A17698:596
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.
And now seeing the Law was given with record that God is the author thereof: Let us in these days learn to rule our selves thereafter, and not call the thing any more in question, which we ought to be most assured of. Secondly if we compare the law with the Gospel, let us understand that there is much more reason §40why we should humble our selves, and reverently receive all that is contained in the Gospel. For although the law was ratified with so many miracles: yet did it not fail to strike the people in fear, and to bring them in great vexation of mind, insomuch that they said, Let not the Lord speak unto us,1 for then are we all dead.2 And why? For if a man look no further but to Gods commandments, there is nothing but cursing. By reason whereof men beholding §50themselves bound to things unpossible, and perceiving that God will be their judge: must needs be cast down, yea and driven to utter despair. After that manner was the law delivered to the people.3 But the Gospel nowadays is friendly unto us. For there God calleth us to be of his household, not for any desert of ours in performing the things that he commandeth, but of purpose to bear with us as with his children, forasmuch as he hath adopted us in our Lord §60Jesus Christ. Seeing then that God allureth us to him so lovingly, have we not the more cause to receive the doctrine of salvation with all reverence, considering that it is the message of life, whereas the law was a record of death to terrify the people,4 I mean the people of the Jews? And as in respect of miracles, we are sure that the Gospel hath bin warranted with moe, than ever the law was. And besides the miracles that have bin wrought, behold, Jesus Christ in whom dwelleth all glory and majesty,5 is come into the world to bear witness thereof. Seeing then that we have the Gospel & the doctrine of Jesus Christ,