A89915:1093
An exposition upon the Epistle to the Colossians Wherein, not only the text is…An exposition vpon the Epistle to the Colossians Wherein, not onely the text is…
An exposition upon the Epistle to the Colossians Wherein, not only the text is methodically analysed, and the sense of the words, by the help of writers, both ancient and modern is explained: but also, by doctrine and use, the intent of the holy Ghost is in every place more fully unfolded and urged. ... Being, the substance of near seven years week-days sermons, of N. Byfield, late one of the preachers for the city of Chester.An exposition vpon the Epistle to the Colossians Wherein, not onely the text is methodically analysed, and the sence of the words, by the help of writers, both ancient and moderne is explayned: but also, by doctrine and vse, the intent of the holy Ghost is in euery place more fully vnfolded and vrged. ... Being, the substance of neare seuen yeeres weeke-dayes sermons, of N. Byfield, late one of the preachers for the citie of Chester.
London: printed by Edward for Nathaniel Butter, 1617
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.
In this Verse there are eight things to be noted.
First, why, or the moving cause; and that is, It pleased him; for that must be supplied out of the former Verse, as the Copulative (And) showeth. Secondly, by whom, or the Instrument; By him. Thirdly, what, to reconcile. Fourthly, whom, in general, All things. Fifthly, to whom, or to what end, viz. To himself. Sixthly, the effect, making peace. Seventhly, the means of merit, By the blood of his Cross. Eighthly, what in particular, viz. things on earth, and things in Heaven.
First, why, or the moouing cause; and that is, It pleased him; for that must bee supplyed out of the former Verse, as the Copulatiue (And) sheweth. Secondly, by whom, or the Instrument; By him. Thirdly, what, to reconcile. Fourthly, whom, in generall, All things. Fiftly, to whom, or to what end, viz. To himselfe. Sixtly, the effect, making peace. Seuenthly, the meanes of merit, By the bloud of his Crosse. Eightly, what in particular, viz. things on earth, and things in Heauen.
1The principal point in the whole Verse to be observed, is, that man hath then attained the chief good, when his soul is reconciled to GOD: this is the sum of all that which Christ hath procured for his Church. Blessed are the people, whose God is the Lord. Others may be more rich then they, but none more happy; for hereby man is joined to the fountain of all good, and not only hath interest in his favour, but reapeth unspeakable benefits by communion with his Attributes, Word, Works, Holiness and Glory. Our reconciliation with God gives us a title to a better happiness then ever Adam had, it estates us in the possession of eternity, and frees us from immortal woe.