The Sealed Book Opened, Commentary · Chapter 11

The Sealed Book Opened · Commentary · Chapter 11

p. 103CHAP. XI.

The sense or Explication.

FOllows in this Chapter the effect and good successe of the preaching of the Gosp…l, to wit, the reformation of the Church so long before polluted and prophaned by errour and idolatry; As also the right rule sh…wn to us, whereby the true Church of Christ may be discerned from the Synagogue of Antichrist.

The parts of this Chapter are these. 1. How the true Church should be known and reformed accordi…g to God… Word. 2. Who should be the reformers, to wit, faithful Pastours, ver. 3. and chiefly the revived witnesses, ver. 11. p. 1043. How they should be persecuted therefore and killed, ver. 7.4. How the wicked shall greatly rejoyce thereat, ver. 10.5. How God should stirre up others thereafter in their room, ver. 11. And what should follow thereon. And 6. The seventh Angels sounding, and what ensued after.

Ver. 1. ANd there was given me, a reed like unto a rod: and the Angel stood, saying, Rise, and measure the Temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.

HEre then 1. There is a Command given to John to rise and measure the Temple of God, the altar and worshippers therein; implying thereby a purpose in God to have his Church built againe and reformed: and therefore allusion is here made to Ezek. 40. where the Lord promising to reedifie the Temple and City of Jerusalem, represents to Ezekiel in a vision, a man with a reed in his hand measuring the same.

First then, we have the measuring instrument, which is called a reed, sound and straight, as all the Doctrine of Gods Word is; which reed is like unto a rod, Jer 10.16. which indeed as Moses rod, destroyed the rods of the Egyptian sorcerers that were turned to Serpents: even so doth Gods Word all contrary errours, and as (Moses rod in his hand,) so in the mouth of faithful Pastors it works many other great wonders. Rupe…tus also sayes that it is called a rod, quia ut virga castigat etiam peccantes, 1 Cor. 4.21 and which serves also not only for sharp correction, but sweet consolation; therefore sayes David, Psal. 23.4. Thy rod and staffe does comfort me.

This rod is said to be given to John, shewing thereby that, that which God has given and appointed to his servants for reforma…ion of his Church and the ruine of Antichrist. As also for discerning the true Church from the false, is not the writs nor voice of men, but the written Word of God, and voice of Jesus Christ, or breath of his mouth; as also the power, dexterity, and successe of the using of this reed or rod is likewise Gods gift.

N…xt to the furnishing of John with a fit instrument for the work, follows the Angels commission to him. By which Angel is meant the Lord Jesus, as we may see by his speech p. 105ver. 3. whose posture is set down to be standing, as having now risen after his long suffering patience to begin that work of reformation which should be for the ruine of Antichrist, and comfort of his Church. And as he shews that himself is risen and on foot; so he bids John arise, that is, cheerfully addresse himself to the work. Leaving, and laying aside all things that may be an impediment, for cursed is he that does the work of the Lord negligently.

As also shewing hereby that all such who would rightly measure of the Temple of God, and discern it from the Synagogue of Satan, they must raise up their mindes higher then earthly mindes do, not to look upon the external pomp and glory of the world, which we see the whore has, Rev. 17. and to look to that only whereby the true Church is known, chap. 12.1. being the Kings daughter who is all glorious within.

That which he is commanded to measure is, 1. The Temple of God, not meaning thereby any material Temple, such as was that of Solomons, but by allusion thereto, the true Church of sound and holy Professors: therfore says the Jesuit Ribera, in eo ecclesiam intelligit, cujus illud fuit figura, as the same is also so called, 2 Cor. 6.16. and Eph. 2.21. Next he is commanded to measure the Altar, whereby is meant the Churches worship, Heb. 7.13. as is explained in the next words, which worship of Gods people under the Law, (whereto he alludeth) was by sacrifices which were offered unto the Lord allanerlie, shewing hereby whatever religious worship is given to any other, is not done by these that are the true Church.

What it is also to measure the Temple and Altar, the Jesuite Ri…era tells us saying, jubetur metiri templum, &c. quod est numerare quasi & secernere electissima ecclesiae membra qua non sunt tradenda Antichristo, nec ejus ministris.

Vers. 2. But the Court which is without the Temple leave out, and measure it not: for it is given to the Gentiles, and the holy City shall they tread under foot fourty and two moneths.

Here follows what John is forbidden to measure, but to leave out, and not to account the same any part of the true Church, and this is the court which is without the Temple, p. 106whereby is meant, sayes Ribera, profana ecclesia pars, or that company of idolatrous worshippers, as were the Gentiles of old, and who notwithstanding that they claime the title of the true Church, yet are not the same, but the Church of Antichrist; therefore sayes Ribera, for they are given to the Gentiles, hoc est, Antichristo & ejus ministris, quoniam Antichristi exercitus vere gentilium hominum erit, non Deum verè adorantium; and who shall tread under foot the holy City fourty two moneths, that is, during the time of Antichrists prevailing shall oppresse, persecute, and beare down the true Church of Christ, that she shall be like the seven thousand true worshippers that were in Israel, the time of idolatry prevailing under Achab and Jezabel: therefore sayes the Jesuite Ribera, calcandam esse dicit ecclesiam ab Antichristo & ejus comitibus, id est, vexandam, opprimendam, possidendam.

