An exposition on the whole fifth chapter of S. Johns Gospel also notes on…An exposition on the vvhole fifth chapter of S. Iohns Gospell also notes on…

The Reason is set down, because he had done these things on the Sabbath day: which the Evangelist lays down not as if it were the true only reason indeed, but as the reason which they pretended. Hereby showing, First their superstition, that they stood so much upon the outward rites, that they neglected the main works of the Sabbath. Where we may see the nature of superstition, that it is busied about shadows, letting go the substance: and also the danger of it, making men eager persecutors of such as do allow of their inventions. Secondly, their Hypocrisy that they did so severely reprove a man for show of breaking the Sabbath; yet make no conscience themselves to persecute and to seek to murder, and that without a cause, even upon the Sabbath day, as it is probable. And thus also deal the Papists.

The Reason is set downe, because he had done these things on the Sabboth day: which the Euangelist layes downe not as if it were the true onely reason indeed, but as the reason which they pretended. Hereby shewing, First their superstition, that they stood so much vpon the outward rites, that they neglected the maine workes of the Sabboth. Where we may see the nature of superstition, that it is busied about shadowes, letting goe the substance: and also the danger of it, making men eager persecutors of such as doe allow of their inuentions. Secondly, their Hypocrisie that they did so seuerely reproue a man for shew of breaking the Sabboth; yet make no conscience themselues to persecute and to seeke to murder, and that without a cause, euen vpon the Sabboth day, as it is probable. And thus also deale the Papists.

Ver. 17. Here note, First, the General Christs answer. Secondly, what kind of answer this was. First, consider to whom Chris• doth make this Apology: it was to such as were captiously and maliciously bent against him, to deprave the honour of God in this good work done to this poor man. Nevertheless, in that Christ vouchsafeth an answer unto them, we learn: Though Christ meet with wicked men. yet their malice could not make him leave his goodness. Now he answereth them here. First, in regard of God, that the Truth and work of God might be justified. Secondly, in regard of his Disciples, and of this poor man, who now began to believe in him: to strengthen their faith that they should not be moved with the cavils of the adversaries. Thirdly, and of these also, either to win them if it might be, or to make them the more inexcusable.