all but death Some such a kind of death but not another which may be more painful or shameful but nothing we may suffer should be feared as he saith I will fear none evil Ps 23. 4. And as the Apostle Paul saith none of the things I suffer move me nor do I count my life deer unto my self that I may finish my course with joy Acts 20. 24. 4 In that Christ saith fear none of those things c. And cautions against fear so he signifieth that sinful slavish fear is very hurtful and to be avoided and taken heed of by us It will hinder Men from being faithful to the death whereto this Angel and Church are counseled in the latter end of this verse It brings men into bondage to sin and Satan Heb. 2. 15. The fear of Man brings a snare Prov. 29. 25. It makes men ashamed of Christ and his words in an evil and adulterous generation and puts Men upon seeking to save their lives when they are called to lay them down 2 Tim. 1. 7 8. Mat. â—6 24 26. It weakens Men and makes them faint-hearted to good Jer. 51. 46. Zech. 8. 13. And will lay them open to temptations and snares Gen. 20. 2 11. and ch 26. 11. and even apt Men to deny Christ Mat. 26. 69 74. and will if feared and yielded up to expose Men to the wrath to come the fearful and unbelieving c. shall have their part in the lake of fire burning with brimstone which is the second death Rev. 21. 8. Great need we have therefore to receive this admonition and to seek help in the name of the Lord against this fear and this leads us to another Instruction namely 5. There is that contained in the Testimony of our Lord that may strengthen us against this fear of evil and they that hearken to Christ therein and heartily embrace his Gospel shall be strengthened as wisdom saith whoso hearkeneth to me shall dwell safely and shall be quiet from the fear of evil Prov. 1. 33. such an one shall not be afraid of evil-tidings his heart is fixed trusting in the Lord His heart is established he shall not be afraid c. Ps 112. 6 8. Prov. 3. 21 27. Ps 27. 1 3. and 46. 1 5 6. And here particularly to encourage and strengthen their hearts against the fear of evil he thus describes himself to them in v. 8. These things saith the first and the last the omnipotent he that was and is and is to come that hath all power to help and will help and strengthen those that come unto and follow him he will be their shield and their exceeding great reward as he saith to Abram Gen. 15. 1. and ch 17. 1. Isay 41. 4 10. see notes on ch 1. v. 8. and v. 11. Which was dead he hath died for us he was delivered for our offences as if he should say what-ever you meet with I have endured the same I was dead for you In and by which death he hath satisfied for your sins and in which his love was brightly manifested look unto him Heb. 12. 1 2 3. Rom. 5. 2 3 5 6 10. Gal. 2. 20. And is alive he hath received justification for us Rom. 4. 25. overcome Death and Devil Ps 98. 1. Acts 2. 25. Isay 43. 1. with Gal. 3. 13. and hath all power to forgive sins and to comfort in all tribulations and trials and to cause all to work together for good and to deliver out of trouble fear not see notes on ch 1. v. 18. and ch 2. v. 8. 2. We have nextly to consider and speak unto the account which the first and the last gives of the things they should suffer with the end and time thereof Behold the Devil shall cast some of you into prison that ye may be tried and ye shall have tribulation ten days 1. Their sufferings are thus exprest The Devil shall cast some of you into prison Where again let us consider 1. The Person that should afflâ—ct them the principal agent The Devil 2. The affliction it self he should inflict on them shall cast into prison 3. The Persons whom he should cast into prison some of you 1. The Person or principal agent herein The Devil not immediately but in and by his instruments and agents and what they do in fulfilling his lusts he may be said to do and it may bear his name as it is said upon another account concerning Joseph and the Prisoners whatsoever they did there he was the doer Gen. 30. 22. so it is here whatsoever the Devils Servants do by his impulse and insâ—â—gation and in obedience to him he is the principal doer thereof whosoever committeth sin is of the Devil for the Devil sinneth from the beginning when others sin by his temptation and instigation he sinneth therein principally 1 Joh. 3. 8 12. and ch 5. 19. Job was in Satan's hand and he it was that afflicted him and impoverisht him but he did not inflict all upon him immediately but stirred up his instruments to serve his design The Sabeans fell upon the oxen and asses and took them away and slew his Servants c. And the Caldeans made out three bands and fell upon the camels and carried them away and slew his Servants with the edge of the sword c. Joh. 1. 12 15. 19. so Judas is called a Devil because he was led and acted by him Joh. 6. 70. and Christ saith to Peter Get thee behind me Satan c. he gives his name to him because he did his evil work Mat. 16. 20 23. with 1 Joh. 3. 10. and he that hateth his Brother is of the wicked one as Cain was 1 Joh. 3. 12 13. the Devil is he that is said to deceive the whole World though it is their iniquity to be deceived by him and their unbelief is that which lays them open to and fits them for being deceived by him The God of this World blinds the minds of them that believe not Rev. 12 9. and ch 20. 2 3 10. with 2 Cor. 4. 4. and Acts 13. 10. and ch 5. 3. so here The Devil shall cast some of you into prison that is he shall stir up some that are in power under the heathen Roman Emperors to imprison you and what they do as acted by him he is the doer of it and indeed those heathen powers were so ruled by Satan or the Devil that he was said to be in the throne as it were Rev. 12. 3 10. and here this evil one is called the Devil because he prevailed by his false accusations to cause the Heathen powers to persecute and imprison Christ's Servants for â—e is the accuser of the Brethren Rev. 12. 20. and so the word Devil signifies a slanderer or false accuser and so the Word in the plural number is translated slanderers 1 Tim. 3. 11 and false accusers 2 Tim. 3. 3. Tit. 2. 3. 2. The affliction it self he the devil should inflict upon them shall cast
fathers Mat. 1. 1. Luke 1. 72 74. Acts 2. 30. But he was also the Son of Adam Luke 3. 24 38. and he is the first-born of every creature Col. 1. 15. the second Man who came into the room of the first Man and undertook for him when all Mand-kind was in his loins and so became the last Adam of whom the first was the figure 1 Pet. 1. 20. 1 Cor. 15. 45 47. Rom. 5. 14. and hence many times this title of the son of Man is given to him when the scripture speaketh of God's love to Man-kind As the Son of Man is come to save that which was lost Mat. 18. 11. To seek and to save that which was lost Indefinitely Luke 19. 10. The Son of Man came not to destroy Mens Souls but to save them Luke 9. 56. and ch 2. 10 11. as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness so must the Son of Man be lifted up For God so loved the World c. Joh. 3. 14 16. 17. The Son of Man was made lower than the Angels for a little while that he by the grace of God should taste death for every Man Heb. 2. 6 9. 3. This title is given unto him to instruct us that he was the heir of all that misery that appertained to Man-kind for and because of their first sin and sinfulness the inheritour of all that sad heritage of affliction Man brought upon himself and hence oftentimes he is called the Son of Man when his abasement and sufferings are spoken of The Son of Man was made a little while lower then the Angels Heb. 2. 6 9. The Son of Man had not whereon to lay his head Luke 9. 58. the Son of Man shall be betrayed unto the chief Priests and Scribes and they shall condemn him to death c. Mat. 20. 18 19. see also Mat 26. 2 24 45. Mark 8. 31. Joh. 8. 28. and ch 12. 23 27 31. 34. Isay 53. 1 10. Rom. 4. 25. 1 Peter 3. 18. 4. And he is called the Son of Man because he is the Heir and inheritour of all the glory that was given unto us and conferred upon us in the first Publick man and which by our Sinning we came short of he hath restored that which he took not away Rom. 3. 23. Psal 69. 4. he restored our nature in his person into the Image of God Jam. 3. 9. into perfect Innocency Integrity Immortality and eternal life 1 Joh. 3. 5. 2 Tim. 1. 9 10. 1 Joh. 5. 10 11. 1 Cor. 1. 30. And he hath obtained eternal redemption the inheritance of new Heavens and a new earth Heb. 9. 12. He in our nature and for us is Crowned with that Glory and Honour where-with the first Man Adam was and God hath set this Son of Man over the works of his hands and hath put all things under his feet though yet we see not all things put under But this shall be gloriously manifested in due time Compare Ps 8. 4 8. with Heb. 2. 5 6. Hence also when our Saviour saith The Sabbath was made for Man and not Man for the Sabbath he presently addeth and inferreth Therefore the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath As intimating he is Lord of all that was made for Man Mark 2. 27 28. This is the person whom he in vision saw 2. We have next to enquire and consider The place where he saw him or one like to him and that is In the midst of the seven Candlesticks Rev. 2. 1. that is to say there he saw him as the Son of Man as one who hath died and is risen again and who is a merciful and faithful High-priest as afterwards Heb. 2. 17 18. and ch 4. 14. 16. Rev. 1. 18. What these candlestikcs are and why they are called and compared unto candlesticks we have considered before See the notes on v. 12. But here we have to enquire and consider How the son of Man is said to be in the midst of the seven candlesticks 1. He is in the midst of his Churches as a King and governour he is Gods King whom he hath set upon his Holy Hill of Zion And so he is the King of Saints Ps 149. 2. â— Rev. 15. 3. Thus this phrase in the midst is applied to Kings as with respect to their subjects so Solomon the figure of Christ saith in his prayer to God O LORD my God thou hast made thy Servant King And thy Servant is in the midst of thy people which thou hast chosen 1 King 3. 6 8. so let us set a King in the midst of it Isay 7. 6. and The Prince in the midst of them Ezek. 46. 10. so is Christ in the midst of his Churches as a King To give laws unto them and rule and order them his gracious Kingdom ruleth over them and amongst them The LORD is their law-giver statute-maker and King Isay 33. 22. he is their only Rabbi Mat. 23. 8 10. the father of their spirits Heb. 12. 9. The Lord of their faith and consciences 1 Cor. 8. 6. Eph. 4. 4 5. The chief Shepherd and Bishop of their Souls 1 Pet. 2. 25. and ch 5. 5. Heb. 13. 20. He is the only Head of his Body the Church by whose Scepter the Word of his Kingdom they are to be ruled and governed and this Honour they are not to give unto any Man on Earth Col. 1. 18. and ch 2. 19. Mat. 23. 8 10. And they are his Kingdom and voluntary Subjects that have received and are to receive the Law from his mouth and to lay up his words in the midst of their hearts Job 22. 21 22. Eph. 3. 17. Deut. 33. 3. Psal 110. 1 4. And as a King he is in the midst of them to save and defend them from the evil of all he is ordering they demeaning themselves as his Candlesticks in bearing forth the light he is their King and he will save them Isay 33. 22. he is their refuge and strength a very present help in trouble and as such an one he is in the midst of them they shall not be moved Ps 46. 1 5. Hence that Sing O Daughter of Zion shout O Israel the King of Israel the LORD is in the midst of thee thou shalt not see evil any more The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty he will save thee he will rejoyce â—ver thee with Joy c. Eph. 3. 14 17. Cry out and shout thou Inhabitant of Zion trust in the Lord and be not afraid for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee Isay 12. 2 6. So Joel 2. 21 27. 2 Chron. 16. 9. 2. He is and his work in the midst of them is to sing the new Song the Song of Victory even praise unto our God to wit that he hath been slain and sacrificed for us 1 Cor. 5. 7. and that he is raised again and hath triumphed gloriously over all our Enemies His own right Hand and his Holy Arm
evermore Amen 2. The note of attention to mind this Behold 1. He is alive for evermore Amen even that person that died for us and was buried he is alive for evermore in that his personal body in which he bare our sins on the tree he is raised again now no more to return to corruption Act. 13. 24. He asked life of his father and he gave it him even length of days for ever and ever Ps 21. 3. and so he is become the sure mercies of David Isay 55. 3. with Act. 13. 34. he is the word of God which liveth and abideth for ever 1 Pet. 1. 23 25. He who died for us and now liveth is alive for evermore 1. As the last Adam in whom dwelleth all the fulness of grace and truth and he is and abides the fountain of forgiveness Righteousness wisdom spirit eternal life he is a quickening spirit Col. 1. 18 19 and ch 2. 9 10. Joh. 1. 14. 16. 1 Cor. 15. 45. 1 Joh. 5. 10 11. 2. He is the Bread of life who prevents the dead World with life in due season and ever lives as the receiver and maker free of all that as thus prevented come unto and follow him The Servant namely of sin abideth not in the house for ever But the Son abideth ever Joh. 8. 35 36. And him that cometh he will in no-wise cast out Joh. 6. 33 35 37. Rom. 15. 7. 3. He is alive for evermore as the High-priest This man because he continueth ever hath an unchangeable Priesthood a Priest hood that passeth not from him unto any other Heb. 7. 24. and as the High-priest he maketh intercession for Men he being the one and only mediatour between God and Men Isay 53. 12. 1 Tim. 2. 5. For every High-priest is taken from among Men and is ordained for Men for the good of them Heb. 5. 1. And ever liveth to make Intercession for them that come unto God by him and so is able to the uttermost Heb 7. 8 16 24 25. and ch 6. 20. and ch 7. 28. and ch 10. 12. And so he is the Saviour of all Men especially of them that believe 1 Tim. 4. 10. 4. He ever liveth as the Author of eternal Salvation unto all them that obey him Heb. 5. 9 who is now saving them especially 1 Tim. 4. 10. Eph. 5. 23. and will save them hereafter gloriously and eternally Israel shall be saved in the LORD with an everlasting Salvation they shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end Isay 45. 17. he is Jesus Christ the anointed Saviour the same yesterday and to day and for ever Heb. 13. 7 8. 2 Tim. 2. 10. Joh. 3. 15 16. 5. He ever liveth as the Resurrection and the life Joh. 11. 25. whose voice all that are in the graves shall hear and shall come forth they that have done good to the resurrection of life and they that have done evil to the resurrection of damnation Joh. 5. 28 29. For as by Man came death by Man also came the Resurrection from the dead For as in Adam all dye so in Christ shall all be made alive 1 Cor. 15. 21 22. He shall descend from Heaven with a shout with the voice of the Archangel with the Trump of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first 1 Thes 4. 16. and all shall appear before his judgment-Seat for he is the Lord and Judg of all and to this end he both died rose and revived that he might lord it over quick and dead Rom. 14. 9 12. 2 Cor. 5. 8 10. Act 10. 42. 6. He is alive for evermore as the King who is now set upon God's holy hill of Zion Ps 2. 6. who now exercises his government graciouâ—ly and spiritually and shall hereafter rule and raign gloriously Ps 145. 11 13. and 9. 7 8. and 47. 6 8 Heb. 1. 8 11. The Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his Father David and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever and of his Kingdom there shall be no end Luk. 1. 32 33. and the Kingdom and dominion and greatness of the Kingdom under the whole Heaven shall be given the Prophet of the Saints of the most high whose Kingdom is an everlasting Kingdom and all nations shall serve and obey him Isay 9. 6 7. Dan. 7. 27. Amen So be it this is a faithful saying and therefore fear not 2. We have the note of attention to stir us up to mind this Behold This is of great concernment to us to take notice of attend unto and diligently to mind and consider that he who was dead is alive for evermore 1. To admonish and warn us not to reject him or slight his blood once shed and sacrifice once offered For he being raised from the dead dieth no more death hath no more dominion over him and therefore if we sin willingly persist so doing there remaineth no more sacrifice for sin but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery Indignation c. Rom. 6. 9 10. Act. 13. 34. Heb. 10. 26 29. Rev. 15. 7. 2. To comfort and encourage us against our discouragements and dyings which is the end why it is spoken at this time as to say a little particularly 1. To encourage any poor sinner or any that after they have tasted the graciousness of the Lord have brought deadness upon themselves whose spirits are dead and their moisture dried up yet to come unto or return to him for he liveth and that for evermore as the fountain of life of forgiveness grace and spirit Ps 36. 6 9. hence the Prophet exhorts O Israel return unto the Lord thy God for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity and propounds this motive from the Lord to encourage and engage them so to do I am the green fir-tree from me is thy â—ruit found Though thou hast brought deadness and witheredness upon thy self yet in returning to him he will take away all thy iniquities revive and quicken thee for he still abides a quickening spirit Hos 14. 1 9. 1 Cor. 15. 45. Yea our Saviour calls upon and invites every thirster to come unto him and drink and saith He that believeth on me as the scripture hath said out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water Joh. 7. 37 39. and 11. 25 26. Rev. 3. 1. and 21. 6. and ch 22. 17. 2. To encourage his disciples unto all Services though they are as dead ones and have no sufficiency of themselves as of themselves yet he who liveth for ever hath promised to be with them Mat. 28. 18 20. and against all sufferings for his name sake in which the believer is as dying and appointed as a sheep to the slaughter yet he liveth and abideth for ever and is able to save them from their Sins and enemies Heb. 7. 24 26. and to raise them up again and make them partakers of a more excellent life in which the Apostles did comfort and encourage themselves 2 Cor. 4.
