, why they should not hearken to any pretended Deliverer. As if he had said, Expect not any Deliverer of the Jewish Nation; for it is devoted to De∣struction. It is already before GOD a dead Carcase, which the Roman Eagles will soon devour.

V. 29. Immediately after the tribulation of those days—Here our LORD begins to speak of his last Coming. But He speaks not so much in

the Language of Man as of GOD, with whom a thousand Years are as one Day, one Moment. Many of the primitive Christians not observing this, thought He would come immediately, in the common Sense of the Word: A Mistake which St. Paul labours to remove, in his second Epistle to the Thessalonians The powers of the heavens— Probably, the Influences of the heavenly Bodies.

V. 30. Then shall appear the Sign of the Son of man in heaven—It seems a little before He Himself descends. The Son, Moon, and Stars being extinguished (probably, not those of our System only) the sign of the Son of man (perhaps the Cross) will appear in the Glory of the LORD.

V. 31. They shall gather together his elect—That is, All that have endured to the End in the Faith which worketh by Love.

V. 32. Learn— parable—Our LORD having spoken of the Signs preceding the two grand Events, concerning which the Apostles had enquired, begins here to speak of the Time of them. And to the Question proposed ver. 3. concerning the Time of the Destruction of Jerusalem. He answers ver. 34. Concerning the Time of the End of the World, He answers ver. 36.

V. 34. This generation of Men now living shall not pass, till all those thing be done—The Expression implies that great Part of that Gene∣ration would be passed away but not the whole. Just so it was For the City and Temple were destroyed thirty-nine or forty Years after.

V. 36. But of that day— The Day of Judgment: Knoweth no man —Not while our LORD was on Earth. Yet it might be afterwards revealed to St. John, consistently with this.

V. 40. One is taken—Into GOD's immediate Protection; and one is left—To share the common Calamities. Our LORD speaks, as hav∣ing the whole Transaction present before his Eyes.

V. 41. Two women shall be grinding—Which was then a common Employment of Women.

V. 42. Ye know not what hour your Lord cometh—Either to require your Soul of you, or to avenge Himself of this Nation.

V. 45. Who then is the faithful and wise servant—Which of you aspires after this Character? Wise—Every Moment retaining the clearest Conviction, That all he now has is only intrusted to him as a Steward: Faithful—Thinking, speaking, and acting continually, in a Manner suitable to that Conviction.

V. 48. But if that evil servant—Now evil, having put away faith and a good conscience.

V. 51. And shall allot him his portion with the hypocrites—The worst of Sinners, as upright and sincere as he was once!

If Ministers are the Persons here primarily intended, there is a peculiar Propriety in the Expression. For no Hypocrisy can be baser, than to call ourselves Ministers of Christ, while we are the Slaves of Avarice, Ambition, or Sensuality. Wherever such are found, may GOD reform them by his Grace, or disarm them of that Power and Influence, which they continually abuse to his Dishonour, and to their own aggravated Damnation!

XXV.

[ 1] Then shall the kingoom of heaven be like ten virgins who taking their lamps, went forth to meet the bridegroom. [ 2] But five of them were wise, and five were foolish. [ 3] They that were foolish, taking their lamps, took not oil with them. [ 4] But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. [ 5] While the bridegroom delayed, they all slumber∣ed

and slept. [ 6] But at midnight there was a cry, Behold the bridegroom cometh: come ye forth to meet him. [ 7] Then all those virgins arose and trim∣med their lamps. [ 8] And the foolish said to the wise, give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. [ 9] But the wise answered, Lest there be not enough for us and you: go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. [ 10] And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage; and the door was shut. [ 11] Afterward come also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. [ 12] But he answering said, Verily I say to you, I know you not. [ 13] Watch therefore; for ye know not the day nor the hour.

[ 14] * 1.205 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered to them his goods. [ 15] And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability, and im∣mediately

took his journey. [ 16] Then he who had re∣ceived the five talents, went and traded with them, and gained other five talents. [ 17] And like∣wise he that had received the two, he also gained other two. [ 18] But he that had received the one, went and digged in the earth, and hid his master's money. [ 19] After a long time the master of those servants cometh and reckoneth with them. [ 20] And he that had received the five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Sir, thou deli∣veredst to me five talents, behold I have gained to them five talents more. [ 21] His master said to him, Well done, good, and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will set thee over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. [ 22] He also that had received the two talents; came and said, Sir, thou deliveredst to me two ta∣lents; behold I have gained to them two other ta∣lents. [ 23] His master said to him, Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will set thee over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. [ 24] Then he that had received the one talent came and said, Sir, I knew that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hadst not sown, and gathering whence thou hadst not scattered. [ 25] And being afraid, I went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, thou hast

what is thine. [ 26] His master answering said to him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather whence I had not scattered. [ 27] Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the bankers, and at my coming I should have received my own with interest. [ 28] Take therefore the talent from him, and give it to him who hath ten talents. [ 29] * 1.206 For to every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not, shall be taken away even what he hath. [ 30] And cast ye the unprofitable ser∣vant into the outer darkness: there shall be the weeping and the gnashing of teeth.

[ 31] When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon

the throne of his glory. [ 32] And all the nations shall be gathered before him, and he will separate them one from another, a••a shepherd separateth the sheep from the goats. [ 33] And he will set the sheep on his right-hand, and the goats on his left. [ 34] Then will the king say to them on his right-hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom pre∣pared for you from the foundation of the World. For I was hungry; and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: [ 35] I was a stranger, and ye took me in; Naked, and ye cloathed me: [ 36] I was sick, and ye visited me; I was in prison, and ye came to me. [ 37] Then will the righteous an∣swer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? Or thirsty, and gave thee drink? [ 38] When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in; Or naked, and cloathed thee? [ 39] Or when saw we thee sick or in prison, and came to thee? [ 40] And the king will answer and say to them, Verily I say to you, inasmuch as ye did it to one of the least of these my brethren, ye did it to me. [ 41] Then will he say to them on his left-hand, Depart from me, ye cursed

into the everlasting fire, which was prepared for the devil and his angels. [ 42] For I was hungry, and ye gave me no meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: [ 43] I was a stranger, and ye took me not in; naked, and ye clothed me not; sick and in prison and ye visited me not. [ 44] Then will they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then will he answer them, saying. [ 45] Verily I say to you, inasmuch as ye did it not unto one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. [ 46] And these shall go away into everlasting punishment; but the righte∣ous into life everlasting.

C. xxv. This Chapter contains the last public Discourse, which our LORD uttered before He was offered up. He had before fre∣quently declared what would be the Portion of all the Workers of Iniquity. But what will become of those who do no Harm? Ho∣nest, inoffensive, good Sort of People? We have here a clear and full Answer to this important Question.

V. 1. Then shall the kingdom of heaven—That is, the Candidates for it, Be like ten virgins—The Bride Maids on the Wedding Night, were wont to go to the House where the Bride was, with burning Lamps or Torches in their Hands, to wait for the Bridegroom's Coming. When he drew near, they went to meet him with their Lamps, and to conduct him to the Bride.

V. 3. The foolish took not oil with them—No more than kept them burning just for the present. None to supply their future Want, to recruit their Lamp's Decay. The Lamp is Faith. A Lamp and oil with it, is Faith working by Love.

V. 4. The wise took oil in their vessels—Love in their Hearts. And they daily sought a fresh Supply of Spiritual Strength, till their Faith was made perfect.

V. 5. While the bridegroom delayed—That is, Before they were ••••lled attend to him, they all slumbered and slept—Were easy and qui∣et, the Wise enjoying a true, the Foolish a false Peace.

V. 6. At midnight—In an Hour quite unthought of.

V. 7. They trimmed their lamps—They examined themselves, and prepared to meet their GOD.

V. 8. Give us of your oil, for our lamps are gone out—Our Faith is dead. What a Time to discover this! Whether it mean the Time of Death, or of Judgment. Unto which of the Saints will thou then turn? Who can help thee at such a Season?

V. 9. But the wise answered, Lest there be not enough for us and you? —Beginning the Sentence with a beautiful Abr••peness; such as shewed their Surprise at the State of those poor Wretches, who had so long deceived them, as well as their own Souls. Lest there be not enough—It is sure there is not; for no Man has more than Holiness enough for himself. Go ye rather to them that sell—Without Money and without Price: That is, to GOD, to Christ. And buy—If ye can. O no! The Time is past, and returns no more!

V. 13. Watch therefore—He that watches, has not only a ••••••n∣ing Lamp, but likewise Oil in his Vessel. And even when he ••••••∣eth, his Heart waketh. He is quiet; but not sec••re.

V. 14. Our LORD proceeds by a Parable still plainer (if that can be) to declare the final Reward of an harmless Man. May GOD give all such, in this their Day, Ears to hear and Hearts to understand it! The kingdom of heaven—That is, the King of Heaven, Christ.

V. 15. To one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one—And who knows whether (all Circumstances considered) there be a greater Disproportion than this, in the Talents of those who

have received the most, and those who have received the sewest? According to his own ability—The Words may be translated more literally, according to his own mighty power. And immediately took his journey—To Heaven.

V. 18. He that had received one—Made his having fewer Ta∣lents than others a Pretence for not improving any. Went and hid his master's money—Reader, art thou doing the same? Art thou hid∣ing the Talent GOD hath lent thee?

V. 24. I knew that thou art an hard man—No. Thou knowest Him not. He never knew GOD, who thinks Him an hard Master. Reaping where thou hast not sown—That is, requiring more of us, than thou givest us Power to perform. So does every obstinate Sin∣ner, in one Kind or other, lay the Blame of his own Sins on GOD.

V. 25. And I was afraid—Lest if I had improved my Talent, I should have had the more to answer for. So from this Fear, one will not learn to read, another will not hear Sermons!

V. 26. Thou knowest—That I require Impossibilities! This is not an allowing, but a strong Denial of the Charge.

V. 27. Thou oughtest therefore—On that very Account, on thy own Supposition, to have improved my Talent, as far as was ••••••••••∣ble.

V. 29. To every one that hath shall be given—So close does GOD keep to this stated Rule, from the Beginning to the End of the World.

V. 30. Cast ye the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness—For what? What had he done? It is true he had not done Good. But neither is he charged with doing any Harm. Why, for this Rea∣son, for barely doing no Harm, he is consigned to outer Darkness. He is pronounced a wicked, because he was a slothful, an unprofita∣ble Servant. So mere Harmlessness, on which many build their Hope of Salvation, was the Cause of his Damnation! There shall be the weeping—Of the careless, thoughtless Sinner; and the gnashing of teeth—Of the proud and stubborn.

The same great Truth, That there is no such Thing as negative Goodness, is in this Chapter shewn three Times,

• 1. In the Para∣ble of the Virgins;
• 2. In the still plainer Parable of the Servants, who had received the Talents; and,
• 3. In a direct, unparabolical Declaration of the Manner wherein our LORD will proceed at the last Day.

The several Parts of each of these exactly answer each other, only each rises above the preceding.

V. 31. When the Son of Man shall come in his glory, and all the ho∣ly angels with him—With what Majesty and Grandeur does our LORD here speak of Himself! Giving us one of the noblest In∣stances of the true Sublime. Indeed not many Descriptions in the sacred Writings themselves, seem to equal this. Methinks we can hardly read it, without imagining ourselves before the awful Tribu∣nal it describes.

V. 34. Inherit the kingdom—Purchased by my Blood, for all who have believed in Me, with the Faith which wrought by Love. Pre∣pared for you—On purpose for you. May it not be probably in∣ferred from hence, That Man was not created merely to fill up the Places of the fallen Angels?

V. 35. I was hungry and ye gave me meat, I was thirsty and ye gave me drink—All these Works of outward Mercy suppose Faith and Love, and must needs be accompanied with Works of spiritual Mercy. But Works of this Kind the Judge could not mention in the same Manner. He could not say, I was in Error, and ye recall∣ed me to the Truth; I was in Sin, and ye brought me to Repent∣ance. In prison—Prisoners need to be visited above all others, as they are commonly Solitary and forsaken by the rest of the World.

V. 37. Then shall the Righteous answer—It cannot be, that either the Righteous or the Wicked should answer in these very Words. What we learn herefrom is, That neither of them have the same Estimation of their own Works as the Judge hath.

V. 40. Inasmuch as ye did it to one of the least of these my brethren, ye did it to me—What Encouragement is here, to assist the Hous∣hold of Faith? But let us likewise remember, to do good to all men.

V. 41. Depart into the everlasting fire, which was prepared for the devil and his angels—Not originally for you: You are Intru∣ders into everlasting Fire.

V. 44. Then will they answer—So the Endeavour to justify them∣selves, will remain with the Wicked even to that Day!

V. 46. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life everlasting—Either therefore the Punishment is strictly Eternal, or the Reward is not. The very same Expression being applied, to the former as to the latter. The Judge will speak first to the Righteous, in the Audience of the Worked. The Wick∣ed shall then go away into everlasting Fire, in the View of the Righ∣teous. Thus the Damned shall see nothing of the everlasting Life. But the Just will see the Punishment of the Ungodly. It is not only particularly observable here,

• 1. That the Punishment lasts as long as the Reward: But
• 2. That this Punishment is so far from ceasing at the End of the World, that it does not begin till th••n.

XXVI.

* 1.207 And when Jesus had finished all these dis∣courses, he said to his disciples, [ 2] Ye know that

after two days is the passover, and the Son of Man is betrayed to be crucified. [ 3] Then the chief priests, and the Scribes, and the elders of the people as∣sembled together at the palace of the high priest, who was called Caiaphas, [ 4] And consulted together, how they might apprehend Jesus by subtilty and kill him. [ 5] But they said, Not at the Feast, let there be a tumult among the people.

[ 6] † 1.208 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, [ 7] There came to him a woman, having an alabaster box of very costly ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at table. [ 8] But his disciples seeing it, had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste? [ 9] For this might have been sold for much, and given to the poor. [ 10] Jesus knowing it, said to them, Why trou∣ble ye the Woman? She hath wrought a good work on me. [ 11] For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always. [ 12] For in pour∣ing this ointment on my body she hath done it for my burial. [ 13] Verily I say to you, wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world,

this also which she hath done shall be spoken for a memorial of her.

[ 14] * 1.209 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, going to the chief priests, Said, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him to you; [ 15] And they bargained with him for thirty pieces of silver. [ 16] And from that time he sought opportunity to deli∣ver him.

[ 17] † 1.210 On the first day of unleavened bread, the disciples came to Jesus, saying to him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passo∣ver? And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say to him, The Master saith, My Time is at hand: [ 18] I keep the passover at thy house with my disciples. [ 19] And the disciples did as Jesus had ap∣pointed them; and they made ready the passover.

[ 20] ‡ 1.211 When the Evening was come, he sat down with the twelve. [ 21] And as they ate, he said, Veri∣ly I say to you, one of you will betray me. [ 22] And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began each of them to say to him, Lord, Is it I? [ 23] And he an∣swering, said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same will betray me. [ 24] The Son of man indeed goeth as it is written of him: but wo to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed: it had been good for that man if he had never been born. [ 25] Then Judas who betrayed him answering

said, Master, is it I? He saith to him, Thou hast said.

[ 26] And after they had eaten, Jesus took the bread and blessed and brake and gave it to his disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. [ 27] And he took the cup, and having given thanks gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. [ 28] For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many, for the remission of sins. [ 29] I say to you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, till that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.

[ 30] * 1.212 And when they had sung the Hymn, they went out into the Mount of Olives. [ 31] Then saith Jesus to them, All ye will be offended at me this night, for it is written, † 1.213 I will smite the shepherd,

and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered. [ 32] But after I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee. [ 33] Peter answering said to him, Tho' all should be offended at thee, I will never be offended. [ 34] Jesus said to him, Verily I say to thee, that in this very Night before cock crowing thou wilt deny me thrice. [ 35] Peter saith to him, If I must die with thee, yet will I in no wise deny thee. In like manner also said all the disciples.

[ 36] ‡ 1.214 Then cometh Jesus with them to a place called Gethsemane, and saith to the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. [ 37] And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebe∣dee, he began to be sorrowful and in deep anguish. [ 38] Then saith he to them, My soul is exceeding sor∣rowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. [ 39] And going a little farther, he fell on his face and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; yet

not as I will, but as thou wilt. [ 40] And he cometh to the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith to Peter, What! Could not ye watch with me one hour? [ 41] Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. [ 42] Again going away the second time he prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup cannot pass from me, unless I drink it, thy will be done. [ 43] And coming he findeth them asleep again; for their eyes were weighed down. [ 44] And leaving them, he went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. Then cometh he to his disciples and saith them, Sleep on now and take your rest: [ 45] Behold the hour is come, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hand of sinners. [ 46] Rise; let us be going: be∣hold he that betrayeth me is at hand.

[ 47] † 1.215 And while he was yet speaking, lo Judas one of the twelve came, and with him a great mul∣titude with swords and clubs from the chief priests and elders of the people. [ 48] Now he that betrayed him, had given them a signal, saying, Whomso∣ever I shall kiss, is he; seize him. [ 49] And forthwith coming to Jesus, he said, Hail, Master, and kissed him. [ 50] And Jesus said to him, Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they up and laid hands

on Jesus, and took him. [ 51] * 1.216 And behold one of them that were with Jesus, stretching out his hand, drew his sword, and striking the servant of the high priest, cut off his ear. [ 52] Then said Jesus to him, Put up again thy sword into its place; for all they that take the sword shall perish by the sword. [ 53] Thinkest thou that I cannot ask my Fa∣ther, and he will presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? [ 54] But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be done?

[ 55] § 1.217 In that hour Jesus said to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take me? I sat daily with you teach∣ing in the temple and ye apprehended me not. [ 56] But all this is done, that the scriptures might be ful∣filled. Then all the disciples forsook him and fled.

[ 57] † 1.218 And they that had apprehended Jesus, led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. [ 58] But Peter followed him afar off to the hig•• priest's palace, and going in, sat with the servants, to see the end [ 59] Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death, [ 60] But found none; yea, tho' many

false witnesse came yet found they none. At last came two false witnesses, [ 61] And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days. [ 62] And the high priest rising up said to him, Answerest thou nothing? What do these witness against thee? But Jesus held his peace. [ 63] And the high priest answering said to him, I adjure thee by the living God, to tell us, if thou art the Christ, the Son of God? Jesus saith to him, Thou hast said. [ 64] Moreover I say to you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right-hand of power, and coming upon the clouds of heaven. [ 65] Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphe∣my: what further need have we of witnesses? Behold now ye have heard his blasphemy. [ 66] What think ye? They answering said, He is worthy of death. [ 67] Then did they spit in his face and buffet him, and others smote him, [ 68] Saying, Prophesy to us, thou Christ, who is he that smote thee?

[ 69] Now Peter sat without in the hall. And a maid-servant came to him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. [ 70] But he denied before all, saying I know not what thou sayest. [ 71] And when he was gone out into the porch another maid saw him, and said to them that were

there, This fellow also was with Jesus of Nazareth. [ 72] And again he denied with an oath, I know not the man. [ 73] And after a while they that stood by, came and said to Peter, Surely thou art also one of them; for thy speech discovereth thee. [ 74] Then began he to curse and to swear, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. [ 75] And Peter remem∣bered the word of Jesus, who had said to him, Before cock-crowing thou wilt deny me thrice. And going out he wept bitterly.

V. 1. When Jesus had finished all these discourses—When He had spoken all He had to speak. Till then He would not enter upon his Pa••lion: Then He would delay it no longer.

V. 2 After two days is the passoven—The Manner wherein this was celebrated, gives much Light to several Circumstances that follow. The Master of the Family began the Feast with a Cup of Wine, which having solemnly blessed, he divided among the Guests. (Luke xxii. 17.) Then the Supper began with the unleavened Bread and bitter Herbs; which when they had all tasted, one of the young Persons present (according to Ex••d. xii. 26.) asked the Reason of the Solemnity. This introduced The Shewing forth, or Declaration of it: in Allusion to which we read of shewing forth the Lord's Death (1 Cor. xi. 26.) Then the Master rose up and took another Cup, before the Lamb was tasted. After Supper, he took a thin Loaf or Cake, which he broke and divided to all at the Table, and likewise the Cup, usually called the Cup of Thanksgiving, of which

he drank first, and then all the Guests. It was this Bread and this Cup, which our LORD consecrated to be a standing Memorial of his Death.

V▪ 3. The chief Priests and the Scribes and the Elders of the People—(Heads of Families) These together constituted the Sanhedrim, or Great Council, which had the Supreme Authority, both in Civil and Ecclesiastical Affairs.

V. 5. But they said, Not at the feast—This was the Result of human Wisdom. But when Judas came, they changed their Purpose. So the Counsel of GOD took Place, and the true Paschal Lamb was of∣fered up on the great Day of the Paschal Solemnity.

V. 8. His disciples seeing it, had indignation, saying—It seems seve∣ral of them were angry, and spoke, tho' none so warmly as Judas Iscariet

V. 11. Ye have the poor always with you—Such is the wise and gracious Providence of GOD, that we may have always Opportunities of relieving their Wants, and so laying up for ourselves Treasures in Heaven.

V. 12. She hath done it for my burial—As it were for the embalming of my Body▪ Indeed this was not her Design. But our LORD puts this Construction upon it, to confirm thereby what he had before said to his Disciples, concerning his approaching Death.

V. 13. This gospel—That is, this Part of the Gospel History.

V. 15. They bargained with him for thirty pieces of silver—(About three Pounds fifteen Shillings.) The Price of a Slave, Exod. xxi. 32.

V. 17. On the first day of unleavened bread—Being Thursday the fourteenth Day of the first Month, Exod. xii. 6.15.

V. 18. The Master saith, My time is at hand—That is, the Time of my Suffering.

V. 23. He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish— which it seems Judas was doing at that very Time. This Dish was a Vessel full of Vinegar, wherein they dipped their bitter Herbs.

V. 24. The Son of man goeth thro' Sufferings to Glory, as it is written of him—Yet this is not Excuse for him that betrayeth Him: miserable will that Man be. It had been good for that man, if he had not been born—May not the same be said of every Man that finally perishes? But who can reconcile this, if it were true of Judas alone, with the Doctrine of universal Salvation?

V. 25. Thou hast said—That is, it is as thou hast said.

V. 26. Jesus to••k the bread—The Bread, or Cake, which the Master of the Family used to divide among them, after they had eaten the Passover. This Custom our LORD now transferred to a nobl••r Use. This Bread is, that is, signifies or represents my Body, according to the Stile of the sacred Writers. Thus Gen. xl 12. The three b••anches are three days. Thus Gal. iv. 24. St. Paul speak∣ing of Sarah and Hagar says, These are the two Covenants. Thus in the Grand Type of our LORD, Exca. xii. 11. GOD says of the Pas∣chal Lamb, This is the Lord's Passover. Now Christ substituting the Holy Communion for the Passover, follows the Stile of the Old Tes∣tament, and uses the same Expressions the Jews were wont to use in celebrating the Passover.

V. 27. And he took the cup—Called by the Jews the Cup of Thanksgiving; which the Master of the Family used likewise to give to each after Supper.

V. 28. This is the sign of my blood, whereby the New Testament or Covenant is confirmed. Which is shed for many—As many as spring from Adam

V. 29. I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, till I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom—That is, I shall taste no more Wine, till I drink Wine of quite another Kind in the glo∣rious Kingdom of my Father. And of this you shall also partake with me.

V. 30. And when thy had sung the hymn—Which was constantly sung at the Close of the Passover. It consisteth of six Psalms from the 113th to the 118th. The Mount of Olives—Was over against the Temple, about two Miles from Jerusalem.

V. 31. All ye will be offended at me—Something will happen to me, which will occasion your falling into Sin by forsaking me.

V. 32. But notwithstanding this, after I am risen, I will go before you (as a Shepherd before his Sheep) into Galilee—Tho' you forsake me, I will not for this forsake you.

V. 34. Before cock-crowing thou wilt deny me thrice—That is be∣fore Three in the Morning, the usual Time of Cock-crowing: Al∣tho' one Cock was heard to crow once, after Peter's first Denial of his LORD.

V. 35. In like manner also said all the disciples—But such was the Tenderness of our LORD, that He would not aggravate their Sin, by making any Reply.

V. 36. Then cometh Jesus to a place called Gethsemane—That is, the Valley of Fatness. The Garden probably had its Name from its Soil and Situation, lying in some little Valley between two of those many Hills, the Range of which constitutes the Mount of Olives.

V. 37. And taking with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee—To be Witnesses of all; he began to be sorrowful and in deep an∣guish—Probably from feeling the Arrows of the Almighty stick fast in his Soul, while GOD laid on Him the Iniquities of us all. Who can tell what painful and dreadful Sensations were then imprest on Him by the immediate Hand of GOD? The former Word in the Original properly signifies, to be penetrated with the most exquisite Sorrow; the latter, to be quite deprest, and almost overwhelmed with the Load.

V. 39. And going a little farther—About a stones cast: (Luke xxii. 41.) So that the Apostles could both see and hear him still. If it be

possible, let this cup pass from me—And it did pass from Him quickly. When He cried unto GOD with strong cries and tears, he was heard in that which he feared. GOD did take away the Terror and Severity of that inward Conflict.

V. 41. The spirit—Your Spirit: Ye yourselves. The flesh—Your Nature. How gentle a Rebuke was this, and how kind an Apology! Especially at a Time when our LORD's own Mind was so weighed down with Sorrow.

V. 45. Sleep on now, if you can, and take your rest—For any far∣ther Service you can be of to me.

V. 50. The heroic Behaviour of the blessed Jesus, in the whole Period of his Sufferings, will be observed by every attentive Eye, and felt by every pious Heart: Altho' the sacred Historians, according to their usual but wonderful Simplicity, make no Encomiums upon it: With what Composure does He go forth to meet the Traitor? With what Calmness receive that malignant Kiss? With what Dignity does He deliver Himself into the Hands of his Enemies? Yet plainly shew∣ing

his Superiority over them, and even then leading as it were Cap∣tivity captive!

V. 51. And one of them, striking the servant of the high priest—Pro∣bably the Person that seized Jesus first; Cut off his ear— Aiming, it seems, to cleave his Head, but that by a secret Providence interposing he declined the Blow.

V. 52. All they that take the sword—Without GOD's giving it them; without sufficient Authority.

V. 53. He will presently give me more than twelve legions of angels— The least of whom, 'tis probable, could overturn the Earth and d••∣stroy all the Inhabitants of it.

V. 57. They led him away to Caiaphas—From the House of Annos; the Father-in-law of Caiaphas, to whom they had carried him first.

V. 58. But Peter followed him afar off—Variously agitated by conflicting Passions: Love constrained him to follow his Master; Fear made him follow afar off. And going in sat with the servants—Unfit Companions, as the Event shewed.

V. 60. Yet found they none—On whose Evidence they could con∣demn Him to die. At last came two false witnesses—Such they were,

altho' Part of what they said was true; because our LORD did not speak some of those Words at all; nor any of them in this Sense.

V. 64. Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man—He speaks in the third Person, modestly, and yet p••••inly; Sitting on the right-hand of power —That is, the Right-hand of GOD: And coming upon the clouds of heaven—As He is represented by Daniel (ch. vii. 13, 14.) Our LORD looked very unlike that Person now! But nothing could be more awful, more majestic and becoming, than such an Admonition, in such Circumstances!

V. 65. Then the high priest rent his clothes—Tho' the High Priest was forbidden to rent his Clothes (that is, his upper Garment) in some Cases where others were allowed to do it, (Lev xxi. 10.) yet in Case of Blasphemy or any public Calamity, it was thought allow∣able. Caiaphas hereby expressed in the most artful Manner, his Hor∣ror at hearing such grievous Blasphemy.

V. 67. Then—After he had declared, he was the Son of GOD, the Sanhedrim doubtless ordered him to be carried out, while they were consulting what to do. And then it was, that the Soldiers who kept him, began these Insults upon him.

V. 72. He denied with an oath—To which possibly he was not un∣accustomed, before our LORD called him.

V. 73. Surely thou art also one of them; for thy speech discovereth thee —Malchus might have brought a stronger Proof than this. But such is the over-ruling Providence of GOD, that the world, in the Height of their Zeal, commonly catch hold of the very weakest of all Ar∣guments against the Children of GOD.

V. 74. Then began be to curse and to swear—Having now quite lost the Reins, the Government of himself.

XXVII.

* 1.219 In the morning, all the chief priests and elders of the People consulted together against Jesus, to put him to death. [ 2] And having bound him, they led him away and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.

[ 3] Then Judas who had betrayed him, seeing that he was condemned, repenting himself, brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, [ 4] Saying, I have sinned in betraying innocent blood. [ 5] And they said, What is that to us? See thou to it. And having thrown down the

pieces of silver in the temple, he withdrew and going away hanged himself. [ 6] And the chief priests taking the pieces of silver, said, It is not lawful to put them in the treasury, because it is the price of blood. [ 7] And having consulted toge∣ther, they bought with them the potters field, to bury foreigners in. [ 8] Wherefore that field was cal∣led, The field of blood unto this day. [ 9] Then was fulfilled what was spoken by the prophet, saying, * 1.220 And they took the thir••y pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did value, [ 10] And gave them for the potters field, as the Lord commanded me.

[ 11] And Jesus stood before the governor. And the governor questioned him, saying, Art thou the king of the Jews? And Jesus said to him, Thou sayest. [ 12] But while he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. [ 13] Then said Pilate to him, Hearest thou not how many things they witness against thee? [ 14] And he answered him to never a word, so that the governor marvel∣led greatly.

[ 15] † 1.221 Now at every feast the governor was wont to release to the people a prisoner, whom they would. [ 16] And they had then a notorious prisoner,

named Barabbas. [ 17] Therefore when they were ga∣thered together, Pilate said to them, Whom will ye that I release to you? Barabbas? Or Jesus who is called Christ? [ 18] For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.

[ 19] While he sat on the judgment-seat, his wise sent to him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just man; for I have suffered many things to-day in a dream because of him. [ 20] But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude, to ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus. [ 21] The governor answering said to them, Which of the two will ye that I release to you? They said, Barabbas. [ 22] Pilate saith to them, What shall I do then with Jesus who is called Christ? They all say to him, Let him be crucified. [ 23] And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more vehemently, saying, Let him be crucified. [ 24] Then Pilate seeing, that he could prevail nothing, but rather a tumult was made, taking water washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just man: see ye to it. [ 25] Then all the People answering said, His blood be

on us and on our children. [ 26] Then released he Ba∣rabbas to them, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.

[ 27] § 1.222 Then the soldiers of the governor taking Je∣sus into the common hall, gathered to him the whole troop. [ 28] And stripping him they put on him a scarlet robe, [ 29] And platting a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a cane in his right-hand; and kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, Hail, king of the Jews. [ 30] And spitting on him, they took the cane and smote him on the head. [ 31] And after they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him. [ 32] And coming out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.

[ 33] ‖ 1.223 And coming to a place called Golgotha, that is, the place of a skull, [ 34] They gave him vinegar mingled with gall to drink, and when he

had tasted thereof, he would not drink. [ 35] And ha∣ving crucified him they parted his garments, casting lots, that it might be fulsilled which was spoken by the prophet, * 1.224 They parted my garments among them, and for my vesture they cast lots. [ 36] And sitting down, they guarded him there, [ 37] And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS. [ 38] ‡ 1.225 Then were two robbers crucified with him, one on the right-hand and one on the left.

[ 39] And they that were passing by reviled him, wagging their heads and saying, Thou that de∣stroyest the temple, and buildest it in three Days, save thyself. [ 40] If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross. [ 41] In like manner the chief priests also with the scribes and elders mocking him, said, He saved others: Cannot he save himself? [ 42] If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. [ 43] He trusted in God: let him deliver him now if he will have him; for he said I am the Son of God. [ 44] † 1.226 And even the robbers that were crucified with him, cast the same reproach upon him. [ 45] Now from the sixth hour there was darkness

over all the earth, unto the ninth hour. [ 46] And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, * 1.227 Eli, Eli, lama sabachthanni? That is, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? [ 47] Some of them that stood there hearing it, said, He calleth Elijah. [ 48] ‡ 1.228 And immediately one of them running and taking a sponge filled it with vinegar, and putting it on a cane, gave him to drink. [ 49] The rest said, Let be: let us see whether Elijah will come to save him.

[ 50] Jesus having cried again with a loud voice, dismissed his spirit.

[ 51] And behold the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom, and the earth

was shaken and the rocks were torn asunder: [ 52] And the tombs were opened, and many bodies of holy men that slept were raised, [ 53] And coming out of the tombs after his resurrection, went into the holy city, and appeared to many.

[ 54] And the centurion and they that were with him, guarding Jesus, seeing the earthquake and the Things that were done, feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God.

[ 55] And many Women were there, beholding afar off, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, serving him. [ 56] Among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the Mother of Zebedee's children.

[ 57] * 1.229 In the evening, there came a rich man of Ari∣mathea, named Joseph, who also himself was a

disciple of Jesus. [ 58] He going to Pilate, asked the body of Jesus: then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. [ 59] And Joseph taking the body, wrapped it in clean linen, [ 60] And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock, and having rolled a great Stone to the door of the tomb, departed. [ 61] And Mary Magdalene was there and the other Mary, sitting over against the se∣pulchre.

[ 62] Now on the morrow the day after the day of the preparation the chief priests and Pharisees were ga∣thered together to Pilate, [ 63] Saying, Sir, we remem∣ber, that impostor said while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again. [ 64] Command therefore that the sepulchre be secured till the third day, lest his disciples coming steal him away, and say to the People, He is rison from the Dead; so the last imposture shall be worse than the first. [ 65] Pilate said to them, ye have a guard; go make it as secure as you can. [ 66] So they went and secured the sepulchre, sealing the stone, and setting a guard.

V. 1. In the morning—As the Sanhedrim used to meet in one of the Courts of the Temple, which was never opened in the Night, they were forced to stay till the Morning, before they could proceed regularly, in the Resolution they had taken to put him to Death.

V. 2. Having bound him—They had bound Him when he was first apprehended. But they did it now afresh, to secure Him from any Danger of an Escape, as He passed thro' the Streets of Jerusalem.

V. 3. Then Judas, seeing that he was condemned—Which probably be thought Christ would have prevented by a Miracle.

V. 4. They said, What is that to us?—How easily could they di∣gest innocent Blood! And yet they had a Conscience! It is not lawful (say they) to put it into the treasury—But very lawful to slay the In∣nocent!

V. 5. In that Part of the Temple, where the Sanhedrim met.

V. 7. They bought with them the potters field—Well known, it seems, by that Name. This was a small Price for a Field so near Jerusalem. But the Earth had probable been digged for Potters Vessels, so that it was now neither fit for Tillage, nor Pasture, and consequently of small Value. Foreigners—Heathens especially, of whom there were then great Numbers in Jerusalem.

V. 9. Then was fulfilled—What was figuratively represented of old, was now really accomplished. What was spoken by the prophet—The Word Jeremy, which was added to the Text in latter Copies, and thence received into many Translations, is evidently a Mistake: For he who spoke what St. Matthew here cites (or rather paraphrases) was not Jeremy, but Zechariah.

V. 10. As the Lord commanded me—To write, to record.

V. 11. Art thou the king of the Jews? JESUS before Caiaphas avows Himself to be the Christ, before Pilate to be a King; clearly shewing thereby, that his answering no more, was not owing to any Fear.

V. 15. At every feast—Every Year, at the Feast of the Passover.

V. 18. He knew that for envy they had delivered him—As well as from Malice and Revenge: They envied Him, because the Peo∣ple magnified Him.

V. 22. They all say, Let him be crucifie?—The Punishment which Barabbas had deserved: And this probably made them think of it. But in their Malice they forgot with how dangerous a Precedent they furnished the Roman Governor. And indeed within the Com∣pass of a few Years, it turned dreadfully upon themselves.

V. 24. Then Pilate took water and washed his hands—This was a Custom frequently used, among the Heathens as well among the Jews, in Token of Innocency.

V. 25. His blood be on us and our children—As this Imprecation was dreadfully answered in the Ruin so quickly brought on the Jew∣ish Nation and the Calamities which have ever since pursued that wretched People, so it was peculiarly fulfilled by Titus the Roman General, on the Jews whom he took during the Siege of Jerusalem. So many, after having been scourged in a terrible Manner, were crucified all round the City, that in a while there was not Room near the Walls for the Crosses to stand by each other. Probably this be∣fel some of those who now joined in this Cry, as it certainly did ma∣ny of their Children: The very Finger of GOD thus pointing out their Crime in crucifying his Son.

V. 26. He delivered him to be crucified—The Person crucified was nailed to the Cross as it lay on the Ground, thro' each Hand extend∣ed to the utmost Stretch, and thro' both the Feet together. Then the Cross was raised up, and the Foot of it thrust with a violent Shock into an Hole in the Ground prepared for it. This Shock dis∣jointed the Body, whose whole Weight hung upon the Nails, till the Person expired thro' mere Dint of Pain. This kind of Death was used only by the Romans, and by them inflicted only on Slaves and the vilest Criminals.

V. 27. The whole troop—Or Cohort. This was a Body of Foot, commanded by the Governor, which was appointed to prevent Dis∣orders and Tumults, especially on solemn Occasions.

V. 28. They put on him a scarlet role—Such as Kings and Gene∣rals wore; probably an old tattered one.

V. 32. Him they compelled to bear his cross—He bore it Himself, till he sunk under it. John 19.17.

V. 33. A place called Golgotha, that is, the place of a skull—Gol∣gotha in Sirriac, signisies a Skull or Head, it was probably called so from this Time; being an Eminence upon Mount Calvary, not far from the King's Gardens.

V. 34. They gave him vinegar mingled with gall—Out of Derision: Which, however nauseous, He received and tasted of. St. Mark mentions also a different Mixture which was given Him, Wine ming∣led

with myrrh: Such as it was customary to give to dying Criminals, to make them less sensible of their Sufferings: But this our LORD refused to taste, determining to bear the full Force of his Pains.

V. 35. They parted his Garments—This was the Custom of the Romans. The Soldiers performed the Office of Executioners, and divided among them the Spoils of the Criminals. My vesture—That is, my inner Garment.

V. 45. From the sixth hour, there was darkness over all the earth unto the ninth hour—Insomuch, that even an Heathen Philosopher seeing it, and knowing it could not be a natural Eclipse, because it was at the Time of the Full Moon, and continued three Hours to∣gether, cried o••••,

Either the GOD of Nature suffers, or the Frame of the World is dissolved.

By this Darkness GOD testifieth his Abhorrence of the Wicked∣ness which was then committing. It likewise intimated Christ's fore Conflicts with the Divine Justice, and with all the Powers of Darkness.

V. 46. About the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice—Our LORD's great Agony probably continued these three whole Hours,

at the Conclusion of which He thus cried out, while He suffered from GOD Himself what was unutterable. My God, my God, why bast thou forsaken me?—Our LORD hereby at once expresses his Trust in GOD, and a most distressing Sense of his letting loose the Powers of Darkness upon Him, withdrawing the comfortable Discoveries of his Presence, and filling his Soul with a terrible Sense of the Wrath due to the Sins which He was bearing.

V. 48. One taking a sponge, filled it with vinegar—Vinegar and Water was the usual Drink of the Roman Soldiers. It does not ap∣pear, that this was given Him in Derision, but rather with a friend∣ly Design, that He might not die before Elijah came.

V. 50. After he had cried with a loud voice—To shew that his Life was still whole in him. He dismissed his spirit—So the Origi∣nal Expression may be literally translated: An Expression admira∣bly suited to our LORD's Words, John x. 18. No man taketh my life from me, but I lay it down of myself. He died by a voluntary Act of his own, and in a Way peculiar to Himself. He alone of all Men that ever were, could have continued alive even in the great∣est Tortures, as long as He pleased, or have retired from the Body whenever He had thought sit. And how does it illustrate that Love which He manifested in his Death? inasmuch as He did not use his Power to quit his Body, as soon as it was fastened to the Cross, leav∣ing only an insensible Corpse, to the Cruelty of his Murderers: But continued his Abode in it, with a steady Resolution, as long as it was proper. He then retired from it, with a Majesty and Dignity, never known or to be known in any other Death: Dying if one may so express it, like the Prince of Life.

V. 51. Immediately upon his Death, while the Sun was still darkened, the veil of the temple, which separated the Holy of Holies from the Court of the Priests, tho' made of the richest and strongest Tapestry, was rent in two from the top to the bottom: So that while the Priest was ministering at the Golden Altar (it be∣ing the Time of the Sacrifice) the Sacred Oracle, by an invisible

Power, was laid open to full View: GOD thereby signifying the speedy Removal of the Veil of the Jewish Ceremonies, the casting down the Partition-wall. so that the Jews and Gentiles were now ad∣mitted to equal Privileges, and the opening a Way thro' the Veil of his Flesh for all Believers into the most Holy Place. And the earth was shaken—There was a general Earthquake thro' the whole Globe, tho' chiefly near Jerusilem: GOD testifying thereby his Wrath against the Jewish Nation, for the horrid Impiety they were com∣mitting.

V. 52. Some of the tombs were shattered and laid open by the Earthquake, and while they continued unclosed (and they must have stood open all the Sabbath, seeing the Law would not allow any Attempt to close them) many bodies of holy men were raised (perhaps Simeon, Zacharias, John the Baptist, and others who had believed in Christ, and were known to many in Jerusalem) And coming out of the tombs after his resurrection, went into the holy city (Jerusalem) and appeared to many—Who had probably known them before: GOD hereby signifying, that Christ had conquered Death, and would raise all his Saints in due Season.

V. 54. The Centurion—The Officer who commanded the Guard: and they that were with him feared, saying, Truly this was the Son of God—Referring to the Words of the Chief Priests and Scribes, ver. 43. He said, I am the Son of God.

V. 56. James—The less: He was so called, to distinguish him from the other James, the Brother of John; probably because he was less in Stature.

V. 57. When the evening was come—That is, after Three o'clock; the Time from three to six they termed the Evening.

V. 62. On the morrow, the day that followed the day of the preparation—The Day of Preparation was the Day before the Sabbath, where∣on they were to prepare for the Celebration of it. The next Day then was the Sabbath according to the Jews. But the Evangelist seems to express it by this Circumlocution, to shew the Jewest Sab∣bath was then abolished.

V. 63. That impostor said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again—We do not find, that He had ever said this to them, unless when he spoke of the temple of his holy, (John ii. 19.21.) And if they here refer to what He then said, how perverse and iniquitous was their Construction on these Words, when He was on his Trial before the Council? C. xxvi. 61. Then they seemed not to under∣stand them!

V. 65. Ye have a guard—Of your own, in the Tower of Anto∣nia, which was stationed there, for the Service of the Temple.

V. 66. They went and secured the sepulchre, sealing the stone, and setting a guard—They set Pilate's Signet, or the public Seal of the Sanhedrim upon a Fastening which they had put on the Stone. And all this uncommon Caution was over-ruled by the Providence of GOD, to give the strongest Proofs of Christ's ensuing Resurrection; since there could be no Room for the least Suspicion of Deceit, when it should be found, that his Body was raised out of a new Tomb, where there was no other Corpse, and this Tomb hewn out of a Rock, the Mouth of which was secured by a great Stone, under a Seal, and a Guard of Soldiers.

XXVIII.

* 1.230 Now after the sabbath, as it began to dawn towards the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary, to see the sepul∣chre. [ 2] And behold, there had been a great earth∣quake, and an angel of the Lord descending from heaven, had come and rolled away the stone from the door and sat upon it. [ 3] His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow. [ 4] And for fear of him the geardo trembled, and be∣came as dead men. [ 5] But the angel answering said to the women, Fear not ye; for I know ye seek Jesus who was crucified. [ 6] He is not here; for he is ••isen, as he said; come, see the place where the Lord say. [ 7] And going quickly tell his disciples, that he is risen from the dead. And behold he go∣eth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him. Lo, I have told you. [ 8] And departing quickly from the sepulchre with sear and great joy they ran to tell his disciples. [ 9] And behold Jesus met them and said, Hail. And they coming to him took hold of his feet and worshipped him. [ 10] Then said Jesus to them, Fear not. Go tell my brethren to go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

[ 11] While they were going behold some of the guard coming into the city, told the chief priests all the

things that had been done. [ 12] And having met toge∣ther with the elders and consulted, they gave much money to the soldiers, [ 13] Saying, Say, his disciples came by night, and stole him while we slept. [ 14] And if the governor hear this we will persuade him and secure you. [ 15] So they taking the money did as they were taught; and this saying is com∣monly reported among the Jews till this day.

[ 16] Then the eleven disciples went into Galilee to the mountain where Jesus had appointed them. [ 17] And when they saw him they worshipped him, tho' some had doubted. [ 18] And Jesus coming spake to them, saying, All power is given me in heaven and in earth: [ 19] ‡ 1.231 Go ye and disciple all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [ 20] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have command∣ed you; and lo I am with you always, even to the end of the world.

V. 2. An angel of the Lord had rolled away the stone and sat upon it—St. Luke and St. John speak of two Angels that appeared: But it seems as if only one of them had appeared sitting on the Stone with∣out the Sepulchre, and then going into it, was seen with another Angel, sitting, one where the Head, the other where the Feet of the Body had lain.

V. 6. Come, see the place where the Lord lay—Probably in speak∣ing, he rose up, and going before the Women into the Sepulchre, said, Come, see the Place. This clearly reconciles what St. John relates (xx. 12.) this being one of the two Angels there menti∣oned.

V. 7. There shall ye see him—In his solemn Appearance to them all together. But their gracious LORD would not be absent so long; He appeared to them several Times before then. Lo, I have told you—A solemn Confirmation of what He had said.

V. 9. Hail—The Word in its primary Sense means, "Rejoice:" In its secondary and more usual Meaning, "Happiness attend you."

V. 10. Go tell my brethren—I still own them as such, tho' they so lately disowned and forsook Me.

V. 13. Say. His disciples came by night, and stole him while we slept—Is it possible, that any Man of Sense should digest this poor, shallow Inconsistency? If ye were awake, why did you let the Dis∣ciples steal him? If asleep, how do you know they did?

V. 16. To the mountain where Jesus had appointed them—This was probably Mount Taber, where (it is commonly supposed) He had been before transfigured. It seems to have been here also, that He appeared to above five hundred Brethren at once.

V. 18. All power is given to me—Even as Man. As GOD, He had all Power from Eternity.

V. 19. Disciple all nations—Make them my Disciples. This in∣cludes the whole Design of Christ's Commission. Baptizing and Teaching are the two great Branches of that General Design. And these were to be determined by the Circumstances of Things: which made it necessary in baptizing Adult Jews or Heathens, to teach them before they were baptized; in discipling their Children, to baptize them before they were taught; as the Jewish Children in all Ages, were first circumcised, and after taught to do all GOD had command∣ed them.

NOTES ON THE Gospel according to St. MARK.

THIS CONTAINS,

• I. THE Beginning of the Gospel:
  • a. John prepares the Way, C. i. 1—8
  • b. Baptizes Jesus, who is proclaimed the Son of GOD, 9—11
  • c. Tempted of Satan, served by Angels, 12—13
• II. The Gospel itself:
  • A. In Galilee; where we may observe three Periods:
    • a. After John was cast into Prison:
      • In general:
        • 1. The Place and Matter of his Preaching, 14—15
        • 2. The Calling of several of the Apostles, 16—20
      • In particular:
        • 1. Actions not censured by his Adversaries:
          • 1. He teaches with Authority, 21—22
          • 2. Cures the Demoniac, 23—28
          • 3. Heals many Sick, 29—34
          • 4. Prays, 35
          • 5. Teaches every where, 36—39
          • 6. Cleanses the Leper, 40—45
        • 2. Actions censured by them:
          • Here occur,
            • 1. The Paralytic forgiven and healed, C. ii. 1—12
            • 2. The Call of Levi, and eating with Publicans and Sinners, 13—17
            • 3. The Question concerning Fasting answered, 18—22
            • 4. The Ears of Corn plucked, 23—28
            • 5. The withered Hand restored; Snares laid, C. iii. 1—6
          • 3. Our LORD's Retirement: 7—12
            • 1. At the Sea,
            • 2. In the Mountain, where the Apostles are called, 13—19
            • 3. In the House, where after refuting the Blasphemy of the Pharisees, He shews who are his Mother and his Brethren, 20—35
            • 4. In the Ship; various Parables, C. iv. 1—34
            • 5. On the Sea, and beyond it, 35—41
            • C. v. 1—20
            • ...

• ...
  • ...
    • ...
      • ...
        • ...
          • ...
            • 6. On this Side the Sea: Again: Jairus, and the Woman with the Flux of Blood, 21—43
            • 7. At Nazareth: His Countrymen offended, C. vi. 1—6
            • 8. The Apostles sent forth, 7—13
      • b. After John was put to Death:
        • 1. Herod's hearing of Jesus, and Judgment of Him. 14—29
        • 2. Christ's retiring with his Apostles, now returned, 30—32
        • 3. The Earnestness of the People; Christ's Compassion; five thousand fed, 33—44
        • 4. His walking on the Sea, 45—52
        • 5. He heals many in the Land of Gennesaret 53—56
        • 6. And teaches what defiles a Man; C. vii. 1—23
        • 7. A Devil cast out in the Coasts of Tyre and Sidon 24—30
        • 8. At the Sea of Galilee, the Deaf and Dumb healed; four thousand fed, 31—37
        • C. viii. 1—9
        • 9. He comes into the Parts of Dalmanutha, and answers concerning the Sign from Heaven, 10—13
        • 10. In the Ship, He warns them of evil Leaven, 14—21
        • 11. At Bethsaida, heals the Sick, 22—26
      • c. After he was acknowledged to be the Son of GOD:
        • 1. Peter confessing Him, He enjoins his Disciples Si∣lence; foretels his Passion; reproves Peter; ex∣horts to follow Him, 27
        • C. ix. 1
        • 2. Is transfigured; casts out a Devil; foretels his Passion, 2—32
        • 3. Reproves and instructs his Disciples, 33—50
    • B. In Judea:
      • a. In the Borders, C. x. 1
        • 1. He treats of Divorce, 2—12
        • 2. Of little Children, 13—16
        • 3. Of entering into Life, and of the Danger of Riches, 17—31
      • b. In his Way to the City,
        • 1. He foretels his Passion a third Time, 32—34
        • 2. Answers James and John, and instructs them all, 35—45
        • 3. At Jericho, gives Sight to Bartimeus, 46—52
        • 4. At Jerusalem, C. xi. 1
        • a. His Royal Entry, 2—11
        • b. The Day after,
          • the Fig-tree cursed, 12—14
          • the Temple purged, 15—19
        • c. The Day after that,
          • 1. Near the Fig-tree, He shews the Power of Faith, 20—26
          • 2. In the Temple,
            • 1. His Authority vindicated, 27—33
            • 2. The Parable of the wicked Husbandmen, C. xii. 1—12
            • 3. Of paying Tribute to Cesar, 13—17
            • 4. Of the Resurrection, 18—27
            • 5. Of the great Commandment, 28—34
            • 6. Of David's Lord, 35—37
            • 7. He warns the People of the Scribes, 38—40
            • 8. Commends the poor Widow, 41—44
          • ...

• ...
  • ...
    • ...
      • ...
        • ...
          • 3. On Mount Oliver, He foretels the Destruction of the City and Temple, and the End of the World, C. xiii. 1—37
        • d. Two Days before the Passover: His Enemies bargain with Judas, C. xiv. 1—11
        • e. On the first Day of unleavened Bread:
          • 1. The Passover prepared, 12—16
          • 2. The LORD's Supper instituted, 17—25
          • 3. After the Hymn, the Offence of the Disciples, and Peter's Denial foretold, 26—31
          • 4. In Gethsemane,
            • Jesus prays; wakes his Disciples, 32—42
            • Is betrayed; taken; forsook of all, 43—52
          • 5. In the High-priest's Palace,
            • He is condemned to Death, 53—65
            • Denied by Peter, 66—72
        • f. Friday,
          • What was done
            • 1. In Pilate's Palace, C. xv. 1—20
            • 2. In the Way, 21
            • 3. At Golgotha, 22
            • 1. The Wine and Myrrh offered, 23
            • 2. The Crucifixion; his Garments parted, 24, 25
            • 3. The Title, 26
            • 4. The two Malefactors, 27, 28
            • 5. Revilings, 29—32
            • 6. The Darkness; the Cry of Jesus; the Scoff; the Vinegar; his Death; the Veil rent, 33—38
            • 7. The Saying of the Centurion; the Women look∣ing on, 39—41
          • 4. In the Evening, the Burial, 42—47
        • g. Sunday,
          • Our LORD's Resurrection declared
            • 1. By an Angel, C. xvi. 1—8
            • 2. By Himself,
              • To Mary Magdalene, 9—11
              • To two going into the Country, 12, 13
              • To the Eleven sitting at Meat, 14
      • III. The Gospel
        • 1. Committed by Christ to his Apostles, after his Resur∣rection, and 15—18
        • 2. Confirmed after his Ascension, 19—20

St. MARK.

I.

THE * 1.232 beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God: [ 2] As it is written in the prophets, † 1.233 Behold I send my messenger before thy face, who shall prepare thy way before thee. [ 3] ‡ 1.234 The voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. [ 4] John was baptizing in the wilderness and preaching the Baptism of repentance, for the remission of sins. [ 5] And there went out to him all the country of Judea, and all they of Jerusalem, and were baptized of him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. [ 6] And John was clothed with camels hair, and with a leathern girdle about his loins, and ate locusts and wild honey, [ 7] And pro∣claimed, saying, There cometh after me one migh∣tier than I, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. [ 8] I indeed have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Ghost. [ 9] ‖ 1.235 And in those days, Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John at Jordan. [ 10] And coming up from the water, straightway he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit as a dove descending upon him. [ 11] And a Voice came from heaven, Thou art my beloved Son, In whom I delight. [ 12] § 1.236 And immediately the Spirit thrusteth him out into the wilderness. [ 13] And he was there in the wilderness forty days,

tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the Angels served him.

[ 14] * 1.237 Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, [ 15] Saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. [ 16] † 1.238 And walking by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his bro∣ther, casting a net into the sea (for they were fishermen) [ 17] And Jesus said to them, Come ye after me, and I will make you fishere of men. [ 18] And straightway leaving their nets, they followed him. [ 19] And having gone thence a little further, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were also in the vessel mending their nets: [ 20] And he called them; and immediately leaving their father Zebedee in the vessel with the hired servants, they went after him.

[ 21] ‡ 1.239 And they go into Capernzum. And straight∣way on the sabbath, he went into the synagogue and taught. [ 22] And they were astonished at his teach∣ing; for he taught them as one having autho∣rity, and not as the Scribes. [ 23] And there was in their Synagogue a man having an unclean spirit, and he cried out, saying, Let us alone: what have we to do with thee, Jesus of Nazareth? [ 24] Art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy one of God. [ 25] And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace and come out of him. [ 26] And the unclean spirit having torn him, and cried

with a loud noise, came out of him. [ 27] And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, What is this? What new teach∣ing is this? For with authority he commandeth even the unclean spirits and they obey him. [ 28] And immediately his fame went forth into all the coun∣try of Galilee round about.

[ 29] † 1.240 And coming out of the synagogue, they entered forthwith into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. [ 30] And Simon's wife's mother lay ill of a fever, and immediately they tell him of her. [ 31] And he came and taking her by the hand, lifted her up; and straightway the fever left her, and she waited on them. [ 32] And in the evening, when the sun was set, they brought to him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils. [ 33] And the whole city was gathered together at the door. [ 34] And he healed many that were ill of divers diseases, and cast out many devils, and suffered not the devils to say that they knew him.

[ 35] * 1.241 And in the morning, rising a great while before day, he went out and departed into a desert place, and prayed there. [ 36] And Simon and they that were with him followed after him. [ 37] And having found him, they say to him, all men seek thee. [ 38] And he saith to them, Let us go to the neighbouring towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore am I come. [ 39] And he preached in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and cast out devils.

[ 40] † 1.242 And there came to him a leper beseeching him and kneeling down to him and saying to him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. [ 41] And Je∣sus, moved with tender compassion, stretching out his hand, touched him, and saith to him, I will; be thou clean. [ 42] And when he had spoken, immedi∣ately the leprosy departed from him and he was made clean. [ 43] And having straightly charged him, he forthwith sent him away, [ 44] And saith to him, See thou say nothing to any man; but go, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing what Moses commanded for a Testimony to them. [ 45] But he going out published it much and blazed abroad the matter, so he could no more openly enter into the city; but he was without in desert places: and they came to him from every quarter.

V. 1. The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ—The Evangelist speaks with strict Propriety: For the Beginning of the Gospel is in the Account of John the Baptist, contained in the first Paragraph; the Gospel itself, in the rest of the Book.

V. 4. Preaching the baptism of repentance—That is, preaching Re∣pentance, and baptizing as a Sign and Means of it.

V. 7. The latchet of whose s;hoes I am not worthy to unloose—That is, to do Him the very meanest Service.

V. 12. And immediately the Spirit thrusteth him out into the wilderness—So in all the Children of GOD, extraordinary Manifestations of his Favour, are wont to be followed by extraordinary Temptations.

V. 13. And he was there forty days, tempted by Satan—Invisibly. After this followed the Temptation by him in a visible Shape, re∣lated

by St. Matthew. And he was with the wild beasts—Tho' they had no Power to hurt Him. St. Mark not only gives us a Com∣pendium of St. Matthew's Gospel, but likewise several valuable Particulars, which the other Evangelists have omitted.

V. 15. The time is fulfilled—the time of my Kingdom, foretold by Daniel, expected by you, is fully come.

V. 18. Straightway leaving their nets, they followed him—From this Time they forsook their Employ, and constantly attended Him. Happy they who follow Christ at the first Call!

V. 26. A loud noise—For he was forbidden to speak. Christ would neither suffer those evil Spirits to speak in Opposition, nor yet in Favour of Him. He needed not their Testimony, nor would

encourage it, lest any should infer, that he acted in Concert with them.

V. 32. When the sun was set—And consequently the Sabbath was ended, which they reckoned from Sun-set to Sun-set.

V. 33. And the whole city was gathered together at the door—O what a fair Prospect was here! Who could then have imagined that all these Blossoms would die away without Fruit?

V. 34. He suffered not the devils to say, that they know him—That is, according to Dr. Mead's Hypothesis (That the Scriptural Demo∣niacs were only diseased Persons) He suffered not the Diseases 〈◊〉〈◊〉 say, that they knew him!

V. 35. Rising a great while before day—So did he labour for us, both Day and Night.

V. 44. See thou say nothing to any man—But our blessed LORD gives no such Charge to 〈◊〉〈◊〉. If He has made us clean from our Le∣prosy of Sin, we are not commanded to conceal it. On the con∣trary, it is our Duty to publish it abroad, both for the Honour of our Benefactor, and that others who are sick of Sin may be encou∣raged to ask and hope for the same Benefit. But go, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing what Moses commanded, for a testimony to them—The Priests seeing Him, pronouncing him clean (Lev. xiii. 17, 23 28, 37.) and accordingly allowing him to offer as Moses commanded (Lev. xiv. 2, 7.) was such a Proof against them, that they durst never say, The Leper was not cleansed; which out of Envy or Malice against our Saviour, they might have been ready to say, upon his presenting Himself to be viewed, according to the Law, if by the cleansed Person's talking much about his Cure, the Account of it had reached their Ears, before He came in Person. This is one great reason why our LORD commanded this Man to say nothing.

V. 45. So that Jesus could no more openly enter into the city—It was also to prevent this Inconvenience, that our LORD had enjoined him Silence.

II.

And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was heard that he was in the House. [ 2] And many were gathered together, so

that there was no room for them, no, not even a∣bout the door. [ 3] And he spake the word to them. § 1.243 And they came to him, bringing a paralytic, borne of four. [ 4] And not being able to come nigh him for the croud, they uncovered the roof where he was, and having broken it up, they let down the couch whereon the paralytic lay. [ 5] Jesus seeing their faith, said to the paralytic, Son, thy sins are forgiven thee. [ 6] But certain of the Scribes were fitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? [ 7] Who can forgive sins, but God only? [ 8] And Jesus immedi∣ately knowing in his spirit, that they so reasoned in themselves, said to them, Why reason ye thus in your hearts? [ 9] Which is easier? To say to the paralytic, Thy sins are forgiven thee! Or to say, Arise, and take up thy couch and walk? [ 10] But that ye may know that the Son of man hath authority on earth to forgive sins: [ 11] (He saith to the para∣lytic) I say to thee, Arise, take up thy couch, and go to thine house. [ 12] And immediately he arose, and taking up his couch, went forth before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, We never saw it thus.

[ 13] And he went forth again by the sea-side, and all the multitude came to him and he taught them.

[ 14] § 1.244 And passing by, he saw Levi, the son of Alpheus, sitting at the receipt of custom, and saith to him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him. [ 15] And as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many pub∣licans also and sinners sat together with Jesus and his disciples; for there were many, and they fol∣lowed him. [ 16] And the Scribes and Pharisees seeing him eating with publicans and sinners, said to his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners? [ 17] And Jesus hearing it saith to them, They that are whole need not a physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners. [ 18] ‖ 1.245 Now the disciples of John and the Pharisees used to fast: and they come and say to him, Why do the disci∣ples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy dis∣ciples fast not? [ 19] And Jesus said to them, Can the children of the bride-chamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. [ 20] But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them: and then shall they fast in those days. [ 21] No man seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filleth it up taketh away from the old, and the ••ent is made worse. [ 22] And no man putteth new wine into old leathern bottles; else the new wine bursteth the bottles and the wine is spilt, and the bottles are lost; but new wine must be put into new bottles.

[ 23] † 1.246 And he went thro' the corn fields on the sabbath-day: and his disciples as they went, pluck∣ed the ears of corn. [ 24] And the Pharisees said to him, Behold, why do they on the sabbath that which is not lawful? [ 25] And he said to them, Have ye never read what David did, when he had need and was hungry, he and they that were with him? [ 26] ‡ 1.247 How he went into the house of God in the days of Abia∣thar the high priest, and ate the shew-bread, which is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and gave also to them who were with him? [ 27] And he said to them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath. [ 28] Moreover the Son of Man is Lord even of the sabbath.

V. 1. And again after having been in desert Places for some Time, He returned privately to the City. In the house—In Peter's House.

V. 2. And immediately many were gathered together—Hitherto con∣tinued

the general Impression on their Hearts. Hitherto, even at Capernaum, all who heard received the Word with Joy.

V. 4. They uncovered the roof—Or, took up the Covering, the Lat∣tice or Trap-door, which was on all their Houses (being flat-roofed.) And finding it not wide enough, broke the passage wider, to let down the Couch.

V. 6. But certain of the Scribes—See whence the first Offence cometh! As yet not one of the plain, unlettered People were of∣fended. They all rejoiced in the Light, till these Men of Learning came, to put Darkness for Light, and Light for Darkness. Wo to all such blind Guides! Good had it been for these if they had never been born. O GOD, let me never offend one of thy simple ones! Sooner let my tongue cleave to the Roof of my Mouth!

V. 12. They were all amazed—Even the Scribes themselves for a Time.

V. 13. All the multitude came to him—Namely, By the sea-side. And he as readily taught them there, as if they had been in a Syna∣gogue.

V. 15. Many publicans and notorious sinners sat with Jesus— Some of them doubtless invited by Matthew, moved with Compas∣sion for his old Companions in Sin. But the next Words, For they were many and they followed him, seem to imply, that the greater Part, encouraged by his gracious Words and the Tenderness of his Behaviour, and impatient to hear more, stayed for no Invitation, but prest in after Him, and kept as close to Him as they could.

V. 16. And the Scribes and the Pharisees said—So now the wise Men being joined by the Saints of the World, went a little farther in raising, Prejudices against our LORD. In his Answer, He uses as yet no Harshness, but only calm, dispassionate Reasoning.

V. 17 I c••me not to call the righteous—Therefore if these were righteous, I should not call them. But now, they are the very Persons I came to save.

V. 26. In the days of Abiathar the high-priest—Abimelech, the Father of Abi••thar, was High-priest then; Ab••ather himself, not till some Time after. This Phrase therefore only means, In the Time of Abiathar, who was afterwards the High-priest.

V. 27. The sabbath was made for man—And therefore must give way to Man's Necessity.

V. 28. Moreover the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath—Be∣ing the supreme Lawgiver, He hath Power to dispense with his own Laws: And with this in particular.

III.

‖ 1.248 And he entered again into the synagogue: and there was a man there who had a withered hand. [ 2] And they watched him whether he would heal him on the sabbath, that they might accuse him. [ 3] And he saith to the man that had the wither∣ed hand, Stand up in the midst. [ 4] And he saith to them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath, or to do evil? To save life, or to kill? But they held their peace. [ 5] And looking round upon them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their

hearts, he saith to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it forth: and his hand was restored. [ 6] And the Pharisees going out. st••••••ghtway took counsel with the Herodians against him, that they might destroy him.

[ 7] The Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea; and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and from Judea, and from Jerusalem, and from Idumea, and from beyond Jordan; [ 8] and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, having heard what great things he did, came to him. [ 9] And he spake to his disciples, that a vessel should wait on him, because of the multitude, lest they should throng him. [ 10] For he had healed many, so that they rushed in upon him, as many as had plagues. [ 11] And the unclean spirits when they saw him fell down before him and cryed, saying, Thou art the Son of God. [ 12] And he straitly charged them, not to make him known. [ 13] ‡ 1.249 And he goeth up in∣to the mountain, and calleth to him whom he would, and they came to him. [ 14] * 1.250 And he ordained twelve, that they might be with him, and that he might [ 15] send them forth to preach, And to have power to heal diseases and cast out devils. [ 16] And Simon

he surnamed Peter: [ 17] And James the son of Zebe∣dee, and John the brother of James (and he sur∣named them Boanerges, that is, sons of thunder) [ 18] And Andrew and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Al∣pheus, and Thaddeus, and Simon the Canaanite, [ 19] And Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed him.

[ 20] And they come into an house: And the multi∣titude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread. [ 21] And his relations hearing of it, came out to lay hold on him; for they said He is beside himself. [ 22] * 1.251 But the scribes who had come down from Jerusalem said, He hath Beelze∣bub, and by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils. [ 23] And calling them to him, he said to them in parables, How can Satan cast out Satan? [ 24] If a kingdom be divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. [ 25] And if an house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand. [ 26] If Satan then be risen up and divided against himself, he cannot stand, but hath an end. [ 27] None can enter into the strong one's house and plunder his goods, unless he first bind the strong one, and then he will plun∣der his house. [ 28] † 1.252 Verily I say to you, All sins shall be forgiven the sons of men and blasphemies where∣with soever they shall blaspheme. [ 29] But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never for∣giveness, but is liable to eternal damnation: [ 30] Be∣cause

cause they said, He hath an unclean spirit. [ 31] ‡ 1.253 Then come his brethren and his mother, and standing without, sent to him, calling him. [ 32] And the mul∣titude sat about him; and they say to him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee. [ 33] And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother or my brethren? [ 34] And looking round on them who sat about him, he said, Behold my mother and my brethren. [ 35] For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother and sister and mother.

V. 1. He entered again into the synagogue—At Capernaum on the same Day.

V. 2. And they—The Scribes and Pharisees, watched him, that they might accuse him—Pride, Anger, and Shame, after being so often put to Silence, began now to ripen into Malice.

V. 4. Is it lawful to save life, or to kill?—Which He knew they were seeking Occasion to do. But they held their peace—Being con∣founded, tho' not convinced.

V. 5. Looking round upon them with anger, being grieved—Angry at the Sin, grieved at the Sinner; the true Standard of Christian

Anger. But who can separate Anger at Sin from Anger at the Sin∣ner? None but a true Believer in Christ.

V. 6. The Pharisees going out—Probably leaving the Scribes to watch Him still; took counsel with the Herodians—As bitter as they usually were against each other.

V. 8. From Idumea—The Natives of which had now professed the Jewish R••ligion above an hundred and fifty Years. They about Tyre and Sidon—The Israelites who lived in those Coasts.

V. 10. Plagues, or Scourges (so the Greek Word properly means) seem to be those very painful or afflictive Disorders which were fre∣quently sent, or at least permitted of GOD, as a Scourge or Punish∣ment of Sin.

V. 12. He charged them not to make him known—It was not the Time: Nor were they fit Preachers.

V. 13. He calleth whom he would—With regard to the eternal States of Men, GOD always acts as Just and Merciful. But with regard to numberless other Things, He seems to us to act as a mere Sovereign.

V. 16. He surnamed them Sons of Thunder—Both with respect to the Warmth and impetuosity of their Spirit, their servant Manner of Preaching, and the Power of their Word.

V. 20. To eat bread—That is, to take any Subsistance.

V. 21. His relations—His Mother and his Brethren, ver. 31. But it was some Time before they could come near Him.

V. 22. The Scribes and Pharisees (Mat. xii. 22.) who had come down from Jerusalem—Purposely, on the Devil's Errand: And not without Success. For the common People now began to drink in the Poison, from these learned, good, honourable Men! He hath Beelzebub—At Command; is in League with him: And by the prince of the devils casteth he out devils—How easily may a Man of Learning elude the strongest Proof of a Work of GOD! How readi∣ly can he account for every Incident, without ever taking GOD into the Question!

V. 30. Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit—Is it not asto∣nishing, That Men who have ever read these Words, should doubt, What is the Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost? Can any Words

declare more plainly, that it is,

The ascribing those Miracles to the Power of the Devil, which Christ wrought by the Power of the Holy Ghost?"

V. 31. Then come his brethren and his mother—Having at length made their Way through the Croud, so as to come to the Door. His Brethren are here named first, as being first and most earnest in the Design of taking Him: For neither did these of his brethren be∣lieve on him. They sent to him, calling him—They sent one into the House, who called Him aloud, by Name.

V. 34. Looking round on them who sat about him—With the utmost Sweetness: He said, Behold my mother and my brethren—In this Pre∣ferrence of his true Disciples even to the Virgin Mary, considered merely as his Mother after the Flesh, He not only shews his high and tender Affection for them, but seems designedly to guard against those excessive and idolatrous Honours, which he foresaw would in After-ages be paid to her.

IV.

‖ 1.254 And again he taught by the sea-side, and a great multitude was gathered to him, so that going into the vessel, he sat in the sea, and the whole multitude was by the sea on the land. [ 2] And he taught them many things by parables, and said to them in his teaching, Hearken: [ 3] Behold, a sower went out to sow. [ 4] And as he sowed, some fell by

the highway-side, and the birds came and devour∣ed it. [ 5] And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediat•••••• it sprung up, because it had no depth of earth. [ 6] But when the sun was up, it was scorched, and because it had no root, it withered away. [ 7] And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no fruit. [ 8] And other fell on good ground, and yielded fruit springing up and increas∣ing, and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred. [ 9] And he said, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

[ 10] And when he was alone, they that were about him, with the twelve, asked him of the parable. [ 11] And he said to them, To you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but to them that are without, all things are in parables; [ 12] So that seeing they see, and do not perceive, and hearing they hear, and do not understand; left at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.

[ 13] And he saith to them, Know ye not this parable? How then will ye know all parables? The sower soweth the word. [ 14] And these are they by the high∣way-side, where the word is sown: [ 15] but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word sown in their hearts. [ 16] And these are they likewise who have received the seed on stony ground, who when they have heard the word immediately receive it with joy: [ 17] But have not root in themselves, but are only for a time, after∣ward when affliction or persecution ariseth because

of the word, they are presently offended. [ 18] And these are they that have received it among thorns, who hear the word, [ 19] And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the desire of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becom∣eth unfruitful. [ 20] And these are they that have re∣ceived it on the good ground, who hear the word and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirty [ 21] fold, some sixty, and some an hundred * 1.255 And he said to them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel or under a bed, and not to be set on a candlestick? [ 22] † 1.256 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be made manifest, neither was any thing kept secret, but that it might come abroad. [ 23] If any man hath ears to hear, let him hear. And he said to them, Take heed what ye hear. [ 24] With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you, and to you that hear, shall more be given. [ 25] ‡ 1.257 For he that hath, to him shall be given; and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.

