A89915:168
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.
1Oh but we see not only wicked men, but God himself smiteth and afflicteth those that be so holy.2 Sol. Though God afflict and chastise his people, as a Father his beloved Son, yet he forsaketh not his Saints.
1Oh but we see not onely wicked men, but God himselfe smiteth and afflicteth those that be so holy.2 Sol. Though God afflict and chastize his people, as a Father his beloued Sonne, yet he forsaketh not his Saints.
- 1Object.Obiect.
- 2Solution.
1Oh but the Saints themselves are full of great doubts, whether they shall persevere,2 or God will change. Sol. It is Gods unchangeable promise, they shall be preserved for evermore. 3Again, in the 85. Psalm, though the Church be in great perplexities in respect of outward afflictions, yet this comfort the Saints have: First, that though Gods strokes seem to be the strokes of war, yet Gods words are the words of Peace: the Word and Spirit of God are sure fountains of rest and peace to the heart and conscience of Gods afflicted people. Secondly, when God smites his people, he ever hath a regard to this, not to smite them so long, as they should be driven to turn again to folly: by folly he meaneth sin, for all sinful courses are foolish courses. The Lord by crosses intends to bring them out of sin, not to drive them in, and if men find not these privileges true, it is because either they do not hearken, that is, observe and mark the Word, Spirit, and Works of God, or else because they are not his Saints. In the 149. Psalm, there is an Honour given to all the Saints: