The Annals of the World, History 2 · Age of the world 7 · Floating text
THE FIRST PASSEOVER OF THE MINISTERY of CHRIST. [John II. 13.] From which the first year of the seventieth and last week of Daniell begins; in which the Covenant is confirmed with Many, (Dan. 9. 27. compared with Matth. 26. 28.)
JEsus goeth to Jerusalem to the Passeover. Going into the Temple, he scourgeth out them that bought and sold there; and for a signe of his authority, he declares unto them,JOHN. II. 13. 14, 22. how that the Temple of his body should be dissolved by the Jews, and be raised again by himself.
He worketh miracles,JOHN. 23, 24, 25. and many believe on him, but he did not commit himself unto them, because he knew what is in man.
He instructs Nicodemus the Disciple,JOHN. III. that came to him by night,JOHN. 1, 21. in the mysterie of regeneration in faith in his death, and in the condemnation of the unbelievers.
Leaving Jerusalem, Year of the World 4034 he goeth into the land of Judea with his Disciples.JOHN. 22.
He tarries there and baptizeth.JOHN. 22, 23, 24. (viz. by the hand of the Disciples, that had been before baptized, either by Himself, or John) John then baptized in Aenon, for he was not yet cast into prison.
There ariseth a question between some of Johns Disciples and the Jews about purifying.JOHN. 25.
John instructs his Disciples,JOHN. 26, 36. telling him of Jesus in emulation, concerning himself and his office, and of the excellence of Jesus Christ the son of God: giving this notable and last testimony of him before his imprisonment.
Herod the Tetrarch cast John into prison,MARK. VI. for reprehending his incest with his brother PhilipsMARK. 17, 20. wife,MATT. XVI. and other evills done by him.MATT. 3, 4, 5.
Jesus hearing that John was cast into prison, JOHN. IV. 1, 2. 3.and that the Pharisees had heard that there were many made Disciples by him,MATT. IV. 12. and baptized, viz. by the hand of his Disciples, he left Judea (when de had stayed about eight moneths) and went into Galilee.
But he must needs go through Samaria, JOHN. 4, 42.where he brings the Samaritan woman, neer the City Sychar, and the Citizens of Sychar to the acknowledgement of him, four moneths before harvest, (or the Passeover about the middle of the ninth monethmonth, called Ab.)
After he had stayed two dayes in Sychar,JOHN. 43, 44. he goes onward in his journey into Galilee. (Which is his second return from Judea into Galilee, after his baptisme.
Being received of the Galileans,JOHN. 45. who had seen what things he had done at Jerusalem;LUKE. IV. 14, 15. he preacheth with great fame in their Synagogues.MARK. I. 14. 15.
In Cana he heales the son of a Nobleman,JOHN. 46, 54. that lay sick. This was the second miracle that Jesus did in Galilee.
He works miracles in Capernaum,LUKE. 16, 30. and afterwards comes to Nazareth where he was brought up. The Julian Period. 4744 And entering into the Synagogue, Year after Christ 31 as his custom was, he expounded the Prophesie of Esay, of himself: the Citizens first wondering, but afterwards being filled with wrath, they thrust him out of the City, endeavouring to cast him down headlong from a hill; but he passing thorough the middle of them, went his way.
Then leaving Nazareth he dwells at Capernaum, LUKE. 31, 32.and there teacheth them on the Sabbath dayes:MARK. 21, 22. and they are astonished at his doctrine.MATT. 13, 17.
In the Synagogue of Capernaum he cast out an unclean spirit,LUKE. 33, 37. commanding him that he should not tell who he was.MARK. 23, 28.
And he arose out of the Synagogue,LUKE. 38, 39. and went into the house of Simon and Andrew,MARK. 29, 30, 31. and heales Simons wives mother that lay sick of a fever.MATT. VIII. 14, 15.
About Sun-set he heales all sick folke that are brought unto him,LUKE. 40, 41. and casts out Devils,MARK. 32, 33, 34. commanding them to hold their peace.MATT. 16, 17.
In the morning he goeth into a desert place to pray:LUKE. 42, 43, 44. and when Simon and others sought and would have stayed him;MARK. 35, 39. he answereth them, That he must preach to other Cities also.
He goes thorough all Galilee, LUKE. 44.and teacheth in their Synagogues,MARK. 39. and casts out devils.
As he stood by the lake of Gennasereth,LUKE. V. a great multitude pressed upon him,LUKE. 1, 4 therefore he entred into Simons ship, and taught the multitude from thence.
And when he had left speaking, LUKE. 4, 11.at his command there is a great draught of fishes taken;MARK. I. whereat Simon-Peter,MARK. 16, 20. and Andrew,MATT. IV. James,MATT. 18, 22. and John, being astonished, he commands them to follow him, and he makes them fishers of men.
And Jesus went thorough all Galilee, teaching in their Synagogues,MATT. 23, 24, 25. and healing every disease; and his fame went into all Syria, and a great multitude followed him.
In a certain City he heals a Leper,MATT. VIII. who although he were forbid,LUKE. 12, 16. yet publisheth it:MARK. 40, 45. and they come to him from every place to hear him,MATT. 1, 4. and to be healed: insomuch that he could no more enter openly into the City, but was in desert places, and prayed.
And again he entred into Capernaum his own City, LUKE. 17, 26.after some dayes, MARK. II.and taught them at home:MARK. 1, 12. and before the Scribes and Pharisees,MATT. IX. and a great multitude,MATT. 1, 8. forgives sins to one sick of the Palsie, that was let down thorough the roof of the house, and heals the disease to the astonishment of all.
And Jesus went forth again by the sea side,LUKE. 27, 28. and all the multitude came unto him,MARK. 13, 14. and he taught them; MATT. 9.and as he passed by he saw, and called Levi, or Mathew sitting at the receipt of custom.
Jesus in the house of Levi,LUKE. 29, 39. defends both himself and his Disciples,MARK. 15, 22. for that they eat with Publicans,MATT. 10, 13. and excuseth and vindicates them, against the Pharisees, for their not fasting.
And it came to passe on the second Sabbath after the first, LUKE. VI.(that is,LUKE. 1, 5. the first Sabbath of the new year,MARK. 23, 28. instituted after their coming out of Egypt,MATT. XII 1, 8. and beginning from the monethmonth Nisan, or Abib.) Jesus going thorough the corn fields, clears his Disciples from the reprehension of the Pharisees, because they plucked the ears of corn; and explaines the doctrine of the Sabbath.
The second PASSEOVER of the Ministery of CHRIST, John, V. 1. compared with IV. 3, 5. from which the second year of the LXX. week of Daniel begins.
AFter these things was the Feast of the Jews, JOHN. V.and Jesus went up to Jerusalem, JOHN. 1, 47.and heales on the Sabbath day a man that had had an infirmity thirty eight years, lying at the poole of Bethesda: and makes a most divine Apology to the Jews seeking to kill him, because he said that God was his Father.
And he went from thence, LUKE. 6, 11.and entred again into a Synagogue,MARK. III. and taught,MARK. 1, 6. and heales one that had a withered hand:MATT. 9, 14. and the Pharisees went forth, and straightway with the Herodians took counsel how they might destroy him.
But Jesus when he knew this,MARK. 7, 12. withdrew himself to the sea, MATT. 15, 21.and healed the multitudes that followed him; straitly charging them that they should not make him known, and commanded his Disciples that a small ship should waite on him, because of the multitude that thronged him.
And it came to passe in those dayes,LUKE. 12. 16. that he went into a mountain to pray,MARK. 13. 19. and continued in prayer all night: and when it was day, he chose twelve, whom he called Apostles, that are specified by name.
And he came down with them and stood in a plain, LUKE. 17. 18, 19.a great multitude coming unto him, and he healed them all.
And they went into a house,MARK. 19, 20, 21. and the multitude cometh together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread: and when his kinsmen heard of it they went to lay hold on him, for they said, he is beside himself.
When he saw the multitude,LUKE. 20, 49. he went up into a mountain, MATT. V.and when he was set,MATT. VI. his Disciples came unto him.MATT. VII. Then he preaches that long and excellent Sermon, first to the Apostles, and afterwards to all the people.
Now when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people,LUKE. VII. he entred into Capernaum,LUKE. 1, 10. and heales the Centurions servant that lay sick of the palsie ready to die.MATT. VIII.MATT. 5. 13.
The day following he goes into the City of Naim, LUKE. 11, 17.and raises one that was dead and carried out, which was the only …on of a widow, whereupon his fame spread abroad.
John being in prison,LUKE. 18, 35. being moved with the relation of his disciples concerning the fame and deeds of Jesus,MATT. XI. sends two of them to him,MATT. 2. 30. saying, Art thou he that was to come, or shall we look for another, who when they were returned with his answer, he gives a large testimony of John: he then upbraides some Cities for their ingratitude, and willingly rests in the sole good pleasure of his Father, hiding him from some and revealing him to other.
And Simon the Pharisee desired him that he would eate with him,LUKE. 36, 50. and as they were at meat, he defends against Simon, and absolves the woman a sinner that washed his feet with her teares, and wiped them with the haires of her head, both kissiing and anointing them.
And it came to passe afterward that he went from City to City preaching,LUKE. VIII. and his disciples were with him,LUKE. 1, 2, 3. and certain women ministred unto him.
They bring unto him one that had a divell, MARK. 22, 30.that was both blind and dumb, MATT. 22, 37.and he healed him, and eagerly defends himself against the Pharisees and Scribes that came down from Jerusalem that blasphemed him saying, he casteth out devills through Beelzebub.
Then answered some of the Scribes and Pharisees, MATT. 38, 45.saying, Master. We would see a sign of thee, to whom when he had sharply rebuked them, he gives no other sign than that of Jonas.
And while he spake to the people, LUKE. VIII.it was told him,LUKE. 19, 20, 21. that his mother and brethren,MARK. 31, 35. stood without desiring to see him and speake with him,MATT. 46, 50. but Jesus answering, shews them whom he accounts for his mother and brother and sister.
The same day Jesus went out of the house,LUKE. 4, 18. and sate by the sea side,MARK. IV. and great multitudes were gathered unto him,MARK. 1, 34. so that he went into a ship, and sate,MATT. XIII. and taught the multitudes many things, MATT. 1. 53.by the parable of the sower, and many other parables.
And the same day when it was evening, LUKE. 22, 25.he said unto them, MARK. 35, 41.let us lanch forth unto the other side of the lake; MATT. VIII.when he had given an answer to some that would follow him,MATT. 18, 27. and sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship, and there arose a great tempest, but he rebukes the wind and calmes the sea,LUKE. 26, 36. and saves his disciples.MARK. V.
And they came unto the other side, MARK. 1, 16.into the Country of the Gadarens, MATT. 28, 33.or Gergesens, which is on the opposite shoar to Galilee, and when he was come to land, there met him, two possessed with devills, very fierce, (Marke and Luke speak but of one) out of whom the devills that being cast, Jesus suffering them, enter into the swine,LUKE. 37, 38, 39. upon the Gadarens requesting him to quit their coasts;MARK. 17, 20. and the possessed persons importuning him,MATT. 34. that he might abide with him, (who notwithstanding was denied, and sent back to publish about Decapolis what great things Jesus had done for him) he passed over again by ship unto the other side: and from thence went unto his own city: [Capernaum.]
And it came to passe that when Jesus was returned,LUKE. 40. the people received him gladly,MARK. 21. for they waited for him, and he was by the sea side.
Then come to him the disciples of John, MATT IX. 14,-17.saying, why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not to whom he gives his answer.
While he yet spake, LUKE. 41, 56.behold there cometh Jairus one of the rulers of the Synagogues, MARK. 22,—43.and besought him greatly for his only daughter of about twelve years old who say at point of death,MATT 18,-26. as he was going, even at Jairus door, a woman that had an issue of bloud twelve years is suddenly healed by touching the them of Jesus his garment, and the daughter of Jairus now already dead is restored to life by his word only, and likewise straightly chargeth, that no man should know it.
When he departed thence, MATT 27,-31.two blind men followed him, whose eies he openeth, straightly charging (but to no purpose) that no man should know it.MATT 32,-33, 34.
As they went out, behold, they brought unto him a dumb man possessed with a devill, and when the devill was cast out the dumb spake, and the multitude marvelled, but the Pharisees blasphemed.MATT 35. XII. 54,-58.
And he went round about all their Cities and villages, MARK. VI. 1,—6.teaching, and healing their diseases, then he comes into his own Countrey, and his disciples follow him, and teaching in their synagogue on the sabbath day, he is again contemned of them, and called the Carpenter, notwithstanding they were astonished at his doctrine.
And he went round about their villages,MARK. 6. teaching.MATT IX. 35,-38.
And he was moved with compassion towards the multitude, when he saw the great harvest, and the few labourers, and saith to his disciples, that they should pray the Lord that he would send forth Labourers.MATT X. 1,-42.
Then he sends the twelve Apostles,LUKE. IX. 1,—5. by two and two,MARK. 7,—11. sufficiently instructed with commands and power,LUKE. 6. to preach and heal diseases.MATT XI. 1. 12,-16.
And it came to passe when Jesus had made an end of commanding his disciples, he departed thence to teach and to preach in their Cities.
And the twelve departed, and went through the Townes preaching the Gospell and healing every where.
The seventeenth of November, Seianus was killed, [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 25.] who being taken away, Tiberius straightway knew that all the crimes that he had accused the Jews of were feigned by himself. Wherefore Tiberius commanded the governours of all provinces, that in every Town they should spare this nation, except very few that were guilty persons, but that they should alter none of their customes, but should wake much account of the men as lovers of peace, and their customes as conducing to publick tranquillity. [Philo. de legat. ad Caium.]
Severus, The Julian Period. 4745 the Governour of Egypt being dead, Year after Christ 32 Tiberius made Flaccus Avillius, one of his friends, his successour for six years: who governed well that Province for the five first years: as long as Tiberius lived. [Phil. lib. in Flac.]
John Baptist is beheaded.MATT. XVI. 6, 11, 12.
When his Disciples heard this,MARK. 17, 28, 29. they came and took up the body, and buried it, and came and told Jesus.
The opinions of Herod the Tetrarch,LUKE 7, 8, 9. and others hearing of the fame of Jesus,MARK. 1, 4. which Herod desired to see him.
The Apostles being returned,LUKE 10. tell Jesus what things they had done.MARK. 30.
When Jesus had heard of the death of John,LUKE 10, 11. and of the deeds of the Apostles,MARK. 31, 32. he said unto them, MATT. 13, 14.Come yee your selves apart into a desert place, and rest a while, for by reason of the multitude they had not leasure to eat, he therefore, taking the twelve with him, went by ship privately into a desert place of the City. called Bethesda. But when the multitude heard it, they followed him on foot out of all Cities, and outwent him, and he taught and healed them.
And Jesus went up into a mountain,JOHN VI. 1, 21. and there sat with his Disciples,LUKE 12, 17. and the Passeover was nigh.MARK. 35, 56. And when it was evening,MATT. 15. 36. he feeds above five thousand men, besides women and children, with five barly loaves, and two little fishes, and there remaineth twelve baskets full of fragments. And when they would have made him a King, Jesus constrained his Disciples to go before him unto the other side, opposite to Bethesda, towards Capernaum. And he himself went into a mountain apart to pray: and when they had gone about 25 or 30 furlongs, in the fourth watch of the night, Jesus goes to them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them, and tells them, they being affrighted, who he is, and rebuking, saves Peter ready to sink, and they were amazed. And they drew to shore, and came to the land of Genesaret: and when he was come out of the ship, as soon as it was known, they brought their sick, that they might touch the hem of his garment, and they were made whole.
The next day, JOHN 22, 27.after Jesus was passed over, the people which stood on this side the sea, took shipping and came to Capernaum seeking Jesus: to whom he preacheth in the Synagogue of Capernaum of the bread of life, and affirms to the Jews that murmured that he was the bread of life. From that time many of his Disciples went back, but the Apostles would not go away; notwithstanding, he calls one of them a devil.
The third PASSEOVER of the Ministery of CHRIST, [John VI 4] From which the third year of the LXX week of Daniel begins.
THe Scribes and Pharisees which came from Jerusalem, MARK. VII. 1, 23.came to Jesus, MATT. XV. 1, 20.and when they saw some of his Disciples eat with defiled, viz. unwashen hands, they found fault, That they did not walk after the tradition of the Elders: to whom he answers concerning traditions, that they frustrated the command of God, that they might keep the traditions of men, and teacheth the people, which also he expounds to his Disciples at home, that nothing that entreth into a man, but that that cometh from within, that defileth a man.
And he arose from thence, MARK. 24, 30.and went into the borders of Tire and Sidon, MATT. 21, 28.and he could not be hid. For a Canaanitish woman, a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by nation, came to him, earnestly beseeching him for her daughter, that was vexed with a divill: whom having praised for the greatnesse of her faith, he casts out the divil of her daughter.
And again departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon,MARK. 31, 37. he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coast of Decapolis, and they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech, whom he heals, charging him that he should tell no man, MATT. 29, 30. 31.but in vain.
When he went up into a mountain he sat there, and healeth many, and the multitude wondred.
In those dayes, MARK. VIII. 1, 9.when there was a very great multitude remaining with him three dayes in the desert, MATT. 32, 38.he feeds four thousand men, besides women and children, with seven loaves, and a few little fishes, and there remaineth seven baskets full of fragments.
And straightway entring into a ship with his disciples,MARK. 10. he came into the parts of Dalmanutha,MATT. 39. or the coasts of Magdala.MARK. 11, 12, 13.
And the Pharisees came, MATT. XVI. 1, 4.requiring of him a sign from Heaven, who after he had deeply sighed, denies any sign but that of Jonas, to those hypocrites that knew how to descerne the face of the sky. And, leaving them, entred again into the ship, aud passed to the other side.
And when his Disciples were come unto the other side, MARK. 14, 12.they had forgotten to take bread, MATT. 5, 21.and they had but one loaf with them in the ship. Then Jesus saith unto them, take heed of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadduces, and the leaven of Herod: they reasoning among themselves, because they had forgotten to take bread: Jesus rebuking them that they had forgotten the miraculous multiplication of the loaves, gives them to understand that he spake not of the leaven of bread,MARK. 22, 26. but of doctrine.
Then he cometh to Bethsaida, and they bring him a blind man, who being led out of the Town, and having his eyes anointed with spittle, recovered his sight, and is forbidden to tell of it.
And Jesus went and his Disciples into the Towns of Caesarea Philippi. LUKE. 18, 27.And it came to passe as he was alone praying,MARK. 27, 38. and was now in the way, MATT. 13, 28.that he asked his Disciples, Whom do men say that I am? when they had answered, he saith unto them, But whom do yee say? And when Peter had answered, he pronounceth him happy, annexing promises, and forbids his Disciples to tell any man, that he was the Christ. He foretels of his death and resurrection, and calls Peter, Satan, because he rebuked him for so saying. Then he preacheth to his Disciples and the multitude, of the Crosse that every one must bear that will follow him; and at length foretells his transfiguration.
And it came to passe about eight dayes after these sayings, Year of the World 4028 (or six intermediate dayes) that he was tranfigured in an high mountain:LUKE. 28, 36. and when they came down from the mountain,MARK. IX. 1, 13. he charged them that they should tell no man what they had seen,MATT. XVII. 1, 13. till he was risen from the dead; and they kept it close, questioning one the other, what the rising from the dead should mean. And they asked him, Why do the Scribes say that Elias must first come? and they received an answer, by which they understand that Jesus spake of John Baptist, that Elias.
And it came to passe the next day, LUKE. 37, 42.when they were came down from the hill, MARK. 14, 29.and that he was come to his Disciples,MATT. 14, 21. he saw a great multitude about them, and the Scribes questioning with them: and straightway all the multitude, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and running to him, saluted him; and as he was asking about their questioning with them, the father of a lunatick child answered him, that it was about his child that had an unclean spirit, both deaf and dumb, and that his Disciples could not cast him out: then Jesus, having cast out the spirit, restores the child whole to his father, and being at home, shews his Disciples the reason why they could not cast out this devil.
And they departed thence,LUKE. 43, 44. 45, and passed through Galilee, MARK. 30, 31, 32.and he would not that any man should know it:MATT. 22, 23. and he taught his Disciples concerning his death and resurrection: but they understood not that saying; and being exceedingly sorry, were afraid to ask him.
When they were come to Capernaum, MATT. 24, 27.they ask Peter about Jesus his paying tribute mony. And when Jesus was come into the house, he prevents Peter, telling him that he should find a piece of mony in a fishes mouth, and bidding pay that for tribute, both for himself and Jesus.
At Capernaum, LUKE. 46, 47, 48.Jesus asks his Disciples, MARK. 33, 37.what it was that they disputed among themselves by the way, MATT. XVIII. 1, 35.at which they were silent at the first, but then told him that it was about, Who should be greatest in the kingdom of Heaven: then taking a child, and setting him in the midst, teacheth them that they should have humility, even as a child. He warns the World of offences; and that we must take heed, that neither hand, foot, nor eye, make thee to offend. That little ones are not to be despised. How our brother sinning against us, is to be reproved, and also to be bound and loosed of the Church, and to be forgiven till seventy times seven times, as he shews in the parable of two debters to the King.
But John answered, LUKE. 49, 50.saying, MARK. 38, 50.we saw one casting out devills through thy name, whom Jesus teacheth that he was not to be forbidden; and again warns them of not offending little ones, and to take heed again, that neither hand, foot, or eye, cause thee to offend.
Junius Gallio, (studying to please Tiberius, had given sentence that Tiherius his Souldiers, when their time of service was out, should sit in the same benches with the Knights, to behold the Playes) was banished, under this colour, That he would seem to perswade the Souldiers, rather to serve the Common-wealth than Tiberius. And when it was wrote that he would easily endure his banishment, in so noble and pleasant an Island as Lesbos was, he was brought back to Rome, and delivered to the custody of the Magistrates. [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 3. Dio. lib. 58. pag. 632.]
Cassius Severus, the Oratour in the 25 year of his banishment died, in the Island of Serphone, being reduced to such poverty, that he had scarce a cloth to hide his privities. [Hieronym. in Chronic.]
At Rome it was propounded in the Senate by Quintilian, Tribune of the people, concerning the Sybells book, which Caninius Gallus, one of the fifteen requested, might be received among other books of the same prophetesse, and pressed for a Decree of the Senate, to ratifie it. Which being done by joynt vote, Tiberius sent letters, wherein he somewhat sparingly checked the Tribune, as not being well versed in the old customs, by reason of his youth, but took up Gallus very smartly, who being a man of years, and well experienced in the ceremonies, had notwithstanding moved the businesse at such time when the house was but thin, many of the Senatonrs being absent: the authour of the Poem uncertain, before the Colledge had delivered their opinion, or the Poem had been revised and adjudged by the masters (of the Priests) according to the usual custom. Whereupon the book was referred to the cognizance of the Fifteen. [Tacit. Annal. lib. 6. cap. 3.]
After these things Jesus walked in Galilee, JOHN. VII. 1, 10.for he would not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him. Now the Feast of Tabernacles was at hand. Jesus goeth not up to the Feast, as his brethren would have him, who as yet believed not on him, but goeth up after them, not openly, but as it were in secret.
And it came to passe, Year of the World 4036 when the time was come,LUKE. 51, 56. that he should be received up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem; and he sent messengers before his face, and they went into a Village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him, but they would not receive him, wherefore they went into another City, having rebuked his Disciples that would have commanded fire to come down from Heaven upon them.
And it came to passe as they went in the way, LUKE. 57, 62.Jesus gave an answer particularly to some that would follow him.
After these things Jesus sent LXX Disciples by two and two into every City and place,LUKE. X. 1, 16. where he himself would come, giving them instructions, and arming them with power.
The multitude enquiring after him,JOHN. 11, 53. and murmuring concerning him, Jesus in the middle of the feast teacheth in the Temple; and they wondring at his doctrine, he answereth, that his doctrine is not his own, but his that sent him. He answereth many things to them, reproaching and objecting against him, and Officers are sent to apprehend him. In the last and great day of the Feast, Jesus crying out concerning faith in him, there is a division concerning him among the people: but the Officers that were sent, and Nicodemus, defend both his person and cause before the Pharisees that spake against him.
Jesus went unto the Mount of Olives, JOHN. VIII. 1, 59.and early in the morning he sat and taught in the Temple, where not willing to condemn (as a Judge) the woman taken in adultery, warnes her to sin no more. Teaching in the Treasury of the Temple, He affirmes that he is the Light of the World, and defends his bearing record of himself, teacheth many things concerning the Father himself: whither he goes, who he is; of their father Abraham: of the servitude of sin and the Devil: of himself that he had not a Devil, as they supposed: that whosoever kept his saying, should not taste of death; concluding with these words, Before Abraham was I am: whereupon they take up stones to throw at him; but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the Temple, going thorough the midst of them, and so passed by.
And as Jesus passed by, JOHN IX. 1, 41.he saw one begging that was blind from his youth, who being made to see, after many examinations, both of himself and parents, being cast out of the Synagogue, worships Jesus.
He preacheth moreover that he is the door of the sheep;JOHN X. 1, 21. and that good shepherd, and of theeves and hirelings: and there was a division again among the Jews for these sayings.
The LXX return with joy, LUKE. 17, 24.whom he farther warns and instructs: and rejoycing in spirit, he tells them privately, that their eyes are happy.
Then behold a certain Lawyer askes him, LUKE. 25, 37.what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus sends him to the Law, and he is taught by the Parable of the man that fell among theeves, who is his neighbour.
Now it came to passe as he went he came to a certain town, LUKE. 38, 42.and is received into the house of Martha, she her self ministring unto them, whilst Mary heard the world of Jesus, for which she is preferred before Martha.
And it came to passe as he was praying in a certain place, LUKE. XI. 1, 13.when he ceased, The Julian Period. 4746 one of his Disciples said unto him, Year after Christ 33 Lord teach us to pray, as John taught his Disciples. Wherefore he the second time prescribes unto them the Lords prayer; using arguments also to stir them up to constancy in prayer, and for the confirmation of their faith in obtaining.
And he cast out a devil that was dumb, LUKE. 14, 26.and the multitude marvelled: and he confirms against some blasphemers, that he casts not out devils through Beelzebub.
And it came to passe as he spake these things,LUKE. 27, 28. that a certain woman of the company said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee: to whom he replies.
And when the multitude were gathered thick together, LUKE. 29, 36.he began to say; This generation seeketh a sign, but there shall none be given but that of Jonas: adding, that the Queen of the South, and the Ni…ivites, shall condemn this generation, and that heed must be taken that the light that is in thee be not darknesse.
When he had spoken these things. LUKE. 37, 54.a certain Pharisee besought him that he would dine with him. Wondering that Jesus had not first washed, he is severely reprehended with the rest of the Pharisees by Jesus for their outward holinesse, or simulation, inward wickednesse, covetousnesse, and pride: and a woe pronounced likewise to the Lawyers.
In the mean time,LUKE. XII. 1, 12. when there were gathered together an innumerable company, Jesus saith to his Disciples, Take heed of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisie: And not to fear them which kill the body.
And one of the company said unto him, LUKE. 13, 59.Speak to my brother that he divide the inheritance with me. To whom he saith, Who made me a Judge? and upon this occasion, preacheth against covetousnesse, in the Parable of the rich man that would build greater barnes: and against an anxious distrustful and unprofitable carking about the necessaries of this life, bidding, that they rather seek the kingdom of God, and to be like them that waite for the coming of their Lord, as it becometh a faithful and wise Steward: and saith, that he will send the fire of division on the earth; and upbraides them, that they cannot find out that this is the appoined time.
And there were present at that season,LUKE. XIII. 1, 9. some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices: from whence, he preacheth repentance, and propounds the Parable of the figtree, not having fruit
And he taught in one of the Synagogues on the Sabbath day, LUKE. 10, 21.and behold there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together; whom he heales on the Sabbath, and defends the deed against the Ruler of the Synagogues indignation. Then he likens the Kingdom of Heaven to a grain of mustard-seed, and to leaven.
And he went thorough all the Cities and Villages teaching and journying towards Jerusalem:LUKE. 22. viz. to the Feast of Dedication.
Then said one unto him, LUKE. 23, 30,Are there few that shall be saved? to whom he answereth, That they must strive to enter in at the straite gate.
On th… same day,LUKE. 31, 35. some of the Pharisees came to him, saying, Get thee out, and depart hence, for Herod will kill thee: to whom he gives a resolute answer.
And it came to passe as he went into the house of one of the ch…ef Pharisees to eat bread, LUKE. XIV. 1, 14.there was present one who had the Dropsie, whom he heales, and defends the deed, though done on the Sabbath; and speakes a Parable to them that were bidden, and instructeth him that had invited him.
And when one of them that sat at meat with him,LUKE. 15, 24. heard these things, he saith unto him, Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God: to whom he answereth, and propounds the Parable of the great Supper, and of each excuse that those that were invited made.
And there was a great multitude that went with him, LUKE. 25, 35.and he turned, and preacheth unto them, that life it self is to be said down for Christ; propounding unto them the Parables of the man that was about to build a Tower, and of the King going to war.
And there came to him all the Publicans and sinners for to hear him,LUKE. XV. 1, 32. and the Scribes and Pharisees murmured. He speakes unto them the Parables of the lost sheep, of the groat, and of the prodigal son.
He tells his Disciples the Parable of the unjust Steward accused unto his Lord;LUKE. XVI. 1, 31. together with the application of the same: and the Pharisees heard all these things, and they were covetous, and derided him. He then preacheth against them, and teacheth many other things, and declares the Parable of the rich man fareing deliciously, and of Lazarus the begar.
He saith to his Disciples; LUKE. XVII. 1, 14.woe to them by whom offences come, and teacheth that thy brother sinning against thee is to be forgiven.
Then said the Apostles, LUKE. 5, 10.Lord increase our faith, to whom he answers concerning the power of faith, and by the Parable of the servant coming from plough, and straight way ministering, shewes that they are unprofitable servants, when they have done all, for they have done no more, than what was their duty.
And it came to passe as he went to Ierusalem, LUKE. 11, 19.that he passed thorough the midst of Samaria and Galilee, and as he entred into a certain village, there met him ten Lepers, who as they were going (by the command of Jesus) to the Priests, were made clean: of whom one of them comes back to Jesus to give him thanks, and he was a Samaritane.
And being asked of the Pharisees, LUKE. 20, 37.when the kingdom of God will come? he answered, That the kingdom of God will not come with observation: but that it is within; and saith to his Disciples, That according to the dayes of Noe and Lot: So shall be the day in which the Son of Man shall be revealed: but he must first suffer many things.
And he spake unto them a Parable that they should alwayes pray, LUKE. XVIII. 1, 8.by the example of a widow interceding towards the unjust Judge: whereas God is a just Revenger.
He spake also to some that perswaded themselves that they were just,LUKE. 9, 14. and despised others, the Parable of the Pharisee and Publican praying in the Temple.
And it was at Ierusalem the Feast of the Dedication,JOHN. 22, 39. and it was winter, and Iesus walked in the Temple in Solomons Porch: then came the Iews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt, if thou be the Christ, tell us plainly? which he avouching by his works, and saying, I and my Father are one, they again took up stones to stone him: and defending himself to be God, by the Scriptures, and his works, thy sought again to take him, but he escaped out of their hands.
And he went again beyond Jordan,LUKE. 40, 41, 42. into the place where John first baptized,MARK. X. 1. and there he abode,MATT. XIX. 1, 2. and many resorted unto him; and as he was wont, he taught them and healed them, and many believed on him there.
There come to him the Pharisees, MARK. 2, 12.tempting him, MATT. 3, 12.and saying, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? Jesus denies it, and gives an answer, both to the Pharisees, objecting the bill of divorce which Moses commanded, and also to his Disciples saying, That then it is better for a man not to marry.
They bring unto him little children that he should lay his hands upon them, LUKE. 15, 16, 17.and pray, MARK. 13, 16.and his Disciples forbad them (for which being rebuked) after he had laid his hands upon them and blessed them,MATT. 13, 14, 15. he departed thence.
Jesus going out from thence, LUKE. 18, 30.as he was in the way, MARK. 17, 31.there meets him, MATT. 16, 30.a young man, one of the Rulers, very rich, saying unto him, Good Master, what must I do to inherit eternal life? Jesus having spoken concerning the title he gave him, sends him to the Commandments, who replying that he had observed them, Jesus loves him; but bidding him sell all that he had, and give to the poor sends him away very sorrowfull.
He inveighes bitterly against covetous rich men; And upon Peters saying, Behold we have left all and followed thee; he makes notable promises to all that follow him, some whereof were peculiar to the twelve Apostles: Adding withall, that many which were first should be last, and those which were last should be first, which he declares by a parable of labourers into a vineyard: for many were called, but few chosen.
Lazarus of Bethanie was sick; JOHN. XI. 1, 16.his sisters therefore send to Jesus to tell him of his sicknesse, as soon as he heard that he was sick, he tarries two daies in the place where he was, but afterwards he saith to his disciples, let us go again into Judea, who say to him, the Jews of late sought to stone thee, and goest thou thither again. Jesus answering saith unto them, Lazarus sleepeth (speaking of his death, not of his sleep) Let us go to him, saith Thomas, that we may die with him.
Jesus comes nigh unto Bethanie, JOHN. 17, 54.and finds that Lazarus had been buried four daies in the grave: Martha comes to meet him, they discourse concerning the resurrection. Mary hearing of it comes quickly to him, without the town, where Martha met him, who seeing her weep, Jesus wept, and comes to the grave, bidding them remove the stone, and giving thanks to his father, calls Lazarus out of his grave, whereupon many beleive on him, and some going to the Pharisees, telling what things Jesus had done.
They called therefore a councell, where Caiaphas prophesied concerning Jesus, and from that day consulted together that they might put him to death, commanding that if any one knew where he was they should give notice that they might take him. Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews but went unto a City called Ephraim, LUKE. 31, 34.and there continued with his disciples.MARK. 32, 33, 34.
As they were in the way going up to Hierusalem. and Jesus went before them,MATT. 17, 18, 19. and they were afraid, and he taketh again the twelve, and began to tell them what thing should happen unto him,MARK. 35, 45. but they understood none of these things.MATT. 20, 28.
Then come to him James and John the sons of Zebedee and their mother, desiring that they might sit one on the right hand the other on the left of Jesus who being repulsed with his answer, and the rest being displeased, all are admonished that he that will be great, and first among them, must be the minister and servant of all.LUKE. 35, 43.
And it came to passe when he came nigh Jericho, a certain blindman sate begging, by the way side, asking who it was that passed by, and knowing that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he though rebuked, earnestly imploreth his mercy, and being called unto him he receives his sight, and followes him glorifying God
And Jesus entred and passed through Jericho, LUKE; XIX. 1, 10.and seeing Zacheus in a sycomore tree, he saith unto him, I must abide at thy house to day.
And as they went out from the city Jericho,MARK. 46, 52. a great company following him,MATT. 29, 34. he restores sight to two blind men (whereof one was Bartimeus,) and they followed him.
When they heard these things, LUKE 11, 27.because they were nigh to Hiorusalem, and because they thought that the Kingdome of God should immediately appear, going on, he spake the pa…able of the noble man that went into a far Countrey, who gave his ten servants ten pounds to occupie till he returned, and when he returned, knowing which had gained most by trading, he rewards each of them according to the proportion of their gain.
And the Passeover was at hand,JOHN. 55, 56, 57. and many went out of the Countrey up to Hierusalem before the Passeover, that they might purifie themselves.
Jesus therefore six daies before the Passeover comes to Bethanie,JOHN. XII. 1, 11. and they made him a supper, and Lazarus sate with him, where Mary annoints his feet, and wipes them with the haires of her head, whom Jesus defends against Judas: LUKE. 28, 35.and much people came thither, MARK. XI. 1, 7.not onelyonly for Jesus sake,MATT. XXI. 1, 7. but that they might see Lazarus: but the chief Priests consult how they might put Lazarus to death, because many of the Iews beleeved by reason of him.
And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem: and it came to passe when he was nigh Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount called the Mount of Olives (the 29 day of March) he sent two of his Disciples for an Asse Colt that was tied. (Matthew makes mention of the shee Asse also.)
They brought therefore the Colt unto Jesus, JOHN. 12, 18.and cast their garments upon the Colt,LUKE. 36, 40. and set Jesus thereon, MARK. 8, 9, 10.& much people that came to the feast met him, many casting their garments in the way,MATT. 8, 9. others cut down branches of trees, & strowed them in the way. And when he was come to the descent of the Mount of Olives, the company that went before, & that followed cried Hofanna to the son of David: And some of the Pharisees saying unto him, Rebuke thy Disciples, he answereth them, The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye not that we prevaile nothing, behold the World is gone after him.
And when he came nigh,JOHN. 19. seeing the City,LUKE. 41, 44. he wept over it,MARK. 10, 11▪ foretelling the utter destruction thereof.
And when he was entred into Jerusalem, all the City was moved, saying, Who is this?
And Jesus went into the Temple of God, LUKE. 45, 46.and cast out those that bought and sold in it, MARK. 11.and heals both blind & lame in it,MATT. 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. and justifies the children crying Hosanna in the Temple,LUKE. 47, 48. against the Priests and Scribes that were displeased at it, he teacheth daily in the Temple, them that heard him being very attentive, but the chief Priests and Elders of the people seeking to destroy him.
Some Greeks of those that came to worship at the Feast desire to see him,JOHN. 20, 50. he answereth them that tell him, by preaching of his pession, and calling upon his Father, receives an answer from Heaven, which some think to be Thunder, others an Angel: and speaking again of the lifting up of the Son of Man from the earth: he answereth them that ask him, who is this Son of Man?MARK. 17. And going from thence he hid himself from them: and when it was evening, he went with the twelve unto Bethany; and when he had done so many miracles among them, they did not belive in him, that the word of Esayas might be fullfilled. Yet neverthelesse many of the Rulers believed on him, but did not confesse for fear of the Pharisees, he crying out therefore, preacheth concerning faith in him.
And on the morrow, MARK. 12, 19.when he came from Bethany, MATT. 18, 19.he was hungry, and seeing a fig-tree, that had only leaves on it, he curseth it, and it straightway withered. They come to Jerusalem, and entring into the Temple, he again casts out those that bought and sold, and would not that any should carry a vessel through the Temple, and crying out, he teacheth concerning faith in himself, but the chief Priests sought how they might destroy him, for they feared him, because all the people were astonished at his doctrine, and when evening was come, Jesus went out of the City.
And in the morning, MARK. 20, 33.as they passed by the fig-tree, MATT. 19, 46.they saw that it was dried up from the roots, which Peter shewing, he preacheth unto them of the power and virtue of faith,LUKE. XX. 1, 8. but especially in prayers. And they come again to Jerusalem, and as he was walking in the Temple and teaching, the chief Priests, Elders, and Scribes come unto him, saying, by what authority dost thou do these things: Jesus answereth them, by asking them concerning Johns Baptism. And he spake unto them the parable of the two sons,LUKE. 9, 19. asking them,XII. 1, 12. which of the two did the will of the father, and applies it unto them: as also the parable of the Vineyard let out to Husband-men, and their killing of the Heir of the Vineyard, together with the application thereof, from that hour therefore they sought to take him, but they feared the people, for they took him for a Prophet. Again he propoundeth to them the parable, MARK. XXII. 1, 46.of the marriage of the Kings son, and the refusals and excus…s of some that were bidden, and the wickednesse and punishments of others, especially of him that had not on the wedding garment,LUKE. 20, 40. then went the Pharisees and took councel how they might intangle him in his talk; MARK. 13, 37.wherefore they sent out unto him their Disciples with the Herodians, saying, Is it lawful to give tribute unto Caesar or not? who being astonished at his answer, left him, and went their way.
The same day come to him the Sadduces, asking him of the woman, that had the seven brethren for her husbands, which of them should be her husband in the resurrection; and when the multitude heard his answer to prove the resurrection, they were astonished at his doctrine. Then a Pharisee,LUKE. 41, 44. a Lawyer, tempteth him, asking him which is the great commandement in the law? to whom he answers, and asks the Pharisee, whose Son Christ is? and no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth, ask him any more question.
Then Jesus speaks to the multitude, LUKE. 45, 46. 47.and to his Disciples; MARK. 38, 39, 40.concerning the Scribes and Pharisees,MATT. X III. 1, 39. denouncing a woe eight times against them, and speaking to the City Jerusalem, accuseth her of cruelty and obstinacy, and foretells her desolation.
And as Jesus sat over against the Treasury, LUKE. XXI. 1, 4.he prefers a widow casting in two mites,MARK. 41, 44. before them that cast in more.
When he went out of the Temple, LUKE. 5, 36.his Disciples shewing him the buildings and stones,MARK. XIII. 1, 37. he foretells the ruine thereof.MATT. XXIV. 1, 51.
And as he sat on the Mount of Olive, over against the Temple, his Disciples asked him, when these things shall be, and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and the end of the World? to whom he at large answers concerning the signes of them both: and warnes them to watch and to be ready for they know not the hour when the Lord will come. And teacheth the same thing by the Parable of the ten Virgins,MATT. XXV. 1, 46. as also by the Parable of the talents delivered to the servants to trade withal, and describeth the judgement of this World (perhaps as a type of that) by setting the sheep on the right hand, and the goats on the left, and giving sentence upon each of them.LUKE. 37, 38. By day he taught in the Temple, but by night he went into the Mount of Olives, and all the people coming unto him early in the morning, he taught them in the Temple.