The time of this prevailing of Antichrist and his followers is called here fourty two moneths, and in the next verse one thousand two hundred and sixty dayes, which is three yeares and a halfe, which Daniel calls, Dan. 12. time, time, and half a time, allusion being here made to Eliahs lurking (with the hidden Prophets, and seven thousand true worshippers) during the time of Ahabs and Jesabels rage, and of the three yeares and a halfes famine that was in Israel. And to the tyranny of Anthiochus Epiphanes, who for the space of time, times, and half a time, as Daniel speaks, Dan. 12.25. removed the daily sacrifice offered to the true God, and set up in the room thereof the abomination of desolation in the place where it ought not.

Ver. 3. And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesie a thousand two hundred and threescore dayes cloathed in sackcloth.

Here is set down how Gods Church (called the holy City trampled under foot & persecuted,) was notwithstanding entertained in the light and life of God by a hid & powerful dispensation of grace through the Ministery of a few, called therefore here two witnesses, who are said to be clothed in sackcloth, shewing thereby, 1. That their preaching should be for humbling and mortification, wherein they should be exemplary themselves. p. 107And 2. That it should be with much affliction and heavinesse; sackcloth being worne in sad times, as 2 King. 6.30. 3. Mourning for idolatry and sins prevailing. And 4. For the Church her troubles, The time of whose Prophecying (which is their witnessing) is set down by dayes, whose number makes up the forenamed fourty two moneths, and is a definit number set down for an indefinit, shewing thereby. 1. That the Church of Gods Elect all the time of Antichrists prevailing shall not want some few faithful Teachers, although (as Isa. 30.20.) removed to a corner, that each eye could not see them, as were the Prophets hid by Obadiah. And 2. That this prevailing of Antichrist is limited, by years, moneths and dayes, as the prevailing of the waters of the deluge was limited, Israels bondage or being in Egypt, and the captivity in Babylon.

Ver. 4. These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.

Here is interlaced a short description of their Ministery, wherein we have, 1. The excellency thereof in the benefits that come thereby to the godly, ver. 4. And 2. The power thereof in these effects of their preaching towards the wicked. First, then in the general, they are the happy instruments of the conveighing grace and salvation unto mens souls, and in particular they are called, 1. Two olives, alluding to that of Zech. 4.11. where this same is spoken of Zerubabel and Jehoshuah the rebuilders of the Temple after the captivity, and figuring thereby, 1. That by their Ministery the oyle of grace should be conveighed …o mens souls, whereby the soul is made cheerful, and the face thereof as it were to shine. 2. That as the olive is a signe of peace, so their Ministery is a Ministery not only of grace, but peace.

Next, they are called two candlesticks, alluding to Exod. 37.17. shewing thereby that they hold out the light of truth, for which they are called, Mat. 5.14. the light of the world, and for their stability and constancy in the truth even unto death, as ver. 7. they are said to stand, or to be standing candlesticks, before the God of the earth, signifying thereby, 1. Their fidelity in the discharge of their Ministery, as in the p. 108presence of God, before whom they stand. 2. That there is no hurt or wrong done to them on earth: but the God of the earth, as well as of heaven, before whom they stand, sees the same, and will in his own time certainly revenge it. For he sees what is done on earth, as well as what is done in heaven, and his power over both, and all that are therein. 3. That the Antichrist seemed to sway all on earth, as ch. 13.16. yet God hath the supreme and over-ruling power thereof.

Ver. 5. And if any man will hurt them, fire proceedeth out of their mouth, and devoureth their enemies: and if any man will hurt them, he must in this manner be killed.

Here is set down the power of their Ministery in the effects thereof towards the wicked, where we see that what has been said before of the most excellent of the Prophets literally, is applied unto them spiritually; as 1. That fire shall come out of their mouth which shall devoure their enemies (2 King. 1.10.) alluding to Elijah who brought fire from heaven which devoured his enemies, or else to that which is spoken by the Lord to Jeremy, (chap. 5.14.) where he sayes, behold I will make my words in thy mouth fire, and this people wood, and it shall devoure them; and which place we see is a cleare exposition of this.

Ver. 6. These have power to shut heaven, that it raine not in the dayes of their prophesie: and have power over waters to turne them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues as often as they will.

