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…

To the Godly and Christian Reader Grace and Peace.

I Am not ignorant (good Reader) how ungrateful a thing it is, to deal by way of Censure or reformation, in those things wherein others have gone before; and many times for the smart that followeth, do men beshrew their own fingers. Yet the warrant of a good calling will breed peace in his conscience, that herein shall endeavour the observance of these rules of Love, to wit, ^aJudge the best of that which is done ▪ and ^brefer his own pains to the glory of God in the good of others: Hereto I aim in this second edition of this book. For my calling to this work, when mine accusers stand forth, the executors of the dead shall answer for my discharge. And for mine endeavour to do good; the small gain of this revised work, was truly returned to the right owners thereof: If thou therefore return glory to God, for good received to thy soul, in this behalf I have my desire. Here only rests the doubt, how this second edition should not be prejudicial to his good estimation that published the former: I answer, well enough: For I hope he intended ^cthe glory of God in the good of his Church, and the credit of the reverend Author of this work: Now if any addition be brought hereunto, his intent is furthered, and wherein then can he be grieved? If one man should help poor Orphans to some lands or living, he would not think himself wronged by another, that should enlarge their just claims, or settle their possession in a better tenure: so I trust it fareth in this work; where thou shalt find upon thy diligent view, in some doubtful^d things the Authors meaning truly cleared, his method rectified, many repetitions omitted, and the matter (specially towards the latter end) somewhat enlarged. If any thing be dissonant to the Authors judgement in his live-works (which I hope thou shalt not perceive) rather charge the fault on me through ignorance, or misunderstanding, than entertain in thy heart the least conceit of wavering levity in so godly, learned, and judicious a Divine, who hath so well deserved of thy love, if thou love the truth. Thus craving thy favourable acceptance of my helping hand, to do thee good, I end with him, That is the beginning, and the end: Let him that hath an ear hear what the spirit saith unto the Churches.