And it came to passe when Jesus had finished these sayings,MARK. XIV. 1, 2. he saith to his Disciples,MATT. XXVI. 1, 5. Ye know that after two dayes is the Passeover, and the son of man shall be betrayed to be crucified. Then they consulted together in the Palace of the High Priest, that they might kill Jesus; but they said, not in the Feast day, lest therebe an uprore among the people.
And as he was in the house of Simon the Leper, MARK. 3, 9.he defends a woman that poured an alabaster box of ointment on his head,MATT. 6, 13. as he sat at meat, against his Disciples that murmured, fortelling his burial.
Then entred Satan into Judas, LUKE. XXII. 1, 13.who offers himself,MARK. 10, 11. and covenants to betray him.MATT. 14, 15, 16.
The fourth PASSEOVER in which CHRIST, our Passeover, was sacrificed, 1 Cor. 5. 7 and so an end put to all the legal sacrifices prefiguring this onelyonly one, the fourth, or middle year of the last week of Daniel, beginning, Dan. 9. 27.
IN the first day of unleavened bread, MARK. 12, 16.when the Passeover was slain (April 2.) his Disciples asking him,MATT. 17, 18, 19. where they should prepare it; He sends Peter and John into the City, telling them that, there should meet them a man carrying a pitcher of water, by following of whom, they should find a guest-chamber ready furnished by the good man of the house.
And in the evening he cometh with the twelve, LUKE. 14, 18.and when they had sat down, MARK. 17.and eaten, MATT. 20.Jesus said, I have greatly desired to eat this Passeover with you, before I suffer; and he commanded them to divide the Cup among themselves, saying, I will not any more eat of the Passeover, or drink of the fruit of the Vine, until the kingdom of God shall come. And he saith,MARK. 18, 21, one of you shall betray me,MATT. 21, 25. and they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him, one by one, Is it I? He answereth, It is he that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, and to Judas asking, is it? he saith, thou hast said.
Whilst they were eating, LUKE. 19, 23.he institutes the sacrament of his body in bread;MARK. 22, 25. and in wine,MATT. 25, 26. after he had supped that of his bloud, adding, I will not henceforth drinke of the fruit of the Vine, till I shall drinke it now with you in the Kingdome of my father. But behold saith he the hand of him that betraieth me i… with me on the table, then they began to enquire among themselves,JOHN. XIII. 2, 38. if any among them should do this.LUKE. 24, 30.
And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest; and supper being ended, he riseth, and lsaieth aside his garments, and took a towell, and girded himself, and began to wash and to wipe his disciples feet, and also Peters, who at first denied, but afterwards desired it, which being done, he sits down again, saying, I have shewed you an example, that as I have done, you might likewise wash one anothers feet, he that is the greatest among you let him be the least; adding moreover, I do not speak of you all; I know whom I have chosen. When he had said these things, he is troubled in spirit, and testified, saying one of you shall betray me; his disciples therefore looking one on another uncertain of whom he spake, Peter beckoned to the beloved disciple, that he should aske who it was, Jesus answered, he it is to whom I shall give a sop after I have dipped it, and he gave it to Judas and said unto him, wha… thou doest, do qu…ckly; he, having received the sop, went out immediately: and it was night.
When he was gone out, Jesus saith, Now is the son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him, and he admonisheth them of his sudden departure, and of their mutuall love one of another; he said also Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired ye that he might winnow you as wheat,LUKE. 31, 38. but I have praied for thee, and do thou strengthen thy brethren; and to Peter too confidently saying, I will lay down my life for thee, he answers, The Cock shall not crow till thou hast denied me thrice: and he said to them, he that hath a purse let him take it, and he that hath not a sword, let him buy one; they saying, here are two swords, he saith, it is enough.
Against their sorrow conceived by them for his death,JOHN. XIV. 1, 31. he comforts them, as he was wont, to the questions of Thomas, Philip, Judas, (who is also Lebbaeus, surnamed Thaddaeus, another of the sons of Alphaeus, and brother of James) he answers every one particularly, he promiseth to them, that the Holy Ghost shall be their teacher: and leaves his peace unto them, and again admonishing them of his approaching death,MARK. 26. and of the joyfull fruit thereof,MATT. 30. he saith, Arise let us go hence, and when they had sung an hymn they went out towards the mount of Olives.
As they were going,JOHN. XV. 1, 27. by the Parable of the Vine and the branches, he exhorts them to bring forth fruit, and to remain in the love of God towards them, and mutuall love one towards another, and to abide patiently the hatred of the world, which hates Christ himself, and that they should not be offended through persecutions.JOHN. XVI. 1, 33. And again comforts them against sorrow for his death, by the promise of sending them the Comforter, the Spirit of truth, whose office against the world, and towards them he describeth. And admonishing them, that yet a little while and they should not see him, they not understanding when that meaneth, he explaines it unto them, and saith, that there foresaid sorrow of theirs should be turned into joy, by the example of a woman bringing forth a manchild, and also by his return unto them, by the love of the father towards them, and by his ready hearing of their petitions that they shall make in his name. And he saying, I came forth from the father, and am come into the world, again I leave the world, and go to the father, his disciples answered, Lo, now thou speakest plainly, we beleive thou camest from God: to whom Jesus answers, that the time was now come, that they should be scattered every own to his one, and Christ should be left alone. And at last conclude with a most divine praier to the father,JOHN. XVII. 1, 26. for the mutuall illustration of his own, and the fathers glory, for the Apostles, and the whole company of believers.
When Jesus had spoken these things, JOHN. X VIII. 1.he went with his disciples (as he was wont) over the brook Cedron to the mount of Olives. LUKE. 39.Then saith Jesus to them,MATT. 31, 35. all ye shall be offended because of me this night, but after I am risen again I will go before ye into Galilee, and to Peter saying,MARK. 27, 31. though all should be offended, MATT. 36.yet will not I, Jesus saith, to day, even this night before the Cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice, but both he, and all the disciples reply, though we should die with thee, we will not deny thee.
Then they come into a place, MARK. 32, 42.called Gethsemane, MATT. 36, 46.where was a garden into which Jesus entred, and his disciples, unto whom he said pray ye that ye enter not into temptation, sit here till I goe and pray yonder:LUKE. 40, 46. and he took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee with him, and began to be very sorrowfull, and said unto them, tarry here and watch, and going a little further about a stones cast, kneeled down and praied that this cup might passe from him. And there appeared an Angell from heaven strengthning him; then he returnes, and finding his Disciples sleeping, he reprehends, and admonisheth them; he goeth the second time, and praieth more earnestly, and being in an agony, he sweates as it were drops of bloud, and coming again, finds them sleeping for sorrow, for their eies were heavy, and again being admonished they know not what to answer he then left them, and went away again and praied the same words, then cometh he to his disciples and saith unto them, sleep on now, and take your rest, behold the houre is come, and the son of man is betraied into the hand of sinners; rise, let us be going: behold he is at hand that doth betray me.
While he yet spake behold Judas, JOHN. 23.who knew the place,LUKE. 47, 48. (because Jesus often resorted thither with his disciples) with the chief Priests,MARK. 43, 47. and Pharisees,MATT. 47, 56. Captains of the Temple, and elders of the people▪ and Officers, and a band sent from them, cometh thither with Lanterns and Torches, and a great multitude with swords and staves. And Judas had given a sign, saying, Whomsoever I shall kisse, the same is he, and he straightway kissed Jesus: to whom Jesus said, Wherefore art thou come? Be…rayest thou the Son of Man with a kisse?JOHN. 4, 9. but Jesus knowing all things that should come unto …m, went out unto them, and said unto them, Whom seek ye? they say unto him, Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus saith unto them, I am he, and they went backwards and fell to the ground: he asketh them again, and answereth them as at the first; saying, moreover, If ye seek me, let these go their way; and they took him: and when they that were about him saw what would follow,JOHN. 10, 11. they said unto him,LUKE. 49, 50, 51. Lord, shall we smite with the sword, and Peter strook off the right ear of Malchus, a servant of the High Priests, to whom Jesus said, Put up thy sword, cannot I pray, and have more than twelve Legions of Angels? Shall not I drink of the cup that my Father hath given me? Suff…r ye thus far, and he touched his ear and healed him.LUKE. 52, 53. And Jesus said unto them,MARK. 48, 52. be ye come out as against a Thi… with swords and staves; but this is your houre and the power of darknesse, then all his Disciples left him, and fled; and a certain young man (of their company) being laid hold on, left his linn…n cloth and fled from them.
And they bound Jesus, JOHN. 12, 27.and brought him first to An…s,LUKE. 54, 65. the father in law of Caiphas,MARK. 53, 72. who sent him … to Calphas the H…gh Priest,MATT. …7, 75. who formerly …, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people, there were all the … Priests, and Elders, and Scribes of the people gathered together. Then Caiphas asked Jesus concerning his Disciples, and his Doctrine; Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the World, ask from that … me: therefore one of the Officers … him wi…h a staff, to whom he answereth, … I have wel… spoken, why smitest thou me? Then all the Council sought false witnesse against him, …: at last two false witnesses came, … their test…mony agreed not. Caiphas then said, Answerest thou not to what they witnesse against thee? but Jesus held his peace: then he ad…ted him that he should tell, whether he were the Christ. And he answereth, I am; and ye shall see the so 10. man sitting at the right hand of the power of God, and coming in the clouds of Heaven. Wherefore they judged him guilty of death for this blasphemy. Then they mocked him, and they spa… on him, cruelly▪ beat him with buffets and stave; and covering his face, they said, Prophesie who smote thee: and many other things they reproachfully spake against him.
But Peter followed afar off, that he might see the end, and another Disciple that was known to the High Priest, and went with Jesus into the Palace: but Peter stood without at the door, whom that other Disciple (speaking to her that kept the door) brought in: and as Peter was warming himself at the fire kindled in the midst of the Palace, (for it was cold) the maid that kept the door, asked him, and affirmed that he was one of his Disciples; but he denied it, or that he knew him, or knew what she said. And a little after, he went out into the Porch, and the cock crew: and as he was going out another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, This also was with Jesus of Nazareth: also another said unto him, Thou art one of them; then he again denies it with an oath, and about an hour after, they which stood by came and said unto him, Thy speech bewrayeth thee, and the cousin of Malchus among the rest said, Did not I see thee in the Garden with him? and while he yet spake, the cock crew the second time, then the Lord turned about and looked upon Peter, and he remembring the words of Jesus, went out, and wept bitterly.
And as soon as it was day, LUKE. 66, 71.the Elders of the people, and chief Priest, and the Scribes, came together, and led him in to their Council, saying, Art thou the Christ? to whom he answered, Ye will not believe, or answer, or let me go; that he was the Son of God: they said, What need we any further witnesse?
Then straightway in the morning the whole multitude of them arose, JOHN. 28, 40.and led him bound unto Pontus Pilate the Governour, LUKE. XXIII. 1, 16.from Caiphas to the Hall of judgement, MARK. XV. 1, 5.(April 3.) and they went not into the Judgement Hall,MATT. XXVII 11, 26. lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the Passeover. And Jesus stood before the Governour; Pilate therefore came forth unto them, and said, What accusation bring you against this man? they answered him, If he had not been a malefactour, we would not have delivered him unto thee: and they began to accuse him, saying, we found this man perverting the Nation, and forbidding to pay tribute to Caesar, saying, That he himself is Christ a King: and when he was accused of the chief Priests and Elders, he answered nothing. Then said Pilate unto him, Hearest thou not how many things they witnesse against thee: but he answered him not a word, so that Pilate marvelled. Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law: but they urged, it is not lawful for us to put any man to death. Pilate then entred into the judgement Hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him; Art thou the King of the Jews; Jesus answered, Sayest thou this of thy self, or did others tell it thee of me? Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? thine own Nation, and the chief Priests have delivered thee unto me, What hast thou done? Jesus answered, My Kingdom is not of this world, Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a King then? Jesus answered, For this cause came I into the world, that I might bear witness unto the truth: Pilate said unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and said unto them, I find in him no fault at all: and they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up the people, teaching thorough all Jewry, beginning at Galilee to this place. Pilate therefore hearing of Galilee,LUKE. 7. 12. asked him if he were a Galilean, and when he knew that he belonged to Herods jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod who was at Jerusalem in those dayes. And when he saw Jesus he was exceeding glad: but being deceived in his hopes of seeing a miracle, and not vouchsafed any answer, either to him, or the chief Priests and Scribes, vehemently accusing him: after Herod had set Jesus at naught,LUKE. 13, 25. and mocked him, sends him back to Pilate arayed in a gorgeous robe: and both the Governours were made friends that same day. And Pilate when he had called the chief Priests and the Rulers and the people, said unto them, Neither I, nor Herod, find any fault in him, nor any thing worthy of death:MARK. 6, 15. I will therefore chastise him, and release him: for the Governour was of necessity every Feast (as the custom was) to deliver to the people one prisoner whom they would: and the multitude crying out aloud began to desire, that he would do unto them as he had ever done. Pilate therefore calling them, said unto them, Ye have a custom that I should release one unto you at the Passeover, Will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews, which will ye, either this man or Barabbas? for he knew that the chief Priests had delivered him for envy; but they stirred up the people, that he should rather deliver Barabbas unto them: now he was a notable thief, who lay bound with them that made insurrection, and for insurrection and murder in the City, was cast into prison. And when he was set down in the judgement-seat, his wife sent unto him, saying, Have nothing to do with that just man, for I have suffered many things in my dream by reason of him this day. Pilate therefore spake unto them again, being willing to release Jesus, which of the twain will you that I release unto you? but they all cryed out, saying, not him, but Barabbas. Pilate therefore answered, and said unto them again, What will you, that I shall do unto him that ye call King of the Jews, and they all cryed out again, crucifie him. Pilate said unto them the third time, But what evil hath he done? I find no cause of death in him, I will therefore chastise him and let him go, but they cryed more earnestly, crucifie him, and were very instant with loud voices, desiring the same.JOHN. XIX. 1, 16. Then Pilate took Jesus, and scourged him, and the Souldiers platted a Crown of Thorns, and put it on his head, and cloathed him with purple, saying, Haile King of the Jews, and beat him with staves. Pilate therefore went forth again unto them, and said unto them, Behold I bring him forth unto you, that you may know I find no fault in him, then Jesus came forth, wearing the Crown of thorns, and the robe, and Pilate said unto them, Behold the man. When the chief Priests and Officers saw him, they cryed out, saying, Crucifie him, crucifie him. Pilate said unto them, take ye him and crucifie him, for I find no fault in him. The Jews said, he ought to dye, because he made himself the Son of God. When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid, and went again into the judgement-hall, and saith to Jesus, Whence art thou? but Jesus gave him no answer; then said Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? Knowest thou not, that I have power to crucifie thee? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power, unlesse it were given thee from above: and from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cryed out, Then thou art not Caesars friend. When Pilate heard this, he brought forth Jesus, and sate in the judgement-seat, in the place called the Pavement, and it was the preparation of the Passeover, and about the sixth hour, then said he unto the Jews, Behold your King, but they cryed out, Away with him, Away with him, crucifie him: Pilate said unto them, Shall I crucifie your King, then answered the chief Priests, we have no King but Caesar. When Pilate therefore saw that he prevailed nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the bloud of this just person, see you to it: and all the people answered and said, His bloud be on us, and our children: then willing to content the multitude, MARK. 16, 37.he released unto them Barabbas,MATT. 27, 31. And when he had scourged Jesus, JOHN. 17, 30.he delivered him over to their will, that he might be crucified.
And the Souldiers of the Governour, when they had led Jesus into the hall called Praetorium, they called together the whole band; and when they had stripped him, they put upon him a scarlet robe, and platted a Crown of Thorns, and put it on his head, and a reed in his right hand, and bowing the knee, mocked him, saying, Hail King of the Jews: and when they had spat on him, they took that reed and smote him on the head: and when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own cloaths on him, and led him out to crucifie him.
Then Judas which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought the thirty pieces of silver to the chief Priests, confessing his sin unto them; and casting the silver pieces into the Temple, went and hanged himself; and they bought with them the Potters field, that the prophesie might be fulfilled.
And Jesus came forth carrying his Crosse, LUKE. 26, 38.but as they were leading him, MATT. 32, 50.they found one Symon of Cyrene, who came out of the Country, whom they took, and compelled to carry the Crosse after Jesus, and there were two Thieves that were led with him, that they might be crucified: and there followed a great multitude of people, and of women that lamented him, to whom he turned and foretold the lamentable destruction of Jerusalem. And when they were come into the place called Calvary, but in the Hebrew Golgotha, they gave unto him to drink wine, mingled with myrrhe, and vinegar mingled with gall, and when he had tasted it, he would not drink it; and they crucified him there, (and it was the third hour) and the two Thieves with him, one on the right hand, and the other on the left: and Jesus said, Father forgive them, for they know not what they do. And Pilate wrote a superscription in Hebrew, Greek, and Latine, and put it on the Crosse: which at the request of the chief Priests Pilate would not alter: and after they had crucified him, they parted his garments into four parts, to every Souldier that was imployed in the execution, a part, casting lots, and likewise upon his seamlesse coat, whose it should be, that the Scripture might be fulfilled: and they sitting down, watched him there, and the people stood beholding him, but they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, and saying, O thou that destroyest the Temple, and buildest it in three dayes, save thy self, if thou be the Son of God, come down from the Crosse: likewise also the chief Priests and Rulers, with the People, mocking and scoffing, with the Scribes and Elders, said among themselves, He saved others, himself he cannot save: If he be the King of Israel, if that Christ, the chosen of God, let him come down from the Crosse, and we will believe him, He trusted in God, let him deliver him, if he will have him, for he said, I am the Son of God: the Souldiers also mocked him, and coming unto him, offered him vinegar, saying, If thou be the King of the Jews, save thy self. The Thieves also which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth: But one of them continuing in his railing against him, the other being converted, rebuked him, and said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom; to wbom Jesus answered, To day shalt thou be with me in Paradise: and there stood by his Crosse, the Mother of Jesus, and his Mothers Sister, Mary, the Wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene: when Jesus therefore saw his Mother, and the Disciple whom he loved, standing he said unto his Mother, Behold thy Son, and to the Disciple, Behold thy Mother.LUKE. 44, 45, 46. And when the sixth hour was come, there was darknesse over all the land, or Countrey, untill the ninth hour: And about the ninth hour, Jesus cryed out with a loud voice, Eli Eli, o…, Eloi Eloi Lamma sabact…i? And some that stood by said, he calleth Elias. After this, when Jesus knew that all things were accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, I thirst. Now there was …et there a vessel … of vinegar, and they fi…led a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon …, or a reed, and put it to his mouth, saying also with the rest, let be, let us see if Elias will c…me to save him, and take him down. But Jesus, when he had received the vinegar, said, It is finished:MARK. 38, 42. And when again he cryed with a loud voice, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit, and bowing his head, he gave up the Ghost. And when the Centurion saw that he so cryed out, and gave up the ghost, he glorified God, saying, Truly this is a just man, Truely this is the Son of God.MATT. 51, 56.
And behold the vaile of the Temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom, and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent, and the graves were opened, and many bodies of the Saints, which slept, arose, and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the Holy City, and appeared unto many: and the Centurion, and they that stood over against,LUKE. 47, 48, 49. and those that watched Jesus, when they saw the Earthquake, and the things that were done, feared greatly, saying, Truly this was the Son of God, and all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things that were done, smote their breasts and returned; and his acquaintance, and the women which followed him from Galilee, stood a far off, beholding these things, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the Mother of James the Lesse, and Mother of Joses and Salome; who also, when he was in Galilee, followed him, and ministred unto him, and many other women that came up to Jerusalem with him.
The Jews therefore,JOHN. 31, 37. that the bodies should not remain on the Crosse on the Sabbath, because it was the preparation, (for that Sabbath was an high day) besought Pilate, that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. The Souldiers therefore came, and brake the legs of the two Thieves, but not of Jesus, because he was already dead; but one of the Souldiers with a Spear, pierced his side, and there came out straightway blood and water: and these things were done,JOHN. 38, 42. that the Scripture might be fulfilled.LUKE. 50, 56. And when even was now come, because it was the preparation, MARK. 42, 47.that is, MATT. 57, 61.the day before the Sabbath, cometh Joseph of Arimathea, a rich man, and an honourable Councellour, who also looked for the Kingdom of God, a good man and a just, and had not consented to the councel and deed of them, being a Disciple, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, came boldly unto Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus. Pilate marvelled if he were already dead, and calling a Centurion asked him, and when he knew it, he gave the body to Joseph. There cometh also Nicodemus (which at the first came to Jesus by night) and brought a mixture of Myrrhe and aloes, about an hundred pound weight: they took therefore the body of Jesus, and wound it in a linnen cloath, with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury. And Joseph, when he had wrapped it in a clean linnen cloth, laid it in his own new Sepulchre, which he had hewen out of a Rock, wherein never man was laid, and which was in a garden, in the place where Jesus was crucified; and Joseph rolled a great stone to the door of the Sepulcre: and Mary Magdalene, and Mary the Mother of Joses, which came with him from Galilee, beheld where they had laid him, and sat over against the Sepulchre; and they returned and prepared spices and ointments, and rested the Sabbath day according to the commandement.
The next day (the fourth of April) the Pharisees besought Pilate that he would command the Sepulchre to be made sure untill the third day, shewing him a reason: which when he had yielded unto, they went, and made the Sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.
In the end of the Sabbath, JOHN. XX. 1.or when the Sabbath was now past, LUKE. XXIV. 1, 12.(April the fifth) when it dawned towards the first day of the week, MARK. XIV. 1, 11.in the morning very early, MATT. XXVIII▪ 1, 18.whiles it was yet dark, came Mary Magdalene, and Mary the Mother of James, and Salome, bringing Spices which they had bought, that they might see the Sepulchre, and anoint Jesus; and they said among themselves, who shall roll away the stone from the door for us? and when the Sun was risen, coming to the Sepulchre, they saw the stone was rolled away; for behold there was a great Earthquake, for the Angel of the Lord came down from Heaven, and rolled away the stone, and sat upon it: and they went in and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to passe, as they were much perplexed thereat, that behold two men came to them, in shining raiment, their countenances were as lightnings, and their garments white as snow. Mathew and Mark speak but of one Angel, and the keepers for fear did shake, and became as dead men. And when the women were afraid, and bowed their faces to the Earth, the Angels said unto them, Fear not ye, I know ye seek Jesus which was crucified. Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, he is risen, as he said, come and see the place where the Lord was laid, and remember what he said, when he was yet in Galilee with you; saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again: but go ye quickly, and tell his Disciples, and Peter that he is risen again from the dead; and behold he goeth before you into Galilee, there shall ye see him; Behold I have told ye. Then the women remembred the words of Jesus:MATT. 8. and they departed quickly out of the Sepulchre, with fear, and wonder, and great joy, and ran that they might tell his Disciples; but they said nothing to any man (as they went) for they were afraid. And when the women told these things to the eleven, and to all the rest: their words seemed unto them as idle tales. But Mary Magdalene telling Peter and the other Disciple whom Jesus loved, They have taken away the Lord, and we know not where they have laid him.JOHN. 2, 18. Peter therefore and that other Disciple went out and came to the Sepulchre, but that other Disciple outran Peter, and came first to the Sepulchre; and when he stooped down, he saw the linnen cloaths lying, but went not in: then came Peter following him, and went into the Sepulchre, and seeth the linnen cloaths lie, and the napkin that was about his head, not lying with the linnen cloaths, but wrapped together in a place by it self. Then went in that other Disciple, and saw and believed, and Peter went unto his own home, wondering at what was done; for as yet they knew not the Scriptures, that he must rise again from the dead. And the Disciples went to their own home. But Mary Magdalene stood without at the Sepulchre weeping, and whilst she yet wept, she stooped down into the Sepulchre, and seeth two Angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had laid, which said unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid …: and when she had said thus, she turned her self back, and saw Jesus standing, but knew not that it was Jesus. And Jesus said unto her, Why weepest thou, whom seekest thou? She supposing him to be the Gardener, answered and said, If thou hast born him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not, for I am not yet ascended to my Father, but go and tell my brethren, and say unto them; I go, &c. And she came and told his Disciples, and those that had been with him, as they were weeping and mourning, that she had seen the Lord, and that he had said these things unto her. But they when they heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed no:MATT. 9, 10. and as the women went from the Sepulchre (perhaps Mary Magdalene was absent) that they might tell his Disciples, Behold Jesus meets them, and saith unto them; All haile, and they came and held him by the feet,MATT. 11. 15. and worshipped him. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid; Go ye, and tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, there shall they see me.
Now when they were going, behold some of the watch came into the City, and shewed unto the chief Priests all things that were done; and when they were assembled with the Elders, they took counsel, that they would give large money to the souldiers, that they should say, that his Disciples came by night, and stole him away whilst they slept: and if this come to the Governours …ares, we (say they) will perswade him, and secure you. So they took their money, and did as they were taught. And this saying is commonly reported among the Jews to this day.
And behold two of them went into the Country that same day to a village sixty furlongs from Jerusalem,LUKE. 13. 35. called Emma…s:MARK. 12, 13. and as they journyed, Jesus went along with them, and they telling him what things were done in those dayes concerning Jesus of Nazareth, how he was crucified, and that he rose again: Jesus shews them out of the Scriptures that it behooved Christ to suffer, and to enter into his glory. And in the village, when he had taken bread and given thankes and brake it, and given it unto them, he was known unto them, their eyes being opened, although he appeared in another form; but he vanished out of their sight. And they rose up that same hour, and returned to Jerusalem to the eleven, and those that were with them, who said unto these two, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared unto Simon. Then they told them what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in the breaking of bread: but neither believed they them.JOHN. 19, 23. But whilst they yet spake, LUKE. 36, 49.whiles it was evening, MARK. 14, 18.in the first day of the week, the doors being shut, where the Disciples were gathered together for fear of the Jews, cometh Jesus himself, and stood in the middest of them, and saith unto them; Peace be unto you, but they were terrified and afrighted, supposing they had seen a spirit; but he …pbraided them with their unbelief and hardnesse of heart, because they believed not them that had seen him since he was risen. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? See my hands and my feet, a spirit hath not flesh and bones; and he shewed them his hands, and his feet, and his side: and when they believed not for joy and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? and he eat a piece of broiled fish, and an honey comb; and the Disciples rejoyced that they had seen the Lord. And he said unto them, These are the words that I spake unto you, while I was yet with you: That all things must be fulfilled that were written in the Law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalmes of me. Then opened he their understandings, that they might understand the Scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooveth Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance, and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all Nations, and ye are witnesses of these things. And behold I send the promise of my Father among you: but tarry ye at Jerusalem till ye be endued with power from on high. He saith unto them again, Peace be unto you, as my Father sent me, so send I you. Go ye into the Word, and preach the Gospel to every creature; he that believeth, and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned: and these signs shall follow them that believe; In my Name they shall cast out devils, they shall speak with new tongues, they shall take up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them, they shall lay their hands on the sick, and they shall recover. And when he had said these things, he breathred on them, and said unto them, Receive the Holy Ghost: Whose sins ye remis, they are remitted unto them, and whose sins ye retain, they are retained. (And thus Jesus appeared five times in the very first day of his resurrection.)
But Thomas,JOHN. 24, 29. who is called Dydimus one of the twelve,LUKE. 16, 20. was not with them when Jesus came, and the rest of the Disciples telling him, we have seen the Lord: he very confidently professeth, he will not believe it: but eight dayes after, (April. 12.) Thomas being then together with the rest, Jesus comes, the doors being shut, and stands in the middest, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you, and abundantly satisfies Thomas his unbelief.
Then the Eleven Disciples go into Galilee unto the Mountain,MATT. 16, 20. that he had appointed them: and when they saw him, they worshipped him, but some doubted and when Jesus came unto them, he said, All power is given unto me both in Heaven and in earth, go therefore, and teach all Nations, baptizing them, &c. and I am with you to the end of the World. After that Jesus was seen of above five hundred brethen at once, after that to James, [1 Cor. 15. 6, 7.]
Afterwards Jesus shewed himself to his Disciples again at the sea at Tiberias, JOHN. XXI. 1, 24.or at least to seven of them, as they were fishing. After they had fished all night and caught nothing, in the morning Jesus unknown to them, stands upon the shoar, and bids them cast their net on the right side of the ship, where they took an hundred fifty three great fishes: and Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine, and none of them durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing it was the Lord. When they had dined, he warnes Peter thrice of his Pastoral charge, as he loved Jesus, and foretells him of what kind of death he should die: and to Peters question concerning John, he gives an answer not rightly understood of the brethren.
Last of all, LUKE. 50, 51.he appeared to his Disciples in Jerusalem, MARK. 19.and led them out as far as Bethany, and he lift up his hands and blessed them; and it came to passe as he blessed them, he was parted from them and carried up into Heaven.
Hitherto reacheth the History of the four Evangelists, declaring the acts of Christ, and his forerunner John Baptist, a short bill of honourable mention is made, in the 18. Antiq …. by F…. Joseph… the Jewish Historian: concerning the Baptist cap. 7. he saith …. Herod the Tetrarch kille… Iohn, surnamed the Baptist, a most excellent man, who stirred up the Jewes to the study of vertues, especially of piety and justice, and also to the washing of baptisme, which he said would be then acceptable to God, if not abstaining from some one or two sins, but having …her minds first purged through righteousnesse, they also added cleannesse of holy, and whereas there was great resort unto him, the common people being greedy of …. Herod feasing least the great authority of the man should raise some rebellion, because they seemed as though they would decline nothing to which he advised them, thought it safer to take him out of the way, before there was any alteration in the state, tha… to repent too late, when the state was once imbroyled, wherefore he commanded him to be sent prisoner to Machaeras and then to be put to death. Concerning Christ our Lord in the 45. cap. these words. In the same time there was a wise man Jesus, if we may call him a man. He was a worker of miracles, and a teacher of them that willingly receive the truth, he had many both Jews and Gentiles that were his followers, and was bel…eved to be the Christ. and when Pilate had crucified him, through the envy of our rulers, neverthelesse those that first loved him, continued constant in their affections, for he appeared to them alive the third day. The Prophets in their prophesies foretelling both these and many other wonderfull things concerning him and the Christians (from him so called) continue unto this very …. Thus St. Hieronym. in his book of Ecclesiasticall writers hath translated this place, which reading of his, He was believed to be the Christ, is preferred before that or Eusebius▪ [lib. Histor. Eccles. cap. 11.] or Rufinus, or as it is in our bookes foreign: This was the Christ, seeing it is clear, that Josephus came no nearer to our religion, then King Agrippa to whom he was most devoted, whose profession to Paul is exta…, Acts. XXVI. 28. almost thou perswadest me to be a Christian.
Also Cornelius Tacitus relates, that Christ was put to death by Pontius Pilate Governour of Judea in the reign of Tiberius. [Annal. lib. 15. cap. 4.] and to testifie the darkenesse that then was, Luci… the master in Rufinus appeales to the Annals of the heathen themselues. [Euseb. Histor. Eccles. lib. 9. cap. 6.] search your Annals and you shall find in Pilates time when Christ suffered that the sun was suddenly withdrawn, and a darkenesse did ensue. An… before him Tertu…l an in his Apologetick to the Gentiles. [cap. 21.] at the same moment the day was withdrawn even when the sun was at the height, those that never knew that this also was spoken concerning Christ, judged it to be nothing but an eclipse, and yet ye find that chance that befell the world recorded even in your own monuments. Yea, Thalius in the third of his Histories called this an eclipse, and Phlegon Trallianus in his 13. book of Chronicles, the former is quoted by Julius Africanus in the third Chronography, this latter by his temporary Origin. in lib. against Celsus [pag. 83. and 99. edit. Graec.] and in his 35. tractat…. Phlegons words at the XIX. year of Tiberius (as Eustathius … notes in Hexamero…) and the fourth year of the CCII. Olympiade, … year in which we now …,) a…e these.
foreign. Thus translated by Hieronym. in Eusebius Chronicle. Magna et excellens inter omnes, quae ante eam acciderant, defectio solis facta: dies hora sexta ita in tenebrosam noctem versus ut stellae in coelo visae; terraeque motus in B…thyniae Ni…eae urbis multas aedes subverterit. There was a great and most famous eclipse, of any that ever happened. The day was so turned into night at the sixth houre, that the stars were seen; and an earthquake also in Bi…hynia overturned many houses in the City of Nice.
From the History of the Gospell, comprehending the sayings and doings of Christ, Luke makes this transition to the Acts of the Apostles. The former treatise I have made O Theoph…lus, of all that Jesus began to do and teach, untill the day (of our May 14.) in which he was taken up, after that he had given commandments to his Apostles, whom he had chosen by the Holy Ghost, to whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion, by many infallible proofes, being seen of them fourty daies, and speaking of things pertaining to the Kingdome of God. Acts. I. 1, 2, 3.
And being assembled together with them, the Lord commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but should wait for the promise of the father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me, for John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost, not many daies hence. [Acts. I. 4, 5, XI. 16.]
To the Apostles asking the Lord, if he would at this time restore the Kingdome to Israel, he answereth, that it was not for them to know the times that the father hath put in his own power: but that they should receive the Holy Ghost, and should bear witnesse of him, not only in Jerusalem, and Judea, and Samaria, but unto the uttermost parts of the earth, and when he had spoken these things, while they beheld he was taken up, and a cloud received him out of their sight, who were also instructed by two Angels appearing on the sudden in white raiment, that he should come again (to judgement) in the very same manner as they now beheld him going up into Heaven. [Acts I. 6, 11.]
And they, when they had worshipped him, returned to Jerusalem with great joy, [Luc. XXIV. 52.] from the Mount of Olives, which is from thence, a Sabbath dayes journey, [Acts I. 12.] for which the Syrian Paraphrast puts seven furlongs; as also Theophylact reckons out of Josephus: in whom neverthelesse we read in our books, that the Mount of Olives was distant, either five furlongs, [as in lib. 20. Antiquit. cap. 6] or six [as in the 5 book Belli. Judeor. cap. 8.] as the Greek, or [lib. 6. cap. 3.] as the Latines distinguish the books.
The eleven Apostles aboade in an upper room in Jerusalem, and continued with one accord in prayer with the women, and Mary his mother, and his brethren. [Acts I. 13, 14.]
In those daies Peter stood up in the midst of the Disciples, (the number of the names together, were about 120) and spake to them concerning one to be chosen into the room of the traytor Judas, who in desperation threw himself down headlong, and burst in the midst: and when they had prayed, they cast lots upon Joseph, called Barsabas, and Matthias, and when the lot fell upon Matthias, he is chosen into the number of Apostles. [Acts I. 15. 26.]
On the day of Pentecost (which fell on the 24 of May) when all (120) were with one accord in the same place, suddenly there came a sound from Heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they sat; and there appeared unto them cloven tougues as of fire, and it sat upon each of them, and they were all filled with the holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the spirit gave them utterance: and there were dwelling at Jerusalem, Jews, devout men, out of every nation under Heaven: who hearing them speaking in their own tongues, the wonderful things of God, were all amazed: but others profanely deriding the miracle, Peter, in a most grave Sermon, ref…tes the calumny of drunknesse, seeing it was but the third hour of the day; and then discoursing of Christ, out of the Law and the Prophets, proves that he is risen, and converts by the power of the spirit he had received to the knowledge of the truth 3000 of his hearers, and commands them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, for remission of sins. [Acts II. 1, 14,]
And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and breaking of bread, and prayer, and fear came upon every soul, and many signes and wonders were done by the Apostles, and all that believed were together, and had all things common, and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every one had need, and they continuing daily with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladnesse, and singlenesse of heart, praising God, and having favour with all the people, and the Lord added daily to the Church, such as should be saved. [Ibid. 42, 47.]
Peter and John going up together into the Temple about the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour, at a gate of the Temple, called beautiful, they heale in the Name of Christ, a man that had been lame from his birth, about 40 years old; by reason of which, the people came running unto Solomons Porch, to whom Peter expounds the mysterie of salvation through Christ, and upbraiding their ingratitude, exhorts them to repentance; and many that heard him believed, and the number of men were about 5000. But the Priests and Rulers of the Temple, and Sadduces, came upon them, and took Peter and John, and put them in prison until the next day, because it was then evening. The next day the Council being gathered together (in which were Annas the High Priest, the President of the Council, and Caiphas and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the High Priests kindred) the Apostles are called in question about the miracles they had done, who boldly defended the cause of Christ, and being forbidden to speak hereafter in the name of Christ, they answer, That it is more right to obey God than men; and being threatned and let go, they returned to their own home, where, together with the whole Church, they powred out servent prayer to God, for the propagation of the Gospel, which he shews, he grants by causing an Earthquake, and sending his holy spirit into their hearts. [Acts III. & IV.]
And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart, and one soul, and they had all things common? neither was any among them that lacked, for as many as had possessions of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices, and laid them down at the Apostles feet, to be distributed for the use of the poor: in which businesse Josephus Joses, a Levite, by nation a Cypriot surnamed by the Apostles Barnabas, that is the son of consolation, shewed the first example. [Acts IV. 32, 37.]
Ananias and Sapphira his wife, fraudulently keeping by joynt consent, part of the piece, for which they had sold the land, are struck dead, by the word and rebuke only of Peter, who discoursed the cheat, and avenged by the power of the holy Ghost, to whom they had lyed; and great fear fell on all the Church, and on as many as heard of these things. [Acts V. 1, 11.]
By the hands of the Apostles were many miracles done among the people, and they were all together with one accord in Solomons Porch, and of the rest durst no man joyn themselves unto them: but the people magnified them, and the believers were more added to the Lord: and they brought the sick into the streets, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by, might overshadow them. There came also a multitude out of the Cities about Jerusalem, bringing the sick, and such as were vexed with unclean spirits and they were all healed. [Ibid.]
The High Priest and the Sadduces that were with him moved with envy, cast the Apostles into prison: from whence the night following being freed by an Angel, are commanded to teach the people boldly and without fear, from whence being brought to the Council, by the advice of Gamaliel a Pharisee, a Doctor of the Law in much esteem among the people, being delivered from death, after they had been scourged, are let go; and they went from the Council rejoycing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus. And they taught daily in the Temple. [Ibid. 17. 42.]
The number of Believers increasing at Jerusalem, Year of the World 4037 and wealth also flowing in apace, and consequently employments of the Church, there arose (as it commonly happens amongst a multitude) a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution of the Church monies: and whereas the Apostles could not be at leasure to distribute the almes of the richer sort unto the poor, or for to govern that bulk of money which rose out of the sale of the rich mens possessions; by the Apostles advice, and by the common suffrages of the Church, there were seven chosen to …e Stewards of the Churches goods, and should intend that service; Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nichoias, a Proselyte of Antioch, (it is evident because they have all Greek names, that in this election, there was chiefest account had of the Grecians) and the word of the Lord increased, and the number of the Disciples was multipled at Jerusalem, and many of the Priests were obedient to the Faith. [Acts VI. 1, 7.]
Stephen did many wonders and miracles among the people, and stoutly defended the Cause of Christ against the Jews of the Synagogue of the Libertines (made free by their Masters) and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia, and of Asia, disputing with him: who when in disputation they could not resist the wisdom and spirit by which he spake, they turn to false accusing him, and caught him and brought him before the Council, and set up false witnesses, who should avow that they heard him speak blasphemous words against the Temple and the Law, [ibid. 8, 15.]
Stephen in a long Oration before the high Priest (Annas) and Council, shews, That the true worship of God was observed by Abraham and his posterity, before the Temple was built by Solomon, yea before Moses was born, and that Moses gives testimony of Christ, and that the outward ceremonies that were given to their fathers were to endure but for a time. Then he sharply reprehends the Jews, because they alwayes resisted the Holy Ghost, and had wickedly put Christ to death, whom the Prophets had foretold should come into the World. VVhereupon being mad with fury, they cast that holy man out of the City, and stone him, he in the mean time praying for them, [Acts VII.]
The witnesses (according to the Law, Deut. XVII. 7.) about to throw the first stones, laid their garments at a young mans feet called Saul, who kept them, and was consenting to the death of the Martyr [Acts, VII. 58. Acts, VIII. 1. XXII. 20.] This man an Hebrew of the Hebrews, of the Tribe of Benjamin, born at Tarsus in Cilicia, (which City Strabo affirmes was then famous for the study of Philosophy, and the liberal Sciences, lib. 14. pag. 673.) by Sect a Pharisee, and the son of a Pharisee, and studied Divinity at that time in Jerusalem, in the Synagogue of the Cilicians, and did frequent the School of Gamaliel, the famous Doctor among the Pharisees, a most strict observer of the Law of Moses, and of the traditions delivered to the Fathers, [Acts XXI. 39. XXII. 3. XXIII. 6, 34. XXVI. 4, 5. 2 Cor. XI. 22. Gal. I. 14. Phil. III. 5, 6.]
Devout men carried Stephen to his burial, and made great lamentation over him, [Acts VIII. 2.]
Aelius Lamia died at Rome, sometimes titular governour of Syria, for he never came thither. As for Flaccus Pomponius the true Governour of Syria, he died in the Province, [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 27. with Sueton, in Tiberio, cap. 42.]
Herod Agrippa had his daughter Mariamme by Cyprus, The Julian Period 4747 ten years before his death, Year after Christ 34 [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 7. and lib. 19. cap. ult.]
There arose a great persecution after the death of Stephen against the whole Church which was at Jerusalem, [Acts VIII. 1. XI. 19.] in which Saul exceedingly raging, made havock of the Church; for having received authority from the chief Priests, he not onelyonly when the Saints were put to death, gave his voice against them, but also he himself, entering into every house, and taking from thence both men and women, bound them, and put them in prison, and often beat them in every Synagogue: and so compelled some by denying Christ to blaspheme, others that were constant in the Faith, he persecuted to death, [Acts VIII. 1. IX. 13, 21. XXII. 4, 5, 19. XXVI. 9, 10, 11. Gal. …. 13, 23. Phil. III. 6. 1 Tim. I. 13.]
