Westminster Annotations, Mark 2
ANNOTATIONS On the GOSPEL according to S. MARK.
CHAP. 1.
Vers. 1. THe beginning of the Gospel] That is, the beginning of the euangelicall Storie of the first promulgation of the Gospel, which was by the ministery of John, at whose preaching Mark begins his relations. See the Argument on Matthew, and on chap. 1. 1. there.
the Son of God] Matthew calls him, The son of David, to shew his humane nature, and that he was the promised Messias; Mark stiles him, The Son of God, to set out his divine power, and ability to save us.
V. 2. As it is written] John goeth before Christ, as it was forespoken by the prophets.
in the prophets] In the books of the prophets Malachi and Isaiah.
Behold] Mal. 3. 1.
I send my messenger] The prophet useth the present tense, when he speaketh of a thing to come, being as sure of it, as if he saw it. So Hos. 10. 7.
before my face] A metaphor taken from the usage of kings, which send harbingers before them.
which shall prepare thy way before thee] By removing all filth and letts out of the way. So did John, by preaching repentance, prepare the way to Christ.
V. 3. The voice] Isa. 40. 3. Luke 3. 4. John 1. 23.
of one crying] As John was before compared to an harbinger that prepared the way for Christs coming: so here to a cryer or herauld, that proclaims or gives warning of it.
in the wildernesse] See on Matth. 3. 1.
Prepare ye the way of the Lord] See on V. 2. and Matth. 3. 3.
V. 4. John did baptize] Matth. 3. 1.
and preach the baptisin of repentance] John did teach those whom he baptized, that the outward washing with water did assure them of remission of sins, if they did truely repent.
for] Or, unto.
V. 5. And there went out] Matth. 3. 5.
confessing their sins] With craving pardon, and promising amendment.
V. 6. clothed with camels hair] Matth. 3. 4.
V. 7. one mightier then I] John doth, as all faithfull ministers should do, cast his eyes upon Christ the Lord.
I am not worthy to stoup down and unloose] The meaning of John was, to expresse the condition of the basest servant, who stoups to pull off his masters shoes.
V. 8. but he shall baptize you] He sheweth, that the whole force of baptism proceedeth from Christ, who baptizeth inwardly.
V. 9. And it came to passe] Matth. 3. 13.
V. 10. coming up out of the water] John coming up saw it, Joh. 1. 33, 34. It is likely he went into the water with Christ, as Philip did with the eunuch, Acts 8. 38.
opened] Or, cloven, or rent, as Matth. 27. 51.
V. 12. And] Matth. 4. 1.
immediately] Or, shortly after.
the spirit] Leads him thither, as Matth. 4. 1.
driveth] Or, sends away, as v. 43. Or, putteth forth, as Joh. 10. 4.
V. 13. with the wilde beasts] In a place where no men dwelt, Luke 1. 80. Acts 8. 26. alluding to Job 5. 21, 22.
the angels ministred unto him] After the fourty days fast expired, and the tentation ended, Matth. 4. 11.
V. 14. after that John was put in prison] After that John is taken, Christ sheweth himself more fully.
Jesus came into Galilee] Matth. 4. 12.
V. 15. The time is fulfilled] The time set by the prophets for the manifestation of Christ, is fully come, Gal. 4. 4.
the kingdom of God is at hand] Christ will now, by the preaching of the Gospel, take possession of his Kingdom.
repent ye] Repentance and faith is the sum of the Gospel.
V. 16. Now as he walked] Matth. 4. 18.
he saw Simon] The calling of Simon and Andrew.
V. 19. he saw James] The calling of James and John.
V. 20. with the hired servants] Their service was gainfull to their father, else would he not have hired servants.
V. 21. And they went into Capernaum] Matth. 4. 13.
V. 22. And they were astonisbed] Matth. 7. 28.
V. 23. And] Luke 4. 33.
there was in their synagogue] Our Saviour preaching that doctrine by which alone Satan is driven out of the world, confirms it by a miracle sutable.
a man with an unclean spirit] By nature he was a spirit, unclean in disposition.
V. 24. Let us alone] Me and my fellows that go up and down in Judea.
thou Jesus of Nazareth?] Because he was bred there, though he were born at Bethlehem. See Matth. 2. 23.
art thou come to destroy] To send us into hell-torments, Mat. 8. 29. Or, restrain us from doing mischief, which is a torment to us.
us?] The devil… are already by God adjudged to eternall condemnation; but yet they shall not be fully tormented before the end of this world, 2 Pet. 2. 4. Jude v. 6.
the holy One of God] The holy Saviour of the world, figured by the high priests title, Exod. 28. 3. 6. and foretold, Dan. 9. 24.
V. 26. when the unclean spirit had lorn him] Cast him into a convulsion-sit, which may be without renting, Luke 4. 35.
cried with a loud voice] But said nothing; for he was forbidden to speak, v. 25. So Gen. 27. 38.
V. 27. among themselves] Or, within themselves, as Matth. 16. 7.
what new doctrine is this?] They do not call it new by way of exprobation, as Acts 17. 19. but strange, and acknowledge somewhat extraordinary in the matter of his teaching, and the confirmation of it by miracles, not used of long time before.
with authority] Not by prayer to God, as a servant; but by command, as Lord over them.
V. 28. the region round about Galilee] Not onelyonly into Galilee, but also into all the countreys bordering on it.
V. 29. And forthwith] Matth. 8. 14.
with James and John] It seems these four did dwell in one house; for these came with him.
V. 30. Sunons wives mother lay sick] We see, by this example, that good people may be scourged by God, for the promoting of his glory, and their own salvation.
V. 34. that were sick of divers diseases] By healing of divers diseases, he sheweth, that he hath brought true life into the world.
suffered not the devils] For it belongeth not to the devils to preach the Gospel, Acts 16. 18. nor would Christ receive a testimony from them.
to speak, because they knew him] Or, to say that they knew him.
V. 38. came I forth] Of that town, v. 35. Or, from God, Joh. 16. 28.
V. 40. And there came] Matth. 8. 2.
a leper] By healing of the leper, he sheweth, that he came for this cause, To purge away the infections of the soul.
V. 41. I will, be thou clean] Christ will heal us also, if we pray to him in faith.
V. 44. See thou say nothing] Till thou have first been with the priest to offer a sacrifice for thy cleansing. Christ was more carefull of his fathers glory, then of his own. Or, if he simply forbad him to speak of it, it was to prevent the inconvenience which followed, v. 45.
shew thy self to the paiest] Any of Aarons posterity might judge of a leper, whether he were cured or no, Levit. 13. 2.
V. 45. But he went out] Luke 5. 15.
CHAP. II.
Vers. 1. HE entred into Capernaum] Matth 9. 1.
that he was in the house] In the house where he used to remain: for he chose Capernaum to dwell in, and left Nazareth.
V. 2. no not so much as about the door] Neither the house nor the entry was able to hold them.
he preached the word] The word of God.
V. 3. bringing one sick of the palsie] Christ sheweth, by healing this man that was sick of the palsie, that men recover in him through faith onelyonly all their strength which they have lost.
V. 4. they let down] They brake up the upper part of the house, which was flat, and let down the man that was sick of the palsie into the lower part, where Christ preached; for they could not otherwise come into his sight. See Notes on Matth. 10. 27.
the bed] The word signifieth, a couch that men use to lie on in the day-time, to rest themselves.
V. 6. and reasoning in their hearts] In their mindes disputing of the matter, to condemn Christs speech.
V. 7. who can forgive sins] Job 14. 4. Isa. 43 25.
but God onelyonly] Gr. but one, even God.
V. 8. when Jesus perceived in his spirit] Or, by his spirit, that is, by his divine power. Or, by his own spirit, 1 Pet. 3. 8. not by inspiration, as the prophets, 2 Pet. 1. 21.
V. 9. easier] In your sense and apprehension. See on Mat. 9. 5.
V. 12. infomuch that they were all amazed] Word for word, past themselves, or, out of their wits.
V. 13. all the multitude resorted unto him] The Gospel offends proud persons, and saves the meaner sort of men frequently, 1 Cor. 1. 26, &c.
V. 14. And as he passed by] Matth. 9. 9.
he saw Levi] Called Matthew, Matth. 9. 9. Jews used to have divers names, Matth. 10. 3.
at the receit of custom] Or, at the place where the custom was received.
V. 15. they followed him] Jesus: or, Levi, whom the under-customers followed.
V. 18. And the disciples of John] Matth. 9. 14. Luke 5. 13.
V. 19. Can the children of the bride-chamber fast] Christs disciples had no reason to fast, while Christ the Bridegroom was with them: it was not meet for them to do so, 1 Cor. 3. 1. and 10. 21.
V. 21. new] Or, raw, or unwrought.
on an old garment] Neither were they able yet to bear such austcrity.
V. 23. And it came to passe] Matth. 12. 1.
V. 24. why do they on the sabbath-day that which is not lawfull?] They erre, because they do not distinguish between things absolutely forbidden, and indifferent things, restrained out of the case of necessity.
