Philippians Cross References - Mace

¹ the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the christians that are at Philippi, to the bishops, and to the deacons. ² Grace and peace be with you from God our father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. ³ I thank God, for your remembrance of me, ⁴ and I never pray without praying for you all with joy, for your liberality to the gospel, ⁵ from the first day to the present time. being persuaded that ⁶ he who has begun this good work in you will bring it to perfection against the appearance of Christ. it is but just ⁷ I should have this opinion of you, being sensible you make the dispensation I am under a common concern, with respect to my confinement, and the defence and confirmation of the gospel. ⁸ for God is my witness, that I love you with a christian tenderness. ⁹ and the favour I ask of him is this, that your kindness to me may be crown'd with farther improvements in knowledge and all prudence; ¹⁰ that being capable to distinguish what is best, you may remain stedfastly sincere until the day of Christ, ¹¹ abounding in good works by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. ¹² Now I would have you know, my brethren, that what has happen'd to me, has only conduc'd to the progress of the gospel; ¹³ so that the whole court and publick are well appriz'd that I am a prisoner upon the account of Jesus Christ. ¹⁴ even many of our brethren, encourag'd by my bonds, preach the word with greater freedom and intrepidity. ¹⁵ it is true, there are some who preach Christ out of a spirit of envy and contention; but others do it out of pure affection. ¹⁶ those preach the gospel of Christ, not in sincerity, but from a principle of contention, with a view to inflame the persecution against me: ¹⁷ the others act from affection, as knowing that I suffer for having defended the gospel. ¹⁸ is it not however some advantage? since in either way, whether it be occasionally, or professedly, Christ is preach'd; which is now, and always will be matter of joy to me. ¹⁹ for I know that this shall turn to my deliverance, thro' your prayers, by the spirit, which Jesus Christ will supply me with, ²⁰ agreeably to that expectation and persuasion I have, that I shall not labour in vain; but as I always have, so I shall still glorify Christ in my body, whether it be by life or by death: for if I live, I live to Christ; ²¹ and if I die, I gain. ²² whether it be an advantage to me or not still to lead this mortal life, what to chuse I cannot tell. ²³ I am doubly press'd between my desire to depart, in order to be with Christ, which is by far the best for ME; ²⁴ and my inclination to abide in this life, as being more advantageous for YOU: ²⁵ which consideration persuades me that I shall abide, and even continue some time with you all, to improve your advancement in the faith, and to promote your joy: ²⁶ that by my being present with you again, I may be the occasion of heightning your christian joy. ²⁷ only conduct yourselves in a manner becoming the gospel of Christ, that whether I come to see you, or else am absent, I may have this account of you, that you are stedfastly of the same resolution, and unanimously contend for the faith of the gospel, ²⁸ without being under any the least apprehension from your adversaries: this will be to them a sign of their ruin, and to you of salvation, by the divine appointment. ²⁹ for it is a favour bestowed upon you, that you not only believe on Christ, but suffer also for his sake, ³⁰ being engag'd in the same conflict, in which you saw I was formerly, and hear that I am at present engag'd.

³⁴ when a man travels into foreign parts, he leaves his goods in charge to his servants, he appoints to every one his task, and orders the porter to be vigilant,

²⁶ if any man would serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there also shall my servant be: whoever serves me, him will my father reward.

²⁰ for it is written in the book of psalms, "let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein:" and "let another take possession of his charge."

¹ At that time, as the number of the disciples was multiplied, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the distribution that was made daily. ² the twelve therefore assembled all the disciples, and said, it is not fit that we should leave the word of God, to mind what relates to your meals. ³ wherefore, brethren, chuse out of your number seven persons of good reputation, full of the holy spirit and wisdom, who may have the management of this affair: ⁴ whilst we shall continue our applications to prayer, and to preaching. ⁵ this proposition pleased the whole assembly: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the holy spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch. ⁶ these they presented to the apostles: who after prayer gave them imposition of hands. ⁷ thus the word of God was spread; and the number of disciples encreased very much at Jerusalem; and a numerous body of priests embrac'd the faith.

¹³ then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard from many that this man has done a world of mischief to thy saints at Jerusalem: he is now here,

¹ Paul arrived then at Derbe and Lystra, where there was a disciple named Timothy, whose mother was a Jewish convert, but his father a Greek. ² as the brethren of Lystra and Iconium gave him a good character, Paul had a mind he should accompany him. ³ so he took him and had him circumcised, out of regard to the Jews of that country, who all knew his father was a Greek.

¹² from thence we marched to Philippi, the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony. having stopp'd there some days, ¹³ we went out of town on the sabbath towards the river, where the Jews were allowed to have an oratory. ¹⁴ so we took our places, and convers'd with the women, that came there. one of them was nam'd Lydia of Thyatira, a trader in purple, and a Jewish proselyte. she heard us: and the Lord inclin'd her heart to attend to what Paul said. ¹⁵ so that having been baptized with her family, she made us this request, if you think me sincere in my profession, pray come and lodge at my house; and she prevail'd upon us.

²⁸ be therefore upon your guard to secure your selves, and the whole flock over which the holy spirit has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he has purchased with his own blood.

¹ Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, chosen to declare the gospel dispensation,

⁷ to all the beloved of God, the saints by this vocation, who are in Rome, grace to you, and peace from God our father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

¹ Paul appointed by the divine will to be an apostle of Jesus Christ, and Sosthenes our brother, ² to the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who being sanctified by Christ Jesus, are saints by that vocation, to all that any where invoke the name of Jesus Christ, who is both their Lord and ours.

¹⁰ If Timothy visit you, take care he may be perfectly safe: for he labours in the cause of christianity, as well as I.

¹ Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the divine appointment, and Timothy our brother, to the church of God, which is at Corinth, with all the christians throughout Achaia: favour,

¹ Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the divine appointment to the converts which are at Ephesus, who stand firm in the faith of Christ Jesus:

¹⁵ Wherefore having heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and of your love to all christians,

¹ Paul an apostle of Jesus Christ by the divine appointment, and Timothy our brother, ² to our faithful brethren the christian converts at Coloss. favour and peace be to you from God our father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

¹ Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians, who believe in God the father, and in our Lord Jesus Christ. grace and peace be with you from God our father, and from Jesus Christ our Lord.

² on the contrary, notwithstanding the outrages, you know we suffer'd at Philippi, we had still the resolution, by the divine assistance, to preach the gospel of God to you without reserve against all opposition.

¹ Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians, that believe in God our father, and in the Lord Jesus Christ.

¹⁰ and come to be glorified by his saints, and to be the object of admiration to all who believed, that the testimony we gave you, would be justified in that day.

² to Timothy my sincere convert, favour, mercy and peace from God our father, and Jesus Christ our Lord.

¹ He that aspires to be a bishop, desires an office that is honourable. ² a bishop therefore ought to be of an unspotted character, to have but one wife, to be sober, prudent, grave, hospitable, and qualified for teaching:

⁸ The deacons too must be grave, not double tongued, not addicted to drinking, or sordid gain,

¹⁰ let them be first examin'd, and if they are without reproach, let them enter upon their office. ¹¹ their wives must be likewise grave, free from scandal, sober, and always faithful. ¹² a deacon must have but one wife, and govern his children, and the rest of the family in a proper manner. ¹³ for they who duly discharge that office, prepare their way to a higher degree, and may promote the christian faith with the greater freedom.

¹ Paul a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to declare the faith which recommends men to the divine favour, and to convince them of that truth, which leads to piety,

⁷ for a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not morose, not soon angry, not given to wine, not violent, not desirous of unlawful gain.

²³ know, that our brother Timothy is set at liberty. if he comes quickly, I shall make YOU a visit with him.

¹ James a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the TWELVE TRIBES dispers'd thro' the world, sends greeting.

²⁵ for you were as sheep going astray, but now you are brought back to the pastor and overseer of your souls.

¹ Simon Peter the servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, to those who equally share with us in the advantages of faith, thro' the veracity of our God, and of Jesus Christ.

¹ Jude the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to those that are sanctified by God the father, and by their vocation are reserved for Jesus Christ.

¹ The REVELATION of Jesus Christ, which God gave him, to shew to his servants things which must shortly come to pass; this he signified by his angel whom he dispatch'd to his servant John:

²⁰ the conceal'd meaning of the seven stars which you saw in my right hand, and of the seven golden candlesticks, is this: the seven stars signify the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which you saw, signify the seven churches.

⁸ And to the angel of the church in Smyrna, write, "THESE things saith the first and last, who was dead, and is alive."

¹² And to the angel of the church in Pergamos, write, "THESE things, saith he, who hath the sharp sword with two edges,

¹⁰ then I fell at his seet to worship him: but he said to me, "forbear: I am the servant of God, as you and your brethren are, that bear testimony to Jesus: worship God: for to give testimony to Jesus, is the very design of prophecy."

⁹ but he said to me, "forbear, I am the servant of God, as you are, and your brethren the prophets, and those who observe the words of this book: worship God."

² and peace be to you from God our father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

² to sanctify them by his spirit, that by their obedience they might be sprinkled with the blood of Jesus Christ. may the divine savour make you continually prosper.

⁸ First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is celebrated through the whole world. ⁹ for God is my witness, to whom I am entirely devoted, in preaching the gospel of his son, that I constantly make mention of you, in my prayers, requesting,

¹⁷ but God be thanked, that you, who were the vassals of sin, have sincerely obeyed in the manner the gospel prescribed.

⁴ I continually give thanks to God on your behalf, for the favour he has bestowed on you thro' Jesus Christ;

¹⁵ Wherefore having heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and of your love to all christians, ¹⁶ I continually give thanks upon your account, making mention of you in my prayers;

³ In our prayers we continually give thanks to the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ upon your account, ⁴ having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the affection you have to all christians;

² We always mention you in our prayers, and give thanks to God for you all: ³ never forgetting the effects of your faith, your charitable offices, and the constancy of your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ; of which God is our witness.

⁹ how can I be sufficiently thankful to God upon your account, for all the joy, which by your means we have been affected with,

³ We are oblig'd, my brethren, to render thanks to God continually upon your account, as it is but just; since your faith still improves, and your mutual love is always increasing.

³ When I remember you, as I continually do in my prayers night and day, I give thanks to God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, after the example of my fore-fathers. ⁴ I mention you always in my prayers, ⁵ and thank my God for the account I have of your faith in the Lord Jesus and the love you bear to all the saints;

⁷ I tell you, that there shall likewise be greater joy in heaven for one sinner that repents, than for ninety nine just persons, that need no repentance.

¹⁰ even so, I assure you, the angels in heaven rejoice, when any one sinner becomes a penitent.