This persecution dispersed the Church into divers Countries, but with great advantage to the Church: for the Apostles being left alone at Jerusalem, of the rest of which there were some thousands, [Acts II. 41. & IV. 4.] some that were dispersed into the Regions of Judea and Samaria, who preached the Gospel wheresoever they came, [Acts VIII. 1, 4.] Others went to Damascus, [Acts IX. 29, 25.] amongst whom was Ananias a devout man according to the Law, and one who had a good report among all the Jews that dwelt there, [Acts XXII. 12.] Others, it is very likely, went even to Rome it self, and amongst them Junias and Andronicus, who were of note among the Apostles, the kinsmen of this persecutor Paul, and had embraced the faith before him, [Rom. XVI. 7.] Others travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word of God to the Jews onelyonly, [Acts XI. 19.] viz. to those that were dispersed among the Gentiles. [James, I. 1. 1 Pet. l. 1.]
Amongst them that went to Samaria was Philip, the second in order after Stephen the Protomartyr among the seven that were chosen, [Acts VIII. 5. with XXI. 8.] He coming into the City of Samaria did preach Christ there: the people with one accord giving heed to those things that he spake, seeing the miracles that he did; for uncle …n spirits crying with a loud voice, came out of many: and many that were taken with Palsies, and that were lame, were healed: and there was great joy in that City, and many believing were baptized both men and women. Simon also who a long time had so bewitched the people of Samaria with his soceries, that giving heed to him, from the least to the greatest, they said he was the great power of God: seeing the great signes and wonders that were done by Philip, believed and was baptized. [Acts VIII. 5, 13.]
When the Apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of the Lord, they sent unto them Peter and John, upon whose praying for them, and laying their hands on them, they received the Holy Ghost: which Simon Magus seeing, offered them money, that he also might receive the gift of conferring the Holy Ghost; whose mad impiety Peter sharply rebuking, warnes him to repent of this his wickednesse, and to ask pardon of God: who desireth the Apostles that they would pray for him to the Lord. Having compleated their ministery in those parts, they returned to Jerusalem, preaching the Gospel in the villages of Samaria, as they went, [Acts VIII. 14, 25.]
After many Ages were past, a Bird called Phoenix came into Egypt, and ministered matter to the most learned of the Country, and also Greek of discoursing many things concerning that miracle. [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 28.] But Dion reports that this Bird appeared in Egypt two years after. [lib. 54. pag. 638.]
Philip the Tetrarch alwayes reputed a modest man, and a lover of ease and quietness, died in the twentieth year of Tiberius, when he had governed Trachonitis, Gaulanitis, and Batanaea, thirty seven years, died at Julias, he was brought to a Monument that he before had built for himself, wherein he was magnificently and sumptuously intersed: and because he died without children, Tiberius annexed that Principality to the Province of Syria: Yet so, that the tributes which were collected in this Tetrarchy, should be kept within the limits of that Country. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 6.]
At Rome in this twentieth year of Tiberius his raign, the Consuls, Lucius Vitellius, and Fabius Priscus set forth ten years Games, that they might as it were prolong the government to him, as it was used to be done to Augustus. [Dion lib. 58. pag 636.]
In this year, (as Dion will have) or three years before, (as Tacitus hints about the end of the fifth book of his Annals, relating this Story) a certain young fellow gave our, that he was Drusius Germanicus his son. He was seen first in the Islands Cyclades, and soon after in the Continent of Grecia and Ionia. He was attended by some of Caesars free-men: the ignorant were allured by the same of his name, and by the minds of the Grecians ready to new and wonderful things; for they seigned and also believed that if he could get from them that kept him, he would go to his fathers armies, and would invade Egypt or Syria. Poppaeus Sabinus when he heard these things, who being insentive upon Macedonia, took care also for Achaia, entred Nicopolis, a Roman Colony; there he knew that the young man, being more cunningly examined, had said, that he was Marcus Silanus his son, and that many of his followers being ship… away, he took shipping, as though he would go to Italy, neither, saith Tacitus, have been found any more concerning the end of this businesse: but Dion adds, that this impostor being willingly received of the Cities, and strengthened with aide, had without doubt come into Syria, and possessed himself of the armies, unlesse some that knew had stayed him, and sent him to Tiberius. [Tacit. Annal. 5. cap. 10. D…o. lib. 58. pag. 637.]
Philip the Evangelist, being warned of an Angel, goes to Gaza, which is desart, of which are to be seen those things that are spoken, at the end of the year of the World, 3672.) and meets an Eunuch, who had the charge of the treasure of Candace, Queen of the Aethiopians, (in Meroe) and returning in his Chariot from Jerusalem, (where he had been to worship) read the Prophet Esaias, to whom Philip, by the command of the spirit, came; and having instructed him in the faith of Christ, bapbaptized him, and straightway being caught away out of his sight by the spirit of the Lord, was found at Azorus, and passing through the Country, he preached the Gospel in all the Cities, untill he came to Caesarea. [Acts VIII. 26, 40.]
Saul yet breathing out threatnings and slaughter against the Disciples of the Lord, obtains of the High Priest (Annas, (as it is Acts IV. 6.) and the Council of which he was then President) letters to the Synagogues of Damascus, that if he found any that were Christians, he should bring them bound to Jerusalem, that they might be punished. And as he came nigh to Damascus at midday, a light from Heaven, above the brightnesse of the Sun, shined round about him, and them that journyed with him: and when they were all fallen to the earth, he heard a voice speaking to him in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks: and when he had said, Who art thou Lord? it was answered him, I am Jesus of Nazareth whom thou persecutest, but rise and stand upon thy feet, I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a Minister, and a witnesse, both of those things that thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee, delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, that thou maiest open their eyes, and turn them from darknesse to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive remission of sins, and inheritance among them that are Sanctified by faith that is in me. And when as Saul trembling and full of fear, asked further, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? the Lord said unto him, Arise, go to Damascus, and there it shall be told thee of all things that thou must do: but the men that journeyed with Saul, were so amazed, that they were speechlesse, seeing indeed a light, and hearing a sound of words, but neither seeing Christ which spake, nor understanding any thing that he spake. [Acts IX. 1, 7. XXII. 5, 14. XXVI. 12, 18.]
Saul arose from the earth, and being blinded with the glory of the light, being led by the hand, he comes to Damascus [Acts IX, 8. XXII. 11.] and he was three daies without sight, and neither did eat or drink. Now there was a certain Disciple named Ananias, to whom the Lord speak by a vision, Arise, and go into the street that is called straight, and inquire in the house of Judas, for Saul of Tarsus, for behold he prayeth: (and Saul then saw in a vision, Ananias entring, and laying his hand on him, that he might receive his sight) but Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done unto thy Saints at Jerusalem, yea, in this place he hath authority from the chief Priests, to bind all that call on thy name; and the Lord said unto him, Go thy way, for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to carry my Name before the Gentiles, and Kings, and the children of Israel, for I will shew unto him, how great things he must suffer for my Name. And Ananias went and entred into the house, and laying his hands on him, said, Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, which appeared unto thee, in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mayest receive thy sight, and be filled with the holy Ghost, and straightway there fell from his eyes as it were scales, and he received his sight forthwith. [Acts IX. 9, 18.]
And Ananias said, The God of our Fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that just one, and shouldest hear the voice from his mouth, for thou shalt be a witnesse before all men, of those things that thou hast heard and seen: and now why tarriest thou? arise and be baptized and washed from thy sins, calling on the Name of the Lord. [Acts XXII. 14, 15, 16.] And Saul arose, and was baptized, and when he had received meat, he was strengthened. [Acts IX. 18, 19.]
But what was revealed from the Lord to Saul at Damascus that he should do, Luke shews not in the Acts, but out of those things, which in the Epistle to the Galatians he saith happened unto him immediatly after his conversion, it appears, that amongst other things it was commanded him, that he should not confer with flesh and blond, nor return to Jerusalem, to them that were Apostles before him, but that he should go for sometime into Arabia, or places neer Damascus, where he should receive the knowledge of the Gospel, Not being taught of men, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. [Gal. l. 12, 16, 17.]
Saul then returnes to Damascus, [Gal. 1. 17.] and tarries with the Disciples there a few daies, and straightway in the Synagogues he preacheth, that Christ is the son of God. And they were all amazed who heard these things, and said, Is not this he that destroyed at Jerusalem, those that called on this name, and came hither for that intent that he might bring them bound to the chief Priests, and Saul encreased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews that dwelt at Damascus, teaching that Jesus is the Christ, [Acts. IX. 19. 22.] for to the Jews that dwelt at Damascus, was the Gospell first preached by him. [Acts. XXVI. 20.]
Tiberius being certified by Pilate out of Palestine, concerning the affaires of Christ, he proposeth to the Senate, that he might be reckoned among the gods, which the Senate opposing, he remaining in his opinion threatens that it should be dangerous for any to accuse a Christian, as Tertullian relates in Apologetic. [cap. 5. & 21.] and others that follow him; as Eusebius [in Chronic. & Histor. Eccles. lib. 2. cap. 2.] and our Gildas in an epistle of the destruction of Britain, which being granted, we may lawfully say, that the first persecution after the murder of Stephen that arose in Judaea, ceased partly by the conversion of Saul who greatly promoted it, and partly through fear of Tiberius.
L. Vitellius who the year before was Consul at Rome, was sent by Tiberius Proconsul into Syria, and comes to Jerusalem, in the very feast of the Passeover: where he was honourably entertained by them of Jerusalem, and for a requitall remits to the Citizens the whole tribute of the fruites set to sale, and allowed that the High-Priests garment with all that belonged to it should be kept in the temple by the Priests, which was formerly kept by the Roman Governour of the Castle Antonia? and thus gratifying the nation, and having substituted Jonathus the son of Ananus (or Annas) the High-Priest, in the place of Joseph Caiaphas the High-Priest, he takes his journey to Antioch. [Joseph. lib 15. cap. ult. & lib. 18. cap. 6.]
A…abanes King of Parthia, Artaxias King of Armenia being dead, set Arsaces the eldest of his children over the Armenians: and because he came off from Tiberius sco…-free for that, he attempts Cappadocia, and sent to demand the treasure left by Vo…ones in Syria and Cilicia, and also the ancient bounds of the Persians and Macedonians, and also vaingloriously bragged and threatned that he would invade all that was possessed by Cyrus, or Alexander, but Sinnaces, a man both nobly born and rich, and next unto him Abdus an Eunuch, drawing the principall of the Parthians to them, because they could make none of the bloud of the Arsacides King (most of them being killed by Artabanus, or under yeares) send private messengers to Tiberius to demand Phraates the son of Phraates the third who was kept hostage at Rome for their King. [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 31. Dion. lib. 58. pag. 37.]
Tiberius sends Phraates sufficiently furnished into his fathers Kingdome, keeping his old drift, by sleights and pollicies to raise wars abroad, to keep himself quiet at home: in the mean while these conspiracies being known, Artabanus invites Abdus under colour of amity to a banquet, and gives him a lingring poyson, and Sinnaces by feigned friendship and gifts he entertaines in other employments, and Phraates being come into Syria, leaving off the Roman manner of living, to which he had been accustomed, and resuming the Parthian usage, being unable to brook his Countrey manners, falls sick and dies. [Tacit. ibid. cap. 32.]
Phraates being dead, Tiberius sends Tiridates of the same stock, and an enemy to Artabanus; and that he might the sooner get the Kingdome, writes to Mithridates Iberus that he should invade Armenia: that by this meanes Artabanus might go out of his own Kingdome, whilst he helped his son, and to this end reconciled Mithridates to his brother Pharasmanes, who succeeded his father Mithridates in the Kingdome of Iberia, and egged on Pharasmanes himself, and the King of the Alanes by great gifts, to make war suddenly on Artabanus, but he made L. Vitellius generall over all these preparations in the East. [Tacit. ibid. with Josephus lib. 18. cap. 6. with Dion. lib. 58 pag. 637. 638.]
Mithridates induces his brother Pharasmenes to set toward his endeavours by policy and force, Arsaces the son of Artabanus is killed by his servants, hired to this villany by great sums of gold: also the Iberians breaking into Armenia, ruine the City Artaxata. When Artabanus knew these things, he furnisheth his son Orodes to revenge it, giving him the strength of the Parthians, and dispatcheth others to levy hired souldiers for his aid; on the other side, Pharasmenes joynes to himself the Albanius, and calls the Sarmatians to his help, whose Princes, called Sceptruchi, having received gifts on both sides, as the manner of that Nation is, gave aid to both sides: but the Iberians being masters of the places, thrust in the Sarmatians into Armenia by the Caspian passages, and those that came from the Parthians are easily driven back, there being but one way left for them, between the farthest Albanian mountains, and the shore of the Caspian sea, and that too the Summer then hindred, the Eastern wind filling up the Fords. [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 33. Joseph. ut supra.]
Pharasmenes having re-enforced his strength, forceth Orodes to fight being destitute of his Allies: in which meeting with Orodes, he wounded him through his Helmet, but could not double his blow, being carried away with his horse, and the stoutest of his Guard defending him being wounded. Neverthelesse a rumour falsely believed that he was slain, appalled the Parthians, and caused them to yeild the Victory, [Tacit. ibid. cap. 34. & 35.] and so the Parthians having lost Armenia again, [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 6.] it is given to Mithridates Iberus. [Dion. lib. 58. pag. 638.]
Yet immediately after Artabanus goes with the whole strength of his kingdom to revenge this: Year of the World 4039 But the Iberians had the better of it, through their skilfulnesse of the places; neither would he have desisted, had not Vitellius gathering together his Legions, and casting out a rumour, as if he would inrode Mesopotamia, strook him into a fear of the Roman forces. Then did Artabanus's fortune decline, having lost Armenia, and Vitellius enticing his subjects that they should forsake him, as one that was a Tyrant in peace, and unfortunate in war. Hereupon Sinnaces hath secret conference with Abdageses and others, and drew them to revolt, being prepared by their continual overthrows; those also coming in to him, that were subject rather through fear, than good will, took courage when they had Captains to follow. Vitellius haveing with money corrupted some both friends and kinsmen of Artabanus endeavoured to kill him: he having understood the conspiracy, and not finding a remedy, because the danger was like to come to him from his Nobility, and having suspected even those that remained under his protection, he basteneth his flight into the higher Provinces and places near to Scythia, expecting aid from the Carmanians and Hyrcanians, with whom he was joyned in affinity. [Tacit. lib. 6. cap. 36. Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 6.]
Agrippa the son of Aristobulus, The Julian Period. 4749 when he was in great want at Ptolemais, Year after Christ 36 took money up at interest of Protus a freed man in former time of his dead mother Berenice, using therein the help of Marsyas his own freed-man. He extorted from Marsyas a bill of his hand for 20000 Attick Drackmes, deducting out of that sum 2500 for Marsyas himself, which he might the easier do, because Agrippa could not otherwise chuse. Having gotten this money, he goes to Anthedon, and getting shipping, prepares himself for his journey into Italy. When Herennius Capito the Treasurer of Jamnia heard that he was there, he sent souldiers thither to exact of him 300 thousand drachmes of silver, which Agrippa owed Caesars treasury, when he lived at Rome: by which means he was enforced to stay. Whereupon he made a shew to obey their commands; but as soon as it was night, he cut his cables, and sailed to Alexandria, and there offers to borrow of Alexander Alabarcha 200 thousand drachmes of silver. He professes that he will lend him nothing, but to his wife Cyprus, admiring in her, her love to her husband, and her other virtues. When she therefore had become his security, Alexander Alabarcha payes him down five talents presently at Alexandria, but promised to deliver him the rest at Puteoli; because he feared Agrippa's prodigality. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 7, & 8.]
Phi…o the Jew makes mention of the coming of Agrippa to the City of Alexandria, in his book against Flaccus (at that time Governour of Egypt) which Philo Josephus sayes was the brother of Alexander Alabarcha. [lib. 18. cap. 10.] And Jerom relates in his Catalogue of Ecclesiastical Writers, that he was of the same family of the Priests. Whereupon Baronius (at the year of Christ 34. numb. 265.) thinks him to be no other, than that Alexander, [Acts IV. 6.] who is said to be of the kindred of the Priests: but this was that Alexander Lysimachus, who bore the office of Alabarcha at Alexandria, (of whom Juvenal in his first Satyre) in former time the Steward of Antonia, the mother of the Emperour Claudius, and father of Tiberius Alexander, Governour of Judea, and the richest of all the Jews of Alexandria. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. 4. & lib. 20. cap. 3.] He melted gold and silver for the gates of the Temple at Jerusalem, (and not his father, as Baronius writes in the forecited place.) [Joseph. lib. 6. Belli. Judaic. cap. 6.]
Cyprus having furnished her husband for his journey into Italy, returnes with her children into Judea by land: and Agrippa when he was come to Puteoli, writ to Tiberius Caesar then living at Capreae, signifying unto him, that he came to do his duty unto him, and begging leave of him to come into the Isl…nd. Tiberius without delay writes back again, a kind answer, that he should be glad to see him safe returned to Capreae, and also received him with great cheerfulnesse when he was come; for he both embraced him and lodged him. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 8.]
The next day, Caesar having received letters from Herennius concerning the 300 thousand drachmes of silver, commandded them of his chamber, that Agrippa should not be admitted till he had paid the debt. He nothing dismayed at Caesars displeasure; begs of Antonia, the mother of Germanicus and Claudius, (afterwards Emperour) that she would lend him 300 thousand Drachmes, for fear he should loose the friendship of Caesar: who remembring the familiarity that had been between her and Bernice, Agrippa's Mother, and that he had been brought up with her son Claudius, lends him the mony; wherewith having paied the debt, none gain-saying it, he reinjoyes the Princes favour, and is so throughly reconciled to Caesar, that he commended to Agrippas charge his Nephew (Tiberuis the Twin) the son of Drusus, and commanded him that he should dutifully attend him whithersoever he went: and being bound and tied to Antonia for this benefit, he began to reverence Caius (Caligula) her Nephew, who was gracious in all mens eyes, and honoured for the memory of his father. There was there by chance at the same time, one Allus, a Samaritan, of whom he borrows 1000000. Drachmes, and paies Antonia her debt, and keeps the rest, the more honourably to attend on Caius. [Joseph. ibid.]
Tigranes, the son of Alexander (that was put to death by his father Herod) and of Glaphyra, (the daughter of Archelaus, King of the Cappadocians) who had turned from the Jews to the G…ntiles religion, and had been sometimes King of Armenia, being accused at Rome, and there punished, died without children. [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 40. Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 7.]
The Clites a Nation (in Cilicia Thrachea) subject to Archelaus the Cappadocian, because they were compelled after the Roman fashion, to bring in the value of their yearly revenues, and to pay tribute, fled to the Hill Taurus, and there by the strong site of the place, defended themselves against the weak forces of their King, untill M. Trebelliu… was sent from Vitellius, president of Syria, with 4000 Legionary Souldiers, and some choice Auxiliaries, compassed about with works, two hills, which the Barbarians had possessed, the name of the lesser was Cadra, the greater Tavara) and slew those that durst come out of their holds, and compelled the rest to yield for want of water. [Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 41.]
Artabanus being fled, and the minds of the people inclining to a new King, Vitellius perswades Tiridates to lay hold on what was offered him, and leads his Legions and Auxiliaries to the bank of Euphrates. As they were sacrificing, and some were preparing Suovetaurilia, (a Boare, a Ram, and a Bull) after the manner of the Romans; others making ready an Horse, for the pacifying the river; the inhabitants about Euphrates bring word that the river was exceedingly risen of its own accord, without any great showres; and thar the white froth made circles in form of a Diadem, which was an omen of a prosperous passage: but others did interpret it more subtilly, that the beginnings of their endeavour should be prosperous, but not lasting, because there was more credit to be given to those things that were portended by the earth, and Heaven, that the nature of Rivers were unconstant, and that if they did shew any good presages, they would as soon take them away. But Vitellius having made a bridge of boats, and passed over his armie, Orospades comes to his Camp with many thousands of Horse, he once a banished man, brought no small aide to Tiberius, when he made war in Dalmatia, and for that made Citizen of Rome. After this, entring anew into the Kings favour, he made him Governour of Mesopotamia, and not long after Sinnaces increaseth his forces, and Abdageses, the stay of that party, joyneth both his treasure and royal preparations. Vitellius thinking it enough to have shewen the Roman forces, admonisheth Tiridates, that he should remember his G…andfather Phraates, Caesar bringer up, the nobles, that they would be obedient to their King, and reverence the Romons; and that every one should keep his credit and fidelity; and then with his Legions goes back into Syria. [Tacit. Annal. cap. 37.]
Tiridates receives from the Parthians, willingly yielding them Nicophorium, and Anthemusias, and other Cities of Macedonia, using the Grecian language, as also Halus and Artemita, Cities of Parthia, greatly rejoycing, as who hated the cruelty of Artabanus, brought up among the Scythians, and hoped that Tiridates would be gentle, as b…ed among the Roman…. The Selcucians use much flattery, their City is strong and walled about, not corrupted with barbarity, but keeping the laws of their founder Seleucus. When Tiridates was come among them, they highly honour him, and reproach Artabanus, as one indeed that was of the race of the Arsacidae, by the mothers side, but in all other things he had degenerated. Tiridates commits the government of the Common-wealth to the people, whereas Artabanus had delivered it to the rule of 300 of the nobility. [Tacit. Annal. lib. 6. cap. 41, 42.]
Tiridates then consulting what day he should be crowned, receives letters from Phraates, and Hieron, who held the strongest governments, desiring him that he would a little time defer it, which to satisfie those great men, he yielded unto: and in the mean while goes to Cresiphon, the seat of the Kingdom: but when they delayed from day to day, Surena, with the approbation of many there present, crowns Tiradates, after the custom of the Country; and if he had entred farther into the Country, and other Nations, those loyterers had been put out of all doubt, and all yeilded obedience to one; but staying too long in besieging a Castle where Artabanus had conveyed his Treasure and Concubines, he gives them leasure to break the agreement: for Phraates and Hieron, and some others that did not celebrate the day appointed for his Coronation; some for fear, and some for envy to Abdageses, who then possessed the new King and was the onelyonly favourite at Court, turned to Artabanus. [Ibid. cap. 42, 43.]
Artabanus is found in Hyrcania very meanly attired, and getting his living with his bow. At first he was afraid, as if there had been some treachery; but when they had given their faith that they came to restore him to his kingdom again, he stayed no longer, than to assemble the Scythian forces, (Josephus relates that he got together a great army of the Dahae and Sacae) and goes with them presently: neither did he put off his mean attire, the more to move the common people to pitty him. There was neither subtilty, nor prayers, nor any thing omitted, whereby he might either draw the doubtful to him, or confirm the willing. [Ibid. cap. 43, 44.]
He came then with a strong power near Seleucia: whenas Tiridates strucken into a fear with the fame and person of Artabanus, began to be distracted in his counsels, whether he should presently encounter him, or delay the war: but Abdageses his opinion was, that he should retire into Mesopotamia; that having the River between them, and raising in the mean time the Armenians and Elymeans and the rest behind them, and increasing their forces with Allies and such as the Roman Captain would send, he should then try his fortune. That advice prevailed, because of Abdageses authority, and Tiridates his cowardlinesse in dangers. This retreat differed little from a flight, and the Arabians first led the way, the rest went either home or to Artabanus's Camp; until Tiridates returning back into Syria with a small company, acquitted them all of the infamy of treason, [Ibid. cap. 44.]
Artabanus, having easily overcome his enemies, is restored to his kingdom, [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 6. Dion. lib. 58. pag. 537.] who writing letters to Tiberius, ubraides him with parricides, murders, sloaths, and luxury, and adviseth him, that he would quickly satisfie the most just hatred of the Citizens, by a voluntary death, [Sueton in Tiberio, cap. 66.] and having without danger set upon Armenia, he purposed also to invade Syria. [Dion. lib. 59. pag. 661.]
Agrippa being entertained with intimate familiarity by Caius Caligula, on a certain day as he rod in the same Coach with him, he prayed that Tiberius might shortly surrender the Empire to him, as to a worthier person. These words Eutichus overheard that was one of Agrippas Freed-men, and his Coach-man, but then held his peace: he being afterwards accused, as though he had stollen a garment from his Patrone, as indeed he did steale it, and being brought back again after he had fled, and led to Piso the Prefect of the City, and asked the cause of his flight; he answers, That he had some certain secrets which he desired to reveale to Caesar, belonging to his safety. Whereupon he was sent in bonds to Capreae, and there long kept prisoner, before it pleased Caesar to give him any hearing. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 8.]
A certain impostor perswades the Samaritanes, that they should meet at the mount Garizim, which that nation thinkes to be the most holy, affirming that he would then shew them the holy vessels buried, where Moses had laid them, they believing him, and taking armes encamp about a village called Tyrabatha, expecting there till the rest came, that they might ascend the mountain with the greater company. But Pilate prepossessing himself with his horse and foot of the top of the hill, and fighting with those that were encamped at the village, some he overthrew, and some he put to flight, and took many captives alive, of whom he beheaded the ringleaders and those of most power among them. [Id. ibid. cap. 5.]
The chief men of Samaria addresse themselves to Vitellius Governour of Syria, Year of the World 4040 and accuse Pilate of this murder, denying that this assembly at Tirabatha, was any revolt from the Romans, but a refuge from the tyrany of Pilate; whereupon Vitellius sending his friend Marcellus to take charge of Judea, commands Pilate to go to Rome, to answer before Caesar to such crimes as the Jews objected against him. After he had lived ten years in that Province, [Id. ibid.] to which should be added a little appendix of 4 or 5 moneths, unlesse he deferred his voyage either through fear of stormes, (the fast of the seventh monethmonth being past, as Acts XXVII. 9.) or detained with contrary winds, or by some intervenient delay, made him prolong his journey; for before Pilate came to Rome, Tiberius was dead, as Josephus shews.
When Tiberius came from Capreae to Tusculanum, which was distant from the City almost an hundred furlongs: he was perswaded, though much against his will, that he would hear Eutichus, that it might be known, of what crime he accused his Patrone: who examining the matter, found that he had neglected his commands of honouring his Nephew Tiberius Drusius's son, and had wholly addicted himself to Caius. Whereupon he commands Macro (who succeeded Sejanus in the command of the Pretorian souldiers) that he should bind Agrippa. Then Agrippa hath recourse to prayer, and begs pardon, for the memory of his son, with whom he was brought up, in great familiarity, and by those services that he had done young Tiberius. But all in vain, the Pretorian souldiers carrying him to prison, even in his Purple robes; and at that time it was very hot weather, and he very thirsty for want of wine, seeing a servant of Caius carrying a pitcher of water, he desired to drink, which when he had willingly bestowed on him, he drank, and said unto him, Truly, Lad, thou hast done me this service for thine own good, for as soon as I shall be free from this necessity, I will beg thy liberty of Caius, which also afterward he performed. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 8.]
Agrippa being a prisoner, stood bound among other prisoners before the Pallace, leaning in a melancholly posture against a tree, on which sat an owl: one of the prisoners, by Nation a German, seeing the bird, asks of a souldier, who he that was in purple was; and when he knew that he was one of the chief nobility of the Jews, being led to him, and using an interpreter, he told him, that this bird did signifie that there should be a sudden change of his present fortune, and that he should be advanced to great dignity and power, and that he should have an happy death, (in which the most unhappy death of this man, shewed that he was a false Prophet) but when he should see this bird again, he should dye within five dayes. [Id. ibid.]
Antonia grieved at the calamity of the young man, thought it would be unprofitable to speak to Tiberius in his behalf; yet she obtained thus much of Macro, that he might be committed to the custody of souldiers of a gentle behaviour, and that he should have a Centurion that should provide him his diet, and that he might use his daily things, and that his friends and freed men might come to him, by whose services he might be releived, then were admitted to him his friend Silus, and his free-men Marsyras and Stychus, who brought him such meates as he was delighted with, they brought also coverlets as if they would sell them, on which he lay a night, the souldiers suffering this, having before direction from Macro: and in this manner he spent six months in prison, even untill the death of Tiberius. [ibid.]
Concerning the confines of the Countrey Gamalile, there arose a great contention between Herod the Tetrarch and Aretas King of Arabia Petrea, not forgetfull of the injury done to his daughter, whom Herod had married, but contemned, and married in her room Herodias his brothers wi…e, they manage the war on both sides by their Lieutenants, and when the battles joyned Herods army was clean overthrown, being betraied by some banished men, who being driven from the Tetrarchy of Philip, served under Herod, these things Herod signifies to Tiberius by letters, who being angry with Antas for his bold attempt, writ to Vitellius that he should make war upon him, willing him that he should either bring him alive to him, or if dead to send him his head: it was the opinion among the Jews, that Herods army was overthrown by the just judgment of God, for the murder of John the Baptist. [Josephus. lib. 18. cap. 7.]
Cn. Acerronius and C. Pontius Nigrinus being Consuls, The Julian Period. 4750 Tiberius dies XVII. Year after Christ 37 Kalends of Aprill: as it is in Suetonius [in Tiberio. cap. 13. and Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 50.] or rather the VII. or XXVI. day of March, whenas after the decease of Augustus, he had reigned 22. yeares 7. months 7. daies, as Dion relates at the end of his fifty eighth book, not 5 months 3. daies, as Josephus numbers in [lib. 18. Antiquit. cap. 8.] nor six month 3. daies, as in the wars of the Jews. [lib. 2. cap. 8.]
Marsyas, the death of Tiberius being known, runs to his Patron Agrippa, whom he found bathing himself, nodding his head, told him in Hebrew. The lion is dead. Which when the Centurion who kept him knew from them, he taking off Agrippa's bonds made them good cheer, as they were merrily eating and drinking, there comes in one that said Tiberius was alive, and that he would shortly return to the City, with which word the Centurion being terrified, he commands Agrippa to be thrust from the rabble and bound, and to be more carefully looked to hereafter, but the next day there came two letters from Caius, one in which he wrote to the Senate that he had succeeded in the Empire in the room of dead Tiberius, the other in which he wrote to Piso the Prefect of the City declaring the same thing, and commanding him that he should set Agrippa free, and restore him that house in which he had formerly lived in, in which although he was a prisoner yet lived he at his own discretion. [Josephus. lib. 18. cap. 8.]
Caius returning to Rome, bringing also the body of Tiberius celebrated a most sumptuous funerall, with great sol…mnity, and whenas he would the same day have released Agr…ppa, by the advice of Autonia he forbare, not that she did not wish well to the man, but denied that this hast was handsome, least he should seem to do this in hatred to Tiberius, if he should so suddenly deliver him, whom Tiberius had imprisoned, but not many daies after he sent for him to his house, and commanded his hair to be cut, and changed his garments, and then putting a Crown on his head, he made him King of Philips Tetrarchy, giving him also the Tetrarchy of Lysanias; and changed his chain of Iron into a chain of gold of the same weight, and sent Marullus governour into Judea. [Joseph. id. ibid.]
Dion relates that C. Caligula freed Agrippa the Grandchild of Herod from those bonds, which Tiberius had put on him, and that he gave him his Grandfathers principality, [lib. 59. pag. 645.] Philo in his book against Flaccus saies that he was honoured with the ornaments of a Praetour by the Roman Senate, and that Caius gave him the Kingdome, and the third part of the ancient dominion that his unckle Philip possessed, but Agrippa having gotten the Kingdome, begs Thaumastus of Caius, and gives him his liberty, and makes him steward of his goods. And when Agrippa died he left him in the same office to his son Agrippa, and Berenice his daughter with whom he was in great account as long as he lived. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 8.]
Caligula gives to Antiochus, the son of Antiochus Commagene, his fathers kingdom, giving him also the maritime places of Cilicia. [lib. 59. pag. 645.]
Atelius, governour of Syria, took with him two Legions, and the aids of Foot and Horse that were sent from the King that were allies, hastning towards Petra, came to Pto…mias: and as he thought to lead his army through Judea, the principal men of that Country came to him, desiring that he would not passe that way, for the customs of their Country would not suffer, that any images should be carried there, such as the Roman banners had many, with whose prayers he being moved, changed his opinion, and sent his army through the great plain, and came with Herod the Tetrarch and his friends to Jerusalem, to offer sacrifice to God, at the next feast, which was nigh at hand: whither when he was come, he was magnificently entertained by the people, and staying three dayes there, in the mean time he transferred the High Priesthood from Jonathan upon Theophilus his brother. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 7.]
Four dayes after Vitellius having received letters of Tiberius his death, made the people take the oath of fidelity in the new Emperour Caius his name. [Id. ibid.] Whereupon Agrippa saith in his letters to Cains, (as it is in Philo in Legatio.) They greatly desired succession, (O Emperour) was first heard of at Jerusalem, and the fame of it was diffused to the neighbour Provinces from the Holy City: and because this City, of all the east, first saluted thee Emperour, it is meet that it should be treated more graciously by thee. And the Senate of the Jews in their oration to Petronius, (in the same authour) Caius having obtained the Empire, we first of all Syria congratulated with Vitellius, (whose successor thou art) then being in our City, and had received letters, concerning this businesse, and from us, fame carried the joyful news to other Cities, our Temple first of all sacrificed for the Empire of Caius.
Vitell us recalls his forces, leaving off his intended war, because the Empire was dev…lyed to another, and truly some report, that Aretas, when he heard the news of V…t…l…us's Expedition, gathered from a…guries, that it was impossible for his army to come to Petra, for one of the Generals should die, either he that commanded the Expedition, or he that obeyed it, or he against whom the Expedition was. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 7.]
Josephus writes that Vitellius went to Antioch, having sent his army into their Winter Quarters, which it is not likely he would do in the beginning of Summer, whereas he should have rather said that he went with his forces to Euphrates, to make a league with the King of the Parthians, for it appears out of Suetonius and Dion, that this was done, not in Tiberius raign, (as Josephus thinks) but under Caius, for Artabanus alwayes hated and contemned Tiberius, but willingly sought the alliance of Caius: and Vitellius by all his policie inticed him not onelyonly to a conference, but also to worship the Roman Standard; for he going over Euphrates, adored the Roman E…gl…s, and sacrificed to Augustus and Ca…us's images, and yielded to conditions of peace, which were for the Roman profit, and gave his children as hostages. [Suet. in C. Caligula. cap. 14. & A. Titellio. cap. 2. Dion. lib. 59. pag. 661.]
The King and Vitellius meet in the mid…le of a bridge, with each their guard, and after they had agreed upon a league, Herod invited them both to a banquet in a pavillion erected with great cost, in the middest of the River. Vitellius then returns to A…rio…n, and … to Babylon; but Herod being willing to give the first notion to Caiu, of the receite of the hostages, he sent expresse messengers with letters, leaving nothing for … C…suls Embassadours to certifie: wherefore Caesar writes back to Vitelliu… upon the receipt of his letters, that he knew all these things before by Herods messengers, with which he was much troubled. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 6.]
Not long after, Artabanus sends his son Darius as hostage, with many gifts, among which there was a Jew, by name Eleazar, five cubits high, who for his greatnesse was called the Gyant. [Id. ibid.]
The Jews of Alexandria, after they had appointed for Caius all the honours, that were lawful for them to decree, came and offered the decree to Flaccus Abillius, desiring him, that since it was not permitted to them, to send an Embassy, he would be pleased to send … by his messengers, he reads the decree, and allowing many of the heads thereof, smilingly said, Your piety highly pleaseth me, I will send as you desire, I will be your Embassadour, that Ca…us may perceive your gratitude, and I will be a witnesse of the peoples modestly, and obedience well known to me, neverthelesse he kept back this decree, that they might seem to be the onelyonly contemners of Caius. [Philo. in Flaccum.]
The first year of the raign of C. Caligula, Josephu…, the writer of the History of the Jews, was born, who was the son of Mattathias, a Priest, as Josephus shews in his Life.
When Saul had preached the Gospel a long time at Damascus, Year of the World 4091 the Jews took councel to kill him, and they being helped by the Governour under Aretas, (who had lately overthrown the army of Herod the Tetrarch) who kept the City of the Damascens with a Garison, watched the gares day and nights, that they might take him and kill him, but he being let down by a rope by night in a basket, escaped from their laying in wait. [Acts IX. 23, 24, 25. II Cor. XI. 32, 33.]
The first three years of his Apostleship being finished, Saul returned to Jerusalem, to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen dayes. [Gal. l. 18.] And he then assaying to join himself to the Disciples, they all were afraid of him, not believing him to be a Disciple: but Barnabas took him, and brought him to the Apostles, (viz. Peter and James, the brother of the Lord, for he saw none other of the Apostles, [Gal. 1. 19.] and declared unto them, how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. [Acts IX. 26, 27.]
Saul speaks boldly in the name of Jesus at Jerusalem, and disputed with the Greeks, or Jews that used the Greek tongue, as Syrus rightly interprets this place, but they went about to kill him. [Acts IX. 29.]
Saul being in the Temple praying, was in a trance, and saw the Lord speaking unto him, Make hast, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem, for they will not receive they testimony of me: to whom he answered, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every Synagogue, those that believed on thee: and when the blood of thy Martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and kept the garments of them that killed him: and the Lord said unto him, Goe, and I will send thee to the Gentiles. [Acts XXII. 17, 21.]
The brethren at Jerusalem brought him to Cesarea, and sent him into his own Country of Tarsus, [Acts IX. 30.] and he came into the Countries of Syria, and Cilicia: hitherto he was unknown by face to the Churches of Judea, but they heard only, that he preacheth the faith which once he destroyed, and they glorified God in him. [Gal. l, 21, 22, 23.]
And the Churches had rest through all Judea, and Galilee, and Samaria, and were edified, and walking in the fear of the Lord, and comfort of the holy Ghost were multiplied. [Acts IX. 31.]
Herod Agrippa had a daughter by Cyprus, The Julian Period. 4751 named Drusilla, Year after Christ 38 (married afterwards to Felix) [Acts XXIV. 24.] who was six years old when her father died. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 7. & lib. 19. cap. ult.]
Caligula forces Macro, to whom Egypt was committed, (the six years that were appointed by Tiberius, for the government of Flaccus Abilius being ended) and his wife Ennia, by whose help he had got the Empire, to a voluntary death. [Philo. de Legat. ad Caium. & lib. in Flaccum. Sueton in Caligula. cap. 26. Dion. lib. 59. pag. 647.]
Flaccus, who was Governour of Egypt, Macro being killed, on whom he most relied, was shrewdly afraid of C. Caligula, taking this occasion, Dionysius Lampo, and Isidore perswade him, that he should by some great benefit make the people of Alexandria his friends, and that nothing would be more gratefull to them, then that he would suffer them to plunder the Jews, and he follows their councel. [Philo. in Flaccum.]
Caligula, by a decree of the Senate, gives the Kingdom of the Arabians of Ituraea to So…mus, to Cotys Armenia the Lesse, and also some parts of Arabia, to Rhymatalca, the Kingdom of Cotys to the son of Polemon, his fathers Kingdom. (viz. of Pontus.) [Dion. lib. 59. pag. 649.]
In the second year of C. Caligulas raign, Herod Agrippa begs leave of him, to return home, for the ordering of his Kingdom, promising, when he had done that, he would return, [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 8.] The Emperour perswaded him, that taking the readiest way by sea, the East winds being every day expected, he should go directly to Alexandria, and that then he might go with lesse difficulty into his own Country by land; who following his advice, went to Puteoli, and there he finds a ship ready to set sail for Alexandria, and in few dayes after, he arrives at Alexandria. [Philo. in Flaccum.]
The Alexandrians by reason of their inveterate hatred against the Jews, taking it impatiently that they should have a King, in the place of exercise did disgrace Agrippa with scurrilous speeches, and mocking verses of jesters. They also hurried to the sporting-place, a certain mad man named Cariba, who went naked night and day in the streets, and there set him on a high place that all might see him. Then they set a papar crown on his head, and put on his body a mat instead of his robe, and one gave him a piece of a reed taken off the ground, for his scepter. Being thus adorned with ensigns of a King, and thus changed into a King after the manner of Stage-players, the young men carrying poles on their shouldiers invi…oned him for his guard. Others came to salute him, some desired justice, others asked counsel of him concerning the Common-wealth. Then there was a general acclamation of them that were about him, calling him Marim, which name in the Syrian tongue signifies Lord. [Philo. ibid.] And thus the King of the Jews was derided after the same manner by others, as the Jews themselves five years before had mocked the true Majesty of their own King Jesus Christ.
The Jews of Alexandria acquainted Agrippa with the treachery that Flaccus the Governour had prepared for their destruction; and also delivered to him that writing that they had given to Flaccus to be sent to Caius in the beginning of his Empire. Agrippa promises that he will send this writing to Caius, and that he will signifie, that the Jews had intended to send it at the beginning, but being hindred by the malice of the Governour, they could do it no sooner. [Philo. ibid. & in Legat. ad Caium.]
Peter the Apostle visiting the Churches of Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, comes to the Saints that dwelt at Lydda, and there heals Aeneas that lay sick of the Palsie, and had kept his bed eight years: and all that dwelt at Lydda and Sharon (of which place Chronicles. V. 16. XXVII. 29.] when they saw this miracle, turned to the Lord, [Acts IX. 31, 35.]
A certain Disciple called in Syriack Tabitha, in Greek Dorcas, that is, a she Goat, full of good works and almes deeds, died at Joppa: and whereas Lydda was near Joppa, the Disciples hearing that Peter was there, sent two men unto him, that he would not delay to come unto them; who when he came, fell on his knees and prayed, and restored her to life. And this was known through all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord; and Peter tarried there many dayes in the house of one Simon a Tanner. [Acts IX. 36, 43.]
