Two Godly and notable sermons preached by the excellent and famous clerk, master John…Tvvo Godly and notable sermons preached by the excellent and famous clarke, master Iohn…
Two Godly and notable sermons preached by the excellent and famous clerk, master John Calvin, in the year. 1555 The one concerning patience in adversity: The other touching the most comfortable assurance of our salvation in Christ. Jesus. Translated out of French into English.Tvvo Godly and notable sermons preached by the excellent and famous clarke, master Iohn Caluyne, in the yere. 1555 The one concernynge pacience in aduersitie: The other touchyng the most comfortable assurance of oure saluation in Chryste. Iesu. Translated out of Frenche into Englyshe.
John Calvin 1509–1564printed by William Seres dwelling, 1560printed by VVyllyam Seres dvveling, 1560
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.
Paul saith, that god hath called us, and hath made us partakers of great treasures and infinite richesse obtained for us through our lord Jesus Christ. But how? According (saith he) to that that he did choose us before the creation of the world. Saint Paul entreating of faith, bringeth us back to his principle, to lead us higher, to lead us to the first cause, and to the fountain of our salvation. This is that free grace, whereof we have so often made mention. When then we say, that we1 are called to salvation, and assured thereof, in as much as god hath given us the faith, there is yet a cause higher to be considered, ⟨image 34⟩that is, the election eternal. And who so will not ascend thither, derogateth from god his honour seeing he can not discern between man and man, otherwise then by their merits and disposition that he seeth in them. Thus must we then knit together the sentences or words, which saint Paul here rehearseth, which is also to be seen throughout the whole holy scripture.
Paule sayth, that god hath cauled vs, and hath made vs partakars of greate treasures and infynite rychesse opteyned for vs through oure lord Iesus Christ. But howe? According (saith he) to that that he dyd choose vs before the creation of the worlde. Sayncte Paule intreatinge of fayth, bryngeth vs backe to his prynciple, to leade vs hygher, to leade vs to the fyrste cause, and to the fountayne of oure saluation. This is that fre grace, wherof we haue so often made mentiō. When then we say, that we1 are cauled to saluation, and assured thereof, in as muche as god hath geuen vs the faythe, there is yet a cause hygher to be consydered, ⟨image 34⟩that is, the election eternal. And who so wyl not ascende thyther, derogateth from god his honour seing he can not discerne betwene man and man, otherwise then by theyr merytes and dysposition that he seith in them. Thus must we then knytte together the sentences or wordes, which saincte Paule here reherseth, whiche is also to be seene throughoute the whole holy scrypture.
Now then to make a brief conclusion: let us take heed what order we ought to observe in searching out for our salvation. We may not begin at this point, as to say, are we elected or not? No, no,1 For we shall never ascend nor approach so near the coū sail of god, but that we shall be2 in danger to be confounded an ⟨image 34⟩hundred thousand times, and to be utterly deprived of all our senses. Howe shall we then proceed?3 Let us give ear to that which is spoken unto us in the gospel, how that god hath given us the grace to receive the promise which he offereth us, knowing that it standeth us in as much stead, as if he had opened his heart and enrolled our election in our consciences, Note therefore how we must be certified,4 that god hath adopted us for his children, and that5 the inheritance of the kingdom of heaven is unfeignedly ours: in that (I say) that we be called in Jesus Christ. Howe shall we know it? Howe shall we be stayed upon the doctrine which god layeth before our eyes? We must ⟨image 35⟩immediately (for the better magnifying of the grace of God)6 acknowledge, that we can bring nothing on our part, but so to abase us, without challenging so much as one drop of praise towards our selves, that we acknowledge7 god to have called us now to the gospel, according to that he did8 chose us before the creation of the world. Now true it is, that this election of God is as it were close letters: yea to us, for that it consisteth in it self, and in his own nature. But therein may we read because that god giveth a testimony unto us,9 when he cauleth us unto him self through the knowledge of the gospel, and through faith. Then have we thereby10 a double or copy given ⟨image 35⟩us. For like as the Original or principal Register derogateth nothing from the copy or instrument which shall be read, but is rather an approbation of the same: and none will search out for the original, when he hath the copy authentic:11 Even so must we be assured of our election. For when god certifieth us by his gospel,12 that he accounteth us for his children, they are letters authentic, signed13 with the blood of our lord Jesus Christ, and14 sealed with his holy spirit. When we have that, have we not sufficiently wherewith to be contented?
