prophecy from the al-knowing God could foretell these things to come Isaâ— 41.22 2. In the propheticall expressions of it it is consonant to other propheticall books and gives light to them Daniel Zechariah especially Ezekiel As in the particulars of eating up the Book Rev. 10.9 10. with Ezek. 2.8 and 3.3 of sealing Gods promise Rev. 7.2 3. with Ezek. 9. of the foure living Creatures Rev. 4.6 7. with Ezek. 1.5.6 of Gog and Magog Rev. 20.8 with Ezek 38.2 and 39.1 of the measuring of the Temple and City Rev. 21.15 with Ezek. 40.3 c. Of the two olive trees c. Rev. 11.4 with Zech. 4.3 11 14. c. 3. Many things foretold in this Book prophetically are fulfilled and come to passe actually As Interpreters have observed in many particulars Therefore this Book is of divine Authority Ierem. 28.9.4 Promise of explaining how long the Idolatrous and Tyrannicall Kingdome of Anti-Christ should last was made to Daniel the Prophet Dan. 12.4 9. which some conceive to be fulfilled in these Apocalypticall visions Rev. c. 11. and 12. and 13. and 17. c. And had not Christ under the New Testament left his Church some propheticall Record for her comfort against the horrid cruelty idolatry and darknesse of the Anti-christian Dominion showing when it should have an end and how happy at last the Church should be all her enemies being universally made the footstool of the Lambe she were in a worse condition then under the Old Testament which were absurd 4. As the Holy Ghost by Moses the first Penman of the Canon of the Old Testament warned the Jewes against adding to or diminishing from the word of God yee shall not adde unto the word which I command you neither shall you diminish from it Deut. 9.2 and 12.32 So by the Apostle Iohn the last Penman of the Canon of the New Testament Iesus Christ warneth all persons that heare the words of this Prophecy If any man shall adde unto these things God shall adde unto him the plagues that are written in this Book And if any man shall take away from the words of the Book of this Prophecy God shall take away his part out of the Book of Life and out of the Holy City and from the things which are written in this Book Rev. 22.18 19. By which severe Commination the integrity and divine Authority of this Book is asserted by Christ against all whom Christ foresaw would either indeavour to infringe the Authority of it or corrupt the purity of it Hereby then the whole divine Canon is sealed up as fully now compleat and divinely Authenticall after which we are to expect no more Scripture from God 5. The generall current of best Antiquity except some few particular persons and divers of them guilty of such heresies as this Book condemnes hath embraced this Book and accounted it of divine Authority As those formerly cited to prove Iohn the Apostle to be Penman of it and many more that might be enumerated As that ancient Ancyran Councel held before the Nicene in Append. as also the third Councell of Carthage Can. 47. Cyprian frequently alledges the Revelation among the other Canonicall bookes as De exhort martyrum c. 8. c. 11. c. 12. Testimon Advers Iudaeos l. 2. c. 1. Sect. 3.6 11. c. 6. The Cavils and Objections against the divine Authority of this Book reckoned up by Erasmus or others how weak and unsatisfactory they are may appeare in severall writers who have confuted them Especially vid. Bez. Prolegom in Apocylaps Ioannis and Gerh. loc Com. De scrip sac in exeges cap. 10. Sect. 294. ad sin cap. Excellency of this Book is most considerable For 1. The conveyance of it at first to the Church is singular From God to Iesus Christ From Iesus Christ to an Angel From the Angel to Iohn whom Jesus peculiarly loved above all his Apostles and Disciples Rev. 1.1 And this to Iohn when in exile for Christ in the Isle Patmos and that not on a common day but on the Lords day the Queen of dayes and â—o Iohn in Patmos on the Lords day not in an ordinary but extraordinary composure and elevation of his soule when he was in the spirit caught up as it were and transported in an holy extasie and spirituall Rapture that he might the more attend to these mysteries revealed and have more immediate un-interrupted Communion with Jesus Christ the Revealer Rev. 1 9 10. c. what can all this import but some singularly eminent treasure for the Church in this book whereby the Church in her deepest tribulation may be with Iohn spiritually intransed and ravished with many surpassing grounds of joy and consolation 2. The stile is stately and sublime and may wonderfully take the highest notion The expressions quick piercing and patheticall and may pleasingly penetrate the dullest affection The whole contexture is so full of divine majesty that it commands an awfull Reverence in all gracious hearts that read it 3. The matter of it is most heavenly and spirituall and that in exceeding great variety notably describing the Divinity of Christ His offices and the benefits of them clearly pointing out Anti-Christs Seate Tyranny Rise Growth Power Acts and Fall and most lively delineating the Churches condition what it was in the Primitive times after Christ and what it should be afterwards till the worlds end how sad yet sâ—fe under Anti-christs dominion how sweet and happy after Anti-Christs destruction how comfortable at the day of judgement and how glorious in heaven with Iesus Christ for evermore What Saint would not thirst much to read and here more to understand but most of all to enjoy these things Some of them are laid downe most mystically in abstruse visions to exercise the judgements of the wisest some more familiarly to succour the infirmity even of the weakest In some places the Lamb may wade in others the Elephant may swim Those prevent contempt these anticipate discouragement Ioaoâ—imus Abbas prefers this Prophecy before the Prophecy of all other Prophets Beza saith That those things in other Prophets which were not fulfilled after Christs coming the holy spirit hath heaped them all together in this precious book and also added others so farre as was needfull or usefull for the Church to know them Bez. Prolegom in Apoc. Oecolampadius cals this book The best Paraphrast of all the Prophets Ioh. Oecolamp Praefat. in Daniâ—l Hierome saith Apocalypsis tot habet sacramenta quot verba Parum dixi pro merito voluminis laus omnis inferior est in verbis singulis multiplices latent intelligentiae i. e. The Revelation hath as many mysteries as words It s but a little I say all praise is too low for the merit of this volume manifold understandings lie hid in every word Hieron in Epist. ad Paulin. 4. The Book it selfe is compleat capable of no Addition or Detraction but upon severest Penalties Rev. 22.18.19 5. The Penman Eminent viz. John that beloved disciple
CLAVIS BIBLIORVM THE KEY Of the BIBLE Vnlocking The Richest Treasury of the Holy Scriptures WHEREBY The 1 Order 2 Names 3. Times 4 Penmen 5 Occasion 6 Scope and 7 Principall Parts Containing the Subject-Matter of every Book of Old and New Testament are familiarly and briefly opened For the help of the weakest capacity in the understanding of the whole BIBLE By FRANCIS ROBERTS A. M. Pastor of the Church at Augustines LONDON Col. 3.16 Let the word of Christ in dwell in you richly in all wisdome London Printed by T. R. and E. M. for George Calvert and are to sold at his shop at the signe of the Half-Moon in Watling-street neer to Pauls stump 1648. AN EPISTLE To the READER THere is no one duty more commanded or commended in the Word of God or more practised by the Saints of God then the diligent and conscientious reading of the holy Scriptures Our Saviour Christ commands us not only to read them but to search into them The Apostle Paul commands us not only to have them with us but in us and not only to have them in us but to have them dwelling and abiding in us richly in all wisedome David professeth of himselfe that the Law was in the midst of his bowels And that he had hid the word in his heart that he might not sinne against God Austin saith of himselfe that the holy Scriptures were his holy delight And Hierome tels us of one Nepotianus who by long and assiduous meditation of the holy Scriptures had made his breast the Library of Iesus Christ. And for my part I have alwayes observed that the more holy and humble any man is the more he delighteth in the holy Scriptures and the more profane and proud any man is the more he slighteth and undervalueth them Cursed is that speech of Politian that proud Critick that he never spent his time worse then in reading the Scriptures And famous is the Answer of Basil to that cursed Apostate Julian who said of the Sciptures That he had read them understood them and condemned them But Basil answered him excellently That he had read them but not understood them for if he had understood them he would not have condemned them No man that hath the Holy Spirit but will love those books which were written by holy men as they were moved by the Holy Spirit As David said of Goliah's sword There is none to that give it me So may I say of the Holy Scriptures There are no bookes like these Books which are able to make thee wise unto salvation and to make the man of God absolute and perfect unto every good worke And therefore let me perswade all men to read these books not only to read them but to meditate in them day and night And to hide them in their hearts as a divine cordiall to comfort them in these sad dayes as a divine lampe to guide them in this houre of darknesse and as part of the whole Armour of God to inable them to resist temptation in this houre of temptation that is now coming upon the whole earth And when they read them 1 To read them with an humble heart for God hath promised to give grace to the humble and to teach the humble his way 2 To read thē with prayer that God would open their eyes that they may understand the wonders of his law 3 To read them with a godly trembling for feare least with the spider these should suck poison out of their sweet flowers and wrest the Scriptures to their owne destruction as they that are unstable and unlearned 4 To read them with a purpose to practice what they read He that practiseth what he understandeth God will help him to understand what he understands not 5 To read them in an orderly and methodicall way And for their better help herein to take this ensuing Treatise in their hands It is short and pithy It sets the whole Bible before them in an orderly plaine and perspicuous manner and helps them to understand every book The Author of it is a godly learned Minister well knowne and very well esteemed on in this famous city The Book it selfe is called the Key of the Bible because it unlocks the richest Treasury of the Holy Scriptures Take this Key with you whensoever you goe into this Treasury And pray unto him that hath the Key of David that openeth and no man shutteth and shutteth and no man openeth that he will open this Treasury unto you The Rabbins say that there are foure Keyes that are in Gods keeping The Key of the clouds The Key of the wombe The Key of the grave The Key of food I may adde that there is a fifth Key also in Gods bestowing which is the Key of the Scriptures The God that made these books can only un-riddle these Books And therefore when you use this Key pray for that other Key and pray unto Christ to deale with you as he did with his Apostles To open your understanding that you may understand the Scriptures So prayes Your Servant in Christ Iesus EDMUND CALAMY Imprimatur EDMUND CALAMY AN INTRODUCTORY Advertisement TO THE READER Containing some Generall Directions for the Right Understanding of the Holy Scriptures And how this present Treatise is to be improved most advantagiously to that end THe Holy Scriptures are the lively Oracles of the living God unfolding the secrets of his will to man The Epistle of Iesus Christ Revealing from heaven the saving mysteries of his sweetest love unto his Church and the Blessed Charter of the Saints which no Tract of time shall reverse whereby they hold of God all their present enjoyments in the life that now is and all their future hopes of that life which is to come Chrysostom prefers Scripture before Angels saith Get you Bibles the medicines of the soule Iob esteemed them more then his necessary food Paul delighted therein touching the inward man David preferred them before the honey and honey-combe before great spoyl thousands of gold and silver all riches and therefore accounted them his heritage his Counsellors his comfort c. Yea professeth his heart did break for longing to Gods judgements at all times And every godly and truly blessed man should make the Scriptures his delight and meditate therein night and day Notwithstanding how many gracious soules are there whose delight it is to repair often to this Sanctuary of the Scriptures as Augustine stiles them but cannot tell what they see there of the Lord and of his glory who frequently read in this blessed Book but like the Ethiopian Eunuch understand not or not to purpose what they reade And this comes to passe 1 Partly through the sublimity of those supernatural and heavenly mysteries therein revealed whereby
