grace and fauor By this place are declared vnto vs the frutes that vse alwayes to followe the studie of the gospell For it bothe bringeth life vnto vs bicause the gospell is the power of saluation vnto all that beleeue in it and it recreateth the minde with sounde ioy while it teacheth vs that the Father is reconciled vnto vs through the Sonne Which ioye as it is full and perfite so no man is able to take it from vs. Furthermore the Euangelist returneth to the description of Paules voiage rehersing in order both the Cities and places which either they sailed by or else made abode in for any time The situation and standing of which places if any man desire to knowe he may peruse the tables and bookes of the Geographers From Troas vnto Asson Paule went on fote sending his companions afore by Barche For he ment either to visite the congregation as he went or to auoide the anoyance of sailing by Sea. Where yet his humanitie is to be praised that he would ease his felowes of trauaile and not abuse their industrie and good will. At length passing by Ephesus they come vnto Miletum or Malta wher he called the ministers of Asia vnto a Synode It is wrytten that he made great haste bicause he purposed to be at Ierusalē at Pentecost not after the vsage of the Iewes but bicause of the concursse of people which he thought should heare him preach to their great auaile and profite This place is very notable containing Paules trauailes and ieoperdies By the which we learne howe difficult a matter it is duely and truely to serue God who can abide none worse than idle and sluggish worshippers Thus we read Abraham Isaac Iacob Moses the Prophets and after them Christ were troubled and embrued with continuall laboures and perilles Therefore let vs also prepare our selues to labours and daungers that we be not troubled when they sodainly fall on vs This place teacheth vs also of what authoritie the gospell ought to be with vs which we know was set forth with such paines and trauaile and with the effusion of so much bloud For to this ende laboured all the Apostles and the Prophetes before them and the very sonne of God who testifieth that he came also to preach and set forth the gospell Therfore their slouthfulnesse is execrable which so easely let such a treasure be taken from them Their religion likewise is preposterous which alwayes hauing in their mouthes the Saintes and honouring of the Saintes doe in the meane season lothe the doctrine of the gospell for whose sake tyll the Saintes suffered suche paines abode so many daungers and at length shed their bloud Let vs therfore haue a true opinion of this treasure O brethren by the which only saluation is offered vs the aucthor wherof is Iesus Christ to whom be praise honoure power and glory for euer Amen The Cxxxiij Homelie And from Miletus he sent Messengers to Ephesus called the elders of the congregation which when they were come to him he saide vnto them ye know from the first day that I came into Asia after what manner I haue bene with you at all seasons seruing the Lorde with all humblenesse of minde and with many teares and temptations which came to passe vnto me by the laying await of the Iewes bicause I would kepe backe nothing that was profitable vnto you but to shew you and teach you openly thorow out euery house witnessing both to the Ievves and also to the Greekes that the repentance that is towarde God and that faith which is toward our Lord Iesus THe holy Ghost by the holy wryter Luke moste diligently reporteth the Actes of the Apostles of Iesus Christ partly for that all ministers might haue a presidēt to follow and partly that all men might vnderstande of what aucthoritie the gospell ought to be with vs which they haue set forth with such great paines and trauailes And heereunto is this presente Acte of Paule the Apostle to be referred Who although he made great haste to Ierusalem and ment to spend no time in Asia yet he intermitted none of the things which belonged to the vtilitie of the Churches of Asia For he calleth before him at Miletus the Elders or Ministers of Ephesus and the Cities adioyning and in a general Coūcel concludeth with them things of much waight and importance By which example as the faith and industrie of Paule appeareth so we are taught that the conuocation of ministers with the common consent of all parties is very necessary for the determination of Ecclesiasticall matters This maketh for the maintenance of discipline in the Church to kepe vnder the ambition of prelates to conserue an vnitie in true doctrine and to beat downe heresies which many times vse to creepe in if ministers doe not faithfully sette to their helpes Heere therfore the error of those that would mingle the workes of the lawe with the faith in Christ was abolished by a general conuocation and the truthe defended by aucthoritie of the same Heereunto that moste godly and prudent Prince Constantine the great had a respecte when he vsed to cal the Synodes of Bishops togither against the which Licunus the publike ennimie of Christian religion did greatly resiste who by publike Proclamation as Eusebius wryteth forbade the pastoures of the churches to meete or assemble togither For the craftie subtile Foxe perceiued that by consent and vnitie of the Ministers the Churche and the confession of a true faith were cheefely established and that this consent was cheefely maintained by aucthoritie of Counsels And Antichrist as craftily hath pulled vnto him selfe all aucthoritie of Counsels to the end that he would not haue his tyrannie kepte vnder by Counsels lawfully assembled Also in the Ministers of Asia is declared a singuler example of modestie who although they were more in number yet refused not the appointment of Paule being but one who had preached Christ first in those quarters and whome by many arguments they had proued was a chosen instrument of christ For although the dignitie of all Ministers in the Church is alike and none ought to chalēge power or aucthoritie ouer other yet an order is necessary in the Churche which can neuer be kept and maintained except Ministers will obserue modestie and humilitie among themselues And Paule did not therefore call these Pastors of Asia before him bicause he chalenged any priuate aucthoritie or iurisdiction ouer them but bicause it was for the behoofe auaile of the whole church that they should haue warning of matters of importance wherein he thought not to be behinde for his parte bicause as he confesseth other wheres he knewe him selfe to be a debter bothe to the Iewes and to the Gentiles Furthermore let vs see Paules oration containing in it the causes of the calling of this Synode For it hath in it a vehement and pithie exhortation that for as muche as they
and perseueraunce 47. The Apostles remayne at Ierusalem 357. The Apostles did leade about no other mennes wyues 45. The Apostles did thrust nothing into the church of their owne authoritie 569. The Apostles obey the angell 248. The Apostles perceyuing a grutch to aryse in the Primitiue Church consult for a redresse in tyme. 276. The Apostles acknowledge themselues to be but felowes 90. The Apostles preach the Gospell at Perga 585. The Apostles haue taught vs fullye all thinges needefull to our saluation 743. The Apostles depart from Philippi Pag. 645. The Apostles preache the worde of God. 512. The Apostles are not to bee inuocated bicause of the myracles they wrought 892. The Apostles are put in the common Iayle 244. What the Apostles were before they receyued the holy ghost and what after 89. and 90. What maner of God the Apostles preached 163. What the Apostles did at Pisidia of Antioch 519. The Apostles returne to the Cities from whence they were dryuen Pag. 580. The Apostles referre all matters to the church 214. The Apostles are brought backe againe to the councell 252. Why Christ chose rude and vnlearned men to be his Apostles 204. The Apostles boldly withstand the seditious 564. The Apostles giue the holye ghost vnto the Samaritanes 368. The Apostles appoynt Elders in euery church 583. The Apostles are Christes sworne witnesses and whereof they must beare witnesse 786.63.123 The Apostles beare wytnesse of Christ in Samaria and preach the worde of God in all townes and villages 375. The Apostles are despised persons of none account 44. The Apostles are beaten with rods Pag. 267. The Apostles ascribe all thinges to God as to the author of them 9. The Apostles deedes after Christs ascention 42. The Apostles actes were done by the holy ghost 9. The Apostles equalitie 64. The Apostles authoritie in the church was equall 70. The Apostles communitie 143. The Apostles constancie 209.257 and. 262.553 The Apostles boldenesse in defending the truth 257.262 The Apostles grosse question touching the kingdome of Christ the cause of their errour and howe manifolde it was 24.25 The Apostles state when the holye ghost was sent 76. The Apostles saying concerning the appointing of deacons 277. The Apostles doctrine was no new doctrine 538. The Apostles office and doctrine is the benefite of God. 9 The Apostles doctrine howe it was accepted of the worlde 190. The Apostles and Ministers duetie 64. The Apostles fayth and trustynesse Pag. 124. The Apostles enimies and authors of their persecution 191. The Apostles contynuance in preaching 272. The Apostles industrie and modestie 368.758 The Apostles render a reason whye they are sent  The Apostles Sermons 730. The Apostles slippes and falles is no derogation to their doctrine Pag. 55. What the Apostles miracles were Pag. 891.892 The Apostles modestie 758. The Apostles names and why they are so often cyted 44. The duetie of the Apostles inioyned of God. 30.64.417.790 Why the Apostles iourneys are so 〈◊〉 described 759. The Apostles set wholy at lybertie Pag. 642. The Apostles first woorke done in the Ministerie 49. The Apostles common exercyses Pag. 239. The Apostles state while they preached the gospell on earth 4. The Apostles testimonie touching Christ and his resurrection 537. The Apostles wyues 45. The Apostles threatened with death Pag. 262. The Apostles are not suffered to to preache before they bee well instructed 80. A ante Q. Aquilas is Paules hoste 678. A ante R. Aristarchus 870. The argumentes vsed agaynst the faythfull of Christ. 772. The armour wherewith Ministers must defende themselues agaynst the worlde 211. The armour wherewyth Christes kingdome is inlarged 618. A ante S. Ascention of Christ maketh not carelesse of saluation 39. Ascention of Christ is a comfortable thing 36. Ascention of Christ is the ende of the gospell 7. Ascention of Christ is no dispartion or vanishing away 36. What ascention is 33. Who ascended 34. Whether Christ ascended 35. The hystorie of Christs ascentioÌ„ 33. The storie of the ascention is briefe and playne and why ibidem Circumstaunces of Christs ascentioÌ„ into heauen ibidem The ende of Christs ascention ibideÌ„ Christes ascention confirmeth hys victorie agaynst Sathan 37. The maner and causes of Chrystes ascention 36. What thynges followed after Christes ascention 42.43 Christ opened to vs the gates of heauen by hys ascention ibidem Christ is prooued to be the Messias by his ascention 123. Astrologie iudiciall and the abuse thereof 28. Astrologers and Soothsayers of all sortes 28.29 Assemblies at morning and euening Pag. 498. Assemblies ecclesiasticall why they were ordeyned 145.146 Assemblies of the faythfull ibidem Assemblies ecclesiasticall why they are necessary 241. The order of assemblies ecclesiasticall 529. Wicked persons many tymes get into the assemblies of the godly 282. A ante T. Athens praysed 658.659 Athenienses superscription â—65 Athenodorus counsell gyueâ— to â—â—gustus â—64 A ante V. Authors of the Apostles persecution 191. Authors of sedition are the wicked not the faythfull 562. Authoritie of man of what auayle it is in matters of religion 666. How true authoritie may be gotten Pag. 148.149 Mannes authoritie gyueth no commendation vnto Scripture 2. B. B ante A. BAckstarters the authors of schisme and diuision 589. Backstarters not to be taken to soone into the ministerie 519. Backstarters shall be alwaye in the worlde ibidem Banishment is cause of ryfling of goodes and pouertie 557. Banished for their religion must be comforted ibid. and 891. Baptisme delyuered to vs by the Apostles as Christ did institute it 3 Baptisme or the fyre of Christ. 707 Baptisme an outwarde bonde of the church 366. Baptisme of Iohn distinguished from Christs baptisme according to the signe thing that is signed Pag. 22. â—aptisme of Iohn 707. Baptisme of Iohn and of Christ both one 22. Baptisme is called the absolution or assoyling from sinnes 791. Baptisme what it sealeth 366.367 Baptisme howe it washeth vs from sinnes 132.133 Howe baptisme is called the Fountayne of regeneration 305. Baptisme a seale of the promise of forgiuenesse of sinnes in the name of Iesus christ 23. Baptisme is a signe of the purgation made by the bloude of Iesus Christ. 133. The reason and dignitie of baptisme Pag. 791. Baptisme muste not bee neglected Pag. 640. In baptisme what water ought to be vsed 387. To be baptised in the name of Christ. Pag. 132. To be baptised into the forgiuenesse of sinnes 133. Barnabas commendeth Paule 412. What maner of manne Barnabas was 467. Barnabas called Iupiter by the people of Lystra 567. What Barsabas signifyeth 72. B ante E. Beggers properties of our age 152. Beggers must not be suffred among the people of God. 152. To begyn well profiteth not without contynuing to the ende 549. Begynning of Paules sermon 524. Benefites of Christ towarde the inhabiters of Ierusalem 50. Benefites of God are then profytably receyued when men acknowledge GOD to bee the author of them 155. The remembraunce of benefites receyued soone dyeth with Princes Pag. 315. Berrhea