Next by allusion to 1 King. 17.2. it is said that they have power to shut heaven, that it raine not in the dayes of their prophesie. As also by allusion to Exod. 7.17. and the fact of Moses, it is said that they have power to turn water into blood, and to smite the earth, as he did Egypt, with all plagues as oft as they will, which alwayes (as has been said) is to be p. 109understood of their spiritual power, so that the meaning is, that the Lord shall work no lesse powerfully with his servants, whom he shall send to restore his true worship, and to deliver his people frō that bondage and place, which v. 8. is spiritually called Egypt, and from gross idolatry, then he did aforetime by Moses and Eliah when they wrought such miracles; as the Apostle sayes 2 Cor. 10.6. they having in all readinesse to revenge all disobedience. Neither must we think, where it is said, that power is given them to smite the earth with plagues as oft as they will; that Gods servants have a will (especially for their private revenge or hurt they receive) that the earth be smitten with plagues: but this is to shew in what credit and favour they are with the Lord who only can do these things, howsoever they are clothed in sackcloth as it were, and are despised of men, and how near to heart the Lord takes their injuries, that for the same, and the contempt of his Word in their persons, plagues do come on a land.

Ver. 7. And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomlesse pit, shall make warre against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them.

Follows here Antichrist his persecution by bloody cruelty of the true Preachers of Gods Word, when specially in the time of his prevailing he has smelled them out, as he did John Huss, and Jerome of Prague, with Savanarola and others; chiefly the Waldenses, against whom, Anno 1209. that bloody persecution was raised by command of Pope Innocent the third, and sending forth the Earle of Montferrat as General of that expedition, wherein were many thousands of Martyrs slaine, without any regard of sex or age, by fire and sword, and other sorts of death, as may be read at large in Paulus Aemilius his sixth book, de rebus gestis Francorum, & Jacobus Thuanus in the sixth book also of his History, ad annum 1550. and who therefore chap. 9.1. as he is called the fallen starre to whom was given the key of the bottomlesse pit, and ver. 11. the Angel of the bottomlesse pit; so here for his devillish cruelty specially, he is called the beast that ascendeth out of p. 110the bottomlesse pit, and who is at more length hereafter described, chap. 13.11.

Of this savage and cruel beast it is said, that when the witnesses has finished their testimonie, (as the Apostle Paul being neer his time to suffer, said, he had finished his course,) then he shall make war against them, shewing thereby his armour and manner of fighting against them not to be spiritual, as by the sword of the Spirit, but to be carnal, to wit, by bloodshed, fire and faggot, wherein what shall be his successe is set down, that he shall overcome them in their persons, but not in their cause, and whose bloody cruelty shall never cease till he have killed them, doing so to them as he did to their head.

Ver. 8. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified.

Vers. 9. And they of the people, and kinreds, and tongues, and nations, shall see their dead bodies three dayes and an halfe, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.

Besides which Antichristian cruelty in killing them, here is shewn their barbarous inhumanity every where through the bounds of Antichrists jurisdiction, denying them the favour of Christian burial, which they do to all such whom they excommunicate as hereticks, also by casting them into rivers, as at the massacre of Paris, or burning them to ashes, or raising up their bones againe, as they did John Wickleffs.

The place where this is done is called the great City, as chap. 17.10. Therefore sayes Ribera on chap 17.5. ebria dicitur, non tantum propter sanguinem in ea fusum, sed etiam propter sanguinem qui ejus jussu & potestate in aliis urbibus effusus est, nam hunc etiam ipsa fudit, See also his words on chap. 18.24. cited hereafter, whereby is meant the whole Roman jurisdiction or bounds thereof. 1. Compared therefore p. 111not only to a City, as Sodom, but for amplitude, to a kingdome, as Egypt. 2. The 9. verse also makes this more clear, wherein it is said, that peoples, and kinreds, and tongues and nations shall see their bodies that lie in the street of this great City, shewing thereby that a City within walls must not be understood, but such ample bounds and jurisdiction of a City, wherein are peoples, kinreds, tongues, and nations; as we hereafter called the waters whereon the whore sits, chap. 17.15. Which great City is here spiritually called Sodom, for her alike sinnes with Sodom, as are set down by Ezek. 16.49. specially filthy and unnatural lust, wherein Rome so abounds, as besides the practice and allowance of publick Stews, their Poet Mantuan sayes, Roma est jam tota lupanar, and another, Roma quid est amor est, quem dat praeposterus ordo, Roma mares, noli dicere plura, scio. But specially thus sayes their famous Petrarcha, writing to his friend being at Rome, p. 803. ecce jam oculis vides jam manibus palpas qualis est Babylon illa novissima, ferveus aestuans, obscena, &c. — Ubi quicquid impudicitiae, effraenataeque libidinis audisti vel legisti, quicquid denique impietatis & morum pessimorum sparsim habet aut habuit orbis terra, totum istic cumulatim videas.

The same City is likewise called spiritually Egypt. 1. For her grosse idolatry, which says their own Cassander, is come to that height,Cassand. consult. de imag. Polyd. Virg. l. 6. de inven. Rev. c 13. Biel also in Can. missae lect. 49.Rev 13 quae vel à paganis suis simalachris exhiberi conjuevit, and that iis magis fidant quàm Christo (says thei… Polydor Virgil, speaking of images.) 2. For her cruelty to the people of God, the bodies of some, and the soules of others, keeping them in a spiritual bondage of ignorance, errour and superstition.