V. 26. How he went into the house of God] The place where the tabernacle and the ark was: for the temple was not yet built.
in the days of Abiathar] Called Ahimelech, 1 Sam. 21. 1. and sometimes Abiathar. Compare 1 Chron. 24. 6. 2 Sam. 8. 17. and 15. 29. 1 Kings 2. 26. 2 Kings 25. 18.
the high priest] He was of the house of Ithamar; but Eli, being elder then any of the house of Eleazar, kept the title in himself and his, till Solomon put out this Abiathar, 1 Sam. 2. 31, 35. 1 Kings 2. 27. Or, it may be that Abiathar was present with his father Ahimelech, and is named, as better known, by his long priesthood.
and gave also to them which were with him?] To prevent an exense that might be brought from the dignity of Davids person.
V. 27. The sabbath was made for man] The law of the sabbath was a positive law, made for mans good.
V. 28. the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath] Either he means, Christ hath power over the sabbath: or, that any man may, in case of necessity, get food on the sabbath.
also of the sabbath] Or, even of the sabbath, as chap. 4. 25, 41. and 6. 2.
CHAP. III.
Vers. 1. HE entred again] Matth. 12. 9.
there was a man there] This history is sutable to the former, to instruct us what may be done on the sabbath.
which had a withered hand] That is, dead and unprofitable.
V. 2. And they watched him] The Pharisees, who were present to entrap him, v. 6. Such auditours Gods ministers often meet withall.
V. 3. Stand forth] He bids him stand forth, that the miracle might be the more manifest, and that the sight of him might move them to compassion.
V. 4. or to do evil?] I meet this man on the sabbath, and can heal him with a word; if I do it not, I may further his death: Which is best? Thus he sheweth how hypocrites prefer the ceremonial law before the moral.
V. 5. with anger] Men, when they have wrong done unto them, are angry, but not without sin: but Christ is angry without sin, as we should be, Eph. 4. 26. neither is he sorry so much for the in jury that is done to his own person, as for their wickednesse; and therefore he had pitie upon them, and for that cause is said to have mourned.
for the hardnesse of their hearts] As though their heart had been so closed up and grown together, that wholesome doctrine could prevail no more with them.
hardnesse] Or, blindnesse.
V. 6. took counsel] The more the truth is kept under, the more it cometh out.
with the Herodians] Lock on Matth. 22. 16.
V. 9. that a small ship should wa… on him] Should always be ready for him.
V. 10. pressed] Or, rushed. Gr. fell.
as many as had plagues] Diseases, wherewith God scourgeth men, as it were with whips.
V. 11. And unclean spirits] In them whom they had entred into: or, by a Metonymia, they which were vexed with unclean spirits.
V. 13. And he goeth up] Matth. 10. 1.
V. 14. And he ordained] Chose and appointed …welve to be familiar and conversant with him.
ordained] Gr. made.
twelve] Twelve disciples are set apart, to be trained up in the office of the apostleship.
V. 17. The sons of thurder] So Christ called the sons of Zebedeus, either because their voice should be heard in all the world; or, because they should preach more vehemently then the rest of the apostles.
V. 18. Thaddeus] He had three names; Lebbeus, Thaddeus and Judas. See Matth. 10. 3. Luke 6. 16. By the two former, he is distinguished from Judas the traitour.
V. 19. Judas I scariot] To distinguish him from Judas the brother of James, mentioned, Luke 16. 16. Jude 1.
into an house] Or, home.
V. 21. his friends] Word for word, they that were of him: that is, his kinsfolks: for they that were thought to be mad, were brought to their kinsmen.
He is beside himself] Gods ministers are oftentimes, by worldly men, thought to be beside themselves, 2 Kings 9. 12. Acts 26. 24. 2. Cor. 5. 13.
V. 22. He hath Beekebub] Matth. 9. 34.
V. 24. if a kingdom be divided against it self] Be divided into factions and partakings.
V. 26. if Satan rise up against himself] Satans imps and bands.
V. 28. Verily I say unto you] Matth. 12. 31.
All sins shall be forgiven] They onelyonly are without hope of salvation, which do maliciously oppugn Christ, whom they know, Heb. 6. 6. and 10. 26.
V. 29. he that shall blaspheme against the holy Ghost] He that, contrary to the internall motion of his conscience, enlightned by the holy Ghost, and convinced of the truth of the Gospel, shall, out of meer malice, oppose it.
V. 31. There came] Matth. 12. 46.
then] Or, therefore. Because he spake thus, they thought him mad, as v. 21. and would pull him out of danger.
his brethren] By this name, Brother, the Hebrews understand all that of the same stock and kinred, Gen. 13. 8.
V. 34. Behold my mother] The spirituall kinred is far otherwise to be accounted of, then the carnall or fleshly.
CHAP. IIII.
Vers. 1. AND he began again to teach] Matth. 13. 1.
by the sea side] Sea side of Tiberias.
and sate in the sea] In a ship, which was launched into the sea.
V. 3. there went out a sower to sowe] The self same doctrine of the Gospel is sown every where; but it hath not the like successe indeed, through the fault of man, but yet by the just judgement of God.
V. 10. And when he was alone] Word for word, solitary.
they that were about him] They that followed him at the heels.
V. 11. Ʋnto you it is given] To you that fear God I will interpret the parables, Psal. 25. 14. which, being not unfolded, are hidden raysteries.
unto them that are without] That is to say, To strangers, and such as are none of ours, 1 Cor. 5. 12.
V. 12. That seeing they may see] Matth. 13. 14.
V. 19. the cares of this world] Which pertain to this life.
and the deceitfulnesse of riches] 1 Tim. 6. 17.
of other things] Gr. about other things.
V. 21. And he said unto them] Matth. 5. 15.
to be put under] Gods word is preached, that it may be practised, Ma. th. 5. 15, 16. Or, gifts are given to be used for the good of others, 1 Cor. 12. 7.
a bushel] The word in the original signifieth a lesse measure.
V. 22. For there is nothing] Matth. 10. 26.
V. 24. Take heed] Gr. See.
with what measure ye mere] Matth. 7. 2. The more use we make of Gods ordinances, the more grace will God give us.
V. 25. For he that hath] Matth. 13. 12.
V. 26. So is the kingdom of God] God sowes and reaps in the Church, though men observe it not.
V. 27. And should sleep] That is, when he hath done sowing, should passe away the time both day and night, not looking after the seed sown, which notwithstanding groweth without his care.
he knoweth not how] It is the part of the ministers to sowe with all diligence, and leave the successe to God: for that mighty working whereby the seed cometh to blade and ear is secret, and is onelyonly known by the fruit.
V. 28. of her self] By a certain power which moveth of it self, put into the creature of God: that is, by a naturall course, without mans help.
V. 29. brought forth] Gr. ripe.
V. 30. Whereunto shall we liken] Matth. 13. 31.
V. 31. is lesse then all the seeds] Gods brings great matters out of small beginnings in the Church, to shew the greatnesse of his power above mans.
V. 33. And with many such parables] Matth. 13. 34.
as they were able to hear it] According to the capacity of the hearers.
V. 34. he expounded all things] Word for word, loosed, or resolved. As ye would say, Read them the hard riddles, or, unknit the knots of them.
V. 35. And the saine day.] Matth. 8. 23.
V. 36. they took him] Without more ado they carried him away: for he had preached in the ship all this while, v. 1.
as he was in the ship wherein he taught] Verse. 1. He had had no food nor rest, but taught all the day, and departed at even.
V. 38. carest thou not that we perish?] They complain that they are neglected of him, and blame him for it.
V. 39. and rebuked the winde] They that sail with Christ, although he seem to sleep never so soundly, when they are in danger; yet they are preserved by him in time convenient, when they have awaked him by prayer.
there was a great calm] The sea is calmed with a word, which useth to rage long after a tempest. See the like, Jon. 1. 11, 15.
V. 40. how is it that you have no faith?] How cometh it to passe?
V. 41. exceedingly] Gr. a great fear.
CHAP. V.
Vers. 1. THey came over] Matth. 8. 28.
of the Gadarenes] Gergasa and Gadara were neer, and the coast named from either, Matth. 8. 28.
V. 2. with an unclean spirit] Word for word, in an unclean spirit. Now he is said to be in it, because the spirit held him fast locked up, and as it were bound: or else it is a meer Hebrew phrase, as Exod. 6. 6, in a stretched-out arm, in the originall, is translated, with a stretched-out arm. In Matth. 8. 28. two are mentioned; but this was more noted then the other.
V. 6. and worshipped him] A great token of Christs divine power, that the devils should come to worship him.
V. 7. I adjure thee by God] He useth the name of God, his judge and enemy, as a means to perswade Christ not to hurt him; whereas, men use to mediate by their friends. This shews Satans impudency.
V. 8. For he said] Or, For he had said. Christs bidding him go out, was the cause of the former adjuration, v. 7.
V. 9. What is thy name?] Christ asketh is name, to shew the greatnesse of his misery, and his wonderfull deliverance.
My name is Legion] A great multitude, like a Romane troop or regiment.
V. 10. he besought him much] The chief devil, who spake for his fellows.
V. 11. nigh unto the mountains] This whole countrey is, for the greater part of it, very hillie; for the mountains of Galaad run thorow it.
