A09339:2503
A Golden Chain
A golden chain: or The description of theology containing the order of the causes of salvation and damnation, according to Gods word. A view whereof is to be seen in the table annexed. Hereunto is adjoined the order which M. Theodore Beza used in comforting afflicted consciences.A golden chaine: or The description of theologie containing the order of the causes of saluation and damnation, according to Gods word. A view whereof is to be seene in the table annexed. Hereunto is adioyned the order which M. Theodore Beza vsed in comforting afflicted consciences.
Cambridge: printed by John Legat, 1600Cambridge: printed by Iohn Legat, 1600
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.
The Exposition.
These words contain a prayer, and a thanksgiving. In the prayer, three things are asked. The first is the increase of the knowledge of Gods revealed will in his word, and he divides it into two parts: wisdom, which is not only to know Gods word, but also to apply it to every action for the right and holy performing thereof and spiritual understanding, which is, when men by the assistance of Gods spirit, do conceive the will of God in general without applying.
THese words containe a prayer, and a thankesgiuing. In the prayer, three things are asked. The •irst is the increase of the knowledge of Gods reuealed will in his word, and he deuides it into two parts: wisdome, which is not onely to know Gods word, but also to applie it to euery action for the right and holy performing thereof• and spirituall vnderstanding, which is, when men by the assistance of Gods spirit, doe conceiue the will of God in generall without applying.
Secondly, Paul prays for the fruits of this knowledge, which are four. 1. To wal• worthy of God, as good servants do, who in their apparel, gesture, and all their doings, so behave themselves that they may credit their masters. 2. To please God in all things, by approving their hearts unto him. 3. To be plentiful in all good works. 4. To increase in the acknowledgement of God. For the more any increase in knowledge and experience in Gods word, the more shall they acknowledge God the father to be their father, Christ to be their redeemer, and the holy Ghost their sanctifier.