It is also added (spiritually called Sodom and Egypt) to be a key of the whole allegory, (which the Reader is diligently to remark) wherby the holy Ghost would intimat… (besides the forenamed sinnes of these places,) that whatsoever in these visions is any where exhibit or spoken of the plagues of Egypt, or destruction of Sodom, all that is spiritually or mystically to be expounded; seeing that Rome, or the Papacy, the subject of all these plagues, is spiritual or mystical Sodom and Egypt: now there fall out sundry passages concerning the Egyptian plagues, in the description of the Trumpets, chap. 8, 7, 8. and 12. as also concerning the destruction of Sodom in the judgement p. 112of the whore and beast, Rev. 18.8.22, 23. and 19 20. the meaning whereof by allusion to Egypt and Sodom, is to be opened by this key.

And for cruelty likewise, and blood thirstinesse, it is said where Christ was crucified, by way of circumloquution, not meaning the place, for that was Jerusalem, but having a respect to the power and authority whereby he was put to death, which was that of the Romane jurisdiction, by Romane Laws, by a Romane Judge, and a Romane kinde of death; also, because by their grosse impieties, (as witnesses their own Petrarch. l. 1. Epistol. rerum Senilium) in Rome they crucifie him over againe; and that Jerusalem is not properly to be taken Ribera affirmes.

See Ribera on c. 17.5. and his words set down on that place hereafter.

Ver. 10. And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoyce over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another, because these two Prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

Here is set down the wicked rejoycing of the earthly minded sort upon the killing of the Lords witnesses, their making merry, as we have it, Nehem. 9.19. in token of their joy sending gifts one to another, which how true this is in Popery; their ringing of Bells, their singing Te Deum, &c. in publick processions, after their Massacres, at that of Paris and elsewhere, and their murdering of Christs Martyrs, with the Popes sending of congratulations to persecuting Princes, and consecrated swords, &c. all these do clearly verefie.

The reason of which their rejoycing is set down to be, because these two Prophets tormented them, to wit, by the Word of God that was like fire coming out of their mouths, and thundred against their idolatry, and other sins, so that as it is said of Stephens hearers, Act. 7.34. so may it be said of them, that they were cut to the heart, and therefore were glad that they were rid out of the way.

p. 113Ver. 11. And after three dayes and an half the Spirit of life from God, entred into them: and they stood upon their feet, and great fear fell upon them which saw them.

Here follows after the killing the former witnesses, how to the comfort of his Church and disappointment of his enemies, the Lord within a short while, as three dayes and a half, or to three years and a half, shall raise up others in their roome, not by a bodily resurrection of the same men, but of others of the same spirit, as the Baptist came in the power and spirit of Elias, Luk. 1.17. or as Elisha succeeding Elijah having his spirit doubled on him. Who standing on their feet, that i…, stoutly and constantly setting themselves against Antichrist, shall shake and ruine his Kingdome more then the former, (as Husse prophecied of Luther,) and shall greatly afright all Antichrists followers.

Ver. 12. And they heard a great voice from heaven, saying unto them, Come up hither. And they ascended up to heaven in a cloud, and their enemies beheld them.

These words have either a relation to these who were killed, or else to these whom God raised in their places: if to the first, then after the killing of their bodies is shewn here the blessed estate of their soules, which upon Gods calling of them himselfe, ascended up to heaven, as their Head and Saviour after he was crucified, and his body lay three dayes in the grave, rose again gloriously, and ascended to heaven in a cloud, in the view of all who beheld him, Act. 1.9. being so (like these his servants) out of the reach of any more suffering by his enemies.

If the relation be to these whom God raised in their places, then hereby their heavenly calling is to be understood to such a high and eminent a work, as the reforming and reedifying of Gods Temple and Worship, and ruine of Antichrist. Which heavenly calling to such a work, is no lesse glorious p. 114then if they were seene to ascend to heaven in a cloud; and which by the wonderful effects thereof, their very enemies should be forced to acknowledge, as if they saw the, same with their eyes, and as the Centurion by what he saw, was forced to confesse that Christ was the Sonne of God, Mat. 27.54.

Ver. 13. And the same houre was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell; and in the earthquake there were slaine of men seven thousand, and the remnant were affrighted, and gave, glory to the God of heaven.

Follows here the successe of their Minstery, whom God raised in the place of his killed witnesses, to wit, a great shaking of the kingdome of Antichrist, as by an earthquake, whereby the tenth part of the City, to wit, mysticall Babylon (hereafter described) fell, as we have the farther progresse of the fall thereof, after a greater concussion set down, chap. 16.18, 19. till at last, chap. 18.2. (like the Walls of Jerico at the last blast of the trumpets of rams hornes) the same totally falls down.