⁹ for God is my witness, to whom I am entirely devoted, in preaching the gospel of his son, that I constantly make mention of you, in my prayers, requesting,

¹⁴ and this is the pledge of our inheritance, being given for the deliverance of his peculiar people, to the display of his glory. ¹⁵ Wherefore having heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and of your love to all christians, ¹⁶ I continually give thanks upon your account, making mention of you in my prayers; ¹⁷ that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the father of glory, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, whereby ye may know him: ¹⁸ an enlightned understanding, that ye may see what great expectations he has called you to, and what abundant glory it is to the saints to be the lot of his inheritance. ¹⁹ and how exceedingly great that power is, which he has employ'd upon us who believe, a power corresponding to that energy of his mighty strength; ²⁰ which he exerted in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at the head of his heavenly kingdom, ²¹ far above all the principalities, all the powers, all the potentates, all the dominations, and whatever order can be named, not only in this age, but also in the age to come: ²² for he has subjected all things to him, and constituted him supreme head of the church, ²³ which is his body, a work compleatly finished in all its parts.

⁹ and the favour I ask of him is this, that your kindness to me may be crown'd with farther improvements in knowledge and all prudence; ¹⁰ that being capable to distinguish what is best, you may remain stedfastly sincere until the day of Christ, ¹¹ abounding in good works by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

² compleat my joy, by pursuing the same view, living in mutual love, by being unanimous, and cultivating that harmony.

¹⁸ for there are many that wander about, of whom I have frequently told you, and now repeat it with tears, that they are enemies to the cross of Christ:

¹ Wherefore, my dearly beloved brethren, my joy and my crown, whom I long to see, continue firm in your christian profession, my beloved.

⁵ for tho' I am absent in person, yet I am present with you in my mind, and am glad to perceive the regularily of your affairs, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.

² We always mention you in our prayers, and give thanks to God for you all:

¹⁹ for what can be our hope, or joy, what can crown our pretensions, unless it be you, when we shall appear before the Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? ²⁰ for ye are our glory and our joy.

⁷ for your liberality, my brother, affected us with great joy and comfort, by your having refresh'd the bowels of the saints.

⁴ It was a great satisfaction to me, to see the conduct of your children, was so agreeable to the directions, we received from the father.

⁴² they continued stedfastly in the apostolical doctrine of a community, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.

¹² from thence we marched to Philippi, the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony. having stopp'd there some days, ¹³ we went out of town on the sabbath towards the river, where the Jews were allowed to have an oratory. ¹⁴ so we took our places, and convers'd with the women, that came there. one of them was nam'd Lydia of Thyatira, a trader in purple, and a Jewish proselyte. she heard us: and the Lord inclin'd her heart to attend to what Paul said. ¹⁵ so that having been baptized with her family, she made us this request, if you think me sincere in my profession, pray come and lodge at my house; and she prevail'd upon us. ¹⁶ One day as we went to the oratory, we happen'd to meet a slave, who had the spirit Python, and was very gainful to her masters by telling of fortunes. ¹⁷ as she followed Paul and the rest of us, she cried out, these men are the servants of the most high God, who show you the way to salvation. ¹⁸ this she did for several days, till Paul tir'd with it turn'd about, and said to the spirit, in the name of Jesus Christ I command you to quit her; and instantly he came out. ¹⁹ her masters finding they had lost such a prospect of gain, seized upon Paul and Silas, and hawl'd them to the publick place before the magistrates. ²⁰ having presented them to the Officers, they said, these men, who are Jews, raise great disorders in our city, and preach such maxims, ²¹ as it is not lawful for Romans, as we are, to admit or practise. ²² upon this the populace rose upon them, and the Officers order'd them to be stript and scourg'd. ²³ after they had been severely lash'd, they were thrown into prison, the jayler being charg'd to keep them safe. ²⁴ in consequence of this order he thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. ²⁵ At midnight Paul and Silas went to prayers, and sang praises to God, which the other prisoners heard: ²⁶ when all of a sudden there was such a great earthquake, that the foundations of the prison were shaken: immediately all the doors opened, and the setters dropp'd from the prisoners. ²⁷ the jayler waking, and seeing the prison-doors open, drew his sword, designing to dispatch himself from the apprehension that the prisoners had escaped. ²⁸ but Paul call'd to him aloud, and said, do thy self no harm, for we are all here. ²⁹ then having called for a light, he ran in, and with trembling fell down before Paul and Silas; ³⁰ and bringing them out, he said, sirs, what must I do to be saved? ³¹ believe, said they, on the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you, and your family. ³² then they declared the word of the Lord to him, and to all his family. ³³ at the same time of night he washed their stripes, and immediately he was baptized, he, and all that belong'd to him. ³⁴ then he conducted them to his house, and gave them an entertainment; and he and his family were affected with joy, for having believed in God. ³⁵ When it was day the officers sent their serjeants to bid the jayler let the men go. ³⁶ so the jayler told Paul, the magistrates had order'd them to be discharg'd. depart then, said he, and go in peace. ³⁷ but Paul replied, they have publickly scourg'd us, who are Romans, without any trial, they have thrown us into jayl, and now do they give us a private discharge? no, let them come themselves and release us. ³⁸ the serjeants having reported what he said, to their officers, they began to be apprehensive upon hearing they were Romans. ³⁹ so they came, and by persuasions brought them out, and desired them to leave the city. ⁴⁰ then they quitted the prison, and went to Lydia's house, where finding the brethren, they gave them an exhortation, and departed.

¹⁷ if then, some of the branches are broken off, and thou like a wild olive, were grafted in their place to partake of the root and sap of the olivestock;

¹³ distribute to the necessity of the saints; cultivate hospitality.

²⁶ for those of Macedonia and Achaia, have thought fit to make a contribution for the poor converts at Jerusalem.

⁹ for he, who has called you to the communication of his son Jesus Christ our Lord, will make good his promise.

¹ I must acquaint you, brethren, with the contribution which the churches of Macedonia have religiously made,

¹⁹ Therefore now, you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and domesticks of God's family, ²⁰ being built upon the foundation laid by the apostles and prophets, whereof Jesus Christ himself is the main stone of the angle: ²¹ on which the whole structure rises with symmetry into a temple, consecrated by the Lord: ²² who by his spirit has likewise made you a part of this divine mansion.

⁶ "that the Gentiles should be heirs as well as the Jews, make one body together, and partake of the divine promise in Christ by the gospel."

⁷ I should have this opinion of you, being sensible you make the dispensation I am under a common concern, with respect to my confinement, and the defence and confirmation of the gospel.

¹² Wherefore, my beloved, as you have always obey'd the gospel, not only when I was with you, but much more now while I am absent, continue the work of your own salvation, whatever persecutions you apprehend:

¹⁴ however, you acted generously in assisting me in my necessity: ¹⁵ and you yourselves know, O Philippians, that when I first preach'd the gospel, at my departure from Macedonia, I receiv'd no manner of assistance from any other church but yours;

²¹ You then that formerly were alienated from God, and were enemies by your imaginations and wicked practices, even you has Jesus Christ now reconciled to the body of his church, ²² through his own death, to present you holy, and unblameable, and unreproveable in his own sight: ²³ provided you continue well-grounded and settled in the faith, and do not abandon that hope which has been offer'd to you by the gospel, and is proclaim'd to all mankind; of which I Paul am made a minister.

¹⁷ I beg you therefore by the common ties of friendship to receive him as you would myself.

¹⁴ for we were receiv'd into the communion of Christ, upon condition of inviolably maintaining the hope we had at the beginning even unto the end,

³ what we have seen and heard, we declare unto you, that ye also may be of the same society with us: and truly associated with the father, and with his son Jesus Christ.

⁷ but if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have society one with another, and the blood of his son Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin.

²⁹ Jesus answered them, the work which God requires is to believe on him whom he hath sent.

¹⁸ Having heard this, they were appeas'd, and glorified God, saying, God has then granted salvation likewise to the gentiles, on the terms of their repentance.

¹⁴ so we took our places, and convers'd with the women, that came there. one of them was nam'd Lydia of Thyatira, a trader in purple, and a Jewish proselyte. she heard us: and the Lord inclin'd her heart to attend to what Paul said.

²⁸ We know too, that all things co-operate for the good of those who love God, who, pursuant to his purpose, has now called them: ²⁹ for whom he before approv'd, he predispos'd to follow the example of his son, who was to conduct them all as their elder brother; ³⁰ but whom he predispos'd, he calls: and whom he has call'd, he justifies: and whom he has justified, he glorifies.

⁸ and God will confirm you to the end, that ye may be unaccused in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

¹⁵ in this confidence I purposed to visit you before now, (that you might have again the like satisfaction)

³ and I wrote to you upon that disagreeable subject, that when I came, I might not receive uneasiness from those from whom I ought to receive comfort, being persuaded that you will all think yourselves interested to promote my satisfaction.

¹⁶ my having therefore such an entire confidence in you, does agreeably affect me.

⁴ for if the Macedonians should come with me, and find you unprepared, how shall I, not to say you, be ashamed for having had so little ground to boast of you?

¹⁰ I have confidence in you, that, through the Lord, you will be of the same mind with me, so that he who troubles you shall fall under the censure he deserves, whoever he be.

⁴ then it was that God, who is rich in mercy, thro' his great love, wherewith he loved us, ⁵ did raise us all, who were in that deadly state of sin, to life by Christ, for by grace ye are saved: ⁶ he hath raised us up together, and made us partakers of his heavenly kingdom. ⁷ that in the ages to come, he might shew the immense riches of his gracious kindness towards us, through Christ Jesus. ⁸ for by grace are ye saved, thro' faith (and that not from us: ⁹ it is the gift of God) but not by works, so that no man can boast: ¹⁰ for he hath made us a-new, and form'd us by Christ Jesus to do good works, for which God had before prepared us, that we might live in them.

¹² thus fitly qualifying his servants for their respective offices, in order to build up the body of Christ:

¹⁰ that being capable to distinguish what is best, you may remain stedfastly sincere until the day of Christ,

²⁹ for it is a favour bestowed upon you, that you not only believe on Christ, but suffer also for his sake,

¹³ for it is God that influences your desires and endeavours, out of his benevolence to you.

¹² which were buried (as Christ was) in your baptism, by virtue of which you rise (as he did) to a new life, through a belief of that divine power, which raised him from the dead.

³ never forgetting the effects of your faith, your charitable offices, and the constancy of your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ; of which God is our witness.

²³ Now may the God of peace make you intirely holy: may every part of you, your spirit, soul, and body be preserved irreprovable at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁴ he that has called you, is faithful, and this he will effect.

¹¹ Wherefore we continually pray, that our God would by his power effect all the gracious designs of his goodness, and accomplish the work of faith in you;

¹³ As for you, my brethren, the favourites of the Lord, we are oblig'd to render perpetual thanks to God, for having chosen you from the beginning, in purifying you by his spirit, upon your believing the gospel. ¹⁴ to this he has called you, to a life of glory with our Lord Jesus Christ.

⁴ and we have this hope in the Lord, that you will still continue to observe the directions we give you.

⁴ but when the kindness and love of God our saviour display'd itself to mankind, ⁵ he saved us not in consideration of any virtuous actions which we had done, but out of his meer mercy, by the baptism of regeneration, he form'd us anew, by the plentiful effusion of the holy spirit, ⁶ thro' Jesus Christ our saviour:

²¹ I writ this upon the presumption of your compliance, being persuaded that you will even do more than I mention.

³⁵ don't therefore quit that resolution you have, which will be attended with so great a reward.

² having Jesus in our view, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down on the right hand of the throne of God.

