CXLV expository sermons upon the whole 17th chapter of the Gospel according to St.…

Now will ye condemn a Field of Corn because of some Weeds in it? Did not Paul complain that he was in danger of false Brethren, and that many came creeping in to spy out their liberty to have an occasion to accuse them; Did not Hymeneus and Philetus make shipwreck of all? Did not Alexander the Copper-Smith withstand Paul, and do him much hurt? 2 Tim. 4.12. yet judicious Divines think that it was that Alexander mentioned in the Acts, who had almost lost his life, in his forward appearance for the Gospel, make account then of that which our Saviour saith, Mat. 18 7. It's impossible but that offences must come, there will be woeful scandals even in the Church of God, but let not this make thee revolt.

Now will ye condemn a Field of Corn because of some Weeds in it? Did not Paul complain that he was in danger of false Brethren, and that many came creeping in to spy out their liberty to have an occasion to accuse them; Did not Hymeneus and Philetus make shipwrack of all? Did not Alexander the Copper-Smith withstand Paul, and do him much hurt? 2 Tim. 4.12. yet judicious Divines think that it was that Alexander mentioned in the Acts, who had almost lost his life, in his forward appearance for the Gospel, make account then of that which our Saviour saith, Mat. 18 7. It's impossible but that offences must come, there will be wofull scandals even in the Church of God, but let not this make thee revolt.

2. As there have been such unsound hypocrites always in the Church, so it is the great endeavour of the devil to tempt and to set on those that are most eminent to throw them in the mire, for hereby he will promote his own kingdom; The scandals and stumbling-blocks of men reputed of in the Church are the greatest advantage to the devil,