10. In receiving Christ though the body was still dead because of sin yet the Spirit was life for righteousness sake And out of the belly of him that believeth in Christ do flow rivers of living water Rom. 8. 10. Joh. 4. 13 14. and ch 6. 50 51 57. and ch 7. 37 39. 2. How thou hast received and heard that is to say by what means so the word How doth oft signifie as How shall this be seeing I know not a Man Luke 1. 34. So when the Pharisees ask the Parents of the blind Man How doth your Son now see they answer By what means he now seeth we know not Joh. 9. 19 21. So here also it may be taken Remember how or by what means thou hast received and heard and that was by the Gospel of Christ thereby you received Christ Spirit Forgiveness Righteousness Life c. He that receiveth you saith our Saviour to his Disciples when he sent them forth to preach the Gospel receiveth me and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me Mat. 10. 40. Luke 10. 16. Joh. 13. 20. I declare unto you the Gospel saith the Apostle which I preached unto you which also you have received and wherein ye stand c. 1 Cor. 15. 1 4. And thorow this Knowledge and Doctrine of Christ God gives and the Believer receives all that pertain to Life and Godliness 2 Pet. 1. 3. Rom. 1. 16 17. Hence the Apostle thus demands of the Galatians received ye the Spirit by the works of the Law or by the hearing of Faith Having begun in the Spirit are ye now made perfect by the Flesh It was not by the Doctrine or Works of the Law but by the report of Faith by the Faith of the Gospel that they received the Spirit and thereby Christ and all good things by Faith Gal. 3. 1 4 5. Luke 11 13. with Mat. 7. 11. 1 Cor. 1. 18 23 24. 3. How thou hast received and heard Namely in or after what manner so the word How doth also signify As let every Man take heed How he builds thereon namely after what manner 1 Cor. 3. 10. and the seed springs and grows up he knows not how Mark 4. 27. Thou knowest not How the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child namely in what way or after what manner as in the former part of that verse Eccles 11. 5. so here in this place we may also understand it Remember â—ow thou hast received and heard That is to say With what joy and rejoycing how gladding it was to thee at first when thou heardest those glad tidings of great joy to all people reported in the Gospel what great joy it caused to thee as Acts 8. 5 8. how thou receivedst it with joy in the Holy Ghost 1 Thes 1. 6. Oh! it was a joyful sound then to receive with the ear and hear in hearing that Christ took thy nature upon him Luke 2. 10 11. that he had thy sins and the trespasses of the World imputed to him and that by the grace of God he tasted death for every Man and was raised again for their justification how gladsom were these tidings to thee when they were reported to and received by thee Acts 13. 32 33. Rom. 10. 14 15. And that he had broken the gates of brass and cut the bars of iron in sunder Ps 107. 15 17. that he had purged away the guilt of our first sin and sinfulness from before the presence of God and so made peace by the blood of his cross overcome and abolished the first death and destroyed him that had the power of it and so delivered us from that so great a death as in which otherwise we must have perished for ever and obtained power to give repentance from and the forgiveness of our own personal sins received Spirit wrought and brought in everlasting righteousness obtained eternal life and is in all the Saviour of the World of Man-kind And herein and herewith to hear and understand what a lover of the World of Man-kind God is what kindness and love he hath thereto and that he is not willing that any Man should perish Joh. 3. 16 17. 1 Tim. 2. 4 6. Oh! was not this goodnews from a far countrey like cold waters to thy thirsty Soul Prov. 25. 25. Did not this received fill thee with joy and peace in believing Rom. 15. 13. yea in believing didst thou not rejoyce with joy unspeakable and full of Glory 1 Pet. 1. 3 8. did he not make thee glad thorow the work of his hand and help thee to triumph in the works of his hands Ps 92. 1 4. was not this good news to thee as life from the dead when thou wast in woful misery when the sorrows of death compassed thee and the pains of Hell gat hold on thee and thou found'st trouble sorrow when thy Soul â—ainted within thee and horrour and trembling came on thee did not this revive thy Spirit to hear that our Jesus liveth who was dead who died for all that were dead and that he is alive for evermore and hath the keys of hell and death Gen. 27. 28. Rev. 1. 17 18. Remember these days of old call to remembrance these former days and how after what a joyful manner thou hast received and heard Again Remember How in or after what manner thou hast received â—nd heard with what high esteem and prizings these things were received by thee in the days of thine illumination Christ was then precious to thee in believing that testified of him 1 Pet. 2. 7. more glorious and excellent then the mountains of prey Ps 76. 4. the chiefest of ten thousands Cant. 5. 10. he was more to thee then all other beloveds altogether lovely more precious than fine gold more dear than nearest and dearest relations riches righteousness of thine own or any other thing accounted gainful and valuable Then what things were formerly gain to thee those thou countedst loss for Christ yea thou countedst all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus thy Lord that thou mightest win him and be found in him Phil. 3. 4 9 10. then thou couldest take joyfully the spoiling of thy goods for his sake Heb. 10. 32 34. yea if possibly thou couldest have pluckt out thine own eyes and have given them to them who have brought these glad tidings to thee such blessedness thou didst meet with and speak of Gal. 4. 13 15. when thou didst first find this treasure hid in a field thou didst hide it and for joy thereof thou wentest and soldst all that thou hadst and bought'st that field like the wise Merchant Man when thou hadst found this pearl of great price thou wentest and soldest all that thou hadst and boughtest it Mat. 13. 44 46. then thou didst prefer Christ before thy chiefest joy who then but Christ with thee he was all thy wisdome righteousness sanctification redemption foundation glory goodness whom hast
this high honour at the hands of God thy Father as is intimated ver 12. It is the reward of his sufferings as the Prophet prophetically â—aith His reward is with him and recompence for his work before him Isa 40. 10. And as himself saith My judgment is with the Lord and my reward with my God Isa 49. 4 5. see the notes before on ver 2. He hath prevailed with God his Father to undertake and accomplish this great work here spoken of see the notes before on ver 5. He was faithful to him that appointed him in that hard and difficult work and therefore he was worthy as he saith to his Father I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do and now O Father glorifie me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee c. John 17. 4 5. And thou art worthy And dost infinitely deserve it at our hands that we should thus have thy â—igh praises in our hearts and mouths that we should sing unto thee a new Song and thy praise in the congregation of Saints for thy wonderful love to us thou hast laid infinite engagements and obligations upon us so to do for we are not our own but thou hast bought us with a precious Christ and and redeemed us unto God by thy blood therefore we ought to glorifie thee both in our body and spirit which are thine 1 Cor. 6. 19 20. And in so doing we give thee but according to the deserving of thine hands as Judg. 9. 16. according to thine excellent work yea Who can shew forth all his praises Psal 106. 1-3 And thou art worthy to wit able for this great work and business and none but thou Thou hast wisdom and skill to do it Col. 2. 3. thou hast seven eyes which are the seven Spirits of God and thou hast all power and authority for thou hast seven Horns ver 6. Matth. 28. 18. Phil. 2. 6-9 see notes before on ver 3. of this Chapter But what is he worthy to do To take the Book to receive authority and power to take the Book into thine hand in order to the opening it and making known Gods mind and will therein see the notes before on ver 7. And to open the seals thereof to unfold its mysteries and reveal its depths and to read it to John or any others of his Saints and cause them to understand the reading Nehem. 8. 7 8. Dan. 2. 18 23. see notes before on chap. 1. ver 3. which no creature in Heaven or Earth c. was able or worthy to do see notes on ver 3. and ver 4. We have nextly to consider the Reason or Reasons of his worthiness to do these things and to have this glory and honour ascribed and rendred to him by these Saints and holy Ones which follow in order to be considered and spoken unto by us 1. For thou wast slain â—hou even he before whom they prostrate themselves and who is the object of their divine and religious worship and adoration he was slain he who was and is the true God over all God blessed for ever Rom. 9. 5. Phil. 2. 6 8. Act. 20. 28. 1 John 3. 16. as we have ofâ— said in these notes He was put to death in the flesh and crucified thorow weakness 1 Pet. 3. 18. 2 Cor. 13. 4. He is Emmanuel God with us God-man and he that person who is the true God and eternal life 1 John 5. 20. was manifest in the flesh 1 John 1. 2. with with 1 Tim. 3. 16. and laid down his life for us according to the flesh or humane nature Wast slâ—in not only did he endure and suffer great things here before his hour came and was greatly abased though indeed all his life-time here he was poor and mean He was despised and rejected of men a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief and in all points tempted like unto us yet without sin Luke 9. 58. Isa 53. 3 4 5. Heb. 2 17 18. and chap 4 14. But he was also put to death he was slain and slaughtered for us Matth. 21. 38 39. Luke 9. 22. Act. 2. 23. and 7. 52. and chap. 10. 39. and 13. 28. and he was slain both as a sacrifice for our sins Acts 7. 42. Rom. 4. 25. and as a Martyr for the Gospel preached by him see the notes before on chap. 1. ver 18. One drop of Christs Blood was not sufficient to purge away our sins and make peace for then the greatest part of what he endured was in vain and he suffered and under went needless pain and torments but Christ must needs have suffered and been put to death for us Act. 17. 2 3. And thou wast slain not only in the purpose and fore-ordainment of God as 1 Pet. 1. 20. Rev. 13. 8. but actually so Christ suffered for sinâ— the just for the unjust that he might bring us to God being put to death in the flesh 1 Pet. 1. 19 20. and chap. 3. 18. Heb. 9. 26. though he was a Lamb a Lamb without blemish and without spot a meek innocent harmless one one that knew no sin nor ever did any yet he was brought as a Lamb to the slaughter and actually slain and killed for us 1 Pet. 1. 19. and chap. 2. 20 23. 2 Cor. 5. 21. Isa 53. 5 7. Acts 8. 32. Thou wa st slain not art slain no he liveth who was dead and behold â—e is alive for evermore he was dead and is alive Rev. 1. 18. and chap. 2. 8. He is raised from the dead and shall dye no more death hath no more dominion over him for in that he died he died unto sin once but in that he liveth he liveth unto God Rom. 6. 9 10. Act. 13. 32 34. see notes before on ver 6. of this Chapter Now for this Reason and upon this account Thou art worthy to take the Book c. because thou wast slain Worthy to receive all power and riches and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and blessing from God the Father Rev. 5. 12. therefore doth his Father love him and hath so loved him as to give all things into his hand because he laid down his life that he might take it again Joh. 10. 17. with Chap. 3. 35. and 13. 3. Because he humbled himself and became obedient unto death the death of the Cross therefore also God hath highly exalted him and given him a name above every name c. Phil. 2. 8-10 Joh. 17. 4 5. Luk. 24. 25 26 27. Isa 53. 11 12. Heb. 2. 9 10. And on this account also he is worthy to be praised and glorified by all the Saints and holy ones and that at all times they should render praise honour and glory unto him because he was slain Rev. 5. 13 14. and Chap. 7. 10. He gave himself for our sins that he might deliver us from this present evil world To him be glory for ever and ever Amen Gaâ— 1. 4 5. He
3. 8 9. and ch 4. 10. Now the Angels are never said so to be upon Christ but the Holy Spirit is often said to be The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him Isay 11. 1 2. I have put my trust upon him Isay 42. 1. And Christ saith The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me Isay 61. 1. Luke 4. 18. 3. Because they are named with the Father and the Son as also Mat. 28. 19. 1 Joh. 5. 7. And here named before Jesus Christ 4. It also appears that hereby the Holy Spirit is intended because of that Description Christ gives of himself in ch 3. 1. when he sends a message to the Angel of the Church in Sardis of whom he saith Thou hast a name that thou livest and art dead These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God Surely the understanding the seven Spirits to mean that one Spirit best suited their condition For hereby he was fitted to see and know what they were to wit dead whatever name they had And hereby â—e is become a quickening Spirit to quicken such dead Souls Luke 4. 18. See Notes on ch 4. v. 5. Nor is that said of the seven Angels the same with this said of the seven Spirits for they are said to stand before God as ministring serving Spirits Rev. 8. 2. with Dan. 7. 10. But these seven Spirits are only said to be before the Throne where Christ also is and they are upon him ch 4. 5. and ch 5. 6. Hereby then the Holy Spirit the Spirit of the Father and Son is meant and intended And he may be called The seven Spirits not with respect to his Essence But 1. In some such sense as Christ's Sacrifice is called Sacrifices as where it is said The Heavenly things must be purified with better Sacrifices than these Heb. 9. 23. Whereas indeed that which Christ offered for Purgation was but one Oblation once offered as is said After he had offered one Sacrifice for Sins for ever sate down c. Heb. 10. 10. 12. for by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified v. 14. 18. and ch 7. 27. and ch 9. 25 26. Now that one Sacrifice might be called Sacrifices to signifie that it is the truth and hath the worth of all other Sacrifices which are many yea it is infinitely more acceptable and valuable So this one Spirit may be called seven to signifie it is the most perfect Spirit seven being a number of perfection and infinitely more excellent and glorious than all other which are ministring Spirits Heb. 1. 14. 2. Seven Spirits With respect to his manifold Gifts Graces Operations Influences c. 1 Cor. 12. 4 11. and so possibly with allusion to Isay 11. 2 3. where he is seven times named The Spirit of the LORD the Spirit of wisdom and understanding the Spirit of Counsel and might the Spirit of Knowledge and of the fear of the LORD 3. Called seven because of the seven Churches here saluted and seven Stars v. 16. ch 3. 1. To signifie this Spirit was able to supply all their wants and to furnish them with all Gifts and Graces and perfect whatever did concern them yea and he is sent forth into all the Earth for the good of men more generally Rev. 5. 6. Zech. 4. 10. Isay 42. 1 5. And these are said to be before his Throne to be sent forth by him and to be sent forth in Righteousness for he sits in the Throne judging right Ps 9. 4. Now from this Spirit also Grace and Peace is voted and desired for he is the Spirit of Grace Zech. 12. 10. Heb. 10. 29. the good Spirit Ps 143. 10. The Spirit of Love 2 Tim. 1. 7. And it is his work and office to bear witness of the Blood of Christ and Grace therein commended and Peace thereby made And to preach Peace to us and fill us with it and effect it as a vertue in us Eph. 2. 13 17. with 1 Pet. 3. 18 19. Rom. 14. 17. Gal. 5. 22. Verse 5. And from Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness and the first begotten of the Dead and the Prince of the Kings of the Earth unto him that loved us and washed us from our Sins in his own Blood In the former part of this Verse we have a further account given to us from whom the Apostle votes Grace and Peace to be unto the Churches and he is mentioned after the Spirit which is not usual because he is largely described and spoken of in what followeth as may be seen by any And from Jesus Christ the faithful witness Of the love and faithfulness of the Father to us as the Lord saith Behold I have given him for a witness to the People Isay 55. 1 4. 1 Joh. 4. 8 10 14. 1 Joh. 3. 16. He is the faithful witness as a Peace-maker having made Peace by the Blood of his Cross Col. 1. 20. So he is the great and undoubted evidence and manifestation of God's Grace to us poor sinful creatures of Mankind The gift of his grace Rom. 5. 15 18. He by the Grace of God tasted death for every man and gave himself a ransome for all Heb. 2. 9. 1 Tim. 2. 4 6. and also in his abasement and sufferings he is the faithful witness and evidence of the faithfulness of God in keeping Covenant and Mercy God raised him up that Horn of Salvation in the House of his Servant David as he spake by the Mouth of his Holy Prophets To perform the Mercy promised to our Fore-fathers and to remember his Holy Covenant The Oath which he sware c. Luk. 1. 54 55 68 73. Act. 13. 23 32 33. Psal 89. 1 19 20. And in his Cross he is the faithful witness of his own pity and compassion to us and that he is the Son of the Father in love 2 Joh. 3 Such was the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that though he was rich yet for our sakes he became poor 2 Cor. 8. 9. 1 Joh. 3. 16. And as Job's wrinckles were a witness Job 16. 8. so his great condescension and death were a witness of his wonderful love to the World which appeared herein to be such as passeth knowledge Eph. 3. 16. 19. from him is Grace and Peacestill voted who gave himself for our Sins that he might deliver us from this present evil World Gal. 1. 3 4. And who hath made Peace for us by his Blood and is our Peace the Prince of Peace Eph. 2. 13 15. Col. 1. 20. Isay 9. 6. Hebr. 7. 1 2. And the faithful witness As a Peace-preacher and that both 1. In his Word and Testimony 1 Tim. 2. 6. Rev. 20. 4. In which he gives a true witness of all things of God Man Sin Righteousness Life Death c. 1 Joh. 2. 20 27. Joh. 16. 7 14. A faithful witness who doth not lye Prov. 14. 5. A true witness that delivereth Souls v. 25. who is the saviour of all men