[ 26] And he said, So is the Kingdom of God, as if

a man should cast seed into the ground, [ 27] and should sleep and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up he knoweth not how. [ 28] For the earth bringeth forth fruit of itself, first the blade, then the ear, after that the corn in the ear. [ 29] But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.

[ 30] ‖ 1.258 And he said, Whereto shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what comparison shall we compare it? [ 31] It is like a grain of mustard seed, which when it is sown in the earth, it is one of the least seeds that is in the earth. [ 32] But when it is sown it groweth up and becometh greater than all herbs, and putteth forth great branches, so that the birds of the air may lodge under the shadow of it. [ 33] And with many such parables spake he the word to them, as they were able to hear. [ 34] But without a parable spake he not to them: and in private he expounded all things to his disciples.

[ 35] * 1.259 And the same day in the evening he saith to them, Let us go over to the other side. [ 36] And having sent away the multitude, they take him as he was in the vessel. And there were with him

other little vessels. [ 37] And there ariseth a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the vessel, so that it was now full. [ 38] But he was asleep on the pillow, in the stern. And they awake him and say to him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, Peace; Be still. [ 39] And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. [ 40] And he saith to them, Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have not faith? [ 41] And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, Who is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

V. 2. He taught them many things by parables—After the usual Manner of the Eastern Nations, to make his Instructions more agreeable to them, and to impress them the more upon attentive Hearers. A Parable signifies not only a Simile or Comparison, and sometimes a Proverb, but any Kind of instructive Speech, wherein spiritual Things are explained and illustrated by natural. Prov. i. 6. To understand a proverb and the interpretation—The Proverb is the literal Sense, the Interpretation is the spiritual; resting in the lite∣ral Sense killeth, but the spiritual giveth Life.

V. 3. Hearken—This Word He probably spoke with a loud Voice, to stop the Noise and Hurry of the People.

V. 10. When he was clone—That is, retired apart from the Mul∣titude.

V. 11. To them that are without—So the Jews termed the Heathens; so our LORD terms all obstinate Unbelievers: For they shall not enter into his Kingdom; they shall abide in outer Darkness.

V. 12. So that seeing they see and do not perceive—They would not see before: Now they could not, GOD having given them up to the Blindness which they had chosen.

V. 13. Know ye not this parable?—Which is as it were the Foundation of all those that I shall speak hereafter; and is so easy to be understood?

V. 19. The desire of other things choke the word—A deep and im∣portant Truth! The Desire of any Thing, otherwise that is it leads to Happiness in GOD, directly tends to Barrenness of Soul. Enter∣ing in—Where they were not before. Let him therefore who has received and retained the Word, see that no other Desire then enter in, such as perhaps till then he never knew. It becometh unfruitful— After the Fruit had grown almost to Perfection.

V. 21. And he said, Is a candle—As if He had said, I explain these Things to you, I give you this Light, not to conceal, but to impart it to others. And if I conceal any Thing from you now, it is only that it may be more effectually manifested hereafter.

V. 24. Take heed what ye hear—That is, Attend to what you hear, that it may have its due Influence upon you. With what mea∣sure ye mete—That is, according to the Improvement you make of what you have heard, still further Assistances shall be given. And to you that hear—That is, with Improvement.

V. 25. He that hath—That improves whatever he has received, to the Good of Others, as well as. This own Soul.

V. 26. So is the kingdom of God—The inward Kingdom is like Seed which a man casts into the ground—This a Preacher of the Gos∣pel casts into the Heart. And he sleeps and rises night and day—That is, he has it continually in his Thoughts. Mean time it springs

and grows up be knows not how—Even he that sowed it, cannot ex∣plain, How it grows. For as the Earth by a curious Kind of Me∣chanism, which the greatest Philosophers cannot comprehend, does as it were spontaneously bring forth first the Blade, then the Ear, then the full Corn in the Ear: So the Soul, in an inexplicable Man∣ner, brings forth, first weak Graces, then stronger, then full Ho∣liness: And all this of itself, as a Machine, whose Spring of Mo∣tion is within itself. Yet observe the amazing Exactness of the Comparison. The Earth brings forth no Corn (as the Soul no Holi∣ness) without both the Care and Toil of Man, and the benign Influ∣ence of Heaven.

V. 29. He putteth in the sickle—GOD cutteth down and gathereth the Corn into his Garner.

V. 33. He spake the word as they were able to hear it—Adapting it to the Capacity of his Hearers, and speaking as plain as He could without offending them. A Rule never to be forgotten by those who instruct others.

V. 36. They take him as he was in the vessel—They carried Him immediately in the same Vessel, from which He had been preaching to the People.

V. 38 On the pillow—So we transtate it, for Want of a proper English Expression, for that particular Part of the Vessel near the Rudder, on which he lay.

V. 39. Peace—Cease thy Tossing: Be still—Cease thy Roaring, Literally, Be thou gagged.

V.

† 1.260 And they came to the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. [ 2] And as he came out of the vessel, there met him immediately out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, [ 3] Who had his dwelling in the tombs, and no man could bind him, no not with chains. [ 4] For he had often been bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in Pieces; and no man could tame him. [ 5] And always night and day he was in the tombs and in the mountains, crying and cutting himself with stones. [ 6] But seeing Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, And crying with a loud voice, said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? [ 7] I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. [ 8] (For he had said to him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit) And he asked him, What is thy name? [ 9] And he

saith to him, My name is Legion; for we are many. [ 10] And he earnestly besought him, that he would not send them away out of the country. [ 11] Now there was there at the mountain a great herd of swine feeding. [ 12] And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us to the swine, that we may go into them. And Jesus forthwith gave them leave. [ 13] And the unclean spirits going out, entered into the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep into the sea, (they were about two thousand) and were stifled. in the sea. [ 14] And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that was done. [ 15] And they come to Jesus and see the demoniac who had the Legion, sitting and clothed and in hiS right mind: and they were afraid. [ 16] And they that saw it told them how it befel the demoniac, and con∣cerning the swine. [ 17] And they prayed him to de∣part out of their coasts. [ 18] * 1.261 And as he went into the vessel, he that had been possessed with the devils, besought him, that he might be with him. [ 19] But he suffered him not, but said to him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. [ 20] And he departed and published in De∣capolis, how great things Jesus had done for him. And all men marvelled.

[ 21] † 1.262 And when Jesus was passed over again in the vessel to the other side, a great multitude was ga∣thered to him, and he was near the sea. [ 22] ‡ 1.263 And there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue,

Jairus by name, and seeing him, falleth at his feet, [ 23] And besought him greatly, saying, My little daugh∣ter is at the point of death: come and lay thy hands on her that she may be healed, and she shall live. [ 24] And he went with him, and a great multi∣tude followed him and thronged him. [ 25] § 1.264 And a certain woman who had had a flux of blood twelve years, [ 26] And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grown worse, [ 27] Having heard of Jesus, came in the croud behind, and touched his garment. [ 28] For she said, If I but touch his clothes, I shall be whole. [ 29] And the fountain of her blood was straightway dried up, and she perceived in her body, that she was healed of that plague. [ 30] And Jesus immediately knowing in him∣self, the virtue which had gone out of him, turning about in the croud said, Who touched my clothes? [ 31] And his disciples said to him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? [ 32] And he looked round to see her that had done this. [ 33] And the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. [ 34] ••nd he said to her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole: go in peace, and continue whole of thy plague. [ 35] While he was yet speaking, they come from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying, Thy daughter is dead: why troublest thou the Master farther? [ 36] When Jesus heard the word spoken, he saith to the ruler of the synagogue, Fear not; only believe. [ 37] And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James. [ 38] And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth a tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly. [ 39] And coming in, he saith to them, Why make ye this tumult and weep? The damsel is not dead, but

sleepeth. [ 40] And they laughed him to scorn. But having put them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel, and them that were with him, and goeth in where the damsel was lying. [ 41] And taking the damsel by the hand, he said to her, Talitha cumi, which is, being inter∣preted, Damsel (I say to thee) arise. [ 42] And straight∣way the damsel arose and walked: for she was twelve years old. And they were astonished with a great astonishment. [ 43] And he charged them straitly, that no man should know it, and commanded that something should be given her to eat.

V. 2. There met him a man with an unclean spirit—St. Matthew men∣tions Two. Probably this, so particularly spoken of here was the most remarkably fierce and ungovernable.

V. 9. Man me Is ••••gion; for we are many—But all these seem to have been under one Commander, who accordingly speaks all along, both for them and himself.

V. 15. And they were afraid—It is not improbable they might otherwise have offered some Rudeness if not Violence.

V. 19. Tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee—This was peculiarly needful there, where Christ did not go in Person.

V. 20. He published in Decapolis—Not only at Home, but in all that Country where Jesus Himself did not come.

V. 22. One of the rulers of the synagogus—To regulate the Affairs of every Synagogue, there was a Council of grave Men. Over these was a President, who was termed The Ruler of the Synagogue. Some∣times there was no more than one Ruler in a Synagogue.

V. 37. John, the brother of James—When St. Mark wrote, not long after our LORD's Ascension, the Memory of St. James, lately beheaded, was so fresh, that his Name was more known than that of Iobn himself.

V. 40. Them that were with him—Peter, James, and John.

V. 43. He charged them th••t 〈◊〉〈◊〉 man should know it—That He might avoid every Appearance of Vain glory, might prevent too great a Concourse of People, and might not farther enrage the Scribes and Pharisees against Him; the Time for his Death, and for the full Manifestation of his Glory, b••ing not yet come. He commanded something should be given her to eat—So that when either natural or spi••••tual Life is restored, even by immediate Miracle, all proper Means are to be used in order to preserve it.

VI.

* 1.265 And he went out from thence and came into his own country, and his disciples follow him. And on the sabbath he taught in the synagogue, and many hearing were astonished, saying, Whence hath this man these things? [ 2] And what wisdom is this that is given him, and such mighty works as are wrought by his hands? [ 3] Is not this the car∣penter? the son of Mary, the brother of James and Joses, and of Jude and Simon! and are not his sisters here with us? And they were of∣f••••ded at him. [ 4] ••nd Jesus said to them, A pro∣phet is not without honour, but in his own coun∣try, and among his own kindred, and in his own house. [ 5] And he could do no miracle there, save that he laid his hands on a few sick and healed

them. [ 6] And he marvelled because of their unbe∣lief. And he went round about thro' the villages teaching.

[ 7] * 1.266 And he called to him the twelve, and sent them forth by two and two, and gave them power over unclean spirits; [ 8] † 1.267 And commanded them to take nothing for the journey, save a staff only; no scrip, no bread, no money in their purse; [ 9] But be shod with sandals, and put not on two coats. [ 10] ‡ 1.268 And he said to them, Wheresoever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place. [ 11] And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, de∣parting thence shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say to you, it shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city. [ 12] § 1.269 And they went out and preached that men should repent. [ 13] And they cast out many devils, and ‖ 1.270 anointed with oil many that were sick and healed them.

[ 14] * 1.271 And king Herod heard (for his name was spread abroad) and he said John the Baptist is risen from the dead, and therefore these mighty powers exert themselves in him. [ 15] Others said, It is Elijah: and others said, It is a prophet, as one of the prophets. [ 16] But Herod hearing thereof, said, This is John whom I beheaded: he is risen from the dead. [ 17] For Herod himself had sent and apprehended John, and bound him in prison, for Herodias's sake, his bro∣ther Philip's wife, for he had married her. [ 18] For John had said to Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. [ 19] Therefore Herodias was incensed against him, and was desirous to have killed him; but she could not. [ 20] For Herod reve∣renced John, knowing that he was a just and holy man, and preserved him: and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. [ 21] And a convenient day being come, when Herod on his birth-day made a feast, for his lords, captains, and principal men of Galilee: [ 22] When the daughter of Herodias had come in and danced and pleased Herod, and his Guests, the king said to the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee. [ 23] And he swore to her, Whatsover thou shalt ask me, I will give thee, to the half of my king∣dom.

And going out she said to her mother, What shall I ask? [ 24] And she said, The head of John the Baptist. [ 25] And coming in quickly with haste to the king, she asked, saying, I will that thou give me immediately in a charger the head of John the Bap∣tist. [ 26] And the king was exceedingly sorry: yet for his oath's sake, and for the sake of his guests, he would not reject her. [ 27] And immediately the king sent one of his guard, and commanded his head to be brought. [ 28] And he went and beheaded him in the prison, and brought his head in a charger, and gave it to the damsel, and the damsel gave it to her mother. [ 29] And the disciples hearing it, came and took up his corpse and laid it in a tomb.

[ 30] * 1.272 And the apostles gather themselves together to Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. [ 31] † 1.273 And he said to them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a little. For there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. [ 32] And they departed into a desert place by boat pri∣vately. [ 33] And many saw them departing and knew him, and ran on foot thither from all the cities, and outwent them, and came together to him. [ 34] And Je∣sus coming out saw a great multitude, and was mov∣ed with tender compassion for them; because they were as sheep having no shepherd, and he taught them many things. [ 35] And when the day was now far spent, the disciples coming to him said, This is a de∣sert place, and it is now late. [ 36] Send them away, that they may go into the country and villages round about, and buy themselves bread for they have no∣thing to eat. [ 37] He answering said to them, Give ye them to eat. And they say to him, Shall we go and buy two hundred penny-worth of bread, and give them to eat? [ 38] He saith to them, How many loaves

have ye? Go and see. And when they knew, they said, Five, and two fishes. [ 39] And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies on the green grass. [ 40] And they sat down in ranks by hun∣dreds and by fifties. [ 41] And taking the five loaves and the two fishes, looking up to heaven, he blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and he divided the two fishes among them all. And they all ate and were satis∣fied. [ 42] And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments and of the fishes. [ 43] And they that had eaten of the loaves, were about five thousand men.

[ 44] * 1.274 And straightway he constrained his disci∣ples to go into the vessel, and go before to the other side toward Bethsaida, [ 45] while he sent away the people. [ 46] † 1.275 And having sent them away, he went to the mountain to pray. [ 47] And in the evening the vessel was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. [ 48] And he saw them toiling in rowing, (for the wind was contrary to them) And about the fourth watch of the night he corneth to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed by them, [ 49] But they seeing him walking on the sea, supposed it to be an apparition, and cried out. [ 50] (For they all saw him and were troubled.) And immedi∣ately he spoke with them, and saith to them, Take courage: it is I: be not afraid. [ 51] And he went up to them into the vessel, and the wind ceased: and they were amazed in themselves above measure and wondered. [ 52] For they considered not the miracle of the loaves; for their heart was hardened.

[ 53] * 1.276 And having passed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret, and drew to shore. [ 54] And when they were come out of the vessel they knew him, [ 55] And ran thro' that whole country round about, and brought about in beds them that were ill, where they heard he was. [ 56] And wheresoever he entered into villages, cities, or country places, they laid the sick in the public places, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the hem of his garment; and as many as touched him were made whole.

V. 3. Is not this the Carpenter?—There can be no Doubt, but in his Youth He wrought with his supposed Father Joseph.

V. 5. He could do no miracle there—Not consiste••tl with his Wisdom and Goodness: It being inconsistent with his Wisdom to work them there, where it could not promote his great End; and with his Goodness, seeing He well knew his Countrymen would

reject whatever Evidence could be given them. And therefore to have given them more Evidence, would only have increased their Damnation.

V. 6. He marvelled—As Man. As he was GOD, nothing was strange to him.

V. 8. He commandeth them to take nothing for the journey—That they might be always unin••umbered, free, ready for Motion. Save a staff only—He that had one, might take it; but he that had not, was not to provide one, Mat. x. 9.

V. 9. Be sh•••• with sandals—As you usually are. Sandals were Pieces of strong Leather or Wood, tied under the Sole of the Foot by Strings, something resembling modern Clogs. The Shoes which they are in St. M••••t••••w forbidden to take, were a Kind of short Boots, reach∣ing a little a••ove the Mid-leg, which were then commonly used in Journeys. Our LORD intended by this Mission, to initiate them into their apostolic Work. And it was doubtless an Encouragement to them all their Life after to recollect the Care which GOD took of them, when they had left all they had, and went out quite un∣furnished for such an Expedition. In this View our LORD Himself leads them to consider it, Luke xxii. 35. When I sent you forth with∣out Purse or Scrip, lacked ye any thing?

V. 13. They anointed with oil many that were sick—Which St. James gives as a general Direction (ch. v. 11, 15.) adding those pe∣remptory Words, And the Lord shall heal him. He shall be restored

to Health: Not by the natural Efficacy of the Oil, but by the su∣pernatural Blessing of GOD. And it seems this was the great, standing Means of healing desperate Diseases in the Christian Church, long before Extreme Unction was used or heard of which bears scarce any Resemblance to it: The former being used only as a Means of Health; the latter, only when Life is despaired of.

V. 15. A prophet, as one of the prophets—Not inferior to one of the ancient Prophets.

V. 16. But Herod hearing thereof—Of their various Judgments con∣cerning him, still said, It is John.

V. 20. And preserved him—Against all the Malice and Contrivances of Herodias. And when he heard him—Probably sending for him, at Times during his Imprisonment, which continued a Year and a half. He heard him gladly—Delusive Joy! While Herodias lay in his Bosom.

V. 21. A convenient day—Convenient for her Purpose. His lords, captains, and principal men of Galilee—The great Men of the Court, the Army, and the Province.

V. 23. To the half of my kingdom—A proverbial Expression.

V. 26. Yet for his oath's sake and for the sake of his guests—Herod's Honour was like the Conscience of the chief Priests (Mat. xxvii. 6.) To shed innocent Blood wounded neither one nor the other!

V. 32. They departed—Across a Creek or Corner of the Lake.

V. 34. Coming out—Of the Vessel.

V. 40. They sat down in ranks—The Word properly signifies a Parterre or Bed in a Garden; by a Metaphor, a Company of Men ranged in Order, by hundreds and by fifties—That is, fifty in a Rank and an hundred in File. So an hundred multiplied by fifty, made just five thousand.

V. 43. Fall of the fragments—Of the Bread.

V. 45. He constrained his disciples—Who did not care to go without Him.

V. 48. And he saw them—For the Darkness could veil nothing from Him. And would have passed by them—That is, walked, as if He was passing by.

V. 52. Their heart was hardened—And yet they were not Re∣probates.

It means only, They were slow and dull of Apprehen∣sion.

VII.

† 1.277 Then assembled together to him the Pharisees and certain of the Scribes, coming from Jerusalem, [ 2] And they saw some of his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is, unwashen hands. [ 3] Now the Pha∣risees and all the Jews, except they wash their hands to the wrist, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. [ 4] And coming from the market, unless they wash, they eat not: and many other things there are which they have received to hold, the washing of cups and pots and brasen vessels and couches. [ 5] Then the Pharisees and the Scribes ask him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tra∣dition of the elders, but eat bread with the defiled hands? [ 6] He answering said to them, Well hath Isaiah prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is writ∣ten, ‡ 1.278 This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. [ 7] But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the com∣mandments of men. [ 8] For leaving the command∣ment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, the

washings of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. [ 9] And he said to them, Full well ye abolish the commandments of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. [ 10] For Moses said, § 1.279 Honour thy father and thy mother, and, ‖ 1.280 Whoso revileth father or mother, he shall surely die. [ 11] But ye say, If a man shall say to his fa∣ther or mother, It is Corban, that is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest have been prosited by me; he shall be free. [ 12] And ye suffer him no more to do ought for his father or his mother; [ 13] Abro∣gating the word of God by your tradition which ye have delivered; and many such like things ye do. [ 14] And calling together all the multitude he said to them, Hearken to me every one of you and consider. [ 15] There is nothing entering into a man from without which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, these are they that defile the man. [ 16] If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. [ 17] And when he was come from the multitude into the House, his disciples asked him concerning the parable. [ 18] And he saith to them, Are even ye so without understanding? Do ye not perceive, That whatsoever entereth in∣to a man from without, cannot defile him, [ 19] Be∣cause it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth into the vault, purging all meats? [ 20] And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. [ 21] For from within, out of the heart of man procced evil thoughts, adul∣teries, fornications, murders, [ 22] Thefts, convetous∣ness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, envy, evil

speaking, pride, foolishness. [ 23] All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.

[ 24] * 1.281 And he arose and went thence into the bor∣ders of Tyre and Sidon. And entering into 〈◊〉〈◊〉 house he would have had no man know it; but he. could not be hid. [ 25] For a woman whose young daughter had an unclean spirit, having heard of him, came and fell at his feet, [ 26] (The woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation) and besought him to cast the devil out of her daughter. [ 27] But Jesus said to her, Let the children first be satisfied; for it is not right to take the children's bread and cast it to the dogs. [ 28] She answered and said to him, True, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbe. [ 29] And he said to her, For this saying, go: the devil is gone out of thy daugh∣ter. [ 30] And going to her house, she found her daughter lying on the bed, and the devil gone out. [ 31] † 1.282 And departing again from the borders of Tyre and Sidon, he came to the sea of Galilee, thro' the midst of the country of Decapolis. [ 32] And they bring to him one that was deaf, and dumb, and beseech him to put his hand upon him. [ 33] And taking him aside from the multitude, he put hi•• fingers into his ears, and spitting, touched his tongue. [ 34] And looking up to heaven, he groaned

and saith to him, Ephphatha, that is Be opened. [ 35] And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain. [ 36] And he charged them to tell no man; but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it. [ 37] And were beyond mea∣sure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well; he maketh both the deaf to hear and the dumb to speak.

V. 1. Coming from Jerusalem—Probably on purpose to find Occa∣sion against Him.

V. 4. Washings of cups and pots and brasen vessels and couches—The Greek Word (Baptisms) means indifferent either Washing or Sprink∣ling. The Cups, Pots, and Vessels were washed; the Couches sprinkled.

V. 5. The tradition of the elders—The Rule delivered down from your Forefathers.

V. 15. There is nothing entering into a man from without which can desile him—Though it is very true, a Man may bring Guilt, which is moral Defilement, upon himself, by eating what hurts his Health, or by Excess either in Meat or Drink; yet even here the Pollution arises from the Wickedness of the Heart, and is just proportionable to it. And this is all that our LORD asserts.

V. 19. Purging all meats—Probably the Scat was usually placed 〈◊〉〈◊〉 running Water.

V. 22. Wickedness—The Word means Ill-nature, Cruelty, Inhu∣manity, and all malevolent Affections. Foolishness—Directly con∣trary

to Sobriety of Thought and Discourse: All kind of wild Ima∣ginations and extravagant Passions.

V. 26. The woman was a Greek, (that is a Gentile, not a Jew) a Syrophenician, or Canaanite. Canaan was also called Syrophenica, as lying between Syria, properly so called, and Phenicia.

V. 33. He put his fingers into his cars—Perhaps intending to teach us, That we are not to prescribe to Him (as they who brought this Man attempted to do) but to expect his Blessing by whatsoever Means He pleases: Even tho' there should be no Proportion or Re∣semblance between the Means used, and the Benefit to be conveyed thereby.

V. 34. Ephphatha—This was a Word of SOVEREIGN AU∣THORITY, not an Address to GOD for Power to heal, Such an Address was needless; for Christ had a perpetual Fund of l'ower re∣siding in Himself, to work all Miracles whenever He pleased, even to the raising the Dead, John v. 21, 26.

V. 36. Them—The blind Man and those that brought him.

VIII.

* 1.283 In those days, the multitude being very great, and having nothing to eat, calling to him his disciples he saith to them, [ 2] I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days and have nothing to eat. [ 3] And if I send them away fasting to their own home, they will faint by the way; for divers of them come from far. [ 4] And his disciples answered him, Whence can one fatisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness? [ 5] And he asked them, How ma∣ny loaves have ye? [ 6] And they said, Seven And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground; and taking the seven loaves, having giv∣en thanks, he brake and gave to his disciples to set before them: and they did set them before the people. [ 7] And they had a few small fishes: and having blessed them, he commanded, to set them also before them. [ 8] So they did eat and were satis∣fied; and they took up fragments that were left, seven baskets. [ 9] And they that had eaten were a∣bout four thousand: and he sent them away.

[ 10] And straightway going into the vessel with his dis∣ciples, he came into the parts of Dalmanutha.

[ 11] † 1.284 And the Pharisees came forth and questioned with him, seeking of him a sign from heaven, tempting him. [ 12] And sighing deeply in his spirit, he said, Why doth this generation seek a sign? Verily I say to you, There shall no sign be given to this generation. [ 13] § 1.285 And he left them and go∣ing into the vessel again, went to the other side.

[ 14] Now they had forgotten to take bread; nor had they in the vessel with them any more than one loaf. [ 15] And he charged them, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the lea∣ven of Herod. [ 16] And they reasoned among them∣selves, saying, We have no bread. [ 17] And Jesus knowing it said to them, Why reason ye, because ye have no bread? Perceive ye not yet, neither consider? [ 18] Have ye your heart yet hardened? Hav∣ing eyes, see ye not? And having ears, hear ye not? [ 19] And do not ye remember? When I brake the five loaves among the five thousand, how ma∣ny baskets full of fragments took ye up? They say to him, Twelve. [ 20] And when the seven among the four thousand, how many baskets full of frag∣ments took ye up? And they said, Seven. [ 21] And he said to them, How is it, that ye do not under∣stand?

[ 22] And he cometh to Bethsaida. And they bring to him a blind man, and beseech him to touch him. [ 23] And taking the blind man by the hand, he led

him out of the town, and having spit on his eyes, and put his hands upon him, he asked him, If he saw aught? [ 24] And looking up he said, I see men, as trees walking. [ 25] Then he put his hands again on his eyes and made him look up, and he was resto∣red and saw all men clearly. [ 26] And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.

[ 27] † 1.286 And Jesus went out and his disciples into the towns of Cesarea Phillippi. And in the way he asked his disciples, saying to them, Whom do men say that I am? [ 28] And they answered, John the Baptist; but some say Elijah; and others one of the prophets. [ 29] And he saith to them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answering saith to him, Thou art the Christ. [ 30] And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.

[ 31] * 1.287 And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. [ 32] And he spake that saying openly. [ 33] And Peter taking hold of him, rebuked him. But he turning about, and looking on his disciples, rebuked Peter, say∣ing, G••t thee behind me, Satan; for thou favour∣est not the things of God, but the things of men.

[ 34] And when he had called the people to him, with his disciples also, he said to them, Whoso∣ever is willing to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow me.

[ 35] † 1.288 For whosoever desireth to save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life, for my sake and the gospel's, shall save it. [ 36] For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? [ 37] Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? [ 38] † 1.289 For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adul∣terous and sinful generation, of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father, with the holy angels.

V. 8. So they did eat—This Miracle was intended to demonstrate, that Christ was the true Bread which cometh down from Heaven; for He who was Almighty to create Bread without Means to support natural Life, could not want Power to create Bread without Means to support spiritual Life. And this heavenly Bread we stand so much in need of every Moment, that we ought to be always praying, LORD, evermore give us this Bread.

V. 11. Tempting him—That is, trying to ensnare Him.

V. 12. Why doth this generation (that is, these Scribes and Pha∣risees) seek a sign?—Not out of Sincerity, but out of Hypocrisy.

V. 15. Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod, or of the Sudducees: Two opposite Extremes.

V. 17, 18. Our LORD here affirms of all the Apostles (for the Question is equivalent to an Affirmation) That their hearts were hardened; that having eyes they saw not, having ears they heard not; that they did not consider, neither understand: The very same Ex∣pressions that occur in the 13th of St. Matthew. And yet it is certain, they were not judicially hardened. Therefore all these strong Expressions, do not necessarily import any thing more, than the pre∣sent Want of spiritual Understanding.

V. 23. He led him out of the town—It was in just Displeasure

against the Inhabitants of Bethsaida for their obstinate Infidelity, that our LORD would work no more Miracles among them, nor even suffer the Person He had cured, either to go into the Town, or to tell it to any therein,

V. 24. I see men as trees walking—He distinguished Men from Trees only by their Motion.

V. 30. He enjoined them Silence for the present, 1. That He might not encourage the People to set Him up for a temporal King; 2. That He might not provoke the Scribes and Pharisees to destroy Him before the Time; and 3. That He might not forestall the brighter Evidence which was to be given of his divine Character after his Resurrection.

V. 32. He spake that saying openly—Or in express Terms: Till now He had only intimated it to them. And Peter taking hold of him—Perhaps by the Arm or Clothes.

V. 33. Looking on his disciples—That they might the more ob∣serve what He said to Peter.

V. 34. And when he had called the people—To hear a Truth of the last Importance, and one that equally concerned them all. Let him deny himself—His own Will, in all Things, small and great, however pleasing, and that continually: And take up his cross—Embrace the Will of GOD, however painful, daily, hourly, continually. Thus only can he follow me in Holiness, to Glory.

V. 38. Whosoever shall be ashamed of me and my Word—That is, of avowing whatever I have said (particularly of Self-denial and the daily Cross) both by Word and Action.

IX.

And he said to them, Verily I say unto you, there are some of them that stand here, who shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God coming with power.

[ 2] ‖ 1.290 And after six days Jesus taketh with him Pe∣ter and James and John, and carrieth them up in∣to an high mountain, by themselves apart, and was transfigured before them. [ 3] And his gar∣ments

became shining, exceeding white, as snow, such as no fuller on earth can whiten. [ 4] And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. [ 5] And Peter answering, saith to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah. [ 6] For he knew not what to say; for they were sore afraid. [ 7] And there came a cloud overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, This is my beloved Son; hear ye him. [ 8] And suddenly looking round, they saw no man any more, save Jesus only, with themselves. [ 9] And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them to tell no man the things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead. And they laid hold on that saying, questioning one with another, What meaneth, [ 10] Till he were risen from the dead? [ 11] And they asked him saying, Why say the scribes, that Elijah must come first? [ 12] And he answering, told them, Elijah verily coming first, restoreth all things; and how it is written of the Son of man, that he must suffer many things, and be set at nought. [ 13] But I say to you, Elijah is come, as it is written of him: and they have done to him whatsoever they listed.

[ 14] * 1.291 And coming to his disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and scribes questioning with them. [ 15] And straightway all the multitude

seeing him, were greatly amazed, and running to him, saluted him. [ 16] And he asked the scribes, What question ye with tuem? [ 17] And one of the multitude answering said, Master, I have brought to thee my son, who hath a dumb spirit. [ 18] And wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him, and he foameth and gnasheth with his teeth and pineth away. And I spake to thy disciples to cast him out, and they could not. [ 19] He answering them saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I suffer you? Bring him to me. [ 20] And they brought him to him. And when he saw him, immediately the spirit tore him, and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming. [ 21] And he asked his father, How long is it since this came to him? And he said, From a little child. [ 22] And it hath often cast him both into the fire and into the waters to de∣stroy him; but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us and help us. [ 23] Jesus saith to him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. [ 24] And straightway the fa∣ther of the child crying out, said with tears, Lord, I do believe: help thou mine unbelief. [ 25] And Jesus seeing that the multitude came running to∣gether,

rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to him, Thou deaf and dumb spirit, I command thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him. [ 26] And having cried and rent him sore, he came out; and he was as dead, so that many said, He is dead. [ 27] But Jesus taking him by the hand, lifted him up, and he arose.

[ 28] And when he was come into an house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out? [ 29] And he said to them, This kind can come forth by nothing but by prayer and fasting.

[ 30] * 1.292 And departing thence, they passed thro' Ga∣lilee, and he was not willing that any should know it. [ 31] For he taught his disciples and said to them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of men; and they will kill him, and after he hath been killed, he shall rise the third day. [ 32] But they understood not the word, and were afraid to ask him.

[ 33] † 1.293 And he came to Capernaum. And being in the house, he asked them, What was it ye dis∣puted among yourselves by the way? [ 34] But they held their peace; for they had been debating among themselves in the way, who should be greatest? [ 35] And sitting down, he called the twelve, and saith to them, If any man desire to be first let him be the last of all, and the servant of all. [ 36] § 1.294 And tak∣ing

a little child, he set him in the midst of them, and taking him up in his arms, he said to them, [ 37] Whosoever shall receive one such little child in my name, receiveth me; and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not only me, but him that sent me.

[ 38] † 1.295 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, who followeth not us, and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. [ 39] And Jesus said, Forbid him not; for there is no one who shall do a miracle in my name, that can readily speak evil of me. [ 40] For he that is not against you, is for you. [ 41] ‡ 1.296 For who∣soever

shall give you a cup of cold water to drink, in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say to you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

[ 42] ‖ 1.297 And whosoever shall offend one of the little ones that believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. [ 43] * 1.298 And if thy hand cause thee to offend, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life maimed, rather than having two hands, to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: [ 44] † 1.299 Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. [ 45] And if thy foot cause thee to offend, cut it off: it is good for thee to enter halt into life, rather than having two feet to be cast into hell, into the fire that ne∣ver shall be quenched: [ 46] Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. [ 47] And if thine eye cause thee to offend, pluck it out: it is good for thee to enter into the kingdom of God, having one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell-fire: [ 48] Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. [ 49] For every one shall be salt∣ed with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt. [ 50] ‡ 1.300 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost

its saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with ano∣ther.

V. 1. Till they see the kingdom of God coming with power—So it be∣gan to do, at the Day of Pentecost, when three thousand were con∣verted to GOD at once.

V. 2. By themselves—That is, separate from the Multitude: Apart—From the other Apostles: And was transfigured—The Greek Word seems to refer to the Form of GOD, and the Form of a Servant (mentioned by St. Paul, Phil. ii. 6, 7.) and may intimate, That the Divine Rays, which the indwelling GOD let out on this Occa∣sion, made the glorious Change from one of these Forms into the other.

V. 3. White as snow, such as no fuller can whiten—Such as could not be equalled either by Nature or Art.

V. 4. Elijah, whom they expocted: Moses, whom they did not.

V. 7. There come a (bright, luminous) cloud, overshadowing them—This seems to have been such a Cloud of Glory, as accompanied Israel in the Wilderness, which, as the Jewish Writers observe, de∣parted at the Death of Moses. But it now appeared again, in Ho∣nour of our LORD, as the Great Prophet of the Church, who was prefigured by Moses. Hear ye him—Even preferably to Moses and Elijah.

V. 12. Elijah verily coming first restoreth all things: and, how it is written—That is, And He told them, how it is written—As if He had said, Elijah's Coming is not inconsistent with my Suffering. He is come: Yet I shall suffer. The first Part of the Verse an∣swers their Question concerning Elijah; the second refutes their Er∣ror concerning the Messiah's continuing for ever.

V. 15. All the multitude seeing him were greatly amazed—At his coming so suddenly, so seasonably, so unexpectedly: Perhaps also

at some unusual Rays of Majesty and Glory, which yet remained on his Countenance.

V. 17. And one of the multitude answering—The Scribes gave no Answer to our LORD's Question. They did not care to repeat what they had said to his Disciples. A dumb spirit—A Spirit that takes his Speech from him.

V. 20. When he saw him—When the Child saw Christ; when his Deliverance was at hand. Immediately the spirit tore him—Made his last grand Effort to destroy him. Is it not generally so, before Satan is cast out of a Soul, of which he has long had Possession?

V. 22. If thou canst do any thing—In so desperate a Case: Have compassion on us—Me as well as him.

V. 23. If thou canst believe—As if He had said, The Thing does not turn on my Power, but on thy Faith. I can do all Things: Canst thou believe?

V. 24. Help thou mine unbelief—Altho' my Faith be so small, that it might rather be termed Unbelief, yet help me.

V. 25. Thou draf and dumb spirit—So termed, because he made the Child so. When JESUS spake, the Devil heard, tho' the Child could not. I command thee—I myself now; not my Disciples.

V. 26. Having rent him sore—So does even the Body sometimes suffer, when GOD comes to deliver the Soul from Satan.

V. 30. They passed thro' Galilee—Tho' not thro' the Cities, but by them, in the most private ways. He was not willing that any should know it: For he taught his disciples—He wanted to be alone with them some Time, in order to instruct them fully concerning his Sufferings. The Son of man is delivered—It is as sure, as if it were done already.

V. 32. They understood not the word—They did not understand, how to reconcile the Death of our Saviour (nor consequently his Resurrection, which supposed his Death) with their Notions of his temporal Kingdom.

V. 34. Who should be greatest—Prime Minister in his Kingdom.

V. 35. Let him be the last of all—Let him abase himself the ruost.

V. 37. Ore such little child—Either in Years, or in Heart.

V. 38. And John answered him.—As if he had said, But ought we to receive those who follow not us? Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name—Probably this was one of John the Baptist's Dis∣ciples, who believed in Jesus, tho' he did not yet associate with our LORD's Disciples. And we forbad him, because be followeth not us— How often is the same Temper sound in us? How readily do we also lust to Envy. But how does that Spirit become a Disciple, much more a Minister of the benevolent Jesus! St. Paul had learnt a better Temper, when he rejoiced that Christ was preached, even by those who were his personal Enemies. But to confine Re∣ligion to them that follow us, is a Narrowness of Spirit which we should avoid and abhor.

V. 39. Jesus said—Christ here gives us a lovely Example of Candour and Moderation. He was willing to put the best Con∣struction on doubtful Cases, and to treat as Friends those who were not avowed Enemies Perhaps in this Instance it was a Means of conquering the Remainder of Prejudice, and perfecting what was wanting in the Faith and Obedience of these Persons. Forbid him not—Neither directly nor indirectly discourage or hinder any Man, who brings Sinners from the Power of Satan to GOD, because he followeth not us, in Opinions, Modes of Worship, or any thing else which does not affect the Essence of Religion.

V. 40. For be that is not against you, is for you—Our LORD had formerly said, He that is not with me, is against me: thereby ad∣monishing his Hearers, that the War between Him and Satan ad∣mitted of no Neutrality, and that those who were indifferent to Him now, would finally be treated as Enemies. But here, in ano∣ther View, he uses a very different Proverb; directing his Followers to judge of Men's Characters in the most candid Manner; and cha∣ritably to hope that those who did not oppose his Cause wished well to it. Upon the whole, we are to be rigorous in judging ourselves, and candid in judging each other.

V. 41. For whosoever shall give you a cup—Having answered St. John, our LORD here resumes the Discourse which was broken off at the 37th Verse.

V. 42. On the contrary, whosoever shall offend the very least Christian.

V. 43. And if a Person cause thee to offend—(The Discourse passes from the Case of offending, to that of being offended) if one who is as useful or dear to thee as an hand or eye, hinder or slacken thee in the Ways of GOD, renounce all Intercourse with him. This primarily relates to Persons, secondarily to Things.

V. 44. Where their worm—That gnaweth the Soul (Pride, Self-will, Desire, Malice, Envy, Shame, Sorrow, Despair) dieth not—No more than the Soul itself: And the sire (either material, or infinitely worse!) that tormenteth the Body, is not quenched for ever.

V. 49. Every one—Who does not cut off the offending Member, and consequently is cast into Hell, shall be, as it were salted with fire, preserved, not consumed thereby; whereas every acceptable sacrifice shall be salted with another Kind of Salt, even that of divine Grace, which purifies the Soul, (tho' frequently with Pain) and preserves it from Corruption.

V. 50. Such Salt is good indeed; highly beneficial to the World, in respect of which I have termed you the Salt of the earth. But if

the salt which should season others, have lost its own saltness, where∣with will ye season it?—Beware of this: See that ye retain your Sa∣vour; and as a Proof of it, have peace one with another.

More largely this obscure Text might be paraphrased thus:

As every Burnt-offering was salted with Salt, in order to its being cast into the Fire of the Altar, so every one who will not part with his Hand or Eye, shall fall a Sacrifice to divine Justice, and be cast into Hell-fire, which will not consume, but preserve him from a Cessation of Being. And on the other Hand, every one who denying himself and taking up his Cross, offers up himself as a living Sacrifice to GOD, shall be seasoned with Grace, which like Salt will make him savoury, and preserve him from Destruction for ever.

As Salt is good for preserving Meats, and making them savoury, so it is good that ye be seasoned with Grace, for the purifying your Hearts and Lives, and for spreading the Savour of my Knowledge, both in your own Souls, and wherever ye go. But as Salt if it loses its Saltness is fit for nothing, so ye, if ye lose your Faith and Love, are fit for nothing but to be utterly destroyed. See therefore that Grace abide in you, and that ye no more contend, Who shall be greatest?

X.

‖ 1.301 And he arose and cometh thence into the coasts of Judea, thro' the country beyond Jordan: and the multitudes resort to him again, and as he was wont, he taught them again. [ 2] § 1.302 And the Phari∣sees coming, asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? Tempting him. [ 3] And he answering, said to them, What did Moses com∣mand you? [ 4] They said, * 1.303 Moses suffered to write a bill of divorce, and to put her away. [ 5] And Jesus answering, said to them, For your hard∣ness of heart he wrote you this precept. [ 6] But from the beginning of the creation God made them male

and female. [ 7] § 1.304 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife [ 8] And they twain shall be one flesh; so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. [ 9] What there∣fore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. [ 10] And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same matter. [ 11] And he saith to them, Whosoever shall put away his wife and mar∣ry another, committeth adultery against her. [ 12] And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.

[ 13] † 1.305 And they brought little children to him that he might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those that brought them. [ 14] But Jesus seeing it, was much displeased, and said to them, Suffer the lit∣tle children to come to me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. [ 15] Verily I say to you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall in no wise enter therein. [ 16] And taking them up in his arms, he put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

[ 17] ‖ 1.306 And as he was going out into the way, one running and kneeling to him, asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? [ 18] But Jesus saith to him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, that is God. [ 19] Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother. [ 20] And he answer∣ing, said to him, Master, all these have I kept from

my childhood. [ 21] Then Jesus looking upon him, loved him, and said to him, One thing thou lack∣est: Go, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me, taking up thy cross. [ 22] But he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved; for he had great possessions. [ 23] And Jesus looking round said to his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God? And the disciples were astonished at his words. [ 24] But Jesus answering again saith to them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches, to en∣ter into the kingdom of God? [ 25] It is easier for a camel to go thro' the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. [ 26] And they were astonished out of measure, saying to each other, Who then can be saved? [ 27] And Je∣sus looking upon them said, With men it is im∣possible, but not with God, for with God all things are possible. [ 28] And Peter said to him, Lo, we have left all and followed thee. [ 29] And Jesus answering said, Verily I say to you, there is none that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or fa∣ther, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake and the gospel's, [ 30] But he shall

re∣ceive an hundered fold now in this time, houses and brethren and sisters and mothers and children and lands with persecutions, and in the world to come eternal life. [ 31] But many that are first shall be last, and the last first.

[ 32] * 1.307 And they were in the way going up to Jeru∣salem, and Jesus went before th••m. And they were amazed, and as they followed, they were afraid. And taking the twelve again, he told them what things were to befal him: [ 33] Behold we go up to Jerusalem, and the Son of man shall be betrayed to the chief priests and the Scribes: and they will condemn him to death, and deliver him to the Gentiles. [ 34] And they will mock him and scourge him and spit upon him and kill him. And the third day he will rise again.

[ 35] § And James and John the sons Zebedee come to him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatever we shall ask. [ 36] And he said to them, What would ye that I should do for you? [ 37] They said to him, Grant us to sit one on thy right-hand, and one on thy left-hand in thy glory. [ 38] But Jesus said to them, ye know not what ye ask. Can ye drink of the cup that I drink of, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? And they said to him, We can. [ 39] And Jesus said to them, Ye shall indeed drink of

the cup that I drink of, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with. [ 40] But to sit on my right-hand and on my left, is not mine to give, save to them for whom it is prepared. [ 41] And the ten hearing it were much displeased concerning James and John. [ 42] But Jesus calling them to him, saith unto them, Ye know that they who rule over the Gentiles, lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority upon them. [ 43] But it shall not be so among you; but whosoever desireth to be great among you, shall be your servant. [ 44] And whosoever desireth to be the chief, shall be the servant of all. [ 45] For the Son of man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ran∣som for many.

[ 46] † 1.308 And they come to Jericho. And as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great multi∣tude, blind Bartimeus, the son of Timeus, sat by the way-side begging. [ 47] And hearing, It is Jesus of Nazareth, he cried out and said, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. [ 48] And many charg∣ed him to hold his peace; but he cried so much the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me. [ 49] And Jesus standing still, command∣ed him to be called. And they call the blind man, saying to him, Take courage; rise: he calleth thee. [ 50] And casting away his garment, he rose and came to Jesus. [ 51] And Jesus answering said to him, What wilt thou that I should do for thee? The blind man said to him, Lord, that I may receive my sight. [ 52] And Jesus said, Go; thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he received his sight, and followed him in the way.

V. 1. He cometh thence —From Gal lee.

V. 6. From the beginning of the creation—Therefore Moses in the first of Genesis gives us an Account of Things from the beginning of the creation. Does it not clearly follow, That there was no Creation previous to that which Mosee describes? God made them male and female—Therefore Adam did not at first contain both Sexes in him∣self: But GOD made Adam, when first created, male only; and Eve female only. And this Man and Woman He joined together, in a State of Innocence, as Husband and Wife.

V. 11, 12. All Polygamy is here totally condemned.

V. 14. Jesus seeing it, was much displeased—At their blaming those who were not blame-worthy: and endeavouring to hinder the Chil∣dren from receiving a Blessing. Of such is the kingdom of God—The Members of the Kingdom which I am come to set up in the World are such as these, as well as grown Persons of a childlike Temper.

V. 15. Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child—As totally disclaiming all Worthiness and Pitness, as if he were but a Week old.

V. 20. He answ••ring, said to him, Master—He stands reproved now, and drops the Epithet Good.

V. 21. Jesus looking upon him—And looking into his Heart, loved him—Doubtless for the Dawnings of Good which he saw in him: And said to him—Out of tender Love One thing thou lackest— The Love of GOD, without which all Religion is a dead Carcase. In order to this, throw away what is to thee the grand Hinderance of it. Give up thy great Idol Riches. Go, s••ll whatsoever thou hast.

V. 24. Jesus saith to them, Children—See how He softens the harsh Truth, by the Manner of delivering it! And yet without retracting or abating one Tittle: How bard is it for them that trust in riche:—Either for Defence, or Happiness, or Deliverance from the thousand Dangers that Life is continually exposed to. That these cannot enter into GOD's glorious Kingdom, is clear and un∣deniable: But it is easier for a camel to go thro' a needle's eye, than for a Man to have Riches, and not trust in them. Therefore, it is easier for a camel to go thro' the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom.

V. 28. Lo we have left all—Tho' the young Man would not.

V. 30. He shall receive an hundred fold, house, &c.—Not in the same Kind; for it will generally be with persecutions: But in Value: An

••••nd••ed fold more Happiness than any or all of these did or 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••fford. But let it be observed, None is intitled to this Hap∣•••••••••••• but he that will accept of it with persecutions.

32. They were in the way to Jerusalem, and Jesus went before 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••nd they were amazed—At his Courage and Intrepidity, con∣〈8 letters〉〈8 letters〉 the Treatment which He had Himself told them He should 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••th there: and as they followed, they were afraid—Both for 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 themselves: Nevertheless He judged it best to prepare 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 telling them more particularly what was to ensue.

〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Saying.—By their Mother. It was she, not they that 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••e Words.

〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 Ye know not that ye a••••—Ye know not that ye are ask∣•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••••••erings, which must needs pave the Way to Glory. The 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 ••••ward; the baptism—Of outward Sufferings. Our LORD 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 ••••th Sufferings within 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••••••red with them without.

V. 40. Save to them for whom it is prepared—Them who by patient Continuance in well-doing, seek for Glory, and Honour, and Immortality. For these only eternal Life is prepared. To these only He will give it in that Day; and to every Man his own Reward, according to his own Labour.

V. 45. A ransom for many—Even for as many Souls as needed such a Ransom, 2 Cor. v. 15.

V. 50. Casting away his garment—Thro' Joy and Eagerness.

XI.

§ 1.309 And when they were come nigh to Jerusa∣lem to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth two of his disciples, [ 2] And saith to them, Go ye into the village over against you, and as soon as ye enter it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat: loose and bring him. And if any say to you, Why do ye this? [ 3] Say, The Lord hath need of him; and straightway he will send him hither. [ 4] And they went and found the colt tied at the door without, in the street, and they loose him. [ 5] And some of them that stood there said, What do ye, loosing the colt? [ 6] And they said to them as Jesus had commanded; and they let them go. [ 7] And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments on him, and he sat on him. [ 8] And many spread their garments in the way: and others cut down branches from the trees, and strewed them in the way. [ 9] And they that went before, and they that followed after cried, saying, Hosanna: Blessed in the name of the Lord is he that cometh. [ 10] Blessed be the kingdom of our fa∣ther David that cometh: Hosanna in the highest. [ 11] * 1.310 And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple, and having looked round about upon all things, it being now evening, he went out to Be∣thany with the twelve.

[ 12] † 1.311 And on the morrow, as they were coming from Bethany, he was hungry. [ 13] And seeing a fig-tree afar off, having leaves, he came, if haply he

might find any thing thereon: and coming to it, he found nothing but leaves: for it was not a sea∣son of figs. [ 14] And he answering said to it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever: And his dis∣ciples heard. [ 15] † 1.312 And they come to Jerusalem. And Jesus going into the temple, drove out them that bought and sold in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, [ 16] And suffered not that any one should carry a vessel thro' the temple. [ 17] And he taught, saying to them, Is it not written, * 1.313 My house shall be called of all nations an house of prayer? But ye have made it a den of thieves. [ 18] And the Scribes and chief priests heard it and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because the whole multitude was astonished at his teaching.

[ 19] † 1.314 And when evening was come he went out of the city. [ 20] And passing by in the morning, they saw the fig-tree dried up from the roots. [ 21] And Peter remembring, saith to him, Master, behold the fig-tree which thou cursedst is withered away. [ 22] And Jesus answering saith to them, Have faith in

God. [ 23] For verily I say to you, Whosoever shall fay to this mountain, Be thou removed and cast into the sea, and not doubt in his heart, but be∣lieve that the things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he faith. [ 24] Therefore I fay to you, All things whatsoever ye ask in prayer, believe that ye shall receive, and ye shall have them. [ 25] ‡ 1.315 But when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any, that your Father who is in heaven may forgive you also your trespasses [ 26] But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father who is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

[ 27] ‖ 1.316 And they come again to Jerusalem. And as he was walking in the Temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders come to him and say to him, By what authority dost thou these things? [ 28] And who gave thee authority to do these things? [ 29] Jesus answering said to them, I also will ask you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things [ 30] Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men? Answer me. [ 31] And they reasoned among themselves, saying, If we say from heaven, he will say, Why then did ye not believe him? [ 32] But if we say from men: they feared the people; for all accounted John, that he was indeed a prophet. And they answering say to Jesus, We cannot tell. [ 33] And Jesus answering saith to them, Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.

V. 1. To Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives—The Limits of Bethany reached to the Mount of Olives and joined to those of Bethphage. Bethphage was Part of the Suburbs of Jeru∣salem, and reached from the Mount of Olives to the Walls of the City. Our LORD was now come to the Place where the Boundaries of Bethany and Bethphage met.

V. 13. For it was not a season of figs—It was not (as we say) a good year for Figs; at least not for that early Sort, which alone was ripe so soon in the Spring.

If we render the Words, It was not the season of figs, that is, the Time of gathering them in, it may mean, The season was not yet: And so (inclosing the Words in a Parenthesis, And coming to it, he found nothing but leaves) it may refer to the former Part of the Sentence, and may be considered as the Reason of Christ's going to see, Whether there were any Figs on this Tree. Some who also read that Clause in a Parenthesis, translate the following Words, For where he was, it was the season of figs. And it is certain, this Meaning of the Words suits best with the great Design of the Parable, which was to reprove the Jewish Church for its Unfruitfulness at that very Season, when Fruit might best be expected from them.

If we render the Words, It was not the season of figs, that is, the Time of gathering them in, it may mean, The season was not yet: And so (inclosing the Words in a Parenthesis, And coming to it, he found nothing but leaves) it may refer to the former Part of the

Sentence, and may be considered as the Reason of Christ's going to see, Whether there were any Figs on this Tree. Some who also read that Clause in a Parenthesis, translate the following Words, For where he was, it was the season of figs. And it is certain, this Meaning of the Words suits best with the great Design of the Parable, which was to reprove the Jewish Church for its Unfruitfulness at that very Season, when Fruit might best be expected from them.

V. 16. He suffered not that any should carry a vessel thro' the temple—So strong Notions had our LORD, of even relative Holiness! And of the Regard due to those Places (as well as Times) that are peculiarly dedicated to GOD.

V. 18. They feared him—That is, they were afraid to take Him by Violence, left it should raise a Tumult: because all the people was astonished at his teaching—Both at the Excellence of his Doc∣trine, and at the Majesty and Authority with which He taught.

V. 22. Have faith in God—And who could find Fault, if the Creator and Proprietor of all Things, were to destroy by a single Word of his Mouth, a thousand of his inanimate Creatures, were it only to imprint this important Lesson more, deeply, on one im∣mortal Spirit?

V. 25. When ye stand praying—Standing was their usual Posture when they prayed. Forgive—And on this Condition, ye shall have whatever you ask, without wrath or doubting.

XII.

* 1.317 And he said to them in parables, A man planted a vineyard, and set an hedge about it, and digged a wine-fat, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country. [ 2] And at the season he sent a servant to the husband∣men, to receive from the husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard. [ 3] But they took him, and beat

him, and sent him away empty. [ 4] And again he sent to them another servant: and at him they cast stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully handled. [ 5] And again he sent an∣other, and him they killed; and many others, beating some and killing some. [ 6] Having yet there∣fore one son his well-beloved, he sent him also last to them, saying, They will reverence my son. [ 7] But those husbandmen said among themselves, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours. [ 8] And they took him and killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard. [ 9] What therefore will the lord of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the husbandmen, and will give the vineyard to others. [ 10] And have ye not read even this scripture? † 1.318 The stone which the buil∣ders rejected this is become the head of the corner? [ 11] This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes. [ 12] And they sought to seize him, but feared the multitude; for they knew he had spoken the parable against them; and leaving him, they went away.

[ 13] ‡ 1.319 And they send to him certain of the Phari∣sees, and of the Herodians, to catch him in his dis∣course. And they coming say to him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man; for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth. [ 14] Is it law∣ful to give tribute to Cesar, or not? [ 15] Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he knowing their hypocrify, said to them, Why tempt ye me? Bring me a penny, that I may see it; and they brought it. [ 16] And he saith to them, Whose is this image and inscription? They say to him, Cesar's. [ 17] And Jesus answering said to them, Render to Cesar the

things that are Cesar's, and to God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him.

[ 18] ‖ 1.320 Then come to him the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, and they asked him, say∣ing, [ 19] Master, Moses wrote to us, § 1.321 If a man's bro∣ther die, and leave a wife, and leave no children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up issue to his brother. [ 20] There were seven brethren, and the first took a wife, and dying left no issue, [ 21] And the second took her and died, neither left he any issue; and the third likewise. [ 22] And the seven took her and left no issue. [ 23] Last of all died the woman also. In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? For the seven had her to wife. [ 24] And Jesus answer∣ing said to them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God? [ 25] For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as the an∣gels who are in heaven. [ 26] And touching the dead that they rise, Have ye not read in the book of Moses, * 1.322 how in the bush God spake to him, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? [ 27] He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. Ye therefore greatly err.

[ 28] † 1.323 And one of the scribes coming to him, hav∣ing heard them disputing together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which

is the first commandment of all? [ 29] And Jesus answer∣ed him, The first commandment of all is,‡ 1.324 Hear, O Israel; the Lord our God is one Lord. [ 30] And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first com∣mandment. [ 31] And the second is like unto it, ‖ 1.325 Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is no other commandment greater than these. [ 32] And the scribe said to him, Excellently well, Master! Thou hast said the truth: for He is one: and there is no other but he. [ 33] And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the mind, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt-offerings and sacrifices. [ 34] And Jesus, seeing that he answered discreetly, said to him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst question him any more.

[ 35] * 1.326 And Jesus answering, as he taught in the temple, said, How say the scribe••, that Christ is the Son of David? [ 36] For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, † 1.327 The Lord saith to my Lord, Sit

thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool. [ 37] David therefore himself calleth him Lord: How is the then his son? And a great mul∣titude heard him gladly.

[ 38] ‡ 1.328 And he said to them in his teaching, Beware of the Scribes, who love to walk in long robes, and to be saluted in the market-places, [ 39] And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost places at feasts: [ 40] Who devour widows houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: these shall re∣ceive the greater damnation.

[ 41] ‖ 1.329 And Jesus sitting over-against the treasury, beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. [ 42] And a poor widow coming, cast in two mites, which make a farthing. [ 43] And calling to him his disciples, he saith to them, Verily I say to you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all who have cast into the Treasury. [ 44] For they all did cast in of their abundance: but she of her penury did cast in all that she had, even her whole living.

V. 12. They feared the multitude—How wonderful is the Provi∣dence of GOD, using all Things for the Good of his Children! Generally, the Multitude is restrained from tearing them in Pieces, only by the Fear of their Rulers. And here the Rulers themselves are restrained, thro' Fear of the Multitude!

V. 17. They marvelled at him—At the Wisdom of his Answer.

V. 25. When they rise from the dead, neither Men marry nor Wo∣men are given in marriage.

V. 27. He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living—That is, (if the Argument be propsed at length) Since the Character of his being the GOD of any Persons, plainly intimates a Relation to them, not as dead, but as living; and since He cannot be said to be at present their GOD at all, if they are utterly dead; nor to be the GOD of human Persons, such as Abraham, Isaac, and Iacob, consist∣ing of Souls and Bodies, if their Bodies were to abide in everlasting Death: there must needs be a suture State of Blessedness, and a Resur∣rection of the Body to share with the Soul in it.

V. 28. Which is the first commandment?—The principal, and most necessary to be observed.

V. 29. The Lord our God is one Lord—This is the Foundation of the First Commandment, yea of all the Commandments. The LORD our GOD, the LORD, the GOD of all Men, is One GOD, essentially, tho' three Persons. From this Unity of GOD it follows, That we owe all our Love to Him alone.

V. 30. With all thy strength—That is, the whole Strength and Ca∣pacity of ••••y Understanding, Will and Affections.

V. 31. The second is like unto it—Of a like comprehensive Nature: comprising our whole Duty to God. There is no other Moral, much less Ceremonial Commandment greater than these.

V. 33. To love him with all the heart—To love and serve him, with all the united Powers of the Soul in their utmost Vigour; and to love his neighbour as himself—To maintain the same equitable and charitable Temper and Behaviour toward all Men, as we, in like Circumstances, would wish for from them toward ourselves, is a more necessary and important Duty, than the offering the most noble and costly Sacrifices.

V. 34. Jesus said to him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God—Reader, Art not thou? Then go on: Be a real Christian; else it had been better for thee to have been afar off.

V. 38. Beware of the scribes—There was an absolute Necessity for these repeated Cautions. For considering their inveterate Prejudices against Christ, it could never be supposed the common People would receive the Gospel, till these incorrigible Blasphemers of it, were brought to just Disgrace.

Yet he delayed speaking in this Manner till a little before his Passion, as knowing what Effect it would quickly produce. Nor is this any Precedent for Us: We are not invested with the same Authority.

V. 41. He beheld how people cast money into the treasury—This Treasury received the voluntary Contributions of the Worshippers who came up to the Feast; which were given to buy Wood for the Altar and other Necessaries not provided for in any other Way.

V. 43. I say to you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all—See what Judgment is cast on the most specious, outward Actions by the Judge of all! And how acceptable to Him is the smallest, which springs from Self-denying Love!

XIII.

§ 1.330 And as he was going out of the temple, one of his disciples saith to him, Master, see what manner of stones, and what manner of buildings!

And Jesus answering said to him, Seest thou these great buildings? [ 2] There shall not be left one stone upon another that shall not be thrown down. [ 3] And as he sat on the mount of Olives, over-against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, Tell us when shall these things be? [ 4] And what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled? [ 5] And Jesus an∣swering said, Take heed lest any deceive you. [ 6] For many will come in my name saying, I am He, and will deceive many. [ 7] But when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be not troubled; for it must be; but the end is not yet. [ 8] For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginning of sorrows. [ 9] * 1.331 But take heed to yourselves, for they will deliver you to councils, and ye shall be beaten in synagogues, and shall stand before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them. [ 10] † 1.332 And the gospel must first be published among all nations. [ 11] But when they shall hale you and deliver you up, take no thought be∣forehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye pre∣meditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour that speak; for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. [ 12] Now the brother shall be∣tray the brother to death, and the father the son: and children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. [ 13] And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake; but he that endureth to the end, he shall be saved.

[ 14] ‖ 1.333 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation spoken of by Daniel the prophet stand∣ing

where it ought not, (let him that readeth un∣derstand) then let them that are in Judea flee to the mountains: [ 15] And let not him that is on the house-top go down into the house, neither enter in, to take any thing out of his house. [ 16] And let not him that is in the field turn back to take up his garment. [ 17] But wo to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days. [ 18] And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter. [ 19] For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation, which God created until now, neither shall be. [ 20] And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened those days. [ 21] † 1.334 Then if any man say to you, Lo, here is Christ, or lo, he is there, believe it not. [ 22] For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if possible, even the elect. [ 23] But take ye heed: Behold I have foretold you all things.

[ 24] But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, [ 25] And the stars of heaven shall be fall∣ing, and the powers that are in the heavens shall be shaken. [ 26] And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds, with great power and glory. [ 27] And then shall he send his angels, and gather together his elect, from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth, to the ut∣termost part of heaven.

[ 28] ‡ 1.335 Now learn a parable from the fig-tree. When

its branch is now tender and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh. [ 29] So likewise when ye see these things come to pass, know that he is nigh even at the door. [ 30] Verily I say to you, this generation shall in no wise pass, till all these things be done. [ 31] Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall in no wise pass away.

[ 32] But of that day or that hour knoweth no one, no, not the angels that are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

[ 33] † 1.336 Take heed; watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. [ 34] For the Son of man is‡ 1.337 as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the porter to watch. [ 35] Watch ye therefore; for ye know not when the master of the house cometh; at evening, or at midnight, or at cock-crowing, or in the morning: [ 36] Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. [ 37] And what I say to you, I say to all, Watch.

V. 4. Two Questions are here asked; the one, concerning the Destruction of Jerusalem; the other concerning the End of the World.

V. 11. The Holy Ghost will help you. But do not depend on any other Help. For all the nearest Ties will be broken.

V. 14. Where it ought not—That Place being set apart for sacred Uses.

V. 19. In those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation—May it not be doubted, whether this be yet fully accomplished? Is not much of this Affliction still to come?

V. 20. The elect—The Christians: Whom he hath chosen—That is, hath taken out of, or separated from the World, thro' sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. He hath shortened—That is, will surely shorten.

V. 24. But in those days—Which immediately precede the End of the World; after that tribulation—Above described.

V. 29. He is nigh—The Son of Man.

V. 30. All these things—Relating to the Temple and the City.

V. 32. Of that day—The Day of Judgment is often in the Scriptures emphatically called That Day. Neither the Son—Not as Man: As Man He was no more Omniscient than Omnipresent. But as GOD He knows all the Circumstances of it.

V. 34. The Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey—Being about to leave this World and go to the Father, He appoints the Services that are to be performed by all his Servants, in their several Stations. This seems chiefly to respect Ministers at the Day of Judgment: But it may be applied to all Men, and to the Time of Death.

XIV.

‖ 1.338 And after two days was the feast of the pass∣over and of unleavened bread; and the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might apprehend him by subtilty, and put him to death. [ 2] But they said, Not at the feast, lest there be a tumult of the people. [ 3] * 1.339 And he being in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at table, there came a woman having an alabaster box of oint∣ment, of spikenard, very costly; and shaking the

box, she poured it on his head. [ 4] But there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made? [ 5] For this ointment might have been sold for more than three hundred pence and given to the poor. And they murmured at her. [ 6] But Jesus said, Let her alone: why trouble ye her? She hath wrought a good work on me. [ 7] For the poor ye have al∣ways with you, and when ye will, ye may do them good; but me ye have not always. [ 8] She hath done what she could: she hath before-hand em∣balmed my body for the burial. [ 9] Verily I say to you, wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, what she hath done shall be spoken of also, for a memorial of her.

[ 10] † 1.340 And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests, to betray him unto them. [ 11] And hearing it they were glad and promised to give him money. And he sought how he might con∣veniently betray him.

[ 12] ‡ 1.341 And on the first day of unleavened Bread, when they killed the passover, his disciples say to him, Where wilt thou that we go and prepare, that thou mayest eat the passover? [ 13] And he sendeth two of his disciples, and sayeth to them, Go ye into the city, and there shall meet you a man car∣rying a pitcher of water: follow him. [ 14] And where∣soever he shall go in, say ye to the man of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guest-cham∣ber, where I shall eat the passover with my disci∣ples? [ 15] And he will shew you a large upper room furnished: there make ready for us. [ 16] And his dis∣ciples

went forth, and came into the city, and found as he had said to them. And they made ready the passover.

[ 17] ‖ 1.342 And in the evening he cometh with the twelve. [ 18] And as they sat and ate, Jesus said, Verily I say to you, one of you that eat with me will betray me. [ 19] And they were sorrowful, and said to him one by one, Is it I? [ 20] And another, Is it I? And he an∣swering said to them, It is one of the twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish. [ 21] The Son of man indeed goeth as it is written of him; but wo to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed: it had been good for that man, if he had not been born.

[ 22] And as they ate, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body. [ 23] And he took the cup, and having given thanks, gave it them, and they all drank of it. [ 24] And he said to them, This is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many. [ 25] Verily I say to you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, till that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.

[ 26] * 1.343 And having sung the hymn, they went out toward the mount of Olives. [ 27] And Jesus saith to them, Ye will all be offended at me this night; for it is written, † 1.344 I will smite the shepherd, and

the sheep shall be scattered. [ 28] But after I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee. [ 29] But Peter said to him, Tho' all men shall be offended, yet will not I. [ 30] Jesus saith to him, Verily I say to thee, That thou to-day, this night, before the cock crow twice, wilt deny me thrice. [ 31] But he said the more vehemently, if I must die with thee, I will in no wise deny thee. In like manner also said they all.

[ 32] ‡ 1.345 And they come to a place named Gethsemane; and he saith to his disciples, Sit here while I shall pray. [ 33] And he taketh with him Peter and James and John; and he began to be sore amazed and in deep anguish, [ 34] And saith to them, My soul is ex∣ceeding sorrowful, even to death; tarry ye here and watch. [ 35] And going forward a little, he fell on the ground, and prayed, that, if it were possi∣ble, the hour might pass from him. [ 36] And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible to thee: take away this cup from me: yet not what I will, but what thou wilt. [ 37] And he cometh and findeth them sleeping, and faith to Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? Couldest thou not watch one hour? [ 38] Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. [ 39] And going away again he prayed, speaking the same words. [ 40] And returning, he found them asleep again (for their eyes were heavy) and they knew not what to answer him. [ 41] And he cometh the third time and saith to them, Sleep on now, and take your rest. It is

enough. The hour is come: behold the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. [ 42] Rise up; let us go: lo he that betrayeth me is at hand.

[ 43] * 1.346 And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh up Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great multitude, with swords and clubs, from the chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders. [ 44] Now he that betrayed him had given them a signal, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, is he: seize and lead him away safely. [ 45] And when he was come, he goeth straightway to him, and saith, Master, Master! And kissed him. [ 46] And they laid their hands on him, and took him. [ 47] † 1.347 And one of them that stood by, drawing a sword, smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear. [ 48] And Je∣sus answering said to them, Are ye come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs, to take me? [ 49] I was daily with you in the temple teach∣ing, and ye took me not; but that the scriptures may be fulfilled. [ 50] Then they all forsook him and fled. [ 51] And a certain young man followed him, having a linen cloth cast about his naked bo∣dy; and the young men laid hold on him. [ 52] And he left the linen cloth, and fled from them naked.

[ 53] ‡ 1.348 And they led Jesus away to the high priest, and with him assembled all the chief priests, and the elders and the scribes. [ 54] And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest, and sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire. [ 55] § 1.349 Then the chief priests and all the

council sought for evidence against Jesus, to put him to death, and found none. [ 56] For many bore flase witness against him; but their evidences were not sufficient. [ 57] And certain men arising bore false witness against him, saying, [ 58] We heard him say, I will destroy this temple made with hands, and in three days I will build another made with∣out hands. [ 59] And neither so was their evidence sufficient. Then the high priest rising up in the midst, asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou no∣thing? [ 60] What is it that these witness against thee? [ 61] * 1.350 But he held his peace and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him and said to him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed? [ 62] And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man, sitting at the right-hand of power, and coming with the clouds of heaven. [ 63] Then the high priest rent his clothes and saith, What farther need have we of witnesses? [ 64] Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be worthy of death. [ 65] And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say to him, Prophesy. And the servants smote him with the palms of their hands.

[ 66] † 1.351 And as Peter was in the hall below, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest. [ 67] And seeing Peter warming himself, she looked on him and said, Thou wast also with Jesus of Nazareth. [ 68] But he denied, saying, I know not, neither under∣stand

I what thou meanest. And he went out into the porch, and the cock crew. [ 69] And the maid seeing him again, said to them that stood by, This is one of them. [ 70] And he denied it again. And a little after, those that stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them; for thou art a Galile∣an, and thy speech agreeth thereto. [ 71] Then he began to curse and to swear, I know not this man of whom ye speak. [ 72] And the second time the cock crew. And Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, Before the cock crow twice, thou wilt deny me thrice. And he covered his head and wept.

V. 4. Some had indignation—Being incited thereto by Judas; and said—Probably to the Woman.

V. 10. Judas went to the chief Priests—Immediately after this Re∣proof, having Anger now added to his Covetousness.

V. 13. Go into the city, and there shall meet you a man—It was highly seasonable for our LORD, to give them this additional Proof both of his knowing all Things, and of his Influence over the Minds of Men.

V. 15. Furnished—The Word properly means, Spread with Car∣pets.

V. 24. This is my blood of the New Testament—That is, This I ap∣point to be a perpetual Sign and Memorial of my Blood, as shed for establishing the New Covenant, that all who shall believe in me, may receive all its gracious Promises.

V. 25. I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, till I drink it new in the kingdom of God—That is, I shall drink no more before I die•• the next Wine I drink, will not be earthly, but heavenly.

V. 27. This night—The Jews in reckoning their Days began with the Evening, according to the Mosaic Computation, which called the Evening and the Morning the First Day, Gen. i. 5. And so that which after Sun-set is here called this night, is, ver. 30. called to-day. The Expression there is peculiarly significant. Verily I say to thee, That thou thyself, confident as thou art, to-day, even within four and twenty Hours; yea, this night, or ever the Sun be risen; nay, before the cock crow twice, before three in the Morning, wilt deny me

thrice. Our LORD doubtless spake so determinately, as knowing a cock world crow o••••••, before the usual time of cock-crowing. By C. xiii. 35. it appears, that the third Watch of the Night, ending at three in the Morning, was commonly stiled the cock-crowing.

V. 33. So••e amaze••—The Original Word imports the most shock∣ing Amazement mingled with Grief: And that Word in the next Verse which we render sorrowful, intimates. That he was surrounded with sorrow on every Side, breaking in upon him with such Vio∣lence, as was ready to separate his Soul from his Body.

V. 36. Abba, Father—St. Mark seems to add the Word Father, by way of Explication.

V. 37. Saith to Peter—The zealous, the consident Peter!

V. 44. Whomsoever I shall kiss—Probably our LORD in great Con∣descension, Christ's had used (according to the Jewish Custom) to permit his Disciples to do this after they had been some Time absent.

V. 51. A young man—It does not appear, that he was one of Christ's Disciples. Probably hearing an unusual Noise, he started up out of his Bed, not far from the Garden, and ran out with only the Sheet about him, to see what was the Matter. And the young men laid hold on him—Who was only suspected to be Christ's Disciple; but could not touch them who really were so!

V. 55. All the council sought for witness and found none—What an

amazing Proof of the over-ruling Providence of GOD, considering both their Authority, and the Reward, they could offer, that no two consident Witnesses could be procured, to charge him with any gross Crime.

