A89915:1530
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.
Now that men may not be mistaken, it will not be amiss to discover the true causes of this want of contentment in many that enjoy the Gospel.1 It is true that the proper effect of the Gospel is to comfort: but it is true also, that it comforts only Gods servantsa. Again, if men have not mourned for their sins, no wonder though they be not comfortedb. Besides, many do not lay up the word in their hearts, and then how can it comfort their hearts? We must be a people in whose heart is Gods lawc, if we would feel this inward joy and consolation. Many also are ensnared with gross sin, whereas only the righteous sing and rejoiced. Many want assurance, and therefore no wonder though they rejoice not with those unspeakable joys, which are companions of faith and the love of Christ onlye. Besides, many have but little joy, because they use but little praying: we must pray much if we have our joy fullf. Further, some through unbelief resist comfortg.
Now that men may not bee mistaken, it will not be amisse to discouer the true causes of this want of contentment in many that enioy the Gospell.1 It is true that the proper effect of the Gospell is to comfort: but it is true also, that it comforts only Gods seruantsa. Againe, if men haue not mourned for their sinnes, no wonder though they bee not comfortedb