sweetly closing together in a most intimate Communion in Iesus Christ which is as another Paradise and Heaven on earth In a word what is there not in Holy Scriptures Are we poore Here 's a Treasury of riches Are we sick Here 's a Shop of Soule Medicines Are we fainting Here 's a Cabinet of Cordials Are we Christlesse Here 's the star that leads to Christ. Are we Christians Here 's the bands that keep in Christ. Are we afflicted Here 's our Solace Are we persecuted Here 's our protection Are we deserted Here 's our recovery Are we tempted Here 's our sword and Victory Are we young Here 's our beauty Are we Old Here 's our wisdome While we live here 's the Rule of our conversation when we dye here 's the hope of our Glorification So that I may with Tertullian I Adore the fulnesse of the Scripture Oh blessed Scriptures who can know them and not love them Who can love them and not delight to meditate in them night and day Who can meditate in them and not desire to love them love to desire them and both desire and love to understand them This is the Book of Books as David said of Goliath's Sword there 's none like that Said one Ex aliis paleae viles hinc grana leguntur Aurea tu paleas linquito grana lege I may Engish it Other writings chaffe unfold Scriptures yeeld the purest gold Others dote on chasty games Gather thou these golden Graines Take away our Papers said Augustine and bring amongst us the Book of God heâ—re Christ saying heare Truth speaking c. I may close up this Paragraph with his words who thus emphatically expresseth himselfe The Sacred Scripture is the Book of life whose Original is eternall whose essence is incorporeall whose knowledge is life whose writing is indelible whose inspect is desireable whose Doctrine is easie whose knowledge is sweet whose depth is unsearchable whose words are innumerable and onely one word All. 4. The forme of the Scripture both Inward and Outward if well considered commands all possible endeavours and industry for the understanding thereof 1. The Inward forme is That accurate conformity of the things laid down in Scripture to that infallible and eternall truth of Gods own understanding that indited and revealed them Writings compiled by men carry in them a conformity to the idea in their understanding which being subject to ignorance errour and corruption through the imperfection that is in them must needs produce writingâ— semblably imperfect ignorant erroneous and corrupt But no such thing can be incident unto the Scriptures which are conforme to the Divine understanding of the only wise God which is infinite unsearchable and wholly admirable which is all Light without any darknesse at all all Truth without the least errour All perfect without any shadow of imperfection all pure without any colour of Corruption So that the Scriptures of themselves cannot lead us unto errour but the more we truly understand them the more our minds shall be enriched with truth and elevated to a conformity to the supream truth of God 2. The Outward forme of the Scriptures oâ— manner how things are therein revealed is not onely plaine and easie nor only darke or difficult but rather mixt of both some things being facile some things being hard to be understood some places are such shallowes wherein lambs need not be afraid to made some againe such deeps as Elephants may be enforced to swim By plainnesse God nourishes the weakest by obscurenesse he exercises the accutest As Augustine hath intimated That facility occasion not our contempt of Scriptures there are interwoven some difficulties that difficulties deterre not from the study of Scripture there are intermingled some facilities For as Augustine notes If all were shut up how should obscure things be revealed If all things were hid whence should the soule have ability to knock for the opening of things shut up Is therefore our Capacity weaker Here 's reliefe for our infirmity Is our apprehension deeper Here 's worke enough for the sharpest perspicacity So that the most ignorant need not be afraid the most intelligent need not be ashamed of endeavours after Scripture understanding 5. The End is manifold and excellent for which God committed his word to writing and that writing to us viz. For Doctrine that Faith and Truth may be asserted For Reproofe or conviction that errour may be confuted As Athanasius said Hereticks are to be stoned with Scripture Arguments For correction of manners enormous or offensive For instruction in the paths of righteousnesse and for consolation that drooping dejected distressed spirits may not be overwhelmed Now then if we study not to understand Scriptures How in Doctrinals They â— Assert the Truth 2 Confute errour How in Practicals They 1 Direct in wel-doing 2 Correct for ill-doing we frustrate the chief ends and scope why the Scriptures were imparted unto us 6. How acceptable is our study and understanding of the Scripture unto God! For 1. He commands us this way to bestow our selves Search the Scriptures Let the word of Christ indwell in you richly in all wisdome Not be but dwell with you not dwell with you but dwell in you yea indwell in you Greek Not dwell in you but dwell in you richly nor only dwell in you richly but in all wisdome 2. He Commends them that have industriously acquainted themselves with the Scripture Timothy that from a child he had known the Holy Scripture able to make him wise unto Salvation Apollos That he was an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures The Bereans that they were more noble then those of Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readinesse of mind and searched the Scriptures dayly whether those things were so And he makes it one Character of the godly blessed man that His delight is in the Law of the Lord and therein he meditates day and night 3. He condemns the contrary unskilfulnesse in the Scriptures as the infirmity of Babes Yea as the root of all errour in spirituals do ye not erre because yee know not the Scriptures Appositely saith Chrysostome to this purpose Ignorance of the Scriptures hath brought forth Heresies hath brought in corruption of life hath turned all things upside down Ignorance of the Scriptures is a very Hell And elsewhere he saith It is the cause of all evils to be ignorant of the Scriptures Hierom also to like purpose He that knowes not the Scriptures knowes not the power of God and his wisdome The ignorance of Scriptures is the ignorance of Christ. 4. In a word He promises happinesse to the right understanding of the Scriptures If yee know these things happy are yee if ye do them And sometimes notably rewards them that endeavour to understand them While the Ethiopian Eunuch
nature of the Book and the Penman of it Nature of the Book A Revelation so called because it Reveals and makes known unto us secret hidden mysteries and future events It s true this Revelation is not without mixture of much intricatenesse and obscurity as all prophecies are enigmaticall and ambiguous to men till they be effected but when the time prophecied is come then they have a more clear and certaine exposition So Iraen Advers Haeres l. 4. c. 43. And this to exercise the Reader to search out the truth as August de Civitat dei l. 20. c. 17. hath well observed Penman or instrumentall Author of it viz. Iohn the Theologue or Divine What Iohn this was some question Eusebius mentions two Iohns whose monuments were to be seen at Ephesus viz. Iohn the Evangelist who wrote the Gospel and 1 Epistle of John and Iohn the Presbyter who wrote 2. and 3. Epistle of Iohn and the Revelation Euseb. Eccles. Hist. l. 3. c. 39. To him also seems to incline Dionys. Alexandrinus in lib. de Repromissionibus But that this is a great mistake and that IOHN the Evangelist and Apostle was Penman of this Revelation may be cleared by these considerations 1. This Title attributes it to Iohn the Divine This Epithet we read no where to be given to Iohn the Presbyter but belongs to Iohn the Apostle and Evangelist 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 by way of peculiar emphasis because like an Eagle he soares aloft writes more sublimely of the Divinity of Iesus Christ both in this Book in which D. Parâ—us hath observed XLVIII Arguments of Christs Divinity as also in his Gospel Iohn 1.1 c. and in his 1. Epistle And the King of Spaines Bible of Montanus Edition hath this Greek Title before the Revelation 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 i. e. The Revelation of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist Iohn the Divine which Title clears this matter and is consonant to Rev. 1.1 2. whether it were prefixed by Iohn or after by the Church nor is it any way probable that Christ sent his Angel to any other Iohn then to the Apostle with this Revelation 2. Iohn the Penman of this Book is so descrâ—bed that Iohn the Apostle and Evangelist seemes plainly to be indigitated Revel 1.1 2. His servant Iohn Who bare record of the word of God and of the Testimony of Iesus Christ. Now how notably did Iohn beare record of the word of God and testimony of Iesus Christ see Iohn 1.1.2.14 and 1 Iohn 1 1. and 5.9 compared with Revel 19.13 3. The style much resembles that of Iohns Gospel and Epistles As for instance It is peculiar to Iohn to stile Christ The word compare Iohn 1.1.14 1 Iohn 1.1 and 5.7 with Revel 1.2 In his Gospell he stiles Christ the Lamb of God Iohn 1.29.36 so in the Revelation Christ is called the Lamb at least 28. times 4 That Iohn who wrote this Revelation had it in the I le Patmos made known to him who was there for the name of God and Testimony of Iesus Christ Rev. 1.9 And Histories mention no other Iohn but only Iohn the Apostle to be in Patmos Banished thither by Domitian the Emperour for the Gospel's sake neer to period of his Reigne as Funccius computes about the ninety seventh year after Christ. See Euseb. Hist. Eccles. l. 3. c. 16. and 18. 