V. 56. Their evidences were not sufficient—The Greek Words literally rendered are, Were not equal: Not equal to the Charge of a capital Crime: It is the same Word in the 59th Verse

V. 58. We heard him say—It is observable, that the Words which they thus misrepresented, were spoken by Christ at least three Years. before, (John ii. 19) Their going back so far to find Matter for the Charge, was a glorious, tho' silent Attestation, of the unexcep∣tionable Manner wherein he had behaved, thro' the whole Course of his public Ministry.

XV.

‡ 1.352 And straightway in the morning the chief priests having consulted with the elders and scribes, and the whole council, having bound Jesus, carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate. [ 2] And Pilate asked him, Art thou the king of the Jews? And he answering said to him, Thou sayest it. [ 3] * 1.353 And the chief priests accused him of many things. [ 4] And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? Behold how many things they witness against thee. [ 5] But Jesus answered nothing any more, so that Pilate marvelled. [ 6] _____ _____ Now at every feast he released to them one prisoner, whomsoever they would. [ 7] And there was one named Barabbas, who lay bound with them that had made insurrecti∣on with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection. [ 8] And the multitude crying aloud, asked him to do as he had ever done for them. [ 9] And

Pilate answered them saying, Will ye that I release to you the king of the Jews? [ 10] (For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy) [ 11] But the chief priests stirred up the people to ask, that he would rather release Barabbas to them. [ 12] And Pi∣late answering said to them again, What will ye then that I do to him whom ye call the king of the Jews? And they cried out again, Crucify him. [ 13] Then Pilate said to them, Why, what evil hath he done? [ 14] But they cried out the more exceed∣ingly, Crucify him. [ 15] And Pilate, willing to satisfy the people, released Barabbas to them, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified.

[ 16] † 1.354 And the soldiers led him away into the hall called Pretorium, and call together the whole troop. [ 17] And they clothe him with purple, and having platted a crown of thorns, put it about his head. [ 18] And they saluted him, Hail, king of the Jews. [ 19] And they smote him on the head with a cane, and spit upon him, and bowing their knees, did him homage. [ 20] † 1.355 And when they had mocked him, they took the purple robe from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him. [ 21] And they compel one Simon a Cy∣renian, who was passing by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.

[ 22] * 1.356 And they bring him to the place, Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, the place of a skull. [ 23] And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh; but he received it not. [ 24] And when they

had crucified them, they part his garments, cast∣ing lots upon them, what every man should take. [ 25] And it was the third hour when they crucified him. [ 26] And there was an inscription of his accusation written over, THE KING OF THE JEWS. [ 27] And with him they crucify two thieves, one on his right hand, and one on his left. [ 28] And the scripture was fulfilled, which saith, † 1.357 And he was numbered with the transgressors. [ 29] ‡ 1.358 And they that passed by, reviled him, wagging their heads and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, [ 30] Save thyself, and come down from the cross. [ 31] In like manner also the chief priests mocking said to one another, with the Scribes; He saved others; cannot he save himself? Let the Christ, the king of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe. [ 32] They also that were crucified with him reviled him. [ 33] § 1.359 And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. [ 34] And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabacthani? Which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? [ 35] And some of them that stood by hearing it said, Behold, he calleth Elijah. [ 36] And one ran and fil∣ling a sponge with vinegar, put it on a cane, and gave him to drink, saying, Let alone; Let us see if Elijah will come to take him down.

[ 37] ‖ 1.360 And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and expired.

[ 38] And the veil of the temple was rent in twain, from the top to the bottom. [ 39] And the centurion, who stood over-against him, seeing that having so cried he expired, said, Truly this man was the

Son of God. [ 40] There were also women, beholding from afar, among whom was Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James the less, and of Joses, and Salome: [ 41] Who also when he was in Galilee, followed him and served him, and many other women who had come up with him to Jeru∣salem.

[ 42] * 1.361 And the evening being now come (because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the [ 43] sabbath) Joseph of Arimathea, an honourable counsellor, who also himself waited for the king∣dom of God, come and went in boldly to Pilate, and asked the body of Jesus. [ 44] And Pilate marvelled that he was dead already: and calling to him the centurion, he asked, If he had been any while dead? [ 45] And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. [ 46] And having bought fine linen, he took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre, which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone to the door of the sepulchre. [ 47] And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses, behold where he was laid.

V. 72. And he covered his head—Which was an usual Custom with Mourners, and was fitly expressive both of Grief and Shame.

V. 7. Insurrection—A Crime which the Roman Governors, and Pilate in particular, were more especially concerned and careful to punish.

V. 9. Will ye that I release to you the king of the Jews—Which does this wretched Man discover most? Want of Justice, or Courage, or common Sense? The poor C••ward sacristees Justice to popular Clamour, and enrages those whom he seeks to appease, by so un∣seasonably repeating that Title, The king of the Jews, which he could not but know was so highly offensive to them.

V. 16. Pretorium—The inner Hall, where the Pretor, a Roman Magistrate, used to give Judgment. But St. John calls the whole Palace by this Name.

V. 17. Purple—As royal Robes were usually purple and scarlet, St. Mark and John term this a purple Robe, St. Matthew a scarlet one. The Tyrian purple is said not to have been very different from scarlet.

V. 21. The father of Alexander and Rufus—These were afterwards two eminent Christians, and must have been well known when St. Mark wrote.

V. 24. 25. St. Mark seems to intimate, that they first nailed Him

to the Cross, then parted his Garments, and afterward reared up the Cross.

V. 34. My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me—Thereby claiming GOD as his GOD; and yet lamenting his Father's with∣drawing the Tokens of his Love, and treating Him as an Enemy, while He bare our Sins.

V. 41. Who served him—Provided him with Necessaries.

V. 42. Because it was the day before the sabbath—And the Bodies might not hang on the Sabbath-Day: therefore they were in Haste to have them taken down.

V. 43. Honourable—A Man of Character and Reputation; A Counsellor—A Member of the Sanhedrim. Who waited for the king∣dom of God—Who expected to see it set up on Earth.

V. 46. He rolled a stone—By his Servants. It was too large for him to roll himself.

XVI.

† 1.362 And when the sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Salome, had bought spices, that they might come and embalm him. [ 2] And very early in the morning, the first day of the week, they came to the sepul∣chre,

at the rising of the sun. [ 3] And they said one to another, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? [ 4] (For it was very great) And looking up they saw that the stone was rolled away. [ 5] And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right-side, cloathed in a white robe; and they were affrighted. He saith to them, Be not affrighted: ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. [ 6] He is risen: he is not here. Behold the place where they laid him. [ 7] But go, tell his disciples, and Peter, He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said to you. [ 8] And going out they fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: and they said nothing to any, for they were afraid. [ 9] ‡ 1.363 Now when Jesus was risen early, the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils. [ 10] § 1.364 She went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept. [ 11] But they, hearing that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not. [ 12] * 1.365 After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they were walking, going into the country. [ 13] And they went and told it to the rest, neither believed they them. [ 14] † 1.366 Afterwards he appeared to the eleven, sitting at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of Heart, because they believed not them who had seen him when he was risen.

[ 15] And he said to them, ‖ 1.367 Go ye into all the

world, and preach the gospel to every creature. [ 16] He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. [ 17] And these signs shall follow them that believe: in my name they shall cast out devils: they shall speak with new tongues: [ 18] They shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall in no wise hurt them: they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

[ 19] ‖ 1.368 So then the Lord, after he had spoken to them, was received up into heaven, and sat on the right-hand of God. [ 20] And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs follow∣ing.

V. 2. At the rising of the sun—They set out while it was yet dark, and came within Sight of the Sepulchre, for the first Time, just as it grew light enough to discern that the Stone was rolled away. (Mat. xxviii. 1. Luke xxiv. 1. John xx. 1.) But by the Time

Mary had called Peter and John, and they had viewed the Sepulchre, the Sun was rising.

V. 3. Who shall roll us away the stone—This seems to have been the only Difficulty they apprehended. So they knew nothing of Pilate's having sealed the Stone, and Placed a Guard of Soldiers there.

V. 7. And Peter—Tho' he so ost denied his LORD. What amazing Goodness was this?

V. 13. Neither believed they them—They were moved a little by the Testimony of these, added to that of St. Peter. (Luke xxiv. 34.) But they did not yet fully believe it.

V. 15. Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every crea∣ture Our LORD speaks without any Limitation or Restriction. If

therefore every Creature in every Age hath not heard it, either those who should have preached, or those who should have heard it, or both, made void the council of GOD herein.

V. 16. And is baptized—In Token thereof. Every one that believed was baptized. But he that believeth not—Whether baptized or unbaptized, shall perish everlastingly.

V. 17. And these signs shall follow them that believe—An eminent Author subjoins,

That believe with that very Faith mentioned in the preceding Verse.

(Though it is certain, that a Man may work Miracles, and not have saving Faith, Mat. vii. 22, 23.)

It was not one Faith by which St. Paul was saved; another, by which he wrought Miracles. Even at this Day in every Belie∣ver Faith has a latent miraculous Power: (Every Effect of Prayer being really miraculous:) Altho' in many, both because of their own Littleness of Faith, and because the World is unworthy, that Power is not exerted. Miracles in the beginning were Helps to Faith; now also they ••e the Object of it. At Leonberg, in the Memory of our Fathers, a Cripple that could hardly move with Crutches, while the Dean was preaching on this very Text, was in a Moment made whole.

Shall fellow—The Word and Faith must go before. In my name—By my Authority committed to them. Raising the Dead is not mentioned. So our LORD performed even more than He promised.

V. 18. If they drink any deadly thing—But not by their own Choice. GOD never calls us to try any ••••••h Experiments.

V. 19. The Lord—How seasonable is He called by this Title! After he had spoken to them—For forty Days.

V. 20. They preached every where—At the Time St. Mark wrote, the Apostles had already gone into all the known World. (Rom. x. 18.) And each of them was there known where he preached: The Name of Christ only was known throughout the World.

NOTES ON THE Gospel according to St. LUKE.

I.

FOrasmuch as many have undertaken to compose a narrative of the facts which have been fully confirmed among us, [ 2] Even as they who were eye-witnesses and ministers of the word from the beginning, delivered them to us: [ 3] It seemed good to me also, having accurately traced all things from their first rise, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, [ 4] That thou mayest know the certainty of those things wherein thou hast been instructed.

[ 5] THere was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daugh∣ters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. [ 6] And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. [ 7] And they had no child, because Elisa∣beth was barren, and they were both advanced in years. [ 8] And while he executed the priest's office before God, in the order of his course, [ 9] Accord∣ing to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn the incense, going into the temple of the Lord. [ 10] And the whole multitude of the People were praying without, at the time of the incense, [ 11] And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord, standing on the right side of the altar of incense.

[ 12] And Zacharias seeing him was troubled, and fear fell upon him. [ 13] But the angel said to him, Fear not, Zacharias; for thy prayer is heard, and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shall call his name John. [ 14] And thou shalt have joy and exultation, and many shall rejoice at his birth. [ 15] For he shall be great before the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mo∣ther's womb. [ 16] And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. [ 17] And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make

ready a people prepared for the Lord. [ 18] And Za∣charias said to the angel, Whereby shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife advanced in Years. [ 19] And the Angel answering, said to him, I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God, and am sent to speak to thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings. [ 20] And behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, till the day that these things are done, because thou believedst not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season. [ 21] And the people were waiting for Zacharias, and marvelled that he tarried so long in the temple. [ 22] And coming ••at, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple; for he beckoned to them, and remained speechless. [ 23] And when the days of his ministration were accomplished, he went to his own house. [ 24] And after these days, his wife Elizabeth conceived,

and hid herself five months, saying, [ 25] Thus hath the Lord done to me, in the days wherein he looked upon me, to take away my Reproach among men.

[ 26] And in the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God, to a city of Galilee, named Naza∣reth. [ 27] To a virgin of the house of David, espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, and the virgin's name was Mary. [ 28] And the Angel coming in to her, said, Hail, thou highly favoured; the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. [ 29] But she seeing him, was troubled at his saying, and reasoned, what manner of salutation this should be. [ 30] And the angel said to her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. [ 31] And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. [ 32] He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give him the throne of his father David. [ 33] And he shall reign over the house

of Jacob for ever, and of his kingdom there shall be no end. [ 34] Then said Mary to the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? [ 35] And the angel answering said to her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee; therefore also that Holy thing which shall be born, shall be called the Son of God. [ 36] And behold thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. [ 37] For with God, nothing shall be impossible. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord: be it unto me according to thy word. [ 38] And the angel departed from her.

[ 39] And Mary arose in those days, and went with haste into the hill-country, into a city of Judah, [ 40] And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Eli∣sabeth. [ 41] And when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb: and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost, [ 42] And cried with a loud voice and said, Blessed art thou among women,

and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. [ 43] And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? [ 44] For lo! when the voice of thy sa∣lutation sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy. [ 45] And happy is she that be∣lieved; for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord. [ 46] And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, [ 47] And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. [ 48] For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaid: for behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. [ 49] For he that is mighty hath done to me great things, and holy is his name. [ 50] And his mercy is on them that fear him, from genera∣tion to generation. [ 51] He hath wrought strength with his arm; he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. [ 52] He hath put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted them of low degree. [ 53] He hath filled the hungry with good things, but sent the rich empty away. [ 54] He hath helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of

[ 55] his mercy, As he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed for ever. [ 56] And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.

[ 57] Now Elisabeth's full time came, that she should be delivered, and she brought forth a son. [ 58] And her neighbours and relations heard, that the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her, and they re∣joiced with her. [ 59] And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child, and they called him Za∣charias, after the name of his father. [ 60] But his mother answering, said, Nay, but he shall be called John. [ 61] And they said to her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name. [ 62] And they made signs to his father, what he would have him called. [ 63] And asking for a writing-tablet, he wrote, saying, His name is John. And they mar∣velled all. [ 64] And immediately his mouth was open∣ed, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, blessing God. [ 65] And fear came on all that dwelt round about them, and all these things were noised abroad, in all the hill-country of Judea. [ 66] And all that heard them, laid them up in their hearts, say∣ing, What manner of child shall this be? And the hand of the Lord was with him. [ 67] And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying, [ 68] Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, [ 69] And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us, in the house of his servant David: [ 70] As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, who

have been since the world began: [ 71] That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; [ 72] To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant, [ 73] The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, [ 74] That he would grant us, being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, to serve him without fear, [ 75] In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. [ 76] And thou, child, shalt be a prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord, [ 77] To prepare his ways, To give knowledge of salvation to his people, by the re∣mission of their sins, [ 78] Thro' the tender mercy of our God, whereby the day-spring from on high hath visited us, [ 79] to shine on them that sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to direct our feet into the way of peace. [ 80] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts, till the day of his being shewn to Israel.

V. 1-4. This short, weighty, artless, candid Dedication, be∣longs to the Acts, as well as the Gospel of St. Luke.

Many have undertaken—He does not mean St. Mat••hew or Mark; and St. John did not write so early. For these were eye-witnesses themselves, and ministers of the word.

V. 3. To write in order—St. Luke describes in Order of Time, first, The acts of Christ: His Conception, Birth, Childhood, Baptism, Miracles, Preaching, Passion, Resurrection, Ascension: Then The Acts of the Apostles. But in many smaller Circumstances he does not observe the Order of Time. Most excellent Theophilus—This was the Appellation usually given to Roman Governors. Theophilus (as the Ancients inform us) was a Person of eminent Quality at Alexandria. In Acts i. 1. St. Luke does not give him this Title. He was then probably a private Man.

After the Preface St. Luke gives us the History of Christ, from his Coming into the World to his Ascension into Heaven.

Herein we may observe,

• I. THE Beginning; and therein,
  • 1. The Conception of John, C. i. 5—25
  • 2. The Conception of Christ, 26—56
  • 3. The Birth and Circumcision of John; the Hymn of Zacharias; the Youth of John, 57—80
  • 4. Christ's Birth, C. ii. 1—20
    • Christ's Circumcision and Name, 21
    • Presentation in the Temple, 22—38
    • Country and Growth, 39—40
• II. The Middle, when he was twelve Years old and up∣ward, 41—52
• III. The Course of the History.
• A. The Introduction, wherein are described John the Bap∣tist; Christ's Baptism; and Temptation, C. iii. iv. 1—13
• B. The acceptable Year in Galilee;
  • a. Proposed at Nazareth, 14—30
  • b. Actually exhibited,
• I. At Capernaum, and near it: Here we may observe,
  • I. Actions not censured, while Jesus,
    • 1. Teaches with Authority, 31—32
    • 2. Casts out a Devil, 33—37
    • 3. Heals many Sick, 38—41
    • 4. Teaches every where, 42—44
    • 5. Calls Peter; then James and John, C. v. 1—11
    • 6. Cleanses the Leper, 12—16
  • 2. Actions censured, more and more severally: Here occur,
    • 1. The Healing the Paralytic, 17—26
    • 2. The Calling of Levi; eating with Publicans and Sin∣ners, 27—32
    • 3. The Question concerning Fasting, 33—39
    • 4. The plucking the Ears of Corn, C. vi. 1—5
    • 5. The withered Hand restored; Snares laid, 6—11
  • 3. Actions having various Effects on various Persons,
    • 1. Upon the Apostles, 12—16
    • 2. Upon other Hearers, 17—49
    • 3. Upon the Centurion, C. vii. 1—10
    • 4. Upon the Disciples of John,
      • The Occasion: the young Man raised, 11—17
      • The Message and Answer, 18—23
      • The Reproof of them that believed not John, 24—35
    • 5. Upon Simon and the peni••••nt Sinner, 36—50
    • 6. Upon the Women that ministered to Him, C. viii. 1—3
    • 7. Upon the People, 4—18
    • 8. Upon his Mother and Brethren, 19—21
• II. On the Sea, and 22—26
• Beyond it, 27—39
• III. On this Side again;
  • 1. Jairus and the Flux of Blood, 40—56
  • ...

• ...
  • 2. The Apostles sent, C. ix. 1—6
  • 3. Herod's Doubting, 7—9
  • 4. The Relation of the Apostles, 10
  • 5. The Earnestness of the People; our LORD's Benig∣nity; five thousand sed, 11—17
• C. The Preparation for his Passion:
  • a. A Recapitulation of the Doctrine concerning his Person; his Passion foretold, 18—27
  • b. His Transfiguration; the Lunatic healed; his Passion again foretold; Humility enjoined, 28—50
  • c. His great Journey to Jerusalem, which we may divide into eighteen Intervals:
    • 1. The inhospitable Samaritans borne with, 51—57
    • 2. In the Way, improper Followers repelled, Proper ones prest forward, 57—62
    • 3. Afterward, the Seventy sent; and received again, C. x. 1—24
    • And the Scribe taught to love his Neighbour, by the Example of the Good Samaritan, 25—37
    • 4. In Bethany, Mary preferred before Martha, 38—42
    • 5. In a certain P••••••••, the Disciples taught to pray, C. xi. 1—13
      • A Devil 〈…〉〈…〉, and the Action defended, 14—26
      • The Accia••••ation of the Woman corrected, 27—28
      • Those who desire a Sign reproved, 29—36
    • 6. In a certain House, the Scribes and Pharisees censu∣red, 37—54
    • 7. Our LORD's Discourse to his Disciples, C. xii. 1—12
      • To one that interrupts Him, 13—21
      • To his Disciples again, 22—40
      • To Peter, 41—53
      • To the People, 54—59
    • 8. The Necessity of Repentance shewn, C. xiii. 1—9
    • A Woman healed on the Sabbath, 10—21
    • 9. The Fewness of them that are saved, 22—30
    • 10. Herod termed a Fox; Jerusalem reproved, 31—35
    • 11. In the Pharisee's House, He cures the Dropsy on the Sabbath; and C. xiv. 1—6
      • Teaches Humility, 7—11
      • Hospitality, 12—14
      • The Nature of the Great Supper, 15—24
      • The Necessity of Self-Denial, 25—35
    • 12. Joy over repenting Sinners defended, and C. xv. 1—10
      • Illustrated by the Story of the Prodigal son, 11—32
      • The unjust Steward, wise in his Generation, C. xvi. 1—13
      • The Pharisees reproved; and warned by the Story or 14—18
      • the rich Man and Lazarus, 19—31
      • Cautions against Scandals, C. xvii. 1—4
      • The Faith of the Apostles increased, 5—10
    • 13. In the Confines of Samaria and Calilee, He heals ten Lepers, 11—19
    • ...

• ...
  • ...
    • 14. Answers the Question, concerning the Time when the Kingdom of GOD should come, 20—37
      • Commends constant Prayer, C. xviii. 1—8
      • Recommends Humility by the Story of the Pharisee and Publican, 9—14
    • 15. Blesses little Children, 15—17
      • Answers the rich young Man, 18—27
      • And Peter, asking what he should have, 28—30
    • 16. Foretels his Passion a third Time, 31—34
    • 17. Near Jericho, cures a blind Man, 35—43
    • 18. In Jericho, brings Salvation to Zaecheus C. xix. 1—10
    • Answers touching the sudden Appearance of his King∣dom, 11—28
• D. Transactions at Jerusalem.
  • a. The four first Days of the great Week;
    • 1. His royal Entry, 29—44
    • 2. The Abuse of the Temple corrected, 45—46
      • Its Use restored, and 47—48
      • Vindicated, C. xx. 1—8
    • 3. His Discourses in the Temple:
      • 1. The Parable of the husbandmen, 9—19
      • 2. The Answer concerning paying Tribute, 20—26
      • And the Resurrection, 27—40
      • 3. The Question concerning the Son of David, 41—44
      • 4. The Disciples admonished, 45—47
      • 5. The poor Widow's Offering commended, C. xxi. 1—6
    • 4. His Prediction of the End of the Temple, the City, and the World, 5—38
    • 5. Judas's Agreement with the chief Priests, C. xxii. 1—6
• b. Thursday:
  • 1. Peter and John prepare the Passover, 7—13
  • 2. The LORD's Supper; Discourse after it, 14—23
  • 3. The Dispute, which of them was greatest, 24—30
  • 4. Peter, and the other Apostles warned, 31—38
  • 5. On the Mount of Olives,
    • 1. Jesus prays; is in an Agony; s••••••••nened by an Angel; wakes his Disciples, 39—46
    • 2. Is betrayed; unseasonably d••••••••••••d, 47—53
    • 3. Carried to the High-Priest's House, 54
      • Denied by Peter, 55—62
      • Mocked, 63—63
  • c. Friday:
    • 1. His Passion and Death: Transactions,
      • 1. In the Council, 66—71
      • 2. With Pilate, C. xxiii. 1—5
      • 3. With Herod, 6—12
      • 4. With Pilate again, 13—25
      • 5. In the Way, 26—32
      • 6. At Golgotha, where
        • The Crucifixion itself, and Jesus' Prayer, 33—34
        • His Garments parted, 34
        • ...

• ...
  • ...
    • ...
      • ...
        • Scoffs; the Inscription on the Cross, 35—39
        • The penitent Thief, 40—43
        • The Prodigies, and the Death of Jesus, 44—46
        • The Beholders of it, 47—49
    • 2. His Burial, 50—53
  • d. Friday Evening and Saturday, 54—56
  • e. His Resurrection, made known,
    • 1. To the Women, C. xxiv. 1—12
    • 2. To the Two going into the Country, and to Simon, 13—35
    • 3. To the other Apostles, 36—45
  • f. The Instructions given his Apostles; his Ascension, 46—53

V. 5. The course of Abia—The Priests were divided into twenty∣four Courses, of which that of Abia was the eighth, 1 Chron. xxiv. 10. Each Course ministered in its Turn, for seven Days, from Sab∣bath to Sabbath. And each Priest of the Course or Set in waiting, had his Part in the Temple-Service assigned him by Lot.

V. 6. Walking in all the moral Commandments, and ceremonial Ordinances, blameless—How admirable a Character! May our Behavi∣our be thus unblameable, and our Obedience thus sincere and uni∣versal!

V. 10. The people were praying without, at the time of the incense—So the pious Jews constantly did. And this was the Foundation of that elegant Figure, by which Prayer is in Script are so often compared to Incense. Perhaps one Reason of ordaining Incense might be, to intimate the Acceptableness of the Prayer that accompanied it; as well as to remind the Worshippers of that sacrifice of a sweet-smelling savour, which was once to be offered to GOD for them, and of that Incense, which is continually offered with the prayers of the saints, upon be golden altar that is before the throne, ReV. viii. 3.4.

V. 12. Zacharias was troubled—Altho' he was accustomed to converse with GOD, yet we see he was thrown into a great Con∣sternation, at the Appearance of his angelic Messenger, Nature not being able to sustain the Sight. Is it not then an Instance of the Goodness, as well as of the Wisdom of GOD, that the Services, which these heavenly Spirits render us, are generally invisible?

V. 13. Thy prayer is heard—Let us observe with Pleasure, that the Prayers of pious Worshippers come up with Acceptance before GOD; to whom no costly Perfume is so sweet, as the Fragrancy of an upright Heart. An Answer of Peace was here returned, when the Case seemed to be most helpless. Let us wait patiently for the LORD, and leave to his own Wisdom the Time and Manner wherein He will appear for us. Thou shalt call his name John—John signifies the Grace or Favour of Jehovah. A Name well suiting the Person, who was afterwards so hightly in Favour with GOD, and endued with Abundance of Grace; and who opened a Way to the most glorious Dispensation of Grace in the Messiah's Kingdom. And so Zacharias' former Prayers for a Child, and the Prayer which he, as the Re∣presentative of the People, was probably offering at this very Time, for the Appearing of the Messiah, were remarkably answered in the Birth of his Fore-runner.

V. 15. He shall be great before the Lord—GOD the Father. Of the Holy Ghost and the Son of GOD mention is made immediately after. And shall drink neither wine nor strong drink—Shal be exem∣plary for Abstermiousness and Self-denial; and so much the more filled with the Holy Ghost.

V. 16. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn—None therefore need be ashamed of "preaching like John the Baptist." To the Lord their God—To Christ.

V. 17. He shall go before him, Christ, in the power and spirit of Elijah—With the same Integrity, Courage, Austerity, and Fervor, and the same Power of GOD attending his Word: To turn the hearts of the fathers to the children—To reconcile those that are at Variance,

to put an End to the most bitter Quarrels, such as are very frequently those between the nearest Relations: And the hearts of the disobedient to the wisdom of the just—And the most obstinate Sinners to true Wisdom, which is only sound among them that are righteous before GOD.

V. 18. Zacharias said, Whereby shall I know this?—In how dif∣ferent a Spirit, did the blessed Virgin say, How shall this be? Za∣charias disbelieved the fact: Mary had no doubt of the Thing; but only enquired concerning the Manner of it.

V. 19. I am Gabriel that stana in the presence of God—Seven Angels thus stand before GOD, (Rev. viii. 2.) who seem the highest of all. There seems to be a remarkable Gradation in the Words, inhancing the Guilt of Zachariah's Unbelief. As it he had said, I am Ga∣briel, an holy Angel of GOD; yea, One of the highest Order. Not only so, but am now peculiarly sent from GOD; and that with a Message to thee in particular. Nay, and to shew thee glad tidings, such as ought to be received with the greatest Joy and Readi∣ness.

V. 20. Thou shalt be dumb—The Greek Word signifies deaf, as well as dumb: And it seems plain, that he was as unable to hear, as he was to speak; for his Friends were obliged to make Signs to him, that he might understand them, ver. 62.

V. 21. The people were waiting—For him to come and dismiss them (as usual) with the Blessing.

V. 24. Hid herself—She retired from Company, that she might have the more Leisure to rejoice and bless GOD, for his wonderful Mercy.

V. 25. He looked upon me to take away my reproach—Barrenness was a great Reproach among the Jews. Because Fruitfulness was promised to the Righteous.

V. 26. In the sixth month—After Elisabeth had conceived.

V. 27. Espoused—It was customary among the Jews, for Persons that married, to contract before Witnesses some time before. And as Christ was to be be b•••••• of a pure Virgin, so the Wisdom of GOD ordered it to be of one espoused, that to prevent Reproach He might have a reputed Father, according to the Flesh.

V. 28. Hail, thou highly favoured: the Lord it with thee; blessed art thou among women—Hail is the Salutation used by our LORD, to the Women after his Resurrection: Thou art highly favoured, or, hast found favour with GOD, ver. 30. is no more than was said of Noah, Moses and David. The Lord is with t••ce, was said to Gideon, (Judg. vi. 12.) and blessed shall she be above women, of Jael, (Judg. v. 24.) This Salutation gives no Room for any Pretence of paying Adoration to the Virgin; as having no Appearance of a Prayer, or of Worship offered to her.

V. 32. He shall be called the Son of the Highest—In this Respect also: And that in a more eminent Sense, than any, either Man or Angel can be called so. The Lord shall give him the throne of his father David—That is, the Spiritual Kingdom, of which David's was a Type.

V. 33. He shall reign over the house of Iacob—In which all true Believers are included.

V. 35. The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee—The Power of GOD was put forth by the Holy Ghost, as the immediate Divine Agent in this Work: And so He exerted the Power of the Highest as his own Power, who together with the Father and the Son is the Most High GOD. Therefore also—Not only as He is GOD from Eternity, but on this Account likewise He shall be called the Son of God.

V. 36. And behold thy cousin Elisabeth—Tho' Elisabeth was of the House of Aaron, and Mary of the House of David, by the Father's Side, they might be related by their Mother's. For the Law only forbad Heiresses marrying into another Tribe. And so other Persons continually intermarried: Particularly, the Families of David and of Levi.

V. 38. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord—It is not improbable, that this Time of the Virgin's humble Faith, Consent, and Expectation, might be the very Time of her con∣ceiving.

V. 39. A city of Judah—Probably Hebron, which was situated in the Hill-country of Judea, and belonged to the House of Aar••••.

V. 41. When Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary—The Di••••••urse with which she saluted her, giving an Account of what the Angel had said, the Joy of her Soul so affected her Body, that the very Child in her Womb was moved in an uncommon Manner, as if it leaped for Joy.

V. 45. Happy is she that believed—Probably she had in her Mind the Unbelief of Zacharias.

V. 46. And Mary said—Under a prophetic Impulse, several Things, which perhaps she herself did not then fully understand.

V. 47. My spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour—She seems to turn her Thoughts here to Christ Himself, who was to be born of her, as the Angel had told her, He should be the Son of the Highest, whose Name should be Jesus, the Saviour. And she rejoiced in Hope of Salvation thro' Faith in Him, which is a Blessing common to all true Believers, more than in being his Mother after the Flesh, which was an Honour peculiar to her. And certainly she had the same Reason to Rejoice in GOD her Saviour that we have: Because He had regarded the low estate of his handmaid—In like Manner as He regarded our low estate; and vouchsafed to come and save her and us, when we were reduced to the lowest Estate of Sin and Misery.

V. 51. He hath wrought strength with his arm—That is, He hath shewn the exceeding Greatness of his Power. She speaks pro∣phetically of those Things as already done, which GOD was about to do by the Messiah. He hath scattered the proud—Visible and in∣visible.

V. 52. He hath put down the mighty—Both Angels and Men.

V. 54. He hath helped his servant Israel—By sending the Mes∣siah.

V. 55. To his seed—His spiritual Seed; all true Believers.

V. 56. Mary returned to her own house—And thence soon after to Bethlehem.

V. 60. His mother said—Doubtless by Revelation, or a particular Impulse from GOD.

V. 66. The hand of the Lord—The peculiar Power and Blessing of GOD.

V. 67. And Zacharias prophesied—Of Things immediately to follow. But it is observable, he speaks of Christ chiefly; of John only, as it were, incidentally.

V. 69. An horn—signifies Honour, Plenty, and Strength. An horn of salvation—That is, a glorious and mighty Saviour.

V. 70. His prophets, who have been since the world began—F•••••• th••••e were Prophets from the very Beginning.

V. 74. To serve him without fear—Without any slavish Fear. Here is the Substance of the Great Promise, That we shall be always holy, always happy: That being delivered from Satan and Sin, from every uneasy and unholy Temper, we shall joyfully love and serve GOD, in every Thought, Word, and Work.

V. 76. And thou child—He now speaks to John; yet not as a Parent, but as a Prophet

V. 77. To give knowledge of salvation, by the remission of sins—The Knowledge of the Remission of our Sins, being the grand Instru∣ment of present and eternal Salvation, Heb. viii. 11, 12. But the immediate Sense of the Words seems to be, To preach to them the Gospel Doctrine of Salvation by the Remission of their Sins.

V. 78. The day-spring—Or the rising Sun; that is Christ.

II.

And in those days there went out a decree from Augustus Cesar, that all the world should be in∣rolled. [ 2] (Now this first inrolment was made, when Cyrenius was governor of Syria. [ 3] ) And all went to be inrolled, every one to his own city. [ 4] And

Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem (because he was of the family and houshold of David) [ 5] To be inrolled with Mary, his espoused wife, being with child. [ 6] And while they were there, the days were fulfilled, that she should be delivered. [ 7] * 1.369 And she brought forth her son, the first-born, and swathed him, and laid him in the manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

[ 8] And there were in the same country, she•••• ••••••∣lying out in the field, and keeping watch over their flock by night. [ 9] And lo an angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. [ 10] And the angel said to them, Fear not 〈◊〉〈◊〉 behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. [ 11] For to you is born 〈◊〉〈◊〉 day in the city of David, a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. [ 12] And this shall be a sign to you; ye shall find the babe, wrapped in swaddling-clothes, lying in a manger. [ 13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, prais∣ing [ 14] God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace; good-will toward men.

[ 15] And when the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us go to Bethlehem, and see this thing which is done, which the Lord hath made known to us. [ 16] And they came with haste, and found Mary and [ 17] Joseph, and the babe lying in the manger•• And having seen it, they made known abroad the say∣ing which was told them concerning this child. [ 18] And all that heard wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds. [ 19] But Mary kept all these things, comparing them together in her heart. [ 20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

[ 21] And when eight days were fulfilled, to circum∣cise the child, his name was called Jesus, which was named of the angel, before he was conceived in the womb.

[ 22] And when the days of purification were ful∣filled according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord: [ 23] (As it is written in the law of the Lord, * 1.370 Every male that openeth the womb shall be holy to the [ 24] Lord) And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord,† 1.371 A pair of turtle-doves, or two young pigeons.

[ 25] And behold there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and de∣vout,

waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. [ 26] And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. [ 27] And he came by the spirit into the temple. And when his parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, [ 28] He took him up in his arms, and blessed God and said, [ 29] Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: [ 30] For mine eyes have seen thy salvation; Which thou hast pre∣pared before the face of all people. [ 31] A light re∣vealed to the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. [ 32] And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. [ 33] And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother, [ 34] Behold this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be [ 35] spoken against, (Yea, and a sword shall pierce thro' thy own soul also) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

[ 36] And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher: she was far advanced in years, having lived with an husband seven years from her virginity. [ 37] And she

was a widow of about fourscore and four years, who departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers, night and day. [ 38] And she coming in at that hour, gave thanks to the Lord, and spake of him to all that were waiting for redemption in Jerusalem. [ 39] And when they had performed all things, according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth. [ 40] And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon him.

[ 41] Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year, at the feast of the passover. [ 42] And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem, after the custom of the feast. [ 43] And when they had ful∣filled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his

mother knew it not, But supposing him to be in the company, they went a day's journey; [ 44] and sought him among their kinsfolk and among their acquaintance. [ 45] And not finding him, they went back to Jerusa∣lem, seeking him. [ 46] And after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doc∣tors, both hearing them and asking them questions. [ 47] And all that heard him were astonished, at his un∣derstanding and answers. [ 48] And seeing him they were amazed. And his mother said to him, Son, why hast thou done thus to us? Behold thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. [ 49] And he said to them, Why sought ye me? Knew ye not, that I must be about my Father's business? [ 50] And they understood not the saying which he spake to them. [ 51] And he went down with them, and came to Naza∣reth, and was subject to them; but his mother kept all these things in her heart. [ 52] And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

V. 1. That all the world should be inrolled—That all the Inhabi∣tants, Male and Female of every Town in the Roman Empire, with their Families and Estates should be registered.

V. 2. When Cyrenius was governor of Syria—When Publius Sul∣picius Quirinus governed the Province of Syria, in which Judea was then included.

V. 6. And while they were there, the days were fulfilled th•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 should be delivered—Mary seems not to have known that the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 must have been born in Bethlehem, agreeably to the Prophecys 〈…〉〈…〉 the Providence of GOD took Care for it.

V. 7. She laid him in the manger—Perhaps it might rather 〈◊〉〈◊〉 translated in the stall. They were lodged in the O••-stall, sitted 〈◊〉〈◊〉 on Occasion of the great Concourse, for poor Guests. There was no room for them in the inn—Now also, there is seldom Room for Christ in an Inn.

V. 11. To you—Shepherds; Israel; Mankind.

V. 14. Glory be to God in the highest; on earth peace; good-will to∣ward men—The Shouts of the Multitude are generally broken into short Sentences. This rejoicing Acclamation strongly represents the Piety and Benevolence of these heavenly Spirits: As if they ha•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉, Glory be to God in the highest Heavens: Let all the Angelic Lo•••••••• resound his Praises. For with the Redeemer's Birth, Peace and all Kind of Happiness come down to dwell on Earth•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••∣flowings of Divine Good-will and Favour, are now ••••••••ffed toward Men.

V. 20. For all the things that they had heard—From Mary: as it was told them—By the Angels.

V. 21. To circumcise the child—That he might visibly be made under the law by a sacred Rite, which obliged him to keep the whole Law; as also that he might be owned to be the Seed of Abraham, and might put an Honour on the solemn Dedication of Children to GOD.

V. 22. The days—The forty Days prescribed, Lev. xii. 2, 4.

V. 24. A pair of turtle doves, or two young pigeons—This Offering sufficed for the Poor.

V. 25. The Consolation of Israel— A common Phrase for the Messiah, who was to be the everlasting Consolation of the Israel of GOD. The Holy Ghost was upon him—That is, He was a Prophet.

V. 27. By the spirit—By a particular Revelation or Impulse from Him.

V. 30. Thy Salvation—Thy Christ, thy Saviour.

V. 32. And the glory of thy people Israel—For after the Gentiles a•••• enlightened, all Israel shall be saved.

V. 33. Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken—For they did not yet throughly understand them.

V. 34. Simeon blessed them—Ioseph and Mary. This child is set for the fall and rising again of many—That is, He will be a savour of death to some, to Unbelievers; a savour of life to others, to Believers: And for a sign which shall be spoken against—A Sign from GOD, yet rejected of Men: But the Time for declaring this at large, was not yet come: That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed—The Event will be, that by Means of that Contradiction, the inmost Thoughts of many, whether good or bad, will be made manifest.

V. 35. A sword shall pierce thro' thy own soul—So it did, when He suffered; particularly at his Crucifixion.

V. 37. Fourscore and four years—These were the Years of her Life, not her Widowhood only. Who departed not from the temple—Who attended there at all the stated Hours of Prayer. But served

God with fastings and prayers—Even at that Age. Night and day—That is, spending therein a considerable Part of the Night, as well as of the Day.

v. 38. To all that were waiting for redemption—The Sceptre now appeared to be departing from Iudah, tho' it was not actually gone: Daniel's Weeks were plainly near their Period. And the Revival of the Spirit of Prophecy, together with the memorable Occurrences re∣lating to the Birth of John the Baptist, and of Jesus, could not but encourage and quicken the Expectation of pious Persons at this Time.

Let the Example of these aged Saints animate those, whose hoary ••••ads, like theirs, are a crown of glory, being found in the way of righteousness. Let those venerable Lips, so soon to be silent in the Grave, be now employed in the Praises of their Redeemer. Let them labour to leave those behind, to whom Christ will be as preci∣ous as he has been to them; and who will be waiting for GOD's Salvation, when they are gone to enjoy it.

V. 40. And the child grew—In bodily Strength and Stature; and waxed strong in spirit—The powers of his human Mind daily improv∣ed; filled with wisdom—By the Light of the indwelling Spirit, which gradually opened itself in his Soul; and the grace of God was upon him—That is, The peculiar Favour of GOD rested upon Him, even as M••n.

V. 43. The child Jesus—St. Luke describes in order Jesus the fruit of the womb, C. i. 42. an infant, C. ii. 12. a little child, ver. 40. a child here, and afterwards a man. So our LORD passed thro' and sanctified every Stage of human Life. Old Age only did not become Him.

V. 44. Supposing him to have been in the company—As the Men and Women usually trave••••d in distinct Companies.

V. 46. After three days—The first Day was spent in their Journey; the second, in their Return to Jerusalem; and the third, in searching for him there: They found him in the temple—In an Apartment of it: Sitting in the midst of the doctors—Not one Word is said of his dispu∣ting with them, but only of his asking and answering Questions, which was a very usual Thing in these Assemblies, and indeed the very 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of them. And if He was, with others, at the Feet of these Teac•• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 (where Learners generally sat) He might be said to be in the mi•••••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 them, as they sat on Benches of a semi-circular Form, raised above their Hearers and Disciples.

V. 49. Why sought ye me?—He does not blame them for losing, but|for thinking it needful to seek Him; and intimates, That He could not be lost, nor found any where, but doing the Will of an higher Parent.

V. 50. It is observable, that Joseph is not mentioned after this Time, whence it is probable, the did not live long after.

V. 52. Jesus increased in wisdom—As to his human Nature, and in favour with God—In Proportion to that Increase. It plainly follows, that tho' a Man were pure, even as Christ was pure, still he would have Room to increase in Holiness, and in Consequence thereof, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 increase in the Favour, as well as in the Love of GOD.

III.

* 1.372 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Cesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Iturea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of [ 2] Abilene, Annas being the high priest and Caia∣phas, the word of God came to John, the son of Zacharias, in the wilderness. [ 3] And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the bap∣tism of repentance, for the remission of sins: [ 4] As it is written in the book of the words of the pro∣phet Isaiah, saying, † 1.373 The voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. [ 5] Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways smooth: And all flesh shall see the salvation of God. [ 6] Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, [ 7] Ye brood of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? [ 8] Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance; and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham

to our father; for I say to you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children to Abraham.

[ 9] And now also the ax lieth at the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit, is hewn down and cast into the sire.

[ 10] And the multitude asked him, saying, What then shall we do? [ 11] He answering saith to them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise. [ 12] And publicans also came to be baptized, and said to him, Master, what shall we do? [ 13] And he said to them, Exact no more than what is appointed you. [ 14] And soldiers likewise asked him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said to them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your pay.

[ 15] And as the people were in expectation, and all mused in their hearts of John, whether he were not the Christ, [ 16] John answered, saying to them all, I indeed baptize you with water, but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and sire: [ 17] Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable sire. [ 18] And many other things in his exhortation preached he to the people. [ 19] But Herod the tetrarch being reproved by him concerning Herodias, his bro∣ther Philip's wife, and concerning all the evils which Herod had done, [ 20] Added also this above all, that he shut up John in prison.

[ 21] * 1.374 Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, [ 22] And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily form, as a dove, upon him, and a voice came from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved son, in thee I delight.

[ 23] And Jesus was about thirty years of age, when he began his ministry, being, as was supposed, the son of Joseph, [ 24] who was the son of Heli, The son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Janna, [ 25] the son of Joseph, The son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, [ 26] the son of Nagge, The son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Shimei, the son of Joseph, [ 27] the son of Judah, The son of Johanan, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Salathiel, [ 28] the son of Neri, The son of Melchi, the son of Addi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elmodam, [ 29] the son of Er, The son of Jose, the son of Eleazar, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi,

[ 30] The son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Johanan, the son of Eliakim, [ 31] The son of Melea, the son of Menan, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David, [ 32] The son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Booz, [ 33] the son of Salmon, the son of Naasson, The son of Aminadab, the son of Aaron, the son of Esrom, the son of Phares, [ 34] the son of Judah, The son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, [ 35] the son of Nahor, The son of Saruch, the son of Ragau, the son of Phalec, the son of Heber, [ 36] the son of Sala, the son of Cainan, the son of Ar∣phaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech, [ 37] The son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jareh, the son of Maleleel, the son of Cai∣nan, [ 38] The son of Enos, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.

V. 1. The fifteenth year of Tiberius Reckoning from the Time when Augustus made him his Colleague in the Empire. Herod being ••••••••••ch of Galilee—The Dominions of Herod the Great were, after his D••••••h, divided into four Parts or Tetrarchies. This Herod his Son was ••••••••rch of Galilee, reigning over that fourth Part of his Dominions. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Brother reigned over two other fourth Parts, the Region of ••urea, and that of Trachonitis (that Tract of Land on the other ••••de Jordan, which had formerly belonged to the Tribe of Manasseba) And Lysanias (probably desconded from a Prince of that Name, who was some Years before Governor of that Country) was Tetrarch of the remaining Part, Abilene, which was a large City of Syria, whose Territori•••• reached to Lebanon and Damasous, and contained great Numbers of Jews.

V. 2. Annas being high-priest and Caiaphas—There could be but one High-priest, strictly speaking, at once, Annas was the High-priest at that Time, and Caiaphas his Sagan or Deputy.

V. 5. Every valley shall be filled, &c.—That is, every Hinderanes ••••••ll be removed.

V. 6. The Salvation of God—The Saviour, the Messiah.

V. 8. Say not within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father— That is, trust not in your being Members of the visible Church, or

in any external Privileges whatsoever; for GOD now require a Change of Heart; and that without Delay.

V. 10. He answereth—It is not properly John, but the Holy Ghost, who teaches us in the following Answers, How to come ourselves, and how to instruct other penitent Sinners to come to Christ, that He, may give them Rest. The Sum of all is, Cease to do evil, learn to do will—These are the fruits worthy of repentance.

V. 20. He shut up Iohn—This Circumstance, tho' it happened after, is here mentioned before our LORD's Baptism, that his History

(that of John being concluded) may then follow without any Inter∣ruption.

V. 21. Jesus praying, the heaven was opened—It is observable, that the three Voices from Heaven (see Luke ix. 29, 35. John xii. 28.) by which the Father bore Witness to Christ, were pronounced either while He was praying, or quickly after it.

V. 23. And Jesus was—John's Beginning was computed by the Years of Princes: Our Saviour's, by the Years of his own Life, as a more august A••ra. About thirty years of age—He did not now enter upon his thirtieth Year (as the common Translation would induce one to think) but He now entered on his public Ministry: Being of such an Age, as the Mesaic Law required. Our great Master at∣tained not, as it seems, to the Conclusion of his thirty-fourth Year. Yet what glorious Achievements did He accomplish, within those narrow Limits of Time! Happy that Servant, who, with any pro∣portionable Zeal, dispatches the great Business of Life! And so much the more happy, if his Sun go down at Noon. For the Space that is taken from the Labours of Time, shall be added to the Rewards of Eternity. The son of Holi—That is the Son in-law; for Heli was the Father of Mary. So St. Matthew writes the Genealogy of Joseph, descended from David by Solomon; St. Luke that of Mary; descended from David by Nathan. In the Genealogy of Joseph (recited by St. Matthew) that of Mary is implied, the Jews being accustomed to marry into their own Families.

V. 38. Adam the son of God—That is, whatever the Sons of Adam receive from their human Parents, Adam received immediately from GOD, except Sin and Misery.

IV.

‖ 1.375 And Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost, re∣turned from Jordan, and was led by the spirit into the wilderness, Being forty days tempted by the devil. [ 2] And in those days he ate nothing, and when they were ended he hungered. [ 3] And the devil said to him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. [ 4] And Jesus an∣swered him, saying, It is written, * 1.376 Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. [ 5] And the devil leading him up into an high moun∣tain, shewed him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment. [ 6] And the devil said to him, All this power will I give thee, and the glory of them;

for it is delivered to me, and I give it to whomso∣ever I will. [ 7] If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine. [ 8] And Jesus answering said to him, It is written, † 1.377 Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. [ 9] And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on the battlement of the temple, and said to him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down from hence: [ 10] For it is written, ‡ 1.378 He shall charge his angels con∣cerning thee, to keep thee: [ 11] And in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. [ 12] And Jesus answering said to him, It is said, ‖ 1.379 Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. [ 13] And the devil having ended all the temptation, departed from him till a conve∣nient season.

[ 14] And Jesus returned in the power of the spirit into Galilee, and there went out a fame of him, thro' all the region round about. [ 15] And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all. [ 16] § 1.380 And he came to Nazareth, where he was brought up; and as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath, and stood up to read. [ 17] And there was delivered to him the book of the prophet Isaiah, and having opened the book, he found the place where it was written, [ 18] * 1.381 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to

preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to proclaim deliverance to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to publish the acceptable year of the Lord. [ 19] And having closed the book, he gave it again to the servant, and sat down. [ 20] And the eyes of all in the syna∣gogue were fastened on him. [ 21] And he said to them, To-day is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears. And they all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. [ 22] And they said, Is not this Joseph's son? And he said to them, Ye will surely say to me this proverb, Physician, heal thyself. [ 23] Whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in thy own country. [ 24] And he said, Verily I say

to you, No prophet is acceptable in his own country. [ 25] I tell you of a truth, Many widows were in Israel in the days of Elijah, * 1.382 when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, while a great famine was thro' all the land. [ 26] Yet to none of these was Elijah sent, but to Sarepta, a city of Sidon, to a widow. [ 27] And many lepers were in Israel, in the time of Elisha the prophet, yet none of them were cleansed, but † 1.383 Naaman the Syrian. [ 28] And all in the synagogue hearing these things, were filled with fury, [ 29] And rising up, thrust him out of the city, and brought him to the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, to cast him down headlong. [ 30] But he passing thro' the midst of them, went away.

[ 31] ‡ 1.384 And he came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days.

[ 32] And they were astonished at his teaching, for his word was with authority. [ 33] And there was in the synagogue a man who had a spirit of an unclean devil: and he cried out with a loud voice, saying,

Let us alone: What have we to do with thee, Jesus of Nazareth? [ 34] Art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy one of God. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. [ 35] And the devil having thrown him in the midst, came out of him, and hurt him not. [ 36] And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What word is this, that with authority and power he com∣mandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out! [ 37] And the fame of him went forth into every place of the country round about.

[ 38] * 1.385 And rising up out of the synagogue, he entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was ill of a great fever, and they besought him for her. [ 39] And standing over her, he rebuked the fever, and it left her: and immediately she arose and served them. [ 40] † 1.386 Now when the sun was se••, all that had any sick of divers diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. [ 41] And devils also came out of many, crying out and saying, Thou art Christ, the Son of God. And he rebuking them, suffered them not to say, that they knew he was the Christ. [ 42] ‡ 1.387 And when it was day, going out he went into a desert place: and the multitude sought him, and came to him, and detained him, that he might not depart from them. [ 43] And he said to them, I must preach the kingdom of God

to other cities also, for therefore am I sent. [ 44] And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee.

V. 1. The wilderness—Supposed by some to have been in Judea; by others to have been that great Desert of Horeb or Sinai, where the Children of Israel were tried for forty Years, and Moses and Elijah fasted forty Days.

V. 6. I give it to whomsoever I will—Not so, Satan. It is GOD, not thou, that putteth down one, and setteth up another: Although sometimes Satan, by GOD's Permission, may occasion great Revolu∣tions in the World.

V. 13. A convenient season—In the Garden of Gethsemane, Luke xxii. 53.

V. 14. Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit—Being more abun∣dantly strengthened after his Conflict.

V. 15. Being glorified of all—So GOD usually gives strong Cordials after strong Temptations. But neither their Approbation continued long, nor the outward Calm which He now enjoyed.

V. 16. He stood up—Shewing thereby, that He had a Desire to read the Scripture to the Congregation. On which the Book was given to Him. It was the Jewish Custom to read standing, but to preach sitting.

V. 17. He found—It seems, opening upon it, by the particular Providence of GOD.

V. 18. He hath anointed me—With the Spirit. He hath by the

Power of his Spirit which dwelleth in me, set me apart for these Offices. To preach the gospel to the poor—Literally and spiritually.

How is the Doctrine of the ever-blessed Trinity interwoven, even in those Scriptures where one would least expect it? How clear a Declaration of the great Three-One is there in those very Words, The Spirit—of the Lord—is upon Me! To proclaim deliverance to the captives, and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised—Here is a beautiful Gradation, in comparing the spiritual State of Men, to the miserable State of those Captives, who were not only cast into Prison, but, like Zedekiah, had their Eyes put out, and were laden and bruised with Chains of Iron.

V. 19 The acceptable year—Plainly alluding to the Year of Jubilee, when all both Debtors and Servants were set free.

V. 21. To day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears—By what you hear me speak.

V. 22. The gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth—A Per∣son of spiritual Discernment may find in all the Discourses of our LORD a peculiar Sweetness, Gravity, and Becomingness, such as is not to be found in the same Degree, not even in those of the Apos∣tles.

V. 23. Ye will surely say—That is, your Approbation now out∣weighs your Prejudices. But it will not be so long. You will soon ask, Why my Love does not begin at Home? Why I do not work Miracles here, rather than at Capernaum? It is because of your Un∣belief. Nor is it any new Thing for me to be despised in my own Country. So were both Elijah and Elisha, and thereby driven to work Miracles among Heathens, rather than in Israel.

V. 24. No prophet is acceptable in his own country—That is, in his own Neighbourhood. It generally holds, that a Teacher sent from GOD, is not so acceptable to his Neighbours, as he is to Strangers. The Meanness of his Family, or Lowness of his Circumstances,

bring his Office into Contempt: Nor can they suffer that he, who was before equal with or below themselves, should now bear a supe∣rior Character.

V. 25. When the heaven was shut up three years and six months— Such a Proof had they, that GOD had sent him. In 1 Kings xviii. 1. it is said, The word of the Lord come to Elijah in the third year: Namely, reckoning not from the Beginning of the Drought, but from the Time when he began to sojourn with the Widow of Sa∣repta. A Year of Drought had preceded this, while he dwelt at the Brook Cherith. So that the whole Time of the Drought was (as St. James likewise observes) three Years and six Months.

V. 28. And all in the synagogue were filled with fury—Perceiving the Purport of his Discourse, namely, that the Blessing which they despised, would be offered to and accepted by the Gentiles. So changeable are the Hearts of wicked Men! So little are their Starts of Love to be depended on! So unable are they to bear the clo•••• Application, even of a Discourse which they most admire!

V. 30. Passing thro' the midst of them—Perhaps invisibly; or per∣haps they were over-awed; so that tho' they saw, they could not touch Him.

V. 31. He came down to Capernaum—And dwelt there, entirely quitting his Abode at Nazareth.

V. 34. What have we to do with thee—Thy present Business is with Men, not with Devils. I know thee who thou art—But surely he did not know a little before, that He was GOD over all, blessed for ever: Or he would not have dared to tell Him, All this power is delivered to me, and I give it to whomsoever I will. The Holy one of God—Either this Confession was ext••••ted from him by Terror (for the Devils believe and tremble) or he made it with a Design 〈◊〉〈◊〉 render the Character of Christ suspected. Possibly it was from hence the Pharisees took Occasion to say, He casteth out devils by the prime of the dev••ls.

V. 40. When the sun was set—And consequently the Sabbath ended, which they reckoned from Sun-set to Sun-set.

V.

* And as the multitude pressed on him to hear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Genne∣sareth, [ 2] And saw two vessels standing by the lake; but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. [ 3] And going into one of the vessels, which was Simon's, he desired him to thrust out a little from the land. [ 4] And sitting down, he taught the multitude out of the vessel. When he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. [ 5] But Simon answering said to him, Master, having toiled all the night, we have taken nothing: Nevertheless at thy word, I will let down the net. [ 6] And having done this, they in∣closed a great multitude of fishes, and the net brake. [ 7] And they beckoned to their partners, who were in the other vessel to come and help them; and they came and filled both the vessels, so that they began to sink. [ 8] Simon Peter seeing it, fell down at Jesus's knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. [ 9] For astonishment seized him, and all that were with him, at the draught of fishes which they had taken. [ 10] And in like manner also James and John, the sons of Zebe∣dee, who were partners with Simon. [ 11] And Jesus said to Simon, Fear not: from henceforth thou shalt catch men. And when they had brought their vessels to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

[ 12] † 1.388 And when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy, who seeing Jesus fell on his face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt,

thou canst make me clean. [ 13] And stretching forth his ••••••••d he touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him. [ 14] And he charged him to tell no man: but go, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, * 1.389 as Moses commanded, for a testimony to them. [ 15] But the fame of him went abroad the more, and great multitudes came together, to hear and to be healed by him of their infirmities. [ 16] But he withdrew into the deserts and prayed.

[ 17] And on a certain day as he was teaching, there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, who were come out of every town of Galilee, and out of Judea and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. [ 18] † 1.390 And behold men bringing on a couch a man that was ill of the palsy; and they sought to bring him in, and lay him before him. [ 19] And not finding by what way they might bring him in thro' the multitude, they went up on the house, and let him down thro' the tiling with his couch into the midst, before Jesus. [ 20] And seeing their faith, he said to him, Man, thy sins are forgiven thee. [ 21] And the Scribes and the Pharisees reasoned, saying, Who is this that speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God only? [ 22] And Jesus knowing their thoughts, answered and said to them, Why reason ye in your hearts? Which is easier? [ 23] To say, Thy sins are forgiven thee? [ 24] Or to say, Arise and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath authority

on earth to forgive sins (he said to the paralytic), I say to thee, Arise, take up thy couch, and go to thine house. [ 25] And immediately rising up before them, and taking up that on which he lay, he went to his house, glorifying God. [ 26] And they were all amazed and glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.

[ 27] * 1.391 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom, and said to him, Follow me. [ 28] And leaving all, he rose up and followed him. [ 29] And Levi made him a great entertainment in his own house; and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them. [ 30] But the Scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, say∣ing, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? [ 31] And Jesus answering said to them, They that are whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. [ 32] I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. [ 33] † 1.392 And they said to him, Why do the disciples of John, and likewise of the Pharisees, fast often and make prayers; but thine eat and drink? [ 34] And he said to them, Can ye make the children of the bride-chamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them? [ 35] But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them: and t••en shall they fast in those days. [ 36] He spake also a parable to them, No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; otherwise both the new maketh a rent, and the piece out of the new agreeth not with the old. [ 37] And no man

putteth new wine into old leathern bottles: else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles will perish. [ 38] But new wine must be put into new bottles, and both are preserved. [ 39] And no man having drunk old wine, straightway desireth new; for he saith, The old is better.

V. 6. 〈…〉〈…〉 net brake—Began to tear.

V. 8. Depart from me, for I am a sinful man—And therefore not worthy to be in thy Presence.

V. 11. They forsook all, and followed him—They had followed Him before; (John i. 43.) but not so as to forsake all. Till now, they wrought at their ordinary Calling.

V. 16. He withdrew—The Expression in the Original implies, that He did so frequently.

V. 17. Sitting by—As being more honourable than the Bulk of the Congregation who stood. And the power of the Lord was present to heal them—To heal the Sickness of their Souls, as well as all bodily Diseases.

V. 19. Not being able to bring him in thro' the multitude, they went round about by a back Passage, and going up the Stairs on the out∣side, they, came upon the flat-roofed House, and let him down thro' the Trap••door, such as was on the Top of most of the Jewish Houses: Doubtless, with such Circumspection, as the Circumstancea plainly required.

V. 26. We have seen strange things to-day—Sins forgiven, Miracles wrought.

V. 28. Leaving all—His Business and Gain.

V. 29. And Levi made him a great entertainment—It was necessarily great, because of the great Number of Guests.

V. 33. Make prayers—Long and solemn Prayers.

V. 34. Can ye make—That is, is it proper to make Men fast and mourn, during a Festival Solemnity?

V. 36. He spake also a parable—Taken from Clothes and Wine; therefore peculiarly proper at a Feast.

V. 39. And no man having drunk old wine—And besides, Men are not wont to be immediately freed from old Prejudices.

VI.

* 1.393 And on the first sabbath after the second day of unleavened bread, he went thro' the corn-fields, and his disciples plucked the cars of corn, and ate, rubbing them in their hands. [ 2] And certain of the Pharisees said to them, Why do ye what it is not lawful to do on the sabbath-day? [ 3] And Jesus an∣swering them said, Have ye not read, even this, what David did, when himself hungered, and they that were with him? [ 4] † 1.394 How he went into the house of God, and took and ate the shew-bread, and gave also to them that were with him, which it is not lawful to eat, but for the priests only? [ 5] And he said to them, The Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath.

[ 6] ‡ 1.395 And on another sabbath also he went into the synagogue and taught. [ 7] And there was a man whose right-hand was withered. And the Scribes and the Pharisees watched, whether he would heal on the sabbath, that they might find an accusation against him. [ 8] But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man that had the withered hand, Rise and stand forth in the midst. And he arose and stood forth. [ 9] Then said Jesus to them, I will ask

you, Which is lawful on the sabbath, To do good, or to do evil? [ 10] To save life, or to kill? And look∣ing round upon them all, he said to him, Stretch forth thy hand; and he did so: and his hand was restored as the other. [ 11] And they were filled with madness, and talked one with another what they should do to Jesus.

[ 12] * 1.396 And in those days he went out into the moun∣tain to pray, and continued all night in the prayer of God. [ 13] † 1.397 And when it was day, he called to him his disciples, and chose twelve of them, whom also he named Apostles: [ 14] Simon (whom also he named Peter) and Andrew his brother: James and John; Philip and Bartholomew; [ 15] Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alpheus, and Simon called Zelotes, Jude the brother of James, [ 16] and Judas Iscariot, who also became a traitor. [ 17] And coming down with them, he stood on a plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multi∣tude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem, and the sea-coast of Tyre and Sidon, who were come to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases: [ 18] And they that were vexed with unclean spirits; and they were healed. [ 19] And the whole multitude sought to touch him; for virtue went out of him, and healed them all.

[ 20] ‡ 1.398 And lifting up his eyes on his disciples he said, Happy are ye poor: for your's is the king∣dom

of God. [ 21] Happy are ye that hunger now; for ye shall be satisfied: happy are ye that weep now; for ye shall laugh. [ 22] Happy are ye when men shall hate you, and shall separate you from their company, and shall revile you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. [ 23] Rejoice in that day and leap for joy: for behold your re∣ward is great in heaven; for in like manner did their fathers to the prophets. [ 24] But wo to you that are rich; for ye have your consolation. [ 25] Wo to you that are full; for ye shall hunger; wo to you that laugh now; for ye shall mourn and weep. [ 26] Wo to you, when all men shall speak well of you; for so did their fathers to the false pro∣phets.

[ 27] * 1.399 But I say to you that hear, Love your enemies; do good to them that hate you. [ 28] Bless them that curse you, pray for them that despitefully use you.

[ 29] † 1.400 And to him that smiteth thee on the cheek, of∣fer also the other: and him that taketh away thy cloke, forbid not to take thy coat also. [ 30] ‡ 1.401 Give to

every man that asketh thee, and of him that taketh away thy goods, ask them not again. [ 31] * 1.402 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. [ 32] For if ye love them that love you, what thank have ye? For sinners also love those that love them. [ 33] And if ye do good to them that do good to you, what thank have ye? For even sinners do the same. [ 34] And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? For even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. [ 35] But love ye your enemies, and do good and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your re∣ward shall be great, and ye shall be sons of the Highest? for he is kind to the unthankful and the evil. [ 36] Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. [ 37] † 1.403 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged; condemn not, and ye shall not be con∣demned; forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: Give, and it shall be given to you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall they give into your bosom. [ 38] For with the same measure that ye mete with, it shall be mea∣sured to you again. [ 39] And he spoke a parable to them, ‡ 1.404 Can the blind lead the blind? Will they

not both fall into the ditch? [ 40] * 1.405 The disciple is not above his master, but every one that is perfected, shall be as his master. [ 41] † 1.406 And why beholdest. thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but per∣ceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, thou thyself not seeing the beam that is in thine own eye. [ 42] Thou hypocrite, cast first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye. [ 43] For there is no good tree which bringeth forth corrupt fruit, neither a corrupt tree which bringeth forth good fruit. [ 44] For every tree is known by its own fruit; for they do not gather figs from thorns, nor from a bramble do they gather grapes. [ 45] A good man, out of the good treasure of his heart, bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man, out of the evil treasure of his heart, bringeth forth that which is evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh. [ 46] ‡ 1.407 And why call ye me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? [ 47] ‖ 1.408 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doth them, I will shew you to whom he is like. [ 48] He is like a man who built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when a flood arose, the stream broke vehe∣mently upon that house, but could not shake it; for it was founded on a rock. [ 49] But he that heareth and doth not, is like a man that built an house without a foundation upon the earth: against which the stream broke vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the breach of that house was great.

V. 1. The first Sabbath—So the Jews reckoned their Sabbaths, from the Passover to Pentecost; the first, second, third, and so on, till the seventh Sabbath (after the second Day.) This immediately preceded Pentecost, which was the fiftieth Day after the second Day of unleavened Bread.

V. 2. Why do ye—St. Matthew and Mark represent the Pharisees as proposing the Question to our LORD Himself. It was afterwards, probably, they proposed it to his Disciples.

V. 9. To save life, or to kill—He just then probably saw the De∣sign to kill him, rising in their Hearts.

V. 12. In the prayer of God—The Phrase is singular and em∣phatical, to imply an extraordinary and sublime Devotion.

V. 15. Simon called Zelotes—Full of Zeal; otherwise called Simon the Canaanate.

V. 17. On a plain—At the Foot of the Mountain.

V. 20. In the following Verses our LORD in the Audience of his newly-chosen Disciples, and of the Multitude, repeats, standing on the Plain, many remarkable Passages of the Sermon he had before delivered sitting on the Mount.

He here again pronounces the poor, and the hungry, the mourners, and the persecuted, happy: and represents as miserable those who are rich, and full, and joyous, and applauded: Because generally Prospe∣rity is a sweet Poison, and Affliction a healing, tho' bitter Medicine. Let the Thought reconcile us to Adversity, and awaken our Cau∣tion

when the World smiles upon us; when a plentiful Table is spread before us, and our Cup is running over; when our Spirits are gay; and we hear (what Nature loves) our own Praise from Men. Happy are ye poor—The Word seems here to be taken lite∣rally: Ye who have left all for me.

V. 24. Miserable are ye rich—If ye have received or sought your Consolation or Happiness therein.

V. 25. Full—Of Meat, and Drink, and worldly Goods. That laugh—That are of a light, trifling Spirit.

V. 26. Wo to you, when all men shall speak well of you—But who will believe this?

V. 27. But I say to you that hear—Hitherto our LORD had spoken only to particular Sorts of Persons; now He begins speaking to all in general.

V. 29. To him that smiteth thee on the cheek—Taketh away thy cloke— These seem to be proverbial Expressions, to signify an Invasion of the tenderest Points of Honour and Property. Offer the other—For∣bid not thy coat—That is, rather yield to his repeating the Affront or Injury, than gratify Resentment in righting yourself, in any Me∣thod not becoming Christian Love.

V. 30. Give to every one—Friend or Enemy, what thou canst spare; and he really wants: And of him that taketh away thy goods—By borrowing, if he be insolvent, ask them not again.

V. 32. It is greatly observable, our LORD has so little Regard for one of the highest Instances of natural Virtue, namely, the returning Love for Love, that He does not account it even to deserve Thanks. For even sinners, saith He, do the same: Men who do not regard GOD at all. Therefore he may do this, who has not taken one Step in Christianity.

V. 38. Into your bosom—Alluding to the Mantles the Jews wore, into which a large Quantity of Corn might be received. With the same measure that ye mete with, it shall be measured to you again—Amazing Goodness! So we are permitted even to carve for ourselves! We ourselves are, as it were, to tell GOD, How much Mercy He shall shew us! And can we be content with less than the very larges•• measure? Give then to Man, what thou designest to receive of GOD.

V. 39. He spake a parable—Our LORD sometimes used Parables, when He knew plain and open Declarations would too much inflame the Passions of his Hearers. It is for this Reason that He uses this Parable. Can the blind lead the blind?—Can the Scribes teach this Way, which they know not themselves? Will not they and their Scholars perish together? Can they make their Disciples any better

than themselves? But as for those who will be my Disciples, they shall be all taught of GOD; who will enable them to come to the measure of the stature of the fulness of their master. Be not ye like their Disciples, censuring others, and not amending yourselves.

V. 46. And why call ye me Lord, Lord—What will fair Profes∣sions avail, without a Life answerable thereto?

VII.

* 1.409 Now when he had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people, he entered into Caper∣naum. [ 2] And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear to him, was sick and ready to die. [ 3] And hearing of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, beseeching him to come and heal his servant. [ 4] And coming to Jesus, they besought him earnestly, saying, He is worthy for whom thou shouldest do this. [ 5] For he loveth our nation, and hath himself built us a synagogue. [ 6] Then Jesus went with them. And when he was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying to him, Lord, trouble not thyself; for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof. [ 7] Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come to thee; but speak in a word, and my servant shall be healed. [ 8] For I am a man set under authority, hav∣ing soldiers under me: and I say to one, Go, and he goeth, and to another, Come, and he cometh, and to my servant, Do this, and he doth it. [ 9] Jesus hearing these things, marvelled at him, and turning, said to the people that fol∣lowed him, I say to you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel. [ 10] And they that had been sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.

[ 11] And he went afterward to a city called Nain, and many of his disciples went with him and a great multitude. [ 12] And as he drew nigh the gate of the city, behold a dead man was carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a great multitude of the city was with her. [ 13] And the Lord seeing her, was moved with tender compassion for her, and said, Weep not [ 14] And coming near, he touched the bi•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the bearer•• stood still. [ 15] And he said, Young man, I say to thee, Arise. And the dead man sat up, and began to

speak: and he delivered him to his mother. [ 16] And fear seized all, and they glorified God, saying, A great prophet is risen up among us; and God hath visited his people. [ 17] And this rumour of him went forth through all Judea, and all the country round about.

[ 18] * 1.410 And the disciples of John informed him of all these things. [ 19] And John, calling to him two of his disciples, sent them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that is to come, or look we for another? [ 20] And the men being come to him, said, John the Bap∣tist hath sent us to thee, saying, Art thou he that is to come, or look we for another? [ 21] And in that hour he cured many of diseases and plagues, and of evil spirits, and to many that were blind he gave sight. [ 22] And he answering said to them, Go and relate to John the things ye have seen and heard: the blind see; the lame walk; the lepers are cleansed; the deaf hear; the dead are raised; to the poor the gospel is preached. [ 23] And happy is he, whosoever shall not be offended at me. And when the messengers of John were departed, he said to the people concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? [ 24] A reed shaken by the wind? [ 25] But what went ye out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Behold they that are splendidly apparelled, and live delicately, are in king's palaces. [ 26] But what went ye out to see? A prophet? Yea, I say, to you, and much more than a prophet. [ 27] This is he of whom it is written, † 1.411 Behold, I send my messenger before thy face,

who shall prepare thy way before thee. [ 28] For I say to you, among those that are born of women, there is not a greater prophet than John the Bap∣tist; but he that is least in the kingdom of God, is greater than he. [ 29] And all the people that heard him, and the publicans, justified God, being bap∣tized with the baptism of John. [ 30] But the Pharisees and the Scribes made void the counsel of God toward themselves, being not baptized of him. [ 31] To whom then shall I liken the men of this ge∣neration, and to what are they like? [ 32] They are like children sitting in the market-place, and cast∣ing one to another, and saying, We have piped to you, and ye have not danced; we have mourn∣ed to you, and ye have not wept. [ 33] For John the Baptist came neither eating bread, nor drinking wine; and ye say, He hath a devil. [ 34] The Son of man is come eating and drinking; and ye say, Behold a gluttonous man and a wine-bibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. [ 35] But wisdom is justified by all her children.