the Actes of the Apostles 1 The Kingdom of christ is this world Psalme 2. 27. Zachar. 9. Daniel 2. Esaye 2. Mich. 4. Iohn 12. 1 The forme of the Church primitiue and rule of reformation thereafter 3 The condition or state of the Church in this world Iohn 17. 4 Examples for men of all degrees and conditions Who Theophilus is Rom. 15. How Luke is to be vnderstanded saying he hath written of all things Iohn 20. All Christs ministerie consisteth in works and doctrine Psalme 2. and .110 Iohn 5. Iohn 10. Iohn 4. Iohn 4. Math. 11. The ascentioÌ„ of Christ is the ende of the Gospell Math. 28. Math. 24. The care and studie of Christe for his Church Iohn 10. Luke 12. The authorâ—â—ie of the Apostles and of their Doctrine 1. Cor. 11. 2. Cor. 5. Iohn 13. Math. 10. The Actes of the Apostles are to be contynued and ioyned to the Gospell Math. 10. Iohn 14. 2. Cor. 13. Ephe. 4. The proofe of Christes resurrection Iohn 20. Math. 28. Marc. 16. Luke 24. 1. Cor. 15. Luke 24. 1. Cor. 15. A bodie glorified is not euery where In his Epistle to Dardanus In the same Epistle 1 Christes Resurrection prooueth his Kingdome 2 Christes resurrection prooueth the truth of the Apostles doctrine 3 The Resurrection of Christ is the stay of oure saluation Iohn 5. Iohn 6. Iohn 11. Iohn 12. Iohn 14. Iohn 17. 1. Cor. 15. Rom. 8. Iob. 19. Agaynst the scoffers at the Resurrection 2. Peter 3. 1. Cor. 15. The meditation and vse of the Resurrection 1. Thes. 4. What the kingdome of God is Mat. 18.20 Luke 22. The Ministers haue neede to be well instructed before they preach Ezech. 3.33 2. Timo. 3. 1. Timo. 4. 1. Timo. 5. The talke of Christians ought to be of the kingdome of God. Colos. 3. Math. 12. The Argument and vse of this present place The Gospell is begunne to be preached at Hierusalem Luke 13. Mat. 23.24 Luke 19. Esay 2. Mich. 4. See Cornelius Tacitus also concerning the same opinion in his xxi booke The wickednesse of the multitude doth not frustrate Gods promises Roma 3. 2. Tim. 2. Esay 49. Genes 18. Math. 3. The dignity or prerogatiue of auncestry doth nothing auayle the wicked Psalm 2. Psal. 48. Math. 5. Math. 11. The holye ghost is the promise of the father Iohn 7. Iohn 14. Iohn 15. Iohn 16. Let the Ministers of the Gospell obâ—y the commauÌ„dement of God. 2. Cor. 10. Roma 1. The Ministeres of the Gospel haue neede of the holy ghost 1. Cor. 3. The doctrine of the Apostâ—es proceedeth from the holy ghost Luke 10. Galath 1. Wee muste teach nothing but that the holye ghost prescribeth Iohn 10. Math. 10. and 28. 1. Pet. 1. Ieremie 1. Ezech. 3.33 The confirmation of Christes promise by an argument taken from baptisme Iohn 5. Wee muste make a difference betwene the ministers and Christ. The sacraments seale or confirme the promises of God. The Argument and vse of this place The cause of the Apostles errour 2. Sam. 7. Psalm 89. Ieremie 23. The Apostles errour is maâ—ifold Math. 16. Math. 10. Ioh. 15.16 Luk. 21. Psalme 2. The falles of holy men doe prooue our corruption 2. Corin. 3. Philip. 2. What carnall folke seeke in Christ. Iacob 4. To abolishe olde errours is a difficult thing Luc. 24. Christe reiecteth the curious question of his Disciples The bounds of Christian wisedome 1. Corin. 13. Ecclesias 3. Prou. 25. All Astrologers and Soothsaiers confuted Searchers for the latter daye Marc. 13. Luc. 21. Waders in Predestination Rom. 11. Ephes. 1. Rom. 11. The kingdome of Christ is spirituall Iohn 18. Roma 14. 2. Corin. 10. The office of the Apostles is to beare witnes of Christ. Prouer. 6. Marc. 8. How wicked a thing it is not to beleue the Gospell 1. Ioan. 5. Iohn 3. The boundes of Christes kingdome Actes 10. Psalme 2. and .72 Christ is the indifferent sauior of all Nations Galat. 3. Coloss. 3. Actes 10. The Argument and vse of this place The hystorie of Christes ascention Mar. 16. Psalm 110. What ascention is Who ascended Hiere 23. Esay 66. Ad DardanuÌ„ Into what place Christ ascended Math. 28. Iohn 14. Philip. 3. 1. Thess. 4. The maner and order of Christs ascention Psalm 104. The causes commodities of Christes ascention 1 He openeth vs the gates of heauen Ephes. 2. Iohn 17. 2 The confâ—rmeth Christs victorie Ephes. 4. Coloss. 2. 3 Christ appeareth an intercessor for vs in heauen Psalme 110. Leuit. 16. Hebrues 9. 1. Iohn 2. Roma 8. The apparitions of the Angels Actes 1. Against the corporall presence of Christ on the earth Ephes. 4. Math. 18. Math. 28. 1 The iiiâ— to the Ephesians Luke 24. Math. 28. Iohn 14. 2 Christes Godheade drowneth not hys manhoode neyther caryeth it through euery thing In his Epistle to Dardanus 3 The places of Mathewe .18 and .28 Ioan. 14.16 4 The wordes of the supper A comfort of the last comming of Christ. 2. Corin. 5. Rom. 14. Math. 16. Luke 21. Iob. 19. The argument and vse of this place 1 The Apostles returne to Ierusalem Luke 24. An example of the obedience of faith Iohn 3. 1. Timoth. 2 1. Corin. 10. Psalm 105. 2. Cor. 10. Numer 15. Deut. 4.12 2 The names of the Apostles An example of the goodnesse of God. Roma 5. Iohn 21. Zach. 1. Ezech. 16. The Apostles are men despised and of no reputation Iohn 7. 1. Corin. 1. Math. 11. The Wyues of the Apostles 1. Corin. 9. Hebrues 13. Marie the Uirgin mother of Christ Psalme 27. 118. 3 What the Apostles being gathered togither did Faith is no let why wee shoulde not pray Rom. 10. Hebrues 11. Roma 14. In prayers must be vnanimitye and perseuerance Math. 5. Psalm 13. Habac. 1. Esaye 49. Psalme 56. Luke 11. 18. The chiefe care in the Church must be for fitte Ministers Rom. 10. 1. Cor. 3. Esaye 54. Math. 9. Ephes. 4. The small company of the Church primitiue The small number of beleeuers must offend no man. Iohn 3. Iohn 7. Isaye 53. Luke 12. Luke 18. Wee must not iudge of fayth according to the multitude of folowers 3. Reg. 18. 3. Reg. 22. Roma 3. Against the desyrers of supremacy in the Church 1. Cor. 14. Gala. 2. 1. Cor. 3. Math. 18. 20. Luke 22. Iohn 13. 1. Peter 5. The Argument of Peters Oration Peter putteth offences away by the prouidence of God. Iohn 13. The prouydence of God excuseth no sinner Iohn 12. Gene. 50. Psalme 90. Math. 10. Of what force prayers bee Iacob 1. We must appoint nothing in the Church without scripture Deuter. 17. Ezech. 3.33 Luke 4. The holye Ghost the Auctour of scripture 1. Peter 1. 2. Peter 1. 2. Timo. 3. The dignitie that Iudas had at the first Math. 10. Marke 3. Luk. 6.9 c. Mark. 14. We must not be offended at the faultes of the ministers of the worde Math. 23. The faithful are betrayed by them of their owne
Of the maner and order of his deliuery Exod. 2. Moses stirred vp by God taketh vpon him the office of a deliuerer Hebru 11. Except we be drawne of God we doe no good 2. Cor 3. Iohn 6. Cant. 1. Wee must obey God calling drawing vs Iohn 10. The deliuery of the fathers out of Aegypt was of grace The dutie of a Magistrate Psalm 72. Roma 13. Let no man be grieued at the ingratitude of the people A figure of Christ and our redemption Phil. 2. Iohn 13.15 The punishment of the ingratefull Iewes Num. 14. Rom. 10. How the godly may sometime flie Math. 10. 1 The time of Moyses calling Luc. 24. Marc. 8. 2 An Aungell of the Lord calleth Moyses 1. Cor. 10. Ephes. 1. 1. Pet. 1. Iohn 8. Dan. 7. 1. Pet. 1. The fierye bushe Iohn 14. Math. 28. Psal. 116. 3 Moses calling The God of the fathers c. Rom. 8. Iohn 11. Math. 22. The shooes must be put off Iohn 4. Iohn 13. God seeth the affliction of his people Psalm 56. Exodus 22. 1 Moses the ruler and delyuerer of Israel God aduauÌ„ceth the abiect and despysed Luke 1. Prouer. 16. After what sort Moses is sayde to be the delyuerer of the people 2 Moses fulfilleth the office of a delyuerer Moses myracles in Egypt The myracle of the red sea The myracles in the desert 1. Pet. 1. 1 The lawe gyuen by Moyses Exo. 20.24 Num. 12. 1. Cor. 15. 2. Cor. 3. Leuit. 18. Galat. 3. Rom. 7.8 Moses deliuereth the precepts he receyued of God. Leuit. 24. Nume 15.9 Hierem. 1. Ezech. 3. Math. 28. The law giuen also for them that came after Iohn 4. Esay 40. Math. 5. 2 The he ynousnesse of Idolatry Exodus 32. The beginning and going forwarde of ydolatrie i. Contempt of the worde ij. Contempt of the Minister iij. Newe Goddes Psal. 106. Rom. 1. iiij. Worshipping of Idolles Habacuc 2 v. Reioycing of Idolaters Hos. 4. The Idolatrye of the Israelytes is of coÌ„tinuance 1. Reg. 11. 1 Reg 12 13 1. Reg. 16. 2. Para. 25. 2. Para. 28. 2. Reg. 21. Esay 6. Roma 1. 1. Cor. 2. Iohn 6. Deut. 4.12 A place in Amoz the .v. ch Ierem. 4. Heb. 11. Esay 29. Math. 15. The worshipping of Moloch The God Rempham Iere. 10. Worshipping of Images Deut. 4. Rom. 1. See Paulus Iouius in the historie of his â—yme the .40 booke 1 The worshipping of God was not tyed vnto the Tabernacle The Tabernacle was a type of heauenly things Iohn 4. The Tabernacle translated into the lande of the Gentiles Iohn 4. The place of the Tabernacle vncertaine Psalm 132. Iosua 18. 1. Sam. 1. c. 1. Sam. 11.20 1. Paral. 21. 1. Reg. 12. 2 The worshipping of God is not tyed to the Temple 1. Reg. 6. 1 He beateth downe confidence in Circumcision 2 He ouerthroweth the confidence in their forefathers Math. 3. Iohn 8. Esay 53. 1. Cor. 1. Ierem. 23. Luke 24 â–ª 1. Pet. 1. iij. He beateth them from their affiance in the lawe Psal. 147 Luke 11. Math. 7. Math. 10. Hebr. 10. How Steuens enemies like of his Oration or sermon 2. Tim. 4. Ezech. 3. God comforteth Steuen being ready to be put to death Psal. 121. Iere. 17. The maner and order how God comforteth Iohn 14. 1. Iohn 4. Ioh. 10. Psa. 3.35.44 Psal. 110. 2. The fury of Steuens enemes is incurable Psal. 58. The wicked obserue a shew of equitie Leuit. 24. Deut. 13.17 Prouerb 6. Num. 35. Prou. 18. 3 What Steuen doth being at the point of death Iohn 14. Math. 5. Steuen falleth on slepâ— 1 An vniuersall persecution of the Church The Apostles remaine at Ierusalem Iohn 10. Se the Tripartite hystory the .ix. booke and xx Chap. See a lyke storye of godlye courage in Ambrose agaynâ—t Theodosius the Emperor whom Ambrose had excommunicated for a great slaughter committed at Thessalonica and would haue comen into the Church at Milane but was withstanded of Ambrose in the same booke the xxx Chap. * What the faythfull dyd towarde Steuen Iohn 9. 1. Thes. 4. Ioh. 11. 3 Saule is a singular example of tyranny Gen. 49. 1. Tim. 1. Math. 24. 1 Philip the Apostle of Samaria 1. Tim. 3. Actes 5. 1. Iohn 4. Galat. 1. 1. Cor. 2. Galat. 6. Myracles wer wrought by Philip. 2. Cor. 3. Phil. 4. Iohn 15. Iohn 8. 1. Peter 5. Math. 12. 2 The Samaritanes embrace the Gospell The order of astayning to saluation Psal. 107. 1. Cor. 3. Luke 8. Math. 13 The fruite of the Gospell and of fayth Luc. 2. Ierem. 4.4 3 Simon Magus hindreth the course of the Gospell Philip an example of christian valiantnesse 1. Iohn 4. Simon Magus an example of a seducer Eusebius in his 2. booke and .13 chap. Irenaeus in his first boke and 20. Chap. 1. Sam. 28. Deut. 13. A marke of a seducer or deceyuer Actes 14. The inconstancie of the worlde 1 The appointing of the Church at Samaria Ephes. 4. Luc. 10. Iohn 13. 1. Thess. 2. Baptisme is an outwarde bande of the Church Iohn 15. Against the Anabaptists Gene. 17. Math. 18.19 1. Cor. 7. 2 Simon beleueth and is baptized Marc. 5. 1. Cor. 1. 3 The going forwarde in fayth and increase of the holy ghost Rom. 10. Galat. 3. Coloss 3. The Apostles giue the holy ghost to the Samaritanes Actes 1â— 19 Iohn 14. The industry and modesâ—ye of the Apostles A latere from their side meaning their â—â—tyer friends and counsaylors Prayers are ioyned vnto the laying on of handes 1 Simons sâ—nne Math. 10. Eccle. 10. Num. 16. Mat. 18.20 Luke 22. 2 Peter expostulateth with Simon 2. Reg. 5. Iohn 2. Math. 21. Mar. 11. Zach. 14. The riches of the wicked are accursed 2. Pet. 2. Habac. 2. The ende of reprehensions in the Church Deut. 29. Math. 22.15 Sinners must be sent vnto God. 3 Howe Simon tooke Peters expostulation Rom. 15. Ephes. 6. 1 What the Apostles did beside at Samaria Iohn 15. Actes 1 Math. 28. Ezech. 3. Ierem. 23. 1. Cor. 9. 2 The historie of the conuerted Eunuche The speciall calling of Philip. The obedience of Philip Gene. 12 â–ª The discription of the Aethiopian Eunuch A Prince Rom. 13. Actes 10. Actes 13. His maners and vsage or studie Psal. 76. 1. Reg. 8. 1. Reg. 12. Esay 49. Psal. 82. Deut. 17. Philip is appoynted to teach this Eunuch Esay 66. 1. Cor. 12.14 Ephe. 4. The place of Esay 53. In his Preface vpon Esay to Paula Eustachium In his first preface to his Commentaries vpon Esay In his Epistle to Paulinus the priest vppon all the bookes of the Byble i. Christ died of his owne will. Math. 20. Iohn 10. Phil. 2. 1. Pet. 2. ii. Christ by death got the victorie Genes 1. Psal. 110. 1. Cor. 15. Colos. 3. Iohn 12.13 and .17 Rom. 14. Psal. 34. iii. Christes kingdome is eternall and inuincible Luke 1. Iohn 17.14 Psal. 89. Math. 28. 1. Cor. 15. Rom. 8. iiij. Death is the entry into Chrystes kingdome Phil. 2. 1. Cor. 15. 2.
and troubles of all Christendome doth not only liue in peace hir selfe but also is a most safe sanctuarie for forreyners and straungers resorting to hir from all places Therefore great and weightie causes as me thinketh haue mooued me most honourable and my especiall good Lordes to dedicate this my labour and traueyle vnto you wherein according to the grace of God bestowed vppon mee I haue gone about to open and make plaine that booke which describeth the fiâ—st countenaunce and looke of that Church that is called the primitiue Church wyth the proceedings encrease and whole estate of the same a president wherof I see you haue followed with no lesse industrie and diligence than good and happie successe Which president if they shall follow which shall suceede you in gouernement of the common weale they shall both see howe you haue done nothing rashly and on a head and shall also perceyue themselues woonderfully pricked forwarde to obserue and keepe with all their power that fourme and order of a refourmed Church and Religion that they shall receyue of you And surely it shall be verie profitable to meditate oftentymes by what meanes and beginnings our auncestours deuised such an order and fourme both of Church and common weale For in so doing they shall neyther regarde slaunderers which maliciously depraue thinges done well and godlily neyther shall they be turned from the truth for anye stormes of persecution or threates of the worlde that may aryse It is also profitable manye tymes to talke of these thinges before the people which as they are ledde most commonly with things present so doe they easily forget thinges passed and gone and verie seldome thinke of things to come Therefore they allow not the deuises of the Magistrates but when they see them ioyned eyther with present profite or cleere of perilles and daunger For as soone as daunger once appeareth they finde fault and lacke of wisedome and equitie in those whose councels they ought faythfullye to set forward and obey But if they did vnderstande that their rulers had God for the authour and guyder of their drifts and deuises and that they did whatsoeuer they did according to their duetie then surelye they woulde learne more religiously to iudge of their rulers and more easilye to obey them and woulde not so sodenly bee mooued and turned at euerye rumour of daunger arysing Surely this was the thing that I chiefly ment and intended when I began openly to reade this booke to the flocke of Christ among you and to publishe and set abroade that which I had openly spoken and declared For I sawe that the state of this age waxing euery day woorse and woorse was such that it was most nedefull continually to pervse the bookes of holy scripture and to sette before the people the examples of the primitiue Church conteyned in the same that they shoulde not be deceyued with the gloses of such as vnder a false colour and pretence of antiquitie burthen vs with newe errours and accuse those thinges of noueltie which graue and godly menne haue restored vnto vs out of the worde of god Accept therefore these my labours mine honourable and good Lordes with such fauour as you haue manye yeares borne vnto the truth and vnto mee and manye other my fellowes and coparteners euen from our childehoode Continue your good will vnto the students of diuinitie holde on your accustomed humanitie and gentlenesse toward the pilgrimes and banished for Christes sake abide in the mainteyning of your lawes and correcting of the peoples maners in enhaunceing vertuous exercises and in bridling wickednesse with iustice In many places the horrible contempt of God reigneth Diuers doe wickedly reiect the wholesome benefite of Gods worde and the knowledge of christ Charitie in most men waxeth chill and fayth fayleth euerie day by little and little Iniquitie aboundeth and newe croppes of naughtinesse dayly encrease God therefore being angrie â–ª threatneth vs with punishment and feareth the world with woonders monsters and horrible vprores of kingdomes And yet will he neuer fayle them which abyde and continue in promoting his glorie defende the Church of his Christe and according to the measure of their vocation perseuere in doing their duetie He shall blesse your labours and gouerne your councels by his spirite he shall blesse all your people so that they shall of their owne accorde obey your wholesome lawes and moste happilye enioye the gladsome benefite of euangelicall peace He shall blesse your whole Church so that it shall go forwarde euerie day more and more in the doctrine of godlinesse To him who is the onely Lorde of Lordes the immortall and euerlasting God be blessing honour power and glorie for euer Amen Giuen at Zurich in your famous and chiefe Citie of Heluetia the first daye of August in the yeare of oure Lorde 1557. ⧠Ioannes Parkhurstus Anglus Episcopus Nordouicensis Multa relucenti debent haec tempora Lucae Et debet Lucas multa Rodolphe tibi Lux Lucae luxit totum diffusa per orbem Lux Lucae lucet nunc magè luce tua Ergo tibi Lucae tantum qui luminis adfers Christus cum Luca lucida regna dabit Eiusdem aliud ad Lectorem Quae 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 fuerint Apostolorum Qui ritus veteres apudque Patres Et quot discere Lector est ne cordi Huc adsis auido legantur ore Haec quae scripta vides pererudita Sacris eruta scripta quaeque libris Aut è Patribus eruta Orthodoxis Quae multo peperit tibi labore Gualtherus pietate clarus atque Doctrina patriae decus suaeque Praefulgens celebres habendus inter Scriptores potes id negare Liuor Laudes quid memorare pergo plures Vino vendibili haud opus virente Est suspensa hedera Liber loquatur ¶ A Table of the chiefe wordes and things expounded in these Homelies and Annotations A A ante A. AAron and hys chyldren chosen to be ministers Pag. 67. A ante B. Abelles fayth what it was Pag. 853. Abnegation or denying of our selfe is the beginning of Christianitie Pag. 367. Abraham is an example of the obedience of fayth 295. Abraham pleased God wythout the ceremonialles 293. Abraham is in manye daungers after he came into the lande of promyse 297. Abrahams faythe is stedfast althoughe hee bee tryed dyuers wayes ibidem Abrahams singuler faythe is sette forth ibidem Abraham what GOD dyd with him after hee came into the lande of promise ibidem Abrahams faythe in all aduersities is vpholden by Gods promyse onely ibidem A ante C. Actes of the Apostles instructe all states and degrees of men wyth examples Pag. 4. Actes of the Apostles commende the truth and Maiestie of the propheticall Oracles of vtility necessitie dignitie and Maiestie 2 Actes wherewith it begynneth the hystorie 1. A ante D. Adam was a christian 852. Adams sinne depryued vs of lyfe Pag. 119. Admiration of Gods workes is necessary 157 Admonitions out of Gods words are needefull
Where is the promise of his comming 66â— 1. IOan 2. Let the same abyde in you which you heard from the beginning 129.588 3. Now are we the sonnes of God and yet it doth not appeare what wee shall bee 540 4. Greater is he that is in you then hee that is in the world 353 4. Here in is loue not that wee loued God. 531 APocaly 3. The Epistle to those of Laodicca 660 14. Blessed are the dead whiche dye in the Lord. 313 20. The Sea shall gyue vp hir dead which are in hir 313 21. There shal bee new Heauens and a newe earth 175 22. Woorship God. 260 FINIS The first chapiter vpon the Actes of the Apostles The first Homelie IN the former treatise deare THEOPHILVS we haue spoken of all that IESVS began to doe and teach vntill the daye in which hee was taken vp after that hee through the holye Ghost had giuen commaundements vnto the Apostles whom he had chosen GReat is the prayse of Hystorie though but prophane for that the wysest men haue called hir the witnesse of tymes the light of truth the life of remembrance the Maystresse of lyfe and the Messenger of Antiquitie yet certaine it is that these titles may be applyed to no Hystorie more deseruedly and truely than to the Hystorie contayned in the Bookes of the olde and newe Testament which the holy Ghost hath deliuered vnto the Church For this Hystorie bringeth vs an exact an infallible account of the tymes from the first beginning of the worlde vnto the birth of Iesus Christ which account with other wryters is founde vncertayne and deceytfull This Hystorie is not onely the light but also the touchstone whereby the writinges and credite of all other Hystoriographers ought to be tryed This Hystorie conserueth vs the memorie of things done in very deede and which in very deede appertayne to our â—aluation And those things which lye hidden in the â—ecrete closets of reuerend antiquitie she most truely reporteth vnto vs and maystresse of life shee onely and none other ought to be called For she layeth before vs the examples not onely of vices and vertues and the chaungeable occurrences of the worlde by the which we may learne how to â—rame this present life but taking hir flight yet higher she giueth preceptes of eternall saluation of the soule shee reuealeth the holy will of God shee layeth before vs presidents of Gods promises and threates shee describeth the iudgement of God against the disobedient and declareth his protection and tuition wherewith hee defendeth those that worship him And to conclude shee setteth before vs to beholde as in a glasse all the nature and propertie of God that euery man may see what an one he vouchsafeth 〈◊〉 be â—o vs what maner of ones he requireth vs againe to be towardes him Which things vnlesse we imprint in our mindes we traueyle in all other hystories but in vaine which may delight vs with vaine ioye but are not able to enflame our mindes with the loue of true vertue and holy religion But amongst the volumes of holy Scripture that make mention and report of things done I thinke there is none extant the reading and knowledge whereof is eyther more profitable or necessarye than this which is entituled the Actes of the Apostles For to say nothing of Luke the Author hereof whose prayse is in the Gospell which was present almost at all the things done for the holy scripture inspired of God needeth not the authoritie or prayse of man such is the dignitie and maiestie of the things comprised in this Booke that if the same be not able to allure mooue any man to esteeme and loue the woorke in vayne shalt thou go about by humane reason to perswade him Amongst the which thinges we will intreate presently of those which containe the argument summe of the whole narration or discourse And first of all Luke descrybeth the beginning proceeding and successe of that kingdome which Christ hath in thys worlde whereof appeareth in the Prophets many things foreshewed and tolde For Dauid testifieth that Christ is declared a King by God his Father whose inheritaunce sayth hee are all the Nations of the earth and who also shall rule the Islandes Zacharie prophecieth that the boundes of hys kingdome should stretch from sea to sea In Daniel it is called the Mountayne that shoulde fill the worlde wherevnto all the thinges are to be referred written in other Prophetes by these wordes In the latter dayes it will be that the hill where the house of the Lord is buylded shall be the chiefe among hilles and exalted aboue all little hilles I passe ouer diuers things for prolixitie which might be alleaged to this purpose But if thou wouldest search these thinges in the Hystorie of Iesu Christ written by the Euaungelistes thou shouldest finde little or nothing answerable to such honorable Oracles For they describe Christ to be lowly poore and subiect to the iniuries and reproches of euery man and who after an infinite sort of calamities abode most shamefull death on the crosse Further they shewe the borders of his kingdome to haue bene very narrow and straite for that the misteries of the same were vnderstanded but of very few But if thou wilt pervse this Booke by by whatsoeuer the Prophets haue prophecied of the same shall appeare to be most true For he that seemed despised and a man of no estimation by his glorious ascention into heauen hath triumphed ouer the Deuill and all his enimies sitteth on the right hande of hys father from thence sendeth the holy Ghost before promysed to his Apostles wherewith they being inflamed beginne to preache Christ and not content within the borders of Iurie are dispersed amonge the Gentiles and amongst them by the playne and simple preaching of the Gospell spredde the kingdome of Christ both farre and neare so that Christ stretcheth his kingdome from sea to sea and the Islandes of the sea beginne to acknowledge him to be theyr King and by the ministerye of the Apostles it commeth to passe that all nations and people flocke vnto this Mountayne exalted aboue all Mountaynes yea reigning in heauen which thing Christ a few dayes before his death prophecied should come to passe in these wordes When I shall be lyft vp from the earth I will drawe all people vnto mee And this is so euident an argument of the kingdome of Christ and of his power that there can be none more euident For no Prince were he neuer so mightie coulde so quickly chaunge the fashion of the whole world as the Apostles in few yeres did being but abiects and contemned persons and by the spirit of Christ woorking in them graffed in the hartes of men a newe and before that time vnknowne desire of fayth and christian religion Except therfore this Booke were extant the truth of the kingdome of Christ and the maiestie therof should appeare eyther