day saith Christ John 9. 4. he continually sought the good of Men and especial good of believers he did not fail noâ— was discouraged Joh. 8. 12. and ch 9. 5. Isay 42. 1 3 4. and he was patient under affliction and persecution when they condemned and killed him he did not resist Jam. 5. 6. Though he knew no sin yet when he was reviled he reviled not again when he suffered he threatned not 1 Pet. 2. 21 23. Though he could have destroyed them all yet he indured the contradiction of sinners against himself Heb. 12. 3. and he waited patiently for the Lord till he inclined his ear and heard him and brought him out of the horrible pit and out of the miry clay c. Ps 4. 1 2 3. 2. It is that patience which he is effecting in us by his Gospel which is called the Word of his patience See the notes on Rev. 3. v. 10. 2 Pet. 1. 4 6. In which he is discovering to us what Christ hath done and is become And this is called in this respect the patience of Christ 2 Thes 3. 5 and there are many Arguments contained in the Gospel which are proper and powerful to effect and maintain this patience in us thorow the Influence of the holy Spirit which doth accompany it as to say Herein is declared to us that Christ hath indured the Cross and overcome it and is now on the right Hand of the Throne of God and so hath abolished Death and all afflictions Heb. 12. 1 2 3. 2 Tim. 1. 8 10. and that he is become our rightful Lord and the author and orderer of all Afflictions to us Ps 39. 9. 1 Sam. 3. 18 and also herein is discovered to us his gracious end in all the tribulations he is permitting and ordering to us that all is for our good and profit that we might be partakers of his holiness here and of his glory hereafter Heb. 12. 1 10. 2 Cor. 4. 16 18 Isay 27. 8 9. Mark 10. 38. and herein also is set before us a Blessed hope to effect this patience hence it is called The patience of hope 1 Thes 1. 3. Rom. 2. 7. and the Apostle instricts the believers to rejoyce in hope and be patient in tribulation Rom. 12. 12. and ch 8. 24 25. Heb. 10. 34 36. Col. 1. 11. Now here noâ—e 1. He was in tribulation and patience Men may be so he was so and they were so and having access by faith into the grace of God in Christ tribulation worketh patience Rom. 5. 2 3 5. Jam. 1. 2 4 5. 2. He was in the Kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ this is the way for us to possess our souls in patience by being in the believing mindfulness and consideration of his Kingdom and having a lively hope to be made partakers of it in due season If we hope for that we see not then do we with patience wait for it Rom. 8. 24 25. 2 Cor. 4. 16. 17 18. 4. We have the place where John was when this Revelation was sent and signified to him In the Isle that is called Patmos It may seem he was banished thither as appears by the next words for the word of God c. this he speaks of himself and so he signifies to us 1. That those that are dearly beloved of the Lord may be persecuted and expelled out of their own Countries for the Gospel's sake and driven from the places of their abode Act. 13. 50 51. so was David 1 Sam. 26. 19. Ezekiel ch 1. 1 Daniel ch 1. 1 6. so it is is said of those worthies They wandred about in Sheep skins and goat-skins being destitute afflicted tormented of whom the World was not worthy they wandred in deserts and in Mountains and in dens and caves of the earth Heb. 11. 37 38. so our Lord Jesus was driven from one place to another Joh. 10. 39 40. and ch 11. 53 55. and he doth signifie that his Brethren may be strangers and expelled out of their native Countrey or from their own habitations Mat. 25. 35 38 43 44. 1 Thes 2. 16 17. Heb. 13. 2 1 Pet. 1. 1. Nay that which added to John's affliction was that he was alone in a great Measure and separated from his Brethren and herein worse then Ezekiel or Daniel and like that Ps 102. 5 6. 1. Beloved think it not strange concerning such a fiery trial as this is for the name of afflictions have been accomplished in eminently holy ones in former times 1 Pet. 4. 12. and ch 5. 10. 2. Judge not according to outward appearance they may be most beloved that meet with sharpest afflictions in this World for Christ's sake and many times God singles out the strongst and most beloved for the greatest sufferings 1 Cor. 4. 11 13. It was a great infirmity found with the Prophet to conclude that he had washt his hands in vain Because all the day long he had been plagued and chasten'd every morning Ps 73. 1 3 13 14 22. 3. Set not your affections on your Countries or habitations nor seek for a continuing city here Col. 3. 2. Heb. 13. 13. In a moment you may be driven from your homes and places of abode Oh suffer the grace of God to crucify you to the World that you may hate and forsake all in comparison and for the sake of Jesus Christ Luk. 84. 26 27 33. 2. That often times those who are adversaries to the Gospel have the greatest spight at such as are teachers of others and go before them in the Word of the Lord and especially at the most eminent of them so it seems the Apostles generally were in affliction and under persecution when other believers endured no such thing yea when some of them talked of reigning the Apostle Paul saith I think that God hath set forth us the Apostles last as it were Men appointed to Death for we are made a spectacte to the World and to Angels and Men see 1 Cor. 4. 8 9 13. Acts 14. 5 7 19. and ch 17. 5. Eph. 3. 13. 3. When the Apostle John was in this Isle and thus banished he had these visions and Revelations of the Lord vouchsafed to him so it was with Ezekiel when he was in Captivity Ezek. 1. 1 3. and ch 40. 1. c. and with Daniel ch 1. 3 6. and ch 2. 14 25. and ch 4. 8. c. and ch 5. 10 13. and ch 7. and ch 8. c. where-ever we are he can reveal to us secret and hidden things none no person or place can shut out his Light and instruction from us or hinder us from his gracious presence and many times when his people are under eminent sufferings for his names sake he then draws neer unto them and manifesteth himself and his things to them his Blessings are on the heads of them that separate and separated from their Brethren Gen. 49. 26. and though their enemies think evil against them in persecuting and banishing them yet God
and that he should redeem the souls of the poor even of his poor from deceit and violence and that their blood should be precious in his sight he adds And he shall live c. Ps 72. 8. 15 and this proper to comfort to look unto Jesus and not so to pore upon our deadness as to be discouraged but to consider he liveth there is life in him however it be with us he is the living-stone 1 Pet. 2. 3 5. the living quickening bread Joh. 6. 35 51. the water of life and fountain of living waters Jer. 2. 13. and ch 17. 13. Rev. 21. 6. and ch 22. 17. with Joh. 7. 37. the tree of life Prov. 3. 18. the light of life Joh. 8. 12. Oh! how may we rejoyce in him always and be encouraged when we are dead to come unto him for he is the Life Joh. 14. 6. the true God and eternal life 1 Joh. 5. 20. He is the Resurrection and the life He that believeth in him though he were dead yet shall he live And whosoever liveth and believeth in him shall not dye for ever Joh. 11. 25 26. 2. And was dead This he also sets before him to revive and quickâ—n him 1. He was dead he was put to death and died for us according to the Scriptures and herein is included and contained the whole of his personal abasement and sufferings and so it is usual with the Holy Ghost in one Act or Branch of his sufferings to include and contain the whole so his whole abasement sufferings and death are supposed and contained in this that he was made Flesh as Rom. 1. 1 3. The Gospel of God is concerning his Son Jesus Christ who was made of the Seed of David according to the Flesh for the next thing mentioned is his resurrection from the dead v. 4. So also 1 Tim. 3. 16. And his being made Sin doth suppose his being made of a Woman and so made under the Law and also contains his dying for our Sins 2 Cor. 5. 21. with Gal. 4. 4. and his dying doth evidently presuppose his partaking with us of Flesh and Blood without which he could not have died for he was put to death in the flesh Heb. 2. 14. 2 Cor. 13. 4. 1 Pet. 3. 18. and his having our Sins imputed to him for he died and was delivered for our offences Rom. 4. 25. 1 Cor. 15. 3. 1 Pet. 3. 18. And so 1. He was made flesh This is supposed and included in his saying I was dead for how could the Almighty the Alpha â—nd the Omega the first and the last dye had he not taken upon him the nature of Man But therefore that he might dye the word that was in the beginning with God yea that was God by whom all things were made and without whom was not any thing made that was made was made flesh Joh. 1. 1 3 14. That Eternal Life that was with the Father was manifested God was manifest in the flesh 1 Joh. 1. 1 2. with 1 Tim. 3. 16. It behoved him in all things to be made like unto his Brethren Sin only excepted and so he partook with us of Flesh and Blood and was subject to all our Infirmities and in all points â—empted like unto us yet without Sin Heb. 2. 14 16 17 18. and ch 4. 15. Otherwise he could not have died for us as was needful 2. God made him to be Sin for us who knew no Sin and did impute the Trespasses of the World unto him even all those Trespasses which made the first breach between God and Mankind to wit the guilâ— of that disobedience of our first parent Male and Female in which we all sinned and from whence we are naturally and necessarily polluted and defiled and of all the necessary Branches thereof 2 Cor. 5. 19 21. all we like Sheep have gone astray we have turned every one to his own way and the LORD laid upon him the Iniquities of us all Ps 40. 6 12. Isay 53. 6. Otherwise the Law had had nothing to have said unto him or he could not have been legally put to death for us Gal. 3. 13. and ch 4. 4 5. 3. He bare all the Wrath due unto us from God for those ouâ— Sins which were charged and caused to meet together upon him He was wounded or tormented for our Transgressions bruised for our Iniquities the chastisement of our Peace was upon him Isay 53. 4 5. It pleased the LORD to bruise him he put him to grief he spared him not who was his own his proper Son but delivered him up for us all Isay 53. 10. Rom. 8. 32. He executed upon him the Judgment of this World Joh. 12. 27 31. and brought him into the dust of death Ps 22. 14 15. And he caused his Sword even Satan and his Instruments to awake against his Shepherd and against the Man his Fellow Zech. 13. 7. with Mat. 26. 31. so as that was their hour and the power of darkness Luke 22. 53. God did according to his determinate councel and fore-knowledge deliver him and then Men with wicked hands did crucifie slay and murder him Acts 2. 23. and ch 17. 52. And so he was put to death and died for us He was dead not only did he shed one drop or many drops of Blood but as was needful he poured out his Soul unto death Isay 53. 12. One drop or two or twenty were not sufficient but Christ must needs have suffered even unto death as he also did Such was his Grace towards us Acts 17. 2 3. 2 Cor. 5. 14 15. But wherefore or to what end or ends did he dye for us 1. The great first and fundamental end of his sufferings and death was to put away our Sins by the Sacrifice of himself Heb. 9. 26. and so to make peace Col. 1. 20. and be the propitiation for our Sins 1 Joh. 4. 10. and abolish our death even the first death 2 Tim. 1. 10. and destroy him that had the power of Death that is the Devil Heb. 2. 14 15. He was manifested in the Flesh to take away our Sins and in him is no Sin for he hath done that work which the Father gave him to do in his own personal body and for this purpose was the Son of God manifested that he might destroy the works of the Devil 1 Joh. 3. 5 8. And he hath purged away the guilt of our first sin and sinfulness from before the presence of God before he sate down on his right hand Heb. 1. 3. delivered us in himself from that so great a death as we were fallen under the Sentence of 2 Cor. 1. 10. cast Satan out of his Principality Joh. 12. 31. redeemed us from the curse of the Law being made a curse for us Gal. 3. 13. taken out of the way all that was in it contrary to us Col. 2. 14 15. and obtained for us repentance and forgiveness of our following Sins and eternal redemption in the nature of
Man Rom. 5. 15 16. Acts 13. 37 38. Heb. 2. 17. and ch 7. 27. and ch 9. 12. and so he gave his Flesh for the Life of the World Joh. 6. 51. died for all even for all of Mankind that were dead 2 Cor. 5. 14 15. died for the Ungodly Sinners Unjust Ones indefinitely Rom. 5. 6 8. 1 Tim. 1. 15. 1 Pet. 3. 18. tasted death by the Grace of God for every Man and gave himself a ransome for all Men and is the propitiation for the Sins of the whole World 2 Cor. 5. 14 15. Heb. 2. 9. 1 Tim. 2. 4 6. 1 Joh. 2. 2. Is indeed the Christ the Saviour of the World the Son of God the Saviour of the World In whom God hath prepared Salvation before the Face of all people Luke 2. 10 11 30 31. Joh. 3. 16 17. and ch 4. 42 and ch 12. 47. 1 Joh. 4. 14. And as with respect to this end of his death the Scribes and Pharisees or Jews and Gentiles did not put him to death but God delivered him up to death for our Offences Rom. 4. 25. and ch 8. 32. And in these his sufferings and death he was alone of the People there was none with him Isay 63. 3. 1 Pet. 2. 24. And this end of his death is not imitable nor hath he herein set any one an example to follow his steps Joh. 17. 4. Heb. 10. 11 18 26. And these sufferings and this death on this account he once and but once actually endured and died in the end of the World no more to be iterated or repeated Heb. 9. 25 26. and ch 10. 10. And hereby he is become a good Foundation for every poor sinful Soul of Mankind Isay 28. 16. Joh. 1. 7. Acts 4. 11 12. 1 Pet. 2. 6 7. 2. He also in obedience to his Father died as a Peace-preacher and Martyr Rev. 1. 5. and ch 3. 14. To confirm and seal with his Blood the Gospel which he received from his Father and which he began to preach during his personal ministration as he saith To this end was I born and for this cause came I into the World that I should bear witness unto or be a Martyr for the truth Joh. 18. 37. And he witnessed this good Confession before Pontius Pilate 1 Tim. 6. 13. On this account his Enemies did persecute and seek to slay him before his hour was come Joh. 8. 37 40. In this respect God did not put him to death but was well-pleased with him Luke 4. 18. Joh. 8. 29. But the Jews with wicked hands did crucifie and slay him Acts 10. 38 39. As with respect to this end he died not for our Sins but for the truth and died directly for his Sheep for his Friends Joh. 10. 11 15 18. and ch 15. 13 14. And herein he hath left us an example that we should follow his steps and lay down our lives for the Gospel and so for the Brethren 1 Pet. 2. 20 23. 1 Tim. 6. 12 14. 1 Joh. 3. 16. His sufferings upon this account are not yet finished but they are still to be filled up till he comes again Col. 1. 20 24. 2 Tim. 2. 10. Heb. 11. 26. Acts 9. 4. 1 Pet. 4. 12 15. See more in Object of Love Pag. 22 23 24. 3. He died also as a Testator to ratifie and seal the New Testament and Everlasting Covenant of exceeding great and precious promises Hence his Blood is called The Blood of the New Testament Mat. 26. 28. Mark 14. 24. and the Blood of the Covenant Heb. 10. 29. And the New Testament is said to be The New Testament in his Blood Luke 22. 20. 1 Cor. 11. 25. And his Blood is called the Blood â—â— the Everlasting Covenant Heb. 13. 20. By his precious Death and Blood he hath sealed and ascertained the precious Legacies contained in his Will and Testament so as they shall be surely performed and accomplished according to the tenour of them If it may be a Man's Testament yet if it be confirmed no Man disanulleth or addeth thereto Gal. 3. 15. Now Christs Testament is confirmed by Blood for where a Testament is there must also of necessity be the death of the Testator For a Testament is of force after men are dead otherwise it is of no strength at all whilest the Testator liveth Heb. 9. 16 17. Now thus Christ hath confirmed his Testament which is propounded in the Gospel for the encouragement of all to encline their ear and come unto him and he promises he will forgive their Sins and pour out his Spirit upon them Isay 54. and ch 55. 1 3 6 7. Prov. 1. 22 23. And these promises are theirs and they are Heirs according to promise who exercise themselves unto Godliness which is profitable to all things having promise of the Life which now is and of that which is to come Gal. 3. 16 29. 1 Tim. 4. 8 9. These are the ends of that one death which Christ died and this death of his he now propounds unto and minds his Servant John of to strengthen and comfort him See also the notes on ch 2. v. 8. 2. And was dead not is dead but he is raised again and now liveth and Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more death hath no more Dominion over him c. Rom. 6. 9 10. 1 Pet. 3. 18. 1 Cor. 15. 1 4 20. yea he was raised in that body of his flesh in which he died and was buried he was raised again the third day so as his Soul was not left in Hell neither did his flesh see Corruption Acts 2. 23 24 27 31 36 and ch 3. 14 15 and ch 4 10 12 32. and ch 5. 30 31. and ch 10. 39 40. and ch 13. 28 37. and ch 17. 3. And therefore when he was raised again to undeceive his Disciples who supposed that they had seen a Spirit he said unto them Behold my hands and my Feet that it is I my self it had not been he himself if he had not had his own Hands and Feet Handle me and see for a Spirit hath not Flesh and Bones as ye see me have And when he had thus spoken â—e shewed them his Hands and his Feet Luke 24. 34 37 40. Joh. 20. 20 28. And so he hath overcome and abolished death and him that had the power of it 2 Tim. 1. 8 10. Fear not he hath obtained the Victory and is giving it to us in and by the Gospel Ps 98. 1. Acts 2. 24. 1 Cor. 15. 55 57. There is now no hurt in death and therefore no reason for them that hear his voice and follow him to fear it for it shall 〈◊〉 separate them from the love of God in Christ Jesus Rom. 8. 38 39. And he hath the Keys of it as afterwards followeth yea Death is theirs their gain and advantage 1 Cor. 3. 22. Eccles 7. 1. Phil. 1. 21. 3. And Behold I am alive for evermore Amen where consider we 1. He is alive for
11 14. Rom. 8. 34 39. Joh. 11. 25. 2. Tim. 1. 8 10. 3. To encourage them against the fear of the first death the death of the Body So doth Job For saith he I know my redeemer liveth and he shall stand at the latter day upon the Earth and though after my skin worms destroy this Body yet in my flesh shall I see God Job 19. 25 27. Because he liveth they that come unto and follow him shall live also For this is the will of him that sent him that every one that seeth the Son and believeth in him should have everlasting life and he will raise him up at the last day Ps 23. 4. 1 Cor 15. 21 23. 1 Thes 4. 14 16. Joh. 14. 19. and ch 6. 40. 4. And have the Keys of Hell and Death This he still speaks to the same end as formerly to strengthen him against the fear of evil Here consider we 1. What is this Hell and Death of which he hath the Keys 2. What is meant by having the Keys thereof 3. How hath he obtained the Keys of Hell and Death 1. What is this Hell and Death of which he hath the Keys Surely though sometimes by Hell is meant that place of torment into which the wicked shall be cast as Ps 9. 17. Luke 16. 23. Yet here and most frequently by this Word Hell is meant that disappearing state they are in who are taken away by death and the word here translated Hell is elsewhere frequently rendred the Grave as 1 Cor. 15. 55. Rev. 20. 13. c. Death signifies the dissolution of the Soul from the Body and Hell that unseen dark or disappearing State they are in when dead I mean as to us therefore it is called the Land of Darkness as Darkness it self and where the light is as Darkness Job 10. 21 22. In which the Eye of him that hath seen them shall see them no more Job 7. 8. Into this Hell or disappearing State all go good and bad Into this Hell Jacob said he would go I will go down saith he not into the Grave for he thought some evil Beast had devoured his Son but into Hell unto my Son mourning Gen. 37. 35. And again Ye shall bring down my gray-Hairs with Sorrow to Hell Gen. 42. 38. So ch 44. 29 31. So Job desired Oh that thou wouldest hide me in Hell Job 14. 13. And when David prays God to spare him he uses this Argument In death there is no remembrance of thee in Hell who shall give thee thanks Ps 6. 5. And Hezekiah speaks to the same purpose as here using the same order of words as is here for Hell cannot praise thee death cannot celebrate thee Isay 38. 18. In which sayings both the good and holy Men conclude that if they were taken out of the Land of the living they should go into this Hell so the Preacher propounds this unto all to provoke them to present diligence whatsoever thine hand finds to do do it with thy might for there is no work nor device nor knowledge nor wisdom in the Grave or in Hell whither thou goest Eccles 9. 10. Out of this Hell the righteous and holy-ones also shall be brought and then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written Death is swallowed up in Victory O Death where is thy Sting O Hell where is thy Victory 1 Cor. 15. 54 55. And so it is said Death and Hell delivered up the dead that were in them and Death and Hell were cast into the Lake of Fire this is the second death And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life c. Implying that some such also were in this Hell formerly which indeed doth signifie the State of deadly-hood Rev. 20. 12 15. and ch 6. 8. 2. What is meant by having the Keys of this Hell and Death Hereby is signified that he hath the power thereof and so as there are these two uses of Keys namely to open and shut so it is here also in this business See Isay 22. 23. Rev. 3. 7. and ch 9. 1. and ch 20. 1 3. And so 1. He hath the Keys to open Hell and Death to open the Gates and Doors thereof Job 30. 17. Isay 38. 10. that is to say he hath power to take away any Man's Life when he pleaseth and send them into this Hell for the Father hath committed all judgment unto the Son and hath given him Authority to execute judgment also because he is the Son of Man Joh. 5. 22 27. And so he hath power to order and send any affliction to us When we are judged with any Judgments we are chastened of this Lord 1 Cor. 11. 30 32. Our times are in his hand and when he pleaseth he can remove us hence for he hath the Keys of Hell and Death The Son of Man who hath a Golden Crown on his Head hath in his hand a sharp Sickle the Sickle of death to cut Men down therewith at his pleasure Rev. 14. 13 14 16. And so now he did permit or order this deadness unto the Apostle He can when he pleases open the Door of Death and let Men yea put Men in thereat and none can stay his hand No man hath power over the Spirit to retain the Spirit neither hath he power in the Day of death and there is no discharge in that War Eccles 8. 8. And he hath power also and will in due season with his Keys open the Graves of all and cause them to come out of them and will open theirs who sleep in him and bring them forth unto the Resurrection of Life and so to their endless and eternal Joy and comfort Ezek. 37. 12 13. Joh. 5. 28 29. 2. And he hath the Keys of Hell and Death to keep Men out thereof during his good pleasure our times are in his hand who hath redeemed us in this respect also Ps 31. 5 10 15. Or to keep off any affliction from us as he said unto Paul in a Vision be not afraid but speak and hold not thy peace for I am with thee and no Man shall set on thee to hurt thee Acts 18. 9 10. And he hath power to shut upon a Man when he takes away his life and there can be no opening He can with his Keys lock them up in the House of Death and detain them as Prisoners and then there is no coming out until he open the Door If he cut off and shut up or gather together then who can hinder him Job 11. 10. Behold he breaketh down and it cannot be built again he shuts upon a Man and there can be no opening Job 12. 10. 3. How hath he obtained the Keys of Hell and Death And that is by dying and overcoming our death the first death and the Devil He hath by the Grace of God tasted death for every Man and thorow this destroyed him that had the power of it that is the Devil Heb. 2. 9 14 15. By