[ 36] And one of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him. And going into the Pharisee's house, he sat

down to table. [ 37] And behold a woman in the city, who had been a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, [ 38] And standing at his feet behind him weeping, watered his feet with a shower of tears, and wiped them, with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. [ 39] But the Pharisee, who had invited him, seeing it, spake within himself, say∣ing, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known, who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him; for she is a sinner. [ 40] And Jesus ••nsv••ring said to him, Simon, I have somewhat to say to thee. [ 41] And he saith, Master, say on. A certain creditor had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. [ 42] But they having nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. [ 43] Which therefore will love him most? Simon answering said, I suppose he to whom he forgave most. He said to him, Thou hast rightly judged. And turning to the woman, he said to Simon, Seest thou this woman? [ 44] I entered into thy house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath watered my seet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. [ 45] Thou gavest me no kiss; but she, from the time I came in, hath not ceased to kiss my feet. [ 46] Thou didst not anoint my head with oil: but she hath anointed my feet with oint∣ment

[ 47] Wherefore I say to thee, Those many sins of her's are forgiven; therefore she loveth much: but he to whom little is forgiven, loveth little. [ 48] And he said to her, Thy sins are forgiven thee. [ 49] And they that sat at table with him said within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? [ 50] And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee: go in peace.

V. 3. Hearing of Jesus—Of his Miracles, and of his Arrival at Capernaum.

V. 22. To the poor the gospel is preached—Which is the greatest Mercy, and the greatest Miracle of all.

V. 24. When the Messengers were departed—He did not speak the following Things, in the Hearing of John's Disciples, lest He should seem to flatter John, or to compliment him into an Adherence to his former Testimony. To avoid all Suspicion of this Kind, he deserted his Commendation of him, till the Messengers were gone; and then delivered it to the People, to prevent all Imaginations, as if John were wavering in his Judgment, and had sent the two Dis∣ciples for his own, rather than their Satisfaction.

V. 28. There is not a greater prophet than John—A greater Teacher. But he that is least in the kingdom of GOD—The least Teacher whom I send forth.

V. 29. And all the people—Our LORD continues his Discourse: Justified God—Owned his Wisdom and Mercy, in thus calling them to Repentance, and preparing them for Him that was to come.

V. 30. But the Pharisees and Scribes—The good, learned, honour∣able Men; made void the counsel, the gracious Design, of God toward them—They disappointed all these Methods of his Love, and would receive no Benefit from them.

V. 32. They are like children sitting in the market-place—So froward and perverse, that no Contrivance can be found to please them. It is plain, our LORD means, that they were like the Children com∣plained of, not like those that made the Complaint.

V. 35. But wisdom is justified by all her children—The Children of Wisdom are, those who are truly wise, wise unto Salvation. The Wisdom of GOD in all these Dispensations, these various Methods of calling Sinners to Repentance, is owned and heartily approved by all these.

V. 36. And one of the Pharisees asked him to eat with him—Let the Candour with which our LORD accepted this ••ivitation, and his Gentleness and Prudence at this ensuaring Entertainment, teach us to mingle the Wisdom of the Serpent, with the Innocence and Sweetness of the Dove. Let us neither absolutely refuse all Favours nor resent all Neglects, from those whose Friendship is at best very doubtful, and their Intimacy by no means safe.

V. 37. A woman—Not the same with Mary of Bethany, who anointed Him six Days before his last Passover.

V. 40. And Jesus said, Simon, I have somewhat to say to thee—So tender and courteous an Address does our LORD use even to a proud, censorious Pharisee!

V. 43. Which of them will love him most?—Neither of them will love him at all, before he has forgiven them. An insolvent Debtor, till he is forgiven, does not love, but fly his Creditor.

V. 44. Thou gavest me no water—It was customary, with the Jews to shew Respect and Kindness to their welcome Guests, by saluting them with a Kiss, by washing their Feet, and anointing their Heads with Oil, or some 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Ointment.

V. 47. Those many sins of her's are forgiven; therefore she loveth much—The Fruit of her having had much forgiven It should be carefully observed here, That her Love is mentioned as the Effect and Evidence, not the Cause of her Pardon. She knew that much had been forgiven her; and therefore she loved much.

V. 50. Thy faith hath saved thee—Not thy Love. Love is Salva∣tion.

VIII.

And afterwards he went through every city and village preaching and publishing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God; and the twelve [ 2] were with him, And certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and Infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had gone seven devils, [ 3] And Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, who ministered to him of their substance.

[ 4] * 1.412 And a great multitude being gathered together, coming to him out of every city, he spake by a para∣ble, [ 5] A sower went forth to sow his seed: and while he sowed, some fell by the highway-side; and it was trodden down, and the birds of the air devoured it. [ 6] And some fell upon the rock, and springing up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. [ 7] And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it, and choaked it. [ 8] And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and yielded fruit an hundred fold. And saying these things, he cried aloud, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. [ 9] And his disciples asked him, What is the parable? [ 10] And he said, To you it is given to know the mys∣teries of the kingdom of God, but to others in

parables, so that seeing they do not see, and hear∣ing they do not understand. [ 11] Now the para∣ble is this: the seed is the word of God. [ 12] Those by the highway-side are they that hear; then cometh the devil and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. Those on the rock are they, who when they hear, receive the word with joy. [ 13] But they have no root, who for a while believe; but in time of temptation fall away. [ 14] That which fell among the thorns, are they, who, having heard, go forth, and are choaked with cares, and riches, and plea∣sures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. [ 15] But that on the good Ground are they, who, hav∣ing heard the word, keep it in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with perseverance. [ 16] † 1.413 No man having lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they who come in may see the light. [ 17] ‡ 1.414 For there is nothing hid that shall not be discovered, neither any thing concealed, that shall not be known and come to light. [ 18] ‖ 1.415 Take heed therefore how ye hear; for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even what he most assuredly hath.

[ 19] § 1.416 Then came toward him his mother and his brethren, but could not come to him for the crowd. [ 20] And it was told him by some who said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. [ 21] And he answering said to them, My

mother and my brethren are these who hear the word of God and do it.

[ 22] * 1.417 And on a certain day he went into a vessel with his disciples: and he said to them, Let us go over to the other side of the lake. And they put to sea. [ 23] And as they sailed, he fell asleep. And there came down a storm of wind on the lake, and they were filled with water, and were in danger. [ 24] And coming to him, they awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish! And rising he rebuked the wind and the raging of the water, and they ceased, and there was a calm. [ 25] And he said to them, where is your faith? But they were afraid and wondered, saying one to another, What man∣ner of man is this? For he commandeth even the winds and the water, and they obey him.

[ 26] † 1.418 And they sailed to the country of the Gada∣renes, which is over against Galilee. [ 27] And as he went forth to land, there met him out of the city, a certain man that had devils a long time, and wore no clothes, neither abode in an house, but in the tombs. [ 28] But seeing Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him, and said with a loud voice, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou son of the most high God? I beseech thee, torment me not. [ 29] (For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man: for many times it had caught him, and he had been kept bound with chains and fetters, and breaking the bands asunder, he had been driven by the devil into the deserts.) And Jesus asked him, saying, What is thy name? [ 30] And he said, Legion; because many devils had entered into him. [ 31] And they besought him, that he would not command them to go away into the abyss. [ 32] And there was an herd of many swine feeding on the mountain: and they besought him,

that he would suffer them to enter into them: And he suffered them. [ 33] Then going the devils out of the man, entered into the swine; and the herd rushed down the steep into the lake and were sti∣fled. [ 34] And they that fed them, seeing what was done, fled, and went and told it in the city and in the country. [ 35] Then they went out to see what was done, and came to Jesus, and found the man out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Jesus, cloathed, and in his right mind; and they were afraid. [ 36] They also that had seen it related to them, How he that was possessed by the devils was healed. [ 37] † 1.419 Then the whole mul∣titude of the country of the Gadarenes round about, besought him to depart from them; for they were taken with great fear, and he went into the vessel and returned. [ 38] And the man out of whom the devils were departed, besought him that he might be with him. But Jesus sent him away, saying, Return home, and tell how great things God hath done for thee. [ 39] And he went and pub∣lished through the whole city, how great things Jesus had done for him.

[ 40] § 1.420 And when Jesus returned, the multitude gladly received him; for they were all waiting for him. [ 41] And behold there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue; and falling down at the feet of Jesus, he besought him to come to his house. [ 42] For he had an only daughter, about twelve years of age, and she lay dying. But as he went, the multitude thronged him. [ 43] And a woman who had had a flux of blood twelve years, and had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed by any, [ 44] Coming behind him touched the border of his garment, and im∣mediately her flux of blood stanched. [ 45] And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter

and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who is it that touched me? [ 46] And Jesus said, Some one hath touched me; for I know that vir∣tue is gone out of me. [ 47] And the woman, seeing that she was not hid, came trembling, and falling down before him, declared to him before all the people, for what cause she had touched him, and how she had been healed immediately. [ 48] And he said to her, Daughter, take courage: thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace. [ 49] While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead, trouble not the Master. [ 50] Jesus hearing it, answered-him, saying, Fear not; only believe, and she shall be made whole. [ 51] And coming into the house, he suffered none to go in, save Peter and John and James, and the father and mother of the maiden. [ 52] And all wept and bewailed her. But he said, Weep not; she is not dead; but sleepeth. [ 53] And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. [ 54] And he put them all out, and taking her by the hand, called, saying, Maid, arise. [ 55] And her spirit returned, and she arose straightway, and he commanded to give her to eat. [ 56] And her parents were astonished: but he charged them to tell no man what had been done.

V. 2. Mary Magdalene—Or Mary of Magdala, a Town in Galilte: Probably the Person mentioned in the last Chapter.

V. 15. Who—keep it—Not like the Highway-side: And bring forth fruit—Not like the thorny Ground: With perseverance—Not like the Stony.

V. 16. No man having lighted a candle—As if he had said, And let your good fruit appear openly.

V. 17. For nothing is hid—Strive not to conccal it at all; for you can conccal nothing long.

V. 18. The word commonly translated see••eth, wherever it oc∣curs, does not weaken, but greatly strengthen the Sense.

V. 29. For many times it had caught him—Therefore our compassion∣ate LORD made the more Haste to cast him out.

V. 31. The ab••ss—That is, the bottomless Pit.

V. 32. To enter into the swine—Not that they were any easier in the

Swine, than out of them. Had it been so, they would not so soon have dislodged themselves, by destroying the Herd.

V. 52. She is not dead but sleepeth—Her Soul is not separated finally from the Body; and this short Separation is rather to be called Sleep than Deuth.

IX.

* 1.421 And calling together the twelve, he gave them power and authority over all devils and to cure diseases. [ 2] And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick, [ 3] And said to them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, nor bread, nor money: neither have two coats apiece. [ 4] And into whatsoever house ye enter, there abide and thence depart.

[ 5] And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony against them. [ 6] And they de∣parted, and went thro' the towns preaching the gospel, and healing every where.

[ 7] † 1.422 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all the things that were done by him. [ 8] And he was per∣plexed, because it was said by some, that John was risen from the dead; and by some that Elijah had appeared; by others that one of the old pro∣phets was risen again. [ 9] And Herod said, John have I beheaded; but who is this of whom I hear such things? And he sought to see him.

[ 10] ‡ 1.423 And the apostles returning told him whatso∣ever they had done. And he took them and went aside privately into the desert of Bethsaida. [ 11] And when the multitudes knew it, they followed him, and he received them, and spake to them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. [ 12] § 1.424 And the day began to decline: And the twelve coming to him said, send the multitude away, that they may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge and find victuals: for we are here in a desert place. [ 13] But he faid to them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, we have no more than sive loaves and two fishes, except we should go and buy meat for all this people. [ 14] For they were about five thousand men. And he said to his disciples, Make the men sit down by fifties in a company. [ 15] And they did fo, and made them all sit down. [ 16] Then taking the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them and brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude. [ 17] And they all ate and were satisfied, and there was taken up of fragments that remained twelve baskets.

[ 18] ‖ 1.425 And as he was praying apart, his disciples were with him. And he asked them saying, whom say the people that I am? [ 19] they answering said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elijah; and others, that one of the old prophets is risen again. [ 20] He said to them, but whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God. [ 21] But he straitly charged and commanded them, to tell this to no man, saying, [ 22] The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests and Scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.

[ 23] And he said to all, if any man be willing to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up. his cross daily, and follow me. [ 24] ‡ 1.426 For whosoever desireth to save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake, he shall save it: [ 25] For what is a man prosited, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? [ 26] For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his father's, and that of the holy angels. [ 27] And I tell you of a truth there are some standing here, who shall not taste of death till they see the kingdom of God.

[ 28] † 1.427 And about eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into the mountain to pray. [ 29] And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment became white and glistering. [ 30] And behold two men talked with him, who were Moses and [ 31] Elijah, Who appearing in glory, spake of his decease, which he was about to accomplish at Je∣rusalem.

[ 32] But Peter and those with him were weighed down with sleep; and awaking they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. [ 33] And just as they were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus, Master it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tents, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah, not knowing what he said. [ 34] While he spake thus, a cloud came and overshadowed them, and they feared while they entered into the cloud. [ 35] And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son; hear ye him. [ 36] And when the voice was past Jesus was found alone: and they held their peace, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen.

[ 37] * 1.428 And the next day, as they came down from the mountain, a great multitude met him. [ 38] And behold a man from the multitude, cried aloud, saying, Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son; for he is my only child. [ 39] And lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out, and it teareth him, that he foameth, and bruising him, hardly departeth from him, [ 40] And I besought thy disciples to cast him out, and they could not. [ 41] And Jesus answering, said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and suf∣fer you? [ 42] Bring thy son hither. And as he was yet coming, the devil threw him down and tore him: and Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him again to his father. [ 43] And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. And while they all won∣dered at all things which Jesus did, he said to his disciples, [ 44] Let these sayings sink down into your ears;† 1.429 for the Son of man shall be delivered into

the hands of men. [ 45] But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from them, so that they perceived it not; and they feared to ask him of this saying. [ 46] And there arose a reasoning among them, which of them was the greatest? [ 47] ‡ 1.430 And Jesus seeing the reasoning of their heart, took a little child, and set him by him, [ 48] And said to them, whosoever shall receive this child, in my name, receiveth me; and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth him that sent me: for he that is least among you all, the same shall be great. [ 49] § 1.431 And John answering, said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbad him; be∣cause he followeth not us. [ 50] And Jesus said to him, forbid him not, for he that is not against you is for you.

[ 51] And when the days were fulfilled, that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem. [ 52] And sent messengers before his face, and they went and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. [ 53] But they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. [ 54] And his disci∣ples

James and John seeing it, said, Lord, wilt thou that we bid fire come down from heaven and consume them, even as Elijah did? [ 55] But he turning, rebuked them, and said, ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of: For the Son of man is not come to destroy mens lives, but to save them. [ 56] And they went to another village.

[ 57] * 1.432 And as they went in the way, one said to him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. [ 58] But Jesus said to him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests: but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. [ 59] And he said to another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. [ 60] Jesus said to him, Let the dead bury their dead, but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. [ 61] And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but suffer me first to bid them farewell that are in my house. [ 62] Jesus said to him, No man having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

V. 4. There abide and thence depart—That is, stay in that House till ye leave the City.

V. 7. It was said by some—And soon after by Herod, himself.

V. 8. That Elijah bad appeared—He could not rise again, because he did not die.

V. 18. Apart—From the Multitude. And he asked them—When He had done praying during which they probably staid at a Distance.

V. 22. Saying—Ye must prepare for a Scene far different from this.

V. 23. Let him deny himself, and take up his cross—The Necessity of this Duty has been shewn in many Places: the Extent of it is speci∣fied here, daily—Therefore that Day is lost wherein no Cross is taken up.

V. 31. In glory—Like Christ with whom they talked.

V. 32. They saw his Glory—The very same Expression in which it is described by St. John, ch. i. 14; and by St. Peter, 2 Ep. i. 16.

V. 34. A cloud came and overshadowed them all. And they, the Apostles, feared, while they (Moses and Elijah) entered into the cloud, which took them away.

V. 44. Let these Sayings sink down into your ears—That is, consider

them deeply. In Joy remember the Cross. So wisely does our LORD balance Praise with Sufferings.

V. 46. And there arose a reasoning among them—This Kind of Rea∣soning always arose at the most improper Times that could be ima∣gined.

V. 48. And said to them.—If ye would be truly great, humble your∣selves to the meanest Offices. He that is least in his own Eyes shall be great indeed.

V. 51. The days are fulfilled, that he should be received up—That is, the Time of his Passion was now at Hand. St. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 looks thro' this, to the Glory which was to follow. He stedfastly set his face—Without Fear of his Enemies, or Shame of the Cross. Heb. xii. 2.

V. 52. He sent messengers to make ready—A Lodging and needful Entertainment for Him and those with him.

V. 53. His face was as tho' he would go to Jerusalem—It plainly ap∣peared, He was going to worship at the Temple, and thereby, is Effect, to condemn the Samaritan Worship at Mount Gorixim.

V. 54. As Elijah did—At or near this very Place, which might put it into the Minds of the Apostles to make the Motion now, ra∣ther

than at any other Time or Place, where Christ had received the like Affront.

V. 55. Ye know not what manner of Spirit—The Spirit of Christi∣anity is. It is not a Spirit of Wrath and Vengeance, but of Peace, and Gentleness, and Love.

V. 58. But Jesus said to him—First, understand the Terms: Con∣sider, on what Conditions thou art to follow me.

V. 61. Suffer me first to bid them farewell that are in my house—As Elisha did, after Elijah had called him from his Plow, 1 Kings xix. 19. to which our LORD's Answer seems to allude.

V. 62. Is fit for the kingdom of God—Either to propagate or to re∣ceive it.

X.

After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two by two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself intended to come. [ 2] And he said to them,† 1.433 The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would

thurst forth labourers into his harvest, [ 3] § 1.434 Go: behold I send you forth as lambs in the midst of wolves. [ 4] Carry not purse or scrip or shoes, and salute no man by the way. [ 5] And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. [ 6] And if a son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again. [ 7] † 1.435 And remain in the same house eating and drink∣ing such things as they have; for the labourer is worthy of his hire: remove not from house to house. [ 8] And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you. [ 9] And heal the sick that are therein, and say to them, The kingdom of God is come nigh to you. [ 10] But into whatsoever city ye enter and they receive you not, going out into the street of it, say, [ 11] Even the dust of your city which cleaveth to our feet do we wipe off against you: yet know this, that the kingdom of God is at hand. [ 12] I say to you it shall be more tolerable for Sodom in that day than for that city. [ 13] * 1.436 Wo to thee, Chorazin, wo to thee, Bethsaida; for if the mighty works which have been done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sy∣don, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. [ 14] But it shall be more tolera∣ble for Tyre and Sidon, in the judgment than for you. [ 15] And thou Capernaum, which hast been exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. ‡ [ 16] He that heareth you, heareth me; and he that rejecteth you, rejecteth me; and he that rejecteth me, rejecteth him that sent me. [ 17] And the seventy returned with Joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject to us thro' thy name. [ 18] And he† 1.437

said to them, I beheld Satan falling as lightning from heaven. [ 19] Behold I give you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall in any wise hurt you. [ 20] Yet in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject to you; but rather rejoice, that your names are written in heaven. [ 21] * 1.438 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them to babes; even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight. [ 22] All things are delivered to me of my Father; and no one knoweth who the Son is, but the Father, and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son is pleased to reveal him.

[ 23] † 1.439 And turning to the disciples apart, he said, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see. [ 24] For I tell you, many prophets and kings have desired to see the things which ye see, and have not seen them, and to hear the things which ye hear, and have not heard them.

[ 25] ‡ 1.440 And behold a certain scribe stood up, and trying him, said, Master, what shall I do to inhe∣rit eternal life? [ 26] He said to him, What is written in the law? [ 27] How readest thou? And he answer∣ing, said,§ 1.441 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God

with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with neighbour as thyself. [ 28] And he said to him, Thou hast answered right:* 1.442 this do and thou shalt live. [ 29] But he willing to justify himself, said to Jesus, And who is my neighbour? [ 30] And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among robbers, who having stripped and wounded him, departed, leaving him half dead. [ 31] And it came to pass that a certain priest came down that way, and seeing him, passed by on the other side. [ 32] And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked, and

passed by on the other side. [ 33] But a certain Samari∣tan journeying, came where he was, and seeing him, was moved with tender compassion, [ 34] And going to him, bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and setting him on his own beast, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. [ 35] And on the morrow departing, he took out two pieces of money, and gave them to the host, and said to him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, as I come back I will repay thee. [ 36] Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was the neighbour to him that fell among the rob∣bers? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. [ 37] Then said Jesus to him, Go and do thou in like manner.

[ 38] And as they went, he entered into a certain village, and a certain woman named Martha re∣ceived him into her house. [ 39] And she had a sister called Mary, who also sitting at the feet of Jesus, heard his discourse. [ 40] But Martha was incumbered

with much serving; and coming to him she said, Lord dost thou not care, that my sister hath left me to serve alone? Bid her therefore help me. [ 41] But Jesus answering said to her, Martha, Martha! Thou art careful and hurried about many things: [ 42] But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen the good part, which shall not be taken from her.

V. 2. Pray ye the Lord of the harvest, that he would thrust forth la∣bourers—For GOD alone can do this; He alone can qualify and com∣mission Men for this Work.

V. 4. Salute no man by the way—The Salutations usual among the Jews took up much Time. But these had so much Work to do in so short a Space, that they had not a Moment to spare.

V. 6. A son of peace—That is, one worthy of it.

V. 11. The kingdom of God is at 〈◊〉〈◊〉—Tho' ye will not receive it.

V. 13. Wo to thee, Chorazin—The same Declaration Christ had made some time before. By repeating it now, He warns the seventy, not to lose Time by going to those Ci••••••.

V. 18. I beheld Satan—That is, when ye went forth I saw the Kingdom of Satan, which was highly exalted, swiftly and suddenly cast down.

V. 19. I give you power—That is, I continue it to you: And no∣thing shall hurt you—Neither the Power nor the Subtilty of Satan.

V. 20. Rejoice not so much, that the devils are subject to you, as that your names are written in heaven. Reader, so is thine, if thou art a true Believer. GOD grant it may never be blotted out!

V. 21. Lord of heaven and earth—In both of which thy Kingdom stands, and that of Satan is destroyed. That thou hast hid these things—He rejoiced not in the Destruction of the Wise and Prudent, but in the Display of the Riches of GOD's Grace to others, in such a Manner as reserves to Him the entire Glory of our Salvation, and hides Pride from Man.

V. 22. Who the Son is—Essentially One with the Father: Who the Father is—How great, how wise, how good!

V. 27. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God—That is, thou shalt unite

all the Faculties of thy Soul to render him the most intelligent and sincere, the most affectionate and resolute Service. We may safely rest in this general Sense of these important Words, if we are not able to six the particular Meaning of every single Word. If we desire to do this, perhaps the Heart, which is a general Expression, may be explained by the three following, With all thy soul, with the warniest Affection, with all thy strength, the most vigorous Efforts of thy Will, and with all thy mind, or Understanding, in the most wise and reason∣able Manner thou canst, thy Understanding guiding thy Will and Affections.

V. 28. Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live—Here is no Irony, but a deep and weighty Truth. He, and he alone, shall live for ever, who thus loves GOD and his Neighbour in the present Life.

V. 29. To justify himself—That is, to shew he had done this.

V. 30. From Jerusalem to Jericho—The Road from Jerusalem to Jericho (about eighteen Miles from it) lay thro' desert and rocky Places: So many Robberies and Murders were committed therein, that it was called The bloody Way. Jericho was situated in a Valley: Hence the Phrase of going down to it. About twelve thousand Priests and Levites dwelt there, who all attended the Service of the Themple.

V. 31. The common Translation is, By chance—Which is full of gross Improprieties. For if we speak strictly, there is no such Thing in the Universe as either Chance or Fortune. A certain priest came down that way, and passed by on the other side—And both he and the Levite, no Doubt, could find an Excuse for passing over on the other Side, and might perhaps gravely thank GOD for their own Deliverance, while they left their Brother bleeding to Death. Is it not an Emblem of many living Characters, perhaps of some who bear the sacred Office? O House of Levi and of Aaron, is not the Day coming, when the Virtues of Heathens and Samaritans will rise up in the Judgment against you?

V. 33. But a certain Samaritan came where he was—It was ad∣mirably well judged, to represent the Distress on the Side of the Jew, and the Mercy on that of the Samaritan. For the Case being thus proposed, Self-interest would make the very Scribe sen∣sible, how amiable such a Conduct was, and would lay him open to our LORD's Inference. Had it been put the other Way, Prejudice might more easily have interposed, before the Heart could have been affected.

V. 34. Pouring in oil and wine—Which, when well beaten toge∣ther, are one of the best Balsams that can be applied to a fresh Wound.

V. 36. Which of these was the neighbour to him that fell among the robbers—Which acted the Part of a Neighbour?

V. 37. And he said, He that shewed mercy on him—He could not for Shame say otherwise, tho' he thereby condemned himself, and overthrew his own false Notion of the Neighbour to whom our Love is due. Go and do thou in like manner—Let us go and do likewise, regard∣ing every Man as our Neighbour who needs our Assistance. Let us renounce that Bigotry and Party Zeal which would contract our Hearts, into an Insensibility for all the human Race, but a small Number whose Sentiments and Practices are so much our own, that our Love to them is but Self-love reflected. With an honest Openness of Mind let us always remember the Kindred between Man and Man, and cultivate that happy Instinct whereby in the original Constitution of our Nature, GOD has strongly bound us to each other.

V. 40. Martha was incumbered—The Greek Word properly signi∣fies,

To be drawn different Ways at the same Time, and admirably expresses the Situation of a Mind, surrounded (as Martha's then was) with so many Objects of Care, that it hardly knows which to attend to first.

V. 41. Martha, Martha!—There is a peculiar Spirit and Ten∣derness in the Repetition of the Word: Thou art careful, inwardly, and hurried, ourwardly.

V. 42. Mary hath chosen the good part—To save her Soul. Reader, hast thou?

XI.

And as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. [ 2] * 1.443 And he said to them, when ye pray, say, Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. [ 3] Thy kingdom come: Thy will be done as in heaven, so on earth. Give us day by

day our daily bread. [ 4] And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. [ 5] And he saith to them, which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, Friend, lend me three loaves: [ 6] For a friend of mine on his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him: [ 7] And he from within shall answer, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed: I cannot rise and give thee? [ 8] I tell you, tho' he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity, he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. [ 9] * 1.444 And I say to you, Ask and it shall be given you, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you. [ 10] For every one that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. [ 11] If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? Or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a ser∣pent? [ 12] Or if he shall ask an egg, will he give him a scorpion? [ 13] If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?

[ 14] And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb: and when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake, and the multitude wondered. [ 15] ‡ 1.445 But some of them said, He casteth out devils by Beelzebub the prince† 1.446

of the devils: [ 16] * 1.447 And others tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven. [ 17] But he knowing their thoughts, said to them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and a house divided against a house falleth. [ 18] If Satan then be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? Because ye say that I cast out devils by Beelzebub. [ 19] And if I cast out devils by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. [ 20] But if I cast out devils by the singer of God, then the kingdom of God is come upon you. [ 21] While the strong one armed guardeth his palace, his good are in peace. [ 22] But when he that is stronger than him cometh upon him and overcometh him, he taketh from him his compleat armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his speds [ 23] He that is not with me is against me, and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. [ 24] _____ _____ When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh thro' dry places, seeking rest: and finding none, he saith, I will return to my house whence I came out. [ 25] And coming he findeth u swept and garnished. [ 26] Then goeth he and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and enter∣ing in they dwell there; and the last state of that man becometh worse than the first.

[ 27] As he spake these things, a certain woman lifting up her voice out of the multitude said to him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked! [ 28] But he said, Yea, rather blessed are they, that hear the word of God and keep it. [ 29] And the multitudes being gathered thick together, he said, This is an evil generation: it seeketh a sign; but no sign shall be given it, save the sign of Jonah. [ 30] For as Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation. [ 31] The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and behold, a greater than Solomon is here. [ 32] The Ninevites shall rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and behold a greater than Jonah is here.

[ 33] * 1.448 No man having lighted a candle, putteth it

in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they who come in may see the light. [ 34] * 1.449 The eye is the lamp of the body: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body is full of light, but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness. [ 35] Take heed therefore, lest the light that is in thee be darkness. [ 36] If then thy whole body be full of light, not having any park dark, the whole shall be as full of light, as when a lamp enlighteneth thee with its bright shining.

[ 37] And as he spake, a certain Pharisee asked him to dine with him. And he went in and sat down to table. [ 38] But the Pharisee seeing it, marvelled, that he had not first washed himself before dinner. [ 39] † 1.450 Now ye Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and dish; but your inward part is full of rapine and wickedness. [ 40] Ye unthinking men, did not he that made the outside, make the inside also? [ 41] But give what is in them in alms, and behold all things are clean to you. [ 42] But wo to you, Pharisees; for ye tythe mint and rue and all herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. [ 43] Wo to you, Pharisees; for ye love the uppermost feats in the synagogues, and salutations in the markets. [ 44] Wo to you; for ye are as graves which appear not, and men that

walk over them are not aware. [ 45] And one of the lawyers answering said to him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also. [ 46] And he said, Wo to you lawyers also; for ye load men with burthens grie∣vous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burthens with one of your singers. [ 47] Wo to you; for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them. [ 48] Truly ye bare witness that ye approve the deeds of your fathers: for whom they killed, ye build their sepulchres. [ 49] * 1.451 Therefore also the wisdom of God hath said, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they will kill, and perfecute the rest. [ 50] So that the blood of all the prophets shed from the foundation of the world, shall be required of this generation. [ 51] From the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who was destroyed between the tem∣ple and the altar: Verily I say to you, it shall be required of this generation. [ 52] Wo to you lawyers; for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye

have not entered in yourselves; and them that were entering in, ye have hindered. [ 53] And as he said these things to them, the Scribes and the Pharisees began fiercely to fasten upon him, and to urge him to speak of many things, [ 54] Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.

V. 1. Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples—The Jewish Masters used to give their Followers some short Form of Prayer, as a peculiar Badge of their Relation to them. This it is probable John the Baptist had done. And in this Sense it seems to be, that the Disciples now asked Jesus, to teach them to pray. Ac∣cordingly ••e here repeats that Form, which He had before given them in his Sermon on the Mount, and likewise enlarges on the same Head, tho' still speaking the same Things in Substance. And this Prayer, uttered from the H••art, and in its true and full Meaning, is indeed the Badge of a real Christian: For is not he such whose first and most ardent D••sire, is the Glory of GOD, and the Happiness of Man, by the coming of his Kingdom? Who asks for ••o more of this World than his daily Bread, longing mean Time for the Bread that came down from Heaven? And whose only Desires for himself are Forgiveness of Sins (as he heartily forgives others) and Sancti∣fication?

V. 2. When ye pray, say—And what He said to them, is undoubt∣edly said to us also. We are therefore here directed, not only, to imitate this in all our Prayers, but to use this very Form of Prayer.

V. 4. Forgive us; for we forgive—Not once, but continually. This does not denote the meritorious Cause of our Pardon; but the, Removal of that Hinderance, which otherwise would render it impos∣sible.

V. 5. At midnight—The most unseasonable Time: But no Time is unseasonable with GOD, either for hearing or answering Prayer.

V. 13. How much more shall your heavenly Father—How beautiful is the Gradation? A Friend: A Father: GOD! Give the Holy Spi∣rit—The best of Gifts, and that which includes every good Gift.

V. 14. It was dumb—That is, it made the Man so.

V. 15. But some said, He casteth out devils by Beelzebub—These He answers ver. 17. Others, to try whether it were so or no, sought

a sign from heaven. These he reproves in the 29th and following V•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Beelzebub signifies the Lord of flies, a Title which the Hea∣thens gave to Jupiter, whom they accounted the chief of their GODS, and yet supposed him to b•• employed in driving away 〈◊〉〈◊〉 from their Temples and Sacrifices. The Ph••••sties worshipped a Deity under this Name, as the God of Ekron: From hence the Jews took the Name, and applied it to the chief of the Devils.

V. 17. A house—That is 〈…〉〈…〉.

V. 20. If I cast out 〈…〉〈…〉 of God—That is, by a Power manifestly 〈…〉〈…〉 Expression intiniates farther, That it was done 〈…〉〈…〉: Then the kingdom of God is come upon you—Unwares, unexpectedly: So the Greek Word implies.

V. 21. The strong one armed—The Devil, strong in himself, and armed with the Pride, Obstinacy, and Security of him in whom be dwells.

V. 26. The last state of that man becometh worse than the first— Who∣ever reads the sad Account Josephus gives of the Temper and Conduct

of the Jews, after the Ascension of Christ and before their sinal De∣struction by the Romans, must acknowledge that no Emblem could have been more proper to describe them. Their Characters were the vilest that can be conceived, and they pressed on to their own Ruin, as if they had been possest by Regions of Devils, and wrought up to the last Degree of Madness. But this also is fulfilled in all who totally and finally apostatize from true Faith.

V. 27. Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked!—How natural was the Thought for a Woman! And how gently does our LORD reprove her!

V. 28. Yea, rather blessed are they, that beer the word of God and keep it—For if even she that bare Him had not done this, she would have forfeited all her Blessedness.

V. 29. It seeketh—The Original Word implies seeking more, or over and above what one has already.

V. 32. They repented at the preaching of Jonah—But it was only for a Season. Afterwards they relapsed into Wickedness, till (after about forty Years) they were destroyed. It is remarkable, that in this also the Comparison held. GOD reprieved the Jews for about forty Years: But they still advanced in Wickedness, till having fil∣led up their Measure, they were destroyed with an utter Destruction.

V. 33. The Meaning is, GOD gives you this Gospel-light, that you may repent. Let your Eye be singly fixt on Him, alm only at pleasing GOD; and while you do this, your whole Soul will be full of Wisdom, Holiness, and Happiness.

V. 34. But when thine eye is evil—When thou almest at any Thing else, thou wilt be full of Folly, Sin, and Misery. On the contrary.

V. 36. If thy whole body be full of light—If thou art filled with Holy Wisdom, having no part dark, giving Way to no Sin or Folly, then that Heavenly Principle will, like the clear Flame of a Lamp in a Room that was dark before, shed its Light into all thy Powers and Faculties.

V. 39. Now ye Pharisees—Probably many of them were present at a Pharisee's House.

V. 41. Give what is in them—The Vessels which ye clean, in alms, and all things are clean to you. As if He had said, By Acts directly contrary to Rapine and Wickedness, shew that your Hearts are cleansed, and these outward Washings are needless.

V. 42. Wo to you—That is, Miserable are you. In the same Man∣ner is the Phrase to be understood throughout the Chapter.

V. 44. For ye are as graves which appear not—P〈7 letters〉〈7 letters〉, i•• speak∣ing this our LORD fixed his Eyes on the Scribes. As 〈…〉〈…〉

appear not, being over-grown with Grass, so that men are not aware, till they stumble upon them, and either hurt themselves, or at least are defiled by touching them. On another Occasion Christ compared them to whited sepulchres, fair without, but foul within, Mat. xxiii. 27.

V. 45. One of the lawyers— That is, Scribes; Expounders of the Law.

V. 48. Whom they killed, ye build their sepulchres—Just like them pre∣tending great Reverence for the ancient Prophets, while ye destroy those whom GOD sends to yourselves. Ye therefore bear Witness by this deep Hypocrisy that ye are of the very same Spirit with them.

V. 49. The Wisdom of God, agreeably to this, hath said—In many Places of Scripture, tho' not in these very Words. I will send them prophets—Chiefly under the Old Testament: And apostles—Under the New.

V. 50. The blood of all shall be required of this generation—That is, shall be visibly and terribly punished upon it.

V. 51. And so it was, within forty Years, in a most astonishing Manner, by the dreadful Destruction of the Temple, the City, and the whole Nation. Between the temple and the altar—In the Court of the Temple.

V. 52. Ye have taken away the key of knowledge—Ye have obscured and destroyed the true Knowledge of the Messiah, which is the Key of both the present and future Kingdom of Heaven; the Kingdom

of Grace and of Glory. Ye have not entered in—Into the present Kingdom of Heaven.

XII.

* 1.452 In the mean time an innumerable multitude being gathered together, so that they trod one upon another, he said to his disciples first, Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. [ 2] For there is nothing covered that shall not be un∣covered, neither hid, that shall not be made known: [ 3] So that† 1.453 whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness, shall be heard in the light, and what ye have whispered in closets shall be proclaimed on the house-tops. [ 4] But I say to you, my friends; Fear not them that kill the body, and after that can do no more: [ 5] But I will shew you whom ye shall fear: fear him, who after he hath killed, hath power to cast into hell: yea, I say to you, fear him. [ 6] Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. [ 7] But‡ 1.454 even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. [ 8] § 1.455 And I say to you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of

man also confess before the angels of God. [ 9] But he that denieth me before man, shall be denied before the angels of God. [ 10] * 1.456 And whosoever shall speak against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but to him who blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven. [ 11] ‡ 1.457 But when they bring you to the synagogues and to magistrates and powers, take no thought how or what ye shall answer, or what ye shall say. [ 12] For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in that hour, what ye ought to say. [ 13] And one of the multitude said to him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. [ 14] But he said to him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? [ 15] And he said to them, Take heed and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. [ 16] And he spake a parable to them, saying, The land of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully. [ 17] And he rea∣soned in himself, saying, What shall I do? For I have no room where to stow my fruits, And he said, This I will do: [ 18] I will pull down my barns and build greater; and there will I stow all my fruits and my goods. [ 19] And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years: take thine ease; eat, drink, be merry. [ 20] But God said to him, Thou fool, this night they

require thy soul of thee: and whose shall the things be that thou hast provided? [ 21] So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

[ 22] * 1.458 And he said to his disciples, Therefore I say to you, Take no thought for your life what ye shall eat, neither for the body what ye shall put on. [ 23] The life is more than meat, and the body than raiment. [ 24] Consider the ravens; for they nei∣ther sow nor reap; neither have store-house nor barn: yet God feedeth them. How much better are ye than the birds? [ 25] And which of you by taking thought, can add the least measure to his age? [ 26] If ye then be not able to do even that which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? [ 27] Con∣sider the lilies, how they grow; they toil not, nei∣ther do they spin; and yet I say to you, that Solo∣mon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [ 28] If then God so clothe the grass, which is to-day in the field, and to-morrow is cast into the still, how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? [ 29] And seek not ye, what ye shall eat or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of a doubt∣ful mind. [ 30] For the nations of the world seek all these things; and your Father knoweth that ye need these things. [ 31] But seek ye the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you. [ 32] Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good

pleasure to give you the kingdom. [ 33] * 1.459 Sell what ye have and give alms: provide yourselves purses which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. [ 34] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. [ 35] Let your loins be girt, and your lamps burning, [ 36] And ye like men that wait for their Lord, when he will return from the wedding, that, when he cometh and knocketh, they may open to him immediately. [ 37] Happy those servants, whom the Lord, when he cometh, shall find watching; verily I say to you, that he will gird himself, and make them sit down to table, and will come and serve them. [ 38] And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, happy are those servants. [ 39] And this ye know, that if the master of the house had known, what hour the thief would have come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broke open. [ 40] Therefore be ye also ready; for the Son of man cometh in an hour when ye think not. [ 41] Then Peter said to him, Lord, speakest thou this parable to us, or also to all? [ 42] And the Lord said, Who is that

that faithful and wise steward, whom his Lord shall make ruler over his houshold, to give the allow∣ance of food in due season? [ 43] Happy that servant, whom his Lord, when he cometh, shall find so doing. [ 44] Verily I say to you, he will set him over all that he hath. [ 45] But if that servant say in his heart, My Lord delayeth his coming, and shall begin to beat the men servants and maidens, and to eat, and drink, and be drunken: [ 46] The Lord of that servant will come in a day when he expecteth not, and at an hour when he knoweth not, and will cut him in sunder and appoint him his portion with the unfaithful. [ 47] And that servant who knew his Lord's will, and prepared not, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. [ 48] But he that knew not, and did things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For to whomsoever much is given, of him much shall be required: and to whom they have committed much, of him they will ask the more. [ 49] I am come to send fire on the earth. And what do I desire? [ 50] That it were already kindled! I have a baptism to be baptized with: and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! [ 51] † 1.460 Suppose ye that I am come to give peace upon earth? I tell you, Nay,

but rather division. [ 52] For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. [ 53] The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; [ 54] the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.

[ 54] * 1.461 And he said to the people also, When ye see a cloud rising out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a heavy shower, and so it is. [ 55] And when ye find the south-wind blowing, ye say, There will be sultry heat; and it is so. [ 56] Ye hypocrites, ye know to discern the face of the earth and of the sky: how do ye not discern this season? [ 57] Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right? [ 58] † 1.462 When thou art going with thine adversury to the magistrate, give diligence in the way to be delivered from him, left he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison. [ 59] I tell thee, thou shalt in no wise come out thence, till thou hast paid the last mite.

V. 1. He said to his disciples first—But afterward (ver. 54.) to all the People.

V. 4. But I say to you, fear not—Let not the Fear of Man make you act the Hypocrite, or conceal any Thing which I have commis∣sioned you to publish.

V. 5. Fear him who hath power to cast into hell—Even to his peculiar Friends, Christ gives this Direction. Therefore the fearing of God as having power to cast into hell, is to be prest even on true Believers.

V. 6. Are not five sparrows—But trust, as well as fear Him.

V. 8. And I say to you—If you avoid all Hypocrisy, and openly avow my Gospel: The Son of man shall confess you—Before the angels— At the last Day.

V. 10. And whosoever—As if He had said, Yet the denying me in some Degree, may, upon true Repentance, be forgiven: But if it rise so high as that of the Blasphemy against the Holy Ghost, it shall never be forgiven, neither is there Place for Repentance.

V. 11. Take no thought—Be not solicitous about the Matter or Man∣ner of your Defence; nor how to express yourselves.

V. 14. Who made me a judge?—In worldly Things. His Kingdom is not of this World.

V. 15. He said to them—Perhaps to the two Brothers, and thro' them to the People: A man's life—That is, the Comfort or Happi∣ness of it.

V. 17. What shall I do?—The very Language of Want! Do? Why, lay up Treasure in Heaven.

V. 20. Thou fool—To think of satisfying thy Soul with earthly Goods! ••o depend on living many years! Yea, one Day! They—The

Messengers of Death, commissioned by GOD; require thy soul of thee!

V. 21. Rich toward God—Namely, in Faith, and Love, and good Works.

V. 25. Which of you can add the least measure—It seems, To add one cubit to a Thing (which is the Phrase in the Original) was a Kind of proverbial Expression, for making the least Addition to it.

V. 28. The grass—The Greek Word means all Sorts of Herbs and Flowers.

V. 29. Neither be ye of a doubtful mind—The Word in the Original signifies, any Speculations or Musings in which the Mind sluctuates, or is suspended (like Meteors in the Air) in an uneasy Hesitation.

V. 32. It is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom—How much more, Food and Raiment? And since ye have such an Inheri∣tance, regard not your earthly Possessions.

V. 33. Sell what ye have—This is a Direction, not given to all the Multitude; (much less is it a standing Rule for all Christians) nei∣ther to the Apostles; for they had Nothing to sell, having left all be∣fore: But to his other Disciples (mentioned ver. 22. and Acts i. 15.) especially to the Seventy, that they might be free from all worldly Intanglements.

V. 35. Let your loyns be girt—An Allusion to the long Garments, worn by the eastern Nations, which they girded or tucked up about their Loins, when they journeyed or were employed in any Labour: As also to the Lights that Servants used to carry at Weddings, which were generally in the Night.

V. 37. He will come and serve thee—The Meaning is, He will shew them his Love, in the most condescending and tender Man∣ner.

V. 38. The Jews frequently divided the Night into three Watches, to which our LORD seems here to allude.

V. 41. Speakest thou this parable to us—Apostles and Disciples: Or to all—The People? Does it concern us alone? Or all Men?

V. 42. Who is that faithful and wise steward—Our LORD's Answer manifestly implies, that he had spoken this Parable primarily (tho'

not Wholly) to the Ministers of his Word: Whom his Lord shall make ruler over his houshold—For his Wisdom and Faithfulness.

V. 43. Happy is that servant—GOD Himself pronounces him wise, faithful, happy! Yet we see, he might fall from all, and perish for ever.

V. 46. The Lord will appoint him his portion—His everlasting Por∣tion; with the unfaithful—As faithful as he was once, GOD Himself being the Judge!

V. 47. And that servant who knew his Lord's will, shall he beaten with many stripes—And his having much Knowledge will increase, not lessen his Punishment.

V. 49. I am come to send fire—To spread the Fire of heavenly Love over all the Earth.

V. 50. But I have a baptism to be baptized with—I must suffer first, before I can set up my Kingdom. And how I long to fight my Way thro' all!

V. 51. Suppose ye that I am come to send peace upon earth?—That universal Peace will be the immediate Effect of my Coming? Not so, but quite the contrary.

V. 52. There shall be five in one house, three against two, and two against three—There being an irreconcileable Enmity between the Spirit of Christ and the Spirit of the World.

V. 53. The father against the son—For those who reject me, will be implacable toward their very nearest Relations who receive me. At this Day also is this Scripture fulfilled. Now likewise there is no Concord between Christ and Belial.

V. 54. And be said to the people also—In the preceding Verses, He speaks only to his Disciples. From the West—In Judea, the West-wind, blowing from the Sea, usually brought Rain: The South wind, blowing from the Deserts of Arabia, occasioned sultry Heat.

V. 56. How do ye not discern this season—Of the Messiah's Coming, distinguishable by so many surer Signs.

V. 57. Why even of yourselves, without any external Sign, judge ye not what is right?—Why do ye not discern and acknowledge the intrinsic Excellence of my Doctrine?

V. 58. When thou art going?—As if He had said, And ye have not a Moment to lose. For the Executioners of GOD's Vengeance are at Hand. And when He hath once delivered you over to them, ye are undone for ever.

V. 59. A mite was about the third Part of our Farthing.

XIII.

And there were present at that season, some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. [ 2] And Jesus answer∣ing said to them, Suppose ye that those Galileans were sinners above all the Galileans, because they suffered such things? [ 3] I tell you, Nay; but ex∣cept ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. [ 4] Or those eighteen, on whom the tower in Siloam fell and slew them, suppose ye, that they were sinners above all men that dwelt at Jerusalem? [ 5] I tell you, Nay; but except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. [ 6] He spake also this parable. A man had a fig-tree ‖ planted in his vineyard: and he came seeking fruit thereon, and found none. [ 7] Then said he to the keeper of the vineyard, Behold three years I come seeking fruit from this fig-tree, and find none; cut it down: why doth it also cumber the ground? [ 8] And he answering said to him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it and dung it. [ 9] Perhaps it may bear fruit: but if not, after that thou shalt cut it down.* 1.463

[ 10] And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. [ 11] And behold, there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and utterly unable to lift up herself. [ 12] And Jesus seeing her, called her to him, and said to her, Woman, thou art loosed from thy infirmity. [ 13] And he laid his hands on her, and im∣mediately she was made straight, and glorified God. [ 14] And the ruler of the synagogue being much displeased, because Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, answered and said to the multitude, There are six days, in which men ought to work: on these therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath. [ 15] The Lord answered him and said, Thou hypocrite, doth not each of you loose his ox or ass from the stall on the sabbath, and lead him away to watering! [ 16] And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Sa∣tan had bound lo these eighteen years, to be loosed from this bond on the sabbath? [ 17] And when he had said these things, all his adversaries were ashamed: and all the multitude rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by him.

[ 18] * 1.464 Then said he, To what is the kingdom of God like, and to what shall I resemble it? [ 19] It is like a grain of mustard-seed which a man took and cast into his garden; and it grew and became a great tree, and the birds of the air lodged in the branches of it. [ 20] † 1.465 Again he said, Whereto shall I liken the kingdom of God? [ 21] It is like leaven, which a woman took and covered up in

three measures of meal, till the whole was lea∣vened.

[ 22] And he went thro' all the cities and villages, teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem. [ 23] Then said one to him, Lord, are there few that are saved? [ 24] And he said to him,* 1.466 Strive to enter in thro' the strait gate; for many, I say to you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. [ 25] When once the master of the house is risen up and hath shut the door, and ye begin to stand without, and knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us: He shall answer and say to you, I know you not whence ye are. [ 26] Then shall ye say, We have eaten and drank in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. [ 27] † 1.467 But he shall say, I tell you I know not whence ye are: depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. [ 28] ‡ 1.468 There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out. [ 29] And they shall come from the east and the west, and the north and the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God. [ 30] ‖ 1.469 But behold, there are last who shall be first, and there are first who shall be last.

[ 31] The same day came certain Phar••sees saying to him, Go out and depart from hence; for Herod is minded to kill thee. [ 32] And he said to them, Go and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I perform cures to day and to morrow; and the third day I am perfected. [ 33] But I must go on to day and to morrow, and the day following; for it cannot be that a prophet perish out of Je∣rusalem. [ 34] * 1.470 O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that killest the prophets and stonest them that are sent to thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together as a bird gathereth her brood under her wings, and ye would not! [ 35] Behold your house is left to you desolate; and I say to you, Ye shall

not see me, till the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.

V. 1. The Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacri∣ficer —Some of the Followers of Judas Gaulonites. They absolutely refused to own the Roman Authority. Pilate surrounded and flew them, while they were worshipping in the Temple, at a public Feast.

V. 3. Ye shall all likewise perish—All ye of Galilee and of Jerusa∣lem shall perish in the very sam•• Manner. So the Greek Word im∣plies. And so they did. There was a remarkable Resemblance between the Fate of these Galileans, and of the main Body of the Jewish Nation: The Flower of which was slain at Jerusalem, by the Roman Sword, while they were assembled at one of their great Festivals. And many thousands of them perished in the Temple it∣self, and were literally buried under its Ruins.

V. 6. A man had a sig-tree—Either we may understand GOD the Father by him that had the Vineyard, and Christ by him that kept it; or Christ Himself is He that hath it, and his Ministers they that keep it.

V. 7. Three years—Christ was then in the third. Year of his Mi∣nistry. But it may mean only, several Years; a certain Number be∣ing put for an uncertain Why doth is also camber the ground?—That is, not only bear no Fruit itself, but take up the Ground of another. Tree that would.

V. 11. She was bowed together and utterly unable to lift up herself— The evil Spirit which possest her, afflicted her in this Manner. To many doubtless it appeared a natural Distemper. Would not a mo∣dern Physician have termed it a n••rvous Case?

V. 15. Thou hypocrite—For the real Motive of his speaking was Envy, not (as he pretended) pure Zeal for the Glory of GOD.

V. 16. And ought not this woman?—Ought not any human Creature, which is so far better than an Ox or an Ass? Much more, this daughter of Abraham—Probably in a spiritual as well as natural Sense, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 be loosed?

V. 21. Covered up—So that, for a Time, Nothing of it appeared. 〈…〉〈…〉.

V. 24. Strive to enter in—Agonize. Strive as in an Agony. So the Word signifies. Otherwise none shall enter in. Barely seeking will not avail.

V. 25. And even agonizing will not avail, after the Door is shut. Agonize therefore now by Faith, Prayer, Holiness, Patience. And ye begin to stand without—Till then, they had not thought of it! O how new will that Sense of their Misery be? How late? How lasting? I know not whence ye are—I know not, that is, I approve not of your Ways.

V. 29. They shall sit down in the kingdom of God—Both the King∣dom of Grace and of Glory.

V. 30. But there are last—Many of the Gentiles who were latest called, shall be most highly rewarded; and many of the Jews who were first called, shall have no Reward at all.

V. 31. Herod is minded to kill thee—Possibly they gave him the Caution out of Good-will.

V. 32. And he said, Go and tell that fox—With great Propriety so called, for his Subtilty and Cowardice. The Meaning of our LORD's Answer is, Notwithstanding all that he can do, I shall, for the short Time I have left, do the Works of Him that sent me. When that Time is fulfilled, I shall be offered up. Yet not here, but in the bloody City. Behold, I cast out devils—With what Ma∣jesty does He speak to his Enemies? With that Tenderness to his Friends! The third day I am perfected—On the third Day He left Galilee, and set out for Jerusalem, to die there.

But let us carefully distinguish between those Things wherein Christ is our Pattern, and those which were peculiar to his Office, His extraordinary Office justified Him, in using that Saverity of Lan∣guage, when speaking of wicked Princes and corrupt Teachers, to which we have no Call; and by which we should only bring Scandal on Religion, and Ruin on ourselves, while we irritated rather than convinced or reformed those, whom we so indecently rebuked.

V. 33. It cannot be, that a prophet perish out of Jerusalem—Which claims Prescription for murdering the Messengers of GOD. Such Cruelty and Malice cannot be found elsewhere.

V. 34. How often would I have gathered thy children together—Three solemn Visits He had made to Jerusalem since his Baptism, for this very Purpose.

V. 35. Your house is left to you desolate—Is now irrevocably con∣signed to Desolation and Destruction: And verily I say to you, after a very short Space, ye shall not see me till the time come, when taught by your Calamities, ye shall be ready and disposed to say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord. It does not imply, that they should then see Jesus at all; but only, that they would earnestly wish for the Messiah, and in their Extremity be ready to entertain any who should assume that Character.

XIV.

And as he went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees on the sabbath, to eat bread, they were watching him. [ 2] And behold there was a certain man before him, who had the dropsy. [ 3] And Jesus answering spake to the Scribes and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day? But they held their peace. [ 4] And he took him and healed him, and let him go, [ 5] And answered them, saying, Which of you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the sabbath day? [ 6] And they could not an∣swer him again to these things.

[ 7] And he spake a parable to them that were in∣vited, when he marked how they chose the chief [ 8] seats, saying to them, When thou art invited by any man to a marriage-feast, sit not down in the highest place, lest a more honourable man than thou be invited by him. [ 9] And he that invited thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place. And then thou shalt begin with shame to take the lowest place. [ 10] But when thou art invited, go and sit down in the lowest place, that when he who invited thee cometh, he may say, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have honour in the presence of them that sit at table with thee. [ 11] † 1.471 For every one that exalteth himself shall be humbled, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

[ 12] Then said he also to him that had invited him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, nor thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours, lest they also invite thee again, and a recompence be made thee. [ 13] But when thou makest an entertainment, invite the poor, the disabled, the lame, the blind; [ 14] And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee; but thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.

[ 15] And one of them that sat at table with him hearing these things, said to him, Happy is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God. [ 16] Then said he to him, A certain man made a great sup∣per, and invited many, [ 17] And he sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were invited, Come, for all things are now ready. [ 18] And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said to him, I have bought a field, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me ex∣cused. And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: [ 19] I pray thee have me excused. [ 20] And another said, I have mar∣ried

a wife, and therefore I cannot come. [ 21] So the servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry, said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the disabled, and the lame, and the blind. [ 22] And the servant said, Sir, it is done as thou hast commanded; and yet there is room. [ 23] And the lord said to the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. [ 24] For I say to you, that none of those men who were invited, shall taste of my supper.

[ 25] And great multitudes went with him. And he turned and said to them, [ 26] * 1.472 If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. [ 27] And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple. [ 28] And which of you intending to build a tower sitteth not down first, and computeth the cost, whether he hath sufficient to finish it? [ 29] Lest haply after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that be∣hold mock him, saying, [ 30] This man began to build, and was not able to finish. [ 31] Or what king marching to encounter another king in war,

sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand, to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? [ 32] If not, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an embassage, and desireth conditions of peace. [ 33] So every one of you, who forsaketh not all that he hath, cannot be my disciple. [ 34] ‡ 1.473 Salt is good: but if the salt have lost its savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned? [ 35] It is neither fit for the land nor yet for dung; they cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

V. 2. There was a certain man before him—It does not appear, that he was come thither with any insidious Design. Probably he came, hoping for a Cure; or perhaps was one of the Family.

V. 3. And Jesus answering spake—Answering the Thoughts which He saw rising in their Hearts.

V. 7. He spake a parable—The ensuing Discourse is so termed, because several Parts are not to be understood literally. The general Scope of it is, not only at a Marriage-Feast, but on every Occasion, He that exalteth himself shall be abased, and he that abaseth himself shall be exalted.

V. 12. Call not thy friends—That is, I do not bid thee call thy friends or thy neighbours. Our LORD leaves these Offices of Humanity and Courtesy as they were, and teaches an higher Duty. But is it not implied herein, that we should be sparing in entertaining these that need it not, in order to assist those that do need, with all that is saved from those needless Entertainments? Lest a recompence be made—This Fear is as much unknown to the World, as even the Fear of Riches.

V. 14. One of them that sat at table hearing these things—And being touched therewith, said, Happy is he that shall eat bread in the king∣dom of God—Alluding to what had been just spoken. It means, he that shall have a Part in the Resurrection of the Just.

V. 16. Then said he—Continuing the Allusion, A certain man made a great supper—As if he had said, All Men are not sensible of this Happiness. Many might have a Part in it, and will not.

V. 18. They all began to make excuse—One of them pleads only his own Will, I go: Another, a pretended Necessity, I must ••eeds go: The third, Impossibility, I cannot come. All of them want the holy Hatred mentioned, ver. 26. All of them perish by Things in themselves lawful. I must needs go—The most urgent worldly Af∣fairs frequently fall out just at the Time when GOD makes the freest Offers of Salvation.

V. 21. The servant come and shewed his lord these things—So Mi∣nisters ought to lay before the LORD in Prayer, the Obedience or Disobedience of their Hearers.

V. 23. Compel them to come in—With all the Violence of Love, and the Force of GOD's Word. Such Compulsion, and such only, in Matters of Religion, was used by Christ and his Apostles.

V. 24. For refers to Go out, ver. 23.

V. 26. If any man come to me, and hate not his father—Com∣paratively to Christ: Yea, so as actually to renounce his Field, Oxen, Wife, all Things, and act as if he hated them, when they stand in Competition with Him.

V. 28. And which of you intending to build a tower—That is, and whoever of you intends to follow me, let him first seriously weigh these Things.

V. 31. Another king—Does this mean, the Prince of this World? Certainly he has greater Numbers on his Side. How numerous are his Children and Servants?

V. 33. So—Like this Man, who being afraid to face his Enemy, sends to make Peace with him, every one who forsaketh not all that he hath—I. By withdrawing his Affections from all the Creatures; 2. By enjoying them only in and for GOD, only in such a Measure and Manner as leads to Him; 3. By hating them all, in the Sense above-mentioned, cannot be my disciple—But will furely desist from building that Tower, neither can he persevere in fighting the good Fight of Faith.

V. 34. Salt—Every Christian, but more eminently every Mi∣nister.

XV.

Then drew near to him all the publicans and sinners, to hear him. [ 2] And the Pharisees and Scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them. [ 3] And he spake a parable to them, saying, [ 4] † 1.474 Who of you having an hundred sheep, and losing one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, till he find it? [ 5] And having found it, he layeth it on his shoulders re∣joicing.

And coming home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying to them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. [ 7] I say to you, Thus joy shall be in heaven, over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, who do not need re∣pentance. [ 8] Or what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? [ 9] And having found it, she calleth her friends and neighbours together, saying, Re∣joice with me, for I have found the piece which I had lost. [ 10] Thus I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God, over one sinner that repenteth.

[ 11] And he said, A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father; [ 12] Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided to them his substance. [ 13] And not many days after, the younger son having gathered all together, took a journey into a far country, and there squandered away his substance, living riot∣ously.

[ 14] And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that country; and he began to be in want. [ 15] And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields, to feed swine. [ 16] And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine ate: and no man gave to him. [ 17] And coming to himself he said, How many hired servants of my father have bread enough and to spare, and I am perishing with hunger? [ 18] I will arise and go to my father, and will say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee: [ 19] I am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. [ 20] And he arose and came to his father: But while he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and his bowels yearned, and he ran, and fell on his neck and kissed him. [ 21] And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. [ 22] But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. [ 23] And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it, and let us

eat and be merry. [ 24] For this my son was dead and is alive again: he was lost and is found. And they began to be merry. [ 25] Now his elder son was in the field. And as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing. [ 26] And calling one of the servants, he asked what these things meant? [ 27] And he told him, Thy brother is come, and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him in good health. [ 28] But he was angry, and would not go 〈◊〉〈◊〉 therefore his father coming out intreated him. [ 29] And he answer∣ing said to his father, Lo, so many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I thy commandment at any time; yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends. [ 30] But as soon as this thy son was come, who hath devoured thy substance with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. [ 31] And he said to him, Son, thou art always with me, and all that I have is thine.

[ 32] But it was meet to make merry and be glad; for this thy brother was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found.

V. 1. All the publicans—That is, all who were in that Place. It seems our LORD was in some Town of Galilee of the Gentiles, from whence He afterwards went to Jerusalem, ch. xvii. 11.

V. 3. He spake—Three Parables of the same Import; for the Sheep, the Piece of Silver, and the lost Son, all declare (in direct Contrariety to the Pharisees and Scribes) in what Manner GOD re∣ceiveth Sinners.

V. 4. Leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness—Where they used to feed: All uncultivated Ground, like our Commons, was by the J•••••• termed Wilderness or Desert. And go after—In recovering a lost soul, GOD, as it were, labours. May we not learn hence, that to l••t them alone who are in Sin, is both unchristian and inhuman?

V. 7. Joy shall be—Solemn and festal Joy, in heaven— First in our blessed LORD Himself, and then among the Angels and Spirits of just Men, perhaps informed thereof by GOD Himself, or by the Angels who ministered to them. Over one sinner—One gross, open, notorious Sinner, that repenteth—That is thoroughly changed in Heart and Life; more than over ninety and nine just persons—Compa∣ratively just, outwardly blameless, that need not such a repentance: For they need not, cannot repent of the Sins which they never com∣mitted.

The Sum is, as a Father peculiarly rejoices, when an extravagant Child, supposed to be utterly lost, comes to a thorough Sense of his Duty: Or as any other Person who has recovered what he had given up for gone, has a more sensible Satisfaction in it, than in several other Things equally valuable, but not in such Danger: So do the Angels in Heaven peculiarly rejoice, in the Conversion of the most abandoned Sinners. Yea, and GOD Himself so readily forgives and receives them, that He may be represented as having Part in the Joy.

V. 12. Give me the part of goods that falleth to me—See the Root of all Sin! A Desire of disposing of ourselves; of Independency on GOD!

V. 13. He took a journey into a far country—Far from GOD: GOD was not in all his Thoughts: And squandered away his substance—All the Grace he had received.

V. 14. He began to be in want—All his worldly Pleasures failing, he grew conscious of his Want of real Good.

V. 15. And he joined himself to a citizen of that country—Either the Devil, or one of his Children; the genuine Citizens of that Coun∣try, which is far from GOD. He sent him to feed swine—He employ∣ed him in the base Drudgery of Sin.

V. 16. He would fain have filled his belly with the husks—He would fain have satisfied himself with worldly Comforts. Vain, fruitless Endeavour!

V. 17. And coming to himself—For till then he was beside himself, as all Men are, so long as they are without GOD in the World.

V. 18. I will arise and go to my father—How accurately are the first Steps of true Repentance here pointed out? Against heaven—Against GOD.

V. 20. And he arose and came to his father—The Moment he had resolved, he began to execute his Resolution. While he was yet a great way off, his father saw him—Returning, starved, naked.

V. 22. But the father said—Interrupting him, before he had fi∣nished what he intended to say. So does GOD frequently cut an ear∣nest Confession short, by a Display of his pardoning Love.

V. 23. Let us be merry—Both here, and wherever else the Word occurs, whether in the Old or New Testament, it implies Nothing

of Levity, but a solid, serious, religious, Heart-selt Joy: Indeed this was the ordinary Meaning of the Word two hundred Years ago, when our Translation was made.

V. 25. The elder son seems to represent the Pharisees and Scribes, mentioned, ver. 2.

V. 27. Thy father bath killed the fatted calf—Perhaps he mentions this, rather than the Robe or Ring, as having a nearer Connexion with the Musick and Dancing.

V. 28. He was angry, and would not go in—How natural to us is this Kind of Resentment?

V. 29. Lo, so many years do I serve thee—So he was one of the Instances mentioned, ver. 7. How admirably therefore does this Parable confirm that Assertion! Yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends—Perhaps GOD does not usu∣ally give much Joy to those who never felt the Sorrows of Repent∣ance.

V. 31. Thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine—This suggests a strong Reason against murmuring at the Indulgence shewn to the greatest of Sinners As the Father's receiving the younger Son, did not cause him to disinherit the elder; so GOD's receiving notorious Sinners, will be no Loss to those who have always served Him: Neither will He raise these to a State of Glory, equal to that of those who have always served Him, if they have, upon the whole, made a greater Progress in inward as well as outward Holi∣ness.

V. 32. This thy brother was dead and is alive—A thousand of these delicate Touches in the inspired Writings, escape an inattentive Reader. In the 30th Verse the elder Son had unkindly and inde∣cently said, This thy son. The Father in his Reply mildly reproves him, and tenderly says, This thy brother. Amazing Intimation, that the best of Men ought to account the worst Sinners their Brethren still; and should especially remember this Relation, when they shew any Inclination to return.

Our LORD in this whole Parable shews, not only that the Jews had no Cause to murmur at the Reception of the Gentiles (a Point which did not at that Time so directly fall under Consideration) but that if the Pharisees were indeed as good as they sancied themselves to be, still they had no Reason to murmur at the kind Treatment of any sincere Penitent. Thus does He condemn them, even on their own Principles, and so leaves them without Excuse.

We have in this Parable a lively Emblem of the Condition and Behaviour of Sinners in their natural State. Thus, when inriched by the Bounty of the great common Father, do they ungratefully run from him (ver. 12.) Sensual Pleasures are eagerly pursued, till they have squandered away all the Grace of GOD (ver. 13.) And while these continue, not a serious Thought of GOD can sind a Place in their Minds. And even when Afflictions come upon them (ver. 14.) still they will make hard Shifts, before they will let the Grace of GOD, concurring with his Providence, persuade them to think of a Return (ver. 15, 16)

When they see themselves naked, indigent, and u••••one, then they recover the Exercise of their Reason (ver. 17.) Then they remem∣ber the Blessings they have thrown away, and attend to the Misery they have incurred. And hereupon they resolve to return to their Father, and put the Resolution immediately in Practice (ver. 18, 19.)

Behold with Wonder and Pleasure, the gracious Reception 〈◊〉〈◊〉 sind, from divine, injured Goodness! When such a Prodigal comes to his Father, He sees him afar off (ver. 20.) He pities, meets, embraces him, and interrupts his Acknowledgments, with the To∣kens of his returning Favour (ver. 21.) He arrays him with the Robe of a Redeemer's Righteousness, with inward and outward Ho∣liness, adorns him with all his sanctifying Graces, and honours him with the Tokens of adopting Love (ver. 22.) And all this he does with unutterable Delight, in that he who was lost is now found (ver. 23, 24.)

Let no elder Brother murmur at this Indulgence, but rather wel∣come the Prodigal back into the Family. And let those who have been thus received, wander no more, but emulate the strictest Piety of those who for many Years have served their heavenly Father, and not transgressed his Commandments.

XVI.

And he said also to his disciples, There was a certain rich man who had a steward: and he was accused to him as wasting his goods. [ 2] And calling him, he said to him, Why hear I this of thee? Give an account of thy stewardship, for thou canst be no longer steward. [ 3] And the steward said in himself, What shall I do? For my lord taketh away the stewardship from me. I cannot dig, to beg I am ashamed. [ 4] I know what to do, that when I am removed from the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses. [ 5] So having called to him every one of his lord's debtors, he said to the first, How much owest thou to my lord? And he said, An hundred measures of oil. [ 6] He said to him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty. [ 7] Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? He said, An hundred measures of wheat. He saith, Take thy bill, and write fourscore. [ 8] And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely; for the children of this world are wiser in their ge∣neration

than the children of light. [ 9] And I say to you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness, that, when ye fail they may receive you into the everlasting habi∣tations. [ 10] He that is faithful in the least, is faith∣ful also in much; and he that is unjust in the least. is unjust also in much. [ 11] If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will intrust you with the true riches? [ 12] And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own? [ 13] § 1.475 No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one, and love the other, or he will cleave to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve GOD and Mammon.

[ 14] And the Pharisees, who were covetous, heard all these things, and they derided him. [ 15] And he said to them, Ye are they who justify yourselves before men: but God knoweth your hearts: and that which is highly esteemed among men, is an abomination before God. [ 16] † 1.476 The law and the prophets were until John: from that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man forceth into it. [ 17] ‡ 1.477 Yet it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than for one tittle of the law to fail. [ 18] ‖ 1.478 Whosoever putteth away his wife and marrieth another, committeth adultery; and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband, committeth adultery. [ 19] There was a certain rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen, and feasted spendidly every day. [ 20] And there was

a certain beggar, named Lazarus, who was laid at his gate, full of sores; [ 21] And desiring to be fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table: yea, the dogs also came and licked his sores. [ 22] And the beggar died, and was carried by angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died and was buried: [ 23] And in hell lifting up his eyes, being in torments, he seeth Abraham afar off And Lazarus in his bosom. [ 24] And crying out, he said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. [ 25] But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy life-time receivedst thy good things, and like∣wise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comfort∣ed, and thou art tormented. [ 26] And besides all this, between us and you, there is a great gulf fixed; so that they who would pass from hence to you, cannot, neither can they pass that would come to us from thence. [ 27] Then he said, I pray thee, there∣fore,

father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: [ 28] For I have five brethren; that he may testify to them, lest they also come into this place of torment. [ 29] Abraham saith to him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. [ 30] And he said, Nay, father Abraham; but if one go to them from the dead, they will repent. [ 31] And he said to him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded tho' one rose from the dead.

V. 1. And he said also to his disciples—Not only to the Scribes and Pharisees, to whom he had hitherto been speaking, but to all the younger as well as the elder Brethren: To the returning Prodigals who were now his disciples. A certain rich man had a steward— CHRIST here teaches all that are now in Favour with GOD, particu∣larly pardoned Penitents, to behave wifely, in what is committed to them.

V. 3. To beg I am ashamed—But not ashamed to cheat! This was likewise a Sense of Honour! "By Men call'd Honour, but by An∣gels Pride."

V. 4. I know—That is, I am resolved, what to do.

V. 8. And the lord commendea the unjust steward—Namely, in this Respect, Because he had used timely Precaution: So that tho' the Dishonesty of such a Servant be detestable, yet his Foresight, Care, and Contrivance, about the Interests of this Life, deserve our Imi∣tation, with Regard to the more important Affairs of another. The children of this world—Those who seek no other Portion than this World: Are wiser—Not absolutely, for they are, one and all, egre∣gious Fools; but they are more consistent with themselves; they are truer to their Principles; they more steadily pursue their End; they are wiser in their generation—That is, in their own Way, than the children of light—The Children of GOD, whose Light shines on their Hearts.

V. 9. And I say to you—Be good Stewards even of the lowest Talents wherewith GOD hath intrusted you. Mammom means Riches or Money. It is termed the Mammom of Unrighteousness, because of the Manner wherein it is commonly either procured or employed. Make yourselves Friends of this, by doing all possible Good, particularly to the Children of GOD. That when ye fail, when your Flesh and your Heart faileth, when this earthly Taber∣nacle is dissolved, those of them who are gone before, may receive, may welcome you into the everlasting Habitations.

V. 10. And whether ye have more or less, see that ye be faithful as well as wise Stewards. He that is faithful in what is meanest of all, wordly Substance, is also faithful in Things of an higher Na∣ture: And he that uses these lowest Gifts unfaithfully, is likewise unfaithful in spiritual Things.

V. 11. Who will intrust you with the true riches?—How should GOD intrust you with Spiritual and Eternal, which alone are true Riches?

V. 12. If ye have not been faithful in that which was another's—None of these temporal Things are yours: You are only Stewards of them, not Proprietors: GOD is the Proprietor of all: He lodges them in your Hands for a Season; but still chey are his Property. Rich Men, understand and consider this. If your Steward uses any Part of your Estate (so called in the Language of Men) any farther or any otherwise than you direct, he is a Knave: He has neither Conscience nor Honour. Neither have you either one or the other, if you use any part of that Estate, which is in Truth GOD's not your's any otherwise than He directs. That which is your own—Heaven, which when you have it, will be your own for ever.

V. 13. And you cannot be faithful to GOD, if you trim between GOD and the World; if you do not serve Him alone.

V. 15. And be said to them, Ye are they who justify yourselves before men—The Sense of the whole Passage is, that Pride wherewith you justify yourselves, seeds Covetousness, derides the Gospel, (ver. 14.) and destroys the Law: (ver. 18.) All which is illustrated by a terri∣ble Example. Ye justify yourselves before men—Ye think yourselves righteous, and persuade others to think you so.

