The sum of the four Evangelists comprehending both the course of the history, and…The summe of the foure Euangelistes comprehending both the course of the historie, and…
The sum of the four Evangelists comprehending both the course of the history, and also the several points of doctrine set forth in the same pointing forth as it were with the hand, that Jesus is Christ, the only, perfect, and sufficient Saviour of all the faithful. Written in Latin by the reverend, learned, and godly father, Master Henry Bullinger minister of the Church of Zurich. Translated into English for the profit of the unlearned by John Tomkys.The summe of the foure Euangelistes comprehending both the course of the historie, and also the seuerall points of doctrine set foorth in the same pointing foorth as it were with the hand, that Iesus is Christ, the only, perfect, and sufficient Sauiour of all the faithfull. Written in Latine by the reuerend, learned, and godly father, Master Henrie Bullinger minister of the Church of Zurich. Translated into English for the profite of the vnlearned by Iohn Tomkys.
Heinrich Bullinger 1504–1575London: printed by T. Dawson for William Ponsonby, 1582
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.
For the Lord is conveyed by the counsel of the Angel of the Lord into Egypt,m where he lay hid until the vengeance of GOD had destroyed that wicked murderer.n which things were forewarning tokens of the kingdom of Christ, and of the affairs to come of the Church, wherein Christ the only salvation, the appointed king over ⟨image 9⟩all the world, is alway assaulted of the wicked, and yet doeth he the mean while work the salvation of the faithful, and by suffering continually obtaineth the victory: and yet so, that the Godly notwithstanding are exercised with continual temptations and afflictions to their own profit and glory.o The third and fourth Chapter set forth unto thee, reader, a clearer and plainer manifestation of our Lord Jesus Christ the Saviour of the world. For the Father doth not now show his Son to a few and to certain chosen for the purpose, or by one or two revelations, as hitherto we saw he did: but made him known to all the world, and that by innumerable and most evident demonstrations and proofs, and proposed him to be beholden most manifestly with all his treasures.4pFor first he calleth forth John the son of Zechariah the priest, the very Elijah promised in the Prophets, a man of most holy life, and of very great authority among the people ⟨image 9⟩of the Jews, and maketh him his messenger to preach the coming of his son into the flesh, and too prepare the minds of all men, that they might be the more ready to receive Christ, when he came. Therefore this Elijah (John the Baptist) cometh forth, and exhorteth all men to repentance, and to prepare themselves for the Lord against his coming.* For he addeth expressly, that the kingdom of heaven is at hand,
that is to say, that that time approached, yea was present, wherein GOD by his Prophets had promised, that he would pour forth by his Son all the treasures of his grace and gifts upon men, and that he would reign in them.
Unto this doctrine he addeth the famous and holy Sacrament of Baptism, whereby he might represent even visibly the mysteries of GOD, to the worshippers of GOD, and gather together into one body the faithful people, and graft them into Christ.
For the Lord is conueyed by the counsell of the Angell of the Lorde into Egypt,m where hee laye hidde vntill the vengeance of GOD had destroyed that wicked murtherer.n whiche thinges were forewarning tokens of the kingdome of Christ, and of the affaires to come of the Church, wherin Christ ye only saluation, the appoynted king ouer ⟨image 9⟩all the worlde, is alway assaulted of the wicked, and yet doeth hee the meane while woorke the saluation of the faythfull, and by suffering continually obteineth the victorie: and yet so, that the Godlye notwithstanding are exercised with continuall temptations and afflictions to their owne profite and glorye.o The third and fourth Chapter sette forth vnto thee, reader, a clearer and plainer manifestation of our Lorde Iesus Christe the Sauiour of the worlde. For the Father doth not now shew his Sonne to a fewe and to certayne chosen for the purpose, or by one or two reuelations, as hetherto wee sawe hee did: but made him knowen to all the worlde, and that by innumerable and moste euident demonstrations and proofes, and proposed him to bee beholden most manifestlye with all his treasures.4pFor first hee calleth foorth Iohn the sonne of Zacharie the priest, the verye Helias promised in the Prophetes, a man of most holye life, and of verye greate authoritie emong the people ⟨image 9⟩of the Iewes, and maketh him his messenger to preache the comming of his sonne into the fleshe, and too prepare the mindes of all men, that they might bee the more readye to receiue Christ, when hee came. Therefore this Helias (Iohn the Baptist) commeth forth, and exhorteth all men to repentaunce, and to prepare themselues for the Lord against his comming.* For he addeth expressely, that the kingdome of heauen is at hande,i that is to saye, that that time approched, yea was present, wherein GOD by his Prophetes had promised, that hee woulde powre foorth by his Sonne all the treasures of his grace and giftes vppon men, and that hee woulde raigne in them.* Vnto this doctrine hee addeth the famous and holy Sacrament of Baptisme, whereby hee might represent euen visibly the mysteries of GOD, to the woorshippers of GOD, and geather together into one bodye the faithfull people, and graffe them into Christ.q
mFrom the 19 ver. unto the end of the chapter.From the 19 ver. vnto the end of the chapter.
nThe mystical sense of the 2. Chapter.The mysticall sense of the 2. Chapter.
oA brief argument of the third and fourth chapter.A briefe argumēt of the third and fourth chapter.
4The 3. chap.
pFrom the first verse unto the thirtienth.From the first verse vnto the thirtienth.
*In the 2. chap.
iWhat is meant by the kingdom of heaven.What is meāt by the kingdome of heauen.
And then the heavenly father calleth forth ⟨image 10⟩also his own son forth of Galilee, where he lay hid hitherto, into Jury, that, because the minds of the common people seemed now sufficiently prepared by the baptist to receive Christ, he himself might come forth in open view now, declaring & showing himself to the world no longer by the testimony of others, but by his own doctrine, and by his own virtues. Therefore the Lord cometh into Jury unto Jordan, where John taught and baptised into Christ, and he also is baptised of John.
And then the heauenly father calleth forth ⟨image 10⟩also his own sonne forth of Galilee, where he lay hidde hitherto, into Iurie, that, because the mindes of the common people seemed now sufficiently prepared by the baptist to receiue Christ, he himself might come foorth in open view now, declaring & shewing himself to the world no longer by the testimonie of others, but by his own doctrine, and by his owne vertues. Therefore the Lorde commeth into Iurie vnto Iordane, where Iohn taught and baptised into Christe, and hee also is baptised of Iohn.
rMoreover the Baptist acknowledgeth forthwith the Saviour of the world, and therefore witnesseth in most manifest words, that this very self same is the Son of GOD, the lamb of GOD, which should take away the sins of the world, of whom hitherto he spake, for whom he commanded all men to wait, and now repeating the very self same thing fervently, he sendeth all men to Christ only.s Furthermore the heavenly father addeth hereunto from heaven his honourable and strange witness. ⟨image 10⟩For after that the heavens were opened, and the holy Ghost was lighted upon the head of Christ in the visible likeness of an heavenly dove, he sayeth, as it were pointing forth his finger toward Christ,t and also adding thereunto a most clear voice, This is my dearly beloved Son, yea and so thoroughly beloved, that for his sake only, I am now thoroughly pleased and reconciled to the world, wherewith for their sins I was most grievously offended.*vAnd he, after so excellent a testimony did not forthwith preach him self, and set forth himself to be beholden and enjoyed of all men, but entering into the barriers, or wrestling place of most strong temptations, wherein Adam fighting unhappily was subdued, he now the second Adam, contending more haply, both conquereth Satan the conqueror, and taught us also to conquer him being conquered:x and now being conqueror, cometh forth at the last with great authority, as the Lord of the Devil, and ⟨image 11⟩of all things, and promiseth his worshippers life, and every good thing, yea and the kingdom of heaven also, preaching the grace of GOD, and the forgiveness of sins, and exhorting all men to the amendment of life.