Which earthquake and fall produces a twofold effect; the one upon obstinate Papists, no better then judgement and spiritual death; but upon others conversion to the truth: as the word is a savour of death to some, and of life to others: and these being affrighted by the fear of God and his judgements on others, are said to give glory to the God of heaven, 1. By confessing their sin of their former idolatry and errour, as we have, Josh. 7.19. these wor…s so taken, and Rev. 16.9. 2. Acknowledging Gods punishment of the obstinate sort mentioned. 2 Thes. 2.10, 11. to be just. 3. By praising God for their own escape. And 4. In all things giving glory only to God, which before, in the time of their ignorance, and errour, they gave to the creature.

p. 115Ver. 14. The second woe is past; and behold, the third woe cometh quickly.

15. And the seventh Angel sounded, and there were great voices in heaven saying, The kingdomes of this world are become the kingdomes of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reigne for ever and ever.

Follows now at last the third and last woe which upon Antichrist his discovery and overthrow, and conversion of such who are elected, shall quickly thereafter come upon the earthly minded sort, as we have it, chap. 8.13. and which woe fallout upon the seventh Angels sounding; denouncing the day of the general judgement, after which Christ Jesus only shall reigne, and take unto him his great power, which till then was not so manifested, and at what time (as ver. 18.) the dead shall be judged both good and bad, and each one of them get a reward according to their works. Then also (as v. 19.) Gods Church shall be clearly seen what they are, which is not so here, and Christ their head in like manner; when as the wicked may then expect nothing, but the storme of his wrath. This is set down partly by declaration, ver. 15. and 19. and partly by way of thanksgiving of the twenty four Elders, v. 16, 17, and 18.

The first part of the declaration is by gr… voices in heaven, by voices in the plural, 1. Shewing there…y it is not the declaration of one, but of man… agreeing in one. 2. These voices are in heaven, or heavenly voices, therefore cannot faile. And 3. They are great voices, because declaring great matters, to wit, Christs assuming to himself, and manifesting his full power and dominion over all, the judging of the dead, the rewarding of the godly, and destroying the wicked.

The matter or summe of their declaration is, that the kingdoms of this world, wherein Satan did reigne before as a Prince, and the Vicar of his power, having all the world following him, as chap. 13.8, 16. are now become the Kingdoms of our Lord (say they) and of his Christ; not by any new title or property which he had not before, but by way of manifestation p. 116to all, so that hereafter they shall not be usurped as they were formerly by such who reigned in and over them, but Christ Jesus shall be only King, and he shall reigne for ever and ever. See 2 Pet. 3.13.

Ver. 16. And the four and twenty Elders which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and worshipped God.

Follows the twenty foure Elders thanksgiving: of whom it is said. 1. (Which sate before God on their seats) denotating thereby two things. First, their resting from their labours, as we have it, chap. 14.13. being pilgrims, and warfaring men before. Next, their honour and dignity whereunto now they are advanced, of servants who stood before, now to sit before God. 2. We have their humble gesture of adoration, as we see before, chap: 4.10. and 5.14. falling on their faces and worshipping God.

Ver. 17. Saying, We give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, and wast, and art to come; because thou hast taken to thee thy great power, and hast reigned.

In this their do…logy. 1. They say, we give thee thanks, to wit, because as God gets the glory, so they only reap the good of the Lords coming to judgement at the last day, and from thenceforth of his reigning for ever. For then is the accomplishment of their reward in mercy both to soule and body, while as the devils & wicked shal thereafter be tormented for ever. 3. That which they ascribe unto him, and whereby he is described, is omnipotency and eternity (as we finde before, chap. 7.12. &c.) both which is for the great comfort of his own elect; as also that, for which they give him thanks, is (as has been said) that he has, 1. Taken to him his great power, by manifesting the same, and his dominion over all.

p. 117Ver. 18. And the nations were angry, and thy wrath is come, and the time of the dead, that they should be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the Prophets, and to the Saints, and them that feare thy Name, small and great, and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.

2. And as the Nations, (called before, v. 2. Gentiles) that is, the wicked and idolatrous, as they were angry causlesly at the godly, and specially at Gods faithful witnesses killing them, as also at the happy successe of the Gospel (as we have hereafter chap. 16.10.) so (say they) thy wrath is come, to wit, on them, and from which now they were not able to flee or escape.

3. Also the time of the dead, that is, of these who were so in their bodies (this being the lot both of good and bad) that they should be judged, to wit, by thee who art the righteous judge of the whole world, Gen. 18.25. either by the judgement of mercy, as the godly are; or of Justice, as the wicked, Rom. 6.23.

4. They thank him, for the merciful rewarding of his servants, whom they distinguish into two sorts, Prophets and Saints, that is, Pastors and people: where we see, as good Pastours go before their people in sound doctrine and a holy life, so they precede them also in this remuneration. 2. They describe them from that heavenly grace of Gods feare, wherewith they were indued. And 3. From, their twofold condition, small and great: whereby, 1. All are comprehended, And 2. Both the equity and bounty of the Judge is signified.