familiar in Scripture so of the Paschal Lamb it is said It is the Lord 's passeover that is a Sign or commemoration thereof Exod. 12. 11 12. so when the Lord saith this is Jerusalem it is easy to understand this to be the meaning of that expression This is a sign or figure representing Jerusalem Ezek. 5. 1 6. with ch 4. 1 4. so again that Rock was Christ to wit Christ was the mystery or secret signified thereby 1 Cor. 10. 4. see also the notes on ch 5. v. 8. and is it not as easy to understand that saying in like manner This is my Body to wit the sign and commemoration thereof as the Apostle saith Do this in remembrance of me relating therein Christs words and as oft as ye eat this bread and drink this cup it is bread still after consecration ye shew forth the Lords death till he come 1 Cor. 11. 23 26 28. surely were these persons who otherwise construe it as desirous to seek after the truth as they are thirsty of innocent blood they would not be so ignorant as they are of the meaning of this and such-like symbolical sayings 2. He saith not The seven stars are the seven Angels though he calls them in the symbol seven starrs yet he names them not in opening the mystery seven Angels but the Angels and yet when he opens the mystery of the seven candlesticks he still calls them seven Churches surely to intimate that the Angels were not seven individual persons but indefinitely those that were Guides unto the seven Churches and went before them in the Word of the Lord. If any say it may be enough to conclude them to be but seven Individual Persons because they are called the seven Stars Rev. 1. 16 20. and ch 2. 1. and ch 3. v. 1. I answer 1. That might rather have sufficed as with respect to the seven Candlesticks to call them Churches because he had called them seven Churches before verse 4. and named them particularly verse 11. and yet here again he calls them seven Churches whereas he never calls the seven Stars seven Angels And besides 2. Though the several Epistles be directed to the several Angels and every particular Epistle to the Angel yet it appears there was more than one individual person intended thereby as to instance though that Epistle to the Church in Smyrna be directed to the Angel yet he saith to him Behold the Devil shall cast some of you into Prison that ye may be tried and ye shall have tribulation Rev. 2. 10. So to the the Angel of the Church in Thyatira he saith Vnto you I say and unto the rest c. And I will give to every one of you c. v 23 25. In both which it appears that more than one person is meant by the Angel But we may now enquire and consider for our further usefulness 1. What are these Angels here spoken of 2. Why are they called and compared unto Angels 1. What are these Angels here spoken And to that we say They are not those Glorious Spirits most frequently so called the Word Angel denotes not the nature but office of persons and it appears that by Angels here are not meant those glorious Spirits ministring Spirits because he fortifies some of these against and signifies they should suffer tribulation and be cast into Prison by the Devil c. And commends some for their patience in tribulation and râ—proves some of these for evils sound with them ch 2. 1 5. and v. 8 10. Nor are they the Churches but distinguished from them nor are they false Teachers but they are the Messengers of the Churches sent for the good of them and such as went before them in the Word of the Lord their Bishops or Overseers So the Baptist is called a Messenger or Angel Mat. 11. 10. and the Priests in former times Mal. 2. 7. That which some say that by Angels cannot be meant Overseers because they are said to be the Angels of the Churches whereas they are not sent by them is of no great weight for of the Churches may mean not sent from them but for the good of them as the Angels of the little ones are not sent by them but imployed for the good of them Mat. 18. 10. 2. Why are they called and compared unto Angels In general as hath been said they are so called because they are sent for the benefit of them for the Word Angel is used generally for any Messenger Jam. 2. 25. and particularly to denote that these Bishops or Overseers are or should be as to their Office and fitness for it like in some respect to those invisible and Holy Spirits 1. Like them they are or should be furnished with Wisdom from above for the good of others 2 Sam. 14. 20. for he that sends a message by the hand of a Fool cutteth off the Feet and drinketh dammage Prov. 26. 6. 2. Because it is their Office to ascend upon the Son of Man to Heaven in their Prayers and in prayers to God for those over whom they are set yea and for the good of all Men 1 Tim. 2. 1 8. Gen. 28. 12. with Joh. 1. 51. And to descend upon him and bring down Messages from Heaven that they may be apt to teach others 3. Like the glorious Spirits they should have their conversation in Heaven be more abundantly sequestred from the things here below in their hearts and it behoves them especially not to intangle themselves with the affairs of this life Phil. 3. 17 20. 2 Tim. 2. 3 4. that they may mind things above and be like the Angels beholding the glory of the Lord and doing his Commandments hearkening unto the voice of his word Mat. 18. 10. 2 Cor. 3. 18. Ps 103. 20. AN EXPOSITION On the second CHAPTER OF THE REVELATION Chap. 2. Verse 1. Vnto the Angel of the Church of Ephesus write these things saith he that holdeth the seven Stars in his right hand who walks in the midst of the seven Golden Candlesticks HERE begins the account of the several Epistles or Messages which John is commanded to write and send to the several Churches before-named and though every particular Message directly and especially concerns that Angel and Church whereto it is expresly directed yet they are of usefulness and for instruction to all the Churches and to every one that hath an Ear and needful to be considered by them as afterwards will appear to which in due place In this first Verse we have to mind and consider 1. The Person or Persons for whom this Message or Epistle is to be written and to whom to be sent Vnto the Angel of the Church of Ephesus write 2. The person from whom it comes described to us These things saith he that holdeth the seven Stars in his right hand c. 1. The person or persons for whom this Message or Epistle is to be written and unto whom it is commanded to be sent Vnto the
1 Joh. 4. 7 10 14 16 17 19. and ch 5. 1. And here-thorow were these Ephesians quickened to the love of God in Christ at first as it is said But God who is â—ich in mercy for or thorow his great love wherewith he loved us even when we were dead in sins hath quickened us c. Eph. 2. 4 5. This is the original and principle of the first love here spoken of 2. This love thus begotten is first placed on him that begat even on the Lord Jesus Christ and God in him because of his first love to us 1 Joh. 4. 19. and ch 5. 1. yea because of his love and loveliness his love is better then winâ— and because of the Savour of his good Oyntments his name is as Oyntment poured forth therefore do the virgins such as are not defiled with Women with whorish societieâ— anâ— congregâ—â—ions love him the upright love him from the Remembrance of his love Cant. 1. 2 3 4. with Rev. 14. 3 4. And because of his beauty and glory his excellency and comeliness for their escape Isay 4. 2. he is firstly the object of their love though now they see him not with their bodily eyes as the Apostles did yet thâ—y love him 1 Pet. 1. 8. Eph. 6. 24. To this the saints are exhâ—â—ted O Love the Lord ye his saints Ps 31. 23. Oh worthy for ever is hâ— to be beloved who so loved uâ— when we wâ—re such filthy polluted ones as to give himself for us Rev. 1. 5 6. Gal. 2. 20. Hence the Apostle when he is triumphing in God's love in not sparing his own Son but delivering him up for us all and in Christs love to us in dying yea rather in rising again c. he addes I am perswaded that neither death nor life nor Angels nor principalities nor powers nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus Rom. 8. 32 34 39. Thereby it was begotten and thereby maintained and there-thorow fixed on that most excellent Object even Jesus Christ and God in him and such as love him are the called according to purpose Rom. 8. 28. His love and loveliness causeth them that know and believe it to cleave to him with full purpose to pant after him that they may more know him win him and be found in him It causes them to run unto him and follow him hard and to long and wait for his appearing and coming again Ps 42. 1 2. and 63. 1 4 8. Isay 55. 5. 2 Tim. 4. 8. 3. This love thus begotten and fixed upon this most excellent object is inward intense and fervent It is not in word and tongue only but indeed and in truth 1 Joh. 3. 18. Too too many there are who draw nigh to him with their mouth and honour him with their lips while yet their hearts are far removed from him but all such worship is in vain Isay 29. 13. with Mat. 15. 8 9. But this first love here intimately commended to us by Christ is such as is with all the heart like that our saviour saith in answer to the scribe Hear O Israel the Lord our God is one Lord and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind and with all thy strength Mark 12. 28 30. Deut. 6. 4 5. Hence Christ is oft thus called by the spouse He whom my soul loveth Cant. 1. 7. and ch 3. 1 2 3 4. This love is with the heart as distinguished from and opposed to that pretence of love or that feigned love found with too many this is love without dissimulation Rom. 12. 9. love in sincerity or with incorruption Eph. 6. 24. and this love is also with the whole heart as distinguished from and opposed to dividedness of heart towards him and also towards other persons or things which is found with many as it is said their heart is divided now shall they be found faulty Hos 10. 2. too many there are who are double-minded who have a soul and a soul whose hearts are full of doublemindedness who in some measure love Christ and together also love somewhat else before or equal to him and so love him not with such a love as is well pleasing to him for no man can serve two masters for either he will hate the one and love the other or else he will hold to the one and despise the other Mat. 6. 24. Luk. 16. 13. and he that loveth Father or Mother more than Christ is not worthy of him he that loveth Son or Daughter more than he is not worthy of him Mat. 10. 37. Luke 14. 24 26. but the first love here spoken of is such as leads one to be and abide for Christ and not to be for another man or object Hos 3. 3. and so inward intense and ardent is this love as that it leads to hate what is reproved our sins and vanities or otherwise it is but love with dissimulation when love is without dissimulation it leads to abhor that which is evil Rom. 12. 9. This is the nature of this love that it causeth a Man to abstain from deny and mortify all that which is displeasing to the beloved And hence whereas in giving the law the right worshipping of God is expressed in four commandments by God to wit Thou shalt have no other Gods but me Thou shalt not make to thy self any graven Image c. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain c. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy c. Exod. 20. 3 11 Deut. 5. 7 15. they are all summed up in this afterwards Deut. 6. 4 5. and by our saviour Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart and with all thy Soul and with all thy mind c. Mat. 22. 36 38. Luke 10. 26 27. to signify to us that the hearty love of him includes and leads to an abstaining from and fleeing from whatsoever is forbidden by him and indeed he that doth evil hateth Christ who is the light of the World and if any Man love the World the love of the Father is not in him Joh. 3. 20. 1 Joh. 2. 15. yea so intense this love is as that it moves and prevails with him in whom it is to prefer Christ before all and forsake all for his sake the riches honour glory name and praise of this World and those things most gainful and dear unto them even their former good things confidences Wisdom Righteousness relations c. Luke 14. 16 26 33. and ch 9. 59 62. Mat. 13. 44 46. as the Apostle saith of himself But what things were gain to me those I counted loss for Christ yea doubtless and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord for whom I have suffered the loss of all
2 3 4. 2. We have nextly to consider the promise it self and blessedness therein contained which is propounded unto the Churches and to be heard by every one that hath an ear assured and ascertained to him that overcometh as his undoubted portion I will give to eat of the tree of life which is in the midst of the paradise of God Where we have to consider and speak unto 1. The person promising I 2. The promise will give 3. The thing promised to eat of the tree of life 4. The place where this tree is and where he shall eat it which is in the midst of the Paradise of God 1. The Person promising I to wit Jesus Christ he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand and walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks v. 1. hence we may note The promises are Christ's to give and he hath power to bless us and make us partakers of all the blessings promised To Christ are the promises made and in him confirmed Gal. 3. 16 17. In him all the promises of God are yea and Amen 2 Cor. 1. 20. he hath by his blood confirmed them and hath power to perform and fulfil them hence also he speaks in such-like language to others of the Churches as I will give to eat of the hidden Manna and I will give him a white-stone and in the stone a new-name written Rev. 2. 17. To him will I give power over the nations c. v. 26. 28. see also ch 3. 5 12 21. The Father so loveth the Son because he laid down his life for us that he might take it up again that he hath given all things into his hand Joh 3. 35. with ch 10. 17. All things are delivered unto him of the Father Mat. 11. 27. And all power and Authority is given unto him to give what is good to give to Men repentance both grace space of repentance Acts 5. 31. Rev. 2. 21. To give forgiveness of sins to them that believe Acts 5. 31. and ch 10. 43. and ch 13. 39. To give unto them the power to become the Sons of God Joh. 1. 12. To pour forth his spirit unto them and make known his words Prov. 1. 23. To give them peace Joh. 14. 27. To pour forth unto them the spirit of grace and supplication Zech. 12. 10. To give unto them eternal life Joh. 10. 27 28. and ch 17. 2. and they that are Christ's are Abraham's seed and heires according to promise Gal. 3. 29. he hath now all to give who loved us and gave himself for us this is matter of great instruction and consolation to us and might move and prevail with us to come unto him continually and in so doing he will give us rest Mat. 11. 27 28 29. 2. The promise will give in which is signified unto us 1. The time when he will give this that is here promised and that follows mens overcoming and is consequential thereto he will give as is here promised after men have totally and finally overcome hence when he describes the subject of the blessedness here promised he doth it in the present time To him that overcometh But when he propounds the blessedness it self he doth it in time to come I will give and in such-like language he speaks to all these Churches as Rev. 2. 7 17 26 29. and ch 3. 5 6 12. and v. 21 22 and so it is like that of the Apostle ye have need of patience that after ye have done the will of God ye might receive the promise Heb. 10. 36. To them who are faithful unto the death he will give a crown of life Rev. 2. 10. Indeed now in this day and before they have overcome he doth give unto the believer all things that pertain to life and Godliness thorow the knowledge of himself that they may overcome he sends them not to warfare at their own charges and in their overcoming he is filling them with joy and peace in believing Rom. 15. 13. Though now they see him not yet believing they rejoyce with joy unspeakable and full of glory receiving the end of their faith even the salvation of their Souls 1 Pet. 1. 8 9. now their spirit is life for righteousness sake and in coming unto him the living-stone they are made lively stones their souls do live Joh. 6. 35 40 51 55 57. Rom. 8. 10. Gal. 2. 20. 1 Pet. 2. 3 5 But that which here and elsewhere he promises to these Churches is future and which follows their having overcome Then these promises shall be fulfilled to them in spirit when their spirits are made perfect when they will be in a far better condition then now they are Isay 57. 2. 2 Cor. 5. 6 8. Phil. 2. 21 22. Rev. 14. 13. and the most full and glorious performance hereof will be when the body is raised and the soul and body reunited even in the first resurrection the resurrection of the just and from thence for ever Rom. 8. 23 25. Jam. 5. 7 8. And so our Lord Jesus doth signify that there is after we have overcome after this earthly house of our Tabernacle is dissolved a future and more glorious state to be entred into and enjoyed immediately after we dye in spirit and in the first resurrection and thence to all eternity in soul and body and otherwise why should we fight or go to or undertake this warfare If in this life only we have hope in Christ we are of all men most miserable 1 Cor. 15. 19. but there is a World to come Luke 20. 35 36. Eph. 1. 21. Heb. 2. 5. a life to come 1 Tim. 4. 8. and he that overcometh shall inherit in the World to come the life to come even everlasting life Mark 10. 29 30. and he shall not be hurt of the second death the wrath to come Rev. 2. 11. with 1 Thes 1. 10. And this our Lord would now have us to mind and consider even what is to come after we have finished our course to mind this especially that we may not faint but continue to the end looking not at the things which are seen but at the things which are not seen for the things which are seen are temporal but the things that are not seen are eternal 2 Cor. 4. 13 14. and ch 5. 1 8. Heb. 11. 13 16 24 26. 2. We may nextly consider in the promise the freeness of it I will give what is freer then a gift It is a reward indeed but it is not of debt or from any desert of the overcomer but of grace All is of grace from first to last from the foundation to the top-stone Zech. 4 7. to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace but of debt But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly his faith is counted for righteousness Rom. 4. 4 5. wages and gift are opposed the one to the other The wages of sin is death but
is strong he is the first and the last a mighty Saviour he is who is the Saviour of all men especially of them that believe he is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by him and therefore fear we not to come unto and follow after and abide in him Isay 41. 4. and ch 44. 6. with this place 2. He is the first and the last which was dead and he only died for our sins by way of propitiation and as the publick man he himself and and he only bare our sins in his own body on the tree 1 Pet. 2. 24. 1 Joh. 4. 10 14. Isay 63. 3. one died for all even for all that were dead and but one 2 Cor. 5. 14 15. nor shall ever any other dye on this account as never any before or besides him hath done nor shall he be abased any more He being raised from the dead dieth no more death hath no more dominion over him for in that he died he died unto Sin once Rom. 6. 9 10. And therefore if his sacrifice be rejected there remains no more sacrifice for sins But a certain fearful looking for of Judgment and â—iery Indignation which shall consume the Adversaries Heb. 10. 26 29. he is the last Adam none other as the publick man is to follow him to dye suffer and satisfie for our sins and therefore take we heed of provoking him to leave mediating â—or us for how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation 1 Cor. 15 45. Exod. 23. 21. Ps 2. 12. Heb. 2. 1 3. And is alive He liveth and was dead and â—e is alive for evermore and of the truth hereof he gave many infallible evidences he shewed himselâ— alive after his passion by many infallible proofs being seen of his disciples forty days speaking of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God Act. 1. 3. This is witnessed of him that he liveth Heb. 7. 8. even by the holy Apostles as the Apostle Peter signifieth and by the holy spirit The God of our Fathers saith he raised up Jesus him hath God exalted with his right hand a Prince and Saviour and we are his witnesses of these things and so is also the Holy Ghost c. Acts 5. 30 32. and 25. 19. see notes on ch 1. v. 18. Verse 9. I know thy works and Tribulation and Poverty but thou arâ— rich And I know the blasphemy of them who say they are Jews and are not but are the Synagogue of Satan In this verse we have an account given us of what our Lord knew or took notice of and that both 1. With respect to this Angel and Church 2. With respect to others 1. As with respect to this Angel and Church c. wherein consider in general He that was dead and is alive he knows c. As he knows God and the things of God Joh. 10. 15. Rev. 5. 1 12. So he knows and takes notice of what is commendable or reprovable amongst his Churches â—say 11. 1 3. Joh. 2. 24 25. and ch 21. 17. Acts 1. 24. Heb. 4. 13. see the notes on v. 23. of this chapter I know thy works I take notice of them see the notes before on v. 2. and the works of this Angel and Church were such as were perfect before God hence we may again note as we have done before on v. 2. That though we take no notice of or know not of any good work any work of faith or labour of love yet Christ observes and will not be unmindful 1 Cor. 15. 58. Heb. 6. 9 10. So he saith to the Angel of the Church in Thyatira I know thy works and Charity and Service and thy works v. 19. yea though those works be done in the greatest secrecy and kept from the eyes of others and though our own left-hand doth not know what our right-hand doth yet still they are manifest to him and minded by him even any work of piety or charity that is done by us he seeth in secret and himself will reward openly so his eye was upon Nathanael when he thought none had taken notice thereof Nathanael saith unto him whence knowest thou me Jesus said unto him-when thou wast under the figtree I saw thee Joh. 1. 47 51. he observes his people exercising themselves to godliness when the generality of the professed Church is so profane as to say It is vain to serve God and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinances Then they that â—eared the Lord spake often one to another and the Lord hearkned and heard and a Book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord and that thought on his name and they shall be mine saith the Lord c. Maâ— 3. 14 18. And when he shall sit on the throne of his glory he shall say to them on his right I was hungry and ye gave me meat I was thirsty and ye gave me drink I was a stranger and ye took me in Then shall the righteous answer him saying Lord when saw we thee an hungred and fed thee or thirsty and gave thee drink c. They speak as if they knew not or took no notice of any such thing But yet he knew it as appears by what follows The King shall answer and say unto them Verily I say unto you Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my Brethren ye have done it unto me Mat. 25. 31 34 40. and ch 10. 41 42. The consideration whereof might both preserve us from charging our memories with what we do knowing it is had in remembrance in the sight of the Lord Acts 10. 31. and also preserve us from desires of vain-glory or doing what we do to be seen of men in doing which we shall have no reward of our Father which is in Heaven And it might engage us to do what we do in the greatest secrecy we may knowing he knows and will see in secret and reward and recompence whatsoever work or labour of love is so shewed to his name in the resurrection of the just Mat. 6. 1 5 8. 2 Cor. 5. 10. Luke 14. 14. And when they dye their works shall not dye or be forgotten but they shall rest from their labours and their works shall follow with them Rev. 14. 13. Heb. 11. 4. And Tribulation This is that also which our Lord knew and took notice of as with respect to this Angel and Church and that which his disciples shall meet with and have in this world Joh. 16. 33. all that will live Godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution Acts 14. 22. 2 Thes 1. 4. 2 Tim. 3. 11 12. see the notes before on ch 1. v. 9 Yea though Christ reproves not this Angel and Church for any thing nor finds any fault with them yet there were some who did though unjustly find fault with them and were Instruments of affliction to them and made them sad whom Christ had not