²⁰ May the God of peace, who has raised from the dead our Lord Jesus (who by the blood of the eternal covenant is become the grand pastor of ²¹ the sheep) make you perfect in every virtue, to the accomplishment of his will: effecting that in you by Jesus Christ, which is agreeable to him: to whom be glory thro' all ages.

¹⁶ Don't be deluded, my brethren; ¹⁷ every thing that is valuable, every gift that leads to perfection is deriv'd from heaven, it descends from that original light, which knows no change, no shadow, or decline: ¹⁸ 'tis he that has voluntarily renew'd us by the oracles of truth, that we might be the first converts of the new creation.

² to sanctify them by his spirit, that by their obedience they might be sprinkled with the blood of Jesus Christ. may the divine savour make you continually prosper. ³ Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to his great mercy has regenerated us, and given us by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the expectation of immortal life,

¹⁰ but may the all-gracious God, who has called us to eternal glory, perfect, confirm, fortify, and settle you, during the short interval of your sufferings.

¹⁰ As for that day of the Lord, it will advance like a thief: then the heavens will rush with violence, the boiling elements will be dissolved, and the earth with all its contents, shall be burnt away.

²³ after they had been severely lash'd, they were thrown into prison, the jayler being charg'd to keep them safe. ²⁴ in consequence of this order he thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. ²⁵ At midnight Paul and Silas went to prayers, and sang praises to God, which the other prisoners heard:

²³ save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me."

³³ the commander advanc'd, seiz'd him, and order'd to load him with two chains: then demanded who he was, and what he had done.

²³ and I do all for the gospel's sake, that I may share in the benefits thereof.

⁷ it excuses all things, believes what is favourable, hopes for the best, and suffers the worst.

² you are my epistle, your conversion being writ in. my heart, known and read by all men:

³ I speak not this to your reproach: for I have already assured you, that I am so heartily well affected to you, I could live and die with you.

⁶ for in the christian-dispensation, neither circumcision avails any thing, nor uncircumcision, but an active benevolent faith.

¹ This it is that makes me Paul a prisoner for Jesus Christ upon your account, O Gentiles;

¹ I therefore the prisoner for the Lord, beseech you to live suitably to the offers that have been made to you:

²⁰ for which I am an embassador, tho' in chains: that I may duely represent it to the full.

⁵ from the first day to the present time. being persuaded that

¹⁶ those preach the gospel of Christ, not in sincerity, but from a principle of contention, with a view to inflame the persecution against me: ¹⁷ the others act from affection, as knowing that I suffer for having defended the gospel.

¹⁴ however, you acted generously in assisting me in my necessity:

³ put up your requests likewise for me, that God would give me an opportunity to declare the mystery of Christ (for which I am even in bonds:)

¹⁸ have received from the Lord. I Paul salute you, and this salutation I write with my own hand. remember my bonds. grace be with you. AMEN.

² We always mention you in our prayers, and give thanks to God for you all: ³ never forgetting the effects of your faith, your charitable offices, and the constancy of your hope in our Lord Jesus Christ; of which God is our witness. ⁴ for we are persuaded, my brethren, that you are the peculiar objects of divine favour; ⁵ since the gospel we preach'd, did not consist only of words, but was fully confirm'd by miracles and gifts of the holy spirit, you yourselves being witnesses, what we did among you and for you.

⁵ you inherit the advantages of meridian light: we are not involv'd in the obscurity of night.

⁸ be not therefore asham'd of the testimony of the Lord, nor of me who am a prisoner upon his account. but share with me in the afflictions, which attend the gospel, supported as you are by the power of God,

⁹ for which I suffer even the chains of a malefactor: but the word of God is not so confin'd.

¹ Wherefore, christian brethren, you who are called to an heavenly inheritance, consider the apostle and high priest of the faith we profess, even Christ Jesus;

⁹ But though we speak in this manner, my dear brethren, we expect better things of you, and such as are more suitable to your salvation. ¹⁰ for God is too just to his promise not to regard your piety, and the love which you have shewn to the christian religion by the assistance ye have given to the saints, and still continue to give.

³³ some of you being expos'd to publick obloquy and persecution: whilst others had their share of affliction in seeing such treatment. ³⁴ for you were passionately affected for those who were in bonds, and were pleas'd at the seizing of your goods, knowing that you have what is more excellent and lasting.

¹³ on the contrary, rejoice at the share you have of sufferings, as well as Christ: that you may likewise triumph, when he shall appear in his glory.

¹ I address myself to you pastors, as being a pastor myself, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and as one who is to partake of the glory, that shall hereafter be made manifest;

¹³ whilst I am alive, I think it my duty to awaken you by my admonitions:

¹⁴ as for us, we know, that we have passed from a state of death to that of life, because we love our brethren: he that does not love his brother, is in a destructive state.

⁷⁸ through the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun has visited us from on high,

¹ I call Christ, and the holy spirit to witness with my conscience, that I speak the truth without guile, when I say,

¹² our affections are as enlarged towards you, as yours are contracted towards us.

¹⁵ and his affection to you is abundantly increased, whilst he remembers your obedience, and that fear and reverence with which you all received him.

⁹ I am therefore glad when I am disarm'd by the strength of your integrity: and this is what I pray for, even your perfection.

²⁰ what I write to you, I call God to witness is all true:

¹⁹ my dear children, how am I in pain, till Christ be formed in you?

¹ If then there be any christian consolation, any charitable relief, any communion of the spirit, if any tenderness of compassion,

²⁶ for he long'd to see you all, and was greatly concern'd, that you should hear he was sick. and indeed he was sick almost unto death:

¹ For I wish you knew how great my concern is for you, and for those of Laodicea, and for such as have never seen me in person:

¹² be you therefore adorn'd with a compassionate temper, with benevolence, humility, meekness, patience as becometh saints and chosen favourites of God:

⁵ our address to you was without any flattery, as you yourselves can witness, and God is witness that we had no avarice to disguise.

⁸ Our affection therefore to you being so great, we were as ready to give our lives for you, as we were to communicate the divine gospel to you, so much did you engage our love.

⁴ when I call to mind your affliction, it makes me ardently desire the exceeding pleasure I shall have in seeing you:

¹² I have sent him back, therefore receive him as one that I tenderly love.

²⁰ for the Lord's sake, brother, let me have this satisfaction: refresh my heart for his sake.

¹⁷ he that possesses the enjoyments of life, and seeing his brother in want, has no compassion for him, how can he be said to have any divine love?

³¹ He propos'd another parable to them, which was this; the gospel-state is like a grain of mustard-seed which a man took to sow in his field. ³² 'tis one indeed of the smallest grains: but when it is grown, it is the largest of the pulse kind, and becomes a tree: so that the birds of the air come and lodge in its branches. ³³ Another of his parables was this; the gospel-state is like unto leaven, which a woman took and mixt with three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

²⁰ Brethren, be not childish in understanding: be as innocent as babes, but use your understanding like men.

⁷ that as you excel in every thing, in faith, in language, mystical knowledge, in all virtue, and in your affection to us; I hope you will excel too in this charitable disposition.

¹⁷ wherefore be not imprudent, but consider what is agreeable to the divine will.

¹⁵ Let us therefore, who have been instructed, have this in view: and if you are sollicitous about any thing else, God will reveal even that unto you. ¹⁶ in the mean while, as we are already advanc'd so far, pursue your course, and keep it still in view:

⁹ For this cause, ever since we heard of it, we incessantly pray for you, requesting that you may be endued with respect to the knowledge of his will, with all wisdom and spiritual discernment:

¹⁰ improv'd by knowledge into a resemblance of him, who made this change:

¹² may the Lord make you increase and abound in mutual love, in love towards all men, as we do towards you:

¹ Finally, my brethren, we intreat and conjure you by the Lord Jesus Christ, to observe the instructions we gave you about your religious conduct, and to make continual progress therein.

⁹ As to brotherly love, I have no occasion to write about it, God himself having instructed you to love one another. ¹⁰ this indeed you practise towards all our brethren in Macedonia; and we only exhort you to advance more and more therein:

⁶ so that the christian faith, which you have in common with us, displays itself to the observation of all good men about you.

¹⁴ such solid nourishment is only fit for such as are arriv'd at their full growth and strength, whose senses have been exercis'd in distinguishing what is good, and what is prejudicial.

²² You that have purified your souls by the holy spirit, in obeying the gospel, which obliges you to an undisguised benevolence, let your hearts be mutually affected with the most disinterested ardour;

⁵ Do you on your part employ all your care in adding to your faith, fortitude: to fortitude, knowledge: ⁶ to knowledge, temperance: to temperance, patience: to patience, piety:

¹⁸ on the contrary, may you increase in the favour, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ! to him be glory both now and for ever. AMEN.

²³ but he frown'd upon Peter, and said, out of my sight pernicious obstacle to my designs; your views are all worldly, regardless of what is divine.

⁶ But whoever shall occasion such an humble believer to fall off from the faith, it were better for him that a mill-stone were hang'd about his neck, and that he were plung'd to the bottom of the sea. ⁷ wo unto the world, because of such scandals: tho' it cannot be, but that such occasions of relapsing should happen: yet wo to that man by whom the scandal cometh.

³³ Peter thereupon said, tho' all the rest should abandon you, I never will.

⁴⁷ Jesus seeing Nathanael coming, said of him, there's a true Israelite, in whom is no guile. how do you know me?

²⁰ for every one that doth evil, hateth the light, and shunneth the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.

¹⁶ and 'tis my endeavour to preserve a conscience free from reproach both with respect to God, and with respect to men.

¹⁸ you know the divine will, and what is contrary thereto, having been educated in the law:

¹⁶ if then I do what I in my mind am against, the consent of my mind is, that the law is right.

²² for my mind takes delight in the law of God,

⁷ because a sensual disposition of mind is averse to God: for it is not subject to the divine law, nor indeed can it be.

² and be not conformed to the present age: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may perceive what God requires of you is good, and acceptable, and perfect.

⁹ Let love be without dissimulation. abhor that which is evil, adhere to that which is good.

²⁰ do not for such a thing as meat, pull down what God has been raising. all things indeed are pure; but they become evil to him who by eating giveth offence. ²¹ it is better to abstain from flesh, and wine, and every thing whereby your brother is in danger of falling off.

¹⁷ Now I beseech you, brethren, mark those who cause divisions and revolts against the doctrine which you have learned; and avoid them.

¹³ wherefore if my eating makes my brother offend, I will never eat flesh rather than make my brother offend.

³² give no offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God.

¹² for this is to me matter of glorying, the testimony of my conscience, that without artifice, and with religious sincerity, not by worldly wisdom, but by God's favourable assistance I have behaved my self towards all men, but more particularly to you.

¹⁷ for we are not like others, who adulterate the word of God; but we preach the pure gospel of Christ, as I receiv'd it from God, and as in the presence of God.

³ as for us, we give no occasion of offence, that our ministry may not be blamed:

⁸ I don't mean to prescribe to you, but that the zeal of others may show you are as sincerely well-affected.