rMoreouer the Baptist acknowledgeth forthwith the Sauiour of the world, and therefore witnesseth in most manifest woordes, that this verie selfe same is the Sonne of GOD, the lambe of GOD, whiche shoulde take awaye the sinnes of the worlde, of whom hitherto hee spake, for whom hee commaunded all men to wayte, and now repeating the very selfe same thing feruently, he sendeth all men to Christ onely.s Furthermore ye heauēly father addeth hereunto from heauen his honourable and strange witnesse. ⟨image 10⟩For after that the heauens were opened, and the holy Ghost was lighted vppon the head of Christe in the visible likenesse of an heauenly doue, hee saieth, as it were poynting foorth his finger toward Christ,t and also adding thereunto a most cleere voyce, This is my dearelie beloued Sōne, yea and so thorowly beloued, that for his sake onely, I am nowe thorowly pleased and reconciled to the worlde, wherewith for their sinnes I was moste greeuously offended.*vAnd hee, after so excellent a testimonie did not foorthwith preache him selfe, and sette foorth himselfe to bee beholden and inioyed of all men, but entering into the barries, or wreastling place of most strong temptations, wherein Adam fighting vnhappely was subdued, hee nowe the second Adam, contending more happelye, both conquereth Satan the cōquerour, and taught vs also to conquere him being conquered:x and nowe beyng conquerour, commeth foorth at the last with greate authoritye, as the Lorde of the Deuill, and ⟨image 11⟩of all thinges, and promiseth his woorshippers life, and euerye good thing, yea and the kingdome of heauen also, preaching the grace of GOD, and the forgiuenesse of sinnes, and exhorting all men to the amendement of lyfe.
rIn the 14. & 15. verse.
sIn the 16. ve.
tIn the 17. ve.
*The 4. chap.
vFrom the 1. ver. unto ye 12.From the 1. ver. vnto ye 12.
xFrom the 12 ver. unto ye 18.From the 12 ver. vnto ye 18.
yFurthermore that we might understand, that this promising of life, and preaching of grace doeth not only pertain to the men of that age, but also unto all men, which should come after, even to the end of the world, he chooseth to him self Disciples, whom he might appoint witnesses in the world of all things, which he spake and did, and whom he might thoroughly teach the mystery of life, that they being perfectly instructed, might commend both by lively voice and by writings living for ever, the treasures of the grace of God, bestowed through Christ upon all the world and in all ages, and that they might as it were distribute the same. zHe addeth hereunto notable and great benefits, in curing by his virtue and ⟨image 11⟩power all diseases, although uncurable.a For so doeth he declare unto us all, not only in words, but also even by his virtue and power, that he is even such, as his doctrine setteth him forth, that is to say, the Saviour of the world, which both is willing and able to save them which worship him: and therefore they also ought to commit themselves by faith to him only.b These be the holy and wholesome documents, which thou learnest in these two chapters, so that the very majesty and profit of so great a matter may cause thee to be studious and diligent, except thou be altogether a stock.c Among other things, which Matthew hath set forth unto us in this fourth chapter before going he hath given us a certain taste of the sermons of the doctrine of Christ touching repentance, and forgiveness of sins, that is to say, of the mystery of the Gospel and grace of GOD, I mean of the acknowledging and confessing of our ⟨image 12⟩sins, and of the turning from our sins to the living GOD, through the faith of Jesus Christ, whereby we obtain remission of our sins and everlasting life, so many of us as believe with all our hearts:d
yFurthermore that wee might vnderstande, that this promising of life, and preaching of grace doeth not onelye pertayne to the men of that age, but also vnto all men, whiche shoulde come after, euen to the ende of the world, hee chooseth to him selfe Disciples, whom hee might appoynt witnesses in the worlde of all thinges, which he spake and did, and whom hee might thorowely teache the mysterye of lyfe, that they beeyng perfectlye instructed, might commende bothe by liuely voyce and by writinges liuing for euer, the treasures of the grace of God, bestowed through Christe vppon all the worlde and in all ages, and that they might as it were distribute the same. zHe addeth heereunto notable and greate benefites, in curing by his vertue and ⟨image 11⟩power all diseases, although vncurable.a For so doeth hee declare vnto vs all, not onelye in woordes, but also euen by his vertue and power, that hee is euen suche, as his doctrine setteth him foorth, that is to say, the Sauiour of the worlde, whiche both is willing and able to saue them whiche woorshippe him: and therefore they also ought to committe themselues by fayth to him onelye.b These bee the holye and wholesome documentes, whiche thou learnest in these two chapters, so that the verye maiestie and profite of so greate a matter may cause thee to bee studious and diligent, except thou bee altogether a stocke.c Emong other thinges, whiche Matthewe hath sette foorth vnto vs in this fourth chapter before goyng hee hath giuen vs a certaine taste of the sermons of the doctrine of Christe touching repentaunce, and forgiuenesse of sinnes, that is to saye, of the mysterye of the Gospell and grace of GOD, I meane of the acknowledging and confessing of our ⟨image 12⟩sinnes, and of the turning from our sinnes to the liuing GOD, through the faith of Iesus Christ, whereby wee obtayne remission of our sinnes and euerlasting life, so many of vs as beleeue with all our heartes:d
yFrom the 18. verse unto the 23.From the 18. verse vnto the 23.
zFrom the 23. verse to the end of the chapter.
aThe use of the Miracles of Christ.The vse of the Miracles of Christ.
bA brief remembrance of the contents of these two chapters before going.A briefe remē brance of the contentes of these two chapters before going.
cA brief repetition of the fourth chapter.A briefe repetition of the fourth chapter.
dA brief argument of the 5.6 and 7. chapters.A briefe argument of the 5.6 and 7. chapters.
now the same Author Matthew goeth forward and expoundeth in the three chapters following other chief places also of the doctrine of Christ, not using now his accustomed briefness, that is to say, registering only the sum of the Lord his talk, but setting forth at large, Christ his whole sermon, even as it was made by himself, that we might thereby judge more certainly and rightly of all the doctrine of Christ, and that after repentance and remission of sins, being two chief points of our religion, we might also more fully understand other very excellent places of Christian religion.e The oration or sermon of Christ is spent in teaching and expounding, and in some places also in giving of precepts, being therefore divers and made of divers matters.*fFor first he disputeth ⟨image 12⟩plainly of the true blessedness or happiness, showing in what things it doth consist, and in the mean season privily confuting the foolish and corrupt opinions of the common people touching the true felicity.g Then he cometh to purge the law. For the Pharisees had corrupted it with their traditions, and made it obscure with their false expositions. Therefore he showeth manifestly by certain examples taken forth of the law, which is the natural sense of the law, and what the law of GOD requireth of us, setting forth with all the difference of true and counterfeit righteousness.*hAnd because he reasoned of righteousness, and among all the works of righteousness the most excellent are alms, or mercifulness, or bountifulness, also prayer or a fervent talking with God, and fasting, or the chastising of the body, and of our flesh, therefore our Lord purgeth these works of righteousness, or exercises of godliness, from hypocrisy, wherewith the Pharisees had polluted them, restoring them to ⟨image 13⟩their ancient and natural beauty,i and showing most worthily how we should give our alms aright,k how we should pray truly,l and how we should fast religiously.m Hereupon forsomuche as it is most manifest, that none other affection doeth so greatly withdraw us from all godliness and righteousness, as the desire of having, and the overmuch curious carefulness for meat, drink, and cloth, and other things needful.
nowe the same Authour Matthewe goeth forwarde and expoūdeth in the three chapters folowing other chiefe places also of the doctrine of Christ, not vsing now his accustomed briefenesse, that is to say, regestring only the summe of the Lorde his talke, but setting foorth at large, Christe his whole sermon, euen as it was made by himselfe, that wee might thereby iudge more certainely and rightly of all the doctrine of Christ, and that after repentance and remission of sinnes, beeing two chiefe pointes of our religion, wee might also more fully vnderstande other verye excellent places of Christian religion.e The oration or sermon of Christe is spent in teaching and expounding, and in some places also in giuing of preceptes, beeyng therefore diuers and made of diuers matters.*fFor first hee disputeth ⟨image 12⟩plainely of the true blessednesse or happinesse, shewing in what thinges it doth consist, and in the meane season priuily confuting the foolishe and corrupt opinions of the common people touching the true felicitie.g Then hee commeth to purge the lawe. For the Pharisees had corrupted it with their traditions, and made it obscure with their false expositions. Therefore hee sheweth manifestly by certayne examples taken foorth of the lawe, whiche is the naturall sense of the lawe, and what the lawe of GOD requireth of vs, setting foorth with all the difference of true and counterfaite righteousnesse.*hAnd because hee reasoned of righteousnesse, and emonge all the woorkes of righteousnesse the moste excellent are almes, or mercifulnesse, or bountifulnesse, also prayer or a feruent talking with God, and fasting, or the chastising of the bodye, and of our fleshe, therefore our Lorde purgeth these woorkes of righteousnesse, or exercises of godlinesse, from hypocrisie, wherewith the Pharisees had polluted them, restoring them to ⟨image 13⟩their auncient and naturall beautie,i and shewing moste woorthily howe wee shoulde geue our almes aright,
eThe quality of Christ his Sermon.The qualitie of Christ his Sermon.
