A09443:603
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.
The consideration hereof must move us to arm our selves with patience when God shall send affliction, because we cannot deliver our selves before the time which God hath appointed: for the continuance of our afflictions is set down by God, and cannot be changed by us. Secondly, here Christ showeth, that the afflictions of his church are but for a short time: and therefore Paul (a)calleth them moment any, in regard of the eternal weight of glory which shall be revealed at the end of this life, and never have end. Which is a singular ground of comfort unto the child of God in any distress.
The consideration hereof must moue vs to arme our selues with patience when God shall send affliction, because wee cannot deliuer our selues before the time which God hath appointed: for the continuance of our afflictions is set downe by God, and cannot bee changed by vs. Secondly, here Christ sheweth, that the afflictions of his church are but for a short time: and therefore Paule (a)calleth them moment anie, in regard of the eternall weight of glorie which shall be reuealed at the end of this life, and neuer haue end. Which is a singular ground of comfort vnto the child of God in any distresse.
- (a)2. Cor. 4.17.
Thus we see the parts of this prophecy; yet in the words there is a further thing intended, for every word containeth a reason to comfort this church: as first from the cause of their persecution, which is the devil; and therefore they must not fear, for if he cast them into prison, their case is good, he is Gods enemy, and so the Lord is on their side, who then can be against them to do them hurt? Secondly, not all your whole church, but only some (saith Christ) must be afflicted. Thirdly, Satan cannot kill you, but only cast you into prison. Fourthly, his imprisonment shall not tend to your damnation, but make for the trial of your grace. And lastly, it is but for a short time. In all which you may see the power of Gods providence overruling your enemy, and turning his rage unto your salvation: and therefore take comfort and courage unto your souls, lay aside all fear and all dread, and keep faith and good conscience to the end.