5. To these might be added the Harmonious consent of ancient Fathers who unanimously conclude that Iohn the Apostle penned this Book Dionys. Areopag who was Pauls disciple Act. 17. who wrote about the sixtieth year after Christ in those writings ascribed to him calleth the Apocalypse A secret and mysticall vision of the beloved Disciple Dionys. Eccles. Hierarch c. 3. Iustin Martyr who wrote in the one hundred and fiftieth year after Christ ascribes the Apocalypse to Iohn one of the Apostles of Christ. Iustin. in Dial. ad Tryphon To which passage Eusebius relating saith Iustin mentions the Apocalypse of Iohn plainly saying it is the Apostles Euseb. Hist. Eccles. l. 4. c. 18. Irenaeus who wrote in the eightieth year after Christ saith And what things soever Iohn the disciple of the Lord saw in the Apocylapse Iraen Advers Haeres l. 4 c. 50. and l. 4. c. 37. p. 373. A. Coloniae 1596. To these might be added the suffrage of many more as of Greek Fathers Clem. Alexand. Paedag. l. 2. c. 12. Athanas. in Synops. Epiphan Haeres 51.54 76. Chrysost. Hom. 5. in Psal. 91. of Latin fathers as Tertull. contra Marcion l. 4. Cyprian de eâ—hort Martyr c. 8.10.11.12 Ambros. in Psal 50 l. 3. de spir sanct c. 21. August de Civiâ— dei l. 20. c. 7. de Haeres c. 30. de Doct. Christ. l. 2. c. 18. videantur Annot. in Irenae l. 5. c. 30. p. 490. Colon. 1596. but in so plaine a case these may suffice So that by all this it s plainly evident that the Penman of the Revelation was Iohn the Apostle that wrote the Gospel and the Epistles The unfolding of his name and who he was more particularly See in Annot. to Iohn's Gospel Authority of this Book is not Humane but Divine For 1. This book was indited by Iesus Christ himselfe the faithfull and true witnesse who sent his Angel to testifie the same to Iohn the Apostle and by him to the Churches The Revelation of Iesus Christ which God gave unto him to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to passe and he sent and signified it by his Angel unto his servant Iohn Rev. 1.1 and towards the close of the book he saith I Iesus have sent mine Angel to testify unto you these things in the Churches Rev. 22.16 Note this Revelation was given by Iohn the Apostle to the Churches by an Angel to Iohn by Iesus Christ to that Angel by God to Iesus Christ How punctually then is the Divine Authority of it asserted 2. It was penned by Iohn the Apostle of Christ who was divinly inspired acted by the Holy Ghost as hath bin formerly manifested and therefore it is of divine Authority especially considering that this blessed Apostle was commanded by Iesus Christ to write this Book Saying I am Alpha and Omega the first and the last and whâ—â— thou seest write in a Book write the things which thou hast sâ—en and the things which are and the thingâ— which shall bâ— hereafter Rev. 1.11 19. See also Rev. 2.1.8.12.18 and 3.1 7 14. and 14.13 and 19.9 and 21.5 3. The nature of the book imports the divine Authority of it For 1. It is eminently Propheticall speaking of things that shall be hereafter Rev. 1.1 19. and 22.7 10 18 19. and the prophecies of this book are touching future events in reference to the Church to the end of the world till the Church the Lambs wife shall be fully ready for compleat marriage with the Lamb Rev. 19.7 8 9. So that neither ancient writers nor any other but such as were inspired with a spirit of
some things are hard to be understood 2 Partly through the obscure and mysterious manner of Scriptures revealing many things whereby the Lord would exeâ—cise the sharpest and deepest apprehensions of men 3 Partly through defect of some familiar Manu-duction into the whole Bible and the severall Books of Old and New Testament therein contained which might like a Clew of thread conduct into these sacred Treasuryes and like a Key unlock this Cabinet of Christs richest Jewels Whereupon after much deliberation how this might be best effected apprehending that some briefe and solid Discovery of the 1 Order 2 Names 3 Times 4 Penmen 5 Occasion 6 Scope 7 Principall parts of the Books in the Bible would much conduce o ripen Christians in Bible-knowledge spreading before their eyes in A Generall view the current of the whole Scriptures I entred upon this Task and finished it by divine assistance in such sort as is represented in the ensueing Treatise It was immediately intended for the help and benefit of some speciall godly friends whom I shall ever highly respect and honour but through importunity is now made publike for the good I hope of many The Lord make it as usefull as it was intended and is desired By way of Preface be pleased to pause a little with me upon the serious consideration of 1. The worth of Scripture-knowledge 2. The way how to attaine to it That will quicken Christians to Scripture-study This will help them to Scripture-understanding Scripture-knowledge is of great worth and consequence to every Christian. Or The Holy Scriptures are most worthy of all Christians constant study and utmost endeavours to understand them For 1. The Author inventing and inditing the Holy Scriptures is God blessed for ever Father Sonne and Holy Ghost all Scripture is divinely inspired Hence called the Oracles of God The word of Christ. And the Saying of the Holy Ghost For the Prophecy came not at any time by the will of man but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost We are apt to value desire to study and understand the books of godly learned judicious mens making How much more should we to the utmost indeavour to understand the Scriptures which are the only Books of Gods making Mens writings are too much mingled with vanity ignorance folly mistakes imperfections infirmities and corruptions savouring much of a carnall spirit when most spiritual But Gods word is satisfactorily full without all vanity most wise faithfull and true without all falshood or folly Compleatly perfect beyond all imperfection most pure and exceedingly refined without all corruption and without all carnall mixtures wholly spirituall sweetly resembling that most spirituall spirit that did indite them 2. The Amanuenses or Penmen of the Holy Ghost for the Scriptures were not contemptible or ordinary but incomparable and extraordinary persons As Moses the meekest man on earth the peculiar favourite of God with whom God talked face to face the None-such of all the Prophets in Israel Samuel that mighty man in prayer David the King that man after Gods own heart King Solomon that wisest of all the Kings whom God honoured with the building of the Temple Daniel in whom was found an excellent spirit and great dexterity in expounding secrets and mysteries Iohn the disciple whom Iesus loved above all the rest who leaned on Iesus breast Paul who was caught up into the third heavens whose writings saith Chrysostome like a wall of adamant compasse about or surround all the Churches In a word all of them holy men of God moved by the Holy Ghost These being the Penmen how incomparable and extraordinary must their writings needs be who would not study them and earnestly pry into them 3. The matter of the Scripture is most inviâ—ing able to allure the hearts of men and Angels to the study of them yea to transport and ravish their spirits in the understanding of them Herein are revealed most profound and inexplicable mysteries The nature of the blessed God Simple without composition Al-sufficient without any externall addition immutable without all shadow of alteration Eternall Immense Incomprehensible Omnipresent and wholly Infinite without all limitation c. The Vnity of essence The Trinity of Persons The father not being the Son nor either of them the Holy Ghost yet all of them the Holy God The Secrets of Gods eternall counsels especially touching the electing of his owne in Christ predestinating them to the adoption of children when all others are passed by The curious Order of the Creation to bring his purposes to passe The Permission of mans fall from the Pinacle of his naturall integrity that thereby he might take occasion to glorify the height of justice and mercy in raising him up by Christ to a farre higher pitch of supernaturall felicity The Person and office of Iesus Christ the Mediatour and both altogether wonderfull God and man united in one person to unite God and man in one Covenant The Son of God became the Son of man to make the sons of men sons of God A King to subdue all our enemies to us and us to himselfe A Prophet to unveyle the bosome secrets of his father unto us A Priest offering up himselfe upon himselfe by himselfe offering up himselfe the sacrifice as man upon himselfe the Altaâ— as God by himselfe the Priest as God-man Christ was humbled and thereby we exalted Christ wounded we healed Christ accused we cleared Christ condemned we justified and acquitted Christ accursed we blessed Christ slaine and we live and Christ conquered that so we might be more then Conquerours through Christ that loves us What shall I say In Scripture is revealed how enemies are reconciled Sinners justified Aliens adopted Beggars made Heirs and co-heirs with Christ and how dust and ashes shall be glorified for evermore Here are unfolded the Covenant of grace wholly made up of heavenly cordials The Promises of the life that now is and that which is to â—ome exceeding great and previous The comforts of God able to counterpoise the deepest disconsolations and Commands surpassing all the lawes in the world in holinesse Iustice and goodnesse Here are discovered The miseries of all that aâ—e in the first Adam the felicities of all that are in the second Adam and the way how poore soules are translated from those miseries to these felicities Here you shall find God descending to man In preparing all Spirituall priviledges for sinners in Jesus Christ our Saviour In tendering richest Grace by Covenant-Promises and Ordinances and In applying these preparations and tenders actually to the Soule by the Spirit 2 Man ascending unto God by the Spiritualizing of his Nature Acting of his Faith Aspiring of his desires Fervency of his prayers and Holy tendency of his Conversation Yea both God and man