*The 5 chap.
fFrom the 1. ver. unto ye 17.From the 1. ver. vnto ye 17.
gFrom the 17. ver. unto the end of the chapter.From the 17. ver. vnto the end of the chapter.
*The 6. chap.
hA brief argument of the first part of the 6. chap. From the 1. ver. unto the 19A briefe argument of ye first part of the 6. chap. From ye 1. ver. vnto the 19
iFrom the first verse unto ye 5.From the first verse vnto ye 5.
kFrom the 5. verse unto the 16.From the 5. verse vnto the 16.
lFrom the 16. verse unto ye 19From the 16. verse vnto ye 19
mA brief reason of the treatise against covetousness in the end of the chapter.A briefe reason of the treatise against couetousnes in the end of the chapter.
nTherefore in the fourth place he dissuadeth us by his grave speech from covetousness, and plucketh up aptly overmuch carefulness, that is to say, wicked mistrust, forth of the hearts of his servants, and ingraffeth again faith towards GOD, and a faithful desire of religion and righteousness.*oAfterwards signifying with great faithfulness and diligence, that the rash judgement of men touching other men, I mean backbiting and slandering, ought to be avoided, he teacheth us to use our tongue moderately ⟨image 13⟩and rightly. For there springeth no less troubles forth of the abuse of the tongue, than forth of covetousness and the desire of having.p Moreover because all these things are made perfect in us by divine virtue through the benefit of grace, not through our own strength, therefore the Lord doeth exhort, profitably and in place, his worshippers to faithful prayers, whereby they may crave, that strength may be given them of God, least at any time they faint in doing their duty. Besides this he maketh most clear and most large promises, promising that he will hear the prayers of the faithful, ye thereby he may the more kindle & inflame in the godly the desire to pray.q And drawing into a brief sum all these things hitherto most plentifully proposed, he saith: All things, whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them, for this is the law & the Prophets rThen proposing two ways, and showing the manner, the reason, and the end of both the ways, he exhorteth us all to enter into that way, which indeed is the straighter ⟨image 14⟩and rougher, but yet leadeth us in unto life everlasting.s Again because he had spoken of the way, through the which men go to destruction, he giveth diligent warding forthwith, least any where the godly should be led out of the way to their destruction, by the practises and deceitfulness of false Prophets, whom he painteth forth in their colours, least they should deceive the simple with their goodly show, and least the godly should be plucked from the way of truth into the incumbrances of heresies, and unto their utter ruin.t
nTherefore in the fourth place hee disswadeth vs by his graue speache from couetousnesse, and plucketh vp aptlye ouermuche carefulnesse, that is to saie, wicked mistrust, foorth of the heartes of his seruauntes, and ingraffeth agayne fayth towardes GOD, and a faithfull desire of religion and righteousnesse.*oAfterwardes signifiyng with greate faithfulnesse and diligence, that the rashe iudgement of men touching other men, I meane backebyting and sclaundering, ought to bee auoyded, he teacheth vs to vse our tongue moderately ⟨image 13⟩and rightly. For there springeth no lesse troubles foorth of the abuse of the tongue, than foorth of couetousnesse and the desire of hauing.p Moreouer because all these thinges are made perfect in vs by diuine vertue through the benefite of grace, not through our owne strength, therefore the Lorde doeth exhorte, profitably and in place, his worshippers to faithfull prayers, whereby they maye craue, that strength may be giuen them of God, least at any time they faint in doing their dutie. Besides this he maketh most cleare and most large promises, promising that hee will heare the prayers of the faithfull, ye therby he may the more kindle & inflame in ye godly the desire to pray.q And drawing into a briefe summe all these thinges hitherto most plētifully proposed, he saith: All things, whatsoeuer ye would that mē should doe to you, do ye euen so to thē, for this is the law & the Prophets rThē proposing two wayes, and shewing the manner, the reason, and the end of both the wayes, hee exhorteth vs all to enter into that way, which indeede is the straighter ⟨image 14⟩and rougher, but yet leadeth vs in vnto life euerlasting.s Againe because hee had spokē of the way, through the which men goe to destruction, hee giueth diligent warding foorthwith, least any where the godly shoulde bee ledde out of the way to their destruction, by the practises and deceiptfulnesse of false Prophetes, whom he paynteth foorth in their colours, least they should deceiue the simple with their goodlie shewe, and least the godly should be plucked from the way of truth into the incumbrances of heresies, and vnto their vtter ruine.
nFrom the 19 verse unto the end of the chapter.From the 19 verse vnto the end of the chapter.
*The seventh chapter.The seuēth chapter.
oFrom the 1. verse unto the 7.From the 1. verse vnto the 7.
pFrom the 7 verse unto the 12.From the 7 verse vnto the 12.
qIn the 12. verse.
rIn the 13. & 14. verses.
sFrom the 15. verse unto the 21.From the 15. verse vnto the 21.
tFrom the 21. vers. unto the 24.From the 21. vers. vnto the 24.
At the last concluding this most divine sermon, he showeth plainly in the last place, that none outward show doth profit any man to the making perfect of godliness,v therefore he giveth us to understand that it is not sufficient for the obtaining of godliness and everlasting life, to hear and understand the word of GOD, or to brag with lofty words, except we express the same also by the most holy works of faith and virtues: and this doeth he declare by a feigned narration or a very ⟨image 14⟩proper parable, and setteth it forth before all mens eyes, exhorting every one of us to the true study of true godliness, which hath the continuing and most sweet fruit of everlasting life.x And this is the argument and sum of all the oration, which our Lord and saviour Christ made to all people in the mountain. Thereof Saint Augustine saith: It appeareth that this sermon containeth perfectly all those precepts wherewith Christian life is instructed. 3yMatthew hath recited in the three chapters before going the whole sermon of Christ, that he might give us a taste, and as it were gather together the sum of all the doctrine of Christ,z and in these two chapters following he setteth forth plainly the virtue and the exceeding great power of Christ, by gathering together very many his miraculous benefits, and proposeth the same power being so set forth to be diligently considered of all mena that thereby all the world may gather that ⟨image 15⟩Jesus Christ is the living, true, and almighty Son, of the living and almighty GOD: and that he is not only almighty, but that he is also most bountiful, which came to convert, to heal, and to save sinners. This doth he prove, I say, most evidently by the most divine and most strange miracles wrought by Christ, whereof this is the sum.*bFirst he cleanseth the Leper, which made suit unto him.c Then he restoreth to life and perfect health a certain Centurion his servant, being ready to give up the Ghost forthwith, and as it were dead.d After this he healeth Saint Peter his wives mother lying sick of a fever:e and to be brief cuteth all the infirmities of all.