Nowe then to make a bryefe cōclusion: let vs take hede what ordre we oughte to obserue in serchyng out for our saluation. We may not begynne at this pointe, as to saye, are we elected or not? No, no,1 For we shall neuer ascēde nor aproche so nere the coū saile of god, but that we shall be2 in daunger to be confounded an ⟨image 34⟩hundreth thousande tymes, and to be vtterly depryued of all our senses. Howe shall we then proceade?3 Let vs geue eare to that whiche is spoken vnto vs in the gospell, howe that god hath geuen vs the grace to receaue the promes whiche he offreth vs, knowynge that it standeth vs in as muche stede, as if he had opened his hearte and inrolled oure election in our consciences, Note therfore howe we muste be certifyed,4 that god hath adopted vs for his chyldren, and that5 the inheritaunce of the kyngdome of heauen is vnfaynedly oures: in that (I saye) that wee be cauled in Iesus Chryste. Howe shal we knowe it? Howe shal we be staied vpon the doctryne whiche god layeth before our eyes? We must ⟨image 35⟩immediately (for the better magnifyenge of the grace of God)6 acknowledge, that wee canne brynge nothyng on our part, but so to abase vs, withoute chalengynge so muche as one droppe of prayse towardes our selues, that wee acknowledge7 god to haue cauled vs nowe to the gospel, accordyng to that he dyd8 chose vs before the creation of the world. Nowe trewe it is, that this election of God is as it were cloose letters: yea to vs, for that it consisteth in it selfe, and in his owne nature. But therin may we rede because that god geueth a testymony vnto vs,9 when he cauleth vs vnto hym selfe throughe the knowledge of the gospell, and throughe faythe. Then haue we therby
Now then as I have said, so far wide is the election of god from contrarying this point, that it rather ratifieth and confirmeth the testimony ⟨image 36⟩which we have in the gospel. Not that we have need to look into the original or register of god, as though there were some doubt. We have the instrument which can not fail: what would we more?1 Shall it not be over great rashness who will demand more? Who will ascend2 up above the clouds, when we have the word in our mouth and in our heart3 as Moses saith? True it is, that if we thought the instrument were not taken out of the true Register & Original, then might a man call it in question or doubt. But when the thing is plain and certain, what would we more? So fareth it with us, that we need no more to doubt, but that4 god hath enrolled us in the ⟨image 36⟩number of his elect and children5 before the creation of the world.6 But he kept the matter secrete unto him self: Yet have we in the mean time letters patents of our salvation.7 We have an instrument sure enough as I have declared already. But yet must we always8 resort to our lord Jesus Christ, when there is question of our election. For9 without him (as I have showed) we can not approach near unto god. And again, when we shall speak of his decree, we shall be astonied as culpable of death. But having Jesus Christ for our guide,10 we may boldly rejoice, knowing how that he hath11 dignity and worthiness enough in him self, to make all his members acceptable to god ⟨image 37⟩his father. It sufficeth, that we be12 grafted in his body, and united unto him. Now see ye, how we ought to meditate this doctrine, if we list to do therewith our profit, according to that which is here declared unto us by saint Paul,13 Who saith, that this grace was given us. And how before all times saith he. We must ascend above the course of nature, when we will go about to know how we be saved, and for what cause, and whence it should proceed. And further we must understand, that god would not leave us in suspense14 nor yet would he hide his counsel from us, to bring us in doubt of our salvation. But he hath15 called us to him self: not only by preaching of the gospel, ⟨image 37⟩(for that had not ben sufficient) but16 he sealed in our hearts the testimony of his goodness and fatherly love.
Now then as I haue sayde, so farre wide is the election of god from contraryeng this poynte, that it rather ratifyeth and confyrmeth the testimonie ⟨image 36⟩whiche we haue in the gospell. Not that we haue neede to loke into the orygynall or regester of god, as thoughe there were some doubte. We haue the instrumente which can not faile: what wolde we more?1 Shall it not be ouer great rashnes who wyll demaund more? Who wyll ascende2 vp aboue the clowdes, when we haue the worde in our mouthe and in oure hearte3 as Moses saithe? Trewe it is, that if we thoughte the instrumente wer not taken out of the true Regester & Orygynall, then might a man cal it in question or doubt. But when the thynge is playne and certayne, what wolde wee more? So fareth it with vs, that we nede no more to doubte, but that4 god hath inrolled vs in the ⟨image 36⟩numbre of his elect and children5 before the creatiō of the world.6 But he kepte the matter secrete vnto hym selfe: Yet haue wee in the meane time letters patentes of oure saluation.7 We haue an instrumēt sure inough as I haue declared alredye. But yet muste we alwaies8 resorte to oure lord Iesus Chryste, when there is question of oure election. For9 without hym (as I haue shewed) we can not approche neere vnto god. And agayne, when we shal speake of his decree, we shal be astonyed as coulpable of deth. But hauynge Iesus Chryste for oure guyde,10 we maye boldelye reioyce, knowyng howe that he hath11
So then when we have such a certainty, let us first of all1 glorify god, for that he hath called us through his free mercy. And further we must stay our selves upon our lord Jesus Christ, acknowledging, that he deceived us not of our expectation, when he caused to be published, that he2 gave him self to us, testifying also the same unto us3 by the holy ghost. For faith is to us (as I have already said) an infallible mark, that4 god reckoneth us for his children, being conducted thence to the eternal election. And wherefore? God hath called us (saith saint Paul in the ⟨image 38⟩first chapter to the Ephesians)5 according to that he forechose us He saith not that god chose us because we hard the gospel: but contrary wise he giveth faith, which for this special cause is given us, to declare, that6 God reserved us to save us when we were lost and caste away in Adam. Further we have to note, that saint Paul speaketh not here of others then the faithful. But some block heads there be, which to blind the eyes of the ignorant and such as they are, will here cavil, that the grace of salvation was given us, because god had ordained, that his son should be the redeemer of man kind, and that the same was common and indifferent unto all. But saint Paul hath so uttered ⟨image 38⟩his speech, that his doctrine can not with such childish glosses be corrupted. For notably7 he said before, that god hath saved us. Is that referred indifferently to all without exception?8 No, no: he speaketh but of the faithful. Called he all the world? Some9 were called by the preaching, but yet they showed themselves unworthy of that salvation which was offered them and therefore were reproved.10 Others some god left in their incredulity, who never heard so much as one word of the gospel preached. So then saint Paul doth specially address him self to them whom god had chosen and reserved to him self.