none at all or at leastwise might seeme obscure and vncertaine Beside this there is one other thing very profitable and necessary to be knowne that is to say what maner of countinaunce the Primatiue Church had which was founded by the Apostles according to the which the Church in all ages ought to be refourmed when any errors or abuses shall happen Touching which thing as all men dispute therof in these daies so shall a man finde very fewe which wil take the straight way opened by the Apostles to amende the same Wherby it commeth to passe that we put newe errors in the place of olde driue away olde superstitions with new as pieuish noysome as the olde Whereas if we would obserue the thinges written by Luke wee should haue a certaine an infallible rule aswell of doctrine as ceremonies which the Apostles left vnto the church They taught one Iesus Christ to be the onely Auctor of our saluation and that men which by nature are sinners and in daunger of damnation are by no other meanes iustified saued than by faith in Iesus Christ. Yea this booke aboundeth with most notable examples wherewith the principall and chiefe article of our christian fayth as I sayd eare whyle is warranted and confirmed against all the cauillations of Sophisters and Phariseis For what other did euer the Apostles require of the vncleane Gentiles and straungers from the common weale of the people of God but to leaue their olde superstition and to beleeue in Christ Did they not preache saluation and forgiuenesse of sinnes to them turning from their open ydolatrie Did they not most stoutely stande against those blinde Bayardes which would burthen the Gentiles with the woorks of the lawe as though Christ had not beene of power to saue but those which prepared themselues to him by the deedes of the Lawe Wherfore if the faith in Iesus Christ was once sufficient for the Gentiles and they not to be charged with the workes and ceremonies of the lawe published by God I pray you what shall let why the same faith and beliefe shal not suffise vs in these daies Or shall we say that the traditions of men are more profitable and necessary to the attaynement of Iustification and saluation than they which God once ordayned to remayne till the time of correction As touching ceremonies outwarde rytes the Apostles thought it vnlawfull to charge the Churches with any thing vpon their priuate authoritie Baptisme the order wherof they receyued of Christ the Lorde they haue most sincerely deliuered The vse and maner of the Lordes Supper as Christ did institute it they thought good to retayne In other matters of the Church this was their chiefe care to haue a Discipline wherewith Christ woulde the naughtye disposed to be kept vnder and that the poore shoulde be honestly prouided for whose case and condicion the Lorde did vouchsafe so earnestlye to commende vnto vs The thinges which besides these now a dayes vnder the name of the Apostles and Canons of the Apostles are obtruded wee can not acknowledge for Apostolyke neyther can any good man blame vs therefore forasmuch as Luke maketh no mention of them whose diligence and labour the holy Ghost thought good to vse in writing the Sermons and Actes of the Apostles Surely I will neuer thinke the holye Ghost eyther so vnwyse as to take a negligent wryter of so high matters or else so forgetfull as to let passe any of those things the knowledge and obseruation whereof was so necessarie in hys Church I would speake of euery thing more at large but that they recourse in the treatise of the Hystorie where they will be more commodiously handled Let it suffise for this time to haue shewed the great vtilitie of this booke in that it ministreth to vs a true and an infallible rule of reforming the Church which except they obserue which will be called and counted reformers they may well reioyce in their reformations in the iudgement of the fleshe but they shall neuer giue vs Churches that any man but meanely trayned in the holy Scriptures shall acknowledge in all pointes for sincere and true Apostolike Churches Howbeit this booke sheweth vs not only a forme paterne of the Church of Christ but also it plainely teacheth vs what the state and condicion of the Church is here in earth which to know is both profitable and necessarie aswell for doctrine and information as also for the comfort that thereby commeth vnto vs For we shal see the Apostles in euery part of the world finde it true that Christ foreshewed touching their Crosse and afflictions For God would not so worke by them as that the things both supersticiously and wickedly maintayned in the worlde till that daye shoulde yeelde of their owne accorde to their preaching but he would invre them with labours and contentions And in euery place there were founde that woulde withstande theyr doctrine and those not of the rascall and common sorte but they which for their learning and godlynesse the worlde woondered at such as were the Scribes and Priestes amongst the Iewes and the Philosophers of the Gentyles Neyther was the matter decyded wyth wordes For so great was the authoritie of the enimies of the truth that the Magistrates tooke their partes so that they were fayne to pleade their cause before them and to contrarie their commaundements with hazarde of their lyfe Thus being banished their natiue Countrie they felt the smart of exyle they were in perill by sea and lande they laye bounde in Prisons euerye man hated them and rayled vpon them and finallye they ended their charge of preaching the Gospell with their death and bloudsheading These thinges if wee consider wee shall perceyue what we haue to hope for nowe a dayes neyther shall wee be offended eyther wyth the authoritie or power of men striuing against the Gospell wyth such rage and furie as they did And on the other side the loyaltie and truth of Christ shall marueylously comforte vs whom the Apostles founde so true in his promyses For he promised the ayde of his holy Spirite present counsell in aduersitie and his safegard and defence against all men All which he so perfourmed that they hauing the vpper hande despite of the world and Prince therof obtained their purpose and were able with good successe to perfourme their vocation Let no man therefore feare the threates of tyraunts in these daies let no man be afrayde of Sathans enterpryses let no man be abasshed at the stormes tempestes of this worlde For Christ liueth still and the truth of his promyses is infallible which as they once were made to his Apostles euen so they are continued to all men which beleeue in Christ according to their doctrine And surely if there were no other vtilitie of this booke but this one there is no man but seeth how necessary the knowledge therof is in these dayes where wee see euery where such
is it seene in thys present Booke where in the report of the Apostles actes and description of the primitiue Church Luke alwayes ioyneth these two thinges togyther that is to say the successe of Christes kingdome and the furious rage of the vngodly against the same These thinges serue to the ende that we should neyther be offended at the Crosse and aduersitie whereof Christ so often tymes hath gyuen vs warning neyther hope for anye contynuall peace and tranquillitie of the Church in thys worlde but that we should euen then prepare our selues to the crosse when the Church seemeth to be most in safetie Wherevnto thys present hystorie is chiefely to be referred For Luke a little before setteth forth vnto vs a flowrishing state of the Church shewing vs what aâ—thoritie it grewe in and how it increased day by day in so much that the Citie of Ierusalem was nowe to little to conteyne the kingdome of Christ bicause it began to be caryed abroad among straunge Nations But among these so many and prosperous proceedings there foloweth a grieuous persecution and great daunger bicause Christ gaue his enimies such power that they layde handes on the Apostles and put them in prison thinking also to put them vnto death Yet these things serue more to comfort vs than to feare vs bicause the Lorde so presently helped the Apostles being in daunger for the glorie of his name But that we maye receaue the more vtilitie and profite hereby first we must consider the enimies of Christ and the Apostles Then howe the Lorde did elude and frustrate their enterprise And last of all we will declare what the Apostles did after they were delyuered from the perill they were in Luke wryteth diligently of the enimies and persecutours of the church and of their enterprises For he sayth the high priest rose vp agaynst the Apostles and not he alone but all his complyces and fellowes and they that were his nearest friendes and familiars and these sayth he were of the Sadduceyes secte that we may perceaue what corruption raigned nowe among the Iewes when they were supreame heades of the Church to whome the resurrection of the dead which is the chiefe article of our fayth and religion seemed but a game and pastime as we haue often tymes declared And surely if they had not bene vtterly voyde of all religion eyther the sinceritie of the Apostles doctrine or the reuerente maiestie of the congregation or the wonderfull worthynesse of myracles and so great concursse of all sortes of people to the kingdome of Christ might haue mooued them lesse to haue raged But Luke declareth also what incensed them For he sayth they were full of zeale that is enuie and indignation For they could not abyde them to be had in prise and estimation by whose doctrine theyr honor and aduauntage was defaced Yet is it no doubt but they made the zeale of God and the publike commoditie of all the people to be the pretence of their priuate affections as we reade Caiaphas and his complyces did before Wherevnto came this zeale so farre that they layde hands on the Apostles and commaunded them to the common gayle as breakers of publike peace and open malefactours These things must be applyed to our times also bicause it is manifest al things are written for our sakes that we may haue enstruction and comfort thereby First this example teacheth vs who are alwayes like to be the greatest persecutors of Christes truth Truely they which glorie in the tytle of Priesthoode and will be taken for the chiefe heades of the Church and ought chiefely to maintaine and preach the truth But as soone as vnder pretence of Religion they beginne to seeke their owne gayne and lucre then can they neyther beleue themselues nor yet suffer the light of the truth whose brightnesse discloseth their naughtinesse and deceit And such for the most parte are these Sadduceis yea the Hogges of Epicures hearde For vnlesse they thought the thinges written in Scripture touching Heauen and Hell the immortalitie of the soules and the resurrection of the deade more vaine than fables they woulde neuer neyther so wickedly corrupte the scriptures with their traditions nor yet so impudently turne relygion into priuate lucre and aduantage Therefore Christ and the Apostles shewe vs how Antichrists place and Sea should be euen in the very church that we might perceyue from whence most daunger were to be looked for and feared And if we well marke these tymes it shall appeare they onely haue bene the enimies of the doctrine of the Gospell and kingdome of Christ which heretofore haue bene thought to be the chiefe heades of the Church For it is euident that the matters attempted by Princes and Kings were done for their sakes and by their procurement and instigation This thing offendeth many in these daies and make them thinke that the doctrine in our Churches is not the truth bycause the Popes and Byshoppes are enimies thereto But great folly it is to be offended with that which hath bene the most vsuall and common thing since the worlde beganne as other wher 's hath bene declared But we must as diligently consider wyth what craft and weapons these men fight Where first is to be noted howe egregiouslye they can counterfaite the zeale of God whose glorie they lament to be troden vnder foote and his Church to be so daungerously deuided But this is but a corrupt zeale as we see in Caiaphas to whome the confession of truth which Christ vttered seemed blasphemous and intollerable So nothing seemeth so impious and intollerable to these our heades as that that tasteth of the truth of the Gospell and is repugnant to their proude tyrannye and aduauntage And it appeareth euen by this place that we ought to haue no better iudgement of the zeale of our enimies bicause that as the Bishops of the Iewes coulde beare with the madde errours of the Saduceyes so they woulde helpe to bring downe Christ so these men can beare with the wicked sale and marte of holye things condemned by the Popes owne Canons with the scorcing of Gods doctrine with horrible periurye whoredome and all kinde of vnbridled lyuing so that those things that pertaine to their vaineglory and aduauntage might be left alone vntouched But to graunt them that in deede they haue a zeale to the glory of God yet can they not be excused but are lyke vnto the Iewes which as Paule sayth had a zeale of God but yet were voyde of all knowledge and truth For GOD will not haue vs followe our owne zeale but his woorde which for this cause he hath witsafed to reueale to all ages to the intent no man should followe the suggestions of the fleshe and wisedome of man But what maner of zeale these men had may be iudged by the successe of the thing For they that were Stewardes of the worde of God and ought with argumentes of Scripture to haue
Lord both of lyfe and death And the elect acknowledged the same which streight waye when they had seene the myracle beleeued in the Lorde Unto this narration Luke addeth a few other thinges which serue for a preparation to that that foloweth For he sayth that Peter remained at Ioppe certaine dayes in the house of one Simon a Tanner in whose house he was admonished by a vision from heauen to call the Gentiles into the Communion of the church and was sent for by Cornelius the Centurion as shall be shewed in the Chapter folowing Here let vs obserue of what maner of people the Primitiue Church was collected seeing Peter had none other hoste but such an one as got his liuing by an handycraft and that not one of the fynest Hereof Paule teacheth vs that we shoulde reioyce in the Lord alone Furthermore the modestie of Peter is declared who disdayned not such an harbour where as nowe adayes kinges palaces are scarce able to receyue his counterfeyt successor Let vs follow the modestie of the Apostle and therin beleeue and serue Iesus Christ to whome be prayse honor power and glory for euer Amen The tenth chapiter vpon the Actes of the Apostles The .lxx. Homelie THERE was a certaine man in Caesarea called Cornelius a Captaine of the souldiers of Italy a deuout man and one that feared God wyth all his houshold which gaue much almes to the people and was alwayes in prayers vnto god The same sawe by a vision euidently about the .ix. houre of the day an Angell of God comming in to him and saying to him Cornelius When he looked on him hee was afrayde and sayde what is it Lorde He sayde vnto him Thy prayers and thy almesses are come vp into remembrance before god And nowe sende men to Ioppa and call for one Simon whose surname is Peter Hee lodgeth with one Simon a Tanner whose house is by the sea side He shall tell thee what thou oughtest to doe HItherto the first part of this storie hath bene declared wherein hath bene shewed howe the Apostles according to the commaundement of Christ preached the wholesome worde of the Gospell euerywhere to the Iewes And a great many beleeued and Luke declareth a marueylous increase of Christian faith in the Church Yet the greater part and specially those that were of most authoritie withstoode the truth For both they layde handes on the Apostles and stoned Steuen and made hauocke of the whole Church at Ierusalem by horrible persecution and sent Saule with publike commaundements as farre as Damascus to oppresse the growth of Christes Church being euen in the blade as we commonly vse to saye And it is not vnlyke but manye others did as it is here written Saule did Therefore the vncurable and stubborne contempt of so wholesome a doctrine deserued that at length the kingdome of God shoulde be taken from the Iewes and brought to the Gentiles as Christ prophecied should come to passe How this thing beganne to be put in effect Luke rehearseth in this Chapter and declareth the storie of Cornelius which we maye aptly name the first fruites of the Gentiles that were called seeing he was chosen of God to be the beginning of so weightie a matter Aboue all thinges the principall vse of this hystorie must be obserued which consisteth herein howe God vseth to cast of the vnthankfull and wicked enimies of the Gospell by his iust iudgement and is not so bounde to any Nation that he is compelled to beare with it if it be vnwoorthy Herevnto is to be added an other thing that is to saye howe the saluation contayned in Christ belongeth not to the Iewes onely but also to the Gentyles Which as it is no small comfort to vs which come of the Gentyles so it behooueth that wee stande alwaye in feare bicause the Iewes were cast of and forsaken least we by like vnthankfulnesse and disobedience deserue also to be refused For Paules saying shall alwayes stande in his full strength and force If God spared not the naturall braunches take heede least it come to passe that he spare not thee also