A64811:88
Christ's school consisting of four classes of Christians
Christ's school consisting of four classes of Christians : I. Babes, II. Little children, III. Young men, IV. Fathers : with their several characteristical differences and attainments : also the doctrines proper to be taught to each of them : being the substance of many sermons preached many years ago in Southwark / by Ralph Venning.Christ's school consisting of four classes of Christians : I. Babes, II. Little children, III. Young men, IV. Fathers : with their several characteristical differences and attainments : also the doctrines proper to be taught to each of them : being the substance of many sermons preach'd many years ago in Southwark / by Ralph Venning.
London: printed for John Hancock, 1675
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.
2. 1The word Babe is used (when applied to Morals) in a Metaphorical sense, and that first by way of commendation, and excellency, as 1 Cor. 14.20. Brethren, be not Children in understanding, but in malice (or in evil) be ye Children ([Greek or Hebrew]) be ye Babes, but in understanding be men ([Greek or Hebrew]) perfect. Thus to be Babes, as to unacquaintedness with evil, were an excellency worthy of our ambition. Secondly, Babe is used by way of diminution, derogation and disparagement, to set out the defectiveness of persons in understanding and other attainments, Isa 3.4. opposed to them in Vers. 2.3. so 'tis opposed to men, or being perfect in understanding, 1 Cor. 13.11. and 14.20. and joined with foolish, Rom. 2.20. ⟨p. 55⟩'Tis all one as to be (a Servant) in bondage to the rudiments of the world, opposed to the adoption of Sons, or having the spirit of Sons, Gal. 4.1,—6. it notes unsteadiness and instability, such are tossed to and fro, Eph. 4.14. In which places the word should be translated Babes and not Children, as sometimes 'tis. It notes an ignorance or unskilfulness, Heb. 5.13. opposed to them who have their senses exercised to distinguish and discern things, and consequently to approve of what is best.
2. 1The word Babe is used (when applyed to Morals) in a Metaphorical sense, and that first by way of commendation, and excellency, as 1 Cor. 14.20