¹³ for these are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguised so as to pass for true apostles. ¹⁴ and no wonder; for satan himself may put on the appearance of an angel of light. ¹⁵ therefore it is not strange if his agents are so disguised as to appear like ministers of the gospel; but their end shall be answerable to their actions.

¹¹ as for me, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why am I yet persecuted? for then there would not be so much objection to the doctrine of the cross.

¹⁵ but being sincere in mutual love, may be entirely united to Christ, who is the head:

¹⁰ consider what is acceptable to the Lord;

²⁷ that he himself might make her appear illustrious to his own eye, a church without spot, or any thing like a defect; so as to be holy and irreprehensible.

²⁴ grace be with all those that have love uncorrupted for our Lord Jesus Christ. amen.

⁶ he who has begun this good work in you will bring it to perfection against the appearance of Christ. it is but just

¹⁶ those preach the gospel of Christ, not in sincerity, but from a principle of contention, with a view to inflame the persecution against me:

¹³ that by the sanctity of your affections, you may stand unreprov'd in the presence of God our father, when our Lord Jesus Christ shall come with all his holy angels.

²¹ bring every thing to the test: if it be proof, abide by that:

²³ Now may the God of peace make you intirely holy: may every part of you, your spirit, soul, and body be preserved irreprovable at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

¹² for though by this time you ought to be capable of teaching others, you want to be instructed anew in the first principles of the divine oracles; and are in such a state as to stand in need of milk, rather than of solid nourishment. ¹³ now he that is disciplined like a child, is not prepared for the doctrine of justification: ¹⁴ such solid nourishment is only fit for such as are arriv'd at their full growth and strength, whose senses have been exercis'd in distinguishing what is good, and what is prejudicial.

¹ Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

² I know thy works, thy labour, and thy patience, and that thou canst not bear those who are evil: thou hast tried those who say they are apostles, but are not; and hast found them lyars:

¹⁶ even so let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father who is in heaven.

⁶ He proposed likewise this parable: a certain man had a fig-tree planted in his vineyard, and he came expecting it should have had fruit, but he found none. ⁷ then he said to the vine-dresser, you see, I have been looking these three years for fruit from this fig-tree, but find none: hew it down, why should it cumber my ground? ⁸ to which he made answer, sir, let it alone one year longer, till I shall dig about it, and dung it. ⁹ perhaps it may bear fruit: if not, you may after that hew it down.

² every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he takes away: as for the branch that bears fruit, he prunes it clean, to make it more fruitful.

⁴ be attach'd to me, and I shall be so to you. as the branch cannot bear fruit of it self, except it be attach'd to the vine: so neither can you, except you continue attach'd to me. ⁵ I am the vine, you are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for independent of me ye can do nothing.

⁸ my father will be honour'd by your bearing much fruit, and you will have the honour of being my disciples.

¹⁶ it was not you that chose me, but I that chose you, and establish'd you, that your travels may be fruitful, and your fruit be lasting: so that whatever ye shall ask of the father for my sake, he will give it you.

²² but now being set free from sin, and actually in the service of God, the present advantage you reap is holiness, and the future everlasting life.

²⁸ when I have dispatch'd this affair, and have secur'd to them this collection, I will come to you in my way to Spain.

³¹ whether therefore you eat or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God.

¹⁰ now he that furnishes seed to the sower, and bread for food, shall furnish and multiply what you sow, and increase the fruits of your liberality.

²² but the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, sweetness of disposition, beneficence, faithfulness, meekness, temperance: ²³ against such there is no law.

¹² that we should celebrate his glory, who were the first that plac'd our hopes in Christ.

¹⁴ and this is the pledge of our inheritance, being given for the deliverance of his peculiar people, to the display of his glory.

¹⁰ for he hath made us a-new, and form'd us by Christ Jesus to do good works, for which God had before prepared us, that we might live in them.

⁹ for the natural effect of light, is universal benevolence, justice, and truth:

¹⁷ not that I desire a present; but what I desire is, that the fruits of your liberality may greatly redound to your own account.

⁶ which is not only come to you, but to all the world; where it produces its effects, and increases, as it does also among you, ever since you sincerely embrac'd the divine favour,

¹⁰ that your conduct may be worthy of the Lord, in every respect agreeable to him, being friutful in every kind of virtue, and increasing in divine knowledge:

¹² that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified by you, and you by him, by the favour of our God, and of our Lord Jesus Christ.

¹¹ 'tis true, all correction at first is far from appearing agreeable, yet afterward it produces the agreeable fruits of virtue in those who are exercised thereby.

¹⁵ Let our sacrifice then, which we are to offer to God by Jesus Christ, be that of incessant praises, the offering of our lips, which celebrate his name: ¹⁶ but don't forget to be beneficent to the community; for such sacrifice is acceptable to God.

¹⁷ but wisdom deriv'd from heaven is first dispassionate, then pacific, equitable, and obsequious: full of beneficence, and all social virtue, free from partiality, and hypocrisy. ¹⁸ they who cultivate peace, enjoy the reward of their virtue.

⁵ you your selves are as so many living stones, you are the edifice, the spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, agreeable to God by Jesus Christ.

⁹ and this they were destin'd to. but you are the chosen race, you are kings and priests, the holy nation, the peculiar people, that you might display his glory, who called you out

¹² souls. Let your behaviour among the Gentiles be virtuous, that instead of inveighing against you as vicious, they may observe your honest behaviour,

¹⁰ as good economists of the different dispensations of God, communicate to one another the gifts you have receiv'd. ¹¹ let a speaker deliver nothing but what is agreeable to the divine oracles: and let him that attends the poor, be active in proportion to the strength God has given him. amen.

¹⁴ if you suffer indignities in the cause of Christ, you are happy: for the glorious spirit of God rests upon you.

⁴ but they that were dispers'd, preach'd the gospel wherever they went.

¹⁹ In the mean time they who were dispers'd upon the persecution that arose after Stephen's time, had travell'd as far as Phenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, without preaching the gospel to any, but Jews only. ²⁰ some of them were of Cyprus and Cyrene, and upon their arrival at Antioch they address'd themselves to the Greeks, and preach'd to them the Lord Jesus. ²¹ and as the divine assistance accompany'd them, a great number of persons believed and became converts.

²⁸ bawling out, "men of Israel, help: this is the man that every where inveighs upon all occasions against the people, against the law, and against this place, where they have brought Greeks too to profane this holy place." ²⁹ (for having seen Trophimus an Ephesian with him in the city, they imagin'd Paul had conducted him into the temple.) ³⁰ the whole city was in an uproar, the people crouded together: they seized Paul, dragg'd him out of the temple, and then shut the gates. ³¹ as they were busy upon his execution, news came to the commander of the cohort, that the whole city was in an uproar. ³² immediately he headed a detachment, with his centurions, and march'd briskly to them; who, upon seeing the officer and his men, left off beating Paul. ³³ the commander advanc'd, seiz'd him, and order'd to load him with two chains: then demanded who he was, and what he had done. ³⁴ in the hubbub some cry'd one thing, some another: so that not being able to get any information for the tumult, he order'd him to be carried to the castle. ³⁵ as he was mounting the stairs, the soldiers bore him up thro' the violence of the people, who were all pressing after, ³⁶ roaring out, "away with him."

¹ My brethren, and fathers, pray hear what I have to say for my self. ² when they perceiv'd he talk'd Hebrew, they were the more silent. ³ then he said, I am a Jew, a native of Tarsus in Cilicia, but had my education in this city: at the feet of Gamaliel I was instructed in the law, and in the exact decisions of our fathers, and was as religiously zealous as you are at this time. ⁴ for I persecuted this sect even to death, throwing them into chains and prisons both men and women: ⁵ this the high-priest and the senate know too well: from them I receiv'd my warrant directed to the Jews of Damascus, where I went, to bring the converts there in chains to Jerusalem, in order to be punished. ⁶ as I was upon the road, advanc'd near Damascus, about mid-day, all of a sudden a great light from heaven broke all around me. ⁷ I fell to the ground, and heard a voice pronounce these words, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" ⁸ I answered, who art thou, Lord? it answered, "I am Jesus the Nazarene whom thou dost persecute." ⁹ the company actually saw the light, but did not hear the voice of him that spoke to me. ¹⁰ then I said, Lord, what must I do? and the Lord answer'd, arise, go to Damascus; there you will be inform'd what you are to do. ¹¹ but as I had lost the use of my eyes by the splendor of that light, I was led by the hand to Damascus, by those who were with me. ¹² there one Ananias a religious observer of the law, who had the good word of all the Jews in that place, came to see me, ¹³ and being introduc'd, he said, brother Saul, receive thy sight. and instantly I saw him. ¹⁴ then he said, the God of our fathers has singled you out to be acquainted with his will, to see the just one, and to hear the words of his mouth: ¹⁵ that you might testify to all men, what you have seen and heard. ¹⁶ why should you now delay? arise, be baptized, and cleansed from your sins, by invoking the name of the Lord. ¹⁷ at length being return'd to Jerusalem, one day as I was praying in the temple, I fell into a trance. ¹⁸ then I saw JESUS, who said to me, "make haste, and go out of Jerusalem immediately: for they will not receive the attestations you would give of me." Lord, ¹⁹ said I, they know it is I that imprison'd those who believed on thee, and caus'd them to be scourg'd in the assemblies: ²⁰ that I was present, when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, that I abetted the slaughter, and watch'd the clothes of those who slew him. ²¹ but the Lord said to me, "be gone, for I will send you far hence, even to the Gentiles." ²² Till that word, the Jews had given their attention, but then they broke out into a full cry, "out of the world with such a fellow: for it is not fit he should live." ²³ thus they roar'd, and threw off their cloaks, and scatter'd dust in the air: ²⁴ when the commanding officer order'd him to be brought into the castle, and put to the question by the lash, in order to find out the reason of their exclamations against him. ²⁵ as they were tying him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion, does the law allow to scourge a Roman citizen, and without any trial? ²⁶ upon hearing that, the centurion went to acquaint the head officer, take care, said he, what you do; for this man is a Roman. ²⁷ then the head officer came to him, and said, tell me, are you a Roman? ²⁸ he answer'd, yes. the officer rejoin'd, my freedom cost me a considerable sum. but I had it, said Paul, by right of birth. ²⁹ immediately those who were going to put him to the question, withdrew: the commander himself being under some apprehension for having order'd him to be bound. ³⁰ as he was resolv'd to know for certain, the next day, what the Jews laid to his charge, he took off his chains, and summon'd the chief priests, and the council to appear, when Paul was brought, and presented before them.