V. 12. all the devils besought him] Which were in the man possessed: not all the devils in hell.
V. 13. down a steep place into the sea] Strabo, in the sixteenth book, saith, that in Gadaris there is a standing pool of very naughty water, which if beasts taste of, they shed their hair, nails, or hoofs and horns.
V. 17. to depart out of their coasts] Though Christ work miracles, yet many had rather enjoy their swine then him.
V. 18. that he might be with him] Fearing lest the devil, in Christs absence, should again surprise him.
V. 22. And behold] Matth. 9. 18.
one of the rulers of the synagogue] The whole company assembled not disorderly; but in every synagogue there were certain men which governed the people.
V. 23. lieth at the point of death] Or, lieth in extremity, or, is at the last gasp. Mat. 9. 18, he saith she was dead; but it sems that was after his servants, v. 35. of this chapter, had told him so.
V. 25. which had an issue] Gr. being in an issue.
V. 26. grew worse] Gr. going to the worse.
V. 29. felt] Gr. knew, v. 33.
V. 30. knowing in himself] As she knew that she was healed v. 29. so Christ knew that he had healed her.
that vertue had gone out of him] As heat goes out of the sun, to preserve the creatures, though the power of warming abide in the sun: so power of healing abode in Christ, though the effect of it were felt in the woman healed.
Who touched my clothes?] If Christ had not asked this question, the miracle might have been concealed, and God might have lost his glory.
V. 34. be whole] Or, continue whole, as Dan. 1. 21. and 9. 25. Let it not return on thee. For she was healed before, v. 29.
V. 35. Why troublest thou the Master] To go to thine house? for there is no hope of her.
V. 36. Be not afraid] As if I could not raise thy daughter again; believe I can and will do it, and thou shalt see it done.
V. 40. they laughed him to scorn] Because they were sure she was dead, Luke 8. 53.
but when he had put them all out] Such as mock and scorn Christ, are unworthy to be witnesses of his great goodnesse.
and them that were with him] The three disciples, mentioned, v. 37. which were enough to witnesse the truth: the rest he left without, to avoid ostentation.
V. 43. that something should be given her to eat] To shew, that she was not revived onelyonly, but also fully recovered.
CHAP. VI.
Vers. 1. HE went out from thence] Matth. 13. 54.
into his own countrey] Nazareth, where he was bred, as appears, v. 3. not Bethlehem, where he was born.
V. 2. what wisedom is this?] The faithlesse world doth no whit at all diminish the vertue of Christ, but wittingly and willingly depriveth it self of the efficacie of it, being offered unto them.
that even such mighty works] The word signifieth, powers and vertues, whereby are meant those wonderfull works that ChrisT did, which shewed and set forth the vertue and power of his Godhead to all the world, Mat. 7. 22.
V. 3. Is not this the carpenter] It appears, that Christ did exercise that trade in his younger yeers.
are not his sisters] After the manner of the Hebrews, who by brethren and sisters understand all their kinsfolks.
V. 4. A prophet is not without honour] Joh. 4. 44.
without honour] Not onelyonly hath that honour which of right is due to him taken from hi, but is also evil spoken of, and misreported.
but in his own countrey] He may be dishonoured elsewhere; but for the most part he is dishonoured there, though he be honoured in other places.
V. 5. he could there do no mighty work] Because of their unbelief, v. 6. Matth. 13. 58. Our unbelief doth as it were binde Gods hands from doing us good, as v. 2.
V. 6. And he went round about] Matth. 9. 35. Luke 13. 22.
V. 7. And he calleth] Matth. 10. 1.
began to send them forth] The twelve are prepared to that generall apostleship by a peculiar sending forth.
over unclean spirits] Gr. of the spirits that are unclean: that is, over all devils.
V. 8. that they should take nothing] Faithfull pastours ought not to have their mindes set, no not on things that are necessary for this life, if they may be an hinderance unto them, be it never so little.
no money] The word signifieth a piece of brasse money, in value somewhat lesse then a farthing, Mat. 10. 9. But here it is taken in generall for money, which, in most common use, was of brasse, as in Spain and some other countreys it is still at this day: unlesse the meaning be, They should not take so much as a farthing.
in their purse] Gr. in, or into, or upon their girdle.
V. 9. But be shod with sandals] Having nothing but soles, and buckled over the foot.
not put on two coats] That is, they should take no change of garments with them, that they might be lighter for this journey, and make more speed.
V. 10. there abide] Change not your lodgings in this short journey.
V. 11. And whosoever shall not receive you] Matth. 10. 14.
shake off the dust] Acts 13. 51.
it shall be more tolerable for Sodom] The Lord is a most severe revenger of the neglect of the Gospel.
V. 13. anointed with oil] James 5. 14. That oil was a token and signe of his marvellous vertue: And seeing that the gift of healing is ceased a good while since; the ceremonie, which is yet retained of some, is to no purpose.
V. 14. And king Herod] Matth. 14. 1.
king Herod heard of him] The Gospel confirmeth the godly, and vexeth the wicked.
therefore mighty works] The word signifieth, powers, whereby is meant, the power of working miracles.
V. 15. as one of the prophets] Next door to a prophet.
V. 16. But when Herod heard] Luke 3. 19.
whom I beheaded] Caused to be beheaded.
V. 18. It is not lawfull for thee] Levit. 18. 16.
V. 19. a quarrel against him] Or, an inward grudge; and therefore sought all means to do him hurt.
V. 20. observed him] Gr. kept him, or saved him.
and heard him gladly] The tyrant was well content to hear Grods word; but the seed fell upon stony ground.
V. 22. the daughter of the said Herodias] Which Herodias had not by this Herodes Antipas, but by Philip: and Josephus calls her Salome.
V. 24. And she went forth] For women used not to sit at table with men.
V. 27. an execu…ioner] Or, one of his guard. That word signisi…th, one that beareth a dart: and the kings guard was so called, because they did bear darts. Others say, that they were called so, because they cut off mens heads with a sword.
V. 30. And the apostles] Luke 9. 10. It may be they were afraied at the tidings of Johns death, and durst not preach abroad any longer; but came back to Christ, as to tell him what they had done, so to know what they should do.
V. 31. Come ye your selves] Come ye alone; having dismissed the people.
apart into a desert place] To retire and refresh your selves.
no pleasure] Or, fit opportunity, as v. 21.
V. 32. And they departed] M…tth. 14. 13.
V. 33. …an a foot] Gr. ran af…ot together.
V. 34. And Jesus] Matth. 9. 36.
V. 35. And when the day] Matth. 14. 15.
V. 37. Shall we go and buy] This is a kinde of demand, a distrustfully speaking of a thing that could not be compassed. So Num. 11. 21, 22.
two …un…bed peny-worth of bread] Which is about twenty crowns, which is five pound.
p…ny-worth] The Romane peny is seven pence half-peny; as Matth. 18. 28.
V. 39. by companies] Word for word, by banquets lanquets, after the manner of the Hebrews, who have no distributives, as chap. 6. 7. Now he calleth the rowes of the sitters banquets.
V. 40. they sate down] Gr. the fell down.
in ranks] The word signifierth, the beds in a garden; and it is word for word, by beds and leds; meaning thereby, that they sate down in rowes one by another, as beds in garden.
V. 43. of the fragments] Of broken bread, and remainders of the fish.
V. 45. to the other side] Over against Bethsaida, but it was on the same side; for the lake was crooked. See Matth. 14.22.
…nto Bethsaida] Or, over against Bethsaida.
V. 46. when he had sent them away] The people, v. 45. for his disciples were gone before, and he stayed some time after, to dismisse the people.
V. 47. And when even was come] Matth. 14. 23.
V. 48. toyling in rowing] The faithfull servants of God, beside their labours, are subject to great tempests, which Christ doth so moderate, being present in power when he is absent in body, that he bringeth them to an happie haven, at such time and by such means as they looked not for. A lively image of the Church tossed to an fro in this world.
and would have passed by them] Made them believe so, to make them the more afraid, that the deliverance might be the more welcome.
V. 49. a spirit] Gr. an apparition; as Matth. 14. 26.
V. 51. beyen… mesure] More then they were when they saw him walk on the water, because they saw the winde and sea now obey him, and be still.
V. 52. they considered not the miracle] These miracles seemed new and strange unto them, because they had not well considered the former.
V. 53. And when they had passed over] Math. 14. 34.
V. 54. straightway they knew him] Christ being rejected in his own countrey, and arrived upon a sudden amongst them of whom he was not looked for, is received to their great profit.
V. 45. him] Or, it.
CHAP. VII.
Vers. 1. THen came] Matth. 15. 1.
the Pharisees] None do more resist the wisedom of God, then they that should be wisest; and that upon a z…al of their own traditions: for men do not please themselves more in any thing, then in superstition, that is to say, In a worship of God fondly devised by themselves.
V. 2. eat bread] Bread is put for any kinde of meat, by an Hebrew phrase.
with d…scil…d] Or, common: For the Pharisees would not ea… their meat with unwashen hands, because they thought that th…ir hands were desiled with handling of common things, Matth. 15. 11, 12.
V. 3. all the Jews] That followed unwritten traditions; which were the greater part.
…i… ] Or, diligently: in the originall, with the first: Theophyl…ct, up to the elbowe.