And this is the sentence of Christ long agone pronounced that euery braunch that bringeth not forth fruit shall be hewen downe and cast into the fire But bicause the vocation adoption of the vncircumcised Gentiles seemed to the Iewes a foolysh and an absurde thing for that they onely so many yeares togither were thought worthye of that name and tytle and therefore abhorred all other Nations as we doe the Turkes and them at this day First God would haue the vocation of the Gentyles to be preached by the Prophetes whereof we may see singuler testimonies in them Psal. 2. and .27 Esay 2. and .19 Agayne 42. and .49 Zach. 9. c. Then declareth he a notable beginning hereof in Cornelius whome he so called that any man might see therein the counsell and deuyse of Gods prouidence For he doth vouchsafe to sende his Aungell from heauen to Cornelius and instructeth Peter by an heauenly vision whereby he declareth that he will haue the Gentyles called into his Church as we shall see when we come to the place At this tyme we haue to consider what God did vouchsafe to doe by Cornelius For Luke beginneth with the description of Cornelius which he knitteth vp in marueylous breuitie and playnenesse First declaring his state and kynde of lyfe hee sayth he was a Captayne of the Italian Souldiers For the Romaynes vsed to entertayne diuers bandes of men of diuers Natiâ—ons according to the which they gaue them their names And bicause among all nations they esteemed none more than the Italians the Italian garrisons were preferred aboue others And there is no doubt but that Cornelius was an Italian forasmuch as he was one of the chiefe of that bande But bicause he dwelt at Caâ—sarea which the auncient wryters call Turris Stratonis the tower or castell of Straton the maner or state of the souldiers in those dayes must be considered that we maye the easilyer vnderstande the state of Cornelius Thus wryte the Romaine Hystoriographers After the victories that Pompey called the great had gotten who was the first that subdued Syria and Iurie vnto the Romaine Empire the people of Rome had no more grieuous enimies than the Parthians who were greatly encouraged with the death of Crassus with the ouerthrowe of the Romayne Legions and number of ensignes and standerdes which they had taken wherein were the pictures of splayed Eagles paynted Wyth whose incursions and roades bicause they were continually molested they thought good to place in the Cities bordering vpon them certayne garrisons of souldiers which within a short warning being mustred myght make a complete armie if neede so required whereby to repulse and beate backe the enimie And those souldiers also were a defence and safegarde for the Cities of Iurie to tame and keepe vnder the courage of the Iewes which were very prone
a cause that Luke maketh mention twise or thrise of the grace worke of god For fyrst he sayth they were committed vnto the grace of God in this worke to the intent that all the Church might wytnesse they were able to doe nothing without the grace of god Then declare they what woonders God wrought by them which kinde of phrase attributeth the whole successe of their ambassage and ministerie to God onely Moreouer they declare howe God opened the dore of fayth vnto the Gentyles Then is there a dore opened vnto the fayth when an effectuall operation of the holy spirite is ioyned vnto the outwarde preaching whereby the mindes of men are illuminated and drawne vnto the obedience of fayth This is the only worke of God as Christ testifyeth saying No man commeth vnto me except my father draweth him We are taught therefore by the example of the Apostles to attribute nothing to our owne industrie and wisedome in deede of vs it is required to be faithfull and diligent Howbeit as the successe of our doings must be committed vnto God so must all the prayse and glorye of their well doings be referred vnto him also Which doctrine is not onely for ministers of the worde to remember but also for all Magistrates housholders maryed folke seruauntes and to conclude for all states and degrees of men as we haue oftentimes declared Last of all it is sayde they tarrie a good space at Antioche to the ende doubtlesse to recreate themselues with honest and godly quietnesse hauing bene wearied a long whyle before with many labours and daungers both by lande and sea For it is meete conuenient that they should reape some fruite of their labours whose fayth and diligence had bene so many waies tried So Christ bade his Apostles when they returned from preaching the gospell to go aside out of the waye for a season and to repose themselues a little Let no man yet thinke that the Apostles sate still at Antioche ydely gasing vpon others For without doubt they faithfully taught the brethren and tooke paines in helping the other Ministers But for a certaine time they surceased from traueyling and taking anye enterprise of daunger in hande God the father of mercie graunt that all they that nowe a dayes glory in the gospell may fynishe the course of their lyfe with like diligence and successe as did the Apostles and that in the heauenly Chanaan they may enioy perpetuall rest and peace with Iesus Christ our Sauiour to whome be all praise honor power and glory for euer Amen The .xv. chapiter vpon the Actes of the Apostles The Cj. Homelie AND certayne men which came downe taught the brethren except you be circumcised after the maner of Moses you cannot be saued So when there was rysen discention and disputing not a little vnto Paule and Barnabas and certayne other of them should go vp to Ierusalem vnto the Apostles and Elders about this question And after they were brought on their way by the congregation they passed ouer Phoenices and Samaria declaring the conuersion of the Gentyles and they brought great ioy vnto all the brethren And when they were come to Ierusalem they were receyued of the congregations and of the Apostles and Elders and they declared all the things that God had done by them IN the former part of his treatise or worke Luke hath declared howe the primitiue Church was gathered togither both of Iewes and Gentiles by preaching of the Apostles and howe by the wonderfull assistaunce of GOD it was preserued amonge the contynuall stormes blastes of persecution Herevnto is added a newe hystorie in thys Chappiter that teacheth vs howe the Lorde preserued the same Church agaynst false brethren and teachers least it myghte lose eyther simplicitie of doctrine or puritie of faith For hytherto for fourteene yeares togyther Paule had preached the Gospell and according to the common consent of the Apostles doctrine had taught that all saluation was in Christ Iesus onelye which doctrine being euerywhere receyued certayne of the Iewes specially those of the Phariseys secte that professed the fayth of Christ began to withstande Who albeit they confessed Christ yet they would needes haue circumcision and the ceremonies of the lawes to be ioyned with it which opinion whiles Paule earnestly resisted caused great adooe and contention insomuch that it horribly shooke the whole Church But our Sauiour Christ forsooke not them that stroâ—e for the glory of his merite by whose prouidence it came to passe that the plaine and simple doctrine of Christ was defended and confyrmed by the publike testimonie of the Apostles and the whole Church The consyderation of thys hystorie serueth much both to instruct and comfort all congregations For as by the example of the Apostles we are taught which waye to resist false doctrine â—o learne we that the doctrine of truth standeth fyrme and sure against all inuasions wherefore we will in order consider all the partes of this present place First Luke telleth who were the authors of this strife discention euen certaine persons that came out of Iurie and from Ierusalem Therfore they must needes be of great authoritie considering Ierusalem was the mother Church of all other and was worthily esteemed of all menne bicause from thence the Gospell of saluation did fyrst issue and spring for the which cause Paule also commendeth it saying It was meete the Gentyles shoulde minister corporall thinges vnto those of Ierusalem which had giuen them the spirituall and eternall giftes of saluation And it is no doubt but those deceyuers and seducers did marueylously bragge of the name and authoritie of the Apostles and did make lyght of Paules name as who should saye he deserued not to be counted among the Apostles bicause he had not bene conuersant with Iesus Christ whyle he liued For this maye we gather of Paules Epistles where he is enforced earnestlye to defende his authoritie and Apostleship against them Furthermore we maye here see howe deceyuers breede euen in the Church but were neuer true members of the Church For they that are in deede of the Church vse to continue in the same Therefore Christ sayth they go in sheepes clothing And Paule in another place sayth from among your selues shall ryse grieuous wolues c. And this is a woonderfull craft of Satan which knowing that men doe hate and abhorre him vseth to counterfeyte an Aungell of light and vnder the cloke of holynesse to beguyle and deceyue the simple This place serueth to confute them which constantly beleeue that the Romane Church cannot erre and be deceyued and affirme that whatsoeuer commeth from thence ought to be receyued as an Oracle And yet out of Ierusalem where the Apostles discharged their office and dutie with all diligence came these hypocrites and deceyuers What therefore shall we hope for at their handes amongst whome these many hundred yeres hath bene seene no token eyther of Apostolike lyfe or
the Citie crying These that trouble the worlde are come hyther also whome Iason hath receyued priuilie And these all doe contrarie to the decrees of Caesar affirming an other king one Iesus And they troubled the people and the officers of the Citie when they heard these things And when they were sufficiently aunswered of Iason and of the other they let them go And the brethren immediatly sent away Paule Silas by night vnto Berrhoea which when they were come thyther entred into the Synagoge of the Iewes AS God ordeyned his sonne from euerlasting to be the sauiour of mankinde so he prophecyed in the beginning of the world that there should be perpetuall enmitie and contention betweene the Deuill and him when he sayde vnto the Serpent I will set enmitie betweene thee and the woman betweene thy seede and hir seede The same shall treade downe thy heade and thou shalt treade vpon hys heele Continuall examples of which prophecie this booke of the Apostles actes declareth vnto vs For wheresoeuer in the worlde the Apostles went about to erect and establishe the kingdome of Christ by the preaching of the Gospell there Satan by his instrumentes alwayes withstoode them This he did fyrst at Ierusalem by the Scribes Priests after that at Samaria by Simon the Sorcerer after that againe at Damascus by Areta king of Arabia in Cyprus by Elymas the Sorcerer at Antioch in Pisidia by the Iewes who after that of an obstinate purpose and implacable hatred followed Paule euerywhere by sea and by lande to hynder and stop the course of the gospell For these were his enimies at Lystra These withstoode him as he taught at Derba And nowe being called of God into Macedonia they trouble and molest him For by their meanes as this present place teacheth he is thrust out of Thessalonica where the gospell began prosperously to take roote The chiefe vse of all these things is that we must not be offended if the lyke come vpon these dayes but that we consyder that this alway is the state of the church in this worlde bicause the worlde delyghteth more in seruing the Prince thereof than in Christ. But let vs vewe this present place which marueylously serueth to instruct and comfort vs against the wicked assaultes of the Deuill and the worlde For fyrst it teacheth vs with what instruments the Deuill fought agaynst Paule at Thessalonica After that it describeth their properties and qualities and the good successe of all this Tragedie Among the instrumentes of the Deuill which he here thought good to vse are two kynde of men rehearsed The fyrst are the Iewes which Luke sayth had indignation at the Apostles But they were hypocrites which vsed the pretence of Gods lawe and zeale of auncient religion to cloke their obstinacie and vnbeliefe with where in deede they sought nothing but their priuate gaine and glorye as by their conspiracie may easily appeare For they tooke vnto them certaine vagabundes men of naughtie conditions whose companye they ought to haue shunned as a moste pestilent plague if they had loued truth and religion For thus are ydle and luskishe lubbers worthie to be called who when they haue spent their goodes in waste stande in the market place lyke publyke wares to be solde and are ready to commit all kinde of mischiefe so they may fynde a buyer This is a marueylous society and such as a man would neuer once suspect could be amonge professours of such vnlyke studyes but that the force of hatred once conceyued against the truth is so great that it vseth to ioyne men of most diuers conditions and natures in league togither Thus thou seest the Priestes Scribes and Phariseyes the Sadduceyes Iudas the Apostle the souldiours Herode and Pilate conspire togither against Christ all which otherwise were of diuers countreyes religion and profession This place teacheth vs who are the most earnest and chiefest enimies of the truth Uerily hypocrites which vnder a false pretence of religion seeke their owne aduauntage and such as being nusseled in ydlenesse and cannot away with pouertie are readie to sell their helpe about any thing For as the fyrst sort by the testimonie of Christ can not beleeue bicause they burne in desyre of priuate glorye so the other thinke there is most right where most meede is Therefore Satan vseth craftily to ioyne and consocyate these two sortes of men togither to the ende that these bolde and desperate dickes of Caria hyred and waged by hypocrites may with open violence bring that to passe which they cannot with their craftie and subtile inuentions This is the cause that nowe a dayes so manye Prelates are seene in kings Courtes that Byshops be of Princes counsels and that Monkes which bragge they are men deade vnto the worlde are seene flying in the fyeld among armed men For they can fynde themselues no more trustie defendoures than such as haue solde their soules and consciences and measure all truth and religion by gaine and lucre These things teach vs what kinde of men they shoulde most of all beware of which desyre to haue their Churches in safety In many places now a dayes Abbotes and Bishops craftily insynuate themselues and pretende a kinde of zeale But when they are once let in by and by they fynde men meete for their purpose and deuises which being brybed with golde dare forceably doe anye thing against the doctrine of Christ and they are founde to be most of all other voyde of al religion and righteousnesse which seemed before to beare greatest zeale vnto God. This the seconde part of this place teacheth vs which declareth their doings which hytherto pretended the zeale of godlynesse in their enterprise The fyrst thing that they doe they set all the Citie by their conspiracie in an vprore which was easie for them to doe by false rumours which they spredde both openly and priuily agaynst the Apostles as enymies of the publike weale That done they violently giue an assault to an other mans house meaning to haue brought forth the Apostles if they had found them there But what kinde of zeale is that that maketh men burst open dores and hale innocents vnto death Yet is there a more heynous matter than this For when they could not fynde them they sought for they bring and pull before the Iudges Iason the Apostles hoste a man for his hospitality worthy of singuler prayse and with him certaine of the brethren which beleeued in Christ and accuse them as Traytors vnto the Citie And they so frame their accusation that they intermeddle in euery worde most impudent lyes and slaunders These say they that trouble the worlde are come hyther also whome Iason hath receyued priuilye They call the Apostles which preach peace and mutuall looue troublers of the worlde whereas they themselues had nowe set all the Citie on a roare lyke seditious fellowes But bicause they knewe religion in pretence whereof they made this adooe was smally regarded