made sad Ezek. 13. 22. nay surely the more perfect and upright the works of any are and the more they are conformed to the Image of Christ the more the World hates them Rom. 8. 28 30 35. The more like the World they are the more they will love them with their corrupt love and the more unlike the World Christ's disciples are and the more they come out from amongst Men and be separate the more they will be Instruments of persecution and tribulation to them If ye were of the World saith our Saviour The World would love his own But because ye are not of the World but I have chosen the out of the World therefore the World â—ates you John 15. 19. Heb. 13. 13. 1 Pet. 4. 3 4. 1 John 3. 1 2. and ch 4. 17. 2 Cor. 6. 17 18. And poverty Either hereby we may understand that they were poor in spirit such as had suffered the loss of all things even of those things that were formerly gain to them and counted them but dung that they might win Christ and be found in him such as had nothing of their own to glory in or make their boast of as others have But had sold that they had that they might buy that field in which is that most excellent treasure Mat. 5. 3 with Isay 66. 1 2. Phil. 3. 7 9. Mat. 13. 44 46. Or also by their poverty we may understand their poverty as with respect to the things of this life and World and so in this consideration they might either be poor when they were first called and prevailed withal by the Gospel as the Apostle James saith hath not God chosen the poor of this World c. Jam. 2. 5. 1 Cor. 1. 26. Or also and rather their poverty appears to be occasioned to them by and to be the consequent of their tribulation as in this order it is here expressed they might suffer the spoiling of their goods Heb. 10. 32 34. and as the fruit of the afflictions and persecutions they endured they might be poor and stript of the things of this World 1 Cor. 4. 10 15. 2 Cor. 6. 9 10. they might be impoverished by their enemies spoiling and plundring of them or by the restraints and imprisonments they might endure for Christ and his Gospel's sake Now here as taking poverty in this last sense for being poor in this World we may note 1. In that he saith I know thy works and tribulation and Povertâ— that such as are in tribulation and Poverty may yet have works and labour of love so it is said of the Church in Thyatira I know thy works and thy Charity and thy service and thy patience v. 19. Though they were in tribulation and had need of and had patience yet also they had charity and works and the last more than the first And this is the commendable account the Apostle gives of the Churches of Macedonia how that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded to the riches of their liberality For to their power I bear record saith the Apostle yea and beyond their power they were willing of themselves c. 2 Cor. 8. 1 3 6. this is many times the complaint of persons when an opportunity is put into their hands for doing good alas we are poor we have it not when as it may be rather for want of an heart than any thing else they thus plead Indeed Christ is no hard Master he requires us but to do good as we have opportunity and ability Gal. 6. 10. Luke 11. 41. And if there be first a willing mind it is accepted according to that a Man hath and not according to that he hath not 2 Cor. 8. 12. But too frequently for want of faith in God when persons are poor they withhold more then is meet and it tendeth to poverty Wee may see what notice our Saviour takes of the poor Widow that cast in two mites into the treasury He said of a truth I say unto you that this poor widow hath cast in more then they all For these all have of their abundance cast into the offerings of God but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had Luke 21. 1 4. Our Saviour though he was ministred unto by others yet also he did give to the poor Luke 8. 2 3. with Joh. 13. 29. and the Apostle saith These hands have ministred unto my necessities and not only so but also to them that were with me and saith to the Bishops I have shewed you all things how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak c. Acts 20. 33 34 35. 2. In that he saith I know thy poverty the poverty of this Angel and Church with whom he finds no fault so we may note That those that Christ hath nothing against and whom he loves with peculiar manner and degree of love may be poor and mean in this World and so they are generally who are sincere fearers of him hence they are called the congregation of thy poor Ps 74. 19. and 73. 1 15. they are generally a poor and afflicted people who trust in the name of the Lord Zeph. 3. 12. They drink of this cup and are baptized with his baptism Mat. 20. 22 28. he doth not testify love to his favourites as the World doth unto hers Joh. 14. 27. His Kingdom is not of this World nor doth he ordinarily give much of the things appertaining to the Kingdoms of this World into their possession as he might easily do if he pleased Though he wrought many Articles when he was upon the Earth yet not one to enrich himself his Mother or his Apostles withall his Mother was poor when he was born and poor it may seem when he died which was about three and thirty yeers after And though he had some rich disciples yet he commited not his Mother to them but to the disciple whom he loved who was a poor Man a fisher-Man Joh. 19. 25 27 38 39. And his disciples fall to their old trade of fishing when he was raised again Joh. 21. 2 3. yea how poor and despised they remained afterward when Christ was received up into glory the Apostle Paul acquaints us saying I think that God hath set forth us the Apostles last as it were men appointed to death For we are made a spectacle unto the World and unto Angels and to Men. We are fools for Christs sake weak despised even unto this present hour we both hunger and thirst and are naked and are buffetted and have no certain dwelling-place And labour working with our own hands being reviled we bless being persecuted we suffer it being defamed we entreat we are made as the filth of the World and are the off-scouring of all things unto this day 1 Cor. 4. 9 13. The consideration whereof might wean us from the love of the World and the things that are in the World And help us
and the extent thereof both as to the Persons and as to the time of your tribulation 3. We have now in order to speak unto The good and needful counsel which he gives unto these Be thou faithful unto death That is to say Be thou faithful in the Lord as to the faithful in Christ Jesus Eph. 1. 1. To the Saints and faithful Brethren in Christ Col. 1. 2. 1 Tim. 6. 2. continue in the faith grounded and setled and be not moved a-away from the hope of the Gospel Col. 1. 23. stand fast in the faith 1 Cor. 16 13. as ye have received Christ Jesus the Lord walk in him rooted and built up in him and established in the faith Col. 2. 6 7. And Be thou faithful unto the Lord Acts 16. 15. In holding fast and holding forth the glorious Gospel unto death Tit. 1. 9. In rendring Christ's praise glorious and proclaiming the Lord's goodness and not thine own Prov. 20. 6. In resisting and striving against sin even unto blood Heb. 12. 4. In a patient continuance in well-doing Rom. 2. 7. Heb. 10. 36. In all be thou stedfast and unmoveable 1 Cor. 15. 58. Be thou constant and turn not aside from following him but cleave unto him with full purpose whatever afflictions or tribulations ye meet withal be faithful confessors and martyrs Rev. 1. 5. and ch 3. 14. continue unto the end in induring afflictions fight the good fight of faith till death Faithful is more then elected or chosen simply as that is more then called as is signified to us in that it is said they that are with the lamb are called and chosen faithful Rev. 17. 14. and ch 12. 11. Now in that he gives such counsel to these he signifieth unto us 1. That constancy in the faith and profession of it and in enduring the afflictions of the Gospel is needful and requisite for those that shall hereafter inherit eternal life It is not enough that men run well at the first but also that they hold on unto the end of the race Because iniquity shall abound the love of many shall wax cold But he that shall endure unto the end thy same shall be saved Mat. 24. 11 12. and ch 10. 22. So the Lord saith concerning Solomon I will establish his Kingdom for ever if he be constant to do my commandments But otherwise â—aith David to him If thou forsake him he will cast thee off for ever 1 Chron. 28. 7 8 9. The just shall live by faith but if he draw back my soul shall have no pleasure in him Heb. 10. 38. Though our Saviour finds no â—ault with this Church for any evil yet he signifies by this Counsel that it was needful for them to abide constant unto the end And so he doth when he sends a message to the Church in Philadelphia which was also unreprovable at that time and the only one of the seven that was so besides this yet to that Church also he saith hold that fast which thou hast that no Man take thy Crown See the notes on ch 3. v. 11. 2. In this counsel is also signified to us That those that are at present in Christ and whom he blames not for any thing but greatly commends may that notwithstanding possibly not abide faithful unto the conclusion of their lives But either because of the love of the World or for fear of somewhat to be parted with or endured may depart or stand off from Christ by an evil heart of unbelief Heb. 3. 1. with v. 12 13. This admonition is given to all believers not only to little Children and young Men but unto Fathers also Love not the World neither the things that are in the World If any Man love the World the love of the Father is not in him The love of money is the root of all evil which while some have coveted after they have erred from the faith c. 1 Joh. 2 15 16. with 1 Tim. 6. 9 10. 2 Tim. 4. 10. such as go right on their way may possibly be hindred or turned aside therefrom and such as were once faithful may be corrupted 1 Tim. 1. 20. 2 Tim. 2. 18. 1 Chron. 28. 7 8 9. Mat. 24. 45. c. Heb. 10. 23 26. see the notes on v 5 of this chapter 3. They may be faithful unto the end for he is faithful to confirm them unto the end that they may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ God is faithful by whom they were called to the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord 1 Cor. 1. 8 9. 1 Thess 5. 22 24. There is no Iniquity with the Lord our God Jer. 2. 1 5 12. 4. Faithfulness is required but unto death they that are constant thereto shall from thenceforth be so established for ever that they cannot possibly be unfaithful they shall then be pillars in the house of God and shall go no more out see the notes on Rev. 3. v. 12. They shall then be delivered compleatly and everlastingly from sin Heb. 12. 4. and from enemies after they are once dead their enemies have no more that they can do Luke 12. 4. henceforth there is certainly laid up for them a crown of Righteousness which the Lord the righteous judge shall give them at that day 2 Tim. 4. 7 8. Then they are blessed indeed and more blessed than they were in former times Rev. 14. 13. from thenceforth there is a great gulf fixed so that they which would pass from one place or state to another cannot Luke 16. 26. constancy is no longer required of them but until their earthly house of this Tabernacle be dissolved Then they shall enter into peace and rest in their beds each one walking before him and in his uprightness And they shall not be hurt of the Second Death v. 11. 4. We have a gracious promise and powerful encouragement propounded to and set before them to engage them to receive and obey the Counsel fore-spoken to And I will give thee a Crown of Life Which is not absolutely assured unto them but respectively to wit in their being faithful unto the Death To the former Words of this sentence we have spoken before see the notes on v. 7. Onely here we may briefly speak to these two things 1. Enquire what is this Crown of life 2. Shew he can and will give it to these and such-like 1. The Crown of life doth signify to us their reigning in life by and with Jesus Christ when they have finished their course here in spirit And in the resurrection of the just in Soul and body reunited Rom. 5. 17. and so life in scripture when taken as here is the same with the Kingdom of God compare Mat. 18. 9. with Mark 9. 47 48. and Mark 9. 43 45 47. And that which in one place the Apostle James thus expresseth the crown of life which the Lord hath promised to them that love him in another it is thus the Kingdom
which he hath promised to them that love him compare Jam. 1. 12. with ch 2. 5. that is to say hereby is meant eternal life in the Glorious enjoyment thereof they shall reign in life to all eternity Prov. 4. 7. 8 9. 2. Christ can and will give this Crown of life to him that is faithful unto death he can do it for God hath given us eternal life and this life is in his Son 1 Joh. 5. 11. The Father hath given all things into his hand into his possession and dispose Joh. 3. 35. He asked life of him and he gave it him even length of days for ever and ever Ps 21. 3 4. And he will assuredly do it for he delights to do the will of God And this is the will of him that sent him that every one that seeth the Son and believeth in him should have everlasting life and he will raise him up at the last day Ps 40. 8 with Joh. 6. 40. How might this engage us to faithfulness Rom. 2. 6 7. Jam. 1. 12. 2 Tim. 3. 3 4 5. Verse 11. He that hath an ear let him hear what the spirit saith unto the Churches see the notes before on v. 7. he that overcometh see notes on v. 7. shall not be hurt of the second death We have spoken to all the former part of this v. in v. 7. foredirected to and shall only speak somewhat to this last clause which is affirmed of every one that overcometh low and high rich and poor wise and unwise together he shall not be hurt of the second death In which is intimated and signified to us 1. That he may be hurt or injured of the first death I mean he may have his life taken away injuriously from him And so before that he may have his goods taken away and be spoiled of them and he may be persecuted both by reproachful words and also actually so and be chased from friends and habitations and be deprived of his liberty and cast into and kept in prison and be severely handled and cruelly and despitefully used as we have seen before on v. 9 10. which persecutions the Apostle calls killing and deaths Rom. 8. 35 36. 1 Cor. 15. 30 31. 2 Cor. 4. 10 12. and ch 11. 23. In such respects they may be hurt as it is said Rev. 11. 5. If any Man will hurt or injure them fire proceedeth out of their mouth And if any Man will hurt or injure them he must in this manner be killed Acts 27. 10. Ps 35. 4 26. So the Prophet saith they that seek my hurt speak mischievous things and imagine deceits all the day long Ps 38. 12. Tribulation and affliction are hurtful to the outward Man and very grievous even reproach is so Ps 69. 20. And much rather to be imprisoned and spoiled of the things appertaining to the natural life or to be tortured or injuriously condemned and put to death Thus they may be hurt of the first death while they are in their warfare and even to the consummation or conclusion thereof Obj. 1. If any one should say It appears none can or will hurt them from that question of the Apostle Peter's who is he that will harm you if ye be followers of that which is good 1 Pet. 3. 13. Ans I answer That doth not suppose that none will harm them or vex them or evilly entreat them But either 1. Who is he that will do it namely what or who is he as compared to the Lord whose eyes are over them who is he that will imploy himself in such a work v. 12. like that which the Prophet speaks in the person of Christ he is neer that Justifieth me who will contend with me who is mine adversary Behold the Lord God will help me who is he that shall condemn me Isay 50. 7 9. which words imply not that Christ had no adversary or none to contend with or condemn him But that they were inconsiderable and not worthy to be taken notice of in comparison of the Lord GOD who justified and helpt him In such a like sense we may also understand that If God be for us Who can be against us Rom. 8. 31 39. Or 2. Who is he that will harm you What manner of persons are they none but vile persons and such as have cause to be ashamed of their deeds such as are unaccountable or can give no good account for what they do absurd unreasonable Men 1 Pet. 3. 13 16. 2 Thess 3. 3. In both these senses we may take it But not as if they might not harm them in the sense we are speaking of they may evilly entreat and injure them and so much is implied in the next verse But and if ye do suffer for righteousness sake happy are ye And be not afraid of their terrour c. 1 Pet. 3. 13 14. And though God will bring good out of evil and cause all to work together for good to them that love God c. Rom. 8. 28. yet still wickedness proceedeth from the wicked and that is no thank to their enemies that he causeth the wrath of man to praise him nor do they mean so Isay 10. 5 7. nor is this the way to effect it Jam. 1. 19 20 21. So that still it appears that now of the first death they may be injured or hurt in the sence that is before declared and as is intimated in these words 2. But that which is here affirmed is he shall not be hurt of the second death Where let us inquire and consider for our usefulness What is this second death To which we may say more Generally 1. It is called the second death with respect to Men not to the Devil and his Angels for it is that which was at first prepared for them who kept not their first estate but left their own habitation and unto which they are reserved in everlasting chains of darkness to the Judgment of the great day Mat 25. 41. 2 Pet. 2. 4. Jude 6. Rev. 20. 10 14. 2. And therefore it appears The second death is not that which was threatned against man in case he eat of the forbidden fruit Indeed God said In the day thou eatest thereof in dying thou shalt dye Gen. 2. 17. But this death Christ hath tasted for every Man Heb. 2. 9. And abolished it 2 Tim. 1. 10. Otherwise we must have perished in it for ever our spirits should have been banished from the favour and presence of God and our bodies turned to and remained in corruption there had been no resurrection of the dead 1 Cor. 15. 20 22. But this death as is said Christ hath overcome and abolished And thus it is appointed to Men once to dye namely this first death as Christ hath taken the sting out of it Heb. 9. 27. and in due time all shall be raised out of it and no man shall perish in it for ever and in due time also he will destroy it Hos 13.
