A09443:604
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.
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.
Thus we see the parts of this prophesie; yet in the words there is a further thing intended, for euery word containeth a reason to comfort this church: as first from the cause of their persecution, which is the deuill; and therefore they must not feare, for if hee cast them into prison, their case is good, he is Gods enemie, and so the Lord is on their side, who then can bee against them to doe them hurt? Secondly, not all your whole church, but onely some (sayth Christ) must be afflicted. Thirdly, Sathan cannot kill you, but onely cast you into prison. Fourthly, his imprisonment shall not tend to your damnation, but make for the triall of your grace. And lastly, it is but for a short time. In all which you may see the power of Gods prouidence ouerruling your enemie, and turning his rage vnto your saluation: and therefore take comfort and courage vnto your soules, lay aside all feare and al dread, and keepe faith and good conscience to the end.
The third part of this counsel, is a most blessed precept, containing most heavenly advice: Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life. Gods servants are called faithful, in regard of their fidelity which they owe to God: and that is in two respects: I. Every member of Christ is baptized, wherein God for his part promiseth Christ, with life everlasting: and the party baptized promiseth unto God again, that he will deny himself, and