¹ Having thus escap'd, we found we were upon the isle of Malta: ² where the inhabitants, as much barbarians, as they were, receiv'd us with great humanity. they kindled a fire, and secur'd us from the falling rains, as well as the cold: ³ when Paul having taken up some brush-wood and laid it upon the fire, a viper started out from the heat, and seiz'd upon his hand. ⁴ the barbarians seeing the venomous creature hang fast to his hand, said to one another, this man is a murderer, no doubt; for, escaped from the wreck, the divine justice still pursues him to death. ⁵ but Paul shook off the animal into the fire without having receiv'd any hurt. ⁶ however, they expected to have seen him swell, or suddenly die away. but when they had waited a good while, and saw no harm come to him, they were of another opinion, and said he was a God. ⁷ The chief of the island, one Publius, had his estate in that quarter: he entertain'd us with diet and lodging for three days with great civility. ⁸ Publius's father happening then to lie sick of a fever, and a dysentery, Paul made him a visit, pray'd by him, gave him imposition of hands, and cur'd him. ⁹ upon this several that were indispos'd in the island came to Paul, and were cur'd, ¹⁰ showing their respect by many presents, and furnishing us with provisions upon our departure. ¹¹ After having been there three months, we embark'd on board the Castor and Pollux from Alexandria, that had put in there by hard weather: ¹² we landed at Syracuse, and stay'd there three days. ¹³ from thence we turn'd to the wind, and arriv'd at Rhegium: the next day the wind being at south, we came in two days to Puteoli: ¹⁴ where finding some brethren, they desir'd us to stay with them seven days, after which we set out for Rome: ¹⁵ the brethren there having had news of us, came as far as Appiiforum, and the Three inns to meet us: whom when Paul saw, he gave thanks to God, and was greatly encourag'd. ¹⁶ Upon our arrival at Rome, the centurion deliver'd the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was allow'd to be at private lodgings, under the custody of a soldier. ¹⁷ three days after, Paul sent for the chief of the Jews: and when they were assembled, he said to them, "my brethren, tho' I have done nothing against the Jews, or against the customs of our fathers, I was made a prisoner at Jerusalem, and put into the hands of the Romans: ¹⁸ who, after my examination, would have discharg'd me, as having done nothing that was capital. ¹⁹ but the Jews opposing it, I was oblig'd to appeal to the emperor: not having however any design to accuse them. ²⁰ for this reason I desir'd to see and talk with you; it being for the expectation of Israel that I am subject to this chain." ²¹ they reply'd, we have receiv'd no letter from Judea concerning you; nor have any of our brethren that are arrived, said any harm of you. ²² but we should be glad to know your sentiments: for as to this sect, we are sensible it is every where inveigh'd against. ²³ Having therefore set him a day, they came in great numbers to his lodgings; where he explain'd and confirm'd the reality of the gospel-dispensation, from morning to night, enforcing what the writings of Moses and the prophets had affirm'd concerning Jesus. ²⁴ some believed what he had said, but others did not believe: ²⁵ so not being able to agree, they retir'd, upon Paul's having told them, that the holy spirit had very justly said to our fathers by the prophet Esaias, ²⁶ "go to this people and say, hearing you shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive. ²⁷ for the heart of this people is become gross, their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and be converted and I should heal them." ²⁸ take notice therefore, that the offers of divine salvation are sent to the Gentiles, and they will receive them. ²⁹ [ having said this, the Jews went out, warmly debating it among themselves.] ³⁰ After this, Paul staid two whole years in a house he had hired, and gave access to all that visited him, ³¹ preaching the kingdom of God, and instructing them in all things relating to the Lord Jesus Christ, with the utmost freedom, without being molested.

²⁸ We know too, that all things co-operate for the good of those who love God, who, pursuant to his purpose, has now called them:

³⁷ yet after all we are more than conquerors, through him that loved us.

²³ save what the holy spirit in every city declares, "that bonds and afflictions wait for me." ²⁴ things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour.

¹¹ when taking Paul's girdle, he bound his own feet and hands, and said, "thus saith the holy spirit, so shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man, that owns this girdle, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles." ¹² upon hearing this, we and some of the city intreated him not to go to Jerusalem. ¹³ but Paul replied, what do you mean by afflicting me thus with your tears? I am not only ready to meet my chains, but even to die at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus.

²⁹ I pray God, said Paul, that not only you, but all that now hear me, were both almost and altogether such as I am, the circumstance of my bonds excepted.

³¹ they declar'd to one another, "this man has done nothing that deserves either death or imprisonment:"

¹⁷ three days after, Paul sent for the chief of the Jews: and when they were assembled, he said to them, "my brethren, tho' I have done nothing against the Jews, or against the customs of our fathers, I was made a prisoner at Jerusalem, and put into the hands of the Romans:

²⁰ for this reason I desir'd to see and talk with you; it being for the expectation of Israel that I am subject to this chain."

³⁰ After this, Paul staid two whole years in a house he had hired, and gave access to all that visited him,

²² all the converts here salute you, particularly those of Cesar's houshold.

³ put up your requests likewise for me, that God would give me an opportunity to declare the mystery of Christ (for which I am even in bonds:) ⁴ that I may publish it in the manner, it should necessarily be done. ⁵ Be prudent in your conduct to those, who are not christians: and make the best of of every opportunity. ⁶ let an air of modesty appear in all your discourse; and let it be seasoned with discretion, in making a proper reply, when you are call'd into question. ⁷ As to what relates to me, you will be inform'd of it by Tychicus my dear brother, who is a faithful minister of the Lord, and serves him with me. ⁸ I sent him on purpose to acquaint you with my circumstances, and give you matter of comfort. ⁹ I have sent him with Onesimus a faithful and beloved brother, who is of your city: they will inform you of what passes here. ¹⁰ Aristarchus my companion in bonds salutes you. and so does Mark, nephew to Barnabas, for whom you have receiv'd recommendations. if he come to you, give him a kind reception. ¹¹ Jesus, who is called Justus, salutes you: these are the only Jews who by assisting me in preaching the gospel, ¹² have cordially reliev'd me. Epaphras a servant of Christ, and your countryman, salutes you, who is always very earnest in his prayers, that you may be perfectly acquainted with, and constantly observe, ¹³ the whole will of God. for I can witness for him, that he is ardently concern'd for you, and the christians of Laodicea, ¹⁴ and Hierapolis. our dear brother Luke the Physician, and Demas salute you. ¹⁵ Salute our brethren of Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the ¹⁶ church which uses to meet in his house. when this epistle has been read among you, take care that it be read likewise in the church of the Laodiceans, and ¹⁷ that you read the epistle from Laodicea. give Archippus this instruction from me, take care to discharge the function, you ¹⁸ have received from the Lord. I Paul salute you, and this salutation I write with my own hand. remember my bonds. grace be with you. AMEN.

⁸ for the gospel has made so favourable a progress not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but in every other place, where the reputation of your divine faith has spread, that 'tis needless to mention any thing of it; since they all relate of us, ⁹ how successful our arrival was among you, and how you renounc'd your idols to serve the living and true God,

¹² My dear brethren, don't be surpriz'd at your being brought as it were to the test of fire; as if some strange thing had happen'd to you. ¹³ on the contrary, rejoice at the share you have of sufferings, as well as Christ: that you may likewise triumph, when he shall appear in his glory. ¹⁴ if you suffer indignities in the cause of Christ, you are happy: for the glorious spirit of God rests upon you. ¹⁵ take care therefore not to suffer upon the account of homicide, or thievery, or for any criminal, or pragmatical practices. ¹⁶ but whoever suffers as a christian, let him not be asham'd, but rather give thanks to God upon that account.

⁷⁴ that we should be delivered from the power of our enemies, and serve him with security,

⁵ but I will inform you whom you should fear: fear him, who after he has kill'd, has power to precipitate into hell; yes, I advise you, fear him. ⁶ are not five sparrows sold for two pence? however the divine providence extends to each of them. ⁷ nay, the very hairs of your head can't fall without being number'd: be not then afraid; there is no comparison between you and sparrows.

²³ As soon as they were discharg'd, they went to their brethren, and reported all that the chief priests and senators had said to them: ²⁴ at the relation of which they unanimously lift up their voice to God, and said, Lord, thou art the God who hast made the heaven, the earth, the sea, and all that is therein: ²⁵ who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, "why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? ²⁶ the kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ." ²⁷ for it was truly against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, that Herod and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, united themselves in this city, ²⁸ to effect what thy power and thy wisdom pre-determined to be done. ²⁹ and now, Lord, behold their threatnings: and enable thy servants to deliver thy word with freedom, ³⁰ by displaying thine hand in miraculous cures, and prodigies, which by the name of thy holy child Jesus shall be done. ³¹ When they had prayed, the place where they were assembled, trembled; they were all filled with the holy spirit, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

³ Blessed be the God, and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the father of mercies, and the God of all consolation: ⁴ who comforteth me in all my tribulations, that I may be able to comfort them who are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith I myself am comforted of God. ⁵ for as I have greatly suffered for Christ, so I have been greatly comforted thro' Christ. ⁶ but whether I am afflicted, it is for your consolation and relief, which is effected by your perseverance, patiently enduring the same sufferings which I also undergo: or whether I am comforted, it is for your consolation and relief. ⁷ and the hopes I had of you continue still the same, knowing that as you have had your share of suffering, so you will likewise have of consolation.

¹³ Wherefore I desire that you be not dejected at the tribulations I am under for your sake, which are matter of glory to you.

¹⁹ in particular for me, that I may have leave to speak without any restraint, and make known the mystery of the gospel, ²⁰ for which I am an embassador, tho' in chains: that I may duely represent it to the full.

⁴ that I may publish it in the manner, it should necessarily be done.

⁷ As to what relates to me, you will be inform'd of it by Tychicus my dear brother, who is a faithful minister of the Lord, and serves him with me.

⁵ their phylacterys are broader, and the fringes of their garments are larger than those of others:

⁴² and every day either in the temple or in private houses they continued to preach and proclaim Jesus to be the Christ.

⁵ Philip being arrived at Samaria, preached Christ to them.

³⁵ then Philip enter'd upon the subject, and show'd how the whole passage was applicable to Jesus.

²⁰ Immediately he maintained in the synagogues, that Jesus was the son of God.

³⁶ this was what he communicated to the children of Israel, proclaiming salvation by Jesus Christ, who is the Lord of all mankind.

²⁰ some of them were of Cyprus and Cyrene, and upon their arrival at Antioch they address'd themselves to the Greeks, and preach'd to them the Lord Jesus.

¹⁷ Now I beseech you, brethren, mark those who cause divisions and revolts against the doctrine which you have learned; and avoid them. ¹⁸ for such as these serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own selfishness; and by flourish and flattery, deceive the open-hearted simple.

²³ we preach Christ crucified, an obstacle to the Jews indeed, and to the Gentiles foolishness: but to those who believe,

³ for you are still subject to your passions. since envy, and strife, and divisions are among you, are you not actuated by the vices of the animal part? ⁴ while one cries I am Paul's disciple, and another, I am Apollo's, are ye not vicious?

³ and tho' I distribute my whole substance to the poor, and give my body to be burned, and have not social affection, it profits me nothing.

¹⁹ for what I, and Timothy, and Silvanus preached concerning Jesus Christ, the son of God, is not inconsistent, but invariably the same.

⁵ for we preach not our selves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, professing our selves your servants for his sake.

¹³ for these are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguised so as to pass for true apostles.