The common people of Alexandria, early in the morning (having regained the favour of Flaccus the Governour) with one consent proclaimed that the Statues of Caesar are to be set up in the Synagogues of the Jews: which the Governour suffered to be done without any respect of the publick security, although he knew that there were not lesse than ten hundred thousand Jews that inhabited Alexandria, and all that large Country from the descent of Lybia, even to the bounds of Aethiopia. [Philo. in Flaccum] Then they gathering together in great companies, either laid waste their Oratories, by cutting down their Groves, or rased them to the ground; and in all the Oratories which they could not either overthrow or burn, because of the great number of Jews that dwelt by them, they set up the Images of Caius, and in the greatest and most frequented, they set up a Statue on high, on Chariots with four horses in Brasse, and that with such over-hasty earnestnesse, that whereas they wanted new Chariots, the took out of the rusty old ones, whose horses wanted their eares, tailes, and feet, and such as were dedicated (as was reported) to Cleopatra, which was the great Grandmother of the last Queen of that name. And Caius thought that all these things proceeded out of the love that the Alexandrians bore him: which partly he knew out of the Registers sent to him from Alexandria (for he read them more willingly than any either Poeme or History) and partly from some domestical servants (of whom many were Egyptians) who were wont to praise and laugh at these things with him. [id. in Legati. ad Caium.]
Caius Caligula, commands a vacation, for his sister Drusilla that was dead, in which it was death for any to laugh, or bathe, or make a feast. [Sueton. in C. Caligula, cap. 24. Dion. lib. 59. pag. 648.]
Flaccus the Governour of Egypt propounded an Edict, in which he calls the Jews, Strangers, and Forraigners, not giving liberty of pleading their cause, but condemned them unjudged. There are five divisions of that City named from the first five letters, two of which were called the Jewish quarters, because most of the Jews dwelt in them although many Jews had houses here and there in the other quarters. The common people of Alexandria, having obtained from Flaccus licence of plundering the Jews, having expelled them from four of the letters, thrust them into a narrow compasse of one of them; who, because they were more then the place could contain, went out unto the shoars, and monuments, and dunghills, being dispoiled of all things; their enemies ran violently to their forsaken houses: and there divide the spoiles as taken by law of Armes, and breaking open the shops of the Jews, which then were shut because of the mourning for Drusillas death, they carry many things from thence, which they sell in the market, and turn to their own use: but the ransacking of four hundred houses did lesse hurt them, than their losse of trade, when as the creditors had lost their bonds, neither was Husbandman, Mariner, Merchant, or Handicraftsman, suffered to use their trades. [Philo. in Flaccum.]
Their enemies thought they should shortly see them lie on heapes, so many thousands of men women and children, thrust into a narrow corner of the City like beasts; either killed with famine for want of meat, or stifled in that hot place, even the neighbour aire being corrupted by the multitude of breaths. They took diligent heed, lest any should steal privately away, and as many as they intercepted, having first tormented them, they killed them, and abstained from no kind of cruelty. Another band of them lay in waite for the Jews that arrived at the Ports, and also their merchandise, which when they had taken away in the sight of the owners, they burned the owners themselves in a fire made of the ruthers, oares, and plankes, of the ships. Others in the middest of the City were burned by a most miserable kind of death; for, for want of wood, they brought the cuttings of vines, and making a fire of them, they cast into it these miserable men, who were killed, being rather scorched with smoke, than burnt with fire. Others were dragged with cords tied to their ancles through the Market-place, the common people insulting over them, and not sparing even their dead bodies, for having cut their members into pieces, they trampled upon them with such cruelty, that they suffered not any reliques of them to remain for burial, [Id. in Legat. ad Caium.] and if any did but bemoane the misfortune of his friend or kinsman, he was punished for his compassion presently, and being taken were scourged, and after they had endured all torments that bodies were able to endure, they were crucified. [Id. in Flaccum.]
Flaccus the Governour commanded thirty eight of the Senate, which Augustus had appointed for a publick Council of the Jews, to be taken in their own houses, and forthwith to be bound; and dragging these old men through the Market-place, their hands being tied behind them, some with cords some with chaines, brought them into the Theater, and commanded them to be stript and scourged as they stood before their enemies who sate as Judges. And among these were Erodius Tryphon, and Andron, even in the sight of them who had despoiled them of their goods: and although it was a custom that none should be condemned till the solemn celebrations and feast-dayes of the births of the Augusti were past; yet Flaccus in those very dayes (for the Birth-day of Caius fell on the last day of August) and afflict these innocent men, after this manner dividing his playes. From the morning to the third or fourth hour of the day, the Jews were scourged, hanged, tied to wheeles, condemned, and led through the middle of the wrestling-place to punishment. Then were brought in Dancers, Jesters, Trumpeters, and other sports of Players: and women were carried away as captives, not onelyonly in the Market-place, but in the open Theater also, and for any trifling cavil, were brought upon the stage, not without grievous reproaches; but then knowing that they were not Jews, they were let go, for they apprehended many for Jews before they diligently considered the thing: but after they were found to be Jews, of spectators, they became tyrants, and commanded swines flesh to be given them, and as many of the Jewish woman as tasted it for fear of torments, without any more vexation were dismist…; but those that would not eat it, were delivered over to be tortured with most grievous tortures. [Ibid.]
Castus the boldest of the Centurions, is commanded by the Governour to take with him the valiantest of his Band, and to break into the Jews houses, to see if they had any armes hidden, who presently does what he is hidden: the Jews shewed all their private places to the searchers, where women never wont to go abroad, and the fearful Virgins, who for modesty avoided the sight of their own kindred, were made a spectacle not onelyonly to men unknown, but also to the Military rage; neverthelesse after all this scrutiny, the armes they looked for, were not found: for all armes were a little before taken from the Egyptians by Bassus, commanded by Flaccus to oversee that businesse: but there you might see a great number of ships to arrive at the Ports full of armes, which were fit to be taken from seditious men, who had often before assayed a revolt: but there was a clean other account to be made of the Jews, who never were suspected of a revolt, did follow their trades and gains which did make for the concord and peace of the City. [Ibid.]
Whilst the feast of Tabernacles in the Autumnal Equinoctial was intermitted by the Jews so much afflicted; Year of the World 4042 Flaccus the Governour is apprehended by Bassus the Centurion on a sudden as he was at a feast invited by Stephanion the freeman of Tiberius Caesar. Bassus being sent with a Band of souldies out of Italy on purpose to do it; and when he had set sail in the beginning of Winter, being tossed with tempests by sea, after much toil, he scarcely arrives in Italy, where he is presently welcomed by those two malicious accusers, Lampo, and Isodorus, who had incited him against the Jews; who being condemned and dispoiled of all both inheritance and houshold-stuff, which was very precious; he is banished, and truly he had been banished into the most barren Island of Giarus in the Aegean sea, unlesse Lepidus had begged that he might be sent to dwell in Andros, which was nigh Giaros: where he died, being killed by the command of Caius, (as did all Noble men that were banished. [Ibid.]
Herodias, The Julian Period. 4752 the sister of Agrippa, Year after Christ 39 and wife of Herod the Tetrarch, seeing him so glorious in his Kingly Majesty, being madded with envy, did not cease, till she had perswaded her husband, that they might go to Rome, and beg the same dignity of Caesar. Agrippa knowing both their intention and preparation, as soon as ever he knew they had taken sea, he also sends his freed man Fortunatus to Rome to Caesar with gifts, and letters written against his Uncle. Herod comming to B…al, a most pleasant Town of Campania, where Caesar then was, being admitted, Caesar prevents him, and gives him the leters he had received from Agrippa, which did accuse Herod, that he had formerly conspired with Scianus against Tiberius, and that now he favoured Artabanus the Pathian, against the new Empire of Caius, and for that purpose had prepared so many arms, as would furnish 70000 men, with which Caius being moved, asked Herod if those things were true that were spoken concerning the number of arms, which he granting, (for he could not deny it) Caius thinking the revolt enough proved, took from him the Tetarchy of Galilee and Peraea, which he afterwards added to Agrippas Kingdom, giving him also all his treasure, and sent Herod to Lyons in France, condemning him to perpetual banishment: but after he knew that Herodias was Agrippas sister, he allowed her her own proper trasure, and not thinking that she would willingly be her husbands companion in banishment, he promised to spare her in favour to Agrippa. She thanked Caius for this favour, but professed that at this time she could not make use of it, for she thought it a sin, to forsake her husband in his calamity, of whose good fortune, as long as he flourished, she had been partaker: which Caius taking in scorn, commanded her also to be banished with her husband, and gave her goods to Agrippa, [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 9.] and so they were punished for their incestuous marriage. Eight years after John Baptist had been beheaded by this Herod, and six years after Christ our Saviour had been mocked by the same Herod. [Luke. XXIII. 11.]
And also Pontius Pilate was so continually vexed by Caius, that he killed himself with his own hand, as Jerom in Chronico, out of the Roman Historians, and Eusebius in his Ecclesiasticall History, out of the Greek Writers of the Olympiades. [lib. 2. cap. 7.] and Orosius, [lib. 7. cap. 5.] and Cassiodorus in his Chronicle.
Caius joyned all the distance between the Gulf Baiae, and the pyles of Puteoli, with a bridge almost 3600 paces long, in which there followed his Chariot, then did many more things in the nature of spoiles come after, as also of the hostages of the Parthians, the lad Darius (the son of Artabanus) Darius and Xerxes being named but in scorn, because he had made a longer bridge upon the sea than he. [Joseph. 19. cap. 1. Sueton. C. Caligula. cap. 19. Dio. lib. 59. pag. 653.]
He also, under pretence of the German war, went a little beyond the Rhene, and then presently returned, as though he would go into Britain, [Dion. lib. 59. pag. 656.]
Vitellius was sent for by Caius out of Syria, that he might be put to death, [Id. ibid. pag. 661.] for it was laid to his charge, that he had suffered Tiridates a King that Tiberius had sent to the Parthians to be thrust out of his Kingdome by them, [id. in excerptis ab Henrico. Valesio. edit. pag. 670.]
Caius sent Petronius successour to Vitellius into Syria, [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 11.] (viz. Publius Perronius) as it is manifest in Philo. in legatione ad Caium) and in Joseph. lib. 19. cap. 6.] of whom Strabo speakes in the year of the world 3983.) and not that Lucius Petronius (dead long before this time) whom Valerius Maximus mentions, that being born of low parentage, came to the degree of being a Knight. [lib 4. cap. 7.] as Baronius thinkes [anno Christi 41. num. 4.]
Vitellius coming to Caius delivers himself from death, after this manner, he had composed himself to an habit more humble, than his vain glory would well endure, and falling at Caesars feet, burst out into teares, and calling him God and adoring him, and then vowing that if he should escape this brunt, he would sacrifice to him, he so mollified and appeased Caesar, that he not only suffered him to live, but accounted him among his chiefest f…iends, [Dion. lib. 59. pag. 661.] and so he was the first that taught Caius to be adored a… a God, he being of an admirable wit, in flattering, when he was returned out of Syria, he durst not come into Caius presence, but with his face covered, turning himself about, and falling prostrate on the ground, [Sueton. in A. Vitell. cap. 2.] and when afterwards Caius affirmed that he had to do with the moon, and asked Vitellius, if he had not seen him when he companied with the goddesse, he with his eies cast down as astonished, and trembling, answered with a low voyce. O my Lord, it is only permitted to you gods to see one the other, [Dion. ut supra.] Vitellius having made this beginning, whereas he had governed the Provinces according to the vertue of his ancestours, he excelled all men in flattery. [Dion. ibid. Tacit. Annal. 6. cap. 32.]
Then was Caiu Priest to himself, and took his horse as Colleague of his Priesthood, [Dion. ibid. pag. 662.] but at Miletum in Asia he commanded a temple to be built unto him, choosing this City before others, under colour because he said that Ephesus was taken up by Diana, and Pergamus and Smyrha, by Augustus and Tiberius, but the true reason was, because he did desire to get to himself that great and fair temple, which the Milesians had built to Apollo: [id. in excerptis. Valesii. pag. 670. 673.] he purposed also to finish the oracle Didymena at Miletum. [Sueton. in C. Caligula. cap. 21.]
Strangers out of the neighbouring countries had crept into Jamnia, Year of the World 4043 a City of Judea, that was very populous, who did alwaies endeavour to do something against the Jewish customes: these when they heard by men that came thither, how much Caius desired to be worshipped as a God, and what an heavy friend he was to the nation of the Jews, presently rear an altar of Clay made into brickes, only that they might vex the Jews, this they taking in great scorn took clean away, of which their adversaries accuse them before Capito the Holy Quaestour, who had the ouersight of the tributes in Judea, he wrote to Caius, aggravating and amplyfying the businesse, and Caius commanded that for the Altar of brick that was overthrown in Jam…ia, they should place in the temple of Jerusalem a great image in honour or him all guilt, using herein the advises of Helicon an Egyptian, and Apelles of Ascalon a Tragedian, Caius commands Petronius the governour of Syria, by letters most accurately written concerning the dedication of the statue, that he should march with half the army (appointed for defence against the irruptions of the Kings and nations of the East) from Euphrates against the Jews, and that he should accompany the statue, not so much that the dedication might be the more majestick, but that if any one made resistanee, he might be presently put to death, but neither was the statue sent from Italy, neither was Petronius commanded to take any choice one out of all Syria, otherwise some sudden tumult would have risen, about the violation of the laws of the Jews, therefore Petronius commanded a statue to be prepared nearer hand, and sending for the best artificers out of Phenicia found the materialls, the shop where they should make it he appointed at Sidon. [Philo. in legatione ad Caium.]
In the mean while he got as great an army as he could, and with two legions wintered at Ptolemais intending to prosecute the war at the beginning of the spring; which he also signified to Caius by letter, who commending his industry, adviseth him to use all expedition therein, and abate the stubbornesse of that nation, so Josephus. [lib. 18. cap. 11.]
In a sedition that arose between the Jews and the Greekes that dwelt at Alexandria, The Julian Period. 4753 three chosen Embassadours on either side were sent unto Caius the chief of the Embassy of the Jews was Philo a man most famous in all things and of the Greeks Appion [id. ibid. cap. 10.] Year after Christ 40 who being born at Oasis in Egypt, desired to be called rather of Alexandria, because he was made a Citizen of that place. [id. lib. 2. against Appion.] Pliny in his 37. book of his naturall history cap. 5. reports that by some he was surnamed foreign as it were after Conquerour, adding also these things of him in his preface to his whole work to Titu Vespasia…: Appion the Grammarian, he whom Tiberius Caesar called the cymball of the world, whereas he might rather be called the drum, wrote that they were immortalized by him, to whom he composed any thing, who wrote a most lying book against the Jews, to which Josephus answers in his second book against App…on, for the first book is opposed against other slanderers of the Jewish nation.
The Embassadours of the Jews (whom Philo confirmes to be five at the end of the Embassy written by himself, (and not three as Josephus would have it) sailed to Caius in the middest of winter, to entreat him that he would forbear those injuries which they did daily suffer, and they thought fit to offer to him a register containing the sum of all the calamities, and the petition against them, taken out of that larger petition which the Jews had sent him by their King Agrippa, their adversaries got the favour of Helicon the Egyptian, who was Prefect of the Emperours chamber, not so much with money, as with the hope of honours, which they promised to confer on him, as soon as ever Caius should come to Alexandria, whom when the Embassadour did desire to pacifie and appease, they could find no accesse to him. [Philo. in legat. ad Caium.]
Caius himself at the first, (dissembling his hatred against the Jews) received their Embassadours in Mars his field, as he came out from his mothers gardens, saluted them with a chearfull countenance, and with his right hand made a sign, as though he would be kind unto them; and sending Homulus unto them, who was Master of the Ceremonies, promised them that he would take cognizance of their cause when he had leisure, but afterwards when he came to visit the gardens of Mecenas and Lamia, both which were close one by the other, and neer the City, and the Embassadours being brought in, and done their reverence very humbly, and had saluted him by the name of Augustus Emperour, he grinningly asked them, are ye those hated of the gods, who alone contemn me being declared a god by the confession of all men, and had rather worship your unnamed thing. And then holding up his hands to heaven burst into a speech that was not lawfull to be heard, much lesse to utter in the same words, the adverse party then greatly rejoyced, calling him by all the names of the gods, which when Isidorus a bitter sycophant saw how he was pleased with these titles, he said: Thou wouldest, O my Lord more detest them, and all their stock, if thou d…dst but know their impiety and malice against thee, for all men else killing sacrifices of vowes for thy health, they only refrained to offer sacrifice. Then the Embassadours cried out with one consent: O my Lord Caius, we are falsely accused, we have sacrificed Hec…tombs, and we have not as the manner of some is, to bring a little bloud to the Altar, and then carry the flesh home to feast withall, but we have committed whole sacrifices to be burned with the holy fire, and that thrice, first, when thou succeededst in the empire, again when thou escapedst a great sicknesse, at which sicknesse all the world was sorrowfull, thirdly as a vow for the victory of Germany, well, answered Caius, say it were so, ye offered sacrifice, but to another, to me certainly ye did not sacrifice. Then an horrour seizeth on the Embassadours, being astonished at his last words, he in the mean while goes about the villages, he views the halls and parlours, both below and above staires, where also he asketh the Embassadours particularly, why they forbare swines flesh, and what right the Cities of Alexandria pretended, at length laying aside his fiercenesse he said, these men seem to me not to be so wicked as miserable, that cannot perswade themselves that I am partaker of the divine nature, and immediately departing commanded the Embassadours to be gone. [ibid.]
Caius gave the Tetrarchy of his father-in law Herod (who was banished to Lugdunum) to Agrippa at his return from his Kingdom…. For when he had reigned three yeares in the Tetrarchy of Philip in the fourth that of Herod fell to him, [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. ult.] which beneficence in his Epistleto Caius, written after this, he thus acknowledges, Thou hast bestowed the Kingdome on me, than which there could be no happier fortune to a mortall, and which being at first but one region, thou hast enlarged by the addition of Trachonitis & Galilie. [Philo. in Legat.]
Petronius convocated the chief of the Jews both Priests and Magistrates, to the end he might declare unto them the commands of Caius, that he should erect the statue and dedicate it in their temple, and also perswading them to take patiently the decrees of his Lord and Master, and cautioning them of the imminent danger that would ensue upon their disobedience, for that the whole power of the Syrian army was ready to make havock of them and their Countrey. At the first mention of these thing they were so dash't they had not a word to say, but powred forth whole rivers o… teares, tearing their hair and pulling their beards in most mournfull wise. But those of Jerusalem & all the Countrey about, that heard this, flocking together with one consent, giving the sign of their publick mourning, they went in one company; leaving their houses, Towns, and Castles desolate, and continued their march till they car… to Phaenicia, where Petronius then was. And there at first they made such a dole…ll and so deep a noise that those that were by could not hear or be heard for it, and then made such compellations and imprecations, as calamitous times are c…mmonly …he witnesses of. They were distributed into six rancks or orders of old men, young men and boyes; of old woemen, wives, and maids, And when they saw Petronius upon a high place, all the rancks, as if by a generall word fell prostrate upon the ground, howling as it were in a mournfull tone: and being commanded to arise, could scarce be perswaded to it, and at last when they did, casting dust upon themselves, and hanging their hands backward like condemned persons, they came before him: by whose pittifull complaint and supplication, Petronius and all that sate with him being very much moved, when he had consulted the businesse, took order to send letters to Caius; in which he signified that the dedication of the Statue was deferred, partly for that the workmen were required to the perfecting of the Colosse, which must be finisht at an appointed time; partly for the gathering of the corn which was necessary against the expedi…ion. Caius it was reported, had intended for Egypt, and for that the corn was then … ripe, and also it was to be feared, that the Jews would take so heavily the losse of their religion, that they would not only not value their own lives, but wast and burn up all the ha…vest throughout the fields and Mountains in their desperation. [Ibid.]
Caius having received the letters for a time, dissembled his intestine anger to Petromus; for he very much feared the Presidents, for that it was in their power to make new commo…ions, especially those of great Provinces, and numerous armes, such as was the tract of Syria …o E…phrates. Having thus by his letters appeased him, he seemed to applaud his providence and dexterity in foreseeing future inconveniencies; but withal, adding str…ct command, that when harvest was over, he should for pretence or matter delay the dedication of the Statue. [Ibid.]
The Ambassadors of the Alexandrian Jews received the message, That Caius had commanded his Col…sse should be placed at the innermost entrance of the Temple, inti…led with the sir-name of New Jupiter. With which news being affrighted, they enter into the Conclave all together, deploring as well the publick, as their private calamity: yet hoping that God would not be wanting, then who had so often delivered … nation from ruine. [Ibid.]
When Agrippa came in his wonted manner to salute Caius, looking sternly upon him, he said, Your good and honest Citizens, who alone of all mankind think scorn to have Caius for a god, even take a course in likelihood to bring destruction upon themselves by their contumacy, who, when I commanded the Statue of Jupiter to be dedicated in their Temple, run wholly out of the City not like suppliants indeed, but truely despisers of my commands. By which words he was so struck with horrour, that trembling, and his knees striking together, he had sur…ly fallen to the ground, had not the standers by supported him: who were commanded to carry him home in that condition, that by the suddennesse of the impresson, he had lost his remembrance, and was grown quite stupid and senselesse. But Caius was the more exasperated against the Nation of the Jews, saying, If Agrippa, who is my familiar friend, and obliged to me by so many benefits, is so set upon his Country rites, that he cannot endure they should be violated so much as by my word only, but is swounded at it, what is to be expected from them who have no tie to restrain them? [Philo. de L…gat.]
When Agrippa was come to himself, he wrote very large Epistles to Caius, in behalf of his Country. (inserted by Philo, in the book of his Embassy) which he closeth with this Epilogue. What will my kinsmen, or any else say of me? for either it will follow, that I am a betrayer of my Country, or I must hereafter be blotted out of the list of thy friends, than either of which, what can be more unhappy? for that hitherto I have been thy favourite, shall be accounted a traytour, if I neither preserve my Country from indemnity, nor the Temple inviolate. For you that are in power, are used to consult the relief of those who fly to your imperiall power for relief. But if in any thing I am offensive to you, do me the favour not to bind me (as Tiberius) but least I should remain in fear of bonds, kill me presently. For what need have I then of life, when as the hope of my welfare, wholly consists in your favour. [Ibid.]
Caius seeming to be somewhat appeased by these letters, answers more mildly, and grants Agrippa as a great favour, that the Statue should not be dedicated, and upon the same wrote to Petronius, the President of Syria, that he should make no innovation in the Temple of the Jews. But least this favour should seem too intire, he mixt some terrour, thus writing: But if any shall please in the outer Provinces, or any where out of the Metropolis, in any outer City, to dedicate any Temple or Altar to me, whosoever shall oppose it, let them either be presently put to death or sent to me. But divine providence so ordered it, that none in any of the outer Provinces did any thing in that businesse. [Ibid.]
When the Pestilence grew very hot at Babylon, a great multitude of the Jews went from thence to Seleucia, whither many more of them came five years after from Neerda, (which is a City of Babylonia, incompassed by the flowing of Nilus, and an Academy of the Jews, whence in Syriac it is called foreign as if one should say, The R…ver of Knowledge.) Now at Seleucia, the Grecians and Syrians were alwayes at odds, but the Grecian faction … was too hard for the Syrian. Since the coming of the Jews the Syrian… by their friendship became the stronger party, besides that, they still increased in warlike and resolute men. Wherefore when the Greeks saw they w…nt down the wind, and knew not how to recover themselves, they made all the friendship they could handsomly, to have a peace mediated between them and the Syrians, a thing they easily obtained. For the chief men on both sides treating in the businesse, they concluded and confirmed a peace, on condition they should both prosecute the Jews. And going upon them at unewares, slew to the number of fifty thousand men, so that none escaped, unlesse saved by the mercy of some friend or kinsman. They go from hence to C…esiphon, a Grecian City near Seleucia, where the King used to take up his winter quarter, and where was laid up the greatest and best part of his houshold stuff, and there they fixt, establishing themselves under the reverence of the regal majesty. But the terrour of the Babylonians and Seleucians spread it self over all those parts of Judea: wheresoever any of the Syrians were in those parts with the Seleucians, they conspired their ruine. Whence it came to passe that many betook themselves to Neerda and Nisibis, reposing the confidence of their security, in their strong fortifications, although otherwise they were possest by very warlike people. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. ult. fin.]
Caius …iumphantly enters Rome on his Birth-day (which was the last of the monethmonth August.) [Sueton in C. Calig. cap. 43.]
When the Alexandrian Legats appeared before Caius, Year of the World 4044 Apion laid many things to the charge of the Jews, and amongst the rest, that they did not yeild Caesar his due respect; for when far and near all Nations built Temples and Altars to Caius, and worshipped him with equal honour with the rest of their deities, the Jews onelyonly thought scorn to build Altars to him, or swear by the name of C…esar. When he had alledged these and what other matters he thought would exasperate Caius, Philo prepared to answer him, but was interrupted by Caesars commanding him to be gone, who was so enraged that he very hardly escaped without injury. Philo being thus ejected, bids courage to those that accompany him; for that although Caius was angry in his words, yet they might be ass…red that God would defend and provide for them, for all that he could do. [Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 10. Euseb. lib. Histor. Eccles. 5.]
Caius repenting of the favour he had granted the Jews, commanded another colosse to be built at Rome brazen and guilt, letting that alone at Sidon lest it should cause any commotions among the people, and that being carried privately by ship, it might be plac't in the Temple at Jerusalem before any were aware of it. And this was to be done as they sailed into Egypt, for he had an exceeding great desire of seeing Alexandria, and with great care provided for his journey, intending there to stay long; possest that his deification which he dream't of, would succeed in this City alone, and from thence the religion would disperse and flow to the other lesse Cities. So Philo who was very well acquainted with these things writes in his Legation to Caius, out of which that of Tacitus is to he corrected. Being commanded by Caesar to place his Statue in their Temple, they chose rather to take up armes: which commotion the death of Caesar quash't and appeased. [Histor. lib. 5. cap. 9.]
Apelles the Ascalonite who incited Caius against the Jews, is by him bound and rackt in a most tormenting and delayed manner, with some intermissions to make it the more grievous; for some other crimes he had committed, [Philo. de Legat.]
Caius being admonished by the Antiatinian lots to take heed of Cassius, having Cassius Longinus then Proconsul of Asia in suspition for that he was of the family of Cassius, one of the murderers of Caesar; he commanded him to be brought bound to him, and condemned him to death, not remembering that Chaereas, who a little after killed him, was also called Cassius, [Sueton. in C. Calig. cap. 57. Dio. lib. 49. cap. 662.]
Apollonius the Egyptian, who at home foretold what should become of Caius, being dragged before him to Rome, the day before his death, (which Suetonius in his 58 chapter denotes to be the IX. Kalends of February) and being brought out a little after to suffer, escap't away safe. [Dio. ibid. pag. 663.]
C. Caligula reigned three years ten moneths and eight dayes, as Suetonius hath it, [cap. 59.] And Clemenes Alexandrinus in his first book Stromatum; or rather 9 moneths and 28 dayes, as Dio relates in the end of his 59 book: In whose place his Uncle Claudius Caesar the son of Drusius, is declared Emperour by the Praetorian Bands.
King Agrippa, when he heard that the Empire was forced upon Claudius by the souldiery, with much adoe in making way through the multitude, he came to him, and finding him troubled and desirous to resign his place to the Senate, he confirmed him against such fears, and encourages him to go on couragiously, and retain the Soveraignty. Now one of Claudius his favourites being called by the Senate, dissembling that he knew any thing of the businesse, and coming all anointed as if from drinking, asks them what was done concerning Claudius, and they telling him the truth, and asking his advice; he sayes he would forsake no danger that might be for the dignity of the Senate, and that he thought the best way was to send some to Claudius who might perswade him to lay down his authority, and to that Embassie offered himself for one. When he was sent with others to Claudius, he told him plainly the fearful condition the Senate was in, and advised him to answer like a Prince, and himself; as also he was the came that afterwards the same Claudius was more mild to the Senate than he would have been. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. 3.]
… confirmed in the Empire, sent Mithridates Iberus (whom Caius had k…pt in …) home to receive his kingdom, and to another Mithridates who was descended from that great Mithridates, he gave the kingdom of Bosphorus, except a part of … which he gave to Polemon. [Dio. lib. 60. pag. 670.]
As for Agrippa of Palaestine who helped him to the enjoyment of the Soveraignty, who was then at Rome, he enlarged his kingdom, and bestowed consular honours upon him. To his brother Herod also he gave Pretorian dignity, and a certain Principality (to wit that of Chalcis) and permitted them to go into the Senate and give thanks to the fathers there. [Id. ibid.]
Also Claudius proposed an Edict whereby he confirmed Agrippa in the kingdom former…y granted him by Caius, praising both his endeavour and his industry adding likewise, Judea and Samaria, for that they did formerly belong to the kingdom of his Grandfather Herod. These therefore he restored as due to the Family: But Abila and the uttermost of his command in Libanus, which was Lysanias's, he added of his own. Therefore was there a League betwixt the King and the people of Rome cut in brasse in the midst of the Forum of the City. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. 4.]
Claudius dismist Alexander Lysimachus of Alabarcha his old friend, and formerly Procurator to his mother Antonia, whom Caius in his anger had committed to bonds, to whose son, Marcus, Berenice the daughter of Agrippa was betrothed, (of which see Acts XXV. 13, 23.) who dying before marriage, the King places the Virgin with his brother Herod, having begged the kingdom of Chalcis of Claudius for him. [Id. ibid.]
He bestowed Comagena and a great part of Cilicia upon Antiochus whom Caius had deprived of his kingdom. [Id. ibid. Dio. lib. 60. pag. 670.]
Helicon the Egyptian who was master of the Bed-chamber to Caius, and the man that most incited him against the Jews, was by Claudius for other crimes put to death, as Philo notes in the book of his Legation to Caius: which book ironically intitled De virutibus (for that therein the wickednesse of Caius was set out in Colours) he is said at the command of Claudius before the whole Senate, to have recited: and that afterwards the Romans were so taken not onelyonly with that, but many other works made by him, that they thought them worthy as precious Monuments to be said up in their publick Library, [Euseb. lib. 2. Histor. Ecclesiast. cap. 17. foreign. in.] among which were five books of the miseries the Jews endured under the Empire of Caius, written by him; of which three were lost, [Id. ibid. cap. 5.] one to Flaccus, and the other of his Embassie are still remaining.
Caius being slain, the Jews who under him were much oppressed by the Alexandrians, began to cheer up, and presently resumed their armes. Then Claudius commanded the President of Egypt that he should appease that tumult, and at the entreaty of Agrippa the King of Judea, and Herod the King of Chalcis, he sent an Edict to Alexandria, written in these words. I will that their rites be nothing infringed by the madn…sse of Caius, and that they shall have full power and liberty to persevere in their fathers religion and worship. And I command both parties, as much as in them lies, to study peaceableness… one towards the other, and to endeavour to prevent all distractions or commotions of State between them. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. 4.]
Claudius at the entreaty of the said Kings, the second time he was designed Consul (the first year of his raign) permitted the Jews not onelyonly of Alexandria, but wheresoever dispersed in his whole Empire, to live according to their own laws, and the rites of their Ancestors; withal advising them that under this grace they should live the more modestly and warily, and that they should not abuse the religions of the outer Nations; but that they should be content quietly to enjoy their own customs and traditions. [Ibid.] But when they grew so numerous at Rome that the city could scarce bear them without tumults. He did not eject them but forbad those that lived after their own laws to convent themselves: also the colledges reduced by Caius, and the taverns in which they met and drunk, he clearly abolished. [Dio. lib. 60. pag. 669.]
Claudius by his letters commending him to all Presidents and Governours of Provinces, sends King Agrippa into his own kingdom to look to the charge of it, who with very great expedition came to Jerusalem, and there paid his vows, omitting nothing prescribed by the Law. He commanded many Nazarites to be shaven, and hung up a gold chain which he had received from Caius as a monument of his many miseries and happy deliverances by God, in the holy Temple over the Treasury. Having duly performed his vows to God, he deposed Theophilus the son of Annanius from the High-Priest-hood, and constituted Simon sirnamed Cantharus in his room, which Simon was the son of Boethus, Herod the Great his father in law. In fine, he gained the good will, and engaged the thankfulnesse of the Hierosolymites to him by remitting a tribute to them, which they constantly every year paid out of every house. He made Silas master of all the Militia wholly, who was his constant companion in all his difficulties and designes. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. 5.]
A little after this, the Doritae, certain rash young men, under pretence of religion, erected a statue in the Temple at Jerusalem to Caesar; at which Agrippa, King of the Jews, being much moved, went immediately to Petroneus into Syria, and complained of the impudent boldnesse of them: who himself being no lesse offended at it, as an impiou… thing, and against the positive decree of the Empire. He wrote very sharply to the Magistrates of the Doritae, that they should send those bound to him, whosoever they were, that durst make such attempts, and so contrary to the Emperours commands, and commanding for the future, that none should dare to do any such thing. [Id. ib. cap. 5. 8. 6.]
At Caesarea, Cornelius, a Roman C…nturion of a Company belonging to the Italian band, one very well inclined to, and studious of the Jewish Religion, but uncircumcised, (such as the Hebrews were wont to call Proselites of the Gate, and the Godly of the Nations) about the ninth hour of the day, is commanded by an Angel appearing to him, to send for Simon Peter, who was now to stay a great while at the house of Simon a Tanner: who obeying the command, sent two of his houshold servants, and a Go…ly Souldier, one of those that were constantly with him. [Acts X. 1, 8. compared with IX. 43.]
The day after, as they journied, and drew near to the City, Peter ascends unto the house top to pray about the sixth hour: where whilest dinner was providing for him, and he hungry, behold a great li…nen sheet let down from Heaven, full of all kind of living creatures; of which being commanded to eat promiscuously, he is thereby taught, that the Gentiles are not to be accounted for unclean. The next day, when with those that were sent by Cornelius and six brethren of Joppa, who accompanied them, he came unto Caesarea, where he finds at Cornelius his house, his whole family, and many more gathered together, he preaches a Sermon to them all, whereby they were converted to the faith of Christ, and the spirit of God descending upon them all, of its own accord, without any laying on of hands of Peter, he baptized them into Christ. [Acts X. 8. 48. & XI. 5, 17.]
And the Apostles and brethren that were at Judea, heard that the Gentiles also had received the Word of God. When therefore Peter came to Jerusalem, there arose a contention betwixt those that had been converted out of Judaism to Christ, and Peter for that he did converse with uncircumcised persons, and eat with them. But when he had declared unto them the full and whole matter, and proved it by the testimony of the six that were with him, they were pacified, and glorified God, who also had given repentance unto life, unto the Gentiles. [Acts XI. 1, 18.]
King Agrippa deprived Simon Cantharas of his High Priest-hood; and when be would have confer'd it on Jonathan, the son of Ananus, he refusing it out of modesty, and because he had been once degraded, he bestowed it upon Matthias his brother, whom Jonathan commended to it, as far more worthy than himself. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. 6.]
Vibus Marsus succeeded Petronius in the administration of the affairs of the Province of Syria. [Id. ibid.]
Silas, master of the Militia to King Agrippa, because all along he had been faithful to him, and never refused to partake with him in any danger, having gained his intimate friendship, began now to require equal honour with the King, and grew troublesome in his familiar conference, sometimes extolling himself beyond modesty, sometimes calling to remembrance the adversity of his former fortune, which he would repeat so often, that he very highly exasperated the King against him, insomuch, that he did not only deprive him of his command, but sent him bound into his own Country, there to be kept. A little after the King being to celebrate his birth-day, he sent for Silas, that he might be at the Kingly feast: but when he sent him back a churlish answer, the King …'n left him to his keepers. [Id. lib. 19. cap. 7.]
King Agrippa, having turned his care chiefly upon Jerusalem, fortified the walls of that which was called the new City, and made the gates wider and higher than before they had been, all at the publick charge, and had so ordered the businesse, that they had been in expugnable by humane force, had not Marsus, the President of Syria, certified the same by letters to Claudius: who suspecting that the Jews were about to attempt some innovation, writ earnestly to Agrippa, that he should desist from the work, and he immediately obeyed. [Id. ibid.]
A door of Faith being now opened to the Gentiles, the Cyprians and Cyrenians, who after the martyrdom of Stephen, were dispersed at Antioch in Syria, preached Christ to the Greeks, (foreign, here the most ancient book of Alexandria hath it, not as the Vulgar foreign) and there was a great number that believed and turn'd unto the Lord. When this came to the ears of the Church at Jerusalem, she sent thither Barnabas, who admonisht them all stedfastly to adhere unto the Lord. And a great company were joyned unto to the Lord. [Acts. XI. 20, 24.]
A great famine now raging at Rome, Claudius did not only take care for the present to provide plenty of provision, but took a course for the future: for since the most part of their corn, and other provision, came from forraign Lands, and the mouth of Tiber had no convenient ports, he built the Portum Ostiae. [Dio. lib. 60. pag. 671, 672.] At eleven years end it was scarce finisht, although he kept at it constantly thirty thousand men working. [Sueton. in Claud. cap. 20.]
This famine which hapned in the second year of Claudius, was particular, as also was that other in his eleventh vear, of which Tacitus, [lib. 12. cap. 43.] Suetonius [in Claudia. cap. 18.] and Orosius [lib. 7. cap. 6.] make mention, not that universal one foretold by Agabus. That which began in the fourth year of the same Claudius, is manifest, not only by Eusebius his Chronicle & Orosius, [lib. 7. cap. 6.] but also by the time of Herod Agrippa's death, which was at the very same time. [Acts XII. 23, 25.]
Barnabas goes to Tarsus to seek Saul, and having found him brings him to Antioch And it came to passe that for a whole year they met together in the Church, and taught a great multitude, and the disciples were first called Christians at Antioch. Which name being derived in a Latine form and not a Greek one, from Christ, it seems to have been imposed by some Romans that were then at Antioch.
About this time the Prophets went down from Jerusalem to Antioch, one of whom (Agabus) made known by the Spirit that there would come a great famine upon the whole world generally. [Acts XI. 27, 28.]
Claudius brought the Ly…ians again to his servitude, who had tumulted even to the slaughter of many Romans, and said their Countrey to the Prefectour-ship of Pamphilia, whilst he was examining which businesse in Court, there was a certain Embassadour a Lycian indeed by his parents, but born at Rome. He asked him some questions in Latine which language, when he found he did not understand, he deprived him of his priviledg saying, it is not meet he should be a Roman, who hath not the Roman language. [Dio. lib. 60. pag. 676.]
King Agrippa having at the immense charge of Berytus built a Theatre, Amphitheatre, baths, & porches, celebrated the dedication of them most sumptuously; exhibiting shews in the theatre, all kinds o… musical ostentations or stris'ts, and other variety of pleasures: and in the Amphitheane many paires of fencers. And furthermore being desirous to gratifie and please the spectators, he caused two troops of Malefactors to be drawn out, and to fight promiscuously to the number of about 700 persons, that so this praesantion of war might concur aswell to the punishment of the malefactors as the delight of those that were in peace, and so they were all destroyed by one anothers mutuall wounds. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. ult.]
At last these Kings came to the very Tiber, Antiochus of Commagena, Sampsigeranus of the Emesens, Corys of the lesser Armenia, Ptolemon of Pontus, and besides these his brother Herod King of Calcis; to whom whilst they there delaied came also Marsu president of Syria. Agrippa therefore observing his due respects to the Romans went to meet him, even to the seventh stone. But when he rode in the same chariot with his guests, Marsius distrusted the friendship of so many Kings, and therefore sent his messengers to every one in particular to depart without delay. At which Agrippa was most grievously offended so that he hated Marsus, [id. ibid.] and very often sollicited Claudius by his letters, to depose Marsus from his president-ship of Syria. [id. lib. 20. c. 1.]
Agrippa having taken the High-Priesthood, from Matthias the son of Ananus, bestowed it upon Elionaeus the son of Cithaeus [Id. lib. 19. cap. ult.]
The famine foretold by Agabus encreasing, The Julian Period. 4757 the Christians of Antiochia, Year after Christ 44 gathering a subsidie for their friends that lived in Judea, sent it by the hands of Barnabas and Saul, after they had together now for a whole year preached the word of the Lord to the people of Antioch. [Acts XI. 26, 29, 30.]
About this time King Herod Agrippa (as the Syriac paraphrast doth rightly name him here) laying hands upon them infested some of the Church, [Acts XII. 1.] as contradicting the institutions and rites of their Countrey, of which he was a most religious observer as Joseph testifies. [lib. 19. cap. ult.]
He slew James (the son of Zebedaeus) the brother of John with a sword, [Acts XII. 2.] Clemens Alexandrinus ads moreover out of the Tradition our Ancestours in his seventh book Hypotypeseon, [apud Euseb. lib. 2. Histor. Eccles. cap. 8. foreign.] that this is the very same man that brought James into Judgement, and when he saw how freely he gave testimony of Jesus notwithstanding his most severe forbidding of him, ingeniously confest, he was a Christian. When they were therefore brought both together to punishment, that he desired leave of James that he might suffer with him, and James considering a little of it, said, Peace be unto thee, and kissed him, and so afterwards they were both beheaded.