…ld…ng the traditi…n of the elders] Observing diligently.
V. 4. from the ma…ke… ] That is to say, From civil affairs and worldly, they go not to meat unlesse they wash themselves first, lest they should be defiled by dealing with strangers, Joh. 18. 28.
the washing of cups] By these words are understood all kindes of vessels which are appointed for ordinary use.
pots] Sextarius is about a pinte and an l…lf.
tables] Or, beds.
V. 5. Why walk not thy disciples] Why live they not? A kinde of speech …aken from the Hebrews: for, among them a way is taken for a trade of life.
V. 6. Well hath Esaias prophesied] That speech of Isaiah, spoken against the hypocrites of his time, fits you as well, as if he had prophesied of your by name.
of you, hypo…rites] Hypocrisie is always joyned with superstition.
This people] Isa. 29. 13. Matth. 15. 8.
V. 7. in vain do they worship me] They look for a great reward; but they shall have none at all.
V. 8. laying aside the commandment of God] The devices of superstitious men do not onelyonly not fulfill the law of God, (as they blasphemously perswaded themselves) but also do utterly take it away.
V. 9. Full well] An ironicall speech, meaning, Ye do very ill in doing so.
reject] Or, frustrate.
V. 10. let him die the death] He shall be put to death, without any hope of pardon.
V. 11. Corban] Matth. 15. 5.
V. 12. ye suffer him no more] They did not forbid him to do any more for his parents; but they pronounced him innocent, if he did not. Or, they tell him he hath given all to God already, and therefore may give nothing to his parents. Or, so much that he cannot; but his parents must be content with Gods blessing on them for theirsons offerings.
V. 14. And when he had called] Matth. 15. 10.
V. 19. purging all meats] Which carrieth away the excrements of all meats, and so cleanseth the body.
V. 20. And he said] Or, But (said he) as Matth. 11. 19. and 15.18.
V. 21. For from within] Gen. 6. 5. and 8. 21. Matth. 15. 19.
V. 22. covetousnesse] All kinde of crafti…sse, whereby men profit themselves by other mens losses.
wi…kednesse] Or, malice, as Rom. 1. 29.
an evil eye] An envious eye, Matth. 20. 15.
Hasphemy] Or, d…traction.
V. 23. come from within] Discover themselves by evil actions, proceeding from the heart.
V. 24. And from thence] Matth. 15. 21.
into the borders] Into the uppermost coasts of Plaestine, which wer enext to Tyre and Sidon.
of Tyre and Sidon] That which the proud do reject when it is offered unto them, the same do the modest and humble sinners as it were violently wring out.
V. 25. For a certain woman] They that know they want Christ, will lay out for him.
V. 16. a Greek] Or, Gen…ile. By profession profane.
a Syrophenician by nation] Neighbour or neer to Damascus.
V. 27. to cast it to the dogs] Till the children have enough; as before, Then the fragments and remainders may be cast to the dogs. So might Christ do good to the Gentiles, so it were no prejudice to the Jews. So she replies, v. 28. It may be she took her hint from the beginning of this verse; for the Jews had had many miracles wrought among them boefre.
V. 28. Yes, Lord] As if she had said, It is as thou sayest, Lord; for it is enough for the whelps, if they can but gather up the crums that are under the table: and I crave no more but the crums, and not the childrens bread.
yet the dogs] See on v. 27.
V. 30. her daughter laid upon the bed] Quietly, not tossing to and fro, nor running about, as before.
V. 31. And again departing] Rather, going back from: For it appears not in the story, that he had been there before. Or elsE again beotkens the working of another miracle.
of Decapolis] It was little countrey, and so called, of ten cities, which the four governments did run between and compasse, Plinie, book 3. chap. 8.
V. 33. and he spit] Chap. 8. 23. Job. 9. 6.
V. 34. looking up to heaven] To shew, that he referred all to Gods glory, chap. 6. 41. Matth. 14. 19. Joh. 11. 41. and 17. 4.
he signed] Out of commiseration of mans grevances, chap. 1. 41.
V. 36. then] That brought him, v. 32.
CHAP. VIII.
Vers. 1. THe mulitude] Muth 15. 32.
V. 3. they will faint …y the way] Word for word, They will fall in sunder, or be diss…lved; for when men fal… in a swoon, their sinews fall one from another, Matth. 15. 32.
V. 11. And the Pharisees] Matth. 16. 1. The stubborn enemies of the doctrine of the Gospel, giving no credit to the miracles already done, require new: but Christ, being angry with them, doth forsake them.
came forth] A common kinde of speech which the Hebrews use, whereby is meant, that the Pharisees went from their houses of purpose to encounter with him.
seeking of him a signe from heaven] That they might know thereby that he was sent from God, and his doctrine true.
V. 12. he sighed deeply in his spirit] These sighs came even from his heart; for the Lord was very much moved with these mens so great infidelity.
There shall no signe be given] Word for word, If a signe be given. It is a cutted kind of speech, very common among the Hebrews; wherein some such words as these must be understood, Let me be taken for a lyer, or some such like. And when they speak out of the whole, they say, The Lord do thus and thus by me.
V. 14. Now] Matth. 16. 5.
V. 15. beware of the leaven of the Pharisees] We must especially take heed of them which corrupt the word of God, what degree soever they be of, either in the Church, or in civil policie.
the leaven of Herod] The contagious doctrine of the Herodians, spoken of, Matth. 22. 16.
V. 16. they reasoned among themselves] Disputed what our Saviour meant by the word leaven.
because we have] Matth. 16. 7. The Lord blames our negligence, who forgat to take bread with us, and so may be constrained to eat of their polluted bread.
no bread] They that have their mindes fixed on earthly things, are blinded in heavenly things, although they be never so plainly set forth unto them.
V. 17. because] Or, saying it is, because, as Matth. 16. 8.
V. 21. How is it that ye do not understand?] How cometh it to passe that you understand not these things, which are so plain and evident?
V. 23. spit] See on chap. 7. 33.
V. 24. I see men as trees, walking] He perceived some motion, but could not discern they were bodies of men at first. A type of illumination, which encreaseth in us by degrees.
V. 25. and made him look up] He commanded him to trie once more whether he could see well or no.
look up] Or, see again.
V. 26. nor tell it to any in the town] Any of the townsmen that you meet with. It seems he dwelt in some out-place in the fields.
V. 27. And Jesus went out] Matth. 16. 13.
V. 28. One of the prophets] Or, one of the other prophets, as Matth. 16. 14.
V. 30. that they should tell no man of him] To wit, that he was the Messias: for, that he was a teacher sent of God, he openly professed; but, that he was the Messias, he did not yet so commonly affirm.
V. 31. the Sen of man must suffer] Christ suffered all that he suffered for us, not unwillingly, neither unawares; but foreknowing it, and wittingly.
and be rejected of the elders] Psal. 118. 22.
and after three days rise again] Seeing he rose within three days, his word is much more amply made good: for in promises a set time is presixed, to the end that the thing promised may not beyond the time be delayed; but not to restrain the performance of it before.
V. 32. openly] Not before the people, which were not present, v. 34. but in plain words, without figures, as Joh. 16. 29. for at other times, and to the people, he spake darkly of that mystery. See Joh. 2. 19. and 3. 14. and 6. 51. Or, freely.
and began to rebuke him] None are more indiscreet then they that are wise without Gods word.
V. 33. and looked on his disciples] That they might take notice of his rebuking Peter.
Get thee behinde me, Satan] Thou art too forward to teach me, as a master: go behinde me, as becomes a scholar.
V. 34. Whosoever will come after me] Matth. 10. 38.
let him deny himself] The disciples of Christ must bear stoutly what burden soever the Lord layeth upon them, and subdue the affections of the flesh.
V. 36. For what shall it profit a man] They are the most foolish of all men, which purchase the enjoying of this life with the losse of everlasting blisse.
V. 38. Whosoever theresore] Matth. 10. 33.
shall be ashamed of me] Shall refuse to own or acknowledge me, as Rom. 1. 16.
adulteres] See on Mat. 12. 39.
of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed] He shall not own him as his, Matth. 7. 23.
CHAP. IX.
Vers. 1. VErily I say unto you] Matth. 16. 28.
V. 2. And after six days] Matth. 17. 1.
V. 3. his raiment became shining] It did as it were sparkle. The heavenly glory of Christ, which should within a shert space be abafed upon the crosse, is avouched by visible signes, by the presence and talk of Elias and Moses, and by the voice of the Father himself, before three of his disciples, which are withesses, against whom lieth no exception.
V. 5. and let us make] Or, theresore let us make, as 1 Cor. 5. 13.
V. 6. for they were sore afraid] They were as beside themselves for fear.
V. 9. he charged them that they should tell no man] See Notes on chap. 8. 30.
V. 10. they kept that saying with themselves] Even very hardly, as it were.
what the rising from the dead should mean] Not the generall resurrection, which they believed, Joh. 11. 24. but the raising of Christ in particular, the killing of whom could not yet sink into their mindes, v. 32. Luke 18. 34.
V. 11. Why say the scribes] Or, What is the matter that the scribes say. How can the Messias suffer, seeing Elias is not come?