his way Thus Christ saith I thanke thee O Father Lord of heaven and earth because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent but hast revealed them unto Babes whence Becanus notes that such as are proud and attribute to their own wisedome attaine not to the true sense of Scripture Be therefore clothed with humility in use of Scripture that true Scripture-knowledge may increase IV. Rule Familiarize the Scripture to thy selfe by constant and methodicall exercise therein Method and order as it is the mother of memory so it is a singular friend to a clear understanding The generality of the Scripture have such a contexture and coherence one part with another that small insight into it will be gained by reading it confusedly disorderly therefore read the whole in Order Divers have published Directions how to read over the whole Scripture methodicaâ—ly once a yeare c. consult them But be constant in perusall and studying of the Scriptures hereby Scripture phrase and sense will become familiar and facile How hard at first to write to play on an instrument c. but by multiplying Acts men get habits and write play c. with facility and dexterity Use not Scripture only by fits and starts in some good pangs or moods c. but habitually converse with Scripture trade in them meditate therein night and day Let the word of Christ not only lodge or sojourne in you but even dwell in you Hence those commands of God to his people of old This Book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth but thou shalt meditate therein day and night These words shall be in thine heart and thou shalt whet them diligently upon thy children and shalt talke of them when thou sittest in thine house and when thou walkest by the way and when thou lyest down and when thou risest up And thou shalt bind them for a signe upon thine hand c. V. Rule Vnderstand Scripture according to the Theologicall Analogy or Certaine rule of faith and love Anomaly i. e. Irregularity is some deviation from the rule or exception against the rule To this here Analogy is opposed By this Analogy understand A certaine Epitome of Scriptures or briefe Abridgement of Christian Religion collected out of the plaine places of Scripture according to which other darke and figurative expressions in Scripture are to be explained This Analogy of faith and love Paul charges Timothy to hold fast saying Hold fast 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 i. e. That Delineation Draught Platforme Patterne or forme of sound words which thou hast heard of me in faith and love which is in Christ Iesus Where seems to be intimated a Systeme or forme of doctrine communicated from Paul to Timothy according to which Timothy was to steer as by a Compasse This forme of doctrine is described here 1 By the generall nature of it A forme of sound words A draught or model of wholesome doctrine 2. By the principall parts of it into which it is branched viz. 1 Faith 2 Love Faith compriseth credenda All things to be believed as in the Creed taken out of Scripture Love containes facienda All things to be done as in the Decalogue Lords prayer and Sacramental Institutions which are Scripture into these two the whole Body of divinity is usually distributed 3. By the primary foundation upon which this forme of sound words is built viz. Christ Iesus compare herewith 1 Cor. 3.11 Eph. 2.20 So that if in any place of Scripture the word or letter of the text be repugnant to the Analogy of faith and love it is not to be understood properly and literally but improperly and figuratively As for instance This is my body This is my blood c. This cannot be understood properly that the bread and wine are Christs body and bloud for that is contrary to the Analogy or rule of faith w ch tels us that Christs human nature is ascended into heaven whom the heavens must containe till the restitution of all thingâ— therefore it is to be understood figuratively and in a â—acramentall sense The signe being put for the thing signified by a Metâ—â—ymie So we are commanded To eate Christs flesh To pluck out our right eye cut off our right hand if they offend us We cannot read any of these literaelly and properly for that were against the Analogy or rule of love Thou shalt not kill therefore we must seek for a spirituall and improper sense viz. Eating Christs flesh not carnally with our teeth but spiritually by faith i. e. beleeving in Christ crucified c. As also denying all corruptions corrupt affections inclinations or occasions though as deaâ— and usefull as right hand or right eye unto us Thus this rule faithfully followed will cleare many hard and intricate passages in Scripture It is therefore of singular consequence to every one that desires solidly to understand the Scriptures to be well grounded in the fundamentals Principles of Christian Religion without which like a ship without ballast a man shall be carried away with every winde of vaine doctrine perverting or mistaking the Scriptures VI. Rule Be well acquainted with the 1 Order 2 Titles 3 Times 4 Penmen 5 Occasion 6 Scope and 7 Principall parts of the books both of the Old and N. Testament These will much promote the solid judicious understanding of the whole Bible in a short space For 1 Hereby you shall have the very Idea or character of every book lively describing the nature and Contents of it before your eyes as in a Map before you begin to peruse them 2 Hereby you shall have a Clew to conduct you a Compasse to saile and steere by in the perusall of any book 3 Hereby also you shall have a summary Recapitulation or Recollection of the chief Aime and subject matters of every book much tending both to help judgement and strengthen memory after the Perusall of any book of old or New Testament And therefore this course must needs be as an usefull Key to unlock the rich Cabinet of the Holy Scriptures and to discover the precious Treasures thereof unto you Now this is the Intent and Scope of this Manuall this small Treatise viz. so familiarly to open and unfold The 1 Order 2 Titles 3 Times 4 Penmen 5 Occasion 6 Scope and 7 Principall Parts of the Books of Old and New Testament That the whole Tenour of the Bible might be spread open in a Generall view to the meanest capacity For 1. The Order of the Books especially of the Historicall Books observed all along and compendiously represented in the two Tables before the Old and New Testament more evidently help to discover the Order of Histories and matters handled therein and the Order of Gods governing his Church in severall conditions 2. The Titles 1 Some of them summarily signify to us the chief matter of the Book as Genesis The Generations of
c. Genesis GENESIS i. e. Generation so called by the Greek because it sets forth the Generations of the heavens of the earth in their first creation Gen. 2.4 The Hebrews name their Books of the Old Testament either 1 From the Prophets the Penmen of them Or 2 From the Principall subject or Argument handled in them Or 3 From the first Hebrew word wherewith they begin as the 5. Books of Moses the Lament of Ieremiah Hence Genesis is called in Hebrew 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Bereschith i. e. In the beginning Penman It is not probable this Book was written by Moses whilst a Private man and a shepheard in Madian in the desert but rather after he was a Publick person and furnished with a Prophetick spirit otherwise the credit and authority of this History would be too much enfeebled Nor is it absurd which some Hebrew writers think who referre this writing to that of Exod 24.12 Come up to me into the mount and be thou there and I will give thee the Tables of stone and the Law and the Precepts which I have written to teach them Understanding by the Tables the Decalogue by the Precepts all the Ceremoniall and Iudiciall Ordinances and by the Law all other writings of Moses whether Historicall or Dogmaticall D. Paraeus in Prolegom in Genes p. 14.15 in fol. This Book as it is absolutely the ancientest writing extant in the world so it is most compendious being an History of 2369 years as Ainsw thinks or rather of 2368 as Iunius and Paraeus comput Iun. Annot. in Gen. 1. Parae Prologom in Genes This may appeare in three eminent Intervals or Periods of time recorded in Genesis viz. I. From the Creation to the beginning of the flood in Noahs 600 th yeare through 10 Generations 1656 yeares Gen. 5. and 6.11 viz. From Adams Creation to Seth's Nativity 130 years From Seth to Enos 105. From Enos to Cainan 90. From Cainan to Mahaleeâ— 70. From Mahaleel to Iared 65. From Iared to Enoch 162. From Enoch to Mathusalah 65. From Mathusalah to Lamech 187. From Lamech to Noah's birth 182. From Noah's birth to the beginning of the flood 600 in all 1656. II. The second Period of time is From the beginning of the flood through other 10 Generations to Abrahams birth 352 years Gen. 11. viz. From the Flood to Arphaxad 2 years From Arphaxad to Selah 35 years From Selah to Heber 30 years From Eber to Peleg 34 years From Peleg to Reu 30 years From Reu to Serug 32 years From Serug to Nachor 30 years From Nachor to Terah 29 years From Terah to Abraham 130 years In all 352 years So that Abraham was borne in the 2008 yeare from the Creation III. The third Period is From Abrahams birth to Josephs death through foure Generations 360 years viz. From Birth of Abraham to the birth of Isaac 100 years Gen. 17.17 and 21.5 From Isaacs birth to Iacobs birth 60 years Gen. 25.26 From Iacobs birth to his going down into Egypt 130 years Gen. 47.9 From Iacobs descent into Egypt to his death 17 years Gen. 47.28 From death of Iacob to the death of Ioseph 53 years which may be thus gathered Ioseph died when he was 110 years old Gen. 50.26 He stood before Pharaoh when he was 30 years old Gen. 41.46 After the seven years of plenty in the third yeare of famine Iacob came into Egypt in the one hundred and thirtieth yeare of Iacob and fourtieth yeare of Ioseph Gen. 45.6 Ioseph lived with his father in Egypt seventeen years Therefore when his father dyed Ioseph was 57 years old Consequently he lived after his fathers death 53 years Gen. 50.26 So that the totall of this third Intervall amounts to 360 years And therefore 1656 and 352 and 360 being added together This History of Genesis is evidently an History of 2368 yeares continuance The scope of Genesis is to set forth The Generation of the world The corruption thereof by sin The Restauration thereof by Christ the seed of the woman together with the Government of the old world before the flood and the follâ—â—ing world after the flood especially of the Church of God in particular families in both Principall parts of this Book In Genesis are described I. The Originall 1 Of the world chap. 1. 2. Of Mankinde and so of the Church ch 2.3 Of sinne and punishment thereof ch 3. II. The Government 1. Of the Old World before the Flood where are 1. The Propogation of sin and punishment from Adam to posterity c. 4. 2. Preservation of the Church in the sinfull world c. 5. 3. Iudgements of God upon the world Foretold c. 6. Inflicted c. 7. 2. Of the World following after the Flood according to the times of divers renowned Patriarchs Noah Abraham Isaac Iacob 1. Noah whose 1 Deliverance from the Flood c. 8. 2. Benediction c. 9. 3. Family 1 as united c. 10. 2 as dispersed c. 11. are recorded 2. Abraham touching whom are laid down 1 His Calling from his Country and kindred c. 12.1 to ver 10. 2. His going down Into Egypt ver 10. to the end Into Canaan c. 13. 3. His rescuing of Lot c. 14. 4. His dealing with God who 1 Promises him issue c. 15. 2 Performes to him by Hagar c. 16. 3 Makes a Covenant with Abraham whereof note The forme c. 17. The fruit or effect of it 1 On Gods part viz. Communication of his Counsels to him ch 18. and of his Benefits ch 19 20 21. 2 On Abrahams part divers sweet fruits viz. 1 The obedience of his faith c. 22. 2 His Humanity c. 23. 3 His Piety in the matching of his sonne c. 24. 3. Isaac whose 1 Posterity c. 25. 2. Peregrination into the land of Egypt c. 26. 3. Benediction of his two sons c. 27. are mentioned 4. Iacob whose three Peregrinations are declared viz. I. Into Mesopotamia wherin note 1. His journey c. 28. 2. His Arrivall and marriage c. 29. 3. His increase in goods and children c. 30. II. Into Canaan where observe His passage hither c. 31. 4 His abode there where the things that befell him are recited viz. 1. His meeting of his brother Esau with 1 preparation for it c. 32. 2 manner of it c. 33. His daughter Dinah's defilement c. 34. 2. Rachels death c. 35. 3. Isaacs death and buriall by Iacob and Esau where is mentioned Esaus race c 35.36 Selling of Ioseph c. 37. Incest of Iudah c. 38. III. Into Egypt of which Peregrination of Iacob are mentioned The Antecedents The Manner and Consequents Antecedents viz. 1. Iosephs being made knowne to the Egyptians and to his owne kindred To the Egyptians in Prison c. 39.48 out of Prison to the King and his people c. 41. To his owne Not at their first coming into Egypt to buy corne c. 42. But at their second coming c. 43.44.45 where all the circumstances thereof are noted 2. Iosephs sending for his father c. 45. Manner 1. Of Iacobs going thither c. 46.