The King seeing that the death of James pleased the people, cast Peter into prison, in the dayes of Azimus, delivering him to 4 Quaternions, that is 16 souldiers to guard him, intending after the Passeover to bring him out to the people. But there were prayers made daily in the Church for him, and an Angel of the Lord delivered him miraculously in the night; and he went to the house of Mary the mother of John Marcus, where many were congregated and at prayer, and telling them that they might certifie James the son of Alphaeus and brother of our Lord, and the rest, of the manner of his deliverance, he went into another place. [Acts XII. 3, 17.]
Herod being frustrate of his hope, in a rage commands the innocent keepers to be dragged to execution, and he going down to Caesarea stayed there. He was prejudiced in his mind against the Tyrians and Sidonians: whose land being not sufficient to maintain them (especially in that year of scarcity) they were forced to seek for themselves sustentation from Galilee and other places under Herods jurisdiction. They came therefore unanimously to him by them mediation of Blastus the Kings Chamberlain, whom they had made their friend, desiring peace of him. A day being appointed, Herod in his Royal Attire, and sitting before the Tribunal, made a speech to them: the people with acclamations shouting out. 'Tis the voice of a God, and not man. But presently an Angel of the Lord smote him, because he did not give the glory to God; and being eaten up of worms he gave up the ghost. [Acts XII. 3, 17.]
The very same History Josephus exemplifies: adding also the appearing of the owl, lest the divination of his German Prophet should seem void. He had now finished the third year of his raign [the fourth now beginning] when he came to Caesarea, which was formerly called Stratons tower, where he solemnized some yearly playes for Caesars health: to which festivity a great multitude of Noble men and youngsters came together out of all the Province. On the second day of this celebrity, he goes all attired with his Princely Robes richly and curiously wrought with silver, which by the reflection of the rising Sun yeilding an angelical or extraordinary lustre, struck reverence into the spectators. And presently some wicked parisites with acclamations from a far off, saluted him God, desiring him to be propitious to them, for that hither to they had onelyonly honoured him as a man, but now they saw there was something more in him than humane. This impious adulation he neither refused nor repelled: and a little after looking up, he saw over his head an owl sitting upon a rope extended upon some occasion, and presently perceiving that as this was an indicium of his good fortune, so now of his ruine, he was struck to the very heart. Afterwards his belly began to torment him more and more grievously, wherefore turning to his friends, he said. Behold I who by your appellation am a God, am commanded out of this life, my certain fate giving the lye to your flattery, and I whom you saluted immortal, am forc't to death, But I must endure the pleasure of the Heavens, for I have not lived ill, yea so happily that all men may call me blessed. Having spoken these things his pain grew worse and worse: and presently these things being di…vulged about the Country, the rumour went that he was adying; wherefore immediately all the people with their wives and children were in sackcloth after their country manner, praying to God for the health of their King, making all places ring with their lamentations and howling. And the King lying on a high bed and looking down and seeing the people prostrate on their faces, he could not forbear weeping. In fine his pain lasted in great extremity, and without intermission for five dayes space, and he then ended his life. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. ult.]
Josephus attributes to him seven years raign, four under Caius (deduceing three or four moneths; for Caius himself did not rule four whole years) and three under Claudius; (adding in like manner three or four moneths) and addes further of him, that his yearly revenue came to one thousand two hundred myriades, which, he was so noble and liberal, did not suffice his expences, but that he was fain to borrow money. [Ibid.]
Before the Kings death was divulged, Herod the Dynast of Chalcis, and Chelcias the Master of the Militia conferred together, and sent Ariston to kill Silas their common enemy, as if by the Kings command. [Ibid.]
Agrippa left of his posterity one son only, named Agrippa, at that time in the 17 year of his age, who was educated at Rome with Claudius, and three daughters, of whom Berenice was married to Herod her Uncle at the age of sixteen, and the other two he left Virgins: Mariamme ten years old betrothed by her father to Julius Archelaus the son of Chelcias, and Drusilla six years of age by him likewise betrothed to Epiphanes the son of Antiochus, King of the Comagenians. [Ibid.]
When it was certainly known that Agrippa was dead, the Caesareans and Sebastians (two Cities built by his father) cast out most unworthy reproaches against the dead Prince: and the common Souldiers, with one consent, dragging his and his daughters Statues out of the Palace, brought them into the brothels, and abused them in such calumnious wise, that it is a shame to tell: and making feasts and banquets in all publick places, they fall to jollity, adorning themselves with garlands, and anointing their bodies, sacrificing, or making offerings to Charon, and even worshipping one another, for the joy they conceived by the death of the King. [Id. ibid.]
The Word of God being sowed, increased and multiplied. But Barnabas and Saul returned to Jerusalem, when they had finished their ministery there, and took along with them John Mark. [Acts XII. 24, 25.]
Claudius deprived the Rhodians of their liberty, because they had crucified certain Romans. [Dio. lib. 60. pag. 681.]
When Claudius would have sent young Agrippa into his Kingdom, to succeed his father, his freed men and friends, who could do much with him, diswaded him, saying, It was dangerous to commit so great a Kingdom to so young a youth, who had scarce passed child-hood; and so very unfit to rule there, since it was a great burthen for the stayedst mans souldiers. In which he could not deny but they spoke rationally and truly. [Joseph. lib. 19. cap. ult.] Although indeed their aim was at the praefectureship of that Kingdom, thereby to make themselves rich. Whither is to be referred that of Tacitus. [lib. 9. hist. cap. 9.] Claudius the King being dead, or brought low, granted the prefecture of Judea to Roman Knights, or freed men.
Claudius therefore made Cuspius Fadus, President of Judea, and all the Kingdom of Agrippa, (which was much greater than the first Herod his grandfathers) honouring the dead King in this, that he would not being Marsus his enemy into his Kingdom: and chiefly gave Fadus in charge, severely to chastise the Caesareans and Sebastians for their injury to their dead King, and the contumely against his daughters yet living; and drew out the Caesarean band, and the Sebastian, with the fifth Cohort, to make war in Pontus: and substituted in their room Souldiers chosen out of the Romans, that were appointed to defend Syria. But afterwards the Souldiers sending an Embassadour to Claudius, obtained of him that they might stay in Judea, who in aftertimes were the beginning of most grievous calamity to the Jews, and the very seed of that war which grew up in the Presidentship of Florus. [Joseph. lib. 19. fin.]
Josephus writes in the beginning of his twentieth book, that having amov'd Marsus in …avour of his dead friend Agrippa, Claudius made Cassius Longinus Prefect of Syria in his stead, although for three years after this, Tacitus will have him to be President there.
The Jews that dwelt beyond the river Jordan, Year of the World 4048 had a contest with the Philadelphians, about the limits of the Town Na…a, a place full of most warlike people. The Transamn…nsians, or the Jews beyond the River, without the knowledge or consent of their rulers, took arms, and slew many of the Philadelphians. Which when Caspius knew, he was very much offended, for that if the Philadelphians had done them any wrong, they would not make him acquainted, when as so they might have been righted, but did so rashly run to arms on their own heads. Therefore having laid hold of three of the ringleaders, he commanded they should be bound, one of these, by name Anibas, he executed; the other two, to wit Amaramus and Eleazer he banished. And not long after, he took and condemned Tholomaeus to death, who was chief of the robbers, and had in many things very much injured the Pamaeans and the Arabians, and did his endeavour to scour the whole Country of Judea of all robberies. [Joseph. lib. 10. cap. 1.]
Cassius Longinus (or as Tacitus thinks, Vibius Marsus) being President of Syria, and coming to Jerusalem with his army, together with Caspius Fadus, Procurator of the Jews, called together the Priests and chief of the Jews, and plainly shewed unto them the full purport of the Emperours commands; That the stole and other ornaments of the High Priest, in the Tower called Antonia, should be laid up and kept by the Romans, as it was wont to be before Vitellius his time. They durst not contradict them in any thing, but desired leave to send an Embassadour to Caesar, to endeavour to gain that favour of him, that they might not be deprived of the priviledge of keeping the holy stole, and that they would have so much patience as to remain Caesars answer in it. They answered, That they might, if they would first give hostages for the performance of Caesars will, and their security. They readily delivered up their children, and dispatch away Embassadours. [Joseph. lib. 15. cap. ult. & lib. 20. cap. 1.]
In the Church at Antioch there were Prophets, and Doctors, Barnabas and Simeon, Niger and Lucius, Cyrenaeus (and Manahem, who was educated together with Herod the Tetrarch) and Saul. All which serving God and fasting, the Holy Ghost commanded Barnabas and Saul to separate themselves from the rest, and set themselves to preaching the gospell. These being commended to God by the Church, with fasting and praying and imposition of hands, taking with them John Marc. a servant, they came to Seleucia, and from thence sailed into Cypru…, (Barnabas his Countrey) where amongst the Salaminians they first began to preach the word of God in the Synagogues of the Jews. [Acts XIII. 1, 4.]
Travailing over that Island as far as Paphas, they there found a false prophet a Jew, Barjesu, sir-named Elymas or Magus, who endeavoured to divert Sergius Paulus the ruler of that Countrey having a desire to hear Paul and Barnabas, Saul having sharply reproved this man he was presently struck with blindnesse, and the Proconsull being moved by this miracle and the Doctrine of the Gospell was converted to the faith. And from this time Saul is alwaies found named by his new name Paul. Then he and those that came with him to Paphus went to Perga of Pamphilia, where John Marcus leaving them returns to Jerusalem. [ibid.]
The Hierosolymitan Embassadours by the intercession of Agrippa, who was then with Claudius … the confirmation of that priviledg of keeping the Stole first granted them by Vitellius. And also prevailed for a rescript in this businesse from Claudius in the V. year of his Tribunall power to the Magistrates at Jerusalem. Dated the IV. Kalends of July by Rufus, and Pompeius Sylvanus Consuls, writing to Herod King, Chalcis, and Aristobulus the younger his most endeated friends, that herein he would gratifie them. [Joseph. lib. 15. cap. ult. & lib. 20. cap. 1.]
About the same time Herod the King of Chalcis petitions Claudius with successe for the command of the temple and holy treasury, and the right of chusing the High-Priests. [id. lib. 20. cap. 1.]
Claudius because that upon his birth day there would be an eclipse of the Sun, and in regard there had some prodigies happened, fearing least it might occasion some stir and tumult; before the time, he, in writing published not only that there would be an eclipse, but the very time, space, and all the naturall causes of it, and demonstrated that it could be no otherwise, [Dio. lib. 60. pag. 682.] Now the birth-day of Claudius fell upon the Kalends of August, [id. ibid. pag. 667.] on which day the Sun almost two houres before noon was in eclipse to a fourth part of the Diameter.
Herod, King of Chalcis, amo…ing Simon Cantharas placed his son Josephus Canens (or Camydes) in the High-Priest-hood. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 1.]
Theudas, a meer impostor, pretending himself to be a prophet, perswaded a great multitude of the Jews to take their riches with them, and follow him to Jordan; prom…sing them that he would divide the river and make them an easie way through; against these Fabius Caspius the Procurator of the Jews, sent out some troops of horse, who entring in upon the body of them at unawares, slew a great number of them, & took many alive, amongst the rest Theudas himself whose head they took off and brought it to Jerusalem. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 2. fin.]
Paul and Barnabas leaving Perga came to Antioch in Pisidia, and entring into their Synagogues on the sabbath day after the reading of the Law and the Prophets, are invited by the rulers of the Synagogue to teach, where Paul having made an excellent sermon, and being gone out of the Jews Synagogus, the Gentiles entreated that they would expound the same things to them the next sabbath day, and the company being dissolved many devout Jews and religious Proselytes follow Paul and Barnabas who speaking to them admonished them to continue in the grace and favour of God. [Acts XIII. 14. 43.]
The next Sabbath almost all the whole City came flocking to hear the word of God, but the Jews seeing the multitude were filled with envy and contradicted what Paul spoke… with whose blasphemies Paul and Barnabas being grievously offended they left the Jews, and preach only to the Gentiles: who with joy embracing the Gospell, all, as many as were ordained to eternall life, believed: and the word of God was divulged over that whole Nation: where the Jews being frustrated in their malitious design by the meanes of many religious woemen, (called by the Hebrews Proselytes of the gate) both honourable and the chief in the City, they raised a commotion, and drove Paul and Barnabas out of their coasts, who shaking the dust of their feet against them, they came to Iconium and the Disciples were filled with joy, and the Holy Ghost. [ib. 44, 52.]
At Iconium Paul and Barnabas entring the Synagogue of the Jews spake so, that both Jews and Greeks might beleive. But the Jews, who were incredulous, exasperated and prejudiced the minds of the Graecians against the brethren. Yet they sta…ied there a great while and spoke freely as inspired by the Lord who gave testimony to the word of his grace, and did many miracles by their hands [Acts XIV. 1, 2, 3.] At which time Thecla a noble maid of Iconium is thought to be converted to the faith of Christ: whose acts are notwithstanding most deservedly set down amongst the Apocrypha by the LXX. a Synod of Bishops had under Gelasius.
The multitude of Iconium being divided, some were for the Jews some for the Apostles: But when it came to passe that a strength both of Jews and Gentiles together with their chief Rulers came flocking to injure and stone them, they fled away into the cities of Lyconia, Lystra, and Derbe, and the Region thereabouts, and there preached the Gospel. [Acts XIV. 4, 7.]
At Lystra a man lame from his mothers womb is curd by Paul in the Senate. Whenas the Lystrians would have sacrificed to Paul as Mercury, and Barnabas as Jupiter, They tearing their cloaths denied that honour, and had much adoe to restrain the multitude from sacrificing to them. Soon after the incredulous Jews coming thither from Iconium and Antioch, and having raised a tumult, and excited the people against them, the furious multitude drew Paul being stoned, as dead out of the city. But when his Disciples came about him, he rose and entred the city. [Ibid. 8, 20.]
In this year, and it may be at this very time, Paul was wrapt into the third heavens, and heard unspeakable words: fourteen years before the later Epistle to the Corinthians was written. [Il Corinth. XII. 2, 3, 4.] Whither is thought to refer that of Triephon in Lucian, or the ancienter author of that Dialogue inscribed Philopatris. When I met that Jewish bald-pate, justly laught at, who being rapt up into the very third heavens thorough the air, learnt there those things that were most excellent and glorious, he renewed us by water, made us walke in the steps of the blessed, and redeemed us from the dominions of the wicked. So Triephon. God raigning on high, great, heavenly, and eternal, the Son of the Father, the Spirit proceeding from the Father, one of three, and three of one, and in like manner thus preaching as the Christians used.
Paulus with Barnabas going from Lystra, came to Derbe, where having preached the Gospel, they gained many to Christ. [Acts XIV. 20, 21.]
Amongst many others that gave their names to Christ at this time, was Timotheus with his holy mother Eunice, and his grandmother Lois, who took care to teach him the Scriptures from his very infancy. He being in these parts, although as yet a very child, was an eye-witnesse of the sufferings of his spiritual father Paul at Antioch (in Pisidia) Iconium, and Lystra, (in Lycaonia) [Acts XVI. 1, 2. Il Tim. l. 2, 5. & III, 11, 15.]
Paul and Barnabas going no further than Derbe, returned to Lystra, and Iconium, and Antiochia, confirming the minds of the Discip…es, and exhorting them to endure affliction for their faiths sake without wavering: and having constituted Bishops over them in every of their Churches, and praying for them with fasting, they commended them to God in whom they believed. Afterwards travelling over Pisidia, they came into Pamphylia, and having declared and published the word of the Lord at Perga, passed into Italy, and thence sailed to Antioch, whence they first went about the work, they afterwards performed; where to the congregated Churches declared what God had done by them, and how he had opened the door of Faith to the Gentiles. [Acts. XIV. 21, 27.]
Tiberius Alexander is made Successor to Caspius Fidus, in the administration of the Jewish affairs, being the son of Alexander Alabarch of Alexandria (an old friend of Claudius's) who had forsaken the Jewish, his country religion. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 3.]
A little after this, the fame of it passing thorough all Judea, Helena the Queen of the Adebans (on the confines of Assyria and Mesopotamia) is converted by a certain Jew to the worship of the True God, and comes to visit the Temple at Jerusalem, that she might worship there the True God, and pay her vows, provided plentifully for her journey,; being diverted for a few dayes by her son Izates, who was then King, and afterwards coverted to the same Religion by Ananias the Jewish Merchant. Where when she saw many of the Jews even starving with famine, out of her own purse she sent some to Alexandria for a great quantity of wheat, others to Cyprus to fetch thence a great deal of figs to their rel…ef, who made a speedy return; and she divided all the store to those that wanted it. Her son also Izates, hearing what a distresse they were in by famine, sent money to the chief Magistrates at Jerusalem. [Id. ibid. cap. 2. & 3.]
Izates the King sent his five sons to Jerusalem to learn their language and customes exactly. His mother Helena also erected three Pyramids three stadias distant from Jerusalem. In which afterwards the bones of her son Izates were intombed. [Id. cap. 2.] Which Monuments of Helena were extant, not onelyonly in the time of Josephus, but Eusebius also. [Joseph. lib. 5. bell. foreign. & foreign. in Greek, or lib. 6. cap. 6. & 7. in Latin. Euseb. lib. 2. Histor. Ecclesiast. cap. 11. foreign. & Hier. Epist. 27.]
Paul and Barnabas stayed at Antioch with the Disciples a great while, Year of the World 4050 [Acts XIV. 28.] after which Paul, as it appears, propagated the Gospel even to Illirium; preaching such things to them concerning Christ, as they never heard before, Rom. XV. 19, 20.] and suffered those things which in his later Epistle to the Corinthian…, [cap. XI. 24.] he commemorates: to wit, that as at Philippi afterwards, so twice elsewhere by the Gentiles he had been whipt with rods, and received 5 times 4 hundred stripes from the Jews; that he had thrice made shipwrack, and was all night in the deep. For since we find, that between the return of Paul and Barnabas to Antioch, and their going to the Council at Jerusalem, was 5 years, we cannot place these things better any where, than in so large a vacuum and silence in the History of the Church.
Valerius Asiaticus being again Consul, the Island Therasia rose out of the Aegean sea, [Seneca, Natural. quaest. lib. 2. cap. 26. & lib. 6. cap. 21.] in a night wherein the Moon was eclipsed. [Aurel. Victor. in Claudio.] This eclipse was seen the very night between the last day of December, (which terminated that year in which Valerius Asiaticus was the second time Consul) and the Kalends of January, which begins the Consulships of Claudius Aug. IV. & L. Vitellius III. in whose time a little Island. before never seen, appeared near Thera, as Dio relates. [lib. 60. pag. 685.]
James and Simon the sons of Judas of Galilee (who, The Julian Period. 4760 in Qurinius his time sollicited the Jews to a revolt) were crucified for it. Year after Christ 47 [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 3.]
Herod the King of Chalcis, amoving Josephus the son of Camydas, constituted Ananias the son of Nehedaeus High-Priest in his room. [Id. ibid.]
Gotarzes prepares to destroy Artabanus King of the Parthian, with his wife and son, [Tacit. lib. 11. cap. 8,] But Artabanus dying, left his kingdom to Bardanes his son, [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 2.] For these two brothers Gotarzes and Bardanes, are rather to be thought Artabanus his sons with Josephus, than his brothers with Tacitus.
Bardanes being invited by the Parthians (who feared the cruelty of Gotarzes) to be their King; being a man prompt enough to all high and desperate designs, in two dayes space he invaded, three thousand stadia's oft, and assaulted Gotarzes (who was all in a fright at his coming, so altogether unexpectedly,) and without delay seized upon the next Provinces also; the Seleucians onelyonly denying him subjection. Against whom, as being also such as revolted from his father, he being more incensed than the present opportunity could well bear, is puzlled with the siege of that strong City, fortified on the one side by a river, and on the other with a very strong guard. In the intrim Gotarzes by the aid of the Dahae and Hyrcanians, recruits his forces, and renews the war, and thereupon Bardanes is forced to leave the siege of Seleucia, and pitch his tents in the Bactrian fields. [Tacit. lib. 11. cap, 8.]
Hearing the news of the Parthians discord, and that they were various in the election of their King, Mithridates King of Armenia the Greater, by the advice of Claudius Caesar, re-marches into that kingdom, confiding in the power and wealth of his brother Pharasmanes, King of the Iberians; and indeed, the affairs of the East being so distracted and the people unresolved who to incline unto, he possest himself of Armenia: the Roman souldiers subdueing the castles and strong forts whilst the Iberian army kept the field: nor did the Armenians resist, Demonactes their General who onelyonly durst design a battle being slain. Presently hereupon Cotys, King of Armenia the Lesse, made thitherward: but Caesar having taken him off the design by letters, all the countries came flocking in to Mithridates, who was something more sterne than was convenient in his new kingdom. [ibid. cap. 8, & 9.]
Gotarzes and Bardanes being about to joyne battle; Gotarzes discovering the treachery of the people to his brother, they shook hands and swore at an altar to reveng themselves upon one the others enemies, and to agree betwixt themselves. And Bardanes appearing fitter to hold the kingdom, Gotarzes to avoid all emulation, went quite away into Hyrcania. [Ibid. cap. 9.]
At Bardanes his return thither Seleucia is delivered up unto him the seventh year after the defection. After this he invades the most strong Provinces, and had in his mind to recover Armenia; but was prevented by Vibius Marsus (or, according to Josephus Cassius Longinus rather) threatning war to the Embassadour of Syria. [Ibid.]
Ventidius Cumanus succeeded Tiberius Alexander in the government of the Jews, The Julian Period. 4761 and Herod King of Chalcis brother of that great Agrippa died in the eighth year of Claudius his raign;4…. leaving three sons behind him: of whom Aristobulus was by his former wife Mariamme, and of Berenice his brothers daughter, Bernicianus, and Hyrcanus. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 3.]
The Feast of the Passeover drawing near, and much people flocking from all parts to the solemnity, Cumanus (after the example of the preceding Presidents) sets one Cohort for a guard upon the Porch of the Temple to restrain tumults if there should happen any. On the fourth day of the Feast, one of the souldiers shewing his obscene parts to the multitude, they cryed out (being enraged by that contumely.) That not onelyonly they, but he who they honoured in that feast, was affronted by it, and some of the boldest of them railed against Cumanus saying this impudent souldier was sent by him. When Cumanus heard this he was not a little troubled: but yet desired the people to raise no commotions in the time of the feast; and when they still railed at him, he commanded the whole army to Antonia, a Castle close adjoyning to the temple. The commonpeople, seeing the souldiers coming were afraid, and began to flee with such violence that being strained with the narrownesse of the passage, and thinking the souldiers had pursued them, they opprest and trod one another, so that 20000. of them were found dead, as Josephus hath it in the 4 chapter of the 20 book of his antiquities. But in his book of the Jewish wars we read that [cap. 11. foreign.] foreign, above ten thousand perished: where Rufinus reads foreign above thirty thousand: Eusebius aswell in his Chronicle as his ecclesiasticall History the second book, [cap. 18. 19. & Orosius lib. 7. cap. 6.] retaining the very same number.
Some who by flight escaped this tumult, in the High-way, about Bethoron, 100. stadia's from the City robbed Stephen the servant of Caesar, as he was travailing, and took all his packs of treasure. When Cumanus heard this he sent souldiers thither, with command to destroy the villages next adjoyning to that place. In this havock one of the souldiers brought out the books of the Mosaicall Law which he found in one of those villages, and tore them in the sight of them all, railing exceedingly both against the Law and the Nation. When this news came to the Jews, gathering a great company they made for Caesarea, where Cumanus then resided, intreating him that he would revenge not their own, but the contempt and injury of their God. Then the Praesident, being afraid of the defection of the people, by the advice of his friends, put the souldier to death that had done the fact, and so appeased the tumult. [Josep. ut supra.]
Apollonius the Tyanean, upon his journey to the Indians, entred the City Babylon, the second monethmonth of the third year of Bardanes, and there conferred with the King. [Philostrat. in vita Apollon. lib. 1. cap. 19. & 20. compared with Euseb. in Hierocl.]
Gotarzes, repenting that he had yielded up his Kingdome, and recalling his nobility who were the more enslaved by the peace, he gathered a great force, and is met at the river Erindes in the passage whereof there was a great contest, and Bardanes had the better of it, and with good successe proceeded and subdued the mid Countries to the river Gindes, which divides between the Dahae and the Arians, & there his successe terminated: for the Parthians although Conquerours despised the enemy afar off; and therefore erecting monuments there, by which their riches were sufficiently manifest, (no tribute but that of the Arsacidae ever coming to any of that Nation:) Bardanes returned with great glory, and so much the sterner and more intollerable to his subjects. [Tacit. lib. 11. cap. 10.]
Bardanes, going to Izates King of the Adialeni, perswaded him that he would joyn with him in war against the Romans; whom Izates endeavoured to divert from his purpose, moderately recounting unto him the Roman acts and their power. Bardanes offended at this presently denounces war against Izates, but was prevented of prosecuting the same by death, [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 2.] for the Parthians, when they knew his mind, that he was resolved to wage war with the Romans at unawares, whilst he was intent at hunting slew him in his prime, the chief of all young Kings, and if he had as well obteined the love of his subjects as the fear of his enemies, he might have been numbred amongst the old ones. [Id. ibid. Tacit. lib. 11 cap. 10.]
The Parthian affaires being disjoynted by the death of Bardanes, they were again doubtfull who should be King. Many inclined to Gotarzes, some to Maherdates (the son of Phraates the third, the son of Zenones the first) who was then pledg with the Romans. At last Gotarzes prevailed, and being possessed of the Palace, forc't the Parthians by his luxury and cruelty to sent privately to Claudius, to send them Maherdates to be their King, [Tacit. ibid.] complaining of Gatarzes his cruelty, both to the nobility and comminalty; For first he exhausted his brothers, then his neighbours, then those farther off with slaughters, adding their wives big with child, their children small, so that being sluggish and licentious at home, and unfortunate in war, he covered his sloth by his cruelty. [Id. lib. 12. cap. 10.]
When Didius, the Roman General had deposed Mithridates from the Kingdom of Bosphorus, and had constituted his son Cotys, a mad young blade, there, he led away thence the power of the army, leaving only some few Cohorts, under the command of Julius Aquila, a Roman Knight: with the new King. Mithridates having lost all, and wandring about, cited together the Nations, and gathered out of them all the runnagadoes; and in fine, got together an army, wherewith he deprived the King of the Daridae of, and enjoyed, his Kingdom. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 15.]
The Parthian Embassadours being heard, Claudius sends Mithridates to be their King, advising him that he should not think of rule and servants, but of government and fellow Citizens, and that he should expresse mercy and Justice: and gave command to C. Cassius, who was President of Syria, that he should see the young man sate upon the bank of Euphrates. [Id. ibid. cap. 11.]
At this time Cassius excelled all others in his skill in the laws, but was very ignorant in martial affairs: but in that he came to it peaceably, he renewed the ancient custom, exercising the Legions with the same care, as if an enemy had been invading, esteemed therefore worthy, the family of the Cassians and his ancestours, in those very Nations in high esteem. Now calling together those by whose vote Mahardates was chosen King, when he had pitched his Tents at Zeugma, where the river is very foordable; When the Noble Parthians, and the King of the Arabians, Acbarus (or Abgarus) were come, he, before them, admonished the young man Maherdates, that the edge of the Parthians would abate in this businesse by delay, and would turn to treachery, and therefore advised him to presse on his design speedily: whose councel desp…sing by the fraud of Acbarus, thinking, like a young man as he was, that all fortune consisted in luxury, he stayed at the Town Amissa many daies. [Ibid. cap. 12.]
When Mithradates was possest of the Kingdom of the Daridae, and was thought now to be about to invade Bosphorus; Aquila and Cotys, destrusting their own power, because Zorsines, King of the Siracans (to Caucasus) had joyned with Mithridates, they also seek forreign assistance, sending Embassadours to Eunones, who ruled over the Nation of the Aorsori, (amongst the Scythians) whose society they easily obtained, shewing how Mithridates rebelled against the Romans. Therefore they covenanted that Eunones should fight the horse-battles, and the Romans should look to the besieging of their Cities. [Id. cap. 15.]
Then, having marshalled their body, they go on, the Romans and Bosphorans defending each wing of Aorsus before and behind; and thus having repulsed the enemy, they come to Soza, a Town of Dandarica, which was left by Mithridates, because the minds of the people were somewhat wavering towards him: they thought good to take it, and leave there a Garison, and so passed on to the Country of the Siracians; and having passed the river Panda, besieged Uspes, seated in a place senced both with walls and ditches, only the walls being not made of stone, but piles composed together, and earth, were something infirm, and the Towers being raised on high, the besieged were the more distressed with the pricks and fier-works. So that if night had not put an end to the conflict, they had besiged and taken it all in a day. [Ibid. cap. 16.]
The next day Embassadours, miserably intreating that they might go free, who were free born, offered ten thousand slaves; which the Conquerours despising, because it would be cruelty to slay them, when delivered up, and dangerous to keep such a company of prisoners, rather put it to the fortune and law of arms. And having given the souldiers, who scaled the walls, a sign to destroy: The rest being terrified by the destruction of the Uspenses, since eminent and …enced places could do no good, but they broke through rivers and all: Zorsines long considering whether it were better go on with Mithridates, or consult the affairs of his own distressed Country: at last his own affairs prevailed, and giving pledges, he fell down at the image of Caesar, in respect to the great glory of the Roman army, who were victorious, and yet not bloody, and then three dayes journy from the river Tanais. But in their returne their fortune was far otherwise: for some of their ships in their returne, touching upon the coast of the Tuarians, the Barbarians flockt together about them, and slew the Captain of their Cohort and many more. [Ib. cap. 17.]
In the interim Mithridates, having no relief, consults whose mercy he had best implore. His brother Cotys, who was formerly his traytor, he feared would be his enemy. There was none of the Romans now of that authority, as that his promises could be much regarded, flying therefore to Eunones, and entering his Palace, casting himself upon his knees, saies, Mithridates sought by sea and land so many years, behold, is now present of his own accord. Vse as you please the son of great Achaemenes, for my enemies have taken all help else from me. Eunones being moved with the honour of the person, the change of fortune, and the generous petition, writes to Caesar, and sends Embassadours to entreat him not to restore Mithridates his Kingdom, but that he would not triumph over him, nor put him to death. But Claudius being in doubt whether to punish or pardon him, at last was conquered, with the more merciful sentence. [Ibid. cap. 18, 29, 20.]
When Carthenes sent for Mahardates to act the businesse, Year of the World 4053 telling him it would be very easie, if he came without delay; he, being led away with evil councel, came not strait to Mesopotamia, but fetcht a compasse through Armenia, a place unseasonable at that time, for that it was the beginning of winter. At last tired out with the sea and Mountains, when they drew near to the Champaign Country, they joyned forces with Carthenes, and passing the river Tigris, they marched over Adiebana, whose King Iz…es openly entred friendship with Mahardates, but privately and more faithfully was a friend to Gotarzes. Notwithstanding in their journy they took the City …, the most ancient seat of Assyria. [Ibid. cap. 12. & 13.]
Mithridates of B…sphorus being brought to Rome by Cilones Procurator of Pontus, is said to have disputed with Caesar somewhat more highly than his condition required, and that he elevated his voice in these words. I am not sent back to thee, but returned: which if thou believest not, let me go again and see. His countenance also continued undaunted, when at the rostrum being hem'd on all sides with keepers, he was exposed to publick view. Consular Ensignes are decreed to Cilones and to Aquila Praetorian. [Id. cap. 21.]
When the Bythinians accused this Junius Cilones their Prefect for many and great bribes which he had taken, before Claudius, with very great clamours, and Claudius by reason of the multitude not understanding what they meant, asking those that stood by what they said, and being answered that they gave thanks to Junius; he believing it said, Let him therefore be their President two years more, [Dio. lib. 60. pag. 687.] At this time Cadius Ru…us at the accusation of the same Bythinians, is condemned of bribery by law. [Tacit. Annal. 12. cap. 22. & Histor. lib. 1. cap. 77.]
The I…uraeans and Judaeans, their Kings Sohemus and Agrippa being dead, are added to the Province of Syria, [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 23.] Indeed the years of Agrippa the younger are hence to be deduced, and it appears out of Josephus, telling us that the beginning of the Jewish war (which fell upon the monethmonth May, according to our common account, the LXVI. year of Christ) was in the XVII. of King Agrippa, [lib. 2. bell. cap. 13. fin. foreign. init.] and out of the Grecian money to be taken notice of in the place, in which Judea was taken (about the monethmonth September, in the year of the same account LXX.) to be in the XXI year of Agrippa. And indeed Claudius did not bestow his fathers kingdom Judea upon Agrippa the younger, but his uncle Herods of Chalcis; together with the power of the Temple and holy Treasury, and to chuse High Priests, which was granted before to his uncle Herod. And his fathers kingdom was so added to Syria, that it should have Procurators notwithstanding there, by Caesars election: Ventidius Cumanus (as formerly) retaining stil at this time the administration of Judea and Galilee, and Felix being sent Procurator of Samaria, which was between them; which Felix was a freed-man of Claudius and his mother Antonia, who from her had the sirname Antonius, and from him, Claudius. He was the brother of another freed-man, Pallantes, whom Tacitus notes to have been most affectionatly beloved by his Patron Claudins. [lib. 11. cap. 29.]
Gotarzes at the mountain Sambulon made vows to the god of the place with the especial religion of Hercules. The Julian Period. 4763 But his army being not yet sufficiently stored, Year after Christ 50 and increased, he made use of the River Corma for his defence. And although he was incited to battle by pursuites and messengers, with challenges, he delayed, and changed his station, and sending bribes to corrupt the faith and loyalty of his enemies. Of whom A…iabenus, and King Acbarus of the Arabians (of the Edessenians) with their army revolted, with a gentil-like levity, and because by experience it is known that the Barbarians would rather seek a King at Rome than find him. But Maherdates being stript of his forces thus, and mistrusting those that remained, resolved to put it to the hazard of a battle. Nor did Gotarzes deny him battle, being grown high by the diminishing of his forces: and they fought with great slaughter and dubious event, until Carthenes having overcome his obverse wing, wheeled about with a circumference and came upon the back of his enemies. Then Mahardates, past all hope, and trusting to the promises of Parthaces his fathers client, is overcome by his deceit, and delivered up to the Conqueror. And he, blameing him not as a neighbour, or of the stock of Arsaces, but as a Roman and forreigner, cut off his eares in contempt of the Romans, and gave him his life to shew his mercy. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 14.]
Josephus the son of Matthias at the age of fourteen, had attained to that praise in learning, that he was consulted about the more full sense and meaning of the Law, even by the High-priests and Primates of the City of Jerusalem: as he himself relates in the book of his Life.
Gotarzes being dead of a disease, Venones then President of the Medes being called to the rule there, had a short and most inglorious reign amongst them: and the Parthian kingdom was translated upon Volgoses his son; who, being of his mothers side the son onelyonly of a harlot, by the disagreement of his brothers attained the regiment. So Tacitus [lib. 12. cap. 14. & 44.] Joseph. also writes, that Gotarzes being killed by treachery, his son Volgoses succeeded him, [lib. 20. cap. 2.] adding further, that he distributed the kingdom to two brothers by the same father: viz. to one of them, Pacoius being the elder Media, and to the other and younger Tiridates Armenia.
A war arose betwixt the Armenians and Iberians, The Julian Period. 4764 which was the cause of very great commotions betwixt the Romans and Parthians. Year after Christ 51 Pharasm…nes obtained the Iberians by ancient possession, and his brother Mithridates the Armenians, by the help of the Romans. Pharasmanes had a son called Rhadamistus, of a most hansome, proper composure, of a very strong body, and much admired by the whole Country. When he began to affect his fathers Kingdom, and Pharasmenes fearing now, being in his decaying years, seeks to divert him, by putting another Phancy in his head, shewing him Armenia, and telling him that he beat away the Parthians, and bestowed it upon Mithridates: but adding, That it was better to wave force and use cunning, and so taking him at unawares, they might easily eject him, and do what they pleased. So Rhadamistus, dissembles his discord to his father, which was not like that of a step-dame, goes to his Uncle, and by the sweetnesse of his behavour, inticed many things of himself, and many of his Nobles, and the chief of Armenia to commotions. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 44.]
Rhadamistus, taking upon him the shew of reconciliation, returned to his father, and told him how far he had gone by fraud, and that the rest was to be performed by arms. In the interim Pharasmanes feignes causes of war, That he must war against the King of the Albanians, and that whilst he called the Romans to his aide, he should go and by his death revenge that injury of his brother. Also he delivered a great army to his son. He with a sudden eruption compelled Mithridates into the Castle Gorneas, much terrified, and deprived of the Country: the place was very safe, both by reason of the situation and the strong guard over whom Coelius Pollio was President, and Casperius was his Centurion. Rhadamistus in vain, and with great losse having attempted the fort, began to try if he could currupt the President with mony, Casperius opposing it, least the King and A…ie; and least Armenia, the gift of the Romans, should be sold with mony. At last, when Poilio urged the number of the enemy, and Rhadamistus his fathers commands, having made a trace, he departs: saying, although he had affrighted Pharasmanes by wars, he should make T. Numidius Quadratus, President of Syria, acquainted in what state the affairs of Armenia stood. [Ibid. cap. 45.]
The Sixt C…lippick Period begins.
After the departure of Casp…rius the Centurion, Pollio the Prefect, being, as it were, rid of his keeper, exhorts Mithridates to a league, with his elder brother Pharasmanes, relating to him also all other respects he was engaged in; as that he had his daughter in marriage, that he was Uncle to Rhadamistus, &c. Mithridates delaying the businesse, and suspecting the counsel of Pollio, for that he kept a hoor, and was given up to all manner of lust and luxury, and accounted Venial, or mercenary. Ca…parius in the interim requires of Pharasmanes, that the I…eria…s might be withdrawn from the siege. He incertainly and often gently answers him: but in the mean while sends privately to Rhadamistus, to hasten the gaining of the Castle by any means. He augments the prom…se of reward for their treachery, and Pollio privately perswades the Souldiers by delivering it up to consult their own safety, and the Countries peace. In which necessity Mithridates appoints the day and place of the conference, and goes out of the Castle. When first Rhadamistus, counterfeiting obedience, falls to embrace him, calling him father in law, and father: adding by an oath that he would injure him neither by sword nor poison, and presently leading him into a grove hard by, told him he had provided to sacrifice there, that by the witnesse of the gods, their peace might be confirmed. But there was Mithridates cast down and bound with chains, and at length the commands of Pharsamanes being received. Rhadamistus, as if mindful of his oath, cast down his father in law and Uncle, together with his own wife, and heaping many and heavy packs upon them, they so perished. His sons all, because they cryed at their fathers death, he killed. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 46. & 47.]
Quadratus, when he heard Mithridates was betrayed and slain, and Armenia possest by his murderers, calls a councel, propounds the businesse, and whether it were to be revenged. Having a while debated in the businesse, many were of opinion to desist in it. But least they should seem to assent to such a wickednesse, and Caesar should command them otherwise: messengers are sent to Pharasmanes, to require him to depart from the coasts of Armenia, and recal his son. [Ib. cap. 48.]
Julius Pelignus was Procurator of Cappadocia, Year of the World 4055 equally contemptible for his ridiculous person, as the sluggishnesse of his disposition: but very familiar formerly with Claudius, when he was a private man, and most affected with ease and sloth. This Pelignus, gathering together the Auxiliaries of the Provinces, as if he would recover Armenia, and preying rather upon his friends than his enemies, by the defection of his forces, and the incursions of the Barbarians, being left destitute, comes to Rhadamistus, and being overcome by his bribes, exhorts him again to take up the Kingly Ensignes, and was the very authour and abettor to him in it. Which being divulged in dishonourable terms, least the rest should be branded with Pelignus fault, Helvidius Priscus is sent Embassadour with a Legion for a time, to take care of those disturbed affairs. He therefore passing the Mountain Taurus with all speed, composed more things by moderation than force. When he is commanded to returne into Syria, lest the beginning of a war against the Parthians should arise: for Vologeses was supposed to have consulted the invading of Armenia; which having been enjoyed by his ancestors was wickedly compassed by a forreign King; he gathered an army, and prepared to bring his brother Tiridates into the Kingdom, that none of the family might be without a Kingdom, At the entring of the Parthians, the Iberians were overcome without a fight, and the Cities of Armenia, Artaxata and Tigranocerta came under their yoke. Upon this a grievous sharp winter, and want of Provision ensue betwixt which there grew a languishing sicknesse amongst them, which compelled Vologeses to desist proceeding further in the businesse at present. [Id. cap. 49. & 50.]
Rhadamistus again invades Armenia, (it being voide of a ruler) more cruelly than before, as if he came against revolters, and who in time would rebel. But they all, though accustomed to servitude, abandoned all patience, and ran to arms, inclosing the Palace, which put Rhadamistus to that that he had no other way to save himself, but by the swiftnesse of his horses, by which he conveyed away both himself and his wife Zenobia. And his wife being great with child, would notwithstanding (for that it was the first flight, and for fear of the enemy, together with her love to her husband) endure it. Afterwards with continued haste, her belly began to be over much jogged, and her bowels to torment her with gripings and pangs: she prayes that she might rather dye honourable, than live with the disgrace of captivity. He, at first, embraces her, cherishes, and helps her, sometimes wondring at her courage, sometimes even sick with fear, if he should leave her, some body might light of her and wrong her. At last for the violence of his love, and being no baby in wicked exploits, he drew his saulchion, and having wounded her sufficiently, he drags her to the bank of the river Araxis, and flings her into it, least even her body should come into the enemies possession. He presently went through Iberia to his fathers Throne. In the mean time some shepherds found Zenobia, manifestly breathing and alive, and supposing that she was nobly born, by the comlinesse of her person, they bind up her wounds, and apply their Country Medicines: and when they knew her name and chance, they carried her to Artaxata; from whence being brought to Tiridates by the publick charge, he receives her courteously, and useth her as a Queen. [Ibid. cap. 50, 51.]