V. 16. The law and the Prophets were in force until John: from that time the Gospel takes Place: And humble, upright Men receive it with inexpressible Earnestness.

V. 17. Not that the Gospel at all destroys the Law:

V. 18. But ye do; particularly in this notorious Instance.

V. 19. There was a certain rich man—Very probably a Pharisee, and one that justified himself before men—A very honest, as well as ho∣nourable Gentleman: Tho' it was not proper to mention his Name on this Occasion: Who was clothed in purple and fine linen—And doubtless esteemed on this Account, (perhaps, not only by those who sold it, but by most that knew Him) as encouraging Trade, and act∣ing according to his Quality: And feasted splendidly every day—And consequently was esteemed yet more, for his Generosity and Hospita∣lity in keeping so good a Table.

V. 20. And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus (according to the Greek Pronunciation) ••r Eleazar. By his Name it may be conjectured, he was of no mean Family, tho' it was thus reduced. There was no Reason for our LORD to conceal his Name, which probably was then well known. Theophylact observes, from the Tradition of the Hebrews, that he lived at Jerusalem. Yea, the dogs also came and licked his sores—It seems, this Circumstance is re∣corded to shew that all his Ulcers lay bare, and were not closed or bound up.

V. 22. And the beggar—Worn out with Hunger, and Pain, and Want of all Things, died; and was carried by angels (amazing Change of the Scene!) into Abraham's bosom—So the Jews stiled Paradise; the Place where the Souls of good Men remain from Death to the Resurrection. The rich man also died, and was buried—Doubtless with Pomp enough, tho' we do not read of his lying in State: That stupid, senseless, Pageantry, that shocking Insult on a poor, putrifying Carcase, was reserved for our enlightened Age!

V. 23. He seeth Abraham afar off—And yet knew him at that Distance: And shall not Abraham's Children, when they are toge∣ther in Paradise, know each other!

V. 24. Father Abraham, have mercy on me—It cannot be denied, but here is one Precedent in Scripture, of praying to departed Saints: But who is it that prays, and with what Success? Will any, who considers this, be fond of copying after him?

V. 25. But Abraham said, Son—According to the Flesh. Is it not worthy of Observation, that Abraham will not revile even a damned Soul? Shall living Men revile one another? Thou in thy life-time receivedst thy good things—Thou didst chuse and accept of worldly Things as thy Good, thy Happiness. And can any be at a Loss to know why he was in Torments? This damnable Idolatry, had there been Nothing more, was enough to sink him to the nether∣most Hell.

V. 26. Besides this, there is a great gulf sined—Reader, to which Side of it wilt thou go?

V. 28. Lest they also come into this place—He might justly fear lest their Reproaches should add to his own Torment.

V. 31. Neither will they be persuaded—Truly to repent: For this implies an entire Change of Heart: But a thousand Apparitions cannot effect this. GOD only can, applying his Word.

XVII.

Then said he to the disciples,* 1.479 It is impos∣sible but offences will come; but wo to him thro' whom they come. [ 2] It were better for him that a mill-stone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. [ 3] † 1.480 Take heed to yourselves: if thy brother sin, rebuke him, and if he repent, forgive him. [ 4] And if he sin against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day return to thee, saying, I repent, thou shalt forgive him. [ 5] § 1.481 And the apostles said to the Lord, Increase our faith. [ 6] And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a

grain of mustard-seed, ye might say to this syca∣mine-tree, Be thou rooted up, and be thou plant∣ed in the sea; and it should obey you. [ 7] But which of you having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, wil say to him as soon as he cometh from the field, Come and sit down to table? [ 8] And will not rather say to him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself and serve me till I have eaten and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? [ 9] Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? [ 10] I think not. So likewise ye, when ye have done all the things that are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable ser∣vants: we have done what was our duty to do.

[ 11] And as he went to Jerusalem, he passed thro' the midst of Samaria and Galilee. [ 12] And as he en∣tered into a certain village, there met him ten lepers, who stood afar off: [ 13] And they lifted up their voice and said, Jesus, master, have mercy on us. [ 14] And seeing them, he said to them, Go shew yourselves to the priests. And as they went, they were cleansed.

[ 15] And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glori∣fied God. [ 16] And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. [ 17] And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? [ 18] There are not found re∣turning

re∣turning to give Glory to God, save this stranger. And he said to him, Arise and go, thy faith hath saved thee.

[ 20] And being asked by the Pharisees, When cometh the kingdom of God, He answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observa∣tion. [ 21] Neither shall they say, Lo here, or lo there; for behold, the kingdom of God is within you. [ 22] And he said to the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and shall not see it. [ 23] * 1.482 And when they shall say to you, See here; see there: go not, nor follow them. [ 24] For as the lightning that lightneth out of the one part under heaven, shineth to the other part under heaven, so shall the Son of man be in his day. [ 25] But first he must suffer many things, and be rejected by this generation. [ 26] † 1.483 And as it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. [ 27] They ate, they drank, they married, they were given in marriage, till the day that Noah entered into the ask, and the flood came and destroyed them all. [ 28] Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot: they ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded: [ 29] But the day that Lot went out of Sodom, it rained fire and brimstone

from heaven and destroyed them all. [ 30] Even thus shall it be in the day that the Son of man is re∣vealed. [ 31] In that day, he that shall be on the house-top and his goods in the house, let him not go down to take them away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back. [ 32] Re∣member Lot's wife. [ 33] * 1.484 Whosoever shall seek to save his life, shall lose it, and whosoever shall lose his life, shall preserve it. [ 34] I tell you, in this night, there shall be two men in one bed; one shall be taken and the other left. [ 35] Two women shall be grinding together; one shall be taken and the other left. [ 36] Two men shall be in the field; one shall be taken and the other left. [ 37] † 1.485 And they an∣swering said to him, Where Lord? And he said to them, Wheresoever the body is, there will the eagles be gathered together.

V. 1. It is impossible but offences will come—And they ever did, and do come chiefly by Pharisees, that is, Men who trust in themselves that they are righteous, and despise others.

V. 2. Little ones—Weak Believers.

V. 3. Take heed to yourselves—That ye neither offend others, nor be offended by others.

V. 4. If he sin against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day return saying, I repent—That is, if he gives sufficient Proof, that he does really repent, after having sinned ever so often, receive him just as if he had never sinned against thee. But this Forgiveness is due only to real Penitents. In a lower Sense we are to forgive all, penitent or impenitent, (so as to bear them the sincerest Good-will, and to do them all the Good we can:) And that not seven Times only, but seventy Times seven.

V. 5. Lord, increase our saith—That we may thus forgive, and may neither offend, nor be offended.

V. 6. And he said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard-seed—If

ye had the least Measure of true Faith, no Instance of Duty would be too hard for you. Ye would say to this sycamine tree—This seems to have been a Kind of proverbial Expression.

V. 7. But which of you—But is it not meet, that you should first obey, and then triumph? Tho' still with a deep Sense of your utter Unprofitableness.

V. 9. Doth he thank that servant—Does he account himself obliged to him?

V. 10. When ye have done all, say, We are unprofitable servants— For a Man cannot profit GOD. Happy is he who judges himself an unprofitable Servant: Miserable is he, whom GOD pronounces such. But tho' we are unprofitable to Him, our serving him is not unpro∣fitable to us. For he is pleased to give by his Grace a Value to our Good Works, which in Consequence of his Promise, intitles us to an eternal Reward.

V. 20. The kingdom of God cometh not with observation—With such outward Pomp as draws the Observation of every one.

V. 21. Neither shall they say, Lo here, or lo there—This shall not be the Language of those, who are, or shall be sent by me, to declare the Coming of my Kingdom. For behold the kingdom of God is within or among you—Look not for it in distant Times or remote Places: It is now in the midst of you: It is come: It is present in the Soul of every true Believer: It is a spiritual Kingdom, an internal Principle. Wherever it exists, it exists in the Heart.

V. 22. Ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man—One Day of Mercy, or one Day wherein you might converse with me, as you do now.

V. 23. They shall say, See Christ is here, or there—Limiting his Presence to this or that Place.

V. 24. So shall also the Son of man be—So swist, so wide, shall his Appearing be: In his day—The last Day.

V. 26. The days of the Son of man—Those which immediately fol∣low, that which is eminently stiled his day.

V. 31. In that day—(Which will be the grand Type of the last Day) when ye shall see Jerusalem encompassed with Armies.

V. 32. Remember Lot's wife—And escape with all Speed, without ever looking behind you.

V. 33. The Sense of this and the following Verses is, Yet as great as the Danger will be, do not seek to save your Life by violat∣ing your Conscience; if you do, you will surely lose it: Whereas if you should lose it for my Sake, you shall be paid with Life ever∣lasting. But the most probable Way of preserving it now, is to be always ready to give it up: A peculiar Providence shall then watch over you and put a Difference between you and other Men.

XVIII.

And he spake a parable to them to this end, that they ought always to pray, and not to faint, [ 2] Saying, There was in a certain city a judge who feared not God nor reverenced man. [ 3] And there was a widow in that city, and she came to him, saying, Do me justice on mine adversary. [ 4] And he would not for a while, but afterwards he said in himself, Tho' I fear not God nor reverence man, [ 5] Yet because this widow giveth me trouble, I will do her justice, lest by her continual com∣ing she weary me out. [ 6] And the Lord said, Hear

what the unjust judge saith! And shall not God vindicate his own elect, who cry aloud to him day and night, though he bear long with them? I tell you he will vindicate them speedily. [ 8] Yet when the Son of man cometh, will he find faith upon earth?

[ 9] And he spake this parable to certain who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and de∣spised others. [ 10] Two men went up into the temple to pray, the one a Pharisee, and the other a pub∣lican. [ 11] The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed thus, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, rapacious, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. [ 12] I fast twice in the week: I give tythes of all that I possess. [ 13] And the publican standing afar off, would not so much as lift up his eyes to heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. [ 14] I tell you this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one that exalteth himself shall

be humbled, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

[ 15] * 1.486 And they brought to him also infants, that he might touch them; but the disciples seeing it, rebuked them. [ 16] But Jesus calling them to him, said, Suffer little children to come to me and for∣bid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God. [ 17] Verily I say to you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, shall in no wise enter therein.

[ 18] † 1.487 And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? [ 19] But Jesus said to him, Why callest thou me good? There is none good save one, that is God. [ 20] Thou knowest the commandments,‡ 1.488 Do not commit adultery. [ 21] Do not murder. Do not steal. Do not bear false witness. Honour thy father and thy mother. And he said, All these have I kept from my childhood. [ 22] Jesus hearing these things said to him, Yet lackest thou one thing: Sell all that thou hast, and distribute to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me. [ 23] And when he heard this, he was very sor∣rowful; for he was very rich. [ 24] And Jesus see∣ing that he was very sorrowful, said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God? [ 25] It is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. [ 26] And they that heard it said, Who then can be saved? [ 27] And he said, The things impossible with men, are possible with God. [ 28] Then

Peter said, Lo we have left all and followed thee. [ 29] And he said to them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or bre∣thren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of [ 30] God's sake, Who shall not receive manisold more in the present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.

[ 31] n* 1.489 Then he took to him the twelve, and said to them, Behold we go up to Jerusulem, and all things that are written by the prophets will be accom∣plished on the Son of man. [ 32] For he will be deli∣vered to the Gentiles, and will be mocked, and spitefully intreated, and spitted on: [ 33] And they will scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he will rise again. [ 34] And they un∣derstood none of these things; and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.

[ 35] † 1.490 And while he was yet night to Jericho, a cer∣tain blind man sat by the way-side begging. [ 36] And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked, what it meant? [ 37] And they told him, Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. [ 38] And he cried aloud, saying, Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. [ 39] And they that went before charged him to hold his peace; but he cried so much the more, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me. [ 40] And Jesus standing still, com∣manded him to be brought to him: and when he was come near, he asked him, [ 41] Saying, What wilt thou that I should do for thee? [ 42] He said, Lord, that I may receive my sight. And Jesus said to him, Receive thy sight, thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he received his sight, and fol∣lowed him, glorifying God: [ 43] And all the people seeing it, gave praise to God.

V. 1. He spake a parable to them—This and the following Parable, warn us against two fatal Extremes, with regard to Prayer: The former against Faintness and Weariness, the latter against Self-considence.

V. 7. And shall not God—The most just Judge, vindicate his own elect—Preserve the Christians from all their Adversaries, and in par∣ticular save them out of the general Destruction, and avenge them of the Jews? Tho' he bear long with them—Tho' He does not immediately put an End, either to the Wrongs of the Wicked, or the Sufferings of good Men.

V. 8. Yet when the Son of man cometh, will he find faith upon earth?— Yet notwithstanding all the Instances both of his Long-suffering and of his Justice, whenever He shall remarkably appear, against their Enemies in this Age, or in After-ages, how few true Believers will be found upon Earth?

V. 9. He spake this parable—Not to Hypocrites, the Pharisee here mentioned was no Hypocrite, no more than an outward Adulterer: But he sincerely trusted in himself, that he was righteous, and accordingly told GOD so, in the Prayer which none but GOD heard.

V. 12. I fast twice in the week—So did all the strict Pharisees; every Monday and Thursday. I give tithes of all that I possess—Many of them gave one full Tenth of their Income in Tithes, and another Tenth in Alms. The Sum of this Plea is, I do no Harm; I use all the Means of Grace; I do all the Good I can.

V. 13. The publican standing afar off—From the Holy of Holies, would not so much as lift up his eyes to Heaven—Touched with Shame, which is more ingenuous than Fear.

V. 14. This man went down—From the Hill on which the Temple stood; justified rather than the other—That is, And not the other.

V. 16. Calling them—Those that brought the Children: Of such is the kingdom of God—Such are Subjects of the Messiah's King∣dom. And such as these it properly belongs to.

V. 22. Yet lackest thou one thing—Namely, To love GOD more than Mammon. Our Saviour knew his Heart, and presently put him upon a Trial which laid it open to the Ruler himself. And to cure his Love of the World, which could not in him be cured otherwise, Christ commanded him. To sell all that he had. But He does not command us to do this; but to use all to the Glory of GOD.

V. 34. They understood none of these things—The literal Meaning they could not but understand. But as they could not reconcile this to their preconceived Opinion of the Messiah, they were utterly at a Loss in what parabolical or figurative Sense to take what He said concerning his Sufferings; having their Thoughts still taken up with the temporal Kingdom.

XIX.

And he entered and passed through Jericho. [ 2] And behold a man named Zaccheus, who was the chief of the publicans, and he was rich. [ 3] And he sought to see Jesus who he was, and could not for the croud, because he was little of stature. [ 4] And running before, he climbed up into a syca∣more tree to see him; for he was to pass by that way. [ 5] And Jesus, when he came to the place, looking up saw him, and said to him, Zaccheus, make haste and come down; for to-day I must abide at thy house. [ 6] And he made haste and came down, and received him joyfully. [ 7] And seeing it, they all murmured, saying, He is gone in to be a guest with a sinner. [ 8] And Zaccheus stood and said to the Lord, Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have wronged any man of any thing, I restore him fourfold. [ 9] And Jesus said to him, To day is salvation come to this house; forasmuch as he also is a son of Abraham. [ 10] * 1.491 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

[ 11] And as they were hearing these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh Jerusalem, and because they thought the kingdom of God would immediately appear. [ 12] He said therefore,* 1.492 A certain nobleman went into a far country, to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. [ 13] And having called ten of his servants, he gave them ten pounds, and said unto them, Trade till I come. [ 14] But his citizens hated him, and sent an embassy after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us. [ 15] And when he was returned, having received the kingdom, he commanded these servants to be called to him, to whom he had given the money, to know what each had gained by trading. [ 16] Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds. [ 17] And he said to him, Well done, good servant; because thou hast been faithful in a very little, be thou governor over ten cities. [ 18] And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds. [ 19] And he said to him likewise, Be thou also over five cities. [ 20] And another came, saying, Lord, behold thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin. [ 21] For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up what thou layedst not down, and reapest what thou didst not sow. [ 22] And he saith to him, Out of thy own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I

am an austere man, taking up what I laid not down, and reaping what I did not sow! [ 23] Where∣fore then gavest thou not my money into the bank, and at my coming I should have received it with interest? [ 24] And he said to them that stood by, Take the pound from him, and give it to him that hath ten pounds. [ 25] (And they said to him, [ 26] Lord, he hath ten pounds!)* 1.493 For I say unto you, To every one that hath shall be given: but from him that hath not, even what he hath shall be taken away from him. [ 27] Moreover those my ene∣mies, who would not that I should reign over them, bring hither and slay before me. [ 28] And having said these things, he went before, going up to Jerusalem.

[ 29] † 1.494 And as he drew nigh to Bethphage and Bo∣thany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he [ 30] sent two of his disciples, saying, Go ye into the village over against you, in which entering, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man yet sat, loose him and bring him hither. [ 31] And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him, thus shall ye say to him, The Lord hath need of him. [ 32] And they that were sent went, and found even as he had said to them. [ 33] And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said to them, Why loose ye the colt? [ 34] And they said, The Lord hath need of him. [ 35] And they brought him to Jesus, and they cast their garments on the colt, and set Jesus there∣on▪ [ 36] And as he went they spread their clothes in the way. [ 37] And when he was now come nigh, at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole

multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice, for all the mighty works that they had seen, [ 38] Saying, Blessed be the king that cometh in the name of the Lord: Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. [ 39] And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said to him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. [ 40] And he answering said to them, I tell you, that if these should hold their peace, the stones would imme∣diately cry out. [ 41] And as he drew near, he be∣held the city, and wept over it, saying, [ 42] O that thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things that are for thy peace! But now they are hid from thine eyes. [ 43] For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and [ 44] straiten thee on every side, And shall cast thee to the ground, and thy children that are in thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another: because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.

[ 45] * 1.495 And going into the temple, he drove out them that sold, and them that bought therein, [ 46] Saying to them, It is written,† 1.496 My house is the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves.

[ 47] And he was daily teaching in the temple. But the chief priests and the Scribes, and the chief of the people, sought to destroy him, [ 48] And found not what they might do; for all the people hung upon him, to hear him.

V. 1. He passed thro' Jericho—So that Zaccheus must have lived near the End of the Town; the Tree was in the Town itself. And he was rich—These Words seem to refer to the Discourse in the last Chapter, ver. 24—27, particularly to ver. 27. Zuccheus is a Proof, that it is possible, by the Power of GOD, for even a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven.

V. 2. The chief of the publicans—What we would term the Com∣missioner of the Customs. A very honourable as well as profitable Place.

V. 4. And running before—With great Earnestness, He climbed up—Notwithstanding his Quality: Desire conquering Honour and Shame.

V. 5. Jesus said, Zaccheus, make haste and come down—What a strange Mixture of Passions must Zaccheus have now felt, hearing one speak, as knowing both his Name and his Heart.

V. 7. They all murmured—All who were near: tho' most of them, rather out of Surprize than Indignation.

V. 8. And Zaccheus stood—Shewing by his Posture his deliberate Purpose and ready Mind, And said, Behold, Lord, I give—I determine to do it immediately.

V. 9. He also is a son of Abraham—A Jew born, and as such has a Right to the first Offer of Salvation.

V. 11. They thought the kingdom of God—A glorious temporal King∣dom, would immediately appear.

V. 12. He went into a far country to receive a kingdom—Christ went to Heaven, to receive his sovereign Power as Man, even all Autho∣rity in Heaven and Earth.

V. 13. Trade till I come—To visit the Nation, to destroy Jerusa∣lem, to judge the World: Or, in a more particular Sense, to require thy Soul of thee.

V. 14. But his citizens—Such were those of Jerusalem, hated him, ard sent an embassy after him—The Word seems to imply, their sending Embassadors to a superior Court, to enter their Protest against lus, being admitted to the regal Power, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 such a solemn Manner did the Jeus protest, as it were, before GOD, that Christ should not reign over them. This man—So they call him in Contempt.

V. 15. When he was returned—In his Glory.

V. 23. With interest—Which does not appear to be contrary to any Law of GOD or Man. But this is no Plea for Usury, that is, the taking such Interest as Implies any Degree of Oppression or Extortion.

V. 25. They said—With Admiration, not Envy.

V. 28. He went before—The foremost of the Company, shewing his Readiness to suffer.

V. 29. He drew nigh to the Place where the Borders of Bethphage and Bothany met, which was at the Foot of the mount of Olives.

V. 37. The whole multitude began to praise God—Speaking at once,

as it seems, from a divine Impulse, Words which most of them did not understand.

V. 38. Peace in heaven—GOD being reconciled to Man.

V. 39. Rebuke thy disciples—Paying thee this immoderate Honour.

V. 40. If these should hold their peace, the stones which lie before you, would cry out—That is, GOD would raise up some still more unlikely Instruments to declare his Praise. For the Power of GOD will not return empty.

V. 42. O that thou hadst known, at least in this thy day—After thou hast neglected so many. Thy day—The Day wherein GOD still offers thee his Blessings

V. 43. Thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round—All this was exactly performed by Titus the Roman General.

V. 44. And thy children within thee—All the Jews were at that Time gathered together, it being the Time of the Passover. They shall not leave one stone upon another—Only three Towers were left standing for a Time, to shew the former Strength and Magnificence of the Place. But these likewise were afterwards levelled with the Ground.

XX.

* 1.497 And on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple and preached the gospel, the chief priests and the Scribes came upon him, with the elders, [ 2] And spake to him, saying, Tell us, by what authority dost thou these things, and who is he that gave thee this authority? [ 3] And he answering, said, I will also ask you one thing, and tell me, Was the baptism of John from heaven, or of men? [ 4] And they reasoned among themselves, saying, [ 5] If we say from heaven, he will say, Why then did ye not believe him? [ 6] But if we say of men, all the people will stone us; for they are persuaded that John was a prophet. [ 7] And they answered, They could not tell whence. [ 8] Jesus said to them, Neither tell I you, by what authority I do these things.

[ 9] † 1.498 Then he spake this parable to the people: A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time. [ 10] And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they might give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat and sent him away empty. [ 11] And again he sent another servant; and they beat him also, and treated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. [ 12] And again he sent a third, and they wounded him also, and cast him out. [ 13] Then said the Lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will sent my beloved son; perhaps seeing him they will reverence him. But the husbandmen seeing him, reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: [ 14] Come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. [ 15] So

they cast him out of the vineyard and killed him. What therefore will the Lord of the vineyard do to them? [ 16] He will come and destroy these husband∣men, and give the vineyard to others. [ 17] And hear∣ing if they said, God forbid. And he looked on them and said, What is this then that is written,* 1.499 The stone which the builders rejected, this is become the head of the corner. [ 18] † 1.500 Whosoever shall fall on that stone shall be broken; but on whom∣soever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder. [ 19] And the chief priests and Scribes sought to lay hands on him the same hour; but they feared the people, for they knew he had spoken this parable against them.

[ 20] ‡ 1.501 And watching him, they sent forth spies, feigning themselves to be just men, to take hold of his discourse, that they might deliver him to the power and authority of the governor. [ 21] And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou speakest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou persons, but teachest the way of God in truth: [ 22] Is it lawful for us, to give tribute to Cesar or no? [ 23] But he observing their craftiness, said to them, Why tempt ye me? Shew me a penny. [ 24] Whose image and inscription hath it? They an∣swering said, Cesar's. [ 25] He said, Render therefore to Cesar the things which are Cesar's, and to God

the things which are God's. [ 26] And they could not take hold of his words before the people; and marvelling at his answer, they held their peace.

[ 27] * 1.502 Then certain of the Sadducees, who deny there is any resurrection, coming to him, asked him, saying, [ 28] Master, Moses wrote to us,† 1.503 If a man's brother die, having a wife, and he die with∣out children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed to his brother. [ 29] Now there were seven brethren, and the first taking a wife, died without children. [ 30] And the second took her to wife, and he died childless. [ 31] And the third took her, and in like manner the seven also; and they died and left no children. [ 32] Last of all the woman died also. Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of them is she? [ 33] For seven had her to wife. And Jesus answering said to them. [ 34] The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage. [ 35] But they who are counted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage. [ 36] For neither can they die any more; for they are equal to angels, and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. [ 37] But that the dead are raised, even Moses shewed at the bush,‡ 1.504 when he calleth the Lord, The God of Abraham, and the God of

Isaac, and the God of Jacob. [ 38] For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living; so that all live to him. [ 39] And some of the Scribes answering said, Master, Thou hast spoken excellently well. [ 40] And after that, they durst not ask him any ques∣tion at all.

[ 41] * 1.505 And he said to them, How say they that Christ is David's son? [ 42] And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, [ 43] † 1.506 The Lord ••••d unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right-hand, Till I make thine enemies thy footstool. [ 44] David therefore calleth him Lord: How is he then his son? [ 45] Then in the hearing of all the people, he said to his dis∣ciples, [ 46] ‡ 1.507 Beware of the Scribes, who desire to walk in long robes, and love salutations in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief places at feasts, [ 47] § 1.508 Who devour widows houses, and for a pretence make long prayers; these shall receive greater damnation.

V. 9. A long time—It was a long Time from the Entrance of the Israelites into Canaan, to the Birth of Christ.

V. 16. He will destroy these husband∣men—Probably he pointed to the Scribes, chief Priests, and Elders: Who allowed, He will mise∣rably destroy these wicked men, Matth. xxi. 41. but could not bear that this should be applied to themselves. They might also mean, GOD forbid that we should be guilty of such a Crime as your Parable seems to charge us with, namely, rejecting and killing the Heir. Our Saviour answers, But yet ye will do it, as is prophesied of you.

V. 17. He locked on them—To sharpen their Attention.

V. 20. Just men—Men of a tender Conscience. To take hold of his discourse—If he answered as they hoped he could.

V. 21. Thou speakest—In private, and teachest—In public.

V. 24. Shew me a penny—A Roman Penny, which was the Money that was usually paid on that Occasion.

V. 26. They could not take hold of his words before the people—As they did afterwards before the Sanhedrim, in the Absence of the Peo∣ple, ch. xxii. 67, &c.

V. 34. The children of this world—The Inhabitants of Earth, mar∣ry and are given in marriage—As being all subject to the Law of Mor∣tality: so that the Species is in Need of being continually repaired.

V. 35. But they who obtain that world—Which they enter into, be∣fore the resurrection of the dead.

V. 36. They are the children of God—In a more eminent Sense when they rise again.

V. 37. That the dead are raised, even Moses, as well as the other Prophets shewed, when he calleth—That is, when he recites the Words which GOD spoke of himself, I am the God of Abraham, &c. It cannot properly be said, that GOD is the GOD of any who are totally perished.

V. 38. He is not a God of the dead, or there is no God of the dead— That is, the Term GOD implies such a Relation, as cannot possibly subsist between Him and the Dead; who, in the Sadducees' Sense are extinguished Spirits; who could neither worship Him, nor receive Good from Him. So that all live to him—All who have Him for their GOD, live to and enjoy Him. This Sentence is not an Argu∣ment for what went before; but the very Proposition which was to be proved. And the Consequence is apparently just. For as all the Faithful are the Children of Abraham, and the Divine Promise of being a God to him and to his seed is intailed upon them, it implies their continued Existence and Happiness in a future State as much as Abraham's. And as the Body is an essential Part of Man, it im∣plies both his Resurrection and theirs; and so overthrows the entire Scheme of the Sadduccan Doctrine.

V. 40. They darst not ask him any question—The Sadducees durst not. One of the Scribes did, presently after.

XXI.

‖ 1.509 And looking up he saw the rich casting their gifts into the treasury. [ 2] And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. [ 3] And he said, Of a truth I say to you, This poor widow hath cast in more than they all. [ 4] For all of

these have 〈…〉〈…〉 of God: 〈…〉〈…〉 all the living tha•• 〈…〉〈…〉

[ 5] * 1.510 And as some 〈…〉〈…〉 adorned with goodly 〈…〉〈…〉 [ 6] for these things which ye 〈…〉〈…〉 come, in which there shall n•••• 〈…〉〈…〉 upon another, that shall not be th•••••• 〈…〉〈…〉 they asked him, saying, Master, when 〈…〉〈…〉 things be? [ 7] And what is the sign, when these things shall come to pass? [ 8] And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am the Christ, and the time is near. [ 9] Go ye not after them. And when ye shall hear of wars, and commotions, be not terrified; for these things must be first; but the end is not immediately. [ 10] Then said he to them, Nation shall ••ise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. [ 11] And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines and pestilences, and there shall be fearful sights and great signs from heaven. [ 12] † 1.511 But before all these things they shall lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into pri∣sons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. [ 13] And it shall turn to you ••••••••a

〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••r hearts, not 〈…〉〈…〉 For I will give 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••ch all your adver∣•••••• 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••say or resist.* 1.512 But 〈…〉〈…〉 by parents, and brethren, 〈…〉〈…〉 ••riends; and some of you they 〈…〉〈…〉 put to death.† 1.513 And ye shall be 〈…〉〈…〉 men for my name's sake. But there 〈…〉〈…〉 not an hair of your head perish. In your patience possess ye your souls. [ 19] And when ye [ 20] see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh. [ 21] Then let them that are in Jades flee to the mountains, and let them that are in the midst of it, depart out, and let not them that are in the countries enter into it. [ 22] For these are the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled. [ 23] But wo to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days; for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath on this people.

[ 24] And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden by the Gentiles, till the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. [ 25] * 1.514 And there shall be signs in the sun, and moon, and stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity, the sea roaring and tossing: [ 26] Men fainting away for fear, and expectation of the things coming upon the world; for the powers of the heavens shall be shaken. [ 27] And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud, with power and great glory.

[ 28] Now when these things begin to come to pass, look up and lift up your heads; for your redemp∣tion draweth nigh.

[ 29] And he spake a parable to them, Behold the fig-tree and all the trees. [ 30] When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of yourselves, that summer is now nigh. [ 31] So likewise when ye see these things come to pass, know that the kingdom of God is

nigh. [ 32] Verily I say unto you, this generation shall not pass away, till all things be effected. [ 33] Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall in no wise pass away. [ 34] † 1.515 But take heed to your∣selves, lest at any time your hearts be over-loaded with gluttony and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. [ 35] For as a snare shall it come on all them that sit on the face of the whole earth. [ 36] Watch ye therefore and pray always, that ye may be counted worthy to escape all these things which will come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

[ 37] Now by day he was teaching in the temple; and at night going out he lodged at the mount called the mount of Olives. [ 38] And all the people came early in the morning to him in the temple to hear him.

V. 1. He looked up—From those on whom his Eyes were fir•••• be∣fore.

V. 5. Goodly stones—Such as no Engines now in Use could have brought, or even set upon each other. Some of them (as an Eye∣witness who lately measured them writes) were forty-five Cubits long, five high, and six broad, yet brought thither from another Country. And gifts—Which Persons delivered from imminent Dangers, had, in Accomplishment of their Vows, hung on the Walls and Pillars.

The Marble of the Temple was so White, that it appeared like a Mountain of Snow at a Distance. And the Gilding ma•••••• Parts made it, especially when the Sun shone, a most splendid and beau∣tiful Spectacle.

V. 8. And the time, is near—When I will deliver you from all your Enemies. They are the Words of the Seducers.

V. 9. Commotions—Intestine Broils; civil Wars.

V. 11. Fear••ul sights and signs from heaven—Of which Josephus gives a circumstantial Account.

V. 13. It shall turn to you for a testimony—Of your having de∣livered your own Souls, and of their being without Excuse.

V. 18. Not an hair of your head—A proverbial Expression, shall perish—Without the special Providence of GOD. And then, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 before the Time, nor without a full Reward.

V. 19. In your patience possess ye your s••••••ls—Be calm and serene, Ma•••••• of yourselves, and ••••perior to all irrational and disquieting Passions. By keeping the Government of your Spirits, you will both avoid much Misery, and guard the better against all Dangers

V. 21. Let them that are in the midst of is—Where Jerusal•••• stands (that is, they that are in Jerusalem) depart out of it before their Retreat is cut off, by the uniting of the Forces near the City, And let not them that are in the adjacent Countries, by any Means enter into it.

V. 22. All things which are written—Particularly in Daniel.

V. 24. They shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive—Eleven hundred thousand perished in the Siege of Jerusalem, and above ninety thousand were sold for Slaves. So terribly was this Prophecy fulfilled. And Jerusalem, shall be trodden by the Gentiles—That is, inhibited. So it was indeed. The Land was sold, and ••o Jew suffered even to come within Sight of Jerusalem. The very Foun∣dations of the City were ploughed up, and an heathen Temple built where the Temple of GOD had stood. The times of the Gentiles—That is, the Times limited for their treading the City; which shall terminate in the full Conversion of the Gentiles.

V. 25. And there shall be—Before the Great Day, which was typi∣fied by the Destruction of Jerusalem: Signs—Different from those mentioned, ver. 11, &c.

V. 28. Now when these things—Mentioned, ver. 8. and ver. 10, &c. begin to come to pass, look up with firm Faith, and lift up your heads with Joy; for your redemption out of Many Troubles draweth nigh, by GOD's dest••••••ing your implacable Enemies.

V. 29. Behold the fig-tree and all the trees—Christ spake this in the Spring, just before the Passover; when all the Trees were budding on the Mount of Olives, where they then were.

V. 30. Ye know of your selves—Though none teach you.

V. 31. The kingdom of God is nigh—The Destruction of the Jewish City, Temple, and Religion, to make Way for the Advancement of my Kingdom.

V. 32. Till all things be fulfilled—All that has been spoken of the Destruction of Jerusalem, to which the Question, ver. 7. relates: And which is treated of from the 8th to the 24th Verse.

V. 34. Take heed lest at any time your hearts be overloaded with gluttony and drunkenness—And was there Need to warn the Apostles themselves, against such Sins as these? Then surely there is Need to warn even Strong Christians, against the very grossest Sins. Neither warn even Strong Christians, against the very grossest Sins. Neither are we wise, if we think ourselves out of the Reach of any Sin: And so that day—Of Judgment or of Death come upon you, even you that are not of this World—unawares.

V. 35. That sit—Careless and at Ease.

V. 36. Watch ye therefore—This is the general Conclusion of all that precedes. That ye may be counted worthy—This Word sometimes signifies an Honour conserred on a Person, as when the Apostles are signifies an Honour conserred on a Person, as when the Apostles are said, to be Counted worthy to suffer Shame for Christ (Acts v. 41.) Sometimes meet or becoming: As when John the Baptist exhorts, To bring fruits worthy of repentance (Luke iii. 8.) And so to be counted worthy to escape, is, To have the Honour of it, and to be fitted or prepared for it. To stand—With Joy and Triumph: Not to fall be∣fore Him, as his Enemies.

V. 37. Now by day—In the Day-time, he was teaching in the tem∣ple—This shews how our LORD employed his Time, after coming to Jerusalem: But it is not said, He was this day in the Temple, and next Morning the People came. It does not therefore by any Means imply, That He came any more after this into the Temple.

V. 38. And all the people came early in the morning to hear him— How much happier were his Disciples in these early Lectures, than the Slumbers of the Morning could have made them on their Beds! Let us not scruple to deny ourselves the Indulgence of unnecessary

Sleep, that we may Morning after Morning place ourselves at his Feet, receiving the Instructions of his Word and seeking those of his Spirit.

XXII.

* 1.516 Now the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover. [ 2] And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might kill him; but they feared the people.

[ 3] Then entered Satan into Judas, surnamed Isca∣riot, being of the number of the twelve. [ 4] And he went and talked with the chief priests and cap∣tains, how he might betray him to them. [ 5] And they were glad and agreed to give him money. [ 6] And he promised and sought opportunity to betray him to them, in the absence of the multitude.

[ 7] † 1.517 And the first day of unleavened bread was come, when the passover was to be killed. [ 8] And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and make ready for us the passover, that we may eat it. [ 9] And they said to him, Where wilt thou that we make it ready? [ 10] And he said to them, Behold, when ye are entered into the city, a man will meet you bearing a pitcher of water; follow him into the house where he entereth. [ 11] And say to the master of the house, The master saith to thee, Where is the guest-chamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples? [ 12] And he will shew you a large upper-room furnished: there make ready. And they went, and found as he had said to them. [ 13] And they made ready the passover.

[ 14] ‡ 1.518 And when the hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him. [ 15] And he said to them, With desire have I desired to eat this

passover with you, before I suffer. [ 16] For I say to you, I will not eat thereof any more, till it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. [ 17] And he took the cap and gave thanks and said, Take this and divide it among yourselves. [ 18] For I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine till the kingdom of God shall come. [ 19] And he took bread, and gave thanks and brake it, and gave to them, saying, This is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me. [ 20] Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood which is shed for you. [ 21] But behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table. [ 22] And truly the Son of man goeth as it was determined; but wo to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed. [ 23] And they inquired among themselves, Which of them it was, that would do this? [ 24] There was also a

contention among them, Which of them was greatest. [ 25] And he said to them, The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them, and they that exercise authority upon them have the title of benefactors. [ 26] But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the least, and he that is chief as he that serveth. [ 27] For which is greater, he that sitteth at table, or he that serveth? Is not he that sitteth at table? But I am in the midst of you as he that serveth. [ 28] Ye are they who have continued with me in my temptations. [ 29] And I appoint to you a kingdom, as my Father to me, [ 30] That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. [ 31] And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired to have you, that he might sift you as wheat. [ 32] But I have prayed

for thee that thy faith fail not; and when thou art returned, strengthen thy brethren. [ 33] And he said to him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee both to prison and to death. [ 34] And he said, I tell thee, Peter, it shall not be the time of cock-crowing this day, before thou wilt thrice deny that thou knowest me. [ 35] And he said to them, When I sent you without purse, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? [ 36] And they said, Nothing. Then said he to them, But now he that hath a purse, let him take it, and likewise his scrip; and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. [ 37] For I say to you, That this which is written must yet be accomplished in me,* 1.519 And he was numbered with the transgressors. For the things concerning me have an end. [ 38] And they said, Lord, behold here are two swords. And he said to them, It is enough.

[ 39] † 1.520 And going out, he went, according to his custom, to the mount of Olives, and his disciples also followed him. [ 40] And when he was at the place he said to them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation. [ 41] And he was withdrawn from

them about a stone's cast, and kneeling down, he prayed, [ 42] Saying, Father, if thou art willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine be done. [ 43] And there appeared to him an angel from heaven strengthening him. [ 44] And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down on the ground. [ 45] And rising up from prayer, he came to his disciples, and found them sleeping for sorrow, And said to them, Why sleep ye? [ 46] Rise and pray, lest ye enter into temp∣tation.

[ 47] And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and drew near to Jesus to kiss him. [ 48] And Jesus said to him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss? [ 49] † 1.521 And they who were about him seeing what would follow, said to him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword? [ 50] And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. [ 51] And Jesus an∣swering, said, Suffer ye thus far. And touching his ear he healed him. [ 52] Then Jesus said to the

chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, who were come to him, Are ye come out as against a robber with swords and clubs? [ 53] When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched not forth your hands against me: but this is your hour and the power of darkness.

[ 54] ‡ 1.522 Then taking him, they led him, and brought him to the high-priest's house: And Peter followed afar off. [ 55] And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were sat down together, Peter sat down among them. [ 56] But a certain maid seeing him as he sat by the light, and looking earnestly upon him, said, This man also was with him. [ 57] But he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not. And after a while another saw him and said, Thou also art of them. [ 58] And Peter said, Man, I am not. [ 59] And about one hour after, another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this man also was with him, for he is a Galilean.

[ 60] And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou meanest. [ 61] And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. And the Lord turning looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, Before cock-crowing, thou wilt deny me thrice. [ 62] And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.

[ 63] * 1.523 And the men that held Jesus, mocked and

smote him. [ 64] And having blindfolded him, they struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it that smote thee? [ 65] And many other things blasphemously spake they against him.

[ 66] † 1.524 And when it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the Scribes came together, and led him into their council, Saying, Art thou the Christ? [ 67] Tell us. And he said to them, If I tell you, ye will not believe. [ 68] and if I also ask you, ye will not answer me, nor let me go. [ 69] Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right-hand of the power of God, [ 70] And they all said, Art thou then the Son of God? He said, Ye say it: I am. [ 71] And they said, What farther need have we of evidence? For we ourselves have heard from his own mouth.

V. 3. Then entered Satan—Who is never wanting to assist those, whose Heart is bent upon Mischief.

V. 4. Captains—Called Captains of the Temple, ver. 52.. They were Jewish Officers, who presided over the Guards which kept Watch every Night in the Temple.

V. 15. With desire have I desired—That is, I have earnestly desired it. He desired it, both for the Sake of his Disciples, to whom He desired to manifest Himself farther, at this solemn Parting: And for the Sake of his whole Church, that He might institute the grand Memorial of his Death.

V. 16. For I will not eat thereof any more—That is, It will be the last I shall eat with you before I die. The kingdom of God did not properly commence till his Resurrection. Then was fulfilled what was typified by the Passover.

V. 17. And he took the cup—That Cup which used to be brought at the Beginning of the Paschal Solemnity, and said, Take this and divide it among yourselves: for I will not drink—As if He had said, Do not expect me to drink of it: I will drink no more before I die.

V. 19. And he took bread—Namely, some Time after, when Sup∣per was ended, wherein they had eaten the Paschal Lamb. This is my body—As he had just now celebrated the Paschal Supper, which was called the Passover, so in the like figurative Language, He calls this Bread his Body. And this Circumstance of itself was sufficient to prevent any Mistake, as if this Bread was his real Body, any more than the Paschal Lamb was really the Passover.

V. 20. This cup is the New Testament—Here is an undeniable Fi∣gure, whereby the Cup is put for the Wine in the Cup. And this is called, The New Testament in Christ's blood, which could not possi∣bly mean, that it was the New Testament itself, but only the Seal of it, and the Sign of that Blood which was shed to confirm it.

V. 21. The hand of him that betrayeth me is with me on the table— It is evident, Christ spake these Words, before He instituted the LORD's Supper: For all the other Evangelists mention the Sop, im∣mediately after receiving which he went out: (John xiii. 30.) (Nor did he return any more, till he came into the Garden, to betray his Master,) Now this could not be dipped or given, but while the Meat was on the Table. But this was all removed before That Bread and Cup were brought.

V. 24. There was also a contention among them—It is highly proba∣ble

this was the same Dispute, which is mentioned by St. Matthew and St. Mark: And consequently, tho' it is related here, it happened some Time before.

V. 25. They that exercise the most arbitrary authority over them, have from their Flatterers the vain title of benefactors.

V. 26. But ye are to be Benefactors to Mankind, not by Govern∣ing, but by Serving.

V. 27. For—This He proves by his own Example. I am in the midst of you—Just now: See with your Eyes. I take no State upon me, but sit in the midst, on a Level with the lowest of you.

V. 28. Ye have continued with me in my temptations—And all his Life was nothing else, particularly from his entering on his public Ministry.

V. 29. And I—Will preserve you in all your Temptations, till ye enter into the Kingdom of Glory: Appoint to you—By these very Words. Not a Primacy to One, but a Kingdom to every one: On the same Terms: As my Father hath appointed to me—Who have fought and conquered.

V. 30. That ye may eat and drink at my table—That is, that ye may enjoy the highest Happiness, as Guests, not as Servants. These Expressions seem to be primarily applicable to the twelve Apostles, and secondarily, to all Christ's Servants and Disciples, whose Spiritual Powers, Honours and Delights are here represented in figurative Terms, with Respect to their Advancement both in the Kingdom of Grace and Glory.

V. 31. Satan hath desired to have you—My Apostles, that he might sift you as wheat—Try you to the uttermost.

V. 32. But I have prayed for thee—Who wilt be in the greatest Danger of all; that thy faith fail not—Altogether: And when thou

are returned—From thy Flight, strengthen thy brethren—All that are we•••• in Faith; perhaps scandalized at thy Fall.

V. 34. It shall not be the time of cock-crowing this day—The com∣•••••••• Time of Cock-crowing (which is usually about Three in the Morning) probably did not come, till after the Cock which Peter heard, had crowed twice if not oftener.

V. 35. When I sent you—lached ye any thing?—Were ye not borne above all Want and Danger?

V. 36. But now—You will be in quite another Situation. You will want every Thing. He that hath no sword, let him sell his gar∣ment and buy one—It is plain, this is not to be taken literally. It only means, This will be a Time of extreme Danger.

V. 37. The things which are written concerning me, have an end—Are now drawing to a Period; are upon the Point of being accom∣plished.

V. 38. Here are two swords—Many of Galilee carried them when they travelled, to defend themselves against Robbers and Assassins, who much infested their Roads. But did the Apostles need to seek such Defence? And he said, It is enough—I did not mean literally, That every one of you must have a Sword.

V. 40. The place—The Garden of Gethsemane.

V. 43. Strengthening him—Lest his Body should sink and die be∣fore the Time.

V. 44. And being in an agony—Probably just now grappling with the Powers of Darkness; feeling the Weight of the Wrath of GOD, and at the same Time surrounded with a mighty Host of Devils, who exercised all their Force and Malice to persecute and distract his wounded Spirit. He prayed more earnestly—Even with stronger Cries and Tears: And his sweat—As cold as the Weather was: Was as it were great drops of blood—Which, by the vehement Disiress of his Soul, were forced out of the Pores, in so great a Quantity, as after∣wards united in large, thick, grumous Drops, and even fell to the ground.

V. 48. Betrayest thou the Son of man—Him whom thou knowest to be the Son of Man, the Christ?

V. 49. Seeing what would follow—That they were just going to seize Him.

V. 51. Suffer me at least to have my Hands at Liberty thus far, while I do one more Act of Mercy.

V. 52. Jesus said to the chief priest, and captains, and the elders, who were come—And all these came of their own Accord: The Soldiers and Servants were sent.

V. 53. This is your hour—Before which ye could not take me; and the power of darkness—The Time when Satan has Power.

V. 58. Another man saw him, and said—Observe here, in Order to reconcile the four Evangelists, that divers Persons concurred in char∣ging Peter with belonging to Christ.

• 1. The Maid that let him in, afterwards seeing him at the Fire, first put the Question to him, and then positively affirmed, that he was with Christ.
• 2. Another Maid accused him to the Standers-by, and gave Occasion to the Man here mentioned, to renew the Charge against him, which caused the Se∣cond Denial.
• 3. Others of the Company took Notice of his being a Galilean, and were seconded by the Kinsman of Malchus, who af∣firmed he had seen him in the Garden. And this drew on the Third Denial.

V. 59. And about one hour after—So he did not recollect himself in all that Time.

V. 64. And having blindfolded him, they struck him on the face— This is placed by St. Matthew and Mark, after the Council's con∣demning Him. Probably He was abused in the same Manner, both before and after his Condemnation.

V. 65. Many other things blasphemously spake they against him—The Expression is remarkable. They charged Him with Blasphemy, be∣cause He said, He was the Son of GOD: But the Evangelist fixes that Charge on them, because He really was so.

V. 70. They all said, Art thou then the Son of God?—Both these, The Son of GOD, and the Son of Man, were known Titles of the Messiah, the one taken from his Divine, and the other from his Human Nature.

XXIII.

‡ 1.525 And the whole multitude of them arose and led him to Pilate. [ 2] And they accused him, saying, We found this fellow perverting our nation, and forbidding to give tribute to Cesar, saying, that he himself is Christ a king. [ 3] And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the king of the Jews? And he answering him said, Thou sayest. [ 4] Then said Pilate to the chief priests and the multitude, I find no fault in this man.

[ 5] But they were the more violent saying, He stir∣reth up the people, teaching through all Judea, beginning from Galilee, to this place. [ 6] Pilate hearing of Galilee asked, If the man was a Gali∣lean? [ 7] And when he knew, that he belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself was also in Jerusalem at that time. [ 8] And Herod seeing Jesus was exceeding glad; for he had been long desirous to see him, because he had heard many things of him, and hoped to see some miracle done by him. [ 9] And he questioned him in many words, but he answered him nothing. [ 10] And the chief priests and Scribes stood and vehe∣mently accused him. [ 11] And Herod having, with his soldiers set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a splendid robe, sent him back to Pilate. [ 12] And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.

[ 13] And Pilate having called together the chief priests, and the rulers, and the people, [ 14] Said to them, Ye have brought this man to me, as perverting the people; and behold, I having examined him before you, have found no fault in this man, touching the things whereof ye accuse him, Nor yet Herod; for I sent you to him; and lo, he hath done no∣thing worthy of death. [ 15] I will therefore chastise and release him. [ 16] † 1.526 For he was under a necessity of releasing one to them, at the feast. [ 17] And they

cried all at once, saying, [ 18] Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas: [ 19] (Who for an insurrection made in the city, and for murder had been cast into prison. ) [ 20] Pilate desiring to release Jesus, spake again to them. But they cried out, saying, Crucify, crucify him. [ 21] He said to them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? [ 22] I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise and release him. [ 23] But they were instant with loud voices, requiring that he should be crucified. And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed. [ 24] And Pilate gave sentence, that what they desired should be done. [ 25] And he released to them him, that for insurrection and murder had been cast into prison, whom they desired; but he delivered Jesus to their will.

[ 26] * 1.527 And as they led him away, they laid hold on one Simon a Cyrenian, coming out of the country; and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus. [ 27] And there followed him a great company of people and of women, who also bewailed and lamented him. [ 28] But Jesus turning to them, said, Daughters of Jerusalem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. [ 29] For behold the days are coming in which they will say, Happy are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and the paps that never gave suck. [ 30] † 1.528 Then shall they say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us. [ 31] For if they do these things in the green tree, what shall be done in the dry? [ 32] And there were also led two other men, malefactors, to be put to death with him.

[ 33] And when they were come to the place, called the place of a scull, there they crucified him, and the two malefactors, one on the right-hand, and one on the left. [ 34] Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his garments and cast lots. And the peo∣ple stood beholding. [ 35] And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be the Christ, the chosen of God. [ 36] And the soldiers also mocked him, com∣ing to him, and offering him vinegar, [ 37] And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself.

[ 38] * 1.529 And an inscription also was written over him in Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew letters, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.

[ 39] And one of the malefactors, who were hanging, reviled him, saying, If thou be the Christ, save thyself and us. [ 40] But the other answering, rebuked him, saying, Dost thou not fear God, seeing thou

art in the same condemnation? [ 41] And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this person hath done nothing amiss. [ 42] And he said to Jesus, Lord, remember me, when thou comest in thy king∣dom. [ 43] And Jesus said to him, Verily I say unto thee, To-day shalt thou be with me in paradise.

[ 44] * 1.530 And it was about the sixth hour; and there was darkness over all the earth till the ninth hour. [ 45] And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. [ 46] And Jesus crying with a loud voice, said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit. [ 47] And having said thus, he expired. And the centurion seeing what was done, glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man. [ 48] And all the people who had come together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, returned, smiting their breasts. [ 49] And all his acquaintance,

and the women who had followed him from Gali∣lee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

[ 50] * 1.531 And behold a man named Joseph, a counsellor, a good man and a just: [ 51] (He had not consented to the counsel and deed of them) of Arimathea, a city of the Jews, who also himself waited for the king∣dom of God: [ 52] This man going to Pilate, asked the body of Jesus. [ 53] And taking it down, he wrapped it in fine linen, and laid it in a sepulchre that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid. [ 54] And that day was the preparation; the sabbath drew on.

[ 55] And the women who had come with him from Galilee, following after, beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was laid. [ 56] And returning they pre∣pared spices and ointments, and rested the sabbath, according to the commandment.

V. 4. Then said Pilate—After having heard his Defence: I find no fault in this man—I do not find that He either asserts or attempts any Thing seditious or injurious to Cesar.

V. 5. He stirreth up the people, beginning from Galilee—Probably they mentioned Galilee, to alarm Pilate, because the Galileans were notorious for Sedition and Rebellion.

V. 7. He sent him to Herod—As his proper Judge.

V. 8. He had been long desirous to see him—Out of more Curiosity.

V. 9. He questioned him—Probably concerning the Miracles which were reported to have been wrought by him.

V. 11. Herod set him at nought—Probably judging Him to be a Fool, because He answered nothing. In a splendid robe—In royal Apparel; intimating that he feared nothing from this King.

V. 15. He hath done nothing worthy of death—According to the Judgment of Herod also.

V. 16. I will therefore chastise him—Here Pilate began to give Ground, which only encouraged them to press on.

V. 22. He said to them the third time, Why what evil hath he done?—As Peter, a Disciple of Christ, dishonoured Him by denying Him thrice, so Pilate, a Heathen, honoured Christ by thrice owning Him to be innocent.

V. 31. If they do these things in the green tree, what shall be done in the dry?—Our LORD makes Use of a proverbial Expression, frequent among the Jews, who compare a good Man to a green Tree, and a bad Man to a dead one: As if he had said, If an innocent Person suffer thus, what will become of the Wicked? Of those who are as ••••dy for Destruction, as dry Wood for the Fire?

V. 34. Then said Jesus—Our LORD passed most of the Time on the Cross in Silence: Yet seven Sentences which He spoke thereon, are recorded by the four Evangelists, tho' no one Evangelist has re∣corded them all. Hence it appears, that the four Gospels are as it were four Parts, which, joined together, make one Symphony: Sometimes one of these only, sometimes two or three, sometimes all sound together. Father—So He speaks both in the Beginning and at the End of his Sufferings on the Cross: Forgive them—How stri∣king is this Passage! While they are actually nailing him to the Cross, He seems to seel the Injury they did to their own Souls, more than the Wounds they gave him; and a•• it were to forget his own Anguish out of a Concern for their own Salvation.

And how eminently was his Prayer heard? It procured Forgive∣ness for all that were penitent, and a Suspension of Vengeance even for the Impenitent.

V. 35. If thou be the Christ: v. 37. If thou be the king—The Priests deride the Name of Messiah; the Soldiers the Name of King.

V. 39. And one of the malefactors reviled him—St. Matthew says, the robbers; St. Mark, they that were crucified with him, reviled him. Either therefore St. Matthew and Mark put the Plural for the Singular (as the best Authors sometimes do) or both reviled Him at the first, till one of them felt "the overwhelming Power of saying Grace."

V. 40. The other rebuked him—What a surprising Degree was here of Repentance, Faith, and other Graces! And what Abundance of good Works, in his public Confession of his Sin, Reproof of his Fellow-criminal, his honourable Testimony to Christ, and Profession of Faith in Him, while he was in so disgraceful Circumstance, as

were stumbling even to his Disciples! This shews the Power of di∣vine Grace. But it encourages none to put off their Repentance to the last Hour; since, as far as appears, this was the first Time this Criminal had an Opportunity of knowing any Thing of Christ. And his Conversion was designed, to put a peculiar Glory on our Saviour in his lowest State, while his Enemies derided Him, and his own Disciples either denied or forsook Him.

V. 42. Remember me, when thou comest—From Heaven, in thy king∣dom—He acknowledges Him a King, and such a King, as after He is dead, can prosit the dead. The Apostles themselves had not then so clear Conceptions of the Kingdom of Christ.

V. 43. In paradise—The Place where the Souls of the Righteous remain from Death till the Resurrection. As if he had said, I will not only remember thee then, but this very Day.

V. 44. There was darkness over all the earth—The Noon-tide Dark∣ness, covering the Sun, obscured all the upper Hemisphere. And the lower was equally darkened, the Moon being in Opposition to the Sun, and so receiving no Light from it.

V. 46. Father, into thy hands—The Father receives the Spirit of Jesus; Jesus Himself the Spirits of the Faithful.

V. 47. Certainly this was a righteous man—Which implies an Ap∣probation of all He had done and taught.

V. 48. All the people—Who had not been Actors therein, returned, smiting their breasts—In Testimony of Sorrow.

XXIV.

† 1.532 And on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came to the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.

[ 2] And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre; And entering, they sound not the body of the Lord Jesus. [ 3] And while they were perplexed concerning it, behold two men stood by them in shining garments. [ 4] And as they were afraid, and bowed their face to the earth, they said to them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? [ 5] He is not here, but is risen. [ 6] Remember how he spake

to you being yet in Galilee, [ 7] Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified and rise again the third day. [ 8-9] And they remembered his words, And returning from the sepulchre, told all these things to the eleven, and to all the ••est. [ 10] It was Mary Magda∣lene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them, who told these things to the apostles. [ 11] And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. [ 12] But Peter rising up, ran to the sepulchre; and stooping down, he seeth the linen clothes laid by themselves; and he went home, wondering at what was come to pass.

[ 13] ‡ 1.533 And behold two of them were going that day to a village called Emmans, which was sixty fur∣longs from Jerusalem. [ 14] And they talked together of all these things which had happened. [ 15] And as they talked and argued together, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. [ 16] But their eyes were holden, so that they did not know him. [ 17] And he said to them, What discourses are these that ye have one with another as ye walk, and are sad? [ 18] And one of them, whose name was Cleopas, an∣swering said to him, Dost thou alone even sojourn at Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? [ 19] And he said to them, What things? And they said to him, Those concerning Jesus of Nazareth (who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people) [ 20] How our chief priests and rulers deli∣vered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. [ 21] But we trusted that it had been he who should have redeemed Israel. And beside all this, to-day is the third day since these things were done. [ 22] Yea, and certain women of our company

have astonished us, who were early at the sepulchre, [ 23] And not finding his body, they came saying, That they had seen also a vision of angels, who say, he is alive. [ 24] And some of the men who were with us, went to the sepulchre, and found it so as the wo∣men men had said; but him they saw not. [ 25] Then he said to them, O foolish, and slow of heart to be∣lieve all that the prophets have spoken! [ 26] Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to en∣ter into his glory? [ 27] And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he explained to them the things in all the scriptures, concerning himself. [ 28] And they drew nigh the village whither they were going, and he made as tho' he would go farther. [ 29] But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is going toward evening, and the day declines. And he went in, to abide with them. [ 30] And as he sat at table with them, he took the bread, and blessed it, and brake and gave to them. [ 31] And their eyes were opened, and they knew him, and he vanished out of their sight. [ 32] And they said one to another, Was not our heart burning within us, while he was talking to us in the way, and opening the scriptures to us? [ 33] And rising up the same hour, they returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven met together, and them that were with them,

[ 34] saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath ap∣peared to Simon. [ 35] And they told the things done in the way, and how he was known by them in the breaking of bread.

[ 36] * 1.534 And as they spake thus, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith to them, Peace be unto you. [ 37] But being terrified and affrighted, they thought they saw a spirit. [ 38] And he said to them, Why are ye troubled? And why do reason∣ings arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. [ 39] Handle me and see: for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as you see me have. [ 40] And having spoken this, he shewed them his hands and his feet. [ 41] And while they yet be∣lieved not for joy, and wondered, he said to them, Have ye here any meat? [ 42] And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish and of an honeycomb. [ 43] And he took it, and ate before them.

[ 44] And he said to them, These are the words which I speak to you, being yet with you, that all things written in the law of Moses, and the pro∣phets,

and the psalms concerning me, must be ful∣filled. [ 45] Then opened he their understanding, to understand the scriptures, [ 46] And said to them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: [ 47] And that repentance and remission of sins, should be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. [ 48] And ye are witnesses of these things. [ 49] And behold I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry in the city of Jerusalem, till ye be clothed with power from on high.

[ 50] And he led them out as far as Bethany; and lifting up his hands, he blessed them. [ 51] And while he was blessing them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. [ 52] And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, [ 53] And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.

V. 1. Certain others with them—Who had not come from Galilee.

V. 4. Behold two—Angels in the Form of men. M••ry had seen them a little before. They had disappeared on these Women's com∣ing to the Sepulchre, but now appeared again. St. Matthew and Mark mention only one of them, appearing like a young Man.

V. 6. Remember how he spoke to you, say••ng, the Son of man must be delivered—This is only a Repetition of the Words which our LORD had spoken to them before his Passion. But it is observable, He ne∣ver stiles Himself the Son of man after his Resurrection.

V. 21. To-day is the third day—The Day He should have risen again, if at all.

V. 25. O foolish—Not understanding the Designs and Works of GOD: And slow of hear.—Unready to believe what the Prophets have so largely spoken.

V. 26. Ought not Christ—If He would redeem Man, and fulfil the Prophecies concerning him, to have suffered these things?—These very Sufferings, which occasion your Doubts, are the Proofs of his being the Messiah. And to enter into his glory—Which could be done no other Way.

V. 28. He made as tho' he would go farther—Walking forward, as if He was going on; and He would have done it, had they not pressed Him to s••••y.

V. 29. They constrained him—By their importunate Intreaties.

V. 30. He took the bread, and blessed, and brake—Just in the same Manner, as when He instituted his last Supper.

V. 31. Their eyes were opened—That is, the supernatural Cloud was removed: And he vanished—Went away insensibly.

V. 32. Did not our heart burn within us—Did not we feel an unusual W••rmth of Love?

V. 33. The same hour—Late as it was.

V. 34. The Lord hath appeared to Simon —Before he was seen of the twelve Apostles, 1 Cor. xv. 5. He had, in his wonderful Condescen∣sion and Grace, taken an Opportunity on the former Part of that Day (tho' where, or in what Manner, is not recorded) to shew Him∣self to Peter, that He might early relieve his Distresses and Fears, on Account of having so shamefully denied his Master.

V. 35. In the breaking of the bread—The LORD'S Supper.

V. 36. Jesus stood in the midst of them—It was just as easy to his divine Power, to open a Door undiscernibly, as it was to come in at a Door opened by some other Hand.

V. 40. He shewed them his hands and his feet—That they might ei∣ther see or feel the Prints of the Nails.

V. 41. While they believed not for joy—They did in some Sense be∣lieve; otherwise they would not have rejoiced. But their Excess of Joy prevented a clear, rational Belief.

V. 43. He took it, and ate before them—Not that He had any Need of Food; but to give them still farther Evidence.

V. 44. And he said—On the Day of his Ascension. In the law, and the prophets, and the psalms—The Prophecies as well as Types, relating to the Messiah, are contained either in the Books of Moses (usually called the Law) in the psalms, or in the Writings of the Pro∣phets: Little being said directly concerning Him in the historical ••ooks.

V. 45. Then opened he their understanding, to understand the scriptures—He had explained them before to the Two as they went to Em∣maus. But still they understood them not, till He took off the Veil from their Hearts, by the Illumination of his Spirit.

V. 47. Beginning at Jerusalem—This was appointed both graciously and wisely: Graciously as it encouraged the greatest Sinners to repent when they saw that even the Murderers of Christ were not excepted from Mercy: And wisely, as hereby Christianity was more abun∣dantly attested; the Facts being published first, on the very Spot where they happened.

V. 49. Behold I serd the promise—Emphatically so called; the Holy Ghost.

V. 50. He led them out as far as Bethany—Not the Town, but the District: to the Mount of Olives (Acts i. 12.) which stood within the Boundaries of Bethany.

V. 51. And while he was blessing them, He was parted from them—It was much more proper that our LORD should ascend into Heaven, than that He should rise from the Dead, in the Sight of the Apostles. For his Resurrection was proved, when they s••w him alive after his Passion: but they could not see Him in Heaven, while they continu∣ed on Earth.

NOTES ON THE Gospel according to St. JOHN.

In this BOOK is set down the History of the Son of GOD dwelling among Men; that

• I. OF the first Days, where the Apostle, premising the Sum of the Whole, C. i. 1—14
  • Mentions the Testimony given by John, after the Bap∣tism of CHRIST, and the first Calling of some of the Apostles. Here is noted what fell out
  • The first Day, 15—28
  • The Day after, 29—34
  • The Day after, 35—42
  • The Day after, 43—52
  • The third Day, C. ii. 1—11
  • After this, 12
• II. Of the two Years between, spent chiefly in Journeys to and from Jerusalem:
• A. The first Journey, to the Passover, 13
  • a. Transactions in the City,
    • 1. Zeal for his Father's House, 14—22
    • 2. The Power and Wisdom of JESUS, 23—25
    • 3. The Instruction of Nicodemus, C. iii. 1—21
  • b. His Abode in Judea; the rest of John's Testimony, 22—36
  • c. His Journey thro' Samaria (where He confers with the Samaritan Woman) into Galilee, where He heals the Nobleman's Son, C. iv. 1—14
• B. The second Journey to the Feast of Pentecost. Here may be observed Transactions,
  • a. In the City relating to the Impotent Man, healed at the Pool of Bethsaida, C. v. 1—47
  • b. In Galilee, before the second Passover, and after. Here we may note.
    • 1. His feeding the five Thousand, C. vi. 1—14
    • 2. Walking upon the Sea, 15—21
    • 3. Discourse of Himself, as the Bread of Life, 22—59
    • 4. Reproof of those who object 〈◊〉〈◊〉 60—65
    • 5. Apostacy of many, and Stea•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 of the Apostles, 66—71
    • 6. His Continuance in Galilee, C. vii. 1
• ...

• ... C. The third Journey, to the Feast of Tabernacles, 2—13 Here may be observed Transactions,
  • a. In the City,
    • 1. In the Middle and End of the Feast, 14—53 C. viii. 1 Where note,
      • 1. The Woman taken in Adultery, 2—12
      • 2. Christ's preaching and vindicating his Doctrine, 13—30
      • 3. His consuting the Jews, and Escape from them, 31—59
      • 4. His healing the Man born blind, C. ix. 1—7
      • 5. Several Discourses on that Occasion, 8—41
      • 6. Christ the Door and the Shepherd of the Sheep, C. x. 1—18
      • 7. Different Opinions concerning Him, 19—21
    • 2. At the Feast of the Dedication: Here occur,
      • 1. His Disputes with the Jews, 22—38
      • 2. His escaping their Fury, 39
  • b. Beyond Jordan, 40—42
• III. Of the last Days, which were,
  • A. Before the great Week, where we may note,
    • a. The two Days spent out of Judea, while Lazarus was sick and died, C. xi. 1—6
    • b. The Journey into Judea; the raising of Lazarus; the Advice of Caiaphas; Jesus' Abode in Ephraim; the Order given by his Adversaries. 7—57
    • c. The sixth Day, before the Passover; the Supper at Bethany; the Ointment poured on Jesus, C. xii. 1—11
  • B. In the great Week, wherein was the third Passover, occur
    • a. On the three former Days, his royal Entry into the City; the Desire of the Greeks; the Obstinacy of the Jews; the Testimony given to Jesus from Heaven, 12—50
    • b. On the fourth Day, the washing the Feet of the Disci∣ples; the Discovery of the Traitor, and his going out by Night, C. xiii. 1—30
    • c. On the fifth Day,
      • 1. His Discourse,
        • 1. Before the paschal Supper, 31 C. xiv. 1—31
        • 2. After it, C. xv. and xvi.
      • 2. His Prayer, C. xvii. 1—26
      • 3. The Beginning of his Passion,
        • 1. In the Garden. C. xviii. 1—11
        • 2. In Caiaphas' House, 12—27
    • d. On the sixth Day.
      • 1. His Passion under Pilate,
        • 1. In the Palace of Pilate, 28 C. xix. 1—16
        • 2. On the Cross, 17—30
      • 2. His Death, 30—37
      • 3. His Burial, 38—42
  • C. After the great Week,

• ...
  • ...
    • a. On the Day of the Resurrection, C. xx. 1—25
    • b. Eight Days after, 26—31
    • c. After that.
      • 1. He appears to his Disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, C. xxi 1—14
      • 2. Orders Peter to seed his Sheep and Lambs, 15—17
      • 3. Foretels the Manner of Peter's Death, and checks his Curiosity about St. John, 18—23
      • 4. The Conclusion, 24—25

St. JOHN.

I.

IN the beginning existed the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [ 2] The same was in the beginning with God.

[ 3] All things were made by him, and without him was not one single thing made that was made. [ 4] In him was life, and the life was the light of men.

[ 5] And the light shineth in darkness, but the darkness perceived it not.

[ 6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. [ 7] The same came for a testimony, to testify of the light, that all thro' it might believe. [ 8] He was not the light, but was sent to testify of the light. [ 9] This was the true light, who lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, [ 10] and the world was made by him; yet the world knew him not. [ 11] He came to his own, and his own received him not. [ 12] But as many as received

him, to them gave he privilege to become the sons of God, to them that believe in his name: [ 13] Who were born, not of blood, nor by the will of the flesh, nor by the will of man, but of God.

[ 14] And the word was made flesh, and tabernacled among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.

[ 15] John testified of him and cried, saying, This is he of whom I said, He that cometh after me is preferred before me, for he was before me. [ 16] And out of his fulness have we all received, even grace

upon grace. [ 17] For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth was by Jesus Christ. [ 18] No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. [ 19] And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem, to ask him, Who art thou? [ 20] And he confessed and denied not, but confessed, I am not the Christ.

[ 21] and they asked him, What then, Art thou Elijah? And he saith, I am not. [ 22] Art thou the prophet? And he answered, No. Then said they to him, Who art thou? That we may give an answer to them that sent us. [ 23] What sayest thou of thyself? He said,* 1.535 I am the voice of one crying aloud in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Isaiah. [ 24] And they who were sent were of the Pharifees. And they asked him and said to him, [ 25] Why baptizest thou then, if thou art not the

Christ, nor Elijah, neither the prophet? [ 26] John answered them, saying I baptize with water, but there standeth one among you whom ye know not.

[ 27] He it is, who coming after me, is preferred before me, whose shoes latchet I am not worthy to un∣loose. [ 28] These things were done in Bethabara, beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing.

[ 29] The next day he seeth Jesus coming toward him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. [ 30] This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man who is preferred be∣fore me; for he was before me. [ 31] And I knew him not, but that he might be manifested to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water. [ 32] And John testified, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven as a dove, and it abode upon him. [ 33] And I knew him not, but he that sent me to baptize with water, he had said to me, On whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending and abiding on him, this is he who baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.

[ 34] And I saw it, and testified, that this is the Son of God.

[ 35] Again, the next day, John was standing, and two of his disciples. And looking upon Jesus walking, he saith, [ 36] Behold the Lamb of God. And the two disciples heard him speak, and they fol∣lowed Jesus. [ 37] And Jesus turning and seeing them following, saith to them, What seek ye? [ 38] They said to him, Rabbi (that is, being interpreted, Master) where dwellest thou? He saith to them, Come and see. [ 39] They came and saw where he dwelt and abode with him that day; for it was about the tenth hour. [ 40] Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who heard John speak, and followed him. [ 41] He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith to him, We have found the Messiah (which is, being interpreted, the Christ.) And he brought him to Jesus. [ 42] And Jesus looking upon him, said, Thou art Simon, the Son of Jonah; thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, Peter.

[ 43] The day following he was minded to depart into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith to him, Follow me. [ 44] Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. [ 45] Philip findeth Natha∣nael and saith to him, We have found him, whom Moses in the law and the prophets described, Jesus

of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. [ 46] And Nathanael saith to him, Can any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith to him, Come and see. [ 47] Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile. [ 48] Nathanael saith to him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said to him, Before Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig-tree, I saw thee. [ 49] Nathanael answered and saith to him, Rabbi, thou art the Son of God, thou art the king of Israel. [ 50] Jesus answered and said to him, Because I said to thee, I saw thee under the fig-tree, believest thou? Thou shalt see greater things than these. [ 51] And he saith to him, Verily, verily I say to you, Hereafter ye shall see the heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of man.

V. 1. In the beginning—(Referring to Gen. i. 1. and Prov. viii. 23.) When all Things began to be made by the Word: In the Beginning of Heaven and Earth, and this whole Frame of created Beings, the Word existed, without any Beginning. He was when all Things be∣gan to be, Whatsoever had a Beginning. The Word—So termed Psal. xxxiii. 6. and frequently by the Seventy, and in the Chaldee Para∣phrase. So that St. John did not borrow this Expression from Philo, or any Heathen Writer. He was not yet named Jesus, or Christ. He is the Word whom the Father begot or spoke from Eternity; by whom the Father speaking maketh all Things; who speaketh the Fa∣ther to us. We have, in the 18th Verse, both a real Description of the Word, and the Reason why He is so called. He is the only begotten Son of the Father, who is in the bosom of the Father, and hath declared him. And the Word was with God—Therefore distinct from GOD the Father. The Word rendered with denotes a perpetual Ten∣dency as it were of the Son to the Father, in Unity of Essence. He was with GOD alone; because nothing beside GOD had then any Be∣ing. And the Word was God—Supreme, Eternal, Independent. There was no Creature, in respect of which He could be stiled GOD in a relative Sense. Therefore He is stiled so in the absolute Sense. The Godhead of the Messiah being clearly revealed in the Old Testament (Jer. xxiii. 6. Hos. i. 7. Psal. xxiii. 1.) the other Evangelists aim at this, To prove that Jesus, a true Man, was the Messiah. But when at length some from hence began to doubt of his Godhead, then St. John expresly asserted it, and wrote in this Book as it were a Supplement to the Gospels, as in the Revelation, to the Prophets.

