A89915:2136
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.
This body of Christ is commended for three things, ornament, union, and growth: and well are all put together, for not one can be without the other, especially the first and the third cannot be without the second. It is no wonder Christians cannot grow nor be furnished, if they be not knit to Christ; they may be near the body, but not of the body. There is great difference between our best garments, and our meanest members: the worst member of the body will grow, yet the best raiment though it sit never so near will not: so is it between wicked men professing Christ, and the godly that are members of Christ indeed.
This body of Christ is commended for three things, ornament, vnion, and growth: and well are all put together, for not one can bee without the other, especially the first and the third cannot be without the second. It is no wonder Christians cannot grow nor be furnished, if they bee not knit to Christ; they may be neere the body, but not of the body. There is great difference betweene our best garments, and our meanest members: the worst member of the body will grow, yet the best raiment though it sit neuer so neere will not: so is it betweene wicked men professing Christ, and the godly that are members of Christ indeed.
Of these three, union is of the essence of the body, the other two are adjuncts; the one needful to the being, the other to the well-being of the Church. First therefore of this union.
Of these three, vnion is of the essence of the body, the other two are adiuncts; the one needfull to the being, the other to the well-being of the Church. First therefore of this vnion.
This union is two ways here set forth: 1. That it is, in these words, knit together. 2. How it is, in these words, by joints and bands.