So then whē we haue suche a certaynetie, let vs fyrste of all1 gloryfie god, for that he hath cauled vs throughe his free mercye. And farder wee muste staye oure selues vpon our lorde Iesus Chryste, acknowlegynge, that he deceaued vs not of oure expectation, when he caused to be publyshed, that he2 gaue hym selfe to vs, testyfienge also the same vnto vs3 by the holye ghoste. For fayth is to vs (as I haue alredye sayde) an infallible marke, that4 god rekeneth vs for his chyldren, beynge conducted thence to the eternall election. And wherfore? God hath cauled vs (saythe sayncte Paule in the ⟨image 38⟩fyrste chapiter to the Ephesians)5 according to that he forechose vs He saythe not that god chose vs because we harde the gospel: but contrary wise he geueth faythe, whiche for this speciall cause is geuen vs, to declare, that6 God reserued vs to saue vs when we were loste and caste awaye in Adam. Farder we haue to note, that saincte Paule speaketh not here of others then the faythful. But some blocke heades ther be, whiche to blynde the eyes of the ignoraunte and such as they are, wyll here cauyll, that the grace of saluation was geuen vs, because god had ordeyned, that his sonne shuld be the redemer of mā kynde, and that the same was commen and indifferent vnto al. But saincte Paule hath so vttered ⟨image 38⟩his speche, that his doctryne can not with suche chyldishe gloses be corrupted. For notably7 he sayde before, that god hath saued vs. Is that referred indifferently to al without exception?8 No, no: he speketh but of the faythefull. Cauled he all the worlde? Some9 were cauled by the preachyng, but yet they shewed themselues vnworthy of that saluation whiche was offerid them and therfore wer reproued.
And therefore let us hold this principle, that the goodness of ⟨image 39⟩god shall never be perfectly and worthily honoured as it deserveth, except we know that1 god would us not to abide & remain in the common destruction of the world, wherein he hath left them which were like unto us, and from whom we differed in nothing,2 being of nature no better then they were: But3 such was his good will and pleasure. Wherefore4 let all men stop their mouths hereat, and no man presume to attribute any thing to him self: giving in the mean time god the praise with open mouth,5 confessing, that to him we owe all that concerneth our salvation. This is the sum of all that which we have to retain and keep in memory. But in the mean while, let us note ⟨image 39⟩well the other words which S. Paul useth here. True it is, that in effect he understandeth the same that we have already declared, that the election of God should not profit us nor come unto us, except we had known it, which by means of the gospel is made known unto us. For this cause6 would god have that manifested unto us,7 which he kept as it were secret to him self before all times. But (for the better expressing of his mind) he interlaceth as it were by the way, to declare, that8 this grace was now revealed unto us. And how? In the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. He showeth, that we shall be to far unkind, unless that herewith we can be contented and at rest. ⟨image 40⟩When the Son of God9 giveth him self unto us, what can we desire more? Though we could mount up above the clouds, and could enter into the most deep secretes of god, what shall be the end thereof? Is it not to know, that we are his children and heirs? That now is sufficiently manifested and declared in Christ Jesus, for it is said, that10 all they which believe in him, shall enjoy this privilege, to be made the children of God. We may not therefore decline (the least thing that can be) from Jesus Christ, if we will be full certified of our election. True it is, that saint Paul hath already declared, that we were never beloved nor chosen of god,11 except in the person of Jesus christ ⟨image 40⟩his only Son. But he now maketh a more ample declaration, when he saith, that Jesus christ after he appeared, hath12 opened unto us the life which otherwise should have ben unknown to us.
And therfore let vs holde thys pryncyple, that the goodnesse of ⟨image 39⟩god shall neuer be perfectely and worthelye honoured as it deserueth, except we knowe that1 god wolde vs not to abyde & remaine in the commen destruction of the worlde, wherein he hathe lefte them whiche were like vnto vs, and from whom we dyffered in nothynge,2 beynge of nature no better then they were: But3 such was his good wyl and pleasure. Wherfore4 let all men stop their mouthes herat, and no man presume to attrybute any thynge to hym selfe: geuynge in the meane tyme god the prayse with open mouthe,5 confessyng, that to him we owe all that concerneth oure saluation. This is the summe of all that whiche wee haue to reteyne and kepe in memory. But in the meane while, let vs note ⟨image 39⟩well the other wordes whyche S. Paule vseth here. Trewe it is, that in effecte he vnderstandeth the same that we haue alredie declared, that the election of God shoulde not profyte vs nor come vnto vs, excepte we hadde knowne it, whiche by meanes of the gospell is made knowne vnto vs. For this cause6 wold god haue that manyfested vnto vs,7 which he kept as it were secret to hym selfe before al times. But (for the better expressynge of his minde) he enterlaceth as it were by the way, to declare, that8 this grace was now reueled vnto vs. And howe? In the apperyng of oure Lorde Iesus Chryste. He sheweth, that we shal be to farre vnkynde, vnlesse that herewith we can be contented and at reste. ⟨image 40⟩When the sonne of God9 geueth hym selfe vnto vs, what can we desyre more? Thoughe we could mounte vp aboue the clowdes, and coulde entre into the mooste depe secretes of god, what shall be the ende thereof? Is it not to knowe, that we are his chyldrē and heyres? That nowe is sufficientlye manifested and declared in Chryste Iesu, for it is sayde, that
He hath presented us the grace of god,1 from the which we were otherwise far of. He hath made us so familiar with god, that we know what is his everlasting counsel, without2 searching above our reach, that which is not lawful for us to enquire of. For when god will instruct us by his own proper mouth, we may not presume to wade so far as they which walk not under obedience: For it is a presumption to seek to know more than god will permit. But3 when we walk soberly and with reverence ⟨image 41⟩under the obedience of our God, giving audience & receive that which he uttereth in holy scripture, as I have already said,4 the way shall be made meet for us to wade through withal.