5. Next, they thank him for his work of justice upon the wicked (upon whom he is thereby glorified, as he is by his work of mercy towards the godly) who are described here from their cruelty and destroying the earth, that is, the godly when they were on the earth: and therefore the equity of the Lords judgement towards them, is hereby exprest, that as they did destroy, they shall be destroyed; the same measure being measured to them, which they measured to others.

p. 118Ver. 19. And the Temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his Temple the Ark of his Testament, and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great haile.

Last of all it is said, that the Temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seene in it the Ark of the Testament: by which Temple th… Church is to be understood, now in heaven in her triumphant …state, and in the midst of her, Psal 46.5. (as he was seen before, chap 1.13.) is Christ Jesus represented by the Ark of the testimony or mercy-seat, signifying hereby, that then Gods Church and children with Christ their head in glory, shall be seen what they are, and what is their dignity, how basely soever they are here thought of by the wicked on earth. And when this is clearly seene, even by the wicked who persecuted, and despised them; their portion shall be dreadful terrour many wayes, like sudden lightenings, self-accusations of their guilty consciences (that never dying worme) like voices, Gods accursing; like a fearful thunder; feare and trembling, like earthquake; and the storme of Gods mighty wrath, which like haile shall light upon them, and beare them down to hell.

Lessons or application on the eleventh Chapter.

Ver. 1. JOhn being imployed to measure the Temple, has a reed given him; which teaches us, that God ever fits and furnishes those, whom for any work he does imploy; as we see in Bezaleel and Aholiab, the Apostles, Act. 2. and others.

2. By this imployment, we may see, that the visible Church may so erre, and the publick worship therein be so corrupt, as there is need of examination, and a due reformation.

3. By the reed given to John for m…asuring, we are p. 119taught, that the only rule whereby this ought to be performed, is the written word of God, as the pattern in the mount, Isa. 8.20. Gal. 1.8.

4. The Temple and Altar, with the Worshippers therein, are joyned together; to shew us, that the true Church, and a true manner of worship, goes ever together, squared according to the Word; and by the true worship and worshippers, the true Church is known: so that hereby easily it may be answered to that question, who is the true Church? to wit, where the right Altar is, or worship, framed according to the pattern shewn in the Mount, and agreeable to the reed of Gods Word: there is the Temple, and the true worshippers therein.

5. Where John is bidden, arise, and measure the Temple &c. we see that those who would be reformers of abuses in the Church should have a calling thereto, and then cheerfully and with courage against all impediments should go about the same.

6. In all this speech, where allusion is to the Old Testament, Moses and the Prophets (as has been shewn in the explication,) this teaches us how in their writings (for understanding other places of Scripture) we should be exercised, and to expound Scripture by Scripture.

Ver. 2. By leaving out of the Court which is without the Temple, we see that the true Church is little in comparison of the false and Antichristian, as the Temple and worshippers therein are (who were the Priests only,) in comparison of the Court, and the people who worshipped there; and therefore that multitude is no right no…e of the true Church.

2. We see that things are farre otherwise in Gods account (who discernes best) then they are in mans; and therefore that to his judgement, as it is revealed in his word, we should conform our selves, Psal. 73.17.

3. Popish idolatry and Gentilisme we see counted all one, (where he sayes that the Court is given to the Gentiles,) because of alike grossenesse, and alike excusing; both which their own Cassander affirmes, (Cass. consult. art. de imag.) of the first, saying, that the adoring of images was come to that heighth, as never such idolatry was at amongst the very Pagans; and of the other, neither is that excuse to be thought of any worth (sayes he) which is by some now adayes pretended; that this worship is not given to images themselves, p. 120but to them whom they represent, for this excuse (sayes he) was likewise made by Pagans to colour their idolatrie.

4. By their treading down the holy city, we see that idolatry has ever joyned with it cruelty against true worshippers, as we see in Ahabs time, and herein Antichrists practise, who in so farre as he advances the one, he beares down the other.

5. That this treading down shall be but only fourty two moneths, serveth to comfort the Church of God; that the pressure of the godly, and the prevailing of Antichrist is but for a short and a limitted time, which more then the seventy yeares captivity in Babylon, the enemies cannot exceed.

Ver. 3. By the two witnesses only, we see the paucity of faithful Pastours during the time of Antichrists prevailing, and yet by them, (as by the P…ophets in Achabs time that were hid by Obadiah) how the Lord preserved a Church to himself (like the seven thousand in Israel) within the bowels of Antichristian usurpation.

2. By their cloathing in sackcloth, we see the sad and afflicted estate of the servants o… God during the time of Antichrists bearing swey, and which is ever to be expected where idolatry and error prevaileth. Yet this is their comfort, that they are the Lords witnesses, therefore called here (my two witnesses,) who as he owns them to be his, will avenge their quarrel, and at last, as Isa. 61.4. for their spirit of heavinesse, will give them the garment of gladnesse.

