A89915:2793
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.
1. That the word should be familiar to us, and known of us readily, and we so acquainted with it, as with our brethren, or sisters: Say unto wisdom, thou art my sister, &c. Pro 7.4: To note, that as in nature he is accounted a singular idiot that knows not his own brothers or sisters; So in religion, in Gods account it is extreme simplicity, and blindness, not to be familiarly acquainted with the grounds of behaviour and comfort, as they are contained in the word.
1. That the word should be familiar to vs, and knowne of vs readily, and we so acquainted with it, as with our brethren, or sisters: Say vnto wisdome, thou art my sister, &c. Pro 7.4: To note, that as in nature he is accounted a singular idiot that knowes not his owne brothers or sisters; So in religion, in Gods account it is extreame simplicitie, and blindnesse, not to be familiarly acquainted with the grounds of behauiour and comfort, as they are contained in the word.
12. That it should be domesticall, we must get it into our houses, aswell as our Churches, and that three ways: First, when we come home from God, house we should keep the word taught a foot by repetitions of it, and by talking of it upon all occasions, that the life of doctrine be not lost. Secondly, there is required a familiar teaching, and plain and familiar instructing of servants, distilling of the principles, and profitable precepts of the law as they are able. God gave his testimonies to Israel, not that the Clergy men should have them in the Temple and Synagogue, but that Parents should have them in their several dwellings, to instruct their children, and their children's childrenm. Thirdly, the admonitions, rebukes, counsels, and encouragements used in the family should be grounded on the word: for conscience only is the fountain of all right subjection, and obedience: the bonds of nature (because he came out of thy loins) or the bonds of policy (because he is thy hired servant) are too weak to enforce (of themselves) a constant, and cheerful, and just subjection. The true reason why men speed so ill in their servants and children is because they nurture them with their own words, but distil not into their consciences the words of Christ.