He hath presented vs the grace of god,1 from the which we were otherwise farre of. He hath made vs so familiar with god, that we knowe what is his euerlastyng counsayle, without2 serchyng aboue oure reache, that whiche is not laufull for vs to enquyre of. For when god wyll instructe vs by his owne propre mouthe, we maye not presume to wade so far as they whiche walke not vnder obedience: For it is a presumption to seke to know more thē god wyll permytte. But3 when we walke soberly and with reuerēce ⟨image 41⟩vnder the obedience of our God, geuinge audyence & receaue that whiche he vttereth in holy scripture, as I haue alredy sayd,4 the waye shall be made meete for vs to wade throughe withall.
Mark then saint Paul which saith, that the Son of God,1 by his appearance in the world, opened our eyes, to the end we should know the grace2 prepared for us before the beginning of the world: As to be received for children of God, to be made acceptable unto him, and3 to be accounted as just, in such wise, that we need not to doubt, the4 inheritance is made ready for us in the kingdom of heaven.5 Not that we have it for any merits of ours, but for that Jesus Christ had the right title, whereof ⟨image 41⟩he hath made us participant.
Marke then saincte Paule whiche sayth, that the sonne of God,1 by his apperance in the world, opened oure eyes, to the ende we shoulde knowe the grace2 prepared for vs before the begynnyng of the worlde: As to be receaued for chyldren of God, to be made acceptable vnto hym, and3 to be accompted as iuste, in such wise, that we nede not to doubte, the4 inheritaunce is made ready for vs in the kyngedome of heauen.5 Not that we haue it for any merytes of ours, but for that Iesus Chryst had the right title, wherof ⟨image 41⟩he hath made vs participante.
And where as it is here spoken of the appearing of Jesus Christ,1 we must refer that to the gospel, because saint Paul concludeth herewith that through the gospel he brought life and immortality to light. For how appeared Jesus Christ unto us? As he appeareth every day. But yet saint Paul would not darken those things that the scripture setteth forth for the assurance of our salvation which is laid up in Jesus Christ. It is not said in one word, that Jesus Christ is our saviour, that he was sent as the lieutenant of god his father. No? no? It is said, that he was sent as the2 mediator, which hath reconciled us by the sacrifice of his ⟨image 42⟩death: He was sent us,3 as the lamb without spot, to purge and make satisfaction for all our debts: He is our pledge, to deliver us4 from the condemnation of death, wherein we were: He is5 our justice, our advocate, which maketh intercession in our name:6 which will bring to pass, that our prayers shall be heard of god: which is the band of concord between god and us: which hath obtained for us, that which appertained not unto us by nature. For all these qualities must we attribute to Jesus Christ, if we will effectually know how he appeared. For if we should but simply take the gospel, and not have regard to the substance therein contained: that were enough to overthrow ⟨image 42⟩all, and in effect, we should make of Jesus Christ but as it were a shadow. For if we say, that Jesus Christ hath appeared to be our saviour, without mention making of that which he suffered for our salvation, and declare not how we have ben7 reconciled into the favour of god his father through and by his means: that we8 have ben cleansed from our filthiness and spots: that we have ben redeemed9 from the obligation of everlasting death. If we have not that with all, what availeth it? If we know not10 that Jesus Christ is our advocate, and that he carieth our prayers when we pray to god, to the end we should not be repulsed, what shall become of us? What trust were there to call ⟨image 43⟩upon the name of god, which is11 the fortress of salvation, as the scripture saith? Let us note well then, that saint Paul saith that Jesus Christ hath12 appeared, that he meaneth chiefly, that he hath accomplished all things that were requisite for the redemption of mankind.
