A01972:756
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…
An exposition on the whole fifth chapter of S. Johns Gospel also notes on other choice places of Scripture, taken by a reverend divine, now with God, and found in his study after his death, written with his own hand ...An exposition on the vvhole fifth chapter of S. Iohns Gospell also notes on other choice places of Scripture, taken by a reuerend diuine, now with God, and found in his study after his death, written with his owne hand ...
London: printed by H. Lownes and R. Young for John Bartlett, 1630London: printed by H. Lownes and R. Young for Iohn Bartlett, 1630
Modern spelling is a reading aid: the words are the author’s, only the spelling is modernized. Original shows the page as printed, with the transcription marks.
Secondly, for what they shall be accused. First, in general, from the manner of Christs proceeding, how that after he had first soundly proved the point in question, viz. that he was God, and also reproved them for their incredulity; now seeing them still to remain obstinate, and that nothing would work upon them, he can no longer forbear, but he threatens this heavy judgement upon them. Hence we learn,
Secondly, for what they shall be accused. First, in generall, from the manner of Christs proceeding, how that after hee had first soundly prooued the point in question, viz. that hee was God, and also reproued them for their incredulity; now seeing them still to remaine obstinate, and that nothing would worke vpon them, hee can no longer forbeare, but hee threatens this •eauy iudgement vpon them. Hence we learne,
Doct. That when men will not be moved with soundness of argument, or with reproofs, they must be more roundly dealt withal, by denouncing the judgements of God against ⟨p. 97⟩them. This was the practise of Christ against all obstinate men, as the Pharisees, Mat. 23. Many woes denounced. Of Moses with Corah and his company. Of John Baptist with the same Pharisees, Mat. 3.7. Tit. 1.13. For when milder meane• will not prevail this may work upon them, Jud. vers. 23. Therefore as lenity and mildness doth become the servant of God, so doth also severity beseem him according as he hath persons to deal withal. These cautions observed, first, that he have a calling to do it: for then doth the threatenings terrify: as if a child be threatened by his father, a subject by hi• Prince. Secondly, that the person be certainly found to be obstinate. Thirdly, that it be done without passion, in a holy zeal with meekness. Fourthly, that it be done without respect of persons to one, as well as another, sparing none. Fifthly, that it be for weighty causes, not for trifles, as Excommunication is now used, which makes it so lightly esteemed of. Sixthly, it must be used in the last place, after all other gentler means sought·