V. 2. The same was in the beginning with God—This Verse repeats and contracts into one of the three Points mentioned before. As if he had said, This Word, who was GOD, was in the Beginning, and was with GOD.

V. 3. All things beside GOD, were made, and all Things which were made were made by the Word. In the first and second Verse is described the State of Things before the Creation, ver. 3. In the Creation, ver. 4. In the Time of Man's Innocency, ver. 5. In the Time of Man's Corruption.

V. 4. In him was life.—He was the Foundation of Life to every living Thing, as well as of Being to all that is. And the life was the light of men—He who is effential Life, and the Giver of Life to all that liveth, was also the Light of Men; the Fountain of Wis∣dom, Holiness, and Happiness, to Man in his Original State.

V. 5. And the Light shineth in darkness— Shines even on fallen Man; but the darkness—Dark, sinful Man, perceiveth it not.

V. 6. There was a man—The Evangelist now proceeds to him who testified of the Light, which he had spoken of in the five proceding Verses.

V. 7. The same came for (that is, in order to give) a testimony—The Evangelist, with the most strong and tender Affection, interweaves his own Testimony with that of John, by noble Digressions, wherein he explains the Office of the Baptist, partly premises and partly sub∣joins, a farther Explication to his short Sentences. What St. Matthew, Mark, and Luke term the Gospel, in respect of the Promise going be∣fore, 8t. John usually terms the testimony, intimating the certain Know∣ledge of the Relater: to testify of the light—Of Christ.

V. 9. Who lighteth every man—By what is vulgarly termed natural Conscience, pointing out at least the general Lines, of Good and Evil. And this Light, if Man did not hinder, would shine more and more to the perfect Day.

V. 10. He was in the world—Even from the Creation.

V. 11. He came—In the Fulness of Time, to his own— Country, City, Temple: And his own—People, received him not.

V. 12. But as many as received him—Jews or Gentiles; that believe on his name—That is, on him. The Moment they believe, they are Sons; and because they are Sons, GOD sendeth forth the Spirit of his Son into their hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

V. 13. Who were born—Who became the Sons of GOD not of blood —Not by Descent from Abraham, nor by the will of the flesh—By na∣tural Generation, nor by the will of man—Adopting them, but of God —By his Spirit.

V. 14. Flesh sometimes signifies corrupt Nature; sometimes the Body; sometimes, as here, the whole Man. We beheld his glory— We his Apostles, particularly Peter, James, and John, Luke ix. 32. Grace and truth—We are all by Nature Liars and Children of Wrath, to whom both Grace and Truth are unknown. But we are made Partakers of them, when we are accepted thro' the Beloved.

The whole Verse might be paraphrased thus: And in Order to raise us to this Dignity and Happiness, the eternal Word, by a most ama∣zing Condescension, was made flesh, united Himself to our miserable Nature, with all its innocent Infirmities. And He did not make us a transient Visit, but tabernacled among us on Earth, displaying his Glory in a more eminent Manner, than ever of old in the Tabernacle of Moses. And we, who are now recording these Things, beheld his glory with so strict an Attention, that we can testify, it was in every Respect such a Glory, as became the only begotten of the Father. For it shone forth not only in his Transfiguration, and in his continual Miracles, but in all his Tempers, Ministrations, and Conduct thro' the whole Series of his Life. In all He appeared full of Grace and Truth: He was Himself most benevolent and upright; made those ample Discoveries of Pardon to Sinners, which the Mosaic Dispensa∣tion could not do: And really exhibited the most substantial Bles∣sings, whereas that was but a shadow of good things to come.

V. 15. John cried—With Joy and Confidence: This is he of whom I sa••d—J•••••• had said this, before our LORD's Paptism, altho' he then knew Him not in Person, He knew Him first at his Baptism, and afterwards cried. This is he of whom I said, &c. He is preferred before me—In his Office: for He was before me—In his Nature.

V. 16. An—Here the Apostle confirm•• the Baptist's Words: As if he had said He is indeed preferred before thee: So we have expe∣rienced: We all—That believe: Have received—All that we enjoy out of his ••••••ss; and in the particular, Grace upon grace—One Bles∣sing upon another, immeasurable Grace and Love.

V. 17. The law—Working Wrath and containing Shadows: was given—No Philosopher, Poet, or Orator, ever chose his Words so accurately as St. John. The law, saith he, was given by Moses: Grace was by Jesus Christ. Observe the Reason for placing each Word thus: The Law of Moses was not his own. The Grace of Christ was. His Grace was opposite to the Wrath, his Truth to the shadowy Ceremonies of the Law. Jesus—St. John having once mentioned the Incarna∣tion (ver. 14.) no more uses that Name The Word, in all his Book.

V. 18. No man hath seen God—With bodily Eyes: yet Believers see him with the Eye of Faith. Who is in the bosom of the Father—The Expression denotes the highest Unity, and the most intimate Know∣ledge.

V. 19. The Jews—Probably the Great Council sent.

V. 20. I am not the Christ—For many supposed he was.

V. 21. Art thou Elijah?—He was not that Elijah (the Tishbite) of whom they spoke. Art thou the prophet—Of whom Moses speaks, Deut. xviii. 15.

V. 23. He said—I am that Fore-runner of Christ of whom Isaiah speaks. I am the voice—As if he had said, Far from being Christ, or even Elijah, I am Nothing but a Voice: A Sound that so soon as it has expressed the Thought, of which it is the Sign, dies into Air, and is known no more.

V. 24. They who were sent were of the Pharifees—Who were pecu∣liarly tenacious of old Customs, and jealous of any Innovation (ex∣cept those brought in by their own Scribes) unless the Innovator had unquestionable Proofs of Divine Authority.

V. 25. They asked him, Why baptizest thou then?—Without any

Commission from the Sanhedrim? And not only Heathens (who were always baptized, before they were admitted to Circumcision) but Jews also?

V. 26. John answered, I baptize—To prepare for the Messiah▪ And indeed to shew, That Jews, as well as Gentiles, must be Prose∣lytes to Christ, and that these, as well as those, stand in Need of be∣ing washed from their Sins.

V. 28. Where John was baptizing—That is, used to baptize.

V. 29. He s••eth J••sus coming and saith, Behold the Lamb—Innocent; to be offered up; prophesied of by Isaiah (ch. liii. 7.) typisied by the Paschal Lamb, and by the daily Sacrifice: The Lamb of God—Whom GOD gave, approves, accepts of; who taketh away—Atoneth for; the Sin—That is, all the Sins; of the world—Of all Mankind. Sin and the World are of equal Extent.

V. 31. I knew him not—Till he came to be baptized. How sur∣prizing is this! Considering now nearly they were related, and how remarkable the Conception and Birth of both had been. But there was a peculiar Providence visible in our Saviour's living from his In∣fancy to his Baptism at Nazareth: John all the Tune living the Life of an H••••mit in the Deserts of Judea (Luke i. 80.) ninety or more Miles from Nazareth. Hereby that Acquaintance was prevented, which might have made John's Testimony of Christ suspected.

V. 34. I saw it—That is, the Spirit so descending and abiding on Him: And testified—From that Time.

V. 37. They followed Jesus—They walked after Him, but had not the Courage to speak to Him.

V. 41. He first findeth his own brother Simon—Probably both of them sought him: Which is, being interpreted, the Christ—This the Evangelist adds, as likewise those Words in the 38th Verse, that is, being interpreted, Master.

V. 42. Jesus said, Thou art Simon, the son of Jonah—As none had told our LORD these Names, this could not but strike Peter. Cephas, which is Peter—Meaning the same in Syriac, which Peter does in Greck, namely, a Rock.

V. 45. Jesus of Nazareth—So Philip thought, not knowing He was born in Bethlehem. Nathanael was probably the same with Bar∣tholomew, that is, the Son of Tholomew. St. Matthew joins Bartho∣lomew with Philip (ch. x. 3.) and St. John places Nathanael in the Midst of the Apostles, immediately after Thomas (ch. xxi. 2.) just as Bartholomew is placed, Acts i. 13.

V. 46. Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?—How cautiously should we g••••rd against popular Prejudices? When these had once possest so honest an Heart, as even that of Nathanael they led him to suspect the blessed Jesus Himself for an Impostor, because He had been brought up at Nazareth. But his Integrity prevailed over that foolish Blas, and laid him open to the Force of Evidence, which a candid Enquirer will always be glad to admit, even when it brings the most unexpected Discoveries. Can any good thing?—That is, have we Ground from Scripture to expect the Messiah, or any eminent Prophet, from Nazareth? Philip saith, Come and see—The same An∣swer which he had received himself from our LORD the Day before.

V. 48. Under the fig-tree I saw thee—Perhaps at Prayer.

V. 49. Nathanael answered—Happy are they that are ready to be∣lieve, swift to receive the Truth and Grace of GOD. Thou art the Son of God—So he acknowledges now, more than he had heard from Philip: The Son of God, the king of Israel—A Consession both of the Person and Office of Christ.

V. 51. Hereafter ye shall see—All of these, as well as thou, who believe on me now in my State of Humiliation, shall hereafter ••••e me come in my Glory, and all the Angels of GOD with me. This seems the most natural Sense of the Words, tho' they may also refer to his Aseension.

II

And the third day, there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there.

[ 2] And both Jesus and his disciples were invited to the marriage. [ 3] And wine falling short, the mother of Jesus saith to him, They have not wine. Jesus [ 4] saith to her, Woman, what is it to me and thee? Mine hour is not yet come. [ 5] His mother saith to the servants, Whatsoever he saith to you, do. [ 6] And there were set there six water-pots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three measures apiece. [ 7] Jesus saith to them, Fill the water-pots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. [ 8] And he saith to them, Draw out now, and carry to the governor of the feast. And they carried it. [ 9] When the governor of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine (he knew not whence it was, but the servants who had drawn the water knew) the governor of the

feast calleth the bridegroom, [ 10] And saith to him, Every man doth set out good wine first, and when men have well drank, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine till now. [ 11] Jesus wrought this beginning of miracles in Cana of Galilee, and manifested his glory, and his disciples believed on him.

[ 12] After this he went down to Capernaum, he and his mother, and his bretheren, and his disci∣ples: and they tarried there not many days. [ 13] For the passover of the Jews was nigh, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, [ 14] And found in the temple them that sold oxen, and sheep, and doves, and the changers of money sitting. [ 15] And having made a scourge of rushes, he drove all out of the temple, both the sheep and the oxen, and poured out the changers money, and overthrew the tables, [ 16] And said to them that sold doves, Take these things hence; make not my Father's house an house of traffick. [ 17] And his disciples remembered that it is written,* 1.536 The zeal of thine house eateth me up. [ 18] Then answered the Jews and said to him, What sign shewest thou us, seeing thou dost these things? [ 19] Jesus answered and said to them, Destroy this tem∣ple, and I will raise it up in three days. Then

[ 20] said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou raise it up in three days? [ 21] But he spake of the temple of his body. [ 22] When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said. [ 23] Now when he was in Jerusalem at the Passover, on the feast day, many believed in his name, beholding the miracles which he did. [ 24] But Jesus did not trust himself to them, because he knew all men, [ 25] And needed not that any should testify of man; for he knew what was in man.

V. 1. And the third day—After He had said this. In Cana of Ga∣lilee—There were two other Towns of the same Name, one in the Tribe of Ephraim, the other in Caelosyria.

V. 2. Jesus and his disciples were invited to the marriage—Christ does not take away human Society, but sanctify it. Water might have quenched Thirst; yet our LORD allows Wine; especially at a festival Solemnity. Such was his Facility in drawing his Disciples at first, who were afterwards to go thro' rougher Ways.

V. 3. And wine f••lling short—How many Days the Solemnity had lasted, and on which Day our Lord came, or how many Disci∣ples might follow Him, does not appear. His mother saith to him, They have not wine—Either she might mean, Supply them by Mira∣cle; or, Go away, that others may go also, before the Want ap∣pears.

V. 4. Jesus saith to her, Woman—So our LORD speaks also, ch. xix. 26. it is probable this was the constant Appellation which He used to her. He regarded his Father above all, not knowing even his Mother after the f••••sh. What is it to me and thee? A mild Reproof of her inordinate Concern and untimely Interposal. Mine hour is not yet come—The Time of my working this Miracle, or of my going away.

May we not learn hence, if his Mother was rebuked for attempt∣ing to direct Him in the Days of his Flesh, how absurd it is, to ad∣dress her as if she had a Right to command Him, on the Throne of his Glory? Likewise how indecent it is for us to direct his supreme Wisdom, as to the Time or Manner in which He shall appear for us, in any of the Exigencies of Life!

V. 5. His mother saith to the servants—Gathering from his Answer, that He was about to do something extraordinary.

V. 6. The purifying of the Jews—Who purified themselves by fre∣quent Washings; particularly before Eating.

V. 9. The governor of the feast—The Bridegroom generally pro∣cured some Friend to order all Things at the Entertainment.

V. 10. And saith—St. John barely relates the Words he spoke, which does not imply his approving them. When they have well d••an••—Does not mean any more than toward the Close of the En∣tertainment.

V. 11. And his disciples believed—More stedfastly.

V. 14. Ox••n, and sheep, and doves—Used for Sacrifice: And the changers of money—Those who changed foreign Money, for that which was current at Jerusalem, for the Convenience of them that came from distant Countries.

V. 15. Having made a s••ourge of rushes—(Which were strewed on the Ground) he drove all out of the temple (that is, the Court of it) bot•• the sheep and the oxen—Tho' it does not appear that He struck even them: And much less, any of the Men. But a Terror from GOD, it is evident, fell upon them.

V. 18. Them answered the Jews—Either some of those whom he had just driven out, or their Friends: What sign shewest thou?—So they require a Miracle, to confirm a Miracle!

V. 19. This temple—Doubtless pointing, while He spoke, to his Body, the Temple and Habitation of the Godhead.

V. 20. Forty and six years—Just so many Years before the Time of this Conversation, Herod the Great had begun his most magni∣ficent Reparation of the Temple (one Part after another) which he continued all his Life, and which was now going on, and was con∣tinued thirty-six Years longer, till within six or seven Years of the Destruction of the State, City, and Temple, by the Romans.

V. 22. They believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said—Concerning his Resurrection.

V. 23. Many believed—That He was a Teacher sent from GOD.

V. 24. He did not trust himself to them—Let us learn hence, Not rashly to put ourselves into the Power of others. Let us study a wise and happy Medium, between universal Suspiciousness, and that Easiness which would make us the Property of every Pretender to Kindness and Respect.

V. 25. He—To whom all Things are naked, knew what was in man—Namely, a desperately deceitful Heart.

III.

Now there was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. [ 2] The same came to him by night, and said to him, Rabbi, we know, that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles which thou dost, except God be with him. [ 3] Jesus answered and said to him, Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of

God. [ 4] Nicodemus saith to him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a se∣cond time into his Mother's womb, and be born? [ 5] Jesus answered, Verily, verily I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. [ 6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit, is Spirit. [ 7] Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. [ 8] The wind bloweth were it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it com∣eth, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit. [ 9] Nicodemus answered and said to him, How can these things be? [ 10] Jesus answered and said to him, Art thou a teacher of Israel, and knowest not these things? [ 11] Verily, verily I say to thee, we speak what we know, and testify what

we have seen; yet ye receive not our testimony. [ 12] If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how would ye believe, if I told you heavenly things? [ 13] For no one hath gone up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, the Son of man, who is in heaven. [ 14] And as* 1.537 Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, [ 15] That whosoever believeth on him, may not perish, but have everlasting life. [ 16] For God so loved the world, that he gave his only be∣gotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him, may not perith, but have everlasting life. [ 17] For God sent not his Son into the world, to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved thro'

him. [ 18] He that believeth on him, is not condemned; but he that believeth not, is condemned already, because he hath not believed on the name of the only begotten Son of God. [ 19] And this is the con∣demnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. [ 20] For every one that doth evil, hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. [ 21] But he that practiseth the truth, cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.

[ 22] After these things Jesus and his disciples we••t into the land of Judea, and there he tarried with them and baptized. [ 23] And John also was baptizing in Enon, near Salim, because there was much water there; and they came and were baptized. [ 24] For John was not yet cast into prison.

[ 25] Then there arose a dispute between some of John's disciples and the Jews, about purifying. [ 26] And they came to John, and said to him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou gavest testimony, behold he baptizeth, and all men come to him. [ 27] John answered and said, A

man can receive nothing, unless it be given him from heaven. [ 28] Ye yourselves bear me witness that I said, I am not the Christ, but I am sent before him. [ 29] He that hath the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom who standeth and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly, because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore is ful∣filled. [ 30] He must increase, but I must decrease. [ 31] He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. [ 32] And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth: yet no man receiveth his testimony. [ 33] He that hath received his testimony, hath set to his seal, that God is true. [ 34] For he whom God hath sent, speak∣eth the words of God; for God giveth not him the Spirit by measure. [ 35] The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. [ 36] He that believeth on the Son, hath everlasting life:

but he that obeyeth not the Son, shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.

V. 1. A ruler—One of the Great Council.

V. 2. The same came—Thro' Desire; but by night—Thro' Shame: We know—Even we Rulers and Pharisees.

V. 3. Jesus answered—That Knowledge will not avail thee, un∣less thou be born again—Otherwise thou canst not see, that is, experi∣ence and enjoy, either the inward or the glorious kingdom of God.

In this solemn Discourse our LORD shews, that no external Profession, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ceremonial Ordinances or Privileges of Birth, could intitle 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to 〈…〉〈…〉 of the Messiah's Kingdom: That an entire change 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••••••ssary for that Purpose: That

this could only be wrought in Man, by the Almighty Power of GOD: That every Man born into the World, was by Nature in a State of Sin, Condemnation, and Misery: That the free Mercy of GOD had given his Son to deliver them from it, and to raise them to a blessed Immortality: That all Mankind, Gen••••••s as well as Jews, might share in these Benefits, procured by his being listed up on the Cross, and to be received by Faith in him: But that, if they rejected Him, their eternal, aggravated Condemnation would be the certain Conse∣quence. Except a man be born again—If our LORD, by being born again, means only Reformation of Life, iustead of making any new Discovery, he has only thrown a great Deal of Obscurity, on what was before plain and obvious.

V. 4. When ••e is old—As Nicodemus himself was.

V. 5. Except a man be born of water and of the spirit—Except he experience that great inward Change by the Spirit, and he baptized (wherever Baptism can he had) as the outward Sign and Means of it.

V. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh—Mere Flesh, void of the Spirit, yea, at Enmity with it: And that which is born of the Spirit, is spirit—Is spiritual, heavenly, divine, like its Author.

V. 7. Ye must be born again—To be born again, is, To be in∣wardly changed from all Sinfulness to all Holiness. It is fitly so called, because as great a Change then passes on the Soul, as passes on the Body, when it is born into the World.

V. 8. The wind bloweth—According to its own Nature, not thy Will, and thou hearest the sound thereof—Thou art sure it doth blow, but canst not explain the particular Manner of its acting. So i•• every one that is born of the Spirit—The Fact is plain, the Manner of his Operations inexplicable.

V. 11. We speak what we know—I and all that believe in me.

V. 12. Earthly things—Things done on Earth. Such as the New Birth, and the present Privileges of the Children of GOD. Heaven∣ly things—Such as the Eternity of the Son, and the Unity of the Father, Son, and Spirit.

V. 13. For no one—For here you must rely on my single Testimo∣ny, whereas there you have a Cloud of Witnesses: Hath gone up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven. Who is in Leaven— Therefore He is Omnipresent; else He could not be in Heaven and on Earth at once. This is a plain Instance of what is usually termed the Communication of Properties between the Divine and Human Nature; whereby what is proper to the Divine Nature is spoken concerning the Human, and what is proper to the Human is, as here, spoken of the Divine.

V. 14. And as Moses—And even this single Witness will soon be taken from you; yea, and in a most ignominious Manner.

V. 15. That whosoever—He must be lifted up, that hereby He may purchase Salvation for all Believers: All those who look to Him by Faith recovering spiritual Health, even as all that looked at that Ser∣pent recovered bodily Health.

V. 16. Yea, and this was the very Design of GOD's Love, in sending Him into the World. Whosoever believeth on him—With that Faith which worketh by Love, and hold fast the Beginning of his Confidence stedfast to the End. God so loved the world—That is, All Men under Heaven; even those that despise his Love, and will for that Cause finally perish. Otherwise not to believe would be no Sin to them. For what should they believe? Ought they to be∣lieve, that Christ was given for them? Then He was given for them. He gave his only Son—Truly and seriously. And the Son of God gave himself (Gal. iv. 4.) Truly and seriously.

V. 17. God sent not his Son into the world, to condemn the world— Al∣though many accuse him of it.

V. 18. He that believeth on him is not condemned—Is acquitted, is justified before GOD. The name of the only begotten Son of God—The Name of a Person is often put for the Person himself. But perhaps it is farther intimated in that Expression, That the Person spoken of is great and magnificent. And therefore it is generally used to ex∣press either GOD the Father, or the Son.

V. 19. This is the condemnation—That is, the Cause of it. So GOD i•• clear.

V. 21. He that practiseth the truth (that is, true Religion) cometh to the light—So even Nicodemus afterwards did. Are wrought in God— That is, in the Light, Power, and Love of GOD.

V. 22. Jesus went—From the Capital City, Jerusalem, into the land of Judea—That is, into the Country. There he baptized—Not Himself; but his Disciples by his Order, ch. iv. 2.

V. 23. John also was baptizing—He did not repel them that offer∣ed; but he more willingly referred them to Jesus.

V. 25. The Jew—Those Men of Judea, who now went to be baptized by Jesus; and John's Disciples, who were mostly of Galilee; about purifying—That is, Baptism. They disputed, which they should be baptized by.

V. 27. A man can receive nothing—Neither he, nor I. Neither could he do this, unless GOD had sent him; nor can I receive the

Title of Christ, or any Honour comparable to that which He hath received from Heaven. They seem to have spoken with Jealousy and Resentment; John answers with sweet Composure of Spirit.

V. 29. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom—He whom the Bride follows. But all Men now come to Jesus. Hence it is plain, He is the Bridegroom: The friend who heareth him—Talk with the Bride; rejoiceth greatly—So far from envying or resenting it.

V. 30. He must increase, but I must decrease—So they who are now, like John, burning and shining lights, must (if not suddenly eclipsed) like him gradually decrease, while others are increasing about them; as they, in their Turns, grew up, amidst the Decays of the former Generation. Let us know how to set, as well as how to rise; and let it comfort our declining Days, to trace in those who are likely to succeed us in our Work, the Openings of yet greater Usefulness.

V. 31. It is not improbable, that what is added, to the End of the Chapter, are the Words of the Evangelist, not the Baptist. He that is of the earth—A mere Man; of earthly Original, has a Spirit and Speech answerable to it.

V. 32. No man—None comparatively, exceeding few; receiveth his testimony—With true Faith.

V. 33. Hath set to his seal—It was customary among the Jews, for the Witness to set his Seal to the Testimony he had given. That God is true—Whose Word the Messiah speaks.

V. 34. God giveth not him the Spirit by measure—As He did to the Prophets, but immeasurably. Hence He speaketh the Words of GOD in the most perfect Manner.

V. 36. He that bel••eveth on the Son, hath everlasting life—He hath it already. For he loves GOD. And Love is the Essence of Heaven. He that obeyeth not—A Consequence of not believing.

IV.

When therefore the Lord knew, that the Pha∣risees had heard, Jesus maketh and baptizeth more disciples than John [ 2] (Tho' Jesus himself baptized not; but his disciples) [ 3] He left Judea, and de∣parted again into Galilee. [ 4] And he must needs go thro' Samaria. [ 5] Then cometh he to a city of Sa∣maria, called Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. [ 6] Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore being wearied with the journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. [ 7] There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus saith to her, Give me to drink. [ 8] (For his disciples were gone to the city to buy meat. [ 9] ) Then saith the Samaritan woman to him, How dost thou, being a Jew, ask drink of me, who am a Samaritan woman? For the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. [ 10] Jesus answered and said to her, If thou hadst known the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink, thou wouldst have asked of him, and he would have given thee

living water? The woman saith to him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: whence then hast thou that living water? [ 12] Art thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and himself drank thereof, and his chil∣dren, and his cattle? [ 13] Jesus answered and said to her, Whosoever drinketh of this water, will thirst again. [ 14] But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him, will never thirst, but the water that I shall give him, will become in him a foun∣tain of water, springing up into everlasting life. [ 15] The woman saith to him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw. [ 16] Jesus saith to her, Go, call thy husband, and come hi∣ther. The woman answered and said, I have no husband. [ 17] Jesus said to her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband; [ 18] For thou hast had five hus∣bands, and he whom thou now hast, is not thy hus∣band: this thou saidst truly. [ 19] The woman saith to him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. [ 20] Our fathers worshipped in this mountain: but ye

say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. [ 21] Jesus saith to her, Woman, be∣lieve me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor at Jerusalem, worship the Father. [ 22] Ye worship ye know not what; we know what we worship; for salvation is from the Jews. [ 23] But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true wor∣shippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship him. [ 24] God is a Spirit, and they that worship him must worship in spirit and in truth. [ 25] The woman saith to him, I know that the Messiah is coming, who is called Christ:

when he is come, he will tell us all things. [ 26] Jesus saith to her, I that speak to thee am He. [ 27] And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with a woman. Yet none said, What seekest thou? Or, Why talkest thou with her?

[ 28] The woman then left her water-pot, and went to the city, and saith to the men, Come, see a man who told me all things that ever I did: [ 29] Is not this the Christ? [ 30] Then they went out of the city, and came to him.

[ 31] In the mean time his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. [ 32] But he said to them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. [ 33] The disciples said one to another, Hath any man brought him to eat? [ 34] Jesus saith to them, My meat is, to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. [ 35] Say ye not, There are yet four months, and the harvest cometh? Lo, I say to you, Lift up your eyes, and survey the fields,

for they are white already to the harvest, [ 36] And he that reapeth, receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit to life eternal, that both he that soweth and he that reap∣eth may rejoice together. [ 37] And herein is the saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. [ 38] I have sent you to reap that whereon you have bestowed no la∣bour: others have laboured, and ye are entered in∣to their labour.

[ 39] And many of the Samaritans out of the city be∣lieved on him, for the saying of the woman testifying, He told me all that ever I did. [ 40] So when the Samaritans were come to him, they besought him to tarry with them. [ 41] And he abode there two days. [ 42] And many more believed, because of his word, And said to the wom••n, We no longer believe, because of thy saying: ••••r we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.

[ 43] After the two days, he departed thence, and went into Galilee. [ 44] (Now Jesus himself had testified,* 1.538 That a prophet hath not honour in his own country. [ 45] ) And when he was come into Galilee, the Galileans receiv∣ed him, having seen all the things that he did in Je∣rusalem at the feast. For they also had come to the feast.

[ 46] So he came again to Cana of Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum. [ 47] When

he heard that Jesus was come out of Judea into Galilee, he went to him, and besought him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. [ 48] Jesus said to him, Unless ye see signs and wonders, ye will in no wise believe. [ 49] The nobleman said to him, Sir come down, ere my child die. [ 50] Jesus said to him, Go; thy son liveth. And the man believed the word that Jesus spake to him, and he went. [ 51] And as he was now going down, his servants met him, and told him, saying, Thy son liveth. [ 52] Then he asked of them the hour when he amended. And they said to him, Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him. [ 53] So the father knew it was at the same hour, in which Jesus had said to him, Thy son liveth. And himself believed, and his whole house. [ 54] This second miracle again Jesus wrought, being come out of Judea into Galilee.

V. 1. The Lord knew—Tho' none informed Him of it.

V. 3. He left Judea—To shun the Effects of their Resentment.

V. 4. And he must needs go thro' Samaria—The Road lying directly thro' it.

V. 5. Sychar—Formerly called Sichem or Shechem. Iacob gave—On his Death-bed, Gen. xlviii. 22.

V. 6. Jesus sat thus—Weary as He was. It was the sixth hour—Noon; the Heat of the Day.

V. 7. Give me to drink—In this one Conversation He brought her to that Knowledge, which the Apostles were so long in attain∣ing.

V. 8. For his disciples were gone—Else He needed not have asked her.

V. 9. How dost thou—Her open Simplicity appears, from her very first Words. The Jews have no dealings—None by Way of Friendship. They would receive no Kind of Favour from them.

V. 10. If thou hadst known the gift—The living Water; And who it is—He who alone is able to give it; Thou wouldst have asked of him—On those Words the Stress lies. Water—In like Manner He draws the Allegory from Bread, ch. vi. 27. and from Light, ch. viii. 12. the first, the most simple, necessary, common, and salutary things in Nature. Living water—The Spirit and its Fruits. But she might the more easily mistake his Meaning, because living water was a common Phrase among the Jews for spring water.

V. 12. Our Father Iacob—So they fancied he was; whereas they were, in Truth, a Mixture of many Nations, placed there by the King of Assyria, in the room of the Israelites whom he had carried away captive. (2 Kings xvii. 24.) Who gave us the well—In Joseph, their supposed Forefather: And drank thereof—So even he had no better Water than this.

V. 14. Will never thirst—Will never (provided he continue to drink thereof) be miserable, dissatisfied, without Refreshment. If ever that Thirst returns, it will be the Fault of the Man, not the Water. But the water that I shall give him—The Spirit of Faith working by Love, Shall become in him—An inward, living Principle, a fountain—Not barely a Well, which is soon exhausted, springing up into everlasting life—Which is a Confluence, or rather an Ocean of Streams arising from this Fountain.

V. 15. That I thirst not—She takes Him still in a gross Sense.

V. 16. Jesus saith to her—He now clears the Way, that He might give her a better Kind of Water than she asked for. Go call thy husband—He strikes directly at her Bosom-Sin.

V. 17. Thou hast well said—We may observe in all our LORD's Discourse, the utmost Weightiness, and yet the utmost Courtesy.

V. 18. Thou hast had five husbands—Whether they were all dead or not, her own Conscience now awakened would tell her.

V. 19. Sir, I perceive—So soon was her Heart touched!

V. 20. The Instant she perceived this, she proposes what she thought the most important of all Questions. This mountain—Pointing to Mount Gerizim. Sanballat, by the Permission of

Alexander the Great, had built a Temple upon Mount Gerizim, for Manass••h, who for marrying Sanballat's Daughter, had been expelled from the Priesthood and from Jerusalem (Neh. xiii. 28.) This was the Place where the Samaritans used to worship, in Oppo∣sition to Jerusalem. And it was so near Sychar, that a Man's Voice might be heard from the one to the other. Our fathers worshipped—This plainly refers to Abraham and Iacoh (from whom the Samaritans pretended to deduce their Genealogy) who erected Altars in this Place: (Gen. xii. 6, 7. and xxxiii. 18, 20.) And possibly to the whole Congregation, who were directed, when they came into the Land of Canaan, to put the blessing upon Mount Gerizim, Deut. xi. 29. Ye Jews say, In Jerusalem is the place—Namely, the Temple.

V. 21. Believe me—Our LORD uses this Expression in this Man∣ner but once; and that to a Samaritan. To his own People the Jews, his usual Language is, I say unto you. The hour cometh when ye—Both Samaritans and Jews, shall worship neither in this mountain, nor at Jerusalem—As preferable to any other Place. True Worship shall be no longer confined to any one Place or Nation.

V. 22. Ye worship ye know not what—Ye Samaritans are ignorant, not only of the Place, but of the very Object of Worship. Indeed they feared the Lord—After a Fashion; but at the same Time, served their own gods, 2 Kings xvii. 33. Salvation is from the Jews—So spake all the Prophets, that the Saviour should arise out of the Jewish Nation: And that from thence the Knowledge of Him should spread to all Nations under Heaven.

V. 23. The true worshippers shall worship the Father—Not here or there only, but at all Times and in all Places.

V. 24. God is a Spirit—Not only remote from Body, and all the Properties of it, but likewise full of all spiritual Perfections, Power, Wisdom, Love, Holiness. And our Worship should be suitable to his Nature. We should worship Him with the truly spiritual Wor∣ship of Faith, Love, and Holiness, animating all our Tempers, Thoughts, Words, and Actions.

V. 25. The woman saith—With Joy for what she had already learned, and Desire of fuller Instruction.

V. 26. Jesus saith—Hasting to satisfy her Desire, before his Dis∣ciples came. I am He—Our LORD did not speak this so plainly to the Jews, who were 〈◊〉〈◊〉 full of the Messiah's temporal Kingdom. If He had, many would doubtless have taken up Arms in his Favour, and others have accused him to the Roman Governor. Yet He did in Effect declare the Thing, tho' he denied the particular Title. For in a Multitude of Places He represented Himself, both as the Son of Man, and as the Son of GOD: Both which Expressions were gene∣rally understood by the Jews as peculiarly applicable to the Messiah.

V. 27. His disciples marvelled that he talked with a woman—Which the Jewish Rabbis reckoned scandalous for a Man of Distinction to do. They marvelled likewise at his talking with a Woman of that Nation, which was so peculiarly hateful to the Jews. Yet none said—To the Woman. What seekest thou? Or to Christ, Why talkest thou with her?

V. 28. The woman left her water-pot—Forgetting smaller Things.

V. 29. A man who told me all things that ever I did—Our LORD had told her but a few Things. But his Words awakened her Con∣science, which soon told her all the rest. Is not this the Christ?—She does not doubt of it herself, but incites them to make the Enquiry.

V. 31. In the mean time—Before the People came.

V. 34. My meat—That which satisfies the strongest Appetite of my Soul.

V. 35. The fields are white already—As if He had said, the spiri∣tual Harvest is ripe already. The Samaritans ripe for the Gospel, covered the Ground round about them.

V. 36. He that reapeth—Whoever saves Souls, receiveth wages—A peculiar Blessing to himself, and gathereth fruit—Many Souls; that he that soweth—Christ the great Sower of the Seed, and he that reapeth may rejoice together—In Heaven.

V. 37. That saying—A common Proverb: One soweth—The Pro∣phets and Christ; Another reapeth—The Apostles and succeeding Mi∣nisters.

V. 38. I—The LORD of the whole Harvest, have sent you—He had employed them already in baptizing, ver. 2.

V. 42. We know that this is the Saviour of the world—And not of the Jews only.

V. 43. He went into Galilee—That is, into the Country of Galilee; but not to Nazareth. It was at that Town only that He had no Ho∣nour. Therefore He went to other Towns.

V. 47. To come down—For Cana stood much higher than Capernaum.

V. 48. Unless ye see signs and wonders—Altho' the Samaritans be∣lieved without them.

V. 52. He asked the hour when he amended—The more exactly the Works of GOD are considered, the more Faith is increased.

V.

After this there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. [ 2] Now there is in Jerusalem by the sheep-gate, a bath, which is called in the Hebrew tongue, Bethesda, having five porticos. [ 3] In these lay a great multitude of diseased, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. [ 4] For an angel went down at certain times into the bath, and the water was troubled: and whosoever went in first, after the troubling of the water, was made whole, whatsoever dis∣ease he had. [ 5] And a certain man was there, who had been diseased eight and thirty year. [ 6] Jesus seeing him

lie, and knowing that he had now been diseased a long time, saith to him, Desirest thou to be made whole? [ 7] The infirm man answered him, Sir, I have no man to put me into the bath, when the water is troubled; and the while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. [ 8] Jesus saith to him, Rise, take up thy bed and walk. [ 9] And immediately the man was made whole and took up his bed and walked: and the same day was the sabbath. [ 10] Then said the Jews to him that was healed, It is the sabbath; it is not lawful for thee to take up thy bed. [ 11] He answered, He that made me whole, he said to me, Take up thy bed and walk. [ 12] Then asked they him, Who is the man that said to thee, Take up thy bed and walk? [ 13] And he that was healed knew not who he was; for Jesus had retired, a multitude being in the place. [ 14] Afterwards Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said to him, Lo, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come to thee. [ 15] The man departed and told the Jews, that it was Jesus who had made him whole.

[ 16] And therefore the Jews persecuted Jesus, because he had done these things on the sabbath. [ 17] But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh until now, and

I work. [ 18] Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only broke the sabbath, but also said that God was his own Father, making him∣self equal with God. [ 19] Then answered Jesus and said to them, Verily verily I say unto you, the Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do; but what things soever he doth, these also doth the Son likewise. [ 20] For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all Things that himself doth: And he will shew him greater works than these, so that ye will marvel. [ 21] For as the Father quickeneth the dead, so the Son also quick∣eneth whom he will. [ 22] For neither doth the Father judge any one, but hath given all judgment to the

Son: That all men may honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. [ 23] He that honoureth not the Son, honoureth not the Father that sent him. [ 24] Verily, verily I say unto you, he that hear∣eth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and cometh not into condem∣nation, but is passed from death to life. [ 25] Verily, verily I say to you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the Voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live. [ 26] For as the Father hath life in himself, so hath he given to the [ 27] Son also to have life in himself, And hath given him authority to execute judgment likewise, be∣cause he is the Son of man. [ 28] Marvel not at this: for the time is coming in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, [ 29] And shall come forth, they that have done good to the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil to the resurrection of damnation. [ 30] I can do nothing of myself: as I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just; because I seek not my own will, but the will of him that

sent me. [ 31] If I testify of myself, my testimony is not valid. [ 32] There is another that testifieth of me, and I know that the testimony which he testifieth of me is valid.

[ 33] Ye sent to John, and he bare testimony to the truth. [ 34] But I receive not testimony from man; but these things I say, that ye may be saved. [ 35] He was a burning and a shining light, and ye were willing for a Season to rejoice in his light. [ 36] But I have a greater testimony than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to fulfil, the very works that I do, testify of me, that the Father hath sent me. [ 37] And the Father who hath sent me, he hath testified of me: ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his form. [ 38] And ye have not his word abiding in you; for whom he hath sent, ye believe not. [ 39] Search the Scriptures: in them ye are assured ye have eternal life: and it is they that testify of me. [ 40] Yet ye will not come to me, that ye may have life. [ 41] I re∣ceive

not honour from men, But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. [ 42] For I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: [ 43] If another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. [ 44] How can ye believe, while ye receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that is from God only? [ 45] Think not that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. [ 46] For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. [ 47] But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?

V. 1. A feast—Penticost.

V. 2. There is in Jerusalem—Hence it appears, that St. John wrote his Gospel before Jerusalem was destroyed: It is supposed about thirty Years after the Ascension. Having five porticos—Built for the Use of the Sick. Probably the Bason had five Sides. Bethesda signifies the house of M••r••y.

V. 4. An angel—Yet many undoubtedly thought the whole Thing to be purely natural. At certain times—Perhaps at a certain hour of the Day, during this paschal Week. Went down—The Greek Word implies, that he had ceased going down, before the Time of St John's writing this. GOD might design this, to raise Expectation of the acceptable Time approaching, to add a greater Lustre to his Son's Miracles, and to shew that his ancient People were not entirely for∣gotten

of him. The first—Whereas the Son of GOD healed every Day not one only, but whole Multitudes that resorted to Him.

V. 7. The sick man answered—Giving the Reason why he was not made whole, notwithstanding his Desire.

V. 14. Sin ••••••••o••••—It seems his former Illness was the Effect or Punishment of Sin.

V. 15. The man went and told the Jews, that it was Jesus who had made him whole—One might have expected, that when he had pub∣lished the Name of his Benefactor, Crowds would have thronged about Jesus, to have heard the Words of his Mouth, and to have re∣ceived the Blessings of the Gospel. Instead of this, they surround Him with an hostile Intent; they even conspire against his Life, and for an imagined Transgression in Point of Ceremony, would have put out this Light of Israel. Let us not wonder then, if our Good be evil spoken of; if even Candour, Benevolence, and Usefulness, do not disarm the Enmity of those who have been taught to prefer Sacrifice to Mercy; and who disrelishing the genuine Gospel, naturally seek to slander and persecute the Professors, but especially the Defenders of it.

V. 17. My Father worketh until now, and I work—From the Cre∣ation till now he hath been working without Intermission. I do likewise. This is the Proposition which is explained from ver. 19,

to ver. 30, confirmed and vindicated in the 31st and following Verses.

V. 18. His own Father—The Greek Word means his own Father, in such a Sense as no Creature can speak. Making himself equal with God—It is evident all the Hearers so understood Him, and that our LORD never contradicted, but confirmed it.

V. 19. The Son can do nothing of himself—This is not his Imper∣fection, but his Glory, resulting from his eternal, intimate, indis∣soluble Unity with the Father. Hence it is absolutely impossible, that the Son should judge, will, testify, or teach any Thing without the Father, ver. 30, &c. ch. vi. 38. ch. vii. 16. or that He should be known or believed on, separately from the Father. And He here defends his doing Good every Day, without Intermission, by the Example of his Father, from which he cannot depart: These doth the Son likewise—All these, and only these; seeing He and the Father are One.

V. 20. The Father sheweth him all things that himself doth—A Proof of the most intimate Unity. And he will shew him—By doing them. At the same Time (not at different Times) the Father sheweth and doth, and the Son seeth and do••••. Greater Works—Jesus oftener terms them Works, than Signs or Wonders. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 they were not Wonders in his Eyes. Ye will marvel—So they did, when He raised Lazarus.

V. 21. For—He declares, which are those greater Works, Raising the Dead, and Judging the World. The Power of quickening whom he will follows from the Power of judging. These two, Quickening and Judging, are proposed ver. 2••.22. The Acquittal of Believers, which pre-supposes Judgment, is treated of in the 24th Verse; the Quickening some of the Dead, ver. 25; and the general Resurrec∣tion, ver. 28.

V. 22. For neither doth the Father judge—Not without the Son: But He doth judge by that Man whom He hath ordained, Acts xvii. 31.

V. 23. That all men may honour the Son, even as they honour the Fa∣ther— Either willingly, and so escaping Condemnation, by Faith; or unwillingly, when feeling the Wrath of the Judge. This demon∣strates the EQUALITY of the Son with the Father. If our LORD were GOD only by Office or Investiture, and not in the Unity of the divine Essence, and in all Respects equal in Godhead with the Fa∣ther, He could not be honoured even as, that is, with the same Ho∣nour that they honoured the Father. He that honoureth not the Son—With the same equal Honour, greatly dishonoureth the Father that sent him.

V. 24. And cometh not into condemnation—Unless he make Shipwreck of the Faith.

V. 25. The dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God—So did Jairus's Daughter, the Widow's Son, and Lazarus.

V. 26. He hath given to the Son—By eternal Generation, to, have life in himself—Absolute, independent.

V. 27. Because he is the Son of man—He is appointed to judge Man∣kind, because He was made Man.

V. 28. Th•• ••••me is coming—When not two or three, but all shall rife.

V. 29. The resurrection of life—That Resurrection which leads to Life everlasting.

V. 30. I can do nothing of myself—It is impossible I should do any Thing separately from my Father. As I hear—Of the Father, and

see, so I judge and do; because I am essentially united to Him. See ver. 19.

V. 31. If I testify of myself—That is, if I alone (which indeed is impossible) my testimony is not valid.

V. 32. There is another—The Father, ver. 37. and I know that, even in your Judgment, his Testimony is beyond Exception.

V. 33. He bare testimony—That I am the Christ.

V. 34. But I have no Need to receive, &c. But these things —Con∣cerning John, whom ye yourselves reverence; I say that ye may be saved—So really and seriously did He will their Salvation. Yet they were not saved. Most, if not all, of them died in their Sins.

V. 35. He was a burning and a shining light—Inwardly burning with Love and Zeal; outwardly shining in all Holiness. And even ye were willing for a season—A short Time only.

V. 37. He hath testified of me—Namely, at my Baptism. I speak not of my supposed Father Joseph. Ye are utter Strangers to Him of whom I speak.

V. 38. Ye have not his word—All who believe have the Word of the Father (the same with the Word of the Son) abiding in them, that is, deeply ingrasted in their Hearts.

V. 39. Search the Scriptures—A plain Command to all Men. In them ye are assured ye have eternal life—Ye know they shew you the Way to eternal Life. And these very Scriptures testify of me.

V. 40. Yet ye will not come unto me—As they direct you.

V. 41. I receive not honor from men—I need it not. I seek it not from you for my own Sake.

V. 42. But I know you—With this Ray he pierces the Hearts of the Hearers. And this doubtless He spake with the tenderest Com∣passion.

V. 43. If another shall come—Any false Christ.

V. 44. While ye receive honour—That is, while ye seek the Praise of Men rather than the Praise of GOD. At the Feast of Pentecost, kept in Commemoration of the giving the Law from Mount Sinai, their Sermons use to be full of the Praises of the Law, and of the People to whom it was given. How mortifying then must the fol∣lowing Words of our LORD be to them, while they were thus exult∣ing in Moses and his Law?

V. 45. There is one that a••cuseth you—By his Writings.

V. 46. He wrote of me—Every where; in all his Writings; parti∣cularly Dent. xviii. 15, 18.

VI.

* 1.539 After these things, Jesus went over the sea of [ 2] Galilee, the sea of Tiberias, And a great multitude followed him, because they had seen the miracles which he did on the diseased. [ 3] But Jesus went up into the Mountain, and sat there with his Disciples. [ 4] And the Passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh. [ 5] Jesus then lifting up his eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming to him, saith to Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat? [ 6] (But this he said trying him: for he himself knew what he intended to do. [ 7] ) Philip answered him, Two hun∣dred penny worth of bread is not sufficient for them,

that each of them may take a little. [ 8] One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, saith to him, [ 9] Here is a lad, who hath five barley-loaves and two small fishes: but what are they among so many? Jesus said, Make the men sit down. [ 10] (Now there was much grass in the place) So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. [ 11] Then Jesus took the loaves, and having given thanks, di∣stributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were sat down, and likewise of the fishes as much as they would. [ 12] When they were filled, he saith to his disciples, Gather up the fragments which remain, that nothing be lost. [ 13] They there∣fore gathered them, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley-loaves, which re∣mained over and above to them that had eaten. [ 14] Then those men having seen the miracle which Jesus did, said, Of a truth this is the prophet that was to come into the world. [ 15] Jesus therefore knowing, that they were about to come and take him by force to make him a king, again retired to the mountain all alone.

[ 16] * 1.540 In the evening, his disciples went down to the sea, And entering into the vessel, they went over the sea toward Capernaum: [ 17] And it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them. [ 18] And the sea ran high, a great wind blowing. [ 19] And hav∣ing rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing night to the vessel: and they were afraid. [ 20] But he saith to them, It is I; be not afraid. [ 21] Then they willingly received him into the vessel; and im∣mediately the vessel was at the land to which they were bound.

[ 22] The day following, the multitude who had stood on the other side of the sea, because they

saw there was no other vessel there, save that one into which his disciples went, and that Jesus went not into the vessel with his disciples, but that his disciples were gone away alone: [ 23] (But there came other little vessels from Tiberias, near the place where they had eaten bread, after the Lord had given thanks) [ 24] When they saw, that Jesus was not there, neither his disciples, they also went aboard the vessels, and came to Capernaum seeking Jesus.

[ 25] And having sound him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? [ 26] Jesus answered them and said, Verily Verily I say to you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were satisfied. [ 27] Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that which endureth to everlasting life, which the Son of man will give you; for him hath God the Father sealed. [ 28] Then said they to him, What shall we do, that we may work the works of God? [ 29] Jesus answered and said to them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. [ 30] They said therefore to him, What sign dost thou then, that we may see and believe thee? What dost thou work?

[ 31] Our fathers ate manna in the wilderness, as it is written,† 1.541 He gave them bread from heaven to eat. [ 32] Then said Jesus to them, Verily, verily I say unto you, Moses gave you not the bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. [ 33] For the bread of God is he that cometh down from heaven, and giveth life to the world. [ 34] Then said they to him, Lord, ever give us this bread. [ 35] And Jesus said to them, I am the bread of life. He that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. [ 36] But I told you, that tho' ye have seen me, ye believe not. [ 37] All that the Father giveth me, will come to me, and him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out. [ 38] For I came down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him that sent me. [ 39] And this is the will of him that sent me, That of all which he hath given me, I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. [ 40] And this is the will of him that sent me,

that every one who seeth the Son, and believeth on him, should have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

[ 41] The Jews then murmured about him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. [ 42] And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How then saith he, I came down from heaven? [ 43] Jesus answered and said to them, Murmur not among yourselves. [ 44] No man can come unto me, unless the Father who hath sent me, draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. [ 45] It is writ∣ten in the prophets,* 1.542 And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard and learned of the Father cometh to me. [ 46] Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he who is from God; he hath seen the Father. [ 47] Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth on me hath everlasting life. [ 48] I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate manna in the wilderness, and yet died. [ 49] This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat of it, and not die. [ 50] I am the living bread which came down from heaven: [ 51] If any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever, and the bread that I will

give, is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.

[ 52] The Jews then debated among themselves, say∣ing, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? But [ 53] Jesus said to them, Verily, verily I say unto you, un∣less ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. [ 54] He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. [ 55] For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. [ 56] He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, abideth in me, and I in him. [ 57] As the living Fa∣ther hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. [ 58] This is the bread which came down from Heaven; not as your fathers ate manna, and died: he that eateth of this bread, shall live for ever. [ 59] These things he said in the synagogue, teaching at Capernaum.

[ 60] Many of his disciples hearing it, said, This is an hard saying: who can hear it? [ 61] Jesus knowing in himself that his disciples murmured about this, said to them, Doth this offend you? [ 62] What if ye shall see the Son of man ascend where he was

before? [ 63] It is the Spirit that quickeneth: the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I have spoken, they are spirit and they are life. [ 64] But there are some of you who believe not. (For Jesus had known from the beginning, who they were that believed not, and who would betray him. [ 65] ) And he said, Therefore said I to you, That no man can come to me, unless it be given him by my Father.

[ 66] From this time many of his disciples went back and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus to the twelve, [ 67] Are ye also minded to go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, saying, Lord, to whom shall we go? [ 68] Thou hast the words of eternal life. [ 69] And we have believed and known, that thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. [ 70] Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve? Yet one of you is a devil. [ 71] He spake of Judas Iscar∣iot, the son of Simon; for he it was that would be∣tray him, being one of the twelve.

V. 1. After these things—The History of between ten and eleven Months is to be supplied here from the other Evangelists.

V. 3. Jesus went up—Before the People overtook Him.

V. 5. Jesus saith to Philip—Perhaps he had the Care of providing Victuals for the Family of the Apostles.

V. 15. He retired to the mountain alone—Having ordered his Dis∣ciples to cross over the Lake.

V. 22. Who had stood on the other side—They were forced to stay a while, because there were then no other Vessels; and they staid the less unwillingly, because they saw Jesus was not embarked.

V. 26. Our LORD does not satisfy their Curiosity, but corrects the wrong Motive they had in seeking Him: Because ye did eat— Merely for temporal Advantage. Hitherto Christ had been gathering Hearers: He now begins to try their Sincerity, by a figurative Dis∣course concerning his Passion, and the Fruit of it, to be received by Faith.

V. 27. Labour not for the meat which perisheth—For bodily Food: Not for that only, not chiefly: Not at all, but in Subordination to Grace, Faith, Love, the meat which endureth to everlasting life. La∣bour, Work for this: for everlasting Life: So our LORD expressly commands, Work for Life, as well as from Life; from a Principle of Faith and Love. Him hath the Father sealed—By this very Mira∣cle, as well as by his whole Testimony concerning Him. See ch. iii. 33. Sealing is a Mark of the Authenticity of a Writing.

V. 28. The works of God—The Work most pleasing to GOD.

V. 29. This is the work of God—The Work most pleasing to GOD, and the Foundation of all others: That ye believe—He expresses it first properly, afterwards siguratively.

V. 30. What sign dost thou?—Amazing, after what they had just seen!

V. 31. Our fathers ate manna—This Sign Moses gave them. He gave them bread from heaven—From the lower, sublunary Heaven; to which Jesus opposes the highest Heaven: In which Sense he says seven Time•• (ver. 32, 33, 38, 50, 58, 62.) That He Himself came down from heaven.

V. 32. Moses gave you not bread from heaven—It was not Moses who gave the Manna to your Fathers; but my Father, who now giv∣eth the true bread from heaven.

V. 33. He that—giveth life to the world—Not (like the Manna) to one People only: And that from Generation to Generation. Our LORD does not yet say, I am that Bread; else the Jews would not have given Him so respectful an Answer, ver. 34.

V. 34. Give us this bread—Meaning it still, in a literal Sense: Yet they seem now to be not far from believing.

V. 35. I am the bread of life—Having and giving Life: He that cometh—he that believeth—Equivalent Expressions: Shall never hun∣ger, thirst—Shall be satisfied, happy, for ever.

V. 36. I have told you—Namely, ver 26.

V. 37. All that the Father giveth me—All that seel themselves lost, and follow the Drawings of the Father, He in a peculiar Manner giveth to the Son: Will come to me—By Faith. And him that thus cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out—I will give him Pardon, Ho∣liness, and Heaven, if he endure to the End to rejoice in his Light.

V. 39. Of all which he hath already given me—(See ch. xvii. 6, 12.) If they endure to the End. But Judas did not.

V. 40. Here is the Sum of the three foregoing Verses. This is the will of him that sent me—This is the whole of what I have said:

This is the eternal, unchangeable Will of COD. Every one who truly believeth, shall have everlasting Life. Every one that seeth and believeth—The Jews saw, and yet believed not. And I will raise him up—As this is the Will of Him that sent me, I will perform it effectually.

V. 44. Christ having checked their Murmuring, continues what he was saying, ver. 40. No man comes to me, unless my Father draw him—No Man can believe in Christ, unless GOD give him Power: He draws us first, by Good Desires: Not by Compulsion, not by lay∣ing the Will under any Necessity; but by the strong and sweet, yet still resistible, Motions of his heavenly Grace.

V. 45. Every man that hath heard—The secret Voice of GOD, he, and he only believeth.

V. 46. Not that any one—Must expect him to appear in a visible Shape. He who is from or with God—In a more eminent Manner than any Creature.

V. 50. Not die—Not spiritually; not eternally.

V. 51. If any eat of this bread—That is, believe in me: He shall live for ever—In other Words, He that believeth to the End

shall be saved. My flesh which I will give you—This whole Discourse concerning his Flesh and Blood refers directly to his Passion, and but remotely, if at all to the LORD'S Supper.

V. 52. Observe the Degrees: The Jews are tried here; the Dis∣ciples, ver. 60, 66. the Apostles, ver. 67.

V. 53. Unless ye eat the flesh of the Son of man—Spiritually: Un∣less ye draw continual Virtue from him by Faith. Eating his flesh is only another Expression for believing.

V. 55. Meat—drink indeed—With which the Soul of a Believer is as truly sed, as his Body with Meat and Drink.

V. 57. I live by the Father—Being one with Him. He shall live by me—Being one with me. Amazing Union!

V. 58. This is—That is, I am the bread—Which is not like the Manna your Fathers ate, who died notwithstanding.

V. 60. This is an hard saying—Hard to the Children of the World, but sweet to the Children of GOD. Scarce ever did our LORD speak more sublimely, even to the Apostles in private. Who can hear—Endure it?

V. 62. What if ye shall see the Son of man ascend where he was before?— How much more incredible will it then appear to you, that he should give you his Flesh to eat?

V. 63. It is the Spirit— The spiritual Meaning of these Words, by which GOD giveth Life. The flesh—The bare, carnal, literal Meaning, profiteth nothing. The words which I have spoken, they are spirit—Are to be taken in a spiritual Sense; and, when they are so understood, they are life—That is, a Means of spiritual Life to the Hearers.

V. 64. But there are some of you who believe not—And so receive no Life by them, because you take them in a gross literal Sense. For Jesus knew from the beginning—Of his Ministry: Who would betray him —Therefore it is plain, GOD does foresee future Contingencies:

"But his Fore-knowledge causes not the Fault "Which had no less prov'd certain unforeknown."

V. 65. Unless it be given—And it is given to those only, who will receive it on GOD's own Terms.

V. 66. From this time many of his disciples went back—So our LORD now began to purge his Floor: The Proud and Careless were driven away, and those remained who were meet for the Master's Use.

V. 68. Thou hast the words of eternal life—Thou, and thou alone speakest the Words which shew the Way to Life everlasting.

V. 69. And we—Who have been with Thee from the Beginning, whatever others do, have known—Are absolutely assured, that thou art the Christ.

V. 70. Jesus answered them—And yet even ye have not all acted suitably to this Knowledge. Have I not chosen, or elected you twelve? —But they might fall from even that Election. Yet one of you— On this gracious Warning, Judas ought to have repented: Is a de∣vil—Is now influenced by one.

VII.

After these things Jesus walked in Galilee: for he would not walk in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. [ 2] Now the Jews' feast of ta∣bernacles was nigh. [ 3] His brethren therefore said to him, Depart hence and go into Judea, that thy disciples there also may see the works which thou dost. [ 4] For no man doth any thing in secret, but desireth to be publickly known: if thou dost these things, shew thyself to the world. (For neither did his brethren believe on him. [ 5] ) Jesus saith to them, My time is not yet come: your time is al∣ways ways ready. [ 6] The world cannot hate you, but me it hateth; because I testify of it, that its works are evil. [ 7] Go ye up to the feast; I go not up to this feast yet; [ 8] because ••••••y time is not yet fully come. [ 9] Having said these things to them, he abode in Galilee.

[ 10] But when his brethren were gone up, then he also went up to the feast, not openly, but as it were privately. [ 11] Then the Jews sought him at the feast, and said, Where is he? [ 12] And there was much murmuring among the multitude concerning him: for some said, He is a good man, others

said, Nay; but he seduceth the people. [ 13] Howe∣ver, no man spake openly of him, for fear of the Jews.

[ 14] Now at the middle of the feast, Jesus went up into the temple and taught. And the Jews mar∣velled, [ 15] saying, How doth this man know letters, having never learned? [ 16] Jesus answered them and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. [ 17] If any man be willing to do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. [ 18] He that speaketh of himself, seeketh his own glory; but he that seek∣eth the glory of him that sent him, the same is true, and there is no unrighteousness in him. [ 19] Did not Moses give you the law? Yet none of you keepeth the law. [ 20] Why seek ye to kill me? The people answered and said, Thou hast a devil. Who seeketh to kill thee? [ 21] Jesus answered and said to them, I did one work, and ye all marvel at it.

[ 22] Moses gave you circumcision, (not that it is of Mo∣ses, but of the fathers) and ye circumcise a man on the sabbath. [ 23] If a man receive circumcision on the sabbath, that the law of Moses may not be broken: Are ye angry at me, because I entirely healed a man on the sabbath? [ 24] Judge not accor∣ding to appearance, but judge righteous judg∣ment.

[ 25] Then said some of them of Jerusalem, Is not this he whom they seek to kill? And lo he speak∣eth boldly, and they say nothing to him. [ 26] Do the rulers know indeed, that this is the Christ? [ 27] How∣beit, we know this man, whence he is: but when Christ cometh, none knoweth whence he is: Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, say∣ing, Do ye both know me, and know whence I am? [ 28] And yet I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. [ 29] But I know him; for I am from him, and he hath sent me. [ 30] Then they sought to seize him; but no man laid hands on him, because his hour was not yet come. [ 31] And many of the multitude believed on him, and said, When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done? [ 32] The Pharisees heard the multitude whis∣pering

such things concerning him, and the Pharisees and the chief priests sent officers to seize him. [ 33] Then said Jesus to them, Yet a little time I am with you, and then I go to him that sent me. [ 34] Ye shall seek, and shall not find me, and where I am ye cannot come. [ 35] Then said the Jews among them∣selves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? Will he go to the dispersed among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks? [ 36] What saying is this that he said, Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me? And where I am, ye cannot come?

[ 37] On the last, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come to me and drink. [ 38] § 1.543 He that believeth on me, out of his belly (as the scripture hath said) shall flow rivers of living water. [ 39] This he spake

of the Spirit, ••••••ch t••••y who believed on him were to receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. [ 40] Many of the multitude therefore hearing this discourse, said, Certainly this is the prophet. [ 41] Others said, This is the Christ. [ 42] But some said, Doth Christ come out of Galilee? [ 43] Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and from* 1.544 Bethlehem, the town where David was? [ 44] So there was a division among the people concern∣ing him. [ 45] And some of them would have seized him; but no man laid hands on him. [ 46] So the Of∣ficers came to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said to them, Why have ye not brought him? [ 47] The Officers answered, Never man spake like this man. [ 48] The Pharisees answered, Are ye also deceived? [ 49] Hath any of the rulers believed on him, or of the Pharisees? [ 50] But this populace, who know not the law, are accursed. [ 51] Nicodemus (he that came to him by night, being one of them) saith to them, Doth our law judge a man before it hear him, and know what he doth? They answered and said to him, Art thou also a Galilean? [ 52] Search and see, that out of Galilee

ariseth no prophet. [ 53] And every man went to his own house. But Jesus went to the mount of Olives.

V. 1. After these things Jesus walled in Galilee—That is, conti∣nued there, for some Months after the Second Passover: For he would not walk—Continue in Judea; because the Jews—Those of them who did not believe; and in particular the chief Priests, Scribes, and Pharisees, sought an Opportunity to kill him.

V. 2. The feast of tabernicles—The Time, Manner, and Reason of this Feast may be seen, Lev. xxiii. 34, &c.

V. 3. His brethren—So called according to the Jewish Way of speaking. They were his Cousins, the Sons of his Mother's Sister. Depart hence—From this obscure Place.

V. 4. For no man doth any thing—Of this Kind, in secret; but ra∣ther desireth to be of public Use. If thou really dost these things—These Miracles which are reported; shew thyself to the would—To all Men.

V. 6. Jesus saith, Your time is always ready—This or any Time will suit you.

V. 7. The world cannot late you—Because ye are of the World. But me it hateth—And all that bear the same Testimony.

V. 10. He also went up to the feast—This was his last Journey but one to Jerusalem. The next Time He went up, he suffered.

V. 11. The Jews—The Men of Judea, particularly of Jerusalem.

V. 12. There was much murmuring among the multilude—Much

whispering; many private Debates with each other, among those who were come from distant Parts.

V. 13. However no man spake openly of him—Not in Favour of Him: for fear of the Jews—Those that were in Authority.

V. 14. Now at the middle of the feast—Which lasted eight Days. It is probable, this was on the Sabbath-day. Jesus went up into the temple—Directly, without stopping any where esse.

V. 15. How does this man know letters, having never learned?— How comes He to be so well acquainted with sacred Literature as to be able thus to expound the Scripture, with such Propriety and Gracefulness, seeing He has never learnt this, at any Place of Edu∣cation?

V. 16. My doctrine is not mine—Acquired by any Labour of Learn∣ing; but his that sent me—Immediately infused by Him.

V. 17. If any man he willing to do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it he of God—This is a universal Rule, with regard to all Persons and Doctrines. He that is throughly willing to do it, shall certainly know, what the Will of GOD is.

V. 18. There is no unrighteoasness in him—No Deceit or Falshood.

V. 19. But ye are unrighteous; for ye violate the very Law which ye prosess so much Zeal for.

V. 20. The people answered, Thou hast a devil—A lying Spirit. Who seeketh to kill thee?—These, coming from distant Parts, proba∣bly did not know the Design of the Priests and Rulers.

V. 21. I did—At the Pool of Bethesta: One work—Out of many: And ye all marvel at it—Are amazed, because I did it on the Sab∣bath-day.

V. 22. Moses gave you circumcision—The Sense is, Because Moses enjoined you Circumcision (tho' indeed it was far more antient than him) you think it no Harm to circumcise a Man on the Sabbath: And are ye angry at me (which Anger had now continued sixteen Months) for doing so much greater a Good, for healing a Man, Body and Soul, on the Sabbath?

V. 27. When Christ cometh, none knoweth whence he is—This Jewish Tradition was true, with regard to his Divine Na••u•• In that Re∣spect, none could declare his generation. But it was ••ot true with regard to his Human Nature, for both his Family and the Place of his Birth were plainly foretold.

V. 28. Then cried Jesus—With a loud and earnest Voice. Do ye both know me, and know whence I am?—Ye do indeed know whence I am a Man. But ye know not my Divine Nature, nor that I am sent from GOD.

V. 29. I am from him—By eternal Generation: And he hath sent me—His Mission follows from his Generation. These two Points answer those: Do ye know me? Do ye know whence I am?

V. 30. His hour—The Time of his Suffering.

V. 33. Then said Jesus—Continuing his Discourse (from the 29th Verse) which they had interrupted.

V. 34. Ye shall seek me—Whom ye now despise. These Words are as it were the Text, which is commented upon in this and the following Chapter. Where I am—Christ's so frequently saying while on Earth, where I am, when He spake of his being in Heaven, in∣timates his perpetual Presence there in his Divine Nature; tho' his g••ing thither was a future Thing, with regard to his Human Nature.

V. 35. Will he go to the dispersed among the Greeks—The Jews scattered abroad in Heathen Nations, Greece particularly. Or, Will be t••••••h the Greek••?—The Heathens themselves?

V. 37. On the last, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the great day of the feast—On this Day there was the greatest Concourse of People, and they were then wont to fetch Water from the Fountain of S••••••••am, which the Priests poured out on the Great Altar, singing one to another, With joy shall ye draw water from the wells of salvation. On this Day likewise they com∣memorated GOD's miraculously giving Water out of the Rock, and offered up solemn Prayers for seasonable Rains.

V. 38. He that believeth—This answers to let him come to me▪ And whosoever doth come to him by Faith, his inmost Soul shall be filled with living Water, with Abundance of Peace, Joy, and Lov••, which shall likewise flow from Him to others. As the scripture hath said—Not expressly, in any one particular Place. But here is a general Reterence to all those Scriptures which speak of the Eff••••ion of the Spirit by the Messiah, under the Similitude of pouring out Water.

V. 39. The Holy Ghost was not yet given—That is, those Fruits of the Spirit were not yet given even to true believers, in that full Measure.

V. 40. The prophet—Whom we expect to be the Fore-runner of the Messiah.

V. 42. From Bethlehem—And how could they forget, That Jesus was born there? Had not Herod given them terrible Reason to re∣member it?

V. 48. Hath any of the rulers—Men of Rank or Eminence, or of the Pharisees—Men of Learning or Religion, believed on him?

V. 49. But this populace, who know not the law—This ignorant Rabble; are accursed—Are by that Ignorance exposed to the Curse of being thus seduced.

V. 50. Nicodemus, he that came to him by night—Having now a little more Courage, being one of them—Being present as a Member of the Great Council, saith to them—Do not we ourselves act as if we know not the law, if we pass Sentence on a Man before we hear him?

V. 52. They answered—By personal Reflection; the Argument they could not answer, and therefore did not attempt it. Art thou also a Galilean?—One of his Party? Out of Galilee ariseth no prophet—They could not but know the Contrary. They knew Jonah arose out of Gath-h••pher; and Nahum from another Village in Galilee.

Yea, and Th••she, the Town of Elijab, the Tishbite, was in Galilee also. They might likewise have known that Jesus was not born in Galilee, but at Bethlehem, even from the public Register there, and from the Genealogies of the Family of David. They were conscious this poor Answer would not bear Examination, and so took Care to prevent a Reply.

V. 53. And every man went to his own house—So that short, plain Question of Ni••••••••us, spoiled all their Measures, and broke up the Council! A word spoken in season, how good is it? Especially, when GOD gives it his Blessing.

VIII.

[ 2] And early in the morning he returned to the temple, and all the people came to him, and sit∣ting down he taught them. [ 3] And the Scribes and Pharisees bring a woman taken in adultery, and having set her in the midst, [ 4] They say to him, Master, this woman was taken actually commit∣ting adultery. [ 5] Now* 1.545 Moses hath commanded us in the law, to stone such. [ 6] What therefore sayest thou? This they spoke tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooping down, wrote with his singer on the ground. [ 7] And as they continued asking him, he raised himself and said to them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast the stone at her. [ 8] Then stooping down again, he wrote on the ground.

[ 9] But they who heard it, went out one by one, be∣ginning at the eldest; and Jesus was left alone, and the woman in the midst. [ 10] Then Jesus raising himself up, said to her, Woman, where are thine accusers? Hath no man condemned thee? She saith, No man, Sir. [ 11] And Jesus saith unto her, Neither do I condemn thee. Go, and sin no more.

[ 12] Then spake Jesus again to them, I am the light of the world; he that followeth me shall in no wise walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. [ 13] The Pharisees therefore said to him, Thou testifiest of thyself; thy testimony is not valid: [ 14] Jesus answered and said to them, Tho' I testify of myself, yet my testimony is valid: for I know whence I came, and whither I go: but ye know not whence I came, or whither I go. [ 15] Ye judge after the flesh: I judge no man. [ 16] And yet

if I judge, my judgment is valid; for I am not alone: but I and the Father that sent me. [ 17] Even in your law it is written,* 1.546 The testimony of two men is valid. [ 18] I am one that testify of myself, and the Father that sent me testifieth of me. [ 19] Then said they to him, Where is thy Father? Jesus an∣swered, Ye neither know me nor my Father. If ye had known me, ye would have known my Fa∣ther also. [ 20] These words spake he in the treasury, as he taught in the temple. And no man seized him; for his hour was not yet come.

[ 21] Then said Jesus again to them, I go, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sin. Whither I go ye cannot come. [ 22] The Jews said therefore, Will he kill himself? Because he saith, Whither I go, ye cannot come. [ 23] And he said to them, Ye are of them that are beneath; I am of them that are above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world. [ 24] Therefore I said, Ye shall die in your sins; for if ye believe not that I AM, ye

shall die in your sins. [ 25] Then said they to him, Who art thou? And Jesus saith to them, Even what I say to you from the beginning. [ 26] I have many things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true, and I speak to the world the things which I have heard from him. [ 27] They un∣derstood not, that he spake to them of the Father. [ 28] Jesus therefore said to them, When ye shall have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I AM, and that I do nothing of myself, but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. [ 29] And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always the things that please him. [ 30] As he spake these words, many be∣lieved on him.

[ 31] Then said Jesus to the Jews who believed on him, If ye continue in my word, ye are my disciples indeed: [ 32] And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. [ 33] They answered him, We are Abraham's offspring, and were never enslaved to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall

be made free. [ 34] Jesus answered them, Verily, verily I say unto you, he that committeth sin, is the slave of sin: [ 35] And the slave abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. [ 36] If therefore the Son shall make you free, ye will be free indeed. [ 37] I know that ye are Abraham's offspring; yet ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you. [ 38] I speak that which I have seen with my Father, and ye do that which ye have heard from your father. [ 39] They answered and said to him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith to them, If ye were the children of Abraham ye would do the works of Abraham. [ 40] But now ye seek to kill me, a man who have told you the truth which I have heard from God. [ 41] Abra∣ham did not thus. Ye do the deeds of your father. They said to him, We were not born of fornicati∣on; on; we have one Father, even God. [ 42] Jesus said to them, If God were your Father, ye would love me; for I proceeded forth, and come from God. I am come not of myself, but He hath sent me. [ 43] Why do ye not understand my discourse? Even because ye cannot hear my word. [ 44] Ye are of your

father the devil, and your will is, to do the de∣sires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth; for there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own; for he is a liar, and the father of it. [ 45] But because I speak the truth, ye believe me not. [ 46] Which of you convicteth me of sin? And if I speak the truth, why do ye not be∣lieve me? [ 47] He that is of God, heareth God's words; ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. [ 48] Then answered the Jews and said to him, Say we not well, That thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil? [ 49] Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye dishonour me. [ 50] I seek not my own glory; there is one that seeketh it and judgeth. [ 51] Verily, verily I say unto you, if a man keep my word, he shall never see death. Then said the Jews to him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. [ 52] Abraham is dead and the pro∣phets; yet thou sayest, If a man keep my word, he shall never taste of death. [ 53] Art thou greater than our father Abraham, who is dead? The pro∣phets

also are dead. [ 54] Whom makest thou thyself? Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me, of whom ye say, He is our God. [ 55] Yet ye have not known him: but I know him. And if I should say I know him not, I should be a liar like you; but I know him, and keep his word. [ 56] Your father Abraham longed to see my day; and he saw it and was glad. [ 57] Then said the Jews to him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou ••••en Abraham? [ 58] Jesus said to them, Verily, verily I say unto you, before Abraham was, I AM. [ 59] Then they took up stones to cast at him; but Jesus concealed himself, and went out of the temple, going thro' the midst of them, and so passed on.