And where as it is here spokē of the appering of Iesus Christ,1 we must referre that to the gospell, because sayncte Paule concludeth herewith that throughe the gospell he broughte lyfe and immortalitie to light. For howe appered Iesus Chryst vnto vs? As he appereth euery daye. But yet saynct Paule wolde not darken those thynges that the scripture setteth forth for the assurāce of our saluation whiche is layde vppe in Iesus Christe. It is not sayde in one worde, that Iesus Chryste is oure sauyoure, that he was sente as the lieutenaunte of god his father. No? no? It is sayde, that he was sente as the2 mediatoure, which hath reconcyled vs by the sacryfyce of hys ⟨image 42⟩deathe: He was sent vs,3 as the lambe without spotte, to pourge and make satisfaction for al our dettes: He is oure pledge, to delyuer vs4 from the condempnation of deathe, wherin we were: He is5 our iustice, our aduocate, which maketh intercession in our name:6 whiche wyll brynge to passe, that oure prayers shall be hearde of god: which is the band of concorde betwene god and vs: which hath opteyned for vs, that whiche apperteyned not vnto vs by nature. For all these qualyties must we attrybute to Iesus Chryste, if we wyll effectuallye knowe howe he appeared. For if we shoulde but symplye take the gospell, and not haue regarde to the substance therein conteyned: that were inoughe to ouerthrow ⟨image 42⟩all, and in effect, we should make of Iesus Chryste but as it were a shadowe. For if we saye, that Iesus Chryste hath appeared to be oure sauiour, without mention makynge of that whiche he suffered for our saluation, and declare not howe we haue ben7 reconcyled into the fauoure of god his father throughe and by hys meanes: that we8 haue ben clensed from our filthynes and spots: that we haue ben redemed
But by the way he setteth forth the1 virtue of this brightness which hath appeared unto us in his resurrection: to the end we should be partakers of so great a benefit, and so to enjoy the same.
But by the waye he settethe forthe the1 vertue of this bryghtnesse whiche hath appeared vnto vs in his resurrection: to thende we shulde be partakers of soo great a benefite, and so to enioye the same.
Now if the gospel were taken away, what could the bitter death which the Son of God suffered, and his rising again on the third day, avail us? All should be unprofitable unto us.1 The gospel then putteth ⟨image 43⟩us in possession of those richesse, which Jesus Christ hath obtained and procured for us. Again,2 though he be now absent in body, and is not here in this earth conversant with us, let us think our state therefore never a whit the worse. For3 he hath not so withdrawn him self that we should seek him, and not find him. For the Sun which shineth, doth not so clearly give light to the world, as4 Jesus Christ doth manifestly show him self to them which have the eyes of faith to behold him, when the gospel is preached. And that is the reason wherefore saint Paul (besides this word appearing) saith, that Jesus hath brought to light that life, yea the life everlasting. But to ⟨image 44⟩the end we may find in the very words of saint Paul, all that I have said, let us mark well and follow that which is contained in this place of scripture. He saith, that the Son of god hath5 destroyed death: but how destroyed he it? If he had not offered the everlasting sacrifice for the6 appeasing of gods wrath: If he had not descended7 down to the lowest place, to draw us out from thence: If he had not taken8 our curse upon him for the discharging of us, and had not taken away9 the burden under the which we began to sink. What had it bin? Should death have ben destroyed? No: death had had the dominion over us, death had reigned immediately over us. And truly if every ⟨image 44⟩one of us would enter into him self, we shall find, that10 we are of nature the slaves of Satan, who is the prince of death. Thus had we ben shut up in this miserable bondage, except11 that god had destroyed the devil, sin, and death. And that is done: But how? In that that through the blood of our lord Jesus Christ,12 he hath blotted out all our spots. Now though we be poor sinners, and in danger of the judgement of god, yet can13 not sin hurt us: because the sting where the poison lay, is so thrust away,14 that it can not prick us, for now hath Christ the victory: for he suffered not in vain, the shedding of his blood fell not on the earth, nor at all adventures:
Nowe if the gospell were taken awaye, what coulde the bytter deathe whiche the sonne of God suffered, and his rysynge againe on the thyrde daye, auayle vs? All shulde be vnprofytable vnto vs.1 The gospell then puttethe ⟨image 43⟩vs in possession of those rychesse, whiche Iesus Chryste hath opteyned and procured for vs. Agayne,2 thoughe he be nowe absente in body, and is not here in this earth conuersaunt with vs, let vs thynke oure state therfore neuer a whit the worse. For3 he hath not so withdrawne him self that we shoulde seeke hym, and not fynde hym. For the Sonne whiche shyneth, doth not so clerely gyue lyghte to the worlde, as4 Iesus Chryste doth manyfestly shewe hym selfe to theym whiche haue the eyes of fayth to beholde him, when the gospel is preched. And that is the reason wherfore saynct Paule (besides this word appearynge) saythe, that Iesus hath brought to lyght that lyfe, yea the lyfe euerlastyng. But to ⟨image 44⟩the ende we may fynde in the very wordes of sayncte Paule, all that I haue sayde, let vs marke well and followe that whiche is conteyned in this place of scrypture. He saythe, that the sonne of god hath5 destroyed deathe: but howe destroyed he it? If he had not offered the euerlastyng sacrifice for the6 appeasynge of godds wrathe: If he had not descended7 downe to the loweste place, to drawe vs out from thence: If he had not taken8 our curse vpō him for the dyschargynge of vs, and had not taken away9 the burthen vnder the whiche we beganne to syncke. What had it byn? Shuld deathe haue ben destroyed? No: death had had the dominion ouer vs, deathe had raygned immediately ouer vs. And truely if euery ⟨image 44⟩
