A17385:1075
A commentary upon the three first chapters of the first Epistle general of St.…A commentary upon the three first chapters of the first Epistle generall of St.…
A commentary upon the three first chapters of the first Epistle general of St. Peter Wherein are most judiciously and profitably handled such points of doctrine as naturally flow from the text. Together with a very useful application thereof: and many good rules for a godly life. By Nicholas Byfield preacher of Gods Word at Isleworth in Middlesex. To which is now newly added an alphabetical table, not formerly published.A commentary upon the three first chapters of the first Epistle generall of St. Peter VVherin are most judiciously and profitably handled such points of doctrine as naturally flow from the text. Together with a very usefull application thereof: and many good rules for a godly life. By Nicholas Byfield preacher of Gods Word at Isleworth in Middlesex. To which is now newly added an alphabeticall table, not formerly published.
London: printed by Miles Flesher and Robert Young, 1637
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.
1 That the times and seasons of all things are known unto God: else the Prophets would not have searched, but that it was a received principle that all the times of all things are set and known to God.
1 That the times and seasons of all things are known unto God: else the Prophets would not have searched, but that it was a received principle that all the times of all things are set and knowne to God.
2 That the Lord is many times loth to discover the precise time of his mercy: as for a long time he would not let it be known when Christ should come, so it was ab•ut the calling of the Gentiles, and so it is about the time of our going to heaven. For if it should be far off, men would grow the more impatient with their present condition, and by this means God tries the faith, and patience, and obedience of his people: and thus are blessings more admired and welcome when they do come; and by works of preparation the happiness of the Elect is greatly furthered.
2 That the Lord is many times loth to discover the precise time of his mercy: as for a long time he would not let it be known when Christ should come, so it was ab•ut the calling of the Gentiles, and so it is about the time of our going to heaven. For if it should be farre off, men would grow the more impatient with their present condition, and by this meanes God tries the faith, and patience, and obedience of his people: and thus are blessings more admired and welcome when they doe come; and by works of preparation the happinesse of the Elect is greatly furthered.
But is it not uncomfortable to be ignorant of the time when God will show his mercy?