A89915:209
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.
But the main Doctrine which generally I observe out of these words,1 is this; that spiritual things from God in Christ are the best things,2 and most to be sought, and desired, and wished, both for our selves and others. The reasons are: 1. They serve for the excellentest part, (viz. the soul) 2. They serve for eternity, and these outward things but for this life: 3.3 Spiritual things are given by God in Christ; the other by God without Christ: §14. They only are able to satisfy the Soul: 5. In respect of continuance; §2for outward things can last but till death, but then their works will follow §3the faithful into the grave, yea, into heaven; and therefore much more §4these graces: 6. Spiritual things are only proper to the Saints; temporal §5things are common both to good and bad: 7. These are to be had by §6virtue of an absolute promise; the other but conditionally assured: 8. These §7are more pleasing and acceptable to God. Gods acceptation proves them §8best: lastly, What shall it profit a man to win the whole world, and loose his own §9Soul?4
But the maine Doctrine which generally I obserue out of these words,1 is this; that spirituall things from God in Christ are the best things,2