At the last concluding this most diuine sermon, he sheweth plainelye in the last place, that none outward shew doth profite any man to the making perfect of godlinesse,v therefore hee giueth vs to vnderstande that it is not sufficient for the obtayning of godlinesse and euerlasting life, to heare and vnderstande the worde of GOD, or to bragge with loftie woordes, except wee expresse the same also by the most holy woorkes of faith and vertues: and this doeth hee declare by a feyned narration or a verye ⟨image 14⟩proper parable, and setteth it foorth before all mens eyes, exhorting euerye one of vs to the true studie of true godlinesse, whiche hath the continuing and moste sweete fruite of euerlasting life.x And this is the argument and summe of all the oration, whiche our Lorde and sauiour Christe made to all people in the mountaine. Thereof Saint Augustine saith: It appeareth that this sermon conteyneth perfectlye all those preceptes wherewith Christian life is instructed. 3yMatthewe hath recited in the three chapters before goyng the whole sermon of Christe, that hee might geue vs a taste, and as it were geather together the summe of all the doctrine of Christe,z and in these two chapters following hee setteth foorth plainlye the vertue and the exceeding great power of Christe, by geathering together verye many his myraculous benefites, and proposeth the same power beeyng so sette foorth to bee diligentlye considered of all mena that thereby all the worlde maye geather that ⟨image 15⟩Iesus Christe is the liuing, true, and almighty sonne, of the liuing and almightie GOD: and that hee is not onely almighty, but that hee is also most bountifull, whiche came to conuert, to heale, and to saue sinners. This doth he proue, I say, most euidently by the most diuine and most strange miracles wrought by Christ, whereof this is the summe.*b
vFrom the 24. verse unto the end of the chap.From the 24. verse vnto the end of the chap.
xThe conclusion of the exposition of the sermon.The conclusiō of the exposition of the sermon.
3Augustine.
yMatthew his purpose in the 3. chap. last before going.Matthevv his purpose in the 3. chap. last before goyng.
zHis purpose in the 2. chapters following.His purpose in the 2. chapters folowing.
aThe use of the miracles of Jesus Christ.The vse of the miracles of Iesus Christ.
*The eight chapter.
bFrom the 1. verse unto ye 5.From the 1. verse vnto ye 5.
cFrom the 5. verse unto the 14.From the 5. verse vnto the 14.
dIn the 14. & 15. verse.
eFrom the 16. verse unto the 19.From the 16. verse vnto the 19.
fMoreover rebuking the very Sea, being a most barbarous Element, and raging with cruel tempests, he made it more calm than any oil.g Straight way after he draweth unto him by his hid virtue, two possessed with Devils, who breaking into pieces all their bolts and chains, were very troublesome to passengers, ⟨image 15⟩and could not be kept in order by the skill or strength of any, forth of these miserable creatures he casteth a whole legion of devils and restoreth them to their first health.
fMoreouer rebuking the very Sea, beyng a most barbarous Element, and raging with cruel tempests, he made it more calme than any oyle.g Straight way after he draweth vnto him by his hid vertue, two possessed with Deuils, who breaking into peeces all their boltes and chaines, were verye troublesome to passengers, ⟨image 15⟩and could not be kept in order by the skill or strength of any, foorth of these miserable creatures hee casteth a whole legion of diuels and restoreth them to their first health.
fFrom the 23. verse unto the 28.From the 23. verse vnto the 28.
gFrom the 28. verse unto the end of the chapter.From the 28. verse vnto the end of the chapter.
*hFurthermore, he so delivered from a most grievous disease, a man sick of a palsy lying in a bed, not a man, but more truly the miserable carcass of a man, that forthwith he standing on his feet walked lustily, which hitherto was borne of others, and to make short, he him self bare his bed strongly on his shoulders, whereby whilst he was sick he was stayed up.i And then is Levi (otherwise called Matthew) called to repentance,k and also a great hope is opened unto sinners, which turn to Christ.l After these things were thus done, the incurable disease of the woman, which was pitifully diseased with an issue of blood, is cured.m Also Jairus his daughter, which was dead, is called back to life.n And two blind men receive their sight,o and a certain man in very miserable plight is delivered from a dumb Devil.p Neither wrought he these few miracles ⟨image 16⟩only, but going through all cities and villages, and preaching the Gospel of the kingdom, he healed all sicknesses and all diseases among the people.q By all these miracles Matthew the apostle declareth unto us, & proveth as it were by most strong & unrefutable arguments & testimonies, that Christ is the true Son of the true God, the Lord of all things, I mean of all elements, of all diseases and afflictions, of all sins, of the Devil, and of death it self: and that therefore he came into this world, that he might make us the Lords of all things, and the sons of God, namely if we receive him with true faith.r Therefore Matthew his purpose is, not only to describe by the deeds of Christ, the virtue of Christ, and that he is the bountiful and liberal bestower of all good things, but also to paint forth their faith and all their manners which received the benefits of Christ.s For of them, as of lively examples, we learn what manner of faith ours ought to be, and how we should behave our selves; that we may be made partakers of the benefits of God, that is to say, how we may become the ⟨image 16⟩sons of God, and the Lords of things, whom neither sin, nor death, nor the devil himself can hurt, if we following their examples, do those things, which they did.t Now he intermedleth among these miracles certain things in the 8. Chapter touching thev calling to the faith of the Gospel, and in the 9.
*hFurthermore, hee so deliuered from a most greeuous disease, a man sicke of a palsie lying in a bedde, not a man, but more truly ye miserable carkasse of a man, that foorthwith hee standing on his feete walked lustily, which hetherto was borne of others, and to make shorte, he him selfe bare his bed stronglie on his shoulders, whereby whilest he was sicke he was staied vp.i And then is Leui (otherwise called Matthew) called to repentance,k and also a great hope is opened vnto sinners, which turne to Christe.l After these things were thus done, the incurable disease of the woman, which was pittifully diseased with an issue of blood, is cured.m Also Iairus his daughter, which was dead, is called back to life.n And two blinde men receiue their sight,o and a certaine man in very miserable plight is deliuered from a dumbe Diuel.p Neither wrought he these few myracles ⟨image 16⟩only, but going through all cities and villages, and preaching the Gospell of the kingdome, he healed all sicknesses and all diseases among the people.q By all these myracles Matthew the apostle declareth vnto vs, & proueth as it were by most strōg & vnrefutable arguments & testimonies, that Christe is the true sonne of the true God, the Lorde of all thinges, I meane of all elements, of all diseases and afflictiōs, of all sinnes, of the Diuell, and of death it selfe: and that therefore hee came into this worlde, that hee might make vs the Lordes of all thinges, and the sonnes of God, namely if wee receiue him with true faith.r Therefore Matthew his purpose is, not only to describe by the deedes of Christ, the vertue of Christ, and that he is the bountifull and liberall bestower of all good things, but also to paint foorth their faith and all their maners which receiued the benefites of Christ.
*The 9. chap.
hFrom the 1. ver. unto the 9.From the 1. ver. vnto the 9.
iIn the 9. ver.
kFrom the 10. ver. unto the 14From the 10. ver. vnto the 14
lFrom the 20. ver. unto ye 23.From the 20. ver. vnto ye 23.
mIn the 18. & 19. ver. & from the 23. ver▪ unto the 27.In the 18. & 19. ver. & from the 23. ver▪ vnto the 27.
nFrom the 27 ver. unto the 32From the 27 ver. vnto the 32
oFrom the 32. ver. unto the 35.From the 32. ver. vnto the 35.
pIn the 35 ver.
qwhat we must learn by these miracles.what we must learne by these myracles.
rThe manner of Matthew his writing.The maner of Matthew his writing.
sWhat we must learn of them, upon whom Christ wrought his miracles.What wee must learne of them, vpon whō Christ wrought his myracles.
tCertain points omitted purposely in the narration before going.Certaine points omitted purposely in the narration before going.
vIn the 8 chap. the 11. and 12. ver. & the 19.20.22. & 22. verse.