and he setteth out to vs their example â–ª for euery man to followe which if we do not all charitie amongst men shall soone be disturbed It followeth in this present historie what Paule and the brethren at Ierusalem did Which place for many skilles that may serue for our instruction is very worthy of diligent attention and consideration First and formoste Paule and his companions gette them vnto Iames â–ª which at this time was resident in the Citie and there in the hearing of the Elders he declared what things he had done repeating in order eche thing that God vntill that time had wrought by his Ministerie Where we are first taught that order is a necessary thing in the Church and that euery one must not entermeddle in euery thing Paule was an elect vessell of Christ and laboured more than all the other Apostles yet of his priuate aucthoritie he attempteth nothing in an other mannes Churche but before he set on any thing he first goeth to the SuperintendeÌ„ts and Ministers of the Church and reuerently saluteth them and then proceedeth to the narration of his doings This one example is suffisant to conuince the pride of the Romane Bishops which challenge to them selfe a supremacie and Lordship ouer all Churches The troublesome Anabaptistes also are confuted by the same who althoughe they no where plant any Churches yet vse they to disturbe the Churches planted by the laboures and trauailes of others heereby attributing to them selues singular commendation when they can by their franticke and tauntiue chatterie molest and trouble the godly Ministers and bring them in hatred and contempt with euery man Furthermore in this thing also Paules modestie singularly appeareth in that he maketh God the aucthor of all things in the discourse of his doings and attributeth nothing to him selfe but the Ministerie only For he knew that men planted and watered but in vain onlesse God gaue the increase So in another place when he had said he had labored more than all the other Apostles he by and by addeth yet noâ— I but the grace of God which was with me This thing we haue elsewhere declared must be obserued in all manner of vocations For except the Lord build the house their laboure is but â—ost that build it Excepte God prosper and fauoure common weales the cares and counsels of the Magistrates are but in vaine Excepte by his spirite he worke with our studies and sharpen the edge of our witte all our reading and wryting profiteth not Let vs therfore be mindefull heereof and learne to haue a lowly conceite of our selues with our studies intermeddle continuall prayers whereby God will be sued vnto and haue his giftes obtained Furthermore of the Elders it is saide that when they hadde hearde Paules trauailes they glorified the lord This is a rare example of loue that they enuie not at the praise of their fellow Minister and murmur not churlishly at it as commonly they doe which being voide of all charitie are more desirous of their owne glory than of Gods. For as Paule made God the author of the things which he had so commendably done so they also tickle not Paule with counterfet prayses but reioysing in his doings giue the glory vnto god They teache vs by their example how to iudge of the laboures and vertues of Saintes We must know that they were men subiect to humane affections and casualties If therefore they haue done any thing passing mannes power or habilitie we muâ— know it was the working of God who of meere fauor did vouchsafe to vse their Ministerie Let vs therfore reioyce in their felicitie and follow them in yeelding our selues to be Goddes instrumentes but let vs ascribe the whole praise of our doings vnto god And we thus imitating them shall truely honoure them and yet God shal haue his glory remain whole and sound which those men wickedly violate that cleaue vnto the Sainctes and make them aucthors and giuers of goodnesse in such wise that they aske helpe and succor of them in distresse Looke before in the third and fourtienth Chapiters Nowe foloweth a notable Acte wherof these Elders of Ierusalem were the cheefe Counsellers For they counsell him to take vpon him the vowe of a Nazarean and that the time of his vowe being expired he should according to the lawe let him selfe be purified or dismissed of his vowe in the Temple which thing gaue occasion to his wicked enemies to take against him and so to apprehend him and cast him in prison But bicause in this doing there are things which after a sort are tollerable and some by no meanes to be borne with they are therefore the more diligently to be examined Wherefore for the better vnderstanding of eche thing we will more at large open this controuersie Paule taught that men were iustified through the meere fauor of God by faith in Iesus Christ which doctrine the Apostles we see allowed and approued with one consent in the xv Chapter But where Paule preaching among the Gentiles had muche adoe with them that went about to iumble the law and gospell togither and would haue had the Gentiles brought to the obseruation of Circumcision and such like Ceremonies â–ª therfore it was necessary that he should the more diligently intreat of the ende and vse of the law and he was enforced in liuely wise to open all things to the quicke Wherfore he plainly taught that the law and ceremonies therof helped nothing vnto iustification bicause no man was able to satisfie the law but that it was giuen to bewray our corruption and to bring vs being conuicte of sinne vnto Christ in whome onely the fulfilling of the lawe was to be found He further said that by their opinion which attributed merite of iustification to the lawe Christe was not auaileable and that such could not but be condemned bicause they wittingly procured to them selues the cursse of the law Heereof sprang these kindes of locutions The law worketh wrathe while the law endured Sinne reuiued The strength of Sinne is the law As many as are of the deedes of the lawe are subiecte to the curse c. These things seemed very vnpleasant to those which were broughte vp in the lawe from their childehode and knewe that God had appointed the same by Moses And they that were Paules ennemies tooke occasion heereof to slaunder him saying hee was a prophane contempner of the lawe as though he simplie and without respect disallowed the same where as he improued not the lawe but them who inuented a new ende and vse of the lawe and would haue men saued and iustified by the obseruation thereof Therefore all men enuied Paule euen as in these dayes we are called the ennemies of good woorkes when we say they are not auaileable to iustifie and saue by where yet we leaue them still their place and teache that they be dueties which all men must needes pay and perfourme vnto god
and wyckedlye abused their gifte of libertie they are nowe depriued thereof and constrayned to suffer suche presidentes as had neyther commendation of Nobilitie nor fame of vertue but were defamed and euill reported by reason of filthye luste and beastlye crueltie And where yet they woulde not amende for all these plagues at length they were vtterlye forsaken and shut out of the kingdome of god These thynges suche menne oughte diligentlye to consyder as nowe a dayes also abuse the prerogatiue of libertie and make of it an vnbrydeled licenciousnesse bothe of saying and doyng But returne we to Lysias the Captaynes letter whiche after he had superscribed it begynneth the narration with Paules greate commendation For he declareth that he was apprehended for no demerite or faulte that hee hadde done through the vnreasonablenesse and iniustice of the Iewes Next he sayth he is a Citizen or freeman of Rome At length hee testifieth he is an Innocent where he sayth he had done nothing worthy of death or imprisonment and that the Iewes had made this sturre and adoo agaynst him for no cause but for their lawe and religion sake This is a singuler commendation but we muste remember that these are the wordes of a Souldier and that he speaketh after the maner of the Romanes For where they desyred the vtter abolishment of the Iewes religion they cared not whether the presidents defended the same or not Therfore we see euery where that they litle regarded controuersies in religion But God commaundeth a farre other thyng whiche appointeth Magistrates to haue a speciall care of religion for it is not meete that they whom God of his goodnesse hath placed in such degree of dignitie should suffer the honour of God to be eyther neglected or defaced Yet the craft of the children of this worlde appeareth in the Captayne which so trimly dissembleth his errour committed in bynding and whipping a Citizen of Rome wryting now nothing but that that made for the getting of him praise and fauour Here is cheefly to be marked what a care God hath of his true seruauntes consydering he defendeth their innocencie by testimonie of their enimies Example hereof we nowe see euery day wheras they highly extoll and praise the Prophetes and Apostles which persecute their faith and doctrine with deadly hatred Why therfore feare we the slaunders of enimies or infamie of the worlde Nowe remaineth the latter part of the Epistle which consisteth of a certayne preoccupation or aunswere to an obiection that myght be made For lest Felix myght be offended for that an innocent person was not rather set at libertie than sent to hym with suche coste and charges He sheweth also the cause hereof he saith he did thus bycause of the waites that the Iewes laide for him which Paule shoulde neuer haue escaped if he had ben set at libertie Therfore it behoued in this wyse sayth he to prouide for the safetie of an innocent to see publique peace obserued Where againe the example of this Captayne putteth Magistrates in remembraunce of their duetie namely to take heede that no man suffer violence or iniurie because it is euident they are cheefly ordeyned to the ende that good men should not be oppressed through the insolencie and pleasure of other that are wicked Reade Psalm 72. Rom. 13. It foloweth what successe this matter had verilye a moste happye as God ordered it For the Souldiers faithfully fulfill the charge committed vnto them and bring Paule safely vnto Felix the President and he as though he had chaunged his nature becommeth curteous and easy to be spoken to and asketh him what cuntrey man he is Which when he knew he deferreth the hearing of his matter vntil the comming of his accusers For the lawe of nature teacheth vs that both partes ought to be hearde before sentence be giuen Let vs remember that all these thinges so happened according to Gods prouidence For it was his working that the Souldiers without grutching serued Paules turne that they were ready to defende him with perill of their lyfe that Felix accepteth him more curteously and frendly than his custome was and causeth hym to be kept in Herodes Iudgement Hall being an honest kynde of pryson The vse of these thinges is to teache vs that we must not passe much vpon the enterprises of men but studie onelye to please God which can mollifie barbarous mens heartes tame sauage and wylde maners and turne our enimies heartes to loue vs Let these thinges embolden vs with inuincible constancie of fayth to ouercome the tyrannie of the worlde and so to lyue hereafter eternally in heauen with Iesus Christ our Sauiour to whom be prayse honour power and glorye for euer Amen The .xxiiij. Chapiter vpon the Actes of the Apostles The Clij Homelie AFter fiue dayes Ananias the Highe priest descended with the Elders and with a certaine Oratour named Tertullus which enfourmed the Deputie against Paule And when Paule was called foorth Tertullus began to accuse him saying Seeing that wee liue in greate quietnesse by the meanes of thee and that many good things are done vntoo this Nation through thy prouidence that allowe we euer and in all places most noble Felix with all thankes Notwithstanding that I be not tedious vnto thee I pray thee that thou wouldest heare vs of thy curtesie a fewe wordes For we haue found this man a pestilent fellowe and a moouer of debate vnto all the Iewes in the worlde and a maintainer of the secte of the Nazarites which hath also enforced to pollute the Temple whome wee tooke and would haue iudged according to our lawe but the highe Captaine Lysias came vpon vs and with great violence tooke him away out of our handes commaunding his accusers to come vnto thee of whom thou mayest if thou wilte enquire knowe the certaintie of all these thinges whereof we accuse him The Iewes likewise affirmed saying that these thynges were euen so THe Euangelist Luke declareth in this Chapiter how Paule was handled before Felix the Presidente beinge sente to hym from the Captayne that was appoynted for the safegarde of Ierusalem as we haue heard before In the whiche Narration firste it is declared howe the hyghe Priest and Elders layde matter of death vnto Paules charge And albeit that Paule so declared and opened his cause that the Lord Presidente coulde fynde no matter of death agaynst hym yet he keepeth him in pryson two whole yeares together and bicause he woulde shewe the Iewes a pleasure leaueth him bounde in pryson still till Pontius Festus succeeded him in the office These thynges are declared to this ende that we may learne thereby what state the godly are lyke to be in alwayes in this worlde and howe the worlde continually hateth them forasmuch as we see the Iewes spare for no laboure or costes to bryng Paule beyng a most faithful preacher of gods word to his cōfusion But as Christ prophecied these things shold happē to his disciples euē so he
