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…

They watch for your souls.] He signifies that by how much the greater their charge is, by so much the more are they worthy of honour. For the more any shall take pains for us, and employ himself with greater danger and difficulties for our good; so much the more also should we acknowledge our selves bound unto such a one. But such is the charge of the Bishops, that it carrieth with it, and in it marvellous encumbrances; besides the extreme danger to which it lieth open. If we will then acknowledge the good which they do us, shall we be unwilling to yield them that duty which belongs unto them? But especially, were it […] ⟨p. 332⟩duty for them, which he required them to do for him. Now he desires of God to confirm them in every good work; Vers. 21 or that he would fit, perfect, and accomplish: for the Greek word which he useth imports so much. Whence we gather, that we shall be unfit to do good, till such time as God hath fashioned and framed us thereunto: as also that we cannot long continue to do good, unless he confirm and strengthen us. For perseverance is a particular gift of God. Also there is no doubt, but as there shined excellent gifts of the Spirit in them (as we have seen) so the Apostle here wisheth unto them, not only the first grace by which they began; but also as a further polishing thereof, even that which might bring them to perfection. ¹Besides, he here sets down consequently the definition of good works, when he appoints the will of God for the rule of them. For by this means he signifies that we ought to hold none other for good works, than those which are to be referred to the will of God: as also S. Paul showeth, Rom. 12.2. and in many other places. Let us remember then that this is the perfection of a good and holy life, when the same is squared to his obedience.

They watch for your soules.] He signifies that by how much the greater their charge is, by so much the more are they worthy of honour. For the more any shall take paines for vs, and imploy himselfe with greater danger and difficulties for our good; so much the more also should we acknowledge our selues bound vnto such a one. But such is the charge of the Bishops, that it carrieth with it, and in it marueilous encombrances; besides the extreame danger to which it lieth open. If we will then acknowledge the good which they doe vs, shall we be vnwilling to yeeld them that dutie which belongs vnto them? But especially, were it