V. 12. restoreth] Or, fulfilleth, Mal. 4. 5, 6.
how it is written] Isa. 53. 24.
and be set at nought] Adde, So will they do to Elias also See v. 13.
V. 13. But I say unto you] The foolish opinion of the Rabbines is here refelled, touching Elias coming, which was, That either Elias should return again, or that his soul should enter into some other body.
that Elias is indeed come] John Baptist, who came in the spirit of Elias, is himself slain by Herod; and therefore now the Messias may be slain also.
as it is written of him] His name Elias, attributed to John, shewed, that he should not want Ahabs and Jezebels to persecute him.
V. 14. And when he came] Matth 17. 14.
to his disciples] To the nine that went not up with him into the mount.
and the scribes questioning with them] Christ sheweth by a miracle, even to the unworthy, that he is come to bridle the rage of Satan.
V. 16. with them] Or, among your selves.
V. 17. which hath a dumb spirit] A spirit which makes my son dumb.
V. 18. he teareth him] Or, dasheth him] Vexeth him inwardly, as the collick useth to do.
and he fometh] Or, so that he fometh.
V. 20. when he saw him] So soon as Jesus had looked upon the boy that was brought unto him, the devil began to rage after this manner.
V. 22. into the fire] Gr. both into the fire: or, even into the fire.
V. 23. If thou canst believe] Gr, This if thou: That is, I can do this thing for thee, if thou believe.
all things are possible to him that believeth] There is nothing but Christ can and will do for them that trust in him.
V. 24. help thou mine unbelief] Supply with thy goodnesse what is defective in my faith.
V. 25. that the people came running togetber] Toward him, to see what would be done.
V. 26. and rent him sore] The neerer the vertue of Christ is, the more outragiously doth Satan rage. See notes on chap. 1. 26.
V. 28. Why] See on v. 11.
V. 29. but by prayer and fasting] We have need not onelyonly of faith and prayer, but also of fasting and extraordinary humiliation, to cast Satan out of his old possession.
V. 30. And] Matth. 17. 22.
and passed thorow Galilee] Gr. passed aside thorow, chap. 11. 20. and 15. 21, 29. They passed by by-ways thorow Galilee, shunning the common roads, because he would be private with his disciples. See chap. 2. 23.
V. 31. For] Christ did withdraw himself now from the frequent company of men, and from publike preaching, to prepare himself for his approaching death, and to dispose his disciples to it.
he taught his disciples] See our slothfulnesse, that must so often be taught the same thing!
V. 32. they understood not that saying] Not of his death, for that they were grieved to hear of, Matth. 17. 23. but of the manner of it, by a violent death, Luke 9. 44, 45. which they thought could not befall the Messias, chap. 8. 32.
V. 32. And he came] Matth. 18. 1.
and being in the house] Where he was wont to make his abode.
V. 34. who should be the greatest] In the temporall kingdom of the Messias, which they yet expected, Acts 1. 6.
V. 35. If any man desire to he first] In my Kingdom they that have highest places, must not look for most honour; but take most pains for the good of others.
V. 36. when he had taken him in his arms] Or, embreced him, as in the Greek, Prov. 6. 10.
V. 37. one of such children] One like these little ones, v. 41.
recerveth not me, but him that sent me] He doth not onelyonly receive me, but also him that sent me.
V. 38. And John answered him] Luke 9. 49.
we for bad him] Out of unadvised regard of their Masters honour, Num. 11. 28. Phil. 1. 18.
V. 39. for there is no man] 1 Cor. 12. 3.
in my Name] God, who is the author of an ordinary vocation, worketh also extraordinarily, so oft as it pleaseth him: but an extraordinary vocation is tried by the doctrine and the effects.
lightly] Gr. quickly. He shall finde much labour first to quiet his conscience, and use much violence to enforce it.
V. 40. he that is not against, is on our part] Is to be esteemed among such as favour me in this furious age.
V. 41. For whosoever] Matth. 10. 42.
he shall not lose his reward] He sheweth how needfull it is to surther the work of the Gospel by all means, because they that any way further it shal be sure to receive some reward or other.
V. 42. And Whosoever] Matth. 18. 6.
whosoever shall offend] God is so severe a revenger of offences, that it is better to suffer any losse, then to be an occasion of offence unto any.
V. 43. And if thy hand] Matth. 5. 29. and 18. 8.
offend thee] Or, cause thee to offend.
to go] Gr. to go away.
V. 44. Where] Isa. 66. 24.
their worm dieth not] Their worm who shall be cast into that flame.
V. 47. offend thee] Or, cause thee to offend, as v. 43.
V. 49. For every one shall be salted with fire] As every meatoffering in the law was to be seasoned with salt: so must we be feasoned with the graces of Gods Spirit, which work like fire, Matth. 3. 11. that we may please God.
and every sacrifice] Levit. 2. 13.
V. 50. Salt is geod] Matth. 5. 13.
but if the salt have lost his salinesse] If ministers, who should season others, be naught, Who shall mend them?
Have salt in your selves] Keep grace; yet lose not peace, Heb. 12. 14.
CHAP. X.
Vers. 1. ANd he] Matth. 19. 1.
he arose from thence] Departed and went from thence; for in Hebrew one word signifieth sitting and dwelling, and another is used for rising and going away.
by the farther side of Jordan] In respect of some creek: for Jewry and Galilee were on the one side of Jordan.
V. 2. to put away his wife?] Gr. to loose his wife from him: Upon every occasion, as Matth. 19. 3. for, that on some he might, they made no doubt.
V. 5. he wrote you this precept] The word signifies, a permission, as well as a command: for Moses commanded not, but onelyonly permitted illegal divorces, v. 4.
V. 6. from the beginning of the creation] Of the world created, chap. 13. 19.
V. 8. one flesh] Gr. into one flesh.
V. 11. Whosoever shall put away his wise] Matth. 5. 32. and 19. 9.
committeth adultery] Except he have put her away for adultery, Matth. 19. 9.
against her] Whom he hath put away: for he keeps wedlockcompany with another.
V. 13. And they brought] Matth. 19. 13.
V. 15. as a little childe] We must be like children in humility, simplicity and innocency, if we desire to enter into the kingdom of heaven.
V. 16. he took them up in his arms] See Notes on chap. 9. 36.
and blessed them] God of his goodnesse comprehendeth them in the covenant, as well as their fathers, and therefore Christ blesseth them.
V. 17. And when] Matth. 19. 16.
that I may inherite eternall life?] Two things are to be eschewed by them which seek eternall life; The opinion of their own merits, and, The love of riches: these two undo many soule.
V. 21. Then Jesus beholding him, loved him] Or, Kissed him. Pitied him, that, having outwardly kept the commandments, which many did not, he should lose heaven neverthelesse.
sell whatsoever thou hast] This is no enangelicall counsel, but a precept: for every one ought to be willing to leave all at Gods command.
V. 22. and went away grieved] Looking heavily.
V. 24. that trust in riches] Psal. 62. 11. 1 Tim. 6. 27.
V. 28. Then Peter] Matth. 19. 27.
Lo, we have left all] To neglect all things, in comparison of Christ, is a sure way unto eternall life, so that we fall not away by the way.
V. 29. or wise] This is not repeated in the next verse, lest men should think they might have many wives: but the want of this shall be supplied in other comforts.
V. 30. he shall receive an hundred fold] Either indeed, when the troubles are over, as Job received more then he lost; or in true content in the midst of troubles.
V. 31. But many] Matth. 19. 30.
V. 32. And they were in the way] Matth. 10. 27.
Jesus went before them] Like a valiant leader.
they were amazed] At his courage in going on so stoutly to offer himself to death, Joh. 11. 8.
they were afraid] Full of thought for themselves, misdoubting their own safetie.
began to tell them] That is, did say, as Luke 7. 38. Acts 1. 1. for he had told them the same before.
what things should happen unto him] The disciples, that they may not be overcome, are again prepared to patience, by Christs foretelling them of his death, which was at hand, and therewithall of life, which should most certainly follow.
V. 33. Behold, we go up to Jerusalem] As if he should say, This is our last journey to Jerusalem.
V. 35. And James] Matth. 20. 20.
saying] By their mother, Matth. 20. 20. See the like, Matth. 8. 5. compared with Luke 7. 3.
we would that thou shouldst do for us] We pray thee, chap. 6. 25.
V. 40. but it shall be given to them] Or, save to them.
V. 42. Ye know] Luke 22. 25.
are accounted] Or, think good.
to rule over the Gentiles] The magistrates, according to Gods appointment, rule over their subjects in this world: but I have no such temporall kingdom here, neither must ye expect it; but be humble like me, whom ye ought to imitate, Mat. 20. 25.
V. 43. shall be your minister] Or, let him be your minister.
V. 44. of you will be the chiefest] Or, will be the chiefest of you.
V. 46. And they came to Jerieho] Matth. 20. 29.
blinde Bartimess] Christ alone, being called upon in faith, healeth our blindnesse.
V. 51. Lord, that I might receive my sight] In the originall, Rabboni; for so were their excellent doctours called. See Joh. 20. 16.
that I might receive my sight] Or, that I might see again, or, look up.