wold haue that he prophecied proued set forth by the exaÌ„ples of his apostles that we shold be the lesse offended if at any time the like hapned to vs also For as the Apostles suffred al kindes of persecution aduersities so they teach by their example what it becoÌ„meth vs to doo when we be tried by persecutions teÌ„ptations And this is the cheef vse end of al this present matter of the whole history folowing But in this place there is no more rehearsed but the first act against Paul all the circuÌ„stances wherof we shal now examine He beginneth with the discription of the persons that appeared before Felix the Lieutenaunt And of one side stoode Ananias the high Priest the Elders and Tertullus a famous Orator greatly exercised in pleading by reason of his long practise And on the other syde Paule alone and in bondes and for many causes before suspected In this place appeareth againe as we haue often times already declared who are commonly the cheefe enimies of the truthe and of the ministers thereof and with what weapons they fight verily euen they which will seeme to be the greatest mainteyners both of religion and the common weale and amongst them such as make marchaundize of religion For the historie of the Gospel teacheth vs euerye where that Paules aduersaries in this place were euen such And these kind of men for the most part vse to excell in experience in wisedome in vtteraunce and in power aucthoritie for the which cause they haue many that fauour them folowe them Contrariwise the ministers of truth as they be fewe in number so commonly they are of small fame and estimation contempned and despised of all men as who seeme of bitternesse of minde or of ignorance rather than of godlines and loue of mens saluation to withstande the worlde But that it hath alway bene the godlies happe in this world being but few despised persons to cope with numbers in power and aucthoritie is to be seene by the examples of all ages Thus Moses and Aaron were matched with the Magitians of Egipt who were fauoured and defended with the kings aucthoritie and had all the Nobilitie of Egipt on their side So Elias alone encountreth with foure hundreth and fiftie Priestes of Baal and with almost as many Chaplins of the woodes and groues before Achab a most wicked Iudge And we read that Micheas not long after that was faine to set himselfe against foure hundreth false Prophetes Here might also be alleaged the histories of other Prophetes and Apostles of Christ himselfe whiche for breuities sake we omit bicause they that reade the scriptures hitte on them euery where We haue rather to consider the ende of these thinges wherof we shall receyue great profit vtilitie For first they serue for the instruction of euery maÌ„ that we should not iudge of faith or religioÌ„ according to the multitude or aucthoritie of theÌ„ that folow it as we see now adaies men coÌ„monly do But if we graunt theÌ„ this then shal not only Paule take the foile who being but one was accused by the priests Elders but also al the prophets with Christ his Apostles shal be in dauÌ„ger Yea we shal prefer the Turks before the ChristiaÌ„s which far passe vs both in territories dominions in multitude of natioÌ„s in victories other prosperities successe Wherfore we must rather herkeÌ„ vnto Christ which calleth his faithful a litle flock saith the few enter into the narow gate but heapes rashe into destruction through the broader waye Againe the coâ—syderation of these thinges doth not litle comfort vs that we be not afrayde although wee alone be sometime constrayned to stande agaynste manye both of great power glorye and aucthoritie For he that in thys place strengthened Paule will stande by vs also being in lyke daunger For we haue large promyses wherein he promyseth vs the prompting of hys spirite a mouth and wisedome against whiche no aduersaries shall be able to resist See Luke 21. Mat. 10. Mark. 13. But let vs heare Tertullus the Oratour whose Oration consisteth cheefl ye of three pointes The first is the beginning wherein he doth not as arteficiously as craftilye and impudently purchase him selfe beneuolence and good will partlye flattering Felix to his face and partelye the Iewes For they saye they may thanke him for the peace and quietnesse which they liued in and for that through his care and prouidence so many miseries were euery day redressed Againe they confesse they acknowledge this his goodnesse and benefites with thankes giuyng Yet do they lye egregiously in both For we haue hearde before how Felix gouerned the Cuntrey as naughtely as could be how he did infinite things cruelly and vniustlie and in all places where he came committed Whoredome and Murther and prophane wryters abundantly declare the same Againe it is euident to all men that haue but meane knowledge in histories that the Iewes also about these tymes made often and many rebellions agaynst the Romanes And yet the most vaine man is not ashamed to lye and by praising the tyranne dishonestly betraye his whole Nation whose commendation he should most earnestlie haue regarded But therefore do they falsely commende their quiet estate of gouernement to bring Paule the more in hatred with Felix as though hee were a disturber of publique peace and tranquillitie And in them it easelie appeareth what the bitternesse of hatred is once conceyued against the truthe For where the worlde hateth nothing so muche as the truethe bycause the light thereof reproueth theyr euill woorkes therefore it can suffer and beare most cruell enimies rather than the truth they thinke tyrannes tollerable ynough so they will put to their helpe in oppressing the truth So they preferred Tiberius Caesar a cruell and voluptuous tyraunt before Christe our Sauiour when they sayde they had none other king but Caesar. Yea they were not ashamed to preferre Barrabas a Murtherer and Captaine of a secte of Rebels before christ And this vntowarde and peruerse inudgement is no newe thing in the worlde For we reade that the Israelites in the wildernesse in time past offended and withstode Moses likewise maruellousâ—ie commending the seruitude of Egipt by reason of the Melons Amonds garelike fleshe such like things that land did abound in and disdained that state of life in the which euery houre God declared new tokens of his beneuolence good will like most miserable vnhappy men And would God we had not the like examples in our daies where meÌ„ woÌ„derfully extol the great peace we liued in in yÌ„e time of popery say yÌ„t the preching of the gospel hath marred altogither but in the mean seson they can craftily disseÌ„ble the bloudy wars that the Popes haue ben cheefe procurers of this many hundred yeares and will make no mention of suche greeuaunces as haue miserablye weakened both the goodes and consciences of
Actes 10. Math. 8. Christ is first sent to the Iewes Math. 15. Math. 10. Actes 1. The office of Christ. Iohn 1. 1. Iohn 3. Ierem. 31. Thren 5. All Prerogatiues with out Christ be of no value Iohn 15. Math. 10. Iohn 3. 1. Cor. 10. The authors of the Apostles persecution Luke 22. 1 The enimies of Christ and his Gospell Iohn 1. 2 The craft of the enimies of truth Dan. 7. Luc. 16. Platina Sabellicus Carion Math. 10. 3 By what preteÌ„ce truth is assaulted Apoc. 13. 1. Tim. 3. and .5 c. 1. Reg. 18. Amos. 7. 1. Cor. 1.3 4 They fight agaynst the truth by open force Luke 22. 5 Through persecution the Church encreaseth Psal. 2.33 Dan. 3.6 Psal. 110. Math. 10. 2. Tim. 2. Iohn 3. Iohn 12.16 Phil. 4. Iohn 10. Math. 10. Marc. 13. Luke 21. 1 The description of the counsel of the Rulers and Elders 2 The question of the counsayle of Priestes 3 Peters aunswere Howe wee must deale with the enimies of the truth The seconde part of Peters answere The place of the .118 psal Christ is reiectâ—d of the builders The Pope erreth by his owne confession Looke also if you wil what Platina reporteth of Benedict the .ix. who appered after he was deade and sayde he was damnâ—â— bicause he had liued lawles They that liue lawlesse and are damned must needes erre Esay 53. Math. 11. Math. 21. Psal. 2. The Ministers of the Church are reseÌ„bled vnto builders 2. Cor. 6. 1. Tim. 3. 2. Cor. 10. 1. Cor. 3. Ephe. 2. Esay 28. 1. Pet. 2. Math. 16. Ephe. 2. Iohn 10. Mat 24.25 Math. 15. Saluation is in Christ onely 1. Pet. 2. Math 3.17 Esay 4 â–ª 2. Iohn 1. Coloss. 1.2 1. Cor. 1. Ioh. 4.6.7 Math. 11. Iohn 14. Ephe. 1. 1 They are amazed and wotte not what to doe Iohn 7. Luc. 21. Iohn 5. Iohn 9. Math. 10. Boldenesse of speache doth moste confoâ—â—d the wicked 1. Reg. 21. Esay 58. Ierem. 1. 1. Tim. 5. Ephe. 6. The lame man standeth with the Apostles Iohn 12. Math. 16. Iohn 15.16 Marc. 8. Rom. 1. 2 The decre of the counsayle agaynst the Apostles Iohn 5. oecumenicall signiâ—â—eth vniuersall or generall The wickednesse of persecutors is incurable Esa. 48.57 Psalme 2. Power with out the feare of God is pernicious Prouer. 1. Exod. 18. Deut. 1. Psal. 82. The worlde caÌ„not brooke Christ and his Gospell Iohn 2. Mat. 15.21 Rom. 10. Iohn 3. 1. Reg. 18. Amos. 7. 1 The Apostles refuse to obey the Counsels decree Mar. 16. Actes 1. Prou. 6. A right trade of obedience Rom. 13. Psal. 82. Math. 22. Dan. 3.6 Luc. 2. Amos. 3. 1. Cor. 9. Math. 25. 2 The Apostles are let go free The Apostles are let go for feare of the people Gene. 35. Psal. 105. 1. Sam. 23. Math. 10. Ezech. 32. The state and condicion of Tyrants Looke Vâ—ler â–ª Mâ—x .ix. boâ—e and .14 chap. 3 The Apostles declare all the matter to the congregation Iohn 10. The Church flieth to God by prayer Exod. 14. Exod. 17. Ioel. 2. The true trade of praiyng Psal. 12.56 1 They describe God of his omnipotencie Psal. 113. Iacob 1. Math. 21. 2 The narration Iohn 15.16 2. Timo. 3. 1. Pet. 4. The enterprises of Christes enimies Psal. 94. Psalme 7. Psalme 33. Esay 8. In the tripartite historie .vi. booke .xliiii. chap. Christes enimies warre with God. Iohn 5. Iohn 3. 1. Iohn 4. The enimies of Christ fulfill the wyll of God. 3 The prayers of them that beleued Psal. 7.17.26 and others Esay 37. Ephes. 6. Luke 17. Maâ— 16. Iohn 14. The prayers of the godly are heard Psalm 34. 1 The Apostles constantly preach the Gospell Iohn 10. Iohn 3. Amos. 3. Esay 30. 2. Timo. 4. Ezech. 33. 1. Cor. 14. 2. Cor. 10. 2 The coÌ„gregation gyuen to concord 3 Cor. 12. Ephes. 4. Iohn 13. 1. Cor. 3. Galath 5. 3 Beneuolence and helping of the poore Goodes were common by wyll not by lawe 1. Timo. 6. Psal. 62. Math. 6. Luke 16. The maner and order of distribution 1. Tim. 5. Actes 6. The fruite or commoditie of contribution Deut. 15. The liberaliâ—iâ— of Ioses Barnabas Math. 13. 〈…〉 1. Tim. 5. 2. Cor. 8. Math. 10. Math. 28.6 Psal. 14.94 Math. 6. Iohn 12. 2 Peters iudgement touching Ananias fact Math 10. Iohn 8. Iohn 13. 1. Reg. 12.13 Psalme 5. Prou. 12. Apoca. 21. 3 The punishment of Ananias Math. 16. Iohn 20. 1. Cor. 12. Rom. 13. Peter reprooueth Sapphiras naughtinesse Gene. 3. Gene. 6. 2. Peter 2. Gene. 15. Roma 2 â–ª Valerius Maximus 1. booke 2. chap. Gene. 4. Esay 58. Malach 3. Math. 26. Ananias and Sapphira tempted the spirite of the Lorde Deuter. 6. Consent in synne deseruâ—th punishment Gene. 3. Epheâ—â— 5. Colod 3. The punishment of Sapphira was the same that Ananias had Ierem. 5. Iob. 20. Discipline keepeth both good and bad in their duty The vse of the iudgementes of God. Gene. 18. Psalm 78. The mâ—racles of the Apostles Prouer. 28. Luke 6.8 Math. 10. Mark. 16. Phil. 4. 1. Iohn 3. Gene. 3. Math. 11. Iohn 6. The exercises of the primitiue Church Rom. 10. Marc. 8. 2. Tim. 3. Iob. 18. The maiestie of those that be vnfayned Christians Plinius the yongâ—r in his epystles Tertullian in hys Apologie for the Christians whome Eusebius cyteth in the .iii. booke of his history cha 32. 33. Math. 22. Adoc 21. Math. 5. 1. Sam. 2. The Church is encreased by persecutions Iohn 3. Psal. 110. Math. 16. The kingdome of Christ spreadeth to them neare vnto Ierusalem zach 4. Psal. 110. 1 The enymies persecutours of the Church 1. Cor. 15. Rom. 15. From the companie of the Priestes come the greatest enimies of the truth 1. Thes. 2. 1. Iohn 1. The crafts of the enimies of truth Rom. 10. Luke 22. Iohn 18. 2 God disappoynteth his enimies purpose and delyuereth hys 2. Timo. 2. The Angels are the Ministers keepers of the elect Hebr. 1. Psal. 34. Psal. 91. Gene. 19. Gene. 32. 2. Reg. 6. Daniel 6. Danâ— 6. Esay 37. The ende of deliuerye Psal. 50. Abac. 2. Luc. 9. Math. 24. The Gospell is the worde of lyfe 2. Cor. 5. Rom. 1. 1. Pet. 1. Esay 40. Iohn 6. Rom. 8. Ephe. 1. 3 The Apostles obey the Aungell Num. 15. 2. Cor. 10. Rom. 1.16 Psal. 2. 1 They vse pretence of a Counsell agaynst the Apostles Deut 17. Num. 11. Of Counsels zâ—ch 12. Ioâ—n 2. Math. 21. Apoc. 21. Apoca â–ª 21. Psalm 1. 2 God disappointeth the enterprises of his enimies Iohn 7. Math. 28. Exodus 8. Numer 23. and .24 3 The Apostles are brought back againe before the counsell The blindenesse of the wicked is incurable Esay 6. Math. 13. The wicked can not doe what they list Psal. 27.118 Psalm 94. The faythful triumph vnder the banner of the Crosse. 1. Peter 2. The modesty of the Apostles 1. Sam. 24.26 Among hys Orations in the .v. boke of his Epistles after the .xxxij. Epistle In his .xxxiii Epystle Psal. 91. 1
The hyghe Priestes accusation agaynst the Apostles 1 Disobedience Deut â–ª 17. Nu. 16. c. Iohn 1.2.18 Math. 21. 2 False doctrine Deut. 13. 3 Sedition The pryde of Antichristian Bishops What crymes are wâ—nt to be layde to the ministers 1. Reg. 18.21 1. Reg. 22. Amoz 7. Iere. 38.44 2 The aunswere of the Apostles The true trade of obedience 1. Peter 2. The doctrine of the Apostles is not newe 1. Peter 2. The Apostles be not seditious Luc. 1. Phil. 2. Math. 28. Iohn 10. The waye of saluation Math. 18. Luke 7. 2. Cor. 5. Luc. 24. The Apostles and holy ghost be witnesses of the Gospell Iohn 15. Actes 1. Math. 25. Iohn 14. 1 Death deuised against the Apostles The ende of Christes enimies attemptes Mat. 10. c. 2 Gamaliel deliuereth the Apostles from death Iohn 12. Iohn 7. Gene. 37. 1. Sam. 23. Exodus 2. 3 Gamaliel his counsell Iacob 1. Erasmus among the Apothegmes or wittie sayings of Augustus Saint Ambrose vpon occasion of a great slaughter commytted by Theodosius coÌ„maundement at Thessalonica enioyned him from thence forth â–ª that sentence of death or banishment pronounced by him should not be executed till after .xxx. dayes following that if wrath or furie had pronounced any thing vniustlye reason in the meane whyle might expende and redresse the same See Theodor in the Tripartite ix booke 30. chapter Concerning Theudas and Iudas Galilaeus See Iosephus booke of the Iewishe â—ntiquities the .18 booke 1. chapter And seconde booke of the Iewes wars or else Eusebius in the hystorie of the Churche 1. booke 3. chapter Iohn 5. 2. Thess. 2. A Dilemmas is a kinde of argument coÌ„sisting of two propositions or partes eyther of which whosoeuer graunteth â–ª shall be catched in a trip The counsels or purposes of God can not be letted Esay 40. Psal. 33. Psal. 2. Psal. 110. 1. Cor. 3. Math. 16. Irenaeus in his v. booke agaynst heresies And Eusebius in his ecclesiasticall historie .v. booke and viij chap. The Apostles are beaten with rods Luc. 23. No manne must be offended at the afflictions of the vngodlye as straunge Iohn 16. Math. 16. Iohn 15. They are deceâ—ued that iudge of religion and doctrine according to the afflictions Math· 27. The causes of afflictions We must beware of carelesnesse The decree which forbad Christ to be preached is renewed Iohn 15. Phil. 2. 1. Cor. 4. The Apostles reioyce in the reproches they suffer Luc. 22. Rom. 5. 2. Tim. 2. The perseueraunce of the Apostles in teaching 1. Cor. 14. Psal. 50. 1 The cause why Deacons were ordeyned The primitiue Church not voyde of faultes Gallat 3. Colloss 3. 1. Cor. 10. Iohn 17. 1. Iohn 2. Grutch in the multitude Iohn 12. 2 The Apostles speedily consult of the redresse 1. Peter 5. Math. 26. 3 The Apostles oration concerning the ordeyning of Deacons The dignitie of the gospel Galat. 2. Math. 6. Luc. 11. Luc. 10. 1. Cor. 1. Math. 20. Luc. 22. 1. Tim. 3. Ezec. 3.33 Math. 24. What maner of men must be chosen to be Deacons 1. Tim. 3. 1. Tim. 5. The duties of Ministers of the church 1. Tim. 4. 1. Cor. 3. 1 The congregation choseth Deacons Iohn 10. 2 A scroll of the Deacons names Reade what Eusebius wryteth of him in the thirde booke of hys storie and .29 chapter citing Clemens Alexandria in his thirde booke 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 for the same Math. 13. Iohn 6. 