A89915:162
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.
Thus far in general, the first thing particularly given them, is, that they are Saints.
Thus farre in generall, the first thing particularly giuen them, is, that they are Saints.
Saints.] This Word is diversely accepted in Scripture.1 Sometimes it is given to the Angels, and so they are called Saints, Deuter. 33.2. Job. 15.15. Secondly, men are said to be holy by a certain Legal or Ceremonial sanctity, Levit. 11.44. And in this sense the superstitious are holy: This is the holiness and sanctity of Papists and Popish persons, which place all their holiness in the observation of Rites and Traditions, and superstitious Customs. Thirdly, all that stand members of the Church, by the rule of Charity, or in respect of outward visibility and profession, are called Saints, and so all that covenant with GOD by offering Sacrifice,2 are called Saints Lastly, and properly it is a term given to men effectually called: the children of God truly converted are called Saints; not because they are perfectly holy without all sin, but in four respects. First,3 in respect of Separation, because they are elected and gathered out of the world, and joined unto Gods people, and dedicated to holy services and uses, & thus the word is often taken. Secondly, in respect of vocation; and therefore the Apostle 1 Cor. 1.2. When he had said they were sanctified, he said by way of explication, they were Saints by calling. Thirdly, in respect of regeneration, because they are now new creatures. And lastly, in respect of justification or imputation, because the holiness and sanctity of Christ is imputed to them.