A89915:550
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.
1Thirdly, that we may be more fruitful; first, we must labour for greater tenderness in our hearts, and plough our ground deep with long furrows of Mortification: the seed will not grow if it fall upon the trampled and smooth heart of manx: the stones must be taken from the rootsy: secondly, we must learn to make God our trust, and Gods promise our treasure, else in many parts of Christian fruitfulness, worldliness will teach us to deny to obeyz: thirdly, we may not neglect to send forth the leaves of profession: for as these leaves are of medicinable usea, so they are good inducements to force a necessity of more fruit; if no profession, there will be little fruit. Fourthly, we should labour to be abundant in storing up of saving knowledge; for the wisdom that is from above, is full of good fruitb. Fifthly, we should seek the prayers of Gods Ministers for us, and subject our selves to be directed by their care and painsc: though the ungrateful world contemns Gods Messengers and Vine-dressers, yet the truth is, that if many times they did not rise up in the gap, woe would be unto men for their barrenness. Sixthly, we should make use of our crosses, and learn humility and acknowledgement of our sins by them, breaking our hearts in Gods sight, and beseeching him for the compassions of a Father, to be showed to us, that so we might after much exercise under our crosses, bring forth the quiet fruit of righteousnessd. Seventhly, we should importune the Lord for our sakes to visit the great Leviathan, the Devil, and to receive us under his protection to watch us, and daily to water use.