1. Cor. 11. 1. Cor. 10. 1. Peter 5. Prouer. 24. 2. Thess. 2. Math. 24. 3 The Deacons are publikely authorized Ephes. 6. 4 The profite ensuing of the errour corrected The description of Steuen 1. Tim. 3. Math. 25. Steuens aduersaries Libertie were such as had somtime bene bondmen â–ª and after â—â—â—ding fauor in their Lordes sight were made free and aduaunced to great dignity Steuen is set on by disputation Iohn 14. Luke 21. 1. Cor. 1. Coloss. 2. 1. Iohn 4. False witnesses are brought against Steuen Talio is when the doer suffreth such lyke damage and hurt himselfe as he doth to an other Looke the place Deuter. 19. Steuen is oppressed with sedition and taken Actes 14. Steuen is accused of impietie and obstinacie Hierem. 26. Psalm 34. Math. 5. Steuen in the daunger of death is not afrayde A notable historie manye wayes to comfort the persecuted for religion How the wicked suffer Christes cause to bee entreated of in Councels The argument of Steuens oration The getting of attention and good wil. Gallat 3. Col. 3. c. Rom. 12. Abraham pleased God without the ceremonies of the lawe God calleth vnto saluation In the beginning of hys first booke against heresies Rom. 4. Ephes. 1. 1. Cor. 4. Ephe. 2. 1. Cor. 2. Esay 64. Heb. 2. Abraham an example of the obedience of fayth 2. Cor. 10. Rom. 1. 16. Iohn 3. Luke 14. Abrahams faith is set forth Rom. 4. Gene. 15. God exerciseth the fayth and pacience of those that be his Roma 4. Psalm 89. Psal. 2.33 Math. 16. Roma 8. The place Gene. 15. The Church is as a Pylgryme in this worlde and afflicted Iohn 7. Rom. 9. Luc. 12. Iohn 17. Iohn 14. Phil. 3. 1. Tim. 6. Zach. 12. 1. Pet. 4. The Church is defended by God. Psal. 94. Zach. 2. The ten persecutions in the Church Cornelius Tacitus in his xv booke The Romaine Legions brought into subiection Histor. Trip. lib. 6. cap. 47 Deut. 32. Math. 7. Esay 33. Abacuc 2. The deliuered serue God. Psalme 50. Iohn 5. He beateth downe the affyaunce in circumcision Genesis 17. Of Sacramentes and sacramentall kindes of speech Deut. 10. Iere. 4. Iere. 31. Third booke and .ix. chap. Isay. 29. Math. 15. Roma 10. He beateth downe theyr affiaunce in the fathers Gene. 17. Gene. 4. Exodus 21. The glory is vayne that is sought in the vertue of auÌ„cestrye Math. 3. Iohn 8. Ioseph also is of fauour saued God aydeth his people when they be afflicted Psal. 34. Psal. 27. Iohn 16. Iohn 14. Math. 28. Psal. 56. Whatsoeuer we haue that is good is of Gods gyft 1. Cor. 2. Genes 8. 1. Cor. 4. Ioseph is a figure of Christ. Iohn 1. Phil. 2. 1 The cause of the going into Egypt Gen. 12.26 Gene. 15. Gene. 45. The wisedome and thankfulnesse of Pharao Iosua 7. Iosephs loue tempered with iustice Math. 5. 2 The comming of the children of Israel into Egypt Roma 8. The Patryarches dye in Egypt Gene. 50. Exodus 13. Iosua 24. Apoca. 14. Iohn 5. Apoca. 20. 1 The people were preserued and multiplyed in Egypt by the grace and fauour of God. Num. 1. The prouydence of God comprehendeth al times Genes 15. Math. 10.6 Acteâ— 1. Psal. 27. Num. 11. Psal. 78. Iudith 8. Abacuc 2. God mixeth aduersitie among prosperitie Nehem. 4. Small is the remembrance of benefites receyued with Princes Psal. 146. Psalm 118. Hester 6. The wylynes of tyraunts Moses saued and brought to dignitie by the goodnesse of God. Of the tyme. Esay 28. Esay 11. Of the cause efficient moouing his Parentes
Apoc. 3. iiij. The Apostles flye from IconiuÌ„ and preach at other places 1 The myracle of the Creple that was healed The miserable state of the Creple Iohn 9. Iohn 5. Luke 13. Math. 8. Deut. 27. Leuit. 19. The Creple heareth the Gospell and beleeueth Math. 11. 1. Cor. 3. Rom. 10. Iohn 5. The Creple is myraculously healed A fygure of the redemption of man. Esay 53. Gene. 8. 2. Cor. 5. Iohn 15. Phil. 4. 2 Howe they of Listra were affected at the myracle Ouid. Meta. 1. Olde errors are hardlye put awaye The beginning and going forwarde of Idolatry The Apostles put away worshipping from them by their gestures Esay 42. The Apostles put from them worship by speaking i. The proposâ—tion ij. The confirmation Hebrues 1. Esay 63. Deut 6. Math. 4. Iohn 3. 2. Cor. 11. All worship is vaine deuised without the word of God. Math. 15. Esay 29. The duetie of the ministers of the worde Ierem. 1. God is the Creator and gouernour of all things Psal. 113. iij. The confutation Roma 1. 1. Cor. 2. Psal. 106. Luke 12. Math. 7. Actes 20. 2. Thes. 2. God is not to be charged for mens Idolatrie Psal. 147. Psal. 104. Leuit. 26. Deut. 28. The effect of the Apostles sermon Satan hath euerywhere his instrumentes The inconstancie of the Commons The prouidence of God preserueth the godly in daungers Math. 5. 1. Cor. 10. Rom. 8.14 Math. 10. The dutie of Christians towardes their brethren in distresse Math. 10. Marc. 15. i. The Apostles made the bolder by afflictions returne to their vocation agayne Marc. 16. ij. They come to the Cities agayne from whence they were driuen iij. Ther confirme the minds of the Disciples iiij. They exhort menne to perseuerance Math. 12. Luke 9. Apocal. 2. Galat. 1. v. They put away the offence of the crosse Luke 9. Psalm 34. Iohn 15.16 Iohn 12.14 and .17 The Apostles appoynt Elders in euery church Ephe. 4. 1. Cor. 12. The ceremony or maner of the Primitiue Church in â—hoosing Elders The Apostles commeÌ„d the congregation vnto the Lorde 2. Cor. 11. Iohn 17. Iohn 14. Iohn 10. 2. Tim. 2. Rom. 8. The Apostles preach the Gospell at Perga 1 They giue account of their doings abrode 1. Pet. 5. ij. They referre all their doings vnto God. Iohn 6. iij. They repoâ—e themselfe after thâ—ir traueâ—le and dauÌ„gers Marc. 6. The doctrine of the Apostles is onsâ—t by intestiâ—e diuision and schisme 1 The Authors of the discention Roma 15. 1. Iohn 2. Math. 7. Actes 20. 1. Cor. 11. 2 The state of the controuersie or discention Gene. 17. Galat. 5. Esay 29. Math. 15. Ierem. 2. 3 The successe therof Galat. 1. Philip. 3. 1. Cor. 11. 4 Paule and Barnabas stowtely resist Galat. 5. Galat. 3. Math. 10. Marc. 8. Iohn 16. The congregaâ—ion at Antioch referre the controuersie to the iudgement of the Apostles The cause of conuocations sinodes and counsayles in the primitiue Church Galat. 1.2 Luke 10. Iohn 17. 2. Tim. 3. Paule and Barnabas iourney to Ierusalem The controuersie of iustifycation before the Apostles Peters iudgement concerning iustification God iustifyeth of fauour or grace through faith in Christ. Ehesi 2. Roma 3. The waye how we are iustifyed Gene. 8. 1. Iohn 1. 1. Cor. 1. 2. Cor. 5. Iohn 15. Ephes. 2. Iohn 6. Psal. 51. Rom. 8. Math. 9. To attribute righteousnes to the works of the lawe is an heynous offence Psal. 78. Num. 11. Rom. 7. Deut. 27. Psa. 130.143 Esay 64. The vse of the lawe Rom. 6. The faith of the fathers of the olde Testament and the newe is but one Iohn 8. 1. Cor. 10. Math. 3.17 A President of a counsell assembled in the holy ghost The order of the Apostles Counsayles 1. Iames subscribeth vnto Peters iudgement The Prophetes are agreeable with the Apostles The place of Amoz the .ix. Chap. Rom. 9.11 2 A deuyse how to make an vnitie and concorde betweene the Iewes and the Gentyles Fylthynesse of Images and fornication Deut. 7. Deut. 6. 1. Cor. 10. 1. Cor. 6. Ephe. 5. Heb. 13. Strangled and bloude Gen. 9. Leuit 17. and .19 Rom. 14. 1. Cor. â— The reading of Moses The consent of the counsayle of Ierusalem i. The superscription of the letter sent from the Counsayle Ephe. 4. ij. The false Apostles are touched Galat. 5. Rom. 4. Galat. 1. iij. Paule and Barnabas are commended Luke 9. iiij. The decree of the Counsayle is expounded Luke 10. Math. 15. 1. Cor. 10. 1. Tim 4. Math. 15. 1 The execution of the ambassage vnto the church at Antioch 2 The industrie of Sâ—las Paule Barnabas in setting forth the kingdome of Christ. Exod. 28. 3 The discention betweene Paule and Barnabas Luke 9. 2. Cor. 12. Rom. 7. Phil. 2. 1. Cor. 10. Esay 40. 4 Paule and Barnabas visite the churches The calling of Timothie What Timothie is and what maner of man. 2. Tim. 3. 1. Tim. 3. Timothie is circumcised Galat. 2. 1. Cor. 9. Timothie is borne of parentes th one a Iewe thother a Gentyle 2. Cor. 6. 1. Cor. 7. The doctrine of Paule and his companions 1. Cor. 10. The profyte of the Apostles labour The vse of the Apostles peregrinatioÌ„ or 〈◊〉 Phrygia and Galatia are conuerted Paule is forbidden to preach in Asia 2. Cor. 3. Iohn 6. Rom. 8. Iohn 10. Luke 9.10 Paule is called to go into Macedonia Esay 65. Ephes. 1. Genes 3. Esay 53. Luke 15. Galat. 1. Esay 6â— Paules passage into Macedonia Luke 9. Paule preacheth at Philippi Lydia is an example of true conuersion Iohn 4. Luke 7. Math. 9. Luke 19. Math. 27. Iohn 7. Math. 11. Luke 1â— The order and maner of conuersion Luke 8. Roma 10. The effectes of conuersion and true fayth Deut. 6. Psal. 78. A Maid possessed with a spirite is an instrument of the Deuill Exo. 7.8 Roma 1. 2. Thes. 2. Satan beareth witnesse vnto the truth Marc. 1. Luke 4. Math. 7. Satan by the name of christ is expelled Gene. 3. 1. Iohn 3. Couetousnesse commonly incenseth Christes enimies 1. Tim. 6. Eccles. 10. Math. 6. 2. Pet. 2. Iohn 11. Iohn 12. The Apostles are accused of sedition deceyt Apolog. 5. The Apostles are scourged and put in prison The Apostles beyng whipped and put in bonds prayse and praye vnto God. Roma 5. Luke 22. 2. Tim. 2. Roma 8. Psal. 50. Psal. 94. 2. Cor. 1. 1. Cor. 10. God deliuereth the Apostles calling vpon him Eccle. 35. The keeper of the prison is conuerted Ezech. 18. Math. 5. The summe of saluation is fayth in Christ. i. The fruite and workes of fayth ij. Outwarde religion iij. Charitie Math. 22. Roma 13. iiij. Ioy of spirite Roma 6. Iames. 2. Ful and perâ—â—te deliuery of the Apostles The repentance of the wicked 1. Samu. 15. Wicked officers Roma 13. 2. Para. 13. Deuter. 1. Psalm 72. The power of God in delyuering his people Exodus 12. 1. Sam. 24. and .26 The simplicitie of fayth Paule will not be set at libertie and dismyssed priuilie
communication with Agrippa touching Paule Festus testifieth that Paule is innocent Paules hearers Paule is broughte forthe in chaines to preache Festus causeth Paule to be diligeÌ„tly heard Paule hathe licence to speake for himselfe Paul declareth his cause without feare The argument of Paules oration Pauls childhode and education Of what importance the godly bringing vp of children is The state of the whole coÌ„trouersie The sum order of this preseÌ„t place The faithe of the Fathers is a most ancient thing 1. Cor. 5. Collos. 2. Adam Abel Enoch Noah Abraham Gene. 12. Roma 4. Iohn 4. Isahac and Iacob Moses Luke 24. The state of the true fayth in this world The true trade of mainteining the The resurrectioÌ„ of the dead oughte not to bee thought incredible Paul became a Christian agaynst hys will. 1. Tim. 1. 1. Cor. 15. Psalm 7. Psal. 2. .33 The tirannie of Paule agaynst the Churche of Christ. The state of the churche Persecutours cause men to blaspheme The story of Paules conuersion Christe rayseth vp Paul whoÌ„ he had throwen downe before Paule is called to the office of an â—postle A minister Roma â–ª 1. A witnesse God deliuereth his seruants being in danger The ende vse of the Gospell 1. Corin. 3. The order and manner of saluation Paule obeyeth God coÌ„trary to the bidding of the Priestes The maner of true obedience Saule 1 Sam. 13. 15 The points and order of Euangelike doctrine Math 10 Luke 24 Luke 17 Paul is laid holde on for his obeying of God. 2. Peter 2 1. Cor. 10 Psal. 34. c Paule preacheth the gospel vnto Agrippa Paule is a detter vnto all men The sum of the gospell Festus is a president of those which heare the worde with a prophane intent Paule constantly and modestly defendeth his ministerie Which is the best wai of teaching Christian religion is certain and not to bée suspected of obscuritie The scripture of it self worthy of credite Agrippa is a paterne of those in whoÌ„ the cares of this worlde chooke the seede of the woorde A very christian wishe of Paule Iohn 6 Math. 11. c 1. Cor. 5 The innocencie of Paule The argument of the Chapter Paul is brought to Rome among malefactours Sée Valeri Max. 16. Booke and v. chapter Esay 53 â–ª Luke 22. Paules companions Aristarchus The Centurion is Paules freÌ„d Paul would not flée no not when he might Paules voyage or nauigation is ful of danger God warneth vs of danger and giueth vs counsell in time See Leui. 16. Paules aduise is despised The punishmeÌ„t of gods counsel despised Mannes power is of nâ— force against God. What happeneth to such as will lose nothing at Gods bidding Paule hym selfe is in hazard with the despisers of God. Paul giueth comforte and counsel inaduersitie He modestly rebuketh their former disobedieÌ„ce He comforteth He alleageth the Oracle The promises of God must be taken holde of by faithe The incredulitie and distrust of the Maryners The propertie of the flesh in dangers Exod. 5 The properties of those that are too confident or bolde Paule commaundeth to stay the Marriners The right vse of Gods instrumeÌ„ts or meanes Prouer. 31 The faithe of the captaine and souldioures Paule exhorteth them to take meat The nature or propertie of fayth The discipline of the Table Parali 14. They caste their Corne into the sea The description of the shipwracke The deuise of the souldiers in killing the prisoners The truthe of Gods promise cannot be let or hindred The hospitalitie of those of Malta Luke 10. Hebr. â—3 Mark. 19. Paul by miracle was knowen to those of Malta A vyper byteth Paule Paul shaketh off the viper without any hurte The people of Malta take Paule for a God. The family or stocke of Paule Marke 10. The hospitalitie of Publius Math. 25. The rewarde of hospitalitie The thankfulnesse of the people of Malta Math. 10. Luke 9 and .10 Paule is caried in an Idolatrous shippe The church at Putesti The Romane brethren goe out to méete Paule The thankfulnesse of the Romane brethren Paule is encouraged or confirmed by the méeting of the brethren Paul is kept in an hired house at Rome Paule calleth togither the chéefe of the Iewes Rom. 10.9 Math. 5 1 He putteth away wrongfull suspitions 2 He excuseth his appealing 3 He declareth the state of the whole coÌ„trouersie The Iewes beare witnesse of Paules innocencie Paule preacheth in an house The argumente of Paules sermon The fountaine of the Apostles doctrine Psal. 45 Iohn 10 Paule teacheth all the whole day Amos. 7. The effecte of Paules Sermon Iohn 15. Paule rebuketh the stubbornesse of the Iewes The Iewes vnbeléefe was wilful The cause of incredulitie Iohn 3. The punishment of incredulitie Iohn 8. Deut. 32. Math. 21. In his .vii. boke and .xv chapter The contention of the Iewes about the doctrine of the Gospell Paule was in prison two yeres togither 2. Timo. 2. Paule being in prison preacheth writeth j. Paul preacheth the kingdome of God. 1. Timo. 2. Colos. 2. Mat. 3. 17. Iohn 14. ij. Paule precheth plainly iij. Paules successe Iob 38. Ierem. 5. What Paul did after the two yeres were expired A conclusioÌ„ with a repetition of the Premisses THE IVDGEMENT of S. Hierome vppon the Actes of the Apostles The Actes of the Apostles seme to set forthe but a bare History onely and to weaue as it were the infancie and beginning of the Church but if we consider howe Luke the wryter of them is that Physition whose praise is in the Gospell we shall at once perceiue euery woorde of him to be a medicine for the sicke and languishing soule IMPRINTED AT LONdon by Henrie Denham dwelling in Pater noster rowe at the signe of the Starre