V. 5. Moses hath commanded us to stone such—If they spoke accurate∣ly, this must have been a Woman, who having been b••tr••••h••d to an H••s••and, had been guilty of this Crime before the Marriage was com∣pleated; for such only Moses commanded to be stoned. He com∣manded indeed, that other Adulteresses should be put to Death; but the Manner of Death was not specified.

V. 6. That they might have to accuse him—Either of usurping the Office of a Judge, if He condemned Her; or, of being an Enemy to the Law, if He acquitted her. Jesus stooping down, wrote with his singer on the ground—GOD wrote once in the Old Testament; Christ once in the New: Perhaps the Words which He afterwards spoke, when they continued asking Him. By this silent Action; He

• 1. sixt their wandering, hurrying Thoughts, in order to awaken their Conscience; and
• 2. signified, That He was not then to con∣demn, but to save the World.

V. 7. He that is without sin—He that is not guilty (his own Con∣science being the Judge) either of the same Sin, or of some nearly re∣sembling it. Let him first—As a Witness, cast the Stone at her.

V. 9. Beginning at the eldest—Or the Elders. Jesas was left alone—By all those Scribes and Pharisees who proposed the Question. But many others remained, to whom our LORD directed his Discourse presently after.

V. 10. Hath no man condemned thee?—Has no judicial Sentence been passed upon thee?

V. 11. Neither do I condemn thee—Neither do I take upon me to pass any such Sentence. Let this Deliverance lead thee to Repentance.

V. 12. He that followeth me shall not walk in Darkness—In Igno∣rance, Wickedness, Misery; But shall have the light of life—He that closely, humbly, steadily follows me, shall have the divine Light continually shining upon him, diffusing over his Soul, Knowledge, Holiness, Joy, till he is guided by it to Life everlasting.

V. 13. Thou testifiest of thyself: thy testimony is not valid—They retort upon our LORD his own Words (ch. v. 31.) If I testify of myself my testimony is not valid. He had then added, There is another who testifieth of me. To the same Effect, he replies here (ver. 14.) Tho' I testify of myself, yet my testimony is valid; for I am inseparably united to the Father. I know—And from firm and certain Know∣ledge proceeds the most unexceptionable Testimony: Whence I came and whither I go—To these two Heads may be referred all the Doc∣trine concerning Christ. The former is treated of ver. 16, &c. the latter, 21, &c. For I know whence I came—That is, For I came from GOD, both as GOD and as Man. And I know it, tho' ye do not.

V. 15. Ye judge after the slesh—As the Flesh, that is, corrupt Nature dictates. I judge no man—Not thus; not now; not at my first Coming.

V. 16. I am not alone—No more in judging, than in testifying: But I and the Father that sent me—His Father is in him, and he is in

the Father (ch. xiv. 10, 11.) And so the Father is no more alone without the Son, than the Son is without the Father (Prov. viii. 22, 23, 30.) His Father and He are not one and another GOD, but one GOD (tho' distinct Persons) and so inseparable from each other. And tho' the Son came from the Father, to assume Human Nature, and perform his Office as the Messiah upon Earth, as GOD is sometimes said to come from Heaven, for particular Manifestations of Himself; yet Christ did not leave the Father, nor the Father leave Him, any more than GOD leaves Heaven, when He is said to come down to the Earth.

V. 19. Then said they to him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered—Shewing the Perverseness of their Question; and Teaching, That they ought first to know the Son, if they would know the Father. Where the Father is—He shews, ver. 23. Meantime He plainly in∣timates, that the Father and He were distinct Persons, as they were Two Witnesses: And yet One in Essence, as the Knowledge of Him includes the Knowledge of the Father.

V. 23. Ye are—Again He passes over their Interruption, and proves what He advanced, ver. 21. Of them that are beneath—From the Earth. I am of them that are above—Here He directly shows whence He came, even from Heaven, and whither He goes.

V. 24. If ye believe not that I AM—Here (as in the 58th Verse) our LORD claims the divine Name, I AM, Exod. iii. 14. But the Jews, as if He had stopt short, and not finished the Sentence, an∣swered, Who art thou?

V. 25. Even what I say to you from the beginning—The same which I say to you, as it were in one Discourse, with one even T••nor from the Time I first spake to you.

V. 26. I have many things to say and to judge of you—I have much to say concerning your inexcusable Unbelief: but he that sent me is true—Whether ye believe or no. And I speak the things which I have heard from him—I deliver truly what He hath given me in Charge.

V. 27. They understood not—That by Him that sent Him, He meant GOD the Father. Therefore in the 28th and 29th verses, He speaks plainly of the Father, and again claims the divine Name, I AM.

V. 28. When ye shall have lifted up—On the Cross, ye shall know—And so many of them did, that I AM—GOD over all; and that I do nothing of myself—Being One with the Father.

V. 29. The Father hath not left me alone—Never from the Mo∣ment I came into the World.

V. 32. The truth—Written in your Hearts by the Spirit of GOD, shall make you free—From Guilt, Sin, Misery, Satan.

V. 33. They—The other Jews that were by (not those that be∣lieved) as appears by the whole Tenor of the Conversation. We were never enslaved to any man—A bold, notorious Untruth. At that very Time they were enslaved to the Romans.

V. 34. Jesus answered—Each Branch of their Objection first concerning Freedom, then concerning their being Abraham's Off∣spring, ver. 37, &c. He that committeth sin, is, in fact, the slave of sin.

V. 35. And the slave abideth not in the house—All Sinners shall be cast out of GOD's House, as the Slave was out of Abraham's: But I the Son abide therein for ever.

V. 36. If I therefore make you free, ye—shall partake of the same Privilege; being made free from all Guilt and Sin, ye shall abide in the House of GOD for ever.

V. 37. I know that ye are Abraham's Offspring—As to the other Branch of your Objection, I know that ye are Abraham's Offspring, after the Flesh; but not in a spiritual Sense. Ye are not Followers of the Faith of Abraham: My Word hath no Place in your Hearts.

V. 41. Ye do the deeds of your Father—He is not named yet. But when they presumed to call GOD their Father, then he is ex∣pressly called the Devil, ver. 44.

V. 42. I proceeded forth—As GOD, and come—As Christ.

V. 43. Ye cannot—Such is your Stubbornness and Pride, hear—Re∣ceive, obey, my word, Not being desirous to do my will, ye cannot un∣derstand my Doctrine, ch. vii. 17.

V. 44. He was a murderer—In Inclination, from the beginning—

Of his becoming a Devil; and abode not in the truth—Commencing Murderer and a Liar at the same Time. And certainly He was a killer of men (as the Greek Word properly signifies) from the beginning of the World: For from the very Creation he designed and contrived the Ruin of Men. When be speaketh a lie, be speaketh of his own—For he is the proper Parent, and as it were, Creator of it. See the Origin not only of Lies, but of Evil in general!

V. 45. Because I speak the truth—Which Liars hate.

V. 46. Which of you convicteth me of sin?—And is not my Life as unreprovable as my Doctrine? Does not my whole Behaviour con∣firm the Truth of what I teach?

V. 47. He that is of God—That either loves or fears Him, heareth—With Joy and Reverence, God's words—Which I preach.

V. 48. Say we not well—Have ye not just Cause to say, thou art a Samaritan—An Enemy to our Church and Nation; and hast a devil—Art possest by a proud and lying Spirit?

V. 49. I honour my Father—I seek his Honour only.

V. 50. I seek not my own glory—That is, as I am the Messiah, I consult not my own Glory. I need not. For my Father consulteth it, and will pass Sentence on you accordingly.

V. 51. If a man keep my word—So will my Father consult my Glory. We keep his Doctrine by believing, his Promises by hop∣ing his Son 〈…〉〈…〉 by obeying. He shall never see death—That is,

Death eternal. He shall live for ever. Hereby He proves, that He was no Samaritan. For the Samaritans in general were Sadducees.

V. 54. If I honour myself—Referring to their Words, Whom ma∣kest thou thyself?

V. 56. He saw it—By Faith, in Types, Figures, and Promises. As particularly in M••lchisedic: In the Appearance of Jehovah to him in the Plains of Mamre (Gen. xviii. 1.) And in the Promise, that in his Seed all the nations of the earth should be blessed. Possibly he had likewise a peculiar Revelation, either of Christ's first or second Com∣ing.

V. 57. Thou art not yet fifty years old—At the most. Perhaps the Gravity of our LORD's Countenance, together with his Afflictions and Labours, might make him appear older than He really was. Hast thou seen Abraham?—Which they justly supposed must have been, if Abraham had seen Him.

V. 58. Before Abraham was, I AM—Even from everlasting to everlasting. This is a direct Answer to the Objection of the Jews, and shews how much greater He was than Abraham.

V. 59. Then took they up stones—To stone Him as a Blasphemer; but Jesus concealed himself—Probably by becoming invisible; and so passed on—With the same Ease as if none had been there.

IX.

And as he passed on, he saw a man blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, say∣ing, Master, who sinned, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? [ 2] Jesus answered, Nei∣ther hath this man sinned, nor his parents; but that the works of God might be made manifest

thro' him. [ 3] I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day; the night is coming, when no man can work. [ 4] While I am in the world, I am the light of the world. [ 5] Having said this, he spat on the ground, and made clay with the spittle, and anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay, [ 6] And said to him, Go wash at the pool of Siloam (which is by interpre∣tation, Sent. [ 7] ) He went therefore, and washed, and came seeing.

[ 8] Then the neighbours and they who had seen him before, when he was blind, said, Is not this he who used to sit begging? [ 9] Some said, This is he: others, He is like him: but he said, I am he. [ 10] They said to him, How were thine eyes opened? [ 11] He answered and said, A man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes, and said to me, Go to the pool of Siloam and wash. [ 12] And I went, and washed, and received sight. Then said they to him, Where is he? He said, I know not.

[ 13] They bring to the Pharisees the man who had aforetime been blind. [ 14] (It was the sabbath, when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. [ 15] ) Again the Pharisees also asked him, How he had received his sight? He said to them, He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and see. [ 16] Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, be∣cause he keepeth not the sabbath. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them. [ 17] They say to the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, for that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet. [ 18] But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind and re∣ceived his sight, till they had called the parents of him who had received his sight. [ 19] And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? [ 20] How then doth he now see? His pa∣rents answered them, and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind. [ 21] But how

he now seeth, we know not, or who hath opened his eyes we know not. He is of age: ask him; he will speak concerning himself. [ 22] His parents said this because they feared the Jews; for the Jews had already agreed, That if any man should own him to be Christ, he should be put out of the syna∣gogue. [ 23] Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.

[ 24] Therefore they called a second time the man that had been blind, and said to him, Give glory to God; we know that this man is a sinner. [ 25] He an∣swered and said, that he is a sinner I know not: one thing I know, that I was blind and now see. [ 26] They said to him again, What did he to thee? How opened he thine eyes? [ 27] He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hearken: why would ye hear it again? Are ye also willing to be his disciples? [ 28] Then they reviled him and said, Thou art a disciple of that fellow; but we are disciples of Moses. [ 29] We know that God spake to Moses: but we know not this fellow, whence he is. [ 30] The man answered and said to them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not whence he is; altho' he hath opened my eyes! [ 31] We know that God heareth not sinners; but if a man be a worshipper of God, and do his will, him he heareth. [ 32] Since the world began it was not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was

born blind. [ 33] If this man were not of God, he could do nothing. [ 34] They answered and said to him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.

[ 35] Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and hav∣ing found him, he said to him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? [ 36] He answered and said, Sir, who is he, that I may believe on him? [ 37] Jesus said to him, Thou hast both seen him, and he that talketh with thee is he. [ 38] And he said, Lord, I be∣lieve. And he worshipped him. [ 39] Jesus said, For judgment am I come into the world, that they who see not may see, and that they who see may become blind. [ 40] And some of the Pharisees that were with him heard this, and said to him, Are we blind also? Jesus said to them, If ye had been blind ye would have had no sin. [ 41] But now ye say, We see: there∣fore your sin remaineth.

V. 2. Who sinned, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?—That is, was it for his own Sins, or for the Sins of his Parents?

They suppose (as many of the Jews did, tho' without any Ground from Scripture) that he might have sinned in a pre-existent State, before he came into the World.

V. 3. Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents—It was not the Manner of our LORD to answer any Questions that were of no Use, but to gratify an idle Curiosity. Therefore He determines Nothing concerning this The Scope of his Answer is, It was neither for any Sins of his own, nor of his Parents; but that the Power of GOD might be displayed.

V. 4. The night is coming—Christ is the Light. When the Light is withdrawn, Night comes, When no man can work—No Man can do any Thing towards working out his Salvation after this Life is ended. Yet Christ can work always. But He was to work upon Earth, only during the day, or Season which was appointed for Him.

V. 5. I am the light of the world—I teach Men inwardly by my Spirit, and outwardly by my Preaching, what is the Will of GOD; and I shew them, by my Example, how they must do it.

V. 6. He anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay—This might almost have blinded a Man that had Sight. But what could it do towards curing the Blind? It reminds us, That GOD is no far∣ther from the Event, when He works either with or without Means, and that all the Creatures are only that, which his Almighty Opera∣tion makes them.

V. 7. Go w••sh at the pool of Siloam—Perhaps our LORD intended to make the Miracle more taken Notice of. For a Crowd of People would naturally gather round him, to observe the Event of so strange a Prescription. And it is exceeding probable, the Guide who must have led him in traversing a great Part of the City, would mention the Errand he was going upon, and so call those who saw him to a greater Attention.

From the Fountain of Siloam, which was without the Walls of Jerusalem, a little Stream flowed into the City, and was received in a Kind of Bason, near the Temple, and called the Pool of Siloam. Which is, by interpretation, Sent—And so was a Type of the Messiah, who was sent of GOD. He want and wished, and came seeing—He be∣lieved, and obeyed, and found a Blessing. Had he been wise in his own Eyes, and reasoned like Naaman, on the Impropriety of the Means, he had justly been lest in Darkness. LORD, may our proud

Hearts be subdued to the Methods of thy recovering Grace! May we have Thee to chuse, how Thou wilt bestow Favours, which it is our highest Interest to receive on any Tearms.

V. 11. A man called Jesus—He seems to have been before totally ignorant of Him.

V. 14. Anointing the eyes—With any Kind of Medicine on the Sabbath, was particularly forbidden by the Tradition of the Elders.

V. 16. This Man is not of God—Not sent of GOD. How can a man that is a sinner—That is, one living in wilful Sin, do such mira∣cles?

V. 17. What sayest thou of him, for that he hath opened thine eye?—What Inference dost thou draw herefrom?

V. 22. He should be put out of the synagogue—That is, be excom∣municated.

V. 27. Are ye also—As well as I, at length convinced, and willing to be his disciples?

V. 29. We know not whence he is—By what Power and Authority he does these Things.

V. 30. The man answered—Utterly illiterate as he was. And with what Strength and Clearness of Reason! So had GOD opened tho Eyes of his Understanding, as well as his bodily Eyes. Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye—The Teachers and Guides of the Peo∣ple, should not know, that a Man who has wrought a Miracle, the like of which was never heard of before, must be from Heaven, sent by GOD.

V. 31. We—Even we of the Populace, know that God heareth not sinners—Not impenitent Sinners, so as to answer their Prayers in this Manner. The honest Courage of this Man in adhering to the

Truth, tho' he knew the Consequence (ver. 22.) gives him claim to the Title of a Confessor.

V. 33. He could no nothing—Of this Kind; nothing miraculous.

V. 34. Born in sins—And therefore, they supposed, born blind. They cast him out—Of the Synagogue; excommunicated him.

V. 35. Having found him—For he had sought him.

V. 36. Who is he, that I may believe?—This implies some Degree of Faith already. He was ready to receive whatever Jesus said.

V. 37. Lord, I believe—What an Excellent Spirit was this Man of? Of so deep and strong an Unsterstanding: (as he had just shewn to the Confusion of the Pharisees:) And yet of so teachable a Temper?

V. 39. For judgment am I come into the world—That is, The Consequence of my coming, will be, that by the just Judgment of GOD, while the Blind in Body and Soul receive their Sight, they who boast they see, will be given up to still greater Blindness than before.

V. 41. If ye had been blind—Invincibly ignorant; If ye had not had so many Means of knowing; ye would have had no sin—Com∣paratively to what ye have now. But now ye say—Ye yourselves acknowledge, ye see: therefore your sin remaineth.—Without Excuse, without Remedy.

X.

Verily, verily I say to you, he that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, he is a thief and a robber.

[ 2] But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. [ 3] To him the door-keeper openeth, and the sheep hear his voice, and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. [ 4] And when he hath led forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. [ 5] They will not follow a stranger, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers. [ 6] This parable spake Jesus to them; but they understood not what things they were which he spake to them.

[ 7] Therefore Jesus said to them again, Verily, verily I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. [ 8] Whosoever are come, are thieves and robbers; but

the sheep did not hear them. [ 9] I am the door; if any one enter in by me, he shall be safe, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. [ 10] The thief cometh not, but to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come, that they may have life, and that they may have it abundantly: [ 11] I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd layeth down his life for the sheep. [ 12] But the hireling, who is not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: so the wolf seizeth them, and scattereth the sheep. [ 13] The hire∣ling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. [ 14] I am the good shepherd, and

know my sheep, and am known of mine; [ 15] (As the Father knoweth me, and I know the Father) and I lay down my life for the sheep. [ 16] I have also other, sheep which are not of this fold: I must bring them likewise, and they will hear my voice, and there shall be one flock, and one shepherd. [ 17] Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I may take it again. [ 18] No one taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commission have I received of my Fa∣ther. [ 19] There was again a division amongst the Jews because of these sayings. [ 20] Many of them said. He hath a devil, and is mad: why hear ye him? Others said, These are not the words of one that

hath a devil. [ 21] Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?

[ 22] Now the feast of the dedication came on at Je∣rusalem: and it was winter. [ 23] And Jesus was walk∣ing in the temple, in Solomon's portico. [ 24] Then came the Jews round about him, and said to him, how long dost thou keep us in suspence? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly. [ 25] Jesus answered them, I have told you; yet ye do not believe: the works that I do in my Father's name, they testify of me. [ 26] But, as I have told you, ye do not believe, because ye are not of my sheep. [ 27] My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. [ 28] And I give them eternal life, and they shall never porish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand. [ 29] My Father, who gave them me, is greater than all;

and none shall pluck them out of my Father's hand.

[ 30] I and the Father are one.

[ 31] Then the Jews again took up stones to stone him. [ 32] Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? [ 33] The Jews answered him, We stone thee not for a good work, but for blasphemy, and because thou being a man, makest thyself God. [ 34] Jesus answered them, Is it not written in our law, [ 35] * 1.547 I said ye are Gods? If he call them gods, to whom the word of God came [ 36] (and the scripture cannot be broken) Say ye of him whom God hath sanctified and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest, because I said, I am the Son of God? [ 37] If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not. [ 38] But if I do, tho' ye believe not me, believe the works; that ye may know and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him. [ 39] Therefore they sought again to seize him; but he escaped out of their hands.

[ 40] And he went away again beyond Jordan, to

the place where John baptized at first, and there he abode. [ 41] And many came to him and said, John did no Miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true. [ 42] And many believed on him there.

V. 1. He that entereth not by the door—By Christ. He is the only lawful Entrance. Into the sheep-fold—The Church. He is a thief

and a robber—In GOD's Account. Such were all those Teachers, to whom our LORD had just been speaking.

V. 3. To him the door-keeper openeth—Christ is considered as the Shepherd, ver. 11. As the door in the first and following Verses. And as it is not unworthy of Christ, to be stiled the Door, by which both the Sheep and the true Pastor enter, so neither is it unworthy of GOD the Father, to be stiled the Door-keeper. See Acts xiv. 27. Col. iv. 3. Rev. iii. 8. Acts xvi. 14. And the sheep hear his voice—The Circumstances that follow, exactly agree with the Customs of the ancient eastern Shepherds. They called their sheep by name, w••nt before them, and the Sheep followed them. So real Christians hear, listen to, understand, and obey the Voice of a Shepherd whom Christ hath sent. And He counteth them his own, dearer than any Friend or Brother; calleth, advises, directs each by name, and l••••deth them out, in the Paths of Righteousness, beside the Waters of Comfort.

V. 4. He goeth before them—In all the Ways of GOD, teaching them in every Point, by Example as well as by Precept; and the sheep fol∣low him—They tread in his Steps: For they know his voice—Having the Witness in themselves, that his Words are the w••s••••m and the power of God. Reader, Art thou a Shepherd of Souls? Then answer to GOD. Is it thus with thee and thy Flock?

V. 5. They will not follow a stranger—One whom Christ hath not sent, who doth not answer the preceding Description. Him they will not follow—And who can constrain them to it? But will see from him—As from the Plague. For they know not the voice of strangers—They relish it; it is harsh and grating to them. They find nothing of GOD therein.

V. 6. They—The Pharisees, to whom our LORD more immedi∣ately spake, as appears from the Clo•••••••• the foregoing Chapter.

V. 7. I am the door—Christ is both the Door, and the Shepherd, and all Things.

V. 8. Whosoever are ••ome—Independantly on me, assuming any Part of my Character, pretending, like your Elders and Rabbis ••o

a Power over the Consciences of Men, attempting to make Laws in the Church, and to teach their own Traditions as the Way of Salvation: All those Prophets and Expounders of GOD's Word, that enter not by the Door of the Sheepfold, but run before I have sent them by my Spirit. Our LORD seems in particular to speak of those that had undertaken this Office since he began his Ministry, are thieves—Stealing temporal Profit to themselves, and robbers—Plundering and murdering the Sheep.

V. 9. If any one—As a Sheep, enter in by me—Thro' Faith, he shall be safe—From the Wolf, and from those murdering Shepherds. And shall go in and out—Shall continually attend on the Shepherds whom I have sent; and shall find pasture—Food for his Soul in all Circumstances.

V. 10. The thief cometh not but to steal, and to kill and to destroy—That is, Nothing else can be the Consequence of a Shepherd's Com∣ing, who does not enter in by me.

V. 12. But the hireling—It is not the bare receiving Hire, which denominates a Man an Hireling: (For the labourer is worthy of his hire; Jesus Christ Himself being the Judge: Yea, and the Lord hath ordained, that they who preach the Gospel, should live of the Gospel:) But the loving Hire; the loving the Hire more than the Work; the working for the sake of the Hire. He is an Hireling who would not work, were it not for the Hire; to whom this is the Great (if not only) Motive of working. O GOD! If a Man who works only for Hire, is such a Wretch, a mere Thief and a Robber: What is he who continually takes the Hire, and yet does not work at all? The wolf—Signifies any Enemy who, by Force or Fraud, attacks the Chris∣tian's Faith, Liberty, 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Life. So the wolf seizeth and scattereth the flock—He seizeth some, and scattereth the rest; the two Ways of hurting the Flock of Christ.

V. 13. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling—Because he loves the Hire, not the Sheep.

V. 14. I know my sheep—With a tender Regard and special Care: and am known of mine—With an holy Confidence and Affection.

V. 15. As the Father knoweth me, and I know the Father—With such a Knowledge as implies an inexpressible Union. And I lay d••wn my life—Speaking of the present Time. For his whole Life was only a going unto Death.

V. 16. I have also other sheep—Whom He foreknew: which are not of this fold—Not of the Jewish Church or Nation, but Gentiles. I must bring them l••kewise—Into my Church, the General Assembly of those whose Names are written in Heaven. And there shall be one flock—(Not one fold, a plain false Print) no corrupt or divided Flocks remaining. And one shepherd—Who laid down his Life for the Sheep, and will leave no Hireling among them. The Unity both of the Flock and the Shepherd, shall be compleated in its Season. The Shepherd shall bring all into one Flock; and the whole Flock shall hear the one Shepherd.

V. 17. I lay down my life, that I may take it again—I chearfully die to expiate the Sins of Men, to the End I may rise again for their Jus∣tification.

V. 18. I lay it down of myself—By my own free Act and Deed. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again—I have an original Power and Right of myself, both to lay it down as a Ran∣som, and to take it again, after full Satisfaction is made, for the Sins of the whole World. This commission have I received of my Father— Which I readily execute.

He chiefly spoke of the Father, before his Suffering: Of his own Glory, after it. Our LORD's receiving this Commission, as Media∣tor, is not to be considered as the Gro••nd of his Power to lay down and resume his Life. For this He had in Himself, a•• having an ori∣ginal Right to dispose thereof, antecedent to the Father's Commis∣sion. But this Commission was the Reason why He thus used his Power in laying down his Life. He did it in Obedience to his Fa∣ther.

V. 21. These are not the words—The Word in the Original takes in Actions too.

V. 22. It was the feast of the dedication—Instituted by Judas Mac∣••abeus (I Macc. iv. 59) when he purged and dedicated the Altar and Temple after they had been polluted. So our LORD observed Festivals even of human Appointment. Is it not, at least, Innocent, for us to do the same?

V. 23. In Solomon's portico—Iosephus informs us, that when Solo∣mon built the Temple, he filled up a Part of the adjacent Valley, and built a Portico over it towards the East. This was a noble Structure, supported by a Wall four hundred Cubits high; and continued even to the time of Albinus and Agrippa, which was several Years after the Death of Christ.

V. 26. Ye do not believe, because ye are not of my sheep—Because ye do not, will not follow me: because ye are proud, unholy, Lovers of Praise, Lovers of the World, Lovers of Pleasure, not of GOD.

V. 27, 28, 29. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, &c. Our LORD still alludes to the Discourse he had had, before this Festival. As if he had said, My Sheep are they who 1. Hear my voice by Faith: 2. Are known (that is approved) by me, as loving me; and 3. Follow me, keep my Commandments, with a believing, loving Heart. And to those who 1. Truly believe (observe three Promises annext to three Conditions) I give eternal Life. He does not say, I will give, but I give, For he that believeth, hath everlasting life. Those whom 2. I know truly to love me, shall never perish, provided they abide in my love. 3. Those who follow me neither Men nor Devils can pluck out of my Hand. My Father who hath by an unchangeable Decred, given me all that believe, love and obey, is greater than all in Heaven or Earth, and none is able to plack them ont of his hand.

V. 30. I and the Father are one—Not by Consent of Will only, but by Unity of Power, and consequently of Nature. Are—This Word confutes Sabellius, proving the Plurality of Persons: One—This Word confutes Arius, proving the Unity of Nature in GOD. Never did any Prophet before, from the beginning of the World, use any one Expression of himself, which could possibly be so interpreted as this and other Expressions were by all that heard our LORD speak. Therefore if He was not GOD, He must have been the vilest of Men.

V. 35. If he (GOD) called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, (that is, to whom GOD was then speaking) And the scripture cannot be broken—That is, Nothing which is written therein can be censured or rejected.

V. 36. Say ye of him whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world—This Sanctification (whereby He is essentially, The Holy One of GOD) is mentioned as prior to his Mission, and together with it implies, Christ was GOD in the highest Sense, infinitely superior to that wherein those Judges were so called.

V. 38. That ye may know and believe—In some a more exact Knowledge precedes, in others it follows Faith. I am in the Father, and the Father in me—I and the Father are one—These two Sentences illustrate each other.

V. 40. To the desert place where Iehn baptized, and gave so ho∣nourable a Testimony of Him.

V. 41. John did no miracle—An Honour reserved for Him, whose Fore-runner he was.

XI.

Now one Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha, was sick. [ 2] (It was that Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his Feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick. [ 3] ) Therefore his Sisters sent to him, saying, Lord, behold he whom thou lovest is sick. [ 4] Jesus hearing it, said, This sickness is not to death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified thereby. [ 5] Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. [ 6] So after he had heard that he was sick, he abode still two days in the place where he was. [ 7] Then after this he saith to the disciples, Let us go into Judea again. [ 8] The disciples say to him, Master, the Jews but now sought to stone thee, and goest thou thither again? [ 9] Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stum∣bleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.

[ 10] But if any man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because the light is not in him. [ 11] Thus he spake, and after that he saith to them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go to awake him. [ 12] Then the disciples said, Lord, if he sleep, he will recover. [ 13] Jesus spake of his death; but they thought he had spoken of the natural rest in sleep. [ 14] Then said Jesus to them plainly, Lazarus is dead. [ 15] And I am glad for your sake I was not there, that ye may believe: but let us go to him. [ 16] Then said Thomas called Didymus, to his fellow-disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

[ 17] When Jesus came, he found he had been now four days in the tomb. [ 18] (Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about fifteen Furlongs off. [ 19] ) And many of the Jews were come to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother. [ 20] When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him; but Mary sat in the house. [ 21] Then said Martha to Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. [ 22] But I know even now, that whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee. [ 23] Jesus saith to her, thy brother shall rise again. [ 24] Martha said to him, I know that he shall

rise again in the resurrection at the last day. [ 25] Jesus said to her, I am the resurrection and the life; he that believeth in me, tho' he die, yet shall he live; [ 26] And whosoever liveth and believeth in me, shall not die for ever. Believest thou this? [ 27] She saith to him, Yea, Lord, I believe thou art the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world. [ 28] Having said this she went and privately called Mary her sister, saying, the Master is come, and calleth for thee. [ 29] As soon as she heard it she arose quickly and came to him. [ 30] Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was at the place where Martha had met him. [ 31] The Jews then who were with her in the house and comforted her, seeing Mary, that she arose up quickly and went out, followed her, saying, She is going to the tomb, to weep there. [ 32] When Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell at his feet, saying to him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. [ 33] When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews weeping who came with her, he groaned deeply, and troubled himself, [ 34] And said, Where have ye laid him? They say to him, Lord, come and see. [ 35] Jesus wept. [ 36] Then said the Jews, Behold, how he loved him! [ 37] And some of them said, Could not this person who opened the eyes of the blind, have even caused that this man should not have died?

[ 38] Jesus again groaning in himself, cometh to the tomb. [ 39] It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. Je∣sus saith, Take away the stone. Martha, the sister of the deceased, saith to him, Lord, by this time he stinketh; for he hath been buried four days. [ 40] Jesus saith to her, Said I not to thee, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? Then they took away the stone from where the dead lay. [ 41] And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, Father, I thank thee, that thou hast heard me. [ 42] And I knew that thou hearest me always: but I spake this be∣cause of the people who stand by, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. [ 43] And having spoken thus, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus come forth. [ 44] And he that had been dead came forth, bound hand and foot with grave-clothes, and his face was wrapt about with a napkin. Jesus saith to them, Loose him, and let him go.

[ 45] Many therefore of the Jews who were come to Mary, and had seen the things, which Jesus had done, believed on him. [ 46] But some of the went to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done. [ 47] Then the chief priests and elders as∣sembled a council and said, What do we? For this man doth many miracles. [ 48] If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him, and the Romans will come and subvert both our place and nation. [ 49] And one of them, Caiaphas, being the high-priest that year, said to them, Ye know nothing, [ 50] Nor consider, it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. [ 51] He spake not this of himself, but be∣ing high-priest that year, he prophesied, that Jesus should die for the nation: [ 52] And not for that nation only, but that he might also gather into one all the children of God that were scattered abroad. [ 53] There∣fore

from that day, they consulted together to put him to death.

[ 54] Jesus therefore walked no longer openly among the Jews, but went thence into the country, near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples. [ 55] And the passover of the Jews was nigh; and many went up to Jerusalem, to purify themselves. [ 56] Then sought they for Jesus, and said one to another, standing in the temple, What think ye? That he will not come to the feast? [ 57] Now both the chief priests and Pharisees had given order, That if any man know where he was, he should shew it, that they might apprehend him.

V. 1. One Lazarus—It is probable, Lazarus was younger than his Sisters. Bethany is named, the Town of Mary, and Martha, and Laza∣rus is mentioned after them, ver. 5. Ecclesiastical History informs us, That Lazarus was now thirty Years old, and that he lived thirty Years after Christ's Ascension.

V. 2. It was that Mary who afterwards anointed, &c. She was more known than her elder Sister Martha, and as such is named be∣fore her.

V. 4. This sickness is not to death, but for the glory of God—The Event of this Sickness will not be Death, in the usual Sense of the Word. A final Separation of his Soul and Body; but a Manifestation of the glorious Power of GOD.

V. 7. Let us go into Judea—From the Country East of Jordan, whither He had retired some Time before when the Jews sought to stone Him, ch. x. 39, 40.

V. 9. Are there not twelve hours in the day?—The Jews always divided the Space from Sun-rise to Sun-set, were the Days longer or shorter, into twelve Parts: So that the Hours of their Day were all

the Year the same in Number, tho' much shorter in Winter than in Summer. If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not—As if He had said: So there is such a Space, a determinate Time, which GOD has allotted me. During that Time, I slumble not, amidst all the Snares that are laid for me. Because he seeth the light of this world—And so I see the Light of GOD surrounding me.

V. 10. But if a man walk in the night— If he have not Light from GOD; if his Providence does no longer protect him.

V. 11. Our Friend Lazarus sleepeth—This He spoke, just when he died. Sleepeth—Such is the Death of Good Men in the Language of Heaven. But the Disciples did not yet understand this Language. And the Slowness of our Understanding makes the Scripture often descend to our barbarous Manner of speaking.

V. 16. Thomas in Hebrew, as Didymus in Greek, signifies a Twin. With him—With Jesus, whom he supposed the Jews would kill. It seems to be the Language of Despair.

V. 20. Mary sat in the house—Probably not hearing what was said.

V. 22. Whatsoever thou wilt ask, God will give it thee—So that she already believed, He could raise him from the Dead.

V. 25. I am the resurrection—Of the Dead. And the life—Of the Living. He that believeth in me, tho' he die, yet shall he live—In Life everlasting.

V. 32. She fell at his foot—This Martha had not done. So she makes Amends for her Slowness in coming.

V. 33. He groaned—So He restrained his Tears. So He stopt them soon after, ver. 38. He troubled himself—An Expression amazingly elegant, and full of the highest Propriety. For the Affections of Jesus were not properly Passions, but voluntary Emotions, which were wholly in his own Power. And this tender Trouble which He now voluntarily sustained, was full of the highest Order and Reason.

V. 35. Jesus wept—Out of Sympathy with those who were in Tears all around him, as well as from a deep Sense of the Misery Sin had brought upon human Nature.

V. 37. Could not this person have even caused, that this man should not have died?—Yet they never dreamed, that He could raise him again! What a strange Mixture of Faith and Unbelief!

V. 38. It was a cave—So Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and their Wives, except Rachel, were buried in the Cave of Machpelab (Gen. xlix. 29, 30, 31.) These Caves were commonly in Rocks, which abounded in that Country, either hollowed by Nature or hewn by Art. And the Entrance was shut up with a great Stone, which sometimes had a monumental Inscription.

V. 39. Lord by this time he s••nk••th—Thus did Reason and Faith struggle together.

V. 40. Said I not—It appears by this, That Christ had said more to Martha than is before recorded.

V. 41. Jesus lifted up his eyes—Not as if he applied to his Father for Assistance. There is not the least Shew of this. He wrought the Miracle with an Air of absolute Sovereignty, as the LORD of Life and Death. But it was as if He had said, I thank Thee, that by the Disposals of thy Providence, thou hast granted my Desire, in this remarkable Opportunity, of exerting my Power, and shewing sorth thy Praise.

V. 43. He cried with a loud voice—That all who were present might hear. Lazarus, come forth!—Jesus called him out of the Tomb as easily, as if he had been not only alive, but awake also.

V. 44. And be came sorth, bouna hand and foot with grave-clothes— Which were wrapt round each Hand and each Foot. And his face was wrapt about with a napkin—If the Jews buried as the Egyptians did, the Face was not covered with it, but it only went round the Porchead, and under the Chin; so that he might easily see his Way.

V. 45. Many believed on him—And so the Son of GOD was glori∣sed. According to what our LORD had said, ver. 4.

V. 46. But some of them went to the Pharisees—What a dreadful Confirmation of that weighty Truth, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded tho' one rose from the dead?

V. 47. What do we?—What? Believe. Yea, but Death yields to the Power of Christ sooner than Infidelity.

V. 48. All Men will believe—And receive Him as the Messiah. And this will give such Umbrage to the Ronans that they will come and subvert both our place—Temple; and nation—Both our Church and State. Where they really afraid of this? Or was it a fair Colour only? Certainly it was no more. For they could not but know, that He that raised the Dead, was able to conquer the Romans.

V. 49. That Year—That memorable Year, in which Christ was to die. It was the last and chief of Daniel's Seventy Weeks, the fortieth Year before the Destruction of Jerusalem, and was celebrated for various Causes, in the Jewish History. Therefore that Year is so peculiarly mentioned: Caiaphas was the High-priest both before and after it. Ye know nothing—He reproves their slow Deliberations, in so clear a Case.

V. 50. It is expedient, that one man should die for the people—So GOD over-••uled his Tongue, for he spake not of himself, by his own Spirit only, but by the Spirit of Prophecy. And thus He gave un∣awares as clear a Testimony to the Priestly, as Pilate did to the King∣ly Office 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Christ.

V. 52. That he might gather into o••e—Church, all the children of God that were scattered abroad—Thro' all Ages and Nations.

V. 55. Many went up, to purify themselves—That they might remove all Hinderances to their eating the Passover.

XII.

Then Jesus, six days before the passover, came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, who had been dead, whom he had raised from the dead. [ 2] There they made him a supper, and Martha serv∣ed; but Lazarus was one of them who sat at table with him. [ 3] Then Mary, taking a pound of oint∣ment, of very costly spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the odour of the oint∣ment. [ 4] But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was about to betray him, saith, [ 5] Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? [ 6] This he said, not because

he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief and had the purse, and bare what was put therein.

[ 7] Then Jesus said, Let her alone; against the day of my burial hath she kept this. [ 8] Ye have the poor always with you: but me ye have not al∣ways.

[ 9] Now much people of the Jews knew that he was there, and came not only for the sake of Jesus, but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. [ 10] But the chief priests consulted, how to kill Lazarus also. [ 11] Because on his account many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.

[ 12] * 1.548 The next day, a great multitude who were come to the feast, having heard, that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, [ 13] † 1.549 Took branches of palm-trees, and went out to meet him, and cried, Ho∣sanna: blessed in the name of the Lord is he that cometh, the king of Israel. [ 14] And Jesus having found a young ass, rode thereon, as is written, [ 15] ‡ 1.550 Fear not, daughter of Sion; behold thy king cometh, sitting on an ass's colt. [ 16] These things his disciples understood not at first; but when Jesus had been glorified, then they remembered, that these things were written of him, and that

they had done these things to him. [ 17] And the multitude who were with him, when he called Lazarus out of the tomb, and raised him from the dead, bare witness. [ 18] For this cause also the multi∣tude went to meet him, because they heard, he had done this miracle. [ 19] The Pharisees therefore said to each other, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? Behold the world is gone after him.

[ 20] Now among those who came up to worship at the feast, there were certain Greeks. [ 21] These came to Philip of Bethsaida in Galilee, and asked him, saying, Sir, we desire to see Jesus. [ 22] Philip cometh and telleth Andrew; and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus. [ 23] And Jesus answered them saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glo∣rified. [ 24] Verily, verily I say unto you, Unless a grain of wheat that falleth into the ground die, it remaineth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth

much fruit. [ 25] † 1.551 He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world, shall pre∣serve it to life eternal. [ 26] If any man serve me, let him follow me, and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will the Father honour.

[ 27] Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour? But for this cause I came, for this hour. [ 28] Father, glorify thy name. Then a voice came from heaven, I have both glorified and I will glorify it again. [ 29] The multitude who stood and heard it, said, It thun∣dered; others said, An angel spake to him. [ 30] Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes. [ 31] Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. [ 32] And I, when I am lifted up from the

earth, will draw all men to me. (He spake this, [ 33] signifying what death he should die.) The multitude answered him, [ 34] We have heard* 1.552 out of the law, that the Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of man? Then Jesus said to them, Yet a little while is the light with you. [ 35] Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness over∣take you; for he that walketh in darkness, knoweth not whither he goeth. [ 36] While ye have the light, believe in the light, that ye may become children of light. These things spake Jesus, and retiring concealed himself from them.

[ 37] But tho' he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him; [ 38] So that the word of the prophet Isaiah was fulfilled which he said,‡ 1.553 Lord, who hath believed our report? And to whom hath the arm of the Lord been re∣vealed? [ 39] Therefore they could not believe, accord∣ing to what Isaiah said again. [ 40] † 1.554 He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart, that they might not see with their eyes, and understand with

their heart, and be converted, that I might heal them. [ 41] These things said Isaiah, when he saw his glory, and spake of him. [ 42] Nevertheless many even of the rulers believed on him but they did not con∣fess him, because of the Pharisees, lest they should be put out of the synagogue. [ 43] For they loved the praise of man more than the praise of God.

[ 44] Jesus said with a loud voice, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me. [ 45] And he that eth seeth me, seeth him that sent me. [ 46] I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me, may not continue in darkness. [ 47] If any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not; for I am not come to judge the world, but to save the world. [ 48] He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him; the word which I have spoken, that shall judge him at the last day. [ 49] For I have not spoken of myself, but the Father who sent me, he gave me commandment, what I should say, and how I should speak. [ 50] And I know that his com∣mandment is life everlasting; what therefore I speak to you, as the Father hath said to me, so I speak.

V. 1. Six days before the passover—Namely on the Sabbath; that which was called by the Jews, The Great Sabbath. This whole Week was anciently termed, The great and holy Week. Jesus came— From Ephraim, ch. xi. 54.

V. 2. It seems Martha was a Person of some Figure, from the great Respect which was paid to her and her Sister, in Visits and Condola••••cs on Lazarus's Death, as well as from the costly Ointment mentioned in the next Verse. And probably it was at their House our LORD and his Disciples lodged, when He returned ••••rn Jerusa∣lem to Bethany, every Evening of the last Week of his Life, upon which He was now entered.

V. 3. Then Mary taking a pound of ointment—There ••ere two Persons, who poured Ointment on Christ. One, toward the Beginning of his Ministry, at or near Naia: (Luke vii. 37, &c.) The other,

six Days before his last Passover, at Bethany; the Account of whom is given here, as well as by St. Matthew and Mark.

V. 7. Against the day of my burial—Which now draws nigh.

V. 10. The chief priests consulted, How to kill Lazarus also—Here is the plain Reason, why the other Evangelists, who wrote while Lazarus was living, did not relate his Story.

V. 12. The next day—On Sunday. Who were come to the feast— So that this Multitude consisted chiefly of Galileans, not Men of Je∣rusalem.

V. 15. Fear not—For his Meekness forbids Fear, as well as the End of his Coming.

V. 16. These things his disciples understood not at first—The Design of GOD's providential Dispensations, is seldom understood at first. We ought therefore to believe, tho' we understand not, and to give ourselves up to the Divine Disposal. The great Work of Faith is, To embrace those Things which we know not now, but shall know hereafter. When he had been glorified—At his Ascension.

V. 17. When he called Lazarus out of the tomb—How admirably does the Apostle express, as well the Greatness of the Miracle, as the Facility with which it was wrought? The Easiness of the Scrip∣ture Stile on the most grand Occurrences, is more sublime than all the Pomp of Orators.

V. 18. The multitude went to meet him, because they beard—From those who had seen the Miracle. So in a little Time, both joined together, to go before, and to follow him.

V. 20. Certain Greeks—A Pro••••de of the Gentile Church. That these were circumcised does not appear. But they came up, on Pur∣pose to worship the GOD of Israel.

V. 21. These came to Philip of Bethsaida in Galilee—Perhaps they used to lodge there, in their Journey to Jerusalem. Or they might believe, a Galilean would be more ready to serve them herein, than a Jew. Sir—They spake to him, as to one they were little ac∣quainted with. We would see Jesus—A modest Request. They could scarce expect that He would now have Time to talk with them.

V. 23. The bour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified— With the Father, and in the Sight of every Creature. But he must suffer first.

V. 24. Unless a grain of wheat die—The late Resurrection of La∣zarus gave our LORD a natural Occasion of speaking on this Subject. And agreeable to his infinite Knowledge, He singles out, from among so many thousands of Seeds, almost the only one that dies in the Earth: And which therefore was an exceeding proper Similitude, peculiarly adapted to the Purpose for which he uses it. The like is not to be found in any other Grain, except Millet, and the large Bean.

V. 25. He that loveth his life—More than the Will of GOD; shall lose it eternally: And he that hateth his life—In Comparison of the Will of GOD, shall preserve it.

V. 26. Let him follow me—By hating his Life: And where I am— In Heaven. If any man serve me—Thus, him will the Father honour.

V. 27. Now is my soul troubled—He had various Foretastes of his Passion. And what shall I say?—Not what shall I chuse? For his Heart was fixed in chusing the Will of his Father: But he laboured for Utterance. The two following Clauses, Save me from this hour —For this cause I came—Into the World; for the Sake of this hour (of Suffering;) seem to have glanced thro' his Mind in one Mo∣ment. But human Language could not so express it.

V. 28. Father, glorify thy name—Whatever I suffer. Now the Trouble was over. I have glorified it—By thy Entrance into this hour. And I will glorify it—By thy passing thro' it.

V. 29. The multitude who stood and heard—A Sound, but not the distinct Words. In the most glorious Revelations there may remain something obscure, to exercise our Faith. Said it thundered—Thun∣der did frequently attend a Voice from Heaven. Perhaps it did so now.

V. 31. Now—This Moment. And from this Moment Christ's thirsted more than ever, till his Baptism was accomplished. Is the judgment of this world—That is, now is the Judgment given con∣cerning it, whose it shall be. Now shall the prince of this world— Satan, who had gained Possession of it by Sin and Death, be cast out —That is, judged, condemned, cast out of his Possession, and out of the Bounds of Christ's Kingdom.

V. 32. Listed up from the earth—This is an Hebraism which sig∣nifies

Dying. Death in general is all that it usually imported. But our LORD made Use of this Phrase, rather than others that were equivalent, because it so well suited the particular Manner of his Death. I will draw all men—Gentiles as well as Jews. And those who follow my Drawings, Satan shall not be able to keep.

V. 34. How sayest thou, The Son of man must be listed up?—How can These things be reconciled? Very easily. He first dies, and then abideth for ever: Who is this Son of man?—Is He the Christ?

V. 35. Then Jesus said to them—Not answering them directly, but exhorting them to improve what they had heard already. The light —I and my Doctrine.

V. 36. The children of light—The Children of GOD, wise, holy, happy.

V. 37. Tho' he had done so many miracles before them—So that they could not but see them.

V. 38. The arm of the Lord—The Power of GOD, manifested by Christ, in his Preaching, Miracles, and Work of Redemption.

V. 39. Therefore now they could not believe—That is, by the just Judgment of GOD, for their Obstinacy and wilful Resistance of the Truth, they were at length so left to the Hardness of their Hearts, that neither the Miracles nor Doctrine of our LORD, could make any Impression upon them.

V. 41. When he saw his glory—Christ's, Isa. vi. 1, &c. And it is there expressly said to be the Glory of the LORD, Jehovah, the Supreme GOD.

V. 44. Jesus said with a loud voice—This which follows to the End of the Chapter, is with St. John the Epilogue of our LORD'S public Discourses, and a Kind of Recapitulation of them. Believeth not on me—Not on me alone, but also on him that sent me: Because the Fa∣ther hath sent the Son, and because He and the Father are one.

V. 45. And he that seeth me—By the Eye of Faith.

V. 47. I judge him not—Not now. For I am not now come, to judge the world. See! Christ came to save even them that finally perish! Even these are a Part of that World, which he lived and died to save.

V. 50. His commandment—Kept, is life everlasting—That is, the Way to it, and the Beginning of it.

XIII.

Now before the feast of the passover, Jesus knowing his hour was come, to pass out of this world, to the Father, having loved his own who

were in the world, loved them to the end. [ 2] And while they were at supper (the devil having now put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of [ 3] Simon, to betray him) Jesus knowing the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come forth from God, and going to God, [ 4] Riseth from supper, and layeth aside his garments, and taking a towel, girded himself. [ 5] After that, he poured water into the bason, and began to wash the feet of the disciples, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. [ 6] Then cometh he to Simon Peter, who saith to him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? [ 7] Jesus answered and said to him, What I do, thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. [ 8] Peter saith to him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. [ 9] Si∣mon Peter saith to him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. [ 10] Jesus saith to him, He who hath been bathed, needeth only to wash his feet, and is clean all over: and ye are clean; but not all. [ 11] For he knew who would betray him: therefore he said, Ye are not all clean.

[ 12] So after he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, sitting down again, he said to them, Know ye what I have done to you? [ 13] Ye call me Master and Lord; and ye say well; for so I am. [ 14] If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye ought also to wash one another's feet. [ 15] For I have given you an example, that ye also may do as I have done to you. [ 16] Verily, verily I say unto you, the servant is not greater than his Lord, neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. [ 17] If ye know these things, happy are ye, if ye do them. [ 18] I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen, that the scripture may be fulfilled,* 1.555 He that eateth bread with me, hath lifted up his heel against me. [ 19] Now I tell you be∣fore it is done, that when it is done, ye may believe that I am he. [ 20] † 1.556 Verily, verily I say unto you, he that receiveth whomsoever I send, receiv∣eth me, and he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me.

[ 21] Jesus having said this, was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily I say unto you, one of you will betray me. [ 22] Then the disci∣ples looked one on another doubting of whom he spake. [ 23] Now there was lying in the bosom of Jesus one of the disciples whom Jesus loved. Simon

[ 24] Peter therefore beckoneth to him, to ask who it was of whom he spake. [ 25] He then, leaning on the breast of Jesus, saith to him, Lord, who is it? Jesus answered, It is he to whom I shall give the sop when I have dipped it. [ 26] And having dipped the sop, he giveth it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon. [ 27] And after the sop, then Satan entered into him. [ 28] Then said Jesus to him, What thou dost, do quickly. Now none at the table knew, why he said this to him. [ 29] But some thought, as Judas had the purse, that Jesus had said to him, Buy what we have need of against the feast, or, Give something to the poor. [ 30] He then having received the sop, went out immediately. And it was night when he went out.

[ 31] Jesus saith, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified by him. [ 32] If God be glorified by him, God will also glorify him with himself,

and will shortly glorify him. [ 33] Little children, yet a little while I am with you: ye shall seek me, and as I said to the Jews,* 1.557 Whither I go ye can∣not come, so now I say to you. [ 34] A new command∣ment I give you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. [ 35] By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love to one another. [ 36] Simon Peter saith to him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus an∣swered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou wilt follow me hereafter. [ 37] Pe∣ter saith to him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now, I will lay down my life for thy sake? [ 38] Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily I say to thee, the cock shall not have crowed, till thou hast denied me thrice.

V. 1. Before the feast—Namely, on Wadnesday in the paschal

Week. Having loved his own—His Apostles, loved them to the end— Of his Life.

V. 2. Having now—Probably now first.

V. 3. Jesus knowing—Tho' conscious of his own Greatness, thus humbled Himself.

V. 4. Layeth aside his garment—That Part of them, which would have hindered Him.

V. 5. Into the bason—A large Vessel was usually placed for this very Purpose, wherever the Jews supped.

V. 7. What I do, thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter— We do not now know perfectly any of his Works, either of Creation, Providence, or Grace. It is enough that we can love and obey now, and that we shall know hereafter.

V. 8. If I wash thee not—If thou dost not submit to my Will, thou hast no part with me—Thou art not my Disciple. In a more general Sense it may mean, If I do not wash thee in my Blood, and purify thee by my Spirit, thou canst have no Communion with me, nor any Share in the Blessings of my Kingdom.

V. 9. Lord, not my feet only—How fain would Man be wiser than GOD! Yet this was well meant, tho' ignorant Earnestness.

V. 10. And so ye, having been already cleansed, need only to wash your feet—That is, to walk holy and undefiled.

V. 14. Ye ought also to wash one another's feet—And why did they not? Why do we not read of any one Apostle ever washing the Feet of any other? Because they understood their LORD better. They knew He never designed that this should be literally taken. He de∣signed to teach them the great Lesson of humble Love, as well as to confer inward Purity upon them. And hereby He teaches us,

• 1. In every possible Way to assist each other in attaining that Purity;
• 2. To wash each other's Feet, by performing all Sorts of good Offices to each other, even those of the lowest Kind, when Opportunity serves, and the Necessity of any calls for them.

V. 16. The servant is not greater than his Lord—Nor therefore ought to think much of either doing or suffering the same Things.

V. 18. I speak not of you all—When I call you happy. I know one of you twelve whom I have chosen, will betray me; whereby that Scripture will be fulfilled.

V. 20. And I put my own Honour upon you my Ambassadors.

V. 21. One of you—The speaking thus indefinitely at first, was profitable to them all.

V. 23. There was lying in the bosom of Jesus—That is, sitting next to Him at Table. This Phrase only expresses the then customary

Posture at Meals, where the Guests all leaned sideways on Couches. And each was said to lye in the bosom of him who was placed next above him. One of the disciples whom Jesus loved—St. John avoids with great Care, the expressly naming himself. Perhaps our LORD now gave him the first Proof of his peculiar Love, by disclosing this Se∣cret to him.

V. 24. Simon Peter—Behind Jesus, who lay between them.

V. 25. Leaning down, and so asking him privately.

V. 26. Jesus answered—In his Ear. So careful was He not to offend (if it had been possible) even Judas himself. The sop—Which He took up while he was speaking. He giveth it Iudas—And proba∣bly the other Disciples thought Judas peculiarly happy! But when even this Instance of our LORD's Tenderness could not move him, then Satan took full Possession.

V. 27. What thou dost, do quickly—This is not a Permission, much less a Command. It is only as if He had said, If thou art deter∣mined to do it, why dost thou delay? Hereby shewing Judas, that he could not be hid, and expressing his own Readiness to suffer.

V. 28. None knew why he said this—Save John and Judas.

V. 30. He went out—To the chief Priests. But he returned after∣ward, and was with them when they ate the Passover, Matt. xxvi. 20; tho' not at the LORD's Supper.

V. 31. Jesus saith—Namely, the next Day; on Thursday, in the Morning. Here the Scene, as it were, is opened, for the Discourse which is continued in the following Chapters. Now—While I speak this, the Son of man is glorified—Being fully entered into his glorious Work of Redemption. This evidently relates to the Glory which belongs to his Suffering in so holy and victorious a Manner.

V. 33. Ye cannot come—Not yet; being not yet ripe for it

V. 34. A new commandment—Not new in itself; but new in the School of Christ; for He had never before taught it them expressly. Likewise new, as to the Degree of it, As I have loved you.

V. 36. Peter saith, Lord, Whith••r goest thou?—St. Peter seems to have thought, that Christ being rejected by the Jews, would go to some other Part of the Earth to erect his Throne, where He might reign without Disturbance, according to the gross Notions he had of Christ's Kingdom. Thou canst not follow me now—But Peter would not believe Him. And he did follow Him, ch. xviii. 15. But it was afar off. And not without great Loss.

V. 38. The cock shall not have crowed—That is, Cock-crowing shall not be over, till thou hast denied me thrice—His threefold Denial was thrice foretold; first, at the Time mentioned here; secondly, at that mentioned by St. Luke; lastly, at that recorded by St. Matthew and Mark.

XIV.

Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God: believe also in me. [ 2] In my Father's house are many mansions; if not, I would have told you. [ 3] I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to myself, that where I am, ye

may be also. [ 4] And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. [ 5] Thomas saith to him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest, and how can we know the way? [ 6] Jesus, saith, I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no man cometh to the Father, but by me. [ 7] If ye had known me, ye would have known my Father also: from hence∣forth ye have known him, and have seen him. [ 8] Philip saith to him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. [ 9] Jesus saith to him, Have I been so long with you, and hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me, hath seen the Fa∣ther: and how sayest thou, Shew us the Father? Believest thou not, that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? [ 10] The words that I speak to you, I speak not of myself; and the Father that dwel∣leth in me, he doth the works. [ 11] Believe me, be∣cause I am in the Father, and the Father in me; but if not, believe me for the sake of the works. [ 12] Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works which I do shall he do also; and greater than these shall he do, because I go to my Father. [ 13] And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified thro' the Son. [ 14] If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.

[ 15] If ye love me, keep my commandments, And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another [ 16] Comforter, to remain with you for ever, Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him. [ 17] But ye know him, for he remaineth with you, and shall be in you. [ 18] I will not leave you orphans; I come to you. [ 19] Yet a little while and the world seeth me no more: but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. [ 20] At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. [ 21] He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me, shall be loved by my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

[ 22] Judas (not Iscariot) saith to him, Lord, how is it, that thou art about to manifest thyself to us,

and not to the world? [ 23] Jesus answered and said to him, If any man love me, he will keep my word; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our abode with him. [ 24] He that loveth me not, keepeth not my words: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's who sent me.

[ 25] These things have I spoken to you, while I remained with you. [ 26] But the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and will bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said to you. [ 27] Peace I will leave with you; my peace I will give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. [ 28] Ye heard me say to you, I go, and come again to you. If ye loved me, ye would have rejoiced, because I go to the Father; for the Father is greater than me. [ 29] And now I have told you, before it cometh to pass, that when it is come to pass, ye may be∣lieve.

[ 30] Hereafter I shall not talk much with you; for the prince of this world is coming; but he hath nothing in me: But that the world may know that I love the Father, and as the Father command∣ed me, so I do. [ 31] Arise, let us go hence.

V. 1. Let not your heart be troubled—At my Departure. Believe—This is the Sum of all his Discourse, which is urged, till they did believe, ch. xvi. 30. And then our LORD prays and departs.

V. 2. In my Father's house are many mansions—Enough to receive both the holy Angels, and your Predecessors in the Faith, and

all that now believe, and a great Multitude which no Man can number.

V. 4. The way—Of Faith, Holiness, Sufferings.

V. 5. Thomas saith—Taking Him in a gross Sense.

V. 6. To the Question concerning the Way, He answers I am the way—to the Question concerning Knowledge, He answers, I am the truth; to the Question Whither, I am the life. The first is treated of in this verse; the second, ver. 7—17; the third, ver. 18, &c.

V. 7. Ye have known—Ye have begun to know him.

V. 10. I am in the Father—The words that I speak, &c.—That is, I am One with the Father, in Essence, in Speaking, and in Acting.

V. 11. Believe me—On my own Word, because I am—GOD. The works—This respects not merely the Miracles themselves, but his Sovereign, God-like Way of performing them.

V. 12. Greater works than these shall he do—So one Apostle wrought Miracles merely by his Shadow (Acts v. 15.) another by Handker∣chiefs carried from his Body (Acts xix. 12.) and all spake with various

Tongues. But the converting one Sinner is a greater Work than all these. Because I go to my Father—To fend you the Holy Ghost.

V. 15. If ye love me, keep my commandments—Immediately after Faith, He exhorts to Love and good Works.

V. 16. And I will ask the Father—The 21st Verse shews the Con∣nexion between this and the preceding Verses. And he will give you another Comforter—The Greek Word signifies also an Advocate, In∣structor, or Encourager. Another—For Christ Himself was one. To remain with you for ever—With you, and your Followers in Faith to the End of the World.

V. 17. The Spirit of truth—Who has, reveals, testifies, and de∣fends the Truth as it is in Jesus. Whom the world—All who do not love or fear GOD, cannot receive, because it seeth him not—Having no spiritual Senses, no internal Eye to discern Him; nor consequently knoweth him. He shall be in you—As a constant Guest. Your Bodies and Souls shall be Temples of the Holy Ghost dwelling in you.

V. 18. I will not leave you orphan••—A Word that is elegantly ap∣plied to those who have lost any dea•• Friend. I come to you—What was certainly and speedily to be, our LORD speaks of, as if it were already.

V. 19. But ye see me—That is ye shall certainly see me. Because I live, ye shall live also. Be•••••••••• 〈…〉〈…〉 the living One in my divine Nature, and shall rise again 〈…〉〈…〉 ••••an Nature, and live for ever in Heaven; therefore ye sh•••••• ••••••e the Life of Faith and Love on Earth, and hereafter the Life of Glory.

V. 20. At that day—When ye see me after my Resurrection; but more eminently at the Day of Pentecost.

V. 21. He that hath my commandments—Written in his Heart. I will manifest myself to him—More abundantly.

V. 23. Jesus answered—Because ye love and obey me, and they do not, therefore I will reveal myself to you, and not to them. My Father will love him—The more any Man loves and obeys, the more GOD will love him. And we will come to him, and make our abode with him—Which implies such a large Manifestation of the divine Presence and Love, that the former in Justification, is as Nothing in Compa∣rison of it.

V. 26. In my name—For my Sake, in my Room, and as my Agent. He will teach you all things—Necessary for you to know. Here is a clear Promise to the Apostles and their Successors in the Faith, that the Holy Ghost, will teach them all that Truth, which is needful for their Salvation.

V. 27. Peace I leave with you—Peace in general, Peace with GOD, and with your own Consciences. My peace—In particular: That Peace which I enjoy, and which I create, I give—At this Instant. Not as the world giveth—Unsatisfying unsettled, transient; but filling the Soul with constant, even 〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••••••••lity. LORD, evermore give us this Peace! How serenely 〈…〉〈…〉 ••ss thro' the most turbulent Scenes of Life, when all is qui•••• 〈◊〉〈◊〉 harmonious within? Thou hast made Peace thro' the Blood of thy Cross: May we give all Di∣ligence to preserve the inestimable Gift inviolate, till it issue in ever∣lasting Peace!

V. 28. GOD the Father is greater than Him—As He was Man. As GOD, neither is greater or less than the other.

V. 29. I have told you—Of my Going and Return.

V. 30. The prince of this world is coming—To make his grand Assault. But he hath nothing in me—No Right, no Claim, or Power. There is no Guilt in me, to give him Power over me; no Corruption to take Part with his Temptation.

V. 31. But I suffer him thus to assault me,

• 1. Because it is the Father's Commission to me (ch. x. 18.)
• 2. To convince the World of my Love to the Father, in being obedient unto death, Phil. ii. 8. Ar••se, let us go hence—Into the City, to the Passover.

All that has been related from ch. xiii. 31. was done and said on Thursday with∣out the City, But what follows in the xv.xvi. and xviith Chapters, was said in the City, on the very Evening of the Passover, just be∣fore He went over the Brook Ced••on.

XV.

I am the true vine, and my Father is the hus∣bandman. [ 2] Every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he taketh it away; and every one that beareth fruit, he purifieth it, that it may bear more fruit. [ 3] Now ye are clean thro' the word which I have spoken to you. [ 4] Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abide in the vine, so neither can ye, un∣less ye abide in me. [ 5] I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me and I in him, he beareth much fruit; but separate from me ye

can do nothing. [ 6] If any one abide not in me, he is cast out as a branch, and is withered: and they gather and cast them into the sire, and they are burned. [ 7] If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask whatsoever ye will, and it shall be done for you. [ 8] Hereby is my Fa∣ther glorified, that ye bear much fruit: so shall ye be my disciples. [ 9] As the Father hath loved me, so have I also loved you. Abide ye in my love. [ 10] If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. [ 11] I have spoken these things to you, that my joy might remain in you, and your joy might be full. [ 12] This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you. [ 13] No one hath greater love than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. [ 14] Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. [ 15] I no longer call you servants, for the servant knoweth not what his lord doth: but I have called you friends; for all things that

I have heard from my Father, I have made known to you. [ 16] Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and appointed you that ye may go and bear fruit, and your fruit may remain; that what∣soever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. [ 17] This I command you, that ye love one another.

[ 18] If the world hate you, ye know it hated me, before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love its own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. [ 19] Remem∣ber the word that I said to you, [ 20] * 1.558 The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you: if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. [ 21] But all these things will they do to you, for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. [ 22] If I had not come and spoken to them, they had not had sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. [ 23] He that hateth me, hateth my Father also. [ 24] If I had not done among them the works which no other did, they had not had sin: but now have they seen them, and yet hated both me and my Father.

[ 25] So that the word which is written in their law is fulfilled, [ 26] * 1.559 They hated me without a cause. But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who pro∣ceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me. [ 27] Ye also testify, because ye have been with me from the beginning.

V. 1. I am the true vine—So the true bread, ch. vi. 32. that is, the most excellent.

V. 2. Every one that beareth fruit, be purifieth—by obeying the truth, Pet. i. 22. and by inward or outward Sufferings, Heb. xii. 10, 11. So Purity and Fruitfulness help each other. That it may bear more fruit—For this is one of the noblest Rewards GOD can bestow on former Acts of Obedience, to make us yet more holy, and sit for farther and more eminent Service.

V. 3. Ye are clean—All of you, to whom I now speak, are purged from the Guilt and Power of Sin; by the word—Which applied by the Spirit, is the grand Instrument of purifying the Soul.

V. 4. Abide in me— Ye who are now pure by living Faith produc∣ing all Holiness; by which alone ye can be in me.

V. 5. I am the vine; ye are the branches—Our LORD in this whole Passage, speaks of no branches but such as are, or at least were once, united to Him by living Faith.

V. 6. If any one abide not in me—By living Faith: Not by Church-Communion only. He may thus abide in Christ, and be withered all the Time, and cast into the Fire at last. He is cast out—Of the Vine∣yard, the invisible Church. Therefore he was in it once.

V. 7. If ye abide in me, ye shall ask—Prayers themselves are a Fruit of Faith, and they produce more Fruit.

V. 8. So shall ye be my disciples—Worthy of the Name. To be a Disciple of Christ is both the Foundation and Height of Christianity.

V. 9. Abide ye in my love—Keep your Place in my Affection. See that ye do not forfeit that invaluable Blessing. How needless a Caution, if it were impossible for them, Not to abide therein?

V. 10. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love—On these Terms, and no other, ye shall remain the Objects of my spe∣cial Affection.

V. 11. That my joy might remain in you—The same Joy which I feel, in loving the Father, and keeping his Commandments.

V. 12. Your joy will be full, if ye so love one another.

V. 13. Greater love—To his Friends. He here speaks of them only.

V. 14. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you—On this Condition, not otherwise. A Thunderbolt for Antinomianism. Who then dares assert, That GOD's Love does not at all depend on Man's Works?

V. 15. All things—Which might be of Service to you.

V. 16. Ye My Apostles, have not chosen me, but I have chosen you—As clearly appears from the Sacred History: and appointed you, that ye may go and bear fruit—I have chosen and appointed you for this End, that ye may go and convert Sinners: and that your fruit may remain— That the Fruit of your Labours may remain to the End of the World; yea, to Eternity: that whatsoever ye shall ask—The Con∣sequence of your going and bearing Fruit will be, that all your Prayers will be heard.

V. 19. Because ye are not of the world, therefore the world hateth you—Because your Maxims, Tempers, Actions are quite opposite to theirs. For the very same Reason must the World in all Ages, hate those who are not of the World.

V. 21. All these things will they do to you, because they know not him that sent me—And in all Ages and Nations, they who know not GOD, will for this cause hate and persecute those that do.

V. 22. They had not had sin—Not in this Respect.

V. 23. He that hateth me—As every Unbeliever doth. For 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the Love of GOD is inseparable from Faith, so is the Hatred of GOD from Unbelief.

V. 26. When the Comforter is come, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me—The Spirit's coming, and being sent by our LORD from the Father, to testify of him, are personal Characters, and plainly dis∣tinguish Him from the Father and the Son: And his Title as the Spirit of truth, together with his proceeding from the Father, can agree to none but a Divine Person. And that he proceeds from the Son, as well as from the Father, may be fairly argued from his being call∣ed the Spirit of Christ (1 Pet. i. 11.) And from his being here said to be sent by Christ from the Father, as well as sent by the Father in his Name.

XVI.

I have told you these things, that ye may not be offended. They will put you out of the syna∣gogues; [ 2] yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you, will think he doth God service. [ 3] These things will they do, because they have not known the Father nor me. [ 4] But I have told you these things, that when the time shall come, ye may remember I told you them. I did not tell you these things at the beginning, because I was with you. [ 5] But now I go to him that sent me, and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? [ 6] But because I have told you these things, sorrow hath filled your heart. [ 7] But I tell you the truth; it is

expedient for you that I go: for if I go not, the Comforter will not come to you; but if I depart I will send him to you. [ 8] And he coming will con∣vince the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: [ 9] Of sin, because they believe not on me; [ 10] Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; [ 11] Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

[ 12] I have yet many things to say to you; but ye cannot bear them now. But when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all the truth; [ 13] for he will not speak of himself: but what∣soever he shall hear, he will speak; and he will shew you the things which are to come. [ 14] He will glorify me; for he will take of mine, and shew it you. [ 15] All things that the Father hath, are mine: therefore I said, He will take of mine, and shew it you. [ 16] A little while and ye shall not

see me; and again, a little while and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father. [ 17] Then some of his disciples said to each other, What is this that he saith to us? A little while and ye shall not see me; and again, a little while and ye shall see me? and, Because I go to the Father? [ 18] They said therefore, What is this that he saith, a little while? We understand not what he saith. [ 19] Jesus knew they were desirous to ask him, and said to them Ye inquire among you of this, that I said, A lit∣tle while and ye shall not see me: and again, a lit∣tle while and ye shall see me. [ 20] Verily, verily I say unto you, Ye will weep and lament; but the world will rejoice: ye will be sorrowful; but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. [ 21] A woman when she is in travail, hath sorrow, because her hour is come; but when she hath brought forth the child, she no longer remembereth the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. [ 22] And ye now therefore have sorrow; but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no one taketh from you. [ 23] And in that day ye shall not question me about any thing. Verily, verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father

in my name, he will give you. [ 24] Hitherto ye have asked nothing in my name: ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. [ 25] I have spoken these things to you in parables: but the time is coming, when I will no longer speak to you in parables, but will shew you plainly of the Father. [ 26] At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not to you, that I will pray the Father for you. [ 27] For the Father himself loveth you, be∣cause ye have loved me, and have believed, that I came forth from God. [ 28] I came forth from the Father, and am come 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the world: again I leave the world, and go to the Father.

[ 29] His disciples 〈◊〉〈◊〉 to him, Lo now speakest thou plainly, and ••eakest no parable. [ 30] Now we are sure thou k•••••••• all ••••••ings, and needest not that any should question thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God. [ 31] Jesus answer∣ed, Ye do now believe. [ 32] But lo the hour is com∣ing, yea, is already come, that ye shall be scat∣tered every one to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone: for the Father is with me. [ 33] I have spoken these things to you, that ye may have peace in me. In the world ye shall have tribulation; but take courage. I have overcome the world.

V. 2. The time cometh, that whosoever killeth you, will think he doth God service—But blessed be GOD, the Time is so far past, that those who bear the Name of Christ, do not now generally suppose they do Him Service, by killing each other, for a Disserence in Opi∣nion or Mode of Worship.

V. 3. They have not known the Father nor me—This is the true Root of Persecution in all its Forms.

V. 4. I did not tell you these things at the beginning, because I was with you—To bear the chief Shock in my own Person, and to skreen you from it.

V. 5. None of you asheth me—Now, when it is most seasonable. Peter did ask this before, ch. xiii. 36.

V. 7. It is expedient for you—in respect of the Comforter, ver. 7. &c. and of me, ver. 16, &c. and of the Father, ver. 23, &c.

V. 8. He—Observe his twofold Office, toward the World, ver, 8, &c. toward Believers, ver. 12, &c. will convince—All of the world—Who do not obstinately resist, by your Preaching and Mira∣cles, of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment—He who is convinced of sin, either accepts the righteousness of Christ, or is judged with Satan. An abundant Accomplishment of this, we find in the Acts of the Apostles.