2. Of Iacobs being there Where note his conference with Pharaoh c. 47. His blessing of Ioseph c. 48. His Propheticall benedictions to all his sonnes c. 49. Consequents upon Iacobs death c. 50. Exodus EXODUS i. e. Going-out or Departure so called by the Greek because it declares Israels Departure out of Egypt after they had been long-oppressed there under Tyrannicall servitude In Heb. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 veelleh schemoth i. e. And these are the names Exod. 1.1 Scope To set forth Gods governing and ordering of his Church now reduced and united into one body out of all the severall families of Israel This is the Church in the wildernesse Act. 7.38 Exodus is an History from the death of Ioseph till the erecting of the Tabernacle for about 142. years viz. From death of Ioseph to the birth of Moses 60 years As Iunius computes Annot. in Ex. From Moses birth to the Departure out of Egypt 80 years Exod. 7.7 From the departure out of Egypt to the erecting of the Tabernacle two years Exod. 40.17 in the second yeare viz. the second yeare after their coming out of Egypt Iun. Annotat. Principal Parts of this Book Exodus contains an Historicall Narration of I. Gods Actions for Israels deliverance out of Egypt Things done of God were Before In or After Israels deliverance I. Before their deliverance are 1. His permission of the Egyptian Tyranny over them which was the occasion of the deliverance c. 1. 2. His Preparation both of Instruments and Actions for deliverance 1. Of Instruments viz. Moses who is Borne c. 2. Called c. 3. Aaron c. 4. 2. Of Actions viz. Words c. 5.6 Signes both Confirming their words c. 7. and Punishing the Egyptians for not letting Israel go with ten plagues viz. 1 Turning water into blood c. 7. 2 Frogs 3 Lice 4 And a mixed swarme of Flyes c. 8. 5 Pestilence 6 Boyles 7 Haile c. 9. 8 Locusts and 9 Darknesse c. 10. 10 Death of the first-borne Foretold c. 11. Fulfilled c. 12. II. In their deliverance where note 1. Theâ—r departure Egresse or going out Acted c. 12. Attested for the benefit of Posterity with signes and observations c. 13. 2. Their Progresse or going on Whereof 1 Their passing through the Red sea c. 14. 2 Their thanksgiving for this wonder of mercy in a gratulatory Song c. 15. III. After their deliverance when God did 1. Supply them with food and necessaries c. 16. 2. Defend them from evils c. 17. 3. Appoint Judicatories for all matters of difference that might fall out among them c. 18. II. Gods institutions in which regard consider Gods Prescriptions Israels performances I. Gods prescriptions where note 1. Preparation of the people c. 19. 2. The promulgation of his lawes 1 Moral with their Appendixes c. 20. 2 Iudicial both in humane and sacred things c. 21 22 23. 3 Ceremoniall Touching the Ceremoniall lawes here are laid down 1. The Preparation to them c. 24. 2. The parts of them viz. 1 The Tabernacle with the Appurtenances and Utensils thereof c. 25.26 27. 2 The Priests and their Ornaments or Vestments for Ministration c. 28. 3 Sacrifices c. 29. and divers sacred things c. 30. 3. The close of ceremoniall directions c. 31. II. Israels performances of Gods Prescriptions Here consider Israels obedience 1. About Morals 1 Violated by idolatry c. 32. 2. Restored and renewed againe By reconciliation with God c. 33. and Renewing of the Tables c. 34. 2. About Ceremonials viz. 1. The Parts of the Tabernacle The matter chap. 35. The fashioning of the Tabernacle c. 36. of the Ark c. 37. The making of sacred things belonging To the people c. 38. To the Priests c. 39. 2. The totall disposing ordering and erecting of the Tabernacle c. 40. Leviticus LEVITICUS So denominated by the Greek from the chiefe Subject or matter of the Book which principally describes the lawes sacrifices and services of the LEVITICAL Priesthood It is stiled among the Hebrewes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Vajikra i. e. And he called This being the first Hebrew word in the Hebrew text beginning this book Scope of this Book To make known Leviticall Lawes Sacrifices and Ordinances and by those shadows to lead Israel by the hand to Jesus Christ the true Priest and sacrifice of the Church See Levit. 11.44 and 20.26 This Book relates the memorable words Acts and Leviticall Ceremoniall Laws made known from God to Israel for one Moneths space viz. from about the beginning of the second yeare after Israels departure out of Egypt the Tabernacle being already reared till the beginning of the second moneth of the same yeare As Jun. in Annot. compare Exod. 40.17 with Numb 1.1 which was in the yeare from the worlds Creation 2514. As Ainsw computes Principal Parts Leviticus describes the sacred Ceremoniall law 1. Of things 2. Of Persons 3. Of Actions I. The Ceremoniall law of things c. 1. to c. 8. either according to the substance of them as of 1. Burnt-offerings c. 1. 2. Meat-offerings c. 2. 3. Peace-offerings c. 3. 4. Sin-offerings in case of ignorance c. 4. or of infirmity c. 5. Or according to the Rite and Ceremony of them c. 6.7 II. The Ceremoniall law of persons c. 8. to 16. viz. 1. Of the Priests In their consecration to their office c. 8. In their discharge of their office either according to Gods assistance c. 9. Or mens infirmity c. 10. 2. Of all the people touching whom are lawes about their sanctification both from uncleannesse without them in matter of their food c. 11. or In them By reason of 1 Child-bearing c. 12. 2 Leprosie whereof its Rise and State c. 13. It s cure c. 14. 3 Issue of seed or bloud c. 15. III. The Ceremonial Law touching Actions Necessary or Voluntary 1. Necessary whereof are laid down The Particulars and the Confirmation of them 1 the Particulars of these Necessary Actions are 1. In purification Common to the whole Church c. 16. Proper to every godly person c. 17. 2. In Sanctimony or Holinesse Both of the people 1 To be observed not only in their own bodies c. 18. but also among one another mutually c. 19. 2 To be maintained in their judgements c. 20. As also in the holinesse of the Priests in their Persons c. 21. Things c. 22. 3. In exercise Ecclesiasticall In legall Times c. 23. In legall Rites c. 24. Politicall c. 25. 2 The Confirmation or obsignation of these particular lawes by Promises and Threats c. 26. 2. Voluntary viz. touching vows c. 27. Numbers NUMBERS Gr. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 so called because a great part of the Book is spent in Numbring the Tribes and Families of Israel and of their journeys from Egypt to Canaan In Hebr. its called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Bammidbar i. e. In the Desert Because this is the first word of this Book in the Hebrew text Numbers containes an History from the beginning of the second moneth of the second yeare after Israels coming â—ut of Egypt to the
beginning of the eleventh moneth of the fourtieth yeare viz. 38. years and upwards as Iun. and Ainsw observe And this may remarkably be evinced by comparing Numb 1.1 and 36.13 diligently with Deut. 1.3 which as above demonstrate both the beginning and ending of this History of Numbers Scope Lively to set forth the rich blessing of God upon Israel in their wonderfull increase his vigilant providence over them in all their wildernes journeyes and difficulties and yet his severity against their corruption for which many of them perished in the wildernesse after they had been delivered out of Egypt so that they could not enter into his rest because of their unbeliefe Heb. 3.19 Iude ver 5. Principall Parts This Book of Numbers containes an Historicall narration of Israels 1 Preparation for their Journey 2 Iourney it selfe and 3 of their Station I. Israels Preparation for their Journey wherein three things I. The Numbring of them which was 1. Civil both of all the heads of the people according to the families c. 1. and of the order of the Tribes in their Tents c. 2. 2. Sacred where is reckoned up both the number of Levites and other officers about the Tabernacle c. 3. as also their order and ministry c. 4. II. Lawes 1. Common about Sanctimony whether necessary c. 5. or voluntary c. 6. 2. Particular for the Princes offering of every Tribe at the dedication of the Tabernacle and Altar c. 7. For the Levites service c. 8. III. The manner 1. Of their sanctification and order c. 9. And of their Journeying c. 10. II. Israels journeys which are distinguished by the history of their eight notable Murmurings in their way viz. 1. Irksomenesse of their Journey 2. Loathing of Mannah c. 11. 3. Aarons and Miriams emulation against Moses c. 12. 4. Their unbelief at Kadesh where are recorded Their murmuring c. 13. The judgement of God for it c. 14. Their reconcilement to God afterwards c. 15. 5. The envy of the Levites and others against the Priests c. 16. 6. The indignation of the people for the precedent judgement where are set down both their Murmurâ—ng c. 16.41 42 43. and their Reconcilement c. 16. vers 44. to the end and c. 17 18 19. 7. Murmuring for want of water c. 20. 8. Murmuring because of the way and the light bread and so were plagued with fiery serpents c. 21. III. Israels Station State or condition when they were now nigh to the possession of their inheritance c. 21. to the end of the Book Here is set down a double State or Condition 1. Of the people themselves 2. Of their inheritance 1. Of the people themselves either as 1. overcoming their enemies and possessing the land c. 21. 2. Tempted by Magicall Arts and inchantments c. 22 23 24. 3. â—nsnared with and plagued for idolatry and fornication c. 25. 4. Reconciled to God and numbred for the entring upon the inheritance c. 26. 5. Furnished with a new Governour Ioshuah that was to succeed Moses c. 27. 6. Instructed in sacred things Necessary c. 28 29. Voluntary c. 30. 2. Of the inheritance which is considered either 1. In part As possessed c. 31. As assigned to Gad Reuben and halfe the Tribe of Manasseh c. 32. Here by way of digression is a summary recapitulation of the severall stations of Israel in their march through the wildernesse c. 33. 2. In whole And that either As it is circumscribed with Bounds or Borders whereof the manner of dividing the land c. 34. Or as it is circumscribed with lawes Both of refuge for the man-slayer that slew any unawares c. 35. And of successions in their inheritances c. 36 Deuteron DEUTERONOMIE i. e. The second law or Law repeated Thus denominated by the Greek because this book containeth a Repetition of Gods law given by Moses to Israel AS in Hebrew it is sometimes from the same ground called 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 mischneh i. e. Repetition of the law From the first words in the Book it s cal'd 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Elleh Haddebarim i e. These are the words or only 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Debarim i. e. The words Penman of this Book as of all the foure former Books was Moses who also wrote the History of his own death aforehand in the last chapter by a Prophetick spirit or Ioshua wrote it for him Alsted Praecog Theol. l. 2. c. 118. This Book containes the History of but a few dayes viz. from the beginning of the eleventh moneth to about the seventh day of the twelfth moneth of the fourtieth yeare after Israels departure out of Egypt for Moses began to speak these words in the first day of the eleventh moneth of the said fourtieth yeare Deut. 1.3 which was a little before his death he died when he was one hundred and twenty years old Deut. 34.7 after which Israel mourned for Moses in the land of Moab thirty dayes Deut. 34.8 this determines the time of the History As Iun. well observes Thus Alsted in Praecog Theol. l. 2. c. 118. computes the time of this History viz. 1. The first Part of this Book containes the History of the first day of the eleventh moneth of the fourtieth yeare after their coming out of Egypt c. 1 2 3 4. 2. The second part contains the History of the second day c. 5. to 11 3. The third part containes the History as is probable of foure dayes at most c. 11. to 26. 4. The fourth part containes the History of one day c. 27.28 5. The fifth containes the History also of one day c. 29 30. 6. The sixth containes the History of one day c. 31. c. 7. The 7 th part contains the History of their mourning for Moses thirty daies c. 34. Proofe hereof may be drawn from the History of Ioshua by computing backwards from the day of the Passeover For in the land of Canaan the first Passeover was celebrated in the one and fourtieth year after Israels coming ouâ— of Egypt on the fourteenth day of the moneth Nisan Josh. 5 10. Before which they were circumcised which probably took up foure dayes Josh. 5. One day they were passing thorough Jordan two dayes in preparation for it Adde to these the time of searching out the land and lastly the thirty dayes mourning And thus going backwards we shall find that Deuteronomie containes an History of but a very few dayes Scope That the law formerly given of God may by this New Repetition of it be more declared confirmed and applied to the present condition of Israel and they thereby fitted and better prepared for the promised Canaan upon which they were entring Principall Parts are The Preface Narration and Conclusion of the Book I. Preface or Prologue c. 1. to 5. contayning 1. A Narration 1. Of Gods calling of Israel from Horeb to the promised Land c. 1. 2. Of the execution of this call Both by divine conduct against their enemies c. 2. And by appointment to enter the Land c. 3. 2. An exhortation