3. By these two witnesses only, who begin this great work of Antichrists opposition and discovery, we learne that Gods greatest works have but small beginnings, as Elijahs cloud was, and are done but by a few and weak instruments, (like Gideons few ones) that in the work, the finger of God may be seene, and the glory thereof be only his own.

Ver. 4 By these stiles of two olive trees, and two candlesticks that are given to them, we see the excellent worth of faithful Pastours, and the great profit of grace and light that comes by them to the Church of God.

2. Where it is said, that they stand before God; this teaches such, both to carry in all things as in the sight of God, as also that they standing before him, he sees the wrongs that are p. 121done to them, and has his eyes upon them, watching over them for their good.

3. Whereas he is called the God of the earth, and as is said, Job 41.11. that al whatsoever is under the heaven is his we see; 1. That Satans usurped claime thereto is false, Mat. 4.9. and Luke 4.6. 2. That all earthly powers, how great soever are subject to him, and he above all to be feared. And 3. That whatever we have here on earth, we hold it of him, and should be thankful to him for the same.

Ver. 5. By comparing the Word of God in the mouths of his servants to fire, for devouring of their enemies, we see the divers operation of the Word of God: towards the godly it is a curing word, and the savour of life unto life 3 but towards the wicked it is a killing word, and the favour of death unto death.

2. Whereas it is said, if any man hurt them, thus must he be killed; we see that one way or other, in soul or body, spiritually, or corporally, the enemies of Gods servants even in this life shall be punished.

Ver. 6. By the power that is said to be given them to shut heaven, &c. we see the great power and prerogative that is given to Gods faithful Pastours, farre surpassing the temporal power of any earthly Monarch; for to them are given the keys of the Kingdom of heaven.

2. Where it is said, that they have power also to smite the earth with plagues, we see what it is chiefly that brings the plagues of God upon any nation or part of the earth, to wit, the contempt of Gods Word, and persecutiug the preachers and professors of Christ.

Ver. 7. Where it is said, that the beasts shall make warre against the two witnesses, overcome, and kill them; we see that sometimes God permits the wicked to prevaile so farre against his dearest servants, as to kill them, which notwithstanding is for his glory, their honour, and his Churches good ever.

2. We see that as the Church was first founded as it were by blood, and thereafter propagated, it is no marvel that the restoring and reformation thereof be so in like manner.

3. All faithful Pastours (and Professors likewise) may see here what they may expect, where Papal power prevaileth.

p. 1224. Where it is said, that this was done to them when they had finished their testimony; We see that as long as God has any thing to do with his servants, their most mighty and cruel enemies cannot prevaile over a haire of their head, till their hour come, as did their Masters.

Ver. 8. Whereas the great city is called spiritually Sodom and Egypt, &c. We see like manners make places, or persons to have like names given them, and may expect like judgments, Isa. 1.10. Rev. 2.20.

2. It is said likewise, where also our Lord was crucified; to shew unto us, as was done to the head by the wicked, and old Romane jurisdiction which was imperial, may be likewise expected by the members from the wicked still, and the new Romane jurisdiction which is Papal.

Ver. 9. It is said, that they shall not suffer the dead bodies of the two killed witnesses to be put into graves; to teach us, the monstrous and most barbarous inhumanity of the enemies to the truth and brood of Antichrist, extending their cruelty beyond death, to the dead bodies of the Lords servants, as may be yet seen in sundry places where Popery prevailes.

Ver. 10. By their rejoycing over the slaine witnesses, we see that the wicked rejoyce at that which should be to them rather the cause of mourning, and which shall bring mourning to them in the end.

2. We see that the Word of God which comforts the godly, and is sweeter to them then the honey, or the honey-comb, is a word which torments the wicked, as we see Act. 7.54. and as the devils professed of Christ, that he came to torment them before the time.

Ver. 11. By the reviving of these witnesses in the persons of others, we see that God, who can of stones raise up children to Abraham, shall never want these who shall couragiously (notwithstanding of what has been done to their predecessors) bear witnesse to his truth.

2. By the Spirit of life from God which entred into them, we see from whence their reviving, courage and constancy comes, to wit, from God and his Spirit, and therefore (as Gamaliel said, Act. 5.38.) they who withstand, do but sight against God.

3. Where it is said that great fear fell on them that saw them; we see a strange and speedy change, that their enemies who before were so rejoycing and merry at their killing, are p. 123now so terrified at the reviving; which teaches us, that the rejoycing of the wicked in sinne is but short, but suddenly and unawares, sorrow, sadnesse and terror, like that of Belshazzar, comes upon them, which shall last for ever.

4. Where it is said, that the spirit of life came from God; we may learn when ever we would be quickned in our souls, or comforted let us seek from God his Spirit, who is only able to do the same.