already so he intimates to us that Satan and his Instruments more generally and more particularly false teachers would pluck away Christ's Gospel from us if possibly they could Mat. 13. 19. Luke 8. 12. Acts 13. 8 10. â—need therefore we have to take fast hold of Instruction and not let it go to keep it for it is our life and to hold it fast till he come that being faithful unto death we may in due season receive the Crown of Life Prov. 4. 13. and ch 7. 1 5. See the notes on Chap. 3. Verse 3. and Verse 11. Verse 26. And he that overcometh and keepeth my works unto the end to him will I give power over the Nations In this Verse and the two following we have great and gracious promises propounded to and set before this and the rest of the Churches and which every one that hath an Ear is called upon to hear Wherein consider we 1. The subject of that which is here and afterwards promised 2. That which is promised and assured unto every such an one 1. The subject of that which is here and afterwards promised And he that overcometh See the notes before on Verse 7. and on Chap. 3. Verse 5. And keepeth my words unto the end His Work is honourable and glorious and his Righteousness endureth for ever He hath made his wonderful works to be remembred Psal 111. 2 3 4. The works of Christ which are to be kept by us unto the end are 1. The works which he hath wrought and accomplished for us in his own personal body which the Father prepared for him his personal abasement and sufferings wherein he humbled himself and became obedient unto death the death of the cross Phil. 2. 6 8. of which he saith as to his suffering work on earth I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do Joh. 17. 4. and whereby he hath redeemed us from the curse of the law being made a curse for us Gal. 3. 13. purged away the guilt of our first sin and sinfulness from before the presence of God Heb. 1. 3. 1 Joh. 3. 5. Abolished and overcome that first death which was the wages of that first sin and sinfulness and delivered us in himself from it 1 Cor. 15. 57. 2 Tim. 1. 10. 2 Cor. 1. 10. and hath destroyed him that had the power of death that is the Devil For this purpose was the Son of God manifested that he might destroy the works of the Devil and he hath done the work which the Father sent him to do he hath bound the strong Man cast out the prince of this world Heb. 2. 14. 1 Joh. 3. 8. Joh. 12. 31. he hath taken out of the way all that was in it contrary to us Oh that Men would praise the Lord for his goodness and for his wonderful works to the Children of Men For he hath broken the gates of brass and cut the bars of iron in sunder Ps 107. 15 16. and he hath by his blood in the vertue whereof he is raised again obtained eternal redemption Heb. 9. 12. a restoration of our nature in his person into the image of God and so into perfect innocency integrity and immortality and into dominion over the works of God's hands and recovered our loss into himself having obtained for us the forgiveness of our personal sins Acts 13. 38 39. brought in everlasting righteousness Dan. 9. 24. Ps 98. 1 3 4. received the immeasurable fulness of the Spirit that he might bring forth judgment to us Gentiles Joh. 3. 24. Isay 42. 1. and ch 11. 1 3. and is possessed of eternal life in our nature for Man-kind 1 Joh. 5. 10 11. In him God hath blessed us with all Spiritual blessings in Heavenly things In whom it hath pleased the Father that all fulness should dwell Eph. 1. 3. Col. 1. 19. and ch 2. 6 10. These works which he hath wrought accomplished for us should always be kept in memory by us that we might be glad thorow his work and triumph in the works of his hands in which his loving-kindness is wonderfully manifested to us Ps 92. 1 4 5. and 40. 5 8. and 118. 22 25. 2. And the works which he is now doing both in Heaven with the Father for us in which he is the one and only mediatour between God and Men making intercession for transgressors 1 Tim. 2. 5. Isay 53. 12. and ever liveth to make intercession for them that come to God by him as their advocate Heb. 7. 24 25. and ch 9. 14 15. 1 Joh. 2. 1 2. And what he is doing from Heaven in the name of the Father and fulness of the anointing of the holy Spirit to us as a Testimony of God's goodness to all Men in their proper seasons and ages And as the Apostle of the Believers profession 1 Tim. 2. 6. Heb. 3. 1. 3. And what he will do hereafter viz. give rewards to his Servants the Prophets and to his Saints and them that fear his name small and great and destroy them that destroy and corrupt the earth Rev. 11. 17 18. Isay 45. 16 17. 23 25. These are to be held fast and kept in faith and hope and to be rejoyced in at all times by us And he that doth truth cometh to the light that his works may be made manifest that they are wrought in God Joh. 3. 21. Isay 26. 12. and these works of his are to be kept in our mouths and to be declared to others also that they knowing them may come unto him and put their trust under the shadow of his wings accoring to that Give thanks unto the Lord call upon his name make known his deeds among the people sing unto him sing Psalms unto him talk of all his wondrous works 1 Chron. 16. 8 9. Ps 105. 1 5. declare among the people his doings Ps 9. 11. and 77. 12. Isay 12. 14. And also by Christ's works are meant what he worketh and effecteth in us by his Gospel the work of Faith and labour of love and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ c. 1 Thes 1. 3 5 6. for the Gospel being heartily received worketh effectually in them that believe 1 Thes 2. 13. he it is that worketh all our works in us and perfects what concerns us even by his Gospel which is the power of God to salvation to every one that believeth Isay 26. 12. Ps 138. 8. with Rom. 1. 16. his works even these works of his also are to be held fast by us to the end until we come to lay down our lives Mat. 10. 22. that we may dye in the Faith Heb. 11. 13. Rev. 14. 13. Now herein is intimated and signified to us 1. That the works of Christ as declared in and effected by his Gospel may be kept by us unto the end notwithstanding all opposition whatsoever for he is faithful by whom we have been called to the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord 1 Cor. 1. 8 9. 1
to him Ask of me and I will give thee the Heathen for thinâ— Inheritance and the utmost parts of the Earth for thy Possession To wit all power over the Nations Then it is added Thou shalt break them with a Rod of Iron with an irresistible power thou shalt dash them in pieces like a Potters Vessel Psal 2. 7 8 9. with Acts 13. 32 33. As it is here also assured by Christ to him that overcometh c. Christ hath received all power over the Nations and shall inherit all Nations Ps 82. 8. He shall govern the Nations upon Earth Psal 67. 4. He shall judge the World in righteousness and minister judgment to the people in uprightness Psal 9. 6 8. and 96. 13. and 98. 9. and 22. 27 29. He shall have dominion from Sea to Sea and from the River unto the ends of the Earth They that dwell in the Wilderness shall bow before him and his Enemies shall lick the dust The Kings of Tarshish and of the Isles shall bring presents The Kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer Gifts yea all Kings shall fall down before him all Nations shall serve him Psal 72. 8 11. and 66. 1 4. The Lord shall be King over all the Earth Zech. 14. 9. He and not the Church of Rome as a learned man â—ondly conceits is the Man-child who shall rule all Nations with a rod of Iron Rev. 12. 5. Isay 2. 4. He shall rule them with a Rod of Iron with an irresistible power as before is said and break in peices the Oppressor and all that rebel against him and will not fall down and submit to him Psal 72. 4. Isay 1â— 4 5. Yea this Kingdom of Christ's which the God of Heaven shall set up shall never be destroyed nor be left to other people but it shall break in pieces and consume all other Kingdoms and it shall stand for ever Dan. 2. 34 35 44. And so in the beginning of his Reign he shall smite the Nations and he shall rule them with a rod of Iron and he treadeth the Wine-press and Wrath of Almighty God Rev. 19. 15 21. And he shall fight against and destroy those Nations that come against Jerusalem Zech. 14. 3 4 12. And in the time of his reign he will plague those Families that come not up to worship the King the Lord of Hosts and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles Zech. 14. 16 19. And in the end of the thousand years reign Fire shall come down from God out of Heaven and devour the Nations which are in the four quarters of the Earth who will then being deceived by the Devil go up and compass the Camp of the Saints about and the beloved City Rev. 20. 7 8 9. And in that Christ hath received and will in due season exercise such power over the Nations the consideration of it may be useful to us 1. To shew unto us the preciousness of his blood for upon the account thereof the Father hath highly exalted him and given him a name above every name Joâ— 3. 35. with ch 10. 17. Phil. 2. 6 9 11. Rev. 5. 12. 2. It may engage and provoke us all now to submit to him this is the use the Holy Ghost makes of the power given to Christ and that he shall rule the Nations with a Rod of Iron c. Be wise now therefore O ye Kings be instructed ye Judges of the Earth Kiss the Son lâ—st he be angry and ye perish c. Psal 2. 8 10 12. Acts 3. 19 20. and ch 17. 30 31. 3. In that he will give such power to him that oveâ—cometh it shews that such are called to the fellowship of Jesus Christ our Lord 1 Cor. 1. 9. 2 Thes 2. 13 14. To him are they beholden for all Rom. 8. 17. Luke 22. 29 30. And it might engage us therefore to hold fast his works and to fight the good fight of Faith 1 Tim. 6. 12. Then their Horn shall be exalted with Honour Psal 75 10. Verse 28. And I will give him the Morning Star This is a farther Branch of the Blessedness assured unto him that overcometh and keepeth Christ's works unto the end By the Morning Star is here meant Jesus Christ himself as he gives us to understand saying I Jesus have sent mine Angel to testifie to you these things in the Churches I am the bright and morning Star Rev. 22. 16. And he is the morning Star so called by way of excellency and eminency and so he is preferred before the Angels or Messengers of the Churches who are called Stars chap. 1. 17 20. For he is the Angel or Messenger of the Covenant Mal. 3. 1. And before the Apostles who are compared to and called Stars Rev. 12. 1. For he is the Apostle of the Believers Profession Heb. 3. 1. And before the Angels who are by nature Spirits and who are called the morning Stars Joâ— 38. 7. For he is Gods Angel emphatically so called in whom his name is Exod. 23. 20 21. He is made so much better then the Angels as he hath by Inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they Heb. 1. 3 4 13. This is that Star of which Balaam prophesied when he said There shall come a Star out of Jacob Numb 24. 17. and he is here called the morning Star and the bright and morning Star ch 22. 16. to signifie to us that when God shall send him again then immediately will follow the day of God 2. Pet. 3. 12. or the day of Christ Phil. 1. 6. and ch 2. 16. that notable day of the Lord Acts 2. 20. And so he is called the Day-Star 2 Pet. 1. 19. and Day-Spring East or Sun-rising Luke 1. 78. This Morning-Star he will give to him that overcometh then not as now by Faith but gloriously And so 1. He will give himself then gloriously who is the Resurrection and the Life and so give them a part in and raise them up in the first Resurrection so the different glory in the Resurrection is compared to the diversity of the glory among the Stars 1 Cor. 15. 41. with Verse 33. Rev. 20. 4 6. He will raise them up in the Resurrection of the just Luke 14. 14. and ch 20. 35 36. 2. He as the Son of Righteousness will appear and immediately arise to them with healing under his wings Mal. 4. 2. and wipe away all Tears from their Eyes and there shall be no more death neither sorrow nor crying nor shall there be any more pain for the former things shall pass away Rev. 21. 1 4 5. He will then perfectly and eternally forgive their Sins and heal their Diseases and deliver them from all the Fruits of Sin Ps 130. 8. Isay 33. 24. 3. He will immediately be a perpetual light to them he will give himself as the morning-Star unto them and that day shall then come in which there will be no darkness to those that have their part in the first Resurrection The Sun shall be no
4 5. If Men only had blamed thee and Charged thy works with imperfection it had been no great thing and thou needest not much have laid it to thy heart for they are liable to mistake and erre But I who have the seven Spirits of God have searched into thy works and have not found them perfect before God therefore remember c. It is high time for us to remember and consider our ways when he in his word reproves us for we cannot disanull his judgment Job 40. 8. he cannot be deceived Now in this direction and instruction there are three Branches 1. Remember how thou hast received and heard 2. And hold fast 3. And repent 1. Remember therefore how thou hast received and â—eard Quest But why saith he how thou hast received and â—eard and not rather how thou hast heard and received seeing many times hearing is put before receiving in the order of words as Prov. 4. 10. and ch 19. 20. Mark 4. 16 20. Ans 1. This order is not always observed sometimes received is put before heard and that when Back-sliders are not spoken unto As the Apostle saith to the Philippians those things which ye have received and heard do Phil. 4. 9. And the Lord saith to Ezekiel Receive in thine heart and hear with thine ears c. Ezek. 3. 10. And therefore when there is a different order in the expressions frequently the order of words proves nothing though it doth when it 's usually observed Rom. 10. 9 10. Rev. 10. 9 10. Joh. 6. 27. 2. These two expressions may be duly placed in order as we may understand them And so by Received may mean received with thine ears and heard to wit in hearing which includes also believing and receiving in believing so receiving is with the ear As let your â—ar receive the word of his mouth Jer. 9. 20. so Eliphaz saith now a thing was secretly or by stealth brought to me and mine â—ar received a little thereof which is the same with that afterwards I heard a voice Job 4. 12 16. and sometimes as is said hearing includes and contains believing or receiving by faith As hear and your Souls shall live Isay 55. 3. they that hear shall live Joh. 5. 25. and many times when it is mentioned alone or after some other act of ours as here it doth so signify and however we shall so look upon it here Remember how thou hast received to wit with thine ears And heard namely in hearing Now then in this direction and instruction let us consider 1. The matter or thing to be remembred how thou hast received and heard 2. the Act which is required of them Remember 1. The matter or thing to be remembred how thou hast received and heard Now by this word how we may understand 1. What or the thing which they had received and heard so the word how is sometimes to be taken and understood so that which is in one Evangelist take heed how ye hear is thus expressed in an other take heed what ye hear compare Luke 8. 18. with Mark 4. 24. so when our Saviour saith to the Lawyer what is written in the law how readest thou he means how as included therein what readest thou Luke 10. 26. so remember how that is what he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee saying the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful Men c. Luke 24. 6. compare also Mat. 22. 31. with Mark 12. 26. and so it is as if Christ should say remember what thou hast received and heard And that which they had received with the â—ar and heard and so received in believing was Jesus Christ by his Spirit he and the things of him are to be heard by us and the first things also he received honour and Glory from his Father when he said this is my beloved Son hear him Mat. 17. 5. with 2 Pet. 1. 17. and the things to be heard from the beginning are that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures and that he was buried And that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures and that he was seen of Cephas c. 1 Cor. 15. 1 4. with 1 Joh. 2. 24. and he and the things of him are to be received by Faith in believing As the Apostle signifies saying As ye have received Christ Jesus the Lord walk ye in him Col. 2. 6. And with him God gives all things freely the believer receives them by Faith Rom. 8. 32. Even all things that pertain to life and godliness 2 Pet. 1. 3. Christ himself is that which is received by the faith of the operation of God Joâ— 1. 12. And he that hath received and hath him hath life 1 Joh. 5. 12. hath the forgiveness of his sins 1 Joh. 2. 12. Joh. 5. 24. And so he is delivered in his mind and conscience from under the guilt and accusation of sin by the law and from the â—ears of God's wrath because of his natural and necessary sinfulness and pollution The law of the Spirit of life in Christ makes him free from the law of sin and death By shewing unto him That what the law could not do in that it was weak thorow the flesh God sent his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin condemned sin in the flesh Rom. 8. 2 3. so as there remains no more conscience of sin to him on that account Heb. 10. 2 5 22. 2 Pet. 1. 9. yea and also he with Christ receives in believing the remission of his own personal sins and is justified from all things from which Men could not be justified by the law of Moses Acts 10. 43. and ch 13. 38 39. And so hath peace with God his Soul is delivered from death and his eyes from tears Rom. 4. 25. and 5. 1. Ps 116. 7 8 16. and with Christ he receives righteousness Prov. 8. 18. yea Christ is made of God to him righteousness Jer. 23. 6. 1 Cor. 1. 30. Rom. 3. 22. and his conscience is by the blood of Christ purged from dead works from the life-less and unprofitable works of his own righteousness Heb. 9 14. with Isay 57. 12. he is dead to the law by the body of Christ crucified with Christ thereto Rom. 7. 3 5. Gal. 2. 19 21. in receiving Christ he partakes of the â—avour of God Prov. 8. 35. and 1â— 14 16. Is a Son of God by Faith in Christ Jesus and what manner of love is this Joh. 1. 12. 1 Joh. 3. 1 2. Is quickneâ— to a liveâ—y hope by the resurection of Christ from the dead an hope that will not make ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in the heart by the Holy Ghost that while we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for the ungodly 1 Pet. 1. 3 5. Rom. 5. 2 5 10. and unto new and living affections and services Rom. 8. 3 4. 1 Joh. 4. 14 19. and v. 7
