A89915:2656
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.
2. The consideration of the doctrine of mercy may serve for the great reproof of the want of mercy in men, and that monstrous unmercifulness that every where abounds amongst men, we may complain that merciful men are perished, or if mercy get into the hearts of some it is like the morning dew, it is quickly dried up. But the world is full of usury and cruelty, and oppression, the world hath almost as many wild beasts & monsters, as it hath Land-lords in divers places. And shall nothing be said think we in the day of Christ to ⟨p. 79⟩unmerciful ministers, and Church Governors also. Oh the blood-guiltiness of many monsters rather then Ministers that feed not, or not with wholesome food, the souls of the people. And is there not tithing of Mint, and Cummin, and Anise, while the weightier things of the Law are let alone? It is no mercy to spare idle and scandalous and Idol-shepherds. What should I speak of particulars? there is unmercifulness even in the lender, there is no borrowing unless thou wilt be a servant to him that lendetha. Oh what sums of money are spent upon hawks, hounds, cocks, bears, players, whores, (for I may well join them together) gaming, drinking, apparel, feasting, &c. which should be profitably spent upon the necessities of the poor. But let men repent of their unmercifulness, for the curse of God is upon themb, and the Lord takes the wrong as done unto himselfc, their cry shall not be heard,d nor their fasting nor sacrifice accepted,e and God will spoil their souls, fand judgement merciless shall be to them that show no mercyg.