Ver. 12. By these witnesses their ascending (upon Gods calling of them) to heaven in a cloud, we may see what these who are Gods faithful servants on earth may expect, when God cals them out of this life; to wit, a joyful ascending of their souls to heaven after death, and of soul and body at the last day.

2. It is said, that their enemies beheld them, as (Psal. 23.5.) David sayes, that the Lord prepared a table for him in the sight of his enemies: which shews unto us; that the sight of the Lords preferment of the godly so highly, whom they despised and persecuted, shall be a great addition to the torment of their wicked enemies, as Josephs was to Potiphar, and Mordecai's unto proud Haman.

Ver. 13. By the earthquake, and fall of the tenth part of the great City, which ensued upon the reviving of the two witnesses, we see the great power of the Word of God, and happy successe thereof, to the shaking of Antichrists kingdome, and procuring the fall of the same.

2. Where the tenth part of the City only falleth at first, which thereafter totally falleth, chap. 18.2. we see that Antichrists kingdome, and that mystical Babel, shall not totally be ruined at first; but as it rose by degrees, so it shall fall, and the water whereon the whore sits shal be dried up piece and piece, ch. 16.12. therefore it is said, that that man of sinne shall be consumed with the breath of the Lords mouth at first, (which is a lingring disease) till he be at last quite abolisht by the brightnesse of his coming.

3. By some being slaine in the earthquake, and others only afrighted, who gave glory to God, we see again, how diversly Gods Word and judgements work upon men; upon some to their conversion and turning, and upon others only to their conviction and terrifying.

Ver. 14. Where it is said, that the third or last woe comes quickly; we are taught, that although the Lord be slow to wrath, or beginning, yee when once his anger p. 124is kindled, (as in plaguing Egypt) he is swift in execution.

Ver. 15. It is said here at the last day, the kingdoms of this world are become Christs, and he shall reigne for ever: where we see that howsoever Christ be not acknowledged King over all here, as he should be, and (as Psal. 2.2.) that Kings of the earth set themselves together against the Lord, and his anointed, and as chap. 17.13. give their power to the beast, as his hornes to make warre against the lamb; yet the day comes, when none shall be seen to be King over all, and to reign only for ever, having all made subject to him, but the Lord Jesus.

Ver. 16, 17. For which assuming to himself his great power, and universal dominion, the twenty foure Elders in a humble manner (as has been shewn before) of prostration and adoration, give unto him thanks, as for a thing wherein they have interest, shewing thereby unto us, that all the parts of Christs Kingly office, both now which he exercises, and shall do hereafter, affords benefit and comfort to his own Elect; for which they shall praise him here, and hereafter for ever in the heavens.

2. It is said, that these twenty four Elders, they sat before God, as before they had walked before God. If therefore we would in like manner sit before God in Heaven; let us with Abraham, Gen. 17.1. walk before God on earth.

Ver. 18. We see here where it is said, that the Nations were angry, and now Gods wrath was come, the just judgement of God against the wicked, who as they were angry at Gods servants, and in their unjust wrath destroyed them, so God kyths his anger at them, and in his just wrath destroys them.

2. It is said, that the time is come of the dead, that they should be judged: where we see, 1. That after death comes judgement, though the wicked think little on either. 2. That after the particular judgement of the soul, there shall be a general judgement both of the soul and body, which lay dead in the grave, and then shall rise again and compeir (united with the soule) before Christs tribunal. 3. That the time of this judgement comes quickly, as is said v. 14. and ch. 22.12. howsoever the wicked put the same far off.

3. At this time it is said, that God will give reward unto p. 125his servants; which teaches us, 1. That godlinesse, or the service of God shall not want its reward, nor (as Satan answered concerning Joh) shall the godly fear him for nought, Joh 1.9. 2. That this reward is not to be expected in this life, till the time that the dead be judged, and then they shall fully receive it. 3. It shall be Gods free gift unto them, as we have, Rom. 6.2. ratione pacti, non facti.

4. These who are to get this reward, as they are called, Gods servants, and Saints, so also, these that fear his Name; shewing thereby both what a Jewel the fear of God is, and that without it we can neither serve God, or be Saints here, or in glory hereafter.

5. This reward is given both to small and great: which shewes unto us, for our great encouragement, what a bountiful Master we serve, who without respect of persons, liberally rewardeth all, and what a rich storehouse he has, who gives to every one abundantly, although they obey his call, and come at the eleventh houre of the day.

Ver. 19. By the opening of the Temple in heaven, whereby the clear manifestation of the Church is meant, what she is and her true members, how ever and anon on earth they are despised and set at nought, as their head Christ was before them, Isa. 53.3. yet hereby they may be comforted, that in heaven what is their glory and dignity shall be seen; and as the Kings daughter is here glorious only within, Psal. 45.13. so she shall be there glorious also without, that it may be truely said of her, as Cant. 4.7. Christ says of his Spouse, Thou art all fair my love, there is no spot in thee.