Certain professors of the Name of Christ, of the sect of the Pharises, came down from Judea to Antioch, and said that the Christians of the Gentiles ought to be circumcised, and keep the Law of Moses, if they would be saved; disturbing the souls of many of the brethren in Syria and Cilicia, with their perverse doctrine, against whom Paul and Barnabas stifly oppose themselves. [Acts XV. 1, 2, 5, 23, 24.] Paul calls them foreign, brethren brought in unawares. [Gal. II. 4.] Philastrius de Haeres. cap. 87. & Epiphanius. Heres. 28. say, That Cerinthus, that arch Heritick, was the first brocher of this opinion.
Paul, The Julian Period. 4765 fourteen years after his going to Jerusalem, Year after Christ 52 undertaken three years after his conversion, goes to Jerusalem with Barnabas, [Gal. II. 1.] both of them being sent from the Church at Antioch with some others, that they might ask the judgement of the Apostles and Elders at Jerusalem, (whose names those disturbers had abused, to boulster out their opinion) concerning the controversy newly risen. [Acts XV. 2, 3, 24.]
Paul goes up by Revelation, Titus a Grecian going up with him, whom he would not compel to be circumcised, least that he should seem to give place to the false brethren for a moment. [Gal, II. 1, 5.]
Paul and Barnabas in their journy through Phenicia and Samaria, declare the conversion of the Gentiles to the great joy of all the brethren, and when they came to Jerusalem, were received by the Church, and of the Apostles and Presbyters, telling what things God had done by them. [Acts XV. 3, 4.]
Paul communicated the Gospel that he had preached among the Gentiles, privately to the chief among the Apostles, James, Peter, and John, (who were thought to be Pillars) who when they saw that the Gospel among the Gentiles was committed unto him, as to Peter among the Jews, and perceived the grace that was given unto him, they gave the right hands of fellowship to him and Barnabas, that these should do the office of the Apostleship among the Gentiles, and they among the Jews, advising them only, that they should take care of relieving the poor at Jerusalem. [Gal. II. 2, 7, 9, 10.]
In a councel of the Apostles and Elders, held at Jerusalem, when after much disputing, Peter had spoken his opinion, Barnabas and Paul declared what great miracles God had done by them among the Gentiles: then James concluding, that it seemed good by the common decree of the Apostles, Elders, and of the whole Church, that no other thing should be laid upon the believing Gentiles, but that they should abstain from things sacrificed to idols, fornication, things strangled, and bloud, to which purpose the Synods letters were written to them of Antioch, and to the rest of the brethren in Syria and Cilicia: which they delivered to be carried to Antioch, to Judas, surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men in the Church, with Barnabas and Paul: who when they came to Antioch, and had delivered and read the letters, the brethren greatly rejoiced. Judas and also Silas, being Prophes also themselves, confirming them with many words. [Acts XV. 6. 32.]
Somewhat after, Judas being returned to the Apostles, it seemed good to Silas to stay at Antioch, where Paul and Barnabas, with many others, preached the Gospel. [Ibid. 33, 34, 35.]
Josephus, the son of Matthias, in the sixteenth year of his age, began with great and heard labour, to make trial of all three, viz. of the Pharisees, Sadduces, and Essines. [Joseph. in his Life.]
To Pallus, the freed man of Claudius, were decreed the Pretorian ornament, and 150000 Sesterces. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 53.]
When the Galileans go to the feast at Jerusalem, they must needs go through Samaria. [John IV. 3, 4.] It happened that there was a Galilean killed, at a Village of the Samaritans, called Nais, otherwise Geman) whereupon there arose a fight between the Passengers and Villagers, in which many of the Galileans were lost: the Rulers taking this very hainously, stirred up the Jews to arms, exhorting them to defend their liberty: that servitude was troublesome of it self, but then it was intollerable, when it was joyned with the injuries of their Subjects. Wherefore at Jerusalem, they leaving the feast, the common people being armed, invade Samaria: neither would they surcease, do what the Magistrates could. There were also called into their aide Eleazar, the son of Dineus, and Alexander, the Captains of the Thieves, who making an inroade upon the Samaritans, that bordered on the Country of Acrabatena, made a confused slaughter, sparing no age nor sex, and burnt also the Towns: but Cumanus knowing what was done, took with him one Troup of the Sebastian Horse, and four Cohorts of Foot, arming also the Samaritans, goes against the Jews; and when he had overtaken them, he slew many of them that followed Eleazar, but took more prisoners. Then the Rulers of Jerusalem, when they saw to what calamity they were brought, put on sack-cloth and ashes on their heads, beseeching the rest of the multitude that went to destroy the territories of Samaria, that they would leave off their designe: setting before their eyes, how their Country would be destroyed, the Temple burnt, and their wives and children taken Captives. Wherefore they prayed them that laying aside their arms, every man would betake himself to his own arms: to which the Jews yielded, and went home, but the thieves retired again to their strong holds, and from that time Judea was full of thieves. [Joseph. lib. Judaic. 2. cap. 11. Antiquit. lib. 20. cap. 5.]
The Governours of Samaria resorted to Numidius Quadratus, the President of Syria, who then dwelt at Tyrus, beseeching him that he would take vengeance of the Jews, who had plundered and fired their Towns. There were present at the same time some of the Jewish Nobility, as also Jonathan, the son of Ananus the High Priest; who answering what was objected against them, said, That the beginning of the tumult arose from the Samaritans themselves, who first committed a murder, but that Cumanus was the cause of all the calamities that followed; because being corrupted with mony, he would not revenge that murder. Quadratus having heard them, deferred his sentence, saying, That then he would give his judgement, when he should come into Judea, and there more exactly know the truth of the matter; and so they departed and nothing was done. [Id. ibid.]
In the mean time Felix, by his unseasonable remedies, provokes the Jews to offend the more. Ventidius Cumanus, who had part of the province, being his rivall in all wickednesse; which provinces they thus divided, that Cumanus should command the Galileans, and Felix the Samaritans, which Nations were alwayes at odds, but then much more, through the contempt of their Governours. They therefore made inroads one on another, sent thieves and robbers to plunder, laid ambushes, and sometimes fought battles, and brought the spoiles and preyes to the Governours; who were glad of it at the first: but when the mischief grew to an height, they sent Souldiers to quell it, who were all slain, and the province had been all of a flame, had not Quadratus redressed it in time. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 54.]
Neither did he long defer to put those Jews to death, that had killed the Roman Souldiers. Cumanus and Felix drew the matter at length, because Claudius; when he had heard the causes of the rebellion, gave authority to him of determining even of the Governours themselves. But Quadratus set Felix among the Judges, (because he was the brother of Pallas, the great Favourite at Rome) and received him into the Tribunal to him, that he might daunt his accusers, and so Cumanus is alone condemned for the faults that both had committed, and by that means he set the Province in peace. [Id. Ibid.]
The Nations of the Country, Cilicians, called Clites, having Trosobores (or Arosoboras) for their Captain, encamped upon rough Mountains, and from thence running down to the shores and Cities, plundered the husbandmen and Citizens, but most commonly the Merchants and Seamen. They besieged also the Cities of the Anemunenses, and also put to flight the horsemen sent from Syria, that were sent to their aid with their Captain Curtius Severus, because the places thereabouts were good to fight afoot, but nought for horsemen. Then Antiochus the King of that country, using fair words towards the common people, and policy towards their Captain, divided their forces: put to death Trosoborus, and some of the ring-leaders, and appeased the rest thorough his clemency. [Id. ibid. cap. 55.]
Peter the Apostle coming to Antioch, did eat and familiarly converse with the believing Gentiles: but when certain brethren of the Jews came thither from James, he withdrew himself from the Gentiles: whose example also some Jews of the Church of Antioch followed; insomuch that Barnabas was carried away with their dissembling. This preposterous dissembling as being contrary to the Gospel, Paul not brooking, withstood him to the face; and sharply reproved his fearfulnesse before them all [Gal. II. 11, 14.]
Quadratus coming to Samaria, Year of the World 4056 commanded those that were accused to defend their cause, The Julian Period. 4766 and found that the tumult began through the Samaritans fault. Year after Christ 53 But going to Cesarea he knew that some Jews endeavoured an innovation, wherefore he hanged those that Cumanus had taken alive and kept prisoners: then going to Lydda a Town as big as a City, sitting in the Tribunal hearing again the cause of the Samaritans, he learned from a certain Samaritan, that Dortus a Ruler of the Jews had perswaded the Jews to a revolt; whom he put to death: and strook off the head of eighteen Jews, who had been in the fight. [Joseph. lib. 2. bell. cap. 11. & lib. Antiquit. 20. cap. 5.]
Quadratus sent to Caesar two of the chief Priests, Jonathan and Annanias, and his son Ananus, and some of the Nobility of the Jews, and likewise also some of the Nobility of the Samaritans; he commanded also Cumanus the Governour, and Celer the Tribune to go to Rome, to give an account to Caesar of that that they had done in the country. [Id. ibid.]
This being done, Quadratus fearing the Jews might make some innovation, went from Lydda to Jerusalem; where he finds all things quiet, and the people busie about their Feast of unleavened bread, and offering sacrifice: thinking therefore that they would be quiet, he left them busie at their Feast, and returned to Antioch. [Id. ibid.]
Cumanus and the Samaritans being sent to Rome, at an appointed day, are commanded to defend their cause; but they had got the favour of Caesars freed-men and friends, and had gotten the day by their means, if King Agrippa the younger then living at Rome, and seeing the Rulers of the Jews over-powered by the favour of the great ones, had not by much intreaty obtained of Agrippina the wife of Claudius, to perswade her husband that he would fully hear the matter, and execute justice on those he found the authors of the sedition. Claudius yeilded to their requests, and having heard the parties, and finding the Samaritans the beginners of the tumult, he put to death those that came before him to plead their cause. He punished Cumanus with banishment: and sending Celer the Tribune prisoner to Jerusalem, delivered him to the Jews to be punished, that he should be dragged through the City, and then have his head cut off. [Id. ibid.]
He then sent Claudius Felix the brother of Paulus, Governour into Judea, and that he should also command that Province, together with Samaria, and Galilee, [Id. ibid.] which Jonathan the High Priest had begged of Caesar for him. [Id. ibid. cap. 6.] Suetonius writes, That Claudius preferred Felix, one of his freed-men, to the command both of horse and foot, and to the government of Judea, and that he was the husband of three Queens. [in Claud. cap. 28.] Tacitus writes, that being Governour of Judea, he thought he might do any wickednesse securely, bearing himself upon his authority, [Annal. lib. 12. cap. 54.] and in the fifth book of his Histories, he further addes concerning his tyrannical government in Judea. Antonius Felix exercised regal power with a servil disposition by all cruelty and lust, having married Drusilla the neice of Cleopatra and Antonius: in that Claudius was the grandchild of the same Antonius and son of Felix.
When King Agrippa the younger had commanded Chalcis four years, Claudius after the 12 year of his Empire, took that from him, and gave him a greater: viz. the Tetrarchy of Philippi, to wit, Batanea, and Gaulanitis, together with Trachonitis, and also added Abila the Tetrarchy of Lysanias, which Vatus had governed. [Josephus lib. Antiquit. 20. cap. 5. Belli. Judaic. lib. 2. cap. 11.]
The young man being thus advanced by Caesars gifts, gave Drusilla his sister in marriage to Azazius the King of the Emisseniaus, that was circumcised: for Epiphanes the son of Antiochus the King of the Commagenians had refused her, because changing his minde, he would not embrace the Jewish Religion, as he had promised her father. He marries also Mariamme to Julius Archelaus the son of Chelcias, to whom she was betrothed by her father Agrippa. [Id. ibid. lib. 20. cap. 5.]
Josephus the son of Matthias began to imitate the manner of living of one Banus, who living in the Wildernesse, clad himself with what the trees brought forth, and used for his food those things that grew of themselves: and to keep himself chast did often wash himself in cold water; and thus he lived three years. [Joseph. in his Life.]
Nero undertaking the cause of the Ilienses, in his speech rehearsed how the Romans were descended from Troy, and that Aeneas was the author of the Julian Family, and many other old things not unlike to fable, and so got that the Ilienses were freed from all publick duties. [Tacit. Annal. 12. cap. 58.] Claudius also remitted to them all tribute for ever, as being the Founders of the Roman Nation, reading openly the Greek Epistle of the Senate and people of Rome, to King Seleucus, promising him friendship and aliance; but yet so, that he should acquit their kinsmen the Ilienses from all charges. [Sueton. in Claud. cap. 25.]
To the Rhodians also repenting of their old demerits, Claudius restored their liberty, which was both often taken away, or confirmed either as they had deserved in forraign wars, or offended by sedition at home. [Sueton. & Tacit. ut supra.] Suetonius writes that he pleaded for the Rhodians and Ilienses in Greek before his father being Consul, viz. Claudius in his last Consulship, two years before [in Nero cap. 7.] Claudius remits all tribute to the Apameans for five years, because they were ruined by an Earthquake. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. 58.]
After that Claudius propounded concerning the freeing the Coans from tribute. He alledged many things concerning their antiquity, as that the Argives even with Ceus the father of Latona (of whom the Island was named) were the ancient Inhabitants: then by the coming of Aesculapius the art of Physick was brought thither, and that he was famous to all posterity: naming them by their names, and in what ages they lived. Then saying that Zenophon his own Physitian was a Coan, and descended from that Family: and that he had yeilded to his entreaty, that they might hereafter be free from tribute, and be devoted to the service of that god. [Id. ibid cap. 61.]
Paul asketh Barnabas to go again and visit the Churches where they had preached the Gospel; Barnabas determined to take John Mark with him, Paul thought it not good to take him, who had departed from them from Pamphylia, [Acts XIII. 13.] and went not with them to the work: which Barnabas took ill, that such an infamy should lie upon his sisters son, [Colos. IV. 10.] that the contention was so sharp, that they departed one from the other, and Barnabas took Mark and sailed into his own Countrey of Cyprus, but Paul being commended to the grace of God, having chosen Sylas went into Syria and Cilicia confirming the brethren. [Acts XV. 36, 41.]
Paul coming to Derbe and Lystra found there among the Disciples, Timotheus born of a Greek or Gentle father, but his mother was a believing Jew (Eunice) to whom all the brethren at Iconium and Lystra gave good testimony, him would Paul take with him, but that he might the sooner gain the Jews he caused to be circumcised. [Acts XVI. 1, 2, 3.]
Paul and Silas as they passed through the Cities, delivered them the decrees for to keep that were ordained by the Apostles and elders that were at Jerusalem, and the Churches were established in the faith, and encreased in number daily. [ibid. 45.]
Now when they had gone through Phrygia, and the region of Galatia, they were forbid by the Spirit to preach the word of God in Asia, and when they had come to Mysia they assayed to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit not suffering them from Mysia they came down to Troas, then in his shape there seems to stand a man of Macedon before Paul, saying: come into Macedonia and help us. [Acts XVI. 6, 9.]
When he had seen this vision, we endeavouring to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us to preach the Gospel to them, saith Luke, [Acts XVI. 10.] who speaking from henceforward of Paul and his companions in the first person whereas alwaies before he had spoken in the third person, he doth sufficiently shew that from that time he was a companion of Pauls in the preaching of the Gospel.
Paul and Silas with Luke and Timothy, Year of the World 4057 loosing from Troas, came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis, and from thence to Philippi, the chief City of that part of Macedonia, and a Colony belonging to Italy; and they abode there certain dayes. [Acts XVI. 11, 12.]
On the Sabbath day they went out of the City to the Rivers side, where was an house of prayer, and there spake unto the women that resorted thither; among which was Lydia, one that worshipped God, a seller of Purple in the City of Thyatira, attending unto the things that were spoken by Paul, the Lord opening her heart, believed in Christ: who when she was baptized and her houshold, entertained Paul and his companions. [Ibid. 13, 14, 15.]
As they went afterwards to the place of prayer, an unclean spirit out of a servant that had the spirit of divination, cried after them many dayes; These men are the servants of the most High God, which shew unto us the way of salvation: at which Paul being grieved, commanded the spirit in the name of Jesus to come out of her. And when the Masters of the maid saw that the hope of their gain was gone, they drew Paul and Silas into the Market-place, and did so much with the Rulers by their clamours, that both of them were publickly scourged, and cast into prison: where in the mid-night as they were praying and singing Psalmes, there was a great Earthquake, and all the doors of the prison were opened, and all the prisoners bands were loosed: when therefore the Jaylor being in desperation, would with his naked sword have killed himself, he is converted to the Faith by Paul and Silas, and baptized the same night with all his family, When it was day, the Magistrates sent them word that they might go out free, they expostulated the matter with them, concerning the shame and injury done them, because they had publickly scourged them and cast them into prison condemned, Whereupon the Magistrates came themselves and set them at liberty with honour, and besought them to depart the City: who entring into Lydias house, comforted the brethren that came unto them, and so went out of the City. [Ibid. 16. 40.]
As they journeyed through Amphipolis, and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, the chief City of Macedonia, where was a Synagogue of the Jews, [Acts XVII. 1, 2, 3.] There Paul writes, [I Thess. 11. 1.] after he was shamefully entreated at Philippi, he preached the Gospel with much contention: for as his custom was he went into the Synagogue of the Jews three Sabbaths together, and reasoned with them concerning Christ out of the Scriptures. Of whom some believing, there were joyned to Paul and Silas of religious Greeks, a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few. [Acts XVII. 2, 3, 4.]
Paul taught the Thessalonians not only concerning Faith in Christ, but also concerning the future Apostasie of Antichrist, and his revelation. [II Thess. II. 5.]
When Paul stayed long at Thessalonica, he received once and again relief from the Philippians for his necessities. [Phil. IV. 16.] But the Jews which believed not, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort raised an uproar in the City, they drew Jason (with whom Paul and his companion lodged) and certain brethren to the Magistrates, and accused them with great clamours. And when they had taken security from them, the brethren sent away Paul and Silas by night to Beraea. [Acts XVII. 5, 10.]
Here also when they had entred into the Synagogue of the Jews, they diligently preached Christ out of the Scriptures, and the auditors comparing the things preached with the Scriptures, which when they found altogether to agree, many of them believed; both honourable women that were Greeks, and men not a few. And when the Jews of Thessalonica came thither, they stirred up the multitude against Paul; but then immediately the brethren sent them away, to go as it were to the Sea, but they brought him to Athens: receiving a commandment to Silas and Timotheus left at Beraea that they should come unto him with all speed. [Ibid. 10. 15.]
The Jews by the instigation of Chrestus continually tumulting, The Julian Period. 4767 Claudius expells them to Rome, Year after Christ 54 [Sueton. in Claud. cap. 25.] Suetonius, if I mistake not, mentions only Chrestus: for that Christ our Lord (for whom the Christians in another place by the same are denominated) is here meant I cannot yet perswade my self.
Paul whilst he waits for Silas and Timotheus at Athens, did dispute in the Synagogue, with the Jews and devou… men, and daily in the market-place with such as met with him, disputing also with the Philosopher of the Epicurean and Stoick sect concerning Christ and the resurrection, then being brought into Marshill, as a fetter forth of strange gods, he to defend his cause in a most learned oration shews, both from the Altar dedicated to the unknown God, as also from the testimony of Aratus the Poet confirming that we are the offspring of God, that that God whom they ignorantly worship was he that was declared by him. [Acts XVII. 16. 31.] for the God of the Jews among the Gentiles was called the unknown God, in the same sense, the uncertain God by Lucan in his second book of Pharsalia, the uncertain power by Trebellius Pollio, in the life of Claudius, and unnamed God, by Caius Caligula, in Philo. in his legatio. to the same Caius, to whom the inhabitants of mount Carmel, [in Tacitus in the 2 book of his histories cap. 78.] did attribute neither image nor temple, but only an Altar and reverence, so the Athenians made an Altar to Mercy in the middle of their City without any image, Statius in his twelfth book of Thebais thus relates it.
Nulla autem effigies, nulli commissa metallo.
Forma Dei, mentes habitare & pectora gaudet.
Gods form by pictures cannot be exprest,
He loves to dwell within the heart and breast.
Among those that were converted at this time by Paul, was Dionysius the Areopagite, and a woman, (or his wife as it seems to Ambrose, Chrysostome and Augustine) called Damaris, and some others with them. [Acts XVII. 34.]
Felix the Governour of Judea, when he saw Drusilla the sister of King Agrippa, fell in love with her, and sent his friend Simon, a Jew by nation a Cypriot, that was a soothsayer, to perswade the woman to leave her husband, and marry him, promising that she should be happy if she did not refuse him, she unadvisedly, and willing to escape the troubles of her sister Berenice, who envied her for her beauty, consented to forsake the Jews religion and to marry Felix. But Berenice the widow of her Unckle Herod, when there was a report that she had lien with her brother King Agrippa, perswades Polemon that being circumcised he might marry he, thinking hereby that she might so prove it to be a lie, neither did Polemon refuse the match, being induced the rather because she was rich, but this marriage lasted not long, Berenice (as it was reported) through her intemperance departing from him, who being forsaken by his wife he immediately left the Jews religion. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 5.]
At the same time also Mariamme the third sister of King Agrippa, scorning Julius Archelaus the son of Chelcias, went and married Demetrius a chief man among the Jews of Alexandria both for birth and riches, and was at that time the Alabarcha. [Id. ibid.]
Paul sending back Silus and Timotheus who had come to him from Bera, again into Macedonia, staies alone at Athens, and he had a great mind once and again to go to Thessalonica, but could not compasse it, being hindred of Satan. Wherefore he sent Timotheus thither, that he might confirm in the faith, and comfort the Thessalonians. [Acts XVIII. 5. I. Thess. 11, 17, 18. III. 1, 2.]
In the mean time he left Athens and went to Corinth, where he found Aquila a Jew, and his wife Priscilla, who came lately from Italy, because Claudius had made a decree that al… Jews should depart from Rome: and because he was of the same craft of making tents with them, Paul aboad with them and laboured, and he reasoned in the Synagogue every Sabbath, and perswaded both Jews and Greeks. [Acts XVIII. 1, 5.]
Here Paul with his own hand baptized the family of Stephanus, [I. Cor. I, 16.] who were the first fruites of Achaia, and addicted themselves to the ministery of the Saints. [ibid. XVI, 15.]
As Sylas and Timotheus came out of Macedonia, when the Jews withstood Paul preaching Christ with great zeal, and blasphemed: …haking his garments against them he turnes aside unto the Gentiles, going into the house of one who was sir-named Just, one that worshipt God and lived near unto the Synagogue. [Acts XVIII, 6, 7.]
Chrispus the ruler of the Synagogue believed in the Lord with all his family, and many of the Corinthians hearing believed and were baptized, [ibid. 8.] of whom Paul baptized Chrispus and Gaius with his own hand. [I. Cor. I, 14.]
The Lord said in a vision to Paul by night, 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, for I have much people in this City, and he staied there a year and six months, teaching the word of the Lord among them, [Acts XVIII. 9, 10, 11.] together with Sylvanus (or Silas) and Timotheus. [II. Cor. I, 19.]
After the return of Timothy from Macedonia, Paul with the same Timotheus and Sylvanus (or Silas) wrote the first epistle to the Thessalonians, [I. Thess. III, 6.] in which when he had spoken something obscurely concerning the day of judgment, as if it were now at hand, [cap. I. 1, 5.] he wrote a little after another epistle unto them, wherein he more clearly expounds that businesse, [I. Thess. II, 2, 3.] written verily when he had Sylvanus and Timotheus for his companions in the ministery of the Gospel, [cap. I. 1.] and after he had been with the Thessalonians, and they had embraced the saith of Christ, [cap. II, 5.] so that Grotius was extreamly mistaken, in thinking that it was written under Caius Caligula.
The Parthians broke in and wasted Armenia, having driven out Rhadamistus, who had often enjoyed the Kingdom, and been often a fugitive, had now also forsaken that war. [Tacit. Annal. lib. 13. cap. 6.] But when Bardanes son began to contend with Vologesus the King of the Parthians, the Parthians sorsook Armenia, as if they deferred the war. [Id. ibid. cap. 7.]
Claudius died the III Ides of October, Year of the World 4058 Asinius Marcellus, and Asinius Aviola being Consuls. [Seneca. in Lud. de Mort. Claudii. Sueton. in Claud. cap. 45. Dion. lib. 60. pag. 688.] When he had raigned thirteen years, eight monethmonth, and twenty-dayes. [Dion. ibid. cum Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 5.] And in the middle of the same day, the gates of the Palace being suddenly thrown open, Nero, both the son in law and adopted son is declared Emperour. [Tacit. lib. 12. cap. ult.]
In the beginning of his new principality, Junius Silanus, Proconsul of Asia, a Noble man, and descended of the Caesars, unknown to Nero, being scarce out of his childhood, and innocent; was taken away by the treachery of his mother Agrippina. The Ministers were P. Celer, a Knight of Rome, and Aelius, a freed man, they both had the charge of the Princes revenues in Asia: by these the Proconsul was poysoned at a feast. [Tacit. lib. 13. cap. 1.]
The Embassadours of Armenia pleading the cause of their Nation before Nero, his mother would needs come up into the seat of Audience, and sit with him: but that (the rest surprized with fear) Seneca advised him, to meet his mother, and so under colour of doing his duty, prevented the discredit. [Tacit. lib. 13. cap. 5.]
The report being brought to Rome, that the Parthians had possessed themselves of Armenia, Nero commanded the youth of the neighbour Provinces to be mustered, to supply the Legions of the East, and the Legions themselves to be planted neerer Armenia, and also the two old Kings, Agrippa (of Judea) and Jocchus (or Antiochus, rather Commagenus) that they should prepare their forces, to enter the bounds of the Parthians, and that bridges should be made over Euphrates: and he committed to Aristobulus the charge of Armenia the Lesse, and of the Country of Sophene to Sohemus, with the ornaments of a King. He set Domitius Corbulo to keep Armenia, and so divided, the forces of the East should remain in the Province of Syria, with Quadratus the Lieutenant thereof: and the like number of Citizens and Allies with Corbulo, with other Cohorts and Troops of Horse that wintered in Cappadocia, and gave command to the confederate Kings to be ready, as occasion of war should require. [Ibid. cap. 5, 7, 8.]
In the first year of Nero's Empire, Azivus, King of the Emesenians, being dead, his brother succeeded him in the Principality. But Aristobulus, the son of Herod, King of Chalcis received of Nero the Principality of Armenia the Lesse, (as it is already said out of Tacitus) and to the Kingdom of Agrippa he added four Cities, with all the land belonging to them: in Galilee, Tiberias, and Tarichea: in Iturea beyond Jordan, Abila and Julias, with the land that was inhabited with fourteen Villages. [Joseph. Antiquit. 20. cap. 6. Belli. 2. cap. 12.]
Domitius Corbulo, making all speed, at Aegeae, a City of Cilicia, met Quadratus, who went thither on purpose, least if Corbulo had entred Syria, to receive the forces, all mens eies had been cast upon him. Both of them sent messengers to Vologeses the King of the Parthians, That they desired peace rather than war, and therefore he should give hostages, and continue the like reverence to the people of Rome, as his Ancestours had done: and Vologeses, either that he might the better prepare for war, or that he might remove all competitours by the name of hostages, delivered the most noble of the family of the Arsacidae: and the Centurion Hostorius (or Histius) sent from Quadratus for the same purpose receives them. Which being known unto Corbulo, he commanded Arrius Varus, the Captain of a foot company, to go and receive the hostages. Hereupon grew a quarrel between the Captain and the Centurion; and because they would not be a scorn to the strangers, the businesse is put to the Arbitrament of hostages, and the Lieutenants that conducted them: and they both for his new honours, and by a certain inclination of the enemies themselves, preferred Corbulo. Hereupon grew a jarre between the Commanders, Quadratus complaining that that was taken from him that was compassed by his advice. Corbulo on the other side protesting, that the King was never drawn to offer hostages, untill that he being chosen General, the Kings hopes were turned into fear. Nero, that he might compose the differences, published this order, That Quadratus and Corbulo, for their prosperous successes should have bayes added to their bundle of rods. [Tacit. 13. cap. 8. & 9.]
In the beginning of Neros raign, all Judea is filled with thieves and enchanters, and seducers of the unskilful multitude, whom Felix every day put to death as many as he took: but Eleazar, the son of Dinas, who had a great band of thieves about him, he perswaded him to come unto him, giving him his word, that he should suffer no brunt from him, and when he came, he bound him and sent him to Rome. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 6.]
When Felix could no longer endure Jonathan the High Priest, so often and so freely admonishing him concerning his better government of the Common-wealth of the Jews: He perswaded Dora, a great friend of Jonathans, by promising him a great sum of mony, to kill Jonathan by some assasinates. Certain therefore of them came into the City, under colour of religion, with short swords hid privately under their garments, and mingling among his family, killed Jonathan: and because that murder was unpunished, invited by this licentiousnesse, came at every feast, hiding their swords after the same manner, being in the crowds, they freely killed some for private enemies, some being hired thereunto for mony, not only in other parts of the City, but also in the Temple it self. [Id. ibid.]
And thus was the City infested with thieveries: and as touching deceivers and Magicians, they enticed and drew multitudes into the desarts, promising them that they would shew them signs and wonders done by the power of God: but the multitude being thus perswaded, suffered the penalty of their folly, being recalled back by Felix, and put to death. [Id. ibid.]
At that time there was a certain Egyptian came into the Province, who termed himself a Prophet, who gathered together almost thirty (or rather four [Acts XXI. 38.] thousand men, and brought them from the wildernesse, unto the Mount of Olives, there he told them, That by his command they should see the walls of Jerusalem fall down, by which way they might enter into the City: which being reported to Felix, he brake in, and invaded this seduced multitude, with his Roman Horse and Foot; a great multitude also of the Jews helping him: he killed 400, and took 200. prisoners alive. The rest of the multitude being dispersed into their own Countries: but the Egyptian, with a few that escaped from the fight, was not known what became of him. [Id. ibid. & lib. 2. belli. cap. 12.] Of whom Lysias the Captain speaks to St. Paul, [Acts XXI. 38.] Art not thou that Egyptian which before these dayes madest an uproare, and leddest out into the desart 4000 men that were murderers.
When Gallio was Proconsul of Achaia, the Jews of Corinth brought Paul before his judgement-seat: but he refusing to be Judge in these matters, and driving them from the judgement-seat, the Creeks took Sosthenes, the Ruler of the Synagogue, and beat him: but Gallio cared for none of these things. [Acts XVIII. 12, 17.]
This Gallio was the brother of L. Anneus Seneca, (who together with Burrhus, commanded all things at Rome, under his young Scholer Nero) who deriding the deifieing of Claudius, that was taken away by poyson, said, That he was taken up to Heaven by a hook, as Dion saith in the end of his 60 book, there is extant the book of Controversies, of Marcus Anneus Seneca, the Father to the three Sons, Novatus, Seneca, and Melas. The second of these L. Seneca in his consolation to his Mother Helvia teacheth, that one of his brother by his industry got honours, the other contemned them. By the first understanding Novatus, who being adopted by Junius Gallio (who was banished by Tiberius, as we have declared at the end of the year the of World, 4035. out of Tacitus) was also called Gallio, and was by the same Seneca called Lord, as being his elder brother, as Lipsius notes upon the place of the Epistle 104. This was wont to be the speech of my Lord Gallio, who began to have a feaver, being in Achaia, and presently took shipping, crying, That it was not the disease of the body but of the place.
When Paul had stayed many dayes at Corinth, Year of the World 4059 after the tumult that was made before Gallio's Tribunal, The Julian Period. 4769 after he had taken his leave of the brethren, Year after Christ 56 he sets saile from the port of Cenchrea; and sailing into Syria, he came first to Ephesus, where entring into a Synagogue, he reasoned with the Jews: and when they desired him to tarry longer with them, he consented not, saying, That he must by all means keep the feast that cometh at Jerusalem: but promising that he would returne to them again, if God will: and bidding them farewell, leaving Aquila and Priscilla there, he sailed from thence to Ephesus, with the rest of his companions. [Acts XVIII. 18, 22.]
Paul going from Caesarea (Stratonis) to salute the Church of Jerusalem, went down to Antioch, (of Syria) and when he had stayed there some time, he departed, and went over in order all the regions of Galatia and Phrygia, confirming all the Disciples, [Ibid. 22, 23.] where he is received by the Galatians, as an Angel of God, or Jesus Christ himself. [Galat. IV. 14.] Among other things he appointed that the collections for the poor should be set apart every Lords day. [I. Corinth. XVI. 1, 2.]
Josephus, the son of Matthias, after the three years that he had lived with Banus in the wildernesse, returns to Jerusalem, being now fourteen years old, he began to meddle with publick affairs, following the Sect of the Pharisees, which comes neerest to the Sect of the Stoicks among the Grecians. [Joseph. in his Life.]
A certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and powerful in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus, and being instructed in the way of the Lord, and fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptisme of John: and he began to speak freely in the Synagogue; whom when Aquilla and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of the Lord more fully. And when he was disposed to passe into Achaia, the brethren exhorted him, and wrote to the Disciples to receive him: who when he was come helped them who had believed, for with great contention he convinced the Jews publickly, shewing by the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ. [Acts XVIII. 24, 28.]
When Apollos was at Corinth, Year of the World 4060 Paul having passed through the upper coasts, The Julian Period. 4770 (viz. Galatia and Phrygia) came to Ephesus, Year after Christ 57 where he found twelve Disciples, which knew only the baptisme of John, but had not yet received the Holy Ghost, by the imposition of hands: who being farther instructed by him in the doctrine of Christ. When he had laid his hands on them, the Holy Ghost came on them, and they spake with tongues and prophesied. Then he went into the Synagogue, and spake freely, disputing and perswading the things concerning the Kingdom of God. [Acts XIX. 1, 8.]
When some Jews were hardened and believed not, but spake evil of the way of the Lord, Paul in the view of the multitude, departing from them, separated the Disciples, dayly disputing in the School of one Tyrannus: and this he did by the space of two whole years; so that all that dwelt in Asia, both Jews and Greeks heard the word of the Lord Jesus: and many miracles were done by the hand of Paul: so that handkerchifes and aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases departed from them, and evil spirits went out of them. [Ibid. 9. 12.]
Asia accusing P. Celer, because Caesar could not absolve him, he delayed his triall, till he should dye by old age; for Celer having killed Sylanus the Proconsul, cloaked all his other wickednesse, by the greatnesse of that villany. [Tacit. lib. 13. cap. 33.]
The Cilicians accused Cossutianus Capito, as one bespotted and defiled with all vices, and thought that he had the same authority, to do wickedly in the Province, as he had exercised in the City: but he being turmoiled with this overthwart accusation, let fall his defence, and was condemned of extortion. [Id. Ibid.] to whom (according to Lipsius) is to be referred that of Juvenal in the eighth Satyre.
—quam fulmine justo
Et Capito & Tutor ruerint damnante Senatu,
Pirata Cilicum.
—How th' Senates just thunder strook
Sutor and Capito for making prize,
As Pirates, of th' Cilician Merchandize.
And that of Quintilian. [lib. 6. cap. 1.] The accuser of Cossutianus seemed to us young men to speak bravely, it was in Greek, but to this sence, He was ashamed to be afraid of Caesar.
Great suits prevailed so much for Epirus Marcellus, of whom the Lycians demanded restitution, that some of the accusors were banished, as though they had endangered an innocent man. [Tacit. lib. 13, 33.]
The war about the getting of Armenia, Year of the World 4061 that was drawn at length between the Romans and Parthians, The Julian Period. 4771 by mild beginnings, Year after Christ 58 was now hotly pursued, because neither would Vologeses suffer his brother Tiridates to be devested of that Kingdom, that he had invested him with, or let him accept it as the gift of another: and Corbulo thought it worthy the greatnesse of the people of Rome, to recover what was in former time gotten by Lucullus and Pompey. Corbulo, to prepare his army to this war, fashioned it after the old severity and discipline; and entring Armenia, dismantled some Castles, and burnt Artaxata, Tiridates not daring to give him battle. [Tacit. lib. 13. from cap. 34. to 41.]
Seven exorcists of the Jews, the sons of Scaeva a chief Priest calling over them that had unclean spirits, the name of the Lord Jesus, did adjure them by Jesus whom Paul preached, on whom he that had the unclean spirit leaped, and compelled them to fly out of the house wounded and naked, which when it was known both to the Jews and Greeks which dwelt at Ephesus, fear fell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesus was magnified, and many that believed came and confessed and shewed their deeds, many also of them that used curious arts, brought their books together and burned them before all men, and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver, so mightily grew the word and prevailed. [Acts XIX 13, 20.]
The Galatians, immediately after the departure of Paul from them [Acts XVIII. 23.] being seduced by false brethren, thought that they were to be justified by the works of the Law, whom he calls from their errour by a vehement Epistle written unto them concerning that matters. [Gal. 1. 6, 7.]
Paul thought in his mind, Year of the World 4062 when he had passed thorough Macedonia and Achaia, The Julian Period. 4772 to go to Jerusalem, Year after Christ 59 saying, after I have been there, I must see Rome also. [Acts XIX. 21.] And first he purposed to come to Corinth, and from thence to go into Macedonia, and again from Macedonia to Corinth, and so to go to Judea, [I Cor. I. 15, 16.] whither he had consigned the collections for the poor Saints at Jerusalem to be sent: from thence he appointed to go to Rome, and so to take a journey into Spain. [Rom. XV. 24, 28.]
Paul agitating these things in his mind, sent Timotheus and Erastus into Macedonia, but he himself staied in Asia for a season, [Acts XIX. 22.] viz. of Lydia, in which he seems to have preached the Gospel, to the Cities that were near to Ephesus, by the space of nine months, which with the two years that he taught in the School of Tyrannus, and the three months being added that he taught in the Synagogue of Ephesus, will make up the three years that he saith he laboured in Asia, [Acts XX, 15, 31.] a great door being opened unto him although there were many adversaries. [I. Cor. XVI. 9.]
Campania perceived the eclipse that happened the last of Aprill, Vipsanius and Fonteius being Consuls between seven and eight of the clock in the morning, Corbulo the generall in Armenia wrote that it was seen between ten and eleven, [Pliny. lib. 2. cap. 70.] at Rome the eclipse was seen in the middle of their sacrificings, that were made by the decree of the Senate, for the cause of Agrippina that was killed by her son, so that the stars were seen. [Xiphilin. out of Dion. with Tacitus. lib. 14. cap. 12.]
Then arose a Schism in the Church of Corinth, Year of the World 4063 which was shewed unto him by those that were of the house of Chloe, some saying that they were of Paul, some of Apollos, some of Cephas, and some of Christ. [I Cor. I. 11, 12, & III. 3, 4.] Apollos with some other brethren went from Corinth to Paul into Asia, [ibid. XVI. 12.] by whom the Corinthians write to Paul and ask his advice, about the matter of Marriage and Single life. [Ibid. VII. 1.]
Paul together with Sosthenes the Ruler of the Synagogue at Corinth, being converted to the Faith of Christ, (Timothy being then absent) [I Cor. XVI. 10. with Acts XIX. 22.] from Asia, (of Lydia, where he then was) wrote the first Epistle to the Corinthians by Stephanus, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, that were sent from them to visit the Apostle. Apollos refusing to return so suddenly back with them. [I Cor. I. 1. & XVI. 13, 17, 19.]
In that Epistle he commanded the incestuous Corinthian that had maried his fathers wife, to be delivered to Satan, [Chap. V.] and corrects the errour that had crept into the Church; as well the errours of practice, as that chief erour of opinion, (taken out of the sink of the Sadduces) denying the Resurrection to come, [cap. XV.] signifying unto them, that he will come unto them, and set in order the things that remain, [cap. IV. 18, 19, & XI. 34.] as he passeth by into Macedonia; but first he will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost; [XVI. 5, 6, 7. cap. XVI. 5, 8.] which his purpose, some unlooked for occasion suddenly hindered.
For Demetrius a Silver-smith, who made silver Shrines for Diana, fearing that he should lose his profit, calling together the workmen of the same craft, raised a tumult against Paul, as he that would perswade not onelyonly the Ephesians, but almost all the whole multitude of Asia, that they were not gods that were made with hands. Who having caught Gaius and Aristarchus Macedonians, Pauls companions in travel, they rushed into the Theatre: and when Paul would have gone in thither, the disciples and some of the chief men of Asia (that provided for the Playes to be seen in the Theatre) his friends would not suffer him to go out unto the people; and when Alexander the Jew would have made his defence to the people, there was a great cry among the people almost for two hours: Great is Diana of the Ephesians. At length the tumult being appeased by the wisdom of the Town-clark, Paul calling the brethren together took his leave, and departed for to go into Macedonia. [Acts XIX. 24, 41. and XX. 1.]
Aquila and Priscilla going from Ephesus, returned to Rome, after they had laid down their own necks for to save Paul: [Rom. XVI. 3, 4.] with [I Cor. XVI. 19.] the Jews every where returning to Rome, the Edict of Claudius for their expulsion after his death wearing our of date. [Acts XXVIII. 17, 21.]
Paul coming from Ephesus to Troas, although there was a door open unto him of the Lord to preach the Gospel, yet being troubled because he found not Titus there (whom he had sent to the Corinthians with another brother,) he sailed from thence into Macedonia, [II. Cor. II. 12, 13, with XII. 18.] which after he had gone over, he exhorted the brethren with much exhortation. [Acts XX, 2.]
