A09443:104
A godly and learned exposition or commentary upon the three first chapters of the…A godly and learned exposition or commentarie vpon the three first chapters of the…
A godly and learned exposition or commentary upon the three first chapters of the Revelation. Preached in Cambridge by that reverend and judicious divine, master William Perkins, Ann. Dom. 1595. First published for the benefit of Gods Church, by Robert Hill, Bachelor of DivinityA godly and learned exposition or commentarie vpon the three first chapters of the Reuelation. Preached in Cambridge by that reuerend and judicious diuine, maister William Perkins, Ann. Dom. 1595. First published for the benefit of Gods Church, by Robert Hill, Bachelor of Diuinitie
London: printed by Adam Islip for Cuthbert Burbie, 1606
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.
Now John chooseth rather to write to Churches, than to particular men. First, because the matter of this book concerneth the Church, being a Prophetical history, touching the state of the Church to the end. Secondly, because particular Churches, which be true members of the Catholic Church, are the pillars and ground of truth. 1. Timoth. 3.15. And the Church is so called, not that her authority is above the word▪ but first, because it is the treasure house wherein the Scriptures are preserved, from age to age, against the rage of Gods enemies. Secondly, because the Church gives testimony to the truth of Gods word. And thirdly, because it publisheth the truth of God; word by virtue of that ordinary ministry which God hath ordained therein.
Now Iohn chuseth rather to write to Churches, than to particular men. First, because the matter of this booke concerneth the Church, being a Propheticall hystorie, touching the state of the Church to the end. Secondly, because particular Churches, which bee true members of the Catholicke Church, are the pillars and ground of truth. 1. Timoth. 3.15. And the Church is so called, not that her authority is aboue the word▪ but first, because it is the treasure house wherein the Scriptures are preserued, from age to age, against the rage of Gods enemies. Secondly, because the Church giues testimonie to the truth of Gods word. And thirdly, because it publisheth the truth of God; word by vertue of that ordinary ministery which God hath ordained therein.
Secondly, in the dedication of this book, among all particular Churches God directs him to make choice of those seven in Asia: no doubt for special cause. First, because they were then most famous Churches, as the chapters following, and the histories of the Church do plainly show: Secondly, that the calling of the Gentiles to the light of the Gospel, which long before had been foretold, might be more evident: for here the Jews are passed by, and the Gentiles sent unto.