chapter concerningx fasting, and certain other things, which also make to the setting forth of the virtue of faith, and of the power and gentleness of the Lord.y And it is a very evident and familiar kind of doctrine to teach by history or examples, that is to say, rather by deeds then by words: therefore the three first Evangelists do more often handle the doings of Christ then declare his sayings. And in deed Christ seemeth unto us to be much more lively, when he worketh miracles than when he teacheth. For although his doctrine had a divine efficacy and force also, yet do his deeds after a sort excel, exercising and approving that which is taught. Let no man therefore contemn the former Evangelists in comparison of John, because he seemeth to be more often occupied &. more diligent ⟨image 17⟩in opening the words of Christ: whose words also have their majesty: for the holy Ghost hath directed the minds and pens of all the Evangelists to this purpose, that we might have, forth of four authors of sufficient credit, a most certain & undoubted history of all the words and deeds of Christ.z It appeareth also by those things, which have been handled hitherto, that Matthew in the beginning used a natural order, and somewhat after an artificial, & that he goeth forward now chiefly in this order, because it is most fit to teach by. For he seemeth to have a care, not so much to set forth faithfully that which was said & done by the Lord, as to place every thing in his own place and order, and fitly to teach by fit order, and chiefly to move the minds of the hearers, yea and to engraft most deeply Christ, and faith in Christ.a Hitherto Matthew hath reported a certain abridgement of all the doctrine of Christ the Lord, whereby he plentifully instructed his worshippers in true godliness: hereunto he hath joined certain of his greatest miracles, even divine and wonderful ⟨image 17⟩works, whereby he hath declared that he is the mighty and gentle Lord of all things, which can make them also, that stick unto him by true faith, Lords of sin, of death, of Satan, and of all things else. In this business he had chosen to himself witnesses, whom hitherto he made both be holders and hearers of all his matters, as well of his sayings, as of his doings:
chapter concerningx fasting, and certaine other things, which also make to the setting foorth of the vertue of faith, and of the power and gentlenesse of the Lord.y And it is a very euident and familiar kinde of doctrine to teach by historie or examples, that is to say, rather by deedes then by wordes: therfore the three first Euangelistes doe more often handle the doings of Christ then declare his sayings. And in deede Christe seemeth vnto vs to bee much more liuely, when he worketh myracles than when he teacheth. For although his doctrine had a diuine efficacie and force also, yet do his deedes after a sort excel, exercising and approuing that which is taught. Let no man therfore contemne ye former Euangelistes in cōparison of Iohn, because he seemeth to be more often occupied &. more diligēt ⟨image 17⟩in opening the wordes of Christ: whose wordes also haue their maiestie: for the holy Ghost hath directed the mindes and pennes of all the Euangelists to this purpose, that wee might haue, foorth of foure authours of sufficient credite, a most certaine & vndoubted historie of al the words and deedes of Christ.z It appeareth also by those thinges, which haue beene handeled hitherto, that Matthew in the beginning vsed a naturall order, and somewhat after an artificial, & that he goeth forward now chiefly in this order, because it is most fitte to teach by. For he seemeth to haue a care, not so much to set foorth faithfully that which was said & done by the Lorde, as to place euery thing in his owne place and order, and fitly to teach by fitte order, and chiefly to moue the mindes of the hearers, yea and to ingraffe moste deepely Christ, and faith in Christ.a Hitherto Matthew hath reported a certain abridgement of all ye doctrine of Christ the Lord, wherby he plentifully instructed his worshippers in true godlinesse: heerevnto he hath ioyned certaine of his greatest miracles, euen diuine and wonderfull ⟨image 17⟩workes, whereby he hath declared that he is the mightie and gentle Lorde of all things, which can make thē also, that stick vnto him by true faith, Lordes of sinne, of death, of Satan, and of all things els. In this businesse hee had chosen to himselfe witnesses, whom hitherto he made both be holders and hearers of all his matters, as well of his sayings, as of his doings:
xIn the 9. cha. From the 14. unto the 18 ver.In the 9. cha. From the 14. vnto the 18 ver.
yThe deeds and words of Christ.The deedes and words of Christ.
zWhat order Matthew usethWhat order Matthew vseth
aA brief rehearsal of those things which Matthew hath handled hitherto.A briefe rehearsall of those thinges whiche Matthew hath hādled hitherto.
to this end verily, that they might afterwards bring forth into all the world the charge of common salvation, now conceived & laid up in their minds.b And now they seemed sufficiently instructed in the rudiments and principles of faith and of Christian religion, therefore it was convenient that they should be further exercised therein, and by the means thereof prepared to greater matters:*cand therefore they are sent forth of the Lord him self to preach the Gospel now to the people of Israel only,d and are instructed in certain commandments. For the Lord doth diligently prescribe what they ought to do, & what their office is:e And he showeth them also what they shall suffer, yea how perilous a thing it is to be a minister of the ⟨image 18⟩word in a corrupt & unthankful age.f Therefore he comforteth his disciples worthily & finely with furnished talk, teaching them how they ought to continue constantly in all adversities in true godliness, & to overcome all evils.*gAfterward Matthew showeth, how the Lord Jesus himself, who only is commended & enjoined to the true preachers of God his word to be preached by them, disclosed himself, & made himself known to be the true Messiah, the only expected salvation of the world: which verily is the first & most sure foundation of all the Lord his preaching.h In the same place also is set forth the praise of John the Baptist, that is to say a most clear exam ple of a very good minister, proposed to all those, which are desirous to do their duty aright.i And forthwith is adjoined an excellent example of a sermon of the Lord. First, how he rebuked the stubborn unbelief of his own nation, & left a pattern of accusation & reproof to his ministers.k Then how he preached the kingdom of God to men of a better hope.l He showed that he hath the power of all things, & that he is the fountain of all goodness, which cannot be drawn dry, which is willing ⟨image 18⟩& desirous to be drawn,m and therefore he inviteth all men unto him, and promiseth to grant rest unto all men, in what distress so ever they be.*nThen doth he diligently handle the question of the religious keeping of the Sabbath, & admonishing by the way that bountifulness and the inward worshipping of God, is more allowed of God, than the outward keeping of the Sabbath.
to this ende verily, that they might afterwardes bring foorth into all the world the charge of common saluation, now conceiued & laid vp in their mindes.b And now they seemed sufficiently instructed in the rudiments and principles of faith and of Christiā religiō, therfore it was conuenient yt they shold be furder exercised therin, and by the meanes thereof prepared to greater matters:*cand therefore they are sent foorth of the Lorde him selfe to preach the Gospell now to the people of Israel only,d and are instructed in certaine commandements. For the Lord doth diligētly prescribe what they ought to do, & what their office is:e And he sheweth thē also what they shall suffer, yea how perilous a thing it is to be a minister of the ⟨image 18⟩worde in a corrupt & vnthankfull age.f Therefore he cōforteth his disciples worthily & finely with furnished talk, teaching them how they ought to continue constātly in all aduersities in true godlines, & to ouercome all euils.*gAfterward Matthew sheweth, how the Lorde Iesus himself, who only is cōmended & inioyned to the true preachers of God his worde to be preached by thē, disclosed himself, & made himselfe knowne to be the true Messias, ye only expected saluatiō of the world: which verily is the first & most sure foundatiō of all the Lord his preaching.h In the same place also is set foorth the prayse of Iohn the Baptist, that is to say a most cleere exā ple of a very good minister, proposed to al those, which are desirous to doe their duty aright.i And foorthwith is adioyned an excellent exāple of a sermon of the Lord. First, how he rebuked the stubborne vnbeliefe of his own nation, & left a paterne of accusation & reproofe to his ministers.
bFrom the 36. ver. unto the end of the chapter.From the 36. ver. vnto the end of the chapter.
*The 10. chap.
cFrom the 1. ver. unto the 7.From the 1. ver. vnto the 7.
dFrom the 7. ver. unto the 16From the 7. ver. vnto the 16
eIn the 16.17 & 18. verses.
fFrom the 19. verse unto the end of the chapter.From the 19. verse vnto the end of the chapter.
