The whole-armour of GodThe vvhole-armor of God

§. 172. Of mans preferring other mysteries before the Gospel.

§. 172. Of mans preferring other mysteries before the Gospell.

Very preposterous is the conceit which many have of Gods word,¹ wherein this mystery is revealed. They account it a plain easy book, wherein no great depth of learning is contained. And thereupon prefer other books as more profound, to it.^d The Jews had their Talmuds, and Cabal•, in which they thought much more deep matter was contained, then in the holy Scripture. The Turks have their Alcharon, in comparison whereof, they lightly and basely esteem the Scriptures.^e In like account do Papists hold many of their unwritten traditions, Decrees of Councils, Edicts of Popes, all which they equal, if not prefer unto the Scriptures. Anabaptists also, Familists, and such like Enthusiasts, say that the Scripture is but as milk for young novices, but the revelations which they receive (as they pretend) from God, are strong meat. I would this mean and base esteem of holy Scripture remained only among such Infidels and⟨p. 533⟩ Heretics, as are Jews, Turks, Papists, Familists, &c. But too true it is that it hath too great place in the opinions of many both scholars & others. Some who prefer the study and learning of Postillers and quaint writers, before the wisdom of God contained in his written word. Thus great mysteries are of many accounted sleight matters, and mere toys are accounted mysteries.