A89915:2315
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.
Set your affections] The original word varieth in signification.1 Sometimes it is rendered, to study: and it is (out of question) our duty to study and contemplate ⟨p. 8⟩of heavenly things. Sometimes it signifieth, to try by tasting, and it is sure that if carnal people had but once tasted of the sweetness of godliness and religious duties, they would not so securely neglect the provision for eternity: but especially they would see, that they have spoken evil of what they knew not. Sometimes it is translated, to be wise about a thing, and certainly, a Christian should be wise in the matters of his religion and profession, and show it, by forecast and diligence to compass what may be gotten of this true treasure, and by serpentine discretion in the manner and circumstances of welldoing, and by staidness in a Christian course, void of passion, rash zeal, and fickle inconstancy, growing more and more skilful and cunning in the soundness of knowledge, how with more power and spiritual advantage to practise every duty, or exercise every grace. Sometimes it signifieth, to savour of a thing, and it is true that all the carriage and dealings of Christians should savour of the things above; but I take it as it is here rendered. Set your affections] and so it manifestly teacheth us that we Uses. 1 must get not minds or thoughts only, but sound affections to heavenly things, which may both serve for reproof and comfort: for reproof, I say, both of the loathsome lukewarmness of the mostk, and of the dangerous Uses. 2 loss of first love in the better sortl. For comfort, for it is certain, if thou canst find thy heart upright in affections and constant desire after heavenly things,4 thou mayst be assured of three things. 1. That God will accept thy §1will for the deed. He will bear with many wants and weaknesses, where he §2sees a man or woman come to his service with hearts desirous to do their best, and tenderly affected. 2. That thou art not in danger of falling away: for Apostasy never discovers it self to hurt us, or endanger us, till it hath