A89915:1293
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.
The use is: first, for Instruction; If we would have God to rule us, with this most familiar and fatherly providence, we must then be sure, that we be of his Household. And that we may try, first, by the manner of Gods taking possession of us: for before he comes thus to rule us, there is a strong combat between Christ and the Devil, that strong man. And if sin and Satan rule still in our hearts, the Lord is not there, neither can we serve two Mastersm. Secondly, by our affection to Gods glory and his people: if we be right, the zeal of Gods house will eat us up. Thirdly, by the gifts of Gods Spirit: as namely, by the spirit of prayer; for Gods house is a House of Prayer, and all his household can and do pray. Fourthly, by the privilege of the house; for if we be admitted of God, the Son doth make ⟨p. 159⟩us freen. Fifthly by the sovereignty of Christ, for as many as have this ••nour, they do submit themselves to be ruled, by the word, and spirit of Christo. If the Son cannot rule us, the Father will not own us. And further, if we find our selves to be of this household, we should live in the household of God; showing all faithfulness in using our talents, and carefulness in dispensing those earthly things that God hath trusted us withal: And also observing the orders of Gods house; and not receiving appointment from the example, will, custom, or traditions of menp.
The vse is: first, for Instruction; If wee would haue God to rule vs, with this most familiar and fatherly prouidence, wee must then be sure, that wee be of his Houshould. And that wee may try, first, by the manner of Gods taking possession of vs: for before he comes thus to rule vs, there is a strong combate betweene Christ and the Diuell, that strong man. And if sinne and Sathan rule still in our hearts, the Lord is not there, neyther can wee serue two Mastersm