*The 11. cha.
gIn the 1. ver.
hFrom the 2. ver. unto the 16From the 2. ver. vnto the 16
iFrom the 16. ver. unto the 25From the 16. ver. vnto the 25
kIn the 25. & 26. ver.
lIn the 27. ver
mIn the 28.29. & 30. ver.
*The 12. cha.
nFrom the 1. verse unto the 9.From the 1. verse vnto the 9.
oMoreover that bountifulness, which lately he commended, he showeth to a certain miserable man very greatly afflicted with a withered hand, which he restored to him sound.p And because he could soften the hardness of the people of the Jews neither by any benefits, nor by any miracles, forsomuch as they did oftentimes conspire against him, he departeth from them for a time, practising nothing more bitter or more sharp against them, if peradventure they might be overcome with gentleness & long suffering, prescribing by the very same deed of his a form to his ministers, what they should do also in the like cases and with such manner of men. But he shrinketh not from his office, he leaveth not off to do good, neither forsaketh he the undertaken defence of the trueth, yielding no ⟨image 19⟩whit at all in these points to his enemies.q Therefore he delivereth from the Devil one possessed with a Devil, which was brought unto him, being blind and dumb, & restoreth unto him the use of his tongue and of his eyes:r and because the Pharisees did detract this divine deed, ascribing it to the working by the Devil,s the Lord taketh upon him the defence of the truth, & proveth by most strong arguments, that his miracles, works, yea and all his doings were wrought by the power of God & not of the Devil, and that therefore the kingdom of heaven was now come. And here doth he again most plainly set forth that, which lately we said was the chief point of our religion, namely, that Jesus is Christ.t And forthwith handling his adversaries, as they deserved, he rebuketh them most gravely. For he showeth at large their want of belief, or rather their ungodliness, & declareth what shall become of the contemners of the kingdom of God.v Lastly he putteth back his mother & his cousins, which were desirous to speak with him, by a somewhat hard answer, signifying thereby, that the least must not be yielded to carnal affections, so oft as the affairs of ⟨image 19⟩the kingdom of God are in handling.x In the three chapters last before going, Matthew hath entreated of the Ministers of God his word, and of certain chief points of our religion:y and now doeth there follow a more plentiful treatise of the word of GOD, of the virtue, fruit, and price thereof: which is fitly knit to the matter before going. For the ministry of the word of God is occupied in the very word of God.
oMoreouer yt bountifulnes, which lately he cōmended, he sheweth to a certaine miserable mā very greatly afflicted wt a withered hād, which he restored to him sound.p And because he could soften the hardnes of the people of the Iewes neither by any benefits, nor by any myracles, forsomuch as they did oftētimes cōspire against him, he departeth frō thē for a time, practising nothing more bitter or more sharpe against them, if peraduenture they might be ouercome with gentlenes & lōg suffering, prescribing by ye very same deed of his a forme to his ministers, what they should do also in the like cases and wt such maner of men. But hee shrinketh not from his office, hee leaueth not off to doe good, neither forsaketh hee the vndertaken defence of the trueth, yeeldyng no ⟨image 19⟩whit at all in these points to his enemies.q Therefore he deliuereth from the Diuell one possessed with a Deuill, which was brought vnto him, being blinde and dumbe, & restoreth vnto him the vse of his tongue and of his eyes:r and because the Pharisees did detract this diuine deed, ascribing it to the working by the Diuell,s the Lord taketh vpō him the defence of the truth, & proueth by most strong argumēts, yt his myracles, workes, yea and all his doings were wrought by the power of God & not of the Diuell, and that therefore the kingdome of heauē was now come. And here doth he againe most plainely set forth that, which lately wee said was the chiefe point of our religiō, namely, that Iesus is Christ.t And foorthwith hādeling his aduersaries, as they deserued, hee rebuketh thē most grauely. For he sheweth at large their want of belief, or rather their vngodlines, & declareth what shall become of the contēners of the kingdom of God.v Lastly he putteth backe his mother & his cousins, which were desirous to speake with him, by a somewhat hard answere, signifiing therby, yt the least must not be yelded to carnall affectiōs, so oft as the affaires of ⟨image 19⟩the kingdome of God are in handeling.
oFrom the 9. verse to the 14.
pFrom the 14. verse unto the 22.From the 14. verse vnto the 22.
qIn the 22. & 23. verses.
rIn the 24. verse.
sFrom the 25. ver. unto the 30From the 25. ver. vnto the 30
tFrom the 30. ver. unto the 46Frō the 30. ver. vnto the 46
vFrom the 46 ver. unto the end of the Chapter.From the 46 ver. vnto the end of the Chapter.
xA brief repetition of the 3. chapters last before going.A briefe repetition of the 3. chapters last before going.
yThe matter bandeled in the 2. chapters following.
And this treatise is set forth in parabolical speeches and similitudes, that at the least by this means the minds of the godly might be stirred up to the searching forth of the trueth and mysteries of God.*zAnd the first parable, proposed touching him which sowed seed in the field, showeth that there be divers kinds of hearers of God his word, and that God doth not allow all the hearers of his word, but them only, in whom the seed prospereth until it bring forth due fruit.a Forthwith by an other parable, that is to say by the similitude of the tares, he pointeth forth as it were with the finger an other fault also and plague of tilled land, teaching in the mean season, how good seed ⟨image 20⟩may be preserved sound.b After this by two other similitudes, taken from the grain of mustard seed and from leaven, he showeth how great the power of the word of God is, and how evidently it worketh in them by whom it is received, although it seem to the world vile and contemned.c In the fourth place by two other similitudes, proposed touching a treasure hid in the field, and a most precious pearl, he signifieth that the price of God his word is so great, that in comparison hereof we ought to contemn all things in the world, although they be never so precious, yea that we ought, with the very loss of all our goods, to provide us the word of God.d Again in setting forth the similitude of the net cast into the sea, he showeth plainly what shall become of them especially, which intermeddle them selves in the assembly of the godly, and yet are hypocrites and counterfeit godliness, teaching the mean while that we must not lightly condemn any forthwith, but leave every one to his own judge.e When as he had set forth these things after this manner, he commandeth his ministers ⟨image 20⟩also diligently to way the similitudes, and for the plainer setting forth of the trueth, and of the glory of the kingdom of GOD, and for the profit of the Church, to use all the kinds of elocution and apt speech.f And although the Lord taught in such sort, that no man was able to accuse either his faithful dealing or his diligence, yet was he little regarded and accepted of his country men, which contemned and laughed to scorn the heavenly doctrine of godliness.
And this treatise is set foorth in parabolicall speaches and similitudes, that at the least by this meanes the mindes of the godly might be stirred vp to the searching forth of the trueth and mysteries of God.*zAnd the first parable, proposed touching him which sowed seede in the fielde, sheweth that there be diuers kindes of hearers of God his worde, and that God doth not allowe all the hearers of his worde, but them onely, in whom the seede prospereth vntill it bring forth due fruite.a Forthwith by an other parable, that is to say by the similitude of the tares, hee pointeth forth as it were with the finger an other fault also and plague of tilled land, teaching in the meane season, howe good seede ⟨image 20⟩may be preserued sounde.b After this by two other similitudes, taken from the graine of mustarde seede and from leuen, hee sheweth howe great the power of the worde of God is, and howe euidently it worketh in them by whome it is receiued, although it seeme to the worlde vile and contemned.c In the fourth place by two other similituds, proposed touching a treasure hidde in the fielde, and a most precious pearle, he signifieth that the price of God his worde is so great, that in comparison hereof we ought to contemne all thinges in the worlde, although they bee neuer so precious, yea that we ought, with the very losse of all our goodes, to prouide vs the worde of God.d Againe in setting forth the similitude of the net cast into the sea, he sheweth plainely what shal become of them especially, which intermedle them selues in the assembly of the godly, and yet are hypocrites and counterfeite godlinesse, teaching the meane while that wee must not lightly condemn any forthwith, but leaue euery one to his owne iudge.e When as he had set foorth these things after this maner, he commaundeth his ministers ⟨image 20⟩also diligently to way the similitudes, and for the playner setting forth of the trueth, and of the glorie of the kingdome of GOD, and for the profite of the Churche, to vse all the kindes of elocution and apt speach.