V. 52. make thee whole] Or, saved thee.
he received his sight] See on v. 51.
and followed Jesus in the way] Not led by any, as before.
CHAP. XI.
Vers. 1. WHen they came nigh] Matth. 21. 1.
of his disciples] Gr. his own disciples: To wit, of his apostles: for many others followed him to learn.
V. 2. whereen never man sate] For holy uses they made choice of beasts that had not before been employed otherwise.
V. 9. blessed is he that cometh in the Name of the Lord] Well be it to him that cometh to us from God, or, that is sent of God.
V. 10. Blessed be the kingdom of our father David] Happie and prosperous.
V. 13. And seeing a fig-tree] Matth. 21. 19.
if haply] Or, to see if haply, as Gen. 3. 22.
he found nothing but leaves] An example of that vengeance which hangeth over the heads of hypocrites.
for the time of figs was not yet] And yet it made shew of bearing fruit sooner then ordinary, Isa. 28. 4. which made our Saviour to come to it with expectation of fruit.
V. 15. And they come] Matth. 21, 12.
and began] That is, did cast out: for he had done it once before, Joh. 2. 15. See the like phrase, chap. 10. 32.
to cast out them that sold] Christ sheweth indeed, that he is the true king and high priest, and threfore the revenger of the abuse of the temple.
V. 16. that any man should carry any vessed] That is, any common ones, of which those fellows had a great number, that made the court of the temple a market-place.
V. 17. My house shall be called] Shall openly be so accounted and taken.
of all nations the house of prayer] Or, the house of prayer for all nations, Isa. 56. 7.
V. 19. he went out of the citie] That he might not so much as seem to give any occasion of tumult to the citie, prone thereunto.
V. 20. And in the morning] Matth. 21. 19.
they saw the fig-tree d…ied up from the roots] See the exceeding force of Christs word.
V. 22. Have faith in God] Or, Have the faith of God.
V. 24. What things soever ye desire] Matth. 7. 7.
believe that ye receive them] That is, shall receive: but he speake in the present tense, to shew the certainty of it, 1 Joh. 5. 15.
V. 25. And when ye stand] So they used to do, when they prayed in the temple, Luke 18. 11, 13.
forgive] Matth. 6. 14.
if ye have ought against any] Any just cause of offence.
your trespasses] Stumblings at a block laid in the way. So do we sin by occasions offered.
and as he was walking] Matth. 21. 23.
there come to him the chief priests] The Gospel hath been affaulted long since, by those that pretend ordinary succession.
V. 28. By what authoritie doest thou these things?] Which thou didst yesterday in the temple, v. 15.
V. 29. question] Or, thing.
V. 31. with themselves] Or, among themselves] For it is likely they advised one with another, Matth. 16. 7.
V. 32. Of men] Or, Of men, we are undone. A defective speech, like that, Luke 13. 9.
they feared the people] The reward of an evil conscience, to be afraid of those, of whom they should and might have been feared.
CHAP. XII.
Vers. 1. HE began to speak] Matth. 21. 33.
by parables] He spake one parable onelyonly at this time. So proverbs in the original, is translated, a proverb, Ezek. 14. 8.
V. 2. at the season] When the fruits of the ground used to be gathered.
V. 5. and many others, beating some, and killing some] Or, and many others he sent, whereof some they did beat, and some they did kill.
V. 9. he will come] This answer is attributed to the chief priests and elders, Mat. 21. 41. See the Note there.
unto others] The calling of God is not tied either to place, person or time, without exception.
V. 10. The stone] Psal. 118. 22.
V. 12. they sought to lay hold on him] They were greedy and very desirous to do it.
but feared the people] See on chap. 11. 32.
V. 13. And they send] Matth. 22. 15.
V. 14. thou regardest not the person of men] Gr. thou lookest not upon the face. Therefore the Areopagites did judge in the dark, that they might not be moved with any mans outward shew. They mean here, that Christ did not so judge by outward appearance, that the truth should be thereby darkned any whit at all.
but teachest the way of God in truth] The way that God hath appointed us to walk in.
V. 15. a peny] Valuing, of our money, seven pence halfpeny, as Mat. 18. 28.
V. 17. the things] Or, of the things, chap. 14. 71. and 15. 3.
and to God the things that are Gods] The Gospel joyneth the authority of the magistrate with the service of God.
V. 18. Then come] Matth. 22. 23.
which say there is no resurrection] The resurrection of the body is avouched, against the foolish ignorance and malice of the Sadduces.
V. 19. raise up] Gr. raise up out of her.
V. 28. And one of the scribes] Mat. 22. 35.
V. 32. thou hast said the truth] Gr. thou hast spoken in truth. He came to try Christs wisedom; and hearing it, he approveth it, and gives testimony thereunto.
V. 33. is more then all whole-burnt-offerings] More excellent, and more acceptable to God, 1 Sam. 15. 22. So that sacrifices and outward worship never pleased God, unlesse such necessary duries as we owe to God and our neighbour went afore, Hos. 6. 6. Mic. 6. 6, 7.
V. 35. And Jesus] Mat. 22. 41.
that Christ is the sonne of David?] Christ did not intend to deny this, but to prove his Godhead out of David himself, of whom he came, according to the flesh.
V. 36. by the holy Ghost] Word for word, in the holy Ghost: And there is a great force in this kinde of speech, whereby is meant, that it was not so much David as the holy Ghost that spake, who did in a manner possesse David.
The Lord said] Psal. 110. 1.
V. 37. the common people heard him gladly] Many of the common people, or the greater part of them, while he taught them.
the common people] Or, much folk, chap. 14. 43.
V. 38. Beware] Mat. 23. 5. Gr. Look to, as chap. 8. 15.
of the scribes] The manners of ministers are not rashly to be followed as an example.
to go in long clothing] The word is, a stole, which is a kinde of womans garment, long, even down to the heels, and is taken generally for any garment made for comelinesse: but in this place it seemeth to signifie that fringed garment mentioned, Deut. 22. 12.
V. 40. Which devour] Mat. 23. 14.
widows houses] Such as 2 Tim. 3. 6. They spoil those whom Gods law gave a speciall charge of preserving.
V. 41. money] A piece of brasse-money. See Mat. 10. 29. Money of any kinde of metal, which the Romanes used, who in the beginning did stamp or coin brasse, and after used it for currant money.
into the treasury] Or, chest, whereinto they put their beneficence, 2 Kings 12. 10, 11. 2 Chron. 24. 8.
V. 42. two mites] It is the seventh part of one piece of that brasse-money.
V. 43. he called unto him his disciples] He called them apart, that neither the widow nor others might hear what he said for their instruction.
this poor widow hath cast more in] The doing of our duties which God alloweth, is not esteemed according to the outward value, but to the inward affections of the heart, 1 Cor. 8. 12.
V. 44. but she of her want] Out of her exceeding small store, 2 Cor. 8. 2.
even all her living] All her money she had to live on, so that she must presently work for more; whereas, others gave out of that which lay by them, and had more left to spend.
CHAP. XIII.
Vers. 1. AS he went out of the temple] Matth. 24. 1.
see what manner of stones] How beautifull, Luk. 21. 5. and large, v. 2. of this chapter. Josephus writes, that they were white and hard stones, some five, some eight cubits long, about eight deep, and about twelve broad.
V. 2. Seest thou these great buildings?] Thou thinkest they will last ever, because of their greatnesse; but thou art deceived, they shall be thrown down.
there shall not be left one stone upon another] The destruction of the temple, citie and whole nation is foretold, and the troubles of the church: but yet there are annexed many comforts: and last of all, the end of the world is described.
thrown down] Gr. loosed down: That is, loosed from the other, and thrown down, chap. 15. 29, 32.
V. 4. Tell us] Mat. 24. 3.
V. 6. saying, I am Christ] Or, I am he, whom ye look for, Mat. 11. 3.
V. 8. these are the beginnings] Ye shall have greater sorrows afterwards, as a woman with childe begins her travel with lesser pains, but feels greater after.
sorrows] The word in the original importeth, the pains of a woman in travel, 1 Thess. 5. 3.
V. 9. take heed to your selves] Gr. look to your selves, 2 Joh. v. 8.
for a testimonie against them] The hearing of you preaching, shall be a most evident witnesse against them, so that they shall not be able to pretend ignorance.
V. 10. the gospel must first be published] Before ye be thus persecuted.
among all nations] To the Gentiles, as well as to the Jews: for it was not preached, to many nations, long after these troubles.
V. 11. But when they shall lead you] Matth. 10. 19. To the magistrates.
and deliver you up] To be afflicted.
for it is not ye that speak, but the holy Ghost] Ye are not the principall speakers; for Gods Spirit will guide your tongues. A speciall promise to the apostles.
V. 12. the brother shall betray the brother to death] Perfidio…sly discover and bring them before rulers, that they may be slain.
V. 13. ye shall be hated of all men] Of most men with whom ye shall converse, Phil. 2. 21. Or, all sorts of men.
for my Names sake] For professing me to be the Saviour of the world.
he that shall endure unto the end] Persecutions and afflictions for professing the Gospel.