And when his affliction there did not remit, but without were fightings, within were fears, the coming of Titus brought comfort unto him, and the joyfull message that he brought concerning the stare of the Corinthians, [II. Cor. II, 5, 16,] by whose example he provoked the Macedonians to provide collections for to be sent to Jerusalem, saying that Achaia was ready a year agoe, [ibid. IX. 2.] by whose example they being moved, iin much triall of affliction, yea, and beyond their power, they shewed themselves liberall. [ibid. VIII. 1, 5.]
The Apostle having learned from Titus the successe of his first epistle, The Julian Period. 4773 wrote together with Timothy the second epistle to the Corinthians, Year after Christ 60 in which after he had reckoned up the great affliction that he had suffered in Asia, by the procurement of Demetrius, he protests that he came not unto them as he had intended, onelyonly that he might spare them, [cap. I. 8, 9, 17, 23.] and desires them that they would pardon the incestuous Corinthian upon his repentance, [cap. VI. 5, 11.] he sent Titus unto them again, with another brother whose praise is in the Gospel throughout all the Churches, (who is thought to be Luke) that their collections to be sent to Jerusalem, might be in readinesse when he came thither himself. [cap. VIII. 16, 19, & IX. 3. 4, 5.]
Paul went from Macedonia into Greece, where he staied three months; [Acts XX. 2, 3.] within which time coming to Corinth, he received the collections in Achaia for the relief of the believers at Jerusalem, [1. Cor. XVI. 3, 4, 5, with II. Cor. IX. 4.]
That that famous epistle to the Romans was written from Corinth, Origen confirms by many reasons in his preface to the exposition of that epistle, it was indited by Paul, written by the hand of Tertius, and sent by Phebe a servant of the Church of Cenchrea near Corinth, [Rom. XVI. 1.] at what time the Apostle was about to take his journey to Jerusalem with the collections of Macedonia and Achaia. [Rom. XV. 25, 26.]
When the Apostle thought to goe directly from thence into Syria, that he might carry the collections to Jerusalem, he was laid wait for by the Jews, whereupon he thought it best to return into Macedonia, from whence he came, and from thence to passe into Asia properly so called. [Acts XX, 3, 4.]
Paul sent away before him from Philippi in Macedonia into Asia, the companions of his journey, Sopater or Sosipater, [Rom. XVI. 11.] of Beraea, Aristarchus and Secundus of Thessalonica, Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus, with Tychicus and Trophimu: of Asia: who expected him at Troas, but he himself with Luke and the rest, sayling away from Philippi, after the daies of unleavened bread, came unto them within five daies to Troas, and tarried there seven daies. [ibid. 4, 5, 6.]
On the eighth day which was the first of the week, the Disciples being gathered together to break bread. Paul preached unto them, he being to goe away the next day, and continued his discourse unto midnight, where he restores to life Eutychus a young man that fell down from the third lost in the room where they were gathered together. [ibid. 7. 12.]
From hence Paul went a foot unto Assos, where Luke and his other companions going by ship, took him in and came to Mytelene; and when they had sayled from thence, the day following they came over against Chios, and the next day arrived at Samos, and when they had tarried at Trogyllium, the day following they came to Miletus. [ibid. 13, 14, 15.]
And Paul made hast that he might possibly be at Jerusalem at the feast of Pentecost willing therefore to passe by Ephesus, he sent messengers from Miletus to Ephesus, and called the Elders of the Church, whom he in a most grave speech warnes of their duty, and seriously exhorts them to the performance of the same, then kneeling down he praied with them, and they all wept, but sorrowing most of all because he had said (as he then thought it would come to passe) that they should see his face no more. [ibid. 16, 38.]
After they had lanched from Troas, they came with straight course to Coos; and the day following to Rhodes, and from thence to Patara: then going into a ship that sailed to Phenicia, they discoverd Cyprus, and leaving it on the left hand, they came to Tyrus. [Acts XXI. 1, 2, 3.]
There having found Disciples they tarried seven days, who said unto Paul by the Spirit, that he should not go up to Jerusalem; but he kneeling down on the shore, prayed with them: then taking ship, he came from Tyrus to Ptolemais; and there having saluted the brethren, the next day he came to Cesarea, (Stratonis) Where he stayed many dayes with Philip the Evangelist, who was one of the Seven, [Acts VI. 5.] and had four daughters, Virgins, that did prophesie; and there came a Prophet from Judea called Agabus, who binding his own hands and feet, foretold the bonds that waited for him; who when he could not be perswaded by the brethren, that he should not cast himself into such imminent danger, he came to Jerusalem: the Disciples accompanying him from Cesarea, and bringing with them one Mnasor of Cyprus, an old Disciple, with whom he should lodge. [Ibid. 4. 16,]
Here being most gladly received of the Church, by the advice of James and all the Elders of Jerusalem, to wash off the calumny that was spread of him, (to wit, that he taught ane exhorted the Jews that believed in Christ, (of whom there were then many thousands) to forsake the observation of the Law of Moses) he joyned himself to four men that were believing Jews that had made the vow, of the Nazarite: and purifying himself with them according to the command of the law. But all this did no good: for when some of the unbelieving and rebellious Jews of Asia, (which came to Jerusalem to the feast) saw him in the Temple, with great clamour and noise they stirred up the people, feigned this crime, that he had brought Trophimus, a Gentile of Ephesus, into the Temple, and had prophaned the Temple. And as they were about to kill him, there came the chief Captain (Claudius Lysias) with a band of men, and took Paul out of their hands, and led him into the Castles where, by the permission of the chief Captain, he spake unto the people as they were in the tumult, a speech in the Hebrew tongue. [Acts ibid. 17, 40.]
The Jews being enraged, and more vehemently crying out against him, by reason of his speech, the chief Captain commands him to be examined by scourging: from which punishment he is freed, by his declaring that he was a Roman: and when the chief Captain desired to know of what crime he was accused by the Jews; the next day he commanded the chief Priests and all their Council to come together, and set Paul before them, having loosed him from his bands. [Acts XXII.]
As Paul was beginning to plead his cause before the Council, Ananias the High Priest (the son of Nebideus, who, although he was deprived of the High Priesthood, yet seems to be President of the Council) as before him Annas, or Ananus was, that was the father in law of Caiphas) commanded him to be smitten on the mouth; wherefore he is severely rebuked of Paul, by the name of whited wall. Then Paul proclaiming openly that he was a Pharisee, and that he was called into judgement for the hope of the resurrection. Then arose a dissension between the Sadduces that accused him, and the Pharises that excused him: but the chief Captain fearing least he should be torn in pieces by them, as they were contending, took Paul from among them with his souldiers, and brought him into the Castle: to whom the Lord appearing the next night, comforted him as he was sad, and animates him to greater things, foretelling him that he must bear witnesse of him at Rome also. [Acts XXIII. 1, 11.]
And when it was day, more than fourty of the zealous Jews bound themselves under a curse, that they would neither eat not drink till they had killed Paul: which their laying in wait, the chief Captain knowing from Pauls sisters son, in the third hour of the night, he sent Paul with a guard of Souldiers to Felix, the Governour of the Province; by whom he is brought in the night to Antipatris, and the next day to Cesarea: where he is commanded by Felix to be kept in Herods judgement-hall. [Ibid. 12, 35.] All which things are to be acted within the space of one week; as may be understood, from Acts XXIV. verses. 1. and 11. compared together.
Five dayes after Paul being accused by Ananias and the Elders, by the mouth of Tertullus an Oratour, before the Governour at Cesarea, clears himself from their false accusations; twelve dayes after the violence that was offered him in the Temple, when as now Felix had governed the Jews many years, for this was now the tenth year of his government, he having heard them, defers his sentence to another time, commanding a Centurion that Paul should be kept, and to let him have liberty, and that none of his acquaintance should be forbiden to minister or come unto him. [Acts XXIV. 1, 23.]
After some dayes, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla which was a Jew, (the sister of King Agrippa) another Drusilla besides that was the wife of Felix, that was the daughter of Juba, the King of Mauritania, the Neice of Antony and Cleopatra, he called for Paul: and heard him trembling, reasoning of faith in Christ, righteousnesse, and temperance, and judgement to come; and he spake with Paul the oftener, hoping that he would redeem himself with money, having him in bonds two whole years. [Ibid. 24, 27.]
Corbulo had Tigranocerta yeilded unto him, who also subdued all Armenia. [Tacit. lib. 14. from the 13 chap. to the 26.]
Tigranes the son of Alexander (the son of that Alexander that was put to death by his father Herod the Great) and of Glaphira (the daughter of Archelaus the King of Cappadocia) who was kept Hostage at Rome a long time, even unto servile Patience was sent by Nero to take that kingdom, he was not received there by a general consent, the ancient love they bare the Arsacidae remaining still amongst some of them; but the most hating the pride of the Parthians, desired a King to be given them rather from Rome. He had also a guard given him, a thousand Legionary souldiers, three Band of allies, and two wings of Horse: to the end he might more easily defend his new kingdom. Part of Armenia as it lay nearest to every one, was commanded to obey, part Nipolis (Thrasipolis) part Aristobulus and Antiochus. [Id. ibid. cap. 26. with Joseph. lib. 18. cap. 7. fin.]
Corbulo went into Syria, that wanted a Governour by reason of the death of Ventidius (Numidius) Quadratus the Lieutenant there, and it was committed to his charge. [Tacit. lib. 14. cap. 26.]
In the same year Laodice one of the most famous Cities of Asia, destroyed by an Earthquake, recovered again by her own wealth. [Id. ibid. cap. 27.]
Tarquinius Priscus was condemned for extortion, Year of the World 4064 at the suite of the Bythinians, The Julian Period. 4774 at which the Senator greatly rejoyced, Year after Christ 61 remembring that his Proconsul Statibius Taurus, was condemned by him. [Id ibid. cap. 46. with lib. 12. cap. 59.]
There arose a contention at Cesarea Stratonis, between the Jews and the Syrians about the equallity of power in the City. The Jews being rich, reproached the Syrians, who though they were poorer in respect of wealth, yet they bore themselves high, by reason that many that served the Romans in their wars about those places, were country-men of Cesarea and Sebaste; and so gave the Jews as good as they brought. Afterwards they began to throw stones one at another, so that many were slain and hurt on both sides; but yet the Jews had the Victory: whom when Felix required to leave off their debate, and they obeyed not, he sent souldiers among them who killed many, and took many prisoners; and granted also to his souldiers the plunder of many rich houses: but the more honourable and fuller of modesty of the Jews fearing the like misery might befall themselves, besought Felix that he would sound a retreate, and to spare that which yet remained, and that he would pardon them upon their repentance: to which the Governour yeilded at their intreaty. [Joseph. lib 20. cap. 6.]
At the same time King Agrippa conferred the High Priesthood on Israel the son of Phabius. There arose also a dissention between the chief Priests and the rest of the Priests and Rulers of Jerusalem, and they each went guarded with a company of most bold and seditious men, who decided their debates with reproaches and throwing stones. Neither was there any to restrain them, as though the City wanted Magistrates: and the impudency of the High Priest grew to such an height, that they durst send their servants to the very corn-floores to take away the Tithes that were due to the Priests: so that many poor Priests died for want of food. So much did the violence of the seditious prevail above justice. [Id. ibid.]
Marke the Evangelist who first preached Christ at Alexandria, Year of the World 4065 died in the 8 year of Nero, and was buried at Alexandria; [Jerosme. Scriptor. Eccles. Catalog.] after whom the Elders of Alexandria chose one from among themselves, whom they placed in a higher degree, and called him a Bishop: after the manner, as if an army should chuse a General, or the Deacons chuse one from among themselves whom they know to be industrious, and should call him Arch-Deacon. [Id. in Epist. 85. ad Euagrium.] And they chose Anianus a man both dear unto God for his piety, and also admirable in all things: who was the first bishop of the Church of Alexandria after Mark, and was there twelve years. From the eighth year of Nero, to the fourth of Domitian, [Id. in Catalog. with Euseb. in Chronic. & Eccles. Histor. lib. 2. cap. 23. & lib. 3. cap. 12.]
Vologeses the King of the Parthians, The Julian Period. 4775 endeavours to restore his brother Tiridates that was thrust out of Armenia, Year after Christ 62 to which end he sent one army into Armenia, and another into Syria. Corbulo sends part of his army to Tigranes King of Armenia, and he himself drives the Parthians out of Syria, and so threatens the Parthians, that they leave off the war, and send Embassadors to sue for peace; who are dismissed by Nero, without their suit being granted: and Caesennius Paetus is preferred to be General for the defence of Armenia. [Tacit. lib. 15. cap. from 1. to the 7.]
Felix seeing this sedition between the Jews and Syrians of Caesarea still to continue, sent some of the Nobility of both sides as Embassadours to Nero, to argue their cause before him. [Joseph. lib. 2. bell. cap. 12.] He also sent prisoners to Rome for a very smal fault, some Priests, good and honest men, to plead their own cause before Nero. [Id. in his own Life.] He also left Paul the Apostle, whom he had kept prisoner two whole years at Cesarea, to shew the Jews a pleasure, still a prisoner there, when he had received Portius Festus from Nero his successour, in the Province. [Acts XXIV. 27.]
Festus, when he was come into the Province, after three dayes he ascended from Cesarea to Jerusalem: before whom when the High Priest, and the Rulers of the Jews accused Paul, desiring that he might be brought from Cesarea to Jerusalem, with an intent to lay wait and kill him in the journy. Which Festus refusing, commanded Pauls accusars to to come to Cesarea: and having tarried there not above ten dayes, he goes down to Cesarea; and the next day sitting in his Tribunal, he heard the Jews accusing Paul, and Paul clearing himself from their accusations: and Festus being willing to pleasure the Jews, asked Paul if he would be judged at Jerusalem before him, of that matter that he was accused of: Paul, who knew with what intent, and by whose advice he asked that question, and fearing some treachery from the Jews, denyed to go thither, and appealed to Caesar: whose appeal, Festus, after he had conferred with the Councel, admitted. [Acts XXV. 1, 12.]
After certain dayes, Agrippa the King, and Betenice his sister, came to Cesarea, to salute the new Governour: and when the had tarried there many dayes. Festus, not knowing what to write to Caesar concerning Paul, consulted with Agrippa about that businesse; who when he had said that he would willingly hear him himself. The next day Agrippa and Berenice with much pomp came into the place of hearing, together with the Captains, and the principal men of the City, and Paul, at Festus command, is brought out before them, being bound with a chain. [Ibid. 13, 27.] Who in an eloquent oration, so clears his innocency, that although to the Governour, who was ignorant of these things, he seemed to be mad; yet the King, who was exercised in the Scriptures, he had almost perswaded to be a Christian: and by the judgement of the whole Council, he was thought to have done nothing worthy of death or bonds, and that moreover he might have been set at liberty, if he had not appealed unto Cesar [Acts XXVI.]
The Rulers of the Jews that dwelt at Cesarea, went to Rome to accuse Felix, and he had suffered punishment for the injuries he had done the Jews, unlesse Nero had pardoned him at the intreaties of his brother Pallas, who was in great favour at that time with his Prince, [Jeseph. lib. 20. cap. 7.] Although afterward the same Pallas, because he kept from Nero an huge deal of mony by his living so long, may be thought to be poisoned by him this same year. [Tacit. lib. 14. cap. ult.]
Two principal men of the Syrians of Cesarea; with a great sum of mony, bribed Beryllus, who had been Nero's School-master, but was then his secretary for the Greek tongue, that he would get the Emperours letters pattents, by which the Jews might be deprived of all authority in the City, which they had in common with Syrian inhabitants; which thing he easily obtained. Which when the Jews of Cesarea understood, they continued in their seditions, even unto the beginning of the wars of the Jews, which took their beginning especially from hence. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 7.]
Festus coming into Judea, found it grievously afflicted with thieves, every where spoiling the Villages, of whom the most cruel were called cut-throats, of which there were a great number, from their short crooked swords, like the Persian Cymetre, with which thrusting themselves into the presse of people (as it is said) that came to Jerusalem to celebrate, as God commanded, their festival daies, they might easily kill as many as they would; who also being armed, went to the Villages of their enemies, and having plundered them, burnt them. [Ibid.] These Festus carefully pursued, and took great store of the thieves, and put not a few of them to death. [Id. lib. 2. bell. cap. 12. and beginning of 13.]
When it was decreed that Paul should be sent to Caesar, he was delivered to Julius, a Centurion of Augustus band, with some other prisoners: who put him into a ship of Adramytium, that was to go to Asia, Aristarchus of Macedonia, besides Timothy and Luke accompanying him; the next day they touched at Sidon, where Julius courteously entreating Paul, permitted him to go visit his friends, and to refresh himself: going from thence they sailed by Cyprus, because the winds were contrary. And when they had sailed over the sea of Cilicia and Pamphylia, they came to Myra, a City of Lycia: where when the Centurion had found a ship, whose signe was Castor and Pollux, going into Italy, he put the Captives in her: and when they had sailed slowly many dayes, were scarce come over against Cnidus, they sailed under Crete, over against Salmone, and hardly passing by it, they came to the fair Havens in the Isle of Crete. [Acts XXVII. 1, 8.]
When the fast (that solemn fast of the expiation, Year of the World 4066 used to be kept every year by the Jews on the seventh month, and tenth day) was past, and that sayling began to be dangerous, Paul foreseeing the dammage to come, advised them to winter there; but when that port seemed unconvenient to winter there, they determined to winter in another port of Crete called Phenice, and as they were sayling thither the southwind at the first favouring them, but a little after there arose a tempestuous wind called Euroclydon, by which they were carried to a little island called Clauda; then being caught and tossed by the great tempest, they lightned the ship, and the third day with their own hands they cast out the tackling of the ship, neither sun nor stars appearing for many daies, but when all hope of safety was taken away, it was revealed to Paul by an Angell in the night, that he must be brought before Caesar, and that God had given him all that sayled with him in the ship in the fourth watch of the night, as they were driven up and down in Adria, the shipmen deemed that they were nigh some countrey, which they found afterwards to be the island Melita, and as they strove to make in thither, the ship was broken by the violence of the tempest, but the men some swimming, and some on the plankes and broken pieces of the ship were all saved and came safe to land. [ibid. 9. 44.]
After they had escaped they were curteously received by the inhabitants of Melitus, who making a fire to dry their cloathes, and Paul standing in the chimney, shook off a viper from his hand and had no hurt, they were wrapt into admiration of him, and said he was a god, here they lodged three daies with Publius a chief man of the island, whose father lying sick of a feaver and the bloudy flux was healed by Paul, others also which had diseases in the island were healed. [XXVIII. I, 9.]
Cesennius Paetus, not having sufficiently fortified his wintering camps, nor provision of corn made, marcheth with all hast over the mount Taurus, and took a few Castles and some prey, and by long journeys having overrun the places he could not hold, and the provisions which he had taken, being corrupted, he came back again, and wrote letters to Caesar in high words, as though the war had been finished, but voide of matter. [Tacit. lib. 15. cap. 8.]
In the mean time Corbulo had a special care to furnish the bank of Euphrates with more Garisons, and frighted Vologeses from entring Syria. Whereupon Vologeses turned against Paetus, and pressed him so sore, that he forced him to a dishonourable peace, of which Monobazus, King of Adiabena, is called to be a witnesse. The Fortresses that Corbulo had built on the other side of Euphrates were demolished, and the Armenians left to their own wills. But at Rome there were Trophees and Tryumphal Arches set up in the middest of the Capitoline Mount, for honour of the victory over the Parthians, which were done by the decree of the Senate, the war being yet fresh, neither were they taken down, only for a fair shew, not regarding the truth. [Id. ibid. from cap. 9. to 18.]
Paul and his companions being highly honoured by them of Melitus, The Julian Period. 4776 and furnished with all things necessary, Year after Christ 63 after three monethmonth that they had been there, they went in a ship of Alexandria, that had wintered in the Island, and came to Syracuse: where they tarried three dayes; from whence fetching a compasse, they came to Rhegium, and within one day the South wind blew, and the next day they came to Pu…eoli, where they found brethren, who desired them that they would stay with them seven dayes, and so they went toward Rome, [Acts XXVIII. 10, 14.] in the ninth year of Nero's raign.
The brethren went from Rome to meet Paul as far as Appii Forum, and the three Taverns: and when they came to Rome, the Centurion delivered the prisoners to the Captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a Souldier that kept him. After three dayes, calling together the chief of the Jews that were at Rome, he declared unto them the cause, why he was sent prisoner to Rome, and that he was compelled to appeal unto Caesar. And when they denied that they had received any letter from Judea concerning him, but said, That this her esie was every where spoken against: and when they had appointed him a day, there came unto him to his lodging, to whom he expounded Christ out of the Law and the Prophets, from morning unto evening: and some assented unto the things that were spoken, and believed not: to whom after he pronounced their judgement out of Esaias; leaving them, he turned to the Gentiles, and he remained in his own hired house two whole years, and received all that came to him, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things that concerne the Lord Jesus Christ, no man forbidding him. [Acts XXVIII. 14. 31.]
Onesiphorus very diligently sought out Paul at Rome, and found him, and refreshed him. [II Tim. I. 16, 17.]
In the beginning of the Spring, the Embassadours of the Parthians brought to Rome the messages and letters of King Vologeses, desiring that Armenia (which they had already taken) might be given unto them, and that a peace might be confirmed. But both these things being denied, the government of Syria is committed to Cintius (as Governour) the management of the war to Corbulo: and the fifteenth Legion is brought out of Pannonia under the conduct of Marius Cellus. Also the Tetrarchs and Kings and Prefects and Governours, and those that ruled the neighbour Provinces, are commanded to obey Corbulo, in as high a manner, having his power enlarged, as Pompey had given him by the people of Rome, when he undertook the war against the Pirates. Paetus being commanded home, Nero thought it enough (when Paetus feared greater matters) to scoffe at him, saying, That he would presently pardon him, lest he that was so ready to be afraid, should fall sick with too much pensivenesse. [Tacit. lib. 15. cap. 24, & 25.]
Corbulo, after he had mustered his army, went into Armenia, where the Embassadours of Vologeses met him, and desire peace: but Tiridates being compelled to come into the Roman Camp; took off his Crown, and laid it at Caesars Image, and agreed to go to Rome to him to take it of him again: but with this condition, that he might first go visit his family and friends: in the mean time he leaves his daughter an Hostage, and delivered supplicatory letters to Nero. As he went away, he found Pacorus with the Medes, and Vologeses at Ecbatana. [Tacit. lib. 15. cap. from 26. to 31.]
In Judea Festus sent forces both of Horse and Foot against a certain impostor a Magician, who drew men after him into the Wildernesse, being deceived by his promises, that they should be freed from all their misfortunes; but those that went, and the seducer himself are killed by the souldiers that were sent. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 7.]
At the same time King Agrippa built a stately house near the porch in the Palace of Jerusalem, which in time past belonged to the Hasmoneans, and was situate in an high place, from whence a fair prospect lay open to all Jerusalem: which the chief men of Jerusalem taking ill, that for a private house the sacrifices and all things that were done in the Temple might easily be seen, built an high wall, which not onelyonly hindred the prospect of the Kings house, but of the west porch also without the Temple, in which the Roman souldiers kept guard on the Feast dayes, for the keeping of the Temple. At which act not onelyonly the king, but also Festus the Governour of the province was offended; and commanded to pull it down: But ten chief men (by his permission) were sent Embassadours to Nero about this businesse, together with Ismael the High Priest, and Chelcias the keeper of the holy Treasure. Nero having heard their Embassie, not onelyonly forgave the Jews, but suffered the way to stand as it did, gratifying herein his wife Poppea, who favouring the Jews Religion, became their intercessour, who also suffered the ten men to return, but kept Ismael and Chelcias as Hostages with her; which when Agrippa knew, he took away the High Priesthood from Ismael, and gave it to Joseph sirnamed Cabis, the son of Simon, sometime High Priest. [Id. ibid.]
Josephus the son of Matthias, hearing that some Priests his familiar friends that were sent prisoners to Rome by Felix, had not in their calamity cast off the care of their Religion, but that they lived on Nuts and Figs; that he might find some way to deliver them, in the 26 years of his age went to Rome, having passed many dangers in his journey by sea: for their ship being sunk in the middest of the Adriatick sea, for of 600 that had swam all night, about 80 that swam more fortunately were taken into a ship of Cyrene and so saved. Among whom was Josephus, who being set ashore, came to Dicearcha, (or Puteoli, as the Italians call it) where he falls into the acquaintance of one Aliturus a Player, who was a Jew, and in reputation with Nero: by him he was made known to Poppea the Empresse, and by her means presently got the Priests free. [Id. in his Life.]
Festus dying in the Province, Nero sent Albinus his successour into Judea. But King Agrippa took away the High Priesthood from Joseph, and gave it to Ananus, the son of Annas, or that Ananus who had enjoyed formerly the High Priesthood even to satiety, he had five sons that enjoyed that dignity, which had never happened to any of the High Priests before. [Id. lib. 20. cap. 8.]
Ananus the new High Priest of the sect of the Sadduces, a bold and heady man, thinking it a fit time seeing Festus was dead, and Albinus on his way, called a Council of the Judges, and brought James the brother of Jesus before them, who with some other accused of transgressing the Law, he delivers to be stoned. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 8.] This James the brother of the Lord, in the time of the Passeover was thrown down from a pinacle of the Temple and stoned, and one of them which was a Fuller, with a bar with which he was wont to presse his cloaths, strook him on the head with it and killed him. This Eusebius relates in the fifth book of the History of Hegesippus, [lib. 2. Histor. Ecclesiast. cap. 22.]
This murder of James much displeased all the good men, and observerers of the Law. Whereupon they sent a messenger privately to King Agrippa, desiring him that he would command Ananus that no such thing should be done any more. Some also met Abinus as he came from the City of Alexandria, and informed him that Ananus had no power to call a Council without his leave. He being perswaded by their words, wrote a sharp letter to Ananus, wherein he threatned to punish him: and Agrippa also for the same cause within three moneths took the High Priesthood from him, and gave it to Jesus the son of Damaces. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 8.] But among the Christians, after the death of James, Simon the son of Cleophas is constituted Bishop of the Church of Jerusalem. [Euseb. lib. Histor. Ecclesiast. cap. 26.]
Albinus as soon as he came to Jerusalem, he employed all his care and study, that he might keep the Country in quiet, by putting to death many theeves: and Ananus the High Priest (the son of Nebedeus) increased every day more and more in the love and esteem of the people, and he was honoured of all men for his liberality; and Albinus also daily honoured the High Priest for his gifts. But Ananias had very bad servants, who getting a company of headstrong men, went from farme to farme, and took away the T…he of the Priests, and beat those that refused to render them. Some of the Priests also did the same, no body being able to restrain them: and many of the Priests that were maintained by the Tithes, were even starved for hunger. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 8.]
The theeves at the Feast that then was (of Pentecost) entred Jerusalem by night and took alive the Secretary of Captain Eleazar the son of Ananias the High Priest. Him they carried away, and then sent to Ananias, one that should promise in their name, that if he would perswade Albinas to free ten of theirs that he had taken captive, they would deliver the Secretary: which thing Ananius obtained of Albinus, meer necessity compelling it. This was the beginning of greater calamities; for the theeves alwayes found some trick to intercept some of Ananias his kindred, whom they would never deliver, until they had freed some of their own; wherefore being increased both in boldnesse and number, they spoiled the whole Country, [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 8.]
At this time King Agrippa enlarged the walls of Cesarea Philippi, and changing the name, called it Neronias: at Berytus also he built a Theatre at huge charges, and set forth every year sports, for which he assigned a great sum of money. He also gave to the people of Berytus corn, and oil to each man: and he adorned that City with Statues, set up in divers places, and with Images of antick work, and transferred almost all the Ornaments of his kingdom into that City: for which cause his subjects began to hate him, because he disfurnished them of their Ornaments, to adorne a strange City. [Id. ibid.]
Four years before the Jewish war, Year of the World 4067 (that was managed by Vespasian) when the City of Jerusalem enjoyed both peace and plenty, one Jesus the son of Ananus, a country man, and one of the common people, coming to the Feast of Tabernacles, began suddenly to cry out; A voice from the East, a voice from the West, a voice from the four Winds; a voice against Jerusalem and the Temple, a voice against new married man and women, a voice against all this people: and crying thus night and day, he went thorough all the streets of the City. Some of the Nobility disdaining any token of adversity, took the fellow and scourged him with many stripes: but he spake nothing secretly for himself, nor unto them that scourged him, but continued still in the same cry. But the Magistrates thinking it rather to be some motion in him from God, brought him to the Roman Captain, where being beaten till his bones appeared, he neither made intreaty, nor shed a teare; but as well as he could framing a weeping voice, at every stroke, he answered, Wo, Wo, to Jerusalem, Albinus then asked them, who he was, and where he was born, and why he still cryed after this manner; but he answered nothing; yet he ceased not to bewail the City, till Albinus thinking he was mad, suffered him to depart. He cryed thus most on the Feast dayes, and that for 7 years space (or rather 6, as it is in Phot. Biblioth. cod. 47.) and five moneths, and yet was neither hoarse nor weary; at last he was killed by a stone shot out of an Engin, in the time of the siege. [Id. lib. 7. bell. cap. 12.]
At the command of King Agrippa, Jesus the son of Gamaliel succeeded in the High Priesthood, Jesus the son of Damneus very unwillingly yeilding it up. Whereupon there arose a discord between them; for having gotten to them companies of resolute young fellows, they came from words, to throwing of stones; but amongst the rest Ananias was richest, and by his bounty got most of his side. Costabarus also and Saul got each of them a band of rascally people, these were of the Blood-Royal, and beloved for their neernesse of blood to Agrippa, yet were violent, and as ready as any too in spoiling the weaker sort. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 8.]
From this time especially began the Common-wealth of the Jews every day to grow worse and worse, [Id. ibid.] and the seeds of the future destruction were then sown, through multitudes of Commanders that then governed. [Id. lib. 2. belli. cap. 13.]
But Albinus the Governour did not only take away from private men their goods, under colour of justice, but burdened the Nation in general by exaction of greater tribute; but even those thieves that the souldiers of the City had taken, and those whom the former governours had left in prison, he set free, if their kindred would give him mony; and he that did not give him mony was kept in prison as a most hainous offender. [Id. ibid.]
At the same time also, the insolencie of them that desired innovation in the City of Jerusalem increased; of whom those that were rich, bribed Albinus to wink at their moving sedition, and the common people that could not be in quiet, joyned themselves with Albinus his party. Each of them had a troop of rascall people about him, and Albinus himself vvas over them all as a Tyrant and a Prince of the Thieves, and used the help of his guard to rob the meaner sort: and so it vvas that those vvhose houses vvere ransacked, held their peace, and those that escaped vvere glad to be officious to them, that they knevv deserved death, for fear they should suffer the same things. [Ibid.]
Nero, Rome being on a fire, beheld the burning of it from Mecenas tower, and being much delighted with the beauty of the flames, sang the destruction of Troy in his plaiers habit, likening the present evill to the old ruines, [Tacit. lib. 15. cap. 38, 39, 40. Sueton. in Neron. cap. 38. Xiphilin in Dion.] some there were that noted, that this fire began on the XIV. Kalends of July, on which the Senones after they had taken the City set it on fire, others went so far in their curiosity, that they reckoned the very daies and moneths that were between the two burnings, [Tacit. ibid. cap. 41.] as if they had said there were just between them 448. yeares, 5376. moneths, and 167632. daies.
For to extinguish the rumour, Nero falsely accused, and punished most grievously with exquisite torment, those whom the vulgar called Christians, first therefore they were apprehended, w…o confessed themselves Christians, then an huge multitude are convicted by their detection, not so much for setting the City on fire, as for the hatred of all men against them, scornes also were added to their sufferings, some were covered with beasts skins to be torn with dogs, some were crucified, and some burnt, and when the day failed, they were burnt to give light by night. Nero made his garden fit for that spectacle, and set forth shews in the Cirgue, when he himself was among the common people in the habit of a waggoner, or standing in airing whereupon pitty was taken on them, seeing they suffered not for any common good, but to satisfie one mans cruelty, [Tacit. lib. 15. cap. 44.] for the illustrating of which the words of an old Scholiast are brought, upon that of Juvenal in his first Satyr.
Pone Tigellinum: taeda lucebis in illa,
Qua stantes ardent qui fixo gutture fumant.
Thou shalt be made a torch by night to shine
And burn impal'd: name thou but Tigilline.
If thou touch Tigillinus, thou shalt be burnt alive, as it was in the shews of Nero, of whom he commanded torches to be made, that they might give light to the spectatours; and they were fastned through their throat that they might not bow themselves. Nero cloathed Malefactours with pitch paper and wax, and so set them to the fire.
This was the first persecution that was raised against the Christians by the Roman Emperours, of which Suetonius as an heathen man speakes in Nerone. cap. 16. The Christians are punished a kind of men of a new and pernicious superstition, but Tertullian as a Christian in his Apologetick cap. 5. Search your records, then you shall find, that Nero was the first that used Caesars sword against this sect at that time much increasing at Rome: but we glory in such a dedicatour of our condemnation, for he that understands himself, cannot but understand that nothing can be condemned by Nero but some great good.
Cestius Gallus is by Nero sent Governour into Syria and Gessius Florus into Judea, Year of the World 4068 this Florus was a Clazomenian by birth, he married Cleopatra a wicked woman: by whose meanes, as being a friend of the Empresse Poppaea, she got this government for him. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 9.]
Alo…us hearing that Florus was come to succeed him, and willing to gratifie the Citizens of Jerusalem, he called before him all the prisoners, and those that were notoriously guilty of any capitall crime he put to death, the rest, who for smaller offences were cast in prison, he remanded them to prison against, and delivered them upon their fines, and after this manner the prisons were emptied, but Judea was filled with theives. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 8.]
In the mean time, the Levites whose office was to sing hymnes in the Temple, went to King Agrippa, and by their entreaty perswaded him, that he would call a councill, and permit unto them the use of the linnen roab, which was then onelyonly granted, to the Priests, for said they, this new custome would conduce much for the perpetuall memory of his reign. Wherefore the King by the advice of his council, permitted to those that sang the hymnes, that laying aside their former habit, they should wear a linnen garment as they desired, at their entreaty also he allowed another part of the same tribe, that vvas addicted to the services of the temple to learn to sing the sacred hymnes. [ibid.]
The Philippians sent Epaphroditus with money to Rome, to visit Paul in prison, and to minister to him in his necessities, who joyning himself to Paul, as both an helper and fellow souldier for the work of Christ, making no account of his life, put himself in danger of death, for he fell into a grievous disease. [Philip. II. 25, 30, with IV. 10, 14, 18.]
Paul being aged and in prison gained to Christ, Onesimus a servant that fled from Colosse from his Master Philemon. [Philem. 9, 10, 15. with Coloss. IV.]
Timotheus, that was kept prisoner with Paul, is set at liberty. [Hebrews XIII. 23.]
Paul wrote the Epistle to the Philippians by Epaphraditus, after he had recovered his health, hoping also that in a short time he should send Timotheus unto them, as soon as he shall know their state, trusting also that he himself shall come shortly unto them, [Philip. II. 2, 19, 29.] at which time Pauls bonds for Christ were famous in all the Court, some even of Caesars Pallace being converted to the faith. [Cap. I. 12, 13. & IV. 12.] For being sent into prison by Caesar, he was more known in his family, and so made the house of persecution the Church of Christ. [Jerosm. in Comment. to Philemon.]
Paul writes an Epistle to Colosse to Philemon, by his servant Onesimus, in which he reconciles and commends him to his Master, signifying that he hopes he shall be freed from prison, and desiring him to prepare him a lodging: and by the same Onesimus and Tychicus, Paul wrote an Epistle out of Prison, to the Colossians, whom he had never seen, but were instructed in the doctrine of Christ by Epaphras. [Coloss. I. 7, 8. & II. 1. IV. 7, 9, 18.] At that time besides Timothy (whose name is prefixt to both the Epistles) there were with Paul at Rome) of the circumcision, his companion in bonds, Aristarchus of Thessalonica, [Acts XX. 4.] Mark, Barnabas his sisters son, concerning whom he gives the Colossians command to receive him, if he come unto them, and Je…us which is called Justus; of the others, Luke the beloved Phisitian, Demas and Epaphras, whose great affection the Apostle commends not to the Colossians onelyonly, (with whom Archippus supplied his ministery, now he was absent) but also towards them that are of Laodicea and Hierapolis. [Col. IV. 10, 14. 17. Philem. 23, 24.]
The same Tychicus, the companion of his travel from Asia. [Acts XX. 4.] Paul sent them also into Asia, that from him the brethren might know his affairs, with an Epistle wrote by him to the Ephesians. [Ephes. VI. 21, 22.] Which Tertullian [lib. 5. against Marcion. cap. 11. & 17. and Epiphanius in Haeres. 42.] shews was said by Marcion the Heritick, to be that that underwent the name of the Epistle to the Laodiceaens: which Grotius thinks to be credible enough to be done by him out of the credit of the Church of Laodicea, affirm…ng that there was no cause why he should tell a lie in this businesse: and gathers from thence that the Epistle to the Ephesians, and also to the Laodiceans, was written in the same words: where it is to be noted in some old books (as it appears out of the second lib. of Basil, against Eunomius, and of Jeroms Commentary upon this place of the Apostle) it was generally intituled foreign, or (as it was wont to be done in the copies of letters that were to be sent to divers places, To the Saints which are at 0000000, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus, as if it had been sent first to Ephesus, as the Metropolis of Asia: and thence to be sent to the rest of the Churches of that Province, (the name of each Church being interserted) to some of which, whom Paul never saw, those words of his seem especially to look. After I heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and love unto all the Saints, [cap. 1. 15.] and, if ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward, &c. [cap. III. 24.] which perhaps Marcian thought might rather agree to the Laodiceans, who had not seen the Apostle present▪ in body, [Colos. II. 1.] than to the Ephesians, with whom he conversed so long together. [Acts XIX. 8, 10. XX. 31.]
About the same time Paul wrote the Epistle to the Hebrews, Timothy being set at liberty, but gone from him some whither for a time, with whom if he come shortly, he promiseth to see them; in the mean time he sent them salutations from the brethren from Italy. [Heb. XXIII. 23, 24.]
The building of the Temple being now finished, The Julian Period. 4778 and the people seeing that about 180000 workmen lived idely, Year after Christ 65 that were heretofore wont to get their living by working in the Temple; and being loath that the Holy Treasure should be reserved for a prey to the Romans, and desiring also to provide for the workmen, so that if they wrought but one hour they were presently paid: they perswaded King Agrippa, to repair the Eastern Porch; this Porch hung over a deep and narrow valley, and was upheld by a wall of 400 cubits high, the length of every stone being 20 cubits, and the thicknesse six. This was the work of King Solomon, who first built the Temple. But the King, to whose care claudius Caesar had committed the charge of the Temple, thinking with himself, that any great building might easily be pulled down, but hardly set up, especially this Porch, that would cost much time and much mony, denyed their request; but yet forbad them not to pave their City with white stone, if they would. [Joseph. lib. 28. cap. 8.]
Paul, the two years in which being detained in free custody, he taught the Gospel at Rome, being ended, [Acts XXIII. 30.] he seems to have gone from thence into Asia, and at Colosse to have lodged with Philemon. [Philem. 22.]
In the feast day of unleavened bread, which fell this year on the eighth day of Xanthicus, or April, about nine of the clock at night, between the Altar and the Temple, there shined such a light, that it might have been thought to be midday, which continued half an hour. In the same feast day also, a Cow that was led to sacrifice, brought forth a Lamb in the middle of the Temple. The East Gate also of the Temple, being brasse and mighty heavy, and at evening could scarce be shut by twenty men, and was locked with bars of Iron, and had bolts that were let down deep into a threshold, made all of one stone, was seen, about six of the clock in the night, to open of its own accord. These things being told the Magistrate by the keepers of the Temple, as they went their round, he came up himself, and could scarce shut it. [Joseph. lib. 2. bell. 12.]
On the 2… day of Artemisius, or May, before Sun set, there were seen in the aire Iron Chariots all over the Country, and armies in battle array, passing along in the clouds, and begirting the City: and in the Feast of Pentechost, the Priests going into the inner Temple by night, according to their custom, to celebrate divine service, at first they found the place to move and make a noyse, and afterwards they heard a sudden voice, which said, Let us depart hence. [Joseph. ibid.]
Paul preacheth the Gospel in the Isle of Crete, where he left Titus, that he might set in order the things that were wanting, and ordain Elders in every City there. [Titus. I. 5.]
King Agrippa having taken the Priesthood from Jesus, the son of Gamaliel, gave it to Matthias, the son of Theophilus, the beginning of the Jewish war was when he was High Priest. [Joseph. lib. 20. cap. 8.]
Josephus having received many gifts from the Empresse Poppea, and returning into his own Country, found among them perfect signes of innovations, and rebellions, whom he in vain endeavours to diswade from their unhappy undertakings. [Id. in his Lif….]
For Gessius Florus so outragiously abused his author…ty, that the Jews desired Albinus again, as one that was their benefactour; for he was wicked and injurious as privately as he could possibly. But contrariwise Florus, as if he had been sent to make open shew of his villanies, bragged publickly of the injuries he did the Nation, leaving nothing undone to the height of iniquity in rapines and punishments: he was inflexible to any mercy, unsatiable in his gainings, equally snatching at small and great things, so much that he went shares with the thieves, for many used that trade, and paid part of the booty to him; there being no means or end of their injuries, so that the miserable Jews not able to endure the ravening insolencies of the thieves, were constrained to abandon both their houses and religion, and to fly to strange Countries, judging that they might more commodiously live any where, even among Barbarians. [Id. lib. 20. Antiquit. cap. 9. & lib. 2. bell. 2. cap. 13.]
