A17698:3525
Sermons upon Deuteronomy
The sermons of M. John Calvin upon the fifth book of Moses called Deuteronomy faithfully gathered word for word as he preached them in open pulpit; together with a preface of the ministers of the Church of Geneva, and an admonishment made by the deacons there. Also there are annexed two profitable tables, the one containing the chief matters; the other the places of Scripture herein alleged. Translated out of French by Arthur Golding.The sermons of M. Iohn Caluin vpon the fifth booke of Moses called Deuteronomie faithfully gathered word for word as he preached them in open pulpet; together with a preface of the ministers of the Church of Geneua, and an admonishment made by the deacons there. Also there are annexed two profitable tables, the one containing the chiefe matters; the other the places of Scripture herein alledged. Translated out of French by Arthur Golding.
London: printed by Henry Middleton for George Bishop, 1583
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.
WE have seen already whereat God armed in appointing such solemnity, that the people should meet together on Mount Eball which is over against Garizim; to pronounce the curses that are set down here. For when God hath once uttered his will unto us, it is good §10reason that every of us should consent there into, and confess that to stick unto his word is the rule of all righteousness. For the chief honour which God requireth of us as though it were a setting of our seals unto it,1 is to declare that there is no gainsaying or replying to that which he speaketh, but that it is altogether sure and ought to be sticked unto. Furthermore we ought to mark also, that the condition of mens agreeing unto Gods word is such,§20 that if they do the contrary in their lives, they condemn themselves with their own mouths. For it is not enough for us to profess, that whatsoever God saith is rightful and reasonable: but we must also show by our deeds, that his doctrine hath full force and authority among us. So then, he that yieldeth such confession with his mouth, is his own judge without any other process, if he follow not that which is taught him, and which he knoweth to be §30rightful. Now we have seen how God spake of Idolatries and consequently of all superstitions. And thereupon I have told you, that it is enough for us to have here some examples touched, to show us that God requireth the full obedience of his law at our hands, as shall be declared for a conclusion in the end. Ye see then that God ratified his whole service. Now he cometh to the second table, and beginneth with the honour and subjection that is due to the father §40and mother. Cursed shall that man be (saith he) which curseth his father or his mother. Now this curse importeth very much. For it comprehendeth all that is repugnant to the honour, obedience, and help, which children owe to their fathers and mothers. Therefore whosoever yieldeth not honour to his father and mother, is here cursed of God.2 We have well seen heretofore the punishment that was appointed for them: Insomuch that if any man had disobedient §50