²⁰ yet I fear when I do come I shall not find you such as I would, and that you will find me such as you least desire: I am afraid there are among you debates, envyings, animosities, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, arrogance, tumults:

⁴ and as to the false brethren, who insidiously crept in to spy out our liberty which we have by Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into servitude;

¹⁶ those preach the gospel of Christ, not in sincerity, but from a principle of contention, with a view to inflame the persecution against me: ¹⁷ the others act from affection, as knowing that I suffer for having defended the gospel. ¹⁸ is it not however some advantage? since in either way, whether it be occasionally, or professedly, Christ is preach'd; which is now, and always will be matter of joy to me.

³ Do nothing out of a spirit of contention, or for vain-glory, but modestly look upon others as if they were better than yourselves.

¹⁶ the mystery of piety is the pillar and basts of truth; and certainly most extraordinary. God has appear'd in the flesh, been justified by the spirit, seen by angels, proclaim'd to the Gentiles, believ'd by the world, and assum'd into glory.

⁵ or do you imagine that passage of scripture to be insignificant, "does the spirit that dwells in you, incite you to vice?" ⁶ on the contrary, he heaps his favours upon you. wherefore 'tis said, "God defeats the proud, but is gracious to the humble."

² to exhort you to feed the flock of God, which is among you: to take care of it, voluntarily, without reluctance, not from any view to sordid gain, but out of real affection; ³ not to domineer over the laity, but to be examples for their imitation; ⁴ that when the sovereign pastor shall appear, you may carry off a glorious crown, that will never fade.

¹ Therefore, having by the divine favour such a ministry, I exert myself: ² renouncing all secret dishonesty, and void of all artifice, I deliver the word of God unadulterated, and recommend my self by urging the truth home to every man's conscience, as in the presence of God.

¹² Now I would have you know, my brethren, that what has happen'd to me, has only conduc'd to the progress of the gospel;

¹⁴ fix it therefore in your mind, not to think beforehand about your defence.

¹ My brethren, and fathers, pray hear what I have to say for my self.

¹ Then Agrippa said to Paul, you are at liberty to make your defence. upon which Paul disengaging his hand from his cloak, thus made his plea.

²⁴ As he was thus making his defence, Festus broke out into this exclamation, "Paul, you are mad: much study has turn'd your brain."

¹³ now I would not have you ignorant, my brethren, that I often purposed to come to you, tho' I have been hindered hitherto, that I might be useful among you as well as among other Gentiles. ¹⁴ I owe what service I can do to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians, to the learned, and to the illiterate. ¹⁵ so, that as far as it depends upon me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you also, who are at Rome. ¹⁶ for I am not ashamed of the gospel, since it is divinely effectual to salvation, to everyone that believes, to the Jew first, and then to the Gentile. ¹⁷ There it is that divine justification is revealed to be wholly by faith: as it is written, " the just shall live by faith."

¹⁶ for in barely preaching the gospel, I have nothing to glory in: because I am under an obligation to do it; yea, wo is unto me if I preach not the gospel. ¹⁷ now if I do this willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, it is a dispensation of trust which must be discharged.

⁷ on the contrary, when they perceived that I had the province of preaching the gospel to the Gentiles, as Peter had that of preaching it to the Jews, ⁸ (for he that had wrought powerfully in Peter with respect to his apostleship among the Jews, had also wrought powerfully in me upon account of the Gentiles:) and when James,

⁷ for this I was establish'd a herald and an apostle, I speak the truth without disguise, a doctor to instruct the Gentiles in the true faith.

¹¹ For this I was establish'd the herald, the apostle, and doctor of the Gentiles. this has drawn upon me the evils I suffer. ¹² yet I am not ashamed, for I know in whom I have confided, and I am persuaded he is able to keep what I have committed to him against that day.

⁶ as for me, my blood will soon be pour'd out, and the time of my departure draws nigh: ⁷ I have struggled in a glorious cause: I have finish'd my career: I have stood to the faith:

¹⁶ At my first defence, I had no assistance, for every body deserted me. I wish it may never be laid to their charge.

¹³ Wo unto you, Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, who prey upon the estates of widows, under the pretext of making long prayers; therefore ye shall be punish'd with the greater severity.

³⁸ Upon this occasion John address'd himself to Jesus, saying, master, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, tho' he did not belong to us, for which reason we opposed him. ³⁹ but Jesus said, do not oppose him: for no man can speak evil of me, at the same time he works a miracle by virtue of my name. ⁴⁰ such a one is not against us, but for us.

⁴⁰ who yet devour widows estates under the shew of making long prayers, such shall receive greater condemnation.

⁴⁵ but they did not comprehend that expression: it was as a riddle, which they could not understand, and they were afraid to desire him to explain the meaning of that expression.

⁵⁰ but Jesus said to him, don't oppose it: for he that is not against us, is for us.

⁹ "how then are we better than they?" why, not at all: for we have already convicted both Jews and Gentiles, of being all under the guilt of sin.

¹⁵ What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under the gospel?

¹⁹ that the idol, or that what is offered in sacrifice to the idol, is a matter of consequence?

¹⁵ what then is to be done? why, I will pray by the spirit, but my prayer shall be intelligible: I will sing by the spirit, but my hymn shall be intelligible.

¹¹ but whether I or they labour'd most, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed.

¹⁴ even many of our brethren, encourag'd by my bonds, preach the word with greater freedom and intrepidity. ¹⁵ it is true, there are some who preach Christ out of a spirit of envy and contention; but others do it out of pure affection.

⁹ no renegado that deserts the doctrine of Christ, has any interest in the deity: he that adheres to the doctrine of Christ, has an interest both in the father, and in the son. ¹⁰ whoever comes to you unaccompanied with this doctrine, don't admit him to your house, nor treat him with the common term of civility. ¹¹ for he who shows that respect to such a man, is accessary to his wicked actions.

⁷ being therefore arrived in Mysia, they essayed to go into Bithynia, but the spirit of Jesus would not allow it: so they pass'd by Mysia,

⁹ you are not in such a state, but in a spiritual one, provided the divine spirit dwell in you. now if any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

¹⁷ 'tis for this end I have sent you Timothy, who is my dear disciple, and a faithful christian, who will inform you how I behave my self in every church where I teach the gospel of Christ.

¹¹ being assisted by your prayers for me, so that thanks may be returned by many, for the gracious deliverance procur'd me by their prayers.

⁶ and because ye are sons, God has sent forth the spirit of his son into your hearts, crying Abba, that is, father;

¹⁸ Pour out your souls unto God upon all occasions, watching in prayer with all perseverance and supplication for all christians: ¹⁹ in particular for me, that I may have leave to speak without any restraint, and make known the mystery of the gospel,

⁷ that your faith being put to a more advantageous proof, than that of gold, which loses by the essay, may redound to your praise and highest honour at the appearance of Jesus Christ: ⁸ whom though you have not seen, you love: and though he is not now the object of your view, yet you believe in him, and triumph with such a laudable transport, as cannot be express'd: ⁹ since the salvation of your souls is the reward you receive for your faith.

¹¹ when the spirit of Christ inform'd the minds of the prophets of his future sufferings, and of the glorious consequences, they were solicitous to know the circumstances of the times pointed at:

²⁷ "Now is my soul troubled; what! shall I say, father, save me from this concern? but for this cause am I come, even for this very concern. ²⁸ father, glorify thy name." then there came this voice from heaven, "I have glorified it, and will glorify it again."

¹⁹ this he said to signify to Peter by what death he should glorify God. and when he had spoken this, he said to him, follow me.

²⁴ things that little affect me, nor is life so much my concern, as to finish my course, and the charge I receiv'd from the Lord Jesus, to attest the declaration of the divine favour.

¹³ but Paul replied, what do you mean by afflicting me thus with your tears? I am not only ready to meet my chains, but even to die at Jerusalem, for the name of the Lord Jesus.

⁵ now hope will not deceive us, because the love of God is diffused thro' our hearts, by the holy spirit which is given to us;

¹³ neither yield your members as instruments to iniquity: but yield yourselves unto God, as being alive after having been dead; and your members as instruments of righteousness.

¹⁹ (I allude to civil affairs, because of your unacquaintedness with spiritual matters:) as then you made your natural faculties subservient to impurity, and all manner of vice; make them now subservient to virtue and holiness.

¹⁹ mankind impatiently desire that the divine being would display himself to his creatures,

³³ as it is written, "behold, I lay in Sion a stumbling-stone, and a rock of offence: and whosoever believeth in him, shall not be ashamed."

¹ I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God to you, that you present your bodies a living victim, holy, acceptable unto God, as the service of a rational being.

⁷ for we neither live, nor die, as if we were our own masters. ⁸ if we live, our life is appropriated to the Lord; and if we die, we die as his servants: whether we live therefore or die, we are the Lord's. ⁹ for to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living.

²⁰ for you are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

³⁴ there is the same difference between a married woman and a virgin: the last is religiously concern'd to be holy, both in body and mind: but she that is married is taken up with worldly cares to please her husband.

³¹ I am daily receiving new mortifications, witness your cruel boastings against me, which I bear for the sake of Christ Jesus our Lord;

¹⁴ but thanks be to God, who maketh me triumph, thro' Christ, and spreads his healing doctrine by me, in eevery place: ¹⁵ for God is pleased to accept my christian labours, in favour both of those who are in a saving, and of those who are in a ruinous state: ¹⁶ by the one my preaching is taken as a deadly poison, to the other it is a reviving potion. and who is so sufficient for such a commission?

¹⁰ always bearing about in my body the marks of sufferings like those of Jesus, so that Jesus might be plainly prov'd to be alive by the sufferings of my body.

¹⁵ that they who are in a state of life should not live at their own discretion, but to the service of him who died for them, and rose again.

¹⁴ so that I am not ashamed of the commendations I have formerly given you to him; but as I have always preached the truth to you, so in my commendation to Titus, I have said nothing but truth of you.

⁸ for though I should more than ever magnify my authority, which the Lord hath given us for your improvement, and not for your ruin, I should have no reason to be ashamed;

¹⁴ even many of our brethren, encourag'd by my bonds, preach the word with greater freedom and intrepidity.

²³ I am doubly press'd between my desire to depart, in order to be with Christ, which is by far the best for ME; ²⁴ and my inclination to abide in this life, as being more advantageous for YOU:

¹⁷ and if my blood should serve as a libation to ratify your faith, I should rejoice and congratulate with you all thereupon;

²⁴ Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and am filling up the measure of those remaining afflictions, which in my turn I am to suffer in this life, in the cause of Christ, for the sake of his body, which is the church:

¹⁶ but whoever suffers as a christian, let him not be asham'd, but rather give thanks to God upon that account.

¹² for this reason I shall never omit to put you in mind of these things, however knowing you are already, and settled in the truth. ¹³ whilst I am alive, I think it my duty to awaken you by my admonitions: ¹⁴ knowing that I must soon leave this tabernacle, as our Lord Jesus Christ has signify'd to me. ¹⁵ However, I shall inculcate these things so as to make you continually remember them, even after my departure.

²⁸ adhere to that, my dear children, that when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.

³⁵ what shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or penury, or peril, or sword? ³⁶ for as it is written, "for thy sake we are sacrificed every day; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter:" ³⁷ yet after all we are more than conquerors, through him that loved us. ³⁸ for I am fully persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, ³⁹ neither the high, nor the low, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God by Christ Jesus our Lord.