V. 14. But when] Mat. 24. 15.
standing where it ought not] See Notes on Mat. 24. 15.
V. 19. For in those days shall be affliction] Gr. For those days shall see affliction. This is a kinde of speech which the Hebrews use, and it hath a great force in it; for it gives to understand, that, in all that time, one misery shall so follow upon another, as if the time it self were very misery it self. So the prophet Am. 5. 23. saith, that the day of the Lord shall be darknesse.
from the beginning of the creation] Of the world created, as chap. 10. 6.
V. 21. And then] Mat. 24. 23.
V. 22. shew signes] Gr. give signes.
V. 24. But in those days] Mat. 24. 29.
V. 27. his angels] Gr. his own angels.
and shall gather together] By the ministery of his angels, Mat. 24. 31.
his elect] Gr. his own elect.
to the uttermost part of heaven] His elect both in heaven and earth: for all of them shall attend Christ at the day of Judgement, Jude v. 14.
V. 28. When her branch is yet tender] See notes on Mat. 24. 32. Or, now tender: or, already tender: For it is not so all the winter. See chap. 6. 35. and 8. 2. and 15. 42, 44.
V. 29. know that it is nigh] The kingdom of God, Luk. 21. 31.
V. 30. till all these things be done] Begin to be accomplished: for the destruction of Jerusalem came while some of this age were alive.
V. 32. But of that day] Mentioned, v. 26.
hour] Or, season.
no not the angels] Much lesse men.
neither the Son] As man, he knew not all things at once, but by degrees, Luke 2. 52. And it is likely he had not this secret revealed to him, till after his ascension, when he had laid down the form of a servant.
but the Father] The later day is not curiously to be searched for, which the Father alone knoweth: but let us rather take heed, that it come not upon us unaware.
V. 33. Take ye heed] Mat. 24. 42.
the time] Gr. the season.
V. 34. and gave authority to his servants] The charge of his domesticall affairs.
V. 37. what I say unto you] Tell the rest of my disciples, and all others, for their learning and comfort, what I have told you four, v. 3.
CHAP. XIIII.
Vers. 2. AFter] After the prophecie of the destruction of the citie and temple was spoken of in the former chapter.
two days] Matth. 26. 2.
and of unleavened bread] Which passeover was the beginning of the solemn use of unleavened bread.
V. 2. Not on] It must be before the passeover.
the feast-day] By the will of God, against the counsel of men, it came to passe, that Christ should be put to death upon the solemn day of the passeover, that in all fit respects the truth might agree with the figure.
V. 3. And being in Bethany] Mat. 26. 6.
spikenard] Or, purenard, or liquidnard.
she brake the box] Not to pieces, but so as it might run out largely and freely.
V. 4. Why was this waste] Wicked men think all waste that is bestowed on Christ.
V. 5. three hundred pence] Which is about six pounds English, See Matth. 18. 28.
V. 6. Why trouble ye her] Gr. make labours. It seems they were very troublesome to her, and sought by all means to hinder her.
V. 7. ye have the poor with you always] Ye will not want occasion to do good to the poor, when I am gone.
V. 8. to anoint my body to the burying] See notes on Mat. 16. 12.
V. 10. And Judas] Matth. 26. 14.
went unto] Gr. went away unto, chap. 22. 43.
V. 11. and promised to give him money] Christ is betrayed by covetousnesse.
V. 12. And] Mat. 26. 17. Our Saviour being made subject to the law for us, doth celebrate the passeover according to the law; and therewithall, by foretelling the place, sheweth, that although he in the flesh shall quickly suffer, yet he is God, that knows contingent things.
the first day of unleavened bread] Or, the day before: For they must prepare for it before hand.
when they killed] They used to kill. Or, sacrificed.
the passeover] That is spoken by the figure Metonymia, which is usuall in sacraments; and, by the passeover, is meant the paschal lamb.
V. 13. Go ye into the citie] Jerusalem.
bearing a pitcher of water] To wash and fit the house for guests against the feast; being one in likelihood of those who used to let out lodgings against the feast to strangers, as many in Jerusalem did. See v. 15.
V. 14. And wheresoever he shall go in] Into whatsoever house.
Where is the guest-chamber] Or, lodging. The word is used for an inne, Luke 2. 7.
V. 15. a large upper room] The Greek word signifieth that part of the house that is highest from the ground, to what use soever it be put: but because they used to sup in that part of the house, they called it a supping-chamber.
V. 18. And as they sat] Mat. 26. 20.
V. 20. that dippeth with me in the dish] That useth to eat meat with me: which was anciently esteemed a strict bond of friendship, Psal. 41. 9.
V. 22. And] Mat. 26. 26.
as they did eat] The figure of the law, which is by and by to be fulfilled, is abrogated; and, in place thereof, are put seals of the new covenant, answerable unto them, which shall continue to the worlds end.
V. 25. I will drink no more] See on Mat. 26. 29.
V. 26. hymn] Or, psalm.
V. 27. And Jesus] Mat. 26. 31.
All ye shall be offended] Christ foretelleth how he shall be forsaken of his; but yet, that he will never forsake them.
V. 29. But Peter] Matth. 26. 33.
yet will not I] Here is set forth, in an excellent person, a most sorrowfull example of mans rashnesse and weaknesse.
V. 30. even in this night] Before it be day-light. A quick change.
V. 31. But he spake the more vehemently] The earnestnes of his words setteth out more plainly Peters vehement affirmation.
Likewise also said they all] The rest of the apostles that were with Christ.
V. 32. And they came] Mat. 26. 36.
to his disciples] Gr. to his own disciples. For none but apostles were with him, who were called his disciples, by way of preeminence.
V. 33. with him] Gr. with himself. None were there, but they and he.
V. 34. My soul is exceeding sorrowfull unto death] Christ suffering for us in that flesh which he took upon him for our sakes, the most horrible terrours of the curse of God, receiveth the cup at his Fathers hands, which he, being just, doth drink for the unjust.
V. 35. the bour might passe from him] The time of my passion determined by thee, and foretold in Scriptures, which I now feel, to my sorrow, to be at hand.
V. 36. Abba, Father] So Rom. 8. 15. Gal. 4. 6. The children speaking Syrian, used to say Abba to their fathers; therefore the Greek retains it: and expounds it, because the congregations were mixed; and so doubles it, to shew the strength of his affection.
V. 37. and findeth them sleeping] An example of humane frailty, even in the apostles, whom Christ had chosen.
V. 41. into the hands of sinners] Of the Romanes, which were heathen, Gal. 2. 15.
V. 43. And immediately] Mat. 26. 47.
V. 44. he that betrayed him] As men did willingly spoil God their Creatour of his praise, in forsaking him, and betraying his honour: so Christ, willingly going about to make satisfaction for this breach, is forsaken of his own, that the punishment might be agreeable to the sin.
had given them a t…ken] A common sign that they and he might understand. In war, they call it, A watch-word, or, The word▪
and lead him away safety] So diligently, that he escape not out of your hands.
V. 47. one of them that stood by] Peter cut off Malchus ear, John 18. 10.
V. 49. but the scriptures must be fulfilled] Gr. but that: That is, But this was done, that the Scriptures might be fulfilled.
V. 50. And they all forseek him] The eleven disciples that were with him.
V. 51. a certain young man] Not one of our Saviours disciples, or of the house whence he came; but one that came out of some dwelling neer the garden, who, hearing the tumult, had risen, and run out to see what the matter was.
having a linen cloth] Such as they used to lie in.
the young men laid hold on him] The souldiers that came with Judas, supposing him to be one of Christs disciples, took him.
V. 53. And they led] Mat. 26. 57.
with him were assembled all the chief priests] The highest council was assembled, because Christ was accused as a blasphemer, and a false prophet: for as for the other crime of treason, it was forged against him by the priests, to enforce Pilate by that means to condemn him.
V. 54. at the fire] Gr. at the light.
V. 55. And the chief priests] Mat. 26. 59.
V. 56. but their witnesse agreed not together] Or, were no… equall to an accusation of death. They did not accuse him of a capital crime, which thing the priests desired, v. 55, 59. So that Christ, who was so innocent, that he could not be oppressed, no not by false witnesses; is at length, for confessing God to be his Father, condemned of impietie before the high priest, that we, who denied God, and were indeed wicked, might be quit before God.
V. 59. But neither so did their witnesse agree together] It was not sufficient to put him to death, though they both did agree in one tale, v. 58. and therefore the high priest puts him to accuse himself, v. 61, 63.
V. 61. the Son of the Blessed?] Of God, who is worthy of all praise, and is daily lauded of men and angels. The Jews commonly called God, The blessed One.
V. 62. and ye shall see] Mat. 24. 30.
sitting on the right hand] That ye may not doubt of the truth of what I say, I will confirm it by this notable signe.
of power] Of the power of God, till he have destroyed all his foes, Psal. 110. 1.
V. 65. some began] That is, they did spit.
to spit on him] Christ, suffering all kinde of reproach for our sakes, getteth everlasting glory for them that trust on him, Isa. 50. 6.
to cover his face] As if he had been condemned to die. See Esth. 7. 8. Or, to mock him.
Prophesie] Thou takest upon thee to be a prophet; tell who smote thee.