32 33. Heb. 11. 17 19. The Apostle Paul to recover the Galatians from their wandrings sets before them that Christ is the Amen to him the promises are made and in him confirmed and with him assured to those that receive him So as in being Christ's they are Abraham's seed and heirs according to promise Gal. 3. 16 17 29. and 4. 28. and 5. 1. And so here Christ declareth himself to be the Amen to cure these of that Lukewarmness they were polluted with and assures them that in opening and giving entertainment to him he would come in to them and sup with them and they with him and that he that overcometh should sit with him on his throne Rev. 3. 14 20 21. Oh were this considered by us that God hath not spared his own Son but delivered him up for us all how would this make us confident that with him he will freely give us all things also how would this cause us to mount up with wings as Eagles to run and not to be a weary to walk and not saint and to encourage and engage us to listen to his counsel whom God hath given for a covenant to the people For the Lord God is a sun and shield he will give grace and glory no good thing will â—e with-hold from them that walk uprightly Rom. 8. 32. Ps 84. 10 12. The faithful and true witness This may be an explication of the Amen and shew us what is further meant by and contained in that expression These two words faithful and true may mean one and the same thing or we may say he is the faithful witness in that work whereto the Father appointed him hence the Apostle instructs the holy Brethren to consider the Apostle and High-priest of their profession who was faithful to him that appointed him namely in that hard and difficult work of humbling himself and becoming obedient to death the death of the cross Heb. 2. 9 18 and 3. 1 2. he is in his cross a faithful witness of the greatness and sincerity of the Fathers affection to us Isay 55. 3 4. who is meant by the faithful witness here spoken of may be plainly seen and wherein he is so firstly and fundamentally Rev. 1. 5. Jesus Christ the faithful witness and the first begotten of the dead And so 1. As he died for our sins by way of propitiation and as the peace-maker So he is a faithful witness of the Fathers love and that he is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance he is the great sign and undoubted evidence of the heat and ardency of God's love towards us poor sinners even toward every poor sinful creature of Mankind in that by the grace of God he tasted death for every Man In this was manifested the love of God towards us because God sent his only begotten Son into the World that we might live thorow him The Father sent the Son the Saviour of the World 1 Joh. 4. 8 10 14. God so loved the World that he gave his only begotten Son c. Joh. 3. 16. This is the great sign of God's love to us and it is an evil and adulterous thing to seek after any other Mat. 12. 39. 1. Cor. 1. 22 24. and he is the faithful witness therein of the truth and faithfulness of the Father in performing his promises according to the tenour of them for he that spared not his own Son but delivered him up for us all how shall he not with him freely give us all things also Isay 55. 3 4. Rom. 8. 32. Yea in what he hath sufâ—ered he is the faithful witness also of the freeness and ardency of his own love towards us his love was so fervent as that many waters could not quench it nor could the Floods drown it such was his grace that he laid down his life for us he died for all 2 Cor. 5. 14 15. and such the preciousness of his blood that in the vertue thereof he is raised again hath purged away our sins made peace slain the enmity broken down the middle-wall of partition between God and mankind taken out of the way all that was in it contrary to us abolished death and destroyed him that had the power of death that is the Devil and obtained into himself all Spiritual blessings in Heavenly things and confirmed a new Testament and Everlasting Covenant Oh what a faithful witness is he of the greatness and fervency of his own and his Fathers love And how powerful therefore is the view of him in his Cross to cure us of our Lukewarmness Do ye thus requite the Lord O foolish people and unwise Is he not thy Father that hath bought thee Oh how doth this love constrain us to love him and to cleave to him with full purpose Yea and to return to him when we have fallen by our iniquities for therein he shews us that he hath no pleasure in the death of him that dieth and so not in the death and destruction of poor wretched miserable blind naked lukewarm ones Oh! fear not to come unto and walk before him and be perfect Let not your hands be slack By this ye are saved if ye keep in memory what was at first declared to you unless ye believe in vain viz. that Christ died for our Sins according to the Scriptures and was buried and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures 1 Cor. 15. 1 4. O foolish Galatians saith the Apostle who hath bewitched you that ye should not obey the truth that ye should not continue in running well but grow remiâ—s before whose Eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth crucified c. Gal. 3. 1. with ch 5. 7. 2. The faithful Witness and Martyr as a Peace-preacher who laid down his Life in testimony to the truth of that Gospel which he received from his Father and declared to us for to this end was he born and for this cause came he into the World that he should bear Witness to the truth Joh. 18. 37. And to this he did bear witness unto the death and sealed to the truth of that Gospel with his Blood This the Apostle Paul sets before Timothy to encourage him to fight the good fight of Faith that Jesus Christ witnessed a good Confession before Pontius Pilate when he knew what things he should suffer on that account 1 Tim. 6. 12 14. Away with this lukewarmness then and let us come unto and follow him whithersoever he goeth enduring bardness as good Souldiers of Jesus Christ 2 Tim. 2. 1 3 8. See Heb. 12. 1 3. 1 Pet. 2. 20 24. and ch 3. 17 18. And the true Witness In his Testimony in which he hath declared what he hath done and the Fathers love in him and that he is the Amen He is the truth it self and his word is the word of truth Prov. 8. 6 8. Ps 119. 160. 1 Joh. 5. 20. The true light now shineth 1
2. and 116. 3. and 18. 4 5. 2. Tried in the Fire signifieth that this Heavenly Gold was proved herein and appeared to be so right and excellent as that he could and did endure and abide the Fire and therefore also he is called and compared to Gold because it was one of these things and the first-named that would abide the Fire Numb 31. 22 23. He was proved to purpose herein the word of the Lord was tried Ps 18. 30. He is a tried Stone Isay 28. 16. He did not shrink from or perish in this Fire but endured to the end His love and graciousness was tried and evidenced to be strong as yea stronger than the Fire it self which had a most vehement flame Cant. 8. 6 7. 3. His beâ—ng tried in the Fire doth signifie that he was herein and here thorow purifâ—ed and refined and came forth as Gold out of the Fire Job 23. 10. Indeed he had never any pollution of his own or any mixture of Sin cleaving to him He knew no Sin he did no Sin there was guile found in his mouth 2 Cor. 5. 21. 1 Pet. 22. 2. But yet he had our sins laid upon him God made him to be sin for us The Lord laid on him the iniquities of us all 2 Cor. 5. 21. Isay 53. 6. and so he was by imputation spotted as it were with our spots and deformed with our afflictions and wrinckles but he was tried in the Fire therein and thereby was he purified from our Sins from the guilt of them and so he is pure He was manifested to take away our Sins and in him is no Sin 1 Joh. 3. 3 4 5. and he hath put off all mortality and weakness in his Resurrection 2 Tim. 1. 10. and hath a glorious body now in the Heavens Phil. 3. 20 21. He now liveth who was dead and he is alive for evermore Rom. 6. 9 10. See the notes before on ch 1. v. 18. and on ch 2. v. 8. 4. This Gold is said to be tried to denote that this trying work is over and past though the vertue and glorious fruit of it remains and abides for ever It is not said Gold trying but tried in or out of the Fire for as before is said he is acquitted of all our Sins imputed to him and hath overcome abolished and got rid of all our weakness and mortality and all occasions of grief and trouble and is not as some ungodly and antichristian Spirits blasphemously affirm dying in some or in any in every age of the World Once and but once in the end of the World he appeared to put away Sin by the Sacrifice of himself Heb. 9. 25 26. Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more death hath no more dominion over him for in that he died he died unto Sin once but in that he liveth he liveth to God Rom. 6. 9 10. Heb. 7. 8 16 25. Rev. 1. 18. 3. In the next place consider we what is imported to us in the end why he counsels this Angel to buy which is also a powerful motive and argument used to move us to have such an high estimate of this Gold as to buy it at any rate that thou mayest be rich In this end is signified to us 1. That those that have not this Gold tried in the Fire cannot be rich nor enriched with true riches but are poor miserable creatures in the Eyes of him that judgeth righteously though they have large possessions much Gold and a multitude of Rubies These riches here below will not profit in a day of Wrath or death Will he esteem thy Riches No not Gold c. Job 36. 18 19. Zeph. 1. 18. Prov. 11. 4. nor make us partakers of the favour of God Cant. 8. 7. Though we had never such an abundance of the Gold and Riches of this World yet we should not upon that account be rich toward or with God Luke 12. 16 21. 2. In this end and motive is also signified to us that be we never so poor and miserable as with respect to the Riches Wisdom Righteousness c. of this world and though these Riches here below of what nature or kind soever they be will not truly enrich us yet in buying and being made partakers of this Gold tried in the Fire we may be rich rruly rich Eph. 3. 8. Riches and Honour are with him yea durable riches his fruit is better than Gold yea than fine Gold And therefore those that love him shall inherit substance and he will fill all their Treasures Prov. 8. 4 18 21. Rom. 8. 32. Jam. 2. 5. 3. In that he saith that thou mayest be rich it declares and shews unto us the great grace of our Lord Jesus Christ such was his grace to us that to this end he became poor that thorow his poverty we might be made rich 2 Cor. 8. 9. It was not nor is his own good and profit this faithful and true witness aims at but the profit and benefit of others that they may be saved 1 Cor. 10. 33. and ch 11. 1. Christ once suffered for Sins the just for the unjust that he might bring us to God being put to death in the flesh but quickened by the Spirit 1 Pet. 3. 18. 4. In that he here commends himself to us under the name of Gold and proposeth such an end to us to move and perswade us to buy it that we may be rich herein is intimated and signified to us his willingness and cordial desire that we should receive his counsel and part with and suffer the loss of all things for the excellency of him that we might win him Therefore he doth so aptly and enamouringly present himself to us and make use of such engaging and alluring arguments and motives he knows we all naturally love Riches our Hearts are taken with Gold and our Eyes set upon that as a most desirable and delightful thing Now then he thus in the first place describes himself and calleth and commends himself to us under the name of Gold tried in the fire and counsels us to buy that we may be truly and indeed enriched But no more to this Branch of the counsel In the next place we come to the second Branch Viz. And white Raiment that thou mayest be cloathed and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear This is a further Branch of the good and wholesome counsel given us by the Amen who is the counsellor of peace In which let us consider 1. The thing further counselled to by this excellent one and that is white Raiment 2. The end why this Angel and Church is counselled to buy this White Raiment That thou mayest be cloathed and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear 1. The things which this Counsellor further counsels this Angel and Church to buy and that is White Raiment or White Garments Here consider we 1. What is this White Raiment here counselled unto In general we may say It
is such raiment as is only to be had and bought of Christ and which the people may buy and wear as well as the Angel and hereby is signified to us righteousness as Rev. 19. 8. so Job saith I put on righteousness and it cloathed me Job 29. 14. And let thy Priests be cloathed with righteousness Ps 132. 9. Isay 61. 10. But now this righteousness which is the White Raiment is not our own righteousness according to the law Rom. 3. 19 20. But the white raiment here spoken of is 1. The righteousness of God without the law which Christ hath wrought and compleated in himself and is become who is Jehovah our righteousness Jer. 23. 6. and so he is compared to a garment and believers are instructed to put him on Rom. 13. 14. and as many as are baptized into Christ are said to have put on Christ Gal. 3. 27. Col. 3. 10. Eph. 4. 23 24. And Christ is and in him appears the righteousness of God and so he is become righteousness for us in taking our nature upon him and therein being made sin and a curse and so tasting death by the grace of God for every Man whereby righteousness is come God made him to be sin for us that we might be made the righteousness of God in him 2 Cor. 5. 21. If righteousness come by the law then Christ hath died in vain Gal. 2. 21. In which is implied that to the end he might bring in everlasting righteousness he must dye Dan. 9. 24 26. and he is raised again as the publick Man And so he is raised for our justification Rom. 4. 25. 1 Tim. 3. 16. 1 Cor. 1. 30. 2. By this White Raiment or those White garments are meant the fruits of this righteousness believed Jam. 3. 18. For this the Apostle prays for the Phillippians that they might be sincere and without offence being filled with the fruits of righteousness which fruits are by Jesus Christ received and believed in unto the Glory and praise of God Phil. 1. 9 10 11. and of these fruits there are some more inward and some more outward Those more inward and wrought in the Spirit of the mind by the Spirit in the Testimony in glorifying Christ and taking of his things and shewing unto us are Humility This is compared to a garment Be ye all cloathed with humility 1 Pet. 5. 4. Col. 3. 12. and this garment these needed to buy of Christ for they were lifted up with high thoughts and conceits of themselves we have seen v. 17. Zeal for God to be clad herewith as with a cloak Isay 59. 17. this was that also which this Angel and Church were destitute of they were Lukewarme and neither cold nor hot as we have seen before This was therefore needful to be bought by them in and with humility and unless that be put on this cannot be had by us for while Men have high thoughts of themselves and their attainments this disposes them to Lukewarmness and hinders them from being zealous Bowels of mercy kindness c. are also to be put on by his Angels and Churches not only outward acts of mercy but bowels of mercy Col. 3. 12. and these garments aptly follow and are joyned with zeal for when the love and loveliness of Christ is so known and believed and considered by us as to enflame our hearts with love to him together herewith also we are led and prevailed with to put on Bowels of mercies and to be tender-hearted unto all Meekness also is to be put on by them as a garment Col. 3. 12. The ornament of a meek and quiet Spirit which is in the sight of God of great price 1 Pet. 3. 1 5. and this is joyned with and put as the consequent of lowliness Eph. 4. 2. and of humbleness of mind Col. 3. 12. and meekness and lowliness of heart were conjoyned in our Saviour Mat. 11. 29. Prov. 13. 10. Jam. 3. 13 17. Charity also is to be put on by us above all things have â—ervent charity among your selves 1 Pet. 4. 8. above all these things put on charity which is the bond of perfectness Col. 3. 14. Let all your things be done with charity 1 Cor 16. 14. and indeed in putting on charity we put on all the other garments before spoken of In putting on this we shall put on humility for charity vaunts not it self is not puffed up 1 Cor. 13. 4. in putting on this we put on zeal and fervency hence it is called fervent charity 1 Pet. 4. 8. Cant. 8. 6 7. In putting on this we put on bowels of mercies kindness Charity suffers long and is kind 1 Cor. 13. 4. Luke 6. 27 38. see notes before on ch 2. v. 19. about charity And by the fruits of righteousness and so by those White garments are meant those more outward even the holding forth the word of life in word and conversation so as the grace of God in its efficacies and outward works may be seen and beheld of all Men Acts 11. 22. Phil. 2. 13 16. Mat. 5. 16. Col. 3. 5 9 15. 2. Why is this raiment said to be white and what is imported therein 1. In general we may say in this expression there is allusion and reference to the garments that the Priests and Levites did wear and in which they did minister Euod 28. 39 43. Lev. 16. 4 23. 2 Chron. 5. 12. and â—ow the Priest-hood being changed there is made of necessity a change also of the law Heb. 7. 12. we have an High-priest after the order of Melchisedeck and he is King of righteousness who hath brought in an everlasting righteousness and is cloathed therewith Isay 61. 10. and hath it to confer upon and cloath with all that are born of him Heb. 7. 1 2. 1 Joâ— 3. 6. and all that are born of and come to him are made Priests be they Jew or Gentile male or female 1 Pet. 2. 4 9. Rev. 1. 5 6. 2. More particularly this raiment is said to be White to note the purity thereof So those garments those white garments of the Priests in former times are said to be holy Lev. 16. 4 32. Ezek. 44. 16. 19. So clean and white and pure and white are put together To signify That whiteness and cleanness or purity do meet together here Rev. 19. 8. and 15. 6. and so this white raiment is holy 3. This raiment is white as the light Mat. 17. 2. shining and glistering Mark 9. 3. Luke 9. 29. such as being bought by his Angels and Churches and put on and found in is powerful to give light to such as have their understandings darkned and to discover and cure their errours and mistakes 1 Pet. 2. 11 12. 4. This Raiment is said to be white to signify to us that it is raiment of praise and beauty of rejoycing and gladness It betokens and occasions joy and rejoycing as black is a token of sadness or mourning Mal. 3. 14. So white of
1 13. And this is he who now stands at the everlasting doors of the Soul and knocks even the Lord strong and mighty the Lord mighty in battel compare Ps 24. 7 10. with Rev. 3. 20 21. Oh then be we of good cheer for his right hand and his holy arme hath gotten him the victory Ps 98. 1 4. Joh. 16. 33. and open we to him continually and believe we with the heart the victory and conquest he hath gotten that there-thorow we may do valiantly Rom. 8. 36 39. 1 Joh 5. 4 5. 2. He is set down with his Father in his throne namely on the account of his overcoming as it is said when he had by himself purged our sins he sat down on the right hand of the majesty on high Heb. 1. 3. and ch 10. 10 12 because he humbled himself became obedient to death the death of the cross Therefore also hath God highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name c. Phil. 2. 6 8 10. and herein is imported and signified to us 1. That that Christ is in Heaven in that glorious place so called with his Father for there is God's throne as it is said The Lord's throne is in heaven Ps 11. 4. see notes on ch 4. v. 2. thither is Christ gone he is gone up into and received in Heaven Luke 24. 51. Mark 16. 19. 1 Pet. 3. 22. And it is said of Stephen He looked up stedfastly into Heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing on the right hand of God Acts 7. 55 56. and ch 3. 20 21. 2. Herein is directly said he is set down with his Father in his throne viz. 1. He is there an High-priest a Kingly High-priest Zech. 6. 13. King of righteousness and King of peace Heb. 7. 1. him hath God exalted with and to his right hand a prince and Saviour to give repentance and forgiveness of sins Acts 5. 31. he is the High-priest upon the throne who makes intercession for transgressours Isay 53. 12. and the one and only mediatour between God and Men 1 Tim. 2. 5. For every high-priest is taken from among Men and is ordained for Men for the good of Men in things pertaining to God who can have compassion on the ignorant and on them that are out of the way Heb. 5. 1 2. he is the propitiation for the sins of the whole world 1 Joh. 2. 2. with ch 5. 19. he who died for all Men now appears making intercession for them while they are joyned to all the living thorow whom God is long-suffering because he is not willing that any Man should perish but that all should come to repentance and be saved 2 Pet. 3. 9 15. 1 Tim. 2. 4 5. he is the lamb of God who is in the midst of the throne that taketh away the sin of the world compare Joh. 1. 29. with Rev. 5. 6. And he is the High-priest of the believers profession Heb. 3. 1. who ever liveth to make intercession for them that come unto God by him and is therefore able to save them to the uttermost Heb. 7. 24 26. and this may strengthen them to hold fast the profession of their faith without wavering and to come with boldness to the throne of grace that they may obtain mercy and find grace to help in the time of need Heb. 4. 14 16. and 8. 1 3. â—nd ch 10. 18 23 25. he is their advocate with the Father with his Father as here our advocate is the Kings Son and with their Father to personate them to plead their cause present their suites manage their matters obtain gracious returns for them and to perfect whatsoever doth concern them 1 Joh. 2. 1 2. Ps 138. 8. 2. He is on his Fathers throne he is Lord of all Acts 10. 36. all power given to him both in heaven and in earth Mat. 28. 18. he is set on the throne of Majesty and Sovereignty the throne of the Kingdome Deut. 17. 18. 2 Sam. 7. 13. 1 King 1. 46. To sit on the throne is to reign compare 1 King 3. 6. with 2 Chron. 1. 8. or to be the ruler compare 1 King 9. 5. with 2 Chron. 7. 18. or to be the governour hence the throne is called the throne of the governour Neh. 3. 7. and he is indeed God's King whom he hath set upon his holy hill of Zion Ps 2. 6. one on whose shoulders is the government Isay 9. 6. The Father hath committed all judgment all the government unto him Joh. 5. 22. he is King of nations the King of all the earth Ps 47. and that for the good of Men generally and hence all the earth is called upon to sing a new song â—ecause he reigneth Ps 96. 1 10. and 97. 1. and 98. 1 6. and for the especial good of them that believe for he is the Saviour of all Men especially of them that believe 1 Tim. 4. 10. Isay 52. 7. Zech. 9. 10. he hath a peculiar care of and favour toward them that kiss him and submit unto the scepter of his Kingdom Isay 49. 13 16. and 51. 22. Ps 146. 10. therefore they may rejoyce and run with patience the race set before them because he indured the cross despising the shame and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God Heb. 12. 1 2. and need not be afraid with any fear of amazement Ps 9. 1 7 9. and 46. he is on the throne who hath died yea rather is risen again and all thrones and things are under him Col. 1. 16 17. Eph. 1. 20 21 22 23. 1 Pet. 3. 22. 2. We have nextly to consider that which is proposed to and set before the Churches and assured as the portion of the overcomer To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne where we have 1. The subject To him that overcometh Rev. 12. 11. Eph. 6. 10 17. there must be a warfare and a conquest Now here we may note That though Christ hath overcome yet he hath not so destroyed our enemies but that they are in being still and we have them to fight with and overcome indeed as to their first work he hath destroyed them so as none shall perish for ever in that first death and all our enemies are Christs captives But yet they are in being still and he doth permit them to act for our exercise we have sin within us the world death and Satan to be our enemies But thorow him we may be more than conquerours and shall in believing on him who is he that that overcometh the world but he that believeth that Jesus Christ is the Son of God 1 Joh. 5. 4 5. 2 Cor. 10. 4 5. 1 Pet 5. 8 9. This may encourage us to fight because Christ hath overcome he hath led captivity captive The captain of our Salvation is made perfect thorow the sufferings Heb. 2. 10. and now is upon his Father's throne 2. Consider we that which