³⁰ for from him it is that ye believe in Christ Jesus, whom God has made to us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: that,

²² whether Paul or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come;

¹ For I know, that if my body, which is but a tent for my sojourning upon earth, were dissolved, I have what is not fram'd by human art, but by the divine architect, a mansion eternal in the heavens.

⁶ therefore being always certainly assur'd that whilst I sojourn in this body, I am absent from the Lord,

⁸ ) in this assurance, I say, I think it best to be quit of this body, and be present with the Lord.

²⁰ I am crucified with Christ, it is not I that now live, but Christ that liveth in me; the life I have in this body I live by faith in the son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

¹⁴ but far be it from me that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world is as contemptible to me, as I am to the world.

²⁰ agreeably to that expectation and persuasion I have, that I shall not labour in vain; but as I always have, so I shall still glorify Christ in my body, whether it be by life or by death: for if I live, I live to Christ;

²³ I am doubly press'd between my desire to depart, in order to be with Christ, which is by far the best for ME;

²¹ the most consult their private advantage, and neglect the dispensation of Jesus Christ.

⁴ Christ is your life, and when he shall appear, then shall you also appear with him in glory.

¹³ Now I would not have you, my brethren, be mistaken about the state of the dead, lest you should be as greatly afflicted as those, who have no hope. ¹⁴ for if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, we must believe that God by Jesus will raise the dead, and assemble them with him. ¹⁵ for one thing I have in charge to tell you from the Lord, that we, who shall be found still alive at the coming of the Lord, shall not get the advance of those that are dead:

¹³ Then I heard a voice from heaven, saying to me, "write, blessed are the dead who die in the Lord; yes, from henceforth, saith the spirit, they shall rest from their labours; and the recompence of their labours shall follow them."

¹⁷ and now, brethren, I know it was through ignorance, that both you and your rulers, have acted thus.

² God hath not discarded his people whom he formerly approv'd. don't you know what the scripture says of Elias? how he complain'd to God against Israel,

³ for tho' I am involv'd with the world, I don't sustain the war with their poor arts:

²⁴ and my inclination to abide in this life, as being more advantageous for YOU:

² so that for the future he does not pass the rest of this life in gratifying his sensual passions, but in conformity to the divine precepts.

²⁹ Lord, thou wilt grant thy servant a happy death, according to thy promise. ³⁰ for mine eyes have beheld the saviour,

³⁸ now the man, who had been dispossess'd, begg'd to take him with him. but Jesus dismissed him,

⁵⁰ the baptism, which I am to undergo, how do I long till it be accomplished?

⁴³ Jesus answer'd, verily I tell you, this day thou shalt be with me in paradise.

¹ Now before the feast of the passover, Jesus perceiving that his hour was come, when he was to pass out of this world, and go to the father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.

³ and when I am gone, and have prepar'd a place for you, I will come again, to take you with me, that where I am there ye may be also.

²⁴ father, I desire that they also whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am going; that they may behold my glory which thou hast given me: for thou didst love me before the foundation of the world; yet,

⁵⁹ Thus they stoned Stephen, while he was calling upon God, and saying, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit."

¹ And you are satisfied, my brethren, that our address to you was not fallacious:

¹³ nor do we fail of giving thanks to God continually, that, when you received the word of God, which we preach, you did not receive it as the doctrine of men, but as a doctrine that appears to be truly divine, by the influences it displays in you, who believe.

¹⁷ then we, who shall be still alive, shall be convey'd together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall ever be with the Lord.

⁶ as for me, my blood will soon be pour'd out, and the time of my departure draws nigh:

¹⁴ my Lord, answer'd I, you can tell. and he said to me, these are they who came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the lamb. ¹⁵ therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall cover them, as a pavillion. ¹⁶ they shall no more suffer hunger or thirst, neither shall the sun dart on them, nor any heat molest them. ¹⁷ for the lamb who is in the midst before the throne, shall feed them, and shall lead them to living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.

⁷ nevertheless, I tell you the truth; it is expedient for you that I go away: for if I do not go away, the advocate will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him to you.

²⁹ for I know when I am gone, you will be oppress'd by wolves, that will not spare the flock. ³⁰ nay, among your own body some will start up to vent their intricate conceits, and draw a number of followers. ³¹ be then upon the watch, and remember, that for three years I have not ceased by night, or by day to warn every soul of you, even with tears.

²² whether it be an advantage to me or not still to lead this mortal life, what to chuse I cannot tell.

²⁵ which consideration persuades me that I shall abide, and even continue some time with you all, to improve your advancement in the faith, and to promote your joy: ²⁶ that by my being present with you again, I may be the occasion of heightning your christian joy.

³² but as for thee, I have pray'd that you faith may not fail. do you in return establish thy brethren.

¹⁵ So when they had dined, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon son of Jonas, do you love me more than these do? yes, Lord, said he, you know that I love you. Jesus reply'd, feed my lambs. ¹⁶ then he ask'd him the second time, Simon son of Jonas do you love me? yes, Lord, said he; you know that I love you. Jesus reply'd, feed my sheep. ¹⁷ Jesus said to him the third time, Simon son of Jonas, do you love me? Peter was grieved at his asking him the third time, "do you love me?" and he said to him, Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you. Jesus said to him, feed my sheep.

²³ who upon his arrival there, was glad to see such effects of the divine grace, and exhorted them all to remain firmly attach'd to the christian profession:

²² encouraging the disciples, exhorting them to persevere in the faith, representing that it is thro' much tribulation that we must enter into the kingdom of God.

²⁵ and now I am persuaded you will none of you see my face any more: whilst I have been among you, I have proclaim'd the kingdom of the Messias:

¹¹ for I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, in order to establish you: ¹² or indeed that we may have mutual consolation from the faith which is in common to you and to me.

² who has given us access by faith to that degree of favour, we are in, by which we triumph in the hopes of divine glory.

¹³ Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope through the power of the holy spirit.

¹⁸ for I will not offer to mention any thing, but what Christ has wrought by me, to make the Gentiles christians, both in profession and practice:

²⁹ and I know that when I do come, I shall come charged with the blessings of Christ.

²⁴ not that I would arbitrarily prescribe what you should believe, but rather encourage you to go on: for 'tis by faith you have stood.

¹¹ It is he then that made some, apostles: some, prophets: some, evangelists: and others, pastors, and teachers: ¹² thus fitly qualifying his servants for their respective offices, in order to build up the body of Christ: ¹³ till being united in a perfect belief, and acknowledgment of the son of God, we grow up to that full state of maturity required by Christ:

²⁴ nay, I trust in the Lord, that I myself too shall visit you very soon.

⁸ whom though you have not seen, you love: and though he is not now the object of your view, yet you believe in him, and triumph with such a laudable transport, as cannot be express'd:

²² so you are afflicted at present: but I will see you again, and then shall your hearts be affected with joy, and your joy shall no one wrest from you.

²⁴ hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be compleat.

¹⁴ as some of you have already own'd, that I am matter of joy to you, as you will be to me in the day of the Lord Jesus Christ:

¹² and this I say, not to commend myself again unto you, but to give you an occasion of glorying on my account, that you may confront those who make a false show of glorying.

⁶ nevertheless, God who comforteth those that are cast down, gave me comfort by the arrival of Titus: not barely by his presence,

¹⁶ you, who display the doctrine of eternal life) that in the day of Christ I may have the satisfaction of not having pursued my laborious course in vain. ¹⁷ and if my blood should serve as a libation to ratify your faith, I should rejoice and congratulate with you all thereupon; ¹⁸ and you too should be glad and congratulate me upon that account.

¹ Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. it is not uneasy to me to write what I have already said, and it is an advantage to you.

³ for we are the genuine sons of Abraham, who worship God in the spiritual manner, and value no other dependance than that on Jesus Christ, without confiding in any external advantages:

⁴ Rejoice in the Lord alway: I say it again, rejoice.

¹⁰ Now I joyfully thank the Lord, that your concern for me has at length reviv'd. not that you wanted the disposition, but only the opportunity.

²⁵ Jesus perceiving what they surmized, said to them, any kingdom once divided against itself will soon be desolate: nor can any city or house divided against itself, long subsist.

²⁰ neither pray I for these alone, but for those also who shall believe on me through their preaching. ²¹ that they all may be one, as thou, father, art in me, and I in thee; that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

⁴⁶ and continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they did eat their meals with gladness, and simplicity of heart,

³² Now the whole body of believers were but one heart, and one soul: no one look'd upon what he possessed, as his own, but every thing was held in common.

²⁴ some time after he came to Cesarea with his wife Drusilla, a Jewess, when sending for Paul, he heard him discourse about the Christian faith.

⁵ by whose favour I have received the office of an apostle to bring the Gentiles every where to the obedience of faith preached in his name:

¹⁶ for I am not ashamed of the gospel, since it is divinely effectual to salvation, to everyone that believes, to the Jew first, and then to the Gentile.

⁸ what does it say "more? the word is nigh thee, let it be in thy mouth and in thy heart:" that is the word of faith which we preach.

⁴ for as there are many members in one and the same body, but all the members have not the same office: ⁵ so we who are many, make all but one body in Christ, and every member subservient to one another.

¹⁶ to be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, officiating the gospel of God, that the Gentiles might be made an acceptable offering, being sanctified by the holy spirit.

¹⁰ Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to maintain all the same doctrine, to suffer no divisions among you; but to be perfectly united in the same mind, and in the same judgment.

¹² For as the body is one, tho' it has many members, and all the members of that one body, tho' many, are one body: so also is the body of Christ. ¹³ for by one spirit we have all been baptized, to be form'd into one body, whether Jews or Gentiles, slaves or free; and have been all made to drink of one spirit. ¹⁴ the body is not one member, but many. ¹⁵ if the foot should say, "because I am not the hand, I am not of the body;" is it therefore not of the body? ¹⁶ and if the ear should say, "because I am not the eye, I am not of the body;" is it therefore not of the body? ¹⁷ if the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? if the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? ¹⁸ now God disposed every one of the members in the body as he thought fit. ¹⁹ but if they were all one member, where would be the body? ²⁰ thus, tho' there are many members, yet there is but one body. ²¹ and the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of thee:" nor again, the head to the feet, "I have no need of you." ²² nay, those parts of the body, which seem to be of the least account, are much more necessary. ²³ what we think to be less honourable, is loaded with additional ornaments, and the less graceful have adventitious finery, ²⁴ of which the graceful have no need: but God has contrived the symmetry of the body, by bestowing an additional advantage where it seem'd to want it. ²⁵ that there might be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same mutual concern for one another. ²⁶ so that if one member suffer, they all suffer with it: or if one be honoured, they partake of it. ²⁷ Thus you are the body of Christ, being the particular members of it. ²⁸ which God has placed in the church, first apostles, next prophets, then teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, assistants, governours, interpreters of languages. ²⁹ are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? ³⁰ have all the gifts of healing? do all speak divers languages? do all interpret? ³¹ you are contesting about the superiority of your gifts: but I point out to you a more excellent way.

⁵⁸ therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye inflexibly steady, and continually surpass others in the work of the Lord, knowing that he will not leave your christian labour unrewarded.