but it hath ben a lavatory ⟨image 45⟩wherewith we have ben sprinkled by the holy ghost, as saint Peter hath declared.1 So then we see well, that saint Paul entreating of the gospel, wherein Jesus Christ hath appeared, and daily doth appear unto us putteth not in forgetfulness his death and passion, nor any thing else appertaining to the salvation of mankind. We must therefore note these two things: that is, that in the person of Jesus Christ2 we have (all the sort of us) that which we can desire. We have a full & an assured trust of the goodness of god, and of the love which he bare unto us:
but it hath ben a lauatory ⟨image 45⟩wherwith we haue ben sprikeled by the holy ghost, as sainct Peter hath declared.1 Soo then we see well, that sayncte Paule intreatyng of the gospell, wherin Iesus Chryste hath appeared, and dayly dothe appeare vnto vs putteth not in forgetfulnesse hys deathe and passion, nor any thing elles apperteynyng to the saluation of mankynde. We must therfore note these two thynges: that is, that in the personne of Iesus Chryste2 we haue (all the sorte of vs) that which we can desire. We haue a ful & an assured truste of the goodnesse of god, and of the loue whiche he bare vnto vs:
And how? See we not, how our1 since have separated us from god, and that they are the cause of continual war and enmity? ⟨image 45⟩But2 we have the atonement in our lord Jesus Christ: for3 he hath shed his blood to wash us from all our filthiness. He hath offered a sacrifice, by the which God is at one with us:4 He hath payed all our debts: To be short, he hath5 annihilated the curse, to the end we should be blessed of god. And farther, he hath6 vanquished death, and triumphed over her, to the end we might be delivered from the tyranny which was in readiness, wholly to swallow us up: he hath strength to surmount all. By this then we see all the things which appertain to our salvation, to have ben7 accomplished in our Jesus Christ, and that there through we enter into the possession of all his goods. ⟨image 46⟩Let us note, that daily he appeareth unto us through his gospel. True it is, that8 he dwelleth in his heavenly glory: we shall not see him here in this earth visibly, but9 yet will he not be far of from us, neither need we make long compasses to seek him. Let us open the eyes of faith, and we shall see him manifesting him self unto us.
And howe? Se we not, how our1 synnes haue separated vs from god, and that they are the cause of continual warre and enmitie? ⟨image 45⟩But2 we haue the attonemente in oure lorde Iesus Chryste: for3 he hath shed his bloud to washe vs from all oure fylthynesse. He hath offered a sacryfyce, by the whiche God is at one wyth vs:4 He hathe payed al oure dettes: To be shorte, he hath5 adnychylated the curse, to the ende wee shoulde be blessed of god. And farther, he hath6 vanquysed death, and triumphed ouer her, to the ende we might be deliuered from the tyranny whiche was in readynesse, wholly to swalowe vs vp: he hath strength to surmoūt all. By this then we see all the thinges which apperteine to our saluation, to haue ben7 accomplished in oure Iesus Chryste, and that there throughe we enter into the possession of al his goodes. ⟨image 46⟩Let vs note, that dayely he appeareth vnto vs through his gospel. Trewe it is, that8 he dwelleth in his heauenly glorye: we shall not se him here in this earth visiblye, but9 yet wyll he not be farre of from vs, neyther neede we make longe compases to seke hym. Lette vs open the eyes of faythe, and we shall se hym manyfestynge hym selfe vnto vs.
Thus have we learned out of the text of saint Paul, all that which I have touched. And therefore let us learn, not to separate that which the holy ghost hath conjoined. Furthermore let us note, that saint Paul here by the way of comparison, would amplify the grace which God hath showed to the world sithens the coming of our lord Jesus ⟨image 46⟩Christ. As though he would say, that1 the ancient fathers had not this advantage, for that Jesus Christ appeared not unto them as unto us. True it is,2 they had the same faith, and the inheritance of heaven was common to them as unto us, in that god revealed unto them his grace, as well as unto us, but not in such measure. For3 they saw Christ afar of, and as it were in a shadow, as saint Paul saith, under the figures of the law. There was the veil of the temple, which was so stretched forth that4 the Jews could not approach to the material sanctuary. But now that the veil of the temple is broken, we may approach to the majesty of our god We come unto heaven with ⟨image 47⟩full privilege, and then immediately we have the lively image of god, wherein dwelleth all the perfection of glory. To be short:5 we have the body, where as the fathers had but the shadow only, as saint Paul speaketh to the Colossians. Now then we are thereby warned, that if the fathers of old had such constancy and invincible zeal, to6 endure and abide in the afflictions of the Son of god, being as yet not revealed to the world as at this day, shall we not be of to faint a courage, if we be not inflamed with a more fervent zeal? The ancient fathers did fully resolve them selves, to bear the afflictions of Jesus Christ, as it is said in the eleventh chapter to the Hebrews. For it is not ⟨image 47⟩said, that Moses bare the rebuke of Abraham his father, but of Jesus Christ. Note then that the ancient fathers, although7 they lived under the dark shadows of the law, yet presented they them selves unto god in sacrifice, to8 endure with much patience the afflictions of Christ. But now9 that Christ is risen again from the dead, and hath made open this life unto us what shall be said of us, if we be so delicate, that we can not bear the afflictions of the gospel? Are we not worthy to be razed out of the Register of god, and not to be avowed of him. And therefore let us look unto it:
Thus haue we learned out of the texte of saynct Paule, al that which I haue touched. And therfore let vs lerne, not to seperate that whiche the holy ghost hath conioyned. Furthermore let vs note, that sayncte Paule here by the waye of comparyson, wolde amplifie the grace whiche God hath shewed to the world sithens the commynge of our lord Iesus ⟨image 46⟩Chryst. As though he wold say, that1 the aunciente fathers had not this aduantage, for that Iesus Chryste appeared not vnto theym as vnto vs. Trewe it is,2 they had the same fayth, and the inherytance of heauen was commen to them as vnto vs, in that god reueled vnto them his grace, as wel as vnto vs, but not ī such measure. For3 they sawe Chryst afarre of, and as it were in a shadowe, as sayncte Paule saythe, vnder the fygures of the lawe. There was the vaile of the temple, which was so stretched forth that4 the Iewes coulde not approche to the materyall saynctuarye. But now that the vaile of the temple is broken, we maye approche to the maiestie of oure god We come vnto heauen with ⟨image 47⟩full pryuylege, and then immediately we haue the lyuely ymage of god, wherein dwelleth all the perfection of glorye. To be short:5 we haue the body, where as the fathers had but the shadowe onely, as sayncte Paule speaketh to the Colossians. Nowe then wee are therby warned, that if the fathers of olde had suche constancie and inuyncible zeale, to6 endure and abyde in the afflyctions of the sonne of god, beynge as yet not reueled to the worlde as at this daye, shall we not be of to fainte a courage, if we be not inflamed with a more feruēt zeale? The aunciente fathers dyd fully resolue them selues, to beare the afflyctions of Iesus Chryst, as it is sayde in the eleuenth chapyter to the Hebrewes. For it is not ⟨image 47⟩sayde, that Moises bare the rebuke of Abraham his father, but of Iesus Chryst. Note then that the auncient fathers, althoughe
for1 we ought to be so encouraged with such constancy of faith, as to endure for the name of Jesus Christ, ⟨image 48⟩what so ever pleaseth god to lay upon us, seeing that life is made manifest before our eyes, and that we have a2 better and more familiar knowledge thereof, then had the ancient fathers. Whereof the Apostle in his Epistle to the Hebrews speaketh,3 where we read that the ancient fathers never shrank, but had such a marvellous constancy, that the hearing thereof were enough to astonish us. For we know how they were tormented by tyrants and enemies of the truth, and yet constantly suffered the same. The state of the church is at this present day no harder, nor more troublesome, than it was than. And seeing it so is, shall we make it more strange, to follow after Christ Jesus, who hath ⟨image 48⟩showed us the way? But to the end we be not to fearful nor over cold, let us mark well how4 he saith, that Jesus Christ hath made manifest the life and immortality through the gospel, for that that as often as the grace of god is preached unto us, it is as much as if the kingdom of heaven were opened unto us, as if god stretched forth his hand and certified us, that the life is at hand, and that he will participate unto us of his heavenly in herytaunce. For that is spoken unto us, to the end that until we have seen Jesus Christ lifting us up with him, and bringing us unto a life certain, we should content our selves with this present life. We would gladly remain here in this world, ⟨image 49⟩5but by force must we be drawn hence. But when we shall behold the life which our lord Jesus Christ hath obtained for us, we6 shall set but little by all that might retain us here, considering we have to ascend up to heaven. So then let us not be willingly blind, when Jesus Christ setteth daily before our eyes the life and immortality, which we have spoken of. But let us note well, that when saint Paul speaketh of the life, and addeth the word immortality, that it betokeneth as much, as if he said: We enter even now into the kingdom of god thorough faith. For though we be as7 strangers here in this earth, and that it seemeth there is but death and malediction in ⟨image 49⟩us, yet will the life and grace, whereof we are made partakers through our lord Jesus Christ, bring forth his fruit in his convenient time:
for1 we ought to be soo encouraged with suche constancie of faythe, as to endure for the name of Iesus Chryste, ⟨image 48⟩what so euer pleaseth god to laye vpon vs, seyng that lyfe is made manyfeste before oure eyes, and that we haue a2 better and more familiar knowledge therof, then had the auncyente fathers. Wherof the Apostle in his Epystle to the Hebrues speakethe,3 where we reade that the auncyente fathers neuer shronke, but had suche a marueilous constācie, that the hearyng therof were inough to astonyshe vs. For wee knowe howe they were tormented by tirantes and ennemyes of the truthe, and yet constantely suffered the same. The state of the church is at this present daie no harder, nor more troblesome, thē it was than. And seynge it so is, shal we make it more strange, to followe after Chryste Iesus, who hathe ⟨image 48⟩shewed vs the waye? But to the ende we be not to fearefull nor ouer cold, let vs marke wel howe4 he saythe, that Iesus Chryste hath made manyfest the life and immortalytie throughe the gospell, for that that as often as the grace of god is preched vnto vs, it is as much as if the kyngdom of heauen were opened vnto vs, as if god stretched forth his hād and certyfyed vs, that the life is at hande, and that he wyl participate vnto vs of his heauenly in herytaunce. For that is spoken vnto vs, to the ende that vntyll we haue sene Iesus Chryste lyftynge vs vp with hym, and bringyng vs vnto a lyfe certayne, we shoulde contente our selues with this present lyfe. We wold gladly remayne here in this worlde, ⟨image 49⟩5but by force must we be drawen hence. But when we shal behold the lyfe whiche our lorde Iesus Chryst hath opteyned for vs, we6 shall sette but lyttle by all that myghte reteyne vs here, consyderyng we haue to ascende vp to heauen. Soo then let vs not be wyllyngely blynde, when Iesus Chryste setteth dayly before our eyes the lyfe and immortalytie, whiche we haue spoken of. But let vs note wel, that when sainct Paule speaketh of the lyfe, and addeth the worde immortalitie, that it betokeneth as muche, as if he sayde: We entre euen nowe into the kyngedome of god thoroughe faythe. For thoughe we be as
that is to say, when he shall be1 sent again of god his Father, to show us the effect of such things as are daily preached unto us, and which have ben accomplished in his person, when he was clothed with our nature.
