A89503:326
A Practical Commentary on the Epistle of Jude
A practical commentary, or An exposition with notes on the Epistle of Jude. Delivered (for the most part) in sundry weekly lectures at Stoke-Newington in Middlesex. By Thomas Manton, B.D. and minister of Covent-Garden.
London: printed by J.M. for Luke Fawn, 1658
Title page typeset from the transcription.
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.
The whole Epistle is spent in the description of Heretics, their sins and punishments: in this Verse they are described by four things. 1. By their entrance into the Church, [Certain men crept in unawares.] 2. By their condition before God▪ [who were before of old ordained to this condemnation.] 3. By the disposition of their spirits, [ungodly men.] 4. By the course of their doctrines and conversations, where two things are charged upon them: 1. Abusing the Gospel, [turning the grace of our Lord into lasciviousness.] 2. Denying Jesus Christ in his Natures and Offices, [denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.]
The whole Epistle is spent in the description of Hereticks, their sins and punishments: in this Verse they are described by four things. 1. By their entrance into the Church, [Certain men crept in unawares.] 2. By their condition before God▪ [who were before of old ordained to this condemnation.] 3. By the disposition of their spirits, [ungodly men.] 4. By the course of their doctrines and conversations, where two things are charged upon them: 1. Abusing the Gospel, [turning the grace of our Lord into lasciviousness.] 2. Denying Jesus Christ in his Natures and Offices, [denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.]
First, Let us begin with the description of their entrance into the Church, [There are certain men crept in unaware•• ] Some say they are not named, as not being worthy, or rather it not being necessary, they being so plainly described; and indeed 'tis usual with the Apostles, who rather dealt against things then persons, to suppress the name, and describe the error or sin. But what is the meaning of this first thing laid to their charge, they crept in unawares? I answer, It may imply their entrance into the Church under a colour and show of profession: Wicked men may creep into 1the best Church; God permitteth it not only for their own hardening, but for our trouble and trial: Paul complaineth of false Brethren privily brought in to spy out their liberty,