¹³ Be upon the watch, stand firm in the faith, behave your selves like men of fortitude: ¹⁴ let all your transactions flow from social affections.

⁴ to those unbelievers, whose minds the God of this world has so blinded, that the glorious lustre of the gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, does not enlighten them.

¹³ having this proof of you by such a supply, they will glorify God for your profess'd subjection to the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution to them as well as others;

¹¹ Finally, brethren, be cheerful: redress yourselves, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

⁷ owing to nothing but your being practised upon by some, who would overturn the gospel of Christ.

¹³ by whom you also have heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: and having believed in him, ye were mark'd with the seal of the holy spirit, which was promised:

³ endeavouring to preserve the spiritual union by your affectionate attachment to one another. ⁴ Being one body, acted by one spirit, since you all have but one expectation in view; ⁵ there is but one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶ one God and father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in all.

¹ If then there be any christian consolation, any charitable relief, any communion of the spirit, if any tenderness of compassion, ² compleat my joy, by pursuing the same view, living in mutual love, by being unanimous, and cultivating that harmony.

¹⁸ for there are many that wander about, of whom I have frequently told you, and now repeat it with tears, that they are enemies to the cross of Christ:

⁴ having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the affection you have to all christians;

¹¹ you likewise know, that we exhorted and encouraged every one of you, as a father doth his children, ¹² conjuring you to live suitably to the favour of God, who has called you to his kingdom and glory.

⁶ but Timothy, upon his arrival here from you, brings us the agreeable news of the perseverance of your faith and charity, that you always make honourable mention of us, and that you desire to see us as ardently as we do to see you.

¹¹ with the salutary doctrine of the gospel of immortality, which the blessed God committed to my trust.

¹⁹ assisted by faith and a good conscience: for some having discarded the one, have entirely lost the other.

⁷ I have struggled in a glorious cause: I have finish'd my career: I have stood to the faith:

¹⁰ entirely obsequious without grumbling. not to pilfer, but to show the strictest fidelity; that they may do honour to the doctrine of God our saviour in all things.

⁵ and thank my God for the account I have of your faith in the Lord Jesus and the love you bear to all the saints;

¹⁸ they who cultivate peace, enjoy the reward of their virtue.

⁴ by which we have receiv'd the most inestimable promises, that thereby you might become partakers of the divine perfections, after having escap'd from the corruption of a sensual world. ⁵ Do you on your part employ all your care in adding to your faith, fortitude: to fortitude, knowledge: ⁶ to knowledge, temperance: to temperance, patience: to patience, piety: ⁷ to piety, fraternal affection: and to fraternal affection, universal benevolence. ⁸ for if you are possess'd of these virtues and improve therein, they will prevent the knowledge you have of our Lord Jesus Christ from being useless to others, and unprofitable to yourselves. ⁹ but he that is destitute of them is blind or short-sighted, having forgot he was purified from his past sins.

¹¹ Since then this whole system is to be destroyed, how holy should your conduct be, and how ardent your piety?

¹⁴ since then, my dear brethren, your expectations are such, take care to appear before him, without any defect or blemish, in order to be happy; and be persuaded,

³ For I was greatly pleased when the brethren came and assured me of your fidelity and religious conduct. ⁴ greater joy I cannot have, than to hear that my children are attach'd to the truth.

³ My beloved, as I was strongly bent upon writing to you of our common salvation, I thought it necessary to write to you at present, and exhort you to contend earnestly for the faith, which was once delivered to the saints.

¹⁰ Blessed are they who are persecuted upon the account of righteousness: for their's is the kingdom of heaven. ¹¹ Blessed shall you be when men shall revile and persecute you, and falsely charge you with all manner of evil for your attachment to me. ¹² Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great will be your reward in heaven: for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

²⁸ fear not those who can only kill the body, but cannot hurt the soul: rather fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.

⁶ and all men shall behold the divine saviour."

⁴ As for you, my friends, be not afraid of those, who can kill the body, and after that can effect nothing more.

¹² but before all these events, they will seize upon you and persecute you, drag you to the synagogues and to prisons, being accused before kings and governours, for professing my name. ¹³ and that shall be one proof of the truth of your profession. ¹⁴ fix it therefore in your mind, not to think beforehand about your defence. ¹⁵ for I will make you speak with such strength of argument, as all your adversaries shall not be able to contradict or withstand. ¹⁶ you will be betrayed even by your very parents, and brethren, and kindred, and friends. nay, some of you they will prosecute even to death. ¹⁷ you will be hated by all mankind for professing my name, ¹⁸ however a single hair of your head shall not be lost. ¹⁹ by your perseverance you will save your souls.

¹⁹ but Peter and John made answer, do you yourselves judge, whether it be right in the sight of God, to obey you rather than God. ²⁰ for we cannot avoid publishing what we have seen and heard. ²¹ so when they had further threatned them, they let them go, not finding it practicable to punish them, because of the people, who all glorified God for that which was done. ²² for the man who was so miraculously cured, was above forty years old.

⁴⁰ after the apostles were called in, and scourged, they charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and then releas'd them. out they went from the council, ⁴¹ full of joy, that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus. ⁴² and every day either in the temple or in private houses they continued to preach and proclaim Jesus to be the Christ.

²⁸ take notice therefore, that the offers of divine salvation are sent to the Gentiles, and they will receive them.

¹⁷ and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; although we now suffer with him, that we may also be glorified with him.

⁵ by which you may be assur'd, that they will be punish'd by the divine justice, and that you shall be rewarded with the kingdom of God, for which you suffer; ⁶ since it is agreeable to his justice to afflict those in their turn, who afflict you: ⁷ for the spirit, which God has given us, is not a spirit of timidity, but of fortitude, of benevolence, and of moderation. ⁸ be not therefore asham'd of the testimony of the Lord, nor of me who am a prisoner upon his account. but share with me in the afflictions, which attend the gospel, supported as you are by the power of God,

¹¹ it is an undoubted truth, that if we die for him, we shall live with him: ¹² if we suffer, we shall also reign: if we renounce him,

⁶ so that we may boldly say, " the Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me."

¹² My dear brethren, don't be surpriz'd at your being brought as it were to the test of fire; as if some strange thing had happen'd to you. ¹³ on the contrary, rejoice at the share you have of sufferings, as well as Christ: that you may likewise triumph, when he shall appear in his glory. ¹⁴ if you suffer indignities in the cause of Christ, you are happy: for the glorious spirit of God rests upon you.

¹⁰ fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

¹⁷ to whom Jesus reply'd, blessed art thou Simon, son of Jona: for 'tis not man that hath revealed this unto thee, but my father who is in heaven.

¹² but to as many as received him, and believed on him, he granted the privilege of being the sons of God. ¹³ a birth which they had not from circumcision, nor from the constitution of the body, nor the institution of man, but from God.

⁴⁴ no man can come to me, except the father who hath sent me, conduct him: and I will raise him up at the last day. ⁴⁵ it is written in the prophets, "they shall be all taught of God." every man therefore that hath heard the father, and been instructed by him, cometh unto me.

⁴¹ full of joy, that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for the name of Jesus.

³⁹ by him, every one who believes, is purged from all that guilt, for which the law of Moses had made no such provision.

²⁷ when they were arrived, and had assembled the Church, they related what great things God had wrought by them, and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles:

³ and not only so, but we triumph in tribulation also, knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, probation;

⁸ for by grace are ye saved, thro' faith (and that not from us:

² Consider the various tryals that surround you, my brethren, as matter of great joy; knowing this,

³³ these things I have appriz'd you of, that ye might repose your confidence in me. the world shall give you trouble: but take courage, I have overcome the world.

³⁵ what shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or penury, or peril, or sword? ³⁶ for as it is written, "for thy sake we are sacrificed every day; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter:" ³⁷ yet after all we are more than conquerors, through him that loved us.

⁹ for it seems as if God had exposed us apostles the last upon the stage, as persons appointed to death. for we are made a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. ¹⁰ we are made fools for our attachment to Christ, while you, who are christians too, still pass for the wise: we are in poverty, but you are in power: you meet with esteem, but we find contempt. ¹¹ to this very day we suffer both hunger, thirst, and penury: we are buffeted from place to place, as vagabonds: ¹² we are fatigu'd by our manual toil: when reviled, we pray: when persecuted, we don't repine: ¹³ and when we are defamed, we intreat: in a word, we are look'd upon as the dregs and scum of mankind, even to this day. ¹⁴ This I don't write to give you any confusion, but by way of remonstrance, to you who are my dear children.

³⁰ and why do we continually expose our lives to danger? ³¹ I am daily receiving new mortifications, witness your cruel boastings against me, which I bear for the sake of Christ Jesus our Lord; ³² besides, my engaging with those monsters, as I may say, at Ephesus, what advantage was it to me? if the dead don't rise, "let us eat and drink, for to-morrow we die."

¹¹ put on the set of divine armour, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. ¹² for our conflict is not barely with men, but with principalities, with potentates, with the princes of darkness, with wicked aereal spirits. ¹³ wherefore invest yourselves with the set of divine armour, that ye may be able to withstand in the difficult day, and having overcome all to maintain your ground. ¹⁴ stand firm, the belt of truth round your waist, let justice invest you like mail: ¹⁵ wing your feet with the gospel of peace: ¹⁶ cover all with the shield of faith, to repel all the fiery darts of the adversary: ¹⁷ let salvation be your helmet, and the divine doctrine your spiritual sword. ¹⁸ Pour out your souls unto God upon all occasions, watching in prayer with all perseverance and supplication for all christians:

²⁹ this is what I earnestly strive to effect, by virtue of that power, which effectually operates in me.

¹⁴ for, my brethren, you have followed the example of the christian churches in Judea; by having suffer'd the same persecutions from your own nation, as the churches have suffer'd from the Jews, ¹⁵ the very men who have persecuted the Lord Jesus, and the prophets even to death; who have persecuted us; they who are regardless of pleasing the deity, and are enemies to all mankind;

² a minister of God, and our collegue in preaching the gospel of Christ, that by establishing you in the faith, and by his exhortations, ³ none of you might be stagger'd by these persecutions: for you know that we are destin'd to suffer. ⁴ and even when we were with you, we foretold you, that we should be persecuted, as you know it happen'd.

¹² exert yourself in the glorious cause of faith, and secure the prize of eternal life, to which you were called, when you made that excellent profession of faith before so many witnesses.

¹⁰ I therefore bear with every thing for the sake of the converts, that they may obtain that salvation, which Jesus Christ has procur'd us, even eternal glory.

³² Call to remembrance the former times, in which after ye were illuminated, you were forc'd to struggle with sufferings, ³³ some of you being expos'd to publick obloquy and persecution: whilst others had their share of affliction in seeing such treatment.

⁴ You have not yet resisted unto death, striving against sin.

¹⁰ fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life. ¹¹ he that hath an ear, let him hear what the spirit saith to the churches, he that overcometh, shall not be hurt by the second death."

¹¹ they overcame him by the blood of the lamb, and by the word to which they gave testimony; for their lives they expos'd to the last.