*The 13. cha.
zFrom the first vers. unto ye 24.From the first vers. vnto ye 24.
aFrom the 24 vers. unto ye 31.From the 24 vers. vnto ye 31.
bIn the 31.32 &. 33. verses. In the 34. and 35. verses is showed the cause why Jesus spake by similitudes. From the 36 unto the 44. verse christ repoundeth the parable of the tares.In the 31.32 &. 33. verses. In the 34. and 35. verses is shewed the cause why Iesus spake by similitudes. From the 36 vnto the 44. verse christ repoundeth the parable of the tares.
cIn the 44, 45 and 46. verses.
dFrom the 47 verse unto ye 51From the 47 verse vnto ye 51
eIn the 51 and 52. verses.
fFrom the 53. verse unto the end of the chapter.From the 53. verse vnto the end of the chapter.
But he bare this with a valiant mind, giving an example to all his ministers, that they may also take the matter patiently, if the world also little regard them.*gAnd then doth Matthew forthwith set forth the wonderful example of that very good man John the Baptist, who also was very evil rewarded of Herod for his faithful service, being most pitifully beheaded of him.h After this he fed in the wilderness by his divine power a great multitude of men, which with marvellous ferventness thirsted the preaching of the word: showing by the miracle, that the faithful followers of the word ⟨image 21⟩of God shall want nothing at any time, especially of those things which are necessary and not superfluous. And by the same fact he taught his disciples to help the faithful people having need.i Lastly he delivereth his disciples, which were in peril of the storms of the sea and of a great tempest, and which looked for nothing else but most present death: declaring so unto his, that he is he, which can deliver all from all perils, and can save all men by his power and grace, chiefly the ministers of his word. Therefore if the cruel and fearful example of John did any whit terrify them, these two great and goodly benefits of God do confirm and comfort them again.*kUnto the treatise of the word of God is fitly joined by Matthew the disputation touching the traditions of men, or the ordinances and constitutions of Fathers, as contrary to the word of God. Christ teacheth us manifestly to contemn them, if they tend to the contumely, derogation, and contempt of God his word. And because the Pharisees the patrons and defenders of mens traditions, were offended at this ⟨image 21⟩wholesome doctrine of the Lord, the Lord showeth forthwith, that no accounts at all ought to be made of such kind of offence, and of such kind of men: declaring the mean season, that man is not defiled with outward things, but rather with those evil things, which proceed out of the closets of the heart.l After that withdrawing himself from those indurate and unthankful men, he departed into the country of the Gentiles, where forthwith a woman of Syrophenissa being endued with a most strong faith made a most earnest request unto him: in whom there is set forth most manifestly both a marvellous example of true faith, and also the effect thereof.
But he bare this with a valient minde, giuing an example to all his ministers, that they may also take the matter paciently, if the world also litle regard them.*gAnd then doth Matthewe forthwith sette foorth the wonderfull example of that very good man Iohn the Baptist, who also was very euill rewarded of Herode for his faithful seruice, being most pitifully beheaded of him.h After this he fed in the wildernesse by his diuine power a great multitude of men, which wt merueylous feruentnes thirsted the preaching of the word: shewing by ye miracle, yt the faithful folowers of ye word ⟨image 21⟩of God shall want nothing at any time, especially of those thinges whiche are necessarie and not superfluous. And by the same fact he taught his disciples to helpe the faithfull people hauing neede.i Lastly he deliuereth his disciples, which were in perill of the stormes of the sea and of a great tempest, and whiche looked for nothing els but most present death: declaring so vnto his, that hee is hee, which can deliuer all from all perils, and can saue al men by his power and grace, chiefely the ministers of his worde. Therefore if the cruell and fearefull example of Iohn did any whitte terrifie them, these two great and goodly benefites of God do confirme and comfort them againe.*kVnto the treatise of the word of God is fitly ioyned by Matthewe the disputation touching the traditions of men, or the ordinances and constitutions of Fathers, as contrary to the worde of God. Christ teacheth vs manifestly to contemne them, if they tend to the contumelie, derogation, and contempt of God his worde. And because the Pharisees the patrons and defenders of mens traditions, were offended at this ⟨image 21⟩wholesome doctrine of the Lord, the Lord sheweth foorthwith, that no accomptes at all ought to bee made of such kinde of offence, and of such kinde of men: declaring the meane season, that man is not defiled with outwarde thinges, but rather with those euill thinges, which proceede out of the closets of the harte.
*The 14. cap
gFrom the first verse unto the 13From the first verse vnto the 13
hFrom the 13 verse unto the 22.From the 13 verse vnto the 22.
iFrom the 22. verse unto the end of the chap.Frō the 22. verse vnto the ende of ye chap.
*The 15. cha.
kFrom the 1. ver. unto ye 21.From the 1. ver. vnto ye 21.
lFrom the 21. verse unto the 29.From the 21. verse vnto the 29.
For after the reproof of false doctrine, which is the mother of false faith, there is set forth with great diligence in these 15, 16, and 17 chapters, as was also in the 8, and 9 chapters, true faith in the Lord, and the true nature of faith, and also in the same are opened the chiefest articles of our faith.m Moreover returning again into Galilee, he feedeth again the common people, which followed him, showing by this benefit also, that it is he, ⟨image 22⟩which can feed both the soul and the body, and that therefore this food must be sought for by faith only and most earnestly at the hands of the shepherd Christ.*nAfterwards he repelleth and putteth back the Pharisees requiring a sign, whereby he might prove himself to be the Messiah, by showing them the sign of his death & of his resurrection:o then doth he command his disciples to beware of the doctrine of the Pharisees & Sadducees: the which thing although he had taught in the beginning of the 15. chapt. yet both he here speak of it again in the 16 chapter, as a matter very necessary for the Church.p After that returning to the commendation of faith, he layeth the foundation of faith, buildeth the Church upon the foundation, and pointeth forth as it were with the finger, which is the true faith of the Catholic Church, & which is the true and right confession, showing also how the same may be planted.q Where unto he forthwith adjoineth a most manifest doctrine of his passion and resurrection, also of the denying of one his self and of the bearing of ⟨image 22⟩his cross after Christ, and of the judgement to come, that is to say, of the greatest articles of our faith, and of the holy duty of Christians, a doctrine altogether pertaining to the perfectness of faith.*rAgain least any should be offended at this sorrowful doctrine full of labours & pains touching the bearing of the cross, Matthew adjoineth here unto immediately the glorious transformation of Christ the Lord in the mountain, whereby he partly gave us a taste of what sort he should be in his glory, and what the manner of the glory to come is, which is prepared for them, which faithfully and patiently bear the cross of Christ: and partly he showeth also most evidently, that he is very Christ promised in the law and the prophets, that he might confirm the faith of all which believe in him.
For after the reproofe of false doctrine, which is the mother of false faith, there is set foorth with great diligence in these 15, 16, and 17 chapters, as was also in the 8, and 9 chapters, true faith in the Lorde, and the true nature of faith, and also in the same are opened the chiefest articles of our faith.m Moreouer returning againe into Galilee, he feedeth againe the common people, which followed him, shewing by this benefite also, that it is hee, ⟨image 22⟩which can feede both the soule and the bodie, and that therefore this foode must bee sought for by faith only and most earnestly at ye hands of the shepheard Christ.*nAfterwardes he repelleth and putteth backe the Pharisees requiring a signe, whereby he might proue himselfe to be ye Messias, by shewing them the signe of his death & of his resurrection:o then doth he commande his disciples to beware of the doctrine of the Pharisees & Sadduces: ye which thing althoug hee had taught in the beginning of ye 15. chapt. yet both he here speake of it againe in the 16 chapter, as a matter very necessary for ye Church.p After that returning to the commendatiō of faith, he layeth ye foundation of fayth, buildeth the Church vpon the foundation, and pointeth forth as it were with the finger, whiche is the true faith of the Catholike Church, & which is the true and right confession, shewing also howe the same may be planted.q Where vnto hee forthwith adioyneth a most manifest doctrine of his passion and resurrection, also of the deniyng of one his selfe and of the bearing of ⟨image 22⟩his crosse after Christ, and of the iudgement to come, that is to say, of the greatest articles of our faith, and of the holy duety of Christians, a doctrine altogether pertayning to the perfectnesse of faith.*rAgaine least any should be offended at this sorowful doctrine ful of labours & paines touching the bearing of the crosse, Matthewe adioyneth here vnto immediatly the glorious transformation of Christ the Lorde in the mountaine, whereby he partly gaue vs a tast of what sort he shoulde be in his glorie, and what the maner of the glory to come is, whiche is prepared for thē, whiche faithfully and paciently beare the crosse of Christ: and partly he sheweth also most euidently, that he is very Christ promised in the lawe and the prophetes, that hee might confirme the faith of all which beleeue in him.
mFrom the 29. verse unto the end of the chapter.From the 29. verse vnto the ende of the chapter.