V. 9. Of sin—Particularly of Unbelief, which is the Confluence of all Sins, and binds them all down upon us.

V. 10. Of righteousness, because I go to my Father—Which the Spirit will testify, tho' ye do not then see me. But I could not go to Him, if I were not righteous.

V. 11. The prince of this world is judged—And in Consequence therefore dethroned, deprived of the Power he had so long usurped over Men. Yet those who reject the Deliverance offered them, will remain Slaves of Satan still.

V. 12. I have yet many things to say—Concerning my Passion, Death, Resurerction, and the Consequences of it. These Things we have, not in uncertain Traditions, but in the Acts, the Epistles, and the Revelation. But ye cannot bear them now—Both because of your Lit∣tleness of Faith, and your immoderate Sorrow.

V. 13. When he is come—It is universally allowed, that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost dwell in all Believers. And the internal Agency of the Holy Ghost, is generally admitted. That of the Fa∣ther and the Son, as represented in this Gospel, deserves our deepest Consideration.

V. 15. All things that the Father hath are mine—Could any Creature say this?

V. 16. A little while and ye shall not see me—When I am buried, and again a little while and ye shall see me—When I am risen, because I go to my Father—I die and rise again, in Order to ascend to my Fa∣ther.

V. 19. Jesus said to them—Preventing their Question.

V. 20. Ye will weep and lament—When ye see me dead; but your sorrow will be turned into joy—When ye see me risen.

V. 22. Ye now therefore have sorrow—This gives us no Manner of Authority to assert, all Believers must come into a State of Darkness. They never need lose either their Peace or Love, or the Witness that they are the Children of GOD. They never can lose these, but either thro' Sin or Ignorance, or vehement Temptation, or bodily Disor∣der.

V. 23. Ye shall not question me about any thing—Which you do not now understand. You will not need to inquire of me; for you will know all Things clearly. Whatsoever ye shall ask—Knowledge, Love, on any Thing else. He will give it. Our LORD here gives us a Chart blanche. Believer, write down what thou wilt. He had said ch. xiv. 13. I will do it, where the Discourse was of glorifying the Father thro' the Son. Here, speaking of the Love of the Father to Believers, He saith, He will give it.

V. 24. Hitherto ye have asked nothing in my name—For they had asked him directly for all they wanted.

V. 26. At that day ye shall ask—For true Knowledge begets Pray∣er. And I say not, that I will pray—This in no wife implies, that He will not: It means only, The Father Himself now loves you, not only because of my Intercession, but also because of the Faith and Love which He hath wrought in you.

V. 30. Thou knowest all things—Even our Hearts. Altho' no Question is asked thee, yet thou answerest the Thoughts of every one. By this we believe that thou c••mest f••rth from God—They as it were echo back the Words which He had spoken in the 27th verse, implying, We believe in God; we believe also in thee.

Chap. xvii. In this Chapter our LORD prays, 1. For himself, ver. 1—5.2. For the Apostles ver. 6—19, and again, ver. 24—26.3.

For all Believers, ver. 20—23. And 4. For the World, ver. 21—23. In this Prayer He comprises all He had said from ch. xiii. 31, and seals as it were, all He had hitherto dene, beholding Things past, present, and to come. This Chapter contains the ca∣siest Words, and the decpest Sense of any in all the Scripture: Yet is here no incoherent Rhapsody, but the whole is closely and exactly connected.

XVII.

These things spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come: glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:

[ 2] As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he may give eternal life to all whom thou hast given him. [ 3] And this is life eternal, to know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. [ 4] I have glorified thee on earth. I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. [ 5] And now, Father, glorify thou me with thy∣self, with the glory which I had with thee, before the world was.

[ 6] I have manifested thy name to the men whom thou hast given me out of the world. [ 7] Thine

they were, and thou hast given them me, and they have kept thy word. Now they know, that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. [ 8] For I have given them the words which thou gavest me, and they have received them, and have known surely, that I came forth from thee, and they have believed that thou hast sent me. [ 9] I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them whom thou hast given me; for they are thine. [ 10] And all things that are mine are thine, and that are thine are mine; and I am glorified by them. [ 11] And I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep thro' thy name them whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. [ 12] While I was with them in the world I kept them thro' thy name. Those whom thou hast given me I have guarded, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition,§ 1.560 that the

scripture might be fulfilled. [ 13] And now I am coming to thee, and I speak these things in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in them. [ 14] I have given them thy word, and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. [ 15] I do not pray, that thou wouldest take them out of the world, but that thou wouldest keep them from the evil one. [ 16] They are not of the world, as I am not of the world. [ 17] Sanctify them thro' the truth: thy word is truth. [ 18] As thou hast sent me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. [ 19] And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also may be sanctified thro' the truth.

[ 20] Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also who will believe on me thro' their word: [ 21] That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. [ 22] And the glory which thou hast given me, I have given them, that they may be one, as we are one: [ 23] I in them, and thou in me, that they may be per∣fected in one; and that the world may know, that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.

[ 24] Father, I will that these also whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. [ 25] Righteous Father, tho' the world hath not known thee, yet I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. [ 26] And I have declared to them thy name, and will declare it, that the love wherewith thou hast loved me, may be in them, and I in them.

V. 1. Father—This Simplicity of Appellation highly became the only begotten Son of GOD; to which a Believer then makes the nearest Approach, when he is fullest of Love and humble Considence. The hour is come—The appointed Time for it; glorisy thy Son—The Son glorified the Father, both before and after his own Glorification. When he speaks to the Father, he does not stile himself the Son of Man.

V. 2. As thou hast given him power over all flesh—This answers to Glorify thy Son. That he may give eternal life, &c. This answers to That thy Son may glorify thee. To all whom thou hast given him—To all Believers. This is a clear Proof, that Christ designed his Sacrifice should avail for all; yea, that all flesh, every Man, should partake of everlasting Life. For as the Father had given him power over all flesh, so He gave Himself a Ransom for all.

V. 3. To know—By loving, holy Faith, thee the only true God— The only Cause and End of all Things; not excluding the Son and the Holy Ghost, no more than the Father is excluded from being LORD, 1. Cor. viii. 6. but the false Gods of the Heathens, and Jesus Christ—As their Prophet, Priest, and King: this is life eternal—It is both the Way to, and the Essence of everlasting Happiness.

V. 4. I have finished the work—Thus have I glorified thee, laying the Foundation of thy Kingdom on E••rth.

V. 5. The glory which I had—He does not say received. He always had it, till he emptied himself of it, in the Days of his Flesh.

V. 6. I have manifested thy name—All thy Attributes; and in par∣ticular, thy paternal Relation to Believers; to the men whom thou hast given me—The Apostles. And so ver. 12, They were thine—By Cre∣ation, and by Descent from Abraham. And thou hast given them me— By giving them Faith in what I have spoken. So ver. 9.

V. 7. Now they know that all things—Which I have done and spoken; are of thee—And consequently right and true.

V. 8. They have received them—By Faith.

V. 9. I pray not for the world—Not in these Petitions, which are adapted to the State of Believers only. (He prays for the World at the 21st and 23d Verses, that they may believe—that they may know God hath sent him.) This no more proves that our LORD did not pray for the World, both before and afterward, than his praying for the Apostles alone (ver. 6—19.) proves that he did not pray for them also who shall believe thro' their Word (ver. 20.)

V. 10. All things that are mine are thine, and that are thine are mine— These are very high and strong Expressions, too grand for any mere Creature to use; as implying that all Things whatsoever, inclusive of the Divine Nature, Perfections, and Operations, are the comman Property of the Father and the Son. And this is the Original Ground of that peculiar Property, which both the Father and the Son have in the Persons, who were given to Christ as Mediator; ac∣cording to what is said in the Close of the Verse, of his being glorified by them; namely, believing in Him, and so acknowledging his Glory.

V. 11. Keep them thro' thy name—Thy Power, Mercy, Wisdom, that they may be on—With us and with each other; one Body, sepa∣rate from the World: As we are—By Resemblance to us, tho' not Equality.

V. 12. Those whom thou hast given me, I have guarded, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition—So one even of them whom GOD had given him is lost. So far was even that Decree from being unchange∣able! That the scripture might be fulfilled—That is whereby the Scrip∣ture was fulfilled. The Son of perdition signifies, ••••e that deservedly perishes: as a Son of death (2 Sam. xii. 5.) Children of hell (Mat. xxiii. 15.)

and children of wrath (Eph. ii. 3.) signify Persons justly obnoxious to Death, Hell, Wrath.

V. 13. In the world—That is, before I leave the World. My joy— The Joy I feel at going to the Father.

V. 15. That thou wouldest take them out of the world—Not yet: But that thou wouldest keep them from the evil one—Who reigns therein.

V. 17. Sanctify—Consecrate them by the anointing of thy Spirit to their Office, and perfect them in Holiness, by Means of thy Word.

V. 19. I sanctify myself—I devote myself as a Victim, to be sacri∣ficed.

V. 20. For them who will believe—In all Ages.

V. 21. As thou art in me—This also is to be understood, in a Way of Similitude, and not of Sameness or Equality. That the world may believe—Here Christ prays for the World. Observe the Sum of his whole Prayer,

• 1. Receive me into thy own and my Glory;
• 2. Let my Apostles share therein;
• 3. And all other Believers;
• 4. And let all the World believe.

V. 22. The glory which thou hast given me, I have given them—The Glory of the Only Begotten shines in all the Sons of GOD. How great is the Majestly of Christians!

V. 24. Here He returns to the Apostles—I will—He asks, as having a Right to be heard, and prays, not as a Servant, but a Son: That they may behold my glory—Herein is the Happiness of Heaven, 1 John iii. 2.

V. 25. Righteous Father—The Admission of Believers to GOD thro' Christ, flows even from the Justice of GOD.

V. 26. I have declared to them thy name—Thy new, best Name of Love; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me—and I—That thou and thy Love, and I and my Love, may be in them—That they may love me with that Love.

XVIII.

§ 1.561 Jesus having spoken these words, went forth with his disciples over the brook Kedron, where was a garden, into which he entered and his disciples. [ 2] * 1.562 And Judas also, who betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus had often met there with his disciples. [ 3] Judas then having received a troop of soldiers, and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns, and tor∣ches, and arms. [ 4] Then Jesus knowing all things that were coming upon him, going forth said to them, Whom seek ye? They answered

him, Jesus of Nazareth. [ 5] Jesus saith to them, I am he. [ 6] And Judas also, who betrayed him, stood with them. [ 7] As soon as he said to them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground. [ 8] He asked them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth. [ 9] Jesus answered, I have told you, I am he: if therefore ye seek me, let these go: That the† 1.563 saying might be fulfilled which he had spoken, Of them whom thou hast given me, I have lost none. [ 10] _____ _____ Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right-ear. [ 11] The servant's name was Malchus. Then said Jesus to Peter, Put up the sword into its scabbard. The cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

[ 12] ‡ 1.564 Then the soldiers, and the captain, and of∣ficers of the Jews took Jesus and bound him. [ 13] And led him away to Annas first (for he was father-in-law to Caiaphas, who was high priest that year.) [ 14] Caiaphas was he who had counselled the Jews, that it was expedient one man should die for the people. [ 15] _____ _____ Now Simon Peter followed Jesus, and another disciple. That disciple was known to the high priest, and went with Jesus into the palace of the high priest. [ 16] But Peter stood at the door without: therefore the other disciple, who was

known to the high priest, went out, and spake to her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. [ 17] Then saith the maid, who kept the door, to Peter, Art not thou also one of this man's disciples? He saith, I am not. [ 18] And the servants and officers, having made a fire of coals (for it was cold) stood and warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them and warmed himself. [ 19] _____ _____ Then the high priest asked Jesus of his disciples and of his doctrine. Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; [ 20] I was continually teaching in the synagogue and in the temple, whither all the Jews resort, and in secret have I said nothing. [ 21] Why askest thou me? Ask them that heard me, what I said to them: be∣hold, they know what I said. [ 22] When he had said thus, one of the officers, who stood by, gave Jesus a blow, saying, Answerest thou the high-priest so? [ 23] Jesus answered, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me? [ 24] (Now Annas had sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.)

[ 25] And Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. They said to him, Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied and said, I am not. [ 26] One of the servants of the high priest (being kinsman to him whose ear Peter had cut off) saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him? [ 27] Peter denied again, and immediately the cock crew.

[ 28] * 1.565 Then they lead Jesus from Caiaphas to the governor's palace, and it was early: and they went not into the palace themselves, that they might not be defiled, but might eat the passover. [ 29] Pilate therefore went out to them, and said, What accusation do ye bring against this man? [ 30] They answered and said to him, If he were not a ma∣lefactor, we should not have delivered him to thee. Then said Pilate to them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. [ 31] The Jews said to him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death: [ 32] So the† 1.566 saying of Jesus was fulfilled, which he spake, signfying what death he should die. [ 33] Then Pilate returned into the palace, and called Jesus, and said to him, Art thou the king of the Jews? [ 34] Jesus answered him, Sayeft thou this of thyself? or did others tell it thee of me? Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? [ 35] Thy own nation, even the chief priests, have delivered thee to me. What hast thou done? [ 36] Jesus answered, My king∣dom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have fought, that I might not be delivered to the Jews: but my kingdom is not from hence. [ 37] Pilate said to him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest. I am a king. To this end was I born,

and for this cause came I into the world, that I might bear witness to the truth. [ 38] Every one that is of the truth, heareth my voice. Pilate saith to him, What is truth? And having said this, he went out again to the Jews, and saith to them, I find no fault in him. [ 39] But ye have a custom, that I should release to you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release to you the king of the Jews? [ 40] Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.

V. 1. A garden—Probably belonging to one of his Friends. He might retire to this private Place, not only for the Advantage of se∣cret Devotion, but also that the People might not be alarmed at his Apprehension, nor attempt in the first Sallies of their Zeal, to rescue him in a tumultuous Manner. Kedron was (as the Name signifies) a dark, shady Valley, on the East-side of J••r••salem, between the City and the Mount of Olives, thro' which a little Brook ran, which took its Name from it. It was this Bro••k, which David, a Type of Christ, went over, with the People, weeping, in his Flight from Absalom.

V. 3. A troop of soldiers—A Cohort of Roman Foot.

V. 6. As soon at he said, I am be, they went backward, and fell to the ground—How amazing is it, that they should renew the Assault, after so sensible an Experience both of his Power and Mercy! But probably the Priests among them, might persuade themselves and their Attendants, that this also was done by B••••lzebub; and that it was thro' the Providence of GOD, not the Indulgence of Jesus, that they received no farther Damage.

V. 8. If ye seek me, let these (my Disciples) go—It was an eminent Instance of his Power over the Spirits of Men, that they so far obeyed this Word, as not to seize even Peter, when he had cut off the Ear of Malchus.

V. 10. Then Simon Peter—No other Evangelist names him. Nor could they safely. But St. John, writing after his Death, might do it, without any such Inconvenience.

V. 13. A••••as had been High-priest before his Son-in-law Caiaphas. And tho' he had for some Time resigned that Office, yet they paid so

much Regard to his Age and Experience, that they brought Christ to Annas first. But we do not read of any Thing remarkable, which passed at the House of Annas: For which Reason his being carried thither, is omitted by the other Evangelists.

V. 17. Art not thou also—As well as the other, one of this man's disciples—She does not appear to have asked, with any Design to hurt him.

V. 20. I spake openly—As to the Manner: Continually—As to the Time: In the synagogue and temple—As to the Place. In secret have I said nothing—No Point of Doctrine which I have not taught in public.

V. 21. Why askest thou me?—Whom thou wilt not believe?

V. 22. Answerest thou the high-priest so?—With so little Reverence?

V. 24. Now Annas had sent him to Caiapha.—As is implied ver. 15. Boond—Being still bound, ver. 12.

V. 28. They went not into the palace themselves, lest they should be defiled—By going into an House which was not purged from Leaven, Deut. xvi. 4.

V. 31. It is not lawful for us to put any man to death—The Power of inflicting capital Punishment had been taken from them that very Year. So the Sceptic was departed from Judah, and transferred to the Romans.

V. 32. Signifying what death he should die—For Crucificion was not a Jewish, but a Roman Punishment. So that had He not been condemned by the Roman Governor, He could not have been crucified.

V. 36. My kingdom is not of this world—Is not an external, but a spiritual Kingdom; that I might not be delivered to the Jews— Which Pilate had already attempted to do (ver. 31.) and afterwards actually did, C. xix. 16.

V. 37. Thou sayest—The Truth. To this end was I born—Speaking of his human Origin: His divine was above Pilate's Comprehension. Yet it is intimated in the following Words, I came into the world—

That I might witness to the truth—Which was both declared to the Jews, and in the Process of his Passion, to the Princes of the Gen∣tiles also. Every one that is of the truth—That is, a Lover of it, hear∣eth my voice—An universal Maxim. Every sincere Lover of Truth will hear Him, so as to understand and practise what he saith.

V. 38. What is truth?—Said Pilate, a Courtier; perhaps meaning, What signifies Truth? Is that a Thing worth hazarding your Life for? So he lest Him presently, to plead with the Jews for Him, looking upon Him as an innocent, but weak Man.

XIX

* 1.567 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus and scourged him. [ 2] And the soldiers having plat∣ted a crown of thorns, put it on his head, and put on him a purple robe, And said, Hail, king of the Jews. [ 3] And they smote him on the cheeks. [ 4] Pilate went out again, and saith to them, Lo, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know I find no fault in him. [ 5] Then Jesus came forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And he saith to them, Behold the man. [ 6] But when the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify, crucify him. Pilate saith to them, Take ye him and crucify him; for I find no fault in him. [ 7] The Jews an∣swered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God. [ 8] When Pilate heard that saying, he was the more afraid, And returned into the palace, and saith to

Jesus, Whence art thou? [ 9] But Jesus gave him no answer. [ 10] Then Pilate saith to him, Speakest thou not to me? Knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? [ 11] Jesus answered, Thou couldst have no power over me, unless it were given thee from a∣bove: therefore he that delivered me to thee, hath the greater sin. [ 12] Upon this Pilate sought to re∣lease him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou release this man, thou art not a friend to Cesar. Whesoever maketh himself a king, speaketh a∣gainst Cesar. [ 13] Pilate hearing this saving, brought Jesus forth, and sat on the judgment seat, is a place called the Pavement, but in Hebrew, Gabbatha; [ 14] (It was the preparation of the passover, and about the third hour) And saith to the Jews Behold your king. [ 15] But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith to them, Shall I crucify your king? The chief priests an∣swered, We have no king but Cesar. [ 16] Then de∣livered he him to them, to be crucified.

[ 17] * 1.568 And they took Jesus and led him away. And he bearing his cross, went forth to the place, cal∣led the place of a skull, which is called in Hebrew,

Golgotha: [ 18] Where they crucified him, and two others with him, one on each side, and Jesus in the midst. [ 19] And Pilate wrote an inscription also, and put it on the cross: and the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. [ 20] Many of the Jews read this inscrip∣tion; for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. [ 21] Then said the chief priests to Pilate, Write not, the king of the Jews; but that he said, I am the king of the Jews. [ 22] Pilate answered, What I have written, I have writ∣ten. [ 23] And the soldiers, when they had crucifi∣ed Jesus, took his garments and made four parts, to every soldier a part, and also his vesture: now the vesture was without seam, woven from the top throughout. [ 24] They said therefore one to another, Let us not rent it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be; that the scripture might be fulfilled which saith,† 1.569 They parted my garments among them, and cast lots for my vesture. These things therefore the soldiers did.

[ 25] Now there stood by the cross of Jesus, his mo∣ther, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of

Cleopas, and Mary Magdalene. [ 26] Jesus therefore seeing his mother, and the disciple standing by whom he loved, saith to his mother, Woman, be∣hold hold thy son. [ 27] Then saith he to the disciple, Be∣hold thy mother. And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.

[ 28] After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be ful∣filled, saith, I thirst. [ 29] Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar. And filling a sponge with* 1.570 vinegar, and putting it on a stalk of hyssop, they put it to his mouth, When Jesus had taken the vinegar, he said, [ 30] It is finished, and bowing the head, he delivered up his Spirit.

[ 31] Now because it was the preparation, lest the bodies should remain upon the cross on the s••b∣bath (for that sabbath was a great day) the Jews besought Pilate, that their legs might be broken, and they might be taken away. [ 32] Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other who was crucified with him. [ 33] But coming to Jesus, when they saw he was dead already, they brake not his legs. [ 34] But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and forthwith there came out

blood and water. [ 35] And he that saw, hath testified it, and his testimony is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye also may believe. [ 36] For these things were done that the scripture might be ful∣filled, [ 37] † 1.571 A bone of it shall not be broken. And again another scripture saith,‡ 1.572 They shall look on him whom they have pierced.

[ 38] And after these things, Joseph of Arimathea (being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews) asked Pilate leave to take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore and took the body of Jesus. [ 39] And Nico∣demus also came (who at first had come to Jesus by night) bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pounds. [ 40] So they took the body of Jesus, and wrapped it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. [ 41] Now in the place where he was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new sepulchre, in which no man had ever been laid. [ 42] There therefore they laid Jesus, because of the pre∣paration-day of the Jews; for the sepulchre was nigh.

V. 7. By our law he o••gi••t to die, because he made himself the Son of God—Which they understood in the highest Sense, and therefore ac∣counted Blasphemy.

V. 8. He was the more afraid—He seems to 〈◊〉〈◊〉 been afraid before of shedding innocent Blood.

V. 9. Whence art thou?—That is, whose Son art thou?

V. 11. Thou couldest have no power over me—For I have done No∣thing to expose me to the Power of any Magistrate. Therefore be that delivered me to thee, namely, Caiaphas knowing this, is more blameable than thou.

V. 13. Pilate sat down on the Judgment seat—Which was then with∣out the Palace, in a place called, in Greek, the pavement, on Account of a beautiful Piece of Mosaic Work, with which the Floor was adorned; but in Hebrew, Gabbatha—Or the High-Place, because it stood on an Eminence, to that the Judge, sitting on his Throne, might be seen and heard by a considerable Number of People.

V. 14. It was the preparation of the p••sso••••r—For this Reason both the Jews and Pilate were desirous to bring the Matter to a Conclusion. Every Friday was called the Preparation (namely, for the Sabbath.) And as often as the Passover fell on a Friday, that Day was called, the Preparation of the Passover.

V. 17. Bearing his cross—Not the whole C••••ss (for that was too large and heavy) but the transverse Beam of it, to which his Hands were afterwards fastened. This they used to make the P••rson to be executed carry.

V. 19. J••sus of Nazareth, the king of the Jews—Undoubtedly these were the very Words, although the other Evangelists do not express them at large.

V. 20. It was written in Latin—For the Majesty of the Roman Empire; in H••brew—Because it was the Language of the Nation; and in Greek—For the Information of the Hellepists, who spoke that Language, and came in great Numbers to the Feast.

V. 22. What I have written, I have written—That shall stand.

V. 23. The vesture—The upper Garment.

V. 24. They parted my Garments among them—No Circumstance of David's Life bore any Resemblance to this, or to several other Pas∣saves in the 22d Psalm. So that in this Scripture, as in some others, the Prophet seems to have been thrown into a preternatural Extasy, wherein personating the M••ssiah, he spoke barely what the Spirit dictated, without any regard to Himself.

V. 25. His mother's sister—But we do not read she had any Brother. She was her Father's Heir, and as such transmitted the Right of the Kingdom of David to Jesus: Mary the wise of Cleopas—Called like∣wise Alpheus, the Father, as Mary was the Mother of James, and J••s••s, and Simon, and Judas.

V. 27. Behold thy mother—To whom thou art now to perform the Part of a Son in my Place, a peculiar Honour which Christ conferred on him. From that ho••••—From the Time of our LORD's Death.

V. 29. A stalk of hyss••p—Which in those Countries grows exceed∣ing large and strong.

V. 30. It is finished—My Suffering: The Purchase of Man's Re∣demption. He delivered up his Spirit—To GOD: Mat. xxvii. 50.

V. 31. Lest the bodies should r••main on the cross on the sabbath— Which they would have accounted a Prosanation of any Sabbath, but of that in particular. For that sabbath was a great day—Being not only a Sabbath, but the second Day of the Feast of unleavened Bread (from whence they reckoned the Weeks to Pentecost:) And also the Day for presenting and offering the Sheaf of new Corn: So that it was a treble Solemnity.

V. 34. Forthwith there came out blood and water—It was strange, seeing He was dead, that Blood should come out; more strange that Water also; and most strange of all, that both should come out im∣mediately, at one Time, and yet distinctly. It was pure and true Water, as well as pure and true Blood. The Asseveration of the Beholder and Testifier of it, shews both the Truth and Greatness of the Miracle and Mystery.

V. 35. His testimony is true—Valid, unexceptionable. And he know••th—And his Conscience beareth him Witness, that he testifi∣eth this, for no other End, than that ye may believe.

V. 36. A bone of it shall not be broken—This was originally spoken of the paschal Lamb, an eminent Type of Christ.

V. 37. They shall look on him whom they have pierced—He was pierced by the Soldier's Spear. They who have occasioned his Suffer∣ings by their Sins (and who has not?) shall either look upon him in this World with penitential Sorrow; or with Terror, when He cometh in the Clouds of Heaven, Rev. i. 7.

V. 38. Joseph of Arimathea asked Palate—And Nicodemus also came —Acknowledging Christ, when even his chosen Disciples forsook Him. In that Extremity, Joseph was no longer afraid, Nicodemus no longer ashamed.

V. 41. In the place where he was crucified—There was a Garden in the same Tract of Land; but the Cross did not stand in the Gar∣den.

V. 42. Because of the preparation—That is, they chose the rather to lay Him in that sepul••hre, which was nigh, because it was the Day before the Sabbath, which also was drawing to an End, so that they had no Time to carry Him far.

XX.

* 1.573 The first day of the week cometh Mary Mag∣dalene early, while it was yet dark, to the sepul∣chre, and seeth the stone taken away from the se∣pulchre. [ 2] Then she runneth and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and saith to them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him. [ 3] Then Peter went out and the other disciple, and came to the sepulchre. [ 4] They both ran together: but the other disciple outran Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. [ 5] And stooping down, he seeth the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in. [ 6] Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, [ 7] And the napkin that had been about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but folded up in a place by itself. [ 8] Then the other disciple, who came first to the sepulchre, went in; and he saw and believed. [ 9] For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead. [ 10] Then the disciples went home again.

[ 11] † 1.574 But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping. And as she wept, she stooped down in∣to the sepulchre, [ 12] And seeth two angels in white sitting, where the body of Jesus had laid, one at the head, and one at the feet. [ 13] And they say to her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith to them, They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him. [ 14] And having said this, she turned herself back, and seeth Jesus standing, but knew not that it was Jesus. [ 15] Jesus saith to her, Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?

She supposing him to be the gardener, saith to him, Sir, if thou hast borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. [ 16] Jesus saith to her, Mary! She turning, saith to him, Rabboni; that is, Master. [ 17] Jesus saith to her, Touch me not; for I am not yet as∣cended to my Father. But go to my brethren and say to them, I ascend to my Father and your Fa∣ther, and to my God and your God. [ 18] Mary Mag∣dalene cometh and telleth the disciples, that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things to her.

[ 19] * 1.575 The same day, the first day of the week, at evening, the doors being shut, where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and saith to them, Peace be unto you. [ 20] And having said this, he shewed them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. [ 21] Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you. [ 22] As the Father

hath sent me, even so send I you. And having said this, he breathed on them, and saith to them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost. [ 23] Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted to them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.

[ 24] But Thomas called Didymus, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. [ 25] The other disciples therefore said to him, We have seen the Lord. But he said to them, Unless I see the print of the nails in his hands, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.

[ 26] And after eight days his disciples were again within, and Thomas with them. Jesus cometh, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst and said, Peace be unto you. [ 27] Then said he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands, and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side, and be not faithless, but believing. [ 28] And Thomas answered and said to him, My Lord, and my God. [ 29] Jesus saith to him, Because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: happy are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

[ 30] And Jesus wrought many other miracles also, in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. [ 31] But these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye may have life thro' his name.

V. 3. Peter went out—Of the City.

V. 6. Peter seeth the linen clothes lie—and the napkin folded up—The Angels who ministered to Him when he rose, undoubtedly fold∣ed up the Napkin and Linen Clothes.

V. 8. He saw—That the Body was not there, and believed—That they had taken it away, as Mary said.

V. 9. For as yet—They had no Thought of his rising again.

V. 10. They went home—Not seeing what they could do farther.

V. 11. But Mary stood—With more Constancy.

V. 16. Jesus saith to her, Mary?—With his usual Voice and Ac∣cent.

V. 17. Touch me not—Or rather, Do not cling to me (for she held Him by the Feet, Mat. xxviii. 9.) De••ain me not now. You will have other Opportunities of conversing with me. For I am not ascended to my Father—I have not yet left the World. But go immediately to my brethren—Thus does He intimate in the strongest Manner the Forgiveness of their Fault, even without ever mentioning it. These exquisite Touches, which every-where abound in the evangelical Writings, shew how perfectly Christ knew our Frame. I ascend—He anticipates it in his Thoughts, and so speaks of it a a Thing already present. To my Father and your Father, my God and your God—This uncommon Expression shews, that the only begotten Son has all Kind of Fellowship with GOD. And a Fellowship with GOD the Father. some Way resembling his own, He bestows upon his Brethren. Yet He does not say, Our GOD: For no Creature can be raised 〈◊〉〈◊〉 an Equa∣lity with Him: But my God, and your God: Intimating that the Father is His in a singular and incommunicable Manner; and Ours thro' Him, in such a Kind as a Creature is capable of.

V. 21. Peace be unto you—This is the Foundation of the Mission of a true Gospel-Minister, Peace in his own Soul, 2 Cor. iv. 1. As the Father hath sent me, so send I you—Christ was the Apostle of the Father, Heb. iii. 1. Peter and the rest, the Apostles of Christ.

V. 22. He breathed on them—New Life and Vigour, and saith, As ye receive this Breath out of my Mouth, so receive ye the Spirit out

of my Fulness: The Holy Ghost influencing you in a peculiar Manner, to fit you for your great Embassy. This was an Earnest of Pentecost.

V. 23. Whose soever sins ye remit—(According to the Tenor of the Gospel, that is, supposing them to repent and believe) they are re∣mitted, and whose soever sins ye retain (supposing them to remain im∣penitent) they are retained. So far is plain. But here arises a Dif∣ficulty. Are not the Sins of one who truly repents, and unfeigned∣ly believes in Christ remitted, without sacerdotal Absolution? And are not the Sins of one, who does not repent or believe, retained even with it? What then does this Commission imply? Can it imply any more than,

• 1. A Power of declaring with Authority the Christian Terms of Pardon? Whose Sins are remitted, and whose retained? As in our daily Form of Absolution: And,
• 2. A Power of inflicting and remitting Ecclesiastical Censures? That is, of excluding from, and re-admitting into, a Christian Congregation.

V. 26. After eight days—On the next Sunday.

V. 28. And Thomas said, My Lord and my God—The Disciples had said, We have seen the LORD. Thomas now not only acknow∣ledges Him to be the LORD, as he had done before, and to be risen, as his Fellow-Disciples had affirmed, but also confesses his Godhead, and that more explicitly than any other had yet done. And all this he did without thrusting his Hand into his Side.

V. 30. Jesus wrought many miracles, which are not written in this book—Of St. Iohn: Nor indeed of the other Evangelists.

V. 31. But these things are written, that ye may believe—That ye may be confirmed in believing. Faith cometh sometimes by Read∣ing; tho' ordinarily by Hearing.

XXI.

After these things Jesus manifested himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; he manifested himself thus. [ 2] There were together Simon Peter and Thomas called Didymus, and Na∣thanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Ze∣bedee, and two other of his disciples. [ 3] Simon Peter saith to them, I go a fishing. They say to him, We also go with thee. They went out and entered into the vessel, but caught nothing that night. [ 4] When the morning was come, Jesus stood on the shore; but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. [ 5] Then Jesus faith to them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. And he said to them, Cast your net on the right side of the vessel, and ye shall find. [ 6] They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it, for the multitude of fishes. [ 7] Then the disciple whom Jesus loved saith to Peter, It is the Lord. Simon Peter hearing that it was the Lord, girt on his up∣per coat (for he was stript) and threw himself into the sea. [ 8] And the other disciples came in the vessel

(for they were not far from land, about two hun∣dred cubits) drawing the net full of fishes. [ 9] When they came to land they see a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread. [ 10] Jesus saith to them, Bring of the fishes which ye have taken now. [ 11] Si∣mon Peter went on board, and drew the net to land, full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three; and tho' there were so many, the net was not broken. [ 12] Jesus saith to them, Come ye and dine. And none of the disciples presumed to ask him, Who art thou? Knowing that it was the Lord. [ 13] Jesus then cometh and taketh bread, and giveth to them, and fish likewise. [ 14] This was the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after he was risen from the dead.

[ 15] When they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonah, lovest thou me more than these do? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou know∣est that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my lambs. [ 16] He saith to him again, the second time, Simon, son of Jonah, lovest thou me? He saith to him, Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee. He saith to him, Feed my sheep. [ 17] He saith to him the third time, Simon, son of Jonah, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved, because he said to him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said to him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith to him, Feed my sheep:

[ 18] Verily, verily I say unto thee, when thou wast young, thou didst gird thyself, and walk whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch out thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This he said, signifying by what death he should glorify God. [ 19] And having said this, he saith to him, Follow me. [ 20] Peter turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, who is he that betrayeth thee? [ 21] Peter seeing him, saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? [ 22] Jesus saith to him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is it to thee? [ 23] Follow thou me. Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him, That he should not die: but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is it to thee?

[ 24] This is the disciple who testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testi∣mony is true. [ 25] And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which, if they were to be written particularly, I suppose that even the world itself would not contain the books that were written.

V. 2. There were together—At Home, in one House.

V. 4. They knew not that it was Jesus—Probably their Eyes were holden.

V. 6. They were not able to draw it, for the multitude of fishes—This was not only a Demonstration of the Power of our LORD, but a kind Supply for them and their Families, and such as might be of Service to them, when they waited afterward in Jerusalem. It was likewise an Emblem of the great Success which should attend them as Fishers of men.

V. 7. Peter girt on his upper coat (for he was stript of it before) Reverencing the Presence of his LORD: and threw himself into the sea—To swim to Him immediately. The Love of Christ draws Men thro' Fire and Water.

V. 12. Come ye and dine—Our LORD needed not Food. And none presumed—To ask a needless Question.

V. 14. The third time—That He appeared to so many of the Apos∣tles together.

V. 15. Simon, son of Jonah—The Appellation Christ had given him, when he made that glorious Confession, Mat. xvi. the Re∣membrance of which might make him more deeply sensible of his late Denial of Him whom he had so confest. Lovest thou me?—Thrice our LORD asks him, who had denied Him thrice: More than these—Thy Fellow-Disciples, do? Peter thought so once, Mat. xxvi. 33. but he now answers only, I love thee, without adding more than these. Thou knowest—He had now learnt by sad Experience, that Jesus knew his Heart. My lambs—The weakest and tenderest of the Flock.

V. 17. Because he said the third time—As if He did not believe him.

V. 18. When thou art old—He lived about thirty-six Years after this; another shall gird thee—They were tied to the Cross till the Nails were driven in; and shall carry thee—With the Cross; where thou wouldest not—According to Nature; to the Place where the Cross was set up

V. 19. By what death he should glorify God—It is not only by Act∣ing, but chiefly by Suffering, that the Saints glorify GOD. Follow me—Shewing hereby likewise what Death he should die.

V. 20. Peter turning—As he was walking after Christ. Seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following him—There is a peculiar Spirit and Tenderness in this plain Passage. Christ orders St. Peter to follow Him in Token of his Readiness to be crucified in his Cause. St. John stays not for the Call; he rises and follows Him too; but says not one Word of his own Love or Zeal. He chose that the Action only should speak this; and even when he records the Circumstance, he tells us not what that Action meant, but with great Simplicity relates the Fact only. If here and there a generous Heart sees and emulates it, be it so; but he is not solicitous that Men should admire it. It was addressed to his beloved Master, and it was enough that He understood it.

V. 22. If I will that he tarry—Without dying, till I come—To Judgment. Certainly he did tarry, till Christ came to destroy Jerusa∣lem. And who can tell, when or how he died? What is that to thee?—Who art to follow me long before.

V. 23. The brethren—That is, the Christians. Our LORD Him∣self taught them that Appellation, ch. xx. 17. Yet Jesus did not say to him, That he should not die—Not expressly. And St. John himself, at the Time of writing his Gospel, seems not to have known clearly, whether he should die or not.

V. 24. This is the disciple who testifieth—Being still alive after he had wrote. And we know that his testimony is true—The Church added these Words to St. John's Gospel, as Tertius did those to St. Paul's Epistle to the Romans, ch. xvi. 22.

V. 25. If they were to be written particularly—Every Fact and all the Circumstances of it. I suppose—This Expression, which softens the Hyperbole, shews that St. John wrote this Verse.

The End of the First Volume.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Luke iii. 3••
• * 1.2

  Isaiah vii. 14
• * 1.3

  Luke ii. 7.
• * 1.4

  Micah V. 2.
• * 1.5

  Hosea xi••.1.
• * 1.6

  Jer. xxxi. 15.
• † 1.7

  Mark i. 1. Luke iii. 1.
• * 1.8

  Isa. xl. 3.
• * 1.9

  Mark i. 9. Luke iii. 21.
• * 1.10

  Mark i. 12. Luke iv. 1.
• † 1.11

  Deut. viii. 3.
• * 1.12

  Ps. xci. 11 12.
• † 1.13

  Deut. vi. 16.
• ‡ 1.14

  Deut. vi. 13.
• ‖ 1.15

  Mark i. 14.
• § 1.16

  Isa••ab ix. 1, 2.
• † 1.17

  Mar•• i. 16. Luke 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 1.
• * 1.18

  Luke vi. 20.
• ‖ 1.19

  Mark ix. 50. Luke xiii. 34.
• § 1.20

  Mark iv. 21. Luke viii. 16. xi. 33.
• ‡ 1.21

  Luke xvi. 17. xxi. 33.
• † 1.22

  Exod. xx. 13.
• * 1.23

  Luke xii. 58.
• ‖ 1.24

  Exod. xx. 14.
• § 1.25

  Ch. xviii. 8. Mark ix. 43.
• † 1.26

  Deut. xxiv. 1. Matt. xix. 7. Mark 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 2. Luke xvi. 18.
• † 1.27

  Exod. xx. 7.
• * 1.28

  Deut. xix. 21.
• ‖ 1.29

  Luke vi. 30.
• § 1.30

  Lev. xix. 18.
• † 1.31

  Luke vi. 27, 35.
• * 1.32

  Luke xi. 2.
• § 1.33

  Mark xi. 25.
• † 1.34

  Luke xii. 33.
• * 1.35

  Luke xi. 34.
• § 1.36

  Luke xvi. 13.
• † 1.37

  Luke xii. 22.
• * 1.38

  Luke vi. 37.
• § 1.39

  Luke vi. 41.
• † 1.40

  Luke xi. 9.
• * 1.41

  Luke vi. 31.
• § 1.42

  Luke xiii. 24.
• † 1.43

  Luke vi. 43, 44.
• * 1.44

  Luke vi. 46.
• † 1.45

  Luke xiii. 27.
• * 1.46

  Luke vi. 47.
• § 1.47

  Mark i. 40. Luke v. 12.
• * 1.48

  Lev. xiv. 2.
• † 1.49

  Luke vii. 1.
• ‖ 1.50

  Luke xiii. 29.
• * 1.51

  Matt. xiii. 42, 50. xxii. 13. xxiv. 51. xxv. 30.
• † 1.52

  Mark i. 29. Luke iv. 38.
• ¶ 1.53

  Mark i. 32. Luke iv. 40.
• § 1.54

  Isaiah liii. 4.
• ‡ 1.55

  Luke ix. 57.
• † 1.56

  Mark iv. 35. Luke viii. 22.
• * 1.57

  Mark. v. 1. Luke viii. 26.
• † 1.58

  Mark v. 18. Luke viii. 37.
• ‡ 1.59

  Mark ii. 3. Luke v. 18.
• * 1.60

  Mark ii. 14. Luke v. 27.
• † 1.61

  Hosea vi. 6.
• § 1.62

  Mark ii. 18. Luke v. 33.
• * 1.63

  Mark v. 22. Luke viii. 41.
• * 1.64

  Luke xi. 14.
• † 1.65

  Luke x. 2.
• ‖ 1.66

  Mark iii. 14. vi. 7. Luke vi. 13. ix. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• § 1.67

  Acts i. 13.
• * 1.68

  Mark vi. 7. Luke ix. 2.
• * 1.69

  Luke x. 7.
• § 1.70

  Mark vi. 10. Luke ix. 4.
• * 1.71

  Luke x. 3.
• † 1.72

  Matt. xxiv. 9.
• ‖ 1.73

  Luke xii. 11.
• § 1.74

  Luke xxi. 16.
• ‡ 1.75

  Ch. xxiv. 13.
• ¶ 1.76

  Luke vi. 40. John xv.〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.77

  Ch. xii. 24.
• ‖ 1.78

  Mark iv. 22. L••k viii. 17. xii. 2.
• ‡ 1.79

  Luke xii. 3.
• ¶ 1.80

  Luke xii.〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.81

  Mark viii 38. Luke ix. 26.
• † 1.82

  Luke xii. 51.
• ‖ 1.83

  Micah vii. 6.
• § 1.84

  Ch. xvi. 24. Luke xiv. 27.
• ‡ 1.85

  Ch. xvi. 25. John xii. 25.
• * 1.86

  Ch. xviii. 5. Luke x. 16. John xiii. 20.
• † 1.87

  Ma•••• ix. 41.
• * 1.88

  Luke vii. 18.
• † 1.89

  Isaiah xxix. 18. xxx••. 5.
• ‡ 1.90

  Mal. iii. 1.
• * 1.91

  Luke xvi. 16.
• † 1.92

  Mal. iv. 5.
• ‡ 1.93

  Luke x. 13.
• § 1.94

  Luke x. 21.
• * 1.95

  Mark ii. 23. Luke vi. 1.
• † 1.96

  1 Sam. xxi. 6.
• * 1.97

  M•••• ••x. 13.
• † 1.98

  Mark iii. 1. Luke vi. 6.
• † 1.99

  Isai. xlii. 1, &c.
• ‡ 1.100

  Luke xi. 14.
• * 1.101

  Mark iii. 22.
• † 1.102

  Mark iii. 28. Luke xii. 10.
• * 1.103

  Matt. vii. 16. Luke vi. 43.
• † 1.104

  Matt. xvi. 1. Luke xi. 16, 29.
• † 1.105

  Jonah. ii. 1.
• * 1.106

  1 Kings x. 1.
• ‡ 1.107

  Luke xi. 24.
• † 1.108

  Mark iii. 31. Luke viii. 19.
• * 1.109

  Mark iv. 1. Luke viii. 4.
• * 1.110

  Ch. xxv. 29. Mark iv. 25. Luke viii. 18. xix. 26.
• † 1.111

  Isaiah. xi. 9. John xii. 40. Acts xxviii. 26.
• ‡ 1.112

  Luke x. 23.
• * 1.113

  Mark iv. 30. Luke xiii. 18.
• † 1.114

  Luke xiii. 20.
• ‡ 1.115

  Psalm lxxviii. 2.
• * 1.116

  Mark vi. 1. Luke iv. 16, 22.
• † 1.117

  John iv. 44.
• * 1.118

  Mark vi. 14. Luke ix. 7.
• ‡ 1.119

  Mark vi. 17.
• † 1.120

  Mark vi. 32, 34. Luke ix. 10. John vi. 1.
• * 1.121

  Mark vi. 35. Luke ix. 12. John vi. 5.
• ‡ 1.122

  Mark vi. 45. John vi. 15.
• § 1.123

  Mark vi. 54.
• * 1.124

  Mark vii. 1.
• † 1.125

  Exod. xx. 12. xxi. 17.
• * 1.126

  Isaiah xxix. 13.
• † 1.127

  Luke vi. 39.
• ‖ 1.128

  Mark vii. 24.
• * 1.129

  Mark vii. 31.
• † 1.130

  Mark viii. 1.
• ‖ 1.131

  Mark viii. 11. Matt xii. 38.
• § 1.132

  Luke xii. 54.
• * 1.133

  Mark viii. 14.
• † 1.134

  Luke xii. 1.
• ‖ 1.135

  Mark viii. 27. Luke ix. 18.
• * 1.136

  Mat. xvii. 18.
• † 1.137

  Mark viii. 31. Luke ix. 22. C.xvii. 12. xx. 18.
• * 1.138

  C.x 38.
• † 1.139

  C.x. 39. Mark viii. 35. Luke ix. 24. xvii. 33. John xii. 25.
• * 1.140

  Mark ix. 2. Luke ix. 28.
• * 1.141

  Mark ix. 14. Luke ix. 37.
• † 1.142

  Ch. xxi. 21. Luke xvii. 6.
• ‖ 1.143

  Mark ix. 30. Luke ix. 44.
• * 1.144

  Mark ix. 36. Luke x. 47.
• § 1.145

  Ch. xix. 14.
• † 1.146

  Ch. x. 40. Luke x. 16. John xiii. 20.
• ‖ 1.147

  Mark ix. 42. Luke i. 1.
• * 1.148

  Ch. v. 29. Mark ix. 43.
• * 1.149

  Luke xix. 10.
• † 1.150

  Luke xv. 4.
• † 1.151

  Luke xvii.〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.152

  Ch. 〈◊〉〈◊〉.••i. 19.
• * 1.153

  Mark 〈◊〉〈◊〉▪ 1.
• § 1.154

  Gen. ii. 24.
• † 1.155

  Deut. xxiv. 1. Matt. v. 31. Mark. x. 2. Luke. xvi▪ 18.
• ‖ 1.156

  Mark x. 13. Luke xviii. 15.
• * 1.157

  C. xviii. 3.
• † 1.158

  Mark x. 17. Luke xviii. 18.
• § 1.159

  Ex. xx. 12, —c.
• * 1.160

  C. xx. 16. Mark x. 31. Luke xiii. 30.
• * 1.161

  C. xix. 30. xxii. 14.
• † 1.162

  Mark x. 32. Luke xviii. 31.
• * 1.163

  Mark x. 35.
• § 1.164

  C. xxiii. 11.
• ‖ 1.165

  Mark x. 46. Luke xviii. 35.
• * 1.166

  Mark xi. 1. Luke xix. 29. John xii. 12.
• † 1.167

  Zech. ix. 9.
• * 1.168

  Mark xi. 11, 15. Luke xix. 45.
• † 1.169

  Isa. lvi. 7. Jer. vii. 11.
• ‖ 1.170

  Psalm viii. 2.
• § 1.171

  Mark xi. 11, 12.
• ‡ 1.172

  C. xvii. 20.
• * 1.173

  Mark xi. 27. Luke xx. 1.
• * 1.174

  Mark xii.I. Luke xx. 9.
• † 1.175

  Psalm cxviii. 22.
• § 1.176

  Luke xx. 18.
• * 1.177

  Ch. xx. 16.
• † 1.178

  Mark xii. 13. Luke xx. 20.
• * 1.179

  Mark xii. 18.
• † 1.180

  Deut. xxv. 5.
• ‖ 1.181

  Exod. iii. 6.
• ‖ 1.182

  Mark xii. 28. Luke x. 25.
• * 1.183

  Deut. vi. 5.
• † 1.184

  Lev. xix. 18.
• ‡ 1.185

  Luke xx. 41.
• § 1.186

  Psalm cx.i.
• § 1.187

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 ••i. 46.
• ‡ 1.188

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 xii. 38.
• * 1.189

  C. xx. 26.
• † 1.190

  Luke xiv. 11.
• ‡ 1.191

  Mark xii. 40. Luke xx. 47.
• * 1.192

  Luke xi. 49.
• † 1.193

  Luke xiii. 34.
• ‖ 1.194

  Mark xiii. 1, Luke xxi. 5.
• ‡ 1.195

  Matx. x. 17.
• * 1.196

  Mart. x. 22. Mark xiii. 13. Luke xx. 17.
• † 1.197

  Mark xiii. 10.
• § 1.198

  Mark xiii. 14. Luke xxi. 20. Dan. ix. 27.
• † 1.199

  Mark xiii. 21. Luke xvii. 23.
• ‡ 1.200

  Luke xvii. 37.
• * 1.201

  Mark xiii. 24. Luke xxi. 25.
• ‖ 1.202

  Mark xiii. 28. Luke xxi. 29.
• ‡ 1.203

  Luke xvii. 26.
• * 1.204

  Mark xiii. 33. Luke xii. 35. xxi. 34.
• * 1.205

  Mark xiii. 34. Luke xix. 12.
• * 1.206

  Mark xiii. 12.
• * 1.207

  Mark xiv. 1. Luke xxii. 1.
• † 1.208

  Mark xiv. 3.
• * 1.209

  Mark xiv. 10. Luke xxii. 3.
• † 1.210

  Mark xiv. 12. Luke xx••••. 7.
• ‡ 1.211

  Mark xiv. 17. Luke xxii. 14.
• * 1.212

  Mark xiv. 26. Luke xxii. 39. John xviii. 1.
• † 1.213

  Lech. xiii 7.
• ‡ 1.214

  Mark xiv. 32. Luke xxii. 40.
• † 1.215

  Mark xiv. 43. Luke xxii. 47. John xviii. 2.
• * 1.216

  Mark xiv. 47. Luke xxii. 49. John xviii. 10.
• § 1.217

  Mark xiv. 48. Luke xxii. 52.
• † 1.218

  Mark xiv. 53. Luke xxii. 54. John xviii.
• * 1.219

  Mark xv. 1. Luke xxii. 66. xxiii.i. John xviii. 28.
• * 1.220

  Zech. xi. 12.
• † 1.221

  Mark xv. 6. Luke xxiii. 17. John xviii. 39.
• § 1.222

  Mark xv. 16. John xix. 2.
• ‖ 1.223

  Mark xv. 22. Luke xxiii. 33. John xix. 17.
• * 1.224

  Psalm xxii. 18.
• ‡ 1.225

  Mark xv. 27. Luke xxiii. 32.
• † 1.226

  Mark xv. 32. Luke xxiii. 39.
• * 1.227

  Psalm xxii. 1.
• ‡ 1.228

  John xix. 28.
• * 1.229

  Mark xv. 42. Luke xxiii. 50. John xix. 38.
• * 1.230

  Mark xvi. 1. Luke xxiv. 1. John xx. 1.
• ‡ 1.231

  Mark xvi. 15.
• * 1.232

  Mat. iii. 1. Luke iii. 1.
• † 1.233

  Mal. iii. 1.
• ‡ 1.234

  Isaiah xl. 3.
• ‖ 1.235

  Mat. iii. 13. Luke iii. 21.
• § 1.236

  Mat. iv. 1. Luke iv. 1.
• * 1.237

  Mat. iv. 12.
• † 1.238

  Mat. iv. 18. Luke v.i.
• ‡ 1.239

  Luke iv. 31.
• † 1.240

  Mat. viii. 14. Luke iv. 38.
• * 1.241

  Luke iv. 42.
• † 1.242

  Mat. viii. 2. Luke v. 12.
• § 1.243

  Mat. ix. 2. Luke v. 18.
• § 1.244

  Mat. ix. 9. Luke v. 27.
• ‖ 1.245

  Mat. ix. 14. Luke v. 33.
• † 1.246

  Mat. xii 1. Luke vi. 1.
• ‡ 1.247

  1 Sam. xxi. 6.
• ‖ 1.248

  Mat. xii. 9. Luke vi. 6.
• ‡ 1.249

  Luke vi. 12.
• * 1.250

  Mat. x. 2. Luke vi. 13. Acts i. 13.
• * 1.251

  Mat. xii. 24. Luke xi. 15.
• † 1.252

  Mat. xii. 31. Luke xii. 10.
• ‡ 1.253

  Mat. xii. 46. Luke viii. 19.
• ‖ 1.254

  Mat. xiii. 1. Luke viii. 4.
• * 1.255

  Mat. v. 15. Luke viii. 16. xi. 33.
• † 1.256

  Mat. x. 26. Luke viii. 17.
• ‡ 1.257

  Mat. xiii. 12. Luke viii. 18.
• ‖ 1.258

  Mat. xiii. 31. Luke xiii. 18.
• * 1.259

  Mat. viii. 23. Luke viii. 22.
• † 1.260

  Mat. viii. 28. Luke viii. 26.
• * 1.261

  Mat. ix. 1. Luke viii. 37.
• † 1.262

  Luke viii. 40.
• ‡ 1.263

  Mat. ix. 18. Luke viii. 41.
• § 1.264

  Mat. ix. 20. Luke viii. 43.
• * 1.265

  Mat. xiii. 54. Luke iv. 16.
• * 1.266

  Mat. x. 1. Luke ix. 1.
• † 1.267

  Mat. x. 9. Luke ix. 3.
• ‡ 1.268

  Mat. x. 11. Luke ix. 4.
• § 1.269

  Luke ix. 6.
• ‖ 1.270

  James v. 14, 15.
• * 1.271

  Mat. xiv. 1. Luke ix. 3.
• * 1.272

  Luke ix. 10.
• † 1.273

  Mat. xiv. 13. John vi. 1.
• * 1.274

  Mat. xiv. 22.
• † 1.275

  Mat. xiv. 23. John vi. 15.
• * 1.276

  Mat. xiv. 34. John vi. 21.
• † 1.277

  Mat. xv. 1.
• ‡ 1.278

  Isaiah xxix. 13.
• § 1.279

  Exod. xx. 12.
• ‖ 1.280

  Ch. xxi. 17.
• * 1.281

  Mat. xv. 21.
• † 1.282

  Mat. xv. 29.
• * 1.283

  Mat. xv. 32.
• † 1.284

  Mat. xvi. 1.
• § 1.285

  Mat. xvi.〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• † 1.286

  Mat. xvi. 13. Luke ix. 18.
• * 1.287

  Mat. xvi. 21. Luke ix. 22.
• † 1.288

  Mat. xvi. 25. Luke ix. 24. xvii. 33. John xii. 25.
• † 1.289

  Mat. x. 32. Luke ix. 26. xii. 8.
• ‖ 1.290

  Mat. xvii. 1. Luke ix. 28.
• * 1.291

  Mat. xvii. 14. Luke ix. 37.
• * 1.292

  Mat. xvii. 22. Luke ix. 44.
• † 1.293

  Luke ix. 46.
• § 1.294

  Mat. xviii. 2. Luke ix. 47.
• † 1.295

  Luke ix. 49.
• ‡ 1.296

  Mat. x. 42.
• ‖ 1.297

  Mat. xviii. 6. Luke xvii. 1.
• * 1.298

  Mat. v. 29. xviii. 8.
• † 1.299

  Isaiah lxvi. 24.
• ‡ 1.300

  Mat. v. 13. Luke xiv. 34.
• ‖ 1.301

  Mat. xix. 1.
• § 1.302

  Mat. v. 31. xix. 7. Luke xvi. 18.
• * 1.303

  Deut. xxiv. 1.
• § 1.304

  Gen. ii. 24.
• † 1.305

  Mat. xix. 13.
• ‖ 1.306

  Mat. xix. 16. Luke xviii. 18.
• * 1.307

  ••at. xx. 20.
• † 1.308

  Mat. xx. 29. Luke xviii. 35.
• § 1.309

  Mat. xxi. 1. Luke xix. 29. John xii. 12.
• * 1.310

  Mat. xxi. 10.17.
• † 1.311

  Mat. xxi. 18.
• † 1.312

  Mat. xxi. 12. Luke xix. 45.
• * 1.313

  Isaiah. lvi. 7. Jer. vii. 11.
• † 1.314

  Mat. xxi. 20.
• ‡ 1.315

  Mat. vi. 14.
• ‖ 1.316

  Mat. xxi. 23. Luke xx. 1.
• * 1.317

  Mat. xxi. 33. Luke xx. 9.
• † 1.318

  Psalm cxviii. 22.
• ‡ 1.319

  Mat. xxii. 15. Luke xx. 20.
• ‖ 1.320

  Mat. xxii. 23. Luke xx. 27.
• § 1.321

  Deut. xxv. 5.
• * 1.322

  Exod. iii. 6.
• † 1.323

  Mat. xxii. 34. Luke x. 25.
• ‡ 1.324

  Deut. vi. 4.
• ‖ 1.325

  Lev. xix. 18.
• * 1.326

  Mat. xxii. 41. Luke xx. 41.
• † 1.327

  Psalm cx. 1.
• ‡ 1.328

  Mat. xxiii. 5. Luke xx. 46.
• ‖ 1.329

  Luke xxi. 1.
• § 1.330

  Mat. xxiv. 1. Luke xxi. 5.
• * 1.331

  Luke xxi. 12.
• † 1.332

  Mat. xxiv. 14.
• ‖ 1.333

  Mat. xxiv. 15. Luke xxi. 20. Dan. ix. 27.
• † 1.334

  Mat. xxiv. 23.
• ‡ 1.335

  Mat. xxiv. 32. Luke xxi. 28.
• † 1.336

  Mat. xxiv. 42. Luke xxi. 34.
• ‡ 1.337

  Mat. xxv. 14. Luke xix. 12.
• ‖ 1.338

  Mat. xxvi. 1. Luke xxii. 1.
• * 1.339

  Mat. xxvi. 6.
• † 1.340

  Mat. xxvi. 14. Luke xxii. 3.
• ‡ 1.341

  Mat. xxvi. 17. Luke xxii. 7.
• ‖ 1.342

  Mat. xxvi. 20. Luke xxii. 14.
• * 1.343

  Mat. xxvi. 30. Luke xxii. 39. John xviii. 1.
• † 1.344

  Zeh. xiii. 7.
• ‡ 1.345

  Mat. xxvi. 36.
• * 1.346

  Mat. xxvi. 47. Luke xxii. 47. John xviii 2.
• † 1.347

  Mat. xxvi. 51. Luk•• xxii. 49. John xviii. 10.
• ‡ 1.348

  Mat. xxii. 57. Luke xxii. 54. John xviii. 12.
• § 1.349

  Mat. xxvi. 59.
• * 1.350

  Mat. xxvi. 63. Luke xxii. 67.
• † 1.351

  Mat. xxvi. 69. Luke xxii. 56. John xxiii. 25.
• ‡ 1.352

  Mat. xxvii. 1, 2. Luke xxii. 66. xxiii. 1. John xviii. 28.
• * 1.353

  Mat. xxvii. 12.
• † 1.354

  Mat. xxvii. 27. John xix. 2.
• † 1.355

  Mat. xxvii. 31. John xix. 16.
• * 1.356

  Mat. xxvii. 33. Luke xxiii. 33. John xix. 17.
• † 1.357

  Isaiah liii. 12.
• ‡ 1.358

  Mat. xxvii. 39.
• § 1.359

  Mat. xxvii. 45. Luke xxiii. 44.
• ‖ 1.360

  Mat. xxvii. 50. Luke xxiii. 46. John xix. 30.
• * 1.361

  Mat. xxvii. 57. Luke xxiii. 50. John xix. 38.
• † 1.362

  Mat. xxviii. 1. Luke xxiv. 1. John xx. 1.
• ‡ 1.363

  John xx. 11.
• § 1.364

  Luke xxiv. 9. John xx. 18.
• * 1.365

  Luke xxiv. 13.
• † 1.366

  Luke xxiv. 36. John xx. 19.
• ‖ 1.367

  Mat. xxviii. 18.
• ‖ 1.368

  Luke xxiv. 50.
• * 1.369

  Mat. i. 25.
• * 1.370

  Exod. xiii. 2.
• † 1.371

  Lev. xii. 8.
• * 1.372

  Mat. iii.x. Mark i.〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• † 1.373

  Isaiah xl. 2.
• * 1.374

  Mat. iii. 13. Mark i. 9.
• ‖ 1.375

  Mat. iv. 1. Mark i. 12.
• * 1.376

  Deut. viii. 3.
• † 1.377

  Deut. vi. 13.
• ‡ 1.378

  Psalm xci. 11.
• ‖ 1.379

  Deut. vi. 16.
• § 1.380

  Mat. xiii. 54. Mark vi. 1.
• * 1.381

  Isaiah lxi. 1.
• * 1.382

  1 Kings xvii. 19. xviii. 44.
• † 1.383

  2 Kings v. 14.
• ‡ 1.384

  Mark i. 21.
• * 1.385

  Mat. viii. 14. Mark i. 29.
• † 1.386

  〈…〉〈…〉 16. Mark i.〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• ‡ 1.387

  Mark i. 35. Lev. xiV.〈…〉〈…〉 ix.〈◊〉〈◊〉. Mark ii. 3.
• † 1.388

  Mat. viii. 2. 〈…〉〈…〉.
• * 1.389

  Lev. xiv. 2.
• † 1.390

  Mat. ix. 2. Mark ii. 3.
• * 1.391

  Mat. ix. 9. Mark ii. 14.
• † 1.392

  Mat. ix. 14. Mark ii. 18.
• * 1.393

  Mat. xii. 1. Mark ii. 23.
• † 1.394

  1 Sam. xxi. 6.
• ‡ 1.395

  Mat. xii. 9. Mark iii. 1.
• * 1.396

  Mark iii. 13.
• † 1.397

  Mat. x. 2. Mark iii. 14. Acts i. 13.
• ‡ 1.398

  Mat. v. 3.
• * 1.399

  Mat. v. 44.
• † 1.400

  Mat. v. 39.
• ‡ 1.401

  Mat. v. 42.
• * 1.402

  Mat. vii. 12.
• † 1.403

  Mat. vii. 1.
• ‡ 1.404

  Mat. xv. 14.
• * 1.405

  Mat. x. 24. John xv. 20.
• † 1.406

  Mat. vii. 3.
• ‡ 1.407

  Mat. vii. 21.
• ‖ 1.408

  Mat. vii. 24.
• * 1.409

  Mat. viii. 5.
• * 1.410

  Mat. xi. 2.
• † 1.411

  Mat. iii. 1.
• * 1.412

  Mat. xiii. 1. Mark iv. 1.
• † 1.413

  Mat. v. 15. Mark iv. 21. c. xi. 33.
• ‡ 1.414

  Mat. x. 26. Mark iv. 22. c. xii. 2.
• ‖ 1.415

  Mat. xiii. 12. Mark iv. 25. C. xix. 26.
• § 1.416

  Mat. xii. 46. Mark iii. 31.
• * 1.417

  Mat. viii. 23. Mark iv. 35.
• † 1.418

  Mat. viii. 28. Mat. v. 1.
• † 1.419

  Mat. ix. 1. Mark v. 18.
• § 1.420

  Mark v. 21.
• * 1.421

  Mat. x. 1. Mark vi. 7.
• † 1.422

  Matt. xiv. 1. Mark vi. 14.
• ‡ 1.423

  Mark vi. 30.
• § 1.424

  Mat. xiv. 15. Mark vi. 35. John vi. 3.
• ‖ 1.425

  Mat. xvi. 13. Mark viii. 27.
• ‡ 1.426

  Mat. xvi. 25. Mark viii. 35. John xii. 25.
• † 1.427

  Mat. xvii. 1. Mark ix. 2.
• * 1.428

  Mat. xvii. 14. Mark ix. 14.
• † 1.429

  Mat. xvii. 22. Mark ix. 30.
• ‡ 1.430

  Mat. xviii. 2. Mark ix. 37.
• § 1.431

  Mark ix. 38.
• * 1.432

  Mat. viii. 19.
• † 1.433

  Mat. ix. 37.
• § 1.434

  Mat. x. 16.
• † 1.435

  Mat. xi. 11.
• * 1.436

  Mat. xi. 21.
• † 1.437

  Mat. x. 40. John xiii. 20.
• * 1.438

  Mat. xi. 25.
• † 1.439

  Mat. xiii. 16.
• ‡ 1.440

  Mat. xxii. 35. Mark xii. 28.
• § 1.441

  Deut. vi. 5. Lev. xix. 18.
• * 1.442

  Lev. xviii. 5.
• * 1.443

  Mat. vi. 9.
• * 1.444

  Mat. vii. 7.
• ‡ 1.445

  Mark iii. 22.
• † 1.446

  Mat. xii. 22.
• * 1.447

  Mat. x.i. 38.
• * 1.448

  Mat. v. 15. Mark iv. 22. Ch. viii. 16.
• * 1.449

  Mat. vi. 22.
• † 1.450

  〈…〉〈…〉. And the Lord said to him,
• * 1.451

  Mat. xxiii. 34.
• * 1.452

  Mat. xvi. 6.
• † 1.453

  Mat. x. 27.
• ‡ 1.454

  Mat. x. 30.
• § 1.455

  Mark viii. 38. Ch. ix. 26.
• * 1.456

  Mat. xii. 31.
• ‡ 1.457

  Mark iii. 28. Mat. x. 19. Ch. xxi. 12.
• * 1.458

  Mat. vi. 25.
• * 1.459

  Mat. vi. 19.
• † 1.460

  Mark x. 34.
• * 1.461

  Mat. xvi. 2.
• † 1.462

  Mat. v. 25.
• * 1.463

  Psalm lxxx. 8, &c.
• * 1.464

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 xiii. 31. Mark iv. 30.
• † 1.465

  Mat. xiii. 33.
• * 1.466

  Mat. vii. 13.
• † 1.467

  Mat. vii. 23.
• ‡ 1.468

  Mat. viii. 11.
• ‖ 1.469

  Mat. xix. 30.
• * 1.470

  Mat. xxiii. 37.
• † 1.471

  Mat. xxii. 12.
• * 1.472

  Mat. x. 37.
• ‡ 1.473

  Mat. v. 13. Mark ix. 50.
• † 1.474

  Mat. xviii. 12.
• § 1.475

  Mat. vi. 24.
• † 1.476

  Mat. xi. 13.
• ‡ 1.477

  Mat. v. 18.
• ‖ 1.478

  Mat. v. 31. xix. 7.
• * 1.479

  Mat. xviii. 6. Mark ix. 42.
• † 1.480

  Mat. xviii. 15.
• § 1.481

  Mat. xvii. 20.
• * 1.482

  Mat. xxiv. 23.
• † 1.483

  Mat. xxiv. 37.
• * 1.484

  Luke xii. 24. John xii. 25.
• † 1.485

  Mat. xxiv. 28.
• * 1.486

  Mat. xix. 13. Mark x. 13.
• † 1.487

  Mat. xix. 16. Mark x. 17.
• ‡ 1.488

  Exod. 〈◊〉〈◊〉. 12, &c.
• * 1.489

  Mat. xx. 17. Mark x. 32.
• † 1.490

  Mat. xx. 29. Mark. x. 46.
• * 1.491

  Mat. xviii. 11.
• * 1.492

  Mat. xxv. 14. Mark xiii. 34.
• * 1.493

  Mat. xxv. 29. Luke viii. 18.
• † 1.494

  Mat. xxi. 1. Mark xi. 1.
• * 1.495

  Mat. xxi. 12. Mark xi. 11.
• † 1.496

  Isaiah lvi. 7.
• * 1.497

  Mat. xxi. 23. Mark xi. 27.
• † 1.498

  Mat. xxi. 33. Mark xii. 1.
• * 1.499

  Psalm cxviii. 22.
• † 1.500

  Mat. xxi. 44.
• ‡ 1.501

  Mat. xxii. 16.
• * 1.502

  Mat. xxii. 23. Mark xii. 18.
• † 1.503

  Deut. xxv. 5.
• ‡ 1.504

  Exod. iii. 6.
• * 1.505

  Mat. xxii. 41. Mark xii. 35.
• † 1.506

  Psalm cx. 1.
• ‡ 1.507

  Mat. xxiii. 5.
• § 1.508

  Mat. xxiii. 14.
• ‖ 1.509

  Mark xii. 41.
• * 1.510

  Mat. xxiv. 1. Mark xiii. 1.
• † 1.511

  Mark xiii. 9.
• * 1.512

  Mat. x. 21.
• † 1.513

  Mat. xxiv. 13. Mark xiii. 13.
• * 1.514

  Mat. xxiv. 29. Mark xiii. 24.
• † 1.515

  Mat. xxiv. 42. Mark. iii. 33. Ch. xii. 35.
• * 1.516

  Mat. xxvi. 1. Mark xiv. 1.
• † 1.517

  Mat. xxvi. 17. Mark xiv. 12.
• ‡ 1.518

  Mat. xxvi. 20. Mark xiv. 17.
• * 1.519

  Isaiah liii. 12.
• † 1.520

  Mat. xxvi. 30.
• † 1.521

  Mat. xxvi. 51. Mark xiv. 47.
• ‡ 1.522

  Mat. xxvi. 57. Mark xiv. 53. John xviii. 12.
• * 1.523

  Mat. xxvi. 67. Mark xiv. 65.
• † 1.524

  Mat. xxvi. 63. Mark xiv. 61.
• ‡ 1.525

  Mat. xxvii. 1. Mark xv. 1. John xviii. 28.
• † 1.526

  Mat. xxvii. 15. Mark xv. 6. John xviii. 39.
• * 1.527

  Mat. xxvii. 31. Mark xv. 21. John xix. 16.
• † 1.528

  Hos. x. 8.
• * 1.529

  Mat. xxvii. 37. Mark xv. 26. John xix. 19.
• * 1.530

  Mat. xxvii. 45. Mark xv. 38.
• * 1.531

  Mat. xxvii. 57. Mark xv. 43. John xix. 38.
• † 1.532

  Mat. xxviii. 1. Mark xvi. 1. John xx. 1.
• ‡ 1.533

  Mark xvi. 12.
• * 1.534

  Mark xvi. 14.19. John xx. 19.
• * 1.535

  Isaiah xl. 3.
• * 1.536

  Psalm lxix. 9.
• * 1.537

  Numb. xxi. 8, 9.
• * 1.538

  Mat. xiii. 57.
• * 1.539

  Mat. xiv. 13. Mark vi. 32. Luke ix. 10.
• * 1.540

  Mat. xiv. 22. Mark vi. 45.
• † 1.541

  Psalm lxxviii. 24.
• * 1.542

  Isaiah liv. 13.
• § 1.543

  Zech. xiv. 8.
• * 1.544

  Micah v. 2.
• * 1.545

  Deut. xxii. 23.
• * 1.546

  Deut. xix. 15.
• * 1.547

  Psalm lxxxii. 6.
• * 1.548

  Mat. xxi. 8. Mark xi. 8. Lake xix. 36.
• † 1.549

  Psalm cxviii. 26.
• ‡ 1.550

  Zah, ix. 9.
• † 1.551

  Mat. x. 39.
• * 1.552

  Psalm cx. 4.
• ‡ 1.553

  Isaiah liii. 1.
• † 1.554

  Isaiah vi. 10. Mat. xiii. 14. Acts xxviii. 26.
• * 1.555

  Psalm xli. 9.
• † 1.556

  Mat. x. 40.
• * 1.557

  Ch. vii. 34.
• * 1.558

  Ch. xiii. 16. Mat. x. 24. Luke vi. 40.
• * 1.559

  Psalm lxix. 4.
• § 1.560

  Psalm cix. 8.
• § 1.561

  Mat. xxvi. 30. Mark xiv. 26. Luke xxii. 39.
• * 1.562

  Mat. xxvi. 30. Mark xiv. 43. Luke xxvi. 30. Luke xxii 47.
• † 1.563

  Ch. xvii. 12.
• ‡ 1.564

  Mat. xxvi. 57. Mark xiv. 53. Luke xxii. 54.
• * 1.565

  Mat. xxvii. 2. Mark xv. 1. Luke xxiii. 1.
• † 1.566

  Ch. iii. 14.
• * 1.567

  Mat. xxvii. 26. Mark xv. 15.
• * 1.568

  Mat. xxvii. 31. Mark xv. 22. Luke xxiii. 26.
• † 1.569

  Psalm xxii. 18.
• * 1.570

  Psalm lxix. 21.
• † 1.571

  Exod. xii. 46.
• ‡ 1.572

  Zech. xii. 10.
• * 1.573

  Mat. xxviii. 1. Mark xvi. 1. Luke xxiv. 1.
• † 1.574

  Mark xvi. 9.
• * 1.575

  Mark xvi. 14. Luke xxiv. 36.