that is to say, when he shall be1 sent agayne of god his Father, to shewe vs the effect of such thinges as are dayly preached vnto vs, and which haue ben accomplished in his person, when he was clothed wyth oure nature.
Now to end, let us1 prostrate our selves before the face of our good God, acknowledging our faults, desiring him that it would please him, so to cause us2 feel our poverties, that we never be so presumptuous, as3 to attribute any glory unto our selves: but that we4 acknowledge our selves, to be stinking ⟨image 50⟩and detestable in our nature before him, to the end we may search the whole cause of our salvation in his purpose and in that counsel which hath ben revealed, through the5 knowledge of the grace by him obtained, when he called us to his gospel: And that also he would vouchsafe to grant us this benefit, that we may address our selves to our lord Jesus Christ, and wholly to stay and rest our selves upon him and the redemption which he purchased for us: to the end we may be avowed for the children of god, to be made partakers of the inheritance of life, after we have fought in this world. And for as much as it pleaseth him, that we should be assaulted of Satan and of so many enemies, ⟨image 50⟩as well domestical as strangers,6 That he would give us power to withstand their assaults: so as we be never left of him until we have ended our course. And that we be come to that rest, unto the which we are daily conducted. And that this Grace be not only showed unto us, but to all people and nations of the earth. &c.
Nowe to ende, lette vs1 prostrate oure selues before the face of our good God, acknowlegyng our faultes, desyryng him that it wolde please hym, so to cause vs2 feele our pouerties, that we neuer be so presumptuouse, as3 to attrybute any glorye vnto oure selues: but that we4 acknoweledge oure selues, to be stinking ⟨image 50⟩and detestable in oure nature before hym, to the ende we maye searche the whole cause of our saluation in his purpose and in that counsayle whiche hath ben reueled, through the5 knoweledge of the grace by hym opteined, when he cauled vs to his gospell: And that also he wolde vouchesafe to graunt vs this benefite, that we maye adresse oure selues to oure lorde Iesus Chryst, and wholly to stay and reste our selues vpon hym and the redemption whiche he purchased for vs: to the ende we maye be auowed for the childrē of god, to be made partakers of the inherytaunce of lyfe, after we haue foughte in this worlde. And for as muche as it pleaseth hym, that we should be assaulted of Sathan and of so many ennemies, ⟨image 50⟩as wel domestical as strangers,6 That he wolde geue vs power to withstand their assaultes: so as we be neuer left of him vntyll we haue ended our course. And that we be come to that rest, vnto the whiche we are daylye conducted. And that this Grace be not onely shewed vnto vs, but to all people and nations of the earthe. &c.
vs. For like as the Origynal or pryncipall Regester derogateth nothyng from the copie or instrumente whiche shall be redde, but is rather an approbation of the same: and none wyll searche out for the oryginall, when he hathe the copie autentique:
graffed in his body, and vnited vnto hym. Nowe se ye, howe we oughte to meditate this doctryne, if we lyste to do therwith oure profyte, accordynge to that whiche is here declared vnto vs by sayncte Paule,
Who saythe, that this grace was geuen vs. And howe before al tymes saith he. We muste ascende aboue the course of nature, when we wyll go aboute to knowe howe we be saued, and for what cause, and whence it shuld procede. And farder we muste vnderstande, that god wold not leaue vs in suspēce
Others some god lefte in theyr incredulitie, who neuer hearde so muche as one worde of the gospel preached. So then sainct Paule doth specially adresse hym selfe to thē whom god had chosen and reserued to hym selfe.
all they whiche beleue in hym, shall enioye this priuilege, to be made the chyldren of God. Wee maye not therefore declyne (the least thing that can be) from Iesus Chryste, if we wyll be ful certifyed of our election. Trewe it is, that saynct Paule hath already declared, that we were neuer beloued nor chosē of god,
that Iesus Chryste is oure aduocate, and that he caryeth our prayers whē we praie to god, to thende we shoulde not be repulsed, what shal become of vs? What trust were there to cal
that it can not pricke vs, for nowe hath Chryst the vyctorye: for he suffered not in vayne, the sheddynge of his bloudde fell not on the earthe, nor at all aduentures:
that Chryste is rysen agayne from the deadde, and hath made open this life vnto vs what shall be sayd of vs, if we be so delycate, that we can not beare the afflyctions of the gospel? Are we not worthy to be rased out of the Regester of god, and not to be auowed of hym. And therfore let vs loke vnto it:
