A89915:2188
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.
And are after the commandments and doctrines of men] The reason stands ⟨p. 89⟩thus, whatsoever hath no better warrant then the commandment and doctrines of men, is to be rejected as a burdensome tradition: But these things are such, therefore why are ye burdened? See the wretched disposition of mens natures, how ready men are to prescribe, and how easy men are to be led on in these foolish vanities. But are the commandments of God so easily obeyed? Are the doctrines of Gods word so willingly embraced? Alas, alas, mens examples, or counsel will easily pass for laws, but the Lord is as if he were not worthy to be heard in the practise of the most.
And are after the commandements and doctrines of men] The reason stands ⟨p. 89⟩thus, whatsoeuer hath no better warrant then the commandement and doctrines of men, is to be reiected as a burthensome tradition: But these things are such, therefore why are yee burthened? See the wretched disposition of mens natures, how ready men are to prescribe, and how easie men are to be led on in these foolish vanities. But are the commandments of God so easily obeyed? Are the doctrines of Gods word so willingly imbraced? Alas, alas, mens examples, or counsell will easily passe for lawes, but the Lord is as if he were not worthy to be heard in the practise of the most.
Thus of the six reasons.
Now follows the objections. Though these things were not commanded in the word, yet they were wisely devised by our fathers, and therefore are to be observed. Sol. v. 23. The Apostle grants that there were three things alleged to approve the discretion of the founders of these things, and instanceth in one kind, viz. abstinence or fasting, for that he confesseth that had a show of voluntary, not coacted or forced religion. 2. Of humbleness of mind. 3. Of the taming of the body; but when he hath granted this, he doth dash all as it were with thunder and lightning, when he saith: 1. This was but a show of wisdom. 2. This sparing did with hold the honour due unto the body.