Kings 1. By Election and 2. By Succession And how it increased and flourished whilest so united I Samuel I UNder Kings by ELECTION The kingdomes Condition is recorded in the I. Book OF SAMUEL So called either from the matter or subject herein handled viz. The History of SAMUEL which takes up a great part of the Book As Alsted in Praecog Theol. l. 2. c. 120. Or also from the instrumentall efficient cause or Penman of this of this Book Samuel being supposed to have penned this Book till c. 25. David the rest Gloss. ordinar Iunius and Trem. are of opinion that Samuel had a great share in penning of these two Books that bare his name and that Nathan the Prophet and Gad the Seer penned part thereof from that intimation 1 Chron. 29.29 which words of Samuel Nathan and Gad seem to be the two Books of Samuel penned by them three Iun. in Annot. in 1 Chron. 29.29 By the Greek and Latin it is also called the 1. Book of Kings because the later part of it containes the History of Saul the first King of Israel This history treats of the last Judges viz. Eli and Samuel and of the first King viz. Saul Declaring when and upon what occasion the Lord changed the government by Iudges into a Regall government viz. In days of Samuel and upon occasion of the extreame wickednesse of both Elye's and Samuels Sons c. 1. to 9. As also how Saul carryed himselfe both in life and death and how God prepared David for the Throne Saul being rejected It is an history of about 80 yeeres continuance viz. Under Ely 40 yeeres 1 Sam. 4.18 And under Samuel and Saul 40 yeeres Act. 13.21 Scope To discover mans mutability but Gods immutability in all the Revolutions and alterations of Families and Common-wealths viz. In their Constitution Administration and Alteration Principall parts This booke treats of the affaires of Israel under a double kind of civill Government I. Aristocraticall under Samuel the Prophet and Judge Whose 1. Birth is recorded c. 1. 2. Calling Where of Eli his Predecessour and of his Sonnes whose I. Grievous sinne is recorded c. 2. II. Severe punishment is 1 Foretold by Samuel c. 3. 2. Inflicted by God where of the warre Acted c. 4. Finished where we have a descriptiâ—n 1. Of the Philistines punishment c. 5. And of their restoring the captivated Ark c. 6. 2. Of Israels Repentance c. 7. II. Monarchicall under a King 1. To be elected what a one he was like to be c. 8. 2. Actually elected what a one he proved evidenced in Saul David 1. Saul described 1. As elected where are laid down his calling c. 9. Unction c. 10. Warlike successe c. 11. 2. As rejected The causes of which rejection are recited viz. 1. The peoples sin c. 12. 2. Sauls unbeliefe c. 13. Rashnesse in judging c. 14. And disobedience c. 15. 2. David Touching whom are declared His 1. Election Where note 1. His call c. 16. 2. His Preparatory 1 conquest of Goliath c. 17. 2 Advancement into Sauls family c. 18. 2. Ejection David being exiled 1. In his own Country c. 19 20. 2. Out of his Country c. 21. to 30. 3. Advancement 1. By his Victory c. 30. 2. By Saul's Death c. 31. II Samuel II UNder Kings by SUCCESSION In this respect the Kingdome 's state is declared in the II. of SAMUEL So called for Reasons formerly mentioned It s also by the Greek and Latin stiled The second Book of Kings because therein the History of David the second King of Israel is continued This is an History of about 40 yeeres continuance 2 Sam. 5.5 An History of Davids Kingdome may well be called The Annals of David Penman some thinke to be the High-Priest or some Disciple of Samuel who yet for honours sake gave the Booke his Masters name Alsted Praecog Theol. l. 2. c. 120. But rather it is probable that the latter part of the I. Of Samuel and this whole Booke of the II. Of Samuel were Penned by Nathan the Prophet and Gad the Seer 1 Chron. 29.29 Scope To declare Gods Faithfulnesse in delivering of his own from distresses That divers great infirmities are incident to Gods uprightest servants And That like checker-worke their prosperity is intermingled with crosses and calamities Principal Parts In this Booke which is a description of Davids Kingdome we have a Narration of Davids 1 Life and 2 Death I. Davids Life is represented as it was 1 Glorious and as it was 2 Ignominious 1. As it was Glorious in his Royall inauguration Where consider things 1. Antecedent viz. 1. His mourning for Sauls death c. 1. 2. His returne into Judea c. 2. 3. His war with the House of Saul c. 3.4 2. Concomitant He is confirmed King by all Israel c. 5. 3. Consequent viz. 1. Ecclesiasticall as His fetching up the Ark to Sion c. 6. His purpose of building God an House c. 7. 2. Polemicall or warlike c. 8. 3. Politicall or civil c. 9 10. 2. As it was Ignominious and that 1. By his sins Adultery and Murder committed c. 11. corrected c. 12. 2. By his sorrowes 1. Private 1. In Amnon by his Incest c. 13. 2. In Absolom where are declared his Restitution c. 14. His Sedition begun c. 15. Continued c. 16. Concluded c. 17 18 19. 2. Publique 1. Sedition of the people c. 20. 2. Famine three yeeres c. 21. II. Davids death Occurrents Antecedent thereunto 1. His gratulatory and laudatory Psalme c. 22 2 His sweet Swanlike Song and Testament c. 23. 3. The Pestilence upon his numbring the people c. 24. II. The DIVIDED state of the Kingdome of Israel and how upon that division it decreased and came to ruine is laid down in the two Books of Kings This dâ—vision and decay of the Kingdome is laid downe two wayes 1. According to the causes and Beginnings thereof 2. According to the Progresse thereof I Kings I. ACcording to the causes and first beginnings of this Division and decay thereupon ensuing These are set forth in the I. of KINGS This book is stiled in 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 1. Melacim i. e. 1. Of Kings By the Greek and Latine the III. of Kings The history of the Kings both of Iudah and Israel being the subject matter of the book In this book the causes and first beginnings of the Kingdomes division and decay are laid downe partly by way of Opposition of the flourishing state of Davids kingdome united under Solomon c. 1. to c. 11. Partly by way of Exposition of the occasions viz. Solomons sinnes Gods justice Solomons death c. 11. and of the first beginnings of the division and decay of the kingdome under Rehoboam to whom onely two Tribes were left subject Iudah and Benjamin 1 King 11.21 And under Ieroboam to whom the other tenne Tribes revolted and afterwards under their successours severally So that in this book are the Acts of five Kings of Iudah after Solomon viz. Rehoboam â—bijam Asa Iehoshaphat Iehoram and of eight Kings
are the chief subject-matter of it Some count and call Ezra a Prophet Lactant. lib. 4. Iust. c. 11. but Augustine doubts whether he may be called a Prophet Aug. l. 18 de Civit Dei c. 36. Hierome saith he was Iosedech whose son was Iesus the High-Priest See Ludovic Viv. in Lib. 18 de Civit. dei c. 36. But how can he be denyed to be a Prophet when Christ himselfe stiles all the books of the Old Testament Moses and the Prophets Luk. 16.29.31 This is certaine Ezra was a Priest Ezr. 7 11 12. He was of the house and linage of Aaron see his pedigree Ezr. 7.1.2 3 4 5. A most expert and ready Scribe in the Law of Moses Ezr. 7.6 10 11. He was sent with Commission by Artaxerxes from Babylon to Ierusalem c. ver 11. c. Zerubbabel restored the Temple Ezra the worship of God Nehemiah the City Ierusalem This book and that of Nehemiah following are by the Hebrewes reputed as but one volume and that is called by them the I. of Ezra this the II. of Ezra Hieronym in Epist. ad Paulin. and Lactant. Instit. l. 4. c. 11. The Greek and Latin divide them as our English into two books the former being ascribed to Ezra the latter to Nehemiah The Book of Ezra in Order well followes the Chronicles for the very words which conclude the Chronicles 2 Chron. 36. last do begin this Book of Ezra Ezra 1.1 2 3. not only intimating that Ezra was probably Penman of them both but also that in this Book the History is continued In Ezra is declared the Iewes returne from Babylon And it is an History for about 146. years viz. From the Edict of Cyrus to the nineteenth year of Artaxerxes Mnemon As Iunius computes of Cyrus and Cambyses 9 Magi 1 Darius Histaspis 36 Xerxes 22 Artaxerxes Longimanus 40 Darius Nothus 19 Artaxerxes Mnemon 19 Scope To evidence how punctually faithfull and alsufficiently able God is in performing of his Promises to his Church and people in their season touching their deliverance and Restauration against all impediments improbabilities and seeming impossibilities For he made Cyrus an heathen King his shepheard and nursing father to his Church to bring them out of Babylon wherein they were as helplesse and hopelesse as dead bodies or dry bones in a grave Ezek. 37. 2 3 11 12 13. To build the Temple and Ierusalem Isa. 44. 28. and 45. 1. c. compared with Ezra 1.1 2. c. Principall parts In this Book are laid downe touching the Jewes returne 1. The causes of their return from Babylon viz. 1. Instrumentall Cyrus his Grant c. 1. 2. Materiall Persons returning c. 2. 3. Finall the Restauration of the Temple and worship of God c. 3. 2. The Impediments of their Returne 1. Recited viz. The Samaritanes c. 4. and the Ruler of Canaan c. 5. 2. Removed by the Renewing of Cyrus his Edict c. 6. 3. The successe of their Returne where are described 1 Ezra's Commission c. 7. 2. His execution of his Commission c. 8. 