A commentary on the whole Epistle to the Hebrews. By M. John Calvin. Translated…A commentarie on the vvhole Epistle to the Hebrevves. By M. Iohn Caluin. Translated…

But to the matter; he doth purposely begin his speech with the ⟨p. 4⟩dignity, and greatness of Christ, because the Jews were of opinion that there was no reason why the law should be in less estimation than the Gospel. First of all then, he confirms the Article whereupon the disputation was: to wit, that the doctrine brought by Christ ought to have the sovereign place, because it is the shutting up and conclusion of all Prophesies. But least the reverence which they bare to Moses, might be some hindrance unto them in this behalf, he shows that Christ is much more excellent than all others.

But to the matter; he doth purposely begin his speach with the ⟨p. 4⟩dignitie, and greatnes of Christ, because the Iewes were of opinion that there was no reason why the law should be in lesse estimation than the Gospel. First of all then, he confirmes the Article whereupon the disputation was: to wit, that the doctrine brought by Christ ought to haue the soueraigne place, because it is the shutting vp and conclusion of all Prophesies. But least the reuerence which they bare to Moses, might be some hindrance vnto them in this behalfe, he shewes that Christ is much more excellent than all others.

And having touched in brief, wherein he is more excellent, he doth purposely subject the Angels underneath him, to the end that all others with them, might be brought under, and abased in regard of Christ. Now this manner of proceeding which he useth, is very fit; and not without great reason. For if he had begun the comparison with Moses; it would have been very odious: but after he hath showed by the scriptures, that even the heavenly principalities are beneath Christ; there is neither Moses, nor any man else whatsoever, which ought to refuse to be rā ged with them, that so the Son of God may have the chieftie above all, both Angels and men. And therefore after the Apostle hath brought in the Angels under the rule and power of Christ; forthwith, as taking more courage unto him, he comes to pronounce, and to express how much more Moses is inferior: to wit, the difference is as much as is between the master and the servant. Thus then, when we shall perceive that he always placeth Christ in the sovereign degree of principality, in the first three Chapters, let us know that he aimeth at nothing but this, that when Christ speaketh, all others should hold their peace, and that nothing should hinder us to give our whole attention to his doctrine. Although when he sets him before us, as our brother in our flesh, chap. 2. he calls and allures us also by this means, to the end we should frame our selves under his obedience, and give our selves wholly unto him. Now he intermingles Exhortations, and threatenings for their sakes that are dull and slothful to obey, or; who do obstinately resist. This matter is continued almost to the end of the fourth Chapter. From thence he begins to expound the Priesthood of Christ: the true