*The 16. chapter.
nFrom the first verse unto ye 5.From the first verse vnto ye 5.
oFrom the 5. verse unto the 13.From the 5. verse vnto the 13.
pFrom the 13. verse unto the 21.From the 13. verse vnto the 21.
qFrom the 21 verse unto the end of the chapter.From the 21 verse vnto the end of the chapter.
*The 17. chapter.
rFrom the 1. ver. unto ye 14.From the 1. ver. vnto ye 14.
And he proposed those things so manifestly to his disciples, that they did now plainly understand, that Jesus was Christ, and that therefore they did move the question of the coming of Elijah the messenger of the Messiah, where unto the Lord answering ⟨image 23⟩forthwith, affirmed plainly that he was the Messiah, & that John Baptist was Elijah. sLastly he restored a certain Lunatic man unto his father, which made suit for him, declaring again by the same benefit, that he is the king of his people, and the conqueror of the Devil:t showing also how great the power of faith is, and how great the evil of unbelief is, concluding that by temperance and abstinence proceeding from a true faith, the force of the Devil is chiefly broken.v And hereunto doth he forthwith adjoin the preaching and foreshowing of his death and passion, not without great and plentiful fruit.x Faith in the Lord Jesus being well taught, and the true knowledge of the kingdom of the Son of God being well obtained, whereof Matthew hath hitherto entreated at large, he passeth now wisely to those things, which almost stand in the outward conversation of man, and which notwithstanding pertain to the kingdom of Christ.y Of the which kind the question concerning the Magistrate is: What Christians owe unto him? The Lord showeth ⟨image 23⟩therefore by his own example, what we ought to do herein rightly.*zLike unto this is the question touching ecclesiastical preeminence: Who should be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Here the Lord withdraweth the minds of his disciples from ambition and from the disputations raised touching the primacy and chief authority, and teaching them most diligently humility.a Then doth he adjoin hereunto a profitable admonition for the avoiding of offence:b where he entreateth also of brotherly admonition,c of reproving offenders openly, andd of forgiving a trespass, wherein gravely persuading all men, he setteth forth a most goodly parable concerning the same matter.*eHaving finished these things, he disputeth of divorce: he restoreth and reformeth the old and holy institution of holy matrimony:f he reciteth the kinds of chaste men, showing that single life is the singular gift of God.g And because marriage was ordained of God chiefly for the procreation of children, he showeth next after the restitution of marriage, how children are esteemed of ⟨image 24⟩God.h
And hee proposed those thinges so manifestly to his disciples, that they did nowe plainely vnderstande, that Iesus was Christ, and that therfore they did moue the question of the coming of Helias the messenger of the Messias, where vnto the Lord answering ⟨image 23⟩forthwith, affirmed plainely that hee was ye Messias, & that Iohn Baptist was Helias. sLastly he restored a certaine Lunatike man vnto his father, which made sute for him, declaring againe by the same benefit, that he is the king of his people, and the conquerour of the Diuell:t shewing also howe great the power of faith is, and howe greate the euill of vnbeleefe is, concluding that by temperance and abstinence proceeding from a true faith, the force of the Deuill is chiefely broken.v And herunto doth he forthwith adioyne the preaching and forshewing of his death and passion, not without great and plentifull fruite.x Faith in the Lorde Iesus beyng well taught, and the true knoweledge of the kingdome of the Sonne of God being well obtayned, whereof Matthewe hath hitherto intreated at large, he passeth nowe wisely to those thinges, which almost stande in the outwarde conuersation of man, and which notwithstanding perteyne to the kingdome of Christ.y Of the whiche kinde the question concerning the Magistrate is: What Christians owe vnto him? The Lorde sheweth ⟨image 23⟩therefore by his owne example, what wee ought to doe herein rightly.*zLike vnto this is the question touching ecclesiasticall preheminence: Who should be the greatest in the kingdome of heauen? Here the Lorde withdraweth the mindes of his disciples from ambition and from the disputations raysed touching the primacie and chiefe authoritie, and teaching thē most diligently humilitie.a Then doth he adioyne herevnto a profitable admonition for the auoyding of offence:
sFrom the 14 verse unto the 19.From the 14 verse vnto the 19.
tFrom the 19 verse unto the 22.From the 19 verse vnto the 22.
vIn the 22. and 23. verses
xWhereof Matthew entreated last, and whereof he speaketh nextWherof Matthew intreated last, and wherof he speaketh next
yFrom the 24 verse unto the end of the cha.From the 24 verse vnto the ende of the cha.
*The 18. cha.
zFrom the 1. ver. unto ye 7.From the 1. ver. vnto ye 7.
aFrom the 7. vers. unto ye 15.From the 7. vers. vnto ye 15.
bIn the 15. and 16. verses
cFrom the 17. verse unto the 21.From the 17. verse vnto the 21.
dFrom the 21. verse unto the end of the chapter.From the 21. verse vnto the ende of the chapter.
*The 19. cha.
eFrom the first vers. unto ye 10.From the first vers. vnto ye 10.
fIn the 10.11 & 12. verses.
gIn the 13.14 and 15. verses.
hFrom the 16 verse unto the 21.From the 16 verse vnto the 21.
The author
Heinrich Bullinger 1504–1575
ReformersZurich
Zwingli's successor at Zurich; author of the Decades and the Second Helvetic Confession.
Herevppon forsomuche as it is moste manifest, that none other affection doeth so greatelye withdrawe vs from all godlinesse and righteousnesse, as the desire of hauing, and the ouermuche curious carefulnesse for meate, drynke, and cloth, and other thinges needefull.
For of them, as of liuely examples, we learn what maner of faith ours ought to bee, and howe wee should behaue our selues; that we may be made partakers of the benefites of God, that is to say, howe wee may become the
⟨image 16⟩
sonnes of God, and the Lordes of thinges, whō neither sinne, nor death, nor the diuel himselfe can hurt, if wee following their examples, doe those thinges, which they did.
Then doth hee diligently handle the questiō of the religious keping of ye Sabboth, & admonishing by the way yt boūtifulnes and the inwarde worshipping of God, is more allowed of God, than the outwarde keeping of the Saboth.
and nowe doeth there followe a more plentifull treatise of the woorde of GOD, of the vertue, fruite, and price thereof: which is fitly knitte to the matter before going. For the ministerie of the worde of God is occupied in the verie word of God.
And although the Lord taught in such sort, that no man was able to accuse either his faithful dealing or his diligence, yet was he litle regarded and accepted of his cuntrey men, which contemned and laughed to scorne the heauenly doctrine of godlinesse.
After that withdrawing himselfe from those indurate and vnthankefull men, hee departed into the cuntrey of the Gentiles, where forthwith a woman of Syrophenissa being indued with a most strong faith made a most earnest request vnto him: in whome there is set foorth most manifestly both a merueylous example of true faith, and also the effect therof.
And because mariage was ordeyned of God cheefly for the procreation of children, he sheweth next after the restitution of mariage, how children are esteemed of