3. The Reformation of mixed marriages which are Described c. 9. Abolished c. 10. Nehemia II. THe Fruit and Event of the Jews RETURNE FROM BABYLON is laid down in the Book of NEHEMIAH So called 1 partly because Nehemiah was Pen-man of it Neh. 1.1 2 Partly because the Acts of Nehemiah are the Principall subject-matter of the Book Nehemiah being the great Repairer Restorer of the holy City Ierusalem It is by some called the II. of Ezra because the History begun by Ezra touching the Iewes returne from Babylon is here continued Nehemiah is supposed to aeb the same who is called the Tirshatha Ezr. 2.63 So Munsterus Neh. 8.9 which signifies a Cup-bearer Gerh. exeg in loc 1. de Scrip. § 132. but in the Chaldee tongue is a Title of Dignity and Honour R. Aben Ezra saith Gerh. Translated Legatus Regis i. e. The Kings legate Ambassadour or Commissary by Iun. Trem. who yet interpret this rather of Shazbazzar whom many think to be Zerubbabel In the margin of our English Bibles it is rendred Governour He was the son of Hachaliah Neh. 1.1 and Cup-bearer to King Artaxerxes in the twentieth yeare of his Reigne Neh. â— 11 and 2.1 The kings Palace was at Shushan Neh. 1.1 that being the Metropolis of Persia which Darius Hystaspis built Plin. N. H. l. 6 c. 27. In this Book are declared the happy fruits of the Jews returne both in reference to the Politique and Ecclesiastick state It contains an History of about 55 years as Gerh. Loc. Com. Supradict Iunius in Annot. shew viz. From the twentieth yeare of Artaerxes Mnemon Neh. 2.1 24 Thence of Darius Ochus 23 Thence of Asrenes 3 Thence of Darius the last 5 Scope To let us know how deep and desperate the distresses of the Church may grow before God will restore her How difficult slow and perplexed a work the work of Reformation is both by reason of adversaries to be opposed and Publick corruptions to be removed How easily and wonderfully God can bring Reformation to perfection against all impediments whatsoever when he is resolved to carry it on What excellent and usefull instruments pious and faithfull Magistrates are for the accomplishing both of Civil and Ecclesiasticall Reformation Nehemiah being a lively Patterne of a true Reformer indeed Principall parts This Book sets forth the Restauration of Hierusalem and this By. I. Reparation of the wals gates and buildings where consider 1. The cause of it 1. Principall God c. 1. 2. Instrumentall Nehemiah c. 2. 2. The work it selfe 1. Begun c. 3. 2. Hindred by impediments Externall c. 4. Internall c. 5. Mixt c. 6. 3. Perfected c. 6. II. Reformation both of the state Politick and Ecclesiastick c. 7. to 13. Hereunto appertain 1. The Custody of the City The Number of the Captives that returned viz. 49942. Neh. 7.66.67 and the Oblation c. 7. 2. A Description of two Festivals c. 8. 3. The peoples publick repentance in a Solemne Fast testified by a Solemne Covenant made and subscribed for Reformation c. 9 10. 4. The inhabitants of Ierusalem viz. Rulers Voluntiers and men chosen by lot c. 11. 5. The number and offices of the Priests with the Dedication of the wals of Ierusalem c. 12. III. Correction of such corruptions and miscarriages as had risen in Iudea in Nehemiah's absence c. 13. Esther III. VNder the IEWES CAPTIVITY in Babylon and other places out of Iudea The condition of the Church is described in the Book of ESTHER stiled by the Hebrewes 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 megillath Esther i. e. The volume of Esther so denominated from Esther the Queen a Iewesh whose faithfull service done for the oppressed Church and people of God in extremity of straits is the primary subject of this Book Some writers exclude this Book out of the Canon of Scripture as Melito in Eusebius lib. 4. c. 25. Athanâ—sius in Synopsi and Nazianzen in Carm. de Script But the Hebrews and primitive Christians
by 1. Prayer whence Psalmi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 i. e Petitory or Praying Psalms 2. Prayse thanksgiving thence Psalmi 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 i. e. the Gratulatory or Thanksgiving Psalms Penmen of the Book of Psalmes are supposed by some to be many and the Titles of divers Psalmes do import as much unto us Ten Pen-men are enumerated viz. David Solomon Moses Asaph Ethan Heman Ieduthun and the three sons of Korah but Augustine thinks David was Penman of them all de Civitat dei l. 17. c. 14. However David penned greatest part of them as the Titles and Testimonies in the New Testament do intimate Some thinke that Ezra after the Babylonish Captivity collected these Psalmes before dispersed into one volume Some think this was done by King Hezekiah's friends or servants before the Babylonish Captivity Athanasius in Synopsi Sum and Scope of the Psalms seems to be To set out the sweet entercourse and Communion betwixt God his Church and people in all outward Conditions and inward soul cases how therin they are weak or strong believe hope joy lament confesse pray vow praise the Lord c. as occasion requires and how God tries delivers comforts supports encourages instructs enables them and faithfully deales with them in all variety of their cases and conditions But every particular Psalme hath his particular Scope handling distinct matters upon distinct occasions Some being penned before some under some after the Babylonish Captivity as is evident Principal parts This Book is by the Hebrews divided into five Books viz. 1. From Psal. 1. to the end of Psal. 41. concluded with Amen and Amen 2. From Psal. 42. to the end of Psal. 72. shut up with Amen and Amen Ended are the Prayers of David son of Iesse 3. From Psal. 73. to the end of Psal. 89. closed with Amen and Amen 4. From Psal. 90. to the end of Psal. 106. ended with Amen Halelu-jah 5. From beginning of Psal. 107. to the end of Psal. 150. concluding with Halelu-jah This Division seems to arise from the peculiar close of these five Psalmes Or thus The Psalmes are either 1 Directed from man to God as the 1 Praying and 2 Thankesgiving Psalms 2 Or from God to man As the Psalmes which are 1 Hortatory 2 Consolatory 3 Didacticall 4 Propheticall The Particular unfolding of the Penman Kind Occasion Matter Scope and Principall Parts of every Psalme severally will make a large Appendix to this Tract and is reserved till some other opportunity 2. In Solomons Books the wisest of Kings 1 King 3.12 4.29 His Bookes are three which according to the severall Doctrines and matters comprised in them we may distinguish into 1 Proverbiall 2 Penitentiall and 3 Nuptiall It is hard to say at what time these severall Books were penned by Solomon yet perhaps the Nuptiall Book was penned in his younger years when his affections were more warme active lively in spirituals The Proverbiall Book in his manly ripe age when his prudence and parts were at highest most grave solid setled And the Penitentiall Book in his old age after all the vaine courses which he had lost himselfe in as the current of the Book seems clearly to evidence Proverbs 1. HIs Proverbiall Book called the PROVERBS OF SOLOMON because though it containe other's Proverbs yet most are Solomon's Prov. 1.1 In Hebr. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Misâ—le Shelomoh i. e. either Similitudes or excelling sentences that overcome and beare rule over the rest from mashal which notes dominion This book was penned not by one but by divers and that not at one but at severall times Solomon penned the nine first chapters in that Order as they are as also c. 10. to c. 25. Cartwright in loc Solomon was Author of the Proverbs also from c. 25. to c. 30. But the men of Hezekiah King of Iudah copied them out Prov. 25.1 probably they collected them out of other writings of Solomon and ranked them in this Order wherein we now have them Alsted Praecog Theol. l. 2. c. 120. Cartw. in Prov. 25.1 and Iun. ibid. who thinkes they extracted these Proverbs out of the Records of the Acts of Solomon and digested them into a body most of these Proverbs appertaining to Ethicall and Civil administration The thirtieth chapter was penned by Agur sonne of Iakeh c. 30.1 of him we read elsewhere no further mention in Scripture He was a Prophet Prov. 30.1 His Proverbiall Prophecy is annexed to Solomons Proverbs perhaps because of mutuall resemblance between them The 31 th chapter containes the Proverbiall instructions with which Bathsheba trained up Solomon here called Lemuel in his tender years which instructions King Solomon committed to writing afterwards Iun. in loc Cartw. in loc The Scope To instruct men in true wisedome and understanding the very head and height whereof is the sincere feare of the Lord Prov. 1.2 to 8. To this end the Book is filled with choice succinct sententious Aphorismes Adages or Proverbs compendiously holding forth duties of Piety to God Equity to man Sobriety towards ones selfe Generall Distribution of the Book take thus I. Here 's Solomons Preface to his Proverbs w ch hath a methodicall texture and coherence in it self c. 1. to 10. II. Here is the whole Body or Book of the Proverbs themselves which are either 1. Solomons owne Proverbs which or most part are pithy distinct Aphotismes without method dependance coherence c. and these 1. Written by Solomon himselfe c. 10.1 to c. 25.1 2. Written by him and collected by the men of King Hezekiah as c. 25.1 to â— 30.1 2. Or others Proverbs by way of Appendix annexed to Solomons viz 1 Of Agur. c. 30. 2. Of Bathsheba but written by Solomon c. 31. Ecclesi 2. HIs Penitential Book Solomons Retractations or Recantations called in Hebr. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 i. e. The WORDS OF THE PREACHER Eccles. 1.1 and to the same sense in Greek Latin and English ECCLESIASTES or The Preacher because Solomon being furnished with wisedome and manifold experience touching the vanity of all things besides true Religion preacheth the same to the Church for the instruction and warning of all Gods people This Book he wrote in extream Old age Repenting of his fall This seemes to be one of his last Acts according to that 2 Chron. 9.29 Scope of this Book is to evidence wherein a mans true happinesse consists viz. not in any sublunary naturall created excellency all such being vanity of vanities extreamest vanity and vexation of Spirit but only in true sincere feare of God and truth of Religion compare Eccles. 1.2 with Eccles. 12.13 14. Principall parts To this end touching true happinesse he insists upon it 1. Negatively showing where it is not to be found viz Generally not in any meer naturall sublunary treasure in this world Specially not in 1. Knowledge of all naturall things 2. Pleasures or sweetest earthly delights 3. Highest Honours Or 4. Compleatest riches c. 1. to c. 7. 2. Positively and Affirmatively
or they may be collected from other Scriptures or the matter of the Prophesies of which we cannot conclude altogether so cleerly These times may be referred as the Historical books to three principall Periods viz. 1. Before 2. Neere or under 3. After the Babylonish captivity And if in these three periods we parallel these Prophets with those Historical Books they will notably help to cleer and explain one another I. Before the transportation of Israel into Babylon These Prophets prophesied and wrote viz. 1. Under Vzziah King of Judah and Ieroboam the second King of Israel IONAH he prophecied before or about beginning of Ieroboams Reigne See 2 King 14 25. As Iun. noteth in Ionah 1.1 About the close of his Reigne thinkes Drusius in Quaesitis Epist. 9. 1. AMOS See Amos 1.1 2. Under Vzziah Iotham Ahaz and Hezekiah Kings of Judah and Ieroboam King of Israel HOSEA Hos. 1.1 IOEL Ioel prophesied about the same time with Hosea as is thought because the things prophecied in Ioel relate to the dayes of Vzziah and Ieroboam See Iun. Annot. in Ioel 1.1 ISAIAH Isa. 1.1 here the days of King Ieroboam are not mentioned MICHAH Only under Iotham Ahaz and Hezekiah Mich. 1.1 3. Under Iosiah IEREMIAH Till the eleventh yeere of Zedekiah Jer. 1 2 3. being compared with Ier. 51.64 Iun. Annot. ibid. LAMENTATIONS Written by Ieremiah upon occasion of King Josiah's Death 2 Chr. 35.25 ZEPHANIAH Zeph. 1.1 OBADIAH Seems to be contemporary with Ieremiah compare his prophecy with Ier. 49.7 c. And Ezek. 25. 13. c. See Iun. in Obad. 1. NAHVM About the close of Iosiah's Reigne as the matter of the Book and the harmony of the History import So Iun. in Nah. 1.1 HABBAKKVK About the end of Iosiahs Reigne or in his sons Reign Iunius in Hab. 1.1 II. Neere upon and under the Babylonish Captivity DANIEL In the third yeere of Iehoiakim's Reigne Dan. 1.1 EZEKIEL In the fifth yeere of King Iehoiakin's Captivity Ezek. 1.1 2 3. III. After their returne from Babylons Captivity HAGGAI In the second yeere of Darius and the sixth moneth Hag. 1.1 ZECHARIAH In the second yeere of Darius the eighth moneth Zech. 1.1 MALACHI Last Prophecy of the Old-Testament Reproves the corruptions after building of the Temple See Iun. in Mal. 1.1 II. According to their Order as they are placed in our Bibles And so they are resolved into two Ranks viz. 1. The Greater Prophets viz. The foure first the Lamentations being annexed as an Appendix to Ieremiah so called not because these had greater authority then the others but from the greatnesse of their Bookes The prophecy of Isaiah being neer as big or bigger then all the lesser prophets together 2. The Lesser Prophets viz. The twelve latter Hosea c. Which were digested into one volumne of old by the Jewes called the Booke of the Prophets Act. 7.42 some of them being very small lest any of them should be lost All these books are named from their Penmen except the Lamentations I. The Greater Prophets are â—he Books of Isaiah Ieremiah Ezekiel Daniel Isaiah ISAIAH This Book is set first though in time Ionah Amos Hosea and Ioel seeme to have been before him perhaps because of the excellency of the Prophecy most frequently fully and clearly prophecying of Christ as if Christ had been exhibited already had suffered already Hence the Ancients called him Evangelisticus Propheta Propheticus Evangelista The Evangelicall Prophet and Propheticall Evangelist Or the Evangelist and Apostle of the Old Testament Christ and his Apostles greatly esteemed this Book it being oftner alledged in the New Testament then any other Book of the Old Testament except the psalms Some observe Isaiah to be quoted sixty times the Psalmes sixty foure times Alsted Ethiopians had great respect to this Book as appears Act. 8.27.28 Time of this Prophecy was in foure Kings Reigns Isa. 1.1 if we reckon from the death of Vzziah Isa. 6.1 till the fifteenth yeare of King Hezekiah when the Babilonish Ambassadours came to Hezekiah and saw all his Treasures 2 King 20. 12 13 14. He must at the least prophecy fourty five years but its probable he prophecied longer Scope To hold forth the true Messiah clearly as the only sufficient Remedy against all sin and misery Generall parts This Prophecy is either 1. Comminatory as it is for the most part till c. 40. these promises are now and then inter-woven Herein 1. The Jewes are threatned c. 1. to c. 13. 2. Enemies of the Jewesh Church are threatned for the Churches benefit c 13. to c. 29. 3. The Jewes againe are threatned with the Babylonish Captivity c. 29. to 40. 2. Promissory and that 1. For the Restauration of the Old Church of the Jews from the misery of that Captivity c. 40. to c. 49. 2. For the compleating and consummation of the Churches glory in Gospel times by Christ himselfe c. 49. to the end of the Prophecy Jeremiah JEREMIAH He was of the Towne of Anathoâ—h Jer. 1.1 a very young man when he began to prophesie Ier. 1.6 Time of his prophecy was in days of Iosiah Iehoiakin and Zedekiah Jer. 1.2 3. which must needs be fourty three years at least by computation both in Iudea and Egypt Scope To divorce the Iewes in his times from their many horrid sins denouncig heavy judgemenas against them But to comfort the true servants of God in their lowest misery with promises of Christ and threatnings against all their enemies Generall parts Herein are 1. The Preface containing the vocation of Ieremiah c. 1. 2 The Prophecy it self which is directed both against the Iews the enemies of the Jewes â— Against the Jews 1. in Iudea under King Iosiah c. 2. to c. 21. Under Iehoiachim and Zedekiah c. 21. to c. 43. 2. In Egypt c. 43.44.45 2 Against the Jewes enemies viz. Egyptians c. 46. Philistines and Tyrians c. 47. Moabites c. 48. Ammonites Edomites c. c. 49. Babylonians c. 50.51 3. Conclusion Historicall annexed to the Prophecy by some other then Ieremâ—ah c. 52. Lamenta UNto the prophecy of JEREMIAH may be annexed as an Appendix the Book of LAMENTATIONS called in Hebr. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Kinoth i. e. Lamentations 2 Chron. 35.25 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Echah viz. the first Hebrew word of the Book as many other Books are named by the first word of the Book This Book seems to be penned by Ieremiah the Prophet upon the death of that precious King â—osiah 2 Chron. 35.25 when the Jewes fell to their sinfull confidence in Egypt which Beginnings of sorrows and miseries gave Ieremy occasion he knowing by the spirit of Prophecy the judgments which should befall them to lament all the miseries from Iosiahs death till the destruction of the Temple and Ierusalem and captivity of the people in Babylon The foure first chapters are penned alphebetically as many Psalmes are for help of memory in such an excellent piece as this is In 1.2 4. chapters every verse begins
that sweet compound of love It was Moses his honour who was Gods peculiar favourite to be Penman of the first Book of the Old Testament And it was Iohn's honour who was Christs peculiar favourite to be Penman of the last Book of the New Testament oh what divine love and favour is made known unto the Church in all the volumes between the Armes of these two favourites 6. Finally God counts them blessed soules that read heare and keepe the words of this Prophecy Blessed is he that readeth and they that heare the words of this Prophecy and keep these things that are written therein Rev. 1.3 A blessed Book that renders them blessed who are practically versed in it The time when this Revelation was written was when Iohn was banished into the I le that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the Testimony of Iesus Christ Rev. 1.9.10 Iohn was banished into Patmos by that cruell persecutor Domitian in the fourteenth yeare of his Reigne saith Hieron Catal illustr vir in vit Ioan. Domitian reigned in all but fifteen years as Helvic observes and his fourteenth yeare was in the ninety fourth yeare after Christ Helvic in Chronol in the ninety sixth after Christ saith Pareus Prolegom in Apocal. c. 5. This Book is conceived to be written after all the Books of the New Testament Occasion of this Revelation seemes to be this Iohn being banished into the I le Patmos Rev. 1.9 10. doubtless gave himselfe to prayer and sacred meditations about the affairs of Christ and his Church whereupon Iesus Christ appeared to his beloved disciple in a spirituall ravishment showing him what was his pleasure both touching the present Churches of Asia and touching his whole Church to the end of the world thus comforting him and commanding Iohn to write his visions for the comforting of them Scope of this book is Generally To make knowne by Iohn unto the Churches both the things that then were and that should be thereafter Rev. 1.19 Particularly 1 To informe the Church of the many sharp conflicts she should have with Satan and his instruments especially Hereticks persecuting Tyrants and Anti-Christ himselfe that so she might not dream only of Halcyon dayes but might prepare more and more for the worst of stormes 2 To discover and point out in lively Colours that grand Anti-christ that the Church might run and read and most infallibly know who he is 3 As also to support and comfort the Church and all the faithfull over all their tribulations with the hopes of the utter overthrow of Anti-christ and all their enemies of their owne joyfull triumphs over them and of the happy condition which the Church shall afterwards enjoy partly in this world but chiefly in the world to come Though this book be most obscure and intricate yet these things may somewhat facilitate the understanding of iâ— If we shall 1. Keep the maine scope of the Book still in our eye 2. Compare the passages and phrases of the Revelation with those of other Prophecies as Rev. 11.4 with Zech. 4.3 11 14. Rev. 10.9 10. with Ezek. 2.8 and 3.3 Rev. 4.6 7 8. with Ezek. 1.5 6 7 8. Rev. 20.8 with Ezek. 18.2 and 39.1 Rev. 21.15 with Ezek. 40.3 c. 3. Parallel with this Prophecy the subsequent Histories after Iohn's time the Histories of the Roman Empire and Church which testify clearly what cruelty and persecutions the Romane Emperours successively raised up against Christians with what subtilty and fraud the B. of Rome did by degrees through the folly cowardise negligence c. of the Emperours step up into their throne and subjugate not onely Rome the Seate of the Empire but also the whole Empire it selfe to his dominion and pleasure whence we may derive not a little light to see what is meant by the opening of the Seals The Stars falling from heaven to earth The beast speaking great and blasphemous things The beast and false Prophet The image of the beast And the whore riding upon the beast with seven heads and ten hornes and ruling in the city on the seven hils c. 4. Consider prudently the experience of later and present times how accurately doth the description of the Beast and scarlet whore agree to the Papacy of the Locusts to the Romane Clergy and of the Frogs comming out of the mouth of the Dragon the beast and the false Prophet to the Iesuites and Romane Emissaries compassing sea and land and creeping into Kings palaces to gather them together to the warre of the great day of God almighty 5. Finally if we shall diligently read meditate and pray that the holy spirit who revealed these things to Iohn would reveale their sense and meaning to us These things may help us to untie many knots and render many difficulties easie Principall parts In the Book of Revelation are chiefly considerable 1 The Preface 2 The Substance of the Book and 3 The Conclusion The Preface which is â— Generall in reference to the whole Prophecy noting the Matter Author Penman and Profit of this Book c. 1. ver 1 2 3. 2. Speciall or particular in reference to the seven Churches of Asia Minor and in them to the whole Catholick Church figured by them wherein are 1. A Nomination of persons writing and written to 2. The Salutation 3. And a glorious Description of Jesus Christ ver 4. to 9. The Substance or Body of this Propheticall Book c. 1. v. 9. to c. 22. v. 6. Wherein is contained a Narration of the State of the Church I. Militant on earth c. 1. v. 9. to c. 20. v. 11. II. Triumphant in heaven c. 20. v. 11. to c. 22. v. 6. The Condition of the Church Militant is declared 1. For present what it was when Iohn wrote the Revelation c. 1. v. 9. to c. 4. v. 1. 2. For future what it should be till the judgement day c. 4. v. 1. to c. 20. v. 11. I. Uision I. Touching the State of the Church then present viz. The Asian Churches principally are laid downe two things viz. 1. A Preparation to the discovery of it by A Vision of seven Golden Candlesticks and seven Starres This is Iohn's first vision And here we have a description both of Iohn who had the vision as also of the vision it selfe both in respect of the 1 Forme of it The 2 Effect it had upon Iohn and the 3 Consequents ensuing thereupon viz. The Comforting of John Command to write the vision and the Interpretation of the vision c. 1. v. 9. to the end of the chapter 2. A Narration or Description of the Condition of Christs Church then present and this in Seven distinct Epistles directed to the seven Angels of those seven Asian Churches viz. 1. Of Ephesus c. 2. v. 1. to 8. 2. Of Smyrna c. 2. v. 8. to 12. 3. Of Pergamus c. 2. v. 12. to 18. 4. Of Thyatira c. 2. v. 18. to the end of the chapter 5. Of Sardis c. 3 1. to 7. 6.