Poppea, Nero's wife, being great with child and sick, upbraided Nero, as he returned late from driving his Chariot, whom in his anger he killed, with a kick of his foot; this was after the end of his quinquennal pastime celebrated the second time, for Nero his first prize was instituted in the LX. year of Christ. [Sueton. in Nero. cap. 35. Tacit. lib. 16. cap. 2. 6.]
Paul having staied sometime at Ephesus, left Timothy there, whilst he went thence into Macedonia, that Timothy might govern that Church in his absence, [I. Tim. I. 3. III. 14, 15.] being in Macedonia he tarried with the Philippians, as he had formerly promised them. [Phil. I. 25, 26. & II. 24.]
Paul wrote his former Epistle to Timothy, Year of the World 4069 in which he declares that he had delivered Hymaeneus and Alexander, making shipwrack of the Faith, over to Satan, that being chastised they might learn not to blaspheme, [I Tim. I. 20.] for Hymenaeus did deny the Resurrection to come, as did Philetus, saying, that it is past already, [II Tim. II. 17, 18.] and Alexander was that Coppersmith, that did Paul so much evil, and so greately withstood his preaching. [II Tim. IV. 14, 15.]
Paul also wrote another Epistle to Titus into Crete, desiring that when he shall send Artemus or Tychicus unto him, he would come to him to Nicopolis, (famoused for the Victory at Actium) where he appointed to winter, and also that he should bring diligently Zenas the Lawyer, and Apollo on their journey, that they should want nothing. [Tit. III. 12, 13.]
Winter being past, The Julian Period. 4779 Paul returned to Ephesus to Timothy: Year after Christ 66 and went to Troas and there left his cloak. Erastus abode at Corinth, of which he was Chamberlain, [Rom. XVI, 23.] Paul left Trophimus at Miletum sick. [I Tim. III. 14. II Tim. IV. 13. 20.]
Cestius Gallus coming from Antioch to Jerusalem, desiring to signifie to Nero the strength and flourishing estate of the City, who contemned the Nation, desired of the High Priests, if it were possible, that they would number the multitude: and they (for it was the day of the Passeover) killed sacrifices from the ninth hour to the eleventh, and there were 255600 sacrifices, to the eating of which, ten, and sometime twenty, met to each sacrifice. [Joseph. lib. 7. belli. cap. 17. Latin. Edit. or lib. 6. cap. 45. Edit. Graec.]
There came about Gallus a multitude, not lesse than 300000 Jews and besought him, that he would take pity on the calamities of their Nation, calling upon him that he would remove Florus that plaguer of their Common-wealth. Who although he was in the sight of the people, and in Gallus his presence, was not onelyonly not moved, but laughted at their cryes against him. Cestius at that time appeasing the rage of the people, promising that he would make Florus more gentle unto them, went back again unto Antiochia. Florus brought him as far a Cesarea, deceiving him with lyes, devising with himself to make a war upon the Nation of the Jews, by which way onelyonly he thought he could best hide his own villanies; for as long as the peace continued, he should alwayes have the Jews his accusers to Caesar: but if he could make them revolt, that then the envy of his lesser impieties would be taken from him by their greater offence: and to the end that the Nation might revolt from the Roman Empire, he more earnestly every day increased their calamities. [Idem. lib. 2. bell. cap. 12.] Paul coming to Rome the second time, is heard and quitted by Nero: of which thus himself in [II Tim. IV. 16, 17.] In my first answer, no man stood with me, but all forsook me: I pray God it be not laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the Lion. So that as before for two years, so now again for an whole year, he preached the Gospel to all Nations that came from every place flocking to Rome, as their common Country.
Demas left Paul, embracing the present world, and went to Thessalonica: Crescens into Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia, onelyonly Luke remained with Paul at Rome. [II Tim. IV. 10, 11.]
There was an old and constant opinion that was commonly talked of over all the East: that there was a Prophesie, that there should come from Judea those that should be masters of all. It was afterwards manifest by the event that this was foretold of the Roman Emperour. The Jews applying this Prophesie to themselves rebelled. Saith Suetonius [in Vespasiano. cap. 4.] The Jews patience endured [Saith Tacitus lib. Hist. 5. cap. 10.] until Gessius Florus was Governour; under him the war began, to wit, in the Artemisian monethmonth, or our May; in the twelfth year of Neros Empire, the 17 of the reign of Agrippa, the second of the government of Gessius Florus. [Joseph. lib. 1. belli. cap. 13. & lib. 20. Antiquit. cap. ult.] We have fully described by Josephus in the later part of the second book, and the five following books, the History of that war: a breviary of which we have hither transferred, taken out of the abridgement of the Jewish History of that most eminent man Ludovicus Capellus.
Nero passing into Graecia, tarried there till winter. [Xiphilin. ex Dion.]
King Agrippa in a long Oration dehorts the Jews from war, but in vain; for a little while after he was gone from Jerusalem, some of the seditious possesse themselves of the strong Castle Massada unawares, and put to the sword all the Romans they found there. At Jerusalem also Eleazar the son of Ananias the High Priest, and Commander of the souldiers of the Temple, a bold and factious young man, perswaded the Priests that they should not offer any sacrifices, but onelyonly of the Jews, nay not those that were to be offered for Caesar or the Romans. Which rash act when the Governours of the City, being peaceable men, judged to be intolerable, and saw that it was an argument of open rebellion, yet could they not diswade the seditious from this opinion, whereupon they sent messengers to Cesarea to Florus, and to King Agrippa, desiring them that they would presently send forces, and represse the rebellion in the beginning. Florus, who did desire there should be a revolt, neglected it: but Agrippa sent a thousand horsemen, who together with the rulers and Priests, and the rest of the multitude that loved peace, seized upon and held the upper City against the seditious who kept the temple and the lower City, there were continuall skirmishes between them for seven daies together, but upon the feast day of their carrying wood into the temple, many murderers were received into the temple, who with the rest, set upon the Kings souldiers, and forcing them from the upper part of the City, drove them into Herods pallace, and burnt the place where the records were kept, and the pallace of the Hasmonaeans (which was then Agrippa's court) and Ananias the High-Priests house, the next day which was the 15. of August, they take the Castle of Antonia after two daies siege, kill all the Roman souldiers there, and set the Castle on fire. A little after they set upon the Kings pallace, (Manahemus the son of Judas Galilaeus being then Captain, who after he had taken the Castle of Massada, and plundered Herods armory, brought his murderers armed into Jerusalem,) which having taken and burnt, Manahemus seizeth upon the tyranny, but immediately after he is killed in the Temple as he was at his prayers, by Eleazar the Captain of the Temple, his guard also are thrust out, vvho return to Massada, Eleazar the son of Jairus being their Captain, vvho vvas a kin to Manahemus, the seditious also of Jerusalem upon the very Sabbath day put to death the Romans, who after the pallace was won by assault, had retired into the Castles of Hippico, Phasaelus, and Mariamme, where being besieged, and yielding upon composition, and delive…ing their armes, yet against their oath, were put to death.
The same day at Cesarea, all the Jews that dwelt there; at the instigation of Florus are massacred by the heathens of Cesarea to the number of 20000. by which the Jews through the whole Countrey are so vexed, that they wast all the villages of the Syrians and the neighbour Cities as Philadelphia, Gerasa, Ptolemais, Pella, Scythopolis, Gadara, Hippo, Gaulanitis, Sebaste, Ascalon, Anthedon, and Gaza. Then there was a generall slaughter by the Syrians, of the Jews that went through all Syria, partly out of the old hatred against the Jews, and their religion, and partly for the love of plunder, and desire of revenge, onelyonly they of Antiochia, Apamea, an… Sidonia spared the Jews that dwelt amongst them, but at Alexandria the Metrop…lis of Egypt, upon a sedition that was raised there were in one day 50000. Jews killed, by two Roman legions that were let in upon them.
Cestius Gallus, the Governours of Syria being vexed with the commotions, comes from Antioch into Judea with the 12 Legion and the King Agrippa's souldiers, and other forces, and from Ptolemais invades Joppe and burnes it, he sends Cesennius Gallus into Galilea, which he pacifies being entertained at Sephoris, and comes to Cesarea.
Peter and Paul are warned by revelation from the Lord, of their approaching departure out of this life. [II. Pet. 1, 14. II. Tim. IV. 6, 7.]
Peter wrote his second epistle to the Hebrews dispersed through Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bythinia. [II. Pet. III. 1. with I. Pet. I. 1.]
Paul sent his second epistle to Timothy to Ephesus, by Tychicus, where the family of Onesiphorus was: after Aquila and Priscilla having left Rome, were returned thither again, [II. Tim. IV. 12, 19.] in which he desires Timothy that he …ould come to him before winter, and bring with him Mark, as very profitable for h… to the ministery, [ibid. 9. 11, 21.] and sends him salutations from Eubulus Puden… and Linus, and Claudia. [ibid. 21.]
Cestius Gallus in the feast of Tabernacles, Year of the World 4070 after he had burnt Lydda, marcheth towards Jerusalem, whom the men of Jerusalem meet about sixty furlongs ftom thence, and there fight a perilous battle near Bethoron, but fresh forces coming to Cestius, he forceth them into the City, into which he also brake, the fourth of October, and held the lower part of the City, (as also Bezetha, and Caenopolis) then he assaults the Temple and the upper City, and had easily taken it, if he had more valiantly continued the assault, the people favouring the Romans, and the seditious onelyonly withstanding them.
But Cestius when he was near taking the Temple, without any good reason why, raised the siege, and retreates to Antipatris, having lost in his march many both Romans and auxiliaries, and many also killed by the Jews who pursued them, with a great part of their baggage and ammunition, and engins and slings, and other armes that the Romans threw away in their flight, which afterward the Jews made use of for their own defence against the siege of Titus. And this was done on the eighth of November in the twelfth year of Nero: (to wit, being ended) for the thirteeneth year of Nero had begun on the thirteeneth of the precedent October.
The Jews puffed up with this Victory being returned to Jerusalem, create Joseph the son of Gorion, and the High Priest Governours of the City, and send many Commanders into each Provinces, and Governments of places; and among the rest they send Joseph, (the writer of this war of the Jews) into Galilee: in which after he had fortified many Towns, and walled them, and ordered all things for to endu…e a war, he expected the invasion of the Romans.
In the mean while there are many commotions, and many and frequent rebellions of the Cities against him, by the subtilty and fraud of John the son of a certain Levit, and by the envy of some of the Governours of Jerusalem, who desired to have the government of Galilee taken from him; but Joseph brake the neck of all their endeavours, arts, and councils, and avoided them by his prudence and patience; who also forced that John to flee to Jerusalem with his forces out of Giscala a Town of Galilee which he had fortified. But at Jerusalem Ananias the Governour of the City, prepares all things necessary for the sustaining of the war, repaires the walls, and provides that warlike instruments, and darts, and armes, be made thorough the whole City. He endeavours to reconcile those that they called the Zelots, but in vain. He endeavours also to apprehend Simon the son of Giora, who exercised the every, and affected the Tyranny, by sending souldiers against him; but he with his party fled to the theeves that kept Massada, from whence they with their robberies infested all the Country of Judea and Idumaea.
Moreover Cestius having sent messengers to Nero (who was then in Acha…a) declares unto him the troubled state of Judea. Nero being much moved with this news, commands Vespasian thither, and Vespasian having received this command, sent his son Titus to Alexandria, to bring from thence the fifth and tenth Legion into Judea, and he himself goes by land from Achaia into Asia, and from thence comes into Syria and Antiochia.
Peter and Paul had foretold at Rome, The Julian Period. 4780 that it should come to passe that after a little time, Year after Christ 67 God would send a King that should overcome the Jews, and that should lay their City equal with the ground, and should besiege them being pined with hunger and thirst: and then it should come to passe that they should eat one the other, and consume one the other; and at last, that they should come into their enemies hands, and should see their wives most greivously tormented in their sight, and their virgins to be violated and prostituted; their sons to be torne asunder, and their little ones to be dashed a pieces: and to be short, all things to be wasted by fire and sword, and themselves for ever banished out of their own lands, and all this because they exalted themselves above the most loving and approved son of God. [Lactan. lib. 4. cap. 21.]
Vespasian at Antioch gathers together the Roman forces and the aides from the Kings, from whence he comes to Ptolemais, and recovers Sepphoris that favoured the Romans.
Titus came to his father to Ptolemais sooner then could have been hoped for, by reason of winter; their own forces and the auxiliaries being come together, are in number threescore thousand of Horse and Foot, besides their servants and the baggage.
Vespasian inroding Galilee, burnt and wasted the City of the Gadarens, which he took at the first assault; thence coming to Jotapata on the 21 day of May, he fights against it.
On the 29 of June (which last day of that monethmonth falls to be within the reign of Nero) Paul was beheaded at Rome: as the Records both of the Easterne and Westerne Church confirm: whereupon Chrysostom undoubtedly affirms, that the day of his death was more certainly known, then that of Alexander himself, [in II Cor. Homil. 26.] Dionysius the Bishop of the Corinthians affirms in an Epistle to the Romans, that Peter also suffered Martyrdom at the same time with him, [in Eusebius, lib. 2. Histor. Ecclesiast. cap. 24.] whom also Origin relates in the third Tome of his Commentaries upon Genesis, that at Rome he was crucified with his head downwards (as he had desired) [ …bid. lib. 3. Hist. cap. 1.] the prediction of Christ being then fulfilled which he made upon him, [John XXI. 18, 19.] When thou art old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.
Vespasian after fourty dayes siege takes Jotapata by force, and overthrows it, and burns it, after it was valiantly defended by Joseph, who was Governour then, on the Kalends of June, in the 13 year of Nero, he takes Joseph as he lay hid in a Cave, gives him his life, but keeps him prisoner.
Jotapata being destroyed, Vespasian retires with his army to Cesarea, and there places two Legions, to refresh themselves after the siege, a third to the same end and purpose he sends to Scythopolis; he himself goes to Cesarea Philippi, where he with his army is feasted by King Agrippa for twenty daies: there he prepares for the sieges of Tiberias and Tarichea, they of Tiberias immediately yield, and at the intreaty of King Agrippa it is granted that the City shall not be rased, but Taricha, after it had suffered a siege, is taken by storm.
These Cities being recovered or overthrown, almost all Galilee inclined to the Romans, except Gamala in Gaulanitis, and Giscala, and the Mountain Itaburium.
Gamala, Year of the World 4071 after an whole moneths siege was taken the 23 of October, and overthrown: and a little after also the Mountain Itaburium was taken by the Romans. Titus sets upon Giscala, which was kept by John, with his party of the seditious. John seems to like of the conditions of peace that were offered by Titus, but in the night he with his party fled out of the City, and betakes himself to Jerusalem. Titus spares the City, but puts a Garison there, and comes to Cesarea, but Vespasian going from Cesarea to Iamnia and Azotus, conquers them both, and returns again to Cesarea.
In the mean while there was a great dissention thorough all Judea, some desiring war, others being willing to remain under the protection of the Romans. Whereupon there were whole troups of thieves gathered together, all over Judea, who plundered them, that were desirous of peace; and being loaded with their plunder, were received into Jerusalem, and there fill all things with murders, dissensions, discords, and rapines, and first they cast Antipas, and a great many Noble men, and the chief of the City into prison, and shortly after put them to death, without any trial, falsely accusing them, that they would have delivered the City to the Romans: and when the people would have risen up against them, they seize upon the Temple, and use it as a Bullwork against the people, and there create an High Priest by lots, one Phannius, (or Phanazus) a rude and unskilful man, and one that was not of the order of the Priesthood.
Against these Zelots, (for so they called themselves) Ananus, and the Nobler Priest, stir up and arme the people, and set upon them in the very Temple, and force them into the inner Temple. The Zelots sent letters privately to the Captains of the Idumeans, wherein they accuse Ananus of treachery; and complain, that whilst they are fighting for liberty, they are besieged in the Temple, and call the Idumeans to their assistance. They presently fly thither with 20000 men, and being privately let into the City and Temple by night by the Zelots, there is great slaughter, and burnings, and rapines made by both sides upon them of Jerusalem. For there were 80000 killed that night, and in the following dayes they killed Ananus, and others of the nobility, to the number of 12000, besides an infinite number of the common people. But a little after the Idumeans began to repent themselves, when they saw the wickednesse of the Zelots, and could perceive no signe of treachery in the Nobility, (of which they were accused) and so setting at liberty 2000 which they held in prison, the Idumeans left Jerusalem, and returned home: they being gone, the Zelots began to use more cruelty against the Nobility than formerly, for they would not suffer the Noble men, after they had slain them, to be buried, but those especially, who they suspected, that they would fly to the Romans: for they kept all the passages, and diligently observed them that would fly, whom they killed, and let them lye unburied.
In the mean time there arose a dissention amongst the Zelots, that John who fled from Gescala to Jerusalem, affecting their Tyranny, and others not induring him to be their superiour, who they before had accounted their equal; but they thus disagreeing among themselves, were very unanimous, in the robbing of the common people, nay all Judea, as if it followed the example of the Metropolis, to wit, Jerusalem, was very full of thieves, and most miserably vexed.
With these discords, by which the Jews destroyed each orher, and by the cries of those that fled to him, intreating to preserve and free their Country from this sedition, Vespasian was incited, and prepares for the siege of Jerusalem, and that he might leave nothing behind him, to trouble him, whilst he was at the siege at Jerusalem; he comes with his army to Gadara, to quench those relicks of war and tumult, is the Country beyond the River, he being called thither by the moderate men of the City, who had rather have peace than war; and presently takes the City; the seditious being fled: and sending Placidus with his horse to pursue them, and put them all to the sword, and so possesseth himself of all the Country beyond the river, even to the lake Asphaltis, except the Castle of Macherun, and so having appointed Garrisons through the Towns and winter quarters for his souldiers, he comes to Cesarea and there winters.
Vespasian having received news of the stirrs that were raised in Gallia by Vindex, The Julian Period. 4781 who had armed the Gaules against the Romans, Year after Christ 68 made him more earnest to finish the war against the Jews, wherefote in the beginning of the spring, he leads his army out of Cesarea, and runs through all Judea, and Idumea, and wasting it, brings back his army, and leads them through Samaria to Jericho, from whence the inhabitants fly into the mountain Countrey opposite to Jerusalem, but he pursues them, and beating them from the hills, by setting cittadels at Jericho and other places, begirts the Jews on every side.
Some promised to themselves (Nero being forsaken) the government of the East, some the Kingdome of Jerusalem, but most the recovery of their ancient fortune. [Sueton. in Nero. cap. 40.]
Nero pronounced of himself that he was undone, when he heard that Galba and Spain had tevolted from him, [id. ihid. cap. 42.] and at length he slew himself on the ninth day of June, when he had raigned thirteen yeares and eight moneths.
On the Kalends of January in Germany, The Julian Period. 4782 the images of Galba are throwen down, Year after Christ 69 and on the third day Vitellius is saluted Emperour by the army, and on the 15. day of the same monethmonth Galba is killed, seven moneths after the death of Nero. [Tacit. Histor. lib. 1.]
Galba being taken out of the way, Otho is created Emperour by the souldiers, not knowing that Vitellius had taken upon him the Empire. Dio writes that he was killed the 90. day of his reign, and Suetonius that he was buried the 95.
Tiberius Alexander the Governour of Egypt was the first that swore the Legions to Vespasian on the Ralends of July, which day of his entrance into the empire was afterwards kept a festivall, then the Jewish army on the V. Ides of July swore to him, [Suet. in Vespasian. cap. 6. with Tacit. lib. 2. histor. cap. 79.] Dio notes that there was but one year and 22. daies between the death of Nero and the beginning of the raign of Vespasian.
When Vespasian, being returned to Caesarea, prepared to goe with his whole army to besiege Jerusalem, news was brought him of Nero's death, which news having received, he deferrs the war against the Jews, and sends his son Titus to Galba, who had succeeded to Nero, to know his pleasure concerning the Jewish war. Titus going by ship to Achaia, heard there that Galba was killed, whereupon he presently returnes to his father to Cesarea, they being in suspence, (and the Empire as it were tottering) deferred the wars of Judea, and being afraid least some hurt should come unto their own Countrey, they thought it not a convenient time to invade a strange Countrey.
In the mean time Simon the son of Giora, (concerning whom something is spoken formerly) a bold and valiant young man went from Massada, whither he had fled to the murderers into the mountain Countrey of Judea, and by promises of liberty to servants, and rewards to the freemen, in short time got a band of theives, and by little and little increasing his forces, he wasted not onelyonly villages, but invades Cities, he came also in short time to that power, that he conquered all Idumea, and wasted Judea, and at last came before Jerusalem, where pitching his tents, he became a terrour both to them of Jerusalem, and to the Zelots also, and thus were the Citizens of Jerusalem grievously oppressed on both sides, within by the Zelots whom John commanded, and vvithout by Simon a most cruell man, in the mean time the Idumeans vvho vvere of Iohns party, and vvere among his forces, falling at variance vvith him and fighting vvith him killed many of the Zelots, and then, taking Iohns pallace and burning it, forced him vvith his party to fly into the temple, but then they fearing, as also did the Citizens, least that by night he should make an excursion into the City, and burn it, they took counsell, and send for Simon, and admit him into the City, that they might defend themselves against him, whom having received they assault the temple, but the Zelots fighting valiantly, they seek to win it by assault.
Vespasian having left Cesarea, comes to Berytus and Antioch, from whence he sends Mutianus with forces into Italy; but he himself goes to Alexandria.
In Moesia Antonius Primus that followed Vespasians party, Year of the World 4073 leads the third Legion into Italy against the party of Vitellius, and in a fight at Cremona against the Vitellians, he puts them to flight, and beates them, then coming to Rome and being joyned with Mutianus in the middest of the City, he overthrowes Vitellus's army, and dragging Vitellius himself thorough the Market-place, there cuts his throat. Mutianus makes Domitian the son of Vespasian Prince of the Empire, in the mean time that his father came out of Syria.
Vespasian hearing these things at Alexandria, The Julian Period. 4783 sends his son Titus with forces into Judea, Year after Christ 70 for to finish the rest of the war of Judea; but he himself faileth into Italy.
Moreover whilst Titus stayed at Alexandria, the City of Jerusalem was divided into a threefold faction. For Simon whom the Citizens of Jerusalem had sent against John, and admitted into the City, kept the higher City, and some part of the Tower: and John with his Zelots had possessed the Temple and the other part of the lower City: and the last faction is divided again into two; For Eleazar who was the first Commander and Captain of the Zelots, taking it in dudgeon that John by his boldnesse and subtilty got the government to himself, and to do all things at his own pleasure, departs from him, and taking some followers with him, possesseth himself by them, of the inner part of the Temple, and from thence fights against John. Eleazar was inferiour to John in number of men, but his superiour in the si…e and quality of the place: and so upon John who held the outward circuit of the Temple and the Porches there lay a double war, one against Eleazar, and the other against Simon: and so some fighting against others, they burnt many things about the Temple, and spoiled the corn, and many necessaries for victual, which might have sufficed them a long time, which things being spoiled and consumed, they were oppressed with famine afterwards, when they were besiged by the Romans.
Titus coming from Alexandria to Cesarea, and there gathering his forces together, to wit, four Legions, and the auxiliaries of the neighbour Kings, marcheth towards Jerusalem, and pitcheth his Camp some six or seven furlongs off the City, a little before the Feast of unleavened bread, and by that means shut up within the City an infinite multitude of men, that had after the custom gone up to the Feast, by which in a short time a most cruel famine oppresseth the City; where all food and nourishment is in short time consumed, a most horride and memorable example whereof happened at that time there, of a mother that devoured her own child: and in the Feast day of unleavened bread, being the 14 of April, whenas Eleazar, who had seized upon the inner Temple, had opened the gate of the Temple that the people might sacrifice, John taking hold of this opportunity, sends privately many of his party armed privately with swords under their garments, who being admitted into the Temple with the rest of the multitude, set upon Eleazar, and seize upon the inner Temple, together with the slaughter of many of the Zelots; and so the faction that was threefold, is now made twofold; to wit, one of Johns who were in number 8400. and the other of Simons, with whom were 10000 men, besides 5000. Idumeans.
Titus coming near the walls, pitched his Camp near the Tower Psephina, and presently raising a mount, shakes the wall with a Ram, and beates it down by force▪ and on the seventh of May breakes into the City, the first wall being beaten down, and the Jews retiring inwards, he possesseth himself of the North quarter of the City, even to the Castle of Antonia, and the valley of Cedron. On the fifth day, after a certain Tower of the second wall being shaken and beaten down with the Ram from the North quarter, he gets the new lower City; from which he is repulsed again by the Jews: but on the fourth day after he repossesseth it, and addresseth himself for t…e assault of the third wall. And on the 12 of May, commands four mounts to be raised, two at the Castle of Antonia, by which he hoped to gain the Temple, and two at John the High Priests Tombe, by which he hoped to gain the upper City; but John resisted the Romans at Antonia, and Simon at Johns Tombe. Those mounts being perfected on the 29 of May which were making 17 dayes, and the Romans beg…ing to shake the wall, John by a mine from Antonia casts down one mount, anb bu…s it, and Simon the second day after in a sally that he made, sets on fire two mounts opposite to him, together with the Rams and other Engins, and the Jews set upon the Romans in their Camp; but by Titus his coming from Antonia, they are again forced into the City.
The former mounts being spoiled and burnt, Titus thought fit to raise new ones from which he might assault the City, and also to compasse the City with a wall that none might flee out of it, nor any thing be brought into it. Whereupon in three dayes space he built a wall about the City, of the circuit of 39 furlongs, and about the wall he built 13 Castles, each Castle containing ten furlongs: whereupon famine so prevailed in the City, and so cruelly raged, that not onelyonly the common people died of it, but the seditious also were mightily oppressed by it: and so great was the number of them that perished by famine and pestilence, that from the 14 of April, (on which day the siege began) to the Kalends of July, that thorough one gate (as Mannaeus one that fled, and was to take the account reported) there were carried out 115800 carcases of poor people that were buried at the common charge, besides those that were buried by their kinsmen and friends: a little after it was known from them that fled, that there were 600000 that were carried out of the gates to burial: and whereas afterwards there were not enow to bury the poor, they cast them in great heaps together in empty houses, and shut the doors upon them: and the manner of burial of them was no other, then throwing them over the walls and filling up the ditches with them.
In the mean time Simon within the City refrained not from murders and rapines; for he put to death Matthias the High Priest, being accused of treachery, as though he would have fled to the Romans, (and by whose means he was let into the City) with three of his sons, and fifteen of the noblest of the people, all of them uncondemned: and moreover he raged with such cruelty, that Judas, one of his Captains, hating his cruelty, had a consuta…tion of delivering a Town to the Romans, of which he had the charge: but being prevented by Simon, he with ten that were of counsel with him, were put to death: and John being compelled by necessity, converts to his own and to prophane uses, the holy things of the Temple, as Vessels of Gold and Silver, and the mony of the Temple: nay, he was compelled to distribute to his Souldiers the very Oyl and Wine which was dedicated for divine service.
Titus also fetching materialls from every place, and cutting down woods, and all trees, even to 90 furlongs off, with great labour within 21 dayes, caused new Mounts to be raised, and he made four about Antonia, one upon every side of the Castle. Which when John had cowardly and in vain attempted, they were repulsed by the Romans: and the Romans, on the Kalends of July, began to bring the Ram to the wall of Antonia, by which a breach being made on the fifth of July, they brake into Antonia, and pursue the flying Jews, even into the Temple. But after a long skirmish the Romans being for some time repulsed; on the 17 of July (on which day the continual sacrifice termed by the Greeks foreign, was not solemnised for very want of men.) Josephus (by Titus his command) in vain exhorts the seditious to a yielding: and on the seventh day after, he brings his Mounts neerer, the materialls of which were brought an hundred furlongs off, and overturning the foundations of Antonia, made an easie ascent unto the Temple, and breaking in by Antonia, seizeth upon the North and West Porches of the outward range of the Temple: part of which Porches, especially that that was joyned to Antonia, was burnt and overthrown by the Jews, and two dayes after, the other part was burnt by the Romans, Sc. 24. of July, the Jews not quenching the fire, but letting it run on, that so the porch might be clearly seperated from Antonia.
On the 27 day the Jews again burn the West Porch to the bridge that leadeth to the Gallery, whither many Romans getting up were burnt, (the Jews flying for the nonce) But on the day after, the Romans burnt all the North Porch, even to the Eastern Porch.
And on the eighth of August, when as Titus prevailed nothing by battering with the Ram the wall of the inner Temple, neither by undermining the foundations of the gates, by reason of the greatnesse and strong cimenting of the stones; neither could the Romans by their ladders get up into the Porches, the Jews still beating them back from above: at last, that that he had deferred to do for the reverence of the place being compelled by necessity he did; Sc. He commanded the gates of the inner Temple to be set on fire: which being on fire, the Porches which were joyning to them were all on a flame also; The Jews beholding and wondring at it, but not endeavouring to stop and quench the fire for very amazednesse, and so the Porches burnt all that day, and the following night. And whereas Titus and his Captains had determined to keep the Temple from firing, he could by no means bring it to passe. For on the tenth of August, when as the Romans which kept Corps due guard in the outward range of the Temple, being provoked by the Jews, had made a charge upon them who quenched the fire of the inner range, and had driven them into the very Temple, a Roman Souldier took a flaming fire brand, and getting upon his fellows shoulders, casts the fire through the golden window into the houses and chambers that were built on the North side of the Temple, which immediately taking fire, burnt the Temple also which joyned unto them, Titus in vain commanding his his Souldiers to quench the fire. And this was done in the second year of Vespasian, in the same monethmonth, and the same day of the monethmonth that it was formerly burnt by Nebuchadnesar.
After the Temple was pillaged and burnt, and the Ensigns set on the East gate of the Temple; and having done sacrifice, Titus is proclaimed Emperour by the army; and then he from the bridge, by which the Temple is joyned to the City upon a Gallery, exhorts by an interpreter, the seditious to yield, who had fled into the upper City who when they refused, although he offered them their lives, to commit themselves to his arbitrament, and asked that they might have leave to depart the City with their wives and children, and to go into the wildernesse: at which Titus taking scorn, threatens them with utter destruction, commanding all the lower City to be set on fire, and the Palace Acra which he had seized on: but the higher City which was seated on a steep Rock, he began to assault, and beginning to arise his mounts on the 20 of August, and perfecting them on the seventh of September, he brings his Engines to the wal…s, wherein having made a breach, the Tyrants flee with their guards for fea… and amazement, and on the eighth of September, the Romans brake in and destroyed all with fire and sword.
Dio notes that Jerusalem was destroyed on a Saturday, which day the Jews most religiously observe; whether having respect to the day of the Cities being taken, (for the eighth of September fell this year on a Sabbath-day) or of the Cities being destroyed: for Titus commanded all the Citie and Temple to be rased to the foundation, and to be laid plain, (and also to be ploughed according to the custome) except the West part of the wall onelyonly, and three Tow…s, Hippicon, Phasaelus. and Mariamme, which for their great beauty and strength, he had a mind to leave for a monument to postery, of the magnificence of that City.
When as Titus had thus taken the City, and had filled all places with dead bodies, the neighbour Nations would needs have him crowned, but he answered them, that he was unworthy of that honour: for it was not he that was the authour of the work, but that he had given his hands to God, that had shewed his anger against the Jews. [Philostratus in vita Apollonii, l. 6. c. 14.] Yet there are coins of Titus, marked with a Trophy, and a Tryumphal Chariot: as also of Vespasian, with the image of a woman sitting sorrowfull under a Palm Tree, and with the inscription, (JUDEA CAPTA S. C.) as also mony was coined about the end of the 21 year of King Agrippa, with an inscription in Greek, foreign. (i. e.) Vespasian Emperour and Cesar, Judea was taken in the year 21 of Agrippa.
Titus having finished the war, Year of the World 4074 rewarded the Souldiers, and commits the custody of Jerusalem to the tenth Legion, but the twelfth Legion which had fought unfortunately under Cestius he banished out of Syria, and sent them to Euphrates, in the confines of Armenia and Cappadocia, he himself with the fifth and fifteenth Legion, came to Cesarea on the sea cost, whither he gathered together all the prey and spoiles and the Captives, because the winter season forbad him to saile into Italy.
The two Tyrants, John and Simon, were taken as they▪ lay hid in the vaults of Jerusalem; of whom John was condemned to perpetual imprisonment, and Simon was reserved for the Triumph. In the same vaults were found 2000 men, who either per…shed for hunger, or each killed the other, rather then they would yield themselves to the Romans.
Titus tarried at Cesarea, where he celebrated the birth-day of his brother Domi…ian, (which fell on the 30 of December, where the number of the Jews that perished with fighting with wild beasts, and that burned with fire, and that sell by fighting one against the other, exceeded the number of 2500.
Afterwards Titus came to Berytus in Phenicia, The Julian Period. 4784 where he tarried longer, Year after Christ 71 and solemnised the birth-day of his father, (Sc. of his Empire: which as we have taught out of Suetonius and Tacitus was wont to be observed on the Kalends of July) with great magnificence, there a multitude of Captives also perished in the like manner as before.
Titus going to see Antiochia and other Cities of Syria, and then by Judea and Jerusalem, being accompanied with the fifth and fifteenth Legion, goes into Egypt to Alexandria, and from thence sailes to Rome, where he was wellcomed hom… by all men, and, together with his father, Tryumphed for the conquest of Judea.
The two Captains of the seditious, John and Simon, were led in that Triumph, and 700 other Jews that excelled in strength and beauty, of whom Simon onelyonly suffered death. (called by Dio Barpores) The law also of the Jews was carried in this Tryumph, as the last of the spoils, which, together with the purple vailes of the Sanctuary were laid up in the Palace.
From this victory both father and son got the name of Emperour; yet neither of them was called Judaicus, although many other things, and especially Tryu…phal Arches were decreed for them, [Xiphilin. ex Dion.] and there remains yet at the foot of the hill Palatine, a Marble Tryumphal Arch, erected to the honour of Titus, ou… of which there is a copy expressed by Villalpandus of the instruments of the Temple that were carried in Triumph. [Tom. 2. explanat. on Ezechiel. lib. 5. cap. 7. pag. 587.]
Lucilius Bassus was sent Lieutenant into Judea, Year of the World 4075 who receiving the army from Cenalis Vitellianus, had the Castle Herodian with the Garrison yeilded unto him: and shortly after, he took the strong Castle Machaeron beyond Jordan by assault.
It happened even in our time, The Julian Period. 4785 that neither Sun nor Moon were seen, Year after Christ 72 for 12. (others say 15. dayes) the Vespasians being Emperours, the father the third time (perhaps the fourth) and the son the second time being Consuls: saith Pliny, [lib. 2. cap. 13.] which some think was foretold by our Saviour. [Mathew, XXIV. 29.]
Caesar wrote to Tiberius Maximus the Governour of Judea, that he should sell all the land of the Jews. He imposed also a tribute upon all the Jews wheresoever they lived; and commanded them to bring in every year into the Capitol two drachmes as they were wont to pay in former time to the Temple of Jerusalem.
In the fourth year of Vespasian, Cesennius Paetus, Governour of Syria, drove Antiochus the King of Commagene out of his kingdom, who himself fled into Cilicia, and his son unto the Parthians: but both of them being afterwards reconciled to Vespasian, he is restored to his kingdom. [Joseph.]
The Abani brake into Media, The Julian Period. 4786 and waste it all over, Year after Christ 73 the King Pacorus fleeing before them; they afterwards passe into Armenia, to whom Tiridates the King opposing himself, he is almost taken in the very battle. [Id.]
Amongst the Jews, Year of the World 4079 Bassus being dead, Publius Silva succeeds in the government of Judea. He on the 15 day of April wins by force that impregnable Castle of Massada, that was seized upon by Eleazar, the Nephew of Judas Galitaeus, the Captain of the theeves: all the theeves that were in the Castle to the number of 900, with their wives and children, at the perswasion of Eleazar putting each other to death, having first burnt the Castle with all the housholdstuff, lest they should come into the power of the Romans: and so all the reliques of the Jewish wars are taken away, and all Judea is quieted.
Many of the theeves that escaped from Judea, fled & came into Egypt to Alexandria, where they sollicit the Jews to revolt: but the common people being perswaded by their Rulers fell upon those theeves, and took 600 hundred of them, whom they deliver to the Romans to be punished: the rest that escaped into Egypt and Thebes were also taken. Concerning which businesse, Caesar having advice, he commandeth Lupus, then Governour of Alexandria, that he should pull down the Temple of the Jews (that was built a long while agone in Egypt, by Onias the brother of the High Priest,) But Lupus did no more than take away some gifts out of the Temple, and so shut it up: but Paulinus his successour in the government, having taken away all the gifts, and shutting up the doors, made an order that none should come thither; so that there was not so much as any foot-step of Religion left there.
A certain Jew, a weaver, Ionathan by name, escaped to Cyrene, where raising a tumult, he drew 2000 Jews into the Wildernesse: when Catullus (or Catulus) the Governour of Libia Pentapolis, sending Horse and Foot, easily overthrew them. Ionathan being brought before him, he falsely accused the most wealthy of the Iews to be the chief authours of this project: to whose accusations Catullus willingly giving ear, he put 3000 of them to death at once. And this he did the more securely, because he confiscated their estates to Caesars revenues, Ionathan also is sent prisoner by him with others that were taken to Rome to Vespasian, that he might accuse the most honest of them that lived at Rome and Alexandria of innovation. Who affirmed also amongst others, that Josephus the Writer of the Jewish History, sent to him both arms, and mony. But Vespasian, knowing that this accusation was not lawfully brought against these men, he at Titus his intreaty acquitted them: but deservedly punisheth Ionathan; for having first scourged him, he was burnt alive. Catullus also through the mercy of the Princes suffered then no chastisement, but not long after he was taken with a complicated and incureable disease, and he was tortured and tormented in his mind (for he thought he saw the ghosts of them that he had killed alwayes before him) at last his guts and bowels rotting and issuing out of him, he died. [Joseph. lib. 7. bell. cap. ult. and in his Life.]
Here Joseph endeth the History of the destruction of Judea: who being taken in this war, and made a freeman by Flarius Vespasian the Emperour, took the name of Flarius from his Patrone.
Cornelius and Suetonius relate that there were 600000. Jews killed in this war, but Josephus a Jew, and a commander in that war, and who deserved thankes and pardon from Vespasian for foretelling him he should be Emperour, writes that 1000000. perished by sword and famine, and of the rest of the Jews that were dispersed all the world over, and put to death divers waies, the number is said to be 90000. So Orosius [lib. 7. cap. 9.] but I find not the number of 600000. of them that were killed in Suetonius, in Josephus [lib. 6. belli. cap. 17.] the number of captives is 97000, but the other number of 1100000 is onelyonly of them that perished in the six moneths siege of Jerusalem, but of those that perished out of Jerusalem, through the whole seven years, Justius Lipsius made this catalogue out of Josephus. [in lib. 2. de Constantia. cap. 21.]
At Hierusalem, first killed by the command of Florus. 630.
By the inhabitants of Cesarea in hatred to them and their religion. 20000.
At Scythopolis (a City of Syria.) 30000.
At Ascalon in Palestina by the inhabitants also. 2500.
Likewise at Ptolemais. 2000
At Alexandria in Egypt under Tib. Alexander the President. 50000.
At Damascus. 10000.
At the taking of Joppe by Cesius Florus. 8400.
In a certain mountain called Cabulo. 2000.
In a fight at Ascalon. 10000.
By an ambuscado. 8000.
At Aphaca when it was taken. 15000.
Slain at mount Garizim. 11600.
At Jotapa, in which Joseph himself was 30000.
At Joppe when it was taken were drowned 4200.
Slain at Tarichaea 6500.
At Gamala as well killed as that threw themselves down 9000.
Neither was any one that was of that City saved, but only two women that were sisters.
When they forsook Giskala, killed in the flight 2000.
Slain of the Gadarens, besides an infinite that leapt into the river 13000.
Slain in the villages of Idumea 10000.
At Gerasium 1000.
At Macheron 1700.
In the wood of Jardes 3000.
In the Castle of Massada, that slew themselves 960.
In Cyrene by Catulus the Governour 3000.
Which number of the dead, being added to the 1100000. that perished at the siege of Jerusalem, makes up the number of 1337490. an innumerable company being omitted that perished through famine, banishment, and other miseries. Justus Tiberiensis in his Chronicle of the Kings of the Jews, shews that Agrippa the last King of the race of Herod, had his Kingdome augmented by Vespasian, [apud Photi. in Bibliotheca. cod. 33.] Dio relates that he had Praetorian honours given him, his sister Berenice that came to Rome with him dwelt in the Pallace: for Titus was so in love with her that he made her believe he would marry her, and she carried all things as if she had been his wife, but Titus when he knew that the people of Rome did not take it well, he put her away, [Sueton. in Tit. cap. 7. & Xiphilin. ex Dion.] Of the rest of Herods progeny, the observation of Josephus is very memorable, [lib. 18. Antiquit. cap. 7.] That they all failed, although it was very numerous, within an hundred yeares. And this was the Period of the Jewish affaires.
FINIS.
READER,
IN the third Columne of the Numbers, being the Title over the pages, [The year before Christ] hath escaped in stead of [The year after Christ] from page 792. to the end: Which over-sight be pleased courteously to mend with your pen.