V. 66. And as Peter was beneath] Matth. 26. 29. For the assembly of priests sate higher, in the same room.
V. 67. thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth] Wast conversant with him as a disciple.
V. 68. But he denied] An heavie example of the frailnesse of man, together with a most comfortable example of the mercy of God, who giveth the spirit of repentance and …aith to his elect.
V. 71. he began to curse] To curse himself, or wi…h evil on himself, if he knew Christ.
V. 72. And the second time] Mat. 26. 75.
when he thought thereon, he wept] Or, he wept abundantly, or, he began to weep, or, he went out, as Mat. 26. 75.
CHAP. XV.
Vers. 1. STraightway in the morning] Mat. 27. 1.
and the whole council] For there were Pharisees there, and ordinary priests, which are not here named.
and bound Jesus] Christ being bound before the judgementseat of an earthly judge, in open assembly, is condemned, as guilty, unto the death of the crosse; not for his own sins, as appeareth by the judges own words; but for ours altogether, that we, most guilty creatures, being delivered from the guiltinesse of our sinnes, might be quitted before the judgement-seat of God, even in open assembly of the angels.
and delivered him to Pilate] It was not lawfull for them to put any man to death; for all causes of life and death were taken away from them, first by Herod the great, and afterward by the Romans; and therefore they deliver Jesus to Pilate.
V. 4. And Pilate asked him again] Matth. 27. 13. For he had asked him once before, in the judgement-hall, where his enemies would not come to hear, Joh. 18. 33. Now, lest they should say Pilate had not dealt fairly, he asketh him again in their presence, Luke 23. 2.
V. 6. he released unto them one prisoner] Used to release.
V. 11. that he should] Or, to ask that he should. See the like, v. 8.
V. 15. to content the people] Gr. to do sufficient to satisfie the people.
V. 16. called] Gr. which is.
V. 17. and platted a crown of thorns] Christ, going about to take away the sins of men, who went about to usurp the throne of God himself, is condemned as one that hunted after the kingdom, and is mocked with a false shew of a kingdom; that we, on the other side, who shall indeed be eternal kings, might receive the crown of glory at Gods hand.
about his head] Gr. about him.
V. 19. …owing] Gr. putting.
V. 21. And they compelled one Simon] Matth. 27. 32. The rage of the wicked hath no measure: but, in the mean season, even the weaknesse of Christ, being in pain, under the heavie burden of the crosse, doth manifestly shew, that a lamb is led to be sacrificed.
V. 22. the place of a scull] Christ is led out of the walls of the earthly Jerusalem, into a soul place of dead mens carcases, as a man most unclean, not for his own, but for our sins, which were laid upon him; to the end that we, being made clean by his blood, might be brought into the heavenly Sanctuary.
V. 24. they parted his garments] Christ hangeth naked upon the crosse, and, as if he had been the wickedest caitiff that ever was, he is most vilely reproached; that we, being clothed with his righteousnesse, and blessed by his bearing curses, and sanctified by his onelyonly oblation, may be taken up into heaven.
V. 25. it was the third hour] They fastned him to the crosse …bout nine of the clock in the morning.
and they crucified him] Or, when they crucified him, Acts 5. 7.
V. 28. And he was numbred] Isa. 53. 12.
V. 29. Ah, thou that destroyest the temple] A note not so much of insultation, as of detesTation.
destroyest] See on chap. 13. 2.
V. 33. there was darknesse] How angry God was against our sins, which he punished in our surety his Son, it appeareth by this horrible darknesse. Or, with their sins that crucified him.
over the whole land] By this word, land, he meaneth Judea: so that the strangenesse of the wonder is so much the more set forth in this, That at the feast of the passeover, and in the full moon, when the sun shined over all the rest of the world, and at midday, that corner of the world, wherein so wicked an act was committed, was covered over with most grosse darknesse. Or, some understand it of the whole hemisphere.
V. 34. at the ninth hour] Christ striving mightily with Satan, with sin, and with death, all three armed with the horrible curse of God, and grievously tormented in body hanging upon the crosse, yet he riddeth himself, crying with a mighty voice: and, by smiting both things above and things beneath, by renting of the vail of the temple, and by the testimonie wrung out of them which murdered him, he sheweth evidently, That he shall be known out of hand to be Conquerour, and Lord of all.
V. 34. Eloi] Mat. …7. 46.
V. 37. cried with a loud voice, and] Gr sending forth a great voice.
V. 40. There were also women] Christ, to the great shame of men, which forsook the Lord, chose women for his witnesses, which beheld all this businesse.
of James the lesse] It may be he was lesse in stature, or of lesse note, or younger then James the son of Zebedee: However, this is added, to distinguish him from that other James.
V. 41. followed him] Luke 8. 3.
V. 42. And now] Ma…. 27. 57.
V. 43. an honourable counsellour] A man of great authority, of the council of the Sanhedrin, or else taken into Pilates council.
and went in boldly unto Pilate] If we consider what danger Joseph cast himself into, we shall perceive how bold he was.
CHAP. XVI.
Vers. 1. WAs past] Or, had come between, as Acts 25. 13. and 27. 9.
had bought sweet spices] Had by them, being formerly bought; for on the sabbath-day they could not buy it.
V. 2. And very early in the morning] Luke 24. 1. Joh. 20. 1. Assoon as was fit to do it. On the sabbath they might not, and in the night they could not see to do it.
V. 3. they said among themselves] Little dreaming of the guard set about the sepulchre.
V. 4. when they looked] When they cast their eyes towards the sepulchre. Gr. when they looked up: for the stone was higher then the ground, on which it may be they looked before.
for it was very great] This is a reason of their care, v. 3. not of the removing of the stone. See the like, Mark 12. 12.
V. 5. And entring into the sepulchre] Joh. 20. 11.
they saw a young man] The angel appeared in the shape of a young man, to shew his strength to remove the stone, and the vigour of heavenly creatures.
V. 7. and Peter] Principally to Peter, because he was a prime apostle, Mat. 10. 2. and now full of heavinesse, for denying his Master, as Psal. 18. title.
as he said unto you] Mat. 26. 32.
V. 8. neither said they any thing to any man] Either for fear of the Jews they durst tell no man by the way, or else for haste to tell the disciples, as they were bidden, Mat. 28. 8. Luk. 24. 9, 22, 23.
V. 9. he appeared first to Mary Magdalene] Joh. 20. 14.
out of whom he had cast seven devils] Gr. from whom he had cast out, Luke 8. 2. See the great mercy of Christ! he appears first to her, who had been most miserable. Hereby also he shews the unbelief of his disciples, v. 11.
V. 11. And they] Or, Yet they, as Acts 7. 5.
when they heard that he was alive] Mary told them, that the angel assured her Christ was alive, v. 6. and that she had seen him, v. 9.
believed not] The greatnesse and strangenesse of the matter exceeded their faith, Luke 24. 11. Exod. 6. 9.
V. 12. in another form] In another habit then he had conversed with them in; and therefore they took him for a stranger, Luk. 24. 18. as Mary did for the gardiner, Joh. 20. 15.
unto two of them] Luke 24. 13.
and went into the countrey] To Emaus, a countrey-town or village.
V. 13. neither believed they them] All this is recorded, that we may the better believe those, who so slowly believed themselvs.
V. 14. Afterward] Luke 24. 36. Joh. 20. 19.
at meat] Or, together.
V. 15. And he said] Mat. 28. 19.
Go ye into all the world] Not into Judea alone, as Mat. 10. 5, 6. so that now the apostles are sent to preach the word, administer the sacraments, and work miracles among the Gentiles also.
to every creature] The Hebrews call man, by way of excellency, The creature, as being Gods principall master-piece among the creatures. So Col. 1. 23.
V. 16. and is baptized] He that believeth, and by baptism maketh profession of his faith.
but he that believeth not] Joh. 12. 48.
V. 17. And these signes] Miracles to confirm their doctrine.
shall follow them that believe] For a time, till Christianity be openly professed: neither had every one all these following gifts; but some had one, some another, as occasion and use should be, 1 Cor. 12. 4, 8.
In my Name] Act. 19. 18. By my power, Acts 3. 6. and 4. 7.
shall they cast out devils] As Paul did, Acts 16. 18.
they shall speak with new tongues] Other then they were acquainted▪ with before, Acts 2. 4. and 10. 46. See notes on chap. 1. 27.
V. 18. They shall take up] Acts 28. 5.
serpents] And not be hurt, as Acts 28. 3, 5.
if they drink any deadly thing] Poison. As they write of John and others, in the ecclesiastical histories.
they shall lay hands on the sick] So Acts 28. 8.
V. 19. he was received up] Luke 24. 51.
into heaven] Christ having accomplished his office upon earth, ascended into heaven; from whence he confirms the doctrine of his apostles by signes, and governs his Church unto the worlds end.
V. 20. And they went forth] From Jerusalem, whence the scepter of Christs Kingdom was to go forth, Psal. 110. 2. Isa. 2. 3.
the Lord working with them] Working together, as 1 Cor. 3. 9. and 15. 10.
and confirming the word] Heb. 2. 4.
with signes following] Following them, wheresoever they went to preach, v. 17.