of the Angels but as they were sinning Angels as they kept not their first estate but left their own their proper habitation or house They had an house prepared for them in Heaven at first and given to them and that was their proper house as they were created of God at fiâ—st in the truth but because they kept not their principality nor abode in the truth in which they were created but left their proper house and sinned against God they were cast down to Hell Everlasting fire was prepared for the Devil as a Devil as one that abode not in the truth and his Angels and not for Gods Angels 2 Pet. 2. 4. Jude 6. 1 Tim. 3. 6. Matth. 25. 41. with John 8. 44. And that mankind fell under his wrath and the sentence of death it was because of sin By one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Rom. 5. 12. and chap. 6. 23. And when they had thus sinned and God might righteously have cast them off and destroyed them for ever yet then God manifested he had no pleasure in the everlasting destruction of any of mankind in that he devised such a blessed device that his banished should not be expelled from him He so loved the world of mankind that he gave his Son by his grace to taste death for every man John 3. 16 17. Hebr. 2. 9. and raised him from the dead for their justification Rom. 4. 25. with chap. 3. 23 24. And Christ hath purged away the guilt of that first sin and sinfulness from before the presence of God 2. Cor. 5. 19 21. with Hebr. 1. 3. abolished that first death which otherwise would have been everlasting 2 Tim. 1. 10. with Rom. 6. 23. and will in due season destroy it 1 Cor. 15. 26. and destroyed him that had the power of death that is the Devil Hebr. 2. 9-14 So as no man shall perish for ever in that first death but all shall be raised out of it by the man Jesus Christ who is become the resurrection and the life 1 Cor. 15. 21 22. And when raised no man shall be cast into the second death for that first sin and sinfulness simply but for loving darkness rather than light after light was vouchsafed to them The soul that sinneth it shall dye Jer. 31. 29 30. Ezek. 18. 1 2 4. And now he hath declared that he doth not willingly afflict nor grieve the children of men no not with such afflictions as are but for a moment Lament 3. 32 33. It is his work his strange work his act his strange act Isa 28. 21. Hebr. 12. 10. Much less doth he delight in the eternal ruine and misery of any of them no not of the vilest of them while it is called to day This was not his will or pleasure concerning them or any of them in creating them nor is it in preserving them while they are joyned to all the living Eccles 9. 4. So much himself plainly intimates to us in his own word saying Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should dye saith the Lord God And not that he should return from his ways and live Whereto himself gives answer saying I have no pleasure none at all in the death of him that dyeth saith the Lord God Ezek. 18. 23. with vers 31 32. And lest we should thorow unbelief question the truth of his word to put an end to all strife and gainsaying he hath confirmed the same with his Oath charging his Prophet thus to speak say unto them As I live saith the Lord God I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked but that the wiâ—ked turn from his way and live Ezek. 33. 11. with Hebr. 6. 16 17 18. He is not willing that any should perish 2 Pet. 3. 9. Ezek. 18. 30 31 32. But 2. His will and pleasure in creating them was 1. That they might know and have fellowship with and serve him who is their Creator and therefore he made them in a good and honourable condition God said Let us make man in our Image after our likeness and let them have dominion c. So God created man in his own Image in the Image of God created he him c. to wit in knowledg righteousness and true holiness Col. 3. 10. Ephes 4. 24. Gen. 1. 26 27. Psal 49. 12-20 God made man upright Eccles 7. 29. And as he made them in that good upright and holy condition so it was his pleasure they should have continued therein For the righteous Lord loveth righteousness his countenance doth behold the upright Psal 11. 7. I know O my God saith the Prophet that thou hast pleasure in uprightness 1 Chron. 29. 17. with Psal 5. 4. and Eccles 5. 4. And of such Angels as abode in that holy and honourable state he made them in it is said They do his pleasure Psal 103. 20 21. And it also appears that it was his will and pleasure that mankind should have continued in that good and upright condition he made them in In that he gave them such an easie and gracious law to testifie their love obedience and subjection to their Creator in only forbidding them to eat of one tree whereas many were allowed them And in that he so threatned them that in the day they eat thereof in dying they should dye Gen. 2. 16 17. In which he plainly signified that it was his pleasure that they should not eat thereof and he was greatly displeased with them when they had transgressed his Commandment And therefore it was not his will they should have eaten thereof Psal 101. 3. 2. And for his pleasure they are and are preserved and continued and that to a gracious end while they are joyned to all the living when mankind had sinned he â—ound out a ransom and provided a remedy for them He so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son John 3. 16 17. And Christ came from Heaven to do the will of him that sent him the pleasure of his Father John 6. 38. Hebr. 10. 5 8 9. Isa 53. 10. And his will was that Christ should dye for all men and rise again and deliver them from perishing for ever in that first death 2 Cor. 1. 10. And that he should obtain eternal life into himself for them 1 John 5. 10 11. and be a Testimony to them in due time that thorow him they might be saved John 3. 17. and chap. 12. 47. In all which we may see that his will concerning mankind is that they should be saved and come to the knowledg of the truth 1 Timothy 2. 4 5 6 7. that he is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance to which end his grace bringeth salvation to all men 2 Pet. 3. 9. Tit. 2. 11. Ezek. 18. 23 30 32. and chap. 33. 11. This is his will that they should be sanctified and
Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not but a body hast thou prepared me In burnt-offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure Then said I loe I come In the Volume of thy Book it is written of me to do thy will O God c. Hebr. 10. 1-4-7-9 John 1. 17. Col. 2. 16 17. Hebr. 9. 9-11 Or also with reference to the Lamb of the Passover the Paschal Lamb he may be here called A Lamb They were at that Feast to take a Lamb for an House or for 2 or three Houses and to kill it in the evening And this they were to keep as a feast by an Ordinance for ever or by a Statute of Eternity And the blood of that Lamb was to be to them for a token upon the Houses and when the Lord saw the blood he would pass over them and the plague should not be upon them Exod. 12. 3-14 Now the truth of this Type was Jesus Christ the Lamb here spoken of Christ our Pass-over hath been slain or sacrificed for us 1 Cor. 5. 7. He gave himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour Eph. 5. 2. And he hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law Gal. 3. 13. This is that Lamb of God who bare the sin of the World and still taketh away their sins in his daily mediation during the day of God's Grace by means whereof God passes over us and is propitious to us John 1. 29. with Exod. 12. 8 9-14 Heb. 1. 3. Psal 75. 2 3. 1 John 2. 2. 2. He is a Lamb to be fed upon by us as the Pashcal Lamb was in former times Exod. 12. 8 9-14 Christ our Passeover is sacrificed for us therefore let us keep the Feast hereby he is become and in him is a Feast for all people 1 Cor. 5. 7 8. Isa 25. 6. Mat. 22. 4. The Bread that he will give continually is his flesh which he hath given for the life of the world His flesh is meat indeed and his blood is drink indeed whoso eateth his flesh and drinketh his blood hath eternal life John 6. 50 51-56 57. And to signifie to us that he is the truth of the Passeover and Paschal Lamb Hence our Lord Jesus when he was eating the Passeover instituted his Supper at the same time which is the Communion of the Body and Blood of Christ Matth. 26. 26-28 1 Cor. 11. 23-26 And indeed his flesh and blood are always to be fed upon by us in a believing mindfulness and remembrance and serious meditation on the greatness necessity and excellencie of his Sufferings and what he hath thereby done and obtained into himself and is become his and his Father's love in all commended Rev. 7. 16 17. And whoso eateth him even he shall live by him Joh. 6. 57. and shall be strengthned laying aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset him to run with patience the race that is set before him Hebr. 12. 1 2 3. with Exod. 12. 11. And as in former times the Paschal Lamb and the Sacrifices generally were to be without blemish otherwise they would not be accepted Exod. 12. 5. Lev. 1. 3. 10. and Chap. 3. 1 c. So Jesus Christ is a Lamb without blemish and without spot 1 Pet. 1. 19. one that knew no sin that did no sin neither was guile found in his mouth 2 Cor. 5. 19-21 1 Pet. 2. 20-22 he was holy harmless undefiled c. Heb. 7. 26. 3. He is a Lamb and so called to denote his great meekness in all his endurings and sufferings even in what he suffered from the hands of men also in which he was most unjustly proceeded against and with wicked hands crucified and slain when he was reviled he reviled not again when he suffered he threatned not but committed himself to him that judged righteously 1 Pet. 2. 20-23 He was oppressed and he was afflicted yet he opened not his mouth he was brought as a Lamb to the slaughter and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb so he opened not his mouth Isai 53. 7 8. with Act. 8. 32-35 Luke 10. 3. He did not cry nor lift up nor cause his voice to be heard in the streets but was gentle in all he endured and patient towards all Isai 42. 1 2. 2 Cor. 10. 1. And he is gracious and gentle in all the Administrations of his Government And he calls upon us to take his yoâ—e upon us and lâ—arn of him who is meek and lowly in heart so shall we find rest to our Souls Isai 42. 18-21 Matth. 11. 29. Rom. 15. 1-3 2. We have an Account how he saw him As it had been slain In which saying is signified to us 1. That this Lamb was slain he was so once and but once 1 Cor. 5. 7. Heb. 9. 25 26-28 In which expression is included and supposed the whole of his abasement and sufferings in that body which the Father had prepared for him In that he died he died unto sin once Rom. 6. 9 10. Christ once suffered for sins the just for the unjust 1 Pet. 3. 18. Heb. 7. 27. and Chap. 9. 12-27 28. and Chap. 10. 10. Of this our Lord spake prophetically before his hour was come saying The Son of man must suffer many things and be rejected of the Elders and chief Priests and Scribes and be slain c. Luke 9. 22. And though they found no cause of death in him yet desired they Pilate that he should be slain Act. 13. 28. Though he was a Lamb a spotless Lamb one that continually went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed of the Devil for God was with him yet he was reviled he suffered and the Jews with wicked hands slew him and hanged him on a tree 1 Pet. 2. 20-23 Act. 2. 23. and Ch. 10. 38-40 And God brought him into the dust of death for our sins for God made him to be sin for us Psal 22. 15. 2 Cor. 5. 21. Isai 53. 5-10 He spared not his own Son but delivered him up for us all Rom. 8. 32. Zech. 13. 7. Rom. 4. 25. Gen. 22. 8 9. The Cup he drank of was that which the Father gave him to drink John 18. 11. Oh wonderful Grace Oh unparallel'd love both in Father and Son John 3. 16. and Chapt. 4. 8-10 and Chap. 4. 8-10-12-14 2. As it had been slain Not now so Rev. 5. 9 12. He now liveth who was dead and he is alive for evermore Rev. 1. 18. and Chap. 2. 8 God brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus the great Shepheard of the sheep through the blood of the everlasting Covenant Heb. 13. 20. God raised him again having loosed the pains of death because it was not pâ—ssible he should be holden of it Act. 2. 24-36 Luke 9. 22. And he is raised again in that body of his flesh in which he he bare our sins to the tree and was crucified dead and buried his flesh did
and from divers other Scriptures such all such Saints shall then reign who died in the Lord or in the â—aith of Christ before they so reign for if all the Saints shall reign as we have seen then such as are or shall be absent from the body and present with the Lord shall not be cut off for their parts or from their expectation but this honour shall all his Saints have Psal 149. As we may also shew under the last particular here propounded So it is in this place said not only by the four living Creatures to wit that part of the Church of Christ on earth see notes on Chap. 4. 6. but also by the four and twenty Elders the spirits of just men made perfect as we have shewed see notes on Chap. 4. ver 4. We shall reign c. And if by the twenty four Elders we are to understand the spirits of just men made perfect as I make no doubt of it at all then the consideration of the persons that shall so reign doth undeniably evince and demonstrate that all the Saints not only the surviving of Christs body but such also as have fallen asleep in Christ shall be the subjects of this Kingdom on earth and shall reign thereon in due season Indeed a learned man Dr. H. from this very Scripture we are speaking to concludes that by the four and twenty Elders also are meant such as were then in mortal bodies and so alive in this world because it is said by them also We shall reign on the earth To which I say 1. Hereby he gives us to understand that had it not been for this place only or mainly he had otherwise thought of them and might have concluded as surely he should have done that by the Elders are meant the spirits of just men made perfect He was as it appears in a strait between two and what to conclude concerning the Elders he wot not but now this place or rather his perverting and misunderstanding of it caused him thus to speak By this it is evident that the Saints here are the Christian people upon earth and not the Saints which reign in Heaven 2. But how comes he to conclude so from hence Thus first He with the Church as he calls it concludes that the Reign of Christ and his Saints upon the earth a thousand years gloriously is an Heresie and those that believe and teach it are Hereticks and then it is no marvel that he should endeavour though weakly and slenderly enough to pervert and corrupt the Scriptures speaking hereof and to conclude right or wrong that the Saints here spoken of and all of them were such as then were alive in mortal bodies The vanity and falseness whereof and his mistakes therein we have I conceive in some good measure detected and discovered and shall have further occasion so to do Yea that those that have fallen asleep in Christ and so are not in mortal bodies shall reign on the earth appears evidently by other Scriptures also so our Lord saith He that overcometh and keepeth my works unto the end of his life doubtless to him will I give power over the nations c. He will give him such power after he hath kept Christs works unto the end and future thereto Rev. 2. 26 27. with vers 10. Mat. 10. 23. and Chap. 24. 13. see notes on Rev. 2. vers 26. And again To him that overcometh will I grant to â—it with me in my throne This blessedness of reigning with Christ is there also assured and promised as future and consequential to overcoming After they have done the will of God they shall inherit the promises Heb. 10. 36 37. see the notes before on Rev. 3. 21. Thus again the Apostle John saith I saw to wit in vision the souls of them that were beheaded actually slain and put to death for the witness of Jesus and for the word of God and not them only but them also which had noâ— worshipped the Beast neither his Image neither had received his mark upon their foreheads or in their hands and they lived and reigned c. Rev. 20. 4. What can be spoken more plainly to this purpose to shew unto us that such as are now dead unto us though they live unto God shall then reign c But here again that oft referred unto learned man Dr. H. though he rightly acknowledgeth and confesseth that they that were beheaded were such as actually laid down and parted with their lives for Christ yet tells us that what follows is not affirmed or to be understood of those individual persons that were so beheaded but rather of a succession of such as they were But in answer to that we may say 1. He speaks without book in so saying for them that were beheaded appear evidently and without controversie to be the subjects of that which is after affirmed viz. they lived and reigned c. Nor is there any intimation of any individual persons to be there meant but such as were formerly beheaded c. And truly such marring of the construction of the words of the sacred Scriptures by such learned men and perverting and wresting the plain sayings thereof are of very dangerous consequence and render in vain and insignificant the Pen of the holy Scribes as Jer. 8. 8 9. and lead men to have their fear towards God taught by their precepts and traditions Isa 29. 11-14 2. Whereas the said Dr. tells us that it is not said they that were beheaded c. revived but only they lived and therefore the same individual persons that were beheaded are not the subjects of that afterwards affirmed I say 1. Then if it had been said they that were beheaded c. revived he might have concluded this Davidical reign was no Heresie And therefore 2. We further say thereto and desire it may be minded and considered 1. That lived may be as much as and the same with revived Thus when the Widows son was dead Elijah prayed and said O Lord my God I pray thee let this childs soul come into him again And the Lord heard the voice of Elijah and the soul of the child came into him and he revived And Elijah said unto his mother See thy son liveth to wit reviveth 1 King 17. 17-23 see also Rev. 1. 18. with Rom. 14. 9. Luk. 24. 5. with John 10. 17. Nay 2. We further say this in answer that lived in Rev. 20. 4 5. signifieth and must needs signifie revived and that will appear if we consider 1. They lived by and after a Resurrection as is there signified 2. So much is undeniably intimated in Rev. 20. 5. the rest of the dead lived not again or revived not till the thousand years were finished intimating to us plainly and evidently that they that were beheaded c. ver 4. lived to wit lived again or revived but the rest of the dead lived not again till after the thousand years which they also then did even